Environmental Impact Assessment Screening

Home , Abergavenny, Gwehelog, Llantilio Crossenny, Llanvapley, Monmouthshire, Penpergwm

Penpergwm Solar Farm

14/10/2020

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Disclaimer

Neo Environmental Limited shall have no liability for any loss, damage, injury, claim, expense, cost, or other consequence arising as a result of use or reliance upon any information contained in or omitted from this document.

The material presented in this report is confidential. This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of Great House Energy Limited. The report shall not be distributed or made available to any other company or person without the knowledge and written consent of Great House Energy Limited or Neo Environmental Ltd.

Neo Environmental Ltd

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Prepared For:

Great House Energy Limited

Prepared By:

Nicole Beckett BSc (Hons) AIEMA

Graham Cameron BSc MA

Daniel Flenley BSc (Hons) MPhil Grad CIEEM

Michael Briggs BSc (Hons) MSc ACIfA MIAI

Michael McGhee BSc TechIOA

Paul Neary BA H.Dip MA MSc MIEnvSc MIAI ACIFA CEnv

Name Date

Edited By: Michael Briggs 14/10/2020 Checked By: Michael McGhee 14/10/2020

Name Signature

Approved By Paul Neary

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Contents

1. Executive Summary ...... 5 2. Introduction ...... 7 3. Development Description ...... 10 4. Site Selection ...... 11 5. Relevant LEgislation & Planning Policy ...... 13 6. Landscape and Visual EFfeCts ...... 20 Landscape Baseline ...... 20 Visual Baseline ...... 21 Landscape and Visual Effects ...... 22 Cumulative Effects ...... 23 7. Ecology ...... 24 Designated Sites Baseline ...... 24 Habitats / Protected Species ...... 25 8. Cultural Heritage & Archaeology ...... 26 Baseline ...... 26 Direct Effects ...... 29 Indirect Effects ...... 30 9. Hydrology ...... 31 Potential Flood Risk Effects ...... 32 10. Noise ...... 32 11. Traffic and Access ...... 33 Potential Effects ...... 33 12. Glint & Glare ...... 34 Potential Impacts upon Ground Based Receptors ...... 34 Potential Impacts upon Aviation Assets ...... 34 13. Outline Construction Environmental Management Plan ...... 35 14. Conclusion ...... 36 15. Appendices ...... 38

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 5 of 38 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This assessment has been undertaken to identify the potential significant effects of a proposed solar farm on lands at Penpergwm and c. 4.7km southwest of Abergavenny, Monmouthshire to determine whether an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required for the project.

The Application Site is located within the Northern Hills and Northern Raglan Visual and Sensory Aspects, which are noted as having a high evaluation value. The Application Site boundary vegetation helps to restrict some inward views, although the upper slopes of the local hill will allow greatest views from the southwest to the east. Such partial views of the site are expected to be localised. The greatest views will be experienced by users on the PROWs passing through the site, however with appropriate design and landscape measures no significant landscape and visual effects are anticipated.

The site does not lie within any statutory environmental designated sites. There are six Natura 2000 designated sites within 15km of the Application Site, however, given the design of the Proposed Development, it is considered that there will not be significant effects on any ecologically qualifying features of the sites. With the implementation of the a Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP), it is anticipated that the Proposed Development will result in a net beneficial gain for biodiversity.

Given the carefully selected location of the Proposed Development not lying within any ecologically designated sites and the nearest being over 1km away, it is considered that there will not be any significant effects for any ecological qualifying features or designated sites listed within 15km of the Application Site Boundary. The site comprises most of pasture land, with a smaller area of arable land, considered to be of low ecological value. With the implementation of the Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP), it is predicted that the Proposed Development will result in a net beneficial gain for biodiversity.

There are no designated or non-designated heritage assets recorded within the boundary of the Application Site, therefore no direct effects will occur on known assets. A site walk-over survey found few features of archaeological interest; however, a Green-Way was present along the southern edges of Fields 5, 6 and 7 (see Figure 3 in Appendix A). This will be excluded from solar development within the design process to avoid any potential impacts upon it as a result of the development. Construction methodology for solar farms usually results in a total ground disturbance footprint of c. 5% of the Application Site area and hence, direct effects upon unknown archaeological remains within the Application Site are not considered likely to be significant.

While a full Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment will be required in order to ascertain the degree of impacts anticipated upon each of the above assets, the most notable potential for visual effects is expected to occur for the Grade II* Listed Great House adjacent to the proposed site. In addition, visual effects upon the Blaenavon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site to the west will also require careful consideration due to the significance of this heritage asset.

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The site visit undertaken identified that tree cover along the sites field boundaries prevented any significant views or intervisibility with surrounding heritage assets. Taking into consideration the above information, overall indirect effects are expected to be Not Significant.

As the site is contained within Flood Zone A; a development of this type will be appropriate and the potential hydrological effects are not considered likely to be significant. Nevertheless, a Flood Risk Assessment will be undertaken to assess the potential risks of flooding and any mitigation methods that will be required alongside a Drainage Impact Assessment.

Potential effects relating to traffic and noise are anticipated to be not significant due respectively to the relatively low volume of traffic associated with this development; and the minimal noise output of a solar farm coupled with the significant distance between source and receptors.

The Application Site appears suitable to accommodate the Proposed Development and with a high-quality design, a development of this nature is entirely consistent with planning policies adopted by Monmouthshire County Council.

Due to it being possible to reinstate circa 97% of the Application Site, it is considered that the Proposed Development is only temporary in nature. This, coupled with the measures that are proposed to enhance the landscape and increase biodiversity of the Application Site will ensure that upon decommissioning, the Application Site can not only be restored to its current agricultural use, but will also have resulted in net beneficial gains for ecology and the local landscape fabric. The wider environmental benefits and sustainability credentials associated with the generation of renewable energy represents a significant case in favour of the Proposed Development.

As outlined in this EIA Screening Report, the Proposed Development at Penpergwm will not result in any significant environmental effects at any stage of the development. Therefore, an EIA is not required.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 7 of 38 2. INTRODUCTION

Neo Environmental, on behalf of Great House Energy Limited, request a Screening Opinion from Planning Inspectorate Wales under the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017. This is in order to determine whether an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required to be submitted for a proposed solar farm development with co-located battery storage (the “Proposed Development”) on lands at Penpergwm, circa 4.7km southwest of Abergavenny, Monmouthshire.

The EIA Regulations set out thresholds for Schedule 1 developments for which Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is mandatory and Schedule 2 development for which an EIA may need to be undertaken. The Proposed Development does not fall within any of the developments listed in Schedule 1, but falls within Schedule 2; Section 3(a), i.e. an ‘industrial installations for the production of electricity, steam and hot water (unless included in Schedule 1)’, where the site exceeds 0.5 ha in area.

The need for an EIA for development listed in Schedule 2 of the EIA Regulations is dependent on whether the development is “likely to have significant effects on the environment by virtue of factors such as its nature, size or location”.

Schedule 3 of the EIA Regulations outlines the selection criteria for screening Schedule 2 developments which include: the characteristics of the development; the environmental sensitivity of the geographic location; and the types and characteristics of the potential impacts (e.g. its magnitude, nature, probability and duration).

In accordance with Part 2 paragraph 6 (2) of the EIA Regulations, this Screening Opinion is accompanied by the following:

“(a) a plan sufficient to identify the land;

(b) a description of the development, including in particular—

(i) a description of the physical characteristics of the development and, where relevant, of demolition works;

(ii) a description of the location of the development, with particular regard to the environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected;

(d) to the extent the information is available, a description of any likely significant effects of the proposed development on the environment resulting from—

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(i) the expected residues and emissions and the production of waste, where relevant; and

(ii) the use of natural resources, in particular soil, land, water and biodiversity; and

(e) such other information or representations as the person making the request may wish to provide or make, including any features of the proposed development or any measures envisaged to avoid or prevent what might otherwise have been significant adverse effects on the environment.”

As outlined in this Screening Opinion, it is unlikely that the Proposed Development on lands at Penpergwm and c. 4.7km southwest of Abergavenny, Monmouthshire (the “Application Site”) will result in significant environmental effects at any stage of the development. Therefore, an EIA will not be required. Nevertheless, comprehensive supporting documentation will be submitted in support of the planning application. This will include the following environmental assessments:

• Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey;

• Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA);

• Preliminary Ecological Assessment (PEA);

• Ecological Design Strategy / Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP);

• Landscape and Visual Impact Appraisal (LVIA);

• Suite of Green Infrastructure (GI) Plans including:

− GI Assets and Opportunities Plan

− GI Masterplan

− GI Management Plan

• Arboricultural assessment;

• Landscape and Ecology Management Plan (LEMP) informed by the GI assessments; ecological surveys and arboricultural assessments;

• Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment (CHIA);

• Flood Risk Assessment (FRA);

• Drainage Impact Assessment;

• Construction Traffic Management Plan (CTMP);

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• Glint and Glare Assessment;

• Noise Impact Assessment (NIA);

• Outline Construction Environmental Management Plan (OCEMP); and

• Decommissioning and Restoration Plan.

This Screening Opinion request is accompanied by the following appendices:

• Appendix A: List of Figures

- Figure 1: Site Location Map

- Figure 2: Development Layout

- Figure 3: Field Numbers

- Figure 4: LANDMAP Visual & Sensory Aspect Areas and Designations

- Figure 5: Environmental Designations Map

- Figure 6: OS 1885 Map

- Figure 7: OF 1902 Map

- Figure 8: OS 1952 Map

- Figure 9: Designated Heritage Assets within 5km

- Figure 10: Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas in 2km

- Figure 11: Non-designated Heritage Assets within 1km

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 10 of 38 3. DEVELOPMENT DESCRIPTION

The proposed solar farm development will consist of the construction of a c. 45MW solar farm and co-located containerised battery storage. The battery storage units will be used to store energy generated from the project and to offer grid management services to the network operator.

The project qualifies as a Development of National Significance (DNS) as it is an energy generation project of between 10MW and 350MW, therefore the planning application will be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate Wales (“the Inspectorate”) for consideration by an appointed Inspector.

The Proposed Development will consist of the construction of PV panels mounted on metal frames, inverter and transformer units, new access tracks, underground cabling, perimeter fencing with CCTV cameras and access gates, a temporary construction compound and all ancillary grid infrastructure and associated works. It is likely that the solar farm will consist of fixed tilt solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, however photovoltaic technology is continuously improving and therefore single axis tracker panels may be considered.

The following features are currently anticipated to be included as part of the Proposed Development:

• The installation of bi-facial, south facing, ground mounted solar arrays running from east to west across the site. The solar arrays are not anticipated to exceed 3m in height and will be angled at approximately 20-40° to the horizontal, to maximise their irradiation. They will be pile driven into the ground to a maximum depth of 1-2 metres;

• The solar panels will have a non-reflective surface, which will increase the proportion of radiation absorbed, removing the risk of unwanted reflection and glare;

• Containerised battery storage units;

• Invertors/transformer units which will convert the Direct Current (DC) into an Alternating Current (AC) which is compatible with the National Grid;

• Distribution Network Operator (DNO) and client substation, including internal connection cable routes;

• Internal access tracks, to allow for the construction and maintenance of the solar panels;

• As the proposed solar farm will require little maintenance, the site will be unmanned. In order to protect the installation, an unobtrusive security fence (deer fencing) will be

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installed around the perimeter of the site. In addition to the security fence, CCTV cameras will be installed;

• Limited waste will be produced and almost all elements are recyclable.

The Proposed Development will also involve additional landscaping including hedgerow planting and improved biodiversity management. The site is currently pasture and arable land with low ecological value, however with the implementation of the GI assessments, landscape plan and ecological design strategy, the site will be significantly enhanced for biodiversity by creating a range of new habitats, offering food and shelter to wildlife.

4. SITE SELECTION

The Application Site identified for the proposed solar farm development is located on lands at Penpergwm, c. 4.7km southwest of Abergavenny, Monmouthshire. It is centred at approximate Grid Reference E332954, N211435 and lies at an elevation range of 68 – 132m AOD.

The Application Site is separated into four parcels comprising 11 agricultural fields and totalling circa 42 hectares. The site is generally bound by grassy field margins, semi-mature hedgerows, and intermittent trees. Field numbers are outlined in Figure 3 of Appendix A.

The surrounding area is largely agricultural in character, punctuated by individual properties and farmsteads. Fields are typically medium in scale and are well enclosed by hedgerows. In all directions, the surrounding land is agricultural and open countryside, with the nearest settlement being Penpergwm, located circa 0.9km south. In terms of existing electricity infrastructure, a pylon line crosses Field 3 to the north and runs in a north – south direction between Fields 6 and 7 and to the west of Field 8.

The Application Site has some Public Right of Ways (PROWs) running through it, including three footpaths and one bridleway. A small tributary of the Frwd Brook borders Field 11 on its west and south sides. Additionally, there are various field drains running through the Application Site and there are two small water bodies within the group of trees adjacent to Field 5 to the west.

The Application Site at Crick has been sensitively sited within the local landscape and is assessed as being a good location for a solar farm for the following reasons:

• The site has an existing viable grid connection point on site and no offsite grid enabling works are required:

• The closest settlement area lies 0.9km south, with few residences within close proximity;

• The site has good solar irradiation levels;

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• It lies outside of any statutory environmental and landscape designations;

• With the proposed GI Plans, LEMP and ecological design strategy, the site will be significantly enhanced for ecology; and

• Sheep grazing will continue on site, using a low intensity grazing regime which will allow agricultural activities to continue, therefore the site will have a dual use.

Largely because of the above-mentioned attributes, as well as the benign nature of solar farm development, very little disturbance to the existing environment will be required to implement the Proposed Development.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 13 of 38 5. RELEVANT LEGISLATION & PLANNING POLICY

Planning Policy Wales (PPW) 10th Edition, December 2018

The Planning Policy Wales2 recognises the importance of renewable energy highlighting the abundance of resource and the benefits renewable energy development can bring. It provides a set of national planning objectives which are designed to support growth, protect the environment and ensure decisions are made at a local level.

While PPW does not reference planning policy in relation to solar farms in particular, it does advocate the transition to a low carbon future by utilising renewable energy sources.

Paragraph 5.7.1 within Energy: Context, states “the planning system plays a key role in delivering clean growth and the decarbonisation of energy, as well as being crucial in building resilience to the impacts of climate change. The transition to a low carbon economy not only brings opportunities for clean growth and quality jobs, but also has wider benefits of enhanced places to live and work, with clean air and water and improved health outcomes”.

Paragraph 5.7.7 states “The planning system should secure an appropriate mix of energy provision, which maximises benefits to our economy and communities whilst minimising potential environmental and social impacts. This forms part of the Welsh Government’s aim to secure the strongest economic development policies, to underpin growth and prosperity in Wales, recognising the importance of decarbonisation and the sustainable use of natural resources, both as an economic driver and a commitment to sustainable development.”

The Welsh Government has set targets for the generation of renewable energy:

• “for Wales to generate 70% of its electricity consumption from renewable energy by 2030; and

• for one Gigawatt of renewable electricity capacity in Wales to be locally owned by 2030”

The PPW has confirmed in Paragraph 5.7.17 that “the planning system has an active role to help ensure the delivery of these targets, in terms of new renewable energy generating capacity.” And in Paragraph 5.7.18 that “local authorities must take an active, leadership approach at the local or regional level, by identifying challenging, but achievable targets for renewable energy in development plans.”

Additionally, the PPW outlines in Paragraph 5.7.19 that “planning authorities should facilitate all forms of renewable and low carbon energy development. In doing so, planning authorities should seek to ensure their area’s full potential for renewable and low carbon energy generation is maximised and renewable energy targets are achieved.”

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The PPW made clear that “Planning authorities should give significant weight to the Welsh Government’s targets to increase renewable and low carbon energy generation, as part of our overall approach to tackling climate change and increasing energy security. In circumstances where protected landscape, biodiversity and historical designations and buildings are considered in the decision making process, only the direct irreversible impacts on statutorily protected sites and buildings and their settings (where appropriate) should be considered” in paragraph 5.9.17.

The PPW goes onto say in Paragraph 5.9.18 “Planning authorities should also identify and require suitable ways to avoid, mitigate or compensate adverse impacts of renewable and low carbon energy development. The construction, operation, decommissioning, remediation and aftercare of proposals should take into account:

• the need to minimise impacts on local communities, such as from noise and air pollution, to safeguard quality of life for existing and future generations;

• the impact on the natural and historic environment;

• cumulative impact; the capacity of, and effects on the transportation network;

• grid connection issues where renewable (electricity) energy developments are proposed; and

• the impacts of climate change on the location, design, build and operation of renewable and low carbon energy development. In doing so, consider whether measures to adapt to climate change impacts give rise to additional impacts.”

Of relevance is Paragraph 5.9.19 which states “Prior to an application being submitted, developers for renewable and low carbon energy developments should, wherever possible, consider how to avoid, or otherwise minimise, adverse impacts through careful consideration of location, scale, design and other measures.”

Planning Policy Wales (PPW) Technical Advice Note (TAN) 8: Planning for Renewable Energy

TAN 81 provides technical advice to supplement the policy set out in Planning Policy Wales (PPW).

Paragraph 3.1.5 states “other than in circumstances where visual impact is critically damaging to a listed building, ancient monument or a conservation area vista, proposals for appropriately designed PV systems should be supported”.

1 TAN 8: Planning for Renewable Energy. Available at: https://gov.wales/sites/default/files/publications/2018-09/tan8- renewable-energy_0.pdf

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Building Research Establishment (Bre) Planning Guidance for Solar Farms

The Building Research Establishment (Bre) has producing a planning guidance document ‘Planning guidance for the development of large-scale ground mounted solar PV systems’2 largely aimed at developers considering solar farm developments in the UK. This document outlines planning considerations a developer should take into account should as the requirements for Environmental Impact Screenings (Appendix C), how to mitigate against visual impacts, mandatory planning fees, assessing the suitability of the chosen site and the most environmentally sustainable methods of construction.

The Well-Being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015

The Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 20155 (‘WBFGA 2015’) places a duty on public bodies to place the principles of sustainability and sustainable development at the heart of its decision-making processes. The relevant objectives of the WBFGA 2015 are set out as follows:

“A Prosperous Wales

• Play an appropriate role in securing the provision of infrastructure to form the physical basis for sustainable communities;

A Resilient Wales

• Contributing to the protection and improvement of the environment, so as to improve the quality of life, and protect local and global ecosystems;

A More Equal Wales

• Promote quality, lasting, environmentally-sound and flexible employment opportunities;

A Globally Responsive Wales

• Support the need to tackle the causes of climate change by moving towards a low carbon economy.”

2 Building Research Establishment (Bre). Planning guidance for the development of large scale ground mounted solar PV systems. Last accessed at: https://www.bre.co.uk/filelibrary/pdf/other_pdfs/kn5524_planning_guidance_reduced.pdf.

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Welsh Government Practice Guidance: Planning Implications of Renewable and Low Carbon Energy February 2011

The Welsh Government Practice Guidance: Planning Implications of Renewable and Low Carbon Energy3, published February 2011, summarises the potential impacts and design, mitigation and enhancement measures of solar installations as:

• Landscape and visual;

• Glint and glare;

• Ecology;

• Historic environment;

• Agriculture;

• Hydrology and flood risk; and

• Cumulative impacts.

Monmouthshire Council Local Development Plan 2011 - 2021

The Monmouthshire Local Development Plan4 was adopted in 2014 and sets out a framework for the development and use of land and for the protection of the environment. It also guides and facilitates investment decisions as well as the delivery of services and infrastructure.

Monmouthshire Council have also produced Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG): Monmouthshire Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency5 March 2016 which contains guidance and costs relating to pre-application advice and submitting renewable energy applications.

The following policies are considered relevant to the proposal:

• Policy SD1: Renewable Energy

• Policy SD4: Sustainable Drainage

• Policy LC5: Protection and Enhancement of the Landscape Character

3 Welsh Government Practice Guidance: Planning Implications of Renewable and Low Carbon Energy. Available at: https://gov.wales/sites/default/files/publications/2018-09/planning-implications-renewable-low-carbon-energy- development.pdf 4 Monmouthshire Council Local Development Plan. Available at: https://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/app/uploads/2017/05/Adopted-Local-Development-Plan-with-PDF-tags.pdf 5 Monmouthshire Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency SPG. Available at: https://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/app/uploads/2016/03/Monmouthshire-REEESPG-Text-Appendices-1-8-March- 2016.pdf

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• Policy GI1: Green Infrastructure

• Policy NE1: Nature Conservation and Development; and

Policy SD1: Renewable Energy

Policy D1 sets out criteria by which proposals for renewable energy schemes will be assessed. It states “Renewable energy schemes will be permitted where:

• (1) There are no unacceptable adverse impacts upon the landscape, townscape and historic features and there is compliance with Policy LC5, with regard to protection and enhancement of landscape character;

• (2) There are no unacceptable adverse impacts on biodiversity;

• (3) There are no unacceptable adverse impacts on the amenities of nearby residents by way of noise, dust, odour or increases in traffic;

• (4) The wider environmental, economic, social and community benefits directly related to the scheme outweigh any potentially adverse impacts; and

• (5) The distinct identity of Monmouthshire will not be compromised.

• For all types of renewable energy, cumulative impacts will be an important consideration where there are other renewable energy schemes currently operating in the area.

• When the technology is no longer operational there is a requirement to decommission, remove the facility and complete a restoration of the site to its original condition.”

The Proposed Development at Penpergwm is not anticipated to result in any significant environmental effects at any stage of the development. Comprehensive supporting documentation however will be submitted in support of the planning application and are listed in paragraph 2.6 above.

Policy SD4: Sustainable Drainage

Policy SD4 notes “Development proposals will be expected to incorporate water management measures, including Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS), to reduce surface water runoff and minimise its contribution to flood risk elsewhere.”

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submitted for approval prior to construction and following approval of the Proposed Development by the Planning Inspectorate of Wales (PINS Wales).

Policy LC5: Protection and Enhancement of the Landscape Character

Policy LC5 asserts that “Development proposals that would impact upon landscape character, as defined by LANDMAP Landscape Character Assessment, must demonstrate through a landscape assessment how landscape character has influenced their design, scale, nature and site selection. Development will be permitted provided it would not have an unacceptable adverse effect on the special character or quality of Monmouthshire’s landscape in terms of its visual, historic, geological, ecological or cultural aspects by:

a) Causing significant visual intrusion;

b) Causing significant adverse change in the character of the built or natural landscape;

c) Being insensitively and unsympathetically sited within the landscape;

d) Introducing or intensifying a use which is incompatible with its location;

e) Failing to harmonise with, or enhance the landform and landscape; and /or

f) Losing or failing to incorporate important traditional features, patterns, structures and layout of settlements and landscapes of both the built and natural environment.”

A detailed Landscape and Visual Assessment will be undertaken as part of the assessment of the proposed solar development. The Proposed Development is likely to have some localised effects, but through appropriate design and landscape measures no significant landscape and visual effects are anticipated.

Policy GI1: Green Infrastructure

Policy GI1 states “Development proposals will be expected to maintain, protect and enhance Monmouthshire’s diverse green infrastructure network by:

a) Ensuring that individual green assets are retained wherever possible and integrated into new development. Where loss of green infrastructure is unavoidable in order to secure sustainable development appropriate mitigation and/or compensation of the lost assets will be required;

b) Incorporating new and /or enhanced green infrastructure of an appropriate type, standard and size. Where on-site provision of green infrastructure is not possible, contributions will be sought to make appropriate provision for green infrastructure off-site.”

As part of the Development Proposal, a suite of green infrastructure plans and an ecological design strategy will be produced that will then be implemented during the construction and operational phases of the Proposed Development. This will involve minimising any potential negative effects arising from the Proposed Development, while increasing habitat diversity.

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Policy NE1: Nature Conservation and Development

Policy NE1 notes “…applications must be accompanied by an ecological survey and assessment of the likely impact of the proposal on the species /habitats, and, where necessary, shall make appropriate provision for their safeguarding.

Development proposals shall accord with nature conservation interests and will be expected to: i) Retain, and where appropriate enhance, existing semi-natural habitats, linear habitat features, other features of nature conservation interest and geological features and safeguard them during construction work;

ii) Incorporate appropriate native vegetation in any landscaping or planting scheme, except where special requirements in terms of purpose or location may dictate otherwise;

iii) Ensure the protection and enhancement of wildlife and landscape resources by appropriate building design, site layouts, landscaping techniques and choice of plant species;

iv) Where appropriate, make provision for on-going maintenance of retained or created nature conservation interests.

As mentioned in paragraph 5.23 above, with the implementation of the ecological design strategy and landscape plans, it is predicted that the Proposed Development will result in a net gain for biodiversity, aligning with the stipulations of Policy NE1.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 20 of 38 6. LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS

LANDSCAPE BASELINE

The Application Site is located within the Monmouthshire Council Area and falls within the Northern Hills and Northern Raglan Visual and Sensory Aspects of Landmap area6, see (see Figure 4: Appendix A). Both aspect areas have been graded as having a High evaluation value.

Northern Hills Aspect Area’s overall evaluation has been described as:

“High (A traditional and undulating patchwork of managed hedges, hedge banks, hedgerow trees and small copses with streams of high scenic quality. Long views of these undulating valleys occur from valley hills and from the Monnow valley ridge line. The area has an unspoilt character and maintains its integrity and settlement limited to small linear hamlets and scattered farmsteads. The area has a moderate sense of place through its common character, topographic and visual unity and rhythm. A rural landscape of moderate rarity due to lack of development.).”

Its characteristics are described as:

“A traditional and undulating patchwork of managed hedges, hedge banks, hedgerow trees and small copses with streams of high scenic quality. Long views of these undulating valleys occur from valley hills and from the Monnow valley ridge line. The area has an unspoilt character and maintains its integrity and settlement limited to small linear hamlets and scattered farmsteads. The area has a moderate sense of place through its common character, topographic and visual unity and rhythm. A rural landscape of moderate rarity due to lack of development.”

Northern Raglan Aspect Area’s overall evaluation has been described as:

“High (Visually attractive gently undulating farmed landscape... Generally the area is relatively unspoilt by rural development although the A40 does affect its tranquillity... The area has a relatively weak sense of place due to its very gentle landform and arable farming... Rural farmland of this character is relatively common in Monmouthshire...)”

Its characteristics are described as:

“Centrally located with distant panoramic views at high points and restricted internal views, this landscape is drained by the River Trothy...... It is a gently rolling domesticated mixed arable and pastoral lowland, diverse and intimate in character, becoming more open and exposed along the A40T corridor and around Raglan...... In places, large fields of arable crops

6 Natural Resources Wales (2020). LANDMAP Interactive Maps. Available online at: https://landmap- maps.naturalresources.wales/

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have resulted in the breakdown of the field boundary structure, with larger regular fields bounded by post and rail fencing...... To the north and southwest smaller more irregular fields of permanent pasture are enclosed by a strong structural network of thick hedges, hedgerow trees and treelines, small-scale woodland blocks and orchards...... The extensive orchard at Penrhos Farm near Llantilio Crossenny however disrupts this intimate character...... Numerous roads wind their way through this well settled landscape with the A40(T) dividing the area in two halves...... Settlement forms a mixture of country estates, scattered houses and small villages, with farm complexes both large and small...... ”

The Application Site is reflective of the above characteristics, consisting of small fields with an elevation ranging from approximately 68m to 132m AOD, with the higher lands found west of the farm house.

No landscape capacity study on the potential sensitivity of the landscape to solar farms within the Monmouthshire Council Area has ever been undertaken. There are no landscape designations within the extent of the Application Site, the nearest such designation is the Brecon Beacons National Park. The National Park’s eastern boundaries are located approximately 3.1km to the west and 3.8km the north of the Application Site’s outer boundary. The summits of the nearest hills within the National Park include The Blorenge and Ysgyryd Fawr, located approximately 5.7km west and 6.4km north of the Application Site, respectively. The surrounding landscape contains several mature woodlands and parklands with historic houses that have been designated as Historic Parks and Gardens. These historic sites are detailed in the Cultural Heritage & Archaeology section of this report.

VISUAL BASELINE

Potential views of the Proposed Development will be greatest from those sections of the Application Site which are above 100m AOD. These potential views extend across a wider area, particularly from the lower lands found to the southwest and south. Potential views of the Proposed Development from the lower lands are likely to be more contained by the surrounding hedgerows. The extent of these potential views will be reduced by screening in the form of vegetation and buildings, which will help to reduce visual effects.

The greatest views of the Proposed Development will occur from the Public Right of Ways (PROWs), including three footpaths and one bridleway, which run through the middle and edges of the site, see Figure A below. Shared views from within these PROWs will be possible with the development within these fields, however suitable planting mitigation measures will be proposed to reduce potential visibility experienced by users of these PROWs.

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Figure A: OS Map extract showing Public Rights of Way within the site and the surrounding area. Footpaths = short green dash and Other routes with public access = green dots.

Approximate outline of landholdings highlighted in yellow, see also Figure 1 in Appendix A.

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS

The Application Site falls across the Northern Hills and Northern Raglan Visual and Sensory Aspects Area which have a high elevation value.

The Application Site boundary vegetation helps to restrict most inward views, although the upper slopes of the local hill will allow some views from the southwest and south. Such partial views of the site are likely to be localised and experienced by receptors within the surrounding rural dwellings and road network. The extent of these views will be varied due to screening provided in places by the presence of natural and built elements within the surrounding landscape. The greatest views will be experienced by users on the PROWs passing through the site, who will have much more open views. However, proposed planting mitigation will be used to reduce any impacts and effects will not be significant.

The addition of new hedgerow planting as part of any mitigation measures along the outer boundaries and retention of existing hedgerows will help to break up the new structures and reduce overall visibility of the Proposed Development. The final locations of any structures will be suitably set back from the footpaths within the Application Site to ensure users enjoyments are not comprised and effects are not significant.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 23 of 38

On review, the Proposed Development is likely to have some localised effects, but through appropriate design and landscape measures no significant landscape and visual effects are anticipated.

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

There is already a small solar farm present within the 5km study area, located approximately 4.84km to northeast of the Application Site’s nearest boundary. However, the intervening landscape and distance from these other developments will ensure no notable cumulative landscape or visual effects with the Proposed Development. A further review of any approved not yet constructed and pending planning applications for solar farms or similar development types within the study area will be considered as part of the LVIA assessment. It is anticipated that there will be no significant cumulative effects.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 24 of 38 7. ECOLOGY

DESIGNATED SITES BASELINE

The proposed solar farm does not lie within any statutory environmental designated sites.

There are six Natura 2000 designated sites within 15km of the Application Site, all Special Areas of Conservation (SAC). The closest of these is the River Usk / Afon Wysg SAC, located c. 1.3km west-southwest.

There are eight Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI’s) within 5km of the Application Site; the closest being Penpergwm Pond SSSI and the Lower River Usk SSSI, located c. 1.1km south and 1.3km west-southwest, respectively.

Each of these sites have been oultlined within the Environmental Designations Map (Figure 5: Appendix A) and Table 1 below.

Table 1: Environmental Designations within 15km/5km Study Areas

SITE NAME DISTANCE DESIGNATION

Coed y Cerrig 10km north SAC

Cwm Clydach Woodlands 7.68km west SAC

1.3km west- SAC River Usk southwest

Sugar Loaf Woodlands 5.28km northwest SAC

Usk Bat Sites 4.37km northwest SAC

Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites 12.79km southeast SAC

Blorenge 4.42km west SSSI

Coed-y-Person 4.37km northwest SSSI

Cwm Mill Section, Mardy 4.21km northwest SSSI

Llanover Quarry 4.34km southwest SSSI

Penpergwm Pond 1.1km south SSSI

Priority Wood 4.98km south SSSI

1.3km west- SSSI Lower River Usk southwest

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 25 of 38

Upper River Usk 4.30km northwest SSSI

Given the nature of the Proposed Development, no significant impacts are anticipated on the qualifying features of any of the designated sites listed in Table 1.

HABITATS / PROTECTED SPECIES

An extended Phase 1 habitat survey is due to take place in Summer 2020 (subject to lifting of Covid-19 restrictions). Habitats will be classified according to the standard JNCC habitat types. A protected species scoping survey will also be undertaken in order to identify potential field signs of, or suitable habitat for, such species and will determine the need for further surveys.

All accessible ponds within the site and within 500m of the sites boundary have been subject to Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) assessment and/or environmental DNA (eDNA) survey. Of the 9 ponds assessed, 8 were scoped out on account of having low to negligible suitability for GCN. The remaining pond was sampled for GCN eDNA, returning a negative result. This concludes the likely absence of GCN at the site.

An Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) report will be produced and submitted with the application to assess the potential direct and indirect impacts of the Proposed Development upon local ecology. The EcIA will include suitable mitigation and enhancement measures and it is expected based on initial assessments that the Proposed Development will not result in any significant adverse effects for the designated ecological features.

A Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP) will also be produced to minimise any potential negative effects arising from the proposed development, while increasing the habitat diversity. It will involve the creation of new habitats offering food and shelter to wildlife, including Priority Species. The enhancement of the land within the development boundary will increase the site’s capability to support wildlife through generation of renewable energy.

With the implementation of the BMP, it is predicted that the Proposed Development will result in a net beneficial gain for biodiversity.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 26 of 38 8. CULTURAL HERITAGE & ARCHAEOLOGY

BASELINE

No designated or non-designated heritage assets are recorded within the boundary of the Application Site. The nearest HER and Listed Building is the Grade II* Listed Great House (2785), which sits c. 100m from the site boundary and comprises two main periods: 1590-1610 and mid-18th century, although it is difficult to say to what extent architectural fabric from these periods remain. The mid-18th century phase of the house and its associated grounds, including ornamental woodland, parkland and a large orchard area, appear to be partially depicted on the 1885 and 1902 OS maps (Figures 6 & 7: Appendix A), although these features have been removed by the time of its depiction on the 1952 OS map (Figure 8: Appendix A).

Designated heritage assets have been identified within a 5km study zone around the proposed development boundary, while listed buildings and conservation areas have been identified within a 2km study zone. See Figure 9: Appendix A for the locations of the identified designated heritage assets and Figure 10: Appendix A for the location of Listed Buildings. In addition, non- designated sites within the local Historic Environment Record (HER), National Monuments Record for Wales (NMRW) and the National Museum Archaeology Collection (NMAC) have also been identified within a 1km study zone (see Figure 11: Appendix A). The full lists of all the identified assets are presented within Table 2 below.

Table 2: Heritage Assets Identified within the 5km, 2km and 1km Study Zones

Database No. Name Distance (km)

World Heritage Sites (5km) 5 Blaenavon Industrial Landscape 3.00 Historic Landscape Areas (5km) HLW (GT) 1 Blaenavon 3.80 Scheduled Monuments (5km) MM123 Llangattock Nigh Usk Churchyard Cross 1.20 MM086 Castle Arnold 1.25 MM124 Llanvihangel Nigh Usk Churchyard Cross 1.65 MM307 St. Bartholomew's Churchyard Cross, Llanover 1.95 MM312 St. Bridget's Churchyard Cross, Llansantffraed 1.95 MM117 Llanthewy-Rhytherch Churchyard Cross-Base 2.00 MM080 Twyn y Cregen Castle Mound 2.55 MM326 St. Mary's Churchyard Cross, Llanfair Cilgedyn 2.60 MM081 Round Barrow 180m North of Ty-Canol 2.90 MM116 Llanarth Churchyard Cross-Base 3.50

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 27 of 38

MM056 Abergavenny Castle 3.65 MM183 Area of Conventual Buildings, St Mary's Priory 3.65 MM193 Abergavenny Roman Fort 3.70 MM082 St Mary's Yard Castle Mound 3.90 MM318 St. Mabli's Churchyard Cross, Llanvapley 4.00 MM010 Abergavenny Bridge 4.30 MM306 St. Faith's Churchyard Cross, Llanfoist 4.45 MM075 Coed y Bwnydd Camp 4.50 MM276 Hill's Tramroad Inclines, Llanfoist 4.65 Historic Parks and Gardens (5km) PGW.GT15 Clytha Park 2.45 Grade I Listed Buildings (2km) None Grade II* Listed Buildings (2km) 2785 Great House 0.10 1990 Llangattock Court 0.55 1988 Church of St Cadoc 1.20 1998 Church of St Michael 1.60 17419 Church of St Bride 1.90 1992 Church of St Bartholomew 1.95 17417 Church of St David 2.00 Grade II Listed Buildings (2km) 87181 Parc Llettis 0.35 87136 Barn at Parc Llettis Farm 0.35 1991 Llangattock House 0.50 87216 Water Trough near Llangattock Court 0.55 2000 Glan-y-nant 0.85 87137 Barn at Pentre-Gwyddel Farm 1.15 87184 Pentre-Gwyddel 1.15 87532 Lower Pentre Gwyddel 1.15 1989 Cross in Churchyard of Church of St. Cadoc 1.20 87153 Early Gravestone in Churchyard of Church of St. Cadoc 1.20 20753 Llanddewi Rhydderch Baptist Chapel 1.40 87193 Street Wall, Gatepiers and Gates of Llanddewi 1.40 Rhydderch Baptist Chapel 17640 Glan Usk Farmhouse 1.45 2777 Glanffrwd Mill 1.45 2778 Barn at Glanffrwd Mill 1.45 2001 Manor House (or Gobion Manor) 1.50 1999 Cross in Churchyard of Church of St. Michael 1.60

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 28 of 38

87654 Coldbrook Chapel 1.60

87167 Llansantffraid Court Hotel 1.75

87531 Fro Fawr 1.75

87195 The Old Rectory 1.80

87535 Ty Mawr 1.80

87148 Cross in Churchyard of Church of St. Bride 1.90

1993 Cross in Churchyard of Church of St. Bartholomew 1.95

87159 Hall Monument 1.95

87190 Seat at Hall Monument 1.95

87176 The Old School 2.00

1983 Cross in Churchyard of Church of St. David 2.00

Conservation Areas (2km)

None

Historic Environment Record (1km)

01358g Manor House, Llanover 0.10

01357g Great House Llanover 0.10

01364g Llangattock Mill 0.30

01359g Felisite axe, Tresaison 0.30

01347g Parc Lettis 0.35

08590g Gatehouse Complex, Penpergwm Moated Site 0.40

08587g Penpergwm Moated Site 0.40

08588g Penpergwm Moated Site 0.40

08589g Penpergwm Moated Site 0.40

08591g Gardens/Drainage, Penpergwm Moated Site 0.40

01365g Llangattock Court 0.55

01346g Llwy-Cecil Farm 0.60

01363g Store adjoining Bannut-tree house 0.60

01366g King of Prussia 0.65

08458g Waun Afon Peat Bog 0.80

01362g Glan-y-nant 0.85

National Monuments Record for Wales (1km)

36975 Great House Mansion 0.10

413736 Llangattock Corn Mill 0.30

20566 Parc Llettis Dwelling 0.35

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 29 of 38

265943 Penpergwm Lodge House and Garden 0.35

96387 Tresaison House 0.40

413756 Penpergwm Moated Manor 0.45

45077 Llangattock Court House 0.55

16 Llangattock Farm Cowhouse 0.55

45078 Llangattock House Guest House 0.55

45107 Llwyn Cecil House 0.60

36423 Bannut Tree House 0.60

407886 Tre Elidyr Garden Village Housing Estate 0.65

36920 Glan-y-nant House 0.85

20433 Mount Pleasant Dwelling 1.00

National Museum Archaeology Collection (1km)

89.76H/41 Find Spot - Prehistoric Flint Arrowhead Tip 0.20

20.11 Find Spot – Neolithic Stone Axehead Roughout Tresaison 0.35

DIRECT EFFECTS

As no recorded heritage assets lie inside the boundary, no direct effects will occur on recorded assets. A site walkover survey was undertaken on the 12th and 13th May 2020. Most fields did not contain any features of archaeological interest. However, the Green-Way (hollow-way) present along the southern edges of Fields 5, 6 and 7 (see Figure 3 in Appendix A) was determined to be well-preserved in places and is of archaeological and historical interest. This feature is proposed for exclusion within any development design in order to avoid direct impacts upon it.

There is some degree of archaeological potential present within Application Site, including that derived from heritage features from the original parkland and orchard areas associated with the Great House (2785). This potential is considered to be Moderate to low, but remains are not likely to be of high significance. No other specific archaeological potential relating to recorded assets is anticipated.

Overall, direct effects upon hitherto-unknown archaeological remains are expected to be Not Significant.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 30 of 38

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Within 5km of the Application Site there are 19 Scheduled Monuments; one Historic Park and Garden; one Historic Landscape Area (Blaenavon); and One World Heritage Site (Blaenavon Industrial Landscape). There is a concentration of Listed Buildings within 2km of the Application Site with seven listed as Grade II* and 28 listed as Grade II, however, visual effects upon heritage assets are not expected to be significant.

The site visit undertaken identified that tree cover along field boundaries prevented any significant views or intervisibility with surrounding heritage assets. The only asset visible was that of Great House, which itself was largely screened by tree cover, allowing only minimal sightings (usually roof and chimney) from each boundary and corner.

A full Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment will be produced in order to ascertain the degree of impacts anticipated upon each of the above assets, including the Grade II* Listed Great House adjacent to the proposed site and Blaenavon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site to the west. However, based on the current desk-based assessment and field work to date, the overall indirect effects are expected to be Not Significant.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 31 of 38 9. HYDROLOGY

The requirements for Flood Risk Assessments in Wales are provided in the PPW which came into effect in December 2018. PPW is supplemented by a series of Technical Advice Notes. Technical Advice Note 15 (TAN15): Development and Flood Risk, published in July 2004, sets out the Welsh Assembly Government’s policy on development and flood risk.

TAN 15 categorises Wales into three Zones (A, B and C) based on their risk of flooding. The Welsh Government published its Development Advice Map (DAM) based on the best available information considered sufficient to determine when flood risk issues need to be taken into account in planning future development. Within these maps it shows the development to be located entirely within Flood Zone A. TAN 15 states that Flood Zone A is considered to be at little or no risk of fluvial or tidal/coastal flooding. Development in Zone A however still needs to refer to surface water requirements and the acceptability criteria will only be passed if the development will not increase flooding elsewhere.

The Welsh Government has advised that a Flood Consequences Assessment is not required if a site lies entirely within Flood Zone A. However, for major developments (i.e. greater than 1 hectare), where drainage implications can be significant, it suggests that a “Drainage Strategy” Report be prepared to support the application. Paragraph 8.3 in TAN 15 specifically states that development should not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere and that the aim of new development should be to not create additional runoff when compared with the undeveloped situation.

Due to the size and nature of the proposed development, flood risk will be assessed, and a Drainage Strategy proposed to manage any potential increase in flood risk. Therefore, an assessment of all forms of flood risk and a detailed drainage impact assessment will be submitted along with the planning application.

As of January 2019, all construction work in Wales with drainage implications, of 100m2 or more is required to have Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) to manage on-site surface water.

Drainage design of the Proposed Development will comply with the National Standards for Sustainable Drainage as set out in Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 and an application to the SuDS Approving Body (SAB) at Monmouthshire County Council will be submitted for approval prior to construction and following approval of the Proposed Development by the Planning Inspectorate of Wales (PINS Wales).

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 32 of 38

POTENTIAL FLOOD RISK EFFECTS

Due to the scale of the development, a Flood Risk Assessment will be undertaken to assess the potential risks of flooding and feed into the drainage strategy. However, as the site is contained within Flood Zone A where a development of this type should be appropriate, the effects of flooding will not be significant.

A Drainage Impact Assessment will be submitted with any planning application and potential hydrological effects are not considered likely to be significant.

10. NOISE

Solar panels themselves do not generate noise. The main noise source associated with a solar farm development will be the inverter stations. The inverter stations have fans inside which cool the invertors during times of operation.

There is a limited number of noise sensitive receptors surrounding the site boundary; however, a Noise Impact Assessment (NIA) will be produced and submitted with the planning application to confirm there will be no noise limit exceedance. Potential effects relating to noise are anticipated to be not significant due to the low noise output of the solar farm as well as the significant distance between the noise source and receptors.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 33 of 38 11. TRAFFIC AND ACCESS

A Construction Traffic Management Plan (CTMP) will be provided to support the planning application, which will outline the overall framework for managing the movement of construction and delivery traffic to and from the Application Site, as well as considering the type of traffic that will be generated. The traffic assessment for the operational and decommissioning phases will also considered.

POTENTIAL EFFECTS

Increased traffic volumes will be generated by the Proposed Development during the construction period. However, the overall volume of traffic generated by a solar farm of this scale is generally considered to be low.

It is anticipated that any deliveries to site will be on standard Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs).

It is anticipated that the site will be accessed from the local road near Ysbytty Fields. This road runs northeast off of the B4598 for circa 4km before curving south and joining another local road for approximately 1.5km, where it will then enter the existing farm access which forks northwest towards the Application Site after approximately 270m. This local road network from which the site is accessed from is relatively narrow, however there are numerous passing points.

There are Public Right of Way’s (PROW) within and around the edges of the Site and the internal site access tracks will be designed so that these PROW’s can remain open at all times, whilst they will be kept clear of any development with a buffer zone of no development either side of the PROW. No significant effects are anticipated in relation to traffic and access.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 34 of 38 12. GLINT & GLARE

A basic evaluation of the Proposed Development site and its surroundings has been conducted to determine whether the impacts of glint and glare from a solar farm development could potentially impact on local ground-based receptors as well as Aviation Assets further afield.

Although there may be small amounts of glint and glare from the metal structures associated with the solar farm, the main source of glint and glare will be from the panels themselves and this should be the focus of any further assessment.

Solar panels are designed to absorb as much light as possible and not to reflect it. However, glint can be produced as a reflection of the sun from the surface of the solar PV panel. This can also be described as a momentary flash. This may be an issue due to visual impact and viewer distraction on ground-based receptors and on aviation.

Glare is significantly less intense in comparison to glint and can be described as a continuous source of bright light, relative to diffused lighting. This is not a direct reflection of the sun, but a reflection of the sky around the sun.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS UPON GROUND BASED RECEPTORS

Generally, the impact on residential receptors is limited to circa 5 minutes per day which is of a low impact. There are few residential receptors surrounding the site boundary and most are single farm dwellings. However, consideration will still be given to the effects on residential receptors whilst undertaking the landscape assessment and subsequent planting plan, to try and mitigate glint and glare further.

Public roads and railway lines within the vicinity of the proposed site area appear to be well screened from the solar farm. Roads within 500m will be assessed but it is not anticipated that glint and glare will have a significant effect on road safety.

A ground-based receptor Glint and Glare Assessment will be produced and submitted with the planning application. Although no significant effects are anticipated, communication with the landscape consultant will be sought in order to further reduce any effects on ground- based receptors in the form of a Landscape and Ecology Management Plan (LEMP).

POTENTIAL IMPACTS UPON AVIATION ASSETS

The site is just over 1km away from Abergavenny Aerodrome. This is a small, unlicensed airstrip which runs parallel to the A40. An assessment of the effects with Abergavenny

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 35 of 38

Aerodrome will be included within the planning application, however due to the orientation of the approach paths from the site, no significant effects are anticipated.

13. OUTLINE CONSTRUCTION ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

An Outline Construction Environmental Management Plan (OCEMP) will be submitted as part of the future planning application which would be prepared with reference to the environmental assessments undertaken as part of the Proposed Development. The OCEMP ensures that any potential pollution or other construction impacts on sensitive habitats and hydrological systems within and close to the site are properly assessed and mitigated. Best practice pollution prevention measures and guidance is considered as part of this assessment.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 36 of 38 14. CONCLUSION

The Proposed Development is for the construction, operation, maintenance and decommissioning of a ground mounted solar scheme with a maximum export capacity of 45MW. It has been concluded from the assessments of the Proposed Development that the environmental effects will not be significant and therefore an EIA is not required.

Given the carefully selected location of the Proposed Development not lying within any ecologically designated sites and the nearest being over 1km away, it is considered that there will not be any significant effects for any ecological qualifying features or designated sites listed within 15km of the Application Site Boundary. Most of the site comprises pasture and arable land, considered to be of low ecological value. With the implementation of the BMP, it is predicted that the Proposed Development will result in a net beneficial gain for biodiversity.

There are no designated or non-designated heritage assets recorded within the boundary of the Application Site, therefore no direct effects will occur on known assets. A site walk-over survey found few features of archaeological interest, however a Green-Way was present along the southern edges of Fields 5, 6 and 7 (see Figure 3 in Appendix A). This will be excluded from solar development within the design process to avoid any potential impacts upon it as a result of the development. Construction methodology for solar farms usually results in a total ground disturbance footprint of c. 5% of the Application Site area and hence, direct effects upon unknown archaeological remains within the Application Site are not considered likely to be significant.

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 37 of 38

Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Page 38 of 38 15. APPENDICES

• Appendix A: List of Figures

− Figure 1: Site Location Map

− Figure 2: Development Layout

− Figure 3: Field Numbers

− Figure 4: LANDMAP Visual & Sensory Aspect Areas and Designations

− Figure 5: Environmental Designations Map

− Figure 6: OS 1885 Map

− Figure 7: OF 1902 Map

− Figure 8: OS 1952 Map

− Figure 9: Designated Heritage Assets within 5km

− Figure 10: Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas in 2km

− Figure 11: Non-designated Heritage Assets within 1km

Penpergwm Solar Farm ¯ Site Location Map Figure 1

Key Layer

Development Boundary

Neo Office Address: Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow, G33 4EL

Key Layer

# Development Boundary

# Point of Connection

Power Lines

Neo Office Address: Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow, G33 4EL

Maxar, Microsoft Date: 03/04/2020 Drawn By: Michael Briggs Scale (A3):1:5,000 0 200 400 800Metres Drawing No: NEO00667/011I/A Penpergwm Solar Farm ¯ Field Numbers Figure 3

Field 1 Key

Development Boundary

Field 2 Field 3 Field 4

Field 5 Field 7 Field 6

Field 10 Neo Office Address: Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow, G33 4EL

Field 9

Field 8

Field 11

Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community Date: 24/03/2020 Drawn By: Michael Briggs Scale (A3):1:4,500 0 200 400 800Metres Drawing No: NEO00667/006I/A Penpergwm Solar Farm LANDMAP Visual & Sensory ¯ Ysgryd Fawr with Designations Figure 4

Llanfihangel Crucorney Hinterland Key

Abergavenny Development Boundary

5km Study Area

Castle Meadows Northern Hills A465 Ysgyryd Fach Historic Parks & Gardens

Brecon Beacon National Park

Visual and Sensory Value

Llanfoist Golf course The Blorenge High

Low Northen Raglan Moderate

A40 Outstanding

Blorenge scarp slopes River Usk Lower Usk and Olway valleys

Neo Office Address: Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow, G33 4EL

Goytre Lowland Gwehelog

© OpenStreetMap (and) contributors, CC-BY-SA Date: 22/05/2020 Drawn By: Michael Briggs Scale (A3):1:45,000 0 1.25 2.5 5Kilometers Drawing No: NEO00667/012I/A Penpergwm Solar Farm ¯ Environmental Designations Figure 5

Key

Development Boundary Coed y Cerrig 5km Study Area

15km Study Area

Sugar Loaf Woodlands Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)

Cwm Mill Section, Mardy Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

Usk Bat Sites River Usk (Upper Usk) Coed-y-Person

Cwm Clydach Woodlands Blorenge River Usk

Penpergwm Pond

River Usk (Lower Usk)

Llanover Quarry

Neo Office Address: Priority Wood Cinnamon House, Crab Lane, Warrington, WA2 0XP Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Bat Sites

© OpenStreetMap (and) contributors, CC-BY-SA Date: 02/03/2020 Drawn By: Dara Dunlop Scale (A3):1:120,000 0 2.5 5 10Kilometres Drawing No: NEO00667/001I/A Penpergwm Solar Farm ¯ OS 1885 Historic Map Figure 6

Key

Development Boundary

Neo Office Address: Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow, G33 4EL

Key

Development Boundary

Neo Office Address: Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow, G33 4EL

Date: 26/03/2020 Drawn By: Michael Briggs Scale (A3):1:4,500 0 200 400 800Metres Drawing No: NEO00667/008I/A Penpergwm Solar Farm ¯ OS 1952 Historic Map Figure 8

Key

Development Boundary

Neo Office Address: Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow, G33 4EL

Date: 26/03/2020 Drawn By: Michael Briggs Scale (A3):1:4,500 0 200 400 800Metres Drawing No: NEO00667/009I/A Penpergwm Solar Farm ¯ Designated Heritage Assets Figure 9

Key

Development Boundary

5km buffer zone

NA14 NA17 Blaenavon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site NA18 NA15 NA13 Scheduled Monuments

NA19 Clytha Park Historic Park and Gardens NA08 Blaenavon Historic Landscape Area NA21 NA01

NA12

NA02

NA04 NA07 NA09 NA03 NA06 Neo Office Address: Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow, G33 4EL NA05 NA22 NA10

NA11

© OpenStreetMap (and) contributors, CC-BY-SA Date: 14/04/2020 Drawn By: Michael Briggs Scale (A3):1:42,000 0 1 2 4Kilometres Drawing No: NEO00667/003I/A Penpergwm Solar Farm ¯ Listed Buildings within 2km Figure 10

Key NA57 NA29# Development Boundary NA47 NA37 # # NA36 2km buffer zone ##NA35 NA41 ##NA40 # Grade II* Listed Buildings

# Grade II Listed Buildings

NA43NA44 #

NA23 #

NA31NA30 #

NA42 # NA34 #

Neo Office Address: NA24NA33 # NA48 Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow, G33 4EL # NA32 # # NA27 ## NA50 NA52 #

© OpenStreetMap (and) contributors, CC-BY-SA Date: 14/04/2020 Drawn By: Michael Briggs Scale (A3):1:20,000 0 0.5 1 2Kilometres Drawing No: NEO00667/004I/A Penpergwm Solar Farm ¯ Non-designated Heritage Sites Figure 11

Key

NA84 NA70 Development Boundary NA85 1km Study Area NA78

NA89NA61 # Historic Environment Record # NA87 # National Monuments Record for Wales

# National Museum Archaeology Collection NA69 #NA83

NA59 NA58 NA74 NA75 NA60

NA62 NA63-67 NA76 NA79

Neo Office Address: Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow, G33 4EL NA86NA73

NA72 NA88 NA77

NA68 NA80 NA71 NA81 NA82

Wright Business Centre, 1 Lonmay Road, Glasgow G33 4EL | T: 0141 773 6262 | W: www.neo-environmental.co.uk

N. IRELAND OFFICE IRELAND OFFICE RUGBY OFFICE WARRINGTON OFFICE

Unit 3, The Courtyard Business Park Johnstown Business Centre Valiant Office Suites Cinnamon House, Cinnamon Park Gargorm Castle, Ballymena, Johnstown House, Naas Lumonics House, Valley Drive, Crab Lane, Fearnhead