Route Corridor Options – Interim Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Home , A4138 road, A483 road, A48 road, Abergorlech, Celtic Trail cycle route, Celtic Way

Route Corridor Options Report

Brechfa Forest Connection Project June 2013

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Document Details

Document prepared by RSK Environment Ltd.

The Old School, Stillhouse Lane, Bristol, BS3 4EB.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Contents

1 Introduction 13

1.1 Background 13

1.2 Wind Farms and Identified Connection Point 14

1.3 The Application Process 15

1.4 Approach to the Study 16

1.5 Structure of the Report 17

2 The Proposed Scheme 18

2.1 Overview of the South Wales Area 18

2.2 Background to the Proposals 19

2.3 Proposed Scheme; Outline Design and Construction 22

3 Approach and Outline Methodology 25

3.1 Commitments and Principles 25

3.2 Holford Rules 26

3.3 National Grid Guidance 28

3.4 Routeing Methodology 29

4 Stage 1: Primary Constraints Review 33

4.1 Area of Search 33

4.2 Revised Methodology 39

4.3 Summary of Data 40

4.4 Constraints Review 43

4.5 Landscape and Visual Dynamics 44

4.6 Ecology 51

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.7 Heritage 54

4.8 Land Use/Planning 56

4.9 Site reconnaissance 61

5 Stage 2a: Corridor Identification and Appraisal 62

5.1 Route Corridor Workshop 62

5.2 Key Considerations 66

5.3 Identification of Preliminary Route Corridors 67

5.4 Refinement of Preliminary Route Corridors 69

5.5 Outcomes of Site Visit 70

5.6 Route Corridor Catergorisation 73

5.7 Least Constrained Route Corridor Options 74

5.8 Alternative Route Corridor Options 79

5.9 Dismissed Corridor Options 81

5.10 Adoption of the EE route as the Preferred Connection Point 85

5.11 Comparative Review 86

5.12 Refinement of Preliminary Route Corridors 88

5.13 Informal Consultation on Preliminary Route Corridors 97

5.14 Revisiting the West of Carmarthen Corridor 103

5.15 Development of a Northern Corridor 106

6 Stage 2b: Identification of a Preferred Corridor 111

6.1 Next Steps 111

Appendix 1 WPD’s Schedule 9 Statement

Appendix 2 Report into the Scoping of Grid Corridors and Alignments

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Glossary of Terms

Term Description

Alternatives Different design, layout and technological possibilities considered during project development that have potential to fulfil the project objectives.

Ancient Woodland Woodland that has existed continuously since at least AD 1600.

Annex I Project See ‘Schedule 1 Project’.

Annex II Project See ‘Schedule 2 Project’.

Appropriate The process whereby projects, either alone or in combination, are Assessment considered to see if it can be ascertained that they will not adversely affect the integrity of a European Site.

Assessment A process by which information about effects of a proposed plan, project or intervention is collected, assessed and used to inform decision-making.

Baseline Conditions The environment as it appears (or would appear) immediately prior to the implementation of the project together with any known or foreseeable future changes that will take place before completion of the project.

Baseline Studies Work done to determine and describe the environmental conditions against which any future changes can be measured or predicted and assessed.

Biodiversity The variety of life forms, the different plants, animals and microorganisms, the genes they contain and the eco-systems they form.

Catchment A drainage/basin area within which precipitation drains into a river system and eventually into the sea.

Committed Development projects that are either under construction or which Development have valid planning permissions/consents.

Competent Authority The authority which determines the application for a consent, permission, licence or other authorisation to proceed with a development.

Construction Phase The period during which the building or assembling of infrastructure is undertaken.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Controlled Waters Surface waters, ground waters and coastal waters to which UK pollution legislation applies.

Culvert A pipe or box-type conduit through which water is carried under a structure.

Cumulative Impact Impacts that result from incremental changes caused by other past, present or reasonably foreseeable actions together with the project. A cumulative impact may arise as the result of: a) the combined impact of a number of different environmental topic-specific impacts from a single environmental impact assessment project on a single receptor/ resource; and b) the combined impact of a number of different projects within the vicinity (in combination with the environmental impact assessment project) on a single receptor/resource.

Decommissioning The period during which a development and its associated processes are removed from active operation.

Design Event An event such as a rainstorm or flood of given magnitude and probability (usually derived from previous records).

Discharge Consent Statutory document issued by the Environment Agency setting limits and conditions on the discharge of an effluent into controlled waters.

Do-Minimum Also known as the ‘Do-Nothing’ Scenario. The conditions that Scenario would persist in the absence of the implementation of a development.

Effect Term used to express the consequence of an impact (expressed as the ‘significance of effect’), which is determined by correlating the magnitude of the impact to the importance (or sensitivity) of the receptor or resource in accordance with defined significance criteria. For example, land clearing during construction results in habitat loss (impact), the effect of which is the significance of the habitat loss on the ecological resource.

EIA Directive Used to refer to EC Directive 85/337/EEC as amended by EC Directive 97/11/EC and the Public Participation Directive 2003/35/EC.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

EIA Regulations A collective term for the various statutory instruments through which the EC Directives on Environmental Assessment have been implemented in the UK.

Emission Standard The maximum amount or concentration of a pollutant allowed to be emitted from a particular source.

Enhancement A measure that is over and above what is required to mitigate the adverse effects of a project.

Environmental A method and a process by which information about Assessment environmental effects is collected, assessed and used to inform decision-making. Assessment processes include Strategic Environmental Assessment, Assessment of Implications on European Sites, and Environmental Impact Assessment.

Environmental A statutory process by which certain planned projects must be Impact Assessment assessed before a formal decision to proceed can be made. Involves the collection and consideration of environmental information, which fulfils the assessment requirements of Directive 85/337/EEC (as amended), including the publication of an Environmental Statement.

Environmental The information that must be taken into account by the decision Information maker (the Competent Authority) before granting any kind of authorisation in any case where the EIA process applies. It includes the environmental statement, including any further information, any representations made by any body required by the Regulations to be invited to make representations, and any representations duly made by any other person about the environmental effects of the development.

Environmental A structured plan that outlines the mitigation, monitoring and Management Plan management requirements arising from an Environmental Impact Assessment.

Environmental A document produced in accordance with the EIA Directive as Statement transposed into UK law by the EIA Regulations.

Estuary Downstream part of a river where it widens to enter the sea.

European Site Sites which make up the European ecological network (also known as Natura 2000 sites). These include: Sites of Community Importance (SCIs); Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and potential SPAs (pSPAs); Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and candidate or possible SACs (cSACs or pSACs); and Ramsar sites.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Evaluation The determination of the significance of effects. Evaluation involves making judgements as to the value of the receptor/resource that is being affected and the consequences of the effect on the receptor/resource based on the magnitude of the impact.

Existing See ‘Baseline Conditions’. Environment

Habitats Regulations EC Council Directive 92/43/EEC, known as the Habitats Directive, was transposed in the UK by the Habitats Regulations 1994 (as amended). The Habitats Regulations apply to UK land and territorial waters and act to ensure biodiversity of natural habitats and of wild flora and fauna through a range of measures including designation of SAC’S.

Habitats Regulations The assessment of the impacts of implementing a plan or policy Assessment on a European Site, the purpose being to consider the impacts of a project against conservation objectives of the site and to ascertain whether it would adversely affect the integrity of the site.

Hydrodynamics The mechanical properties of fluids.

Impact Change that is caused by an action; for example, land clearing (action) during construction which results in habitat loss (impact).

Invertebrates Animals without backbones.

Local Planning A local authority or council that is empowered by law to exercise Authority planning functions for a particular area of the United Kingdom (often the local Borough or District Council).

Mitigation Measures intended to avoid, reduce and compensate adverse environmental effects.

Monitoring A continuing assessment of the performance of the project, including mitigation measures. This determines if effects occur as predicted or if operations remain within acceptable limits, and if mitigation measures are as effective as predicted.

Nationally Large projects that support the economy and vital public services, Significant including railways, large wind farms, power stations, reservoirs, Infrastructure harbours, airports and sewage treatment works, as defined in the Project Planning Act 2008.

Non-Statutory Organisations and bodies who should be consulted on relevant Consultee planning applications.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Non-Technical Information for the non-specialist reader to enable them to Summary understand the main predicted environmental effects of the proposal without reference to the main Environmental Statement.

Operation The functioning of a project on completion of construction.

Pasture Grassland maintained primarily for and by grazing, and on which grazing stock is kept for a large part of the year.

Phase 1 Habitat Recognised methodology used for collating information on the Survey habitat structure of a particular site.

Photomontage The superimposing of an image onto a photograph for the purpose of creating a realistic representation of proposed or potential changes to a view.

Pollution Any increase of matter or energy to a level that is harmful to living organisms of their environment (when it becomes a pollutant).

Preferred Option The chosen design option that most successfully achieves the project objectives and becomes subject to further design and assessment.

Programme A series of steps that have been identified by the applicant, or series of projects that are linked by dependency.

Project One, or more, aspect of a programme or plan that has been identified by the applicant and which usually involves a direct physical intervention.

Project Objectives The objectives of the project, set by the applicant.

Proposed Scheme Also known as ‘Proposed Development’ - a plan or project which the applicant or promoter seeks to implement.

Ramsar Areas designated by the UK Government under the International Ramsar Convention (the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance).

Receptor A defined individual environmental feature usually associated with population, fauna and flora with the potential to be affected by a project.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Resource A defined but generally collective environmental feature usually associated with soil, water, air, climatic factors, landscape, material assets, including the architectural and archaeological heritage, that has potential to be affected by a project.

Roosting Site (birds) Areas where birds congregate during the high water period when intertidal feeding areas are covered.

Roosting Site (bats) A place where bats live (e.g. built structures and trees).

Runoff Precipitation that flows as surface water from a site, catchment or region to the sea.

Schedule 1 Project Plans or projects which are listed in Annex I of the Directive, as revised, and Schedule 1 of the Regulations, as revised.

Schedule 2 Project Plans or projects which are listed in Annex II of the Directive, as revised, and Schedule 2 of the Regulations, as revised.

Scoping The process of identifying the issues to be addressed by the environmental impact assessment process. It is a method of ensuring that an assessment focuses on the important issues and avoids those that are considered to be not significant.

Scoping Opinion An opinion provided by a competent authority that indicates the issues an Environmental Impact Assessment of a proposed development should consider.

Screening The formal process undertaken to determine whether it is necessary to carry out a statutory Environmental Impact Assessment and publish an Environmental Statement in accordance with the EIA Regulations.

Semi-Natural A habitat, ecosystem, community, vegetation type or landscape which has been modified by human activity but which consists largely of native species and appears to have similar structure and functioning to a natural type.

Significance See Significance of Effect.

Significance of A measure of the importance or gravity of the environmental Effect effect, defined by either generic significance criteria, or criteria specific to the environmental topic.

Significant An effect which is considered material to the decision-making Environmental Effect process.

Sites of Special The main national conservation site protection measure in Britain Scientific Interest designated under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Special Area of International designation implemented under the Habitats Conservation Regulations for the protection of habitats and (non bird) species.

Special Protection Sites designated under EU Directive (79/409/EEC) for the Area conservation of wild birds.

Spring Tide Spring tides happen just after every full and new moon, when the sun, moon and earth are in line.

Stakeholder An organisation or individual with a particular interest in the project.

Statutory Consultee Organisations that the competent authority is required to consult by virtue of the EIA Regulations.

Study Area The spatial area within which environmental effects are assessed (i.e. extending a distance from the project footprint in which significant environmental effects are anticipated to occur). This may vary between the topic areas.

Threshold A specified level in grading effects (e.g. the order of significance).

Visual Amenity The value of a particular view or area in terms of what is seen.

Wildlife Corridor Linear habitats/landscape features such as hedgerows that may increase connectivity by acting as routes between habitat patches.

Worst Case A principle that is applied where environmental effects may vary (e.g. due to seasonal variations) to ensure the most severe effect is assessed.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

1 Introduction

1.1 Background

1.1.1 RSK Environment Ltd (RSK) has been commissioned by Western Power Distribution (WPD) to provide environmental consultancy support services in relation to a proposed overhead 132kV electricity grid connection between three proposed wind farms at Brechfa Forest, Carmarthenshire, and a suitable grid connection point near Llandyfaelog, south of Carmarthen (the proposed scheme).

1.1.2 The purpose of the proposed scheme is to provide connectivity between the proposed wind farms and the existing electricity distribution network. The three wind farms comprise: Brechfa Forest West (consented), Bryn Llywelyn (proposed) and Brechfa Forest East (proposed).

1.1.3 WPD has prepared a Strategic Optioneering Report (SOR) to determine the most feasible and appropriate means and points of connection, WPD has progressed the proposed scheme through the design-development process. A number of potential route corridor options for the required connections were identified as part of a staged review process, and were subsequently appraised by WPD on environmental, engineering, technical and cost grounds.

1.1.4 This interim report summarises the environmental appraisal work undertaken to date, and allows statutory bodies and other interested parties the opportunity to comment on the emerging route corridor options and other relevant matters which will subsequently inform the selection of a preferred corridor option with alignment options by WPD in late 2013.

1.1.5 Following further consultation, a preferred route alignment will be selected and subject to detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to determine its effects on the receiving environment.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

1.1.6 WPD is the electricity distribution network operator for the South West, Midlands and Wales.

1.1.7 Under the statutory requirements of Section 9 of the Electricity Act 1989, the company has a legal obligation to provide a means of connection for developments requiring connection to the national electricity grid, as well as maintaining and upgrading the existing distribution network within their area of responsibility.

1.1.8 As a holder of a distribution licence, WPD has a statutory duty to facilitate, develop and maintain an efficient, co-ordinated and economical system of electricity distribution. Essentially this requires that WPD identify potential electrical connections that meet the technical requirements of the network and are economical, and which on balance result where possible in the least disturbance to the receiving natural and built environment and those who live and work within it.

1.1.9 WPD is required to consider - and then balance - technical, economic, social and environmental issues in the identification of a proposed route for a grid connection for the wind farms.

1.2 Wind Farms and Identified Connection Point

1.2.1 The three proposed wind farms are located approximately 10km north-east of Carmarthen, and are set within and around the Brechfa Forest plantation.

1.2.2 The application for Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm was consented on 12 March 2013 by the Secretary of State following a recommendation for approval by the Planning Inspectorate (PINS). This development will comprise the construction and operation of 28 wind turbines of up to 145m tip height by RWE npower renewables Limited.

1.2.3 Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm is currently being progressed through the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. The development comprises a proposal to

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

construct and operate a 12 turbine scheme.

1.2.4 The 21 turbine Bryn Llywelyn Wind Farm proposal is being progressed by Renewable Energy Systems UK & Ireland Limited (RES) through the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. This application was refused by Carmarthenshire County Council, and RES have subsequently appealed this decision.

1.2.5 All three proposed wind farms incorporate associated operational infrastructure, each including a dedicated substation within the overall development, to allow generated electricity to be transferred to a dedicated means of connection to the existing distribution network.

1.2.6 The proposed connection point comprises an existing overhead line which runs from an existing substation at Swansea (Swansea North 132kV) and terminates north of Llandyfaelog. An existing section of this overhead line will be utilised, with some refurbishment and reconfiguration to the overall existing line to Swansea required.

1.2.7 As part of its strategic review of options, WPD has reviewed the suitability of this existing line against other alternatives, and has concluded that connection into this existing infrastructure would be technically feasible and preferable in economic and engineering terms to a direct connection into the Swansea North Substation.

1.2.8 Figure 1 depicts the location of the three wind farms, the proposed connection point near Llandyfaelog, and WPD’S existing distribution network within the South Wales area.

1.3 The Application Process

1.3.1 The proposed scheme constitutes a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) under the Planning Act 2008 (as amended). WPD will be required to submit an application for a Development Consent Order (DCO) to the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) to obtain approval for construction of the proposed scheme. The DCO will include the Environmental Statement which will report the findings

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

and outcomes of the EIA process.

1.3.2 Construction of the proposed scheme is dependent on the granting of consent for one or more of the three windfarms at Brechfa Forest. The proposals have been developed on the assumption that each development will require some form of electrical connection to the grid.

1.3.3 At the time of compiling this report, one of the three wind farm proposals has been granted formal consent to proceed; this now creates a confirmed need for the proposed scheme.

1.4 Approach to the Study

1.4.1 The development of grid connection projects of the type proposed involves a transparent and inclusive process of data collection, consultation, route corridor identification and option differentiation which informs selection of a preferred route alignment (or final scheme).

1.4.2 The process involves three key stages.

. Stage 1: Primary Constraints Review – comprising definition of an appropriate study area within which environmental, engineering and technical data of differing importance can be collected, reviewed and interrogated by the project team to determine potential constraints and opportunities to development progression;

. Stage 2: Potential Route Corridors and Selection of a Preferred Option – comprising evaluation of identified constraints and opportunities within the adopted study area to develop potential route corridors in pursuit of selection of a preferred corridor, within which the proposed scheme could feasibly be accommodated;

. Stage 3: Preferred Route Alignment – comprising a review of the preferred corridor and development of engineering options, leading to the identification of a preferred route alignment which will be subject to detailed scrutiny and

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

focused EIA as part of any application submission to PINS.

1.4.3 Consultation is acknowledged to form a key part of the development and refinement of grid connection projects. Accordingly, opportunities for stakeholder engagement are incorporated into each stage of the development process to facilitate data collection and incorporation of the view and opinions of statutory bodies and other interested parties.

1.4.4 The staged approach ensures that stakeholders gradually move from being a source of information into a more central role as the project progresses through the key decision gates and development milestones.

1.4.5 The outcomes of Stages 1 and 2 of the development and appraisal process (up to but excluding the identification of a preferred corridor) have been recorded in this interim report, which sets out the various data sources, consultation activities, methodologies and approaches that have informed the development of potential route corridors for the proposed scheme.

1.5 Structure of the Report

1.5.1 This report is structured in the following manner.

. Section 1 – Introduction;

. Section 2 - The Proposed Scheme;

. Section 3 - Approach and Outline Methodology;

. Section 4 - Stage 1: Primary Constraints Review;

. Section 5 - Stage 2: Corridor Identification and Appraisal;

. Section 6 - Next Steps.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

2 The Proposed Scheme

2.1 Overview of the South Wales Area

2.1.1 The area associated with the proposed wind farms and surrounding environs captures a proportion of the county of Carmarthenshire and the western fringes of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

2.1.2 Forces of change have shaped the landscape over time from physical and human influences, resulting in a land use pattern dominated by plantation forestry and agriculture, interspersed with isolated settlements, villages and small towns.

2.1.3 Settlements are linked by a complex network of rural roads and lanes from major transport corridors such as the A40, A485 and A48 connecting Carmarthen to wider towns.

2.1.4 The area exhibits incised valleys along several watercourses such as the River Cothi running south from the Brechfa locality to the broader, more visually exposed valley of the River Towy which flows westwards towards Carmarthen.

2.1.5 Several areas cater for informal recreation, these being associated with the many kilometres of river valleys, tracks, footpaths and bridleways.

2.1.6 Topography is highly variable, demonstrated by the many complex landforms and steep gradients topped by exposed elevated areas of moorland. Many localised high points around Brechfa exceed heights of 300m AOD, dropping significantly in the low lying river valley floors to around 30m AOD.

2.1.7 Climatic and weather conditions affect the general perception and experience of the area, with the existing Alltwalis Wind Farm east of the A485 exerting a notable man-made influence in the landscape and visual environment. Other human influences comprise railway corridors connecting major towns and a network of existing overhead transmission and distribution towers and local distribution lines which traverse the landscape.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

2.2 Background to the Proposals

Indicative Route

2.2.1 An initial review of a possible overhead connection was undertaken by WPD during the preparation of the DCO application for the Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm by RWE npower renewables Limited, in order to demonstrate to the former Infrastructure Planning Commission (now PINS) that a grid connection was feasible and achievable from this particular development.

2.2.2 Line Survey Transmission Consultancy Limited (LSTC) were commissioned by WPD in 2009 to undertake a reconnaissance survey into the feasibility of routeing a 132kV woodpole line from the wind farm substation to the existing Swansea North Substation, located some 35km south-east.

2.2.3 A combination of desk-based and site based surveys were undertaken to determine a high-level conceptual route (the indicative route) for the connection, the alignment of which sought to achieve a degree of compatibility with existing terrain, landform, land cover, environmental designations, utility infrastructure, and settlement patterns.

2.2.4 The indicative route is depicted on Figure 2, the preliminary details of which were subsequently set out within the DCO application documentation for the Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm1, acknowledging that any connection would be the subject of a separate DCO application to PINS to obtain development consent to proceed.

2.2.5 Given the requirement to provide a means of electrical connection to the Brechfa Forest West, Brechfa Forest East and Bryn Llywelyn wind farms, WPD elected to re-evaluate the feasibility of overhead routeing by undertaking a wider strategic review of potential options, building on the high-level findings of the 2009 LSTC study.

1 Full details of the indicative route are contained in Appendix 3.3 of the Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm Environmental Statement (October 2011) (RWE npower renewables Ltd). Within this document, the indicative route is referred to as the ‘potential grid connection route’.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Strategic Option Review

2.2.6 In meeting its licence obligations, WPD seeks to find an acceptable overhead line solution for all proposed electrical distribution connections of 132kV capacity and below. Generally, overhead distribution lines are more economical and less disruptive to construct than their underground counterparts, and prove easier to maintain and repair in the long term by offering improved access and quicker repair times. WPD has a licence obligation to offer developers an economical connection option.

2.2.7 Only in instances where there are exceptional environmental constraints are underground cables considered as a realistic alternative by WPD. Such constraints are commonly associated with urban developed areas where space availability and proximity issues arise, and in certain rural environments where overhead infrastructure is identified as having the potential to lead to substantial significant effects upon receptors such as the receiving landscape, historical assets or ecological receptors for example.

2.2.8 A strategic options review was commenced by WPD in early 2012, which involved the identification and appraisal of high-level feasible options across a wide geographical area that could potentially achieve the project objectives.

2.2.9 As part of this review, consideration was given to different technologies such as the full or partial use of underground cabling, the full details of which are set out in a Strategic Optioneering Report (May 2013) for the proposed scheme, and supporting reports.

2.2.10 In consultation with the respective wind farm developers, a strategic decision was made that the proposed grid connection should principally be achieved through the installation of an overhead 132kV single circuit connection supported on wooden structures.

2.2.11 WPD identified the Swansea North Substation as a potentially suitable connection point for the proposed scheme; this reflected the findings of the LSTC survey and

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

was accordingly adopted by the project team during the early stages of the route corridor study.

2.2.12 As part of its strategic review, WPD appraised potential methods of connecting into the Swansea North Substation; this involved technical evaluation of the suitability of the existing overhead connections, and the viability of installing new distribution infrastructure.

2.2.13 Continued evaluation led to a feasible connection point being identified in the Llandyfaelog locality. This comprised an existing section of overhead distribution line – the “EE route” – which terminates in a field south of Carmarthen but which provides an existing overhead connection to the Swansea North Substation via the “W”, “C” and “V” routes

2.2.14 Following detailed review, WPD concluded that the EE route connection point near Llandyfaelog offered significant benefits over routeing directly into the Swansea North Substation in terms of utilising existing distribution infrastructure and reducing the overall length and potential impacts of the proposed scheme.

2.2.15 The strategic options review concluded that this option would achieve a better, more appropriate balance between WPDs technical, economic and environmental obligations. It was also considered that an overhead option between the three wind farms and the existing Llandyfaelog connection point would enable WPD to accord with the objectives of National Planning Policy by enabling the export of renewable energy.

2.2.16 Notwithstanding this, WPD acknowledged as part of their strategic review that the adoption of an overhead solution could potentially raise conflicts with the protection of amenity and other valued assets, given the receiving environment contains a diverse composite of interests such as designated landscapes and dispersed local communities.

2.2.17 Accordingly, the review concluded that consideration may potentially need to be given to the undergrounding of some sections of the overhead connection in

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

locations where such conflicts may emerge, as part of the later stages of option appraisal and evaluation.

2.3 Proposed Scheme; Outline Design and Construction

2.3.1 Overhead transmission and distribution lines are seen as everyday components within both urban and rural environments.

2.3.2 The strategic option review concluded that the objectives of the proposed scheme will be best realised through the installation of a new section of 132kV single circuit overhead distribution line, positioned on wooden poles.

2.3.3 The overhead line will transmit a single 3-phase circuit from the proposed wind farms and connect into the existing terminated network near Llandyfaelog. The strategic review of this existing section of the network identified a need for some refurbishment and reconfiguration to the overall existing line to Swansea.

2.3.4 A fibre optic cable will also be installed as part of the circuit; this will either be wrapped around one of the phase wires or understrung to provide a means of communication along its route. The cable will be used to transmit data along its length in relation to operation of the line, including fault detection during operation.

2.3.5 It is envisaged the wood poles will be installed to achieve an average height above ground of around 15 metres, with the possibility of extending (to a maximum of 20 metres) or reducing this to meet statutory clearance criteria or to address physical constraints such as steep gradients.

2.3.6 Where a change in direction (or angle) of the overhead line is necessary, the poles would be reinforced with stays to counteract the pull of the line. A variant on the H pole, the “4 pole” structure, would be used at interface locations and where a section or sections of the line are undergrounded to accommodate the cable terminations. Additional support structures may also be required at interface locations along the line route. These details will be determined during survey at the route alignment stage.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

2.3.7 The wood poles will allow a maximum achievable span of 120m; however the span distance will vary depending on existing topographical conditions and the need to accommodate technical and/or environmental constraints such as other related distribution infrastructure that may exist along the final preferred alignment.

2.3.8 Span lengths may also be influenced by the ability to physically construct the line and the type and size of conductors (wires) to be used. Conductors will be installed in a horizontal flat formation at the top of each pole, with lightening protection fitted where necessary.

2.3.9 It is envisaged that construction plant, machinery and 4x4 vehicles will be used to deliver, assemble and erect the individual wood poles. Temporary fencing will be used to secure working areas from livestock and members of the public.

2.3.10 Installation of the wood poles will require excavation of a foundation pit within which each structure can be set vertically and braced. Excavated earth is then used as backfill material.

2.3.11 Following installation of a number of pole sections, stringing will be undertaken to install the conductors to the poles. Drums of conductor wire will be set up, with a winch tensioner used to assist pulling of the conductors from one end of the section to the other.

2.3.12 The overhead crossing of road or railway corridors will be achieved through the construction of a temporary scaffold tunnel, and potential obstacles such as existing overhead lines will either be switched off, deviated or protected using scaffolds.

2.3.13 Construction materials will be delivered to dedicated site storage or assembly areas via the existing road network, and subsequently transferred to individual pole sites by cross-country vehicles fitted with lifting apparatus. Tracked excavators will be used during installation to reduce ground compaction and damage, with any disturbed areas full reinstated post construction.

2.3.14 Periodic inspection of the distribution line will be undertaken to identify any

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

damage or deterioration of the components, such that can occur from storm events and lightning strikes.

2.3.15 The typical components of the proposed scheme are depicted on Figure 3.

2.3.16 The final details of a preferred connection method and associated alignment will be established and confirmed as part of Stage 3 of the options appraisal process, at which time detailed topographical ground condition surveys will be undertaken to identify the positions and heights of each individual pole.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

3 Approach and Outline Methodology

3.1 Commitments and Principles

3.1.1 The approach to, and delivery of, the options appraisal study has been founded on the following commitments, guiding principles and best practice.

. A commitment to progression of appropriate technical solutions that seek to limit disturbance to people and the receiving environment through avoidance of areas of acknowledged high value, sensitivity and/or amenity wherever possible;

. A commitment to ensure potential design solutions provide operational efficiency and offer genuine economic value, in line with obligations set out under the Electricity Act 1989;

. The adopted approach to appraisal and evaluation must retain flexibility to allow controlled review and iteration to occur where necessary;

. Effort expended during the process must be proportionate to the stage and level of decision-making required;

. Consultation will underpin the study throughout - stakeholders will act as a source of essential data, a means of testing and modifying the appraisal method, and will assist in the determination of priorities;

. Consideration of the Holford Rules and National Grid guidelines (described below) throughout the design-development and appraisal process;

. Having due regard to WPD’s Schedule 9 statement (see Appendix 1);

. A clear need to balance and resolve possible conflicts between technical, environmental, engineering and economic considerations by way of evidence based review, criteria and consultation;

. Reporting of conclusions in an open and transparent manner that will inform

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

the next stages of study, investigation and appraisal.

3.2 Holford Rules

3.2.1 The Holford Rules comprises a set of guidelines for overhead line routeing. The Rules were prepared in 1959 by Lord Holford, the key principles of which focus on the achievement of good visual integration and protection of areas of high amenity value.

3.2.2 The original Rules - and notes of clarification subsequently added by National Grid (in italics) - are as follows.

. Rule 1: Avoid altogether, if possible, the major areas of highest amenity value, by so planning the general route of the first line in the first place, even if the total mileage is somewhat increased in consequence;

Investigate the possibility of alternative routes, avoiding if possible the areas of the highest amenity value. The consideration of alternative routes must be an integral feature of environmental statements. Areas of highest amenity value are: Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty; National Parks; Heritage Coasts; and World Heritage Sites.

. Rule 2: Avoid smaller areas of high amenity value, or scientific interests by deviation; provided that this can be done without using too many angle towers i.e. the more massive structures which are used when lines change direction;

Some areas (e.g. Site of Special Scientific Interest) may require special consideration for potential effects on ecology (e.g. to their flora and fauna). Where possible choose routes which minimise the effects on the setting of areas of architectural, historic and archaeological interest including Conservation Areas, Listed Buildings, Listed Parks and Gardens and Ancient Monuments.

. Rule 3: Other things being equal, choose the most direct line, with no sharp changes of direction and thus with fewer angle towers;

Where possible choose inconspicuous locations for angle towers, terminal towers and sealing end compounds.

. Rule 4: Choose tree and hill backgrounds in preference to sky backgrounds

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

wherever possible; and when the line has to cross a ridge, secure this opaque background as long as possible and cross obliquely when a dip in the ridge provides an opportunity. Where it does not, cross directly, preferably between belts of trees;

. Rule 5: Prefer moderately open valleys with woods where the apparent height of towers will be reduced, and views of the line will be broken by trees;

Utilise background and foreground features to reduce the apparent height and domination of towers from pan viewpoints. Minimise the exposure of numbers of towers on prominent ridges and skylines. Where possible avoiding cutting extensive swathes through woodland blocks and consider opportunities for skirting edges of copses and woods. Protecting existing vegetation, including woodland and hedgerows, and safeguard visual and ecological links with the surrounding landscape.

. Rule 6: In country which is flat and sparsely planted, keep the high voltage lines as far as possible independent of smaller lines, converging routes, distribution poles and other masts, wires and cables, so as to avoid a concentration or ‘wirescape’;

In all locations minimise confusing appearance. Arrange wherever practicable that parallel or closely related routes are planned with tower types, spans and conductors forming a coherent appearance; where routes need to diverge, allow where practicable sufficient separation to limit the effects on properties and features between the lines.

. Rule 7: Approach urban area through industrial zones, where they exist; and when pleasant residential and recreational land intervenes between the approach line and the substation, go carefully into the comparative costs of the undergrounding, for lines other than those of the highest voltage;

When a line needs to pass through a development area, route it so as to minimise as far as possible the effect on development. Alignments should be chosen after consideration of effects on the amenity of existing development and on proposals for new development. When siting substations take account of the effects of the terminal towers and line connections that will need to be made and take advantage of screening features such as ground form and vegetation.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES

Residential Areas: Avoid routeing close to residential areas as far as possible on grounds of general amenity.

Designations of County, District and Local Value: Where possible choose routes which minimise the effect on Special Landscape Areas, areas of Great Landscape Value and other similar designations of County, District or Local value.

Alternative Tower Designs: In additional to adopting appropriate routeing, evaluate where appropriate the use of alternative tower designs now available where these would be advantageous visually, and where the extra cost can be justified.

3.2.3 The Holford Rules were a product of a particular time where protection of landscape, ecology and heritage assets through formal designation was limited, thereby allowing conflicts between overhead line developments and the receiving environment to be more easily reconciled than is achievable today.

3.2.4 Since the formulation of the Holford Rules, formal requirements for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) have been gradually introduced through legislation and statute over the last 25 years. Although the EIA process seeks to address wider environmental issues that extend far beyond the original focus of the Rules, they are considered to remain a useful tool in the selection, refinement and assessment of overhead line routeing projects and accordingly continue to form a key role in the design-development process.

3.2.5 The core principles of the Holford Rules have been integrated into the National Policy Statement for Electricity Networks Infrastructure (EN-5); this sets out national policy position concerning certain types of overhead electrical transmission and distribution projects in England and Wales.

3.3 National Grid Guidance

3.3.1 National Grid, the organisation responsible for the development and maintenance of the strategic high-voltage transmission network and other energy connections, has published the following guidance on their approach and principles concerning installation of new overhead and underground transmission lines.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. Our approach to the design and routeing of new electricity transmission lines (2012);

. Our approach to options appraisal (2012).

3.3.2 Both documents outline how National Grid identify the most appropriate location and technology for any new electricity connections, setting out how data is collected, analysed and consulted upon in order to develop and appraise alternatives in pursuit of solutions that best meet society’s needs.

3.4 Routeing Methodology

Outline of the Approach

3.4.1 The scope and methodology underpinning the appraisal has been founded on the above commitments, principles and guidelines.

3.4.2 An outline methodology and framework for appraisal was developed by RSK Environment Ltd in February 2012 to enable progression of the preliminary project activities, following initial discussions with WPD regarding their development programme and associated timescales for delivery of the proposed scheme.

3.4.3 A staged approach was developed for: the identification of environmental constraints and opportunities; identification and refinement of potential route corridors; drafting of route alignment options; and selection of a preferred alignment for the proposed scheme.

3.4.4 The following stages of the outline methodology were presented in a manner that could be clearly understood by the project team and consultees to ensure timescales, roles and expectations were clear to all parties involved.

Stage 1

3.4.5 Stage 1 involves identification of “first tier” issues (i.e. those of international and national significance) and “second tier” issues (i.e. those of regional and local significance) associated with landscape, nature conservation, cultural heritage and

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

land use/planning interests.

3.4.6 Data would be sought from statutory consultees, the large majority of which being readily available in digital form on the internet which could be easily gathered and manipulated in this initial stage of the process.

3.4.7 The outline methodology sought to engage relevant stakeholders early in the data collection phase through formal letters requesting information and records pertinent to Stage 1, accompanied by a request for any other environmental criteria they feel warrants consideration in the process.

3.4.8 Stage 1 consultation set out to engage statutory consultees via meetings and workshops in order to: review the appropriateness and completeness of data gathered; establish a common understanding of environmental interests and their inter-relationships; contribute to identification of site-specific and area based sensitivities; and invite comment on the scope and methodology of work going forwards.

3.4.9 The methodology established that adoption of GIS techniques would be appropriate to use during all stages of the appraisal, given that: considerable spatial extents would likely require consideration; many statutory agencies and websites provide GIS compatible data formats; and complex data and designation boundaries could be presented and interrogated digitally in ‘heat map’ form to readily identify development constraints, opportunities, priorities and conflicts during Stage 2 of the exercise.

Stage 2

3.4.10 The prime objective of Stage 2 is to develop a number of corridors that, where possible, avoid key environmental sensitivities and assets of acknowledged importance and value. In common with Stage 1, the exercise would be informed by giving due regard to establish routeing guidelines such as the Holford Rules and National Grid guidelines.

3.4.11 Criteria and interests appropriate to Stage 2 would again be reviewed and

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

validated by stakeholder consultation, extended to capture wider groups. The methodology also proposed identification of corridors based on nominal 500m wide routes to allow flexibility in route alignment identification and development at Stage 3.

3.4.12 First and second tier data would be reviewed, along with the findings of site visits, to identify route corridor options with the least constraints or greatest opportunity to accommodate overhead route alignments. The methodology recognised that second tier issues would likely provide more of a basis for refining options and defining constraints of more local significance at Stage 2, should there prove to be unavoidable conflicts with first tier constraints.

3.4.13 Site based reviews would be undertaken jointly by project team members at Stage 2 to facilitate comparison of sensitivities, and to set the ground for discussion of priorities as the refinement of options proceeds. The approach also allowed for engineering and operational constraints to begin to be fed into the process during Stage 2.

3.4.14 As Stage 2 involves identification and refinement of corridor options, it was identified that there would necessarily be greater reliance on the professional interpretation and evaluation of the nature and disposition of the various environmental issues.

3.4.15 Consultation at Stage 2 would serve to inform the refinement and ultimately the selection of a preferred route corridor by WPD, with the outcomes of the process recorded in report format.

Stage 3

3.4.16 The key objective of Stage 3 would be to identify potential route alignments within the preferred corridor, in order that WPD can progress the proposed scheme design to a sufficient level of detail to permit meaningful scoping with the Planning Inspectorate.

3.4.17 Following establishment of a preferred route corridor, the chosen option would be

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

interrogated further in order to identify potential route alignments within sections of the overall corridor. These would be based on potential lines of ‘least resistance’, balanced against factors such as feasibility of construction, operation and cost, with cognisance given to routeing guidelines throughout.

3.4.18 Alternative route alignments within each section would then be subject to a preliminary comparative exercise to establish which, if any, might be discounted from further consideration. This stage would also involve consideration of factors such as the relationship between the route alignments and landowners/landholdings, and potential conflicts with existing utilities and infrastructure (e.g. highways).

3.4.19 The alternatives would be independently reviewed and jointly considered by the project team (and any independent parties as required) against environmental and engineering parameters. This review and testing would take the form of a scoring or ranking system against criteria including environmental sensitivity, deliverability and operational implications, leading to the selection of a single preferred alignment which would be taken forward for development and EIA.

3.4.20 The decision-making process at Stage 3 would be fully documented and reported in a comparable manner to that completed for Stages 1 and 2.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4 Stage 1: Primary Constraints Review

4.1 Area of Search

Definition

4.1.1 Stage 1 of the appraisal commenced in April 2012 with the Primary Constraints Review.

4.1.2 A preliminary area of search was collectively defined, predicted on the assumption that the three wind farms at Brechfa would likely be connected via an overhead distribution line to the existing Swansea North Substation.

4.1.3 The area was initially based around the indicative corridor identified for the Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm development, with appropriate extensions made to frame an area of sufficient coverage that would: accommodate the indicative route and other potential alternative corridors for the proposed scheme; enable identification of environmental sensitivities and constraints that could be directly and/or indirectly affected by progression of a connection; and enable identification of technical and/or engineering factors that may preclude or hinder development of an overhead distribution line.

4.1.4 The area extents were principally defined by a combined review of desk-based mapping, known sensitivities and their boundaries, existing topography, settlement patterns, transportation corridors and high-level technical inputs provided by WPD.

4.1.5 The area necessarily captured the three wind farm substation locations and the identified Swansea connection point, the boundary of which was broadly defined to the east by a combination the A474, B4310, and the western boundary of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The western extents were constrained by the town of Carmarthen, the A484, and the River Towy estuary.

4.1.6 The preliminary area of search and its associated boundaries is depicted on Figure 4.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Environmental Data

4.1.7 Environmental information concerning Landscape, Ecology, Cultural Heritage and Land Use/Planning interests within the preliminary area of search was gathered by way of desk-based studies and initial stakeholder consultation with relevant local authorities and statutory consultees such as the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW)2.

4.1.8 Data collection focused on identification and gathering of first tier environmental issues within the preliminary study area; these comprised physical constraints and sites of international or national significance on which preliminary route corridors could be identified, adopting avoidance as a key criterion.

4.1.9 Data relating to more extensive second tier issues, such as sites of regional and local significance, was also obtained at this time and mapped. Although consideration was given to these types of constraint, this data was acknowledged to form a more influential factor during the later stages of localised corridor option refinement and detailed routeing of alignments.

4.1.10 A full schedule of first and second tier data collected for the above environmental topics is presented in Table 4.1 later in this report.

Engineering Considerations

4.1.11 A number of technical and operational factors were set out by WPD early in the appraisal process, deemed to form material considerations throughout the study.

4.1.12 Factors identified as requiring consideration from the outset of the study are as follows.

. Wind farm connections – allowance for connectivity between each proposed wind farm substation and the identified connection point;

2 Natural Resources Wales (NRW) became operational on 1st April 2013, and brings together the work of the former Countryside Council for Wales (CCW), Environment Agency Wales (EAW) and Forestry Commission Wales (FCW), as well as some functions of Welsh Government.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. Avoidance of steep slopes and routeing in areas of high altitude (>200m, albeit that the connections into the wind farms will be at this height or greater) due to difficulties of engineering on sharp gradients, problematic construction and maintenance access, and exposure of overhead distribution equipment to more adverse climatic conditions that could render achievement of security of supply extremely difficult;

. Proximity of major infrastructure – as a basis for demonstrating existing corridors of disturbance, and where existing and planned utility infrastructure could potentially present a constraint or barrier to corridor identification and subsequent detailed routeing of overhead alignments;

. Avoidance of major areas of settlement – through adoption of a minimum 60m buffer threshold from properties for overhead routes, with efforts made to achieve a more desirable 100m distance wherever possible;

. Nature of equipment – acknowledging some types of overhead conductors cannot be successfully accommodated on a wooden pole structure, and the physical limitations associated with the maximum permissible spans between poles;

. Length of connection – in terms of identifying economically viable routes that enable WPD to meet its statutory obligations;

. Existing corridors of disturbance - to follow existing routes of overhead lines (with due regard given to the Holford Rules) and road corridors where the principle of successfully accommodating linear infrastructure in the local environment has been established.

4.1.13 Accordingly, information relating to existing electrical distribution infrastructure (33kV circuits and above), principal utility connections, key settlements and topography was obtained and recorded as part of the constraints mapping exercise.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Alternative Connection Point

4.1.14 In parallel with the data collection exercise, WPD continued to undertake its strategic review of options in mid 2012. During the review, a potential alternative to a direct connection into the Swansea North Substation emerged in June 2012 – this was located at close to Llandyfaelog, approximately 10km south of Carmarthen.

4.1.15 This alternative connection point is a location between Tower No. 42 and 46, the latter forming the terminal end tower associated with an existing overhead distribution line that indirectly connects back to the Swansea North Substation. The route is named the “EE route”.

4.1.16 In evaluating the merits of the EE route, WPD considered that utilisation of this existing infrastructure would potentially offer advantages in terms of achieving a shorter, more economical overhead connection length. WPD determined that the ongoing appraisal process should give consideration to the potential for connecting the three windfarms to the Swansea North Substation via either the EE route, or directly into the substation, until such time that the Strategic Optioneering Report could be completed and a single preferred connection identified.

4.1.17 Accordingly, the EE route was mapped and brought into the overall scope of the appraisal for consideration during the second stage of the process.

4.1.18 The EE route connection area and associated existing overhead lines is depicted on Figure 1.

Consultation and Refinement of the Area of Search

4.1.19 Consultation on the outline methodology and the preliminary constraints data gathered within the area of search was undertaken on 9th August 2012 with stakeholders comprising CCW, Environment Agency Wales, and Cadw3.

4.1.20 A series of GIS outputs were produced for discussion purposes; these depicted

3 The Welsh Government’s historic environment service.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

single and composite areas of constraint under the key interests of Landscape, Ecology and Heritage, in conjunction with the indicative route. Outputs principally comprised constraints mapping presented on Ordnance Survey mapping at 1:20,000 scale to enable clear identification of sensitivities.

4.1.21 Consultees made the following key observations in respect of the tabled information.

. Clear justification would need to be provided for why the area of search extends towards the coast south of Carmarthen;

. Use of LANDMAP4 data would be an important factor during the appraisal, with a possible approach suggested that builds upon landscape character and sensitivity;

. Historic Landscape Areas, areas of semi-natural ancient woodland and open access areas should be marked on the constraints plans;

. Visual aspects and dynamics form an important factor for consideration later in the appraisal process;

. An expectancy from Cadw of no direct impacts on statutory designations, and avoidance where possible of indirect effects on the setting of historic assets;

. Aim to reduce effects on areas of Registered Historic Landscape, those at flood risk, and individual watercourses.

4.1.22 A key response from CCW was that potential route corridors need to be responsive to the above constraints, and therefore should not be defined by an arbitrary or uniform width.

4.1.23 In relation to the area of search, it was suggested by CCW that this be broadened to capture the western fringes of the Brecon Beacons National Park near Llandeilo, given the potential for indirect visual effects to occur from within this

4 LANDMAP forms key landscape guidance for Wales, and comprises a GIS based landscape resource where landscape characteristics, qualities and influences on the landscape are recorded and evaluated into a nationally consistent data set.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

important area.

4.1.24 Other feedback suggested refinements be made to extend the boundary westwards beyond Carmarthen, thus capturing part of the River Towy estuary, and to widen the coverage in the north-east towards the settlement of Llandysul. The rationale behind these modifications was to permit consideration of possible corridor options that may exist to the west of Carmarthen.

4.1.25 A second similar meeting was held with representatives from Carmarthenshire County Council and the City and County of Swansea on 16th August 2012. In addition to the previously tabled information, WPD provided a brief summary of the feedback given by consultees from the previous week’s meeting.

4.1.26 Additional points and observations raised were as follows.

. A recommendation to investigate the possibility of rationalising existing overhead lines as part of the project;

. The Towy Valley emerged as a key constraint requiring careful consideration, given its visual dynamics and designated status;

. A need to map the existing transmission and distribution network, and other utility infrastructure, in order to factor in the locations and extent of overhead and underground connections;

. Consideration of strategic search areas, future developments and land allocations contained in relevant forward planning documents;

. A requirement to consider recreational interests (e.g. cycle routes and recognised viewpoints), albeit at later stages of the appraisal process.

4.1.27 Comments were also passed by attendees concerning the adequacy of planned future consultation on the project, and the most appropriate timing and methods of engagement for the types of community potentially affected by the proposed scheme.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.1.28 WPD accordingly took account of all consultee feedback from both meetings, and subsequently updated the constraints mapping to reflect the above observations and considerations, re-engaging stakeholders where necessary to obtain additional data within the refined area of search.

4.1.29 The refined area of search is depicted on Figure 5. This area was adopted as the basis for the identification and appraisal of potential route corridors in Stage 2.

4.2 Revised Methodology

4.2.1 Shortly after receipt of consultation feedback, the outline appraisal methodology was updated and finalised in early September 2012 prior to progression into activities associated with Stage 2.

4.2.2 A key change in the staged approach to appraisal centred on the need for engineering factors such as topography coming forward as a material consideration earlier in the study, and to incorporate feedback on the timing of future consultation events.

4.2.3 The first two stages of the appraisal were accordingly subdivided in the following manner to account for this modification.

. Stage 1a: Primary Environmental Constraints Review – involving development of a study area and initial consultation with statutory agencies and relevant local authorities to collect information on “first tier” issues (i.e. those of international and national significance) and “second tier” issues (i.e. those of regional and local significance), associated with landscape and visual dynamics, nature conservation, cultural heritage and land use/planning interests;

. Stage 1b: Primary Technical Constraints Review – involving a review of existing and planned infrastructure within the defined study area that could present a barrier or constraint to development;

. Stage 2a: Corridor Identification and Appraisal – involving a combination of

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

desk-based and site-based review to establish potential corridors, or corridor combinations, between the three proposed wind farms and the connection point(s). This stage references environmental information and records gathered during Stages 1a and 1b, engineering factors, and operational constraints;

. Stage 2b: Identification of a Preferred Corridor – involving engagement with an extended stakeholder group comprising regional and local interest groups, and detailed appraisal and comparison of potential route corridors to establish a preferred option to take forward into Stage 3;

. Stage 3: Identification of a Preferred Route Alignment – involving development of potential route alignments within the preferred route corridor, leading to a high level assessment of options. Established guidelines and consultation with landowners and other consultees will aid differentiation of options in pursuit of a preferred alignment, which will be subject to formal EIA procedures.

4.2.4 It was acknowledged that the method could likely evolve further as the proposed scheme progresses through more detailed stakeholder consultation, testing and evaluation. This report provides information up to and including Stage 2a.

4.3 Summary of Data

4.3.1 The following range of data was requested and obtained as part of the data collection exercise. This took account of consultee feedback, preliminary engineering and technical considerations, and additional stakeholder data requests.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Table 4.1– Data Sources

Topic Area Content Data Source

Landscape National Parks CCW

Historic Parks and Gardens Cadw

Special Landscape Areas Carmarthenshire County Council City and County of Swansea

LANDMAP Areas (Outstanding and CCW High): Geological Landscape, Landscape Habitats, Visual and Sensory, Historic Landscape, and Cultural Landscape)

Country Parks CCW

Topography Ordnance Survey

Regional Landscape Character CCW Areas

Registered Common Land CCW

Ecology Sites of Special Scientific Interest CCW (SSSI)

Special Areas of Conservation CCW

Special Protection Areas CCW

National Nature Reserves CCW

Ancient and Semi Natural CCW Woodland

RSPB Nature Reserves RSPB

Local Nature Reserves CCW

Important Bird Areas RSPB

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Topic Area Content Data Source

Heritage Scheduled Ancient Monuments Cadw

Listed Buildings Cadw

World Heritage Sites Cadw

Registered landscapes of either Cadw special or historic importance in Wales

Designated Wrecks Cadw

Conservation Areas Cadw

Historic Environmental Record Dyfed Archaeological (HER) (specifically to identify non- Trust designated heritage assets Glamorgan-Gwent demonstrably of equivalent Archaeological Trust significance to designated assets)

Planning/Land Use Woodland Ordnance Survey data and Carmarthen Recreational Routes (Long / Swansea planning distance footpaths and National frameworks, and Cycle Routes - existing and Welsh Technical proposed) Advice Note 8: Renewable Energy Transportation Network (road, rail (TAN 8) and aviation)

Major watercourses

Major areas of settlement

Areas of Open Access (Open Country)

Strategic Search Areas and Land Use Allocations

Existing utility infrastructure (e.g. WPD and statutory overhead transmission and undertakers distribution lines)

Flood Risk Areas Environment Agency Wales

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.3.2 The digital format of the majority of data collected meant that many first and second tier datasets extended far beyond the area of search. In these instances, information was accordingly trimmed to align with the area of search extents.

4.3.3 Where raw data was obtained in hard copy or electronic form requiring digitising, the accuracy of the data was considered to be appropriate to the degree of definition being sought at that stage of the appraisal.

4.3.4 Data types highlighted in bold text within the table above indicate those which were considered by the project team and consultees to form first tier (primary) constraints; these were used as the basis for preliminary identification of potential route corridors in the constraints review as set out below.

4.4 Constraints Review

4.4.1 The preliminary analysis of mapped constraints revealed that the refined area of search is typified by designated landscapes of high quality, with extensive protected nature conservation interests and a long-standing history represented by archaeological and built features of acknowledged importance and value.

4.4.2 First tier interests were considered to be of the highest environmental and/or amenity value, in line with the principles of avoidance set out in the Holford Rules and other best practice guidance.

4.4.3 Reference is made in the Holford Rules to Historic Parks and Gardens. Although such designations are non-statutory, it was considered that their very reference in the guidelines necessitated their inclusion within the first tier criteria. A similar approach was adopted in the appraisal for locally designated Conservation Areas, given their specific mention in the guidelines.

4.4.4 The accompanying notes to the Holford Rules make clear the need to avoid routeing close to residential areas on the grounds of amenity. To ensure compliance with this principle, major settlement areas such as towns and villages were demarcated from Ordnance Survey mapping and local planning frameworks

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

and taken forward as first tier criteria on the grounds that they represent constraints associated with residential amenity.

4.4.5 The review revealed that designations and features such as Historic Parks and Gardens can contribute to the perception, composition, understanding and appreciation of both the landscape and heritage topics. Similarly, initiatives such as LANDMAP apply to more than one topic. In instances where overlap occurs, interests have been considered across all relevant topics as part of the constraints review, but have been presented once below for concision.

4.4.6 The following sub-sections provide an environmental profile of the study area as defined in Figure 5. The work undertaken to understand the baseline conditions of the study area which is reported in the rest of this section forms Stage 1a and 1b of the revised methodology.

4.5 Landscape and Visual Dynamics

4.5.1 Landscape encompasses the whole of the external rural and urban environment. Topography, vegetation, habitation by wildlife, drainage patterns, land use, engineered and built form combine with perceptual factors such as culture, history, and seasonal change to frame landscapes of distinctive character.

4.5.2 There is a clear relationship between landscape character and visual context; the landscape is generally experienced by those viewing it, albeit senses such as touch and smell influence perceptions.

4.5.3 Government policy makes a clear commitment to the protection and enhancement of our most valued landscapes, their scenic qualities, and components that contribute to the perception of character. Large tracts of land within the refined area of search are afforded varying levels of statutory and non-statutory protection through planning policy designation.

4.5.4 Figure 6 presents the constraints in relation to landscape and visual interests.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Historic Parks and Gardens

4.5.5 Several Historic Parks and Gardens comprise internationally and nationally significant areas considered important to, and an integral part of, the historic and cultural fabric of Wales. Registered sites are classified as being of either Grade I, Grade II* or Grade II status.

4.5.6 There are fifteen designated Historic Parks and Gardens within the refined area of search. Six are located within the Towy Valley (Middleton Hall, Aberglasney, Golden Grove, Plas Dinefwr, Paxton’s Tower and The Bishop’s Palace and Abergwili).

4.5.7 Pantglas, Edwinsford and Taliaris Historic Parks and Garden’s are all located north of the Towy Valley, with Derwydd and Glynhir located just south of the valley near Llandeilo.

4.5.8 Penllergaer, Parc Howard, Stradey Castle and Llechdwnni are located towards the southern fringes of the refined area of search.

National Parks

4.5.9 National Parks are designated under the National Parks and Countryside Act 1949 (as amended) for the purpose of conserving and enhancing natural beauty.

4.5.10 The eastern fringes of the refined area of search capture the western extremity of the Brecon Beacons National Park near the settlement of Llandeilo. The Park was designated in 1957 and covers an area of some 1,344 square kilometers.

Country Parks

4.5.11 Country Parks are nationally important designated sites comprising publicly accessible areas for undertaking recreation within a countryside environment.

4.5.12 Three Country Parks have been recorded within the refined area of search. A small section of the Pembrey Country Park crosses the western fringes of the refined area of search (the majority of the park being located beyond the area).

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

The Lyn Llech Owain Country Park lies to the north-east of the settlement of Cross Hands, and the Gelli Aur Country Park is located south-west of Llandeilo.

Special Landscape Areas

4.5.13 A number of regionally and locally significant river valleys, upland landscapes and coastal landscapes are protected from development and other man-made influences through application of Special Landscape Area (SLA) non-statutory policy designation.

4.5.14 There are twelve SLAs located within the refined area of search. Cothi Valley, Mynydd Llanllwni and North Boundary are located along the northern extents of the refined area of search.

4.5.15 The Upper and Lower Towy Valley SLAs generally follow the course of the River Towy.

4.5.16 The following SLAs are located along the southern reaches of the refined area of search, in a west to east direction: Cefn Sidal Coastal Plain; Pembrey/Burry Port North; Burry Port/ Llaneli Road; Llaneli Road; River Lliedi Valley; River Morlais Valley; and Loughor Valley.

Common Land

4.5.17 Registered Common Land covers approximately 8.4% of Wales, and forms a key role in providing important habitat for plants and wildlife.

4.5.18 Small pockets of Common Land are scattered throughout the refined area of search, the largest examples of which are located towards the eastern extents (north and south of Glanaman, and north of Brechfa Forest).

LANDMAP

4.5.19 LANDMAP is an information system devised by CCW to map and evaluate the landscape of Wales. It retains a key function in the formation of landscape policy and the assessment of development proposals in relation to landscape impacts.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.5.20 Containing five datasets, the information is presented at different levels which facilitates the examination and appraisal of landscape sensitivity at broad and more local scales.

4.5.21 Following review of LANDMAP data, it was apparent that the creation of a combined multi-map for all aspect layers would not readily assist ease of data interpretation or further the process of assessment beyond initial high level constraint identification. It was therefore considered appropriate to initially map only those ‘Outstanding’ and ‘High’ evaluated aspects to inform the filtering of high value areas.

4.5.22 Those areas classified as Outstanding are associated with the western extremity of the Brecon Beacons National Park and the Towy Valley. High classified areas of varying scale are widely distributed throughout a large part of the remainder of the refined area of search, with significant concentrations noted in the upland landscapes surrounding Brechfa, and between Kidwelly and Pentre-Gwenlais.

Regional Landscape Character Areas

4.5.23 In relation to existing landscape character, the area of search encompasses several individual Landscape Character Areas (LCA) defined by CCW at the regional level across Wales. Regional LCA characteristics and boundaries were originally set out in the Landscape Character Map for Wales (2007). LCAs were subsequently refined by CCW using LANDMAP data in 2009 and are currently in the process of being finalised.

4.5.24 The refined area of search captures a total of ten distinct LCAs, the boundaries of which are depicted in Figure 7. A summary of their key characteristics are presented below.

. Area 21: Cambrian Mountains - The Cambrian Mountains lie at the heart of Wales, straddling the Counties of Ceredigion and Powys. They are formed from an upland spine of resistant rock forming a north-south orientated belt of wild and remote moorland. This large scale, windswept upland landscape

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

encompasses mid-Wales’s highest peak, Pumlumon. The northwestern boundary is defined by the Dovey Valley, beyond which lies the Snowdonia National Park. To the north the upland landscape forms a transition to the upland moorland landscape of Area 16. Y Berwyn/Berwyn. Parts of the Upland Ceredigion, Tywi Valley and Dolaucothi Landscapes of Outstanding Historic Interest fall within this area. The Clywedog Valley and Elan Valley Landscapes of Special Historic Interest also fall within this character area;

. Area 43: Teifi Valley - 43. Dyffryn Tefi/Teifi Valley separates area 21. Uwchdiroedd Cymru/Cambrian Mountains from the hills of Ceredigion (25. Ceredigion). It occupies the wide, flat bottomed valley formed by a former moraine-dammed glacial lake, with its boundaries created by the skyline of the valley. This lowland river landscape straddles the administrative boundaries of Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire and encompasses one of Wales’ largest peat bogs, Cors Caron. The mouth of the Teifi Valley adjoins the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the St. Dogmaels and Moylgrove Heritage Coast. Part of the Upland Ceredigion Landscape of Outstanding Historic Interest falls within the upper valley while parts of the Lower Teifi Valley and Drefach and Felindre Landscapes of Special Historic Interest fall within the lower reaches;

. Area 41: Tywi Valley - The Tywi Valley is a flat floodplain landscape, crossed by the meandering course of the River Tywi. It is a narrow character area located in southcentral Wales. Sheep and dairy cattle graze rich green pasture fields, with small broadleaved woodlands often covering gentle slopes. The historic importance of the river is reflected in the remains of strategically placed features including Roman forts and medieval stone castles. It is also the location of a number of historic parks and gardens. As such, the valley is recognised as a Landscape of Outstanding Historic Interest;

. Area 42: Pembroke and Carmarthen Foothills - The Pembroke and Carmarthen Foothills character area is located in south west Wales, straddling the counties of Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire. It is a varying landscape of remote upland plateaux dissected by sheltered wooded valleys, with regular

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

pasture fields grazed by cattle and sheep. Quiet hamlets and villages are linked by a network of winding rural roads. The character area is framed by the Cambrian and Preseli mountains to the east and west, and the Teifi and Tywi valleys to the north and south;

. Area 40: Gwendraeth Vales - The Gwendraeth Vales character area is located in south-central Wales, between the upland landscapes of the Brecon Beacons and Epynt in the east and the low lying Taff and Tywi estuaries to the west. The landscape is varied owing to its complex underlying geology, with a prominent limestone ridge overlooking rolling hills and valleys. Evidence of past settlement and industrial uses of the area is still visible at a number of locations in the landscape. The eastern part of the area lies within Brecon Beacons National Park;

. Area 45: Taf, Tywi and Gwendraeth Estuaries - The Taf, Tywi and Gwendraeth Estuaries character area is located in Carmarthenshire in south west Wales. Extensive sand dunes and coastal flats fringe the estuaries, whilst rolling pasture fields and woodlands characterise the land surrounding the inland courses of the Taf, Tywi and Gwendraeth Fawr rivers. The character area sits between the Gower peninsula and south Pembrokeshire coast. The southern half of the character area falls within the Taf and Tywi Estuary Landscape of Outstanding Historic Interest, and the northern section is part of the Tywi Valley Landscape of Outstanding Historic Interest;

. Area 44: Taf and Cleddau Vales - The Taf and Cleddau Vales character area is located in south east Wales, straddling the two counties of Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire. The landscape is framed to the north by the Preseli Hills. The character area comprises a hilly topography of rich pasture and cereal fields, intersected by woodland-fringed rivers. The western edge of the character area lies within the Tywi Valley Landscape of Outstanding Historic Interest;

. Area 30: Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains –The Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains character area is located in southeast Wales, lying within the

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

counties of Carmarthenshire and Powys. The area is defined by flat topped mountains and sweeping scree slopes, shaped by millions of years of geological and glacial activity. This windswept landscape rises to a height of 886 metres – the highest point in southern Britain. East Fforest Fawr and Mynydd-y-Glog, and Black Mountain and Mynydd Myddfai are Landscapes of Special and Outstanding Historic Interest respectively. All of the character area lies within Brecon Beacons National Park;

. Area 37: South Wales Valleys – The South Wales Valleys occupy a large part of southern Wales, framed by the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains to the north, the M4 corridor to the south, and lowland vale landscapes to the east and west. This varied landscape comprises urbanised valleys with a strong link to the area’s industrial past, overlooked by wide expanses of sheep grazed plateaux. The area includes Margam Mountain, Rhondda and Gelligaer Common – Landscapes of Special Historic Interest. The former industrial areas of Merthyr Tydfil and Blaenafon are recognised as Landscapes of Outstanding Historic Interest. Blaenafon is also designated as a World Heritage Site for its complex of remains relating to its past coal and iron industries. The eastern edge of the character area lies within Brecon Beacons National Park;

. Area 38 : Swansea Bay – The Swansea Bay character area encompasses the city of Swansea and the surrounding towns of The Mumbles, Burry Port, Llanelli, Neath and Port Talbot. The area stretches south east down the coast from Swansea to Porthcawl, fringed by the 37 Dyffrynnoedd y De/South Wales Valleys to the north and east. The landform is broken by the Lougher, Tawe, Neath and Ogmore estuaries, which flow into Swansea Bay. It is a landscape of contrasts – from attractive coastlines and heavy industries to the elegant townscapes surviving in parts of Swansea. The dune areas at Merthyr Mawr, Kenfig and Margam Burrows are Landscapes of Outstanding Historic Interest. The Ogmore estuary falls within the Glamorgan Heritage Coast area

4.5.25 The early stages of the appraisal appropriately take account of the visual context

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

of the refined area of search as an integral component of the perception of landscape character.

Topography

4.5.26 Topographically, the area of search is highly varied. The area around Brechfa Forest to the north of the refined area of search is high ground with some areas over 350m AOD. A large part of this northern section is vegetated with a mixture of ancient/semi natural and coniferous woodland.

4.5.27 The River Towy forms a key topographical valley feature running east to west across the northern central part of the refined area of search. The valley is characterised by low lying floodplains and associated pastoral farmland. Other key valley features associated with the A483 road corridor between Llandeilo and Pontarddulias, and the River Cothi between Abergorlech and Felingwm Uchaf.

4.5.28 The highest part of the refined area of search is associated with the western fringes of the Black Mountain range, forming an integral part of The Brecon Beacons National Park and reaching elevations of some 500m AOD.

4.5.29 Other notable peaks include Mynydd Y Gwair (374m AOD) south-east of Ammanford, characterised by rolling moorland, and Mynydd Rhos-wen (358m AOD) situated west of Brechfa. Flatter, more lower lying estuarine areas are noted around Carmarthen Bay to the west of the refined area of search.

4.6 Ecology

4.6.1 Ecological and nature conservation interests cover the entire spectrum of plant and animal life. Habitats derive from combinations of these key elements, and are utilised and modified by animals in an evolutionary process that can be readily disturbed by both natural and man-made activities and influences.

4.6.2 The area of search extends across significant areas of wildlife habitat variety and nature conservation interest. There are wildlife habitats associated with upland, lowland, terrestrial and aquatic contexts which support habitats and populations of

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

acknowledged importance at the international, European, national and local level.

4.6.3 Figure 8 presents the constraints in relation to ecological and nature conservation interests.

Important Bird Areas

4.6.4 Important Bird Areas (IBA) comprise globally important habitat for the conservation of bird populations.

4.6.5 Carmarthen Bay, which marks the boundary of the refined area of search to the west, is designated as an IBA. This designated area encroaches into the refined area of search at the estuary north of Ferryside.

Special Areas of Conservation

4.6.6 Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) are European sites designated under the EC Directive 92/43/EC.

4.6.7 There are four areas within the refined area of search designated as SAC. Carmarthen Bay and Estuaries, south of Carmarthen, is designated for various habitats that support marine life.

4.6.8 The River Towy SAC, designated for habitats that support otter and fish, crosses the whole of the refined area of search from east to west.

4.6.9 Cernydd Carmel SAC, located north-east of Cross Hands, is designated for its diverse habitats The final site is Caeau Mynydd Mawr SAC, located to the east of Cross Hands, designated for its population of Marsh Fritillary Butterfly.

Special Protection Areas

4.6.10 There are no European designated Special Protection Areas (SPA) within the refined area of search.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Sites of Special Scientific Interest

4.6.11 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) comprise nationally important sites designated for their biodiversity or geological interest under the provisions of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). The nature of SSSIs vary depending on their qualifying interest, and they frequently provide the foundation for additional designations.

4.6.12 There are 69 SSSIs located throughout the refined area of search.

National Nature Reserves

4.6.13 National Nature Reserves (NNR) form a key foundation for nature conservation in the UK, with all such sites being afforded additional SSSI status to provide a higher level of protection.

4.6.14 There are four NNRs within the refined area of search, located around the same latitude as the Towy Valley. These comprise: Cors Goch Llanllwch - a raised bog to the west of Llanllwch; Waun Las - south of Llanarthney, of particular note for glassland fungi; Cernydd Carmel - west of Llandybie, the only seasonal lake in Britain; and the Dinefwr Estate - east of Llandeilo.

RSPB Reserves

4.6.15 Reserves managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) comprise a portfolio of sites that seek to conserve, protect and enhance habitats for our rarest or most threatened bird species.

4.6.16 One RSPB reserve is present within the refined area of search. Cwm Clydach is located in the south-eastern extremes of the refined area of search, north of Clydach, and comprises an ancient broadleaved woodland home to breeding pied flycatchers, redstarts, dippers and buzzards.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Ancient and Semi-Natural Woodland

4.6.17 In Wales, Ancient and semi-natural woodland (ASNW) comprises sites that have been wooded continuously for several hundred years. The long continuity of ASNW, their undisturbed soils and ability to support wildlife renders it a valuable natural habitat of national importance.

4.6.18 There are 413 records of ASNWs, which are dispersed throughout the refined area of search. Notable concentrations of ASNW are associated with the upland landscapes of Brechfa Forest to the north.

Local Nature Reserves

4.6.19 Local Nature Reserves (LNR) comprise urban and rural sites designated by local authorities to protect their natural features and wildlife of special interest.

4.6.20 Two sites are present in proximity to Carmarthen Bay: Glan-Yr-Afon, located near to Kidwelly; and Ashpits Pond Pwill Lagoon, located between Burry Port and Pwll. A third site, Carreg Cennen Woodlands, is found south east of Llandeilo.

4.7 Heritage

4.7.1 Heritage resources comprise the physical remains of the historic environment and their settings. These resources include historic buildings and townscapes, historic gardens and designed landscapes, ancient monuments and other archaeological sites and landscapes which are often very fragile and vulnerable to attrition from natural and human causes.

4.7.2 Policy objectives seek to ensure their conservation whilst balancing the needs for sustainable development. Large numbers of sites of varying importance and heritage significance have been recorded within the refined area of search.

4.7.3 Figure 9 presents the constraints in relation to archaeological and built heritage interests.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

World Heritage Sites

4.7.4 There are no internationally important World Heritage Sites within the refined area of search.

Scheduled Monuments

4.7.5 A Scheduled Monument (SM) is a nationally important archaeological site or historic building, given protection against unauthorised change.

4.7.6 There are 177 designated SMs dispersed across the refined area of search. Notable concentrations are recorded around the settlement of Carmarthen and in landscapes east of the A483 road corridor.

Conservation Areas

4.7.7 Conservation Areas are designated by local planning authorities for their special architectural and historical interest.

4.7.8 There are over 500 Conservation Areas in Wales, 22 of which fall within the refined area of search. Of these 22 designated areas, approximately half are located within Carmarthen.

4.7.9 Two Conservation Areas are associated with Kidwelly near the south-western boundary of the refined area of search. The remainder are located in more central/eastern parts of area in Llanddarog, Llangathen, Llandeilo, Cwmdu, Llangadog, Talley, and Abergorlech.

Listed Buildings

4.7.10 A Listed Building is a building that has been placed on the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest by CADW. There are three types of listed status for buildings in Wales. Grade I: buildings of exceptional interest; Grade II*: particularly important buildings of more than special interest; and Grade II: buildings that are of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve them.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.7.11 There are 1133 Listed Buildings in the refined area of search, many of which are concentrated in established settlements and clustered within designated areas around Carmarthen and Llanelli.

4.7.12 Registered Landscapes of Special or Historic Importance

4.7.13 To recognise the value of historic landscapes and raise awareness of their importance, CADW, in partnership with CCW and the International Council on Monuments and Sites, has compiled a Register of Landscape of Historic Interest in Wales.

4.7.14 The register identifies 58 landscapes of outstanding or special historic interest, considered to form the best examples of different types of historic landscapes in Wales.

4.7.15 Four registered landscapes fall within the refined area of search. Drefach and Felindre encroaches into the north-western boundary of the area, with the majority of the designation falling outside the boundary. The Tywi Valley follows the course of the Tywi River. The Taff and Tywi estuary is located around the Kidwelly area in the south-west, and the Black Mountain and Mynydd Myddfai forms part of the Brecon Beacons National Park to the east of the refined area of search.

Designated Wrecks

4.7.16 There are no designated wreck sites associated with the refined area of search.

4.8 Land Use/Planning

4.8.1 The refined area of search falls under the jurisdiction of two authorities - Carmarthenshire County Council (CCC), and the City and County of Swansea. Figure 10 presents the constraints in relation to land use and planning considerations.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Land Use and Tourism

4.8.2 Land use throughout the large part of the refined area of search is primarily focused on rural economic activity. Commercial forestry is important on the intermediate slopes of the uplands, with arable production generally confined to more lower lying areas. The area is generally devoid of significant industrial activity.

4.8.3 Tourism and recreation are important sectors founded on the physical and natural assets that underscore the landscape quality and sense of remoteness represented across the northern and eastern extents of the area of search.

Major Settlement Areas

4.8.4 The major settlements are situated along the southern boundary of the refined area of search. They include Llanelli, Gorseinon, Ammanford, Kidwelly and Burry Port, as well as Carmarthen towards the north west.

4.8.5 Other than in the key settlements, the majority of the local population is dispersed across smaller villages and hamlets located in sheltered valleys and agriculturally richer areas.

Recreational Routes

4.8.6 The importance of prime recreational and tourist routes is acknowledged, with image and amenity forming essential parts of their value.

4.8.7 The refined area of search contains many linear networks with north-south and east-west orientations; this suggests interface with potential route corridors will be inevitable. Accordingly, major recreational routes are viewed as first tier constraints and material considerations to route corridor identification and differentiation.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Woodland

4.8.8 The most densely wooded area is the central northern section to the north of Brechfa, which is vegetated with a mixture of ancient/semi natural and coniferous woodland.

4.8.9 Small pockets of both ASNW and coniferous woodland are located throughout the refined area of search, with notable areas established along on both sides of the M4 road corridor, east of Junction 47 near Pontarddulais.

Major Watercourses

4.8.10 The most significant watercourse in the refined area of search is the designated River Towy, which flows across the refined area of search in a broadly west to south-west direction to Carmarthen Bay and its associated estuaries.

4.8.11 Another major watercourses comprises the River Cothi forms a tributary of the River Towy and flows in a north to south direction from the Brechfa area before joining the Twyi east of Carmarthen. A further major watercourse comprises the River Loughor flowing from the black mountains south past Ammanford, Hendy and Pontarddulais.

Transportation Network (road, rail and aviation)

4.8.12 A network of major A-roads, B-classification and rural routes provide connectivity between settlements across the refined area of search.

4.8.13 The M4 strategic corridor enters the south-eastern corner of the refined area of search and runs in a broadly north-westerly direction before terminating south-east of Ammanford. The M4 forms the main arterial route into the refined area of search, from which the A48 and A483 roads spur and connect to settlements in the east and west. The A40 forms the key route through the central section of the refined area of search, and provides vehicular connectivity between Carmarthen and Llandeilo.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.8.14 Other important A-classification routes include the A485 between Carmarthen and Llanllwni, the A484 running north-west from Carmarthen, the A4138 from the M4 to Lllanelli,

4.8.15 The south coast railway mainline runs along the southern boundary of the refined area of search (Swansea to Carmarthen), with a spur at Llanelli which provides local rail connections to Ammonford, Llandeilo and beyond. A local route to Drefach is also available from Kidwelly in the south.

4.8.16 Pembrey Airport is located within the south-eastern extents of the refined area of search, north-west of Burry Port.

Areas of Open Access (Open Country)

4.8.17 An Area of Open Access is land designated Under the Countryside Rights of Way Act 2000 where the public can roam freely on mapped areas of mountain, moor, heath, downland and registered common land.

4.8.18 Three large Areas of Open Access, and 32 smaller designated areas, are captured within the boundary of the refined area of search. The largest areas are located south of LLanllwni, north of Glanaman, and north of Pontlliw.

Strategic Search Areas

4.8.19 Strategic Search Areas (SSAs) are areas in Wales that are targeted for Renewable Energy development as outlined in Technical Advice Note (TAN8).

4.8.20 Two SSAs, G and E, are located partly within the refined area of search. A large part of SSA G extends into the northern boundary of the refined area of search just east of LLanllwni, whereas approximately a third of the western section of SSA E extends into the refined area of search north east of Felindre.

Land Allocations

4.8.21 Carmarthenshire County Council’s planning and development framework identifies current and proposed employment areas, which are mostly centred around the key

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

settlement areas with some pockets located in less densely populated areas.

4.8.22 Swansea City’s planning and development framework identifies a variety of existing land uses and potential development zones which are allocated across the urban areas falling under its control (these being associated with the northern suburbs of Swansea and rural areas around Mynydd Y Gwair).

4.8.23 A number of areas have been identified as holding minerals mining potential, with coal noted in the urban areas in the south of the refined area of search and in some more rural parts. In addition, locally administered urban designations of conservation comprising green wedges, greenspace protection, community recreation land and environment enhancement are also dispersed across the southern extents of the refined area of search.

Existing Utility Infrastructure

4.8.24 A parallel run of two 400kV overhead transmission lines cross the refined area of search from south of Carmarthen to the Swansea North Substation, and continue beyond the eastern extents of the refined area of search north of Pontardawe.

4.8.25 A network of 132kV overhead distribution cables in the southern parts of the refined area of search provides electrical connectivity to larger settlements such as Ammanford and Burry Port, interfacing at the Swansea North Substation west of Clydach. The network of 132kV lines orientate from the substation in different directions, with several crossing urban and rural locations and established road corridors.

4.8.26 South of the A40 there is an extensive network of overhead 33kV circuits spanning the refined area of search between West Carmarthen and Llandeilo. Additional 33kV circuits provide connectivity between Ammanford, Llandeilo, Kidwelly, Burry Port, Pontarddulias and other settlements along the southern periphery of the refined area of search.

4.8.27 Local circuits of less than 33kV provide connectivity to rural areas, hamlets and more isolated dwellings in the northern extents of the refined area of search.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Flood Risk Areas

4.8.28 The main areas at risk of flood in the refined area of search correspond with floodplains, these being associated with areas adjacent to the Rivers Towy and Loughor, and the lower lying costal regions found in the south and east of the refined area of search.

4.9 Site reconnaissance

4.9.1 Following adoption of the appraisal methodology and collection of first and second tier data, an experienced Landscape Architect undertook a site visit in early September 2012.

4.9.2 The purpose of the reconnaissance was to: establish a general understanding of the landscape pattern of the refined area of search; identify vantage points from which the visual context could be understood; ground truth data and information collected; and identify any matters requiring early consideration in the next stage of the appraisal.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5 Stage 2a: Corridor Identification and Appraisal

5.1 Route Corridor Workshop

Background and Objectives

5.1.1 Commencement of Stage 2 activities began with a Route Corridor Workshop being convened on 14th September 2012.

5.1.2 The purpose of the workshop was to explore the appropriateness and completeness of first and second tier data collected and mapped during the Stage 1 exercise, establish areas of constraint and opportunity with the refined area of search, and to develop and agree preliminary route corridors.

5.1.3 The workshop was attended by representatives of WPD covering engineering and technical matters, and specialists from RSK Environment Limited covering the environmental topics of landscape, ecology, heritage, and land use/planning.

5.1.4 The first part of the workshop began with a brief overview presentation of the refined area of search, using a combination of GIS and aerial photography to indicate the spatial extents and relationships of first tier environmental issues that had been mapped and recorded. This was followed by a more detailed review and appraisal by attending environmental specialists of the following topic areas.

Landscape

5.1.5 The following observations were made in respect of landscape sensitivities.

. The River Towy corridor is visually sensitive and contains several elevated viewpoints. As such, any route across may have to make use of pinch-points across the valley rather than following the line of valley itself (as recommended by the Holford Rules);

. Concerns were raised regarding the Brecon Beacons National Park falling within the refined area of search. It was considered that any corridor routeing

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

should seek to avoid this nationally important asset from the outset;

. The refined area of search contains numerous SLAs that correspond with the area’s many valley features, some of which are extensive (e.g. River Cothi and River Towy) and may pose an unavoidable constraint to routeing;

. Woodland areas are extensive, and thus offer genuine opportunities to screen new overhead distribution infrastructure on the proviso that areas of ASNW are avoided;

. A concentration of Registered Parks and Gardens exists around the west of Llandeilo; these interests should be avoided during route corridor identification;

. Conflict with the considerable coverage and dispersal of LANDMAP areas defined as being of outstanding and high visual and sensory quality may prove inevitable during routeing;

. Good views are available from the Abergwili locality.

Ecology

5.1.6 The following observations were made in respect of ecological sensitivities.

. Effects on ecological interests by virtue of wood pole installation would be minor and localised due to the small footprint of the associated works;

. SACs and SSSIs will need to be avoided during routeing where possible. It was acknowledged that the Towy Valley SAC may be unavoidable, and as such may invoke the need for an Appropriate Assessment to be undertaken as part of the DCO application;

. Recorded areas of wintering birds, wetlands areas and ANSW should be avoided;

. Bats are unlikely to be adversely affected by the proposed scheme. It was noted that routeing through wooded areas could offer potential habitat

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

improvements for some bat species due to reduction and removal of wooded canopies;

. Bird strike could be perceived to be an issue on the project due to the overhead nature of the works;

. Dormice have been identified in central sections of the refined area of search. Great Crested Newt has not been raised as a potential issue by CCW; however a detailed review of available background records will provide an indicator of presence/absence.

Heritage

5.1.7 The following observations were made in respect of archaeological and built heritage sensitivities.

. Some 1000+ Listed Buildings are present in the refined area of search, approximately 10% of which are of Grade I or Grade II*. Setting is important to most of these assets, but less so for those located nearer the coastline south of Carmarthen;

. A high concentration of these assets exists within the Towy Valley, many occupying prominent elevated positions, with some examples located around the settlement of Ammanford exhibiting group value;

. The settlement of Hendy possesses a high concentration of Listed Buildings; any routeing near this area should aim to take advantage of the existing M4 corridor;

. Routeing to the west of Carmarthen would be preferable if seeking to avoid Listed Buildings within the refined area of search, as would progressing through Llandeilo;

. 75% of the 120 Scheduled Monuments comprise above ground features; therefore setting is a material consideration to routeing;

. Some Scheduled Monuments have group value, and those associated with

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Carmarthen should be avoided;

. The River Towy valley is a prominent designated landscape of historic importance. Other high value areas comprise Kidwelly, Bethlehem and Registered Parks and Gardens within the refined area of search;

. Conservation Areas, although considered important in respect of the Holford Rules guidelines, are likely to pose only a local constraint to routeing.

5.1.8 Details on non-designated assets were unavailable at the time of the workshop; however it was acknowledged that high value receptors might exist that have yet to be factored into the mapping exercise. It was also noted that the potential to encounter undiscovered archaeology within the Towy Valley is likely to be high given its historical importance.

Land Use/Planning

5.1.9 The following observations were made in respect of land use and planning considerations.

. A fine balance is needed in respect of settlements, as some provide scope to visually screen and contain overhead distribution infrastructure but could result in objections due to proximity issues. The importance of factoring proximity to residential areas as a key criterion was reinforced by WPD’s engineers;

. The River Towy is particularly sinuous in its form. As such, any route corridors crossing the valley should seek to traverse the waterbody in a single instance rather than require multiple crossings that could give rise to a potentially greater environmental impact;

. Consideration needed to be given to the prospect of one or more of the wind farms not receiving consent, and how preliminary routeing of corridors should best address this potential issue.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.2 Key Considerations

5.2.1 The collective review of the composite constraints for landscape, ecology, heritage and land use/planning interests against the project objectives and findings of the site reconnaissance revealed the following considerations that were subsequently factored into the preliminary route corridor identification exercise.

River Towy Valley

5.2.2 The River Towy valley and estuary presents a heavily constrained, designated river corridor running east-west across the entire width of the refined area of search.

5.2.3 Due to its low lying topography, the degree of visual exposure (and sensitivity) is considerable, particularly from elevated vantage points in the local area. Numerous villages, hamlets and isolated dwellings intersperse the valley, along with small pockets of woodland.

5.2.4 Given connection between the three wind farms and either of the two identified connection points requires a new connection running in a broadly north-south direction, the valley presents an unavoidable constraint either east or west of Carmarthen that would need to be navigated.

5.2.5 It was considered that any crossings over the river valley would need to adopt a principle of identifying pathways of least resistance, in order to minimse potential direct conflicts with interests. It was also considered important that the routeing of corridors would need to give due regard to the potential for indirect effects on wider assets such as Scheduled Monuments and the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Brechfa Forest

5.2.6 The Brechfa Forest locality was identified as being dominated by established concentration of plantation woodland on highly variable upland topography.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.2.7 The wide distribution of ASNW within this area of forestry was deemed to be a factor that could significantly limit corridor routeing potential from - and between - the three wind farms.

5.2.8 A further issue warranting consideration related to the open upland setting of landscapes north of Swansea North Substation; this was highlighted as a potentially constraining factor to corridor routeing due to the high altitudes and heightened degree of visual exposure that could potentially arise.

Conflict with Holford Rules Principles

5.2.9 The preponderance of valley formations associated with central and upland sections of the refined area of search offers genuine opportunities for accommodating route corridors, and thus achieving compliance with the Holford Rules concerning the preferential use of valley features.

5.2.10 Further review of the mapped constraints, however, revealed that the majority of such features directly associate with SLA designations - interests which the Holford Rules seek to avoid when routeing - which brings both objectives into clear conflict. This conflict is amplified further through many valley areas being considered of “High” or “Outstanding” value in the LANDMAP initiative (visual and sensory).

5.3 Identification of Preliminary Route Corridors

5.3.1 The second part of the workshop was given over to an interactive session which allowed attendees to plot preliminary pathways on a series of constraint plans by hand between the three wind farm substations and the two identified connection points at Swansea North and Llandyfaelog.

5.3.2 The exercise was informed by considerations which emerged in the first part of the session, which formed the starting point for corridor development. High amenity areas such as the Brecon Beacons National Park and areas exhibiting a cluster of important assets were initially demarcated on the plans to guide the drafting of

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

linear pathways by a process of avoidance. This resulted in pockets of the refined area of search being effectively discounted from routeing.

5.3.3 A complex linear network emerged from the exercise, which established a composite of indicative pathways that sought to avoid first tier interests where possible within the refined area of search. In the main, the majority of pathways avoided highly constrained areas, densely populated areas, and high value areas. Several of the pathways took advantage of existing corridors of disturbance such as A and B classification roads running north-south through the refined area of search, and tracked overhead lines associated with the existing electricity transmission and distribution network.

5.3.4 A number of possible interconnection routes between the three wind farms were also identified; this came in direct response to the issue of one or more of these developments potentially falling out of scope of the project due to the possibility of receiving an adverse planning decision.

5.3.5 The hand drawn outputs of the exercise were subsequently digitised in GIS to provide a permanent record of the exercise. Each pathway was then buffered to generate a nominal 2km ‘corridor’ to indicate the relationship and potential conflict with mapped constraints, and to provide a basis for further development and refinement of the routes.

5.3.6 The digitised findings of the workshop are depicted on Figure 11. Due to the number of potential connections, no preferential pathways clear of constraint emerged from the initial exercise.

5.3.7 Shortly after the workshop, it was agreed that more local scale planning considerations should be factored into the next stages of project appraisal. This information was sought from the relevant planning authorities within the refined area of search, and was mapped digitally in GIS format.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.4 Refinement of Preliminary Route Corridors

5.4.1 Following the drafting of the preliminary 2km wide route corridors, the project team commenced a more detailed review of each route.

5.4.2 Environmental specialists and project managers from RSK Environment Ltd undertook a joint site survey over a two day period in mid October 2012, the purpose being to verify the preliminary route corridors in the field and undertake criteria based sieving of options.

5.4.3 Site visits were considered necessary in order to establish a thorough understanding of the locality and its associated sensitivities, and to build upon the constraints data gathered during Stage 1 of the appraisal.

5.4.4 Due to the high value and sensitivity of the local landscape, the exercise was necessarily landscape led and sought to refine the preliminary corridor boundaries through a process of extension and reduction. The exercise also sought to identify corridors that could be realistically discounted from further consideration by virtue of overriding engineering, technical or environmental criteria (both first and second tier), or introduce potentially viable corridors that may not have been initially identified during the desk-based review.

5.4.5 A detailed visual examination of the refined area of search was undertaken in terms of topography, elevation, slope, drainage pattern, environmental designations and landcover. Appreciation of more perceptual aspects such as scenic quality was also considered in the field.

5.4.6 The following principles and criteria were considered as part of the refinement exercise.

. Designations – sieving of routes that present the least conflict with first and second tier designated interests relating to landscape, heritage, ecology and land use/planning;

. Directness – selection of corridors that offer the most direct route from the

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

wind farms to the identified connection points, and which avoid sharp changes in direction;

. Topography – preference of options that follow open valleys and generally avoid steeply sloping, visually prominent land;

. Landcover – preference of options that avoid urban areas, recreationally important areas and densely vegetated areas;

. Technical – selection of corridors with the least challenging engineering requirements (e.g. crossing of wide trunk roads and rivers), and those with minimal direct conflict with existing infrastructure.

5.5 Outcomes of Site Visit

5.5.1 Due to the extensive nature of the refined area of search, efforts during the site visit were principally focused on the review of preliminary route corridors running from the three wind farms to the Swansea North Substation, with emphasis directed towards reviewing potential crossing opportunities along the Towy Valley between the settlements of Carmarthen and Llandeilo.

5.5.2 The following general conclusions and observations were drawn from the site visits, which subsequently fed into the sieving and boundary refinement of route corridor options taken forwards.

Wind Farm Locality (wind resource area)

5.5.3 The three wind farms would be located across a contiguous upland area to the north of the River Cothi at general elevations of between approximately 250 to 350m AOD.

5.5.4 A key assumption was that the associated proposed substation locations would need to be linked in some form, enabling all three to be served by a grid connection to either of the two identified connection points.

5.5.5 The process of balancing desk and site-based information identified three potential

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

options.

. A direct southern link off the upland area, dropping down into the valley of the River Cothi west of Brechfa village;

. A link to the north-west to avoid the complex topography and steep slopes which characterise the southern fringe of the upland area;

. A link to the east, into the valley of the River Cothi east of Abergorlech (a slightly less sensitive and less enclosed section of the valley).

Brechfa/River Cothi Valley

5.5.6 Constraint mapping suggested this valley might present an opportunity for routeing; however the valley landscape running from Llanllawddog in the west to Llansawel to the east is particularly sensitive given its enclosed topography and recreational amenity use. The feature creates a barrier to the grid connection to the south of the upland wind resource area (though considered a secondary rather than primary constraint).

5.5.7 The following conclusions were drawn in respect of this area.

. Preference to avoid the especially narrow section of the valley of the River Cothi as it turns south to the east of Brechfa village, due to steep topography and scenic interest;

. Identification of the section of the valley to the west of Brechfa village as the least sensitive crossing point;

. A preference for circumnavigating this valued valley either to the west or east.

River Towy Valley

5.5.8 This valley brings together a notable density of primary and secondary constraints. Joint fieldwork by the assessment team identified three broad crossing points.

. East of Carmarthen near Abergwili;

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. East of Nantgaredig;

. East of Llandeilo.

5.5.9 A direct connection from Swansea North to the wind resource area would have resulted in a crossing of the Towy valley in the vicinity of Llanarthne/Llangathen. The combined site visit concluded that, given the apparent feasibility of other reasonably direct crossing points, a crossing in this vicinity (close to a number of nationally designated resources) should be discounted as an option.

5.5.10 Sensitivities in areas immediately to the north and south and the absence of significant connecting valley-route opportunities also suggested that there was no clear case for considering an underground crossing of the Towy Valley in this location; however further consideration of a short route between Abergorlech and Carmarthen South introduced an option crossing the valley near Llanarthne, that warranted further evaluation.

Urban Areas and Settlements

5.5.11 The A48 road corridor was identified as an opportunity (based on topography and existing influences on the landscape); however a swathe of dispersed but connected built up areas and other constraints in the vicinity of Tumble, Cross Hands, Gorslas, Pen-y-groes, Temple Bar and Milo represented an extensive physical constraint.

5.5.12 When combined with recreational areas to the north, this resulted in definition of a route corridor option to the south of this section of the A48. It was noted this would necessitate at least two crossing points along the course of this road. It was concluded that further work would be necessary to confirm the feasibility an A48 road corridor route passing north east of Tumble.

5.5.13 Fieldwork identified a potentially feasible route (pinch point) around Ammanford near Pantyffynnon.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Mynydd Y Gwair (high ground north of Swansea North)

5.5.14 A general principle adopted in the routeing process was to avoid areas of higher and more exposed, visually prominent land such as that associated with Mynydd Y Gwair in the south-east of the refined area of search.

5.5.15 Notwithstanding this, site based observations revealed a presence of existing overhead lines on this high ground north of Swansea North Substation. Consideration was therefore given to the introduction of a further corridor option across this area between the existing substation and Ammanford.

5.6 Route Corridor Catergorisation

5.6.1 Based on the above broad collective observations of the assessment team, the preliminary and newly introduced route corridors were categorised in the following hierarchical manner.

. Those corridors which the assessment team recommended as the least constrained options warranting further detailed consideration as part of the appraisal;

. Additional corridors considered more constrained and therefore more difficult for routeing purposes, but which still have the potential to accommodate a route and which may warrant further site based evaluation;

. Those corridors initially identified in the workshop but later dismissed by the assessment team following site review, primarily on the grounds of: significant conflict with recorded environmental constraints; opposition with the essence of the Holford Rules; a likelihood of encountering serious engineering difficulties; and/or where a route would prove uneconomical to implement by WPD.

5.6.2 The categorised corridors are depicted on Figure 12. The figure also depicts the previously identified indicative route for comparative purposes.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.7 Least Constrained Route Corridor Options

5.7.1 The following identifies those corridors (and sub-sections thereof) that were deemed to be the least constrained for routeing; these are described in a west to east and north to south direction across the refined area of search.

New Inn to Abergwili (A485)

5.7.2 This corridor was considered to offer a direct route from New Inn to the Abergwili crossing of Towy valley, broadly following the A485 route.

5.7.3 The preliminary corridor was widened to allow for the consideration of options either side of the A485 road corridor. As the area is relatively low lying, it was considered appropriate to expand the corridor to the west towards Llanpumsaint to permit consideration of a potential route closer to lower valley.

5.7.4 The general locality exhibits an absence of steep slopes with less complex topography towards the southern section of the corridor; however potential proximity issues were noted in the Pontarsais area and potential constraints in the form of ASNW near the settlement of Alltwalis.

5.7.5 A concentration of heritage resources was also recorded within the lower lying areas of the corridor’s western extents, along with occasional ecological features of importance.

5.7.6 The location of this corridor was considered to offer potential connection opportunities to both the Brechfa Forest West and Bryn Llywelyn wind farm substations, with a crossing of the Towy Valley possible through a very narrow pinch-point on the eastern fringes of Carmarthen which would reduce the potential for impact on its many designated features.

Brechfa to South of Nantgaredig (via Horeb)

5.7.7 This corridor broadly follows the line of the existing B4310 route, and would offer a direct connection into the Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.7.8 Topographically, the area offered a number of opportunities to widen the corridor to encompass the option of a more westerly valley route alignment. The corridor boundary was developed to avoid the villages of Brechfa in the east and more steep slopes found south of the valley.

5.7.9 Ecologically, constraints were noted in respect of possible wintering birds issues in fields around the settlement of Horeb. ASNW was also recorded in the northern and southern ends of the corridor.

5.7.10 Navigation across the Towy Valley remained a key consideration due to its many sensitivities; however it was felt that a narrow crossing point immediately east of Nantgaredig could be taken advantage of which avoided nearby ASNW and Scheduled Monuments.

Abergorlech to Llanarthne (via Capel Isaac)

5.7.11 This corridor was not initially identified in the desk study, but emerged following preliminary site based collective review of constraints and opportunities.

5.7.12 The corridor was considered to offer a direct, diagonal route of limited constraint across a large tract of the refined area of search from the settlement of Abergorlech. It was considered that this relatively undisturbed landscape could accommodate a section of corridor that could potentially be utilised as part of a wider corridor for connecting the Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm into the proposed EE route connection point.

5.7.13 Although the corridor traversed an area of high ground north east of Capel Isaac, subtly lower topographical opportunities were felt to exist that could be took advantage of with careful routeing.

5.7.14 Navigating the Towy Valley remained a key constraint for this corridor, given its oblique direction of crossing, multiple designations and high environmental value. It was concluded that further site-based investigation would be necessary in order to verify the viability of the corridor and its valley crossing between Llanegwad and Llanarthne.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Abergorlech to Llandeilo (west via Cwmdu and Salem)

5.7.15 This option was considered to provide a section of corridor which could be utilised for routeing between Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm and the Swansea North Substation in the south.

5.7.16 A review of the corridor indicated it to offer a reasonably direct route between the wind farm and the large settlement of Llandeilo. Given its low lying characteristics, the corridor boundary was widened significantly to offer flexibility to route both east and west of Salem, the latter potentially offering a valley alignment to be developed.

5.7.17 The form of the corridor was shaped further to avoid the majority of important cultural heritage assets, pockets of ASNW and ecologically designated features such as the SSSI at Cwmdu.

5.7.18 Notwithstanding this, the considerable coverage of woodland within the corridor was noted as a potential challenge and constraint, albeit of lower importance to this stage of corridor refinement.

Abergorlech to Llandeilo (east via Talley and Halfway)

5.7.19 This corridor essentially provided an alternative direct route to the previous corridor described above.

5.7.20 The northern section of this corridor option was developed following site-based surveys which revealed opportunities to route east of Talley towards the proposed substation in the Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm. The corridor is sited in a low lying settled valley, with man-made influences apparent in the form of the existing B4310 route which the corridor generally follows.

5.7.21 A number of challenges were recorded with this option which would require careful consideration: significant cultural heritage assets in the Talley locality in the form of Scheduled Monuments, Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas; small steep sided valleys; and nature conservation interests comprising SSSIs and ASNW at

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Talley and Edwinsford.

5.7.22 The boundary of the corridor was accordingly modified to reduce its width through these areas in an attempt to avoid conflict with these interests, where possible. The review also identified a potential opportunity to connect the southern extents of this corridor (between Halfway and Llandeilo) into the northern extents of the previous corridor via routeing north of Cwmdu, which would avoid encroachment into the Talley and Edwinsford areas.

Abergwili to Llandyfaelog (EE Route Connection Point)

5.7.23 This corridor offers a direct connection into the corridor running north-south between Abewgwili to New Inn, east of Carmarthen.

5.7.24 Site review of this corridor confirmed a notable absence of environmentally designated interests between the Towy Valley and the proposed EE route connection point for much of this route. A proportion of the corridor would track east of the existing A484 road, which was considered an opportunity for routeing.

5.7.25 Due to the constrained nature of the Towy Valley, the route corridor was narrowed to reduce the potential for conflict with designated interests. A further constraint emerged in the form of the A48 strategic route, which any overhead route would need to navigate across.

Nantgaredig to Llandyfaelog (EE Route Connection Point)

5.7.26 A large proportion of this diagonal corridor was identified through site-based verification which highlighted very few physical or environmental constraints between the proposed EE route connection point and the Towy Valley. It was accordingly brought into the scope of the appraisal as it presented an opportunity to directly connect the Brechfa to South of Nantgaredig (via Horeb) corridor identified above.

5.7.27 The low lying nature of the environment associated with an absence of woodland and heritage features meant that the corridor boundaries could extend significantly

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

from the proposed EE route connection point through to the more constrained pinch-point at the Towy Valley, thus offering considerable scope for routeing in this area.

Abergwili/Nantgaredig to Swansea North (via A48 corridor)

5.7.28 This relatively lengthy section of corridor broadly tracked that which was defined in the desk-based review, with boundaries modified to align with the established A48 road corridor and tweaked to provide potential connection into the Swansea North Substation via a route north of Pontarddulais and Hendy.

5.7.29 The corridor was considered to form the most direct valley link from the substation to the east of Carmarthen, thus offering opportunities to connect the Brechfa Forest West and Bryn Llywelyn Wind Farms to the electricity grid.

5.7.30 The landscape is characterised as being fairly disturbed in places, which gives rise to potential conflicts with road crossings due to the number of transport corridors in the southern extents of the refined area of search.

5.7.31 Site-based review noted that navigation past Cross Hands would be achievable through a pinch-point to the south-west of the settlement, accepting that careful routeing would reduce the potential for conflict to emerge on a SSSI in this area.

5.7.32 A further pinch-point was recorded north of Pontarddulais; here any route would likely have to follow the existing overhead distribution lines that traverse the area.

5.7.33 Isolated and clustered Listed Buildings were noted as a potential barrier to routeing along this corridor in the Pentrebach and Cross Hands areas; boundaries were accordingly narrowed and repositioned to reduce the potential for incursion into such assets.

Llandeilo to Swansea North (west via River Loughor)

5.7.34 Identified during desk-based review, this corridor option offers a reasonably direct route along the eastern extents of the refined area of search, and takes advantage

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

of an existing narrow valley feature associated with the River Loughor running between Ammanford and Pontarddulais.

5.7.35 Clusters of Listed Buildings, Scheduled Monuments and pockets of ASNW south of Llandeilo, were viewed as a potential barrier to routeing; therefore the corridor boundaries were widened around the A483 to provide a broader scope for routeing in this area.

5.7.36 The route corridor was adjusted between Ammanford and Pentre-Gwenlais to avoid encroachment into and overlap with built form, Listed Buildings and an SLA.

Llandeilo to Swansea North (east via Mynydd Y Gwair)

5.7.37 This alternative corridor to that described above takes advantage of the upland landscapes associated with Mynydd Y Gwair. This corridor was identified during site-based reconnaissance and has been developed in response to the presence of existing overhead infrastructure already being present in the locality.

5.7.38 The corridor is elevated, relatively direct and uniform in width between Ammanford and Swansea North, broadly following the route of a rural lane and largely avoiding the boundaries of a Strategic Search Area, Open Country, and a SSSI.

5.7.39 Some potential conflict was noted in respect of a dense cluster of ASNW located immediately south of Pantyffynnon.

5.7.40 The remainder of the corridor between Ammanford and Llandeilo follows that described in the previous corridor above.

5.8 Alternative Route Corridor Options

5.8.1 The following summarises two corridors that were deemed to offer potential for routeing, albeit exhibiting a heightened degree of constraint that warranted further detailed evaluation.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Brechfa to Plas Fawr

5.8.2 This additional corridor routes between the north of Carmarthen (Abergwili) and the settlement of Plas Fawr, west of Horeb, and emerged as a potential sub-option that would permit an alternative connection pathway between the Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm and the EE route connection point.

5.8.3 The basis of the route derived from the workshop exercise which identified a potential corridor between Carmarthen and the B4310, south of Horeb. The locality is characterised by frequent, dispersed and complex areas of steeply sloping ground, some of which appeared to be undisturbed in nature and potentially sensitive to development.

5.8.4 Further desk-based review following site identification confirmed there to be a small number of designations associated with this alternative corridor, including ASNW pockets and built heritage assets of national importance.

5.8.5 It was observed that the relatively elevated nature of the corridor would potentially not preclude routeing, but would likely result in a route that runs contrary to the grain of the valleys in this area.

Llanddarog (A48) to north Ammanford link (via Milo)

5.8.6 The basis of the second of the alternative corridors was initially identified during the workshop exercise as potentially offering scope for accommodating a route as part of options starting or terminating in the east of the refined area of search.

5.8.7 It was identified that this corridor offered an indirect, longer pathway as part of routeing to either the Swansea North Substation or the EE route connection point from any of the three wind farm substations.

5.8.8 Fieldwork confirmed that although the corridor is elevated in places, there appeared to be no particular topographical opportunities that could be readily harnessed. In addition, the southern extent of the corridor is taken by a sizeable tract of designated landscape accommodating a cluster of built heritage assets,

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

ANSW, and an area designated as a SSSI/SAC.

5.8.9 Potential routeing opportunities may exist north of these designated assets; however it was noted from desk-based review that any such routes would encroach into landscapes identified in LANDMAP as exhibiting high visual and sensory qualities.

5.9 Dismissed Corridor Options

5.9.1 The following corridors (and sub-options thereof) were principally identified from the desk-based workshop exercise and subsequently discounted from further consideration, following modification, refinement and evaluation in the field.

Brechfa to Llandeilo

5.9.2 A potential corridor forming a direct link between the settlement of Brechfa to Llandeilo (via Capel Isaac and Salem) was initially identified as offering an indirect linkage between the three wind farm substations and wider corridor options to the east of the refined area of search, connecting south into the Swansea North Substation.

5.9.3 A general absence of ecological and cultural heritage constraints initially led to the identification of this corridor; however site work concluded that a considerable length of any route would be positioned on elevated ground located south-east of Brechfa, characterised by slopes of >300m AOD, with no valley opportunities.

5.9.4 Steep slopes were identified in the vicinity of Llanfynydd, and north west of Capel Isaac, which were considered a potential barrier to routeing that would generate conflict with the principles of the Holford Rules.

5.9.5 This constraint, coupled with considerable woodland coverage (some comprising ASNW) and an absence of detracting features, drew a conclusion that this corridor would not be suitable for routeing.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Abergorlech to Nantgaredig

5.9.6 Desk based review indicated potential for routeing along a corridor between Abergorlech – immediately south of the proposed Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm substation – and the settlement of Nantgaredig in the Towy valley.

5.9.7 The route was initially considered to offer indirect linkage to both the Swansea North Substation and the EE route connection point for this wind farm. Preliminary site work revealed some opportunities exist for taking advantage of the subtle elevated valley for routeing, and because of a limited number of ecological and cultural heritage constraints.

5.9.8 Conflicts were, however, acknowledged by virtue of the fact that a large proportion of this corridor overlaps with SLA designation in what was observed to be a generally undisturbed landscape of acknowledged high value in visual and sensory terms.

5.9.9 The corridor was also identified as being of considerable length, particularly if it were to be harnessed as part of a connection into the Swansea North Substation. It was also identified that this corridor would only be required if a direct linkage to the proposed Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm was necessary from either of the proposed connection points (as opposed to an interconnection between each of the three wind farms).

5.9.10 The overriding impression gained was that this corridor could be discounted if the preferred connection were to be made to the Swansea North Substation; however it was recognised that the corridor – upon further refinement – could form part of a potential option warranting reconsideration should the EE route connection point be progressed as the preferred connection point.

West of Carmarthen

5.9.11 The workshop exercise identified a potential option that would involve routeing to the west of Carmarthen.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.9.12 Site based review confirmed the initial observations that such a route would potentially offer a pathway between the EE route connection point and the New Inn locality, west of the Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm substation, and that it could form part of a wider corridor linking back to the Swansea North Substation to the south-east.

5.9.13 The review identified a number of engineering challenges associated with this option. Although a proportion of the area west of Carmarthen is reasonably low- lying, a route option through this corridor would necessarily have to traverse more elevated topography than in comparison to corridors associated with Abergwili, east of Carmarthen. The route also captures a considerable number of environmental sensitivities, not least those associated with the crossing of the Towy estuary which could introduce an unacceptable degree of conflict with numerous nationally and internationally important landscape and ecological features.

5.9.14 Although the majority of corridor options identified would require a crossing over the existing single carriageway A40 route, increased difficulties were noted in respect of this corridor as the route would require the crossing of a dual carriageway section west of the town. Other issued recorded included the need to traverse fragmented areas of landscape considered to be of high value in visual and sensory terms, and addressing the conflict with complex, steeply sloping topography north of Carmarthen.

5.9.15 Given the focus of important estuarine designations, increased route length (when compared to routeing east of Carmarthen) and the level of conflict with Holford Rules principles concerning avoidance of areas exhibiting high amenity/value, it was concluded that routeing via the west of Carmarthen would be unacceptable in environmental and engineering terms and would therefore not warrant further consideration in the appraisal.

Southern Corridor Options

5.9.16 Desk-based review identified a potential corridor running west from the Swansea

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

North Substation to Llandyfaelog (EE route connection point) via south of Hendy.

5.9.17 Fieldwork verification extended the desk-based exercise by identifying a further two options following a comparable corridor alignment; the first of these broadly followed the B4306 road corridor from Swansea North to Crwbin, the second provided a short corridor from the Swansea North Substation around the fringes of Hendy (south and west) to avoid the settlement. These options principally stemmed from the presence of Mynydd Sylen south of Pontyberem - a feature characterised by very elevated ground in what is essentially low lying topography.

5.9.18 The nature of the topography south-east of Carmarthen is such that no strong valley opportunities exist running east-west that could be harnessed for routeing.

5.9.19 Collectively, these southern corridor options were considered to offer indirect connectivity, particularly the option connecting to Llandyfaelog which would introduce a new connection between the two identified connection points, as a means of wider connection to the three wind farms.

5.9.20 A dispersed distribution of designated interests of importance comprising ASNW (at River Morlais), SLAs, Carmarthen Bay SAC, and numerous heritage assets were recorded. Coupled with the ascribed high value visual and sensory qualities between Mynydd Cerrig and Mynydd Garreg, reasonably dense settlement pattern and occasional steep slopes, it was concluded that genuine barriers to routeing exist with these corridor options with no advantage in terms of connection length or directness being offered.

5.9.21 Accordingly, corridors running across the south of the refined area of search were discounted on this basis from further review and evaluation.

East Via Clydach and Pontardawe

5.9.22 A corridor option tracking the south-eastern fringes of the refined area of search was identified in the workshop as offering an alternative direction of connection into the Swansea North Substation for routes associated with Llandeilo.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.9.23 Site work refined the corridors based on a combination of topography, designations and settlement patterns, concluding there to be a potential corridor routeing via Clydach, then south of Mynydd y Betws and terminating either north of south of Ammanford.

5.9.24 Observations indicated this corridor offers an indirect routeing opportunity in comparison to other corridors, and would render an option that is more elevated in nature that would traverse a Strategic Search Area for wind energy development.

5.9.25 The presence of steep sloping ground was acknowledged to form a limiting factor to routeing, as was the linkage of wooded RSPB reserves north of Clydach which form a clear barrier to route progression. Tree cover (some ASNW) east of Ammanford and dense clustering of Scheduled Monuments were also noted as genuine constraint to routeing. Proximity to the Brecon Beacons National Park boundary north of Pontamman was recorded as a possible issue.

5.9.26 Given no readily identifiable advantages over more direct corridors were identified in terms of routeing in this part of the refined area of search, it was collectively concluded that no further focus would be directed towards the evaluation of corridors east of the Swansea North Substation.

5.10 Adoption of the EE route as the Preferred Connection Point

5.10.1 Following the completion of site work to refine the various route corridor options identified from the workshop exercise, WPD continued to evaluate the merits of connecting into either the Swansea North Substation or the EE Route in Llandyfaelog.

5.10.2 Route inspections were undertaken by WPD in November 2012; these concluded there to be no overriding technical reasons why this existing section of overhead line could not be utilised as a viable connection point for the proposed scheme.

5.10.3 It was therefore concluded by WPD that, for the purposes of route corridor appraisal, the preferred connection point going forwards for the proposed scheme

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

would comprise the EE Route. Selection was predicted on the fact that it represents efficient use of existing under-utilised network infrastructure, and it presents a potentially more direct connection opportunity for routeing to the three wind farm substations.

5.10.4 Key consultees previously engaged as part of the Stage 1 activities were accordingly contacted in December 2012 and January 2013 to inform them of the preferred connection point, and to update parties on the position regarding route corridor identification and appraisal.

5.10.5 Feedback provided by Carmarthenshire County Council suggested that consideration needed to be given in the ongoing appraisal to site allocations set out in their deposit Local Development Plan, in addition to those previously identified in their adopted Unitary Development Plan. This information was subsequently gathered and recorded in GIS to supplement existing datasets concerning planning related considerations.

5.10.6 The preliminary appraisal findings (described above) were subject to comparative review in early January 2013, following the strategic decision regarding adoption of the EE route connection.

5.11 Comparative Review

5.11.1 Comparative review of the refined area of search against the preliminary route corridors and the decision to discount the Swansea North Substation connection point on technical grounds revealed the following observations.

. The discontinuation of the Swansea North Substation connection would necessarily require the dropping of the indicative route from further consideration in the appraisal;

. Preliminary route corridors offering connection into the Swansea North Substation would need to be dropped from the appraisal, specifically easterly routeing opportunities orientated north-south between Abergorlech, Llandeilo

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

and Pontarddulais;

. The Llanddarog (A48) to north Ammanford link (via Milo) alternative corridor should be discounted from further consideration, as its progression would require a corridor link from Llandeilo to Abergorlech in order to form an integral component of any connection (these being discounted for reasons described above);

. A large section of the preliminary route corridor between Abergwili/Nantgaredig to the Swansea North Substation (via A48 corridor) should be discounted from the study, as this essentially provided an indirect connection pathway following a north-west to south-east orientation across the southern extents of the refined area of search;

. Removal of large tracts of preliminary route corridors in the east of the refined area of search would mean the southern and eastern boundaries could logically be reduced, given there would be no clear advantage in terms of constraint avoidance or line length reduction for routeing into or across these areas;

. There would be a requirement to rationalise the desk-based identified interconnection corridors between the three wind farms with further fieldwork, in order to ensure a means of connectivity is provided to each development should one or more of these schemes not be granted consent through statutory procedures (given this aspect was not verified by way of the preliminary fieldwork undertaken);

. A need to: a) verify and refine the preliminary Towy Valley crossing points between Carmarthen in the west and Llantharne in the east (Llantharne being the furthest easterly crossing point following the discounting of corridors crossing the valley at Llandeilo) through further fieldwork and consideration of second tier criteria; and b) to refine the boundaries of the remaining preliminary route corridors through site review to enable consideration of more localised constraints and opportunities.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.11.2 Accordingly, a number of modifications were made in order to revise the boundaries of the refined area of search down to derive an agreed ‘study area’ based on the three wind farms interfacing with the connection point somewhere between Tower No’s 42-46 on the EE route (the final choice of connection point being dependent upon the comparative environmental effects on one tower choice versus another).

5.11.3 Coverage associated with the southern and eastern boundaries was significantly reduced, as depicted on Figure 13.

5.11.4 Eastern boundary modifications sought to exclude the sensitive Brecon Beacons National Park by broadly tracking the line of the A476 between Tumble and Llandeilo, and the B4302 between Llandeilo and Talley. As a consequence, the sensitive landscapes around Ammanford and Pontarddulais would fall outside of the study area and thus would not pose an ongoing constraint to routeing.

5.11.5 Refinements were also made to the southern boundary between Kidwelly and Tumble; these sought to exclude large pockets of designated SLAs and ASNW found north of Llanelli.

5.11.6 The northern and western boundaries were also adjusted to reduce their coverage; the former was reduced to track closer to the boundaries of the proposed Bryn Llywelyn and Brechfa Forest Wind Farms, and the latter was brought closer to the west of Carmarthen (partially following the north-south line of the existing A484 route).

5.11.7 The reduced coverage was considered to still offer flexibility for routeing to all three wind farms, and would facilitate intensification of the corridor appraisal and refinement activities going forwards.

5.12 Refinement of Preliminary Route Corridors

Scope and Objectives

5.12.1 Specialists within WPD and RSK Environment Ltd undertook fieldwork jointly on

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

11th January and 17th January 2013. Preliminary route corridors (and alternative corridors) between the three wind farms and the EE route connection that remained following the comparative review were used as the basis for the refinement exercise.

5.12.2 Focus was directed on the first visit to validating the remaining corridor options to determine their appropriateness and viability in environmental and engineering terms, and to review the desk-based interconnection options between the three wind farms that had yet to be the subject of fieldwork review.

5.12.3 Emphasis on the second visit was placed on undertaking a detailed review of the Towy Valley crossings to: refine crossing boundary extents; determine whether other viable crossing points exist; and consider technical and engineering constraints that may preclude routeing.

5.12.4 A further objective of the second visit was to revisit in greater detail the previously identified routeing opportunities to the proposed Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm from the Towy Valley locality. Specifically, this involved a greater review of the Abergorlech to Llanarthne (via Capel Isaac) corridor, and the Nantgaredig to Abergorlech corridor opportunity - the latter being partly discounted following the preliminary site review but warranting reconsideration following adoption of the EE route connection.

Broad Refinements

5.12.5 The following broad refinements were made to the preliminary route corridor extents and boundaries following the site visits, described in a south to north direction.

5.12.6 The first modification was made to the corridor coverage around the proposed EE Route locality. This was marginally extended southwards from Llandyfaelog by approximately 1km, and was undertaken following identification by WPD that interface into this existing overhead line may be achievable via one of several existing overhead distribution towers (rather than the terminal end tower).

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.12.7 Corridors previously identified south and east of Carmarthen (i.e. those broadly connecting Abergwili, Llandyfaelog and Nantgaredig south of the A40 road corridor) were broadly aggregated to form a single, outwardly tapering corridor from the EE route connection point. The western boundary of this corridor was then widened to track the line of the A484 in the main, as site based review indicated no major environmental constraints that would preclude routeing close to the urban fringes of south Carmarthen.

5.12.8 The corridor extents around Llanddarog were modified through a process of reduction to ensure avoidance of several pockets of ASNW around the settlement of Cwmisfael, and to establish a more appropriate corridor orientation directed towards the A40 for routeing purposes.

5.12.9 The definition of preliminary route corridors had resulted in a triangular shaped pocket of landscape falling outside of consideration south and west of the settlement of Nantycaws. Site based review indicated there to be no overriding environmental or technical factors preventing routeing through this area. Accordingly, this area was augmented into the refined corridor boundaries for completeness.

5.12.10 The preliminary route corridors identified two potential crossing points across the Towy Valley; the first being sandwiched between Carmarthen and Abergwili, and the second located immediately east of Nantgaredig. Detailed review of the preliminary corridor boundaries and site based surveys along the valley led to the following modifications.

. Narrowing of the first corridor crossing point to avoid encroachment into (and conflict with) settlement on the western fringes of Abergwili and the north- eastern periphery of Carmarthen;

. Refinement of the second corridor width to completely avoid the eastern fringes of Nantgaredig, and to ensure avoidance of encroachment into the neighbouring settlement of Pont-ar-gothi and surrounding pockets of ASNW;

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. Identification of a third narrow crossing point west of Capel Dewi and east of White Mill. Selection was based primarily on a general absence of residential dwellings, and given this would offer a direct short route across the valley feature. The project team acknowledged, however, that routeing in this corridor may necessitate more than one crossing of the River Towy watercourse and would need to carefully avoid isolated properties set within the lower lying parts of the valley.

5.12.11 Development of a fourth narrow crossing point immediately east of Capel Dewi that took advantage of a clearing in elevated dense planting immediately north of the A40 at Pen-yr-alit. It was acknowledged that routeing would be technically feasible but highly constrained in width, and possibly requiring an angled crossing to scale the valley and climb the steeper slopes on the northern side of the A40 road corridor.

5.12.12 As a consequence of increasing the potential Towy Valley crossing points from two to four, the overall form of the two preliminary corridors north of the valley were broadened to permit flexibility in routeing direction northwards to any of the proposed wind farms.

5.12.13 The preliminary route corridor from New Inn to Abergwili was reviewed in detail during the site visit. It was concluded that a number of changes could be made to its boundaries to avoid key settlement areas and designated features of acknowledged value and importance. The following modifications were made.

. Significant reduction in the corridor’s western boundary around the B4301 and Llanpumsaint, in order to avoid encroachment into major areas of settlement, High value area of LANDMAP (visual and sensory), dispersed ASNW pockets, and a SSSI;

. Minor refinement of the corridor’s north-western extents to avoid unnecessary encroachment into the settlements of Dolgran, Pencader and Gwarallt;

. Refinement of the corridor’s north-eastern extents to allow a greater degree of

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

flexibility in terms of connection offering into the proposed Bryn Llywelyn Wind Farm substation;

. General amendments to the corridor’s eastern fringes to minimise the degree of overlap and conflict with sizeable tracts of ASNW immediately south of the Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm.

5.12.14 The preliminary route corridor between Brechfa to South of Nantgaredig (via Horeb) was investigated in detail during the site visit, alongside the Abergorlech to Llanarthne (via Capel Isaac) corridor and Nantgaredig to Abergorlech corridor opportunities.

5.12.15 After reviewing the constraints and opportunities associated with each option, the conclusion drawn was that these areas could feasibly constitute a single wide corridor that would offer routeing opportunities from several of the refined Towy Valley crossing points around Nantgaredig to both the Brechfa Forest East and West substations.

5.12.16 It was also considered that formation of a single route corridor would offer genuine flexibility to avoid or reduce conflict with the highest value environmental sensitivities, whilst enabling appropriate technical solutions to be realised in terms of providing a potential interconnection corridor between the two wind farms along the established line of the B4310.

5.12.17 Accordingly, the corridor was developed to create a broader corridor commencing north of Nantgaredig, tapering outwards to interface with both wind farms in the north. The corridor boundaries were developed to primarily avoid major woodlands and ASNWs associated with Brechfa Forest, and to provide routeing opportunities either side of the SLA associated with the River Cothi, in order to minimise conflict with this important designation.

5.12.18 Due to the need to consider potential interconnection opportunities between the three wind farms, a combination of fieldwork and desk-based interrogation of the Brechfa Forest locality revealed a further narrow corridor option that could feasibly

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

connect the Brechfa Forest East and West wind farms. The corridor runs east- west between both proposed wind farm substations through heavily forested areas via a route south of the settlement of Gwernogle.

5.12.19 The corridor’s orientation inevitably conflicts with established woodland pockets, but seeks to avoid areas of ASNW and settlements where possible, whilst harnessing routeing along established rural lanes in the main. Despite conflicts with SLA designation and LANDMAP (visual and sensory) coverage, it was considered that a route could be carefully established through the landscape, utilising existing woodland to reduce visual perception and awareness of overhead infrastructure.

5.12.20 It was concluded that interconnection between the Brechfa Forest West and Bryn Llywelyn wind farms could be achieved via a wood pole overhead line through the West corridor, or via an underground connection following the network of proposed access trackways within the wind farm boundaries.

5.12.21 The alternative preliminary route corridor between Brechfa and Plas Fawr was examined during the site visit, and it was concluded that the far western and eastern extents of this corridor could be incorporated into the refined corridors described above, as this would offer greater directional flexibility for routes out of the Towy Valley up to the three wind farms. Central sections of the alternative corridor were discounted on the basis that topographically, any route following the direction of this corridor would have to traverse steep slopes, valleys and visually prominent high points.

5.12.22 Following the refinement process, the various route corridor options and interconnection corridors were re-referenced for clarity, as described below, and visually presented and labelled on Figure 14.

Gwernogle Corridor

5.12.23 From the onsite substation at the Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm, the Gwernogle Corridor extends northeast crossing areas of forestry and associated tracks,

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

before narrowing as it crosses a minor road to the west to Gwernogle. The corridor reaches Gwernogle, bounded by River Byrfon in the north and open fields in the south, before crossing into the east of Brechfa Forest toward the onsite substation of Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm, north of the town of Abergorlech.

5.12.24 The length of this interconnection corridor between Brechfa Forest East and West wind farms is approximately 12.3km.

Brechfa Corridor

5.12.25 From the onsite substation at Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm, the Brechfa Corridor heads south crossing agricultural land interspersed with forestry, continuing through areas of Brechfa Forest before orientating to the southwest to Abergorlech. The corridor then crosses south of the River Cothi, where it stretches southwest between Nant-y-Ffin and Pen-y-Garn. The corridor generally follows the route of the River Cothi and crosses a section of forestry before heading west to Brechfa.

5.12.26 As the route approaches Brechfa, it crosses a number of minor roads and watercourses before heading northwest to a pinch point between Allt Llwyn-celyn and Allt Cerbynau as it connects at the substation of Brechfa Forest West Wind Farm.

5.12.27 The length of this interconnection corridor between Brechfa Forest East and West wind farms is approximately 13.6km.

West Corridor

5.12.28 The West Corridor broadly follows the A485 from the town of New Inn south past the town of Pencader in the west (the centre of which lies just outside the route corridor). Following the A485 south, the corridor captures the settlement of Gwyddgrug, crossing the River Gorwydd and River Gwyddrug. As the corridor extends southward, it crosses B-classification roads (B4459) prior to interfacing with the A485 north of Alltwalis. Agricultural fields, farm dwellings and mountainous terrain characterise the corridor in this locality. The route captures

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

hillside areas such as Allt Garedig in the west, and is bounded by the terrain of Allt Llwydcoed in the east.

5.12.29 A pinch point exists within this corridor at Pontarsais and the junction between the A485 and the B4301. After this junction, the corridor widens and encompasses the town of Rhydargaeau as it expands further to the south before reaching the town of Peniel.

5.12.30 The corridor is generally characterised by a composite of forestry, a network of A and B-classification roads, and small watercourses and settlement set within an agricultural land use pattern.

West-East Corridor Overlap

5.12.31 At this section, there is an area of overlap between the west and east corridors as they reach the various crossing options for the Towy valley (described below).

5.12.32 In this location the corridor extends from south of Peniel to an area immediately to the west of the River Cothi (south of Felingwm Isaf). The terrain is undulating and dominated by open, agricultural fields, which are framed and enclosed by a network of single-lane country roads and isolated, scattered dwellings.

East Corridor

5.12.33 From south of Brechfa, the East Corridor heads south through isolated patches of forestry, small settlements and scattered country dwellings. The corridor broadly follows the route south of the River Cothi (though the corridor is west of the river from Nant Gwilw onwards). The route also follows the B4310 southward toward Felingwm Uchaf. The corridor covers an expanse of agricultural land that is intersected by minor roads and single-track country lanes, which dominate in this part of Wales. The terrain is generally undulating, rising to higher altitudes in some areas (near Allt y Daren and the forested areas).

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Twyi Valley, A, B C and D

5.12.34 Routeing and definition of these corridors have sought to avoid areas of established forestry, with a clear objective of crossing the sinuous route of the River Towy once. The process has also considered proximity to settlements and Scheduled Monuments as key criteria.

5.12.35 A – Corridor A extends from Peniel southward following the A485. The junction of the A40 creates a pinch point for the corridor between the A40 and the edge of a settlement (Abergwili). The route crosses the River Gwili in this corridor before crossing the River Towy south of the A40. South of the river, the corridor includes the town of Llangunnor, crosses the B4300, encompasses Tre-gynwr and is bound by the A40 at its western extremity.

5.12.36 B – Corridor B begins from Penybanc-bach through to White Mill crossing the A40 south to cross the River Towy twice (as it meanders at White Mill Farm and again North of Lower Penddaulwyn). The corridor then crosses the B4300 to the west of Capel Dewi and covers an area that is predominantly agricultural land interspersed with sporadic houses and small areas of tree cover.

5.12.37 C – Corridor C progresses south through agricultural land and between small dwellings, crossing the A40 and the River Towy before crossing the B4300 to the east of Capel Dewi. This corridor finishes around an area of forest just south of the property Hafod Hir.

5.12.38 D – Corridor D extends southeast of Llanfihangel-uwch-Gwili. The B4310 crosses this section of the corridor from a northeast to southwest direction. The route then crosses the A40 to the east of the junction between the A40 and the B4310. The route covers agricultural land with isolated dwellings between Nantgaredig and Pont-ar-gothi. The corridor enters a pinch point here as it extends south between a meander of the River Cothi and the B4310, which is immediately to the west of the route. As the corridor reaches the River Towy, the corridor narrows again, crossing the river and the B4300 and the B4310 in succession. This route takes advantage of a narrow crossing point immediately to the east of Nantgaredig and also avoids

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

nearby ASNWs and Scheduled Monuments.

South Corridor

5.12.39 The South Corridor covers a wide area due to the low-lying characteristics of the landscape offering considerable scope for routeing. The corridor stretches from Pen-sarn in the west, to agricultural fields just west of B4310 in the east. In the west, the corridor boundary follows the A40 from Pen-sarn as it turns into the A48. The route, as it moves south, then crosses the A48 and passes the town of Nantycaws in the centre of the route corridor. The western boundary of the South Corridor has been refined to avoid the River Towy SAC, designated for populations of Twaite Shad and Otter (as primary reasons for the designation).

5.12.40 South of the A48, the corridor encompasses Beaulieu Plantation in the centre of the route, as well as the towns of Cwmffrwd, Idole and Bancycapel and to the west of Llangyndeyrn. The south route corridor extends over a wide area, which includes A-classification roads (A484) and several B-classification roads (B4309 and B4306).

5.12.41 In the west, the A48 changes into a minor road that the corridor harnesses to define its western extremity as it passes Croesyceilog. The route then joins the A484 as it passes across small lanes, sporadic settlements and small dwellings, before heading west toward the EE route connection point in the southwest.

5.12.42 The corridor is dominated by agricultural farmland, the pattern of which is framed and dissected by a network of country lanes in addition to the A and B classification roads noted above. The corridor also captures areas of forestry and minor watercourses, for example Nantrhydw and Nant Cwmffrwd towards its central areas.

5.13 Informal Consultation on Preliminary Route Corridors

Purpose and Objectives

5.13.1 Following development, refinement and mapping of the Preliminary Route

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Corridors, an informal workshop was held in Carmarthenshire on 18th April 2013. Key members of the project team and environmental representatives from NRW and CCC attended the event.

5.13.2 The objectives of the workshop were as follows.

. To explain the methodology and process followed in the route corridor identification and appraisal process using descriptive and visual methods;

. To introduce, and explain the rationale behind, the Preliminary Route Corridors that have emerged from the appraisal process and how environmental, engineering, deliverability and cost factors have formed key considerations in their development;

. To obtain initial consultee feedback and opinion on the form and extent of the Preliminary Route Corridors, and their relationship to existing environmental sensitivities;

. To clarify the key engineering aspects of the project in terms of connection points and how the connection would be made;

. To agree the appropriateness of selection and evaluation criteria proposed to be applied in the later stages of the appraisal, which will be used as the basis for selection of a preferred option; this took the form of a brief report which is contained in Appendix 2;

. To agree the scope and extent of detailed environmental surveys which need to be done in the near future (due to seasonal constraints); the details of this are also set out in Appendix 2;

. To present the programme for project delivery, and how the approach to continued stakeholder engagement will intensify as progression is made through the next stages of evaluation and development of route alignments within a preferred corridor option.

5.13.3 Both NRW and CCC were provided copies of draft documents in advance of the

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

workshop to familiarise them with the status of the route corridor studies undertaken to date, and the proposed approach going forwards on the project in terms of how a preferred corridor will be determined.

5.13.4 Representation at the workshop was provided by project team members covering engineering, consultation, programming and delivery, ecological and landscape matters. Officers covering landscape and ecological interests represented NRW and CCC at the event.

5.13.5 The project team presented a series of electronic and paper copy plans showing the Preliminary Route Corridors to the officers, in order to facilitate discussion and visually describe the appraisal and selection processes.

Key Discussions and Outcomes

5.13.6 CCC and NRW expressed satisfaction with the overall methodology adopted in selecting the proposed route corridors.

5.13.7 A number of key themes, topics, suggestions, recommendations and outcomes emerged during the workshop discussions which prompted debate within the session and/or gave rise to further corridor appraisal work shortly after the meeting.

Wind Farm Connections

5.13.8 In addition to the potential for interconnection of Bryn Llywelyn and Brechfa Forest West wind farms via the West Corridor, consultees advised that the Preliminary Route Corridor plans be amended to include an indicative overhead or underground corridor connection between the Bryn Llywelyn and Brechfa Forest West wind farms. This was accordingly introduced and based upon the alignment of the proposed wind farm access trackways (where possible), in order to minimise the potential for landscape and visual effects.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Undergrounding and the Towy Valley

5.13.9 Consultees welcomed the fact that the project team had directed considerable effort towards desk-based and site-based evaluation of the Towy Valley area, resulting in the identification of four potential crossing points.

5.13.10 The topic of undergrounding was raised in regard to methods for crossing the Towy Valley, and in relation to the South Corridor boundary adjacent to Carmarthen, where it was felt that undergrounding could potentially bring considerable benefits over an overhead solution.

5.13.11 In response to comments raised concerning the possibility of undergrounding, two potential underground options across the Towy Valley have been identified (described below and shown on Figure 14).

. The first option would broadly follow the existing A40 road corridor east of Carmarthen, as it was discussed that an underground option in this area could potentially bring benefits in terms of reduced visual intrusion across the western extremity of the Towy Valley, and from more densely populated areas associated with the fringes of the town;

. The second option is associated with the settlement of Nantgaredig, where it was noted that the existing local road around which the settlement pattern is focused could be harnessed as a potential north-south underground crossing opportunity that would significantly reduce the visual awareness of a connection in and around the Towy Valley.

Landscape and Amenity

5.13.12 Influential factors to be taken into account in the subsequent selection of the preferred corridor and route alignment options include the following.

. The need to cross Public Rights of Way, particularly those promoted as country walks by CCC;

100

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. Attention should be given to the draft SLA boundaries, which CCC has published within their Local Development Plan (Deposit Draft);

. Subsequent appraisal work for the identification of route alignments should consider all levels of LANDMAP, in addition to the visual and sensory aspect;

. Avoiding areas of forestry by careful routeing wherever possible should remain a key criterion in the refinement and selection process.

Ecology and Nature Conservation

5.13.13 Influential factors to be taken into account in the subsequent selection of the preferred corridor and route alignment options include the following.

. Use of targeted Phase 1 and Phase 2 ecological surveys; this has been acknowledged in the outline approach set out in Appendix 2. Such mapping could support the identification for the presence of protected species (e.g. Dormice);

. Ancient Woodland should be avoided; the use of historic mapping from Ordnance Survey (circa 1880 onwards) was recommended.

Heritage

5.13.14 Influential factors to be taken into account in the subsequent selection of the preferred corridor and route alignment options centre on the avoidance of adverse effects upon the setting of Scheduled Monuments, Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas.

Route Corridors

5.13.15 Discussion and detailed review of the Preliminary Route Corridors and their associated constraints/opportunities resulted in three additional routeing suggestions being put forward by consultees, some of which extended marginally beyond the study area extents.

101

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. Consideration of a potential route corridor option around the west of Carmarthen that would avoid crossing the upper reaches of the Towy Valley, given the nature and extent landscape and visual sensitivities associated with this feature. Consultees felt that this option could introduce routeing through an area considered less sensitive in landscape and visual terms (acknowledging, however, the challenge of routeing through areas of high ecological value in this locality);

. Consideration of tracking an existing section of 132kV overhead line between the settlements of Rhos and Carmarthen which could potentially offer benefits from a land use and planning perspective (acknowledging that use of the existing line is not considered technically feasible, and that any such corridor would only be achievable if a corridor to the west of Carmarthen route were deemed a viable option);

. Consideration of a potential interconnection corridor between the Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm and the Brechfa Forest West and Bryn Llywelyn wind farms via a more northerly route associated with the northern slopes of Mynnyd Llanllwni, as a potential alternative to the identified Gwernogle and Brechfa Corridors. Consultees considered that a northern option could offer benefits in terms of reduced impact on landscape and habitat.

5.13.16 It was noted that a West of Carmarthen option had already been developed, appraised and subsequently discounted as part of initial corridor routeing studies. However, based on consultee feedback it was concluded that this options should be revisited.

5.13.17 In respect of the second suggestion, the existing 132kV overhead line runs broadly parallel with a large section of the A484 route running in a southerly direction between the settlements of Rhos and Cynwyl Elfed, before continuing southwards to the west of Carmarthen where it terminates at Carmarthen Substation. It was acknowledged that any corridor routeing opportunities along the existing Rhos to Carmarthen corridor would be dependent on a favourable outcome on the West of Carmarthen corridor option (subject to re-review as described above), given the

102

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

corridor terminates west of the town.

5.13.18 In respect of the third suggestion, a northern interconnection corridor would be plotted between the wind farms and then subject to the same level of scrutiny, appraisal and evaluation applied previously to all other route corridor options.

5.14 Revisiting the West of Carmarthen Corridor

5.14.1 Detailed scrutiny was undertaken of the west of Carmarthen locality to ascertain existing constraint relationships between the proposed EE route connection point and the A484 (north of Carmarthen); these being defined as the general locations where any corridor option west of the town would logically commence and terminate, if progressed.

5.14.2 The following observations and conclusions were made regarding this option.

. Any route to the west of Carmarthen with a link back into the West Corridor running between Carmarthen and the New Inn locality would involve a comparable line length to a route running east of Carmarthen at Abergwili through the South Corridor and the Towy Valley-A Corridor. It was noted that such a route would likely require a number of line deviations to successfully take the circuit around the western and northern periphery of the town;

. The proposed EE route connection area is located immediately east of the protected River Towy estuary, which carries multiple landscape, ecological and heritage designations of international and national importance, and is associated with an area identified in LANDMAP as an example of a High Value (visual and sensory) environment;

. The more southern areas of the River Towy and the surrounding fields are likely to be used by wintering birds associated with the Carmarthen Bay Special Protection Area (SPA). Given that birds are one of the more sensitive ecological receptors, any route should avoid crossing the River Towy in this area;

103

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. Several pockets of important Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland (ASNW) between the estuarine environment and south of the A40 road corridor physically constrain the width and direction of corridor opportunities considerably;

. The form and layout of settlement along the A40 corridor (including CCC proposals for new development to the west of Carmarthen) defines the easternmost extent of any corridor options, effectively forcing any routeing outward into the more sensitive rural landscapes west of Llanwch;

. Cors Goch Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and National Nature Reserve (NNR) is located immediately south of the A40, and comprises one of only six raised bogs in Britain with a peat substrate and associated sensitive habitats. The site is also known for the Bog-bush Cricket, Marsh Fritillary butterfly and Scarlet Tiger Moth. The SSSI would therefore be sensitive to development and should therefore be avoided. The combination of Cors Goch NNR and SSSI and the presence of the pockets of ANSW mean that corridor routeing could only realistically cross the A40 corridor through one of several narrow pinch points devoid of constraint, immediately south of Carmarthen substation;

. Crossing the A40 would require an overhead line to traverse an area of amenity land currently used as an agricultural showground, the character of which is markedly influenced by the presence of existing wood pole distribution lines which cross the area and connect into Carmarthen substation to the north;

. Considerable overhead wirescape centred on Carmarthen substation contributes to the perception of the low-lying local landscape, much of which comprises circuits of different voltage that traverse the surrounding environs in all directions. The introduction of a further overhead distribution line west of Carmarthen could inevitably heighten the awareness of overhead lines in this area, which would conflict with the objectives of the Holford Rules (Rule 6);

104

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. Aside from proximity issues to smaller areas of settlement, isolated Listed Buildings and fragmented LANDMAP High Value (visual and sensory) areas, the area associated with north-west Carmarthen was not considered to pose a considerable constraint to routeing a corridor back towards the A485.

5.14.3 In revisiting the corridor, it was acknowledged that there could be some merit in avoiding the upper sections of the visually sensitive Towy Valley east of Carmarthen by routeing south and west of the town. Notwithstanding this, any corridor would be significantly constrained by there being only one logical crossing point at the A40 (south of Carmarthen substation) where conflict with higher value interests could realistically be avoided and/or reduced to some degree, unless routeing were to be projected at considerable distance west of the town (which itself would introduce conflict with the Holford Rules in terms of length and directness of route).

5.14.4 It was noted that sizeable nature conservation interests located between the EE route connection point and the A40 corridor presented a genuine barrier to route progression. Consequently, it was felt that the need to cross the ecologically sensitive estuary feature would introduce conflict with conservation objectives.

5.14.5 Whilst some degree of benefit was recorded in terms of reduced conflict with SLA designated interests west of the town in comparison to other identified Towy Valley crossing opportunities, the evaluation of ecological conflict, increased visual issues associated with the introduction of additional wirescape, and increased line length drew a conclusion that this option should be discounted from further study.

5.14.6 In arriving at this conclusion, it was also noted that the suggested route corridor from the West of Carmarthen northwards to the settlement of Rhos should not be considered further, given its dependence on the above.

105

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.15 Development of a Northern Corridor

Workshop Observations

5.15.1 Initial observations made by consultees attending the April 2013 workshop noted there to be an existing country lane running in an east-west direction between the settlements of Rhydcymerau (on the B4337) and Llanllwni (on the A485), the route of which could potentially be harnessed as a corridor to interconnect the three wind farms.

5.15.2 A position was agreed to develop any corridor options on the basis of entering the Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm at its northern tip (adjacent to the settlement of Gorsgoch), with the assumption being to route south – possibly via underground techniques – through forestry within the development boundary to the proposed substation location via existing and proposed access tracks.

5.15.3 Consultees highlighted that opportunities for routeing could arise from a number of proposed changes to land-based designation boundaries which are currently being evaluated as part of the Carmarthenshire Local Development Plan (Deposit Draft) (June 2011). Specifically, this related to existing Special Landscape Areas associated with valley landscapes north of the settlement of Gwarallt, whereby planned reductions in their coverage could realise genuine opportunities for routeing along these features.

Environmental Overview

5.15.4 Environmental data comparable to that compiled and interrogated as part of the route corridor identification exercise was obtained and digitised for an area immediately north of the three wind farms, marginally extending outside the study area. This was undertaken to establish the current conditions in relation to landscape, ecology, heritage and planning interests, with a view to identifying any genuine corridor opportunities that could provide connectivity between the Brechfa Forest East and Bryn Llywelyn wind farms via a northerly route.

106

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.15.5 The mapped environmental constraints associated with the northern corridor are depicted on Figure 15. A review of the data drew the following conclusions.

. The general landscape is one characterised within LANDMAP as being of High Value (visual and sensory), and contains a complex mosaic of upland features and valley slopes dominated by forestry plantation and agricultural management;

. A large tract of landscape associated with the Bryn Llywelyn Wind Farm area and surrounding forested uplands is protected by way of Special Landscape Area designation, with several wooded areas afforded ASNW status;

. A linear tract of landscape associated with the southern banks of the River Teifi is designated as a Special Landscape Area, which extends south to a distance of between 1-2km from the watercourse;

. Upland landscapes north of the three wind farms are visually prominent, with some topping 400m AOD in height;

. Settlement patterns are predominantly characterised by small hamlets, individual farmsteads and isolated residential properties collectively set around a network of small country roads and lanes;

. Two Scheduled Monuments and a Listed Building fall within the corridor boundary.

Option Development

5.15.6 Following review of the environmental constraints associated with the suggested option of routeing along the existing lane between Rhydcymerau and Llanllwni, it was concluded that whilst the lane offers a direct corridor connection opportunity, any routeing of an overhead line along this road corridor would be positioned on sensitive elevated landform protected by SLA designation. Such an option would inevitably introduce direct conflict with the objectives set out in the Holford Rules, and would prove visually prominent in the local environment.

107

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.15.7 Two Scheduled Monuments comprising cairn and round barrow features were also recorded as being positioned adjacent to each other along the lane, which were considered to pose a potential physical and setting constraint to developing a corridor along this linear route.

5.15.8 On balance, it was concluded that utilisation of this existing linear transportation corridor would introduce an unacceptable level of conflict with the Holford Rules, specifically Rules 2, 4 and 5 due to its visually exposed position.

5.15.9 Following the evaluation and subsequent discounting of this option, focus returned to the identification of a potential corridor or corridors around the northern slopes of the upland landscapes, the purpose being to define opportunities that would enable the positioning of overhead lines against a landform backdrop (as opposed to routeing on the visually exposed summits).

5.15.10 A broad corridor commencing from the northern boundary of the previously identified West Corridor, gradually tapering to the northern boundary of the Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm development boundary (via the northern upland slopes), was accordingly defined, drawing on desk-based techniques and local knowledge, and through application of the routeing principles set out earlier in this report.

Key Characteristics

5.15.11 Running in a west to east direction, the Northern Corridor commences from the boundary of the Brechfa Corridor in a north-easterly direction near the small settlement of Gwarallt, before heading eastwards towards Banc Du, and then heading south-east towards the northern extremity of the Brechfa Forest East Wind Farm.

5.15.12 The southern boundary of the corridor is broadly defined by the sizeable Special Landscape Area designation covering the upland landscape. The Northern Corridor seeks to avoid this feature, the principle being to route closer to the lower undesignated slopes to accord with the Holford Rules principles.

108

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5.15.13 In order to provide sufficient scope for possible route refinement, a decision was made for the northern boundary of the corridor to encroach into the existing Special Landscape Area associated with the southern parts of the River Teifi valley, based on the assumption that this designation may be removed should the revised boundary set out within the CCC LDP (Deposit Draft) be confirmed.

5.15.14 The boundaries were defined such that the corridor width and coverage provides sufficient flexibility to ensure an appropriate distance can be maintained away from settlements, Scheduled Monuments, Listed Buildings and pockets of ASNW (i.e. first-tier criterion).

5.15.15 On reaching the west of Banc Du, a decision was reached to taper the corridor down to a constrained width along an existing access road through the forest plantation, the assumption being one of avoiding encroachment into this important and established landscape component.

Evaluation

5.15.16 Following definition, the appropriateness of including the Northern Corridor as a route corridor option for further detailed appraisal was tested against Stage 2a environmental, engineering, technical and cost criteria.

5.15.17 The initial observation on environmental considerations (assuming the future adoption of the proposed reduced extent of SLA designations in the vicinity) was that, apart from existing areas of established forestry, isolated heritage assets and several public rights of way running in a north-south direction between Brechfa Forest and the A485, the potential Northern Corridor is generally free of environmental constraint.

5.15.18 The review noted, however, that the total length of the Northern Corridor between Brechfa Forest East and Bryn Llywelyn is circa 20km in length; therefore some 50% longer than the other two essentially equivalent interconnection options between Brechfa Forest East and Brechfa Forest West. It was identified that an overhead route through this northern corridor would be likely to give rise to visual

109

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

impact through intrusion into established views from areas of settlement, individual properties and footpaths over this longer distance.

5.15.19 Potential was also recorded for indirect impacts to occur on the setting of protected heritage assets identified within the Northern Corridor, specifically two Scheduled Monuments located near the settlements of Llanllwni and Aber-Giar. As examples of a medieval motte (earthwork castle) and prehistoric barrow cemetery, both designated features are considered to be of national significance, and for which the existing landscape contributes to their overall setting and importance.

5.15.20 The requirement to effectively route north, and then back south, to provide the interconnection was also deemed to contradict the Holford Rules concerning utilisation of the most direct and inconspicuous route (Rule 3). On balance, the review of environmental constraints did not identify any clear environmental advantage of the Northern Corridor over other interconnection corridor options that would justify this indirectness.

5.15.21 Furthermore, it was determined that a proportion of any interconnection route within the Northern Corridor could require undergrounding, in order to reduce the amount of tree felling required within Brechfa Forest. It was considered that this would result in significant costs over and above a shorter options which could be predominantly overhead. Irrespective of whether the route through Brechfa Forest is underground or overhead the greater line length would give rise to markedly increased costs in comparison to other, shorter corridor options and could thereby contradict WPD’s statutory requirement to identify the most economical route when the environmental effects of different route options are broadly similar.

5.15.22 It was therefore concluded that the Northern Corridor option should be dismissed from further consideration in the appraisal due to the markedly increased costs and its potential to conflict with established guidelines concerning directness of route and avoidance of visual impact

110

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

6 Stage 2b: Identification of a Preferred Corridor

6.1 Next Steps

Consultation on Route Corridor Options

6.1.1 The next steps of the appraisal process (Stage 2B) will involve identification of a preferred corridor option from those options described in Section 5 of this report.

6.1.2 Currently, WPD has made a strategic decision to progress the proposed scheme on the basis of providing a means of connection via an entirely overhead 132kV circuit between the three wind farms and the EE route connection point.

6.1.3 The first round of stakeholder consultation will be undertaken during Summer 2013 over a 6 week period. This will give consultees and local communities (via their community councils) an opportunity to review the work undertaken by WPD up to this date, and the detail that has informed these decisions. Consultation will seek to obtain views, comments and feedback on WPD’s strategic solution, and the identified route corridor options set out in this report.

6.1.4 Detailed review and consideration of consultee feedback will be undertaken.

6.1.5 Depending on consultee feedback on the identified constraints and opportunities associated with the identified corridors, WPD may give consideration to adopting a mixture of overhead and underground technological solutions. Areas where undergrounding might be considered advantageous could include locations subject to physical constraints such as urban areas, or highly sensitive designated landscapes of acknowledged value. Such areas would be considered on their individual merits.

6.1.6 WPD may also elect to re-examine options that have been previously discounted as a consequence of consultation, or choose to direct effort towards the examination of any suggested alternative routes that may not have already been subject to review and appraisal.

111

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Adoption of a Preferred Route Corridor

6.1.7 All relevant consultee feedback will be recorded by WPD and taken account of, where possible, as part of the decision-making process to select a preferred route corridor.

6.1.8 A report detailing all stakeholder feedback received and how this has been considered as part of the route corridor appraisal process will be prepared by WPD; this will show stakeholders how they have influenced the design of the proposed scheme and the selection of a preferred option.

6.1.9 Approaches and criteria set out in Appendix 2 will be used to aid corridor evaluation and determination of a preferred option, in conjunction with consultee feedback.

6.1.10 A summary of the key findings, and the justification for preferred corridor selection, will then be incorporated into a final version of this report and used as the basis for the detailed Stage 3 route alignment development activities.

Development of Route Alignments

6.1.11 Following selection of the preferred corridor, Stage 3 design-development work will be progressed to identify, assess and evaluate potential route alignments that will meet the objectives of the project and the obligations of WPD.

6.1.12 As part of this process, the principles of the Holford Rules will continue to be applied to refine potential solutions, with consultation continuing to ensure the views and opinions of statutory bodies, non-statutory agencies and local communities are recorded and considered.

6.1.13 Following appraisal and detailed consultation, WPD will select a preferred route alignment from the options considered.

6.1.14 The preferred route alignment will then be subject to formal EIA procedures, in order to avoid as far as possible adverse effects on physical, biological and human

112

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

sensitivities within the receiving environment. The scope and coverage of the EIA will be agreed in advance with PINS, statutory consultees and other key stakeholders.

6.1.15 The final scheme design will be subject statutory consultation in accordance with Sections 42, 47 and 48 of the Planning Act 2008. WPD expects the submission of the DCO will not be made until late 2014; this will provide sufficient time to undertake all necessary activities associated with design-development, EIA and pre-application consultation.

113

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Appendix 1 WPD’s Schedule 9 statement

WESTERN POWER DISTRIBUTION (South West ) plc and (South Wales) plc

SCHEDULE 9 STATEMENT

This statement is provided under Schedule 9 of the Electricity Act 1989 as amended by the Utilities Act 2000

South Wales and the South West of England is renowned for its countryside, dramatic coastline and rugged terrain. Western Power Distribution (WPD) recognises that such an environment needs care and consideration and WPD aims to achieve this through its environmental policy.

Duties:- WPD is licenced to distribute electricity through its electricity systems in South West England and South Wales where the Company is the Distribution Licence holder. It is obliged, under its Licence, to offer least cost, compliant connections to persons seeking connections to the Distribution system within the Licence areas.

Under Schedule 9 of the Electricity Act, as amended, WPD must “have regard to the desirability” of preserving natural beauty and “seek to do what it reasonably can to mitigate” the effect of its activities on the countryside, geological and physiographical features, flora, fauna, and protect sites, buildings or structures or objects of historic or archaeological interest when WPD:-

• Plans to install electricity lines (overhead and underground) to supply an individual or community

• Carries out other works in connection with the operation and maintenance of the distribution system

WPD aims to: -

• Minimise the impact of its activities on communities and the historic and natural environment

• Site overhead lines with care and consider both the visual impact and the impact on nature conservation as far as possible

• Continue to work with partners to selectively underground lines in appropriate sensitive locations to improve the appearance of countryside, towns or villages, whilst taking account of sites of particular archaeological or nature conservation interest.

To do this, WPD : -

• Only seeks to build lines along new routes, or substations in new locations where the existing distribution system infrastructure cannot be economically upgraded to meet Distribution security standards, or where we foresee an increase in demand for electricity which will not be satisfied by other means, or where connections to customers are required.

• Will seek to avoid, where reasonably practicable, the installation of new infrastructure in areas which are nationally or internationally designated for their landscape, wildlife, historic or cultural significance: National Parks; Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty; Sites of Special Scientific, Interest including Special Protection; Areas, Special Areas of Conservation and Ramsar sites; National Nature Reserves; Heritage Coasts; World Heritage Sites; scheduled ancient monuments and designated sites of historic interest . ( “listed sites”) . If installation on such listed sites is necessary, WPD will seek to avoid significant impacts on regional and local sites, protected species and to biodiversity and geological interests within the wider environment, and take measures to safeguard historic sites. Where reasonably practicable, opportunities to enhance biodiversity and geological features of such sites will be exploited.

• Will maintain a geographic record of the locations of the above “listed sites”

• Will seek specialist advice if it is necessary to undertake work on sites of archaeological, historical, biodiversity or geological interest, working closely with suitably qualified and experienced specialists.

• Will consult with District Councils for all new overhead lines. Where these involve voltages at 33kV and above we will voluntarily consult with Parish Councils. For 132kV overhead lines, we will, in addition to consulting with Parish Councils consult with County Councils as well.

• Will consult with Local Authorities on the need to undertake an environmental impact assessment when it is proposed to build more than 1km of new overhead line of 33kV and above

• Will review and offer comment on Local Authority long term plans to draw early attention to the needs for plans to consider strategic WPD infrastructure

• Will consult with statutory bodies, local authorities and relevant landowners where planned new construction would have a high amenity impact, to help us identify, assess and carry out measures to mitigate the impact so far as is reasonably practicable. This may include the provision of resources to screen and landscape selected substations and other locations as needs change.

• Will, on completion of any work ensure the site is reinstated, as far as possible, to its original state

• Will promote environmental awareness and requirement to comply with WPD policies to its staff and contractors. Where WPD staff are undertaking noise testing, we will ensure those staff are trained by recognised external bodies. We will voluntarily liaise with Local Authority Environmental Health Officers to discuss noise complaints and share test results with them.

• Will expect similar environmental standards from our suppliers and contractors. Where works are being undertaken by third parties for later adoption by WPD under the Ofgem Competition in Connections regime, we have sought through Ofgem that appropriate requirements are in place.

• Pursues waste minimisation, and recycling. WPD recycle office materials like glass, paper, card and toners, as well as metal materials, oils, wood and electrical equipment. Where possible we donate computers, office furniture and telephones that are no longer required by WPD to charitable organisations.

• Undertakes research, invests in and reviews new technology relevant to the business and takes into consideration its impact on the environment. Seeks to use technology to reduce the amount and size of equipment needed on site

• Take special care and appropriate safety measures in the handling and disposal of potentially hazardous materials

• Use external consultants where “in-house” expertise is not available

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Appendix 2 Report into the Scoping of Grid Corridors and Alignments

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

1 Introduction

1.1 Background

1.1.1 This report forms an appendix to the ‘Route Corridor Options – Interim Report and Preliminary Environmental Information’. It is intended to outline the proposed approach to progression of the Brechfa Forest Grid Connection from the identification of corridor options through to selection of a preferred corridor, and the criteria that will be considered and applied as part of the development of potential route alignments within that corridor.

1.1.2 WPD believes that there is value in the preparation and submission of an ‘initial’ non-statutory report to relevant consultees which sets out the proposed approach to the identification, evaluation and consideration of environmental effects likely to influence the selection of a preferred corridor and subsequently, development of route alignment options.

1.1.3 Formal scoping as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process will be undertaken once a preferred route alignment is selected by WPD.

1.2 Project aims and objectives

1.2.1 In meeting its licence obligations, WPD seeks to find an acceptable overhead line solution for all proposed electrical distribution connections of 132kV capacity and below. The purpose of the proposed scheme is to provide a cost effective grid connection (balancing environment, cost, technical factors and deliverability factors) between the three proposed wind farms and the existing electricity distribution grid.

1.2.2 Careful selection of a route is of prime importance in avoiding wherever possible, and thereafter minimising, potential adverse environmental effects. The following criteria was set out in a proposed methodology which was agreed with consultees; this has been used to identify a series of potential route corridors within the study

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

area.

. The avoidance, as far as possible, of centres of population;

. The avoidance, as far as possible, of significant environmental designations (i.e. primary constraints);

. The avoidance, as far as possible, of difficult construction areas such as complex river crossings, large road crossings, rail crossings etc;

. Consideration of landowner issues;

. The shortest distance, bearing in mind the above.

1.2.3 As detailed within the Route Corridor Options - Interim Report and Preliminary Environmental Information, site work has been undertaken jointly by project team members to facilitate identification, evaluation and comparison of environmental sensitivities. Primary and secondary data gathered by way of desk and site based survey has been combined and mapped, in order to facilitate identification of potential route corridor options with the least constraint or greatest opportunity to accommodate overhead route alignments. The details of this work including the proposed route corridors are set out in the Route Corridor Options – Interim Report and Preliminary Environmental Information.

1.2.4 Consultation with key consultees has also been undertaken to establish their views in the context of the identified route corridor options. Details of the workshop which took place are detailed in the ‘Route Corridor Options –Interim Report’.

1.3 Identification of a preferred corridor

1.3.1 To identify a preferred corridor, the route corridor options will be compared with one another, evaluating environmental and engineering aspects in turn and using professional judgement regarding the significance of the impacts on the individual features. The results of the comparison will be reflected through ranking the corridor options for each aspect.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

1.3.2 Table 6.1 provides an example template which will be used as the basis for option comparison. This provides a mechanism for detailing the numbers of constraints within each corridor, dividing them between those that are Unavoidable and Avoidable, and quantification of the length of the route affecting a given constraint and the type of impact that may arise. Following review, individual constraints will be awarded a ‘Concern’ ranking of:

. Major;

. High;

. Medium;

. Low; or

. Negligible.

1.3.3 The outcomes of this analysis will be recorded and incorporated into a finalised version of the “Route Corridor Options” report, outlining the process followed and the factors that have informed any decision-making on a preferred corridor.

1.4 Route alignments

1.4.1 The objective of the next stage will be to identify potential route alignments within the preferred corridor, in order that WPD can progress the proposed scheme design to a sufficient level of detail to permit meaningful EIA scoping with the Planning Inspectorate.

1.4.2 Following establishment of a preferred route corridor, the chosen option will be interrogated further in order to identify potential route alignments within the corridor. These will be based on potential lines of ‘least resistance’ with cognisance given to National Grid guidelines, WPD’s Schedule 9 Statement, and the Holford Rules throughout, balanced against factors such as - but not limited to - the following:

. feasibility of construction and operation;

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. minimising length of route;

. minimising number of crossings and width of each crossing;

. reducing habitat loss;

. siting pole footings to minimise impact on land use; and

. cost.

1.4.3 Alternative route alignments within the preferred corridor would then be subject to a preliminary comparative exercise to establish which, if any, might be discounted from further consideration. The comparative exercise will consider local conditions as well as the relationship between the route alignments and landowners/landholdings, and potential conflicts with existing utilities and infrastructure (e.g. highways).

1.4.4 The alternatives will be independently reviewed and jointly considered by WPD against environmental and engineering parameters, using a combination of desk- based and site-based appraisal techniques. This review and testing would take the form of a ranking system against qualitative criteria including environmental sensitivity, deliverability and operational implications, leading to the selection of a single preferred alignment which would be taken forward for development and environmental assessment and which would itself, be the subject of formal EIA scoping.

1.4.5 The decision-making process at the route alignment stage will be fully documented and reported in a ‘Route Alignment Options’ report, following a comparable format to previous option appraisal reports for the corridor routeing stage.

1.5 Structure of the report

1.5.1 The remaining sections of this report are structured in the following manner.

. Section 2: The Project - this section summarises: the key stages of the development and refinement of the proposed route corridors; and information

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

concerning the future construction and implementation of the project;

. Section 3: Planning and Consultation - this section details relevant national, regional and local planning policy as well as covering stakeholder engagement;

. Section 4: Environmental topics relevant to corridor selection, alignment routeing and/or formal EIA - this section identified those environmental topics relevant to each subsequent stage of the appraisal and assessment process, with due regard given to environmental information gathered to date, potential environmental effects, and the methodologies and criteria to be adopted

. Section 5: Consultation Response – provides details on how and where to comment on this report; and

. Section 6: References.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

2 The Project

2.1 Site description

2.1.1 At this stage of the project neither a defined site boundary nor development description can be provided as neither the route corridor nor route alignment has been selected.

2.1.2 Figure 14 within the ‘Route Corridor Options – Interim Report and Preliminary Environmental Information’ shows the location and areas associated with the identified corridor options; these extend from the wind farm connection points in the north of the study area (the three wind farm substations) to an existing overhead line which runs from an existing substation at Swansea (Swansea North 132kV) and terminates near Llandyfaelog. An existing section of this overhead line will be utilised and some refurbishment and reconfiguration to the overall existing line to Swansea will be required. The development of this study area is described in more detail in section 5.11 of the ‘Route Corridor Options – Interim Report and Preliminary Environmental Information’.

2.1.3 Photographs which are representative of the landscape and terrain around the Brechfa Forest area (Figure 2.1) and Towy Valley (Figure 2.2) are included below. These are included to demonstrate the variability in the study area as well as representing sensitive areas in the study area.

Figure 2.1 – Area around Brechfa Forest

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Figure 2.2 – Area around the Towy Valley

2.2 Project components

2.2.1 The overhead line will transmit a single 3-phase circuit (i.e. made up of three separate wires) from the proposed wind farms and connect into the existing terminated network near Llandyfaelog. A selection of indicative photos is provided in Figure 3 within the ‘Route Corridor Options – Interim Report and Preliminary Environmental Information’.

2.2.2 The strategic review of the existing section of the network (referenced as the “EE route” connecting back to Swansea North) identified some refurbishment and reconfiguration to the overall existing line to Swansea will be required in order to achieve the connection.

2.2.3 In addition to the wood pole line, temporary construction compounds are likely to be required at points along the alignment with associated access points.

2.3 Construction

2.3.1 It is envisaged the wood poles will be installed to achieve a standard height above ground of some 15 metres with a maximum of 20m, subject to detailed survey.

2.3.2 Where a change in direction (or angle) of the overhead line is necessary, the poles would be reinforced with stays to counteract the pull of the line. A variant on the H pole, the “4 pole” structure, would be used at interface locations and where a section or sections of the line are undergrounded to accommodate the cable

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

terminations. Additional support structures may also be required at interface locations along the line route. These details will be determined during survey at the route alignment stage.

2.3.3 The wooden poles will allow a maximum achievable span of 120m; however the span distance will vary depending on existing topographical conditions and the need to accommodate technical and/or environmental constraints such as other distribution infrastructure that may exist along the final preferred alignment.

2.3.4 Span lengths may also be influenced by the ability to physically construct the line and the type and size of conductors (wires) to be used. Conductors will be installed in a horizontal flat formation at the top of each pole, with lighting protection fitted where necessary.

2.3.5 A fibre optic cable will also be installed alongside the circuit; this will run either in parallel or below the three distribution lines to provide a means of communication along its route. The cable will be used to transmit data along its length in relation to operation of the line, including fault detection during operation.

2.3.6 Construction of the overhead line may require the formation of a temporary access track to each pole location in some cases using a geo-textile and crushed stone, with construction plant, machinery and vehicles used to deliver, assemble and erect individual wood poles. Temporary fencing will be used to secure working areas from livestock and members of the public.

2.3.7 Installation of the wooden poles will require excavation of a pole hole within which each structure can be set vertically and braced. Excavated earth is then used as backfill material.

2.3.8 Following installation of a number of pole sections, stringing will be undertaken to install the conductors to the poles. Drums of conductor wire will be set up, with a winch tensioner used to assist pulling of the conductors from one end of the section to the other.

2.3.9 The overhead crossing of road or railway corridors will be achieved through the

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

construction of a temporary scaffold tunnel, and potential obstacles such as existing overhead lines will either be switched off, deviated or protected using scaffolds.

2.3.10 Construction materials will be delivered to dedicated site storage or assembly areas via the existing road network, and subsequently transferred to individual pole sites by cross-country vehicles fitted with lifting apparatus. Tracked excavators will be used during installation to reduce ground compaction and damage, with any disturbed areas fully reinstated post construction.

2.4 Operation and Maintenance of the project

2.4.1 Periodic inspection of the transmission line will be undertaken to identify any damage or deterioration of the components, such that can occur from storm events and lightning strikes.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

3 Planning and Consultation

3.1 Introduction

3.1.1 The selection of corridors has been informed in part by existing planning policy and development plan allocations. Planning policy will continue to provide a role in the selection of a preferred corridor and development of potential route alignment options.

3.1.2 As a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) the proposed connection will be considered against national planning policy as set out within National Policy Statement (NPS) EN-1 Overarching Energy and NPS EN-5 Electricity Networks Infrastructure. Each document is reviewed below, with key considerations relative to the selection of a preferred corridor and development of potential route alignments summarised.

3.2 National Policy Statements

NPS EN-1 Overarching energy

3.2.1 This document sets out national policy for energy infrastructure. It has effect, in combination with the relevant technology-specific NPS, on the decisions made by PINS on applications for energy developments.

3.2.2 With regard to electricity networks, the NPS states in section 3.7 that much of the new electricity infrastructure that is needed will be located in places where there is no existing network infrastructure. It notes that this is likely to be the case for many wind farms, or where there may be technical reasons why existing network infrastructure is not suitable for connecting the new generation infrastructure.

3.2.3 NPS EN-1 recognises that whilst the applicant may not have any, or very limited choice in the physical appearance of some energy infrastructure, there may be opportunities for the applicant to demonstrate good design in terms of siting relative to existing landscape character, landform and vegetation.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

NPS EN-5 Electricity networks infrastructure

3.2.4 NPS EN-5 provides more advice on the approach to selecting, assessing and considering electricity networks infrastructure. Relevant to the current scope, it advises that infrastructure should be resilient to climate change defined as:

. flooding, particularly for substations that are vital for the electricity distribution and distribution network;

. the effects of wind and storms on overhead lines;

. higher average temperatures, leading to increased distribution losses; and

. earth movement or subsidence caused by flooding or drought (for underground cables).

3.2.5 NPS EN-5 sets out additional technology specific considerations on the following generic effects considered in NPS EN-1:

. biodiversity and geological conservation;

. landscape and visual; and

. noise and vibration.

3.2.6 With regards to biodiversity, particular consideration should be given to feeding and hunting grounds, migration corridors and breeding grounds. For landscape and visual matters, NPS EN-5 references the Holford Rules which form a key consideration in overhead line routeing, as set out elsewhere in this report. Noise is not considered to be relevant at this strategic scale.

3.2.7 NPS EN-5 also refers to the potential effects of electromagnetic fields (EMF). However, it notes that the Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations 2002 set out the minimum height, position, insulation and protection specifications at which conductors can be strung between towers to ensure safe clearance of objects. The effect of these requirements should be that power lines at, or below 132kV will comply with the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Protection (ICNIRP) 1998 basic restrictions, although the decision-maker should be satisfied that this is the case on the basis of the evidence produced as specified in the “Power Lines: Demonstrating compliance with EMF public exposure guidelines – a voluntary Code of Practice” published in 2011 by Government and the electricity industry.

3.3 Welsh National Planning Policy

3.3.1 Welsh national planning policy can be used to inform the scope of environmental assessments, particularly with regard to those features which it considers to be important for consideration.

Planning Policy Wales edition 5

3.3.2 Planning Policy Wales (PPW) sets out the land use planning policies of the Welsh Government, supplemented by a series of Technical Advice Notes (TANs). It translates the Government’s commitment to sustainable development into the planning system so that it can play an appropriate role in moving towards sustainability.

3.3.3 Limited national policy advice is provided within Chapter 12, Infrastructure and Services, in paragraph 12.8.14. This states that additional electricity grid network infrastructure will be needed to support the Strategic Search Areas (SSAs) for on- shore wind (as defined in TAN8) and local planning authorities should facilitate grid developments when appropriate proposals come forward, whether or not the wind farms’ grid connections are to be located within their authorities.

3.3.4 All three wind farm applications relating to the proposed grid connection are located within SSA G. No specific environmental or other policy considerations are provided within PPW5, relative to electricity network infrastructure although there are separate chapters concerned with conserving the natural and historic environment.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

TAN 5 Nature conservation and planning

3.3.5 TAN 5 provides guidance on a range of issues, including how development plan policy should seek to protect the natural environment. It also provides advice on the approach which local planning authorities should take when considering an application. Protected species, birds, badgers, other animals and plants, and habitats and species of principal importance for biodiversity in Wales are all considered relevant for protection. The latter includes habitats and species identified within the UK and/or Local Biodiversity Action Plans.

3.4 Local Development Plans

3.4.1 Whilst the Planning Act 2008 requires that NSIP applications be considered against the framework of National Policy Statements, Local Development Plans (LDPs) can provide an indication of environmental sensitivities in the local area. Furthermore LDPs can be useful to the local planning authority when preparing its local impact report. The LDP relevant for this area comprises the Carmarthenshire Unitary Development Plan (UDP). This is split into Part 1 and Part 2 policies. Of most relevance to the consideration of the effects arising from the construction of electricity network infrastructure are the Part 2 policies, the primary consideration being Policy UT2 Electricity Lines.

Policy UT2 Electricity lines

3.4.2 It is the policy of Carmarthenshire County Council that the provision of electricity service lines should have as little adverse effects as possible on the environment, in particular:

. all above ground lines should be routed in a manner which minimises visual impact and damage or disturbance to the natural environment;

. when services are placed underground, adequate restoration measures should be taken to minimise adverse visual effects;

. measures should be taken whenever feasible to rationalise service provisions

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

and to reduce its visual impact.

3.4.3 Consideration should be given to placing such services underground when desirable on environmental, landscape or amenity grounds and where economically and technically feasible.

Implications for the selection of the preferred corridor and alignments

3.4.4 It is recognised that the scope of assessments should provide information to enable consideration of the visual effects of potential route alignments and their potential for damaging or disturbing the natural environment. Consideration of opportunities to mitigate effects should also be given.

3.5 Environmental plan policies

3.5.1 In addition to Policy UT2 there are a number of environmentally specific policies contained within the UDP that have potential relevance to the scoping of environmental effects. These are summarised in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1– Carmarthenshire UDP

Policy Relevance to the scope of the assessment

Policy BE1 - SAMs The Council will not permit development which could and Archaeological adversely affect the preservation, potential, amenity, value remains of National or setting of such sites. Importance

Policy BE2 Provides a similar policy stance to the above but allows for Archaeological Sites development if its importance outweighs the level of harm caused.

Policy BE8 - Setting This is one of a suite of listed building policies. It seeks to of a Listed Building protect the setting of listed buildings from harmful development.

Policy EN1 - Site Policy seeks to protect sites from development unless the Protection – requirements are clearly outweighed by the reasons for the International Sites development.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Policy Relevance to the scope of the assessment

Policy EN 2 Site To protect sites such as SSSIs from development unless the Protection – National nature conservation value is outweighed by the reasons for Sites the development.

Policy EN 3 Site Development likely to cause harm to LNRs, RIGs or SINCs Protection – will not be permitted unless the need to safeguard their Regional/Local nature conservation interest is outweighed by the reasons designations for development.

Policy EN8 - The Council seeks to support development which may affect Landscape features such landscape features only if the reasons for the of Major Importance development clearly outweigh the need to retain the feature for Flora and Fauna and that mitigation measures can be applied. Features are hedgerows, ditches and banks, tree belts, woodlands, veteran trees, parklands, green lanes, river corridors, lakes, ponds, wetlands, marshlands, moorlands, road verges or habitat mosaics or networks of other locally important habitats.

EN 9 - Site Policy seeks to protect habitats or species contained within Protection of Habitat UK or Local Biodiversity Action Plan unless the reasons for or Species of the development outweigh the harm caused. Biodiversity Concern.

Policy EN -11 The council will not permit development that would lead to Ancient, significant damage, loss or fragmentation of important Broadleaved and woodland unless the development complies with particular Mixed Woodlands criteria.

Policy EN -13 Development which would lead to the significant loss of Hedgerows hedgerow will not be permitted if it has landscape, historical or nature conservation value.

Policy EN -16 The policy lists the SLAs and states that development that Special Landscape would result in harm to their character or appearance will not Areas be permitted.

Policy EN -19 Development within, adjoining or affecting these areas will Historic Parks, not be permitted where it may cause harm to these features. Gardens and Landscapes

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Implications for the selection of the preferred corridor and alignments

3.5.2 It is acknowledged that the scope of assessments should provide information to enable the identification of archaeological sites and listed buildings. It should also provide information to identify sites designated for their biological and landscape importance. When considering potential route options, the location of UK and Local BAP habitats should also be considered.

3.6 Pathway to consent

3.6.1 The proposed scheme constitutes an NSIP and as such WPD will be required to submit an application for a Development Consent Order (DCO) to PINS to obtain approval for construction of the proposals. The DCO application will supply detailed information on the proposals and will be accompanied by an Environmental Statement (ES) in accordance with the Infrastructure Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2009 (SI 2009/2263) (as amended) (“the EIA Regulations”).

3.6.2 Construction of the proposed scheme is dependent on the granting of consent for the three wind farms at Brechfa Forest. The proposals have been developed on the assumption that each development will require some form of electrical connection to the grid.

3.6.3 At the time of compiling this report, Brechfa Forest West is the only wind farm proposal with formal consent to proceed; progression of the proposed scheme is therefore subject to Brechfa Forest East (awaiting determination) and Bryn Llywelyn (appeal submitted) receiving authorisation from their respective decision- making bodies.

3.7 Consultation with statutory and non-statutory consultees

3.7.1 Consultation with statutory and non-statutory consultees is an important part of defining the scope for the assessment of a proposed development, as these organisations will have an important role in guiding and shaping the route

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

appraisal process and the EIA process. As this project will proceed to full EIA, it is intended that the content of this report will form the basis of initial discussions with many of the consultees, although consultation has already been initiated and will be maintained with key consultees throughout the development stages.

3.7.2 Throughout the process of DCO preparation a multi stage approach to consultation is proposed, comprising two stages of informal engagement and one stage of formal consultation (section 42 and 47) as defined by the Planning Act 2008 and in accordance with supporting DCLG guidance.

3.7.3 The first stage of engagement with prescribed statutory consultees (excluding persons with interest in land (PILs)) and local amenity user groups will help inform the selection of preferred route corridor options for each of the wind farm permutations.

3.7.4 The second stage of informal engagement will involve all prescribed statutory consultees (Section 42), local amenity user groups and the public to assist in determining the preferred route alignment for each of the wind farm permutations. Preliminary Environmental Information (PEI) for the route alignment options will also be presented as part of the consultation exercise, with comments and feedback sought on its content.

3.7.5 The final stage of the process will be formal statutory consultation on the proposed application for preferred route alignment in accordance with Sections 42 and 47 of the Planning Act 2008 (as amended) and on the draft Environmental Statement. Section 48 publicity of the proposed application will take place at the same time.

3.7.6 As part of the DCO and forming a relevant consideration in the choice of alignments, there is a requirement to acquire land rights to install the connection. Wherever possible, these will be acquired through negotiation with landowners, the Planning Act 2008 (as amended) also contains rights to acquire interests in or over land where necessary.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4 Environmental Topics Relevant to Corridor Selection, Alignment Routeing and/or Formal EIA

4.1.1 The following sections set out in detail those environmental topic areas considered by WPD to form key considerations in the selection of a preferred route corridor. The nature of these topics are such that they are also considered important factors in the development of route alignment options, and will likely form an integral component of the assessment of the preferred scheme at the EIA stage.

4.1.2 Subsequent sections then present, in summary form, those topics which are only considered relevant and/or material to the later stages of route option appraisal and differentiation, or which in the opinion of WPD are likely to form a consideration in the formal scoping of the EIA.

4.2 Landscape and Visual

Preliminary environmental baseline

4.2.1 The wider area associated with the three proposed wind farms and surrounding environs both within and beyond the adopted study area captures a proportion of the country of Carmarthenshire.

4.2.2 Physical and human influences have shaped the area over time, resulting in a land use pattern dominated by plantation forestry and agriculture, interspersed with isolated settlements, villages and small towns.

4.2.3 Topography is highly variable, demonstrated by the many complex landforms and steep gradients topped by exposed elevated areas of moorland. Many localised high points around Brechfa exceed heights of 300m AOD, dropping significantly in the low lying river valley floors to around 30m AOD.

4.2.4 Notable peaks in the wider landscape within which the identified corridors are set include Mynydd Y Gwair (374m AOD) south-east of the settlement of Ammanford,

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

characterised by rolling moorland, and Mynydd Rhos-wen (358m AOD) situated west of Brechfa.

4.2.5 Incised valleys along several watercourses such as the River Cothi running south from the Brechfa locality to the broader, more visually exposed valley of the River Towy (which flows westwards towards Carmarthen) form character defining features in the landscape.

4.2.6 Flatter, lower lying estuarine areas are noted around Carmarthen Bay to the west of Carmarthen. The River Towy forms a key topographical valley feature running east to west across the identified corridors, characterised by low lying floodplains and associated pastoral farmland. Other key valley features associated with the A483 road corridor between Llandeilo and Pontarddulias, and the River Cothi between Abergorlech and Felingwmunchaf.

4.2.7 Areas catering for informal recreation are associated with the many kilometres of river valleys, tracks, footpaths and bridleways, which the identified corridors cross. Areas around the Brechfa locality are densely vegetated with a mixture of ancient/semi natural and coniferous woodland which, in combination with the complex landform, form considerable visual barriers.

4.2.8 Climatic and weather conditions affect the general perception and experience of the landscape, with the existing Alltwalis wind farm east of the A485 exerting a notable man-made influence in the visual environment. Other human influences comprise railway corridors connecting major towns and a network of existing overhead transmission towers and local distribution lines which traverse the landscape.

4.2.9 A network of 400kV and 132kV overhead distribution lines form a visually conspicuous feature around Carmarthen and Llandyfaelog. 33kV and smaller local distribution circuits cross many areas of the identified corridors, a large proportion of which follow established A-roads and lanes to provide connectivity to rural areas.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.2.10 The identified corridors cross a number of Regional Landscape Character Areas (LCAs), identified by CCW; these define areas of landscape exhibiting a cohesive character. Example LCA’s traversed by the corridors comprise: 33 – Gwendraeth Vales; 41 – Tywi Valley; 42 – Pembroke and Carmarthen Foothills; and 21 – Cambrian Mountains;

4.2.11 The value and sensitivity of the landscape is reflected in policy designation comprising large tracts of Special Landscape Area, LANDMAP ‘outstanding’ and ‘high’ evaluated (visual and sensory) areas, and historic parks and gardens, several of which are within the identified corridors.

Potential impacts

4.2.12 A desk-based review of published landscape character information against the nature of the project identified that both temporary and permanent landscape and visual effects could arise during the construction, operational and (if applicable) decommissioning stages of the project.

4.2.13 Effects on landscape character are likely to derive from modifications to the physical landscape associated with the preferred corridor, and how this is experienced. Effects on visual amenity are likely to arise from modification to the composition of existing views and how people perceive and respond to this.

4.2.14 Initial consideration has identified a number of potential effects associated with the project. Potential direct and indirect effects will principally derive from changes to character which could influence the scale, pattern and quality of the existing landscape and lead to possible modifications, fragmentation and/or loss of distinctive elements such as trees.

4.2.15 Potential effects on views will depend on the visual context of sensitive receptors (e.g. residential occupiers) within and around the corridors, and the extent of change imposed by introduction of the project into the existing outlook from these locations.

4.2.16 Given the potential scale and linear form of the project, the physical and spatial

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

relationship between the proposed corridors and sensitive landscapes, and the potential degree of visibility of project components that could intrude into established views, initial scoping has concluded that landscape and visual matters will form a key consideration in the identification of a preferred corridor, and the development and refinement of route alignment options.

4.2.17 Detailed focus will be directed towards greater consideration of landscape and visual effects as the project progresses from corridor selection through to detailed alignment routeing and adoption of a preferred scheme configuration.

Method of Appraisal

4.2.18 The approach to the selection of a preferred route corridor from the current options, and the identification and selection of potential alignment options, will be undertaken by experienced chartered landscape architects and landscape planners.

4.2.19 The selection process and identification of route alignment options will be informed by consideration of a number of landscape-based criteria and parameters.

4.2.20 The process will acknowledge from the outset that the nature of the receiving landscape associated with the route corridors is complex, and one where conflict with national, regional and local landscape interests will inevitably occur to varying degrees.

4.2.21 The exercise will commence with a review of known landscape constraints within each identified route corridor, with consideration given to any consultee / stakeholder feedback returned from workshop events and other engagement methods undertaken in mid 2013,

4.2.22 Constraints warranting evaluation would be considered on their individual merits and will comprise, but not be limited to, the following types:

. Presence and coverage of first tier and second tier designated areas of acknowledged value and importance within each corridor;

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. Coverage of LANDMAP areas considered to be of outstanding or highest value, with consideration given to more detailed layers as required;

. Variation in physical constraints and landform within individual corridor options in respect of the ability to apply (and achieve) the Holford Rules in a consistent manner with any developed route option (e.g. routeing along valley features);

. Relationship and proximity of corridors to key areas of settlement, to provide an indicator of potential visual exposure of any route within individual corridors, and the attendant visual impact that may arise as a result of their progression;

. Consideration of the relationship of individual corridors to established areas and zones of homogenous landscape character, and the potential effect introduction of an overhead line would have on the perception and experience of such units;

. Presence of existing visual detractors (e.g. overhead transmission lines) within each corridor which may influence the overall ‘sensitivity’ of the receiving landscape framework;

. Degree of visual containment offered with each identified corridor (e.g. through the presence of established woodland and other vegetation);

. Potential loss of vegetation which may arise through progression of an overhead distribution line within each route corridor option.

4.2.23 A preliminary Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) has been generated to guide the initial corridor selection process, based on indicative heights of structures and broad scale topographical data within the various route corridors currently under consideration.

4.2.24 Although the preliminary ZTV does not take account of ground cover and built form, it has provided a useful indicator of potential visibility. The outputs of this process suggest that visual exposure to the taller components could, theoretically, be considerable; however the actual visibility would likely be significantly reduced

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

given the size of individual structures and the scale of the receiving landscape within which they would be absorbed and accommodated.

4.2.25 Stakeholder feedback will form an integral component of route corridor differentiation which, depending on feedback and opinion, may result in the further refinement of corridor boundaries in pursuit of a preferred corridor option. Such information will supplement the sieving and ranking of the above criteria and considerations in arriving at a preferred corridor option on landscape and visual grounds.

4.2.26 Following adoption of a preferred corridor by the project team, a combination of desk and site based work will be undertaken to gain a full appreciation of the nature and context of the corridor, in order to progress development of a series of route alignment options within its boundaries.

4.2.27 A photographic record will be undertaken along the preferred corridor during late 2013 / early 2014 (winter) when the degree of visual exposure will be greatest.

4.2.28 The consideration of landscape character in the development of route alignment options will build on information gathered during the route corridor studies, and will involve a desk-based review of existing published landscape character studies at the national, regional and local level to identify distinct areas and/or zones of character within the preferred corridor. The review will also interrogate: Ordnance Survey mapping; topographical data; LANDMAP values; national and local policy documentation and designated interests; aerial photography; and published documentation relating to other planned and consented developments in the locality (e.g. Environmental Statements).

4.2.29 A comprehensive visual assessment of the preferred corridor will be undertaken, focusing on identification of key receptors and the selection of representative viewpoints (e.g. visitor attractions, open valleys and public rights of way).

4.2.30 Pathways of least resistance to landscape and visual constraints will initially be selected; it is expected that a small number of individual narrow alignment

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

corridors (e.g. 100m wide) will be developed in conjunction with other disciplines, some of which may share common sections depending on the nature of constraints to be avoided

4.2.31 The development of alignment options within the preferred corridor will necessarily draw on the key principles and objectives set out in the Holford Rules, and those contained within other established National Grid routeing guidelines and best practice literature.

4.2.32 Consultation with statutory agencies, environmental bodies and local interest groups will intensify during this stage, and will continue to form a key information base during this stage of project development with all opinions given equal consideration in the development and evaluation of route alignment options.

4.2.33 Site based surveys will be undertaken to verify existing character and visual amenity, and will record in detail the relationship of intervening topography, vegetation and built form.

4.2.34 Further ZTV’s using more detailed terrain information and other 3-dimensional data will be run as the project progresses through the detailed alignment routeing options stage in order to inform the consideration of visual impact in route refinement, and to refine the scope of any subsequent environmental assessment work to be undertaken on the preferred alignment option once selected.

4.2.35 Viewpoint selection will be undertaken, based on existing knowledge of the preferred corridor, and will be subject to agreement with relevant consultees as the project develops. Given the form and nature of the project and existing knowledge, it is envisaged that the most marked visual effects will likely be confined to a 3km distance from alignment options. Accordingly, this distance will be adopted to frame the physical extents and coverage of the visual assessment, with emphasis placed on identifying those receptors within 1km where visual impact would potentially be greatest. Notwithstanding this, in instances where it is determined that visual sensitivity may be heightened – for example when considering Scheduled Monuments acknowledged to have an important setting – extensions

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

out to a maximum distance of 5km may be made where appropriate.

4.2.36 The requirement for any detailed photomontages at select locations towards the route alignment options will also be explored in conjunction with discussions with statutory consultees.

4.2.37 Comparable criteria to those described for the corridor options will be used to differentiate between route alignment options.

4.2.38 Differentiation and ranking on landscape grounds will be based on an evaluation of the existing (baseline) conditions, identification of existing landscape fabric and resources within character areas, assessment of landscape sensitivity, and the predicted magnitude of impact (or change) associated with implementation of each route alignment option. Similarly, differentiation and ranking on visual grounds will focus on the existing outlook of visual receptors/viewpoints, their sensitivity towards change and the magnitude of impact associated with alignment implementation.

4.2.39 Consideration will also be given as part of the route alignment development process to the ability to successfully mitigate landscape and visual effects, and to integrate with the existing landscape and townscape pattern.

4.3 Ecology

Preliminary environmental baseline

4.3.1 A description of the landscape characteristics of the proposed study area has been provided within the previous section. The study area is large and therefore contains a great variation of habitats associated with rural Carmarthenshire including mainly agricultural land (improved pasture and arable) bordered by hedgerows and tree lines, woodland (both broad-leaved and coniferous), with pockets of sensitive habitats including marshy grassland, blanket bog and wet dwarf shrub heath. This sub-section describes the environmental characteristics associated with the baseline environment i.e. the existing environment pre-

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

construction.

4.3.2 A background data search was carried out using freely available sources and from county recorders for a search area around the route corridor options. A search was made for statutory designated sites (those that are internationally and nationally important sites for ecology) within 5 km and non-statutory designated sites (those that are important in a local context) within 1 km of the route corridor options. A search was also made for records of noteworthy species within 2 km.

Potential impact

4.3.3 The potential effects of the proposals on ecological receptors include impacts during both the construction and operational phases.

Construction and Decommissioning Phases

4.3.4 The construction and decommissioning (if required) phases are likely to be of relatively low impact for an infrastructure project of this scale. The proposals include the erection of wooden pole supports, straight into the ground (without the need for a concrete base) with subsequent connection of up to three cables. At termination and interface points along the proposed overhead line, additional support structures may be required.

4.3.5 The erection / removal of the wooden supports therefore has potential impacts, but only in the footprint and area immediately around the poles. Equipment to erect / remove the poles is limited and is likely to involve 4x4 vehicles or track machines only. Access will be preferentially gained via existing roads and gateways to prevent unnecessary vegetation clearance during the construction and decommissioning phases. Vegetation clearance for the construction phase will be minimised wherever possible, the areas around Brechfa Forest are likely to require clearance of strips of coniferous woodland.

4.3.6 Should the route enter into sensitive habitats, there is potential for some (likely to be temporary) impacts to these habitats as a result of the temporary works area

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

and access tracks with small areas of permanent damage through the erection of permanent wooden supports. However, even without mitigation, this impact is likely to be limited.

4.3.7 There also the potential for temporary disturbance of protected faunal species due to noise, vibration and movement of construction personnel / vehicles as a result of the construction works.

4.3.8 The Afon Tywi Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) will need to be crossed as part of the proposals and as such, there are potential impacts to this designated site during the construction phase, depending on the crossing method.

Operational Period

4.3.9 Operational effects will arise from the number of new structures in the countryside, including approximately 20-30 km (length to be determined) of 132 kV overhead line on wooden poles. There is also likely to be occasional maintenance operations including management of previously unmanaged vegetation. Potential effects therefore include:

. Potential loss of sensitive habitats through the retention of permanent structures;

. Potential damage to sensitive habitats from maintenance works which may require temporary vehicle access and temporary working areas;

. Potential collision risk to birds;

. Potential disturbance to protected species; and

. Potential cumulative impacts on habitats of the above from the combined affect of the development with other similar developments in the area.

Method of appraisal

4.3.10 Due to consultation periods, a preferred route alignment cannot be determined

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

until spring 2014. As much of the route corridor options (especially south of River Towy) are not designated for ecological reasons or of significance to landscape or heritage reasons, the area within the route corridor options remains large following the optioneering process. A full extended Phase 1 Habitat survey of the entire route corridors would therefore not be practical in 2013 prior to the preferred corridor being identified and the route alignment being fixed in late 2013 and 2014 respectively.

4.3.11 We will therefore carry out a combination of further studies in order to support the determination of a preferred corridor and route alignment. Subsequently, the route alignment would be subject to a full Phase 1 Habitat Survey in 2014 together with any Phase 2 surveys that are required (other than wintering birds, which may need to be surveyed on selected areas of the current route corridors in winter 2013/14).

4.3.12 In order to determine the preferred corridor and route alignment options, leading to a preferred route alignment, a more detailed review of the background records previously collected would be carried out and a background data search (BDS) report would be produced. This would allow any further studies to be placed into context with the records of protected species and habitats. Locations of protected habitats and species would inform the choice of the preferred route corridor and subsequently, the route alignment. These would be selected to actively avoid areas of sensitive habitats, or areas where protected species may potentially be located. The results of the BDS will, together with the results of the Phase 1 Habitat Survey carried out in 2014, inform the need for Phase 2 ecological surveys.

4.3.13 Following the BDS, a study of Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) [now Natural Resources Wales (NRW)] Phase 1 mapping will be carried out on the identified corridors. It is acknowledged that this data was published in 1997 and as such, would need to be updated. A GIS technician experienced in Phase 1 mapping using aerial photography will therefore update CCWs Phase 1 mapping using freely available aerial photography. Any areas of uncertainty would be confirmed by an experienced botanist.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.3.14 This approach would provide a good degree of confidence in determining the habitats in each corridor option. However, in order to provide more confidence in this approach, the more ecologically sensitive areas within the corridor options will be ground-truthed. For instance, the four potential crossings of the River Towy would be fully accessed and surveyed. Using a combination of Public Rights of Way and access agreed with landowners, we would also survey areas where 'pinch points' for the potential route exist, especially where these appear to be in more sensitive habitats. This would provide a greater degree of confidence in determining the habitats present within the route corridors. This information will then be used to inform the choice of the preferred route corridor and route alignment options.

4.3.15 The route alignment options would comprise corridor within the selected preferred corridor to allow adjustment of the final route in the unlikely event that a full extended Phase 1 Habitat survey carried out in 2014 recorded habitats of unexpected significance.

4.3.16 Other than wintering birds, Phase 2 surveys would be carried out in 2014 and this will be for the preferred route alignments, if required. A brief description of selected proposed Phase 2 surveys is provided below:

4.3.17 Great Crested Newts - Only 4 records of Great Crested Newts were recorded in the entire search area. Three of these were located outside of the route corridors. Given the low likelihood of Great Crested Newts being present within the working areas, it is unlikely that Great Crested Newts surveys will be required. However, once the route alignment has been chosen, a further assessment of the potential impact of the scheme will be made and Natural Resources Wales will be contacted to agree an approach to this species. In the unlikely event that any surveys are required, these will be carried out in the 2014 survey period for this species (mid- March to mid-June).

4.3.18 Dormouse - There are records of Dormouse within the route corridors. Discussions with Natural Resource Wales and Carmarthenshire Council suggest

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

that this species is widespread throughout the county and that Dormouse are found in a variety of habitats, some of which are not typical for this species. The proposals are unlikely to result in the removal of a large amount of vegetation. However, it is probable that at least some vegetation would be required to be removed. The current project programme will not allow for Dormouse surveys to be carried out in Autumn 2014 once the final route alignment has been chosen. Any detailed surveys following best practice guidelines would therefore need to be carried out in autumn of 2013 and spring of 2014. The preferred route corridor will not be chosen until winter 2013. As such, detailed survey of all potential Dormouse habitat to be affected would need to be carried out in autumn 2013 over all of the potential route corridors. Given the size of this area, it is considered impractical to survey all areas within the route corridors that could potentially be affected. As a result, we will carry out a high level survey of the area in Autumn 2013, carrying out nut search surveys in selected areas of woodland throughout the route corridors. Surveys would be carried out by licensed Dormouse surveyors. This would provide us with information on the likely distribution of Dormouse in the route corridors. A study of connected habitat using aerial photography would enable areas of potential presence within the final route alignment to be made. We would attempt to obtain access to woodland blocks in each 1 km square and assume that presence is likely in connected habitat within 500 m of each woodland block (although this would be determined on a case-by- case basis depending on the proximity of other surveyed woodlands).

4.3.19 Bats - Bats are unlikely to be impacted by the proposals unless their roosts are directly affected. It is extremely unlikely that any significant disturbance would be caused by the construction process. As a result, bat activity surveys are not considered necessary in this instance. Woodland and individual trees are being actively avoided as part of the optioneerinig process. However, should trees be required to be felled or pruned as a result of the proposals, bat surveys would be carried out to determine if roosts are present in affected trees. These would comprise a ground-level assessment for bat roosting features, followed by a more detailed inspection using ladders, ropes and harnesses by an appropriately

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

licenced surveyor.

4.3.20 Breeding Birds - Any breeding bird surveys would be carried out in 2014 following selection of the preferred route corridor. These are likely to include targeted areas based on habitat identified during the Phase 1 survey, background records and through consultation with NRW and Carmarthenshire Council. They are likely to be restricted to areas around the Towy Valley and some of the upland areas that may be suitable for raptors and breeding upland waders. The scope of the surveys and areas to be targeted will be agreed with NRW following completion of the Phase 1 Habitat Survey in 2013.

4.3.21 Wintering Birds - Due to the timing of the programme, wintering bird surveys would need to be carried out in winter 2013/14 and therefore prior to the preferred route corridor being selected. Given the large area to be potentially covered, specific areas of the route corridor will be targeted likely to include areas close to the Towy estuary, around Horeb and areas along the Towy valley. The areas to be targeted will be agreed with NRW and Carmarthenshire Council prior to surveys commencing.

4.3.22 Reptiles - Areas of potential reptile habitat will be identified during the Phase 1 Habitat Survey of the route alignment. As only small areas of habitat are likely to be affected, and most of these will be temporarily affected, full surveys for reptiles are not considered necessary in this instance. An ecologist watching brief would be carried out during vegetation removal to ensure reptiles are not harmed. In the unlikely event that large areas of reptile habitat are to be cleared, full reptile surveys would be carried out and mitigation proposed accordingly.

4.3.23 The scope of other Phase 2 surveys will be agreed with NRW and Carmarthenshire Council prior to surveys commencing following the results of the Phase 1 Habitat Survey and once the route alignment has been determined.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.4 Cultural Heritage

Preliminary environmental baseline

4.4.1 Studies undertaken as part of the primary constraints review utilised data relating to ‘first tier’ (internationally and nationally significant) assets within a broad study area. This included the three proposed wind farm substation locations in the north of the study area, and extended east to the A474, B4310 and Brecon Beacons National Park, west of Carmarthen and the River Towy estuary, and south along the Severn estuary. This data was used when defining the route corridor options to avoid, as much as possible, areas where a high significance of effect would be envisaged.

4.4.2 The following first tier assets were identified:

. Scheduled Monuments;

. Listed Buildings;

. Registered Park and Garden;

. Registered Landscapes of Outstanding Historic Interest; and

. Registered Landscape of Special Historic Interest.

4.4.3 In addition, the following second tier assets were identified:

. Conservation Areas;

. Grade II Listed Buildings;

. non-designated assets identified in the Historic Environment Record (HER) maintained by Dyfed Archaeological Trust (DAT); and

. non-designated assets identified in the HER maintained by Glamorgan-Gwent Archaeological Trust (GGAT).

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Within the route corridor options

4.4.4 This study area contains non-designated remains of Prehistoric, Roman, Medieval and Post-Medieval periods. There is a high proportion of Bronze Age sites compared with those of the Neolithic or Iron Age; however, this is likely to reflect the greater visibility of Bronze Age barrows and megaliths, and archaeological investigation may reveal a larger proportion of other prehistoric sites. This hypothesis is supported by the fact that the Iron Age sites are almost all hillforts. The Early Medieval period forms a small proportion of the known archaeological resource; however, since these are predominately ecclesiastical in nature, as with Prehistoric periods, less visible remains of settlement and agriculture are likely to be present. Medieval sites are relatively common compared to earlier periods, and include a broad range of site types including settlement, industry, chapels and agriculture. By far the most numerous period group of HER sites date to the Post- Medieval period, including all those site types that characterise the Medieval period as well as the sites and remains of buildings, the remains of the mining industries, and structures such as bridges.

4.4.5 The route corridor options have high potential for the survival of previously unrecorded buried archaeological remains. The potential to encounter undiscovered archaeological remains within the Towy Valley is likely to be particularly high given its historical importance. Some areas throughout the route corridor may be of low archaeological potential due to previous disturbance by quarrying, industrial works, and some agricultural activities.

4.4.6 The route corridor options cross a complex and varied historic landscape. To the south and west are zones of rolling terrain with small irregular fields, woodland and plantations on steep valley sides and dispersed farms, with small scale modern residential development. There are some zones where pasture improvement has created medium-sized fields, particularly to the south-west where a stark contrast can be seen with the small and irregular woods and fields in the valley to the east of Mynyddygarreg.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.4.7 Elsewhere, the ancient settlement pattern of dispersed farms has been supplemented by linear development along main roads. The Towy Valley is predominately a mixture of small irregular fields and woodlands, with flood plain along the valley floor, dispersed farms and small settlements. There are a few small areas of strip fields in the Towy Valley, and also to the south along the Taff and Tawe Estuaries. From the Towy Valley, a series of steep valleys extend north- east, containing small irregular fields and woodlands, and dispersed farms and settlements.

4.4.8 The uplands around Brechfa are extensively wooded, but to the north-east the terrain drops somewhat, and the study area contains more zones of larger, regular and more recent fields.

4.4.9 In the north-east part of the study area, a landscape of small irregular enclosures with pockets of larger regular enclosures and dispersed houses and farms characterises the edge of the Brecon Beacons.

4.4.10 There are 13 Conservation Areas within 2km of the route corridor options, all but two of which are located in or around Carmarthen. The other two are at Llanddarog, south of the Towy Valley, and Abergorlech in the north-eastern part of the study area.

4.4.11 The route corridor options cross a landscape of palaeo-environmental significance. The upland areas may contain sequences of peat formation, including preserved botanical remains that can be used to reconstruct past landscapes. In addition this region may contain palaeo-landscapes buried by colluvium that have potential to yield well-preserved archaeological remains.

Potential impact

4.4.12 The potential effects of the proposed development on the historic environment include:

. physical effects on buried archaeological remains;

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. physical effects on historic landscape elements;

. effects on the settings of heritage receptors; and

. effects on the legibility of the historic landscape character.

4.4.13 During construction, there is the potential for direct, physical negative effects on known and as-yet unknown buried archaeological remains and historic landscape features. Sources of these negative effects may include truncation, compaction, desiccation or other changes to hydrology, and disturbance by works traffic.

4.4.14 All below-ground works, which principally will comprise the installation of posts using a mobile rig mounted on a small truck, could affect buried archaeological remains. Mitigation embedded in design will be sought to avoid significant effects on buried archaeological remains identified as being of high heritage significance, for example, there may be scope to make micro-adjustments in the siting of poles to avoid significant archaeological remains. However, inevitably and in common with any construction project of this type, there is the possibility that direct physical effects on buried archaeological remains could take place.

4.4.15 Physical effects on the historic landscape may include loss of character through hedgerow removal for vehicular access, which could be mitigated by replanting.

4.4.16 The proposed development would have no effects on the physical fabric of designated or un-designated built heritage assets.

4.4.17 The installation of posts may have a temporary negative effect on the visual setting of multiple built heritage assets, historic landscape components and, to a lesser extent, archaeological remains.

4.4.18 During the operational phase of the development, the overhead line has the potential to affect the settings of heritage assets and historic landscape components. There may also be negative effects on the legibility of the historic landscape as a result of the presence of the overhead line.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Method of Appraisal

Consultation

4.4.19 Consultation will be carried out with council archaeologists, conservation officers and Cadw regarding the key issues influencing choice of a preferred corridor. Discussion with consultees will be invited to establish the general requirements for work to be carried out in subsequent stages of the project.

4.4.20 As part of the corridor options consultation consultees will be requested to identify non-designated heritage assets that are demonstrably of equivalent heritage significance to designated sites. Any such heritage assets will be included in the assessment to identify a preferred corridor.

4.4.21 The results of these discussions will be detailed in the Final Route Corridor Report.

Assessment of effects on setting

4.4.22 An initial assessment will be undertaken in line with setting guidance (EH 2011a, p. 17-18), to identify heritage assets whose settings are likely to be affected. The degree to which any individual site would be affected by a particular route corridor cannot be assessed accurately until potential connection designs (and therefore possible wooden pole positions) have been identified; however, the data on known constraints will be used to guide preferred corridor identification. Site visits by car and on foot, and from publicly accessible locations, will be undertaken to aid this assessment.

Selection of a preferred corridor

4.4.23 The baseline data detailed above regarding known constraints will be used to identify which of the proposed corridors is likely to result in the least negative significance of effects on the historic environment. The risk of harm to settings of heritage assets is a material factor in determining route corridors, and is likely to be the most widespread form of negative effect. As a result, the key consideration

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

for preferred corridor identification will be the quantity and severity of negative visual impacts on designated heritage assets.

4.5 Hydrology and Flood Risk

Preliminary environmental baseline

4.5.1 This section outlines the environment baseline in relation to surface water quality, drainage and flood risk. It also sets out the scope of further appraisal work that will be undertaken to inform selection of a preferred corridor and develop route alignment options.

4.5.2 Within the potential route corridors for the proposed development, there are a number of main rivers including:

. River Towy;

. Nant Plbwr;

. Bwlch Stream;

. Abergwilli Mill Leat;

. River Amell;

. River Cothi;

. River Gwili; and

. River Lash.

4.5.3 There are also a large number of critical ordinary watercourses, unnamed watercourses and ditches which drain the route corridors.

4.5.4 Based on the Environment Agency’s Wales online Flood Maps and the Development Advice Maps, the main source of flood risk is from main rivers (listed above). There are also a large number of ordinary watercourses with associated flood zones that encroach into the potential route corridors.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.5.5 Sections of the route corridors are partially located within Flood Zone B and C, associated with watercourses running through the route corridors, which are affected by fluvial and tidal sources. The risk of flooding in Flood Zone B is between 1 in 100 year and 1 in 1000 year for a fluvial event and between 1 in 200 year and 1 in 1000 year for a tidal event. Both events are considered to constitute a moderate risk of flooding. The risk of fluvial flooding in Flood Zone C is within the 1 in 100 year event and for a tidal event it is within the 1 in 200 year event. Both of these are considered to constitute a high risk of flooding. All other areas along the corridor are classed as Flood Zone A where the risk of flooding from fluvial and tidal sources is outside the 1 in 1000 year event, and are therefore considered to be at low risk of flooding.

4.5.6 Based on a review of Ordnance Survey mapping, the route corridors contain a number of waterbodies including ponds and reservoirs. Watercourses will form a key criterion to be avoided where possible when developing potential route alignments. Impacts to watercourses will be considered in the selection of the preferred alignment.

4.5.7 Parts of the route corridors are located within the Environment Agency Wales Reservoir Flood Zone. This zone predicts a worst case scenario and it is unlikely that a flood from this source would actually be as large as the map shows. Reservoir flood zones will not be considered in the selection of the preferred corridor, but will form a parameter used in the development of potential route alignments. Alignment development will also seek to avoid reservoir flood risk zones.

4.5.8 Following analysis of mapping for the area, there are a large number of land drains located throughout the route corridors. Land drains will not be considered during the selection of a preferred corridor, as such features are not considered to constitute a prime differentiator of options.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Potential impact

Surface water quality

4.5.9 Potential effects on surface water quality from the construction and decommissioning phase of the development include:

. surface water pollution from silt laden or contaminated run-off, this includes dewatering of any excavations;

. surface water pollution from spillages and leaks of polluting substances used and stored onsite, for example cement or fuel; and

. localised erosion of banks and beds of watercourses when any works are required within close proximity to a watercourse.

4.5.10 Potential effects on surface water quality from the operational phase of the development include:

. pollution entering surface water systems from spillages of fuels, lubricants and hydraulic oils that may be used during on-going maintenance; and

. alterations to the hydrological regime of the route corridor by preventing the natural movement of surface and subsurface flows or by acting as a conduit for new flows that may carry contaminants to the receiving surface water environment.

Flood risk - Fluvial flooding

4.5.11 Construction activities have the potential to cause blockages and damage within watercourses, which may in turn impact upon floodplains and ultimately reduce their floodwater storage capacity, or increase the risk of flooding from a blocked or damaged watercourse.

4.5.12 There must be no increase in flood risk as a result of storing any materials for construction or maintenance within the floodplain. Any materials or spoil should be stored outside the floodplain, to minimise the risk of diverting flows or reducing

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

floodplain capacity. If this is not a feasible option then other precautions will need to be investigated to ensure the risk of flooding is not increase elsewhere.

4.5.13 Any watercourses or land drains that need to be crossed by access tracks will require an assessment of impacts caused by culverting these watercourses or land drains. This will include the assessment of the culvert in terms of blockages, alteration to flow and an increase of flood risk down stream.

Method of Appraisal

4.5.14 A high level review of hydrological interests and their importance will be undertaken to aid selection of a preferred corridor. Factors to be considered will include the sensitivity of watercourses (informed for example by way of formal designation).

4.5.15 A desktop study will be undertaken of the preferred corridor to help inform the development of route alignment options. This will identify the existing hydrological features in more detail and assess any potential impacts within the corridor that may ultimately arise during the construction, operation and decommissioning phases. The hydrology will be assessed in terms of flood risk, natural drainage features and patterns, and water quality. Calculation of runoff volumes and rates are likely to be reserved for consideration at the detailed alignment stage.

4.5.16 Data will be collated from the following sources:

. British Geological Survey (BGS) geological maps;

. information on abstractions and discharges to watercourses, held by the Environment Agency Wales (now NRW) and local authorities;

. Environment Agency Wales (now NRW) water quality maps;

. highway drainage records;

. private water supply records, from local authorities; and

. planning publications, including Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA),

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment (PFRA), Catchment Management Plan (CMP), and Western Wales River Basin Management Plan (RBMP).

4.6 Topics relevant to the Identification of Route Alignments

4.6.1 The following topics are considered to be of relevance to the identification of route alignments and potentially to the scope of the EIA for the preferred scheme.

4.7 Geology, soils and ground conditions

4.7.1 The published 1:50,000 scale geological maps (Ref: British Geological Survey, Sheet 229, Carmarthen, Drift Edition, 1967; Sheet 211, Newcastle Emlyn, Bedrock and Superficial Edition, 2006 and Sheet 212, Llandovery, Bedrock and Superficial Edition, 2008), for the study area indicate that the site is underlain by folded and faulted Ordovician bedrock comprising the Ashgill Formation, Caradoc Formation, Llanvirn Formation, Arenig Formation, Pridoli Formation, Yr Allt Formation and folded and faulted Silurian bedrock comprising the Llandovery Formation, Pridoli Formation and the Milford Haven Member (south of Carmarthen). Bedrock comprising Lower Devonian strata are found in the southern most extent of the proposed development corridor.

4.7.2 The Ordovician strata generally comprise undifferentiated mudstone, siltstone and sandstone and underlie the majority of the study area to the north and south of Carmarthen. The Silurian strata generally comprise mudstones and tubidite facies (mudstones and sandstones interbedded with conglomerate). These are generally found underlying the northern part of the study area. The Devonian strata generally comprise interbedded sandstones and conglomerate.

4.7.3 The geological map indicates that superficial deposits are generally absent from most of the higher land, north of the River Towy. Alluvial deposits including clay, silt and sand are associated with tributaries in the upland valleys. Alluvial deposits of Quaternary age are also associated with the River Towy, generally trending south-west to east in the vicinity of Carmarthen. Further alluvium is associated with the River Cothi located along the eastern extent of the proposed corridor, the

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

River Teifi beyond the northern extent and the Gwendraeth Fawr, south of the proposed corridor.

4.7.4 Till of the Quaternary Period is present at lower levels within the upland valleys and within areas south of the River Towy.

4.7.5 Some patches of hill peat are mapped within the area of the proposed corridor. The Ordnance Survey mapping shows some marsh vegetation, therefore an assessment of impacts on peat may be necessary as part of alignment routeing, depending on proximity. Peat is not considered to form a determining factor in selecting the preferred route corridor, but will be considered during the identification of potential route alignments and selection of the preferred scheme. All efforts will be made to avoid areas of peat deposits.

4.7.6 The Environment Agency Wales (now NRW) website indicates that there are no groundwater source protection zones (SPZ) inside the proposed study area. Two inner (zone 1) and associated total catchment (zone 3) SPZ’s, are located north of the northern extent of the study area; and a further inner (zone 1) with associated zone 2 and total catchment areas to the west of Carmarthen.

4.7.7 The superficial alluvial deposits associated with the River Towy and other surface water courses are generally designated a secondary A aquifer. Many of the alluvial deposits associated with the smaller upland tributaries are designated secondary B aquifers. The Till has been designated as a non productive aquifer.

4.7.8 In general, the Ordovician and Silurian strata north of the River Towy are designated a secondary B aquifer, with the exception of the Llandovery Formation, that is designated a secondary A aquifer.

4.7.9 Bedrock strata in the southern-most extent of the proposed corridor, south of the River Towy are generally designated a secondary A aquifer.

4.7.10 Two historic and one active landfill are recorded north of the River Towy within the proposed development corridor, these are identified on the mapping shown on the EAW website but it should be recognised that the information recorded is very

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

limited and potential contamination from historic waste operations may nevertheless be present. Several historic and active landfill sites are recorded south of the River Towy within the proposed corridor.

4.7.11 No geological conservation review (GCR) sites have been identified within the proposed corridor. Several Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) are recorded with geological interest within the proposed development corridor.

4.7.12 Although geological, soils and ground condition interests are not considered to constitute factors that will aid differentiation and selection of a preferred corridor, they will nevertheless inform identification and development of potential route alignments within the preferred corridor. Data sources and factors to be referenced and considered at the routeing stage will comprise: areas of peat deposits (from geological mapping); SSSIs (designation for geological interest); and known areas of contamination (such as historic landfills).

4.7.13 Potential impacts associated with implementation of the preferred scheme on geology, soils and ground conditions are summarised below; these will form considerations in determining the scope of the formal EIA.

. encountering unforeseen contamination;

. creation of pathways for contaminants to groundwater and surface water resources;

. contamination of soils, surface water or groundwater by spillages during construction;

. inappropriate disposal of construction waste;

. discharge of liquid wastes and sewage to ground or to controlled waters;

. sediment or chemical pollution of watercourses which has the potential to impact terrestrial and aquatic flora, fauna and human activities;

. obstruction of watercourses or changes in hydrological regime;

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

. interruption of or disturbance to public or private water supplies;

. peat resource and associated hydrology; and

. impact on GCR’s, geological sites of special scientific interest and geoparks.

4.8 Noise and Vibration

4.8.1 Overhead lines emit a certain amount of noise that is only perceivable depending on prevailing weather conditions and proximity to the line. Noise can be a consideration for transmission lines operated by National Grid (at 275,000 volts and 400,000 volts) but is a negligible consideration at 132,000 volts (132kV) which is a distribution voltage. It is also only a major consideration for lines close to properties or people.

4.8.2 Existing sensitive receptors associated with the identified route corridors are likely to comprise small isolated rural communities and individual dwellings. Existing noise sources are likely to be transport related given the presence of strategic routes such as the A48, A40 and A485, and the extensive network of minor roads.

4.8.3 As the route corridors traverse largely rural areas, noise levels are likely to be at or below a level that would lead to the imposition of the strictest noise thresholds as defined by BS 5228-1.

4.8.4 Construction works associated with implementation of an overhead distribution line (and similarly decommissioning) will be temporary and transient in nature, with noise levels calculable using methodologies set out in BS 5228. The potential for vibration will also be limited, given that sufficient separation distances will be applied during the routeing stage from receptors (i.e. more than a few meters).

4.8.5 No significant sources of noise or vibration are predicted from the operation of the overhead distribution line, as noise is attenuated over short distances. Accordingly, it is proposed to discount these factors from the corridor selection process.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.8.6 Notwithstanding this, it is considered that matters relating to noise and vibration in terms of proximity will form a consideration in the development of route alignments. Key criteria to be applied at this later stage of the appraisal will centre on avoidance of sensitive receptors such as private residences through the use of distance buffering around defined areas of settlement and other noise sensitive locations.

4.9 Socio-economics

4.9.1 Land use throughout a large part of the area within the corridors is primarily focused on rural economic activity. Commercial forestry is important in the northern sections, whilst pastoral farming is prevalent throughout most of the land within the corridors. The corridors are generally devoid of significant industrial activity.

4.9.2 Tourism and recreation are important sectors founded on the physical and natural assets that underscore the landscape quality, such as in the areas around the pinch points associated with the crossing of the River Towy and a sense of remoteness represented across the northern extents of the corridors.

4.9.3 Several areas cater for informal recreation, these being associated with the various river valleys, tracks, footpaths and bridleways.

4.9.4 The Cistercian Way long distance footpath crosses the corridors, both in the area around Brechfa Forest and further south, near to Carmarthen. The Celtic Way long distance footpath traverses the corridors in a line roughly parallel with the River Towy. The River Towy Trail follows the course of the river.

4.9.5 Bike trails criss-cross the wooded areas around Brechfa Forest and National Cycle Route 47 crosses the corridors as it follows the route of the B4300 eastwards from Carmarthen. There are a number of trails in Brechfa Forest of differing grades for different experience levels. These include, the Raven Trail, the Gorlech Trail and the Derwen Trail. These trails extend within the forest near to Nant-y-ffin, Abergolech, Byrgwm and Sifigwm.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.9.6 The River Towy represents an area which is a recreational attraction for fishing. The River Towy is popular for sea trout ('sewin'), and there is also a substantial run of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Additionally, the Towy also has a run of the rare and protected twaite shad (Alosa fallax) and allis shad (Alosa alosa).

4.9.7 The relationship between the proposed corridor options and socio-economic interests will not be considered as part of the corridor option selection process. During the selection of alignment options, the presence of major leisure and recreational activities, tourist attractions, public rights of way, and footpaths and other leisure related activities will be identified and considered.

4.9.8 Details of public rights of way will be obtained from OS mapping and via contact with Carmarthenshire County Councils Public Rights of Way Officer. In addition, Carmarthenshire’ Local Access Forum will be contacted to enable an understanding of how the local area is utilised by recreation groups.

4.9.9 Carmarthenshire’ Tourism Manager will be contacted to establish important tourism facilities/destinations in the local area.

4.9.10 Following selection of a preferred scheme, EIA scoping will seek to establish the potential for significant effects associated with: changes in views from existing rights of way (addressed in the LVIA); impacts on tourism; temporary impacts to rights of way during construction; and impacts on farming practice.

4.10 Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF)

4.10.1 Electric and magnetic fields are produced wherever electricity is used. Electric fields are produced by voltage and magnetic fields are produced by current. Exposure is gained from distribution wires along the street and from wiring in the homes. Short-duration higher field exposures occur when passing close to electrical appliances.

4.10.2 Electric fields depend on the operating voltage of the equipment producing them and are measured in V/m (Volts per metre). Most materials (i.e. fences, shrubs

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

and buildings) easily block electric fields, which diminish rapidly with distance from the source.

4.10.3 Magnetic fields depend on the electrical currents flowing, which vary in according to the electrical power requirements at any given time, and are measured in μT (microtesla). Unlike electric fields, most materials do not readily block magnetic fields but do diminish rapidly with distance from the source.

4.10.4 Magnetic fields are present in all areas where electricity is in use (e.g. office and homes), arising from electric cabling and equipment in the area. In UK houses typical magnetic fields will be in the range of 0.01 – 0.2 μT, with higher values in localised areas close to electrical appliances. Typically exposure is up to 2uT underneath a 132kV line, dropping to 0.2 uT at about 25m. By comparison the ICNIRP (2010) recommended ‘investigation’ level is 200 uT (100 uT in ICNIRP 1998 which is used in the UK).

4.10.5 The effects from EMF will not be considered during the selection of a preferred corridor, as the issue is principally one of proximity to overhead lines. Accordingly, during the identification and selection of potential route alignments, proximity to residences will form a consideration in terms of maximising the distance between the overhead line and surrounding properties.

4.10.6 As part of the formal EIA on the preferred scheme, it is proposed to consider the potential for EMF effects as part of scoping. Should scoping determine a need for assessment, this will be undertaken in accordance with the following guidelines, legislation, standards and policy.

. Government adopted guidelines published in 1998 by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) in line with the terms of the 1999 EU recommendation on public exposure to EMFs;

. National Policy Statement EN-5;

. Power Lines: Demonstrating compliance with EMF public exposure guidelines – a voluntary Code of Practice, first published in February 2011 and replaced

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

in March 2012.

4.11 Topics forming potential considerations in the scope of the EIA

4.11.1 The following sections represent environmental aspects that may require consideration in the formal scoping of the EIA, to be undertaken following selection of a preferred scheme. The nature of these topics is such that they are not considered to form key considerations in either the route corridor appraisal or alignment differentiation stages.

4.12 Air quality

4.12.1 Results from preliminary enquires with Carmarthenshire County Council suggest that they have declared an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) for nitrogen

dioxide (NO2) covering:

“…the length of the A483 from the roundabout junction of A483 with A476 Ffairfach north along Tywi Terrace across Llandeilo Bridge into Bridge St then Rhosmaen St through the town centre until the roundabout junction of the A483 with the A40T.”

4.12.2 No part of the proposed route corridors are located within an AQMA, hence it is assumed that current air quality conditions within the route corridors are meeting the national air quality objectives.

4.12.3 Potential impacts on air quality resulting from the construction and decommissioning (if required) of the proposed works could comprise the following:

. Temporary emissions to air of key pollutants, NO2 and particulate matter (PM10 5 and PM2.5) , from the increased road traffic on access roads during the construction/demolition works along the route; and

. temporary dust emissions to air during the construction and demolition activities along the route and at the proposed substation site.

5 PM10: Particulate Matter with aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 microns. Similarly PM2.5 is defined.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

4.12.4 It is anticipated that either construction or operation of the proposed scheme will involve significant road traffic movements. In light of this, the temporary nature of impacts, and given the absence of AQMAs, it is proposed to exclude air quality as a factor in the process of route corridor selection and development of potential alignment options.

4.12.5 The requirement for an assessment of air quality effects resulting from the chosen alignment will be revisited as part of the formal EIA scoping, following selection of a preferred scheme.

4.13 Traffic and transport

4.13.1 The corridor options are located within an area crossed by the A485 north-south and the A40(T) and A48(T) east-west. Other key routes include the A484 south east of Carmarthen, and B roads including the B4306, B4309 and B4310. The area is also crossed by a number of minor and unclassified highways.

4.13.2 The main transportation effects of the preferred scheme will be temporary and associated with the movement of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) travelling to and from the equipment storage compounds, delivering poles, conductors, insulators and other equipment. Compounds will be located at various positions along the chosen route with transportation to the construction areas undertaken by smaller commercial vehicles, including 4x4s. Should any sections of the preferred scheme be undergrounded then additional construction vehicles will include low loaders transporting JCB-type diggers.

4.13.3 Once the line is operational (energised), it is envisaged that the amount of traffic associated with the scheme would be minimal, and will consist of occasional visits in the course of line inspections, maintenance and repair. On this basis it is considered that traffic and transport does not form a factor that will markedly influence or guide the selection of a preferred corridor or the identification of potential route alignments.

4.13.4 Construction traffic is unlikely to exceed thresholds referenced in the 1993 Institute

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

of Environmental Assessment (IEA) publication, Guidance Notes No. 1: Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic. The methodology focuses on: potential effects on local roads and the users of those roads; and potential effects on land uses and environmental resources fronting those roads, including the relevant occupiers and users.

4.13.5 Significant effects upon drivers (accidents, delay) or pedestrians (severance, accidents, fear and intimidation) are unlikely to occur. At this stage, it is therefore considered that traffic and transportation matters associated with the preferred scheme are likely to be scoped out of the EIA process; however this will be revisited depending upon the final alignment chosen.

4.14 Cumulative environmental effects

4.14.1 Cumulative impacts may arise from the interactions of construction and operation of the overhead line with other developments in the area. The combined effects that may arise as a consequence of the proposed development together with those identified existing, consented and proposed (i.e. those subject to a submitted planning application) developments within an agreed study area will be identified once a final alignment has been chosen.

4.14.2 Cumulative developments will not be considered during the selection of the preferred corridor; however it is considered that the relationship between the preferred corridor and other developments in the area should form a factor in the subsequent routeing process. On this basis, information from the local planning register will be sought from Carmarthenshire County Council (CCC) for other large-scale developments in this area.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

5 Consultation Response

5.1.1 WPD wishes to seek consultee comments on the proposed approach and criteria for selection of preferred corridor, and the approach to identification of alignment options for the proposed Brechfa Forest connection.

5.1.2 Consultee feedback will also help to inform the selection of route alignments and preferred route alignment, and ultimately the scope to be taken forward in the EIA of a preferred scheme.

5.1.3 WPD requests that such responses are sent to FREEPOST B Forest Connection.

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

6 References

Archaeology and Cultural Heritage

European Legislation

1. European Union, 1985-2003, Environmental Impact Assessment Directive (85/337/EEC Article 3, as amended: 97/11/EC, 2003/35/EC)

European Treaties

2. Council of Europe (CoE), 1985, Convention for the Protection of the Architectural Heritage of Europe (The Grenada Convention) 3. CoE, 1992, Convention for the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage of Europe (The Valetta Convention)

UK Legislation

4. Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act (AMAA) 1979 5. Electricity Act (Schedule 9) 1989 6. Hedgerow Regulations (Schedule 1, Part 2) 1997 7. Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 (as amended) 8. Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Amendment) (Wales) Regulations 2009 9. Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 1999 (Statutory Instrument 1999 no. 293)

National (Welsh) Regulations

10. Welsh Office Circular 61/96, Planning and the Historic Environment: Historic Buildings and Conservation Areas 11. Welsh Office Circular 60/96, ‘Planning and the Historic Environment: Archaeology’ 12. Welsh Office Circular 1/98, ‘Planning and the Historic Environment: Directions by the Secretary of State for Wales’ 13. Ancient Monuments (Class Consents) Order 1994 (SI 1994/1381)

UK Policy

14. Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) Circular 02/1999: Environmental Impact Assessment 15. Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC), 2011a National Policy Statement for Energy (EN-1)

Route Corridor Options Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

16. DECC, 2011b, National Policy Statement for Energy Networks Infrastructure (EN-5)

National (Welsh) Policy

17. Welsh Government (WG), 2012, Planning Policy Wales, Chapter 6 Conserving the Historic Environment, 5th Edition

Regional Policy

18. Carmarthenshire County Council (CCC), 2006, Carmarthenshire Unitary Development Plan

Heritage Guidance

19. Cadw, 2002, Ancient Monuments in Wales: What is Scheduling? 20. Cadw, 2005, Listed Buildings in Wales: What is Listing? (3rd edition) 21. Cadw, 2011, Conservation Principles for the sustainable management of the historic environment in Wales 22. Cadw, Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) & Countryside Council for Wales (CCW), 2003, Caring for Historic Landscapes 23. Cadw, WAG & CCW, 2007, Guide to Good Practice on Using the Register of Landscapes of Historic Interest in Wales in the Planning and Development Process (Revised Edition) 24. CCW & the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS UK), 1998, Register of Landscapes Outstanding Historic Interest in Wales 25. CCW & ICOMOS UK, 2001, Register of Landscapes Special Historic Interest in Wales 26. English Heritage (EH), 2010a, Principles for Selection of Listed Buildings 27. EH, 2010b, Scheduled Monuments 28. EH, 2010c, The Register of Parks and Gardens: Moving towards a new way of managing England’s historic environment 29. EH, 2011a, The Setting of Heritage Assets 30. EH, 2011b, Seeing the History in the View – a method for assessing heritage significance within views 31. EH, 2012, Battlefields: Designation selection guide 32. Institute for Archaeologists (IfA), 2008a, Standard and Guidance for archaeological field evaluation (Revised) 33. IfA, 2008b, Standard and Guidance for archaeological excavation (Revised) 34. IfA, 2008b, Standard and Guidance for an archaeological watching brief (Revised) 35. IfA, 2009 Standard and Guidance for archaeological field evaluation (Revised) 36. IfA, 2010, Code of Conduct 37. IfA, 2011a, Standard and Guidance for archaeological geophysical survey 38. IfA, 2011b, Standard and Guidance for historic environment desk-based assessment 39. Rippon, S., 2004, Historic Landscape Analysis: deciphering the countryside, CBA Practical Handbook, 16 (York: CBA)

Route Corridor Options – Interim Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Table 6‐1 Comparative Evaluation Table

Route Corridor Comparative Evaluation

Routeing Factor U or A Corridor A Corridor B Corridor C Corridor D Corridor E

Length 55km 57km 52km 60km 65km

Environmental Constraints (U = Unavoidable; A = Avoidable)

River Zee SPA/Ramsar/SSSI (Major) – open cut required

3x SNCI (High): Manor Farm High Wood SNCI (High) – High Wood SNCI (High) – (50m), Hill Pond (50m) & Small Ecology U 200m crossed 100m crossed None None Hill (may be HDD’d)

River Ay SSSI/SAC River Mudflats SSSI/SAC (Medium) (Medium) 6x SNCI (Low/Negligible): 5 x SNCI (Low/Negligible): Owl Wood SNCI 4 x SNCI (Low/Negligible): A [Names/Details] [Names/Details] (Negligible) None [Names/Details]

Heritage U

Hydrology & Flood Risk U

Route Corridor Options – Interim Report and Preliminary Environmental Information

Route Corridor Comparative Evaluation

Routeing Factor U or A Corridor A Corridor B Corridor C Corridor D Corridor E

Length 55km 57km 52km 60km 65km

Environmental Constraints (U = Unavoidable; A = Avoidable)

Landscape U

Residential Areas U

Engineering Constraints (U = Unavoidable; A = Avoidable)

Watercourse Crossings U

Road Crossings U

Railway Crossings U