M20 new Junction 10A and M20/A2070 Link Road at Sevington, Ashford, Kent

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Scoping Report On behalf of AXA REIM, Friends Life Company Limited and DMI Ashford Limited

November 2012 Prepared by: Peter Dines/J6196

Content

1 Introduction EIA Requirements Purpose of the Scoping Report

2 Site Description and Development Proposals The Site The Development

3 Scope Scope Environmental Disciplines Scoped Out Cumulative Effects Assessment

4 EIA Methodology Introduction Legislation and Planning Policy Context Methodology and assessment Criteria Baseline Conditions Features of the proposed development Assessment of potential impacts Mitigation and assessment of residual impacts Cumulative Effects Assessment scenarios

5 Environmental Statement Chapters Introduction Structure and Methodology Proposed development and scheme definition Alternatives and Design Evolution Development Programme Planning Policy Context Socio-Economic Issues Landscape character and visual assessment Cultural Heritage Ecology & Nature Conservation Traffic & Transportation Noise & Vibration Local Air Quality Ground Conditions Water Resources and Flood Risk Artificial Lighting Waste Agriculture and soil resources

Appendix 1 Site Plan Appendix 2 Site Context Plan

1. Introduction

1.1 This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Scoping Report has been prepared in respect of the proposed construction of a new link road between the M20 and the A2070 trunk road together with associated development in connection with a new junction 10A on the M20 to a new junction on the A2070, to the southeast of Ashford, Kent (The NSIP Development)(More fully described in Paragraph 2.3).

1.2 The development is considered to be a “Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project” (NSIP) under the Planning Act 2008 which requires a Development Consent Order (DCO). The requirement for an Environmental Impact Assessment is therefore determined under the Infrastructure Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2009 (the EIA Regulations).

1.3 This Scoping report is submitted to the Secretary of State as a request for a Scoping Opinion under Regulation 8 of the EIA Regulations to inform the preparation of the Environmental Statement which will be carried out in the respect of the NSIP development. In accordance with Regulation 8 this report contains:

 A plan sufficient to identify the land (The Site Plan);

 A brief description of the nature and purpose of the development and of its possible effects on the environment; and

Further supporting information on the proposed development,

1.4 Regard has also been given to the non-statutory guidance within Advice Note 7: EIA Screening & Scoping from the Planning Inspectorate (April 2012). Therefore, this Scoping Report also includes the following to assist the Secretary of State in issuing a Scoping Opinion:

 an outline of the main alternatives considered and the reasons for selecting a preferred option;

 results of desktop and baseline studies where available;

 guidance and best practice to be relied upon, and whether this has been agreed with the relevant bodies:

 methods used or proposed to be used to predict impacts and the significance criteria framework used;

 any mitigation proposed and predicted residual impacts;

 cumulative impact;

 where relevant an indication of any European designated nature conservation sites that are likely to be significantly affected by the proposed development and the nature of the likely significant impacts on these sites;

 where matters are sought to be scoped out matters, a full justification for scoping out.

 key topics covered as part of the developer’s scoping exercise; and

 an outline of the structure of the proposed ES.

1.5 The report also has regard to section 3 of the Advice Note and provides plans showing:

 the proposed DCO site boundary;

 the location of the proposed NSIP, including any associated development;

 any permanent land take required for the NSIP; any temporary land take required for construction, including off-site construction compounds;

 any existing infrastructure which would be retained or upgraded for use as part of the NSIP and any existing infrastructure which would be removed; and

 where relevant, features including planning constraints and designated areas on and around the site, such as national parks or historic landscapes.

EIA Requirements

1.6 The EIA process is the mechanism by which development proposals are appraised in terms of environmental and socio-economic criteria, in addition to the engineering and technical considerations. The EIA process defines the context of the proposed development and examines the issues considered pertinent.

1.7 The purpose of the EIA is to establish the nature of the development and the environment within which it is to take place, during both construction and operational phases, so as to identify likely significant effects on the environment that may arise. This is done by comparing the existing situation at the start of the work (baseline) with the situation during the development and once the proposals are in place.

1.8 The EIA Regulation 2(1) defines EIA development. Where development falls within the description of a ‘Schedule 2 development’ within the meaning of the Regulations, it will be subject to an EIA where such development is likely to have ‘significant’ effects on the environment by virtue of such factors as its nature, size or location (Regulation 2(b)).

1.9 The proposed development falls under the category of “Infrastructure Projects” (Schedule 2, 10, (f) – construction of roads) as described in the EIA Regulations. It may also fall under Schedule 2, 13, (a) – Change or extension to development of a description listed in Schedule 1 where the development is already executed and the change or extension may have significant adverse effects on the environment. The proposals could be defined as a change or extension to a Schedule 1 project (Schedule 1, 7 (b) construction of motorways and express roads).

1.10 The development is considered to have the potential to give rise to likely significant effects on the environment. On this basis, an Environmental Statement (ES) is to be prepared.

Purpose of the Scoping Report

1.11 The process of identifying likely significant effects on the environment which should be addressed by the EIA is termed ‘scoping’ and the results are presented as a Scoping Report.

1.12 This Scoping Report sets out the framework within which the Environmental Statement is proposed to be produced and the topic areas and information that will be contained within the document.

1.13 Section 2 of this report provides a site description and outlines the nature of the proposals. Section 3 sets out the scope and structure of the ES and details those to be consulted. Section 4 provides details of the proposed EIA methodology to be used in assessing the scheme. Section 5 sets out the key issues that will be addressed by the EIA.

2 Site Description and Development Proposals

The Site

2.1 The site is defined edged red on the site plan included as appendix 1 (The Site Plan). The Site comprises of undeveloped agricultural land and grassland. The site comprises undeveloped agricultural land and grassland with hedgerows and trees along the margin. The site is subject to several constraints, including a residential building located close to the M20 and south of the proposed Junction 10A, an underground pumping station and services, including a high pressure gas main crossing the site from north to south in the western part of the proposed J10A link road alignment. A site context plan is provided at Appendix 2.

The NSIP Development

2.2 The proposals which cover an area of 20ha comprise the construction of a new Junction 10A of the M20 and a slip road connecting to the A2070.This would enable employment development on land east of Church Road and West of Highfield Lane, south of the M20. This employment s development at Sevington is referred to as the “Planning Development”.

2.3 The proposed development would help realise the Highway Agency’s long-term option to construct a grade separated roundabout at Junction 10A and additional carriageways. The proposed J10A link road comprises:

 Constructing a new vehicular bridge over the M20 approximately 20m to the southwest of the existing Highfield Lane bridge. The carriage wayover the bridge would include one lane in either direction with a central hatched area incorporating a right-turn reservation.

 The existing bridge over the M20 will be retained for use by non-motorised users.

 A new two-way single carriageway link road between the new M20 bridge and the A2070 Bad Munstereifel Road, with a design speed of40mph.

 A new ghost-island junction between the A20 Hythe Road and the new link road.

 New southbound on-slip and northbound off-slip roads between the M20 and the new link road, including some local realignment of the A20 Hythe Road in order to accommodate the on-slip and associated embankment.

 A new signalised junction along the new link road will provide access to the proposed Sevington development with segregated left-in / out movements and at grade non- motorised user (NMU) controlled crossing facilities provided.

 The A2070 and link road will form two signalised skewed junctions, which together will enable all movements to be carried out between the link road and the A2070. The alignment of the south most junction will enable the existing footbridge over the A2070 to be retained.

 A shared footway/cycleway will be constructed along the southern side of the new A2070 link road which will tie into the existing NMU connection points at the edge of the development area.

 Owing to the new link road, Highfield Lane will be stopped up on its approach to Kingsford street, and both roads realigned to provide a constant radius to join the two existing roads.

3 Scope

Scope

3.1 A scoping exercise has been carried out in order to determine the likely significant effects on the environment that may arise from the proposed development of the site. This process has enabled the team to determine which technical disciplines are pertinent and the scope of assessment required allowing any likely significant effects on the environment to be addressed as part of the EIA process.

3.2 This process has taken account of the proposed NSIP Development, relevant legislation and policy, knowledge of the site, and the professional judgement of the project team.

3.3 The information presented in the ES will be provided in accordance with Schedule 4 of the EIA Regulations and will include:

 A description of the proposed development;

 An outline of the main alternatives studied;

 A description of the aspects of the environment likely to be significantly affected by the development;

 A description of the likely significant effects of the development on the environment;

 A description of the measures envisaged to prevent, reduce and where possible offset any significant adverse effects on the environment;

 A non-technical summary; and

 An indication of any difficulties encountered by the applicant in compiling the required information.

3.4 The introductory chapters of the ES will provide the following information:

 An introduction to the ES in a legislative and site specific context;

 Description of the site and development;

 Alternatives considered and project design evolution;

 Structure and methodology;

 Development programme;

 Stakeholder engagement; and

 Details of the EIA project team.

3.5 The geographical coverage of the EIA will be determined by a number of factors including:

 The physical extent of work;

 The nature of the baseline environment, including the location of sensitive receptors;

 The distance over which effects will be significant; and

 The presence and type of “pathways” along which impacts may be spread.

3.6 Table 1 provides a summary of the scoping exercise carried out.

TABLE 1 ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT SCOPING SUMMARY

Potential Construction Potential Operational ES Chapter Phase Effects Phase Effects

Planning Policy N/A N/A  Context

Socio- Economic  +T  +P  Issues

Landscape & Visual  -T  -P 

Wind Microclimate X X X

Archaeology & Built  - T  + P  Heritage

Ecology and Nature  - T  - +P  Conservation

Transport & Traffic -T  -P 

Noise and Vibration  -T  -P 

Local Air Quality  -T  -P 

Ground Conditions  -T -P  Water Resources &  -T  -P  Flood Risk

Artificial Lighting  -T  -P 

Daylight, Sunlight and X X X Overshadowing

Solar Glare X X X

Electronic X X X Interference

Agricultural  -T - P  Circumstances

Sustainability -T  -P 

Key: Likely Significant Effect/ x No Likely Significant Effect / + Positive / -Negative / P Permanent / T Temporary

3.7 In view of these key issues, the ES will be prepared with reference to the following advisory material:

 The Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions (now the Department of Communities and Local Government) (2000) Circular02/99 Environmental Impact Assessment – A Guide to Procedures;

 Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (2004)Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessment;

 Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (2004) ES Review Criteria;

 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2004)Note on EIA Directive for Local Planning Authorities;

 Department for Communities and Local Government (June 2006)Amended Circular on Environmental Impact Assessment – a consultation paper;

 Department for Communities and Local Government (June 2006)Environmental Impact Assessment: A guide to good practice and procedures, a consultation paper; and

 Department for Communities and Local Government (October 2007)Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment)(England & Wales) (Amendment) Regulations, Consultation Document.

 The National Planning Policy Framework 2012

Environmental Disciplines Scoped Out

Electronic Interference

3.8 All TV signals will have switched to digital by the time the Development is built. Digital TV signals are not susceptible to disturbance from physical obstructions. In addition, the Development would not be high-rise and cause disturbance to any other broadcast signals so it is considered that Electronic Interference can be scoped out of the ES.

Wind Microclimate

3.9 The buildings associated with the Development are not anticipated to be high rise. Therefore, the Development does not have the potential to alter local air movement and cause adverse wind conditions, including turbulence and funnelling. Therefore, a wind ES chapter is not considered necessary.

Solar Glare

3.10 The Development is not anticipated to cause likely significant effects with respect to solar glare on surrounding properties, motorists, train drivers or pedestrians. Materials would not be highly reflective. Therefore, a solar glare ES chapter is not considered necessary.

Daylight, Sunlight and Overshadowing

3.11 There are a few residential properties near the Site, however it is unlikely that there will be likely significant effects with regards to daylight, sunlight and overshadowing on these properties as the built Development would not be sufficiently close to them for significant effects to result. Therefore, a daylight, sunlight and overshadowing ES chapter is not considered to be required.

Waste

3.12 Waste management during construction will be covered in the Construction Methodology & Programme chapter of the ES. It is not anticipated that the operational development would generate significant amounts of waste. It is therefore proposed to scope waste out of the ES.

Cumulative Effects Assessment

3.13 The ES will consider the potential for likely significant effects on the environment resulting from committed developments in the area. These will include:

 Existing completed projects;

 Approved but uncompleted projects;

 Ongoing activities;

 Plans or projects for which an application has been made and which are under consideration by the consenting authorities; and

 Plans and projects which are reasonably foreseeable, i.e. projects for which an application has not yet been submitted, but which are likely to progress before completion of the development and for which sufficient information is available to assess the likelihood of cumulative effects.

3.14 The ES will consider the cumulative effect of development where appropriate. The development facilitates development on adjoining land at Sevington which is referred to as The Planning Development. The Planning Development comprises:

TABLE 1: THE PLANNING DEVELOPMENT

3.15 T h e

PSite Area 48 hectares l a nAccess Access from Church Lane and slip road to the M20 n i nApproximate Proposed Floorspace (Total) Up to 175,000 sq m of B1, B2, B8.

g Up to 5,900 sqm Mixed B8 with ancillary retail/ trade counter use D Associated works Open space and landscaping; e v

e Car parking; l

o p Highway and transport works;

m e Engineering operations; n t

Together with all associated and ancillary works. w

i l l be included in the cumulative impact assessment. The Planning Development will be the subject of a planning application which will be supported by its own Environmental Statement.

4 EIA Methodology

4.1 The EIA will assess the site clearance, construction and operational phases of the development.

4.2 The ES is anticipated to comprise three volumes, the first of which will set out the findings with respect to each of the environmental disciplines that have been examined as part of the EIA. Volume 2 will include all the supporting documents and technical appendices relating to the chapters. Volume 3 will comprise the Transport Assessment. A Non-Technical Summary will be produced and form a standalone document.

4.3 Each ES chapter will follow the headings set out below to ensure the final document is transparent, consistent and accessible.

 Introduction;

 Legislation and planning policy context;

 Methodology and assessment criteria;

 Baseline conditions;

 Features of the proposed development;

 Assessment of potential impacts;

 Mitigation measures and the assessment of residual impacts; and

 Summary.

4.4 Each chapter sub-heading is explained in further detail below.

Introduction

4.5 This section will introduce the assessment discipline and the purpose for which it is being undertaken.

Legislation and Planning Policy Context

4.6 This section will include a summary of relevant legislation and national, regional and local policies of relevance to the environmental discipline and assessment. Methodology and assessment Criteria

4.7 This section will provide an explanation of methods used in undertaking the technical study with reference to published standards, guidelines and best practice. The application of significance criteria will also be discussed.

4.8 It will also outline any difficulties encountered in compiling the required information.

Baseline Conditions

4.9 This will comprise the data required to identify and assess the main effects of the development on the environment. This will include a description of the environment as it is currently and as it is expected to change given the project were not to proceed (i.e. ‘do- nothing’ scenario). The method used to obtain this information will be clearly identified. Baseline data will be collected in such a way that the importance of the particular subject area to be affected can be placed in its context and surroundings so that the effects of the proposed changes can be predicted.

Features of the proposed development

4.10 This section will identify the features of the proposed development and the key issues likely to effect the environment resulting from the construction and operational phases of development. This section will identify the likely significant effects on the environment resulting from the construction and operational phases of development. This will include:

“A description of the aspects of the environment likely to be significantly affected by the development, including, in particular, population, fauna, flora, soil, water, air, climatic factors, material assets, including architectural and archaeological heritage, and landscape and the inter-relationship between the above factors.”

(EIA Regulations Schedule 4 (3))

4.11 The significance of an environmental effect is determined by the interaction of magnitude and sensitivity, whereby the effects can be positive or negative. The criteria to be used in carrying out this process are detailed below.

Assessment of potential impacts

4.12 Schedule 4 of the Regulations requires ESs to provide a description of the likely significant effects of the development on the environment, which should cover the direct effects and any indirect, secondary, cumulative, short, medium and long-term, permanent, and temporary, positive and negative effects of the development, resulting from:

a) The existence of the development;

b) The use of natural resources; and

c) The emission of pollutants, the creation of nuisances and the elimination of waste, and the description by the applicant of the forecasting methods used to assess the effects on the environment.

4.13 The methodology for determining the scale or magnitude of impact is set out below.

TABLE 2 METHODOLOGY FOR ASSESSING MAGNITUDE

Magnitude of Impact Criteria for assessing impact

Major Total loss or major/substantial alteration to key elements/features of the baseline (pre-development) conditions such that the post development character/composition/attributes will be fundamentally changed.

Moderate Loss or alteration to one or more key elements/features of the baseline conditions such that post development character/composition/attributes of the baseline will be materially changed.

Minor A minor shift away from baseline conditions. Change arising from the loss/alteration will be discernible/detectable but not material. The underlying character/composition/attributes of the baseline condition will be similar to the pre-development circumstances/situation.

Negligible Very little change from baseline conditions. Change barely distinguishable, approximating to a ‘no change’ situation.

4.14 The sensitivity of a receptor is based on the relative importance of the receptor using the scale set out below.

TABLE 3 METHODOLOGY FOR DETERMINING SENSITIVITY

Sensitivity Examples of Receptor

High The receptor/resource has little ability to absorb change without fundamentally altering its present character, or is of international or national importance.

Moderate The receptor/resource has moderate capacity to absorb change without significantly altering its present character, or is of high importance.

Low The receptor/resource is tolerant of change without detriment to its character, is of low or local importance.

Sensitivity Examples of receptor

Assessment of Effect Significance

4.15 Effect significance will be calculated using the matrix in Table 5. This illustrates the interaction between impact magnitude and receptor sensitivity.

Magnitude Sensitivity TABLE 4 EFFECT SIGNIFICANCE MATRIX

Magnitude High Sensitivity Low Moderate Major Major Major - Moderate Moderate - Minor Adverse/Beneficial Adverse/Beneficial Adverse/Beneficial

Moderate Major - Moderate Moderate - Minor Minor Adverse/Beneficial Adverse/Beneficial Adverse/Beneficial

Minor Moderate - Minor Minor Minor – Negligible Adverse/Beneficial Adverse/Beneficial

Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible

Mitigation measures and the assessment of residual impacts

4.16 Schedule 4 of the EIA Regulations requires:

“a description of the measures envisaged to prevent, reduce and where possible offset any significant adverse effects on the environment”.

4.17 Adverse effects will be considered for mitigation and specific mitigation measures put forward, where practicable. Mitigation measures considered may include modification of the project, compensation and the provision of alternative solutions as well as pollution control, where appropriate. The extent of the mitigation measures and how these will be effective will be discussed. Where the effectiveness is uncertain or depends upon assumptions about operating procedures, data will be introduced to justify the acceptance of these assumptions.

4.18 Clear details of when and how the mitigation measures will be carried out will be given. When certainty of impact magnitude and/or effectiveness of mitigation over time exists, monitoring programmes will be proposed to enable subsequent adjustment of mitigation measures, as necessary. The residual effects, i.e. the effects of the development assuming implementation of proposed mitigation, will be determined. The residual effects represent the overall likely significant effect of the development on the environment having taken account of practicable/available mitigation measures.

4.19 The opportunity for enhancement measures will also be considered where appropriate.

Cumulative Effects

4.20 The cumulative effects of the development and the identified committed developments in particular the Planning Development will be assessed, using qualitative and quantitative methods, as appropriate. Assessment Scenarios

4.21 The commencement of the construction of the development is expected in Summer 2014, with the final completion date scheduled for 2016.The key issues would be assessed in the following scenarios:

. Without the development but with the baseline information (2012); . During the construction phase of the development; . 15 years after completion (landscape and visual only); and . On completion of the development.

Duration of Effects

4.22 As required by Schedule 4 of the EIA Regulations, the following durations would be assessed:

. Short, medium and long-term effects; and . Temporary and permanent effects. Spatial Scope

4.23 The coverage of the EIA is influenced by:

. The works; . The physical extent of the works; and . The receptors affected. Consideration of Alternatives

4.24 The EIA Regulations require an outline of the main alternatives studied by the applicant and an indication of the main reasons for his choice, taking into account the environmental effects.

Summary

4.25 The assessment will conclude with a summary.

5 Environmental Statement Chapters

5.1 For technical chapters, under each section topic, a summary of the content of the section, the methodology and scope of assessment is given. Where relevant, the assumptions of the assessment are described. Current relevant legislation or recognised guidance for individual assessments will be adhered to, where necessary.

Introduction

5.2 This chapter will introduce the ES, the development, consultant team and describe where the ES can be viewed by the public.

EIA Methodology

5.3 This chapter will outline the general approach followed to assess effects in the ES and summarise the consultation process undertaken with statutory consultees and the general public.

Site and Development Description

5.4 This chapter will describe the site and site context and will outline the proposals associated with the Development.

Alternatives and Design Evolution

5.5 This chapter will describe the evolution of the development, the alternatives considered and eliminated and describe how technical issues and consultee responses have influenced the design process.

Demolition and Construction Methodology and Programme

5.6 This chapter sets out the indicative construction programme, methodology, plant likely to be required, materials quantities estimates and an outline Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) setting out how construction phase effects would be managed and mitigation measures implemented. Each technical chapter of the ES will use the information in this chapter to assess construction phase effects. This will include the methods of reinstatement and after-use of temporary land take during construction.

Planning Policy Context

5.7 The ES will refer to the Local, Regional and National planning framework with reference to all policies of relevance to the development.

5.8 The scoped in impacts will be considered as follows:

Socio-Economic Issues

Introduction

5.9 An assessment of potential social and economic effects (construction and operation; temporary and permanent) of the development on the local and wider area will be undertaken. The socio-economic issues are anticipated to include:

 Construction and operational employment;

 Local population;

 Open space provision;

 Crime; and

 Local expenditure.

Approach

5.10 This assessment will be undertaken using the following methodology:

 Baseline review using accepted Government sources such as census, Labour Force Survey and NOMIS;

 Review of the policy context - at local, regional and national level;

 Assessment of the significance of impacts; and

 Recommendation of mitigation measures, if and where appropriate.

5.11 The assessment will use quantitative and qualitative methods based on published guidance and professional judgement.

Scoping

5.12 Table 6 summarises the Socio-Economic receptors and impacts and whether they have been scoped in to be assessed in the Environmental Statement.

TABLE 6: SOCIO ECONOMIC EFFECTS

Receptor Impacts Scoped In

Employment Increase in short term  construction employment Employment Effect on long-term  employment during the operational phase Population Temporary increase in the  population as a result of the construction workforce

Landscape & Visual Issues

Introduction

5.13 The Landscape and Visual Chapter of the ES will assess the likely significant effects of the development with respect to landscape character and visual amenity.

5.14 The Chapter will describe the methods used to assess the effects; the baseline conditions currently existing at the site and surrounding area; the mitigation measures required to prevent, reduce or offset any significant negative effects; and the likely residual effects after these measures have been adopted.

Approach

Identification of Potential Impacts, Effects and Receptors

5.15 An initial desktop study and site visit were carried out in June 2011 and included a review of existing landscape information, council policies and identification of important viewpoints around the site. Subsequent visits were undertaken to assess any change in the summer and winter views. The results will be used to establish:

 The sensitivity of the site and its setting, and the capacity of the area to accommodate change.

 The potential effects of development, their magnitude and the significance of the changes on local character and visual amenity.

 Potential impacts on landscape character, landscape features and designations, and representative views.

Guidelines

5.16 The assessment will be carried out using the standard guidance given in:

 ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment’ (GLVIA) Second Edition, jointly published in 2002 by the Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment.

 The Countryside Agency’s ‘Topic Paper 6: Techniques and Criteria for Judging Capacity and Sensitivity’ published in 2006.

Outline Assessment Methodology

5.17 Baseline information of the study area will be collated, which will include topography, landscape planning policy designations, published sources of landscape character, and any other relevant information.

5.18 Assessments will be made at the baseline year, during construction; on completion; in the winter without the benefit of effective new planting; and 15years thereafter, in summer, with the benefit of effective planting mitigation.

5.19 In accordance with current good practice, this assessment will address landscape and visual impacts as separate, although related items. Landscape impacts relate to both the effect on the physical features of the Site, and on the landscape character of the site and surrounding area. Visual impacts relate to views of the development from the surrounding area.

5.20 The assessment will:  define the study area for the Site, identifying significant typical views, which will be based on a Site-based review;

 assess the sensitivity of the landscape and visual receptors (the receiving environment);

 assess the magnitude of landscape and visual impacts, informed by computer-generated wireline photomontages;

 assess the significance of landscape and visual impacts identified; and

 Identify requirements for any mitigation measures.

5.21 The Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) for the site will be determined by local topographical features (both natural and man-made) and, consequently, the area from which the development might be seen will usually extend well beyond the site boundary although the level of impact and its significance generally diminishes with distance. The character area(s) relating to the setting of the site is taken from within the ZVI.

5.22 Landscape treatments (planting, and hard external elements) have the potential to provide immediate or long term mitigation that improve and enhance the quality and appearance of the scheme as well as screen or soften the profile of the new built form. The assessment will adopt a 10 year period to take account of the influence of the any new planting in:

 Fully assisting the integration of the development into the setting

 Minimising the magnitude and significance of any residual impacts

5.23 Key views towards the Site will be agreed with ABC and we will consult the AONB Unit and the Kent Downs AONB Management Plan for detailed guidance on ways in which landscape character and local distinctiveness can be assessed. The selected views will provide representative viewpoints from:

 Long distance views from the North Downs (AONB);

 Middle distance views from the existing and extended southern urban edge of Ashford;

 Near distance views from local public rights of way, roads, residential properties and Listed Buildings.

5.24 The landscape character assessment will consider the published landscape assessments at a National to Local scale. The following published guidance will be considered:

 The Countryside Agency Countryside Character of England – 1999

 The Landscape Assessment of Kent – October 2004

 The Ashford Borough Council Landscape Character SPD - April 2011

5.25 For the purposes of assessing the landscape character at a local scale the site and immediate surroundings will be divided into the following landscape types. The character sensitivity and capacity to accept change will be established and will form the basis of assessing the potential effects of the proposed development:

 Character Area 1 – Farmland Countryside (Agricultural land to east of Site)

 Character Area 2 – Westbrook Employment Area (Storage and distribution land immediately to south of the CTRL)

 Character Area 3 - Ashford Settlement – Commercial (Large scale retail and business estates to west of A2070)

 Character Area 4 Ashford Settlement – Residential

 Character Area 5 M20 Corridor (Motorway land and junction area to north of the site)

 Character Area 6 North Downs (Designated rural landscape to north)

5.26 The assessment method is adapted from the guidance given in the Landscape Institute/IEMA publication ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment’ (2nd. Edition 2002).

5.27 The process is divided into two sections:

 Part 1 - Assessment and Evaluation of Baseline Conditions to establish sensitivity and capacity of the landscape/townscape character and visual receptors to accept change.

 Part 2 - Assessment and Evaluation of the Effects of the Proposed Scheme

Part 1: Sensitivity & capacity Character Area Sensitivity:

5.28 The following terms are used to define the sensitivity of the character area:

Character Criteria Sensitivity High Where the valued elements that make up a character area would be difficult to restore and/or could not be replaced without substantial detriment to the overall character.

Medium Where the elements that make up a character area could in part be restored and/or replaced without significant detriment to the overall character.

Low Where the elements that make up a character area are of little and/or no value or merit and should be restored or replaced.

5.29 The following terms are used to define the sensitivity of the visual receptor:

Character Criteria Sensitivity High Residential properties, public footpaths, bridleways, roads, public buildings. Areas of wilderness, landscapes of acknowledged importance or value. Note that if the views from these receptors is across low quality area e.g. industrial development, large scale warehousing, then the sensitivity of the receptor reduces to Moderate sensitivity Medium Retail and employment sites, sports and recreational facilities Low Industrial sites and agricultural land. = Criteria Capacity to Accept Change

5.30 The following terms are used to define capacity for a character area/visual receptor:

Capacity Character Criteria Sensitivity High Where the character area/view can accommodate substantial levels of change without unacceptable adverse effects on its character/amenity value. Moderate Where the character area/view can accommodate significant levels of change without unacceptable adverse effects on its character/amenity value. Low Where the character area/view can accommodate only a small amount of change without unacceptable adverse effects on its character/amenity value.

Part 2: Significance of effects on character and visual amenity

5.31 The effects on Landscape Character and Visual Receptors are repeated to establish the impacts during two periods to identify the temporary and residual effects:

 Construction (temporary effects)

 Operational Period – Year 1 to Year 15 (temporary and residual effects)

Magnitude of Change on Character Areas

5.32 Criteria for the assessment of the magnitude of the change for character areas and visual receptors: Character Criteria Sensitivity High Where the proposed scheme (or works to facilitate it) would be the dominant element in or adjacent to a character area or field of view Medium Where the proposed scheme (or works to facilitate it) would be one of a number of elements in or adjacent to a character area or field of view. Low Where the proposed scheme (or works to facilitate it) would be a minor element in or adjacent to a character area or field of view. Negligible Where the proposed scheme (or works to facilitate it) would be remote and/or not change a character area or field of view.

Significance of Effects on Character and Visual Amenity

5.33 Criteria for the assessment of the significance of the change in a character area and visual receptor:

Character Criteria Sensitivity Substantial Where the scheme would cause a substantial change in the quality, condition &/or nature of the existing character area or view and the new development would be the dominant visual element. Moderate Where the scheme would cause a significant change in the quality, condition &/or nature of the existing character area or view and the new development would be one of a small number of elements in the overall setting.

Minor Where the scheme would cause a slight change in the quality, condition &/or nature of the existing character area or view and the new development would be one of many elements in the overall setting Neutral Where the scheme would cause a negligible or no change in the quality, condition &/or nature of the existing character area or view and the new development would be obscured or hidden by many other elements in the overall setting Significance Criteria Direction

5.34 The significance of the effects can be either positive (beneficial) or negative(adverse) and is determined by weighting a combination of the following criteria:

Beneficial Criteria (+)

 Fits well with scale of landform &/or pattern of landscape/view  Increases attributes or enhances in contribution to setting/view  Enhances balance of landscape elements or sense of tranquillity/view  Provides ability to include adequate or appropriate mitigation/view  Complements local/national planning policies or guidance to protect landscape character/view Adverse Criteria (-)  Out of scale with landform &/or pattern of landscape/view  Loss of attributes or deterioration in contribution to setting/view  Disrupts balance of landscape elements or sense of tranquillity/view Lacks ability to include adequate or appropriate mitigation/view  Conflicts with local/national planning policies or guidance to protect landscape character/view (+) Scoping

5.35 Table 6 summarises the landscape and visual receptors identified for inclusion in the assessment.

TABLE 6: LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS

Receptor Effects Scoped In

Typical views from publicly Visual impacts on typical views  accessible locations Published sources of Landscape impacts  Landscape Character Areas Local Landscape Character Landscape Impacts  Landscape planning Landscape and visual impacts  designations Landscape features, Landscape impacts  including existing vegetation

Cultural Heritage

Introduction

5.36 This section of the ES will consider the potential effects of the development on Archaeology and Built Heritage during both the construction and operational phases.

Approach

5.37 This chapter of the ES will be supported by an Archaeological Evaluation Report, an Historic Building Assessment Report and a Cultural Heritage Desk Based Assessment.

5.38 An archaeological evaluation trial trenching exercise took place on site in September 2012 in accordance with a WSI agreed with the KCC Archaeology Officer (Appendix 4).

5.39 The ES chapter for Cultural Heritage will:

 Quantify predicted heritage assets within the site and study area that may be affected by the development;

 Assess any previous impacts which may have affected survival of heritage assets;

 Provide an evaluation of the significance of heritage assets based on professional judgement where resources have no formal designation;

 Assess development impacts and hence the significance of effects arising from the proposals (both the construction and operation phases);

 Provide recommendations for mitigation that would reduce or eliminate any adverse effects; and

 Quantify any residual effects (those that might remain after mitigation).

Scoping

5.40 The assessment will be informed by data from English Heritage (designated heritage assets), the National Monuments Record, the Local Records Office and Local Studies Library, and historic aerial photographs. It will be fully informed by adopted National, Regional, and Local Planning Policy (including the NPPF and the ABC local policy). It will be informed by a site inspection, carried out to Level 1 of the English Heritage guidelines for landscape survey and Level 1 of the English Heritage guidelines for recording historic buildings. The results of previous heritage works within the site and its vicinity will be fully examined and referenced. A suitable study area ‘buffer’ around the site redline will be adopted of at least 500m.

5.41 The Archaeology and Built Heritage chapter will assess potential development effects upon the setting of designated heritage assets within the 500m study area. It will not deal with potentials effects upon the setting of heritage assets beyond the study area, which will be covered by the Landscape & Visual Impact chapter.

TABLE 9: ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND BUILT HERITAGE EFFECTS

Receptor Impacts Scoped In

Below-ground Below-ground works for development 

archaeological remains construction

Built heritage within the Removal, alteration or change of  setting site resulting from development

Designated heritage Potential effects upon setting of  designated assets within the 500m heritage assets study area

In

Ecology & Nature Conservation

Introduction

5.42 This section of the ES will assess the likely significant effects of the development in terms of ecology and nature conservation.

Approach

5.43 A significant amount of baseline survey work has already been completed at the site since 2010. In 2010 the following baseline survey works were completed by a previous consultancy team:

 Terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates;

 Breeding birds;

 Bats;

 Great crested newts;

 Reptiles;

 Dormouse;

 Badgers;

 Otter;

 Water vole; and,

 Invasive plants.

5.44 Throughout 2012 the ecological baseline has been updated and surveys have been carried out for the following:

 Dormouse (habitat assessment);

 Badgers;

 Bats (initial surveys of trees, nocturnal / dawn emergence surveys and transect surveys);

 Breeding birds;

 Great crested newts;

 Reptiles;

 Hedgerow Regulations 1997 assessment;

 Water voles; and,

 Wintering birds.

5.45 A desktop study has been undertaken in order to identify the presence of any statutory and non-statutory designated sites of nature conservation importance within 5km of the Site, whilst the presence of any internationally designated Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and Ramsar sites will be searched for within 10km of the Site. 5.46 The site is located 0.80 km west of Hatch Park Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and 0.07 km east of Ashford Green Corridors Local Nature Reserve. A single non-statutory nature conservation site known as AS07Roadside Nature Reserve is located adjacent to the proposed development area.

5.47 The baseline survey works have identified that the site is dominated by arable land with an area of poor semi-improved grassland in the western section of the site. Mature hedgerows bound the site to the north.

5.48 Species surveys completed in 2010 and 2012 have identified that parts of the site support populations of common lizard and slow worm, there are active badger setts within the site, birds are using areas of scrub and hedgerows for nesting, water voles are known to exist on the Aylesford Stream, bat roosts have been identified within trees within the site and within buildings adjacent to the site and a medium population of great crested newts is present to the east of the site. None of the hedgerows are listed as ‘Important’ under the Hedgerow Regulations 1997 for ecological reasons.

Assessment

5.49 A qualitative and quantitative ecological impact assessment will be undertaken, following the principles set out in the Institute of Ecology &Environmental Management (IEEM) publication ‘Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom’ (2006), and will include an assessment of cumulative effects, details of appropriate mitigation measures and details of any residual effects (should any exist following mitigation).

5.50 Consultation with all interested parties, including Environment Agency, Natural England, the local authority and Kent Wildlife Trust, would be undertaken to ensure that all issues are covered within the assessment.

Scoping

5.51 Table 7 summarises the ecology and nature conservation impacts associated with the development.

TABLE 7: ECOLOGY & NATURE CONSERVATION EFFECTS

Receptor Impacts Scoped In Statutory and Non-Statutory Impacts from construction and  Sites with Ecological operational phases of development Designations Habitats Impacts from construction and  operational phases of development

Protected and Notable Impacts from construction and  Species operational phases of development

Traffic & Transportation

Introduction

5.52 A Transport Assessment will form Volume 3 of the ES and will detail existing transport conditions, the likely trip generation and distribution from the development and hence its impacts to the transport networks and detail any measures proposed to mitigate impacts.

5.53 This assessment will be summarised within the Traffic and Transportation ES chapter, which will assess the likely effects of the development in terms of traffic flows, public transport, cyclists and pedestrians, as well as arrangements for servicing and operation during construction phases.

Approach

5.54 The traffic and transport impact of the development will be assessed in line with guidance contained in the DfT publication ‘Guidance on Transport Assessment’ (March 2007). The transport impact of the development will be based upon a comparison of existing site trips and the predicted journeys associated with the development.

5.55 The assessment will be informed by site specific surveys and the use of traffic flow models and data agreed with the Highways Agency and ABC. The traffic model prepared as part of the Ashford Highway and Traffic Study will be used specifically to provide changes in future year traffic conditions at key junctions, particularly on the M20, A20, A2070 and the development link road.

5.56 The development of the site will alter travel patterns, modal split and the types of vehicles accessing/ egressing the site. These changes will be fully assessed for their impact to the transport network. Where necessary, transport surveys will be undertaken to provide baseline data for analysis.

5.57 Flows from the current traffic model have already been used to inform the design of the link road and access junctions. Further modelling work will refine the future year forecasts and be used to carry out operational analysis of the local highway network and junctions within the vicinity of the development.

5.58 Effects will be determined using pre-defined significance criteria for each mode of travel. Those criteria will be based on the net change in journeys as a result of the development of the site and the operational impact of those changes on the transport network. The significance criteria will establish the significance of beneficial or adverse effects the development will have on the transport network.

5.59 Completion of the development will affect local trip patterns and mitigation measures will be recommended, as necessary, to accommodate changes in the balance of flows at junctions within the study area.

5.60 Consultations with various parties will be ongoing during the preparation of the Transport Assessment and Travel Plan.

Scoping

5.61 Table 8 summarises the transport and movement receptors and impacts and whether they have been scoped in to be assessed in the ES.

Table 8: Traffic and Transportation Impacts Receptor Impacts Scoped In

Receptor Impacts Scoped In Local Roads Net change in traffic patterns; traffic  speed; effect on personal injury accidents; changes to access arrangements; new public realm/new adopted highway Strategic Roads Net change in traffic patterns; traffic  speed; queues and delays; effect on personal injury accidents Public Transport Net change in public transport  patronage; accessibility; effect on existing bus routes; routing and frequency of future bus services Pedestrians & Cyclists Net change in pedestrian and cycle  journeys; on and off street cycle facilities; effect on personal injury accidents tor Impacts Scoped In Scoped In Noise & Vibration

Introduction

5.62 The assessment will consider the noise and vibration effects of the development during the demolition and construction and operational phase on surrounding sensitive receptors.

Approach

5.63 Baseline noise surveys were undertaken in September 2012.

5.64 Baseline vibration surveys were not undertaken as the development is not sensitive to existing vibration, whilst the potential vibration generated by the development is determined by a desk based assessment.

5.65 The baseline noise surveys have been undertaken at locations selected to be representative of the surrounding noise sensitive receptors. Baseline noise levels have been established during appropriate periods of the daytime, evening and night-time. In summary, the baseline noise levels have established the existing conditions affecting the development and the surrounding sensitive receptors.

5.66 The baseline noise survey results are set out below.

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP1

Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 12/09/2012 10:02 54 72 55 49 14/09/2012 12:12 54 73 56 50 13/09/2012 12:47 52 71 54 47 11/09/2012 17:51 57 79 57 52 13/09/2012 17:57 54 73 54 49 13/09/2012 21:06 52 69 50 45 11/09/2012 23:38 48 57 50 45 14/09/2012 00:31 42 58 44 34 Daytime noise level - 52-57 dB LAeq. Night-time noise level - 42-48 dB LAeq

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP2

Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 12/09/2012 11:07 59 80 59 49 14/09/2012 12:30 59 77 60 49 13/09/2012 13:11 58 84 56 44 13/09/2012 21:26 53 76 50 43 Daytime noise level - 53-59 dB LAeq

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP3

Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 12/09/2012 07:35 63 83 63 57 14/09/2012 12:49 61 79 62 55 13/09/2012 13:34 59 80 57 51 11/09/2012 19:10 61 85 61 53 13/09/2012 20:45 58 79 59 51 12/09/2012 00:02 51 78 51 42 14/09/2012 00:54 46 57 50 37 Daytime noise level - 58-63 dB LAeq. Night-time noise level - 46-51 dB LAeq

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP4

Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 13/09/2012 09:31 59 68 62 55 14/09/2012 13:12 61 67 63 57 13/09/2012 14:22 59 68 62 54 12/09/2012 18:01 62 71 65 59 13/09/2012 18:22 63 72 65 59 13/09/2012 22:58 57 68 61 51 Daytime noise level - 59-63 dB LAeq. Night-time noise level - 57 dB LAeq

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP5

Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 14/09/2012 11:03 60 68 63 56 13/09/2012 13:58 57 68 60 53 11/09/2012 14:53 61 91 63 57 12/09/2012 19:27 58 70 61 52 13/09/2012 20:24 55 65 58 49 12/09/2012 00:41 50 78 53 43 14/09/2012 01:21 47 62 51 37 Daytime noise level - 55-61 dB LAeq. Night-time noise level - 47-50 dB LAeq

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP6

Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 12/09/2012 12:00 57 67 59 54 13/09/2012 14:52 56 73 57 52 Daytime noise level - 56-57 dB LAeq

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP7

Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 14/09/2012 11:38 54 62 56 52 11/09/2012 13:48 56 55 57 53 12/09/2012 15:01 55 80 55 50 13/09/2012 15:11 52 67 54 49 13/09/2012 19:59 51 64 52 49 12/09/2012 20:50 52 84 53 48 11/09/2012 23:00 52 61 55 47 13/09/2012 00:13 53 65 57 46 Daytime noise level - 51-56 dB LAeq. Night-time noise level - 52-53 dB LAeq

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP8

Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 11/09/2012 09:26 61 79 62 57 14/09/2012 10:38 60 78 61 56 12/09/2012 12:37 61 82 60 54 12/09/2012 14:33 61 75 62 58 At 4 metres above ground level 13/09/2012 15:32 59 77 59 54 13/09/2012 19:38 57 78 57 52 11/09/2012 21:03 57 78 59 53 12/09/2012 23:00 60 69 63 53 13/09/2012 23:25 53 79 53 47 Daytime noise level - 57-61 dB LAeq. Night-time noise level - 53-60 dB LAeq

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP9

Date (d Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 14/09/2012 10:18 60 84 60 56 11/09/2012 10:40 60 83 60 56 12/09/2012 12:56 61 87 59 55 12/09/2012 14:09 62 78 53 59 At 4 metres above ground level 13/09/2012 19:18 59 78 59 54 12/09/2012 23:24 58 73 60 54 13/09/2012 23:44 53 77 55 47 Daytime noise level - 59-61* dB LAeq. Night-time noise level - 53-58 dB LAeq * not including measurements made at 4 metres

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP10 Date

Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 14/09/2012 09:58 62 70 64 60 13/09/2012 10:48 64 86 65 60 11/09/2012 11:56 62 77 64 60 12/09/2012 13:18 61 72 63 58 12/09/2012 13:43 68 75 70 64 At 4 metres above ground level

13/09/2012 18:57 61 71 63 58 11/09/2012 21:47 59 71 61 54 13/09/2012 21:58 59 68 62 54 12/09/2012 23:50 60 69 63 55 14/09/2012 00:07 55 62 58 48 Daytime noise level - 59-64* dB LAeq. Night-time noise level - 55-60 dB LAeq

* not including measurements made at 4 metres

Existing (Baseline) Noise Levels at MP11

Date Time LAeq (dB) LAmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Comment 13/09/2012 11:55 56 79 51 43 11/09/2012 13:12 58 78 58 53 14/09/2012 13:38 54 71 57 49 Daytime noise level - 54-58 dB LAeq.

5.67 Potential noise and vibration sources introduced as a result of the development will also be identified.

5.68 The noise and vibration assessment will be undertaken in accordance with objective criteria contained in national guidance documents. These documents include the NPPF, British Standard (BS) 8233:1999, BS 4142; BS5228; WHO Guidelines for Community Noise 2000 report; DMRB; andBS6472.

5.69 The assessment will compare the existing conditions against the predicted noise and vibration levels associated with the construction and operation of the development.

5.70 The assessment will consider the likely noise and vibration sources generated by the development and is expected to include:

 Construction noise (including traffic) and vibration; and

 Development-led changes in traffic flow at the surrounding sensitive receptors;

5.71 A “worst case” assessment will be undertaken of construction plant noise based on reasonable assumptions. Standard plant specifications will be assessed.

5.72 The development has the potential to give rise to noise and vibration during the construction and operational phases. Where appropriate, mitigation measures will be proposed to minimise the noise impacts of the development. The residual noise and vibration impacts, after the implementation of the mitigation measures, will be identified and their significance established.

Scoping

5.73 Table 9 summarises noise receptors and effects and whether they have been scoped in to be assessed in the ES.

TABLE 9: NOISE AND VIBRATION EFFECTS Receptor Impacts Scoped In Existing nearby residents Impacts from construction noise and  vibration, noise and vibration emissions from building plant services associated with the development, changes in road traffic noise due to operational traffic

Future residents Ambient noise and vibration (primarily  from road and rail traffic) affecting future residents, noise and vibration emissions from building plant services associated with the NSIP development

Receptor Effects Scoped In

Local Air Quality

Introduction

5.74 The assessment will cover the impact of the development on the surrounding area, during both the construction and operational phases.

Approach

5.75 The assessment of air quality impacts will be carried out using the AAQuIRE detailed atmospheric dispersion model for traffic impacts and AERMOD for stacks or vents serving the heating system or energy centre. The AAQuIRE model requires the user to provide various input data, including the Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) flow, the proportion of heavy duty vehicles (HDVs), road characteristics (including road position and width), and the vehicle speed. Vehicle emissions will be calculated based on vehicle flow, composition and speed using the emission factors published within Defra’s Emission Factors Toolkit (EFT), version 5.1. The AERMOD model requires information on stack or vent locations, size and emissions.

5.76 Road links will be identified that would have an increase of 1,000 Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) due to J10A / slip road. Dispersion modelling would be carried out for selected receptors near these links using the AAQuIRE detailed atmospheric dispersion model. The AAQuIRE model requires the user to provide various input data, including the AADT flow, the proportion of heavy duty vehicles (HDVs), road characteristics (including road position and width), and the vehicle speed. Vehicle emissions will be calculated based on vehicle flow, composition and speed using the emission factors published within Defra’s Emission Factors Toolkit (EFT), version

5.77 Background pollutant concentrations will be taken from Defra’s latest background maps. The results from AAQuIRE will be adjusted using local air quality monitoring data, where available. NO2 concentrations will be predicted from NOx concentrations using Defra’s NOx to NO2 calculator (version 3).

5.78 Concentrations will be predicted at selected receptors across the study area. The receptors will be positioned at residential properties, schools, designated ecological sites, public buildings and public open spaces that are likely to have the greatest impact from the development.

5.79 Dispersion modelling will be carried out for three scenarios: a) a baseline year; b) the future year of opening, assuming the development does not proceed; and c) the future year of opening, assuming the development does proceed.

5.80 A webTAG assessment will be carried out to assess the overall change in local air quality at properties.

5.81 In addition to the operational air quality impacts, the potential impacts of dust and PM10 from construction will be assessed. The assessment of construction dust impacts will follow the Guidance on the Assessment of the Impacts of Construction on Air Quality and the Determination of their Significance published by the IAQM. Where appropriate, mitigation measures will be recommended to minimise any potential construction impacts.

Baseline Assessment

5.82 All UK local authorities have a statutory obligation to undertake LAQM Review and Assessment work in order to report progress to Defra on improving air quality within their administrative areas. The Site lies within the administrative boundary of ABC. The Council does not currently have any Air Quality Management Areas (AQMA) for any of the air pollutants prescribed in the UKAir Quality Strategy.

5.83 ABC has completed each of the four rounds of LAQM Review and Assessment to date. The first round assessments, carried out between 1998and 2001 concluded that none of the air quality objectives for any pollutant were likely to be exceeded.

5.84 The second round Updating and Screening Assessment, completed in 2003, concluded that a Detailed Assessment was required for PM10 to assess the likelihood of exceedences due to road traffic emissions around the M20between Junctions 9 and 10. The Detailed Assessment concluded that the air quality objectives for PM10 would be achieved at relevant receptor locations in the area and that no AQMA declaration was required.

5.85 The third round of Review and Assessment concluded that all prescribed air quality objectives would be achieved and that no AQMA declarations would be necessary.

5.86 The fourth round Updating and Screening Assessment, produced in 2009, identified likely exceedences of the annual mean NO2 objective at a number of locations within the Borough. Additional monitoring was carried out to investigate the exceedences in greater detail. The results, reported in the2010 Progress Report, indicated compliance with the annual mean NO2objective at all locations in the Borough.

5.87 Round 5 of the Review and Assessment process commenced in 2012.Ashford Borough Council produced an Updating and Screening Assessment in April 2012, which concluded that the air quality objectives for all local air quality pollutants continue to be achieved at all locations in the Borough. However, NO2 was found to be close to the objective near the site.

Local Air Quality Monitoring

5.88 ABC has undertaken monitoring of air quality using continuous analysers and diffusion tubes.

Continuous Monitoring

5.89 Between September 2008 and April 2011 ABC carried out continuous monitoring of NO2 and PM10 within the grounds of Ashford School, approximately 2.6 km from the study area.

5.90 One year of continuous NO2 monitoring has also been carried out in Lees Road near Junction 10 between 11 November 2010 and 11 November 2011.The monitoring was undertaken to verify the NO2 passive diffusion tube measurements at this site. This site was chosen as the closest possible to the triplicate diffusion tubes on the neighbouring property. The automatic monitoring and passive monitoring were set at an equivalent height.

5.91 A summary of the monitoring sites is provided in Table 10. A summary of the monitoring results for NO2 and PM10 are shown in Tables 11 and 12, respectively. All of the objectives were achieved at the monitoring sites.

TABLE 10 CONTINUOUS MONITORING SITE DETAILS

Site Name Grid Reference Site Type (Y&X) Ashford School 601431, 142735 Urban Background Urban Background (CM1)

Ashford M20 J10 603412, 142085 Urban Background Background (CM2)

(X, Y) Site ame TABLE 11 CONTINUOUS MONITORING RESULTS FOR NO2, ASHFORD SCHOOL Ashford School Urban Background Site Name 2009 2010 2011 Annual Mean NO2 21 20 22.9* Concentration (μg/m3)

No. Hours Mean 0 0 (90) 0 (115) NO2 >200 μg/m3 2010 2011 Notes: * Mean has been “annualised” according to LAQM.TG(09) methodology since monitoring was not carried out for a full year. Figures in brackets represent the 99.8th percentile of hourly mean NO2 concentrations – calculated where less than 90% data capture was achieved.

Site Name Ashford TABLE 12 CONTINUOUS MONITORING RESULTS FOR PM10, ASHFORD SCHOOL

Ashford School Urban Background Site Name 2009 2010 2011 Annual Mean PM10 18 21 17.6* Concentration (μg/m3)

No. Days Mean 3 0 (46.8) 2 (39) PM10 >50 μg/m3 School Urban Background Notes: * Mean has been “annualised” according to LAQM.TG(09) methodology since monitoring was not carried out for a full year. Figures in brackets represent the 90th percentile of daily mean PM10 concentrations – calculated where less than 90% data capture was achieved.

Site Name

TABLE 13 CONTINUOUS MONITORING RESULTS FOR NO2, ASHFORD M20 J10

M20 J10 Urban Background Site Name 2010-2011 Annual Mean NO2 34.5 Concentration (μg/m3)

No. Hours Mean 0 (115) NO2 >200 μg/m3 Notes: Figures in brackets represent the 99.8th percentile of hourly mean NO2concentrations – calculated where less than 90% data capture was achieved.

Diffusion Tube Monitoring

5.92 ABC currently monitors NO2 at 17 diffusion tube sites within the Borough.

5.93 Details of the diffusion tube sites within the study area are presented in Table14. Two diffusion tube sites (AS06 and AS15) are located within 3.5 km of the development site boundary. All of the sites had concentrations that achieved the annual mean objective although concentrations have been close to the objective of 40 μg/m3 at AS06 in 2010 and AS15 in 2009 and 2011.

TABLE 14 NO2 DIFFUSION TUBES MONITORING SITE DETAILS AND RESULTS

Annual Mean NO₂ Concentrations (μg/mᶾ) Site Name Site ID Grid Reference Site Type 2009 2010 2011 (X&Y) Ashford 5n AS03 600976, Roadside 20.5 21.8 23.6 Queen 142547 Street

Ashford 6n AS04 601021, Background 19.0 22.0 18.6 Church 142754 Yard

Hythe Road AS06 603153, Roadside 32.4 38.2 35.7 141990 Hill View ª AS13 601367, Roadside 25.1 25.9 28.0 143541 Nutley AS14 601460, Roadside 25.5 29.3 25.7 Close 143509

Lees Road AS15 603401, Roadside 38.4 34.0 38.2 (triplicate), 142081 M20 , J10

Hill View AS18 601309, Roadside 28.9 31.3 29.0 Nursing 143569 Home (triplicate)

Apsley AS21 600734, Roadside 22.9 24.5 24.3 Street 142717

Gore Court AS22 601218, Roadside 32.3 30.8 31.6 143491 Ashford AS23 601431, Background 18.4 18.6 19.1 School 142735 Background (triplicate)

New Street, AS24 600778, Roadside 24.2 24.9 23.2 Ashford 142915

1A AS25 601085, Roadside 29.8 29.0 35.3 Somerset 143007 Road, Ashford

Hardy AS26 601249, Roadside 33.8 32.0 29.6 House, 142975 Somerset Road, Ashford

Victoria AS27 600794, Roadside N/A N/A 17.6 Road 142320 School b

a Ceased operation in May 2011.

b Began monitoring June 2011.

Scoping

5.94 Table 15 summarises the approach to the air quality assessment.

Table 15: Air Quality Effects

Receptor Effects Scoped In Existing sensitive receptors Impacts of emissions from vehicles  including and on-site plant residential properties, during operation schools, public open space and nationally designated ecological sites

Existing sensitive receptors Impacts of dust and PM10 emissions  including from construction residential properties, activities schools, commercial premises and public open space Future occupiers of the Identification of the suitability of the  Development Site for the development with respect to air quality

Ground Conditions

Introduction

5.95 This chapter will address issues relating to existing geo-environmental conditions at the Site, with the aim of ensuring that suitable and safe conditions are achieved for the end-use proposed and that there will be no significant risk to the surrounding environment from the Development during and after construction.

5.96 A range of impacts associated with the design, construction and operation of the Development will be considered, including potential ground contamination and geotechnical issues.

Approach

5.97 Potential impacts to be addressed by the ES chapter include:

 Health and safety risks to workers and site visitors during development works from existing ground contamination, ground gas or other potentially hazardous materials;

 Health and safety risks to future users from existing ground contamination, ground gas or other materials;

 Risks to proposed new landscaped areas from the release of existing contamination during earthwork activities;

 Risks to groundwater and surface water from the release of existing contamination during construction activities;

 Risks to new structures, primarily foundations and services from ground contamination; and

 The opportunities to re-use soil arisings and appropriate management and disposal of contaminated or hazardous waste materials removed from site.

5.98 The ground conditions assessment in the ES will be based on the Phase I environmental assessment comprising:

 Site walkover;

 A review of historical maps of the Site and surrounding area to determine historic potential for contamination at or within the vicinity of the Site;

 A search of the EA website (www.environment-agency.co.uk), regarding groundwater and surface water information;

 A review of records held on an environmental database (Envirocheck),including records of landfills, water abstractions, pollution incidents, enforcements and prosecution actions;

 Interpretation of the British Geological Society (BGS) Solid and Drift Geology map of the area;

 Interpretation of the EA Groundwater Vulnerability Map of the area;

 Enquiries of the Local Authority Contaminated Land Officer, Planning Department and EA with respect to known contamination issues (if present); and

 Review of available reports.

 Preparation of drawings to indicate relevance of historic intrusive ground investigation.

5.99 A Phase 1 Report has been prepared for the Site and a programme of Phase 2 geoenvironmental and geotechnical work was undertaken in September 2012. The work comprised the following:

 4 boreholes to 20m;

 3 days trial pits;

 2 days window sampler boreholes;

 Site sampling of soils;

 Laboratory testing of soils; and

 Groundwater and gas monitoring.

5.100 A full interpretive report detailing the ground conditions encountered and giving recommendations on the substructure design for the new buildings is currently being prepared. The report will also cover the issue of any ground contamination discovered including risk assessment and conceptual site model, identification and evaluation of impacts and cumulative effects.

Scoping

5.101 Table 16 provides a scoping summary relating to ground conditions.

Table 16: Ground Conditions Effects

Receptor Impacts Scoped In Human Health Health and wellbeing of site users,  construction and maintenance workers and general public from potential sources of contamination on site

Controlled Waters Impact on base flow, recharge water  and local supplies from potential sources of contamination on site

Development and Design, form and method of  Infrastructure construction and impact from development on surrounding environment

Receptor Effects Scoped In Water Resources and Flood Risk

Introduction

5.102 An ES chapter will be produced that covers: legislative and planning policy context; an explanation of assessment methodology and impact significance criteria; analysis of baseline conditions – geology, geomorphology and hydrology, hydrogeology and groundwater, surface water resources, aquifers, abstractions, source protection zones, water quality, water services; desk based assessment of potential impacts and mitigation measures (both during demolition/construction and once the development is operational); and assessment of residual and cumulative impacts.

Approach

Flood Risk

5.103 A Flood Risk Assessment would be submitted in support of the Development Consent Order application, in accordance with flood risk and water management guidance set out in the NPPF document. This would identify opportunities to reduce the probability and consequences of flooding and propose a suitable surface water drainage strategy.

5.104 The surface water drainage strategy will take cognisance of the potential long term phased development programme and this will be demonstrated by the production of drawings and calculations appended in the Flood Risk Assessment.

Water Resources

5.105 Consideration will be given to relevant national and local policy and legislation relevant to the protection of both surface and groundwater quality, water supply, water efficiency and the disposal of wastewater and to surface water runoff and sustainable drainage. Consultation will take place with relevant parties to obtain information on the quality of the existing water environment and to understand the opportunities and constraints that the existing environment places on the Development.

5.106 Good practice assessment methods will be used to identify, qualify and, if possible, quantify the magnitude of any impacts to the water environment, including on water supply and wastewater generation, which will be used in conjunction with all information obtained to place a significance on the impact, following application of suitable and appropriate mitigation measures. Measures will be assessed and recommended to manage the impact of the development on surface water resources and to meet the requirements of legislation, the Local Planning Authority and the Environment Agency. The water resources baseline will be drafted by reviewing existing data and previous reports for the Site and undertaking a site walkover. This will allow the baseline characteristics to be examined and confirmed.

Scoping

5.107 Table 17 provides a scoping summary relating to water resources and surface drainage.

Table 17: Water Resources and Surface Drainage Effects

Receptor Impacts Scoped In Flood Risk Safety of the Development and the  surrounding environment and infrastructure Groundwater Protection of the existing hydrological  regime and adverse effect on base flow and local supplies Surface water Storage and disposal strategy and  effect on Controlled Waters and local hydrology

Abstractions Control of water quality and effect on  source Protection Zones and Controlled Waters

Water supply Demand for resources and effect on  existing water supply infrastructure

Wastewater generation Disposal strategy and effect on local  foul sewer infrastructure

Artificial Lighting

Introduction

5.108 The assessment will provide a review of the existing lighting in and around the site together with an appraisal of its quality and impact on the night-time environment. A lighting strategy will then be formulated, around which any new lighting will be designed and assessed in accordance with current Guidelines limiting the effects of obtrusive light. These will in turn guide the overall assessment of any potential visual effects of the proposed development.

Approach

5.109 A night-time appraisal will be undertaken to obtain baseline information on the current night- time environment which will define which “Environmental Lighting Zone” the proposed road improvements lie. (These Zones being taken from internationally agreed Guidelines). From the lighting parameters given for such zones a “Lighting Strategy” will be drawn up which will define the limits on obtrusive light that any new lighting installation should permit. This will then be used as a framework for designing the lighting scheme and its calculated impact will be assessed in line with the aforementioned Guidelines.

5.110 The assessment will consider impacts on:

 Light Intrusion into residential and commercial properties,

 Glare into residential and commercial properties,

 Road users

 Sky Glow and other environmental concerns on wildlife and the wider night-time landscape.

5.111 The assessment will be based on those of the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) and the Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP).

Scoping

5.112 Table 18 summarises the receptors identified for inclusion in the lighting assessment.

Table 18: Lighting

Receptor Impacts Scoped In Residential and Commercial Light Intrusion and Glare  Locations Road users Glare  Astronomers / Sky Glow  Environmental lists

Wildlife Light Intrusion 

Scoped In Agricultural and soil resources

Introduction

5.113 The assessment will provide a review of the agricultural land quality and farming circumstances across the site.

Approach

5.114 A data search of existing published Agricultural Land Classification survey work has been undertaken. The search has revealed that a detailed Agricultural Land Classification Survey was undertaken across the site by MAFF in 1990. This data will be used to inform the assessment.

5.115 Interviews will also be undertaken with the landowners and / or tenants to obtain information about the agricultural use of the land.

5.116 The assessment will consider impacts on:

 The national resource of agricultural land, in particular the impact on “best and most versatile agricultural land”;

 Occupying farming businesses and the potential for impacts on farm businesses which adjoin the development.

Scoping

Table 19: Agricultural Land Quality and Farming Circumstances Receptor Impacts Scoped In Receptor Impacts Scoped In Agricultural Land Quality Loss of agricultural land in particular  land that is of “best and most versatile quality Farm Businesses Loss of land which could impact upon  the continued viability of the occupying farm business

6 Proposed Structure of the Environmental Statement

6.1 A draft list of contents for the ES, based on the issues identified in the scoping report, and in terms of the requirements of the Regulations, as detailed below:

Non-Technical Summary

Environmental Statement

 Introduction . Background . Purpose of the Environmental Statement . Structure of the Environmental Statement . ES Availability . Structure & Methodology . Proposed Development and scheme definition . Alternatives & Design Evolution . Development Programme . Planning policy context

 Assessment . Socio-Economic Issues . Landscape Character and Visual Assessment . Cultural Heritage . Ecology and Nature Conservation . Transport and Traffic . Noise . Local Air Quality . Ground Conditions . Water Resources & Flood risk . Artificial Lighting . Agriculture and Soil Resources . Cumulative Impacts . Summary of potential and predicted impacts, mitigation and residual impacts

 Technical Appendices

Appendix 1 Site Plan Rev. Date Comments Ckd App

28-32 Upper Ground London SE1 9PD Tel: 020 7910 5000 Fax: 020 7910 5001

Client : DMI / AXA REIM

Title S E V I N G T O N Proposed Link Road Red Line Boundary Plan

Drawn Scale. Rev. PVC NTS @ A1

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/2 /2 Figured dimensions only are to be used. All checked onsite. Differences between drawings and specification or bills of quantites to be reported PRC Architecture and Planning Ltd. C The copyright of the drawings and designs contained therein remains vested in the PRC Architecture and Planning Ltd. Milton Keynes Surbiton Offices Urban Design Planning