8.1.2.4 8.1.2.3 8.1.2.2 8.1.2.1 8.1.1.3 8.1.1.2 8.1.1.1 Section Fisheries Commercial 8.1.2 8.1.1 8.1 8

Human Environment

Commercial Fisheries Commercial

3 Summary of Effects Summary of Effects and Mitigation –

It should be noted that the purpose of the construction management programme is programme management construction the of purpose the that noted be should It at therefore remains phase operational practices fishing normal the in grounds fishing to to access restricted or loss complete from arising changes effect of level resulting the de and farms however wind proposed is regained is accep within access fall to considered is risk safety fishing the to access regain and undertaken been have measures, will rectification seabed necessary if oper and surveys, vessels the that considered in is grounds it zones these of Outside 50 that likely is It phase. construction the during grounds a be would activities fishing commercial upon effect residual of outside be accep to considered are phase construction the during infrastructure this of im the in fishing with associated risks the and zones safety same the in construction during result will farms me wind construction the as MacColl site progresses the phase and within grounds fishing Stevenson to access Telford, restricted increasingly of construction The and Firth, Moray the in elsewhere grounds of activ levels to low relatively compared activity fishing of levels grounds principall are sites farm Appendi in described As in explained as consultation and review data a from collected been has assessment this supporting Information fisheries. on commercial sites farm wind proposed three the of decommissioning and operation construction, This activities fishing commercial of marine majority the nature to in different in largely located addressed separately are Firth Moray the in fisheries trout sea and salmon assessment, this of purposes the For lo o nue ht h efcs ecie ae et ihn h sgiiac levels significance the the within of d phases operational kept and construction are the both throughout described ES this effects in ascribed the that ensure to also OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact evelopment. masts t chapter table . 5 x hr i a ey o lvl f htfs activity whitefish of level low very a is There ,

.1

il ae temporary have will

limits

A

rsns n seset f th of assessment an presents

( m Commercial Fisheries Technical Technical Fisheries Commercial . . . Chapter Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure - safety zones will apply to all fully installed turbines and met masts met and turbines installed fully all to apply will zones safety river (with the exception of some coastal netting) and being being and netting) coastal some of exception the (with river

This would result in vessels being excluded from these areas these from excluded being vessels in result would This . . t s iey ht l isald infras installed all that likely is It It is not considered, however, that inter array cables will have will cables array inter that however, considered, not is It toa wn fr oc te prpit post appropriate the once farm wind ational y located on scallop grounds, and to a lesser extent squid squid extent lesser a to and grounds, scallop on located y

ity on a national scale ity national on a 5 o te cmeca fseis a a eut f hi being their of result a as fisheries, commercial other to .1 Cha

Cmeca Fisheries) (Commercial

pter aey zones safety MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

pendent upon the final design of the three three the of design final the upon pendent 5

.1 (Commercial Fisheries) .1(Commercial

moderate

u t 500 to (up lkl sgiiat fet o the of effects significant likely e . table

. Report

rcue i tructure,

. n spotd in supported and limits ), the three proposed wind wind proposed three the ), The site records moderate moderate records site The

m) .

moder cuig turbines ncluding applied around them them around applied The degree to which which to degree The . -

EnvironmentalStatement ate mediate vicinity mediate

. - loss of fishing fishing of loss

construction Technical . . .

and The The 8 - 1 .

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.1.2.5 MORL has undertaken a significant programme of early engagement with the fishing industry and is committed to continuing to explore and develop mitigation options in consultation with the industry. At the current time, MORL is proposing to undertake fishing trials using modified scallop dredge gear with a view to identifying enhancements to traditional scallop fishing practices that may be of benefit to both the developer and the scallop fleet, subject to the Scallop Association’s continuing interest.

8.1.2.6 MORL will continue to facilitate ongoing dialogue throughout the pre-construction, construction and operational phases of the development, which will continue to discuss the mitigation options under investigation, as well as defining the protocol for engagement during the construction and operation phases.

8.1.2.7 A summary of the Commercial Fisheries effects pre and post mitigation is shown below in Table 8.1-1. In each instance, the effect has been identified. In the instances where the effect is upon fish and shellfish species, the summary table provided in Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology) should be referred to.

Table 8.1-1 Commercial Fish Impact Summary

Effect Pre-Mitigation Effect Mitigation Post-Mitigation Effect

Construction / Decommissioning

Adverse Effects to Commercial Fish and Shellfish Populations Minor – all target species None proposed Minor – all target species (indirect effect upon commercial fishing activities)

Adverse Effects on Recreational Fish Minor-moderate (noise) None proposed Minor-moderate (noise) Populations

Moderate – scallop Moderate – scallop Complete Loss or fishery fishery Restricted Access to None proposed Traditional Fishing Moderate – squid fishery Moderate – squid fishery Grounds Minor – whitefish fishery Minor – whitefish fishery

Acceptable for turbines, met masts and gravity Application of 50 m safety zones base OSPs installed for infrastructure installed during Within acceptable limits during the construction the construction phase. phase, providing 50 m Safety Issues for Fishing safety zones are applied Vessels

Application of operational Outside of acceptable safety zones & ongoing Within acceptable limits limits for inter array cables consultation to reduce risks to acceptable limits

Increased Steaming Minor – all fisheries None proposed Minor – all fisheries Times to Fishing Grounds

Moderate– scallop fishery Moderate– scallop Displacement of Fishing fishery Moderate – squid fishery None proposed Vessels into Other Areas Moderate – squid fishery Minor – whitefish fishery Minor – whitefish fishery

8-2 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Section Activities Interference with Vessels Displacementof Construction Seabed Post Obstacleson the Times Increased Vessels Safety Groun Traditional Fishing Restricted Access Complete Populations RecreationalFish Adverse activities) commercialfishing (indirect effect upon Shellfish Populations CommercialFish Adverse Operation Activities Interference with Effect

to ds Issues

into 3

FishingGrounds Effects Effects

–

Loss Steaming

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Other Areas

for or on on Fishing Fishing and Fishing Fishing to

crab and lobsterfishery Minor Minor Moderate Moderate arecompleted post installationmeasures provided appropriate for inter arraycables accep Within safetyzones areapplied OSPs,providing 50 masts andgravity base installedturbines, met Accep Minor Moderate Moderate lobsterfishery Moderate Minor Within accep Within Pre Minor Minor Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure – - – – – table M

whitefishfishery whitefishfishery allfisheries except

alltarget species itigation Effect – – – – Minor – – -

allfisheries allfisheries scallopfishery scallopfishery craband

squidfishery squidfishery forfully

table table

m limits

limits

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited mitigati however atthe current time no gearmodification trials, mitigation proposals,such as Ongoingdevelopment theof programme Constructionmanagement includeoperations managementprogramme to Extensionof construction andpost construction surveys Cableburial and protection safetyzones Applicationof 50

Standard industrypractice onhas been defined Noneproposed Noneproposed Noneproposed Noneproposed Mitigation

m

operational

-

Moderate gearmodification trials reducedthrough the fishery,could be Moderate fishery Minor fishery exceptcrab and lobster Minor Minor Moderate gearmodification trials reducedthrough the fishery,could be Moderate Minor EnvironmentalStatement Minor Within accep Within accep Within accep Within Post Minor Minor

- – – –

- –

Mitigation Effect

crab and lobster whitefishfishery. whitefishfishery. allfisheries alltarget species – – Minor – – – –

allfisheries allfisheries scallop scallop squidfishery squidfishery table table table

limits limits limits

8

-

3

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Salmon and Sea Trout Fisheries

8.1.2.8 Effects on salmon and sea trout fisheries will occur if the ecology of the species is negatively affected as a result of the construction / decommissioning and operational phases of the three proposed wind farm developments. This is fully discussed in Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology). In general terms, effects on salmon and sea trout are expected to be of minor significance, with the exception of construction noise, which has been assessed to be of minor-moderate significance.

8.1.2.9 The impact assessment on these salmon and sea trout has taken a precautionary approach, where conservation assumptions have had to be made due to the lack of current knowledge on the use that these species may make of the area of the three proposed wind farms during the construction phase.

8.1.2.10 In general terms, the likely effects of the construction phase on fish and shellfish species have been assessed to be of minor significance. An exception to this is construction noise, which has been identified as having potential to result in significant effects (above minor) namely cod, herring, salmon and sea trout.

8.1.2.11 The impact assessment (Chapter 7.2: Fish and Shellfish Ecology) on these species has taken a precautionary approach, where conservative assumptions have had to be applied as a result of the uncertainty surrounding currently available information on the use that these species may make of the area of the three proposed wind farms during the construction phase.

8.1.2.12 In order to mitigate this uncertainty, MORL is committed, in consultation with Marine Scotland and the relevant fisheries stakeholders, to undertake additional survey work and monitoring with the objective of increasing the confidence in this impact assessment and identifying whether mitigation is required and, if so, to define feasible measures in order to reduce the significance of the likely effects.

8.1.2.13 Some surveys, such as the sand eel (a key prey species for other fish species) survey, were undertaken in consultation with Marine Scotland pre-application during their optimal survey periods the results of which are included in Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology). Due to the seasonal nature of these surveys, MORL expects that specific surveys and monitoring will be defined and implemented at the appropriate time of year in consultation with Marine Scotland and other stakeholders.

8.1.2.14 Due to the limited current knowledge in relation to their migration routes in Scottish coastal waters and the use that they may make of the development area, an assessment of effects on salmon and sea trout is based on the conservative assumption that all fish originating from all rivers flowing into the Moray Firth will use the development area during their life stages in the marine environment.

8.1.2.15 A summary of the Salmon and Sea Trout Fisheries effects pre and post mitigation is shown below in Table 8.1-2.

8-4 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.3.2 8.1.3.1 8.1.3.3 Section 8.1.3 Activity Fishing Changesto Noise Operational EMFs Habitat of New Introduction Habitat Loss of Operation Noise Seabedto Disturbance Temporary Construction Effect Table

8.1

3 Introduction – -

( less significantly be to likely are and phase construction the from derived those than significance greater no of be worst, at will, phase decommissioning the from derived and on information schedules detailed of decommissioning absence the in and assessment this of purposes the For sites farm wind proposed three o declared for undertaken profit taxable activity fishing legal any as defined is fishing Commercial 2 An assessment of the likely significant effects of the the of effects significant likely the of i assessment An OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact nfrastructure (OfTI) is provided in in (OfTI) provided is nfrastructure e.g.

n commercial fishing from the construction, operation and decommissioning of the the of decommissioning and operation construction, the from fishing commercial n / Decommissioning Salmonandsea trout Salmonandsea trout Salmonandsea trout Salmonandsea trout Salmonandsea trout Salmonandsea trout Salmonandsea trout

there will be no piling works d nopiling works be will there Salm Receptor on and Sea on and Sea Trout Impact Summa

. . This This

Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure chapter

Pre Negative Probable

Minor summarises the assessment of the likely significant effects significant likely the of assessment the summarises Not significantNot - Mitigation effect Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative Probable Probable Probable : Unlikely Unlikely

Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor - Telford, Stevenson and MacColl and Stevenson Telford, Moderate Chapter

/Positive - MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited uring decommissioning uring Unlikely methodologies, it is assumed that any effects effects any that assumed is it methodologies,

ry

11 .1

confidenceand mitigation (Commercial Fisheries) (Commercial Monitoring Cableprotection workto increase whererequired. assessment Mitigation burial None None None None None measures

/survey

).

/or

/ o . -

ffshore ffshore EnvironmentalStatement Post Negative Probable Minor .

Not significantNot - Mitigation effect Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative Probable Probable Probable Unlikely Unlikely t Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor - ransmission ransmission Moderate

/Positive - Unlikely

8

- 5

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.1.3.4 An assessment of the cumulative effects arising from developments in addition to the three proposed wind farm sites is given in Chapter 15.1 (Commercial Fisheries).

8.1.3.5 The following chapters and appendices support this assessment, and can be found as:  Chapter 5.1 and Technical Appendix 5.1 A (Commercial Fisheries);  Chapter 7.2 and Technical Appendix 4.3 A(Fish and Shellfish Ecology);  Technical Appendix 4.3 B (Salmon and Sea Trout Ecology and Fisheries); and  Chapter 8.2 and Technical Appendix 5.2 D (Shipping and Navigation).

8.1.4 Rochdale Envelope Parameters Considered in the Assessment 8.1.4.1 A worst realistic case scenario for the effects of the three proposed wind farm sites upon commercial fishing activities has identified the wind farm design parameters which will have the greatest potential effect upon the fishing activities described in the baseline (see Chapter 2.2: Project Description). 8.1.4.2 The principal factor in determining the design parameters that will constitute a realistic worst case is the consideration of how the fishing activities described in the baseline will be most affected. This could occur in two ways: the first is the potential for the wind farm developments to cause adverse effects to fish and shellfish populations of commercial importance, and hence result in changes to behaviour or a decline in abundance which will potentially affect the fishery. Whilst this potential effect is briefly summarised within this section, it is fully assessed in Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology). Second, there is the potential for the wind farm (i.e. turbines and cabling) to constitute a physical obstacle or risk to the continuation of normal fishing activities as described in the baseline. Accepting that the Fish and Shellfish Ecology assessment will identify the worst case parameters for the first issue, it is the second which determines the parameters of a realistic worst case for commercial fishing activities, and which may result in the identification of design parameters different to those identified as the realistic worst case for incurring effects on species. 8.1.4.3 It should be noted that commercial fishing is not expected to be excluded during construction, with the exception of locations where safety zones are in operation. 8.1.4.4 It should be noted that commercial fishing is not automatically excluded from occurring within operational wind farm sites. In a number of existing operating wind farms, however, 50 m safety zones, extending from the centre point of individual turbines and from which all vessels are prohibited, have been put in place. It is noted, however, that individual skippers may consider it unsafe to continue fishing within the operational wind farm sites, which would result in a complete loss of area from within the three proposed wind farm sites for these vessels. 8.1.4.5 In light of the above, it is therefore considered that infrastructure with the combined biggest footprint poses the most significant physical obstacle to fishing activities. This includes the highest number of turbines with the smallest spacing, and the maximum number of meteorological masts. Infrastructure including inter-array cables will also be assessed in terms of the feasibility of undertaking normal fishing practices. 8.1.4.6 It should be noted that there will be components of the offshore transmission infrastructure which may also be located within the boundaries (or close to the boundaries) of the wind farms. This will include a maximum of 8 OSPs of gravity base foundations and associated infrastructure (inter platform cabling). An assessment of this infrastructure, whilst referenced in this assessment, is fully described in Chapter 11.1 (Commercial Fisheries).

8-6 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.4.8 8.1.4.7 Section Vessels Interference Fishingwith Activity Displacementof Increased Vessels Safety Grounds Restricted Acc Temporary activities) commercialfishing (indirect effect upon Shellfish Populations and CommerciallyExploited Adverse Construction &Decommissioning ofType Effect Table Recreational Fish and

Issues 8.1

3

Effects

– - SteamingTimes

3 bet interactions negative of five period construction potential period construction longer of a over increased are activities construction risks the that sites farm wind operational the within degree shorter some concentrated, to resumed be could activities fishing more assumes this that however, noted, be should a It that identified lo a to preferred generally was period interests construction fishing with for case Consultation worst a constitute that design sites’ farm in aresummarised activities wind fishing commercial the of parameters The Loss OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

for

essto on or Fishing Fishing Summary of Summary Worst Case Parameters forCommercial Fishing Fishing

  Realistic worstcasescenario should recognisealso the safety risks posedbycables: See          Maximum ofloss fishing grounds as aresult of: See RochdaleEnvelope Scenario Assessed Locationof portof construction and maximumnumber of construction vessels. works limitedsource. confl grounds andaffecting fishermen that in area accesstofishing grounds’), resulting fishingin activity being displaced into other Maximum steamingtimes as aresult. Maximumnumber of safety 

Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Incomplete installation of inter arraycables. Maximum inter Maximumnumber of turbines (339turbines) Maximumnumber of incomplete infrastructuresafety with zon and Maximumnumber of construction vessels (six),each 500 with Incomplete installation of inter arraycables ( Maximum inter arr differentsizeturbines); Irregularpattern between MacColl,Telford andStevenson sites(likely as result a of Minimumspacing between turbines (840 Diamond layout(irregular spacing); 339turbines andmaximum number Gravity base foundationsof 65 Chapter Chapter ictbetween static and mobilevessels and

disruptiontofishing activity thewithin sites (see ‘Temporary orloss restricted

8 7.2 years .2

( ( Fish andShellfish Ecology Shipping and Navigation arraycable length(572

is therefore taken as the realistic worst case. worst realistic the as taken therefore is aycable length(572 MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

/

exclusionzones the sites,in resulting in increased

m diameter;

Table of met masts (two); ) ) km km

for furtherfor information.

nger term construction schedule construction term nger m

– );and );

; 8.1 .

an indirecteffect resultcould in

downwindand 600

/ i.e. or increased competitionfor a Furthermore, it is considered considered is it Furthermore, -

3 priorto post installationsurveys); ween fishing vessels and and vessels fishing ween

below

-

EnvironmentalStatement .

m es(50

m exclusionzone; . . crosswind); A maximum maximum A

m) .

8

-

7 .

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Type of Effect Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed

Operation

Adverse Effects on Commercially Exploited and Recreational Fish and Shellfish Populations See Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology) (indirect effect upon commercial fishing activities)

 Gravity base foundations of 65 m diameter;  339 turbines and maximum number of met masts (two);  Maximum number of safety zones around infrastructure;  Diamond layout (irregular spacing); Complete Loss or Restricted  Minimum spacing between turbines (840 m downwind and 600 m crosswind); Access to Fishing Grounds  Irregular pattern between MacColl, Telford and Stevenson sites (likely as a result of different size turbines);  Maximum inter array cable length (572 km);  Maximum unburied sections of inter array cables protected by mattresses; and  Minimum burial depth of inter array cables.

See Chapter 8.2 (Shipping and Navigation) for further information. The assessment also recognises the safety risks posed by the inter array cables based upon: Safety Issues for Fishing  Maximum inter array cable length (572 km); Vessels  Maximum unburied sections of inter array cables protected by mattresses; and  Minimum burial depth of inter array cables.

Increased Steaming Times As per construction.

Obstacles on the Seabed Any construction related obstacles and changes to seabed conditions, including Post-Construction cable burial and protection.

Maximum disruption to fishing activity within in the sites (see ‘Complete loss or restricted access to fishing grounds’), resulting in fishing activity being displaced into Displacement of Fishing other grounds and affecting fishermen in that area – an indirect effect could result in Activity conflict between static and mobile vessels and / or increased competition for a limited source.

Interference with Fishing Location of operation and maintenance port and maximum number of operation Vessels and maintenance works vessels.

8.1.5 EIA Methodology

Commercial Fisheries

8.1.5.1 The following section describes the impact assessment methodology for commercial fisheries, which has been applied to the baseline provided in Chapter 5.1 (Commercial Fisheries). In the absence of published guidelines by Marine Scotland regarding the assessment of effects of wind farm developments upon commercial fishing activities, the aspects requiring assessment for the proposed development are as specified in the CEFAS / MCEU (2004) Guidelines. The aspects are as follows:  Implications for fisheries during the construction phase;  Implications for fisheries when the development is completed;

8-8 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.5.8 8.1.5.7 8.1.5.6 8.1.5.5 8.1.5.4 8.1.5.3 8.1.5.2 Section Limitations Assessment Fisheries Trout Sea Salmon and

3 –

hne t te eaiu o seis f com of species of behaviour the to Changes UK. the relative around grounds scallop available to as well as Firth, Moray the to their importance of context the within considered been have sites farm wind proposed basis vessel by vessel a on effect an of extent the consider to assessment this of scope the within possible not is it Firth, Moray the as such areas regional certain in time more spend may vessels individual grounds targeting variously vessels, predominantly inshore and availability, smaller several of exception the with crew nomadic, largely is fishery ( baseline and the in discussed As costs fuel as under such assessment constraints etc weather, as such restrictions environmental economic policies, nu time over change to baseline established the of potential the is activities fishing commercial upon effects of assessment an of limitation principal The Chapter of assessment full A in and coastal could affect environment sites t considered construction is it coastal, in either being fisheries trout sea and salmon of result a As the of those associate than effects significance greater likely no the of be phase that construction will considered and phase schedules is decommissioning decommissioning the it on information methodologies, detailed of absence the In effects specific site of terms in phase operational the and phases decommissioning separately be will effects above the of assessment An  with consultation to subsequent included been has effect of type following the above, the to addition In        f h tre rpsd id am ie, a idrcl afc cmeca fishing in provided commercial is species shellfish affect and fish upon indirectly may in those sites, (including farm activities wind proposed three the of construction the from arising environment, marine OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

mber of reasons; fluctuations in landings, changes in legislation and management management and legislation in changes landings, in fluctuations reasons; of mber Displacement of fishing activity into other fishing areas. fishing other into activity of fishing Displacement fis with Interference and construction; post seabed on the Obstacles grounds; fishing to times steaming Increased vessels; fishing for issue Safety fishing grounds; traditional to access or restricted loss Complete Adverse populations; shellfish and fish harvested on commercially effect Adverse . However, changes to the behaviour of the species in the offshore marine marine offshore the in species the of behaviour the to changes However,

7 .2 effect on recreational fish populations; fish on recreational effect

( / Fish and Shellfish Ecology Shellfish and Fish

decommissioning decommissioning taken is limited by the baseline identified. baseline bythe limited is taken Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure .

fishing the

heries activities.

iey infcn efcs pn the upon effects significant likely

interests: hat there will be no direct effects arising from the the from arising effects direct no be will there hat - river) Chapter

and . MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited .

In n seset f th of assessment An

) stead, scallop grounds affected by the three three the by affected grounds scallop stead,

prto o te he pooe wn farm wind proposed three the of operation , and summarised , summarised and

5.1 - river river

Cmeca Fisheries Commercial : around the UK the around Chapter salmon and sea trout fisheries. trout sea salmon and

. . mercial importance in the offshore offshore the in importance mercial As a result the scope of the impact impact the of scope the result a As

/

decommissioning and operation operation and decommissioning

7.2 applied to the construction the to applied in

( . . - e likely significant significant likely e Fish and Shellfish Ecology Shellfish and Fish se

river or, to a lesser extent, extent, lesser a to or, river 8.1.7 Although it is noted that that noted is it Although

species is described in in described is species -

within this chapter within EnvironmentalStatement . . ), the king scallop scallop king the ),

This may be for a a for be may This wt the with d

effects 8 .

- 9 / ) .

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

and the findings summarised where relevant in this chapter. It should be noted that the methodology used to assess effects on fish and shellfish species (including significance criteria) differs from the one used to assess commercial fisheries, being largely based on the IEEM (2010) guidelines for ecological impact assessment (see Chapter 7.2: Fish and Shellfish Ecology).

8.1.5.9 The impact assessment on salmon and sea trout fisheries is subject to a number of limitations as a result of the lack of current knowledge on the sensitivity of the species to certain types of effects. In addition, as a result of uncertainties in relation to the distribution of these species and the use that they may make of the area of the three proposed wind farm sites, a number of conservative assumptions have been made.

Significance Criteria

8.1.5.10 The significance criteria described below have been used for this assessment. However, the effects of offshore wind farm developments upon commercial fishing activities cannot be easily categorised and as a result, the application of the significance criteria to an assessment of effects is largely qualitative and based upon professional judgement.

8.1.5.11 In the instance whereby the development potentially poses a risk to the health and safety of a fishing vessel and crew, the significance criteria used for the assessment is not applied. Instead, the risk is assessed to be within or outside acceptable limits (a risk is considered outside of acceptable limits if they are greater than those incurred during the course of normal fishing operations). For further details, see Chapter 8.2 (Shipping and Navigation).

8.1.5.12 In instances where the findings from Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology) have been summarised, the significance criteria used in that chapter applies.

8.1.5.13 The receptors have been defined by fishery:  The scallop fishery;  The squid fishery;  The whitefish fishery;  The Nephrops fishery;  The crab and lobster fishery; and  The salmon and sea trout fishery.

Sensitivity of the Receptor

8.1.5.14 Sensitivities have been defined on this basis. In each instance, the following characteristics are taken into account:  Adaptability: the ability of the fishery (i.e. vessels) to avoid or adapt to the effect;  Tolerance: the ability of the fishery (i.e. vessels) to withstand temporarily or permanent effects;  Recoverability: how well the fisheries recover following exposure to effect; and  Value: the scale of importance, rarity and relative worth of the fisheries affected.

8.1.5.15 The sensitivity of each fishery has been assessed as low, medium and high, using the following criteria:  Low sensitivity: no significant change to current fishing practices;

8-10 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.5.24 8.1.5.23 8.1.5.22 8.1.5.21 8.1.5.20 8.1.5.19 8.1.5.18 8.1.5.17 8.1.5.16 Section Effect of Magnitude 3

–

h mgiue f n fet a en sesd sngiil, o mdu o high, or medium low criteria: following using the negligible, as assessed been has effect an of magnitude The     by fishery basis fishery a on effect predicted each for considered is effect an of magnitude The medium to increases sensitivity the when conflict, navigational for potential the of exception the to considered generally is fishery lobster and crab the of sensitivity The conflict. navigational potential to sensitive more is fishery the is sites farm wind the of sensitivity The low. be to considered Nephrops located being sites the to Due is sites farm wind proposed three the of development the to fishery whitefish the of sensitivity The scale national on a important is fishery squid Firth Moray the that recognises it annual level peak regional a on wind medium proposed be to three considered the is of sites development farm the to fishery squid the of sensitivity The UK, the around grounds scallop of availability the and fleet the of majority the of nature is sites farm wind proposed three the of development the to fishery scallop the of sensitivity The instance each in described separately are result a as and phases, operational and decommissioning of type each with vary may fishery abov criteria the using defined been has (fisheries) receptors the of sensitivity general The     OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

High sensitivity: fishing activities are significantly and permanently affected and permanently aresignificantly activities fishing sensitivity: High and practices; current fishing to changes discernible sensitivity: Medium Low: there is no significant effect upon current fishing practices; fishing upon current effect significant no is Low: there upon cur effect nodiscernible is there Negligible: of change degree the Severity: of time number the Frequency: construction construction the the of farmexport and wind of the result operation a of as activities fishing normal result a resume to unable are fishery) (by vessels fishing that extent temporal the Duration: as activities grounds; fishing available and farm fishing wind to the of unable operation and are decommissioning fishery) normal (by vessels fishing which undertake within area the extent: Spatial

the sensitivity of the fishery is considered to be low on a national level national on a low be to fishery considered of is the sensitivity the ad r smaie below summarised are and e

. fishery to the development of the three proposed wind farm sites is is sites farm wind proposed three the of development the to fishery

. considered considered In each instance, the f the instance, each In landings and landings .

generally Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Nephrops Nephrops

to be low. be to

o e eim n rgoa level regional a on medium be to

fluctuations considered to be very low, although it is recognised that that recognised is it although low, very be to considered

ihr t te devel the to fishery outwith

s . MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

the effect occurs; and effect the ollowing characteristics are taken into into account: aretaken characteristics ollowing effect, as well as between the construction and construction the between as well as effect, .

of sensitivity the that noted be should It on an annual basis should be noted be should basis annual an on

of

cables; Nephrops Nephrops

rent fishing practices; fishing rent opment of the three proposed proposed three the of opment grounds, the sensitivity of the the of sensitivity the grounds,

. export cables, relative to to relative cables, export

/

. This takes into account account into takes This decommissioning and and decommissioning Due to the nomadic nomadic the to Due -

EnvironmentalStatement

be low, with with low, be .

. . . . Further, Further,

the 8 - 11

/

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

 Medium: discernible effect upon current fishing practices; and  High: fishing activities are significantly and permanently affected.

8.1.5.25 The significance of an effect is assigned using an assessment of the magnitude of effect and sensitivity of the receptor criteria, and is given in Table 8.1-4 below.

Table 8.1-4 Significance Criteria

Sensitivity of Receptor

Low Medium High

Negligible Not significant Minor significance Minor significance

Low Minor significance Minor significance Moderate significance

Medium Minor significance Moderate significance Major significance Magnitude

High Moderate significance Major significance Major significance

8.1.6 Commercial Fisheries Primary Impact Assessment: Three Proposed Wind Farm Sites

8.1.6.1 The commercial fisheries baseline is described in Chapter 5.1 and is supported by Technical Appendix 5.1 A. A brief summary is provided below.

8.1.6.2 The principal commercial species targeted by gear type within the three proposed wind farm sites are: king scallops by boat dredges, and to a lesser extent squid fishing by demersal gear.

8.1.6.3 As stated in Chapter 5.1 (Commercial Fisheries), the three proposed wind farm sites constitute a moderate proportion of the scallop fishing grounds currently available in the Moray Firth and a small proportion of scallop grounds on a national scale. Although the availability of fishing grounds around the UK is noted, the sensitivity of the fishery assigned is based upon the importance of grounds on a regional level (Moray Firth).

8.1.6.4 The squid fishery in the Moray Firth is targeted by a range of demersal trawl vessels with reconfigured gear. As the baseline indicates, the fishery is seasonal, and landings record high annual variation. Principal fishing grounds are currently inshore along the Moray coast and in the south west of the proposed development. The squid fishery in the Moray Firth is important on a national scale, and the baseline indicates that there is a moderate level of squid fishing within the three proposed wind farm sites.

8.1.6.5 There is a very low level of whitefish activity recorded in the north west of the three proposed wind farm sites, which constitutes only a small proportion of activity in the Moray Firth.

8.1.6.6 In the case of the fishing activities described above, the wind farm sites record moderate levels of activity compared to grounds elsewhere in the Moray Firth, and relatively low levels when compared to fishing grounds on a national scale.

8.1.6.7 In areas outside of the wind farm sites but in the regional area, the principal fisheries in addition to those identified above are the nephrops fishery and the crab and lobster fishery. The nephrops fishery is the most important fishery in the Moray Firth

8-12 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.6.12 8.1.6.11 8.1.6.10 8.1.6.9 8.1.6.8 Section Fish Recreational on Effects Adverse Noise Seabed Disturbance Temporary Effect Decommissioning and Table Populations and Fish Shellfish Exploited Commercially on Effects Adverse Construction

8.1

3

– -

ih species fish activity fishing recreational and directed farms be may wind or there proposed that three regular recognised the of be boundary the to within considered occurring not is There 5 in summarised the affect indirectly may this which abundance, fishery species the of in productivity decline a or behaviour fish to effects adverse to changes cause in result hence and to importance, commercial of populations shellfish development and farm wind for potential the is There    are: sites farm wind thre the within type gear by targeted species commercial principal The effect individual each under assessed are effect an to sensitive fisheries those only that noted be should It dif presented is information the below, summarised been have assessment this in given developments, the to sensitivities Ecology Shellfish species’ of case the In scale regional on a importance of moderate is it where coast, Caithness the particularly areas, inshore in concentrated principally on important moderately and assessed in in assessed OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

to Haddock Haddock Squid Kin

– chapter chapter e tot wih ae infcn socio significant have which trout, sea

g scallo Commercial Fisheries Commercial Summary ofImpact AssessmentSummary King scallopsKing by modified modified by

8.1.7 Haddock Receptor . chapter by whitefish gear (seine nets and demersal trawls) demersal (seine and nets gear by whitefish ps by boat dredge; by boat ps and fully assessed in in assessed fully and All As previously stated, salmon and sea trout fisheries are separately separately are fisheries trout sea and salmon stated, previously As Table

within chapter this within )

/ Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure describes the significance criteria used, which differs from that that from differs which used, criteria significance the describes

squid

. . 8.1 Nephrops , As a result, where the findings of the Fish and Shellfish Ecology Ecology Shellfish and Fish the of findings the where result, a As

in all development stages development all in

- 5

. below.

Sensitivity Populations This is an indirect effect which is briefly discussed within within discussed briefly is which effect indirect an is This Low Low Low

trawls and whitefish gear; and whitefish and trawls effects upon migrating fish species such as salmon salmon as such species fish migrating upon effects ntoa scale national a

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited . on Principal Commercial Species on Principal

Chapter

Magnitude

Medium

Small Small

- .

economic importance as recreational recreational as importance economic

7.2

.

. ConfidenceLevel ( ih n Selih Ecology Shellfish and Fish The crab and lobster fishery is is fishery lobster and crab The Probable Unlikely -

Chapter

, a to

-

EnvironmentalStatement

during Construction Significanceof . lesser extent lesser

It is, however, however, is, It 7.2 Negative Negative Negative e proposed proposed e Minor Minor Minor

ferently ( Fish and and Fish

) , and and ,

E . ffect

8 .

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CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Temporary Loss or Restricted Access to Traditional Fishing Grounds

8.1.6.13 The principal effects of construction considered to incur complete loss or restricted access to fishing grounds during the construction phase are:  Exclusion zones around construction activities; and  Installed offshore infrastructure in addition to construction exclusion zones.

8.1.6.14 Safety zones of 500 m are expected to be imposed around construction works, from which all non-construction associated vessels would be excluded. There will be several major construction works requiring 500 m safety zones simultaneously occurring within the three sites, potentially up to 6, or likely fewer over a more extended period (maximum duration of construction is 5 years). This will result in zones within the three proposed wind farm sites from which all types of fishing activity are prohibited for the duration of the construction phase. The seasonality of fishing activity will render these exclusion zones more sensitive depending upon the time of year, with the summer months recording the highest levels of fishing activity overall. However, relative to the size of the site (296 km²), six temporary 500 m exclusion zones constitute a very small area.

8.1.6.15 Infrastructure already partially or completely installed on the seabed in addition to ongoing construction works will further restrict access to, and result in complete loss of, fishing grounds. MORL is likely to apply for operational safety zones of 50 m around infrastructure such as turbines, met masts and OSPs (in the case of gravity base OSPs, the safety zone may be required to be proportionally larger to ensure a sufficient boundary to incorporate the footprint of the infrastructure. The OfTI is fully described in Chapter 11.1: Commercial Fisheries). It therefore follows that fishing opportunities within the three proposed wind farm sites will be increasingly limited as the construction schedule advances. The total number of safety zones would result in a combined exclusion of approximately 1 % of the total site area.

8.1.6.16 A maximum of 572 km of inter array cables will be installed within the wind farm as the construction phase progresses. These cables will be buried where feasible, with sections protected by other means if burial is not possible. It is considered that fishing vessels will not be able to safely fish in the vicinity of these cables until these measures are complete and their ‘over-trawlable’ status confirmed by post- installation surveys, which would therefore result in loss of fishing grounds throughout the site during the construction phase.

8.1.6.17 The significance of effect resulting in temporary loss or restricted access to fishing grounds during the construction phase takes into account the following:  The moderate proportion of fishing grounds (by fishery) the three proposed wind farm sites comprise;  The availability of alternative fishing grounds (by fishery) in the Moray Firth and wider area; and  Access to all fishing grounds within the three sites will become progressively more restricted as the construction schedule advances.

8.1.6.18 The significance of effect upon each of the receptors identified is provided in Table 8.1-6 below.

8-14 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.6.24 8.1.6.23 8.1.6.22 8.1.6.21 8.1.6.20 8.1.6.19 Section Grounds Fishing to Time Steaming Increased Vessels Fishing for Issues Safety Effect Table to Fishingto Grounds TemporaryLoss or Restricted Access

8.1 3

– -

h ipeetto o sft ecuin oe drn te osrcin hs could phase construction the during zones exclusion safety of implementation The are vessels fishing and works construction and infrastructure farm wind between risks collision Potential be to areconsidered vessels of fishing safety the these until cables com these are measures of vicinity the in fish safely to able be not will vessels fishing section constr the during of maximum A phase construction the accep within during installed infrastructure from risk safety the put would 1 approximately of exclusion and sufficient a ensure to larger infrastructur the of footprint proportionally the incorporate to boundary be to required be may zone safety the OSPs, base gravity of case (inthe OSPs and masts met turbines, as such infrastructure potentially of result inter a and as vessels fishing to gear fishing risk with interactions hazardous additional an pose to zones safety infrastructure farm for wind potential the There is Chapter risk safety the a of master the with lies vessel safety to regards with responsibility ultimate the practice, occurred zones con these of infringements if occur only would vessels fishing to Risks excluded be will vessels, around place it in put be OSPs) will fishing 50 including of zone vessels, all no is that Infrastructure which from activities, 500 of zones safety construction that period maximum a for site the across locations at occur will events construction simultaneous six of maximum A 6 hr wl b adtoa 50 additional be will there vessels 500 six fishing in resulting vessels, construction for costs and operational times, and higher distances steaming in increases term short some in result OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Mitigation Mitigation . . Temporary Loss Temporary

poetd y te mas f uil s o possible not is burial if means other by protected s Compliance with the safety zones during the construction phas construction the during zones safety the with Compliance

8 Whitefish fishery Squidfishery ScallopFishery Receptor - .2 ra cabling array

m ( table Shipping and Navigation Shipping o a oe omnuae ih nrsrcue type infrastructure with commensurate zone a (or ihn accep within . ( 572

see see cin phase uction discussed in in discussed Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

It should also be recognised that in line with standard maritime maritime standard with line in that recognised be also should It plete limits

km or FishingRestricted Access Grounds to Traditional 8.1.8

t fully constructed will be marked and it is is it and marked be will constructed fully t

. . . .

f ne ary als il e ntle wti te id farm wind the within installed be will cables array inter of

During the construction phase, therefore, the risks posed to to posed risks the therefore, phase, construction the During MORL is likely to apply for for apply to likely is MORL below of five of

m Sensitivityof table Receptor

Medium Medium % Chapter aey oe apid o nrsrcue install infrastructure to applied zones safety Low

. of the the of )

years .

hs cbe wl b bre wee esbe with feasible, where buried be will cables These MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited limits .

These safety zones would result in a combined combined a in result would zones safety These

m )

area site total . . .

8.2

m . . . will be in place around offshore construction construction offshore around place in be will In line with standard practice, it is expected is it practice, standard with line In Positive This includes turbines, met masts and OSPs, and masts met turbines, includes This These issues are considered further within within further considered are issues These

safety exclusion zones exclusion safety ( Shipping and Navigation and Shipping . Negative Negative Negative Effect

/ There may be a maximum of six six of maximum a be may There outwith outside of accep outside Negative

. . Compliance with these zones zones these with Compliance aey oe o 50 of zones safety

the designated construction designated the e), see Proposed Proposed see e), Magnitudeof . Medium Medium Medium Effect - It is considered that that considered is It

. . EnvironmentalStatement

table likely It is also likely that likely also is It

:

) i.e. . struction safety safety struction

limits that a safety a that gravity base base gravity e would put would e Significanceof

Monitoring Monitoring Moderate Moderate m d during ed therefore therefore Minor Effect .

around around

8 -

15 .

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

the construction phase within the site, which will increase in number as the construction schedule advances.

8.1.6.25 The significance of effect resulting in temporary loss or restricted access to fishing grounds during the construction phase takes into account the following:  The very discrete sea area restricted by safety zones; and  The location of the three proposed wind farm sites outside of 12 nm and outside of principal steaming routes.

8.1.6.26 In light of the above, the reduced sensitivity of the fisheries in respect of this type of effect should be noted. The significance of increased steaming times to fishing grounds is provided in Table 8.1-7 below.

Table 8.1-7 Increased Steaming Times to Fishing Grounds

Sensitivity of Positive / Negative Magnitude of Significance of Effect Receptor Receptor Effect Effect Effect

Scallop Fishery Low Negative Low Minor Increased Steaming Time to Squid fishery Low Negative Low Minor Fishing Grounds Whitefish fishery Low Negative Low Minor

Displacement of Fishing Vessels into Other Areas

8.1.6.27 Concerns were raised during consultation with fishermen and their representatives that any loss or restricted access to fishing grounds as a result of the wind farm development, could result in increased competition for grounds outside of the site. This might result in either conflict between vessels competing for the same resource, or between different fishing methods (i.e. static and towed gear vessels).

8.1.6.28 The extent of displacement will be a function of the temporary loss or restricted access to traditional fishing grounds during the construction phase. The significance of displacement of fishing vessels to other areas is provided in Table 8.1-8 below.

Table 8.1-8 Displacement of Fishing Vessels into Other Areas

Sensitivity of Positive / Negative Magnitude of Significance of Effect Receptor Receptor Effect Effect Effect

Scallop Fishery Medium Negative Medium Moderate Displacement of Fishing Vessels into Squid fishery Medium Negative Medium Moderate Other Areas Whitefish fishery Low Negative Medium Minor

Interference with Fishing Vessels

8.1.6.29 All of the likely effects included in this assessment could cause interference to fishing activities. An additional effect to be considered is the potential for navigational conflicts arising between fishing vessels and construction vessels transiting to and from the site. This could include the fouling of static gear markers, buoys and dhans (marker flags) and towed gear vessels being required to alter towing direction. As a result, this interference has the potential to affect fishing vessels operating in the regional area. Due to the mobility of towed gear and the static position of creel

8-16 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.6.34 8.1.6.33 8.1.6.32 8.1.6.31 8.1.6.30 Section Populations and Fish Shellfish Exploited Commercially on Effects Adverse Operation Effect Table Interferenceto FishingVessels Navigational arisingfrom

Conflicts

8.1 3

– -

(see (see 8.1 in given relevan is haddock) areas and squid in scallops, (king species sites farm target wind proposed principal three the on effects the of summary A within discussed briefly is in assessed effect potential the fishery whilst the of productivity the affect indirectly may importance, commercial which abundance, species in decline a or of behaviour to changes in result hence and populations shellfish and fish to effects adverse cause trawls) demersal (seine gear and whitefish nets by haddock extent, lesser much a to and, gear whitefish and trawls Nephrops modified by squid dredge, boat by scallops king are: sites farm wind gear by targeted species commercial principal The therefore is period this over effect should to change of this potential the and an of scale potential unrealistic the of assessment an farm wind life design proposed three the of life operational the of context the in considered be should below described effects The 9 in provided is 8.1 identified vessels fishing to interference the of significance The grounds in th identified fisheries gear towed and static of vicinity the in be will routes transit that unknown is time current the at d effect of magnitude The of be to of this effect type to sensitivity increased considered is fishery lobster and crab the days, several of periods for gear OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

–

- -

Commercial Fisheries Commercial 9 10

Chapter below. Interference to Fishing Vessels arising from NavigationalInterference arising to Vessels Conflicts Fishing below fishery Craband lobster Nephropsfishery Whitefish fishery Squidfishery ScallopFishery Receptor . . . . Chapter Chapter The impact assessment provided below is based on the current baseline, baseline, current the on based is below provided assessment impact The

Trends in fishing activities are difficult to establish on a yearly basis, and basis, yearly a on establish to difficult are activities fishing in Trends . .

7.2

In general terms general In

: Fish and Shellfish Ecology). Shellfish : and Fish Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

7

.2

e wider regional area are also assessed. also are area regional e wider

( Fish and Shellfish Ecology Shellfish and Fish

. epends upon the location of the construction port, which which port, construction the of location the upon epends Sensitivityof hr i te oeta fr th for potential the is There Receptor Medium . . Low Low Low Low ,

As a result, a conservative assumption has assumed assumed has assumption conservative a result, a As effects on these species are predicted to be be to predicted are species these on effects

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

. ie, urnl etmtd o e 25 be to estimated currently sites,

Positive also

Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative Effect be recognised. be

/ Negative )

and summarised below. summarised and

. type within the three proposed proposed three the within type hs s a is This hs paragraphs these oeainl id am to farm wind operational e Magnitudeof M

Effect edium

Low Low Low Low idrc efc and effect indirect n -

EnvironmentalStatement

Significanceof . . i i fully is it , Moderate

Principal Principal Minor Minor Minor Minor Effect years t the to t minor Table Table Table

8

-

17 in

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Table 8.1-10 Summary of Impact Assessment on Principal Commercial Species during Operation

Effect Receptor Sensitivity Magnitude Probability Significance of effect

Negative Loss of Habitat All Low Negligible Unlikely Not significant

Introduction of New Negative / Positive All Low Small Probable Habitat Minor

Negative Haddock Low Small Unlikely Minor EMFs King scallops, Negative Low Small Unlikely squid Minor

Negative Operational Noise All Low Small Unlikely Minor

Changes to Fishing Activity (i.e. changes to fishing activity as a result of wind All Low Negligible - Not significant farm development which may affect fish and shellfish populations)

8.1.6.35 Taking into account the findings of Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology), and accepting that there may be short term species displacement effects which may have a limited indirect effect upon catch rates, it has been assumed that the indirect effects upon commercial fishing will not be greater than those identified in the table above.

Adverse Effects on Recreational Fish Populations

8.1.6.36 There is not currently considered to be regular or directed recreational fishing activity occurring within the boundary of the proposed development. It is however, recognised that there may be effects from the operational wind farm upon migratory fish species such as salmon and sea trout, which have significant socio- economic importance as recreational fish species. As previously stated, effects upon salmon and sea trout fisheries are separately assessed in 8.1.7 of this chapter.

8.1.6.37 There is the possibility that a recreational fishery may develop within the three proposed wind farm sites during the operational phase, depending upon available recreational fish populations. It is however recognised that there is currently little evidence for such an activity developing within existing wind farms.

Complete Loss or Restricted Access to Traditional Fishing Grounds

8.1.6.38 Existing legislation does not currently prohibit fishing from occurring within operational wind farm sites. It is likely that safety zones of 50 m around infrastructure such as turbines, met masts and OSPs will be applied for (in the case of gravity base OSPs, the safety zone may be required to be proportionally larger to ensure a sufficient boundary to incorporate the footprint of the infrastructure. Offshore transmission infrastructure is fully described in Chapter 11.1: Commercial Fisheries). The total number of safety zones would result in a combined exclusion of approximately 1 % of the total site area.

8-18 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.6.44 8.1.6.43 8.1.6.42 8.1.6.41 8.1.6.40 8.1.6.39 Section Vessels Fishing for Issues Safety Effect Table to Fishingto Grounds Restricted Access CompleteLoss or

8.1 3

– -

e mss n OP (n h cs o gaiy ae Ss te aey oe a be may zone safety the OSPs, base gravity of case the (in OSPs and masts met 50 of zones safety for apply to likely is MORL 11 8.1 in provided is identified receptors the of each upon effect of significance The     fishi to access restricted or loss following: the into account takes phase construction the complete during grounds in resulting effect of significance The these a for in sites farm result wind would proposed which three the infrastructure, within vessels of from area presence of the loss complete of because bottom sites operating operationa farm those the within fishing particularly continue to unsafe skippers, it consider individual may gear, towed that noted however is It fleet the be reg will access of degree some that considered is it spacing, minimum the account 2011) fisherman, squid and Whitefish 92 of doors otter between spread gear maximum a tar identified trawler has demersal recorded largest the of width gear maximum The (pers practices fishing normal during 60 width of gear maximum a estimated have fishermen of sample a by provided gear distance spacing minimum the 840 is turbines parameters, between design case worst the in identified As accep an to returned to undertaken be will measures appropriate the feasible, practicably where and required, are procedures rectification seabed that event the activities installation and construction of vicinity immediate the in status seabed elsewhere protected post The would result in a combin a in result would infrastructure the in described of footprint the propo be to required OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

- The potential for access to fishing grounds to be regained within the sites. the within regained be to grounds fishing forto access The potential and zones; safety associated small The area; wider and Firth Moray the grounds in fishing of alternative The availability comprise; sites farm wind proposed three the grounds fishing of importance moderate The ained within the operational sites, particularly in the case of the smaller vessels in in vessels smaller the of case the in particularly sites, operational the within ained 11

Complete LossorRestricted Access to Grounds Fishing below

.

. -

construction status of inter array cables will be buried where feasible and feasible where buried be will cables array inter of status construction Whitefish Squidfishery ScallopFishery Receptor .

Chapter area of seabed permanently lost as a result of infrastructure and and infrastructure of result a as lost permanently seabed of area

fishery Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

.

table

rtionally larger to ensure a sufficient boundary to incorporate incorporate to boundary sufficient a ensure to larger rtionally 1

1 m Post construction surveys will will surveys construction Post ed exclusion of approximately 1 of approximately ed exclusion .1 : Commercial Fisheries Commercial : downwind and 600 and downwind

Sensitivityof safelyresumed be to practices for fishing standard Receptor Medium Medium Low

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

.

. Offshore transmission infrastructure is fully fully is infrastructure transmission Offshore ie tee aaees ad aig into taking and parameters, these Given Positive

m Negative Negative Negative

m Effect around infrastructure such as turbines, as such infrastructure around

/ . . ) crosswind Negative . . comm

The total number of safety zones safety of number total The

be undertaken to assess the the assess to undertaken be

% . .

. . ensure that the seabed is is seabed the that ensure of the total site area. site total of the Magnitudeof Scallop fisherman, 2011) fisherman, Scallop Specifications of scallop scallop of Specifications Medium Medium Medium Effect -

EnvironmentalStatement

m

(pers

eig squid geting Significanceof Moderate Moderate . .

Minor Effect

m comm .

l wind l Table

total

. .

8 ng -

19 In . .

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.1.6.45 The post-construction status of inter array cables will be buried where feasible and protected elsewhere. Post construction surveys will be undertaken to assess the seabed status in the immediate vicinity of construction and installation activities, including inter array cables. In the event that seabed rectification procedures are required, and where practicably feasible, the appropriate measures will be undertaken to ensure that the seabed is returned to an acceptable standard for fishing practices to be safely resumed (see 8.1.8 below: Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation). Subject to the satisfactory outcome of post construction surveys, the safety risks to fishing vessels, including from inter array cables, is considered to be within acceptable limits.

8.1.6.46 It is noted that individual skippers, particularly those operating bottom towed gear, may consider it unsafe to continue fishing within the operational wind farm sites because of the presence of infrastructure. Although MORL will endeavour to facilitate continued access to fishing grounds within the sites, it is possible that an individual assessment of safety risks during the operational phase may be different to that provided here.

8.1.6.47 Potential collision risks between wind farm infrastructure during the operational phase and fishing vessels are discussed in Chapter 8.2 (Shipping and Navigation).

Increased Steaming Time to Fishing Grounds

8.1.6.48 Chapter 8.2 (Shipping and Navigation) considered that there is good prospect for fishing vessels to navigate within the operational wind farm sites. As a result, the effect upon steaming distances and times of fishing vessels is not considered to be significant, as shown in Table 8.1-12 below.

Table 8.1-12 Increased Steaming Times to Fishing Grounds

Sensitivity of Positive / Negative Magnitude of Significance of Effect Receptor Receptor Effect Effect Effect

Scallop Fishery Low Negative Low Minor Increased Steaming Time to Squid fishery Low Negative Low Minor Fishing Grounds Whitefish fishery Low Negative Low Minor

Obstacles on the Seabed Post Construction

8.1.6.49 There is the potential for obstacles to be left on the seabed post construction, which could result in damage to, or loss of fishing gears, as well as representing a safety hazard. Offshore works such as construction vessels’ anchoring, jack up legs or cable trenching can produce seabed obstructions which can cause fishing net fastenings and damage to fishing gears.

8.1.6.50 Offshore policy (IMO, 1996) prohibits the discarding of objects or waste at sea. The reporting and recovery of any accidentally dropped object is also required. In addition, post-construction and installation seabed surveys, and if necessary the appropriate seabed rectification measures, will be undertaken to ensure seabed conditions are returned to an acceptable standard.

8.1.6.51 Provided there is compliance to obligatory standards by contractors, and the appropriate post construction and installations measures are taken, the effect is considered to be within acceptable limits.

8-20 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.6.56 8.1.6.55 8.1.6.54 8.1.6.53 8.1.6.52 8.1.6.57 Section Activities Fishing to Interference Other FishingActivity into Displacementof Effect Table into Activity of Fishing Displacement

Areas 8.1 3

– -

esl wl b wl etbihd y h cmlto o cntuto activities, construction of completion the by low reduced to established well used port of irrespective be will th vessels than less fishing and vessels works between conduct of codes that considered is it furthermore be will of vicinity the vessels in be will grounds routes gear towed and transit static that assumed has assumption conservative maintenance and operations the of location the by determined partly be will effect of magnitude The port. maintenance and operations of the location the upon site,depending of the extent, lesser a to potential to or, dhans and buoys direction towing alter to marker required being vessels gear towed gear static of fouling the include be to op vessels effect fishing and between additional arising an conflicts navigational assessment, for potential this the in is considered included effects the to addition In 13 three the within identified Table     restricted or result a loss fo as of effect significance the and temporary phase, construction the the of during grounds function fishing traditional a to access be will displacement of extent The target regional the of in areas availability fishing area the which for by and requirements, principally habitat area, their and regional species the in elsewhere target to The The significance of the interference to fishing vessels identified is provided in in provided is 8.1 identified vessels fishing to interference the of significance The OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

- The availability of alternative fishing grounds in the Moray Firth and wider area; wider and Firth Moray the grounds in fishing of alternative The availability comprise; sites farm wind proposed three the grounds fishing of importance moderate The The potential for access to fishing grounds to be regained within the sites. the within regained be to grounds fishing forto access The potential perm seabed and zones; safety associated of area small The 14 fisheries identified within the wind farms are limited in the grounds they are able able are they grounds the in limited are farms wind the within identified fisheries

have been defined (see defined been have

Displacement of Fishing Activity ofFishing Displacement into below. 8.1 rtos n mitnne esl tastn t ad rm site from and to transiting vessels maintenance and erations Whitefish fishery Squidfishery ScallopFishery Receptor - 13

affect more fishing vessels than those operating in the immediate vicinity immediate in the operating those than vessels fishing more affect

below gives the significance of effect for each of the receptors receptors the of each for effect of significance the gives below .

Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

ots, hc a te urn tm ae unknown are time current the at which port(s),

. . proposed proposed As a result, the the result, Asa Other Other r this applies r this Sensitivityof Receptor Medium Medium Chapter t curn drn te osrcin hs and phase construction the during occurring at Low . .

However, activity by operations and maintenance maintenance and operations by activity However, Areas

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

wind farm sites farm wind anently lost as a result of infrastructure and and infrastructure of result a as lost anently

Other 5.1

. sensitivity of the crab and lobster fishery has has fishery lobster and crab the of sensitivity Positive This takes into account the following: the account into takes This : Commercial Fisheries) :Commercial Areas Negative Negative Negative Effect

/ Negative

.

. . Magnitudeof This interference has the has interference This Medium Medium Medium Effect -

EnvironmentalStatement .

. As a result, a a result, a As . Significanceof Moderate Moderate This could could This

Minor Effect

Table

8

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21

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Table 8.1-14 Interference to Fishing Vessels arising from Navigational Conflicts

Sensitivity of Positive / Negative Magnitude of Significance of Effect Receptor Receptor Effect Effect Effect

Scallop Fishery Low Negative Low Minor

Squid fishery Low Negative Low Minor Interference to Fishing Vessels Whitefish fishery Low Negative Low Minor arising from Navigational Conflicts Nephrops fishery Low Negative Low Minor

Crab and lobster Low Negative Low Minor fishery

8.1.7 Salmon and Sea Trout Fisheries Primary Impact Assessment: Three Proposed Wind Farm Sites Likely Significant Effects

8.1.7.1 As a result of salmon and sea trout fisheries being either in-river, or to a lesser extent, coastal, there are not considered to be direct effects arising from the construction / decommissioning and operation of the wind farm developments. Indirect effects on the fisheries may however occur if the ecology of these species is adversely affected.

8.1.7.2 It should be noted that the sensitivity of salmon and sea trout fisheries in the Moray Firth and Ugie is dependent upon an assessment of effects upon the species, which is described in Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology). It should be noted, however, that the sensitivities of coastal fisheries (the net fisheries) and in-river fisheries (including the inner firth net-and-coble fisheries) may differ: both coastal and in-river fisheries would be affected by the salmon and sea trout not being able to reach their natal rivers as a result of the development of the three proposed wind farm sites. However, coastal fisheries may additionally be sensitive to changes to the behaviour of the species in the marine environment which do not result in their being unable to return to their natal rivers.

8.1.7.3 The effects on fish and shellfish ecology, including salmon and sea trout, are described in Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology). The assessment methodology used for fish and shellfish species is based on the IEEM (2010) guidelines for ecological impact assessment, which differs from that used for assessment of effects on commercial fisheries. This is detailed in 7.2.4 of Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology). Due to the lack of current knowledge in relation to the migratory behaviour and the use that salmon and sea trout make of the wind farm developments, a conservative assumption has been applied that considers all fish originating from all rivers flowing into the Moray Firth will use the three sites during their life stages in the marine environment.

8.1.7.4 A summary of effects on salmon and sea trout populations derived from the construction, operational and decommissioning phase of the developments is given in Table 8.1-15 below, based on information provided in Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology).

8.1.7.5 Effects on salmon and sea trout are, in general terms, expected to be of minor significance. An exception to this is the effect derived from construction noise, which has been assessed to be of minor-moderate significance.

8-22 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.8.2 8.1.8.1 8.1.7.6 Section Op and Construction Fisheries Commercial 8.1.8 Decommissioning shellfish populations) may affectfish and development, which of farmwind fishingactivity as aresult Activity ( ChangesFishingto Operational Noise EMFs Habitat Introduction of Loss of Noise to Temporary Effect Table Seabed

8.1 Habitat

3 i.e. Proposed Monitori – -

o ihre, s el s loig o ise t b rie b te ihn com fishing the by raised be to issues for allowing as well as fishermen, to that ensure to phase construction during the and to prior ongoing be will dialogue practice, industry standard with line In industry the with consultation in options mitigation develop and explore to continuing to committed is and industry a undertaken has MORL the of phase construction the during identified effects applies therefore developments the of assessment phase The construction the of those than likely significance less, the considerably that probably and considered is it and farms, the schedules with associated effects wind significant decommissioning proposed the three on the information of methodologies detailed of absence the In 15 okn patcs il lo e ged o civ ay osbe euto in reduction possible any achieve to agreed be also ( interference will practices Working Disturbance OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

changesto

New

Summary ofImpact AssessmentSummary onNatural Stocks ofS

eration

e.g. Salmonand Salmonand Salmonand Salmonand Salmonand Salmonand Salmonand Receptor Sea trout Sea sea troutsea troutsea troutsea troutsea troutsea

Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure standard navigation routes to navigation standard ng andMitigation trout

significant Sensitivity . Medium Medium

Low Low Low Low Low .

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

programme of early engagement with the fishing the with engagement early of programme

decommissioning phase will be of no greater, greater, no of be will phase decommissioning P roject information is effectively disseminated disseminated effectively is information roject Magnitude Negligible Negligible Medium Small Small Small Small Small -

/

from sites) from

almon and Sea and Sea Trout almon Confidence Probable Probable Probable Probable Unlikely Unlikely Unlikely Level - .

-

-

EnvironmentalStatement Significanceof Negative Minor Not significantNot Not significantNot Negative Negative Negative Negative Negative

Minor Minor Minor Minor - Moderate

/ munity Positive

Effect 8

-

23

. .

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.1.8.3 A construction management plan will be defined in consultation with fishing interests which clearly establishes protocol for engagement between the developer and fishermen throughout the construction period. In order for the various fishing sectors to be appropriately represented, as well as the developer and the regulatory body, a working group will be established that facilitates the following:  Ongoing dialogue between the fishing community and MORL throughout the pre-construction and construction phase;  Protocol for the navigation of wind farm construction and works vessels to and from the site (i.e. agreement of transit lanes to, where possible given other receptors, minimise interference to fishing activities);  Established procedures in the event of interactions between wind farm construction and fishing activities (i.e. claims for lost and / or damaged gear);  Protocol for removal of seabed obstacles post-construction; and  Engagement on appropriate phasing of construction safety zones dependent on the construction programme.

8.1.8.4 In order for there to be ongoing dialogue between MORL and the fishing industry throughout the operational phase of the wind farm, the working group will continue to provide a forum for ongoing engagement.

8.1.8.5 All infrastructure installed during the construction phase will be marked and lit, in line with standard industry practice, and as further described in 8.2.6 of Chapter 8.2 (Shipping and Navigation). The information will be distributed to fishermen through the agreed channels as defined in the construction management programme.

8.1.8.6 MORL are likely to apply for safety zones around installed infrastructure to prevent interactions with fishing vessels which could pose a safety risk.

8.1.8.7 Cables will be buried to a target depth of 0 to 1 m where it is technically practical to do so. In instances where adequate burial cannot be achieved then cable protection will be installed.

8.1.8.8 Over trawl surveys will be carried out on inter array cables to ensure that the cable burial and protection scheme has been successful.

8.1.8.9 In addition to the above defined mitigation strategy, MORL would like to investigate a number of other opportunities that may appropriately mitigate effects dependent on the development of both industries. This includes ongoing investigations within the offshore renewable industry, and in consultation with the fishing industry, to explore potential modifications to bottom towed scallop fishing gear which may reduce the mutual risk posed by fishing activities within and around operational wind farms. These investigations may result in mitigation to ascertain the effects described above. Trials are anticipated to be carried out during 2012 and if successful discussion will continue.

Salmon and Sea Trout Fisheries

Construction and Operation

8.1.8.10 Likely effects on salmon and sea trout populations are considered of minor significance. An exception to this is the effect derived from construction noise, which has been assessed to be of minor-moderate significance.

8-24 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.9.3 8.1.9.2 8.1.9.1 8.1.8.16 8.1.8.15 8.1.8.14 8.1.8.13 8.1.8.12 8.1.8.11 8.1.9.4 Section Fisheries Trout Sea Salmon and Fisheries Commercial 8.1.9 Decommissioning

3

Residual Effects –

ascribed throughout both the construction and operational phases of the the fisheries. of upon commercial sites farm wind proposed three phases operational Table and construction the both development. throughout ascribed ensure to also t noted be should It change therefore would result a as from phase construction the during the effect and vessels, residual construction and gear fishing static between conflict for potential pre construction the for of phase implementation described construction the during Activities’ those Fishing to ‘Interference to of exception different currently not after effects, residual The None proposed noise levels. highest the to exposed not are species mobile that aim the with construction monitoring the to addition In stakeholders. other and Scotland Marine with consultation ofyear in time appropriate the at implemented and defined be will monitoring and surveys specific Ecology) Shellfish periods survey optimal pre Scotland Marine with consultation in undertaken were define sandeel the as such surveys, to Some so, if and, required is confid mitigation effects. likely of the significance reducethe to order in measures feasible the whether increasing identifying of and objective assessment the with monitoring and surveywork additional undertake to stakeholders, fisheries relevant the and Scotland Marine with consultation in committed, is MORL uncertainty, this mitigate to order In durin farms wind proposed three the of area the of make may species these that use the on information available currently surrounding uncertainty the of result a as applied be to had have assumptions conservative where approach, precautionary a taken in result to ( assessment impact The potential having as identified been trout. sea and salmon herring, cod, has minor) namely (above effects significant which shellfish significance noise, and minor fish of construction on be phase to assessed construction been the have of species effects likely the terms, general In assessment is given in in given is assessment r The OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact esidual effects are as described prior to mitigation to prior described as are effects esidual g the construction phase. construction g the minor

8.1 -

1

/ above provides a summary of the key findings and residual effects of the the of effects residual and findings key the of summary a provides above

moderate to minor to moderate

. that –

. .

Primary Impact Assessment Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Due to the season the to Due hat the purpose of the construction management programme is programme management construction the of purpose the hat

h efcs ecie ae et ihn h sgiiac levels significance the within kept are described effects the

Table ,

Chapter the results of which are included in in included are which of results the taking into account the mitigation proposed above, are are above, proposed mitigation the account into taking

8.1

/

- 2 mitigation above, sof above, mitigation .

above. 7.2: Fish and Shellfish Ecology) on these specie these on Ecology) Shellfish and Fish 7.2: MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

(a key prey species for other fish species) survey species) fish other for species prey key (a management programme would reduce the the reduce would programme management

al nature of these surveys, MORL expects that expects MORL surveys, these of nature al

t start piling will be used during during used be will piling start t - iiain fet, ih the with effects, mitigation . .

A summary of the the of summary A . - plcto drn their during application An An Chapter - ne n hs impact this in ence

EnvironmentalStatement xeto t ti is this to exception

7.2 (Fish and and (Fish 7.2

impact impact . s has s The 8 - 25 ,

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.1.10 Secondary Assessment: Individual Wind Farm Sites

Commercial Fisheries

8.1.10.1 The significance of effect for each of the three proposed wind farm sites has been derived taking into account the following assumptions:

8.1.10.2 Although slight variations in the baseline characteristics across the three proposed wind farm sites have been identified during the period of analysed data, annual variations in the level and location of activity of the principal two fisheries, the scallop and squid fisheries, has required the conservative assumption that activity is broadly uniform across the three sites.

8.1.10.3 Second, although the worst case parameters for each of the three proposed wind farm sites are the same, it is not always the case that an individual site constitutes a third of the effect identified in the primary assessment. Instead, the site specific effect may be proportionally larger than its contribution to the primary assessment.

8.1.10.4 The primary assessment of the safety risks to fishing vessels identified during the construction and operational phases applies to the an assessment on a site by site basis, although in this instance the wind farm design specifications for each site will be a proportion of those given previously. As a result, these have not been taken forward in the secondary assessment.

8.1.10.5 The effects for which a moderate significance was assigned in the primary assessment have been taken forward for the secondary assessment. This specifically relates to:  Interference to static gear through navigational conflict during the construction phase;  Temporary loss or restricted access to fishing grounds during the construction phase, and associated displacement; and  Complete loss or restricted access to fishing grounds during the operational phase, and associated displacement.

Interference to Static Gear through Navigational Conflict during the Construction Phase

8.1.10.6 The potential for interference to static gear through navigational conflict during the construction phase could include the fouling of static gear markers buoys and dhans (marker flags). This interference has the potential to affect fishing vessels operating in the regional area, and particularly in the vicinity of the construction port(s). As previously stated, a conservative assumption has assumed that transit routes will be in the vicinity of static gear grounds. In the case of the secondary assessment, this assumption still applies, however it is considered that the amount of traffic and the frequency of vessels transiting to and from each site will be proportionally reduced.

8.1.10.7 The significance of the interference to static gear through navigational conflict for each individual site is therefore considered to be moderate (sensitivity), negative effect, low (magnitude) and of minor significance.

Temporary Loss or Restricted Access to Fishing Grounds during the Construction Phase, and Associated Displacement

8.1.10.8 The temporary loss or restricted access to fishing grounds during the construction phase, and the associated displacement into other areas for each individual wind farm site takes into account:

8-26 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.1.10.12 8.1.10.11 8.1.10.10 8.1.10.9 Section P Complete Operation Construction Temporary Interferenceto Construction andDecommissioning Effect Table Displacement Associated Co hase,and mplete mplete

8.1 3

– -

Loss

16 a in provided is assessment secondary the of Asummary phase, operational the in of and (magnitude) low effect, negative fisheries (sensitivity), moderate be to be to considered is squid displacement, and the for grounds scallop fishing to access restricted or loss complete the of significance The    construction into account: takes site farm the eac during for areas, grounds other into fishing displacement associated to the and phase, access restricted or loss complete The associated the and phase, construction the of and (magnitude) in low effect, negative (sensitivity), fisheries moderate be to be to considered is displacement, squid and scallop tempora the of significance The     Loss OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact Associated Displacement

andDecommissioning

Loss Access to fishing grounds will become progressively more restricted as the the as restricted more progressively become will advances. site individual the in schedule construction grounds fishing to Access sched construction The shorter in grounds fishing area; wider alternative comprises of site availability farm the wind to individual relative each grounds fishing of proportion low The sites; farm wind proposed three across the The The small area of seabed permanently lost as a result of infrastructure and and infrastructure of sites. the within regained be to grounds fishing forto access The potential result a as lost permanently seabed saf associated of area small same The the are characteristics baseline the sites; farm wind proposed three across the that assumption conservative The or StaticGear or RestrictedA Restricted Access Secondary Secondary

or conservative assumption that the baseline characteristics are the same same the are characteristics baseline the that assumption conservative etitd Access Restricted asa result of

ccessto Assessment Summary

ety zones in each wind farm site; farm and wind each in zones ety Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Phase minor significance minor significance minor to

FishingGrounds FishingGrounds Navigational Conflict s , and ,

to Associated Displacement Fishing Grounds Grounds Fishing ry loss or restricted access to fishing grounds for the the for grounds fishing to access restricted or loss ry ule of each wind farm and site; wind each ule of MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited duringthe duringthe

. .

Operation

during the the during

Table Negative Negative Negative

Telford Minor Minor Minor prtoa P Operational

8.1

- - h Mry it and Firth Moray the nd the associated associated the nd

16 EnvironmentalStatement Stevenson Negative Negative Negative

below h individual wind individual h Minor Minor Minor

.

ae and hase,

Negative Negative Negative MacColl Minor Minor Minor 8 -

27

CHAPTER 8.1 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Salmon and Sea Trout Fisheries

8.1.10.13 The effects on fish and shellfish ecology, including salmon and sea trout, are described in Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology) and summarised in the primary assessment previously. The assessment identified one effect resulting in a moderate significance, relating to construction noise. The findings of the secondary assessment are summarised below:

8.1.10.14 Given the smaller extent of noise effect ranges, and the shorter duration of the impact piling for the separate construction of individual sites, the effect of noise upon salmon and sea trout is assessed to be negative of minor significance and probable.

8.1.11 Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation: Secondary / Sensitivity Assessment

8.1.11.1 The mitigation described in the primary assessment applies to the secondary assessment.

8.1.12 Residual Effects: Secondary / Sensitivity Assessment

8.1.12.1 The residual effects are as described in Table 8.1-1 above.

8.1.13 References Pers. comm. scallop fisherman, 2011 Pers. comm. whitefish and squid fisherman, 2011 IMO (1996) Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter, 1972, and the 1996 Protocol to the Convention. London Convention IEEM (2010) Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management. Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in Britain and Ireland. Marine and Coastal. Final Document OSPAR (2008) Background Document on Potential Problems associated with Power Cables other than those for Oil and Gas Activities. OSPAR Commission. Biodiversity Series.

8-28 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.2.1.6 8.2.1.5 8.2.1.4 8.2.1.3 8.2.1.2 8.2.1.1 Section 8.2.1 8.2

Shipping and Navigation and Shipping

3

Summary –

promulgation) a probable probable farm a wind promulgation) the information and within liaison (including navigate mitigation standard to industry assuming able and be areas, should vessels recorded, area vessel the fishing in continuing fishing and area target one areas farm wind as identified been has risk collision structure farm Stevenson wind to vessel fishing case The worst and MacColl the within recorded were vessels Fishing closer the of Telford). given frequencies collision individual ship highest to proximity the have site Telford the area sea largest the covers layout indicative the pa overall highest the Comparing occur. to unlikely collision and shipping commercial on effect negative a of conclusion a supporting area), the in risk to baseline low the (given estimated small, be was sites proposed three the within frequency collision in change The probable time. and distance voyage re a to in room sea resulting available is turbines, there and farms wind pre the to encountering able be should sites proposed site shipping Telford the commercial of low relatively of area an ship main the with densities in located are sites proposed The      of effect negative direct a post significance, have would sites farm wind proposed three The shipping, commercial to relation vessels. fishing and recreation, in navigation and shipping on effects and the Stevenson covers Telford, developments, farm wind proposed three the This p Offshore

erspective. decommissioning phases; decommissioning ship Commercial proposed equipme radar based marine Vessels three of the phase operations helicopter and Rescue and Search phases; decommissioning Recreation phases; decommissioning vessel Fishing

chapter vr 16 every

GeneratingStation Assessment Impact

addresses the likely significant effects on shipping and navigation from navigation and shipping on effects significant likely the addresses wind farms sites. farms wind

years vessel ping on the Pentland Firth route (the mean route is 4 is route mean (the route Firth Pentland the on ping

he wind three - routing

Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure mitigation, on the following following on the mitigation, ssing powered and drifting vessel collision frequency potential, as potential, frequency collision vessel drifting and powered ssing boundary (the Pentland Firth route) Firth Pentland (the boundary

for Scenario Scenario for routing routing

proposed

and collision risk during the construction operation and and operation construction the during risk collision and ping

and collision risk during the construction, operation and and operation construction, the during risk collision and minor

and collision risk during the construction operation and and operation construction the during risk collision and

am aot, cnro 2 Scenario layouts, farm

wind farms sites; and farms wind route passing at a mean distance of 4 of distance mean a at passing route 1

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited minor eaie fet s rdce fo a navigation a from predicted is effect negative (see (see

- nt during the operational phase of the three the of phase operational the during nt 8.2.3.1 plan any revised passages in advance of of advance in passages revised any plan

eaie fet n omril sh commercial on effect negative shipping and navigation receptors: navigation and shipping

below), which reflects the maximum maximum the reflects which below), . . . Structures on the northern edge of edge northern the on Structures

oee, ae o t on based However, /

access during the operational operational the during access .

(see ik n a rbblt ta is that probability a and risk Vessels passing through the the through passing Vessels 8.2.3.1 -

EnvironmentalStatement

below) has the the has below)

- nm nm ot around route MacColl

e ie of sizes he

north east north north east north ipping minor minor minor

. 8 - 29 It It .

CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.2.1.7 There was limited recreational vessel activity recorded within the proposed sites during the baseline maritime surveys. Recreational routing is dependent on sea and weather conditions; therefore routing through the wind farms is not expected to be a frequent event. Overall the effect on recreational vessel routing is probable, but given the low levels of activity and assuming industry standard mitigation (including minimum blade clearance) is expected to be minor.

8.2.1.8 In terms of Search and Rescue (SAR) issues, given the relatively low level of incidents in the vicinity of the proposed sites, it is considered unlikely that the proposed wind farms will exacerbate maritime safety risks. Giving account to commitments to meet the MCA MGN 371 guidance and the development of an Emergency Response Cooperation Plan (ERCoP), it is considered that SAR issues can be well managed, resulting in a minor effect that is unlikely to occur.

8.2.1.9 The effect on SAR helicopter operations and access will be minor and unlikely to occur, based on MGN 371 compliance and development of an ERCoP.

8.2.1.10 Radar interference on marine equipment could be experienced by a small number of commercial vessels (including those routing to Wick) and offshore vessels (associated with Beatrice and Jacky platforms). However, based on the revised routing, interference is predicted to be low. Vessels inbound and outbound from ports in the area are likely to attentive to navigational hazards, therefore it was concluded that the effect on marine radar systems will be likely to occur but of minor effect.

8.2.1.11 Table 8.2-1 below summarises the residual effects and mitigation.

Table 8.2-1 Residual Effects and Mitigation for Shipping and Navigation

Receptor Pre-Mitigation Effect Mitigation Post-Mitigation Effect

Construction

Industry standard (including ERCoP and Commercial information promulgation on construction Minor Minor Shipping works). Other mitigations include safety zones.

Industry standard (including ERCoP and information promulgation / fisheries liaison Fishing Vessels Minor on construction works). Minor Other mitigations include safety zones and guard vessels.

Industry standard (including ERCoP and information promulgation on construction Recreation Vessels Minor works). Minor Other mitigations include safety zones and guard vessels.

8-30 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Section Recreation Fishing Shipping Commercial Decommissioning Equipment on Radar Operations SAR SAR Recreation Fishing Shipping Commercial Operation Marine Helicopter Operations Interference Vessels Vessels 3

–

Offshore Vessels Vessels

GeneratingStation Assessment Impact Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

wind farmstructures oncharts and lighting Industrystandard (includingERCoP, marking guardvessels. Other works). informationpromulgation onconstruction decommissioning Industrystandard (includingERCoP, a guardvessels. Othermitigations includesafety zones and on decommissioning works). informationpromulgation decommissioning Industrystandard (includingERCoP, a Othermitigations includesafety zones. works). informationpromulgation onconstruction decommissioning Industrystandard (includingERCoP None Centre. Othermitigations includea MarineControl O buoyage accordancein with NLBand IALA farm structures oncharts and emergencyrotor shut Industrystandard (includingERCoP Centre. Othermitigations includea MarineControl O buoyage accordancein with NLBand IALA wind farmstructures oncharts and Industrystandard (includingERCoP, marking Centre. operationalsafety zones and MarineControl Othermitigations includeconsideration of [22 O buoyage accordancein with NLBand IALA wind farmstructures oncharts, lighting Industrystandard (includingERCoP, marking Centre. operationalsafety zones and MarineControl Othermitigations includeconsideration of O buoyage accordancein with NLBand IALA wind farmstructures oncharts and lighting Industrystandard (includingERCoP, marking Centre. operationalsafety zones and MarineControl Other O buoyage accordancein with NLBand IALA - - - - - 139andturbine lade 139). 139). 139). 139).

m]).

mitigations includeconsideration of mitigations includesafety zones and

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

programme programme programme - down,marking wind

/ mast draftair

/ fisheries

lighting

and and and , a , lighting

/ liaison

/

/

/ / / -

EnvironmentalStatement Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor Minor

8 - 31

CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.2.2 Introduction

8.2.2.1 The scope of this chapter is to assess the likely significant shipping and navigation effects that may result from the development of the three proposed wind farms and to identify associated mitigation measures.

8.2.2.2 Effects were identified through a series of hazard identification workshops. The effects are then assessed and a series of mitigation measures and monitoring plans are presented.

8.2.2.3 Consultation with navigational stakeholders was positive with no objections to the proposed sites. Concerns were raised by the Chamber of Shipping and Royal Yacht Association (RYA) regarding initial plans to have floating turbines in the proposed sites. However, it should be noted that this concept was taken out of the Rochdale Envelope, alleviating the potential risks associated with floating turbines.

8.2.3 Rochdale Envelope Parameters Considered in the Assessment

8.2.3.1 The ‘worst realistic case’ Rochdale Envelope for the shipping and navigation assessment consists of three provisional layouts of the maximum number of wind farm structures. The three indicative layouts / scenarios used in the assessment are described below:  Scenario 1 included the maximum number of wind turbine generators (339) in an indicative diamond layout, using 3.6 MW turbines in Telford, 5 MW in Stevenson and 5 MW in MacColl;  Scenario 2 consists of 291 turbines in an indicative diamond layout, using 5 MW turbines in Telford, 5 MW in Stevenson and 5 MW in MacColl; and  Scenario 3 consists of 249 turbines in an indicative grid layout, using 5 MW turbines in Telford, 5 MW in Stevenson and 7 MW in MacColl.

8.2.3.2 Table 8.2-2 below summarises the Rochdale envelope scenarios considered within the shipping and navigation impact assessment.

Table 8.2-2 Rochdale Envelope Scenario Considered within Assessment of Potential Impacts on Shipping and Navigation

Type of Effect Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed

Construction & Decommissioning

 Construction vessel collision with another vessel on-site;  Construction vessel collision with structure; Increased Level of Vessel Activity with the Proposed Sites  Construction vessel collision with passing vessel en route to or from site; (irrespective of layout, foundation  Construction vessel encounters (jack-ups or anchors on) underwater types and subsea cabling) obstruction (e.g. cable, pipeline etc.); (1,355 vessel movements per  Construction vessel jacks-up or anchors onto unexploded ordnance; construction period)  Man overboard during personnel transfer operations; and  Dropped object during major lifting operations.

Re-Routing of Shipping Maximum loss of navigable sea area based on: (commercial vessels, fishing and recreation vessels) in the Area due  Maximum number of construction vessels and associated support traffic to Construction Vessels within the proposed sites.

8-32 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Section Recreation Fishing Passing Passing Re Re Operation ofType - - Routing Routing VesselCollision Effect 3 DriftingShip Collision PoweredShipCollision

–

Offshore VesselCollision of of

Shipping Shipping

GeneratingStation Assessment Impact

inthe Area inthe

Area

Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Maximum ofloss navigable sea area based on: RochdaleEnvelope     and Collision betweenfishing vessel andfixed structure thewithin farm (turbinewind      (turbines and Collision     (turbines and Collision betweenpassing vessel and fixed structure thewithin farm wind          (turbines and Collision betweenrecreational vesseland fixedstructure withinthe farm wind

(six Maximumnumber of substations installed thein proposed sites topside Placementof largestsubstation foundation of 100x 100 22 Maximumturbine blade airdraft atHighestAstronomical Tide (HAT) be will Maximumnumber of turbines installedthe in proposedsites (339 t Placementof largestturbine jacket foundation 45 of 45x (six Maximumnumber of substations installed thein proposed sites topside Placementof largestsubstation foundation of 100x 100 Maximumnumber of topside Placementof largestturbine jacket foundation 45 of Resultspresented bewill based onthe worstcaseresul (six Maximumnumber of substations installed thein proposed sites topside Placementof largestsubstat Maximumnumber of turbines installedthe in proposedsites (339 topside Placementof largestturbine jacket foundation 45 of 45x andtwo DC). Maximumnumber of substations installed in proposedsites topside Placementof largestsubstation foundation Maximumnumber of turbines installedthe in proposeds topside Placementof largestturbine jacket foundation 45 of 45x ( Maximumnumber of substations in topside Placementof largestsubstation foundation of 100x 100 Maximumnumber of turbines installedthe in proposedsites (339 topside Placementof largestWTG jacket foundation of 45 45 x

opside six /

orsubstation): m;

x ACtwo and DC). ACtwo and DC); ACtwo and DC).

betweendrifting vessel andfixed structure thewithin wind farm AC and

/ / / / / above/ sea level; and / above/ sea level; and / above/ sea level; /

abovesea level; abovesea level; and abovesea level; abovesea level; abovesea level; abovesea level;

abovesea level;and / / / orsubstation): orsubstation) turbine and rotor blade impactwith yacht mast: orsubstation): MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

two Scenario Assessed

x DC).

turbines installedthe in proposedsites (339 and

ion foundation ion of 100x 100

stalled thein proposed sites (eight

of100x 100 -

EnvironmentalStatement

x

45 ts. m

ites ites (339 mdiameter m mdiameter mdiameter mdiameter

m m m m diameter diameter (eight)(six diameter diameter diameter diameter (eight) (eight) (eight)

=1.5 =1.5 =1.5 =1.5 =1.5 )

AC AC GW GW GW); GW); GW 8 - 33 ); ); );

CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Type of Effect Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed

Maximum loss of navigable sea area for SAR operations, based on:  Placement of largest turbine jacket foundation of 45 x 45 m diameter topside / above sea level; Search and Rescue (SAR)  Maximum number of turbines installed in the proposed sites (339 = 1.5 GW); Operations  Placement of largest substation foundation of 100 x 100 m diameter topside / above sea level; and  Maximum number of substations installed in the proposed sites (eight) (six AC and two DC).

Helicopter operations impacted by:  Placement of largest turbine jacket foundation of 45 x 45 m diameter topside / above sea level;  Maximum number of turbines installed in the proposed sties (339 = 1.5 GW); Helicopter Operations  Placement of largest substation foundation of 100 x 100 m diameter topside / above sea level; and  Maximum number of substations installed in the proposed sites (eight) (six AC and two DC).

Radar interference on marine radar systems and potential decreased detection capability of smaller vessels due to turbines and substations masking targets (it is assumed that a larger number of structures will be worse than a smaller number of bigger structures):  Placement of largest turbine jacket foundation of 45 x 45 m diameter topside / above sea level; Radar Interference  Maximum number of turbines installed in the proposed sites (339 = 1.5 GW);  Placement of largest substation foundation of 100 x 100 m diameter topside / above sea level; and  Maximum number of substations installed in the proposed sites (eight) (six AC and two DC).

8.2.4 EIA Methodology

8.2.4.1 The methodology used to assess the likely significant effects of the proposed wind farm developments principally follows the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) Marine Guidance Notice 371 (MGN 371 M+F) (2008) and Department of Energy Climate Change (DECC) Risk Assessment Methodology (2005). Further details on the guidance used in this assessment can be found in Chapter 5.2 (Shipping and Navigation).

8.2.4.2 The baseline assessment (see Chapter 5.2: Shipping and Navigation) allowed higher risk areas to be identified through the maritime traffic survey, desk-based research and consultation. Following this, a Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) was carried out in-line with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) FSA process (2007) and DECC guidance.

8.2.4.3 The risk assessment includes the following:  Hazard log and risk ranking;  Quantified navigational risk assessment for selected hazards;  Base case present shipping and future case shipping risk levels assessed for selected hazards;

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CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.2.4.6 The main part of this impact assessment covers the likely significant effects on shipping and navigation in relation to commercial, recreation and fishing vessels. Search and Rescue (SAR) resources, SAR helicopter operations and radar impacts are assessed for the operational phase of the Project.

8.2.4.7 For each shipping and navigation receptor, it is assumed that industry standard mitigation measures will be put in place given requirements of the developer to meet MGN 371 guidance and lighting / marking as advised by Northern Lighthouse Board (NLB) based on International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) standards (IALA, 2008). Mitigation measures are discussed in detail in 8.2.6 below, including both industry standard and best practice measures. Significance Criteria

8.2.4.8 The likely significant effects on shipping and navigation from offshore wind farm development cannot be easily categorised, hence the application of significance criteria to an assessment of effects is, as a result, subjective.

8.2.4.9 In terms of the effects on shipping and navigation from developing the proposed sites, results are presented in risk estimates, in quantitative terms for the modelled scenarios.

8.2.4.10 Following the hazard workshop ranking and identification of higher risk scenarios, the effects on the shipping and navigation receptors for different phases of the Project are assessed using the significance terminology as described below:  Not significant. Impacts that are slight and negligible in terms of vessel navigation / routing, collision risk and response to marine incidents;  Minor significance. Impacts which are of some effect, but generally small in magnitude in terms of vessel navigation (e.g. minor deviation), collision risk and response to marine incidents;  Moderate significance. Impacts which are of some effect, but moderate in magnitude in terms of vessel navigation (e.g. moderate deviation), collision risk and response to marine incidents; and  Major significance. Impacts which are of greater effect and majorly significant in magnitude, in terms of vessel navigation (e.g. large deviations), collision risk and response to marine incidents.

8.2.5 Primary Impact Assessment: Three Proposed Wind Farm Sites

Hazard Review Workshops

8.2.5.1 A Hazard Review workshop was held in Inverness on 6th July 2011 attended by local maritime stakeholders, including Inverness Harbour, Cromarty Firth Port Authority (CFPA), Moray Council and the NLB. An offshore operator’s Hazard Review workshop was also carried out in Aberdeen on 7th July 2011.

8.2.5.2 The key maritime hazards associated with the proposed sites were identified at the workshops and the associated scenarios prioritised by risk level. Within each scenario, vessel types were considered separately to ensure the risk levels were assessed for each and the control options were identified on a type-specific basis, e.g. risk control measures for fishing vessels differ to those for commercial ships.

8.2.5.3 The ranking of the risks associated with the various hazards was carried out using a risk matrix, as presented in Table 8.2-3 below.

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CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

 Fishing gear interaction with substructures;  Vessel anchoring on or dragging anchor over subsea equipment; and  Vessel-to-vessel collision due to avoidance of site or work vessels in area.

8.2.5.7 The following generic industry hazards were also identified for the development but not discussed in detail:  Attendant vessel collision with structure;  Man overboard during work activities at site;  Dropped object during work activities at site; and  Deliberate unauthorised boarding or mooring to structure.

8.2.5.8 Other general hazards associated with the construction, decommissioning and maintenance phases, such as dropped object, man overboard and helicopter crash, were added following the workshops to create a preliminary Hazard Log for the Project.

8.2.5.9 In addition, the offshore operators’ workshop discussed the impact on tug and supply vessel access to offshore platforms in the area (Beatrice and Jacky).

8.2.5.10 Offshore support vessels use a route with a mean position approximately 0.5 nm south of the proposed sites, approaching the Beatrice and Jacky platforms from Aberdeen and Peterhead. A small deviation around the southern tip of the proposed sites might be required, which is unlikely to be significant in terms of increased mileage (Technical Appendix 5.2 D: Navigation Risk Assessment).

8.2.5.11 Overall, the hazard review workshop concluded that no risks were unacceptable (high risk). A total of three risks were ranked within the tolerable (intermediate risk) As Low as Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) region based on the probable outcome whilst three were ranked as tolerable based on the worst case outcome. Further information can be found in Technical Appendix 5.2 D.

8.2.5.12 The hazards ranked as tolerable based on probable outcome were:  Man overboard during transfer to / from turbine or working alongside turbine;  Attendant Wind Farm vessel collision with Wind Farm structure; and  Fishing vessel collision with structure.

8.2.5.13 These incidents generally involve vessels and persons working at the site as opposed to third parties.

8.2.5.14 The five additional hazards ranked as tolerable based on worst case outcome were:  Dropped object during construction, decommissioning or major maintenance;  Vessel-to-vessel collision due to avoidance of site;  Commercial ship powered collision;  Fishing gear interaction with inter-field cabling; and  Fishing gear interaction with export cable.

8.2.5.15 Several of the worst case outcomes involve third party vessels and were therefore selected for further risk analysis (See Technical Appendix 5.2 D). It was noted that

8-38 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.2.5.24 8.2.5.23 8.2.5.22 8.2.5.21 8.2.5.20 8.2.5.19 8.2.5.18 8.2.5.17 8.2.5.16 Section Vessels on Fishing Effect Ship on Commercial Effect Construction 3

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8.2.5.25 Local fishing vessels will be aware of construction works at the proposed sites through Notices to Mariners and fisheries liaison. As the fishing vessels recorded in the area are relatively small in size, it is likely that they will be able to navigate around construction activities when fishing or steaming between ports.

8.2.5.26 Given the available sea room around the Project areas and size of fishing vessels recorded in the baseline assessment, there will be a probable minor, direct negative impact from construction activities in a navigation and routing perspective.

8.2.5.27 A detailed assessment of commercial fishing activities can be found in Chapter 8.1 (Commercial Fisheries).

Effect on Recreational Vessels

8.2.5.28 During the baseline maritime surveys, approximately seven recreational vessels (non- AIS) were recorded passing through the area of the proposed sites, with the majority of tracks headed in a north by north west and south by south west direction (on average courses to / from Wick).

8.2.5.29 Recreational vessels should be able to pass between the construction works in suitable conditions (i.e. during good visibility and calm sea conditions), as well as being able to pass south west (inshore) and north east (offshore) of the wind farm developments. Based on the activity review, this is not expected to be a frequent event and hence there will be a probable minor, direct negative effect on recreational vessels during the construction phase.

Operation

8.2.5.30 A revised ship routing pattern following construction of the MacColl, Telford and Stevenson offshore wind farms, has been estimated based on the review of the baseline shipping data and information recorded during the hazard workshop. Four risk assessments were carried out as outlined below and detailed in Technical Appendix 5.2 D:  Base Case without wind farm level of risk;  Base Case with wind farm level of risk;  Future Case without wind farm level of risk; and  Future Case with wind farm level of risk.

8.2.5.31 The following scenarios were investigated in detail:  Vessel-to-vessel collisions; and  Vessel-to-wind farm structure collisions (powered and drifting).

8.2.5.32 The overall effects associated with the proposed sites in terms of shipping and navigation, SAR resources, SAR helicopter operations and radar effects are assessed for the operational phase of the Project.

Effect on Commercial Ship Routing

8.2.5.33 The main effect on shipping during the operational phase of the Project is the displacement of ships on the route passing through the MacColl and Telford wind farms on approach / departure from Wick.

8-40 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.2.5.44 8.2.5.43 8.2.5.42 8.2.5.41 8.2.5.40 8.2.5.39 8.2.5.38 8.2.5.37 8.2.5.36 8.2.5.35 8.2.5.34 Section Risk Collision Shipping on Commercial Effect 3

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are recorded each year in UK waters, most vessels have been recovered in time, (e.g. anchored, restarted engines or taken in tow.)

8.2.5.45 Comparing the three proposed wind farm layouts, Scenario two has the highest overall passing powered and drifting vessel collision frequency, as this indicative layout covers the largest sea area. Structures on the northern edge of the Telford site have the highest individual collision frequencies given the closer proximity to shipping on the Pentland Firth route (although the mean route is still 4 nm north east of Telford).

8.2.5.46 Overall, through the baseline data, consultation and risk models, a minor, direct negative effect is predicted on commercial shipping and collision risk given the low levels of traffic / baseline risk and the small change in collision risk during the operational phase of the wind farms. This effect is considered unlikely to occur.

Effect on Fishing Vessels

8.2.5.47 Based on the analysis of fishing data, a relatively high density of fishing activity was recorded within the Stevenson and MacColl wind farm areas. The worst case fishing vessel to wind farm structure collision risk has been identified as one every 16 years for Scenario 1. Based on comparisons with historical fishing vessel collision incidents, the estimated collision frequency is high and reflects the maximum target area (largest sea area used in Scenario 1). It also assumes the fishing vessel density following wind farm development will remain the same as current levels.

8.2.5.48 In terms of fishing vessel navigation, the effect on vessels steaming by the site to fishing grounds can be considered similar to other passing vessels (i.e. commercial vessels). However, it is noted that there is good prospect for fishing vessels to navigate within / between the turbines and proposed wind farm sites, due to the smaller size of vessels and the spacing between turbines. The decision to do this will lie with the skipper who will be responsible for assessing the risks associated with navigating in proximity to and through an offshore wind farm. This decision is likely to be based on the type and size of fishing vessel and sea, weather and visibility conditions at the time.

8.2.5.49 It was concluded through qualitative and quantitative assessment, that there will be a probable minor, direct negative effect on fishing vessels (assuming industry standard mitigation as presented in 8.2.6 below).

Effect on Recreational Vessels

8.2.5.50 The air clearance between turbine rotors and sea level conditions at Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) will not be less than 22 m, as recommended by the MCA. This minimises the risk of interaction between rotor blades and yacht masts.

8.2.5.51 Two of the proposed sites are intersected by a ‘medium use’ cruising route between Wick and north eastern Scottish marinas. Vessels should be able to pass between turbines in suitable conditions (i.e. during good visibility and calm sea conditions), as well as being able to pass inshore and offshore of the wind farm areas.

8.2.5.52 RYA and Cruising Association (CA) consultation (See Tables 5.2-1 to 5.2-3 in Chapter 5.2: Shipping and Navigation) highlighted that sailing yachts can be pushed into the MORL Zone by the tide when sailing north (towards the Pentland Firth). However, it was noted that the development area was not busy in terms of recreational vessels as more popular routes are off the Caithness and Moray coastlines.

8-42 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.2.5.60 8.2.5.59 8.2.5.58 8.2.5.57 8.2.5.56 8.2.5.55 8.2.5.54 8.2.5.53 Section Operations on Helicopter Effect Rescue and on Search Effect 3

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from surface units (lifeboats) due to restrictions on helicopter access in a wind farm wind a in access helicopter on restrictions to due (lifeboats) units surface from the be could there that noted is It   guidance 371 (as MGN per farms wind the around or in SAR, a operation of event the in response emergency for The SAR affect to access. SAR helicopter sites including helicopters, proposed the of phase operational the for potential the is There occur. to unlikely a be will there that anticipated is it (pre Co Response 3 Emergency an of MGN development the MCA including the meet the and to sites proposed commitment the with SAR associated features affect design the to or account Giving area the in risks safety maritime operations exacerbate will considered sites is proposed it area the in incidents low be to tended have sites proposed theof vicinity the in levels accident the that indicated incidents historical of review A on SAR h and Buckie or Wick either (from All (ALBs) Lifeboat National Royal by out carried be would rescue and evacu the sites, developer the proposed from be the will response to first adjacent or within arising emergency an of event the In (MRCC) Coastguard (MRSC). the Centre Sub Rescue Marine a become will centre Centre Modernising for Coordination Proposals Rescue Revised Marine at Aberdeen located centre coordination Norther and Scotland the within lie it within sites farm wind proposed the and Zone 3 Round Firth Moray The vessel time). and recreational on predicted is mitigation) standard event frequent a proposed the intersected vessels of number sites small a review, activity the on Based oee, o i hlcpe SR tee r seii rqieet t alw safe allow to farm requirements wind specific generators: within are there operations SAR, helicopter helicopter aid to However, Offshore

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 If winching is to take place to / from a turbine (this evacuation method is considered a last resort due to safety risks), the blades will be feathered and the rotor brakes applied (where feasible blades should be pinned);  The nacelle should be rotated so that the blades are at 90° off the wind with the wind blowing on to the left side of the nacelle e.g. if wind is blowing from 270°, the nacelle will need to be rotated to right so that the hub is facing 360°;  In poor visibility or at night, any lighting on turbines may be required to be switched on or off - at the discretion of the helicopter pilot; and  For safe operation of SAR helicopters within and around wind farms, it is crucial that the turbines are detectable to airborne radars (at a safe range) and that the aircraft crew, using radar, can discriminate between individual turbines.

8.2.5.61 It is also noted that there is the possibility for wind farm structure(s) and the onshore Moray Firth operations and maintenance base to have a helipad installed.

8.2.5.62 In terms of SAR helicopter operations / access, based on the MGN 371 guidance and industry best-practice, including the development of an ERCoP, any negative effect on SAR helicopter operations can be well managed, resulting in a minor direct effect from the proposed wind farms which is considered unlikely to occur.

Effect on Marine Radar Systems

8.2.5.63 Trials on the effects of offshore wind farms on marine radar systems have been carried out at North Hoyle (MCA and QinetiQ, 2004) and Kentish Flats (BWEA, 2007). The results of the North Hoyle and Kentish Flats trials indicate that the onset range from the wind turbine structures of false returns is about 1.5 nm, with a progressive increase in the impact of the effects on radar to about 500 m.

8.2.5.64 A number of sailing, fishing and other vessels bound for Wick pass inside the 1.5 nm range from turbines at which radar interference effects could be experienced, however, upon wind farm development, vessels heading to / from Wick are likely to pass at approximately 1.5 nm north of turbines, thereby subject to a small level of interference.

8.2.5.65 Radar interference could also be experienced by offshore vessels heading to the Beatrice and Jacky platforms as the 500 m turbine buffer from MacColl (indicative layouts in Scenario 1 to 3) intersects offshore vessels tracks. Consultation with the Oil & Gas operators noted that Wind Cat support vessels approach Beatrice and Jacky platforms from Buckie; therefore navigation from the south will not be significantly affected due to the wind farm developments.

8.2.5.66 A small number of vessels identified during the baseline assessment, including those on the Wick and offshore routes will be subject to a low level of radar interference; however, based on the revised routing patterns, radar interference is predicted to be minor.

8.2.5.67 In addition, AIS information can be used to verify the targets of larger vessels, generally ships above 300 tonnes and fishing vessels over 45 m in length, (by 2014, all fishing vessels 15 m in length or greater will be required to carry AIS – EU Directives 2009/17/EC and 2002/59/EC).

8.2.5.68 Vessels inbound and outbound from ports in the area (e.g. Wick, Moray Firth and Pentland Firth) are also likely to be attentive to navigational hazards in the area (i.e. the Beatrice / Jacky Oil Fields and Beatrice Demonstration Turbines). It is noted

8-44 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.2.6.3 8.2.6.2 8.2.6.1 8.2.5.73 8.2.5.72 8.2.5.71 8.2.5.70 8.2.5.69 Section 8.2.6 Decommissioning

3

Proposed Monitoring andMitigation –

    the of phases decommissioning  and operation below: listed are these and industry construction, of number a developments, the During required. where stakeholders statutory relevant other and Branch Safety Navigation m specific The Assessment Impact (EIA). Environmental the during determined risk of type and level the to appropriate sites proposed the to applied be will measures safety and Mitigation the navigation, and b would of which cost continuing shipping to danger a considered longer no isor it removed as either time such until marked appropriately be to require may obstruction an Such removal of completion to danger remove. to possible on a be to and considered (attribu is decommissioning site which on left on is obstruction where an operations, scenario the of o effects to regards With safety associated and ERCoP existing the of revision a procedures. to lead to likely is this and Adecommissioning exten nature and in similar be to anticipated are sites proposed the decommissioning with associated effects The occur. to likely considered is systems that radar marine c was it Overall re buoyage additional onany advising as well as sites the around and within structures offshore associated as well as turbines area the in navigation aid to used be also could sites proposed the within structures that Offshore

managed carefully and over the long term. long over the and carefully managed operation th ensure to designed constructi the the ensure for to co developed effective be place will (ASMS) System in Management Safety put Active An and developed be and developments; farm wind of the phases will decommissioning the and operation ERCoP SAR The proposedsites; around the navigate safely and effectively to vessels allow to media appropriate other and Broadcasts Information Navigation a special and projects farm wind the liaison appropriate and information of Promulgation admiralty scale appropriate on cabling) (UKHO); Office Kingdom Hydrographic United by the charts (and structures farm wind of Marking O standard IALA 200 (IALA, Farms Wind Offshore NLB with with comply accordance will in in which provided requirements, be will (AtoNs) Navigation to Aids Marine .

n diin NB il die n h ad t nvgto fr h sts ( sites the for navigation to aids the on advise will NLB addition, In GeneratingStation Assessment Impact

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programme n shipping and navigation this will also include consideration consideration include also will this navigation and shipping n t h rss eae t mrn oeain (construction, operations marine to related risks the at

t to those identified during the construction phase. construction the during those identified to t

in line with standard requirements will be developed be will requirements standard with line in e met by the developer by the e met 8); MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

tnad iiain esrs il e n place in be will measures mitigation standard

ctivities is circulated in Notices to Mariners, Mariners, to Notices in circulated is ctivities

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on, on on - 45

CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Construction

8.2.6.4 During the construction phase, Notices to Mariners, Radio Navigational Warnings, NAVTEX and / or broadcast warnings as well as Notices to Airmen will be promulgated in advance of any proposed works, where required.

8.2.6.5 Safety zones will be in place around each turbine and construction vessels during the construction phase in order to minimise disruption to mariners and other users of the sea. These 500 M exclusion zones would be applied for in line with DECC guidance (DECC, 2011.) Guard vessels may be used to monitor passing vessels and warn / record any safety zone infringements.

8.2.6.6 Safety Zones are likely to be established on a ‘rolling’ basis, covering only those areas of the wind farms in which such activities are actually taking place at a given time. Once that activity has been completed in that specific location, the safety zone will then ‘roll on’ to cover the next specific location within the site in which such activity is taking place.

Operation

8.2.6.7 During the operational phase of the Projects it is expected that a Marine Control / Coordination Centre will be developed to monitor and coordinate marine activities in and around the site. Such a centre will meet the requirements outlined in MGN 371:  The Marine Control Centre, or mutually agreed single contact point, will be manned 24 hours a day;  The Marine Control Centre operator, or mutually agreed single contact point, will have a chart indicating the GPS position and unique identification numbers of each of the wind farm structures.  All MRCCs / MRSCs will be advised of the contact telephone number of the Marine Control Centre, or single contact point (and vice versa);  All MRCCs / MRSCs will have a chart indicating the GPS position and unique identification number of each of the wind farm structures (turbines and offshore substations);  All search and rescue helicopter bases will be supplied with an accurate chart of all the wind farm structures and their GPS positions; and  The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) shall be supplied with accurate GPS positions of all wind farm structures for civil aviation navigation charting purposes.

8.2.6.8 As well as monitoring and recording the movements of company vessels working in the proposed sites, the Marine Control Centre can monitor passing vessel observed to stray into the operational safety zones through AIS and CCTV.

8.2.6.9 During the operation of the proposed sites 50 m operational safety zones around the turbines may be applied for, unless experience during the construction phase presents evidence that such zones may not be required.

8.2.6.10 In addition, large maintenance vessels could be present at the proposed sites during the operational phase. The need for 500 m construction safety zones will be assessed based on experience during construction and the length of time and type of maintenance activities. Consented safety zones will also be marked on admiralty charts of the area.

8-46 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.2.8.4 8.2.8.3 8.2.8.2 8.2.8.1 8.2.7.2 8.2.7.1 8.2.6.13 8.2.6.12 8.2.6.11 8.2.8.5 Section Vessels Recreation and Fishing on Commercial, Effect Site Farm Wind Telford 8.2.8 8.2.7 Decommissioning

3

Secondary Assessment: Residual Effects –

ship collision frequency is considered to be be to considered is frequency collision ship ( vessels passing close of density low relatively ri collision of terms In ship from shielded more aregenerally inner turbines the and sites three (approxima route Firth Pentland 0.5 site approximately the of area largest the cover cas worst indicative The northern the in located is site Telford The above. see assessment, primary the in applied that as same the is criteria significance navigatio paragraphs and shipping on effects The shipping for arise to significance sites. individual of the respect in navigation and and effects different for potential the given sites, A in presented is effect mitigation practice good industry the ensure and developments the ( measures mitigation These risk standard industry farms. wind offshore as minimised the of operation and been development the during place have in put be will sites measures control proposed the of effects The vessel. construction major and turbine around each 500 and works decommissioning Pro safety associated and ERCoP existing the of revision a procedures. to lead to likely is this and decommissioning A however remaining). obstructions or structures of removal phase; construction the decom of for method the on dependent identified be also will measures those to are similar sites be proposed to the anticipated decommissioning with associated measures mitigation The route, consisting of coastal tankers and a small number of fishing and recreation recreation and fishing of number small a vessels and tankers coastal of consisting route, one approximately recorded surveys maritime The Offshore

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Primary Impact Assessment Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

nm

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CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

will deviate north or south of the Telford site to pass the turbines at a safe distance (i.e. 1 to 1.5 nm from the nearest turbines). There is sufficient sea room to make this change and there will not be a significant increase in the vessel collision risk. Overall, the deviation on approach and departure from Wick is not considered to be significant in terms of routing distance and voyage time / fuel cost. Given the available sea room and minor deviation required for passing vessels, a negative, direct effect of minor significance is predicted for commercial vessels.

8.2.8.6 For fishing and recreation vessel routing and collision risk, the effect is considered to be negligible, given the available sea room in the area.

Effect on Search and Rescue

8.2.8.7 Historical accident levels in the vicinity of the Telford site have tended to be low. Therefore, the operational phase of site is unlikely to exacerbate maritime safety risks in the area or affect SAR operations / access. The overall effect on SAR is considered to be minor.

Effect on Helicopter Operations

8.2.8.8 The Telford site will be designed to satisfy the requirements for emergency response in the event of a SAR operation in or around the wind farms (as per MGN 371 guidance - MCA, 2008). In terms of SAR helicopter operations / access, based on MGN 371 and industry best-practice, (including the development of an ERCoP) any effect on SAR helicopter operations can be well managed, resulting in a minor effect.

Effect on Marine Radar Systems

8.2.8.9 A number of commercial, fishing and recreation vessels bound for Wick pass inside the 1.5 nm range from turbines at which radar interference effects could be experienced. However, upon development of Telford, vessels heading to / from Wick are likely to pass at approximately 1.5 nm north of turbines, thereby subject to a small level of interference. Given the low traffic volumes on the Wick route, the effect on marine radar systems is considered to be minor.

Stevenson Wind Farm Site

Effect on Commercial, Fishing and Recreation Vessels

8.2.8.10 The Stevenson site is located in the centre (west) of the Eastern Development Area. The worst case indicative layout assessed, consisted of the largest number of turbines (139), with approximately 0.5 nm (926 m) of spacing between rows (NNW / SSE). Turbines in the Stevenson site are generally located away from the main commercial shipping routes in the area; hence, the Stevenson site has the lowest collision frequency.

8.2.8.11 Given the low level of commercial shipping passing through the site and the available sea room in the area, the Stevenson site will not have a significant effect on commercial vessel collision risk and routing (negligible).

8.2.8.12 The maritime surveys recorded a number of fishing vessels in the south of the Stevenson site, and during construction / major maintenance phases, transiting vessels maybe required to deviate north or south of the area. There is available sea room in the area for fishing vessels to deviate and there is likely to be a negative, direct effect of minor significance.

8-48 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.2.8.20 8.2.8.19 8.2.8.18 8.2.8.17 8.2.8.16 8.2.8.15 8.2.8.14 8.2.8.13 Section Vessels Recreation and Fishing on Commercial, Effect Site Farm Wind MacColl Systems Radar on Marine Effect Operations on Helicopter Effect Rescue and on Search Impact 3

–

f h Mcol site MacColl the of part southern the within activity vessel fishing recorded survey shipping maritime The be to considered risk vessel the in collision increase significant a be not will there and change this make to room d safe a at turbines the pass to site MacColl the of south or north deviate will Wick to route use site MacColl the through additi In room significance). and sea available risk is there collision where MacColl, of south higher for low) a is site turbines is entire the there for frequency hence collision the Fields, as (relatively Jacky frequency collision and Beatrice the supporting traffic support t in Turbines rows between spacing turbine and site the (139), of (NNW turbines area of eastern number south highest the the in of located consists layout indicative case worst The southern the in located is site MacColl The systems. radar a be will there that concluded was it Therefore, survey shipping the during recorded were levels traffic Low a in resulting managed, well be effect. can operations helicopter SAR on effects M guidance 371 MGN per (as response emergency satisfy to designed be will site Stevenson The minor ar the in risks safety maritime traffic (low low be to tended have site Stevenson the of vicinity the in levels accident Historical time. voyage and of effect negative a works, the of nature temporary and room sea available the Given re maybe vessels recreation construction activity, around fishing for way similar a In ihn h Mcol ie dpnat n osrcin oeainl and operational construction, on i port) (dependant and area. the searoom in available grounds fishing site between transit MacColl zones) safety decommissioning the within Offshore GN 371 and industry best industry and 371 GN minor .

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CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.2.8.21 For recreation vessel routing and collision risk, the effect is considered to be negligible, as a low recreational vessel activity was recorded during the shipping surveys and the available sea room in the area for vessel deviations.

Effect on Search and Rescue

8.2.8.22 Historical accident levels in the vicinity of MacColl have tended to be low. The operational phase of the wind farm is unlikely to exacerbate maritime safety risks in the area and the effect on SAR is considered to be minor.

Effect on Helicopter Operations

8.2.8.23 The MacColl site will be designed to satisfy emergency response (as per MGN 371 guidance - MCA, 2008). In terms of SAR helicopter operations / access, based on MGN 371 and industry best-practice, including the development of an ERCoP, any effects on SAR helicopter operations can be well managed, resulting in a minor effect.

Effect on Marine Radar Systems

8.2.8.24 Radar interference could also be experienced by offshore vessels heading to the Beatrice and Jacky platforms as the 500 m turbine buffer from MacColl intersects offshore vessels tracks recorded during the surveys. It is considered that given the sea room to the south of the site, navigation will not be significantly affected, with a negligible effect on marine radar systems.

Secondary Assessment Summary of Effects

8.2.8.25 Table 8.2-5 below presents the summary of effects for the secondary assessment on the individual sites, relative to the shipping and navigation receptors.

Table 8.2-5 Secondary Assessment Summary of Effects

Effect Telford Stevenson MacColl

Construction and Decommissioning

Commercial Shipping Minor Negligible Minor

Fishing Vessels Routing Negligible Minor Minor

Recreation Vessels Negligible Minor Negligible

Operation

Commercial Shipping Minor Negligible Minor

Fishing Vessels Negligible Minor Minor

Recreation Vessels Negligible Minor Negligible

SAR Operations Minor Minor Minor

SAR Helicopter Operations Minor Minor Minor

Radar Interference on Marine Equipment Minor Negligible Negligible

8-50 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.2.9.6 8.2.9.5 8.2.9.4 8.2.9.3 8.2.9.2 8.2.9.1 Section Vessels Recreation and Fishing on Commercial, Effect Sites MacColl plus Telford Systems Radar on Marine Effect Vessels Recreation and Fishing on Commercial, Effect Sites Stevenson plus Telford 8.2.9

3

Sensitivity Assessment –

MacColl 4 rou approximately shipping located Firth is Pentland site Telford the of boundary northern The be to predicted (out traffic low are There sites two the around deviate ships as interference radar of level small a to exposed an fishing commercial, of number A non and commercial forboth predicted is time will Wick to route ( distance use safe Steven low and Telford the the of south using or north vessels deviate recreation and fishing Commercial, out and density of both be to considered is from sites shipping both from shielding shipping for low of level of small ship area drifting a and an present powered will in turbines located Telford the are cumulatively site Stevenson than Stevenson frequency the collision within higher relatively has therefore and 4 approximately located is site Telford The i.e. operations helicopters and operations SAR the assessment), sensitivity the in exac to unlikely is permutations phase operational farm wind (and sites the of vicinity the in levels accident historical low the given assessment, secondary the in noted As    the in used criteria follows: as are same the on based assessments secondary and is primary receptors navigation and the shipping for of permutations wh at order different the over uncertainty on and out carried arise to been effects cumulative for different potential the is there farms,as wind proposed has assessment sensitivity A ie r rltvl mr epsd o oh pwrd n ditn ship drifting and of be to powered a both to collision exposed more relatively are site Offshore

Stevenson plus MacColl. plus Stevenson Tel Stevenson; Telford plus with the main shipping lanes. shipping main the with the same effect as for the primary the for as effect same the - ih h Pnln Frh ot) the route); Firth Pentland the with ford plus MacColl; and MacColl; ford plus

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Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

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d recreation vessels bound for Wick could be be could Wick for bound vessels recreation d / The permutations of the sensitivity assessments assessments sensitivity the of permutations The ich the sites will be constructed be will sites the ich

base base refore the effect on marine radar systems is is systems radar marine on effect the refore minor

minor minor nm

case assessment. case -

. with the main shipping lanes. shipping main the with from the Pentland Firth shipping route shipping Firth Pentland the from - commercial vessels. commercial

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CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.2.9.7 Commercial, fishing and recreation vessels using the low use route to Wick will deviate north or south of the Telford and MacColl sites, passing the turbines at a safe distance (i.e. 1 to 1.5 nm). Overall, a minor effect on vessel routing and voyage time is predicted on commercial and non-commercial vessels.

Effect on Marine Radar Systems

8.2.9.8 Commercial, fishing and recreation vessels associated with the Wick route could be exposed to a small level of radar interference as ships deviate around the two sites. Given the low traffic volume on the Wick route and available sea room to the north (outwith the Pentland Firth route), the effect on marine radar systems is predicted to be minor.

Stevenson plus MacColl Sites

Effect on Commercial, Fishing and Recreation Vessels

8.2.9.9 A number of turbines within the north eastern edge of the MacColl site are relatively more exposed to both powered and drifting ship-to-turbine collision as turbines are located approximately 4 nm from the Pentland Firth shipping route. Therefore, turbines in MacColl have a relatively higher collision frequency than Stevenson. However, the increase in shipping collision risk from both sites is considered to be of minor significance as the sites are out-with the main shipping lanes (i.e. Pentland Firth route).

8.2.9.10 Commercial, fishing and recreation vessels using the low use route to Wick will deviate north of the MacColl site, passing the turbines at a safe distance (i.e. 1 to 1.5 nm). Overall, a minor effect on vessel routing and voyage time is predicted on commercial and non-commercial vessels.

Effect on Marine Radar Systems

8.2.9.11 Vessels associated with the Wick route and offshore vessels supporting the Beatrice and Jacky Fields could be exposed to a small level of radar interference as ships deviate around the two sites. However, given the available sea room to the north and south of the sites; the effect on marine radar systems is predicted to be minor.

Sensitivity Assessment Summary of Effects

8.2.9.12 Table 8.2-6 below presents the summary of effects for the sensitivity assessment on the different permutations of sites relative to the shipping and navigation.

Table 8.2-6 Sensitivity Assessment Summary

Effect Telford + Stevenson Telford + MacColl Stevenson + Telford

Construction and Decommissioning

Commercial Shipping Minor Minor Minor

Fishing Vessels Minor Minor Minor

Recreation Vessels Minor Minor Minor

Operation

Commercial Shipping Minor Minor Minor

8-52 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.2.11.3 8.2.11.2 8.2.11.1 8.2.10.1 Section Shipping Commercial Operation Vessels Recreation Vessels Fishing Shipping Commercial Construction Receptor Table 8.2.11 8.2.10 Radar SAR SAR Recreation Fishing Effect HelicopterOperations Operations

Interference 8.2

Vessels

3

Residual Proposed Monitoring andMitigation: Secondary – -

7 be will navigation and shipping effects. of residual primary assessment the to comparable for significance overall the assessment, sensitivity si individual the of size the given that noted is It post and effect, mitigation ensure and m These and development the during industry place as in minimised put farms. wind offshore proposed of the operation been be has will measures sites control combined risk and standard individual the of effect The in assessment primary for the proposed those as same the are measures mitigation practice best and standard industry The Offshore Vessels

Pre Residual EffectsResidual Su

on -

GeneratingStation Assessment Impact Mitigation Effect tgto esrs ( measures itigation Effects: Secondary Marine Equipment Minor Minor Minor Minor the Project the

Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

mmary

accordance with NLB and IALAO farm structures oncharts and lighting Industrystandard (includingERCoP, marking wind vessels. Othermitigations includesafety zones andguard promulgation onconstruction works). Industrystandard (includingERCoP vessels. Othermitigations includesafety zones andguard works). promulgation Industrystandard (includingERCoP and information Othermitigations includesafety zones. promulgation onconstruction works). Industrystandard (includingERCoP and information Mitigation conforms to industry good practice good industry to conforms

- mitigation effect is presented in in presented is effect mitigation Telford+ Stevenson 8.2.6

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Sensitivity Assessment

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tion of residual residual of tion below. - Mitigation Effect

Minor Minor Minor Minor

8 - 53

CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Receptor Pre-Mitigation Effect Mitigation Post-Mitigation Effect

Other mitigations include consideration of operational safety zones and Marine Control Centre.

Industry standard (including ERCoP, marking wind farm structures on charts and lighting / buoyage in Fishing accordance with NLB and IALA O-139). Minor Minor Vessels Other mitigations include consideration of operational safety zones and Marine Control Centre.

Industry standard (including ERCoP, marking wind farm structures on charts, lighting / buoyage in accordance with NLB and IALA O-139 and turbine Recreation Minor lade / mast air draft [22 m]). Minor Vessels Other mitigations include consideration of operational safety zones and Marine Control Centre.

Industry standard (including ERCoP, marking wind SAR farm structures on charts and lighting / buoyage in Minor Minor Operations accordance with NLB and IALA O-139). Other mitigations include a Marine Control Centre.

Industry standard (including ERCoP / emergency SAR rotor shut-down, marking wind farm structures on Helicopter Minor charts and lighting / buoyage in accordance with Minor Operations NLB and IALA O-139). Other mitigations include a Marine Control Centre.

Radar Interference Minor None Minor on Marine Equipment

Decommissioning

Industry standard (including ERCoP, a Commercial decommissioning programme and information Minor Minor Shipping promulgation on construction works). Other mitigations include safety zones.

Industry standard (including ERCoP, a decommissioning programme and information Fishing promulgation / fisheries liaison on decommissioning Minor Minor Vessels works). Other mitigations include safety zones and guard vessels.

Industry standard (including ERCoP, a decommissioning programme and information Recreation Minor promulgation on construction works). Minor Vessels Other mitigations include safety zones and guard vessels.

8-54 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Section UK Coast the Areas around Racing and Sailing Routes, Cruising 2008 Association, Yachting Royal The Farm. Hoyle Wind North at the systemsundertaken positioning and communications Q Issues Response Emergency and Issues Practice, Safety on Navigational Guidance (OREI): 2008 MCA Farm. Hoyle Wind 2005 MCA, rule IMO the 2007 IMO IALA, 2008 Installations 2007 DECC, farms Wind 2005 DECC, Farm Offshore Wind Flats Kentish 2007 BWEA, 8.2.12 ntQadMA 2004 MCA, and inetiQ

3

References –

Offshore . Consolidated text of the Guidelines for Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) for use in in use for (FSA) Assessment Safety Formal for Guidelines the of text Consolidated . . . . . , Version Date: 7th September 2005. September 7th Date: , Version . . . . O

. - Offshore Win Offshore making process making Guidance Notes: Applying for Safety Zones around Offshore Renewable Energy Renewable Offshore around Zones Safety for Applying Notes: Guidance - Marine Guidance Note 371 (M+F), Offshore Renewable Energy Installations Installations Energy Renewable Offshore (M+F), 371 Note Guidance Marine Investigation of Technical and Operational Effects on Marine Radar Close to to Close Radar Marine on Effects Operational and Technical of Investigation 139 Methodology for Assessing the Marine Navigational Safety Risks of Offshore Offshore of Risks Safety Navigational Marine the Assessing for Methodology

GeneratingStation Assessment Impact

-

The Marking of Man Marking The

. Results of the EM Investigations and assessments of marine radar, radar, marine of assessments and Investigations EM the of Results . d Farm Helicopter Search and Rescue Trials undertaken at the North North the at undertaken Trials Rescue and Search Helicopter Farm d Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure .

(MSC .

/ . . Circ.1023−MEPC UK Coastal Atlas of Recreational Boating; Boating; Recreational of Atlas Coastal UK - Made Offshore Structures Offshore Made MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

/ Circ.392) (14th May 2007). May (14th Circ.392) . Updated GIS Layers Layers GIS Updated , Edition 1. , Edition -

EnvironmentalStatement

Recreational Recreational

2010. .

8 - 55

CHAPTER 8.2 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

This page has been intentionally left blank.

8.3.1.5 8.3.1.4 8.3.1.3 8.3.1.2 8.3.1.1 Section3 and Effects of Summary 8.3

Military and Civil Aviation andCivil Military

–

      identified: were receptors The following    in following the within contained information Aviation), from and Civil explained as stakeholders, relevant with consultation s Information stakeholders. radar and on aviation sites farm wind proposed three the of decommissioning and operation construction, This radar military and civil region’s the of results the infrastructure, from turbines proposed of detection likely the model propagation and performance Radar and AIP) (Mil Publication the and Plc. Route NATS and En operators helicopter Information IAIP) (UK Aeronautical Publication Information Military Aeronautical contained the Integrated data of UK during review the a MacColl) within from drawn decomm is and assessment the Stevenson supporting and Information (Telford, operation sites farm construction, wind proposed three the of effects the on assessment impact the complete to charts and documentation desk A  OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Minimum Safe Altitude, which is the lowest altitude set in areas to ensure ensure to areas in set altitude lowest the is obstacles. known and aircraft between which separation Altitude, Safe Minimum and platforms; offshore to Approach Procedures Helicopter Islands; Shetland the of west installations offshore Rim Atlantic the to Wick via Aberdeen, Hel procedures; and patterns flight on aircraft effects potential regarding Airport Wick (HIAL) Ltd Airports Islands and Highlands Firth; Moray the over operating aircraft military to airfield, the from outbound and to inbound MoD training; and Air operations Defence UK (ADR) supporting MoD (ATC) En and NERL 005 7420 Reference Document Technical Spaven Reference; Document P1492D003 Assessment: Impact Technical 10 Assessment Technical c / 283 cpe Mi Routes Main icopter hapter

- i uvilneadCnrlSses (ASACS) Systems Control and Surveillance Air - ATC ATC

o suy a be udrae uig opeesv aviation comprehensive using undertaken been has study top / Allanshill Primary Surveillance Rad Surveillance Primary Allanshill

MOR upporting this assessment has been collected from a data review and review data a from collected been has assessment this upporting

Appendi ) – Appendi ; and Appendi rsns n seset f h lkl sgiiat fet o the of effects significant likely the of assessment an presents

Mitigation / - oseot PR sd o rvd navi provide to used PSR Lossiemouth 4 route operations; route Report ) Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure ;

5.3 x 5.3 x 5.3 x ; November 2010, Spaven Consulting Consulting Spaven 2010, November ;

which can be found in found be in can which

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Beatrice and Moray Offshore Wind Farms Helicopter Helicopter Farms Wind Offshore Moray and Beatrice M X HMR ( Moray Firth Offshore Offshore Firth Moray ( )

Osprey Radar Propagation Modelling Results: Results: Modelling Propagation Radar Osprey MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited .

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Ray used by helicopters transiting between between transiting helicopters by used Ray

sinn pae o te development the of phases issioning ar (PSR) supporting Civil Air Traffic Control Control Traffic Air Civil supporting (PSR) ar

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Buchan Air Defence Radar Radar Defence Air Buchan ind ind Chapter

Appendi Consulting Consulting

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No No. 8 - 57 . .

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

The summary of the effects is shown at Table 8.3-1 below.

Table 8.3-1 Summary of Pre-Mitigation and Residual Effects

Receptor Pre-Mitigation Effect Mitigation Post-Mitigation Effect

Construction

NERL Not Significant N / A Not Significant Allanshill PSR

ASACS Not Significant N / A Not Significant Buchan ADR

RAF Lossiemouth Not Significant N / A Not Significant PSR

Wick Airport Not Significant N / A Not Significant

Notification of physical obstructions to NATS Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) for addition in to appropriate aviation related HMR X-Ray Not Significant documentation and on to aviation Not Significant mapping. i.e. location of constructed turbines and location / movement and maximum height of construction infrastructure.

Notification of physical obstructions Significant to NATS AIS for addition in to appropriate aviation related Offshore Construction infrastructure may documentation and on to aviation Not Significant Installations present a physical obstruction mapping. i.e. location of hazard to aircraft operating in the constructed turbines and location / area of the three developments. movement and maximum height of construction infrastructure.

Notification of physical obstructions to NATS Aeronautical Information Significant Service (AIS) for addition in to appropriate aviation related Minimum Construction infrastructure may documentation and on to aviation Not Significant Safe Altitude present a physical obstruction hazard to aircraft operating in the mapping, i.e. location of area of the three developments. constructed turbines and location / movement and maximum height of construction infrastructure.

8-58 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Section3 HMR X Wick Airport PSR Lossiemouth RAF Buchan ADR ASACS Allanshill PSR NERL Operation

- Ray –

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Whilethere may anbe effectdue SignificantNot threeproposed farmwind sites beingprovided thein region ofthe theof air traffic control radar service turbinescan degrade the efficiency presence of turbines wind PSR systemscan a be Significant monitorthe UK air picture. aircraft anduse the abilityto provide a safeservice to effects would affectcontroller'sthe ASACSthe controller hidegenuine aircrafttargets from genuineaircraft targets and could PSR shield the radar from Turbines in Significant threeproposed farmwind sites beingprovided thein region ofthe theof air traffic control radar turbinescan degrade the efficiency presence of turbines wind PSR systemscan affectedbe bythe Significant available HMR isalready used and wouldbe presence turbines,of anoverland conditionsicing due to tothe inabilityto use HMRX .

coverageof the Buchan Not SignificantNot

Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure radar datato . ffected bythe Anytheseof

the the

. . .

These These -

Ray in / service or . . .

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited Implementationand integrationof Radar. upgradetothe Air T92 Defence thebe formin of modifications or Mitigation ifrequired will effect onthis stakeholder. radarand havewill anoperational theoreticallydetec threedevelopments are modellinghas identifiedthat the resultsThe of radar propagation agreedprior toconstruction. technicalmitigation solution be will Implementationand integrationof Control display. radarreturns from the Air Traffic Mitigation remove will the turbine effect onthis stake radarand havewill anoperational theoreticallydetec threedevelopments are modellinghas identifiedthat the resultsThe of radar propagation construction infrastructure movementand maximum height of constructedturbines and location mapping documentationand ontoaviation appropriateaviation related Service (AIS)additionfor to in toNATS Aeronautical Information Notification of physicalobstructions agreedprior toconstruction. technicalmitigation solution be will Implementationand integrationof Control display. radarreturns from the Air Traffic Mitigation remove will the turbine effect onthis stakeholder. radarand havewill anoperational theoreticallydetec threedevelopments are modellinghas identified resultsThe of radar propagation agreedprior toconstruction. technicalmitigation solution be will

, i.e.

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EnvironmentalStatement Not SignificantNot SignificantNot Not SignificantNot SignifiNot SignificantNot c ant 8

- 59

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Significant Analysis in Appendix 5.3 B (worst case scenario – Wick meteorological data) indicates that, with no mitigations applied, the net effect of the three proposed developments would be to prevent approximately eight flights per Update helicopter operators of annum to the Beatrice field, over commissioned turbines and update Offshore and above the six flights prevented Airborne Radar Approach (ARA) Not Significant Installations by existing constraints. (Total flights procedures according to those per annum - approximately 260 turbines which are operational. flights). There may be an additional effect on the integrity of offshore platform safety cases where emergency scenarios are based on the use of helicopters to facilitate evacuation procedures.

Significant Notification of physical obstructions to NATS AIS for addition in to Minimum Construction infrastructure may appropriate aviation related Not Significant Safe Altitude present a physical obstruction documentation and on to aviation hazard to aircraft operating in the mapping. i.e. location of area of the three developments. constructed turbines.

Decommissioning

Mitigation remains in operation NERL Not Significant whilst any turbines remain Not Significant Allanshill PSR operational.

Mitigation remains in operation ASACS Not Significant whilst any turbines remain Not Significant Buchan ADR operational.

RAF Mitigation remains in operation Lossiemouth Not Significant whilst any turbines remain Not Significant PSR operational.

Wick Airport Not Significant N / A Not Significant

Notification of physical obstructions to helicopter operators. HMR X-Ray Not Significant i.e. location / movement and Not Significant maximum height of decommissioning infrastructure.

Significant Update helicopter operators of Offshore Decommissioning infrastructure may decommissioned turbines. Review Not Significant Installations present a physical obstruction of existing mitigation measures. hazard.

Significant Notification of physical obstructions Minimum to helicopter operators. Decommissioning infrastructure may Not Significant Safe Altitude present a physical obstruction i.e. location / movement and hazard. maximum height of cranes.

8-60 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.3.4.3 8.3.4.2 8.3.4.1 8.3.3.1 8.3.2.1 Section3 8.3.4 8.3.3 8.3.2

EIA EIA Methodology RochdaleEnvelope Parameters Considered in the Assessment Introduction –

    th terminology: and method following the using assessed of criteria magnitude The development. farm wind offshore of effects regarding base evidence existing the to reference with consultation and assessment desktop a of results the by informed been have Effects flight and characteristics Package Information the airspace Aeronautical Integrated of: (IAIP) aerodrome, Milita and UK the the consideration in published into to, (as procedures flying limited aircraft not of is types but to, heed orient pays effect turbines operational of effect the detec and effect obstruction being identified any of effect areas then operational and danger effect, radar and and obstruction physical the training stakeholder, tactical including, operation o range operational proposed within aerodromes Civil and with systems accordance radar en the in considers and identified 764 CAP were publication CAA Authority stakeholders Aviation aviation potential of list A services. navigation clutter of detec of area larger A with populated 204 of be height tip will maximum the site at farm turbines wind proposed each of area the of entirety this in effects significant likely of assessments the For  widely  been have interests aviation stakeholders: on turbines wind ofpublicised effects potential The OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

performance performance control his and controller traffic air pro safe the Radar landing other or aerodrome an to close or at obstruction physical a present can turbines obstruction: Physical o turbines wind the of presence the in (radar) services navigation High non Medium Low Negligible r operational mitigation of the effect is required. is effect of the mitigation r operational ation of approach and departure flight paths, physical safeguarding of flight, of safeguarding physical paths, flight departure and approach of ation - standard mitigation measures in place; and place; in measures mitigation standard –

-

Receptor able to continue operations with standard mitigation in place; in mitigation standard with operations continue to able Receptor

/

. . / wind Receptor unable to continue safe operations or safe provision of air air of provision safe or operations safe continue to unable Receptor air traffic services: turbine clutter appearing on radar display can affect affect can display radar on appearing clutter turbine services: traffic air -

There are two dominant scenarios that lead to objection f objection to lead that scenarios dominant two are There aa dgaain edn t a rae efc o te rvso of provision the on effect greater a to leading degradation radar

Receptor able to contin to able Receptor . - table

No effect on this receptor; this on No effect vision of air traffic services as it can mask unidentified aircraft from the fromthe aircraft unidentified mask can it as services traffic air of vision

ry Aeronautical Information Package (Mil AIP). (Mil Package Information Aeronautical ry farm sites farm In some cases, radar reflections from the turbines can affect the the affect can turbines the from reflections radar cases, some In of the radar system itself. system radar of the

Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

y ah dniid aa sse, ee considered were system, radar identified each by table . .

/ The identification stage also considered military areas of of areas military considered also stage identification The

or prevent him from accurately identifying aircraft under aircraft identifying accurately from him prevent or turbines irrespective of their size will create a larger area area larger a create will size their of irrespective turbines e likely effects on aviation and radar receptors is is receptors radar and aviation on effects likely e

/ take MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited - ue safe operations but with some restrictions or restrictions some with but operations safe ue off point;

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The 8 - 61

/ .

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.3.4.4 For an aviation assessment, each of the following receptors has a high sensitivity to any effects, given their safety critical function:  NERL Allanshill PSR;  ASACS Buchan ADR;  RAF Lossiemouth PSR;  HIAL Wick Airport;  HMR X-Ray;  Offshore Installations; and  Minimum Safe Altitude.

8.3.4.5 Given their safety critical function, any predicted effect upon aviation stakeholders which results in restricted activities or has the potential to affect aviation or navigation abilities is regarded as unacceptable and therefore significant. The following approach identified in Table 8.3-2 below is used and summarises the assessment of significance.

Table 8.3-2 Significance Assessment Matrix

Sensitivity of Receptor

Low Moderate High

Negligible Not significant Not significant Not significant Effect Low Significant Significant Significant

Medium Significant Significant Significant

Magnitude of of Magnitude High Significant Significant Significant

8.3.5 Primary Impact Assessment: Three Proposed Wind Farm Sites

8.3.5.1 The development of turbines within the three proposed wind farm areas has the potential to affect a number of aviation stakeholders:  Potential concerns may be raised with regard to the effect of wind farms within the three development areas upon NERL radar and operations and other users of radar data supplied by NERL. The three proposed wind farms shall be assessed for potential effect on identified NERL radars;  The MoD has raised potential concerns about the effect of the three proposed wind farms upon the radar and operations provided by the MoDs ASACS Force in support of the defence of the UK. The three proposed wind farms shall be assessed for potential effect on identified ASACS Air Defence radars;  The MoD has raised potential concerns about the effect of the three proposed wind farms upon the radar and operations provided by the MoDs ATC service providers. The three proposed wind farms shall be assessed for potential effect on identified ATC radars;  The three proposed wind farms could present a physical obstruction to traffic following instrument approach procedures to HIAL Wick Airport;

8-62 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.3.5.8 8.3.5.7 8.3.5.6 8.3.5.5 8.3.5.4 8.3.5.3 8.3.5.2 Section3 Decommissioning Impact Operational and Radar Operation Construc PSR Allanshill NERL

–

Turbine decommissioning processes will have have will processes decommissioning Turbine this in uncertainty low a is there therefore understood, well effect the and assessment is turbines wind ( undertaken been has has effect This high therefore is effect the of magnitude The 204 displays. onradar presented be to causeclutter to anticipated of radar height from disappear maximum may targets aircraft real that meaning de be also responses aircraft genuine mask could and targets aircraft genuine aircraft between 5 typically maintaining for responsible is controller traffic air The Allanshill PSR. ofthe range operational the distan minimum a At W4D Route task. this support to Advisory PSR coverage appropriate provide to responsibility on operating aircraft to services a civil the outside services ATC require that aircraft of control the facilitate to Centres Airport Aberdeen and MoD the as Surve three the cross UL619) and (UN583 airways established of number a task, this facilitating In (FIR) Region Information Flight UK the overflying those to and Europe mainland and Deconfliction a and Service Traffic a (both services navigational of provision their support to PSR Allanshill the uses NERL have will by processes construction controldisplays onto presented and processed be not will it that such is infrastructure turbine the effect in significant required infrastructure The   processed and presented onto control onto presented and processed system PSR Allanshill tion OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

irspace structure irspace

altitude which is set in areas to ensure separation between aircraft and known known and aircraft between separation obstacles. ensure to areas safe in minimum set the is to which regard altitude with area the in operations aviation to obstruction exists potential Stakeholders The Helicopter Offshore by region; and the in the GasIndustries and Oil of the support in operations upon farms wind raised proposed three the within turbines been of effects the regarding have concerns Potential the radar. the

illance data from Allanshill is also used by other air traffic service providers such providers service traffic air other by used also is Allanshill from data illance proposed

- estsd y t cutr rcsig ihn h sco cnann turbines containing sector the within processing clutter its by sensitised

therefore been assessed as as assessed been therefore

wind

. Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure . . n h NT Alnhl PR system PSR Allanshill NATS the on . . Aberdeen Airport is responsible for the provision of navigational navigational of provision the for responsible is Airport Aberdeen hr ln o sgt o PR xss t exists, PSR a to sight of line Where

ce of 60 of ce farm sites. farm The static nature of the infrastructure is such that it will not be not will it that such is infrastructure the of nature static The

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o ld tip blade to km

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.

evc) o icat prtn bten h UK the between operating aircraft to Service) nm

Military ATC Units are based in NERL Control Control NERL in based are Units ATC Military displays by the radar. the by displays ), the three proposed wind farms are within within are farms wind proposed three the ),

x 5.3 x significant , the three proposed wind farms are are farms wind proposed three the , . .

C,) and the interaction of radar with with radar of interaction the and C,) The sensitivity of the receptor is high is receptor the of sensitivity The o infcn effect significant no . . Radar propagation modelling modelling propagation Radar . . The static nature of the the of nature static The NERL have a contracted contracted a have NERL

urbines may appear as as appear may urbines

nm . -

EnvironmentalStatement At At

lateral separation separation lateral . . an anticipated anticipated an The radar may radar The

n h NERL the on 8 no - 63 . .

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

MoD ASACS Buchan ADR

Construction

8.3.5.9 The infrastructure required in the turbine construction processes will have no significant effect on the ASACS Buchan ADR system. The static nature of the infrastructure is such that it will not be processed and presented onto control displays by the radar.

Operation

Radar and Operational Impact

8.3.5.10 The MoD through their ASACS Force is responsible for compiling a Recognized Air Picture to monitor the airspace in and around the UK in order to launch a response to a potential airborne threat. This is achieved through the utilisation of a network of long-range radars, some of which are located along the east coast of the UK.

8.3.5.11 ASACS radar resources are used in support of training exercises on an almost daily basis. Temporary Reserved Area (TRA) 008B is established above the three development sites from FL 195 up to FL 245. D712D within the northern Managed Danger Area (MDA) complex is established from FL 245 up to FL 660. Distinct areas within the northern MDA are activated when required. Promulgated activities within these areas include Air Combat and training exercises and supersonic flight. ASACS Units using radar data supplied from the Buchan Air Defence radar are responsible for navigation services and support to aircraft activity within the TRA 008B and D712D when active.

8.3.5.12 At a minimum distance of 87 km (46 nm), the three proposed wind farm sites are within the operational range of ASACS ADR located at Buchan. At a maximum height of 204 m to blade tip, turbines within the Telford Wind Farm are likely to be intermittently detectable by the Buchan PSR. Turbines within the north east of the MacColl Wind Farm are also likely to be intermittently detectable. Additionally, radar modelling (Technical Appendix 5.3 C) predicts that turbines along the eastern border of the Stevenson Wind Farm may also be intermittently detectable by the Buchan ADR.

8.3.5.13 Turbines in coverage areas of Buchan ADR could shield the radar from genuine aircraft targets and / or hide genuine aircraft targets from the ASACS controller. These direct and permanent effects would affect the controller's ability to provide a safe service to aircraft in support of training exercises and use the radar data to monitor the UK air picture for Air Defence purposes.

8.3.5.14 The magnitude of the effect is therefore high. The sensitivity of the receptor is high. This effect has been assessed as significant. Radar propagation modelling has been undertaken (Technical Appendix 5.3 C) and the interaction of radar with wind turbines is well understood, therefore there is a low uncertainty in this assessment and the effect is considered probable to occur.

8-64 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.3.5.20 8.3.5.19 8.3.5.18 8.3.5.17 8.3.5.16 8.3.5.15 8.3.5.21 Section3 Construction Wick HIAL Decommissioning Impact Operational and Radar Operation Construction MoD Decommissioning

RAF Lossiemouth PSR Lossiemouth RAF

–

turbines is well understood, therefore there is a is there understood, therefore well is turbines ( undertaken been and system PSR have will processes decommissioning Turbine occur. to probable considered is effect the this in uncertainty low a is there understood,therefore well is turbines ( undertaken as assessed been has effect This is effect the of magnitude The provided. being services of the efficiency and safety the degrade and farms wind the by created those from returns aircraft actual distinguish PSR Lossiemouth detec be theoretically will sites farm wind proposed three the tip, blade PSR Lossiemouth of range operational the within 33.5 of distance minimum a At W4D. Advisory Route of levels lower onthe operating some aircraft region Firth Moray the in aircraft airfi the departing and approaching aircraft to services navigational provides only not Lossiemouth RAF have will radar. by the processes construction controldisplays onto presented and processed be not will it that such is infrastructure turbine the effect in significant required infrastructure The assessment. wel is turbines wind with radar ( undertaken been radar has modelling the by displays control onto presented and processed system ADR have will processes decommissioning Turbine east mainly route via Advisory Route W4D Route Advisory via route mainly east Airport Wick of 25.8 east located is Farm Wind Telford the of boundary northern The OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Airport

presented onto control displays by the radar the by displays control onto presented

. .

. The static nature of the infrastructure is such that it will not be processed be not will it that such is infrastructure the of nature static The

Technical Technical Th . .

sai ntr o te nrsrcue s uh ht t il o be not will it that such is infrastructure the of nature static e Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure n h RF oseot PR system PSR Lossiemouth RAF the on This direct, permanent permanent direct, This Technical Technical eld, they are responsible for the provision of such services to to services such of provision the for responsible are they eld, . ntuet lgt ue tafc non t Wc fo te south the from Wick to inbound traffic Rules Flight Instrument

Appendi Appendi l understood, therefore there is a a is there therefore understood, l therefore high therefore

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) n te neato o rdr ih wind with radar of interaction the and C) nm effect will hamper the operators’ ability to ability operators’ the hamper will effect . .

), the three proposed wind farm sites are sites farm wind proposed three the ), . .

C) and the interaction of radar with wind with radar of interaction the and C) In the area within a 25 a within area the In Radar propagation modelling has been been has modelling propagation Radar Appendi no significant effect significant no . . low uncertainty low o infcn effect significant no The sensitivity of t of sensitivity The . . . At a maximum height of 204 of height maximum a At Radar propagation modelling has modelling propagation Radar x 5.3 x .

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in this assessment. this in . low uncertainty low -

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8 no - to 65 .

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Airport, the Minimum Sector Altitude (the lowest altitude to which aircraft can safely descend while maintaining 1,000 ft vertical separation from all terrain and obstacles within the 25 nm radius) is 1,800 ft above mean sea level. Further descent below 1,800 ft is not authorised until the aircraft is established on the final approach track, which is more than 5 nm from the northern boundary of the Telford wind farm development area.

8.3.5.22 During lift operations, crane tips could temporarily exceed turbine tip heights. However, the current MSA of 1,800 ft will continue to provide well in excess of the required minimum 1,000 ft vertical separation over the turbines and construction infrastructure. Consequently, the construction infrastructure will have no effect on Wick Airport instrument flight procedures.

8.3.5.23 The magnitude of effect is categorised as negligible. The sensitivity of this receptor to this effect is considered high and therefore the effect is assessed as not significant.

8.3.5.24 The approach procedures and MSA are well understood, therefore there is a low uncertainty in this assessment.

Operation

8.3.5.25 The maximum tip height of any turbines will be 204 m (670 ft). The current MSA of 1,800 ft will therefore continue to provide well in excess of the required minimum 1,000 ft vertical separation over the turbines. Consequently, the three proposed wind farm sites will have no effect on Wick Airport instrument flight procedures.

8.3.5.26 The magnitude of effect is categorised as negligible. The sensitivity of this receptor to this effect is considered high and therefore the effect is assessed as not significant.

Decommissioning

8.3.5.27 During lift operations, crane tips could temporarily exceed turbine tip heights. However, the current MSA of 1,800 ft will continue to provide well in excess of the required minimum 1,000 ft vertical separation over the turbines and construction infrastructure. Consequently, the decommissioning infrastructure will have no effect on Wick Airport instrument flight procedures.

8.3.5.28 The magnitude of effect is categorised as negligible. The sensitivity of this receptor to this effect is considered high and therefore the effect is assessed as not significant.

HMR X-Ray

8.3.5.29 Consultation with helicopter operators in the Moray Firth confirmed that aircraft routinely operate along HMR X-Ray between 2,000 ft (610 m) and 3,000 ft (914 m), depending on prevailing meteorological conditions. This altitude band is sufficient to prevent any helicopters operating on the HMR from coming into direct physical conflict with wind turbines within the wind farm sites under normal operating conditions.

8.3.5.30 The construction of turbines within 2 nm either side of the route of HMR X-Ray will have the potential to restrict operations below the routine operational altitudes when icing conditions exist. The ability of a helicopter to operate at the expected altitudes would be dependent upon the 0° isotherm (icing level); the presence of turbines within the MacColl development may preclude the aircraft from operating on days of low cloud base if the 0° isotherm was at 3,000 ft or below.

8-66 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.3.5.34 8.3.5.33 8.3.5.32 8.3.5.31 Section3 Obstruction Physical Construction Installations Offshore Decommissioning Impact Obstruction Physical Operation Construction

–

h hih ta isrmn apoce t ofhr pafrs commence platforms high offshore considered to therefore is effect approaches of magnitude instrument 1,000 that height of the criteria region the in transit can helicopters clearance which at height the obstacle platforms oil offshore the minimum to approaches the infringe be could infrastructure construction Turbine between interaction the and documented well occur to probable considered is effect the and assessment in this uncertainty are area op helicopters the in operations high is receptor A the will on operating helicopters infrastructure decommissioning Turbine well is turbines wind and occur. to probable considered operations helicopters a is there therefore between understood, interaction the and as assessed already is conditions which icing route in used overland current a of existence the and involved distances as categorised is effect of magnitude The well is turbines wind and conside operations helicopters is there therefore between understood, interaction the and as assessed already is conditions which icing route in used overland current a of existence the and involved distances as categorised is effect of magnitude the on helicopters operating for obstruction physical a present will infrastructure construction Turbine OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact irports

. The above effect is assessed assessed is effect The above . red probable to occur. to red probable

h mgiue f fet s aeoie a medium as categorised is effect of magnitude The

not significant not significant not erations and wind turbines is well understood, therefore there is a low low a is there therefore understood, well is turbines wind and erations . Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure section The above effect is therefore assessed as as assessed therefore is effect above The

. .

of HMR X HMR of The sensitivity of this receptor is high is receptor this of sensitivity The high is receptor this of sensitivity The . . . Helicopter operations in the area are well documented well are area the in operations Helicopter documented well are area the in operations Helicopter section a low uncertainty in this assessment and the effect is is effect the and assessment this in uncertainty low a

low uncertainty in this assessment and the effect is is effect the and assessment this in uncertainty low MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited to be be to - Ray between Aberdeen and Wick Airports Wick and Aberdeen between Ray

f M X HMR of . . significant. elgbe u t te ufcet separation sufficient the to due negligible The minimum obstacle clearance dictates dictates clearance obstacle minimum The negligible due to the sufficient separation sufficient the to due negligible considered as physical obstructions and obstructions physical as considered

high rsn a hscl btuto for obstruction physical a present - a bten bren n Wick and Aberdeen between Ray .

The sensitivity of this receptor is is receptor this of sensitivity The of the the of significant . . . three wind three

-

h sniiiy f this of sensitivity The EnvironmentalStatement The above effect is is effect above The i effect above The

ft ft on helicopter helicopter on .

Helicopter Helicopter farms and and farms .

. . . The The The 8 - 67 s

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Operation

Physical Obstruction

8.3.5.35 Turbines could be considered as physical obstructions and infringe the minimum obstacle clearance criteria of 1,000 ft on helicopter approaches to the offshore oil platforms. The minimum obstacle clearance dictates the height at which helicopters can transit in the region of the three developments and the height that instrument approaches to offshore platforms commence.

Airborne Radar Impact

8.3.5.36 Wind turbine development within 9 nm (16.7 km) of offshore oil and gas installations has the potential to affect Instrument Flight Procedures to such installations in poor weather conditions. Many helicopters operating in the Moray Firth region are fitted with airborne weather radar. This weather radar can be used to conduct an instrument approach to offshore platforms in poor visibility. The radar is designed to display weather phenomena, such as rain, as well as obstacles such as the oil or gas platform and wind turbines. There is potential for the volume of targets generated by wind turbines, platforms and weather, to hamper a flight crew’s ability to correctly distinguish the location of the required destination platform. Furthermore during the approach to an installation, all radar contacts (including radar contacts that are turbines) have to be avoided laterally by at least 1 nm.

8.3.5.37 There are helidecks established on Beatrice platforms A, B and C (all 6 nm or more from the three proposed wind farm sites). Whilst there is no permanently established helideck on the Jacky platform (3.7 nm from the three proposed wind farm sites), there is a capability to establish one if required.

8.3.5.38 The current operators and owners of the Beatrice (and Jacky) platforms have provided the following indicative flight schedules to each of the platforms (Technical Appendix 5.3 B):  Beatrice Alpha – three flights per week throughout the year, totalling 156 flights per annum;  Beatrice Bravo – three visits by an engineering team every month with flights to drop-off and collect the team – six flights per month or 72 per annum;  Beatrice Charlie – two visits by an engineering team every three months with flights to drop off and collect the team – 16 flights per annum; and  Jacky – when a jack-up is present (expected for six to eight weeks per annum) there will be two flights per week – maximum 16 flights per annum.

8.3.5.39 There are two existing wind turbines within the Beatrice field which are located to the south east of the Beatrice A platform. These two turbines already constrain instrument approaches into the Beatrice A platform where restrictions exist between the 130° and 190° radials out to 3 nm (5.6 km) from the platform.

8.3.5.40 The Telford Wind Farm is in excess of 9 nm from the nearest of the platforms (Jacky) and consequently outside the individual platform consultation zones. The Stevenson Wind Farm is within the 9 nm consultation zones of the Beatrice A and B platforms. The MacColl Wind Farm is within the 9 nm consultation zones of the all four platforms.

8-68 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.3.5.47 8.3.5.46 8.3.5.45 8.3.5.44 8.3.5.43 8.3.5.42 8.3.5.41 Section3 Obstruction Physical Constru Altitude Safe Minimum Decommissioning

ction –

odtos IC, setal po wahr i te oa Frh ein s 1,500 is region Firth en Moray known and the in weather, (457 poor essentially (IMC), Conditions Meteorological Instrument in operations aircraft for (MSA) altitude safe minimum The understood primary well assessment in this uncertainty are area secondary the the in a operations that Helicopter as used confirmed are recep the of sensitivity The helicopters has and boat, operators measure evacuation by platform is strategy the abandonment with facilitate to Consultation helicopters of use the on based procedures. evacuation are scenarios emergency where cases safety platform offshore of integrity the on effect additional an be may There be to assessed high considered therefore the of instrument region the in transit can helicopters 1 clearance of obstacle criteria minimum the infringe and obstructions physical as considered with As is Stakeholders Installation Offshore over farms th wind development the and MORL ongoing between Discussions Note: well is turbines wind and occur. to probable considered operations in uncertainty helicopter low a is there between therefore understood, interaction the and be to assessed is affected be will which flights of magnitude The     within turbines wind sites farm wind of because platforms the reaching from anticipate mitigation, of absence the In Helicopter Approaches Procedures to Offshore Platforms Offshore to Approaches Procedures Helicopter asses Route Main Helicopter the to relevant platforms therefore is and offshore commences to approaches instrument which at height the dictates MSA The OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Jacky Jacky Charlie Beatrice Bravo Beatrice Alpha Beatrice

m) .

the the

to establish the acceptability of the expected increased effect of the three the of effect increased expected the of acceptability the establish to – hs los o a iiu o 1,000 of minimum a for allows This

approaches to offshore platforms commence platforms offshore to approaches approx. approx.

, 000 construction phase, turbine decommissioning infrastructure could be be could infrastructure decommissioning turbine phase, construction

- have been calculated as follows ( follows as calculated been have significant. route obstacles (the highest point of the Beatrice platform complex) platform Beatrice the of point highest (the obstacles route

ft. significant Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure –

– feti hrfr osdrd o wn otesalnme of number small the to owing low considered therefore is effect

one

– approx. h mnmm obs minimum The approx.

. . negligible; Consequently, the magnitude of the effect is considered low considered is effect the of magnitude the Consequently,

flight per annum. per flight

. . tor is high is tor .

The sensitivity of sensitivity The three three . . Helicopter operations in the area are well documented well are area the in operations Helicopter . The sensitivity of sensitivity The However, the effect is highly unlikely to occur. to highly unlikely is effect the However,

and at of the effect of existing constraints. of existing effect of the at

flights per annum; per flights to MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

. . four tacle clearance dictates the height at which which at height the dictates clearance tacle The above effect is assessed to be be to assessed is effect above The

d numbers of flights likely to be prevented prevented be to likely flights of numbers d flights per annum; per flights this receptor is high is receptor this

he wind three ft ft

this receptor is high is receptor this (305 Technical Technical

this assessment and the effect is is effect the and assessment this

m)

cleara .

. . . am ad h hih that height the and farms The maximum tip height of height tip maximum The The magnitude of effect is effect of magnitude The

hrfr, hr i a low a is there Therefore, Appendi c bten aircraft between nce - . .

h tre proposed three the EnvironmentalStatement The above effect is effect above The . . The above effect effect above The x 5.3

B): sment and sment significant

8 -

69 ft . . .

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

proposed turbines of the three developments will be 204 m (670 ft). Therefore, the MSA in the area of the developments will be required to be raised to 1,700 ft to ensure that a minimum of 1,000 ft vertical separation between the anticipated turbine tip height and aircraft is maintained.

8.3.5.48 The magnitude of effect is categorised as low as it will be possible to continue operations on HMR X- Ray and will not affect the Offshore Installations. The sensitivity of this receptor to this effect is considered high. The above effect is assessed to be significant. Helicopter operations in the area are well documented and the interaction between helicopter operations and wind turbines is well understood, therefore there is a low uncertainty in this assessment and the effect is considered probable to occur.

8.3.5.49 Turbine construction processes will have a significant effect on the MSA in the area of the three proposed wind farms.

Operation

8.3.5.50 The MSA will be raised from the point of the first turbine being installed, and as such the effect will continue to be significant.

Decommissioning

8.3.5.51 The MSA will be raised from the point of the first turbine being installed and as such the effect will continue to be significant until the last turbine has been decommissioned.

8.3.6 Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation

NERL Allanshill PSR

Construction

8.3.6.1 No mitigation required until the first turbine is operational.

Operation

8.3.6.2 NERL have stated that where they have redundancy from overlapping radar cover from their en-route radars, they would be prepared to consider blanking the radar that detects a particular wind turbine site, provided the remaining two do not detect the site and provide an adequate base of radar cover. However, these conditions do not exist in the area of the three proposed wind farms; the Inverness Airport PSR may be considered to have the lowest base of radar cover and will not detect the turbines of the three developments. The base of coverage of the NERL Perwinnes PSR, located near Aberdeen is anticipated to be approximately 1,550 m amsl (5,085 ft) and not considered adequate to support NERL operations.

8.3.6.3 Raytheon (the manufacturers of the NERL radar systems) have developed a technical mitigation which may be applicable for the three wind farms although this is subject of further analysis. This, and alternative mitigation measures are being discussed with NERL and MORL are pursuing an agreement to mitigate the effect on the Allanshill PSR. Meetings to discuss mitigation are scheduled to take place between NERL and MORL in June 2012.

8-70 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.3.6.12 8.3.6.11 8.3.6.10 8.3.6.9 8.3.6.8 8.3.6.7 8.3.6.6 8.3.6.5 8.3.6.4 8.3.6.13 Section3 Operation Construction MoD Deco Operation Construction MoD Decommissioning

RAF Lossiemouth PSR Lossiemouth RAF ASACS Buchan ADR Buchan ASACS mmissioning

–

No mitigation required. No mitigation operational. remain anyturbines whilst operation in remains Mitigation farms. wind offshore 2 Round Wash farms Greater the for mitigation wind as implemented is of radar this vicinity TPS the in the uncertainty low in and confidence high performance however determine to trialled been as assessed then be would effect the so high, is receptor the of sensitivity the negligible; Pr achieve with to forward way a discuss to MoD modified the with held been recently has meeting a that be Note or developments, proposed three mitigation. the of TPS the elements with common in capabilities has the that recommended is it Therefore, AN of model the (tactical) mobile have TPS to understood is the which from updated continually version baseline the MoD TPS Martin Lockheed the While required. No mitigation anyt whilst operation in remains Mitigation systems. radar Route forEn implemented been not date to has it high significant is receptor the of reduced sensitivity is effect the of magnitude the mitigation, agreed With ouin novs h rmvl f S dt wee aa cutr s niiae i the in anticipated is clutter radar where data PSR of removal the involves solution acceptabi the in The OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

ovided mitigation is available, the magnitude of the effect can be reduced to to reduced be can effect the of magnitude the available, is mitigation ovided not significant not

MoD regard to to regard

for the effects of wind turbines on Air Defence radar, the Buchan T92 radar is radar T92 Buchan the radar, Defence Air on turbines wind of effects the for

has stated a requirement for ‘seamless integration’ to be an integral factor integral an be to integration’ ‘seamless for requirement a stated has . .

There is medium uncertainty associated with the technical mitigation as mitigation technical the with associated uncertainty medium is There resolving the effect on the Buchan ADR and consultation is ongoing is ADR consultation and Buchan on the effect the resolving

.

lity of any technical in technical any of lity

Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure There is medium uncertainty with uncertainty medium is There . . The Buchan ADR has also been subject to these updates and updates these to subject been also has ADR Buchan The

broadly the same capability as the TPS the as capability same the broadly - 7 D i te ny urn mtgto acpe by accepted mitigation current only the is ADR 77

. / MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited FPS This residual effect has been assessed as as assessed been has effect residual This

MoD - - 117 radar. 117 fill mitigation solution for ATC radar ATC for solution mitigation fill urbines remain operational. remain urbines -

7 hc my e used be may which 77 is engaged to determine if the T92 radar radar T92 the if determine to engaged is - 7 s eie, n wih a been has which and derived, is 77

the mitigation as the T92 has not has T92 the as mitigation the - 77 radar as mitigation, as as mitigation, as radar 77 - - 77

EnvironmentalStatement . o negligible to The TPS The

all mitigate to . . . - 77 is the is 77 There is is There An in An . The 8 not - . -

fill 71

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

vicinity of a wind farm, and replacing it with an alternate radar source which is not affected by radar clutter. Two such technologies are being demonstrated in Q2 and Q3 of 2012, and the MoD are a key stakeholder in this process through the Aviation Management Board under the Aviation Memorandum of Understanding, signed by DECC, DfT, MoD, RenewableUK, CAA and NERL to demonstrate the willingness to resolve aviation issues for wind farm development. Although still in their Research and Development phases, there are potential options that are anticipated to be available to mitigate the effects of the three proposed wind farm sites and will have undergone extensive factory and in-field acceptance testing before the three wind farms commence construction.

8.3.6.14 Integration of any PSR mitigation solution remains the key challenge, and it is understood that the potential in-fill options will include bespoke radar system integration solutions. However, if required, MORL would agree the precise supplier details of a separate integration system during the Mitigation Implementation phase of the Project.

8.3.6.15 Note: A meeting with the relevant subject matter experts within the MoD to discuss a way forward to resolving the effect on the Lossiemouth PSR will take place in June 2012.

8.3.6.16 With agreed mitigation, the magnitude of the effect is therefore reduced to negligible. The sensitivity of the receptor is high. This effect has been assessed as not significant.

Decommissioning

8.3.6.17 Mitigation remains in operation whilst any turbines remain operational.

HIAL Wick Airport

Construction

8.3.6.18 No mitigation required.

Operation

8.3.6.19 No mitigation required.

Decommissioning

8.3.6.20 No mitigation required,

HMR X-Ray

Construction

8.3.6.21 The MSA will be raised to 1,700 ft as soon as the first turbine is erected, which is below the lowest altitude at which HMR X-Ray is flown. Therefore the only mitigation will be required for icing conditions, when helicopters would have to fly at lower levels and therefore this will not be possible in the presence of wind turbines. Mitigation already exists in the form of an overland route which is used by helicopters that are not equipped with icing capabilities, and consequently there will be no significant effect on HMR X-Ray because of the three proposed wind farms.

8-72 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.3.6.29 8.3.6.28 8.3.6.27 8.3.6.26 8.3.6.25 8.3.6.24 8.3.6.23 8.3.6.22 Section3 Operation Construction Installations Offshore Decommissioning Operation

–

In the absence of mitigation, the magnitude of the effect on the anticipated anticipated the on effect the of magnitude the mitigation, of absence the In aviation stakeh with relevant the discussion under still are measures mitigation the Farm, Wind Offshore Beatrice the with conjunction in sites farm wind proposed three the of effects cumulative the an operations installations offshore to helicopter to regard with issues aviation the of complexity the to Owing considered required be will traffic construction of X location and turbines HMR constructed of (AIS) Service for mitigation with As the and Order The Navigation: Air 393 CAP of 220 Regulations Article with infrastructure accordance construction of height maximum (AIS) required, be Service will Information Aeronautical NATS to obstructions physical of Notification considered still is receptor on this effect the mitigation with and ro overland current a X of HMR existence of the base the and MSA the between and involved distances separation categorised capabilities, already is effect of icing magnitude The with equipped not are farms. wind proposed which be will there helicopters consequently by used levels lower at fly X to have HMR would which at 1,700 b will altitude mitigation only lowest to the Therefore the raised below is be which developments, will MSA The th conditions icing in used already is which route overland current a of the X HMR of base the and MSA the between involved distances and Order as The categorised is effect of magnitude The Navigation: Air 393 CAP of 220 Regulations. Article with infrastructure accordance construction of height maximum (AIS) required, be Service will Information Aeronautical NATS to obstructions physical of Notification the sma the of because platforms the reaching within turbines from wind prevented be to likely flights of numbers OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

e effect on this receptor is considered considered receptoris on this e effect

ll number of flights which will be affected be will which flights of number ll

.

not significant. not

With mitigation the effect on this receptor is considered considered receptor is on this effect the mitigation With i.e. i.e. Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

location of constructed turbines and location and turbines constructed of location location the three proposed wind farm sites is is sites farm wind proposed three the

d the requirement to propose a mitigation which considers considers which mitigation a propose to requirement the d

no significant effect significant no olders.

of constructed turbines and location and turbines constructed of - Ray, notification to NATS Aeronautical Information Information Aeronautical NATS to notification Ray, . MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

eurdfriigcniin,we helicopters when conditions, icing for required e hr aray xss n vrad ot wih is which route overland an exists already There

ft ft . .

ute which is already used in icing conditions, conditions, icing in used already is which ute With mitigation the effect on this receptor is receptor this on effect the mitigation With olwn te eeomn o te three the of development the following not significant. negligible d negligible

o . . n HMR X HMR n

s elgbe u to due negligible as / . . movement and movement ihig f btce wl b in be will obstacles of Lighting ihig f btce wl b in be will obstacles of Lighting A number of mitigation options options mitigation of number A ue to the sufficient separation sufficient the to ue

- Ray as a result of the three the of result a as Ray considered considered - Ray, and the existence the and Ray, not significant. -

EnvironmentalStatement

/ /

maximum height height maximum . . movement and movement movement and movement not significant. not With mitigation mitigation With

- low a i flown is Ray the sufficient sufficient the -

Ray, and and Ray, owing

8

- to 73

.

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

are being discussed with the Moray Firth helicopter operators, (as detailed in Technical Appendix 5.3 B) and an acceptable mitigation solution for operation flights and safety cases will be agreed prior to construction. With the implementation of an agreed mitigation solution, the magnitude of the effect is reduced to negligible. The sensitivity of the receptor is high. This effect has been assessed as not significant.

Decommissioning

8.3.6.30 Notification to NATS Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) of constructed turbines and location / movement and maximum height of construction traffic will be required. With mitigation the effect on this receptor is considered not significant.

Minimum Safe Altitude

Construction

8.3.6.31 For the assessments of likely significant effects in this chapter with regard to aviation and radar, the worst case scenario of wind turbines at their maximum planned tip height of 204 m above Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) has been used across the entirety of the three proposed developments. Consequently, when the first turbine is constructed, the MSA will need to be raised to 1,700 ft to allow a minimum 1,000 ft vertical clearance between aircraft and the turbines. Updates to aviation charts and other relevant documentation will reflect this change.

8.3.6.32 The magnitude of effect is already categorised as low. However, with mitigation the sensitivity of this receptor is therefore considered not significant.

Operation

8.3.6.33 MSA would be raised when the first turbine is constructed and relevant documentation will already therefore reflect this change; therefore no further mitigation is required.

8.3.6.34 MSA should be lowered to ensure a minimum 1,000 ft separation against highest remaining obstruction in the area. The magnitude of the effect is negligible and therefore the residual effect is not significant.

8.3.7 Secondary Assessment: Individual Sites 8.3.7.1 Secondary assessment of the effects of the individual wind farm sites (Telford, Stevenson and MacColl) on the NERL Allanshill and RAF Lossiemouth PSRs is deemed as not required. The individual development effects and technical mitigation requirements are broadly similar in each instance, and are as described in the Primary Assessment. Secondary assessment of the effects of the individual wind farm sites on HIAL Wick Airport is not required as each of the wind farms have no effect individually. 8.3.7.2 However, the ASACS Buchan ADR is likely to be affected to a lesser extent by the Stevenson and MacColl wind farms due to the smaller area of these two wind farms that are likely to be detectable by this ADR. The technical mitigation solution that would be required to resolve the effect of the Telford Wind Farm can be extended laterally and therefore would be suitable as a holistic solution in respect of the anticipated effect from each of the individual developments. The negative effects on the identified PSR and ADR systems are considered as direct and would be permanent on the commencement of turbine operation.

8-74 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.3.7.6 8.3.7.5 8.3.7.4 8.3.7.3 Section3 HMR X Wick Airport LossiemouthRAF PSR ASACS Buchan ADR NERL Allanshill PSR Operation MinimumSafe Altitude Offshore HMR X Wick Airport LossiemouthRAF PSR ASACS NERL Allanshill PSR Construction andDecommissioning Impact Table

- - 8.3

Ray Ray Buchan ADR

Installations – -

3 at is assessment secondary of the The summary complete. is decommissioning assess is 1,000 minimum a 204 of be to will need MSA the required constructed, is not developments three as the of deemed any in is turbine first MSA the When area the on effect the of assessment Secondary on operations. effect permanent and direct Mac and Stevenson the of effect negative The 9 the within is Farm Wind MacColl The 9 the within is Farm Wind individual the outside consequently and 9 of excess in is Farm Wind Telford The areas. Farm Wind Stevenson and Telford of the confines exist, conditions icing an when route overland alternative an of availability the to due X a with Wind MacColl the of confines Farm lateral the within placed turbines wind with conflict The

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

- RAY in forecast icing conditions as an overland option is available is option overland an as conditions icing forecast in RAY niet eaie fet s assessed is effect negative indirect section . .

Secondary Secondary nti m N

ed as as ed ot all of the helicopters operating to the Moray Firth platforms are equipped are platforms Firth Moray the to operating helicopters the of all ot -

(approximately 670 (approximately icing capability; however these aircraft would not fly along or below HMR below or along fly not would aircraft these however capability; icing

of HMR X HMR of raised as a result a as raised s Not SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot ignificant Significant Significant Significant Significant Assessment Summary

ft ft Telford Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

vertical clearance between aircraft and the turbines the and aircraft between clearance vertical - RAY between Aberdeen and Wick Airports has the potential to potential the has Airports Wick and Aberdeen between RAY

, and and ,

nm

. . ft)

h oslainzns fteBarc n platforms B and A Beatrice the of zones consultation

Assuming the maximum wind turbine blade tip height tip blade turbine wind maximum the Assuming

as a direct and permanent negative effect until after until effect negative permanent and direct a as is selected, the MSA will be raised to 1,700 to raised be will MSA the selected, is Not SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Stevenson

nm

nm platform consultation zones consultation platform .

from the nearest of the platforms (Jacky) platforms the of nearest the from

M X HMR oslain oe o al or platforms four all of zones consultation

Table Coll wind farms is considered as a a as considered is farms wind Coll - Not SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot Ray does not cross the lateral lateral the cross not does Ray

Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant 8.3 MacColl

- 3

below.

-

EnvironmentalStatement

. . . . Consequently, Consequently, The Stevenson Stevenson The . .

This effect effect This ft ft to allow to 8 - 75 . . .

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Impact Telford Stevenson MacColl

Offshore Installations Not Significant Significant Significant

Minimum Safe Altitude Significant Significant Significant

Sensitivity Assessment

8.3.7.7 A secondary assessment of the effect on the NERL Allanshill and RAF Lossiemouth PSRs was deemed as not required, and therefore a sensitivity assessment is not required. Any combination of the three developments will pose a broadly similar effect on the radar and operations of these receptors. Additionally, the Stevenson and MacColl wind farms are likely to have a lesser total effect in terms of the area of the anticipated radar effects on the Buchan ADR than any combination of the wind farms that includes the Telford Wind Farm.

8.3.7.8 Any combination of the three developments that includes the MacColl Wind Farm is considered to have a permanent, direct but not significant effect on aircraft operating on HMR X-Ray. In addition, a combination of the three developments that includes both the Stevenson and MacColl wind farms will have a permanent, direct but not significant effect on helicopter operations to the existing Beatrice installation complex.

8.3.7.9 Due to the consideration that a secondary assessment of the effect on the area MSA were deemed as not required, a sensitivity assessment is also not required to be completed. Each of the three individual developments would realise the same effect on this receptor.

The sensitivity assessment summaries are in Table 8.3-4, Table 8.3-5 and Table 8.3-6 below.

Table 8.3-4 Sensitivity Assessment Summary

Impact Telford (3.6 MW) + Stevenson Telford (3.6 MW) + MacColl

Construction and Decommissioning

NERL Allanshill PSR Not Significant Not Significant

ASACS Buchan ADR Not Significant Not Significant

RAF Lossiemouth PSR Not Significant Not Significant

Wick Airport Not Significant Not Significant

HMR X-Ray Not Significant Significant

Offshore Installations Significant Significant

Minimum Safe Altitude Significant Significant

Operation

NERL Allanshill PSR Significant Significant

ASACS Buchan ADR Significant Significant

8-76 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Section3 MinimumSafe OffshoreInstallations HMR X Wick Airport LossiemouthRAF PSR ASACS Buchan ADR NERL Allanshill PSR Operation MinimumSafe Altitude OffshoreInstallations HMR X Wick Airport LossiemouthRAF PSR ASACS Buchan ADR NERL Allanshill PSR Construction andDecommissioning Impact Table MinimumSafe Altitude OffshoreInstallations HMR X Wick Airport LossiemouthRAF PSR Impact

- - - 8.3

Ray Ray Ray – -

5

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Altitude

Sensitivity

Assessment Summary Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Telford(3.6 Stevenson (3.6 Not SignificantNot Not SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant

MW

MW )+ Stevenson MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

)+ Telford

Stevenson (3.6 Telford(3.6 Not SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot SignificantNot Not SignificantNot SignificantNot Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant

MW

MW )+ MacColl -

)+ MacColl EnvironmentalStatement

8 - 77

CHAPTER 8.3 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Table 8.3-6 Sensitivity Assessment Summary

Impact MacColl (3.6 MW) + Telford MacColl (3.6 MW) + Stevenson

Construction and Decommissioning

NERL Allanshill PSR Not Significant Not Significant

ASACS Buchan ADR Not Significant Not Significant

RAF Lossiemouth PSR Not Significant Not Significant

Wick Airport Not Significant Not Significant

HMR X-Ray Significant Significant

Offshore Installations Significant Significant

Minimum Safe Altitude Significant Significant

Operation

NERL Allanshill PSR Significant Significant

ASACS Buchan ADR Significant Significant

RAF Lossiemouth PSR Significant Significant

Wick Airport Not Significant Not Significant

HMR X-Ray Not Significant Not Significant

Offshore Installations Significant Significant

Minimum Safe Altitude Significant Significant

Proposed Mitigation – Secondary / Sensitivity Assessment

8.3.7.10 In all cases of assessed effect on aviation operations, the initial identified mitigation solutions are considered to remain as appropriate after considering the secondary / sensitivity assessments.

8.3.8 References CAP 670 ATS Safety Requirements CAP 764 CAA Policy and Guidelines on Wind Turbines Civil Aviation Policy (CAP) 393 Air Navigation: The Order and the Regulations UK Aeronautical Information Publications (Civil and Military).

8-78 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.1.4 8.4.1.3 8.4.1.2 8.4.1.1 Section 8.4.1 8.4

Seascape, Landscape and Visual Receptors Visual and Landscape Seascape,

3

Summary of –

occupy a significant portion of the sea skyline, where it forms a wide horizontal horizontal wide a forms it where skyline, sea the of portion significant a occupy 30 of to appearing sites farm wind proposed three the of result a as coast Caithness the of region the in chara assessed is diminish sites farm 22 of viewpoints distances at seven located are on viewpoints effects closest significant the identified in located has assessment viewpoint The Designed over34 located and Gardens including area, Spec proposed and (GDLs) Landscapes study the within designations landscape the on significant not as assessed is sites farm wind proposed three the of effects The wi CCAs key these existing of the characteristics but CCAs, these of skyline sea open the on element characteristic a as development farm wind offshore distant introduce will development proposed change indirectly may which visibility, through principally arise changes altered; physically be not will CCAs Berriedale of south the to CCAs the on significant, not and medium, Berriedale; and be significant not and low, Wick between will (CCAs) Areas development Character Coastal proposed the on the significant, of change of magnitude sens medium a having as assessed Aberdeenshire both are which North coast, Sutherland and the Caithness covering area, study the no as assessed is sites farm landscape wind proposed three the of effect The over 40 distances at coastline, Aberdeenshire and Moray from the sites farm wind proposed three the see the of views are sites where farm wind periods proposed three limited relatively to sites farm wind visibility proposed of three effects the of good significance and duration the from reduce to combine conditions benefits weather area that the 25 such over visibility distances, longer at that sharply drops frequency visibility suggests that but conditions, data frequency visibility weat clear assumes assessment The Moray. and Caithness nearest boundaries site the OSP to close an with sites farm wind the or to close within distributed be (OSP) will platforms offshore substation eight the that assumes it Furthermore, sites MacColl and Stevenson Telford, the throughout spacing 7D x 5D densest the at (7 height turbine largest the has which 4c) (Scenario been scenario has area (SLVIA) the study with Assessment together farms Impact wind and Stevenson MacColl Telford, the Visual of effects significant likely and the determine to undertaken Landscape Seascape, The or landform between the viewpoints on the coastal edge and the development development the and edge coastal se open in the located on viewpoints the between landform or no being turbines the of effect fea OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact ture in relation to the seascape in the view, in combination with the vertical vertical the with combination in view, the in seascape the to relation in ture itivity to change to itivity cteristics of the view the of cteristics .

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essment is based on the ‘worst case’ Rochdale Envelope Envelope Rochdale case’ ‘worst the on based is essment The assessment assumes clear weather and optimum viewing viewing optimum and weather clear assumes assessment The The seascape The

, on the CCAs to the north of Wick; and medium and Wick; of north the CCAs to the ,on , which occurs infrequently. which , section the way in which the pattern of elements is perceived is elements of pattern the which in way the Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure . . Significant visual effects arise from the closest locations closest the from arise effects visual Significant table f atns bten ik n Dunbeath and Wick between Caithness of

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

conditions. This means that effects that are assessed to be significant may be not significant under different, less clear conditions. The viewpoint assessment has identified that the effect of the three proposed wind farm sites will be not significant on the remaining viewpoints in Caithness to the north of Wick and to the south of Berriedale. In these views, the three proposed wind farm sites will be more distant from the coast and located on the skyline within a part of the broad, open sea views. Generally set apart from the visible landform of the coast, the three proposed wind farm sites will form a single, distinct feature in their own right on the skyline, surrounded by open sea.

8.4.2 Introduction

8.4.2.1 The assessment considers the effect on the seascape and landscape character and the effect on visual amenity (views) of the offshore generating station (OGS) and the offshore transmission infrastructure (OfTI). Seascape effects are an extension of landscape effects, but the emphasis is on other elements that are slightly different or more important at the coast, when defining the character and effects of seascape compared to landscape. The SLVIA methodology is described in full in Technical Appendix 5.4 A and the baseline seascape, landscape and visual receptor resource relating to the OGS and the OfTI is described in Chapter 5.4. The seascape, landscape and visual effects of the onshore aspects of the transmission infrastructure (OnTI) are assessed in Chapter 11.4. Whole Project effects are described in Chapter 12.1: Seascape, Landscape and Visual Receptors. Cumulative effects, arising from the effect of the Project in conjunction with other wind farms, are also considered in Chapter 15.4.

8.4.2.2 Photomontages, panoramic photographs and plan / map figures, which form the visualisation section of the Environmental Statement are bound into one complete A3 document entitled ‘Volume 7: Moray Offshore Wind Farm SLVIA Figures’.

8.4.2.3 The SLVIA covers the construction, operational phase and decommissioning of the OGS and the OfTI. The assessment is based on the ‘realistic worst case’ Rochdale Envelope described in Chapter 2.2 (Project Description). The parameters of the Rochdale Envelope relevant to the SLVIA are described further in 8.4.3 of this chapter.

8.4.2.4 Offshore wind farms tend to give rise to seascape, landscape and visual effects by virtue of a number of attributes specific to both their individual form and to the location and grouping of turbines. These attributes include:  Strong vertical and horizontal form;  Movement of turbine blades;  Grouping within the seascape;  Location and distance offshore; and  Relationship to the scale and nature of the existing coastal landscape.

8.4.2.5 These attributes may affect different components of the seascape, landscape and visual environment in different ways, or may combine to result in an effect.

8.4.2.6 The SLVIA does not consider the balance of public attitudes towards wind farms. The assessment concentrates instead on the change that the three proposed wind farm sites will bring to the different attributes of the seascape, landscape and visual environment, on the basis of the magnitude of that change and the sensitivity of the

8-80 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.3.4 8.4.3.3 8.4.3.2 8.4.3.1 8.4.2.7 Section General (m) HAT) MaximumTip Height(above RotorDiameter (m) LAT)(m) Approximate Hub Height(above TurbineType Rating( Table Wind Zone 8.4.3

8.4 Capacity Assumptions Capacity Turbine Generator Assumptions Generator Turbine

3

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RochdaleEnvelope Parameters Considered in the Assessment – -

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500 layouts, but not both; not layouts, but The 0degrees); as due north (with 10degrees or minus plus 230degrees is which direction wind predominant the to perpendicular aligned be will rows wind Cross in wind cross pattern grid offset an in are but downwind aligned are rows where spacing diamond a in or wind, cross and down both aligned are rows where spacing, grid in out laid be either will Turbines

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

 In the down wind direction, the assumed turbine spacing is seven times rotor diameter. However, occasional rows may be removed to allow for wind generation and so effective spacing could be larger in some instances;  For the cross wind direction the assumed turbine spacing is five times rotor diameter;  Turbines may be installed anywhere within the proposed wind farm sites. However, due to technical or environmental constraints, certain areas within wind farm sites may not be developed. As such, the effective site boundaries for Telford, Stevenson and MacColl may be reduced and those assessed here comprise the maximum site boundaries;  Within each site (Telford, Stevenson and MacColl) the turbine ratings will be consistent. However, each of the three sites may have different rated turbines. There could be an offset in the rows at the site boundaries caused by the difference in turbine spacing, and;  The boundaries of Telford, Stevenson and MacColl are fixed.

SLVIA Layouts

8.4.3.5 Five layout scenarios were generated in order to consider the Rochdale Envelope for the SLVIA and to investigate the likely effects of different layouts within the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl sites. The five SLVIA layout scenarios considered in the Rochdale Envelope are shown as follows and in Figure 8.4-1, Volume 7:  Scenario 1b: Telford - 3.6 MW; Stevenson - 5 MW; MacColl - 5 MW: o 5D x 7D spacing with diamond layout;  Scenario 1c: Telford - 3.6 MW; Stevenson - 5 MW; MacColl - 5 MW: o 5D x 7D spacing with diamond layout;  Scenario 2b: Telford - 3.6 MW; Stevenson - 5 MW; MacColl - 5 MW: o 5D x 7D spacing with grid layout;  Scenario 3: Telford - 7 MW; Stevenson - 7 MW; MacColl - 7 MW: o 5D x 7D spacing with diamond layout;  Scenario 4: Telford - 7 MW; Stevenson - 7 MW; MacColl - 7 MW: o 5D x 7D spacing with grid layout;  Scenario 4b: Telford - 7 MW; Stevenson - 7 MW; MacColl - 7 MW: o 6.5D x 10D spacing with grid layout;  Scenario 4c: Telford - 7 MW; Stevenson - 7 MW; MacColl - 7 MW: o 5D x 7D spacing with grid layout;  Scenario 5: Telford - 7 MW Array, Stevenson - 5 MW; MacColl - 3.6 MW: o 6.5D x 10D spacing with diamond layout;  Scenario 5b: Telford - 7 MW Array, Stevenson - 5 MW; MacColl - 3.6 MW: o 6.5D x 10D spacing with grid layout; and  Scenario 5c: Telford - 7 MW Array, Stevenson - 5 MW; MacColl - 3.6 MW: o 6.5D x 10D spacing with grid layout.

8-82 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.3.8 8.4.3.7 8.4.3.6 8.4.3.9 Section Foundation

3

–

wind farms suggests that jacket foundations are worst case for visual impa visual for case areworst foundations jacket that suggests farms wind jacket a be will design substructure substructure the that assumes SLVIA the for case worst The         review: from this drawn were conclusions The following the and terms, visual and landscape seascape, of a selection in case’, ‘worst the in constitutes sites farm wind proposed three (using the of views appearance the of nature the and ZTV) Visibility Theoretical of Zones (using visibility of extent overall the of review a including undertaken, was scenarios layout these of issues visibility the of review A nefc, hr te oe cnet wt te akt onain structure foundation jacket the be to assumed with is WTG the and substructure the between LAT) (above level connects interface tower tower and the platform where working a interface, have to assumed are substructures foundation The OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

The layouts with the largest turbines, widest horizontal extent and greater greater and extent horizontal widest turbines, largest the with layouts The density the impact and less greater comparatively has which of turbines numbers fa extent are wind proposed horizontal options three the the turbine particularly for and different distances long with at associated noticeable differences height Turbine the MacColl site. MacColl the acros heights 5 Caithness), to (closest site Telford the turbine in turbines varied most the show to viewpoints ( 5c Scenario effects wake for turbine allow to Envelope Rochdale the of parameters the within required be may which sites, the between ‘space’ or 'gap' a is there where numbe scenario a illustrates overall also scenario largest the and 7D) x (5D spacing (3.6 turbines height smallest the show to viewpoints ( 1c Scenario or arrays heights photomontages ( 4c and array denser the c In and Caithness from visible least moreno a had 4c Scenario in of turbines massing are site of side MacColl eastern the in the turbines the boundaries, site the of footprint the fills which Scenar than footprint smaller a in resulted 4c Scenario Although ( sites spacing) MacColl and Stevenson Telford, (7 number and has it as overall, case worst considered was 4c Scenario around coast Caithness the of part Lybster) Bayand Wick (roughly between Head Sarclet sensitive more as hence case, and closest worst the visual from the be to considered rows turbine was arrangement layout grid The wire the in appearance their in and ZTV, the in of visibility extent of their terms in both case, number Substructure ompliance with EIA regulations, the likely worst case scenario, case worst likely the regulations, EIA with ompliance Figure

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Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure 8.4 8.4 This initial assessment process allowed a review of what what of review a allowed process assessment initial This

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

20 m above LAT, which is similar to other projects and a realistic assumption. The jacket foundations are assumed to have four sides and four legs, supported in a lattice tower arrangement. The foundation substructures will be painted yellow for navigational marking.

Offshore Meteorological Mast Assumptions

8.4.3.10 A single offshore met mast will be installed within the boundaries of the three proposed wind farm sites. The met mast tower will be of similar design to the consented MORL met mast with a lattice tower of approximately 100 to 110 m LAT. It is assumed as worst case for the SLVIA that the substructure design will be a jacket substructure.

Offshore Substation Platforms Assumptions (including foundation substructure)

8.4.3.11 Indicative locations of the OSPs have been assumed for the SLVIA; six indicative AC OSPs are within the three proposed wind farm boundaries, with an OSP close to the site boundaries nearest Caithness and Moray, with others evenly distributed through the wind farm sites. Two AC / DC convertor stations are outwith the wind farm sites, up to 2 km to the east or south. The indicative locations of these OSPs assumed for the SLVIA are shown Figure 8.4-2, Volume 7.

8.4.3.12 The OSPs will have a maximum platform length of 100 m, platform width of 100 m and platform height 70 m, for both AC and DC OSPs. The maximum height of 70 m is the total height of the topside structure (the substation 'box') and visible jacket foundations / air gap, above LAT. The SLVIA assumes that the interface level (the height of visible jacket structures above water) is 20 m above LAT and the height of the topside structure is 50 m. The jacket foundations for the OSPs will have four sides and up to 6 legged jacket (AC OSPs) and 8 legged jacket (DC OSPs), supported in a lattice tower arrangement and painted yellow for navigational marking. The effect of the OSPs in the context of the three proposed wind farm sites is assessed in Chapter 11.4 (Seascape, Landscape and Visual Receptors).

Lighting

8.4.3.13 Offshore structures will be marked in order to meet the requirements of navigation and aviation standards. Specific requirements for aviation and navigational lighting will be agreed with the relevant stakeholders post-consent and prior to construction. There are currently no standards on landscape and visual assessment of lighting associated with development. Existing guidance on this issue focuses on mitigation of the effects of night time lighting, such as the ‘Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Obtrusive Light’ (Institute of Lighting Engineers, 2005) or ‘Lighting in the Countryside – Towards Good Practice’ (Countryside Commission, 1997).

8.4.4 EIA Methodology

8.4.4.1 The full methodology used to carry out the SLVIA is described in detail in Technical Appendix 5.4 A.

8.4.4.2 The methodology used to carry out the SLVIA has been developed by Optimised Environments Ltd (OPEN) for the SLVIA of wind farms and accords with current best practice guidance (LI / IEMA, 2002). The methodology for the SLVIA draws on guidance from several other reference documents listed in 8.4.10 of this chapter.

8.4.4.3 The SLVIA for the offshore generating stations has been undertaken within a 50 km radius study area of the Telford, Stevenson and MacColl wind farms as shown in

8-84 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.4.7 8.4.4.6 8.4.4.5 8.4.4.4 Section Table Low Medium Medium Medium High Sensitivity

8.4

3

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h assmn asms la wahr ih piu veig odtos and conditions viewing optimum with weather ‘worst clear the assesses assumes assessment The in presented is argument reasoned and effects case. in each findings of all the respect of assessment the to Assessment applied visual Impact or landscape Visual seascape, and particular a of respect receptor in assessed is that effect signif be may boxes light the within assessed are that effects those that however noted be should It Regulations. EIA of the requirements of in the terms significant dark the within assessed are that Effects 2 illustration. arise may effects significant which at threshold the of magnitude to and and effect significant a sensitivity to rise of give can change combinations how illustrate help to methodology (Environmental Works not or significant Electricity be to the and 2007 it 2000 Regulations (Scotland) Assessment) Impact Regulations Assessment) Impact significance of levels define significance the determine to use matrix a of the on reliant not is development farm wind assessing for methodology OPEN’s th OfTI. the and sites farm wind proposed three of define the effects visual and landscape to be rather not will but sites farm seen, wind proposed three the which beyond boundary a provide 5.4 Figure the impact assess impact the conditions visibility poorer, different, under significant not as assessed conditions

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

( Seascape, Landscape and Visual Receptors Visual and Landscape Seascape,

Illustrative Significance MatrixIllustrative Significance 5.4 High Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant . - 1, .

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icant, or not significant, depending on the specific factors and factors specific the on depending significant, not or icant, Medium 7 Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant Significant . . . The definition of this study area is described in 5.4.1, in described is area study this of definition The Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Not Not Not t s oee cniee ueu t icue mti i the in matrix a include to useful considered however is It - High . .

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85

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Table 8.4-3 Summary of SLVIA Impact Assessment Methodology

Effect Type Sensitivity Criteria Magnitude Criteria Significance Criteria

The sensitivity of a landscape The magnitude of change on landscape elements is quantifiable, and will be element is an expression of its value A significant effect expressed in terms of the degree to and quality, and the potential for will occur where which a landscape element will be mitigation of the effect as the degree of removed or altered by the three Physical explained below: removal or proposed wind farm sites. Landscape  The value of a landscape alteration of the Effects element is a reflection of its Definitions of the levels of magnitude of landscape change are defined as follows: element is such To Determine the importance in the pattern of that the form of Likely Physical elements that constitutes the High - where the three proposed wind the element will be Effects of the landscape character of the farm sites will result in the complete redefined. Where Three Proposed area and the policy or removal or alteration of a key element of a landscape Wind Farm Sites designations that might apply the landscape; element has a on Landscape to it; and Medium - where the three proposed high sensitivity, a Elements  The quality of a landscape wind farm sites will result in the removal significant effect Located on the element is a reflection of its of a notable part of an element or a can occur with a Site. condition and state of repair; notable alteration to a landscape limited degree of and element; Landscape removal or Elements are the  The potential for mitigation of Low - where the three proposed wind alteration. If the Component the effect on a landscape farm sites will result in the removal of a landscape Parts of the element is a reflection of the minor part of an element or a minor element is of lower Landscape such degree to which the element alteration to a key landscape element; sensitivity, it may as Landcover, can be restored, replaced or and undergo a Hedges and substituted. Negligible - where the change resulting relatively high level Trees. Levels of sensitivity are defined and from the three proposed wind farm sites of removal or applied to physical landscape is barely discernible and equates to a alteration yet features as – low, medium-low, ‘no change’ situation. remain as a not significant effect. medium, medium-high and high Intermediate levels of magnitude may sensitivity. also be included.

Effects on The sensitivity of a seascape / The magnitude of change on Seascape / landscape character receptor is seascape / landscape character Landscape an expression of its ability to receptors is an expression of the scale of A significant effect Character accommodate the three proposed the change that will result from the three will occur where To Determine the wind farm sites as part of its own proposed wind farm sites, and will be the combination Likely Effects of character or as part of the visual dependent on the following variables: of the variables the Three setting or context of the character results in the three  Distance between the seascape / Proposed Wind receptor. This is dependent on the proposed wind landscape character receptor and Farm Sites on value, quality and existing farm sites having a the three proposed wind farm sites; Seascape / seascape / landscape character definitive effect on Landscape of the receptor.  Extent to which the three proposed the receptor, so Character. wind farm sites become a that its landscape  The value of a seascape / characteristic element or key character is re- Seascape / landscape character receptor characteristic of the seascape / defined by the Landscape is a reflection of its importance landscape character; presence of the Character in terms of any designations Receptors are three proposed that may apply, or as a  Extent of the receptor that will be the Defined wind farm sites. A landscape resource; affected by visibility and, therefore, Coastal not significant the influence of the three proposed Character Areas  The quality of a seascape / effect will occur wind farm sites; and Landscape landscape character receptor where the effect of the three Character Types is a reflection of its attributes,  Extent of the three proposed wind proposed wind and those Areas such as sense of place and farm sites that will be seen; that have been scenic quality, and the extent farm sites is not Designated for to which these attributes have  Position of the three proposed wind definitive, and the their Recognised remained intact; and farm sites in relation to the principal landscape Quality or Value orientation of the landscape character of the in Landscape  The existing seascape / character receptor; receptor continues Planning Terms, landscape character of the to be defined  Scale comparisons; such as the receptor determines the principally by its degree to which the receptor Gardens and  The appearance of the wind farm in baseline may accommodate the Designed relation to its setting; and characteristics. Landscapes influence of the three proposed (GDLs). wind farm sites.

8-86 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Views SiteFarm ProposedWind the LikelyEffects To Visual Effects (continued) Character Landscape Seascape Effectson Determine Three . Section

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OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact   explainedas follows: andthe nature theof viewer, viewpoint,valuethe of the view, the on importance theof wind farmsites, and dependent is accommodatethe three expressionof abilityits to sensitivityThe of andhigh high sensitivity. medium characterreceptors as appliedto seascape Levelsof sensitivity

overlooksadesignated area increased liesif it wi theof view reflectionthe of scenic qualities valueThe of the view isa tobe; and greaterthe importance theof viewpoint, interpretation markedon a ormap with mayhave, such as recognitionthat the viewpoint viewpointdetermined is by any The importance theof - low,medium, medium

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will resultwill a in minoralteration tothe Low r the prominent but arenot uncharacteristic in introducing elementsthat may be readily apparent influenceand seascape baselinethe characteristics of the sites resultwill ainmoderate alteration to Medium landscape. uncharacteristic receivingthein elementsthat aresubstantially prevailing influenceand seascape baselinecharacteristics of the resultwill a in majoralteration tothe High change aredefined as follows: Definitionsthe of levels of magnitude of        dependentonthe following variables: proposed farm sites,wind and is changethat resultfromwill the three expressionof the scale of the apparent The magnitudeof change onviews is an receiving landscape. substant introducing elementsthat are a barelydiscernible influence and theof seascape alterationtothe baselinecharacteristics farm sites result will a in negligible Negligible landscape. characteristic thein introducing elementsthat are slightlyapparent influenceand seascape baselinecharacteristics of the

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited characterreceptor). boundary theof landscape occurs either orwithin beyond the degreethe of development that receptorgains characterits (suchas Inf tosetting; its and proposed farm siteswind relation in The appearanceof the three Scalecomparisons; principalorientation wind farmsites relatiin The positionof the three proposed wind farmsites that be will seen; The extent theof three proposed seen; proposed farm siteswind be will contextThe within thewhich three sites; andthe three proposed farm wind The ,the three proposed farmwind sites eceiving landscape. ,

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87

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

such as a Regional Scenic Area  The proportion of the view that is be defined (which implies a greater value affected by the three proposed wind principally by its to the visible landscape). The farm sites. baseline greater the value of the view, characteristics. In the greater its sensitivity is likely Other criteria are used in the assessment this instance the to be. of the magnitude of change in views three proposed from route corridor visual receptors. wind farm sites

The nature of the viewer reflects These are detailed in the full may affect the the occupation or activity of the methodology in Technical Appendix appearance of people who will gain the view. 5.4 A. the view, but this Viewers whose attention is focused Definitions of the four levels of effect will not result on the landscape (For example: magnitude of change are defined as in a material walkers) are likely to have a higher follows: change. sensitivity, as will residents of properties that gain views of the High, the three proposed wind farm sites three proposed wind farm sites. will result in a major alteration to the Viewers travelling in cars or on baseline view, providing the prevailing

trains, or those at work, will tend to influence and / or introducing elements Visual Effects have a lower sensitivity as their that are substantially uncharacteristic in view is either transient or they are the receiving landscape. (continued) engaged in other activities. Levels Medium, the three proposed wind farm of sensitivity are defined and sites will result in a moderate alteration to applied to visual receptors as – low, the baseline view, providing a readily medium-low, medium, medium- apparent influence and / or introducing high and high sensitivity. elements that may be prominent but are not uncharacteristic in the receiving landscape. Low, the three proposed wind farm sites will result in a minor alteration to the baseline view, providing a slightly apparent influence and / or introducing elements that are characteristic in the receiving landscape. Negligible, the three proposed wind farm sites will result in a negligible alteration to the baseline view, providing a barely discernible influence and / or introducing elements that are substantially characteristic in the receiving landscape. Intermediate levels of magnitude may also be included.

The cumulative magnitude of change A significant Cumulative on views is an expression of the degree cumulative effect Effects to which the seascape / landscape will occur where character receptors and views will be the addition of the To Determine the changed by the addition of the three three proposed Likely Effect that proposed wind farm sites to wind farms wind farm sites to the Three that are already existing, consented or other existing and Proposed Wind proposed and is dependent on the proposed wind Farm Sites would following variables: farms will result in a have on Views The sensitivity of the seascape / seascape / and Seascape / landscape character receptors or  The location of the three proposed landscape Landscape visual receptors is the same as wind farm sites in relation to other character or view Receptors when when considering the effects of the wind farms; becoming defined Seen or three proposed wind farm sites.  The extent of the developed skyline; by the presence of Perceived in more than one Conjunction with  The number and extent of the wind wind farm and other Existing, farm developments; characterised Consented and primarily by wind Proposed Wind  The turbine size comparison; farms so that other Farms  The distance of the wind farm from patterns and the viewpoint or receptor; and components are no longer definitive.

8-88 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment (continued) Effects Cumulative 8.4.6.1 8.4.5.1 Section Frequency Visibility 8.4.6 8.4.5

3

Proposed Mitigation Res –

ht o apoiaey 91 approximately for that reference to appropriate are measure the therefore point, closest their 26 approximately located are sites farm wind proposed three The an t as evaluating appropriate and background considered for are basis measurements visibility wind evidence about the judgements to but applied visibility, be can farm data this how to limitations are There measur visibility to instrument automatic an equivalent approximately range optical by meteorological the measures which measured Sensor, is Wick at visibility The 4c) proposed. Scenario for assessed and number, height, closest turbine the towards of aligns that pattern terms in size, largest a density their at illustrated and assessed are sites farm wind proposed three the which in case, worst likely the of Envelope assessment Rochdale the for scenario layout measure mitigation embedded of absence visual likely The the study area benefits from good visibility conditions, but that visibility frequency frequency visibility that but conditions, visibility good from benefits area study the beyond not 9 approximately but to, up visibility OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact idual Visualidual Effects nd horizontal spread, and with the turbine rows set out in a worst case grid case worst a in out set rows turbine the with and spread, horizontal nd

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

drops considerably over longer distances, such that the Developments will only be visible in conditions of ‘good’, ‘very good’ and ‘excellent’ visibility (terms defined by the Met Office1) over periods of limited frequency. Short periods of excellent visibility tend to be those which are more influential in terms of people’s perception of views and the visibility of distant objects.

8.4.6.2 The assessments made in the SLVIA are based on optimum viewing conditions with clear visibility of the turbines and as such assess the ‘worst case’ or maximum visual effect in optimum or ‘excellent’ visibility conditions. The Met Office visibility frequency data suggests that these conditions are only likely to occur for relatively limited periods. It is reasonable to conclude that the prevailing visibility and weather conditions combine to significantly reduce the duration and significance of effects to relatively limited periods when clear views of the three proposed wind farm sites are available. It is also reasonable to conclude that visibility will often be limited to the nearest rows of turbines, and that the full depth of the three proposed wind farm sites will often not be seen, because the visibility frequency at longer distances e.g. over 30 km is low.

Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV)

Blade Tip ZTV

8.4.6.3 The Blade Tip ZTV shows the theoretical extent of potential visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites. It shows the potential visibility of any part of the wind turbines up to its highest point (but not all of the wind turbine would necessarily be seen). The blade tip ZTV for the proposed development is shown in Figure 8.4-5, Volume 7 for the study area, at a wide contextual scale of 1:475,000, and in Figure 8.4-5a and 8.4-5b, Volume 7 for Caithness and Moray / Aberdeenshire separately, at a scale of 1:280,000. The Blade Tip ZTV is also presented in greater detail at 1:100,000 scale in Figure 8.4-10a to Figure 8.4-10e, Volume 7. Visibility of the proposed development is illustrated using five colour bands representing visibility of 1-50, 51- 100, 101-150, 151-200 and 201-216 turbine blade tips.

8.4.6.4 The limitations of this ZTV are discussed in Technical Appendix 5.4 A. In general, the ZTV is likely to over-estimate the spatial extent of visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites, due mainly to the use of a 'worst-case' model of the turbines (largest turbine height and spread) and the limitations of the digital terrain model, which takes no account of the complex natural and man-made elements in the onshore parts of the surrounding landscape. It is likely therefore, that actual visibility on the ground is less than that indicated on ZTVs due to the screening effects of surface features and local landforms. While the ZTV indicates the number of turbines theoretically visible, it does not show how much of each turbine is visible and this varies within these bands. For example: an area shown as having visibility of 201 to 216 turbines may be affected by the smallest extremity of the blade tips, or it may gain visibility of 216 ‘full’ turbines. The hub height ZTV (Figure 8.4-6, Volume 7) is used to inform the assessment in these circumstances, as it assists with the identification of areas where only the blade tips of the proposed wind farms will be visible.

1 Met Office Visibility definitions - http:// www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/guide/key.html#vis

8-90 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.6.5 Section

3

–

   are sites farm wind ZTV: Tip Blade the using made proposed three the of visibility the of assessments following The OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.4.6.6 The blade tip ZTV shows the effect of curvature of the earth on the likely visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites, which is relevant to consider in the visibility studies for the three proposed wind farm sites. The influence of earth curvature on visibility is shown as most notable in low lying areas, such as at sea level, whereas with elevation on land, the effects of earth curvature become less pronounced. This is evident in the Blade Tip ZTV, which shows visibility levels dropping in bands over 35 km at sea level, while onshore visibility is determined largely by landform. Curvature of the earth has less influence on visibility from the onshore parts of the study area, because the land is more elevated and affords visibility from higher areas where earth curvature has less effect. The eastern Caithness coastline, in particular, is often formed by high cliffs and coastal shelves, with landform rising inland to higher moorlands and mountains. The viewpoints included in Caithness (Table 8.4-4 below) are generally located at elevations of between 34 and 199 m (AOD), with the exception of lower lying locations at Keiss (12 m) and Wick (13 m), and the elevated summit of Morven (704 m). The full height of the turbines closest to the Caithness coast will be visible from most of the viewpoints, with only a few metres of the lower parts of the jacket foundations of the closest turbines screened behind the horizon due to earth curvature. Curvature of the earth reduces the apparent height of the turbines at greatest distance from the coast, with those furthest away having only a relatively small portion of their towers visible above the skyline. The depth of the layout of the three proposed wind farm sites results in the most distant turbines appearing markedly lower in the view than those to the front of the array. The role of earth curvature was found to be greater for the Moray / Aberdeenshire section of the study area, due to its longer distance from the three proposed wind farm sites and the lower elevations of this coastline.

Horizontal Angle ZTV

8.4.6.7 The 'horizontal angle ZTV' in Figure 8.4-7, Volume 7 measures how much of the horizontal field of view is occupied by the Development, in theoretical views. It is calculated from a grid of receptors in the study area and measures the maximum spread from the furthest left to the furthest right theoretically visible turbine of the three proposed wind farm sites. The information is stored as a horizontal angle in degrees. The horizontal angle ZTV provides a more realistic picture of the likely effect of the three proposed wind farm sites because the results reflect the effect that distance has on the apparent size of the three proposed wind farm sites: a large object up-close has more visual impact than the same sized object further away (all other things being equal). The horizontal angle ZTV is displayed using coloured bands showing incremental degrees of horizontal angle, in order to highlight areas of higher effect.

8.4.6.8 The horizontal angle ZTV shows that the widest horizontal field of view is occupied in close proximity to the Development, particularly within the site itself, where the turbines occupy more than 180 degrees (50 %) of the field of view, and in the areas typically within 10 km from the three proposed wind farm sites, where it will occupy 90 to 180 degrees (25 to 50 %) of the field of view. The ZTV allows the following assessments to be made:  The horizontal field of view occupied by the three proposed wind farm sites decreases considerably with distance;  The proposed development will occupy less than 60 degrees of the horizontal field of views from onshore areas in the study area with visibility, and generally less than 50 degrees;

8-92 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.6.11 8.4.6.10 8.4.6.9 Section Angle ZTV Vertical

3

–

angle of 45 to 90 degrees 90 to 45 of angle 204 locations each where itself, site close in and the view inthe in angle vertical the of degrees 90 occupied within than more occupies turbine is particularly view Development, of the field to vertical proximity highest close the that shows ZTV angle vertical The showi bands coloured using displayed is areaseffect. of higher highlight to order in angle, of vertical degrees ZTV angle vertical The equal) being things (all away further object sized same the than impact visual more up object large a sites: farm wind proposed three the of size apparent the effec the illustrate to turbine this of extent highest the to lowest the by up occupied is view of coast Caithness the to closest fieldturbine vertical f the wind of much proposed how three measures the ZTV angle by up occupied is view of field in ZTV' angle 'vertical The sp visible with beyond. seascape or skyline the siteto sited the through views allow which are turbines the reality in that and development, proposed the of extent right furthest the to left furthest the from angle proximity close will sites farm effe wind visual greater a proposed and locations distant from three effect visual the how distance; with that diminish will influence the shows it th the as sites of spread sites horizontal farm apparent the wind on has proposed distance three the of effect ofthe magnitude likely the of picture realistic more a provides ZTV angle horizontal The       approximately 2 approximately between distance: with decreases development proposed the by occupied angle degrees 45 than less OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

wind farm sites drops to 1 to 5 degrees, dropping rapidly with distance, such that over approximately 12 km, the three proposed wind farm sites will occupy 0 to 1 degrees of the vertical angle of views. The vertical angle ZTV shows that, where visible from onshore parts of the study area, the three proposed wind farm sites will only occupy 0 to 1 degrees of the vertical angle of views, indicating that it will have less visual effect from these distant locations due to its small vertical height in views.

8.4.6.12 The vertical angle ZTV provides a more realistic picture of the likely magnitude of effect of the three proposed wind farm sites as it shows the influence that distance has on the apparent vertical height of the three proposed wind farm sites in the view. The ZTV illustrates how quickly the visual effect of the three proposed wind farm sites will diminish with distance; how the three proposed wind farm sites will have less visual effect from distant locations due to its reduced vertical height in the view, and a greater visual effect from locations at very close proximity, which in this case are entirely offshore.

Viewpoint Assessment

8.4.6.13 The visual effects of the realistic worst case scenario of the Rochdale Envelope for the three proposed wind farm sites are assessed in this chapter. The change to the visual resource is assessed during construction, operation and decommissioning of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs. Effects are assessed on visual receptors through a viewpoint assessment with representative locations and focuses on:  Views from residential areas (Wick, Keiss, Lybster, Dunbeath, Navidale / Helmsdale, Lossiemouth, Buckie, Cullen and other locations with scattered rural residences);  Views from transport routes, roads, railways, ferries (A9, A99, Kirkwall to Aberdeen Ferry);  Views from designated landscapes (Duncansby Head, Berriedale, Morven);  Views from publicly accessible historic environment features (Sarclet, Hill O’ Many Stanes, Findlater Castle);  Views from recreational routes, footpaths and cycleways (Duncansby Head, Whaligoe Steps, Morven, Bin Hill); and  Potential marine based views (Aberdeen to Kirkwall Ferry).

8.4.6.14 The assessment of effects of the three proposed wind farm sites on viewpoints is described as follows in Table 8.4-4. Visual representations have been produced for all viewpoints (Figures 8.4-13 to 8.4-36, Volume 7) and photomontages have been produced for a select number of the viewpoints, to provide a photorealistic representation. In all views, the photomontages include the wind turbines and OSPs. All of the photographs, wirelines and photomontages are shown with a 72 degree field of view. Additionally, single frame photomontages have been included from a selection of key viewpoints in the Highland Council area, agreed with Marine Scotland and The Highland Council. The photographs used for these are taken at a focal length of 50 mm and conform to a 39.6 degree horizontal field of view. Single frame photomontages with a 75 mm focal length are also provided from these key viewpoints. The photographs are centred on the centre point of the Rochdale Envelope. The photographs and other graphic material such as wirelines and photomontages used in this assessment are for illustrative purposes only and the assessments are carried out based on assessor observations in the field.

8-94 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment

1 No

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

 Distance from the three proposed wind Operation farm sites 34.54 km (Telford); Distance to the three proposed wind farm sites results in  View from land the turbines appearing as small scale, vertical features, above Keiss Harbour; visible only in very good visibility conditions.  Broad, expansive, large scale view of The three proposed wind farm sites (primarily Telford wide open sea over plus small number of MacCall turbines) located on man-made skyline extending beyond and behind the headland of promontory / pier Noss Head and Sinclair’s Bay taking up a relatively within cove of wider narrow field of view within the within the wide Sinclair Bay; panoramic views of the sea from this location.  Minor focus towards Noss Head with The three proposed wind farm sites affect the focal lighthouse on furthest point of Noss Head as an enclosing headland to protruding cliff land- Sinclair’s Bay, because there is no apparent space / form of distant shore Operation of Sinclair Bay; separation offered by open sea between the three proposed wind farm sites and headland. Not significant,  Narrow, horizontal negative, long band of gently Tips of 93 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario term, reversible. undulating land above steep 4c) with 73 of these also visible to below hub height. Construction and coastline; decommissioning Turbine rows and alignment apparent in this view  Wider view includes resulting in differing relationships between turbines so Not significant, existing / under that some are aligned behind one another and others negative, short construction wind term, reversible. farms of Achairn, are seen in their row formations. Keiss Pier Camster and Flex Hill Likelihood of at distances of 11.49, The three proposed wind farm sites will extend man- effect: 2 Figure 15.6 and 26.68 km 8.4-14 , made elements to a part of the view that currently has respectively, above no such features but that is large in scale, a key Very good visibility Volume 7 the shallowly consideration in a seascape / landscape’s ability to required for the undulating landform three proposed accommodate such structures. with some back- wind farm sites to clothing by more be visible at distant hills; At this distance the curvature of the earth reduces the 34.54 km to closest apparent height of all of the turbines with those furthest  Visible landform turbine. Very emphasises away having a lesser section of their towers visible good visibility at distinction between above the skyline. distances over sea and sky; 30 km occurs 3 % The three proposed wind farm sites theoretically extend  Located in CCA 9 – of the time (over a Sinclair’s Bay; over a horizontal field of view of 5-10 degrees of the 10 year period wide panoramic views available. from Wick Airport).  Publicly accessible location on edge of The vertical angle of view occupied by the three settlement; proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1  Representative of degrees of the field of view. views from settlement of Keiss, Magnitude of change: low residential receptors, walkers, views from nearby public car Construction and decommissioning park and local walking route and The worst case scenario of both the construction and users of / visitors to decommissioning will be when large numbers of the Harbour; and turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of  No scenic activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes. designations. Sensitivity : medium - Magnitude of change: low high

8-96 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment No 3

Section Volume 8.4 Figure Sortat Viewpoint - 15 , , 15

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OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Sensitivity:medium            Sensitivity Baseline

threeproposed wind Distance fromthe designations. Noscenic possible;and theoretically vegetation intermediate widerarea limited by wind farms thewithin Actualviews of other vegetation; landform and todue inte Noviews theof sea andminor road; resid croftingsettlement, viewsfrom scattered Representativeof higherground; foscale Moderate and large low lyingareas; field moderatelyscaled bushesbreak upthe Intermittentthorn road;minor arestone andwall andmiddle groun featuresKey foreof boggyground; grassland and unimprovedr Lo charactertype; landscape sett agriculture and landscapeof mixed undulating across shallowly Expansiveview rural population; ser Caithness generally north and linksacross thatprovides access side on of minorroad ArtsCentre Sortatin View fromnear Lyth (Telford); farm sites40.22 wer wer lyingareas of ving scattered lement

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long 8 - 97

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

 Distance from the three proposed wind Operation farm sites 26.15 km (Telford); Distance to the three proposed wind farm sites results in  View from northern the turbines appearing as moderate scale, vertical edge of Wick Bay, features, visible only in very good visibility conditions. on Scalesburn Road pavement; The three proposed wind farm sites located on skyline  Moderately extending beyond and behind the headland of the contained fore to southern part of Wick Bay (South Head). The three middle ground view proposed wind farm sites take up large horizontal towards large scale, extents of field of view containing open water skyline, open seas beyond; reducing its simplicity and the contrast with the more  Field of view partially complex landward area. confined and directed by The three proposed wind farm sites affect the focal enclosing higher ground around Wick point of South Head as an enclosing headland to Wick Bay; Bay, because there is no apparent space / separation  Lower land at sea offered by open sea. edge modified by man-made 174 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario 4c) to Operation elements / sea walls below hub height. and built form of light Significant, houses and pier The three proposed wind farm sites will appear to negative, long buildings which occupy most of visible extent of sea skyline in view from term, reversible. create localised Wick Bay and form a wide horizontal feature in relation focal points; to the seascape in the view. Construction and  Impression of decommissioning industrial past and Turbine rows and alignment apparent in this view remnants of resulting in differing relationships between turbines so Significant, important fishing port negative, short that some are aligned behind one another and others rather than scenic term, reversible. are seen in their row formations with further rows Wick Bay harbour setting;  Small disused quarry appearing beyond creating a stacking effect in parts Likelihood of effect 4 Figure along lower cliff of the view. 8.4-16, edge; Good visibility Volume 7  Steep slopes / cliffs, The three proposed wind farm sites will extend man- required for the and sea walls made elements to a part of the view that currently has three proposed provide the change no such features but that is large in scale, a key wind farm sites to in level to the higher consideration in a seascape / landscape’s ability to be visible at ground upon which accommodate such structures. 26.15 km to closest most of the settlement of Wick is turbine. Good located; At this distance the curvature of the earth reduces the visibility at apparent height of all of the turbines with those furthest  Large terraced and distances over individual properties away having a lesser section of their towers visible 22 km occurs 23 % along skyline above above the skyline. The angle of view and the depth of of the time (over a bay, including coast the layout of the three proposed wind farm sites within 10 year period guard; it results in the most distant turbines appearing lower in from Wick Airport).  Representative of the view than those to the front of the array. views from settlement of Wick, The three proposed wind farm sites theoretically extend residential receptors, over a horizontal field of view of 30-40 degrees of the users of local roads, piers and beach views available. areas, local walking route to monument The vertical angle of view occupied by the three and around coast; proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1  Views of existing degrees of the field of view. wind farms in the wider view screened Magnitude of change: medium by intermediate built form and Construction and decommissioning vegetation; The worst case scenario of both the construction and  Located in CCA 11 – Wick Bay; and decommissioning will be when large numbers of turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of  No scenic designations. activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes. Sensitivity: medium - Magnitude of change: medium high

8-98 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment No 5

Section Volume 8 Figure Board) Haven Info (Sarclet Sarclet Viewpoint .4 - 17

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OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Sensitivity:medium         Sensitivity Baseline

visitorattraction; footp roadsand informal properties,minor view fromscattered Representativeof crofts; small farm landwardar Character of view; focalfeatures thein existing,va coastline no with Open,flat, simple Sarclet Head; open seas beyond foregroundto wid grassland roughacross coastabove cliffs, slightlyelevated Expansiveview from provided; information withparking toSarclet Haven, to informalfootpath roadminor leading View from ofend (Stevenson); farm sites22.96 proposed wind Distance fromthree designations Noscenic – L ocatedCCA in 12

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8 - 99

%

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

Operation Distance to three proposed wind farm sites results in the  Distance from three turbines appearing as small scale, vertical features, proposed wind visible only in very good visibility conditions. farm sites 24.20 km The three proposed wind farm sites located on skyline (Stevenson); extending beyond and above the intermediate land  Panoramic view and a narrow strip of sea. The three proposed wind from Hill O’ Many farm sites take up large horizontal extents of field of Stanes, a cultural view containing open water skyline, reducing its heritage feature of simplicity and the contrast with the more complex stone rows believed landward area. to be a relic of the The three proposed wind farm sites create a new Bronze Age; prominent focal feature, forming a distinct feature in its  Foreground shows own right on the skyline, surrounded by open sea. The stones set in rough turbines appear in close association to relate simply to heather / grass the skyline, the large scale seascape and horizontal moorland and low form of the horizon. scrub; The three proposed wind farm sites appear to occupy Operation  Middle ground a wide part of the visible extent of skyline in view south comprises small to east and form a wide horizontal feature in relation to Significant, medium fields of the surrounding seascape. negative, long term, reversible. fenced improved 216 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario 4c) to pasture around below hub height. Construction and school and small Turbine rows and alignment apparent in this view decommissioning farms / croft resulting in differing relationships between turbines so buildings; Significant, that some are aligned behind one another and others negative, short  Sea is seen beyond are seen in their row formations with further rows Hill O' term, reversible. Many this lower coastal appearing beyond creating a stacking effect in parts area and appears Stanes of the view. Likelihood of effect as a large scale 6 Less turbine overlapping, particularly of slightly more Figure expanse up to the Good visibility distant, (MacColl), southern turbines results in some 8.4-18, sky. The slightly required for the turbines appearing less dense at the edges of the Volume 7 elevated viewpoint three proposed array. allows a greater wind farm sites to expanse of sea to The three proposed wind farm sites will extend man- be visible at be visible than is the made elements to a part of the view that currently has 24.2 km to closest case with lower no such features but that is large in scale, a key turbine. Good elevated views; consideration in a seascape / landscape’s ability to visibility at accommodate such structures. distances over

 Oil platform seen 22 km occurs 23 % At this distance the curvature of the earth reduces the near to the horizon of the time (over a in the southern part apparent height of all of the turbines with those furthest 10 year period of the view; away having a lesser section of their towers visible from Wick Airport). above the skyline. The angle of view and the depth of  Representative of the layout of the three proposed wind farm sites within views from minor it results in the most distant turbines appearing lower in visitor attraction, the view than those to the front of the array. scattered residential The three proposed wind farm sites theoretically extend properties and over a horizontal field of view of 50-60 degrees of the minor road leading views available. to forest and further The vertical angle of view occupied by the three properties; proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1  Located in CCA 12 degrees of the field of view. – Sarclet Head; and Magnitude of change: medium  No scenic Construction and decommissioning designations. The worst case scenario of both the construction and Sensitivity: medium to decommissioning will be when large numbers of high turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes. Magnitude of change: medium

8-100 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment No 7

Section Volume 8.4 Figure Street) Main (end of Lybster Viewpoint - 19 , , 19

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OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Sensitivity:medium            Sensitivity Baseline

high farm sites26.67 proposed wind Distance fromthree Beatrice Beatrice installations and platformOil property; singlestorey roof is level the with sky atahorizon that uninterrupted extending large scale, expansiveand sea, overlookingthe anddirectly Close proximityto gates; throughland field across agricu track Small leads transmission lines; polemounted boundary andwalls amenitiessuch as and with urban withinsmall gardens farm sites proposed wind towardsthe three property thein view modern,detached housesand a more authoritybuilt storey local terracetwoof the Otherproperties in junction; fromsouth A99the runs almost roadaxis, which alignmentof the followthe strong propertiesthat edge of one theof Justvisible isthe garden boundaries; fenc grassedverges, streetof with turning foregroundof View shows nearertothe coast; properti view acrossfinal Lybstershowing MainStreet in View from ofend (Stevenson); designations. Noscenic – LocatedCCA in 13 Lybster; settlementof of properties and residential viewsfrom Representativeof horizon; elementsonthe small scale, turbinesvisible as demonstrator

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8 - 101

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

 Distance from three proposed wind Operation farm sites 30.73 km (Stevenson); Distance to three proposed wind farm sites results in the turbines appearing as small scale, vertical features,  View from just inside visible only in very good visibility conditions. stone enclosure, close to layby on The three proposed wind farm sites located on skyline A9; extending across the horizon above the intermediate land and a strip of sea. The three proposed wind farm  Expansive views sites take up large horizontal extents of field of view across narrow strip containing open water skyline, reducing its simplicity of farmland to large and the contrast with the more complex landward scale sea beyond area. and extending from The three proposed wind farm sites create a new below the prominent focal feature, forming a distinct feature in its viewpoint; own right on the skyline, surrounded by open sea. The  View across rough turbines appear in close association to relate simply to ground and ruined the skyline, the large scale seascape and horizontal form of the horizon. building enclosed by stone walls; The three proposed wind farm sites appear to occupy Operation a wide part of the visible extent of skyline in view south  Middle distance is east and form a wide horizontal feature in relation to Significant, formed by medium the surrounding seascape. negative, long sized, shallowly term, reversible. undulating, smooth, 216 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario 4c) to pastoral fields with below hub height. Construction and stone wall Turbine rows and alignment apparent in this view decommissioning boundaries; resulting in differing relationships between turbines so Significant, that some are aligned behind one another and others  Prominent coastal negative, short are seen in their row formations with further rows incision crosses term, reversible. Latheron view. Made more appearing beyond creating a stacking effect in parts of the view. (A9) conspicuous by Likelihood of effect 8 contrast in Less turbine overlapping, particularly of slightly more Figure Very good visibility vegetation to rough distant, southern (MacCall) and northern (Telford) 8.4-20, required for the grassland and turbines results in some turbines appearing less dense at Volume 7 three proposed scrub. Vegetation the edges of the array. wind farm sites to type continues The three proposed wind farm sites will extend man- be visible at across steep slopes made elements to a part of the view that currently has 30.73 km to closest to sea shore; no such features but that is large in scale, a key turbine. Very  Representative of consideration in a seascape / landscape’s ability to good visibility at accommodate such structures. views from distances over settlement of At this distance the curvature of the earth reduces the 30 km occurs 3 % Latheron and apparent height of all of the turbines with those furthest of the time (over a nearby Latheron away having a lesser section of their towers visible 10 year period wheel as well as above the skyline. The angle of view and the depth of from Wick Airport). scattered the layout of the three proposed wind farm sites within properties, road it results in the most distant turbines appearing lower in users and visitors; the view than those to the front of the array.  Oil platforms and The three proposed wind farm sites theoretically extend Beatrice over a horizontal field of view of 40-50 degrees of the Demonstrator views available. offshore wind The vertical angle of view occupied by the three turbines clearly proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1 discernible near to degrees of the field of view. the horizon in clear Magnitude of change: medium conditions;  Located in CCA 14 Construction and decommissioning – Dunbeath Bay; The worst case scenario of both the construction and and decommissioning will be when large numbers of  No scenic turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes. designations. Sensitivity: medium- Magnitude of change: medium high

8-102 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment No 9

Section Volume 8.4 Figure Centre) (nrHeritage Dunbeath Viewpoint - 21, 21,

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OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Sensitivity:medium           Sensitivity Baseline

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km occurs3

km .

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8 - 103

%

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

 Distance from three proposed wind Operation farm sites 36.07 km Distance to three proposed wind farm sites results in the (Stevenson); turbines appearing as small scale, vertical features,  Viewpoint taken at visible only in very good visibility conditions. junction with minor road off A9 at The vertical field of view of the three proposed wind Newport on stretch farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1 degrees of the field of A9 between of view. Berriedale and Borgue; The three proposed wind farm sites located on skyline  Expansive extending across the horizon above the intermediate panoramic view dry stone wall and a strip of sea. The three proposed across sea, wind farm sites take up large horizontal extents of field perpendicular to of view containing open water skyline, reducing its direction of travel simplicity and the contrast with the more complex along A9, ahead of landward area. travellers approaching A9 This will occur within the main focus of this view and will from Newport. be apparent, particularly to north bound road users. Sense of arrival into Operation Dunbeath Bay as The three proposed wind farm sites theoretically extend view opens out to the north; over a horizontal field of view of 30-40 degrees of the Not significant, views available. negative, long  Foreground of road term, reversible. and dry stone wall 216 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario 4c) to boundary wall. No below hub height. Construction and middle ground decommissioning visible due to wall, Turbine rows and alignment apparent in this view however, beyond resulting in differing relationships between turbines so Not significant, lies a narrow that some are aligned behind one another and others negative, short expanse of are seen in their row formations with further rows Berriedale improved pasture term, reversible. appearing beyond creating a stacking effect in parts (A9) down to rough Likelihood of effect grassland over of the view and an inconsistent image and rhythm of 10 Figure mounded coastal turbines across the view. Very good visibility 8.4-22, strip above Less turbine overlapping, particularly of southern required for the Volume 7 shoreline (visible around and over (MacColl) and northern (Telford) turbines results in some three proposed wall); turbines appearing less dense at the edges of the wind farm sites to array. be visible at  Shallow profile of 36.07 km to closest sea extends out to The three proposed wind farm sites will extend man- skyline where sky turbine. Very and sea merge in made elements to a part of the view that currently has good visibility at certain weather no such features but that is large in scale, a key distances over conditions. Visible consideration in a seascape / landscape’s ability to 30 km occurs 3 % near horizon as accommodate such structures. of the time (over a small components 10 year period of the view are oil The vertical angle of view occupied by the three from Wick Airport). platforms and the proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1 Beatrice degrees of the field of view. Demonstrator Turbines; At this distance the curvature of the earth reduces the  Representative of apparent height of all of the turbines with those furthest views from away having a lesser section of their towers visible scattered above the skyline. The angle of view and the depth of residential the layout of the three proposed wind farm sites within properties, bus stop it results in the most distant turbines appearing slightly and travellers on A9 lower in the view than those to the front of the array. and other minor roads; Magnitude of change: medium-low  Located in CCA 14 – Dunbeath Bay; Construction and decommissioning and The worst case scenario of both the construction and  Viewpoint located decommissioning will be when large numbers of within Berriedale turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of Coast pSLA. activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes. Sensitivity: medium- high Magnitude of change: medium-low

8-104 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 11

Section Volume7 8.4 Figure Morven - 23, 23, 3

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact      

from rockyfrom summit Viewpointtaken (Stevenson); farm sites proposed wind Distance fromthree landscapeof LargePap. scale outcrop of Maiden conicalrock andthe distinctive Ghar Scarabens,Sron hills includingthe undulating smoothed concavehigh further moderately groundcontaining foreand middle substantial area of View east with mountainranges; overthese impressivev highlandsoffering takethe in western south andround to Cairngormstothe distantviews tothe all directions with Panoramicviews in east; other peakstothe conjuncti often walked in attained. Morven sufficient elevation muchof oncewalk, availableduring directionthis soeast th ascendedfrom the Summitmost easily nationally; thanrather locally ofbe interest Graham.Likely to andclassified as a peakCaithness in AOD),highestthe of Morven(706 settlement; limitedscattered accessroads a blocks, minor pasture andforestry some improved tosouth) hav Water(out viewof WaterandLangwell valleys Berriedaleof with well surroundformshill Lower elevations heather moorland; smo othedrock and

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Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Magnitudeof change: low activity thein form of marinevessels an turbinesare placein additionin toconcentrations of decommissioning be will when largenumbers of The case worst scenario of both constructionthe and Construction anddecommissioning Magnitudeof change: low elevation beingmore thanlegible otherin views from lower resultsthe in arrangementof the layout turbinesof layoutof the three proposed farm siteswind within it The elevatedangle viewof andthe depth of the toaccommodate suchstructures. a considerationkey ainseascape currentlyhas nosuch features thatbut is largescale, in theseman thefrom loosegrouping of other existing farms,wind Demonstrat relativelyclose tothe two existingBeatrice threeThe proposed farm siteswind extendwill from degreesof the field of view. proposed farm siteswind theoretically takes up0 verticalThe angle viewof occupiedbythe three array. turbinesappearing denseless at the edg (MacCall)and northern (Telford)resultsturbines some in Lessturbine overlapping,particularly of southern formations towardsthe edges of the array seen theirin row that resulting differingin relationships between turbines so Turbinerows andalignment apparent this in view surrounded byopen sea. form a distinctfeature ownitsin right thebelow skyline, form theof horizon. The three proposed farm siteswind toskyline,the the scalelarge seascape and horizon turbinesThe appear close in association torelate simply 4c)204 of thesewith also visible tobelow hub height. 216Tips of turbines theoretically visible (LayoutScenario widepanoramic views overahorizontal field viewof of20 threeThe proposed farm siteswind theoretically extend sea. theseexisting focal features the viewin towards the and appearwill to addadistant focalfeature behind behindthe Scarabens andother summits in threeThe proposed farm siteswind are partially located horizonreduces their effecton view. the to lie the east. The locationof the turbines thebelow skylinebelow awithinpart theof openviewssea that threeThe proposed farm siteswind are located large view. of farm sitestheoretically takes up 0 verticalThe field viewof ofthe threeproposed wind visibleonly excellentin visibility conditions. turbinesappearing as Distanceto three proposed farmwindsites results the in Operation

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ly decommissioning Construction and term,reversible. negative, long significant,Not Operation Airport). periodfrom Wick (overa10 year 0.3 visibility o turbine. Excellent 48.92 bevisible at wind farmsites to threeproposed requiredfor the Excellentvisibility effect: Likelihood of term,reversible. negative, short significant,Not

% of% the time

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8 - 105

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

 More distant views contain settled coastal strip of crofting landscape and villages. The wind farms at Buolfruich, Causeymire, Flex Hill and Camster (under construction) and the mast on Ben a’ chielt lie within the open moorland / forested areas further to the north; Morven and Figure  Sea beyond high ground and coastal 11 8.4-23, strip is a Volume 7 component of distant view that (continued) provides a simple backdrop to the hills and coastal area to the fore.  Located in Lone Mountains terrestrial LCT; and  Viewpoint is located within proposed SLA – Flow Country and Berriedale Coast, SAWL.  Sensitivity: medium to high

8-106 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment No 12

Section Volume7 8.4 Figure Navidale Viewpoint - 24, 24, 3

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Sensitivity:medium to          Sensitivity BaselineCondition and

high Distance fromthree Helmsdaleand Navidale,East settlements of view Representativeof area; ruggedcoastal andside grasslandsummit andrough heather moorland conicalhill with a large,smooth, coastand isa comesclose tothe Thoraraidh, which ofarea Creag restrictedbyupland seawardview Northe conditions; certainin weather Sky andsea merg horizon;the platformsnearto scale some with oi view and is large in background theof theacross Sea extends widely shelf; fields tomedium sized withfenced large scale,rural view Expansive, large settlement; coastalareas of A9above Elevated location (MacColl); farm sites44.61 proposed wind designations. Noscenic Shelf BerriedaleCoastal – LocatedCCA in 15 Helmsda

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Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Magnitudeof change: medium activity thein form of marinevessels andcranes. turbinesare placein additionin toconcentrations of decommissioning be will when largenumbers of The case worst scenario of both constructionthe and Construction anddecommissioning Magnitudeof change: medium array.the appearing lower thein view farm sites results within it thein mostdistant turbines depththe of the layoutof the three proposed wind towersvisible abovethe skyline. The angleof view and away havingonly arelatively short section theirof apparentheight of all theof turbines those with Atdistancethis the curvature of the earth reduces the toaccommodate suchstructures. a considerationkey ainseascape currentlyhas nosuch features thatbut is largescale, in man two existingBeatrice Demonstratorturbines) these threeThe proposed farm siteswind extendwill (fromthe degreesof the field of view. proposed farm siteswind theoretically takes up0 verticalThe angle vieof occurs viewsin from closer viewpoints. viewpointthis results this in being apparentless than distanceThe theof three proposed farmsiteswind from turbinesappearing denseless at the edges theof array (MacCall)and northern (Telford)tu Lessturbine overlapping,particularly of southern theof view. appearing beyondcreating stacking a effect partsin areseen their in row formationsfurther with rows thatsome arealigned behind anotherone and others resulting differingin relationships between turbines so Turbinerows andalignment apparent this in view surrounded byopen sea. form a distinctfeature ownitsin right onthe skyline, form theof horizon. The three proposed farm siteswind toskyline,the the scalelarge seascape an turbinesThe appear close in association torelate simply (LayoutScenario 4c). Tips andhubs of 216 turbines theoretically visible view. of farm sitestheoretically takes up 0 verticalThe field viewof ofthe threep Demonstratorturbines. headlandsthe but integrated withBeatricethe to lie the east. Set apart from the visible landformof skyline within a part theof broad,open sea views that threeThe proposed widepanoramic views available. overahorizontal field viewof of20 threeThe proposed farm siteswind theoretically extend visibleonly excellentin visib turbines Distanceto three proposed farmwindsites results the in Operation Magnitudeof Change (Layout Scenario 4) - madeelements to a part theof view th

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decommissioning Construction and term,reversible. negative, long significant,Not Operation Residual Effects Significanceof Airport). periodfrom Wick (overa10 year 0.3 visibility occurs turbine. Excellent 44.61 bevisible at wind farmsites to threeproposed requiredfor the Excellentvisibility effect: Likelihood of term,reversible. negative, short significant,Not

% of% the time

kmtoclosest

8 - 107

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

 Distance from three proposed wind

farm sites 38.84 km (Telford); Operation  Shallowly undulating, Distance to three proposed wind farm sites results in the

medium to large turbines appearing as small scale, vertical features, scale terrain of visible only in very good visibility conditions. northern Caithness;

 Largely pastoral in The vertical angle of view occupied by the three

landuse in areas of proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1 better soil with some rough, grass / degrees of the field of view. peat moorland apparent in lower, The three proposed wind farm sites are located on

wetter areas; skyline above and beyond rolling landscape with

 Scattered distant skyline features providing some intermediate Operation settlement of small screening. Appears as an onshore wind farm because farms and crofts sea is not visible. Not significant,

associated with negative, long network of minor term, reversible. roads; Most visible turbine blades set apart from the existing wind farms visible within the wider view adding further Construction and  Other infrastructure decommissioning wind farm visibility to a different part of panorama. includes pole Not significant, mounted transmission lines, Turbines are seen as partial or complete blades moving negative, short the masts at to appear intermittently above the lower parts of the term, reversible. Thrumster and the Catchory horizon in the vicinity of the tall gas canisters of the Likelihood of effect gas installation near Wick gas installation. 13 Figure Wick; Very good visibility 8.4-25, required for the Volume 7  Coniferous forestry Tips of 106 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario three proposed visible on the slopes wind farm sites to 4c) with 19 of these also visible to below hub height. around Tannach Hill be visible at Some turbines (those of Stevenson) theoretically visible and nearer the 38.84 km to closest viewpoint in low only as blade tips, which may be missed at this turbine. Very ground near Loch distance and due to intermediate vegetation. good visibility at Winless; MacColl turbines entirely screened by intermediate distances over

landform. 30 km occurs 3 %  Some small areas of of the time (over a deciduous trees 10 year period

and broken The three proposed wind farm sites will extend wind from Wick Airport). hedgerows; farm influence into a further part of the views to those already affected by this type of development.  Relatively small (3 turbine) wind farms of Bilbster and Magnitude of change: low Achairn visible to

the south east with Construction and decommissioning Bilbster partially backclothed by the higher ground and The worst case scenario of both the construction and forestry beyond; decommissioning will be when large numbers of  Camster wind farm turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of

(under construction activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes. visible in wider view on skyline. Magnitude of change: low Causeymire wind farm screened by intermediate vegetation

8-108 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 13 No

Section (continued) Volume7 8.4 Figure Catchory Viewpoint

- 25, 25, 3

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

     Sensitivity BaselineCondition and

Visibility of primarily Sensitivity:medium designations. Noscenic and from minorroads; recep residential scatteredsome Representativeof SettlementLCT; Agriculture and Located Mixedin south (8.68 construction)further (under Camster farm wind fullturbinesof of the souththe andwest farm (11.29 Causeymire wind blades theof

torsand views

km km)to

Telford, );

Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Magnitudeof Change (Layout Scenario 4) MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

-

EnvironmentalStatement Residual Effects Significanceof 8 - 109

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

Operation

Distance to three proposed wind farm sites results in the  Distance from three turbines appearing as small scale, vertical features, proposed wind visible only in very good visibility conditions. farm sites 33.55 km (Stevenson); The vertical angle of view occupied by the three proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1  View taken from degrees of the field of view. minor road connecting A9 and The three proposed wind farm sites located on skyline A99; extending beyond and above the intermediate, rolling, large scale moorland and forestry, and further to the  Viewpoint located south, a very narrow strip of sea. The three proposed in moorland on wind farm sites take up large horizontal extents of field gradual rise which of view containing open water skyline, reducing its affords views over simplicity and the contrast with the more complex hills towards coast; landward area. The northern turbines may appear to be located on the land, which may create some visual Operation  View characterised confusion. by moorland and Not significant, forestry with sea The three proposed wind farm sites theoretically extend negative, long forming detached over a horizontal field of view of 30-40 degrees of the term, reversible. background views available. feature; Construction and decommissioning  Located in LCT 2 – Tips of 216 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario Moorland Slopes 4c) with 205 of these also visible to below hub height. Not significant, Minor Rd, and Hills; negative, short south side Turbine rows and alignment apparent in this view term, reversible.  Landscape of Stemster resulting in differing relationships between turbines so Likelihood of effect appears open with that some are aligned behind one another and others 14 Hill some sense of are seen in their row formations with further rows Very good visibility Figure remoteness; appearing beyond creating a stacking effect in parts required for the 8.4-26, of the view. three proposed Volume 7  View will be wind farm sites to experienced by Less turbine overlapping, particularly of slightly more be visible at road users travelling distant, southern (MacCall) and northern (Telford) 33.55 km to closest through this turbines results in some turbines appearing less dense at turbine. Very landscape. There is the edges of the array. good visibility at some opportunity distances over for walking in the The three proposed wind farm sites will extend man- 30 km occurs 3 % forest in the vicinity made elements to a part of the view that currently has of the time (over a of the viewpoint; no such features but that is large in scale – in terms of 10 year period from Wick Airport).  Views in other both the landscape and seascape areas of the view, a directions contain key consideration in a seascape / landscape’s ability blade tips of to accommodate such structures. Buolfruich wind farm and blade tips At this distance the curvature of the earth reduces the and some limited apparent height of all of the turbines with those furthest hubs of the away having a lesser section of their towers visible Camster wind farm above the skyline. (under construction); and Magnitude of change: medium-low

 There are no scenic Construction and decommissioning landscape designations. The worst case scenario of both the construction and Sensitivity: medium-low decommissioning will be when large numbers of turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes.

Magnitude of change: medium-low

8-110 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment No 15

Section Volume7 8.4 Figure Steps Whaligoe Viewpoint - 27, 27,

3

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Sensitivity:medium           Sensitivity BaselineCondition and

high View will be be will View cliffs; SandstoneRed coastl irregularrocky coastalshore with comprises hard Sarclet Head – Locat viewer’sattention; fa theirexposed rocky theof cliffs and dramaticThe drop sett background formingthe view the with sea characteristic theof coastlinethe as key presentsthe The wider view tosea; existingin view out valuedfocal poi theof sea with no Open,uniform view andtothe right; visib withheadlands extendsout tosea Framedview accesssmall port; cutsteps 365man WhaligoeSteps visitorattraction of taken View from (Stevenson); farm sites23.11 proposed wind Distance fromthree designations. landscape Thereare noscenic coastline;the and predominantlyon route and focus will walkersusing this touristvisitors experienced

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Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Magnitudeof change: medium activity thein form of marinevessels andcranes. turbinesare placein additionin toconcentrations of decommissioning be will when largenumbers of The case worst scenario of both th Construction anddecommissioning Magnitudeof change: medium viewthe than those tothe front theof array. resultsit the mostin distant turbines appearing lower in t abovethe skyline. Theangle ofview andthe depth of away havinga lessersection oftheir towers visible apparentheight of all theof turbines those with furthest Atdistancethis the curvature of the earth reduces the accommodatesuch structures. consideration ainseascape such no features but that is large scale,in akey made elementsto a partof the view that currently has threeThe proposed farm siteswind extendwill man denseless atthe edgesof the array. (Stevenson)turbines results some in turbines distant,(MacColl) southern turbines andnorthern Lessturbine overlapping,particularly of slightly more theof view. appearing beyondcreating stacking a effect partsin areseen in thatsome arealigned behind anotherone and others resulting differingin relationships between turbines so Turbinerows andalignment apparent this in view height.hub 216turbines theoretically visible (Layout 4c) tobelow available. views overahorizontal field viewof of50 threeThe proposed farm siteswind theoretically extend existingview. reduceor distinctiveness,of the main features thein oflack valued existingfoci, doesit not impinge upon, Createsanew prominentfocal featu surroundingseascape. andform a horizontal wide featurerelation in tothe widepart of visible extentof skylineview in south east threeThe proposed farm siteswind appeartooccupy landwardarea. simplicityandthe contrast wi containing view open skyline,water reducing its farm sitestake up largehorizontal extents of field of andanarrow stripof sea. The three proposed wind extending beyond andabove the intermediate land threeThe proposed farm siteswind degreesof the field of view. proposed farm siteswind theoretically takes up0 verticalThe angle viewof occupiedbythe three visibleonly veryin good weatherconditions. turbines Distanceto three proposed farmwindsites results the in Operation Magnitudeof Change (Layout Scenario 4) he he layoutof the three proposed farmwind sites within appearingas small scale,vertical features,

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

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C term,reversible. negative, long Significant, Operation Residual Effects Si from Wickfrom Airport). year10 period theof time (over a 22 distances over visibility at turbine. Good 23.11 bevisible at wind farmsites to threeproposed requiredfor the visibilityGood Likelihood of effect term,reversible. negative, short Significant, decommissioning gnificanceof onstruction and

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8 - 111 s 23 s

%

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

Operation  Distance from three proposed wind Distance to three proposed wind farm sites results in the farm sites 45.8 km turbines appearing as small scale, vertical features, (MacColl); visible only in excellent visibility conditions.

 View taken from The vertical angle of view occupied by the three Harbour Wall at proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1 Lossiemouth degrees of the field of view. Harbour; The three proposed wind farm sites are located on the  Located within skyline within a part of the broad, open sea views that lie to the north. Set apart from any visible landform and CCA 18 – Spey Bay; the Beatrice Demonstrator turbines.  Lossiemouth lies The three proposed wind farm sites theoretically extend between hard over a horizontal field of view of 10-20 degrees of the coastal shore to the wide panoramic views available. left and soft coastal shore to the right; Tips of 216 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario Operation 4c) with majority of these visible to below hub height.  Open sea and Not significant, negative, long skyline is prevailing Turbine rows and alignment apparent in this view term, reversible. feature in uniform, resulting in differing relationships between turbines so simple view; that some are aligned behind one another and others Construction and are seen in their row formations with further rows decommissioning  Caithness coastline appearing beyond creating a stacking effect in parts Not significant, and hill profiles form of the view. negative, long distant backdrop to term, reversible. Lossiemout open sea of the Less turbine overlapping, particularly of southern h, Harbour (MacColl) and northern (Telford) turbines results in some Moray Firth; Likelihood of 16 turbines appearing less dense at the edges of the effect: Figure array. 8.4-28,  View towards the Excellent visibility Volume 7 three proposed The distance of the three proposed wind farm sites from required for the wind farm sites is this viewpoint results in this being less apparent than three proposed part of a wider view occurs in views from closer viewpoints. wind farm sites to which takes in be visible at Lossiemouth The three proposed wind farm sites will extend man- 45.8 km to closest Harbour on the made elements to a part of the view that currently has turbine. Excellent visibility occurs coastal edge; no such features but that is large in scale, a key consideration in a seascape / landscape’s ability to 0.3 % of the time  View representative accommodate such structures. (over a 10 year period from Wick of worst case view Airport). from public domain At this distance the curvature of the earth reduces the apparent height of all of the turbines with those furthest in Lossiemouth as away having only blade tips visible above the skyline. experienced by The angle of view and the depth of the layout of the locals and visitors; three proposed wind farm sites within it results in the most distant turbines appearing lower in the view than  Long distance from those to the front of the array. Most of the turbines are nearest turbine sufficiently distant to be visible only as blades as the reduces the hubs are hidden by the curvature of the earth. sensitivity of this viewpoint; and Magnitude of change - low

 There are no scenic Construction and decommissioning landscape designations. The worst case scenario of both the construction and decommissioning will be when large numbers of Sensitivity: medium turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes.

Magnitude of change - low

8-112 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment No 17

Section Volume7 8.4 Figure Terrace Buckie,Cliff Viewpoint - 29, 29, 3

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Sensitivity:medium          Sensitivity BaselineCondition and

low Distance fromthree nearest Distance from view; who will gain sea residents as pedestriansas well usersand experienceroadof representativeof is View view; andright of the evidentto Sandstonecliffs with Oldlow Red hardcoastal shore Buckie locatedon Portknockie; – LocatedCCA in settlements; coastalother characterth attractive presents less development Industrial feature; background forming with view main focusthe in Harbouracts as development; industrial har towards view affording elevated CliffTerrace taken View from (MacColl); farm sites44.23 proposed wind designations. landscape Thereare noscenic wind farmsites; and threeproposed viewpointtothe sensitivityof this reducesthe

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Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Magni activity thein form of marinevessels andcranes. turbinesare placein additionin toconcentrations of decommissioning be will when largenumbers of The case worst scenario of both constructionthe and Construction anddecommissioning Magnitudeof curvatureof the earth. visibleonly as blades asthe hubs arehidden the by array.the Someturbines aresufficiently distant to be appearing lower thein than view those tothe front of far depththe of the layoutof the three proposed wind towersvisible abovethe skyline. The angleof view and away havingonly amarkedly short section theirof apparentheight of all theof turbines those with furthest Atdistancethis the accommodatesuch structures. consideration ainseascape such no features but that is large scale,in akey made elementsto a partof the view that currently has threeThe occurs viewsin from closer viewpoints. viewpointthis results this in being apparentless than distanceThe theof three proposed farmsiteswind from array. turbinesappearing denseless at the edges theof (MacCall)and northern (Te Lessturbine overlapping,particularly of southern theof view. appearing beyondcreating stacking a effect partsin areseen their in row formationsfurther with rows thatsome arealigned behind anotherone and others resulting differingin relationships between tu Turbinerows andalignment apparent this in view 4c)138 of thesewith also visible tobelow hub height. 216Tips of turbines theoretically visible (LayoutScenario widepanoramic views available. overahorizontal field viewof of10 threeThe proposed farm siteswind theoretically extend Beatricethe Demonstrator turbines. to lie the north. Set apartfrom anyvisible landformand skyline within a part theof broad,open sea views that threeThe proposed farm siteswind are locate degreesof the field of view. proposed farm siteswind theoretically takes up0 verticalThe angle viewof occupiedbythe three visibleonly excellentin visibility conditions. turbinesappearing as s Distanceto three proposed farmwindsites results the in Operation Magnitudeof Change (Layout Scenario 4) m sites results within it thein mostdistant turbines

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Construction and term,reversible. negative, long significant,Not Operation Residual Effects Si Airport). periodfrom Wick (overa10 year 0.3 visibility occurs turbine. 44.23 bevisible at wind farmsites t threeproposed requiredfor the Excellentvisibility effect: Likelihood of term,reversible. negative, short significant,Not decommissioning gnificanceof

% of% the time

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8 - 113

o

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

 Distance from three proposed wind Operation farm sites 41.08 km Distance to three proposed wind farm sites results in the (MacColl); turbines appearing as small scale, vertical features,  View taken from visible only in excellent visibility conditions. the coastal path at The vertical angle of view occupied by the three the base of the proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1 headland to the degrees of the field of view. north-west of The three proposed wind farm sites are located on Portknockie; skyline within a part of the broad, open sea views that lie to the north. Set apart from any visible landform and  Expansive view of the Beatrice Demonstrator turbines. the North Sea available form this The three proposed wind farm sites will be seen viewpoint with few immediately behind the foreground rock outcrop and therefore in the same part of the view as this valued interruptions other landscape feature. than close range rocks; The three proposed wind farm sites theoretically extend Operation over a horizontal field of view of 10-20 degrees of the  Open sea wide panoramic views available. Not significant, characterises this negative, long Tips of 216 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario term, reversible. view and acts as 4c) with 182 of these also visible to below hub height. main draw Construction and although no Turbine rows and alignment apparent in this view decommissioning resulting in differing relationships between turbines so specific focus is that some are aligned behind one another and others Not significant, present; Portnockie are seen in their row formations with further rows negative, short appearing beyond creating a stacking effect in parts - Bow  Old Red Sandstone term, reversible. of the view. Fiddle Rock cliffs enclose Likelihood of 18 Info Point viewpoint to the Less turbine overlapping, particularly of south western effect: south and rocky and eastern (MacColl) turbines results in some turbines Figure Excellent visibility coastline extends in appearing less dense at the edges of the array. 8.4-30, required for the Volume 7 either direction; The distance of the three proposed wind farm sites from three proposed this viewpoint results in this being less apparent than  Located within wind farm sites to occurs in views from closer viewpoints. CCA 19 – be visible at 41.08 km to closest Portgordon to The three proposed wind farm sites will extend man- turbine. Excellent Portknockie; made elements to a part of the view that currently has no such features but that is large in scale, a key visibility occurs  View will be consideration in a seascape / landscape’s ability to 0.3 % of the time experienced by accommodate such structures. (over a 10 year period from Wick walkers and At this distance the curvature of the earth reduces the Airport). importance of apparent height of all of the turbines with those furthest viewpoint marked away having only a markedly short section of their by information towers visible above the skyline. The angle of view and point; the depth of the layout of the three proposed wind farm sites within it results in the most distant turbines  Distance from appearing lower in the view than those to the front of nearest turbine the array. Some turbines are sufficiently distant to be reduces the visible only as blades as the hubs are hidden by the curvature of the earth. sensitivity of this viewpoint to the Magnitude of change: low three proposed Construction and decommissioning wind farm sites; and The worst case scenario of both the construction and  There are no scenic decommissioning will be when large numbers of landscape turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of designations. activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes.

Sensitivity: medium – Magnitude of change: low high

8-114 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment No 19

Section Volume7 8.4 Figure cyclepath Viaduct & Cullen, Viewpoint - 31, 31, 3

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OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Sensitivi          Sensitivity BaselineCondition and

high proposed wind Distance fromthree sea views;sea whogain coastal Cullenresidents harbour,the and path andvisiting viaductusing localsandvisitors viewsof gained by View representative cliffs; SandstoneRed headla side byrocky enclosedoneither SandyCullen Bay characterised by Coast – LocatedCCA in 20 view; the expansiveness of which the viewleft of ofright view andto headlandsvisible in containedby Seascape feature; background s development with andsurrounding harbourthe area Focusof the view is edge; topsroof tocoastal affordingviews elevatedviaduct taken View from (MacColl); farm sites42.80 designations. landscape Thereare noscenic wind farmsites; and threeproposed viewpointtothe sensitivityof this reducesthe nearestturbine Distance from ea formingea

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Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Magnitudeof change: low activity thein form of marine turbinesare placein additionin toconcentrations of decommissioning be will when largenumbers of The case worst scenario of both constructionthe and Construction anddecommissioning Magnitudeof change: low curvatureof t visibleonly as blades asthe hubs arehidden the by arraythe appearing lower thein than view those tothe front of farm sites results within it thein mostdistant turbines depththe of the layoutof the t towersvisible abovethe skyline. The angleof view and away havingonly amarkedly short section apparentheight of all theof turbines those with furthest Atdistancethis the curvature of the earth reduces the accommodatesuch structures. consideration ainseascape such no features but that is large scale,in akey made elementsto a partof the view that currently has threeThe proposed farm siteswind extendwill man appearing less denseatthe ed andeastern (MacColl) turbines results somein turbines Lessturbine overlapping,particularly of south western 4c)200 of thesewith also visible tobelow hub height. Ti widepanoramic views available. overahorizontal field viewof of10 threeThe proposed farm siteswind theoretically extend feature andtherefore thein same part theof view. The seenbe will abovethe middle ground harbour Beatricethe Demonstrator t to lie the north. skyline within a part theof broad,open sea views that threeThe proposed farm siteswind are located on degreesof the field of view. proposed farm wind verticalThe angle viewof occupiedbythe three visibleonly excellentin visibility conditions. turbinesappearing as small scale,vertical features, Distanceto three proposed farmwindsites results the in Operation Magnitudeof Change (Layout Scenario 4) ps 216ps of turbines theoretically visible (LayoutScenario . Someturbines aresufficiently distant to be

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Construction and term,reversible. negative, long significant,Not Operation Residual Effects Si Airport). periodfrom Wick (overa10 year 0.3 visibility occurs turbine. Excellent 42.8 bevisible at wind farmsites to three requiredfor the Excellentvisibility effect: Likelihood of term,reversible. negative, short significant,Not decommissioning gnificanceof

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8 - 115

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

 Distance from three proposed wind Operation farm sites 45.53 km (MacColl); Distance to three proposed wind farm sites results in the  Northern sector of turbines appearing as small scale, vertical features, panoramic view visible only in excellent visibility conditions. looks across upland farmland to north The vertical angle of view occupied by the three sea coast; proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1  Distinct transition degrees of the field of view. between land and sea, both forming The three proposed wind farm sites are located on strong horizontal skyline within a part of the broad, open sea views that bands; lie to the north. Set apart from any visible landform and  Visibility of east the Beatrice Demonstrator turbines. coast as distant feature in left of The will be seen above the middle ground coastal, view reduces sense agricultural and forested low lying land and therefore in of remoteness in the Operation the same part of the view. seascape; Not significant,  Forestry and The three proposed wind farm sites theoretically extend negative, long farmland over a horizontal field of view of 10-20 degrees of the term, reversible. characterises view wide panoramic views available. with sea forming Construction and background decommissioning Tips of 216 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario feature; 4c) with all of these also visible to below hub height. Not significant,  Located within LCT negative, short 37 – Upland Less turbine overlapping, particularly of south western term, reversible. Bin Hill Farmland; (MacColl) and eastern (Telford and MacColl) turbines Likelihood of 20 Figure  Man-modified results in some turbines appearing less dense at the effect: 8.4-32, landscape with edges of the array. Volume 7 comercial forestry Excellent visibility required for the and intensive The three proposed wind farm sites will extend man- arable agriculture three proposed made elements to a part of the view that currently has characterising the wind farm sites to view; no such features but that is large in scale, a key be visible at consideration in a seascape / landscape’s ability to 45.53 km to closest  Viewpoint turbine. Excellent accessed by accommodate such structures. visibility occurs forestry tracks and 0.3 % of the time representative of At this distance the curvature of the earth reduces the (over a 10 year views of walkers, apparent height of all of the turbines with those furthest period from Wick probably of interest away having only a markedly short section of their Airport). locally rather than towers visible above the skyline. The angle of view and regionally or the depth of the layout of the three proposed wind nationally; farm sites within it results in the most distant turbines  View of Boyndie appearing lower in the view than those to the front of wind farm to the the array. The elevated location of the view ensures east in the hills near to the coast; that all of the turbines are visible to below hub height.

 Distance from Magnitude of change: low nearest turbine reduces the Construction and decommissioning sensitivity of this viewpoint to the The worst case scenario of both the construction and three proposed decommissioning will be when large numbers of wind farm sites; and turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of  There are no scenic activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes. landscape designations. Magnitude of change: low Sensitivity: medium

8-116 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment No 21

Section Volume7 8.4 Figure Castle Findlater Viewpoint - 33, 33, 3

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OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Sensitivity:medium             Sensitivity BaselineCondition and

high farm sites43.16 proposed wind Distance fromthree views sensitivityof scenic heightened walkers with experiencedby be will View view;from beach obscured pebbly withshore of SandstoneRed c coastlineof Old Irregularandrocky Bay; CCA21 Loca seascape influence theof tempersthe andright of view headlandto left Visibility coastalof opennessof view; accentuates vegetati and coverlow of Eleva view; thein foreground existingfoc Castleform an Remainsof Findlater characteri seascape which expansive toanopen and enclosedrocky bay immediate locationacross the Clifffrom top View projectsout topcliff path; ac Castle, where pointfor Findlater and information formal viewpoint taken View from (MacC designations. landscape Thereare noscenic wind farmsites; and threeproposed viewpointtothe sen reducesthe nearestturbine Distance from data;map recognition on OS fo by viewpointdenoted Importance of cess

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Construction and term,reversible. negative, long significant,Not Operation Residual Effects Si Airport). periodfrom Wick (overa10 year 0.3 visibility occurs turbine. Excellent 43.16 bevisible at wind threeproposed requiredfor the Excellentvisibility effect: Likelihood of term,reversible. negative, short significant,Not decommissioning gnificanceof

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8 - 117

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Baseline Condition and Significance of No Viewpoint Magnitude of Change (Layout Scenario 4) Sensitivity Residual Effects

 Distance from three proposed wind farm sites 44.82 km Operation (MacColl);  View taken from Distance to three proposed wind farm sites results in the grassy area turbines appearing as small scale, vertical features, between Shore visible only in excellent visibility conditions. Street and Schoolhedry Street; The vertical angle of view occupied by the three  View presents open proposed wind farm sites theoretically takes up 0-1 and uninterrupted degrees of the view. seascape which extends across 72 The three proposed wind farm sites are located on degree frame and skyline within a part of the broad, open sea views that which has no lie to the north. Set apart from any visible landform and specific focus; the Beatrice Demonstrator turbines.  Viewpoint located on raised headland The turbines will be seen above the pier, across an Operation with rocky shoreline intermediate stretch of water from this location. visible in the Not significant, foreground; The three proposed wind farm sites theoretically extend negative, long over a horizontal field of view of 10-20 degrees of the  Developed context term, reversible. view. of Portsoy visible Construction and within the decommissioning remainder of Tips of 216 turbines theoretically visible (Layout Scenario panorama and 4c) with 95 of these also visible to below hub height. Not significant, characterised by negative, short harbour and other Less turbine overlapping, particularly of south western term, reversible. Portsoy traditional coastal and eastern (MacColl) turbines results in some turbines Likelihood of developments; appearing less dense at the edges of the array. 22 Figure effect: 8.4-34,  Located within Although this is less noticeable than in closer range Excellent visibility Volume 7 CCA 21 – Sandend views. required for the Bay; The three proposed wind farm sites will extend man- three proposed  Hard coastal shore made elements to a part of the view that currently has wind farm sites to characterised by no such features but that is large in scale, a key be visible at Old Red Sandstone consideration in a seascape / landscape’s ability to 44.82 km to closest Cliffs and irregular turbine. Excellent accommodate such structures. coastal edge of visibility occurs pebbly raised 0.3 % of the time beaches; At this distance the curvature of the earth substantially (over a 10 year reduces the apparent height of all of the turbines with period from Wick  View representative those furthest away having only a markedly short Airport). of views gained by section of their towers visible above the skyline or else residents along blades only. The angle of view and the depth of the Portsoys coastal layout of the three proposed wind farm sites within it edge and visitors to results in the most distant turbines appearing lower in the harbour and the view than those to the front of the array. coastal area;  Distance from Magnitude of change: low nearest turbine reduces the Construction and decommissioning sensitivity of this viewpoint to the The worst case scenario of both the construction and three proposed decommissioning will be when large numbers of wind farm sites; and turbines are in place in addition to concentrations of  There are no scenic activity in the form of marine vessels and cranes. landscape designations. Magnitude of change: low Sensitivity: medium - high

8-118 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.6.19 8.4.6.18 8.4.6.17 8.4.6.16 8.4.6.15 Section Night at Effects Visual 3

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iul ersnain o ngt ie iw fo te iwons t ik a and Bay Wick at 7 viewpoints the from views Dunbeath time night of representations farm Visual wind same the within sequence. flashing a have turbines demonstrator Beatrice turbine each on development sequence flash lighting the red appropriate, Offshore flashing the of use of the corner each at but placed been have (OSPs) Platforms Substation simulation candela site 2000 farm wind each of middle the in located lights perimeter site the farm of wind nacelle each the of on turbines placed been have simulation candela 2000 candela and 2000 of intensity Substation lighting a Offshore with lights the photometric and turbines proposed na the (OSPs) the Platforms the of assess and lighting of predict of to top effect assessment possible the the in to included been possible have representations as light, red close steady candela) as (2000 intensity’ ‘medium positioned with lit be offshore to requires SPS 2010) turbine (CAA, wind lighting turbine wind offshore on guidance CAA The will sites farm wind proposed three the on on significant of lighting navigational of effect recommended lights the of range nominal the to 8 turbines (corner around to up distances sea, medium to at short out over vessels seafaring to out stands lighting Navigation reduce much be will lights the of clearness or acuteness the but visible, theoretically be may lights navigational the headlands, and cliffs sea as such positions, viewing elevated low from 22 of maximum a at lighting navigational turbine 22 over distances at located are sites farm wind proposed three Navig with fitted and marked are turbines system. all management safety active an as lighting, range short that requires also far notes, guidance wind recent proposed lit be three to the recommended on the structures intermediary of selected and periphery plane, horizontal the in directions all i.e. 22 of (minimum blade rotor light the of arc white the of point a lowest the below with turbines, wind the on lit mounted be to turbines wind offshore isola an by posed risk collision the to Due at night. visible be to sites farm specifications) lighting the of Navigation; and Shipping (see requirements (CAA) Authority Aviation Civil and standards (IALA) Authorities Lighthouse of Association International the with accordance in lit be will sites farm wind proposed three the at OSPs and turbines The Caithness coast. Caithness rep as Dunbeath and Bay Wick at viewpoints these from assessed is night at OSPs and sites farm wind OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

(Wick Bay) and 8.4 and Bay) (Wick

the corner turbines in the layout, are required to be fitted with lights visible from visible lights with fitted be to required are layout, the in turbines corner the there is a future possibility that the CAA requirement will be interpreted to reflect to interpreted be will requirement CAA the that possibility future a is there toa lgtn sol b vsbe vr rne f o ls ta 5 than less not of range a over visible be should lighting ational d over long distances and in the variable, maritime atmospheric conditions atmospheric maritime variable, the in and distances long over d lying areas near sea level along the coast due to earth curvature earth to due coast the along level sea near areas lying

(Viewpoints 4 and 12 respectively) are provided in in provided are 12respectively) 4and (Viewpoints

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Viewpoint 4: Wick Bay

Baseline and Sensitivity to Change

8.4.6.20 The existing night time view from Wick Bay is shown in Figure 8.4-16c, Volume 7. The view is somewhat contained by the South Head of Wick Bay, enclosing higher ground around Wick, and directed to the large scale, open seas beyond. It is evident in the existing view photographs that the night time view of Wick Bay is substantially lit by many features associated with the harbour and town of Wick, including lighting around the harbour, boat lighting, street lighting, lighting associated with houses and buildings in Wick and point features such as the lighthouse. The sea within the harbour area reflects the light from these sources, increasing the influence of lighting in the scene. The open seascape beyond Wick Bay in the view is intrinsically dark, with no lighting evident on the sea skyline in this view from Wick Bay. There is a strong contrast between the developed and lit night time landscape around Wick Bay to the right of the panorama and the undeveloped, distant ‘dark’ seascape to the left of the panorama. The overall impression of the night time view is of a settled, well-lit industrial harbour town in which lighting has a substantial influence on the existing night time view. The night time view from Wick Bay is likely to be experienced by residents on the north side of Wick Bay, around The Shore and Scalesburn, and by fishermen working or returning to Harbour. The sensitivity of the view from Wick Bay to change resulting from the lighting of the offshore wind turbines and OSPS is assessed as medium.

Magnitude of Change

8.4.6.21 The predicted night time view from Wick Bay is shown in the photomontage representation in Figure 8.4-16 d, Volume 7. The red turbine lights on the nacelle of the perimeter turbines of the three proposed wind farm sites and the lights on the OSPs will be visible in the view. The lights will be visible on the skyline extending beyond the headland of the southern part of Wick Bay (South Head). The position of the three proposed wind farm sites in the view is such that they will introduce lights into the undeveloped, distant ‘dark’ seascape section of the view, that currently has no lighting, but they will also be seen in the context of the extensively lit night time landscape around Wick Bay. The appearance of the red turbine lights and the yellow lights on the OSPs will appear substantially diminished in the context of the bright foreground lighting around Wick Bay, due to the long distance of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs offshore (21.6 km to nearest turbine). Although the lighting introduces lights into a section of dark seascape, the lights are not considered to be obtrusive and due to their relatively low position on the distant skyline, do not impede the view of the night sky. The lights occupy a relatively small portion of the view with additional lighting, in comparison to the existing portion of view which is lit up around Wick and Wick Harbour. The lighting of peripheral turbines results in spaces of skyline within the developed part of the horizon with no lighting. The lights are likely to be viewed with the dark silhouette of the wind turbines and OSPs during the hours around dusk and as point features of light during the darker hours of the night. It will be possible to identify the formation of the turbines with the red CAA lighting, but only in conditions of good and excellent visibility. The magnitude of change of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs on the view from Wick Bay at night is assessed as low.

Significance of Effect

8.4.6.22 As the sensitivity of the view from Viewpoint 4 Wick Bay to the type of change proposed is assessed as medium, and the magnitude of change on the view assessed as low, the significance of effect of the three proposed wind farm sites and

8-120 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.6.24 8.4.6.23 Section Change of Magnitude Change to and Sensitivity Conditions Baseline 9: Dunbeath Viewpoint 3

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formation of the turbines with the red CAA lighting, but only in conditions of good good of conditions in only but lighting, CAA red the with turbines the of formation night the of hours darker the during light of features point as and dusk around hours the during the OSPs and turbines of wind the of silhouette characteristic sky light night the of existing view the an impede posit low of relatively their extension to due and an view baseline are lights the seascape, turbine) nearest the to far wind proposed three the of distance long the to due diminished substantially be lights will OSPs the on turbine lights yellow and lights wind turbine red the amongst skyline the on locations OSP scattered the to lights turbine Beatrice on the lights to similar the red appear will OSPs by occupied be will view sea the the in of majority skyline the that such skyline, sea the of portion larger a Demonstra over extended Beatrice the on lights the to intensity similar Rigs Oil Beatrice and turbines Demonstrator Beatrice the at lighting offshore visible limited some has currently that undeveloped largely a into lights introduce will they that the in view the Bay shown Dunbeath in visible is be Dunbeath will OSPs farm wind 9 proposed three the Viewpoint of turbines perimeter from the view time in photomontage night predicted The OSP and turbines offshore wind of the lighting the of Balnabruich lighting offshore and Dunbeath in residents by experienced be limited to likely is Dunbeath near Be 9 Viewpoint with and seascape onshore turbines scattered demonstrator dark with Beatrice landscape intrinsically rural an a of and is lighting view time in night the of photograph impression view are existing and Beat the on lighting sequence, navigational the flash short in a with evident visible, are turbines demonstrator Beatrice v are turbines Demonstrator Beatrice and platforms oil Beatrice distant the of lighting the but areas, northern coastal some from than visible is extent lesser the a that so landform by limited is beyond at ground higher on s and properties Dunbeath of edges dwellings, scattered the from Water Lights Dunbeath around landform the by sea to out channelled somewhat is view existing The night. at lit already is which Bay Wick over view existing the of extent the to comparison in lighting new the of context the in foreground diminished existing substantially appear will OSPs the on lights yellow the and lights turbine red the of appearance the that such Harbour, Wick and Wick t from change significant not as assessed is night at view the on OSPs ie ad Ss n h ve fo Vepit Dunbea 9 Viewpoint from view medium. the on OSPs and sites visibility excellent and OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

. . night time view from Dunbeath is shown in in shown is Dunbeath from view time night

The sensitivity of the view from Dunbeath to change resulting from the the from resulting change to Dunbeath from view the of sensitivity The

sbe n h horizon the on isible . . he baseline view, which includes extensive night time lighting around lighting time night extensive includes which view, baseline he The position of the three proposed wind farm sites in the view is such such is view the in sites farm wind proposed three the of position The Telford, Figure

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This is largely due to the low the to due largely is This tor turbines, with the effect effect the with turbines, tor 8.4 th at night is assessed as as assessed is night at th h ngt ie iw from view time night The . the on lights the and sites , distant ‘dark’ seascape, seascape, ‘dark’ distant , - h ylo lgt o the on lights yellow The

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Significance of Effect

8.4.6.25 As the sensitivity of the view from Viewpoint 9 near Dunbeath to the type of change proposed is assessed as medium, and the magnitude of change on the view assessed as medium, the significance of effect of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs on the view at night is assessed as significant. Although the brightness of the red turbine lights and the yellow lights on the OSPs will appear substantially diminished, and similar in intensity to the existing lighting of the Beatrice Demonstrator turbines and oil rigs, the effect on the night time view is considered significant due to the horizontal spread of the three proposed wind farm sites in the view, which will extend the minor effect of the existing offshore lighting over the majority of the sea skyline in the view.

Conclusions

8.4.6.26 The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs at night results mainly from the red CAA lighting located on the nacelle of turbines on the periphery of the three proposed wind farm sites and the yellow lights on the OSPs. The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs at night is assessed as not significant from Viewpoint 4 in Wick Bay and significant from Viewpoint 9 near Dunbeath. The effect on the view from Wick Bay is assessed as not significant largely due to the low change from the baseline view, which includes extensive night time lighting around Wick and Wick Harbour. The significant effect on the view from Dunbeath is due to the relatively dark landscape and sea skyline in the baseline view, combined with the horizontal spread of the three proposed wind farm sites, which will extend the effect of the existing offshore lighting over the majority of the sea skyline in the view. It is considered that significant effects of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs at night are limited in extent, concentrated to a small geographic area between Wick and Dunbeath, in areas where the baseline views are intrinsically dark and yet the change is experienced in relative frequency by local residents and motorists.

8.4.6.27 In general, lighting is a secondary effect of development and where the effect of the three proposed wind farm sites is assessed as not significant during the day, when the wind turbines are fully visible, they will not have significant effects at night as a result of lighting, when the wind turbines are not visible. The duration of the effect of the lights on receptors is likely to be over a relatively short period, more commonly experienced during evening and morning hours of darkness, around dusk and sunrise. The visual effects of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs at night are also limited by the activity of receptors at night. Receptors that experience views at night are generally limited to residents of settlements, rural properties and motorists using the road network. Views from remote rural / coastal locations, beaches, mountains and footpaths etc. are visited infrequently at night. The assessment of night time effects is also based on clear night time viewing conditions, when it will be possible to identify the formation of the turbines with the red CAA lighting, but only in conditions of good and excellent visibility.

Route Corridor Assessment

8.4.6.28 There are numerous route corridors traversing the study area, some of which are associated with urban development while the majority provide access to the wider countryside. There are a larger number of route corridors in the study area and it is not possible, or necessary, to assess the potential effects of the three proposed wind farm sites on every route, however, some of the key routes require consideration in the assessment. The three principal criteria have been considered in determining inclusion of routes in the assessment:

8-122 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Volume 8.4 Figure A882 Corridor Route Volume 8.4 Figure Latheron) to(Brora A9

- - 12b, 12a, 8.4.6.29 Section Table

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rom stakeholders regarding particular route corridors. particular regarding rom stakeholders farm sitesoblique to road; and 30 Berriedale andLatheron atdistances between Largelycontinuous visibility between Berriedale Limitedvisibility between Ousdale and 41 Helmsdaleand Ousdale, atdistances over incised bendscoastal in shelf between Intermittent, distancelong visibility from Helmsdale,atdistances over44 depositioncoast between Continual,but distancelong visibility from directionof travel on westboundroute. The the Eastbound pro Visibility atdistances over33 (approximately5 bladetips from three Fleeting route); Halkirkhas no visibility(approximately 18 Majorityof 23

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8 Effect and and

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

 Majority of 37 km route between Wick and Halkirk has no visibility (approximately 36 km of route);  Fleeting section of visibility of 201 to 216 Medium – low Operation A9 turbine blade tips from one section of road (Latheron to near Upper Latheron (approximately 1 km of Not significant, negative, (Latheron route); 30 km to Thurso section long term, reversible. to Thurso) of A9 has 50 km  Visibility at distances over 30 km from the three Construction and little / no Figure (Stevenson) proposed wind farm sites (MacColl); decommissioning 8.4-12c, relationship Volume 7 with the sea /  Southbound section of route is oblique to the Not significant, negative, coast) three proposed wind farm sites; and short term, reversible  The three proposed wind farm sites behind direction of travel on northbound. Magnitude of change: low

Thrumster to Wick and past Lybster: Operation

 No visibility between Thrumster and Wick; Not significant, negative, long term, reversible. Magnitude of change: negligible / no change (Thrumster to Wick) Construction and decommissioning A99  No visibility past Lybster; Not significant, negative, (Latheron 22.5 km to Magnitude of change: negligible / no change short term, reversible to Wick) 30 km Medium (past Lybster) (MacColl / Latheron to Thrumster: Figure Telford)  Largely continuous visibility for remainder of 8.4-12d, route between Latheron and Thrumster at Operation Volume 7 distances between 25 to 30 km, with the three Significant, negative, long proposed wind farm sites oblique to road; and term, reversible. Magnitude of change: medium (Latheron to Construction and Thumster). decommissioning Significant, negative, short term, reversible

 Fleeting sections of visibility of 1 to 216 turbine blade tips interspersed with stretches with no visibility;  Southbound section of route orientated oblique to the three proposed wind farm sites; A99  The three proposed wind farm sites behind Operation direction of travel on northbound route; (Wick to Not significant, negative, John O’ 25 km to  No visibility between John O’ Groats and long term, reversible. Groats) 40 km Medium Warth Hill and past Freswick Bay; Construction and (Telford) Figure  Higher visibility as the road passes Nybster and decommissioning 8.4-12e, Keiss, but at distance between 32 to 35 km Not significant, negative, Volume 7 from the three proposed wind farm sites; and short term, reversible  Limited visibility past Sinclair’s Bay, from low lying ground, increasing to south of the bay towards Reiss and approach to Wick / Wick Airport. Magnitude of change: medium-low

8-124 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.7.7 8.4.7.6 8.4.7.5 8.4.7.4 8.4.7.3 8.4.7.2 8.4.7.1 Section Types Landscape 8.4.7

3

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Landscape Character Types (LCTs) (as defined by SNH Terrestrial LCAs); Terrestrial SNH by (as(LCTs) defined Types Character Landscape visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites. farm wind proposed three of the visibility characte a not is sea the where with coast, relationship the no or little have which inland, further located types Landscape sea the but sea, the characteristic. defining the provide donot coast byand influenced are that coast the to next types Landscape the provide characteristics. defining coast or sea the where coast the along identified types Landscape designations Landscape and Areas Character Coastal chapter s

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

 Agricultural Heartland;  Coniferous Woodland Plantation;  Flat Peatland;  Inland Loch;  Lone Mountains;  River Valleys;  Strath;  Sweeping Moorland;  Town;  Uplands; and  Urban.

8.4.7.8 The assessment has identified that the other LCTs within the study area can be assessed in two categories:  Landscape types in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Orkney where there is theoretical visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites at distances between 41 km and 50 km; and  Landscape types in Caithness where there will be visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites at distances of between 22 km and 50 km.

8.4.7.9 The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites on LCTs in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Orkney is assessed as not significant due to the long distance and limited visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites. Although the three proposed wind farm sites may be partially visible at long distances over 41 km offshore on the distant horizon, the three proposed wind farm sites will not become a characteristic element of the landscape types in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Orkney coasts and the existing baseline characteristics will continue to provide the prevailing influence. The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites is assessed as not significant on the following LCTs in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Orkney:  The Coast: cliffs of the north and south east coasts;  Coastal Farmland: western coastal farmland;  Coastal: soft coastal shore;  Coastal: hard coastal shore;  Coastal: coastal forest;  Coastal Lowlands;  Cliff Landscapes;  Coastal Basins;  Coastal Hills and Heath;  Holms; and  Low Island Pastures.

8.4.7.10 The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites is assessed further in this chapter for the LCTs in Caithness and Sutherland, which are either defined by, or influenced by, the sea / coast. Although the three proposed wind farm sites are located at long

8-126 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Island 6 Caithnessand Sutherland (SNH Review theby or Type Landscape . Coastal Influenced Section 8.4 Table Defined

Sea

3

– -

6 in assessed this in seascape the on assessment sites farm wind proposed further requires LCTs of perception these and characteristics key the on development proposed the of effect 22 between offshore, distances OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact Baseline exposure anddrama. maybut also relate tothe sense of is perceived andthe sense remoteness,of change theof three proposed farmwind sites may defining influenceoncharacter Seascape Sensitivity      characteristics: and Sea Assessment ofEffectsTypes onLandscape

coastalprocesses. accessing islandsand elemental sense of isolation,risk associated with wildnessattributes associated with Remoteand exposed some with Islands. mainlandthe coast and Orkney islandsto surroundingseascape andto Wide,open vistas from isolated coastal presence theof land experiencedominated is bythe strongand limiting linear e Cliffs thiswithin landscapecreate a cliffs. of tiltedstrata have caused the formation Wavecutrock platforms, cliffslow and Stromaand Pentland Skerries. PentlandFirth including Island of Uninhabitedcoastal islandsof the

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uninhabited islandsto Limited islands of PentlandSkerries. visibilityfrom uninhabited the Island Swonaof (Telford) no visibilitywith from proposed farm siteswind 40.4 Locatedapproximately perceived. pattern of elements is changethe inway thewhich visibility, maywhich indirectly changes arisethrough physicallybe altered; Landscape elements not will characteristics. prevailingthe key stra wavecutrocks, cliffslow and characteristicsKey theof sites. threeproposed farmwind changesresulting from the experiencethe perceived

km / ta will continueta will to provide

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coastal characteristics of these LCTs these of characteristics coastal

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EnvironmentalStatement Operation Significanceof reversible. negative, shortterm, significant,Not decommissioning Construction and reversible. negative, term,long significant,Not of the three three the of

Effect 8

are are - 127

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Landscape Type Defined Baseline Condition and Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance of Effect or Influenced by the Sea

 Located approximately 39.4 km from the three Sea and / or coast provide the defining proposed wind farm sites characteristics: (MacColl) with scattered areas of visibility from area  Elevated platform, created by a between Brora and coastal plain of sedimentary rocks, Helmsdale and limited / no with linear space semi-enclosed by visibility from smaller area inland hills thus directing views out to near Ousdale. sea.  Elevated platform and  Beach cliffs or dunes along some enclosure by inland hills stretches of the coast tend to limit directs views to the three direct visibility and experience of the proposed wind farm sites out coastline from inland areas. to sea which will include a Operation skyline of offshore wind  Strongly influenced by the character of turbines. Not significant, open skies and the distinctive coastal negative, long term, light. reversible. 8. Coastal  Pattern of land use largely relates to  The three proposed wind Shelf Construction and the linear space. farm sites are likely to be an decommissioning external influence on the  Transport corridor / small settlements areas of this landscape type Not significant, and often farmed. that lie adjacent to the coast. negative, short term, reversible.  Berriedale coast designated as part of  Perception of the character is proposed SLA. experienced frequently by Sensitivity: medium-high road users along main A9 transport corridor. Seascape / coastal characteristics have a defining influence on character. Visibility  Landscape elements will not of the three proposed wind farm sites may be physically altered; change the way in which land / sea edge changes arise through is perceived and the direct relationship of visibility, which may indirectly the sea with the coastal shelf, but may change the way in which the also relate to the sense of exposure and pattern of elements is linear land use pattern. perceived. Magnitude of change: medium- low

8-128 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 11 theby Sea orInfluenced DefinedType Landscape . Harbour Section

3

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact   characteristics: and Sea BaselineCondition and Sensitivity varietyof experientialcharacteristics. relatealso to the sea based activityand changevisual focus of harbour, but may theof three proposed farmwind sites may defining influenceoncharacter S Sensitivity  

eascape activity. combinationof sea, landand human characteristics associated with the assortmentRich of experiential sea is based Most activity thiswithin character type coastlinethe or atthe edgeof a bay. Mainly located whereaglen intersects land against high harbour walls. landscape Harbourscreate focus a the in

/ : medium

or coastor providethe defining /

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Telford,

Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure . .

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MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited     Magnitudeof Change Magnitudeof change: 

element. the influence theof sea wider characteristics further experiential landscapetype, provide basedactivity of this farm sitesrelate to the sea threeThe proposed wind proposed farm sites.wind andrestrict views of the three abayof tends to enclose inter Enclosedcharacter at focus theof landscapetype. continuewill toform the main Immediateharbour activity andHelmsdale harbours. Latheronwheel,Dunbeath visibilityfrom Wick, farm sites(Telford) with thefrom three proposed wind Locat perceived. pattern of elements is changethe inway thewhich visibility, maywhich indirectly changes arisethrough physicallybe altered; Landscape elements not will section edapproximately 23

ofglens or edges

and increase

medium

the

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EnvironmentalStatement reversible. negative, shortterm, significant,Not decommissioning Construction and reversible. negative, term,long significant,Not Operat Significanceof Effect ion

8

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Landscape Type Defined Baseline Condition and Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance of Effect or Influenced by the Sea

Sea and / or coast provide the defining  Located approximately 36 km characteristics: from the three proposed wind  Long, narrow, exposed stretches of farm sites (Telford) with very high cliffs interrupted by bays at visibility from stretch of coast glen intersections. at Duncansby Head and from longer stretch of coast  Stacks, caves, pebbles and collapsed between Berriedale and cliffs. Helmsdale.  Cliffs within this landscape create a  Narrow character of coastline strong and limiting linear edge where restricts visibility of the three experience is dominated by the proposed wind farm sites to presence of the land / sea edge. narrow stretch at the immediate coastal edge.

 Exposure of coastline and  Views directed along coast and out to direct relationship with the sea focusing on islands, rigs and boats. sea increases the perceived Operation  Backed by moorland or small farms / effect of the three proposed wind farm sites. crofts. Road aligned parallel to coast. Not significant, negative, long term,  Access and views to coast restricted  The three proposed wind 12. High Cliffs reversible. due to cliffs. farm sites will form a new but and visually separate focus out to Construction and Sheltered  Distinctive coastal light, immense sea, in addition to the stacks, decommissioning Bays openness, soaring and nesting sea caves and collapsed cliffs birds, and movement and sound of views along coast. Not significant, breaking waves. negative, short term,  Perception of the character is reversible.  Remote and exposed with some experienced infrequently due wildness attributes associated with to the limited access to the sense of isolation, risk associated with cliffs, gained mainly by accessing cliffs and elemental coastal walkers on foot. processes.  Landscape elements will not  Duncansby Head and Berriedale be physically altered; Coast designated as proposed SLA. changes arise through visibility, which may indirectly Sensitivity: high change the way in which the Seascape / coastal characteristics have a pattern of elements is defining influence on character. Visibility perceived. of the three proposed wind farm sites may Magnitude of change: change the way in which land / sea edge is perceived and the sense of remoteness Duncansby Head: low of this most north westerly corner of British mainland, but may also relate to the sense Berriedale to Helmsdale: of exposure and drama. medium-low

8-130 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Links Dunesand Beaches Long 16. theby Sea orInfluenced DefinedType Landscape Section

3

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact     characteristics: and Sea BaselineCondition and Sensitivity fabrication influences. of exposure and existing offshore lyingbay, but may also relate tothe sense changesimple visual composition of low theof three proposed farmwind sites may defining influenceoncharacter. Visibility Seascape Sensitivity    

northerncoastal light. o Compositionandrelative prevalence inland. centre Sinclair’sof Bay and extends Pipelinefabrication works interruptsthe settlements. Generally backedbyfarmland or coastalalong hinterland. Recreation andexperientially. Dynamic landscape, bothphysically visualSimple composition. extensivevisibility. Wide openspace, exposureand Soft,linear toedge sea. f elements isstrongly affected the by

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Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited     Magnitudeof Change Magnitudeof change: 

extensivevisibility to the sea Wide openspace with this landscapetype. linear edgetothe coast of characteristics theof soft farm sites not will threeThe proposed wind sites. threeproposed farmwind hasarea novisibility of the type suchthat most of the sitesviews in from landscape threeproposed farmwind NossHead largelyscreens the edge. Keissandfrom hinterland partof landscapetyp smallfrom area northernin (Telford) limited with visibility proposed farm siteswind 28.6 Locatedapproximately perceived. pattern of elements is changethe inway thewhich visibility, maywhich indirectly ch physicallybe altered; Landscape elements not will development. viewsof the proposed retained, largely without anges arisethrough

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EnvironmentalStatement reversible. negati significant,Not decommissioning Construction and reversible. negative, term,long significant,Not Operation Significanceof Effect ve, shortterm,

8

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Landscape Type Defined Baseline Condition and Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance of Effect or Influenced by the Sea

Landscape type influenced by the sea / coast:  Edged in some places by high cliffs and bays or long beaches, dunes and links.  Open vistas generally edged by the distant horizon of the sea or distinctive profiles of far-away hills.  Clear skies and light allow some sense  Located approximately of direction to be gained from the 22.4 km from the three distinct character of the sea. proposed wind farm sites (Telford) with visibility from Sea and coast do not provide the defining area at Skirza. characteristics of this landscape type, which is defined by:  Open vistas edged by distant horizon of the sea will include  Gently sloping landform, rising up to distant skyline of offshore Operation form low hills, or down to create basins wind turbines. and shallow glens. Not significant,  Clear light is likely to increase negative, long term,  Open landscape, generally the perceived effect of the 18. Mixed reversible. dominated by a horizontal emphasis, three proposed wind farm Agriculture with the occasional location of a hill or sites. Construction and and woodland. decommissioning Settlement  Proposed development will  Exposed and bracing, strongly form a landmark and Not significant, influenced by the clarity of light and increase sense of orientation. negative, short term, air, the sound and feel of the wind. reversible.  Landscape elements will not  Complex visual composition due to mix be physically altered; of land use and lines forming key changes arise through elements, such as the skyline, visibility, which may indirectly powerlines, field boundaries and change the way in which the roads. pattern of elements is  Open vistas often edged by the distant perceived. horizon of the sea. Magnitude of change: low Sensitivity: medium Seascape / coastal characteristics have external influence on character. Visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites may increase visual complexity and change the distant horizon of the sea, but may also relate to the sense of exposure, linear elements and horizontal emphasis of the landscape.

8-132 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Hills Slopesand 19 theby Sea orInfluenced DefinedType Landscape . Moorland

Section

3

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact characteristics thisof landscapetype, Sea andcoast do not provide the defining   coast: Landscapetype influenced by seathe BaselineCondition and Sensitivity landscape. of exposure andbroad scale ofthe visualfoci, but may also relate tothe sense change perceptionof scale andadd theof three proposed farmwind sites may external influenceoncharacter Seascape Sensitivity      which isdefined by:

SAWL. Partly located proposedin SLA and creatingnumerous minorfoci. morevisually dominant than the other, elevationas no one pointtends tobe Generallydifficult todiscern relative height; to landform tops with of the tendinghills Interlocking arrangementof moorland open. this landscaperemains overwhelmingly some pocketsof enclosurebut broadly Variableslope of landformcreates broadhills. undulates graduallyor rises to form Slopingopen moorlandthat u coast.the theof sea and its baysfurther along Variable landform allowsdistant views landform. because coastlineThe isgenerally not visible

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Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure . .

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type continue will to provide which definethis landscape moorland slopes andhills characteristicsKey theof developmentoutto sea. distantviews of the proposed coastline,the but allows generally preventsviews of Orientationof landfo around LangwellForest. thefrom more extensive area and limited,scattered visibility landform aroundStemster Hill visibilitythe on coastal side of farm sites(Stevenson) with thefrom three proposed wind L perceived. pattern of elements is changethe inway thewhich visibility, maywhich indirectly changes arisethrough physicallybe altered; Landscape elements not will characteristics prevailingthe key ocatedapproximately 30

.

medium rm

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EnvironmentalStatement decommissioning Construction and rever negative, term,long significant,Not Operation Significanceof Effect reversible. negative, shortterm, significant,Not sible.

8

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Landscape Type Defined Baseline Condition and Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance of Effect or Influenced by the Sea

 Located approximately 22.7 km from the three  Landscape type influenced by the proposed wind farm sites sea / coast through characteristics of (Telford) and limited visibility clear light quality, exposure to extreme from area to the south of weather conditions and extensive Wick. views which are augmented in areas near the coast.  Extensive views and clear light are likely to increase the Sea and coast do not provide the defining perceived effect of the three characteristics of this landscape type, proposed wind farm sites. which is defined by: Operation  The three proposed wind  Openness and flat or gently sloping farm sites will not affect Not significant, landform, with simple composition of characteristics of clear light negative, long term, 20. Open elements, principally comprising simple quality and exposure to reversible. Intensive skyline and agricultural land. extreme weather conditions near the coast. Construction and Farmland  At a further level of detail, the decommissioning landscape contains an ordered  Key characteristics as an pattern of land use, mainly comprising area of open intensive Not significant, large, regular shaped fields. farmland with some exposure negative, short term, to coastal influences are reversible. Sensitivity: medium-low retained. Seascape / coastal characteristics have a  Landscape elements will not limited influence on character. Visibility of be physically altered; the three proposed wind farm sites may changes arise through change the way in which simple visibility, which may indirectly composition of elements is perceived, but change the way in which the may also relate to the sense of exposure pattern of elements is and ordered landscape pattern. perceived. Magnitude of change: low

8-134 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Crofts Farmsand 23 theby Sea orInfluenced DefinedType Landscape . Small 8.4.7.11 Section Areas Character Coastal

3

–

td area the study in areas character coastal the on sites farm wind proposed three the of effects area study the of parts coastal the ZTV the with conjunction in and 7 in (shown areas character coastal the are character seascape landscape on effects of assessment the in covered receptors of group second The ZTV and wirelines. and ZTV the using areas, character coastal these from sites farm wind proposed three the of visibility the and areas character coastal the of characteristics the examined which OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact    coast: Landscapetype influenced by seathe Baseline landform. andvisibility may be limitedby the tocharacteristicthe activityof people scale atthe coastal edge, but relatesalso perceptionthe of landdivision andhuman increasevisual complexi theof three proposed farmwind sites may external influenceoncharacter Seascape Sensitivity      which characteristics thisof landscapetype, Sea andcoast do not provide the defining

lines. differentspaces, edges, points and Complexvisual composition of features andslopin because screeningof effect of surface Extentof visibility tends to be limited depictedfields fences by arrangement:houses, outbuildings, elementsdespite the variation theirin Comprises a numberof common r areas of marginalmoorland and open andfairly rich, smallfarms and Rangefrom clearly ordered crofts, to characteristics.use afor complex variety of different land activity of people, whoareresponsible Dominatedbythe occupation and the strong waves, wind andsea birds. coastal light,the activity andsound of Influencedbythe sea, clarity of directlyto the coastal edge. The land adjacenttothe coast. strongly influencesthe thatareas lie Nature theof sea and coastlinethe uinedproperties.

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h assmn cnies h lkl significant likely the considers assessment The the perceivedthe effect theof Clear light is likelyto increase wind farmsites. towardsthe three proposed linear plotsaligned outto sea Landdivision orientated is in thatadjacent lie tothe coast. areas thisof landscap external influenceonthe farm sitesare likelytobe an threeThe proposed wind Berriedale. betweenSarclet Head and coastlineof and Hinterland from more extensive stretch area around Nybsterand (Telford) visibility with from proposed farm s wind 22.3 Locatedapproximately perceived. pattern of elements is changethe inway thewhich visibility, maywhich indirectly changes physicallybe altered; Landscape elements not will development. offshore farm wind providerationale a for Characteristicstrong winds characteristic atthe coast. waves and wildlife activity andsounds theof farm sites not affectwill the threeThe propos sites. threeproposed farmwind s 8 s

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.4.7.12 The assessment has identified that coastal character areas within the study area can be assessed in three categories:  Coastal character areas where there will be no visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites;  Coastal character areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Orkney where theoretical visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites at distances between 41 km and 50 km; and  Coastal character areas in Caithness where there will be visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites at distances between 22 km and 50 km.

8.4.7.13 The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites will not be significant on the coastal character areas which will have no visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites, as follows:  4. Island of Stroma;  5. Scarfskerry; and  6. Gills Bay and John O’ Groats.

8.4.7.14 The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites on coastal character areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Orkney is assessed as not significant due to the long distance and limited visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites. Although the three proposed wind farm sites may be partially visible at long distances over 41 km offshore on the distant horizon, the three proposed wind farm sites will not become a characteristic element of the coastal character areas along the Moray, Aberdeenshire and Orkney coasts and the existing baseline characteristics will continue to provide the prevailing influence. The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites is assessed as not significant on the following coastal character areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Orkney:  1. South Ronaldsay;  2. Swona Island;  3. Pentland Skerries;  17. Lossiemouth to Burghead Coast;  18. Spey Bay;  19. Portgordon to Portnockie Coast;  20. Cullen Bay;  21. Sandend Bay;  22. Boyne Bay; and  23. Boyndie Bay.

8.4.7.15 The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites is assessed further in this chapter for the coastal character areas in Caithness where there will be visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites at distances between 22 km and 50 km. The perception of these coastal character areas may be altered as the three proposed wind farm sites have the potential to become a characteristic element or key characteristic of the seascape / coastal character. The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites on the seascape / coastal characteristics of these coastal character areas are assessed in Table 8.4-7 below.

8-136 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Head Duncansby 7 CCA .

Section Table

8.4 3        Characterimmediate of hinterland     Character of coastal edg       Maritimeinfluences Baseline

– -

7 OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

Cliffsprovid andcliffs wide horizonof sea. Strongcontrast between verticality of Duncansby. includingthe prominent Stacks of Stacks,caves and collapsed cliffs, theirbase. into angular blocks, small with baysat OldHigh Red Sandstone Cliffs eroded sea. exposure,and soundsand smell theof Clarityof northern senselight, of furtherseen out tosea onthe horizon. ferries. Shipping isacommon feature level of activity, including passenger Pentl Major shippingroute passing into Islamds. extendingto DunnetHead and Ornkey Seawardviews over PentlandFirth, Orkney Islands. PentlandFirth andcoastal waters of Physical andnavigational linkto the sea. processesunder continual force from the Dynamiccoastal influences and east. Coastpredominantly orientated tothe designation(Special LandscapeArea). Scenicvalue recognized by local Okney Islands. east andnorth to PentlandFirth and Elevationcliffs of allowsdistant views turbulent.sea is character, particularly Particularly exposedand remote walkers. topcliff paths provide accessfor Visitorparking at DuncansbyHead and is a prominentfeature onthe headland. Lighthouse located atDuncansby Head hinterland. just Settlement is almost entirely absent, with landcover. natural heathland is prevailing High moorlandhinterland semi where distinctiveexperience. significant colonies,bird which provide occasional isolatedcrofts in

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wind farmsites. perceived effect threeof proposed relationshipsea with increases Exposureof coastline and direct notbe affected. Dunne Viewsnorth over PentlandFirth, to immediate hinterland. stretchatthe coastal edgeand proposed farm siteswind tonarrow restrictsvisibility of the three Narrowcharacter of coastline andSkirza Head. (Telford)between Duncansby Head threethe proposed wind Locatedapproximately 35.4 definingcharacteristic. edge continue will to providethe scenerycliff andviews atcoastal Character andremoteness of high seascapecharacter. reducesapparent change to shippingHigh activity the on horizon mainly by walkers foot. on limited accesstothe cliffs, experienced infrequently todue the ‘undeveloped’, but as beingremote and will affectthe perceptionof this area threeThe proposed farm siteswind seascape. additionalnew feature theinto open sea but alwill expansiveness relatecould to thewell threeThe proposed farm siteswind andcliffs along coastal edge. influences andscale stacks,of caves appreciationthe of physical Turbines wouldnot disruptthe focus atdistance formwill a new butvisually separate threeThe proposed farm siteswind t HeadandOrnkey Islands will ofchange: low Change

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

CCA Baseline Condition and Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance

Wildness / isolated coast  Remote and exposed with some wildness attributes associated with sense of isolation, due to absence of settlement, risk associated with accessing cliffs and elemental coastal processes.  Location of headland at extreme north- eastern point of British mainland is a compelling attraction.  Minimal illumination at night. Sensitivity: high Visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites may change the way in which land / sea edge is perceived, the impression of scale, visual foci, and the sense of remoteness of this most north westerly corner of British mainland, but may also relate to the sense of exposure and drama.

8-138 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Coast Nybster andBay 8 CCA . Freswick

Section 3      Characterimmediate of hinterland      Character of coastal edge         Maritime BaselineCondition and Sensitivity

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact characteristics Gentleslopes open with andexposed burnand offshoresources. depositionof sandstone, silt fromthe cliffs,andsand derived from the from erosionwave of nearby sandstone Beachmaterials include shinglederived beach atFreswick Bay. section Low section sounds andsmell ofthe sea. northern light,sense of exposure, and Open andexposed clarity with of e.g. Settlementassociated the with sea onseat common is a feature seen further outto withsome recreational sailing. Shipping Low levelof shipping coastal in waters activities,such as surfing(Skirza Harbour). Waterbased recreational beach sides theof bay. wave erosi Strongexposure means that wind and FreswickBay. Freswickburn discharges theinto sea at changingcharacter. withmigration of sand andconstantly Dynamiccoastal influences associated south east Coastpredominantly oriented to the heat interspersed semiwith Cultivatedfields associated crofts with A99parallelpasses to the coast. atright anglesto the coastline. fieldSimple patternrunning parallel and focalpoint from aroundFreswick Bay. Fres overlookingFreswick Bay. Nybster andSkirza, a fishinglinear village Settlement thein form of crofts at fishingvillages. andcliff topforts andcultural interestof stronghistorical associations of castles Exposedcoastline with openview affected by sand extraction. sloping anddune front has been Smoothsurface, sandy beach issteeply quarter. withsome shelter to the north east exposedtothe eastandthe south east wick Housewick draws attentionas a

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Bay. thefrom southern sideof Freswick proposed farm siteswind views in Ness Head largelyscre Ness Headand Keiss. hinterlandaround Nybster,between coastal edge and immediate Freswickof Bay,Skirza and along (Telford) visibility with from north side threethe proposed farmwind sites Locatedapproximately 32 of offshoreof turbines. wind theof sea includewill distantskyline vistasOpen edged by distanthorizon edge. influences shapewhich the coastal appre Turbines wouldnot affectthe proposed farm sites.wind perceived effect theof three Clear light is likelyto increasethe exposure theof opensea and winds. relate to thewell expansiveness and threeproposed farmwind sites could characteristicsThe threeproposed farmwind sites. outtosea likelyto increase effectof land divisionof linear plotsaligned South orientationeast coast of and

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

CCA Baseline Condition and Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance

Wildness / isolated coast  Although exposed, built features including main road and settlements limit sense of wildness.  Some illumination at night from small farms. Distant Beatrice Oil Platform flarestack and turbines. Sensitivity: medium Visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites may influence simple visual composition of low lying bay and influence the perception of land division and human scale at the coastal edge, but may also relate to the sense of exposure and characteristic activity of people which has shaped this landscape.

8-140 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Bay 9 CCA . Sinclair’s

Section 3         Character of coastal edge         Maritimeinfluences BaselineCondition and Sensitivity

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact anddunes form coastal edge, beforea south of Keiss, large w Cliffsare sheer further north,but tothe terminatingat Noss Head. curve, Castlepast Sinclair and sweepsBay south ain long elliptical activities, e.g. Waterbased recreational beach impliesglacial till d Metomorphicstone the on beach groyne. southThe limbthus actsas agiant souththe and deepless atthe north. the interactionof water isdeepwhich at formationstothe north and south and Shape of bay influencedbyrock 150from Intertidal zone isfairly narrow widening coastal light. Strongly affected bythe northern onseathe horizon. common is a feature seen further outto withsome recreational sailing. Shipping Low levelof shipping coastal in waters passing weather changingcharacter theof sea and withmigration of sand andconstantly Dynamiccoastal influences associated east Coastlinecurves giving east and across KeissLinks. centre theof bay andextends inland Pipelinefabrication works interruptsthe Stronghorizontal emphasis. pocketsof semi Subtle interlockingof dunes creating low landscape. pointfeature thein KeissCastle creates prominent focal resource. Beachan is importantrecreational sea. Wide openspace and exposureto the around Noss Head. seriesof cliffs andcrags further east

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will notwill affect the appreciation of threeThe proposed farm siteswind visibility. no suchbay, that most of t thefrom beachesanddunes of the proposed farm siteswind views in NossHead largelyscreens the three neararea Keiss. northernin part coastalof character (Telford) visibility with from small area the Locatedapproximately 26 of theof bay. focalpoints and horizontal emphasis havewill a limitedeffect on existing threeThe proposed farm siteswind development. withoutviews thof visibilitytothe retained,sea largely Wide openspace with extensive which definethe coastal edge. dynamicthe physical characteristics threeproposed farmwind sites

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

CCA Baseline Condition and Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance

Character of immediate hinterland  A99 passes parallel to coast.  Sand dunes with underlying shingle spit.  Inland from the main dune zone extends an area of blown sand, triangular in shape and tapering towards the south end where it becomes very narrow.  Species diversity is normal in this area with species diversity increasing inland.  Small village of Keiss to north of the area.  Agricultural land.

Wildness / isolated coast  Although it is exposed, built features including main road, pipeline fabrication works and dwellings limit the sense of wildness likely to be experienced.  Some illumination at night from small crofts and properties around Keiss and lighthouse at Noss Head. Sensitivity: medium-high Visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites may change simple visual composition of low lying bay, but may also relate to the sense of exposure and existing offshore fabrication influences.

8-142 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Head 10. Noss CCA

Section 3 emphasisof the landscape. sensethe of exposureand horizontal andpoint features, but mayalso relate to scale andvisual foci of existing headland edgesea is perceived,the perception of sitesmay Visibility theof three proposed wind farm Sensitivity    Wildness        Characterimmediate of hinterland      Character of coastal edge     Maritimeinfluences BaselineCondition and Sensitivity

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact NossHead. Areassemiof degreeHigh of exposure. Scatteredfarm dwellings. features. Horizontal landscapefew with vertical Open i from Noss Head. accessfor towalkers experienceview Visitorparking and clifftop pathsallow features. CastleSinclair Girnigoe are prominent Lighthouse atNoss Headand remains of andcliffs wide horizonof sea. Strongcontrast between verticality of Stacks,caves and collapsed cliffs. blocks, small with bays attheir base. SandstoneCliffs eroded into angular activities,such as surfing(Ackergill). Waterbased recreational beach onseathe hor common is a feature seen further outto withsome recreational sailing Low levelof shipping coastal in waters Sinclair’sBay. northand tothe east, defineswhich Coastalheadland orientated tothe coastal light. Strongly affected Coast. distantviews of lightsonthe Moray alongside lighthouseat Noss Head and flarestackand turbines, wind visible Wickairport, distantBeatrice Oil Platform Some illumination atnight fr wildness likelyto be experienced. lighthouseand airport limitsense of Cultivatedfields, farm dwellings, Rugged, inaccessiblecoastal cliff terrain. aural disturbance. thisof ar AirportWick locatedthe flatin expanse Ordered,regularly shaped fields.

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wouldnot disrupt the appreciation of threeproposed farmwind sites characteristicsThe andscale ofthe wind farmsites. toreduce effects threeof proposed Nort CastleSinclair. NossHead betweenNoss Headand wind farmsites fromnorthern side of Novisibility of the three proposed Head andSealky Head. side of Noss Headbetween Noss (Telford) visibility with from southern threethe proposed farmwind sites Locatedapproximately 23.9 characteristic. Bay continue will to providedefining headlandtoSinclair’s Bay and Wick characteriKey focus atdistance outtosea. formwill a new butvisually separate threeThe proposed farm siteswind seascape. illuminatedfeature theinto additionalnew industrialand open sea but also will introduce an expansiveness and exposure ofthe relatecould to thewell threeThe proposed farm siteswind horizontalemphasis. footprintof siterelates to existing reducesvertical impactand wide features,but distance offshore introducecollection of vertical Proposed development will edge. physicalfeatures along c physicalthe influencesand scaleof h eastorientation of coast likely

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EnvironmentalStatement

Significance term,reversible. negat significant,Not decommissioning Construction and term,reversible. negative, long significant,Not Operation ive, short ive,

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

CCA Baseline Condition and Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance

Maritime influences  Rugged, coastal cliff terrain to north and south of area.  Located approximately 22.8 km from  Bay area where Wick River discharges the three proposed wind farm sites into the North Sea. (Telford) with visibility from  Harbour in the bay area with fishing  Immediate harbour activity will vessels and maritime activity. continue to form the main focus of  Inward looking views across the bay and the coastal character area. towards headlands.  Enclosed character at the  Main orientation to the east and south intersection of glens or edges of a east away from Wick bay. bay tends to enclose and restrict views of the three proposed wind Character of coastal edge farm sites.  Built town environment creating hard  The three proposed wind farm sites edge with water in Wick harbour. will appear to occupy most of visible extent of sea skyline from Wick Bay  Local coastal roads cutting into and and form a wide horizontal feature in through hills adjoining the coast. relation to the seascape.  Vertical cliffs to north and south with  Views of distant offshore wind farm distinctive bays in south. seascape on skyline of Wick Bay  Castle of Old Wick prominent ruin and likely to become a characteristic coastal landmark. element. Operation Character of immediate hinterland  The three proposed wind farm sites relate to the sea based activity of Not significant,  Cultivated fields with improved and coastal character area, provide negative, long semi-improved grassland further experiential characteristics term, reversible. 11. Wick and increase the influence of the  Residential gardens and industrial areas Construction and Bay wider sea element. in Wick. decommissioning  The three proposed wind farm sites  Rough grassland areas adjacent to the Not significant, have a higher influence on the more coastline in the north of the area. negative, short open cliffs to north and south of term, reversible.  Sense of containment within town with Wick. open views where there is less dense housing at Staxigoe and small farm  Key characteristics of the settlement holdings in Old Wick. and harbour of Wick which define this coastal character area will Wildness / isolated coast continue to provide the defining characteristics.  Coastline is very accessible in this area with many manmade elements in Wick. Magnitude of change: medium  Built environment dominant and detracts  Character is experienced frequently from the sense of remoteness / wildness. from main road and settlements along the coastal edge.  Vertical cliffs have created inaccessible bays in places.  Views of distant offshore wind farm seascape on skyline likely to become  Extensive illumination at night from a characteristic element. immediate town and harbour. Distant Beatrice Oil Platform flarestack and wind  Key characteristic as a broad, turbines along with distant views of lights convex headland with strong on the Moray Coast. maritime influences and cultural interest will continue to provide Sensitivity: medium defining characteristics. Visibility of the three proposed wind farm Magnitude of change: medium sites may change visual focus of bay and occupy contained sea skyline, but may also relate to the sea based activity and variety of experiential characteristics.

8-144 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Head Sarclet 12. CCA

Section 3 has has shapedthe landscape. andcharacteristic activity of people which mayalso relate tothe sen andhuman scale atthe coastal edge, but influencethe perceptionof divisionland sitesmay increase visualcomplexity and Visibility theof three proposed wind farm Sensitivity    Wildness     Characterimmediate of hinterland     Character of coastal edge       Maritimeinfluences BaselineCondition and Sensitivity

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact settlements suchas Ulbster and concentratedto formcrofting adjacenttothe coast, occasionally Scatteredsmall farmsandcrofts fishingvillages. andcliff topforts andcultural interestof stronghistorical associations of castle Exposedcoastline with openviews and WhaligoeSteps. places,such as Sarclet Haven and Somerecreational widehorizon of sea. contrastbetween verticality of andcliffs Stacks,caves and harbours. verticalcliffs andsmall enclosedbays Rockycoastline open with sea views, visibleout tosea. Beatriceplatform and turbines wind patterns. settlements and agricultural useland Strongmarit onseathe horizon. common is a feature seen further outto andsome recreational sailing. Shipping Low levelof shipping parallel to coast fishingfor boats. Small harbours oncegave asafe haven sea. processesunder continual force from the Dynamiccoastal influences and orientationtowards the sea. convexBroad headland with Coast. d turbinesvisible alongside lighthouses and PlatformOil flarestack and e Some illumination atnight with Beatrice toverticalcliff faces. Coastaledge is mainly inaccessibledue senselimit of wildnessexperienced. incl Although exposed,it is built features rhythm fociof along coast. even intervals andprovide avisual Settlements andbuilt features appearat A99parallel runs to coastline. placesin andsmall lochs. Rough opengras Thrumster. istant views istant of lightsonthe Moray udingmain road andsettlements

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to increa linear plotsaligned outto sea likely South orientationeast coast of and baysand incisedcoastal features. localized enclosure provided smallin edge andhinterland, some with farm sitesfrom majorityof coastal Visibi proposed farm sites.wind Caithnesscoastline to the three (Telford),closest is it section threethe proposed farmwind sites Locatedapproximately 22.3 horizontalemphasis. footprintof siterelates to existing reducesvertical impactand wide features,but distance offshore introducecollection of vertical Proposed development will open sea. expansiveness and exposure ofthe relatecould well threeThe proposed farm siteswind proposed farm sites.wind perceived effect theof three Clear light is likelyto increasethe outtosea. visuallyseparate focus at distance edge,but formwill a new and infl appreciationthe of physical Turbines wouldnot affectthe thatareas lieadjacent to the coast. likelyto anbe external influence on threeproposed farmwind sites are characteristicsThe andscale ofthe wind farmsites. uences shapewhich the coastal lity theof three proposed wind seeffect of three proposed

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

CCA Baseline Condition and Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance

Maritime influences  Broad, shallowly concave bay with a mainly south east orientation.  Located approximately 25.8 km from  Dynamic coastal influences and the three proposed wind farm sites processes under continual force from the (Telford) with visibility from majority of sea. coastal edge and scattered visibility from hinterland.  Small harbour in Lybster Bay with fishing vessels. Low level of shipping parallel to  Some localised enclosure provided in coast and some recreational sailing. small bays and incised coastal Shipping is a common feature seen features. further out to sea on the horizon.  Southerly orientation of coast likely to  Sea more distant from elevation and less decrease effect of three proposed immediate due to undulating coastal wind farm sites which are oblique to edge. main orientation. Character of coastal edge  The three proposed wind farm sites are likely to be an external influence  Rocky, undulating coastline with on the areas that lie adjacent to the Operation indentations stacks and small enclosed coast. bays. Not significant,  Turbines would not affect the negative, long  Lybster Bay formed from confluence of appreciation of the physical Reisgill Burn and the North Sea. term, reversible. 13. Lybster influences which shape the coastal Bay Character of immediate hinterland edge, but will form a new and Construction and visually separate focus at distance decommissioning  Scattered small farms and crofts with out to sea. open fields. Not significant,  The characteristics and scale of the negative, short  Rough open grassland with gorse and three proposed wind farm sites could term, reversible. scrub in places. relate well to the expansiveness and exposure of the open sea.  A99 running parallel to coastline.  Character is experienced frequently Wildness / isolated coast from main road and settlements  Although it is exposed, built features along the coastal edge. including main road, communications /  Views of distant offshore wind farm power lines and dwellings limit the sense seascape on skyline likely to become of wildness likely to be experienced. a characteristic element.  Some areas inaccessible due to vertical  Key characteristic as a local, cliff faces. shallowly concave bay with fishing Sensitivity: medium villages amongst rocky coastline will continue to provide defining Visibility of the three proposed wind farm characteristic. sites may change visual focus of bay and the way in which land / sea edge is Magnitude of change: medium perceived, the impression of scale and visual foci, but may also relate to the sense of exposure and sea based activity.

8-146 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Bay Dunbeath 14 CCA .

Section 3 of exposure andsea based activity. visualfoci, but may also relate tothe sense perceived,the impressionof scale and the way in which land sitesmaychange visual focusof bay and Visibility Sensitivity   Wildness      Characterimmediate of hinterland      Character of coastal edge     Maritimeinfluences BaselineCondition and Sensitivity

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact Rough opengrassland with gorse and fields.open Scatteredsmall farmsand toverticalthe cliffs andcoastline. Topographyrising to form hills adjacent topcliff forts andcultural interest. stronghistorical associations of castles, Exp Water LatheronwheelBurn andDunbeath formedfrom the confluence of Latheronwheel andDunbeath Bays indentations,stacks andcliffs. Coastline includes numberlarge of areas. undulations thein landformand bayin Sea viewsframed placesin by theacross openexpanse elevatedviews alongcoastthe and Rocky,undulating coastline with horizon. headlands andout tosea tothe distant Viewsacross the baystowards furtherseen out tosea onthe horizon. sailing. Shipping toparallel coast andsome recreational maritimevessels. Low level shippingof Harboursthe in bays fishing with and andDunbeath. Smaller, local bays atLatheronwheel mainly Broad,shallowly concave bay witha cliff faces.cliff Someareas inaccessibledue to vertical of wildness likelyto be experienced. power linesand dwellings thelimit sense includingmain road, communications Although exposed,it is built features A99running toparallel coastline. notablyatDunbeath Castle. rivervalleys and gardensin Areasof native woodland alongsteep tops. scrub adjacentin tocliffs and onhill osedcoastline with openviews and of theof three proposed wind farm

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coast. the on thatareas adjacent lie tothe are likelytobe an external influence threeThe proposed farm siteswind threeproposed farmwind sites. outtosea likelyto increase effectof land divisionof South orientationeast coast of and features. small baysand incisedcoastal Some localised enclosureprovided in hinterland. coastal edge and immediate (Stevenson)visibilityfrom majority of threethe proposed farmwind sites Locatedapproximately 27.9 providedefining characteristic. cultural interest continue will to concave bay with st characteristicKey as a broad,rocky, characteristic a element. seascape onskyline likelyto become Viewsof distant offshore farm wind thealong coastal edge. from mainroad andsettlements Character isexperienced frequently exposure theof o relate to thewell expansiveness and threeproposed farmwind sites could characteristicsThe andscale ofthe outtosea. visuallyseparate focus at distance edge,but formwill a new and influences shapewhich the coastal appreciation o Turbines wouldnot affectthe

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8 -

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

CCA Baseline Condition and Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance

Maritime influences  Linear coastal shelf with mainly south east orientation.  Bay with harbour at Helmsdale with fishing and maritime vessels. Low level of shipping parallel to coast and some recreational sailing. Shipping is a common feature seen further out to sea on the horizon.  Located approximately 36.6 km from  Rugged coastal terrain with high cliffs. the three proposed wind farm sites Character of coastal edge (MacColl) with visibility from majority of coastal edge between Berriedale  Predominantly rocky but ‘straight’ and Helmsdale. coastline, backed by a narrow corridor of level land tightly constricted by inland  Some localised enclosure provided in hills and the open sea. small bays and incised coastal  Undulating landscape with a series of features. Bay at Helmsdale small coastal hill formations and glens. orientated south.  Long stretches of high cliff which are  Narrow character of coastline regularly interrupted by the location of a restricts visibility of the three bay, typically corresponding to the proposed wind farm sites to narrow intersection of a glen. stretch at the immediate coastal edge.  Coastal shelves creating semi-enclosed elevated spaces with views out to the  Exposure of coastline and direct sea and a screen of inland hills. relationship with the sea, with views Operation Character of immediate hinterland inland screened by steep hills, increases the perceived effect of the Not significant, 15.  Mixed woodland along glen at Berridale. three proposed wind farm sites. negative, long Helmsdale  Areas of heather moorland interspersed term, reversible.  The three proposed wind farm sites to with coniferous woodland plantations. Berriedale will form a new but visually separate Construction and Coastal  Large agricultural fields at Ousdale. focus out to sea, in addition to the decommissioning Shelf focal points along the coastal edge.  Generally sparsely settled with small Not significant, harbour settlements situated on inlets;  The three proposed wind farm sites negative, short and with historic churches, harbours and are likely to have an external term, reversible. houses within these settlements forming influence due to direct relationship foci. of the coastal shelf with the adjacent  Communications / power lines evident open sea. along coast.  Perception of the character is  Exposed coastline with open views and experienced infrequently due to the strong historical associations of castles, limited access to the cliffs, gained cliff top forts and cultural interest. mainly by walkers on foot. Wildness / isolated coast  Views of distant offshore wind farm  Inaccessible areas due to vertical cliff seascape on skyline likely to become faces. a characteristic element.  Rugged coastal terrain with dynamic  Key characteristic as a linear coastal coastal influences and processes. shelf constricted by inland hills and  Although it is exposed, built features open sea will continue to provide including main road, communications / defining characteristic. power lines and dwellings limit the sense Magnitude of change: medium-low of wildness likely to be experienced. Sensitivity: medium-high Visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites may change the way in which land / sea edge is perceived and the direct relationship of the sea with the coastal shelf, but may also relate to the sense of exposure, linear land use pattern and energy transmission features.

8-148 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Coast Deposition Helmsdale 16 CCA . Brorato

Section 3 transmission features. and linear land use pattern and energy maybut also relate tothe sense of exposure relationshipof the sea with edgesea is perceived andthe direct sitesmaychange the inway which land Visibility theof three proposed wind farm Sensitivity  Wildness        Characterimmediate of hinterland     Character of coastal edge     Maritimeinfluences BaselineCondition and Sensitivity

–

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact on on hills. Rough grassland gorse with and scrub agricultural fiel Semi Riparian adjacentwoodland toburns. small settlements. A9beside and along access tracks in Occasional mature deciduous trees further inland. linethe with A9 running paralleland Railway lin Gaoitheto Portgower and Helmsdale. andpebbbles from Sron Rubha na Exposedunderlying rock shingle with PointandSron Rubha naGaoithe. Sandybeaches from Brora to Lothbeg andsea a screenof hills.inland elevated spacesviews with out tot Coastalshelves creating semi Low lyingcoastal edge. andacross the low lyingcoastline. Senseof space from views outtothe sea onseathe horizon. is a andsome recreational sailing. Shipping Low levelof shipping parallel to coast Mainlysouth orientation.east lightandthe sea. Senseof light influenced by interplayof tobe experienced. dwellings thelimit sense of wildness likely communicat includingrail line,main road, Although exposed,it is built features coast.along Communications Portgower. Small settlementatcoastal edge at commonfeature seen further outto -

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offshore turbines. wind which includewill askyline of proposed farm siteswind out tosea inland hills directsviews to the three Elevated platform and enclosure by smallerfrom area near Ousdale. Helmsdaleand limited from area betweenBrora (MacColl)scattered with visibility threethe proposed farmwind sites Locatedapproximately 45.1 characteristic. continuetoprovide defining inland hills andopen sea will depositioncoast constricted by characteristicKey as a linear characteristic a element. seascape ons Viewsof distant offshore farm wind along mainA9 transport corridor. experiencedfrequently byroadusers Perceptiontheof character is coast. the on thatareas adjacent lie tothe are likelytobe an external influence threeThe prop

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Landscape Designations

8.4.7.16 The third group of landscape character receptors are designated landscapes, which includes landscape-related planning designations and designated features that have been identified in the baseline study. Such receptors frequently have a particular character that may have contributed to their designation, and this character may be affected by the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs. The relevant designated areas are shown in Figure 5.4-5, Volume 7, and are shown in conjunction with the ZTV in Figure 8.4-11, Volume 7. These figures also show designated areas that are not considered as specific receptors in the assessment, but are still relevant to the assessment of other landscape character receptors, views and visual receptors. The designated areas shown on the figures are therefore not all included as specific receptors in the assessment of effects on designated areas.

8.4.7.17 The assessment considers the likely significant effects of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs on the landscape designations in the study area. This assessment was carried out through a desk study and site survey which examined the characteristics of the landscape designations and the visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites from these areas, using the ZTV and wirelines.

8.4.7.18 The assessment has identified that two categories of landscape designations located within the study area require assessment:  Gardens and Designed Landscapes (GDLs);  Special Landscape Areas (SLA) (proposed).

Gardens and Designed Landscapes (GDLs)

8.4.7.19 The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs is assessed further on the GDLs in the study area. The perception of these GDLs may be altered as the three proposed wind farm sites have the potential to become a characteristic element or key characteristic of the seascape / coastal character. The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs on the seascape / coastal characteristics of these GDLs are assessed in Table 8.4-8 below.

Table 8.4-8 Assessment of Effects on Gardens and Designed Landscapes

Sensitivity Distance Magnitude Region GDL to Significance of Effect from Site of Change Change

Operation None (the three Not significant, negative, long term, proposed 47 km reversible. Castle of Mey High wind farm (Telford) sites and Construction and decommissioning OfTI are Not significant, negative, short term, not visible) Caithness reversible.

Operation Not significant, negative, long term, Dunbeath 34 km reversible. High Low Castle (MacColl) Construction and decommissioning Not significant, negative, short term, reversible.

8-150 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.7.20 Section Landscape Special Aberdeenshire Morayshire (continued) Caithness Region

3

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The effect of the three proposed three the of effect The the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs have the potential to become a a become to potential the have OSPs and sites charact farm wind proposed three the area study the in SLAs proposed

OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

GDL DuffHouse InnesHouse Gordonstoun GordonCastle Cullen House Lodge Langwell rsi eeet r e caatrsi o te seascape the of characteristic key or element eristic

Areas

Telford, from Distance (St 47 (Stevenson) 48 (Stevenson) 48 (Stevenson) 42 (MacColl) 38 (Stevenson) 50

evenson) km km km km km km Site Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

. . Change to Sensitivity High High High High High High wind MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited The perception of these pSLAs may be altered as altered be may pSLAs these of perception The

farm sites and OSPs is assessed further on the the on further assessed is OSPs and sites farm

of of Magnitude negligible Low negligible Low Low visible) arenot OfTIthe sitesand wind farm proposed three None(the visible) arenot OfTIthe sitesand wind farm proposed three None(the visible) arenot OfTIthe sitesand wind farm proposed three None(the Change

- -

Construction anddecommissioning reversible. significant,Not negative, term,long Operation Construction anddecommissioning reversible. significant,Not negative, term,long Operation Construction anddecommissioning reversible. significant,Not negative, term,long Operation Significanceof Construction anddecommissioning reversible. significant,Not negative, term,long Operation Construction anddecommissioning reversible. significant,Not negative, term,long Operation Construction anddecommissioning reversible. significant,Not negative, term,long Operation Not significant,Not negative, short term, reversible. significant,Not reversible. significant,Not negative, short term, reversible. significant,Not negative, short term, reversible. significant,Not negative, short term, reversible. significant,Not negative, short term, reversible.

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EnvironmentalStatement osa character coastal

Effect negative,short term,

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

The effect of the three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs on the special qualities of these pSLAs is assessed in Table 8.4-9 below.

Table 8.4-9 Assessment of Effects on Special Landscape Areas

Proposed Distance Sensitivity Magnitude of Change Significance of Effect SLA from Site to Change

Medium-low Special qualities of pSLA defined as ‘distinctive mountain and moorland skyline’ and, ‘exposed peaks, vast openness and intimate glens’. Special qualities make no reference to coastal qualities, although overview describes Berrideale Operation coast as having a ‘series of vantage points from which to enjoy panoramic views out to the north Not significant, Flow sea’. negative, long term, Country reversible. 35 km  Narrow character of coastline restricts visibility and High (Stevenson) to narrow stretch at the immediate coastal Construction and Berriedale edge. decommissioning Coast  The three proposed wind farm sites and OfTI Not significant, will have an external influence on limited part negative, short term, of pSLA where there is a direct relationship reversible. with the adjacent open sea.  Key characteristic of Berriedale Coast as a linear coastal shelf constricted by inland hills and open sea will continue to provide defining characteristic.

Low

 The three proposed wind farm sites and OSPs Operation and OfTI will not affect the views north over Pentland Firth, to Dunnet Head and Orkney Not significant, Islands. negative, long term, reversible. Duncansby 38 km  The three proposed wind farm sites and OfTI High Head (Telford) form a new but visually separate focus at Construction and distance out to sea and will not disrupt the decommissioning appreciation of the physical influences along coastal edge. Not significant, negative, short term,  Attraction of headland for visitors to extreme reversible. north-eastern point of British mainland will not be affected.

Operation Not significant, negative, long term, None reversible. Dunnet 47 km The three proposed wind farm sites and OfTI are High Construction and Head (Telford) not visible from pSLA therefore will result in no decommissioning change. Not significant, negative, short term, reversible.

Medium-low Loch Fleet,  Elevated platform and enclosure by inland Loch Brora 46 km High hills directs views to the three proposed wind Not significant and Glen (MacColl) farm sites and OfTI out to sea which will Loth include a skyline of offshore wind turbines and OSPs.

8-152 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.9.2 8.4.9.1 8.4.8.1 8.4.9.3 Section 8.4.9 8.4.8 (continued) Loth andGlen Loch Brora Loch Fleet, SLA Proposed

3

Conclusions Secondary –

at distances over 40 distances at coast Aberdeenshire and Moray from the sites farm wind proposed three the see the of available views are sites where farm wind periods proposed three limited relatively to sites farm wind visibili proposed three effect the of good significance and duration the from reduce to combine conditions benefits weather area that the 25 such over visibility distances, longer at that sharply drops frequency visibility suggests that but conditions, data frequency visibility conditions viewing optimum and weather clear assumes assessment The Moray. and Caithness nearest boundaries site the OSP to close an with sites farm that and type or within distributed be (OSP) will jacket platforms offshore substation eight a be will design substructure the that assumes it Furthermore, sites MacColl and Stevenson Telford, the throughout spacing 7D x 5D densest the at (7 height turbine largest the has which 4c) (Scenario been scenario has area (SLVIA) the study with Assessment together farms Impact wind MacColl Visual effects significant likely and the determine to undertaken Landscape Seascape, The different. be to likely are scenario each of effects visual and landscape seascape, the as Telford, + Stevenson Telf + MacColl Stevenson; + MacColl scenarios: development potential three individually all assesses permutations SLVIA development possible different the examine in provided is 5.4 which assessment’, ‘secondary individually as MacColl) assessment and Stevenson farm (Telford, wind proposed site each of impacts Visual and Landscape Seascape, the assess to necessary is it farm, wind each for consent S36 separate a for applying is MORL As the study area, covering the North North the covering area, on study significant the not as assessed is sites farm landscape wind proposed three the of effect The OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact from Distance

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CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Caithness and Sutherland coast, which are both assessed as having a medium-low sensitivity to change. The seascape / landscape assessment has identified that the magnitude of change of the proposed development will be medium, and not significant, on the Coastal Character Areas (CCAs) between Wick and Berriedale; low, and not significant, on the CCAs to the north of Wick; and medium-low, and not significant, on the CCAs to the south of Berriedale. The landscape elements of these CCAs will not be physically altered; changes arise principally through visibility, which may indirectly change the way in which the pattern of elements is perceived. The proposed development will introduce distant offshore wind farm development as a characteristic element on the open sea skyline of these CCAs, but the existing key characteristics of these CCAs will continue to provide their defining characteristics. The effects of the three proposed wind farm sites is assessed as not significant on the landscape designations within the study area, including Gardens and Designed Landscapes (GDLs) and proposed Special Landscape Areas (pSLAs) all of which are located over 34 km from the three proposed wind farm sites.

8.4.9.4 The likely visual impacts of different layout scenarios have been investigated as part of the review of the worst case layout scenario for the Rochdale Envelope. This approach has necessitated an assessment of the likely worst case, in which the three proposed wind farm sites are assessed and illustrated at their largest size, in terms of turbine height, number, density and horizontal spread, and with the turbine rows set out in a worst case grid pattern that aligns towards the closest section of the Caithness coast (as illustrated and assessed for Scenario 4).

8.4.9.5 The ZTV analysis reviewed the theoretical extent of potential visibility of the three proposed wind farm sites. The assessment identified offshore visibility of 201 to 212 turbine blade tips (Scenario 4) from all of the offshore parts of the study area within approximately 40 km with visibility levels dropping in bands over 35 km at sea level due to earth curvature. Visibility from onshore areas in Caithness consists of visibility of 201 to 212 turbine blade tips (Scenario 4) from the majority of the Caithness coastal edge and immediate hinterland between Duncansby Head and Helmsdale at distances of 22 km to 50 km (e.g. Viewpoints 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12 and 15). Inland of the coastal hinterland, visibility becomes more scattered and more variable depending on the degree of enclosure / openness provided by landform. The relatively low-lying land of the flat peatlands of Caithness in respect of the landform pattern, has the general effect of visibility being precluded by the surrounding higher ground. The northern part of the Caithness study area has scattered, long distance inland visibility (35 to 50 km), where landform at the coast offers some screening, but there is no definitive inland viewshed. The southern part of the Caithness study area has elevated inland area of sweeping moorland and lone mountains with scattered long distance visibility (35 to 50 km). Visibility from onshore areas in Moray and Aberdeenshire is limited to coastal edge at distances of approximately 45 km and from elevated inland areas of coastal hills at distances of 45 to 50 km.

8.4.9.6 The ZTV analysis also reviewed how much of the horizontal field of view and vertical field of view will be occupied by the three proposed wind farm sites. The assessment identified that the three proposed wind farm sites will occupy 40 to 60 degrees of the horizontal field of views from the closest areas of Caithness with visibility around Sarclet Head between Dunbeath and Wick. While the horizontal extent of the three proposed wind farm sites on the skyline at distances of 22 to 30 km will be notable, the three proposed wind farm sites will have a small vertical height in views at this distance, with the turbines only occupying 0 to 1 degrees of the vertical angle of views from the closest area around Sarclet Head between Dunbeath and Wick.

8-154 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.4.9.10 8.4.9.9 8.4.9.8 8.4.9.7 Section

3

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observer position changes along the the along changes the position and observer location viewing the on and dependent beyond very is irregular or aligned appearing be to appear layout the rows in turbines the which further with layout, a creating the formations, irregu an creating behind of row parts their in in seen effect and layout stacking the of parts some in another closest the towards aligned is rows turbine the of grid the scenario, case worst realistic the In short relatively heigh apparent 41 over of distances long at located being Aberdeenshire, and Moray in viewpoints on significant not be will sites a viewpoint skyline intervening the behind located are sites farm wind proposed three the coastline impinge not do generally offshore, upo distance and separation its to due but feature horizontal horizon and the of seascape form scale large the skyline, the to simply relate to association sea open their by surrounded in skyline, feature the on distinct right single, own a form will sites farm wind proposed three the coast, views sea open broad, pa a the within skyline the on located and coast the from distant more be will sites Berriedale of south the to and Wick of north the to Caithness in viewpoints remaining the on significant not be will sites farm wind proposed three the of effect the that identified has assessment viewpoint The Thrumster. and Latheron A99 the between closest the on effects visual ope in located development and the edge coastal the on viewpoints the between landform or features intervening no most i view, the the to in relation seascape in feature horizontal wide sites a forms it farm where skyline, sea wind the of portion proposed three the of result eff alignment visual row Significant case worst and spread height, maximum at assessed, being layout view the of characteristics is diminish sites farm 22 of viewpoints distances at seven located are on viewpoints effects significant identified lo has assessment viewpoint The data. meteorological using visibility of atmospheric effects local of the account into takes will assessment ES Final the but conditions, viewing clear in effect conditions viewing clear good, in only visible be will which turbines, the of effect vertical the limits sites farm wind proposed Moray represe been and from has assessment sites Caithness farm viewpoint wind a proposed through three further the assessed of effects visual of assessment The n suhr etns f h site the of extents southern and relativel by extended layout is the skyline of developed part the central and the the of of massing edges the than southern densely and less northern viewed being the array at groups turbine the in results boundary OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact cated in the closest closest the in cated n or reduce the distinction of existing foci along the general, simple linear linear simple general, the along foci existing of distinction the reduce or n section table . . . Several viewpoints in the assessment are located inland, where much of much where inland, located are assessment the in viewpoints Several ssessment has identified that the effect of the three proposed wind farm wind proposed three the of effect the that identified has ssessment sesd n h rgo o 30 of region the in assessed n od iiiiy odtos te hehl a wih infcn effects significant which at threshold the conditions, visibility good In . .

section of Caithness coast, which results in turbines being aligned behind one behind aligned being turbines in results which coast, Caithness of The vertical effect of the turbines is exacerbated by the lack of any any of lack the by exacerbated is turbines the of effect vertical The o al f h trie, ih hs frhs aa hvn ol a only having away furthest those with turbines, the of all of t Telford, . ects arise from the closest locations of the Caithness coast as a as coast Caithness the of locations closest the from arise ects The three proposed wind farm sites create an apparent focal focal apparent an create sites farm wind proposed three The

of their towers and their blades visible above the skyline. the above blades visible their and oftowers their

/ section n combination with the vertical effect of the turbines being being turbines the of effect vertical the with combination n Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure lar arrangement in other parts of the layout the of parts other in arrangement lar Aberdeenshire . section .

km Significant visual effects arise as a result of worst case case worst of result a as arise effects visual Significant Generally set apart from the visible landform of the the of landform visible the from apart set Generally

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of the A9 between Brora and Latheron and from from and Latheron and Brora between A9 the of emphasis . .

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These These . . 8 rt of rt The ose - 155 .

CHAPTER 8.4 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

nearest turbines and will generally be seen within the turbine array. The shorter height but greater massing of the OSPs is likely to make them identifiable as individual features generally located between and behind the turbines, creating a more complex image.

8.4.9.11 The assessment assumes clear weather and optimum viewing conditions. This means that effects that are assessed to be significant may be not significant under different, less clear conditions.

8.4.9.12 Although the assessment has identified that the proposed development will have significant visual effects on the closest section of Caithness between Wick and Dunbeath, the effect of the three proposed wind farm sites is assessed as not significant on landscape / seascape character. Two national seascape units are located within the study area, covering the North Aberdeenshire / Moray Coast and the East Caithness and Sutherland coast, which are both assessed as having a medium-low sensitivity to change. Coastal Character Areas (CCAs) are identified at the regional scale, within the framework of National Seascape Character Types in the study area, which are generally identified as having medium to low sensitivity to change, with several locally higher sensitive CCAs, often recognised by regional landscape designation. The seascape / landscape assessment has identified that the magnitude of change of the proposed development will be medium, and not significant, on the CCAs between Wick and Berriedale; low, and not significant, on the CCAs to the north of Wick; and medium-low, and not significant, on the CCAs to the south of Berriedale. The landscape elements of these CCAs will not be physically altered; changes arise principally through visibility, which may indirectly change the way in which the pattern of elements is perceived. The proposed development will introduce distant offshore wind farm development as a characteristic element on the open sea skyline of these CCAs, but the existing key characteristics of these CCAs will continue to provide their defining characteristics. The effects of the three proposed wind farm sites is assessed as not significant on the landscape designations within the study area, including Gardens and Designed Landscapes (GDLs) and proposed Special Landscape Areas (pSLAs) all of which are located over 34 km from the three proposed wind farm sites.

8.4.10 References Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), August 2010, Policy Statement - The Lighting of Wind Turbine Generators in United Kingdom Territorial Waters. Countryside Commission for Scotland, 1970, 1977, Beaches of Caithness and Beaches of Northeast Scotland. CCW, 2001, Guide to Best Practice in Seascape Assessment. DTI, 2005, Guidance on the Assessment of the Impact of Offshore Wind farms: Seascape and Visual Impact Report. Landscape Institute, 2003, Guidelines for the Assessment of Landscape and Visual Impacts: Second Edition. Landscape Institute, 2011, Use of Photography and Photomontage in Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Note 01 / 11. Met Office, 2010, National Meteorological Library and Archive Fact sheet 17 - Weather Observations Over Land Met Office, 2012, Met Office Visibility Frequency Analysis report from Wick Airport weather station, based on hourly data from 01/01/2002 to 31/12/2011 SNH, 1997, Banff and Buchan LCA.

8-156 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment Section Stan Visualisation Council, 2010, The Highland for Consultation. Draft 3 Version Developments, Energy Wind Onshore of Effects Cumulative the Assessing 2009, SNH, Landscape on Guidance SNH, 2008, Wind Designing SNH, 2008, Guidance. Practice Good farms of Wind Representation Visual SNH, 2006, 2). (Version of Windfarms Effects Cumulative SNH, 2005, Farms. Wind to SNH, Practice. Best farms: of Wind Assessment Visual SNH, 2002, LCA. Nairn and Moray SNH, 1998, LCA. Sutherland and Caithness SNH, 1998, 2005, An Assessment of the Sensitivity and Capacity of the Scottish Seascape in Relation in Seascape Scottish the of Capacity and Sensitivity the of Assessment An 2005, 3

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OffshoreGenerating Station Assessment Impact

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/ Seascape Capacity for Aquaculture. for Capacity Seascape

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EnvironmentalStatement

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8.5.1.4 8.5.1.3 8.5.1.2 8.5.1.1 Section3 Table Resi and Measures Mitigation Proposed of Summary 8.5.1 8.5 SedimentaryRegime Sites Unrecorded Identifie Sitesof Recorded Construction Recepto Affected

8.5 Archaeology and Visual Receptors Visual and Archaeology Medium

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Summary of Effects and Mitigation – – Sites

of previously unrecorded cultural heritage assets a protocol for unexpected unexpected for in isprovided effects the of Asummary protocol a assets heritage cultural in place. put be will discoveries archaeological unrecorded previously of post the interest heritage cultural potential or known of deposits or features temporary a with furnished exc be will affected be would that assets heritage Cultural   farm wind proposed three the include: sites for assessed were that archaeology on effects The Technical in provided is description assets onshore of setting the affect may and assets offshore of fabric di have may development effects such any mitigate to strategy a proposes cultural and assets heritage onshore and offshore both upon Farms Wind Offshore Telford and MacColl This 1 OffshoreGenerating Station

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through causes loss of cultural significance or affects the degree to which significance significance either which turbines to degree wind the appreciated. may be of affects or visibility significance the cultural of where loss causes setting, on effects significant Likely and works); proposed features ( and sites archaeological on effects indirect and direct significant Likely

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8 and and - 159

CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Receptor Pre–Mitigation Effect Mitigation Post–Mitigation Effect

Operation

Setting of Designated Onshore Receptors Negligible None Negligible

Sites Affected through Changes in Negligible None Negligible Sedimentary Regime

Decommissioning

Effects arising from the decommissioning of the three proposed wind farm sites are considered to be analogous to, and of no greater significance than, those arising during construction.

8.5.2 Introduction 8.5.2.1 This chapter describes the likely significant effects of the proposed Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Wind Farms upon both offshore and onshore cultural heritage assets and proposes a strategy to mitigate any such effects. The proposed development may have both direct and indirect effects upon the physical fabric of offshore assets and may affect the setting of onshore assets. 8.5.2.2 The assessment has found that there will be likely significant direct effects on Sites HW1001, 1002, 1004 (identified wreck sites), HW1014 (unknown seabed obstruction) and on Sites HW44; 52, 61, 71, 72, 75–78, 80, 100, 102, 108 and 117 (sidescan sonar targets of medium archaeological potential). In addition to these Sites HW1005 (identified wreck), HW1015 (unidentified obstruction) and HW36, 73 and 74 (sidescan sonar targets of medium potential) may be subject to secondary effects. The assessment also identified moderate potential for the discovery of previously unrecorded cultural heritage assets. In the absence of mitigation the magnitude of these effects could be major to moderate. 8.5.2.3 Cultural heritage assets that would be affected will be furnished with a temporary exclusion zone. This will reduce the post–mitigation effect to negligible. In order to mitigate against the discovery of previously unrecorded cultural heritage assets a protocol for unexpected archaeological discoveries will be put in place. Cultural heritage assets considered in this assessment are listed in a Gazetteer and Concordance (see Technical Appendix 5.5 A). In the interests of clarity offshore cultural heritage assets within the three proposed wind farm sites are referred to by HW numbers issued in the course of the assessment. Onshore assets considered in relation to setting are referred to according to their designation index number (SM: Scheduled Monument; HB: Listed Building). The assessment has been compiled in line with industry best practice and the relevant offshore renewables and marine historic environment guidance. These include:  Institute for Archaeologists (IfA) guidelines: Standard & Guidance for Archaeological Desk Based Assessment (2011);  Joint Nautical Archaeology Policy Committee (JNAPC) Code of Practice for Seabed Development (2006);  COWRIE Historic Environment Guidance for the Offshore Renewable Energy Sector (2007);  COWRIE Guidance for Assessment of Cumulative Impacts on the Historic Environment from Offshore Renewable Energy (2008);  COWRIE Guidance for Offshore Geotechnical Investigations and Historic Environment Analysis: guidance for the renewable energy sector (2010);  The Crown Estate (2010). Offshore Renewables Protocol for Archaeological Discoveries;

8-160 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.3.2 8.5.3.1 8.5.2.4 Section3 Cabli Net Area Net Construction &Decommissioning ofType Effect Asse Impact Table 8.5.3 Effect Reduction

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ssment aircraft and their associated debris, and submerged prehistoric remains and and remains prehistoric submerged and debris, palaeoenvironmental associated their and aircraft wrecks, as such losses maritime including archaeology, submerged Undesignated assets; heritage lands designed scheduled wrecks, and gardens designed inventory areas, conservation designated buildings, listed monuments, comprising assets, heritage cultural Designated Key onshore assets that are subject to indirect visual effects from the proposed proposed the from effects development. visual indirect to subject are that assets onshore Key Towards a Strategy for Scotland’s Marine Historic Environment (Historic Scotland Scotland (Historic 2009). Environment Historic Marine Scotland’s for Strategy a Towards and of Schemes Investigation; Written Archaeological (2010) Estate Crown The Table of of Seabed – Seabed Array

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8 - 161

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CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Type of Effect Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed

Maximum footprint based on: Temporary Seabed  Total area of spud cans per jack–up barge (assume six legs per barge) = 420 m2; Disturbances  Number of visits per installation / decommissioning = two.

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Operation

Turbine Height and Layout in  Based on Option 4C (Chapter 8.4: Seascape, Landscape and Visual Receptors) Relation to the Setting of comprising 72 x 7 MW turbines per wind farm, where these would be the tallest Onshore Receptors option.

 Total area of spud cans per jack–up barge (assume six legs per barge) = 420 m2; Temporary Seabed and Disturbances  No. of visits for O&M purposes during life of project (25 years) = five per turbine.

Change in Hydrodynamics  Net effect in changes in hydrodynamics from the Project.

8.5.3.3 The realistic worst case scenario for wind turbine generator (WTG) foundations takes into account the ‘total excavated diameter’ (largest area that could be affected including scour protection) since this represents the maximum effect on the seabed and maximum seabed take. While the effect is considered to be temporary, the total ‘dredger affected area’ will also be noted for effects during construction. The employment of 65 m diameter gravity base foundations is considered to be the worst case scenario.

8.5.3.4 While the three proposed wind farms utilise different heights of turbine for the lowest rated options (3.6 and 5 MW), the highest rated option sees the deployment of 7 / 8 MW turbines for all three sites; this is considered to present the most prominent WTG option. For the purposes of the setting impact assessment 7 MW WTGs has been considered to be the worst case scenario as this would be the most numerous of the higher WTG ratings.

8.5.3.5 Decommissioning activities are also likely to have effects on archaeology receptors but these are regarded as being comparable to those that occur as a result of construction activities.

8.5.4 EIA Methodology

8.5.4.1 The installation of WTGs and their foundations, and inter–array cables, and associated activities including the deployment of construction vessels, has the potential to damage or destroy cultural heritage assets. This may occur either as a result of the design or as an accidental consequence of construction activities, such as the anchoring of vessels involved in installation. The effects may be direct, indirect or secondary. The type and description of effects used for the purpose of the assessment are presented in Table 8.5–3 below.

8-162 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.4.5 8.5.4.4 8.5.4.3 8.5.4.2 Section3 Table Sensitivity on Cultur Effects Physical for Criteria Significance SecondaryEffect Indirect Effect Direct Effect ofType Effect Table High Sensitivityto Impact

8.5 8.5

– – –

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8 - 163 . .

CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Sensitivity to Impact Definition

 Category B listed buildings;  Conservation areas; Medium  Targets of medium archaeological potential identified in the geophysical survey;  Obstructions that could be indicative of wreckage or submerged features; and  Undesignated assets of regional importance.

 Category C(S)–listed buildings; Low  Undesignated assets of local importance; and  Targets of low potential identified in the geophysical survey.

Negligible  Assets of less than local importance.

Magnitude of Physical Effects

8.5.4.6 The magnitude of the effect may be large, for instance where there is a total loss or major alteration of the cultural heritage asset; medium, the loss or alteration to one or more key elements / features of a cultural heritage asset; or small, where there is a slight but perceptible alteration of the cultural heritage asset. The criteria used for assessing the magnitude of effects on cultural heritage is summarised in Table 8.5–5 below.

Table 8.5–5 Magnitude of Physical Effects on Cultural Heritage Assets

Magnitude of Effect Definition

High Total loss or major alteration of the cultural heritage asset.

Medium Loss of, or alteration to, one or more key elements of the cultural heritage asset.

Low Slight alteration of the cultural heritage asset.

Negligible No perceivable alteration to the cultural heritage asset.

Significance Criteria for Operational Effects on Setting 8.5.4.7 During the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of developments, the setting of cultural heritage assets may be affected. There is considerable debate over definitions of setting and approaches to the assessment of setting effects (Lambrick, 2008), with no standardised industry wide approach. As part of its ‘Managing Change in the Historic Environment’ series, Historic Scotland has produced a guidance note entitled Setting (2010). This states that: “Setting should be thought of as the way in which the surroundings of a historic asset or place contribute to how it is experienced, understood and appreciated.” 8.5.4.8 Hence, setting is not simply the visual envelope of the asset in question. Rather, it is those parts of the asset’s surroundings that are relevant to the cultural significance of the asset. In general, there will be an appreciable historical relationship between the asset and its setting, either in terms of a physical relationship, such as between a castle and the natural rise that it occupies, or a more distant visual relationship (for example: such as a designed vista or the view from one Roman signal station to another). Some assets’ cultural significance will relate to an aesthetic relationship with their surroundings which may result from design or be fortuitous.

8-164 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.4.13 8.5.4.12 8.5.4.11 8.5.4.10 8.5.4.9 Section3 Negligible Low Medium High Sensitivity Table Sensitivity

8.5

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CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Magnitude

8.5.4.14 The magnitude of an effect reflects the extent to which relevant elements of the cultural heritage asset's setting are changed by the development and the effect that this has upon the character and value of the asset and the appreciation thereof. Guideline criteria for magnitude defined as high, medium, low or negligible magnitude are described in Table 8.5–7 below. As with other criteria presented, this is intended as a general guide and it is not anticipated that all the criteria listed will be present in every case.

8.5.4.15 The following are guides that are used in the assessment of magnitude of effect.  Obstruction of or distraction from key views. Some assets have been sited or designed with specific views in mind, such as the view from a Roman signal station to an associated fort or a country house with designed vistas. The obstruction or cluttering of such views would reduce the extent to which the asset could be understood and appreciated by the visitor. Developments such as that proposed outside a key view may also distract from them and make them difficult to appreciate on account of their prominence. In such instances the magnitude is likely to be greatest where views have a particular focus or a strong aesthetic character;  Changes in prominence. Some assets are deliberately placed in prominent locations in order to stand out within the surrounding landscape. For example: prehistoric cairns are often placed to be silhouetted against the sky and churches in some areas are deliberately placed on ridges in order to be highly visible. Developments can reduce such prominence and therefore reduce the extent to which such assets can be appreciated;  Changes in landscape character. A particular land use regime may be essential to the appreciation of an asset’s function, for instance the fields surrounding an Improvement Period Farmstead are inextricably linked to its appreciation. Changes in land use can leave the asset isolated and reduce its value. In some instances, assets will have aesthetic value or a sense of place that is tied to the surrounding landscape character;  Duration of effect. Effects that are short term are generally of lesser magnitude than those that are long term or permanent;  Reversibility of Effects. Readily reversible effects are generally of lesser magnitude than those that can not be reversed.

8.5.4.16 Effects upon a defined setting will be of greater magnitude than those that affect unrelated elements of the asset’s surroundings or incidental views to or from an asset that are unrelated to the appreciation of its value. It should be noted that the assessment of magnitude has been based on the interplay of these factors. No single factor is taken to override other factors, for instance a negative effect that would be of high magnitude will not generally be reduced to low magnitude, simply on the grounds that it is reversible. It should also be noted that whilst a proposed development may be present within the visual envelope of an asset this does not automatically mean there is an effect on the setting of the asset. Where this is the case, the reasoning behind this has been given. As above, the criteria provided have been developed by Headland Archaeology in the absence of official guidance or an accepted methodology.

8-166 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.5.1 8.5.4.18 8.5.4.17 Section3 8.5.5 Table Levels Low Medium High Magnitude Table High Medium Low Negligible Magnitude

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CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

(HW1014) was identified within the proposed development Inner Study Area and one UKHO obstruction within the Outer Study Area (HW1015).

8.5.5.2 In addition, the assessment of geophysical data identified three anomalies of high archaeological potential (HW 157; 158 and 159) that correspond with recorded wrecks HW1001, 1002 & 1004); and a further 17 anomalies of medium potential (HW 36; 44; 52; 61; 71; 72; 73; 74; 75; 76; 77; 78; 80; 100; 102; 108 and 117) were identified. All of these receptors are located within the Inner and Outer Study Areas.

Construction

Direct Effects

8.5.5.3 Potential direct effects on cultural heritage assets considered here include those highlighted in Table 8.5–3 above and the effects noted in the Rochdale Envelope (Table 8.5–2 above). The Rochdale Envelope effects considered include net reduction of seabed area; and the net effect of inter–array cabling on the seabed.

8.5.5.4 Sites HW1001, 1002 and 1004 (identified wrecks) are classified as sites of high sensitivity within this assessment. The magnitude of effect in the absence of mitigation could be high. The significance of effect in the absence of mitigation is therefore regarded as major. The associated high potential targets (HW157, 158 and 159) are considered in conjunction with these recorded wrecks.

8.5.5.5 Site HW1014 (unknown obstruction) is classified as a site of medium sensitivity within this assessment. The potential magnitude of the effect in the absence of mitigation could be high. The significance of the effect is therefore regarded as major.

8.5.5.6 Sites HW44; 52, 61, 71, 72, 75–78, 80, 100, 102, 108 and 117 (sidescan sonar targets of medium potential) are classified as sites of medium sensitivity within this assessment. The potential magnitude of the effects in the absence of mitigation could be high. The significance of the effect is therefore regarded as major.

Indirect Effects

8.5.5.7 Potential indirect effects on cultural heritage assets considered here include those highlighted in Table 8.5–3 above and the effects noted in the Rochdale Envelope (Table 8.5–2 above). The Rochdale Envelope effects considered include re– distribution of fine sediments; and temporary seabed disturbances.

8.5.5.8 There is the potential for alterations in sediment transport regimes to have an indirect effect on cultural heritage assets identified above; this might include the further uncovering of known assets or the exposure of unrecorded assets. The possibility of alterations to the tidal regimes leading to long–term effects on patterns of sediment transport within the application area are assessed and reported in Chapters 6.1 and 9.1 (Hydrodynamics: Wave Climate and Tidal Regime) and Chapters 6.2 and 9.2 (Sedimentary, and Coastal Processes). The effects of the three proposed wind farms on sediment transport regimes will persist for the lifetime of the development where sediment transport is less than the potential for natural variability, and therefore the effect is considered to be not significant. The predicted effect of changes to the tidal regime as a result of the three proposed wind farms suggest that the effects of the array on currents will persist over the lifetime of the development but are of a very small magnitude, have only a local effect, and do not impact beyond natural variability. The effect is therefore considered to be not significant.

8-168 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.5.17 8.5.5.16 8.5.5.15 8.5.5.14 8.5.5.13 8.5.5.12 8.5.5.11 8.5.5.10 8.5.5.9 8.5.5.18 Section3 Effects Physical Operation Effects Secondary

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CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

regimes is considered to be the same during the operational phase as that highlighted above during construction.

Setting Effects

8.5.5.19 Potential setting effects on cultural heritage assets considered here include those highlighted in Table 8.5–3 above and the effects noted in the Rochdale Envelope (Table 8.5–2 above). The Rochdale Envelope effects considered include turbine height and layout in relation to the setting of onshore receptors. 8.5.5.20 Borrowston Broch (SM 527) comprises the scheduled remains of a broch. The broch survives as a low grassy mound with walling exposed in places by erosion. The broch’s cultural significance resides primarily in its intrinsic value as a potential source of archaeological data. Its setting is defined as the land immediately surrounding it, as it is this area that its occupants farmed and which the broch was intended to overlook. No specific views are considered relevant to its setting. It is of low sensitivity to effects upon setting. 8.5.5.21 The broch lies some 24.3 km from the wind farms and up to 225 turbines will theoretically be visible from it, depending on weather conditions (see Chapter 8.4: Seascape, Landscape and Visual Receptors). However, this will not affect the relationship between the broch and its setting and it is concluded that there will be a negligible effect upon its setting. Effects are of negligible significance and are considered as not significant. 8.5.5.22 Garrywhin Fort (SM 548) is a scheduled Iron Age fort comprising a single low rampart with two entrances; one to the south south west and one to the north north east. These are marked by orthostats, which in the past have been mistakenly interpreted as standing stones. There are slight internal features. The fort lies on a steep–sided ridge, which the rampart follows and is a part of the Warehouse Hill palimpsest landscape. The fort has been damaged in places but has clear potential as a source of archaeological data giving it intrinsic value. As a part of a palimpsest landscape it has contextual value. Its appreciable relationship with local topography, which is exploited defensively, and views over the immediate landscape, which its occupants presumably farmed, also contribute to its contextual value. It has no associative value. The fort’s setting is therefore defined as the ridge upon which it stands and the adjacent land that it overlooks. There are no specific views that might be considered important to its cultural significance or the appreciation of that significance. The fort is of medium sensitivity. 8.5.5.23 The proposed turbines will be visible at a distance of at least 24 km. This will not affect the extent to which the fort’s relationship with its surroundings and, hence, contextual value can be appreciated. The views to the sea that are available from the fort are entirely incidental to the fort’s cultural significance. It is therefore concluded that the fort’s setting will be unaffected. The effect will be of negligible magnitude and significance and effects will be not significant. 8.5.5.24 Tulloch (Usshilly) Broch and field system (SM 599) comprises the scheduled remains of a broch, later buildings and extensive areas of post–medieval cultivation. It occupies a low rocky outcrop. The remains of the broch are poorly preserved on the surface. It lies directly north of the Wag of Forse settlement (SM 2301) and Forse House settlement, field system and burnt mound (SM 7242). The former comprises a multi–phase Iron Age settlement, which was partially excavated in the 1930s and 1940s. As a result, the walls of the core part of the site area are exposed. Associated features are less clearly visible, however. The latter comprises prehistoric and later settlements and their associated field systems. All three are within an area of low–lying improved land.

8-170 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.5.30 8.5.5.29 8.5.5.28 8.5.5.27 8.5.5.26 8.5.5.25 Section3

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CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

The presence of the turbines on the distant horizon will not affect this relationship and it is concluded that the effect will be of negligible magnitude and significance. This is not significant.

8.5.5.31 Dunbeath Inver Fort (SM 5073) is a multi–period scheduled site comprising a prehistoric fort, possibly a broch, post–medieval building and a World War II lookout post. The fort’s cultural significance primarily relates to its intrinsic value as an archaeological data source, with particular interest resulting from the multiple phases of activity that are evident. Although the fort is located in a position with striking views along the coast these are incidental, as the fort itself is not readily apparent to the non–specialist. Its setting is therefore defined as the promontory itself and the adjacent fields. No specific views are considered relevant to the appreciation of the fort’s setting. It is of medium sensitivity to setting effects.

8.5.5.32 The fort lies some 32 km to the north west of the wind farms at their closest point and all the turbines will be visible from it, depending on weather conditions. However, given the distance, this will not affect the contribution of the fort’s surroundings to its cultural significance. It is concluded that the effect will be of negligible magnitude and significance. This is not significant.

8.5.5.33 Latheronwheel promontory fort (SM 5182) is a scheduled prehistoric fort located on a sea–stack. Surface remains are restricted to a rampart and three or four internal scoops. There are slight indications of an outer rampart. The fort’s cultural significance primarily relates to its intrinsic value as an archaeological data source. Although the fort is located in a position with striking views along the coast these are incidental, as the fort itself is not readily apparent to the non–specialist. Its setting is therefore defined as the promontory itself and the adjacent fields. No specific views are considered relevant to the appreciation of the fort’s setting. It is of medium sensitivity to setting effects.

8.5.5.34 The fort lies some 30.5 km to the north west of the wind farms at their closest point and all the turbines will be visible depending on weather conditions. However, given the substantial distance, this will not affect the contribution of the fort’s surroundings to its cultural significance. It is concluded that the effect will be of negligible magnitude and significance. This is not significant.

8.5.5.35 Cairn of Get (SM 90048) is a Neolithic chambered cairn. It is a scheduled monument and a Property in Care. The cairn is of the Orkney–Cromarty type, with a passage leading to a central chamber. It appears as a grass–covered mound in the wider landscape, but from shorter distances the exposed stones of the passage and interior are apparent. The passage opens to the east south east. The cairn is set within high ground with open views to the north east, east, south east and south. It is surrounded by moorland beyond which improved pasture is visible as is modern housing, which is visible to the north east, east and south east. In the distance the sea may be glimpsed.

8.5.5.36 A public footpath, which starts from a small B road, tracks along open moorland (on an east to west alignment) up to the cairn and interpretation board. The cairn was excavated in the 19th century, which allows access and egress to the monument through the passageway. It has been suggested that some chambered cairns were built with reference to views of the sea, but this does not appear to be the case here; the passage and forecourt area are not aligned with the sea.

8.5.5.37 Although excavated in the 19th century, the cairn has intrinsic value as potential source of archaeological data and simply as an example of a Neolithic tomb. It has contextual value as a part of the Yarrows palimpsest landscape. It has no readily

8-172 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.5.42 8.5.5.41 8.5.5.40 8.5.5.39 8.5.5.38 8.5.5.43 Section3

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not s significance and unaffected magnitude remain negligible of be will will effect value the that associative considered hence and place of sense keep’s vie to peripheral be will they monument, the to approach the on visitor a to visible be will 22.9 of minimum a lie will farms wind The east. and north north the to restricted promontory its on isolated and the silhouetted from those were value, inlet the across east, north the associative from and west south its particularly castle, the of appreciation west south the from castle inlet an of side opposite the on castle the of north the to lies castle the serving park car The high of be to t considered is sensi it on and stands it block which castle upon promontory the isolated the as of defined an appreciation day as modern to seen important very is keep sea the of backdrop ruined the against promontory the spectacular; it is from visible clearly location been have would coast the hugging ships as castle the value contextual it p defensive for promontory the exploit to placed been evidently has it Scotland outside from its influences and Scotland in of fortifications of development terms the of understanding inform in value intrinsic substantial castle the gives occupation of Scotland in keeps earliest the of one it make would century 12th the to date to below thought is it sea Scandinavia, and Orkney the in structures to dropping cliffs steep with Care in Property a and monument scheduled a 90065) (SM Wick Old of Castle negligible occur will magnitude negligible most at of place impact of sense Get’s of Cairn of appreciation a setting its and cairn the between relationship the affect not will it but horizon, distant the on turbines the see will visitor the monument, al monument the to backdrop the of part form not will and visitor cairn the 23.7 of distance minimum a at visible be will farms wind The upon se effects to sensitivity of medium of appreciation landscape prehistoric an early relict a of gaining existence the thereby and monuments view individual visiting single landscape is landscape a it prehistoric wider although by a clear, of appreciated not part a is is surroundings it its that evident with relationship intended cairn’s The surroundin the located. and is landscape located is it which upon value associative identifiable n n east an on (SM90162) Stanes o’Many Hill The OffshoreGenerating Station

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CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

composed of 200 principal earthfast stones, with a further 540 small stones, set in 22 rows radiating below the crest of a rocky knoll. Further features were recorded in 2003 in the surrounding area, which may relate to the monument. These monuments typically date to the late Neolithic / Early Bronze Age and it is currently thought that the Hill o’Many Stanes is the remains of prehistoric ‘observatory’. The monument is promoted by Historic Scotland as a Property in Care and a footpath is maintained around the edge of the monument, together with an interpretation board on the northern periphery of the stones’ extent. The monument has extensive views to the north, east and south, which include the Caithness seaboard. This area of Caithness has remained relatively undeveloped, with the surrounding landscape comprising improved fields and dispersed modern houses. The existing Beatrice oil platforms are visible from the monument and do not detract from its appreciation and understanding. The stones have great intrinsic value as a rare example of their kind and as a potential archaeological data source. They have limited contextual value, as their relationship with their surroundings is very poorly understood. They have some associative value because of their association with antiquary research.

8.5.5.44 The east / west alignment of the stones, together with the clear and open views of the seascape to the east, suggests that views towards the sea may have been an important factor in the original siting of the stones. No alignments with specific features are, however, visible and it is probable that the alignments were astronomical. Consequently, the setting of the stones is defined as the hill upon which they are located and, to a lesser extent, the sea to the east. Given the potential astronomical function of the stones, the sky must also be considered to form part of its setting.

8.5.5.45 Although the function of the stone rows is enigmatic, they are a well–known and frequently visited asset and those visiting them are likely to have a strong interest in the relationship of the stones with their surroundings. Given the nebulous nature of this relationship, the stones are considered to be of medium sensitivity to setting effects.

8.5.5.46 The wind farms will lay a minimum of 24.4 km to the south east of the monument, and will form part of the backdrop of the existing seaview, positioned on the horizon. As the wireframe demonstrates (Figure 8.4.18 in Volume 7), the wind farms will leave much of the arc of view clear. While the wind farms will be visible from the monument, they will not obstruct views from the monument to the sea. While the inclusion of the development will add a modern element to the seascape currently visible from this monument, thus altering the current view from the monument, this change will not affect the enjoyment, understanding or cultural significance of the monument. It is considered that there will be a negative effect of negligible magnitude. This is considered to constitute an effect of negligible significance. This is not significant.

8.5.5.47 The Corr (HB 7935) is a Category A–listed thatched croft complex, built in the 19th century. Its cultural significance primarily relates to its intrinsic value as an excellent example of its kind. The farmhouse is situated on an east facing hillside – the elevated position results in wide reaching views of the surrounding landscape. The site visit demonstrated that The Corr is set within its own localised landscape – associated improved land, outbuildings and other ancillary buildings contribute to the appreciation and understanding of this building. Consequently, its setting is defined as the adjacent fields which are intrinsically liked with its operation as a croft. The croft is of high sensitivity to setting effects.

8.5.5.48 Situated 30 km from the wind farms at their closest point, The Corr will have views of the turbines, but the understanding and appreciation of the building’s cultural

8-174 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.5.54 8.5.5.53 8.5.5.52 8.5.5.51 8.5.5.50 8.5.5.49 Section3

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with views south views with it provide to order in planted (parkland) policies surrounding the and designed been 7946), (HB Hotel House Forse immediate its and castle significance effect of negligible an in result will this the from sea landscape the of views surroundings incidental more in seen coastline the along views with from interfere castle they the will of nor views drive crucial the the to backdrop a as seen be not will turbines The 33 surroundings immediate its and castle the from visible cultural enclosed its the from of visible aspects be they all will nor castle, the of coastline the along views affect not will farms wind to The important is readily that is and that surroundings ground significance its the with relationship on defined apparent clearly a has castle The cliffs. the the which in coast the along those and castle castle the of east south the to that specifically castle, the to backdrop a forms that seascape the and the la designed surrounding the being as defined to important landscape wider the in visible generally is it and is coastline the relationship along area views in cliffs dark the against prominent is the form surrounding white its of feature; visual seat the the as role developing its the to relates in value associative and Sinclairs the Sinclairs of appreciation the by developed in w seen from being Harbour, Dunbeath castle nearby the the in sea results the of which backdrop the against castle, views framed the by dominated absolutely is t castle, the by determined entirely is design its and century 17th mid the in out laid was landscape The designed home t was building the as period times several remodelled been hundred 400 its to relates value intrinsic castle’s The cuttin regular the cutting a in or trees by enclosed the development the s and gatehouse a include and west landscape designed enc Dunbeath of Sinclairs the by built was century 19th late the in remodelled and altered extensively structure, century 17th Dunb significance and magnitude unchanged completely remain will significance il e cend rm iw y daet trees adjacent by view from screened be will ( environs its from views ZTV, in the within lies OffshoreGenerating Station

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CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

locations that might be considered relevant to its setting. Therefore there is no potential for effects upon its setting and it is not considered further.

8.5.5.55 Dunbeath Portomin Harbour (HB 7945) is Category B–listed. It was built over several phases during the 19th century as a herring and salmon fishing station and comprises a harbour, ice house and other infrastructure. These lie at the mouth of the Dunbeath Water, and steep slopes rise sharply immediately to the north of the harbour. The harbour lies 32.4 km to the west of the wind farms at their closest and the turbines will be screened from view by the steeply rising ground to the north of the river. Consequently there is no potential for an effect upon setting and the harbour is not considered further.

8.5.5.56 The Whaligoe Steps (HB 14070) are Category B–listed and comprise 330 flagstone steps leading down precipitous cliffs to a fishing quay, which is covered by the same listing. The steps were built in the mid 18th century and renovated in the early 19th century, when the quay was built. The steps and quay are referred to in Sir John Sinclair’s ‘Account of Improvements’3 with the site referred to as the ‘Creek of Whalego’ in 1812. The work included clearing the harbour area of large stones and building a platform for the boats, as well as making stairs in the face of the rock. Fixtures and fittings are still in place, including the original boat winch that was used to pull the boats onto dry land. The associated curing yard (also a Category B–listed building), is situated at the top of Whaligoe Steps. The quay is no longer operational but is instead a popular tourist attraction, which although not actively promoted by the Highland Council (for health and safety reasons) is served by a carpark and a guidebook is available. Halfway down the steps is a viewing platform, where visitors can stop and look out to sea.

8.5.5.57 Whaligoe has intrinsic value as an example of the lengths that the inhabitants of Caithness had to go to exploit the sea owing to the lack of ready natural harbours on the eastern coast. It has contextual value as one of a string of small fishing harbours that take advantage of what little shelter there is. It has associative value because of the strong sense of place that derives from the spectacular location, in which steep cliffs frame a view eastwards out to the featureless North Sea. This helps the visitor appreciate the danger involved in fishing these waters. The site visit demonstrated that while views out to sea contribute towards the current setting of the monument to some degree, the enclosed sheltered inlet and dramatic natural stratigraphy, together with the acoustics audible to the visitor, dominate what can be perceived by a modern visitor as the asset’s sense of place. Consequently, the setting of the steps and harbour is defined as the small bay in which they are located, the steep cliffs adjacent and the sea to the east.

8.5.5.58 The proposed wind farms will lie a minimum of 23.6 km to the south east. The ZTV suggests that the quay area will have views of the development (Figure 8.4.27 in Volume 7). However, this does not take into account the local topography; the turbines will be screened from view by the cliffs forming the southern side of the inlet. Consequently, the development will only be visible from the viewing platform (Viewpoint 5) and from the very top of the steps. From both the top of the steps and the viewing platform the turbines will be seen beyond the headland that forms the southern side of the inlet.

8.5.5.59 The surroundings of the steps and quay contribute greatly to its cultural significance and the appreciation thereof. However, it is of only regional importance and it is concluded that it is of medium sensitivity to effects upon setting.

3 (http://www.ambaile.org.uk/en/item/item_page.jsp?item_id=39085)

8-176 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.5.64 8.5.5.63 8.5.5.62 8.5.5.61 8.5.5.60 Section3 Decommissioning

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negligible and not discussed further. not and negligible heritage further discussed not are and phase construction the in arising those to analogous be to considered are sites Phys is This visible be will turbines the which in significance cultural harbour’s the of appreciation the to topograp local by screened effectively be will they harbour the of east south and village east the of those as development same the same essentially the are harbour of parts two are harbour village the as and it to linked intrinsically is harbour south the the area, to conservation opens the outside and cliffs steep by surrounded is which Bay, Lybster setting associated its The upon impact no be will there that significant concluded is it significance cultural and village’s the of appreciation the to relevant are that locations significance cultural village’s the of appreciation the housing modern beyond visible partially be will turbines the which in Street, Main of end southern very the to restricted be will areas public from Views buildin the of rear the from degrees, varying to and, street the of side eastern the on buildings the of rear the to ground from visible be will but Street, Main along lining buildings the to owing area, conservation of the heart the from visible be 26 least at lie will farms wind The upon setting. effects to sensitivity of is medium area conservation the that form and scale consistent of buildings by framed sea the to street southwards view striking a in phase results Street single Main the on buildings as the of value, design associative and industry, herring the of decline and rise the of understanding the to important is village the that in value, contextual has also b village, fishing century 19th planned a of example good a provide collectively buildings its value, intrinsic its in primarily lies significance cultural area’s north conservation aligned street straight long a along sou arrayed are houses the and buildings etc inns churches, school, community; working a for necessaryfacilities the all c settlement earlier an succeeded which Sinclair, Patrick General by out laid village planned a is c Lybster significance negligible magnitude negligible of be will effect the that up broken or down closed being sea to out view the cliffs steep the to relate which qualities, dramatic views’ the the from detract and not will views turbines these in feature dominant the remain will foreground the in cliffs the a at platform 22 viewing least the at and of steps distance the of top the from visible be will turbines The OffshoreGenerating Station entury, Lybster was intended to house fishermen and their families and to provide provide to and families their and fishermen house to intended was Lybster entury, th . . ical effects arising from the decommissioning of the three proposed wind farm wind proposed three the of decommissioning the from arising effects ical . not significant . . The turbines will not be visible from the quay and t and quay the from visible be not will turbines The The associated harbour lies to the west outside the conservation area conservation the outside west the to lies harbour associated The It is concluded that there will be no effect upon the setting of the harbour the of setting the upon effect no be will there that concluded is It

onservation area onservation

assets will essentially be reversed and are therefore considered to be be to considered therefore are and reversed be essentially will assets . . .

As with many other villages laid out on Caithness’ coast in the early 19th 19th early the in coast Caithness’ on out laid villages other many with As yse Hror H 7954) (HB Harbour Lybster Telford, .

.

Impact AssessmentImpact km

This is This Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure . .

takes in the 19th century core of the village of Lybster of village the of core century 19th the in takes . The effects of decommissioning on the setting of cultural of setting the on decommissioning of effects The Given the turbines’ substantial dis substantial turbines’ the Given not significant

km MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited . .

The ZTV indicates that turbines will be visible, but visible, be will turbines that indicates ZTV The to the east and south east of Lybster of east south and east the to

. is o th to lies

. . The effect will be negative and of and negative be will effect The hy ws o te village the of west e ...... Consequently, it is concluded concluded is it Consequently, There . There are no views relevant relevant views no are There . here will be no question of of question no be will here The cultural values of the the of values cultural The h wn frs i t the to lie farms wind The

are no views from third third from views no are tance from the steps, the from tance -

EnvironmentalStatement . . This will not affect not will This . . It is concluded concluded is It gs themselves gs .

. . . This is is This . along the the along Although It wi It t is in lies It . . . These . . ll not ll 8 ut it ut The This This - not not 177

/ . .

CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.5.6 Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation

Construction

8.5.6.1 All sites of cultural heritage interest included in this report will be avoided where possible. At present the following mitigation is proposed:  Where cultural heritage assets may potentially be subject to direct or secondary effects, infrastructure will be micro–sited and temporary exclusion zones will be implemented to prevent invasive activities, such as WTG and cable installation, and anchoring or deployment of jack–up legs. Exclusion zones of at least 100 m will be established around sites identified as being of high sensitivity in this assessment (HW 1001, 1002, 1004, 157; 158 and 159); while an exclusion zone of a minimum 50 m will be established around those of medium sensitivity (HW1014, 1015, HW 36; 44; 52; 61; 71; 72; 73; 74; 75; 76; 77; 78; 80; 100; 102; 108, 117,1015 and 1016);  In order to mitigate the risk of damage to any previously unrecorded archaeological remains, a Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI) and Protocol for Archaeological Discoveries (PAD) will be prepared for the approval of Historic Scotland and HCHET to mitigate construction effects in the event of any unexpected archaeological discoveries during installation (see Technical Appendix 1.3 A: Environmental Management Plan for further detail).

Operation

8.5.6.2 There is potential for effects on cultural heritage assets during operation and maintenance. Temporary exclusion zones will be implemented to prevent invasive activities, such as WTG and cable maintenance, and anchoring or deployment of jack–up legs. Exclusion zones of at least 50 m will be implemented. No mitigation is proposed in relation to setting effects; they will persist through the lifespan of the wind farms and cease upon decommissioning. Operational effects upon setting were assessed as being of at most negligible significance.

Decommissioning

8.5.6.3 As per construction, decommissioning activities will avoid cultural heritage assets through the implementation of temporary exclusion zones. In order to mitigate the risk of damage to any previously unrecorded archaeological remains, a WSI and PAD will be employed during decommissioning.

8.5.7 Residual Effects – Primary Assessment

8.5.7.1 Table 8.5–1 above outlines the likely significant residual effects both pre and post- mitigation.

8.5.8 Secondary Assessment: Individual Sites

Individual Sites – Telford, Stevenson, MacColl (Secondary Assessment)

8.5.8.1 As explained in Chapter 5.5 (Archaeology and Visual Receptors), the three proposed wind farm sites differ in terms of the number and nature of confirmed and potential historical assets located within them. In recognition of the variation, it was considered that a secondary assessment was warranted whereby the effects associated with each individual wind farm are assessed.

8-178 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.8.9 8.5.8.8 8.5.8.7 8.5.8.6 8.5.8.5 8.5.8.4 8.5.8.3 8.5.8.2 Section3 Effect Secondary Effect Indirect Effect Direct Farm Telford Wind Construction

–

bec o mtgto cud e high be could mitigation of absence wit sensitivity high be could Sites mitigation of absence the this in within effects as regarded therefore is effect of the significance sensitivity the medium of of magnitude sites as classified Sites the of farm. wind presence the of result a as regimes sedimentary or currents magnitude tidal to changes low due of assets heritage cultural on as effect significant no be described will there that been considered all have effects Potential i be to considered not local do a only have and magnitude, small effect, very a of are the over but persist development will the currents of on lifetime array the of effects the that suggest farm wind the be where development the of within lifetime and the for persist assessed will regimes transport are area application and (Sedimentary the within transport long report to sediment leading regimes of tidal the patterns to alterations of possibility The as areregarded effects mitigation pre Despite high could be assessment this Site assessment this in within effects as regarded therefore is effect of the significance sensitivity the medium of of magnitude sites as classified Sites wrecks. recorded 1 and (HA157,158 targets potential high medium assessment Sites regarded as as regarded OffshoreGenerating Station not significant not

HW1014 HW61, 75, 76, 100, 102 100, 76, 75, HW61, HW61, 75, 76, 100, 102 100, 76, 75, HW61, HW1014 W01 1002 HW1001, ed in in ed the potential for natural variability, and therefore the effect is considered to considered is effect the therefore and variability, natural for potential the . .

The significance of effect is therefore regarded as as regarded therefore is effect of significance The

. Chapter –

major (unknown obstruction) is classified as a site of medium sensitivity within sensitivity medium of site a as classified is obstruction) (unknown

iiain fet (iet fet) en asse a mjr te post the major, as assessed being effects) (direct effects mitigation i ti assessment this hin and and . The magnitude of effect in the absence of mitigation could be be could mitigation of absence the in effect of magnitude The . . The significance of the effect is therefore regarded as as therefore is regarded effect of the significance The The potential magnitude of the effect in the the in effect the of magnitude potential The .

not significant not

Telford,

. HW1015 The predicted effect of changes to the tidal regime as a result of result a as regime tidal the to changes of effect predicted The

osa Processes) Coastal

s 6.1 s and and pc byn ntrl variability natural beyond mpact

Impact AssessmentImpact

Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

(Hydrodynamics: Wave Climate and Tidal Regime) Tidal and Climate Wave (Hydrodynamics: 1004

and and (unknown obstructions) are classified as sites of medium medium of sites as classified are obstructions) (unknown

. 108 108 r casfe a sts f ih estvt wti this within sensitivity high of sites as classified are h asne f iiain ol b high be could mitigation of absence the

. MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited negligible h ptnil antd o te fet i the in effects the of magnitude potential The (sidescan sonar targets of medium potential) are potential) of medium targets sonar (sidescan (sidescan sonar targets of medium potential) are potential) of medium targets sonar (sidescan

. . 59) are considered in conjunction with these these with conjunction in considered are 59) h efcs f h wn fr o sediment on farm wind the of effects The The significance of the effect is therefore therefore is effect the of significance The

(see major major Paragraph . . assessment

.

h efc i therefore is effect The 8.5.6.1 major absence of mitigation mitigation of absence -

EnvironmentalStatement . . . . –

. above). em fet on effects term The associated associated The major h potential The h potential The It is therefore therefore is It fet fall effects .

and 6.2 and . . 8 The The -

179 to –

CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.5.8.10 As with direct effects above, the post–mitigation secondary effects are also regarded as negligible (see paragraph 8.5.6.1 above).

Stevenson Wind Farm

Direct Effect

8.5.8.11 Sites HW72, 77, 78 and 80 (sidescan sonar targets of medium potential) are classified as sites of medium sensitivity within this assessment. The potential magnitude of the effects in the absence of mitigation could be high. The significance of the effect is therefore regarded as major. Post mitigation effects are assessed as negligible (Paragraph 8.5.6.1 above).

Indirect Effect

8.5.8.12 See indirect physical effects above.

Secondary Effect

8.5.8.13 Sites HW72, 77, 78 and 80 (sidescan sonar targets of medium potential) are classified as sites of medium sensitivity within this assessment. The potential magnitude of the effects in the absence of mitigation could be high. The significance of the effect is therefore regarded as major. Post mitigation effects are assessed as negligible (Paragraph 8.5.6.1 above).

MacColl Wind Farm

Direct Effect

8.5.8.14 Sites HW44, 52, 71 and 117 (sidescan sonar targets of medium potential) are classified as sites of medium sensitivity within this assessment. The potential magnitude of the effects in the absence of mitigation could be high. The significance of the effect is therefore regarded as major. Post mitigation effects are assessed as negligible (Paragraph 8.5.6.1 above).

Indirect Effect

8.5.8.15 See indirect physical effects above.

Secondary Effect

8.5.8.16 Site HW1005 (located in the 1 km buffer) is classified as a site of high sensitivity within this assessment. The magnitude of effect in the absence of mitigation could be medium. The significance of effect is therefore regarded as major.

8.5.8.17 Sites HW44, 52, 71 and 117 (sidescan sonar targets of medium potential) are classified as sites of medium sensitivity within this assessment. The potential magnitude of the effects in the absence of mitigation could be high. The significance of the effect is therefore regarded as major.

8.5.8.18 Post mitigation effects are assessed as negligible (Paragraph 8.5.6.1 above).

Operation

8.5.8.19 The operational impacts of the three proposed wind farms on setting taken individually are assessed in Table 8.5-9 to Table 8.5-11 below. For the purposes of this

8-180 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.8.20 Section3 SM 548 SM 527 Num Reference Official Table HB7954 – HB 14070 HB 7945 HB 7946 HB 7936 HB 7935 SM 90162 SM 90065 SM 90048 SM 5182 SM 5073 SM 4289 SM 696 SM 7242 SM 2301 SM 599 SM 548 SM 527 Number Reference Official Table

ber

8.5 8.5

– – –

n l isacs h oeain fet o te niiul id am ae f h same the of are farms as wind assessment. primary by the individual identified those as significance and magnitude the taken of effects operation been the instances all has In scenario case worst realistic upto comprising the assessment, secondary 10 9 OffshoreGenerating Station

LybsterHarbour Lybster WhaligoeThe Steps Dunbeath PortominHarbour Forse HouseHotel DunbeathCastle CorrThe croft The o’ManyHill Stanes Castleof OldWick Cairnof Get Latheronwheel promontoryfort Dunbeath InverFort WatenanFort WatenanBroch Forse Housesettlement, field system andburnt mound WagForseof settlement Tulloch (Usshilly)Brochand field system GarrywhinFort BorrowstonBroch Site Nameand Type GarrywhinFort BorrowstonBroch Site Nameand Type Telford Telford Stevenson

Setting Effects

Setting

72 Telford,

turbines in each site for the for the site each in turbines

Effects

Impact AssessmentImpact

Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

Not assessedNot assessedNot assessedNot assessedNot 7 MW turbine scenario. turbine 7 MW Sensitivity Sensitivity Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium High High High Low Low Low

Magnitude Magnitude Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Noeffect Noeffect Noeffect Noeffect Negligible Negligible -

EnvironmentalStatement

Significanceof Significanceof Not significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot Not significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot Not

Noeffect Noeffect significant Effect Effect 8

- 181

CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Official Significance of Reference Site Name and Type Sensitivity Magnitude Effect Number

SM 599 Tulloch (Usshilly) Broch and field system Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 2301 Wag of Forse settlement Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 7242 Forse House settlement, field system and burnt mound Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 696 Watenan Broch Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 4289 Watenan Fort Low Negligible Not significant

SM 5073 Dunbeath Inver Fort Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 5182 Latheronwheel promontory fort Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 90048 Cairn of Get Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 90065 Castle of Old Wick High Negligible Not significant

SM 90162 The Hill o’Many Stanes Medium Negligible Not significant

HB 7935 The Corr croft High Negligible Not significant

HB 7936 Dunbeath Castle High Negligible Not significant

HB 7946 Forse House Hotel Not assessed No effect No effect

HB 7945 Dunbeath Portomin Harbour Not assessed No effect No effect

HB 14070 The Whaligoe Steps Medium Negligible Not significant

– Lybster Not assessed No effect Not significant

HB7954 Lybster Harbour Not assessed No effect Not significant

Table 8.5–11 MacColl Setting Effects

Official Significance of Reference Site Name and Type Sensitivity Magnitude Effect Number

SM 527 Borrowston Broch Low Negligible Not significant

SM 548 Garrywhin Fort Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 599 Tulloch (Usshilly) Broch and field system Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 2301 Wag of Forse settlement Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 7242 Forse House settlement, field system and burnt mound Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 696 Watenan Broch Medium Negligible Not significant

SM 4289 Watenan Fort Low Negligible Not significant

SM 5073 Dunbeath Inver Fort Medium Negligible Not significant

8-182 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.5.10.1 8.5.9.1 Section3 8.5.10 8.5.9 HB7954 – HB 14070 HB 7945 HB 7946 HB 7936 HB 7935 SM 90162 SM 90065 SM 90048 SM 5182 Numbe Reference Official

r

Proposed Mitigation Sensitivity Assessment –

Mitigation is as per that asper is Mitigation above. secondaryassessment in the identified significance effect negligible the MacColl and Telford Stevenson, S OffshoreGenerating Station ensitivity assessment assessment ensitivity DunbeathCastle CorrThe croft The o’ManyHill Stanes Castleof OldWick Cairnof Get Latheronwheel promontoryfort Site Nameand Type LybsterHarbour Lybster The Dunbeath PortominHarbour Forse HouseHotel WhaligoeSteps

Telford,

–

Secondary Impact AssessmentImpact proposed in Primary Assessment above. Assessment Primary proposed in

Stevensonand OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure considering

,

and and MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

/

Sensitivity Assessment obntos f rjcs ( projects of combinations Stevenson

Not assessedNot assessedNot assessedNot assessedNot

Sensitivity and MacColl) is not required given required not is MacColl) and Medium Medium Medium Medium High High High

Magnitude Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Noeffect Noeffect Noeffect Noeffect

-

EnvironmentalStatement i.e.

Telford and and Telford Significanceof Not significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot significantNot Noeffect Noeffect Effect

8 - 183

CHAPTER 8.5 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

This page has been intentionally left blank.

8.6.1.7 8.6.1.6 8.6.1.5 8.6.1.4 8.6.1.3 8.6.1.2 8.6.1.1 Section3 Effects of Summary 8.6.1 8.6

Socio

Summary of Effects and Mitigation –

the number of visitors to the area the to visitors of number the of estimates and assessment visual the literature, on based is assessment tourism The employment. this phase operations jobs 2,640 and 980 between support would farms wind proposed three the that suggests analysis the Scotland, In Case. High the with associated than that certainty of degree employment t given for results Case Base shown the using undertaken is being assessment the GVA, results and Case High and Case Base despite Therefore, farms. wind proposed three of the aresult as may occur in changes any assess to work this of contracts secure could future) the in be to them expect to reason good is there (but work for tender to position a in currently not are that firms cha supply stronger a with Area) the Study (and Scotland in based firms by secured be could that contracts of value total chain supply current the assuming geography, each d been have that contracts scenarios High the and Base under who where, upon and made depend be would expenditure much that how of estimates Applicant’s effects the on based potential of range wide successful a is there date to made been not have decisions procurement and design important many that Given of 50 uses study a area which as such assessments, sites energy of the number its border of that because areas included Authority Local farms the wind covering as proposed defined is area study The    include: sites socio The farms wind proposed three the recreation. and income, tourism and onemployment have would of decommissioning and operation construction, This eaiey ml nme o tuit ta wud e tyn wti sgt f h three the of sight within staying be would that tourists of number Scotland small or area relatively an revisiting about intentions their changed touri of minority OffshoreGenerating Station

xedtr o te osrcin oeain n dcmisoig f h three the of of decommissioning result and a operation as construction, supported be the would on that expenditure GVA and employment of amount The walking). sea (surfing, activities recreational other of levels the on effect The on the The effect farms; wind proposed . chapter chapter - h efc o tuim s rdmnnl bsd n h fnig o other of findings the on based predominantly is tourism on effect The E conomics, conomics, -

cnmc effect economic otatr ih b o wee hy ih b based be might they where or be might contractors

presents an assessment of the likely significant effects that the the that effects significant likely the of assessment an presents t pee lnsae wtot id farms wind without landscapes prefer sts Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure levels of leisure and business tourism in the Study Area; Study and the in tourism business leisure and of levels Mry Hglns Aberdeenshire Highlands, Moray, ;

hpe 8.4 Chapter Impact AssessmentImpact ol b bten 4 ad 0 jb, nldn indirect including jobs, 400 and 245 between be would

Recreation s that were assessed for the three proposed wind farm farm wind proposed three the for assessed were that s elivered, or are expected to be delivered, from within within from delivered, be to expected are or elivered,

km n h pa year peak the in

from the wind farms. wind the from . MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

( The literature concludes that while a significant a while that concludes literature The Seasc

electricity generation activity elsewhere which which elsewhere activity generation electricity

. . in The Base case considers the total value of value total the considers case Base The . p, adcp ad iul Receptors Visual and Landscape ape, -

eae bsnse ad rxmt t the to proximity and businesses related and hs sue ta sm Scottish some that assumes This

during construction and during the the during and construction during Tourism .

The High case estimates the estimates case High The , . . . ny vr sal group small very a only It is not within the scope the within not is It

bren iy s also is City Aberdeen - .

EnvironmentalStatement .

ope wt the with Coupled The assessment is is assessment The - kayaking and kayaking he higher he - based

8 - 185 ),

CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

proposed wind farms, the effects on tourism are considered to be minor. A second source of effect is the sensitivity of visitors attracted to watch the marine wildlife and specifically dolphins. Chapter 7.3 (Marine Mammals) indicates that although there may be some short term displacement during construction, this is not significant in the longer term and would not noticeably reduce opportunities for marine wildlife watching.

Proposed Mitigation Measures and Residual Effects

8.6.1.8 As there are no significant negative effects identified in the assessment, there are no mitigation measures and the residual effects are as the assessment conclusions (as shown in Table 8.6-1 below).

Table 8.6-1 Primary Impact Assessment Summary

Receptor Pre-Mitigation Effect Mitigation Post-Mitigation Effect

Construction

Employment Major (+) None Major (+)

GVA Major (+) None Major (+)

Leisure Tourism Minor (-) None Minor (-)

Business Tourism Minor (+) None Minor (+)

Surfing, Sea-Kayaking and Walking Negligible None Negligible

Operation

Employment Major (+) None Major (+)

GVA Major (+) None Major (+)

Leisure Tourism Minor (-) None Minor (-)

Business Tourism Negligible None Negligible

Surfing, Sea-Kayaking and Walking Minor (-) None Minor (-)

Decommissioning

Employment Major (+) None Major (+)

GVA Major (+) None Major (+)

Leisure Tourism Minor (-) None Minor (-)

Business Tourism Negligible None Negligible

Surfing, Sea-Kayaking and Walking Negligible None Negligible

8.6.2 Introduction

8.6.2.1 This section provides details of the methodology used to estimate the likely significant effects that the three proposed offshore wind farms will have on the economies of the study area (Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray and Highlands), and the rest of Scotland.

8-186 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.4.3 8.6.4.2 8.6.4.1 8.6.3.1 8.6.2.4 8.6.2.3 8.6.2.2 Section3 8.6.4 8.6.3

Statement of Significance RochdaleEnvelope Parameters Considered in the Assessment –

depending on the receptor assessed. receptor onthe depending landsc seascape, predicted maximum the to relates case realistic worst the recreation and tourism For calculated. can be expenditure predicted from which information 8 assessment. this witting of time the at available are which MORL by out carried models financial from outputs and layout farms indicative wind proposed three the 1 deliver to expenditure minimumpredicted the to relates GVA) socio for scenario adverse foreseeable maximum The in presented are recreation and parame Relevant EIA. for the not significant and minor, negative positive minor, while the significant, not and with negative associated be Scotland and Area Study would the that (GVA) both (positive)in significant be to considered are farm, wind the of decommissioning Added expenditu Value Gross anticipated of jobs level of number the and (EIA) Assessment Impact Environmental the of terms the Under       assessment: the within made been have linkages relevant where and receptors following the for of time, socio The this at estimate, best the supported. could be that employment and expenditure represents assessment The procurement actual reflect not may bidding. competitive following decisions but anticipated, expenditure of pattern the or t be where might contractors successful the who of indication an provide to analysis this effects potential of range wide a is there date, to Given OffshoreGenerating Station

MW turbine scenario because at present there is no commercially available pricing pricing available nocommercially is there present at because scenario turbine MW Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter that many important design and procurement decisions have not been made made been not have decisions procurement and design important many that hey might be based be might hey - economics, tourism and recreation assessment interacts with assessments with interacts assessment recreation and tourism economics, s 5.4 and 8.4 (Seascape, (Seascape, 8.4 s 5.4 and and Navigation); and (Shipping 8.2 s 5.2 and Fisheries); (Commercial 8.1 s 5.1 and mammals); (Marine 7.3 s 4.4 and Ecology); Shellfish and (Fish 7.2 s 4.3 and s 3.4

. and 6.1 (Hydrodynamics 6.1 and h efcs n erain r gnrly on t b ngiil or negligible be to found generally are recreation on effects The ters defining the ‘Rochdale Envelope’ for socio for Envelope’ ‘Rochdale the defining ters Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure p ad iul fet o mxmm ubr f structures of number maximum or effects visual and ape

Impact AssessmentImpact e n h dvlpet cntuto, prto and operation construction, development, the on re

. . . . The assessment should be considered as indicative of indicative as considered be should assessment The The effects on leisure tourism are assessed as minor, as assessed are tourism leisure on effects The Table 8.6Table . MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

L Therefore these parameters are based on an an on based are parameters these Therefore h efcs n uies ors ae iey o be to likely are tourism business on effects the andscape and and andscape

: Wave Climate and Tidal Regime Tidal and Climate : Wave - 2 below.

No modelling was undertaken f undertaken was modelling No . .

It is not possible or appropriate for for appropriate or possible not is It

V - isual isual economics (employment and (employment economics

R eceptors). - .5

EnvironmentalStatement - economics, tourism tourism economics,

GW

h rne of ranges the

capacity from capacity

);

or the the or 8 - 187

CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Table 8.6-2 Parameters Relevant to the Socio-Economics, Tourism and Recreation Impact Assessment

Potential Effect Rochdale Envelope Scenario Assessed

Construction, Operation & Decommissioning

Minimum predicted expenditure to deliver 1.5 GW: Employment and GVA  216 x 7 MW turbines; and  315 km of inter array cables (total indicative length of cable).

Maximum predicted seascape, landscape and visual effect (leisure tourism, excluding dolphin watching):  216 x 7 MW turbines. Tourism Maximum number of substructures (for activities such as business tourism and dolphin watching):  339 turbines.

Maximum predicted seascape, landscape and visual effect for activities such as recreational walking):

Recreation  216 x 7 MW turbines. Maximum number of substructures (for activities such as recreational sailing and surfing):  339 turbines.

8.6.5 EIA Methodology

Geographical Scope

8.6.5.1 With regard to the economic assessment of expenditure associated with the wind farms, the likely effects may be applicable over a wide area. The study area is defined as covering the Local Authority areas that border the proposed site; Moray, Highlands, Aberdeenshire. Aberdeen City is also included because of its number of energy-related businesses and proximity to the site. Assessing any effect beyond these areas is likely to be associated with weaker evidence of effect, although due to the large scale investment associated with this project, the potential employment and GVA that this expenditure supports is also considered for Scotland.

8.6.5.2 In regard to tourism, the assessment is restricted to the four Local Authority areas but because of the importance of the likely significant visual effects, the assessment also considers a zone of 50 km around the proposed sites to be consistent with the study area used in Chapter 5.4 (Seascape, Landscape and Visual Receptors).

Methodological Scope and Limitations

8.6.5.3 There are no specific statutory guidelines or requirements for the assessment of socio- economic, tourism and recreation effects set out by the relevant EIA Regulations, or in any other statutory or advisory guidance on the preparation of EIAs (for details, see Chapter 5.6: Socio-Economics, Recreation and Tourism). Below is a summary of the socio-economics, tourism and recreation methodological scope and limitations of the assessment.

Socio-Economics

8.6.5.4 The scope of the economic element of the assessment is to estimate the significance of the employment and GVA that would be associated with the expenditure made

8-188 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.5.13 8.6.5.12 8.6.5.11 8.6.5.10 8.6.5.9 8.6.5.8 8.6.5.7 8.6.5.6 8.6.5.5 Section3 t Assessing Recreation Tourism

–

will be met to some extent by businesses based in Scotland, although significant significant although Scotland, in based businesses by extent some to met be will The GVA Cha and employment on substantial effect has and budget overall the of proportion considerable a represents This    analysis from the (TI) excluded is Infrastructure The informed is by sailing Recreational in separately o part economy tourism recognised a is tourism dolphin Additionally by informed are (Socio w supplemented literature other and desk is assessment tourism The and expenditure of ranges the of estimate”, “best a on supported. could be that employment based are results The (RFI) Information for Request of both estimates the change directly MORL’s during suppliers process potential from received the at companies The this GVA and employment on also therefore and economy incentives the addition, In them. with associated been have would or GVA that or anyemployment t or Scotland proposal (in sources other this of result a as occur example may which elsewhere activity generation within not is It three the of decommissioning and operation farms wind proposed construction, development, the in number of factors, such as their capability, experience, skills, capacity, capacity, skills, experience, capability, their as such factors, of number Scottish which to sourced be to likely are elements OffshoreGenerating Station

he

Supply and construction of an onshore substation. onshore of an construction Supply and S AC AC and OSPs of installation Supply and chapter upply and installation of export cables;and export of installation upply and figure P P pter 11.6 pter Effect Effect rojects represent a major investment in plant, skills and services and skills plant, in investment major a represent rojects roject - Economics, Recreation and Tourism) and Recreation Economics, . :

s are based on the expenditure estimated by the MORL team and parent parent and team MORL the by estimated expenditure the on based are s . . Any changes in these these in changes Any it does not consider whether the electricity produced will be replacing replacing be will produced electricity the whether consider not does it of of ’

s expenditure on elements that are considered part of the Transmission Transmission the of part considered are that elements on expenditure s This has implications for expenditure expenditure for implications has This to assess these wider effects. wider these assess to

Chapter ( Project Expenditure Project Socio P the scope of this this of scope the rojects are expected to receive funding through renewable energy energy renewable through funding receive to expected are rojects - . . based businesses can benefit from this demand will depend on a on depend will demand this from benefit can businesses based Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Likely significant effects on the dolphin population are addressed are population dolphin the on effects significant Likely hpe 8.4 Chapter - Economics, Recreation and Tourism and Recreation Economics, ie f h assmn ad ae no con information account into take and assessment the of time .

7.3

This is commonly referred to as the economic effect. economic the as to referred iscommonly This Impact AssessmentImpact ( Marine Mammals Marine he rest of the UK), what these other sources might be might sources other these what UK), the of rest he - based and has been undertaken using the the using undertaken been has and based

from elsewhere in the UK and overseas and UK the in elsewhere from figure ( MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited Chapter 8.2 Chapter esae Lnsae n Vsa Receptors Visual and Landscape Seascape, . chapter

hs eeet ae rsne sprtl in separately presented are elements These GVA and employment. GVA and

ith consultations, as detailed in in detailed as consultations, ith s (in the total or on the the on or total the (in s

) . . .

. / The likely significant effects on tourism on effects significant likely The o ses n cags n electricity in changes any assess to ( These elements are: elements These

DC converter stations; converter DC Shipping and Navigation and Shipping on other goods and services in the in services and goods other on

te ihad n Morayshire and Highland the f . . ).

It is not within the scope of scope the within not is It

-

EnvironmentalStatement P roject phases) will will phases) roject

. . This demand demand This Chapter ). . .

The extent extent The

report . 8

- For For 5.6 18 ) 9 s .

CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

competitiveness and the development of the industry which depends on Project certainty (consents, grid and remuneration).

8.6.5.14 In order to assess the work that could be generated in Scotland and in the Study Area, estimates based on the best knowledge to date of the likely expenditure on each sub-phase were made.

8.6.5.15 Given the uncertainties involved, this was done under two scenarios:  Base Case – the total value of contracts that have been delivered, or are expected to be delivered, from within each geography, assuming the current supply chain; and  High Case – the total value of contracts that could be secured by firms based in Scotland (and the study area) with a stronger supply chain. This assumes that where Scottish-based firms are not currently in a position to tender for work, (but there is good reason to expect them to be in the future), they are successful.

8.6.5.16 The “worst case scenario” in terms of economic effect is that no Project expenditure is located in the Study Area, meaning no associated GVA or employment effects are delivered. In this case the socio-economic effect would be zero. This has not been modelled because this is not a realistic scenario if the developments were to be granted consent.

8.6.5.17 The Base Case represents what would happen, given what is known about current, potential suppliers and the existing facilities. The Base Case is the basis for a conservative estimate. The supply chain is likely to change over time in response to the opportunities created by these and other proposals. This could be through existing firms positioning themselves to win more work or as a result of new investors. To reflect this potential change in the supply chain, the assessment also models a High Case scenario which reflects the potential for more of the expenditure to be retained in Scotland. The results from the High Case are therefore subject to a higher degree of uncertainty. Therefore, despite Base Case and High Case results being shown for employment and GVA, the assessment is undertaken using the Base Case results given the higher degree of certainty than that associated with the High Case.

8.6.5.18 The expenditure for each of the sub-phases was allocated to each geographical area under the two scenarios, and in each appropriate year.

8.6.5.19 Table 8.6-3 below sets out the wind farm phases and sub phases that were used to build up the expenditure estimates and are the basis on which the employment estimates are made.

Table 8.6-3 Wind Farm Phases and Sub-Phases Used

Phases Sub-phases included Timing

Management Site investigation Engineering & grid Development To mid 2014 Met mast EIA Financial Close

Technical and commercial management Manufacture Supply: turbines, transformers & towers To mid 2020 Supply: array cables

8-190 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.5.23 8.6.5.22 8.6.5.21 8.6.5.20 Section3 Decommissioning Operationsand Maintenance Construction Phases

–

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–

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Present Value of GVA Effects

8.6.5.24 In order to compare the direct and indirect GVA that occurs in different years, discount rates are applied in line with HM Treasury guidance (HM Treasury, 2003). A discount rate of 3.5 % is used for the first 30 years and a rate of 3.0 % is used for each subsequent year.

Employment Effects

8.6.5.25 The employment effects are calculated by applying the “employment effect” multiplier values, from Scottish Input-Output Tables, to the expenditure expected in each year and in each geographical area. The multipliers that best fit each of the types of goods and services that will be purchased have been used. This has been done for each phase of the Project, except operations and maintenance and the offshore installation and decommissioning elements, which are likely to require higher levels of capital use.

8.6.5.26 Direct, indirect and induced employment is derived from the Scottish Input-Output Tables as described above.

8.6.5.27 As a further caveat it is recognised that employment opportunities will not exactly match the geographic distribution of the expenditure. Although contracts may be delivered from an office in Aberdeen, the contractor may use employment from elsewhere, but equally contracts awarded to firms based outside the study area or Scotland may use local labour. There is no simple way to anticipate this and the assumption is that, on balance, the employment is supported in the area from where the contractor will “deliver” the work.

Operations and Maintenance Employment

8.6.5.28 The area where it is most difficult to use industry ratios is in operations and maintenance, where much of the expenditure is on the hire or purchase of capital goods (helicopters and vessels) rather than employment. Because of the difficulty categorising this phase, the analysis uses a recent report produced by Oxford Economics for Vestas Offshore (Oxford Economics, 2010) which provides estimates of direct and indirect operations and maintenance employment per megawatt, in the UK. There are likely to be some economies of scale associated with the size of these projects, although the report is based on forecasts which include large scale developments. As a conservative estimate the figures have been reduced by 20 %. This has been applied to reflect the fact that the Oxford Economics / Vestas’ figures are an average of all developments. In dealing with a large case, the employment per MW is likely to be slightly below the average because of economies of scale. The figures adopted in this report are shown in below.

8-192 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.5.31 8.6.5.30 8.6.5.29 8.6.5.32 Section3 Table Assessing Offshore Total Indirect Direct Table High Medium Low Sensitivity

8.6 8.6

– - -

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Significance Criteria

8.6.5.33 The assessment of significance is based on combining the degree of sensitivity of the receptor (i.e. the economy) with the magnitude of the predicted effects (scale and duration). These effects can be characterised as positive, negative or neutral.

Sensitivity of Receptor

8.6.5.34 This criterion considers how sensitive the economy and the relevant sectors are to the effects of the three proposed wind farms. Sensitivity is defined using professional judgement based on the overview of the economy (for example: the levels of unemployment, skills and business capacity).

Magnitude of Effect

8.6.5.35 The magnitude of the effect on the economy and labour market within the study area will depend on a number of factors, primarily the scale and duration of effects. The scale of the effect is assessed directly from the estimates of the number of jobs and the value of GVA that would be supported by the Project’s expenditure. The duration relates to the length of time that the effect will last.

8.6.5.36 To determine an overall assessment as to whether the magnitude of effect on employment and GVA is classified as negligible, low, medium or high, the scale and duration of effect are considered together.

8.6.5.37 There is no specific number or guidance that defines whether the magnitude is negligible, low, medium or high and the conclusion is a professional judgement.

Level of Significance

8.6.5.38 Significance has been determined based on the matrix at Table 8.6-5 above. The assessment process aims to be objective and to quantify effects as far as possible. However, some effects can only be assessed through qualitative judgements based on professional experience and previous evidence, where available. There are no quantitative thresholds above or below which an effect can be considered significant or not, and this would vary depending on geography. For example: a significant effect for one business may not be significant at a Study Area or Scottish level. The application of significance here is based on a judgement of the effect on the Study Area, and the reasons for this judgement are set out in the appropriate paragraphs.

Assessing the Significance of Tourism and Recreation Effects

8.6.5.39 There are no official guidelines for assessing the likely significant effect of offshore wind farm projects on tourism and recreation. The focus here is on assessing any effects within the study area rather than on tourism at a UK or Scottish level. The assessment does not seek to quantify, in financial terms, any effect on local tourism businesses. Instead, the approach taken is to:  Assess the current profile of tourists and visitors who travel to the study area in terms of numbers, spend, activities, reasons for visiting the region and so on;  Review reports and surveys of how other wind farm developments have affected tourism in other areas of the UK and further afield;  Identify any direct effects on local tourism ‘assets’ (e.g. public rights of way, paths, scenic areas or so on) which the new development may cause at the different stages; construction, operation, maintenance and decommissioning;

8-194 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.6.2 8.6.6.1 8.6.5.44 8.6.5.43 8.6.5.42 8.6.5.41 8.6.5.40 Section3 8.6.6 Significance of Level ofEffect Magnitude Effects to Sensitivity Criteria Significance

Primary Impact Assessment: Three Proposed –

effects ass effects The    Th assessment. EIA of the terms the within significant be to deemed are significance greater or moderate a with variables Any as magnitude and sensitivity the in shown combining by defined is significance of level The neutral or negative positive, as characterised be can effect an of significance The is conclusion the and high or medium on a based low, negligible, is magnitude the whether Visual and of conclusions the upon draws and activity of affected be potentially would that numbers the and effect of level likely the considering by assessed is effect of magnitude The consultation judgement. on professional based and research desk the by informed to are tourists) proposals farm and wind the sector tourism (the tourism sensitive how considers criterion This effects predicted the of (scale a magnitude the with indicator, the in changes to receptor the of sensitivity of degree the combining on based is significance of assessment The     OffshoreGenerating Station

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Employment and GVA

8.6.6.3 The paragraphs below use the analysis and methodology described in Chapter 5.6 (Socio-Economics, Recreation and tourism) and the expected investment expenditure information for the three proposed wind farms to construct a series of GVA and employment estimates. To put the figures in context, a general industry estimate for capital expenditure for the development and construction of an offshore wind farm is estimated to be around £3 million per MW (Renewable UK, 2011). The three proposed wind farm developments would generate up to 1,500 MW, giving an indicative capital investment of around £4,500 million (not taking into account the TI).

8.6.6.4 The analysis in the baseline description of the supply chain is reflected in the pattern of expenditure anticipated for the proposed wind farms. The expenditure that is considered likely to be made in Scotland, under the Base Case, matches the analysis of the existing Scottish supply chain. This includes higher proportions of expenditure retained in Scotland from the Project development, construction, operations and decommissioning phases, but with less manufacturing expenditure retained. Under the High Case, the supply chain is assumed to be stronger with potential for greater retention.

8.6.6.5 It is likely that each proposed wind farm will contract with a small number of Tier 1 contractors4, however, currently there has only been one Tier 1 supplier identified within the study area. The alternative of contracting directly with a larger number of Tier 2 / 3 suppliers5 is still an option.

8.6.6.6 There is a considerable gap between the Base and High Cases. This is because it is not yet possible to commit to a detailed procurement programme due to the uncertainties in Project infrastructure design and consenting timescales. There are also uncertainties around Project remuneration as a result of the pending Energy Market Reform (EMR) / Finance and the grid connection.

8.6.6.7 It is also important to have received project consents from Marine Scotland before committing to most of the major contracting decisions. Consent according to the Project timeline could reduce some of the risk facing the investment by providing more certainty; this may encourage new and potentially, more local contractors to invest in order to position themselves to secure work.

8.6.6.8 Therefore, despite Base Case and High Case results being shown for employment and GVA, the assessment is undertaken using the Base Case results given the higher degree of certainty than that associated with the High Case.

8.6.6.9 The pattern of anticipated expenditure is shown in Table 8.6-6 below which compares the values provided by MORL with the overall estimates that were used in a report produced by IPA and Scottish Renewables, “Scottish Offshore Wind: Creating an Industry” (IPA / Scottish renewables, 2010).

4 Tier 1 Supplier: A contractor or manufacturer with a direct relationship with the developer / owner. In terms of offshore wind, depending on the contracting strategy, this could be a turbine manufacturer, an installation vessel owner, or a manufacturer of high voltage equipment. A Tier 1 supplier will have subcontracts with Tier 2, 3, etc. Suppliers. 5 Tier 2 Supplier: A contractor or manufacturer with a direct relationship with a Tier 1 supplier, and potentially a subcontract with a Tier 3 or 4 supplier. The Tier 2 supplier does not typically have a direct relationship with the developer / owner. In terms of offshore wind, a Tier 2 Supplier could be a supplier of rolled steel for substructures or a supplier of electrical components for substations.

8-196 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.6.12 8.6.6.11 8.6.6.10 Section3 All Decommissioning Operational Construction &Commissioning Development Project Estima Table Expenditure

8.6 ted inIPA Phases

– -

Based on these on these Based 6     below: described cases, is High and Base the the for and phase by Scotland, with in retained expenditure of proportion The consistent are but independently developed used in scenarios were MORL estimates by developed Case High MORL the with B) and (A Cases IPA higher and two MORL, the by developed Case Base the with D) and (C scenarios IPA weaker two Scotland in coast retained be to Scottish estimated are that expenditure the of proportions off conditions rougher to capital too proje wind offshoreit A find developers D, Scenario under and Scenario now Scotland in chain that supply inwind onshore than but period longer significantly a develops over developed still chain supply the wind offshore of level high a with industry, wind offshore Scottish the for target theoretical D) and C B, (A, scenarios four for results presents study IPA The Case Scotland in farms wind proposed three the OffshoreGenerating Station

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.6.6.13 The difference illustrates the employment opportunity that the investment could provide if Scottish based firms can secure some of the key contracts. This assumes significant investment in the supply chain as well as the Scottish supply chain being competitive.

8.6.6.14 As a further comparator, analysis by for the socio-economic assessment of the Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm (Roger Tym & Partners and RPS, 2011), reviewed six offshore wind farm projects in England and Wales and found that an average of just over 20 % of construction expenditure was made in the UK. The Base Case from data provided by MORL indicates 10 % of construction and commissioning expenditure retained in Scotland and 30 % under the High Case. The Base Case is therefore fairly consistent with the evidence of these six cases (under no change to the supply chain), while the High Case represents a significant increase.

Overall Employment Effects

8.6.6.15 Employment has been estimated by dividing the anticipated expenditure by the ratio of output to employment, for each of the categories of expenditure, using the ratios that best fit the type of activity. The ratios used for each type of expenditure and activity are shown in Technical Appendix 5.6 A.

8.6.6.16 Table 8.6-7 and Table 8.6-8 below summarise the projected employment effect of the three proposed wind farms associated with the Base and High Case scenarios. These figures exclude any expenditure related to Transmission Infrastructure (considered separately in Chapter 11.6: Socio-Economics, Recreation and Tourism). In the Base case, the total number of job years is anticipated to be 5,350 across the whole lifetime of the Project for the study area. For Scotland as a whole (including the Study Area) this is 10,200 job years.

8.6.6.17 For sensitivity, the High Case has also been modelled. This produces a total number of job years of 13,600 across the whole lifetime of the three proposed wind farms in the Study Area. For Scotland as a whole, the optimistic case is 21,800 job years.

Table 8.6-7 Employment Effects in Job Years (Base Case)

Study Area Scotland (including Study Area)

Indirect + Indirect + Direct Total Direct Total induced induced

Construction 600 400 1,000 2,100 1,700 3,800

Operations 2,300 1,900 4,200 3,400 2,700 6,100

Decommissioning 100 50 150 200 100 300

Total 3,000 2,350 5,350 5,700 4,500 10,200

8-198 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.6.18 Section3 Plate Employment Total Decommissioning Operations Construction Table 1,000 1,200 1,400 1,600 1,800 200 400 600 800

0

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

3,000 High Case - Indirect High Case - Direct 2,500 Base Case - Indirect Base Case - Direct 2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 2045 2046 2047

Plate 8.6-2 Scotland (including Study Area) Employment by Year – Base Case and High Case (excludes TI)

Employment During Construction

Construction

8.6.6.19 Within the study area:  Base Case: during the construction phase, the three proposed wind farms would support 155 jobs directly in the study area at its peak, and a further 99 including the indirect and induced multiplier effects described in 8.6.5 above. This gives 254 in total; and  High Case: during the construction phase, the three proposed wind farms would support a peak of 1,601 jobs including the indirect and induced multiplier effects.

8.6.6.20 In Scotland (including the Study Area):  Base Case: during the construction phase, the three proposed wind farms would support 978 jobs at its peak, including the indirect and induced multiplier effects; and  High Case: during the construction phase, the three proposed wind farms would support 2,641 jobs in the peak year, including the indirect and induced multiplier effects.

8.6.6.21 Table 8.6-9 below provides a summary of predicted construction employment.

8-200 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.6.27 8.6.6.26 8.6.6.25 8.6.6.24 8.6.6.23 8.6.6.22 Section3 CaseHigh BaseCase Table Construction GVA from Scotland(including study area) Study Table Area

8.6 8.6

– - -

produce a high level of GVA per head relative to Scotland, the the Scotland, to relative head per GVA of level high a produce paid wealth economic of measure is core a therefore which from materials, raw of cost the and produced services and goods of value the between difference the represents GVA 10 in shown £399 of farm value wind Case proposed High a and effects, multiplier £70 of value Case Base the that estimated is it area, study the For EIA. the of in terms significant be to considered therefore effect be employment would Case Base the under farms wind the proposed three the assessments, of decommissioning and operation magnitude construction, development, the with and associated sensitivity the Combining levels a of employment these Case, Base the for Scotland, in and Area Study the of level the both At phase. construction the 2017,during jobs in 2,641 reach could chain supply stronger a with but Case Base the under 978 at peak with associated employment the Scotland, In Scotland and Area Study the sensitivity. of high be to considered therefore are employment communities, of health economic the unemployment and and employment importance of the rates in to reflected activity, attached economic of measure core a is Employment 9 all important elements in determining quality of life for residents in the study area area study the in residents for life Scotland in and of quality determining in elements important all average Scottish the than lower are Highland and OffshoreGenerating Station

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135 Impact AssessmentImpact GVA 23

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Millions Millions Indirect +

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.6.6.28 The magnitude of the GVA generated by the three proposed wind farms, both at the study area level and in Scotland, is judged to be high.

8.6.6.29 Combining the sensitivity and magnitude assessments, the GVA effect associated with the expenditure on the development, construction, operation and decommissioning of the three proposed wind farms under the Base Case is considered to be of major positive significance, and therefore significant in terms of the EIA.

Operation

Employment During Operations

8.6.6.30 Within the study area and including the indirect and induced multiplier effects described in 8.6.5 of this chapter:  Base Case: during the operations phase, there are 166 jobs; and  High Case: during the operations phase this would be 267 jobs.

8.6.6.31 In Scotland (including the Study Area) and including multiplier effects:  Base Case: during the operations phase there would be 245 jobs  High Case: during the operations phase this would be around 400 jobs.

8.6.6.32 Table 8.6-11 below provides a summary of predicted operational employment.

Table 8.6-11 Operational Employment Effects in Peak Year

Operations Phase (peak employment)

Direct Indirect + Induced Total

Base Case 92 74 166 Study Area High Case 148 119 267

Base Case 136 109 245 Scotland (including study area) High Case 231 169 400

8.6.6.33 Sensitivity of employment is considered to be high. At both the level of the Study Area and in Scotland, the levels of employment are considered to be of high magnitude under the Base Case.

8.6.6.34 Combining the sensitivity and magnitude assessments, the employment effect associated with the operation of the three proposed wind farms would be major positive effect and is therefore considered to be significant in terms of the EIA.

GVA from Operations

8.6.6.35 Table 8.6-12 below provides a summary of the GVA effects for the study area, Scotland and the rest of the UK. For the study area, it is estimated that the Project will generate £278 million in GVA during operations, including the indirect effects, in the Base Case. In Scotland, the Project would generate GVA of around £427 million during operations, including the indirect and induced multiplier effects in the Base Case.

8-202 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.6.42 8.6.6.41 8.6.6.40 8.6.6.39 8.6.6.38 8.6.6.37 8.6.6.36 Section3 Scotland(including Study Area) Study Table Employment Decommissioning CaseHigh BaseCase Table Area

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

GVA from Decommissioning

8.6.6.43 Table 8.6-14 below provides a summary of the decommissioning GVA effects for the study area, Scotland and the rest of the UK. For the study area, it is estimated that the expenditure on decommissioning will generate £6 million in GVA under the Base Case, including the indirect and induced effects and £38 million under the High Case. In Scotland, the figures are £14 million and £68 million. The expenditure in Scotland under the Base Case represents 10 % of the total investment and this rises to 50 % under the High Case.

8.6.6.44 Sensitivity to changes in GVA is considered to be high. The magnitude of the GVA generated by the three proposed wind farms, both at the study area level and in Scotland, is judged to be high. Combining the sensitivity and magnitude assessments, the GVA effect associated with the expenditure on the operation of the wind farms is considered to be of major positive significance, and therefore significant in terms of the EIA.

Table 8.6-14 Decommissioning Phase GVA Effects in £ Millions (2011 prices)

Study Area Scotland (including the Study Area)

Direct Indirect + Induced Total Direct Indirect + Induced Total

Base Case 4 2 6 9 5 14

High Case 26 12 38 43 25 68

Tourists and Tourist Expenditure

8.6.6.45 The tourism element of the analysis considers the effect of the three proposed wind farms on the volume and value of tourists visiting the study area and Scotland. The analysis distinguishes between two types of effect:  Direct effects on local tourism ‘assets’ (e.g. physical changes to public rights of way, paths, scenic areas and so on) which the new development may cause at different stages; construction, operation, maintenance and decommissioning. Direct effects could include factors such as closure or diversion of access to tourism assets or the removal of those assets. Because the physical construction of the components will take place on commercial premises and the installation and decommissioning will be offshore, there is not considered to be a direct effect on tourism from the wind farms themselves. However, there is the potential for the offshore installation work to have some effect in relation to sailing. This is covered in Chapter 8.2 (Shipping and Navigation).  Indirect effects on local tourism assets. In this case, indirect effects mainly relate to changes in amenity through the permanent or temporary modification of land and seascapes and the visual effect of the installations and associated development. There could also be effects as a result of any disturbance or injury to coastal or marine wildlife interests (e.g. for wildlife watching) during construction, operation or decommissioning of the three proposed wind farms. The indirect effects are primarily based on any visual effect and on any possible effects that the three proposed wind farms might have on the marine-life that attracts visitors. The following paragraphs review some of the findings of relevant reports.

8-204 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.6.54 8.6.6.53 8.6.6.52 8.6.6.51 8.6.6.50 8.6.6.49 8.6.6.48 8.6.6.47 8.6.6.46 Section3 (2008) 6 Farm Wind Offshore Hoyle North The

rvdd s vdne o Hue f omn Slc Cmite n noain Uieste, cec ad Skills and Science Universities, Innovation, on Committee Select Commons of House a to evidence as Provided Economic Effects Effects Economic

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gauge the opinions of residents and visitors in the Rhyl and Prestatyn areas towards towards areas Prestatyn and Rhyl the in visitors and residents of opinions the gauge commi was Research RBA serious a suggest to evidence robust any be on tourism.” farms of wind to impact economic negative appear not the does in there attraction Overall, tourist a as act those by them to particularly closest scenery, the of part valued even accepted an become they The lessoppos are walkers the activity’, tourist main by respondents of ‘views the of terms In of e landscape the of value the on effect the scenery, the into intrusion an been has there “Once farms; wind of size the increasing with associated value of loss marginal diminishing a found also It seri a suggest to evidence Germany and Sweden Australia, US, the tourism same the in co review which study literature a of results the by supported were findings survey The 2.5 be they would that shown of was farm likelihood wind future a their extending the on in effect area any the have not visiting would experience the that suggested (99 majority vast the that found survey The wo turn in which future, the in visit to likelihood reduced a into translate landscapes unspoilt for expected be might that behaviour Ho Scotland”. revisiting about intentions their changed they that offended so were group small very a only these of (20 minority study the survey, the From visitor affect can farms wind decisions of presence the how understanding in findings useful University 2008) Caledonian Millar, & Glasgow Gibson, by out carried Government Scottish for the studya is date to out carried research relevant The most place a higher value on the landscape when a wind farm is not included in the view the in not included is farm whenwind a landscape on the value higher a place OffshoreGenerating Station “ ee te uvy lo rvds oe vdne f h sae f hne on changes of scale the of evidence some provides also survey the wever There is, however, evidence that that evidence however, There is, than when it whenis it than report . . The review examined some 40 studies in the UK, Ireland Denmark, Norway, Norway, Denmark, Ireland UK, the in studies 40 some examined review The . uld reduce tourist numbers and expenditure. and numbers uld reducetourist

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- 205

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

the North Hoyle Offshore Wind Farm. The research aimed to establish: awareness and knowledge of North Hoyle; opinions about the wind farm; the importance of the sea view; the wind farm's effect on visitor numbers and the degree and nature of people's environmental concerns. A similar survey had been carried out by RBA in March 2003, before the wind farm was in position, and this provided a baseline. Face to face interviews were carried out with a representative cross section of the residents, 100 in Prestatyn and 100 in Rhyl. Visitor interviews were also conducted in both Prestatyn and Rhyl (56 in total). Interviews took place between 1 and 16 June 2004.

8.6.6.55 Support for the North Hoyle Offshore Wind Farm has increased with 73 % of residents now saying they support the Project, compared with 62 % of residents before the wind farm was operational. Five of the residents opposed the wind farm. Seventy- one percent of visitors say they supported the North Hoyle development and none of the 56 visitors interviewed said they opposed the wind farm.

8.6.6.56 Two thirds of residents (67 %) said the presence of the North Hoyle Offshore Wind Farm has had no effect on the number of people visiting or using the area, with people more likely to be saying there had been an increase rather than a decrease in numbers (11 % compared with 4 % who said there had been a decrease).

8.6.6.57 The sea view was as important to residents at the time of the survey as it was before the wind farm was in position; 34 % of residents said it was a main reason for them living in the area (52 % of visitors said it was a main reason for them visiting the area).

Other Examples

8.6.6.58 A VisitScotland commissioned omnibus survey (VisitScotland, 2012) provides some assessment of consumer attitudes to wind farms and their effect on tourism. The study included 2,000 interviews undertaken with a nationally representative UK sample and a further 1,000 interviews in Scotland. Eighty per cent of respondents stated their decision about where to visit or where to stay on a UK holiday or short break would not be affected by the presence of a wind farm. For Scotland residents, 83 % stated their decision would not be affected. The Study relates to wind farms generally and does not allow any analysis of their proximity, scale or whether they are onshore or offshore.

8.6.6.59 For example: Scroby Sands Offshore Wind Farm, located off the coast of Great Yarmouth in Norfolk, has its own seafront visitor centre which has welcomed some 30,000 people through its doors in its first six months of operation. Greater Yarmouth Tourism emphasises the presence of the wind farm in its material and website, saying that “the 30-turbine wind farm on Scroby Sands, 3 km off the coast has become a popular landmark and tourist attraction”.

8.6.6.60 A US report, Wind Turbines and Coastal Recreation Demand (Landry, Allen, Cherry, & Withehead, 2011) examined the impact of coastal wind turbines on tourism and recreation. The study was funded by the Appalachian State University Energy Center and used “travel cost models and combines revealed preference (RP) and stated preference (SP) methods in order to measure the impact of widespread coastal wind farms on the economic value of beach visitation”.

8.6.6.61 A combination of telephone and web survey data was used to assess the effect of coastal wind farms on trip behaviour and site choice for a sample of North Carolina coastal tourists. Overall, it found very little effect of coastal wind turbines on aggregate recreational visitation of residents in the northern coastal counties of North Carolina. Although the research found that beach visitors from the northern

8-206 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.6.67 8.6.6.66 8.6.6.65 8.6.6.64 8.6.6.63 8.6.6.62 8.6.6.68 Section3 Tourism

– Accommodation Accommodation

which visual effects would be insignificant be would visual effects which Heritage Natural Scottish visible be would proposed three farms the which wind within distance maximum the as Assessment Visual and identified was sites farm wind lies that accommodation tourism industry, tourism local the on farms wind proposed three the of effect significant likely the assess to order In Scotland of east the of presence the School on solely £4 be to considered was population dolphin bottlenose reliant Business Scotland in University expenditure Aberdeen 2010) (ACES), Sustainability Environmental by watc on to published opportunities effects the reduced and it if economy tourism, for tourism implications the of have therefore part could farms, wind proposed three valuable the by caused behaviour, dolphin a also is tourism 3 Dolphin tourism, on effect no had farm negativ a had to farm have wind the believed wind the that considered Galloway the into research Scottish tourism. to nodamage be will there stage, planning the at tourism landscape to damage no than be to deemed is development there if Therefore, farm wind to sensitive more is protection landscape of protecti the for safeguard ample provide will protection 2006) All the to response a prepared BWEA overall no have would farm wind a of 13 remaining farm wind (87 Devon North in surveyed tourists of majority vast tourism 2004) England of West the of University the by Research 2011 of overview An a effect. find significant statistically not did it miles) 4 as study the by (defined out further those for beach, the to “aversive” were Carolina North in counties suig 40 Assuming 50 within baseline, the in described As OffshoreGenerating Station tourists may avoid bea avoid may tourists existing offshore wind farms in Europe support or hinder tourism or hinder Europe support windin farms offshore existing “Tourism is a crucial part of many coastal economies, but there is no evidence that that noevidence is there but economies, coastal part many of acrucial is “Tourism “The steering group recommended a seaward outer limit of visual significance of of significance visual of limit outer seaward a group recommended steering “The might seek them out seekthem might (N

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

expenditure per night of £53.50 gives a total expenditure of £8.3 million. It is important to stress that only a small proportion of this accommodation would have any view of the wind farms (based on Figure 8.4.5, Volume 7: zone of theoretical visibility).

Business Tourism Effects

8.6.6.69 Tourism Resource Consultants (TRC) carried out an analysis of the business tourism market for Caithness and Sutherland in 2010 (Tourism Resource Consultants, 2010). In relation to the energy sector it concluded that: “The renewables sector potentially presents a massive opportunity for the C&NS area however the amount of accommodation demand that it will generate is completely unknown and research that we have carried out cannot confirm the level of accommodation demand or even if the sector will need accommodation on an ongoing basis.”

8.6.6.70 The analysis goes on to make some broad estimates, based on the experience of Dounreay, where there are around 8 to 16 bed nights generated for each direct job. In other words, for every 100 direct jobs created there would be demand for 800 to 1,600 serviced accommodation bed nights. This is very uncertain and depends on the extent to which the area benefits from additional economic activity and the nature of these jobs.

Construction

Construction Effects on Leisure Tourism

8.6.6.71 Any potential effects of construction on tourism would be indirect resulting from changes in amenity through the modification of seascapes and the visual effect during construction.

8.6.6.72 In relation to the sensitivity of tourism activity to the presence of wind farms themselves, the most detailed study is Glasgow Caledonian University (Riddington et al., 2008) for the Scottish Government, described earlier. It found that only a very small group changed their intentions about revisiting an area or Scotland.

8.6.6.73 There are some contextual elements in considering the findings in relation to this proposal. Firstly, the findings are based on wind farms in general and not offshore projects and there may be differences in how visitors react to changes in seascapes rather than landscapes. Secondly, the distances to offshore wind farms may make them less intrusive than has been assumed in these surveys for onshore wind farms, although the offshore turbines are larger.

8.6.6.74 The second source of effect is the sensitivity of visitors attracted to watch the marine wildlife. This group will be sensitive to changes that reduce the opportunities to do this. Overall, the sensitivity of tourism in the study area to the three proposed wind farms during construction is considered to be low.

8.6.6.75 The magnitude of the effect depends on both the scale of tourism activity that would be subject to any effect and the size of the effect itself. The number of visitors staying within the immediate area of the three proposed wind farms and those on day trips are those that are most likely to be influenced by the visual effect. As described in the baseline, the number of visitors is small relative to the level of tourism within the study area, while the number of recreational day trips to the area is limited by the distances from major centres of population. There will be visitors travelling

8-208 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.6.83 8.6.6.82 8.6.6.81 8.6.6.80 8.6.6.79 8.6.6.78 8.6.6.77 8.6.6.76 Section3 Operation Operation Construction

–

based on wind farms in general and not offshore projects and there may be be may there and landscapes projects than rather offshore seascapes dist in The not changes to and react visitors general how in in differences farms wind on based are findings the that note to important is it although tourists, on farms wind of effect the economi to negative serious a suggest to evidence no is there overall that concluded activity tourism of sensitivity the study University Caledonian Glasgow the in described is farms wind of effects, presence construction the for described As ( interests wildlife marine or coastal to operatio during watching) injury or disturbance any and effect visual the and seascapes of modification the through effects direct any have to considered not is farms wind proposed three the of operation The assessment magnitude and significance sensitivity the Combining study area. the in activity tourism overall to relative made been has magnitude low of estimate contractors construction by modest, facilities local of but use positive, be to likely is effect the of magnitude The so less much others and affected low. be to considered is Area,sensitivity Study of the scale the Overall, given strongly activities providers’ service some with will area study the within tourism business of sensitivity The weaker. much be may effect the study area based) is activity installation of construction manufacturing, ( sui affected strongly facilities geography activities the providers’ across service vary tourism, will some area with business study the in within tourism increases business of for sensitivity scope is w there particularly phase construction the During significance t Combining low. be low be to them see to opportunities tourists’ the n the that likely not is effects behavioural cause would that range noise the outside found are dolphins the of majority the that but activities), piling to (due construction during disturbance 7.3 Chapter return. to decisions or plans influence travel their change to them cause to unlikely is it although farms, wind the see will who coast, the up north, larger. are turbines offshore the although farms, wind onshore for surveys these in assumed OffshoreGenerating Station

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.6.6.84 The second source of effect is the sensitivity of visitors attracted to watch the marine wildlife. This group will be sensitive to changes that reduce the opportunities to do this. Taken together the sensitivity of tourism in the study area to the operation of the three proposed wind farms is considered to be medium.

8.6.6.85 The magnitude of the effect depends on both the scale of tourism activity that would be subject to the effect and the size and duration of the effect itself. As described for the construction phase, the number of visitors staying within 50 km of the three proposed wind farms is small relative to the level of tourism within the study area.

8.6.6.86 Chapter 7.3 (Marine Mammals) concludes that the three proposed wind farms would have no long term negative effects on dolphins and therefore there would be no impact on the tourists’ opportunities to see them. The magnitude of the effect on leisure tourism is therefore considered to be low.

8.6.6.87 Combining the sensitivity and magnitude assessments gives a minor, negative significance and therefore not significant under the EIA.

Operation Effects on Business Tourism

8.6.6.88 During the operating phase there is less scope for increases in business tourism relative to the construction phase. Even so, the effect is likely to be positive rather than negative, given possible requirements for accommodation located close to the operations and maintenance facilities.

8.6.6.89 As for the construction phase, the sensitivity of business tourism within the study area will vary across the geography with service providers located closest to the activities more likely to benefit and others much less so. Overall sensitivity is considered to be medium.

8.6.6.90 The magnitude of the effect is likely to be positive but modest, depending on the use of local facilities. An estimate of negligible magnitude has been made, relative to overall tourism activity in the study area.

8.6.6.91 Combining the sensitivity and magnitude assessments results in negligible significance and is therefore not significant under the EIA.

Decommissioning

Decommissioning Effects on Leisure Tourism

8.6.6.92 The decommissioning of the three proposed wind farms is not considered to have any direct effects. The majority of work will be offshore or on commercial premises. The possible indirect effects are effects on the level of tourism as a result of changes in amenity through the modification of seascapes and / or as a result of any disturbance or injury to coastal or marine wildlife interests (e.g. for wildlife watching) during decommissioning.

8.6.6.93 The decommissioning work will have a similar effect to the construction phase and the conclusions on sensitivity, magnitude and significance are the same. This is considered to be of minor, negative significance and therefore not significant under the EIA.

8-210 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.6.100 8.6.6.99 8.6.6.98 8.6.6.97 8.6.6.96 8.6.6.95 8.6.6.94 Section3 Construction recreation Other Decommissioning

–

Fish Chapter coast west 2009) the on Gibson, stronger & Scotland Riddington, northern (Radford, in activity with angling, three sea site launch for popular the sites most 20 within top the in activity listed coasts Moray fishing and Caithness recreational any be to sites farm wind proposed considered not is There Area Study negligible the in a walking have considered therefore recreational in to of likely amount provided therefore the and on is term effect short receptors are effects visual the construction and landscape seascape, duration its and effect visual low be to less were walkers activities, tourist survey the in average the than farms wind to opposed various in engaged those of that, found University effects Caledonian Glasgow the walking, to relation In therefore is significance its and temporary be would for effect any conditions and sea on kayaking or effect surfing any have to unlikely is activity construction farm wind in shoreline the 1.75 and turbines effect the of scale location the by determined is affected people of number effect the of magnitude The changes. these effe visual significant a had or waves the of quality the affected work construction the if occur would surfing on effect The Navigation) and ( in discussed fully is T gives EIA. under the significant assessments magnitude made been and has negligible of estimate an medium and be modest to considered is area study the phase, construction the in as However, well may facilities local for requirement the and time. that in change adopted be will that methods 25 place take would this that given unknown relatively increa for potential the phase decommissioning the During OffshoreGenerating Station Commercial his includes the effects on surfing, sea kayaking and walking and kayaking sea surfing, on effects the includes his Chapter eries) Effects Effects

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- For For 8.1 211

CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Operation Effects on Other Recreation

8.6.6.101 As for the Construction phase, the effect on surfing would occur if the operation affected the quality of the waves or had a significant visual effect and where those participating in recreational activities were sensitive to these changes. As described above there is no evidence that in operation the three proposed wind farms will significantly affect the wave quality at the shoreline and the magnitude of the effect and its significance is therefore negligible.

8.6.6.102 Some significant views of the three proposed wind farm sites are predicted from the Caithness coast. Views were also assessed from the Aberdeenshire and Moray coasts, but at a minimum of 42 km from the site, these are not assessed to be significant. A full assessment of the effects of the three proposed wind farm sites on seascape, landscape and visual receptors is provided in Chapter 8.4.

8.6.6.103 Walkers on the coast will be sensitive to changes in views during the operation of the three proposed wind farms and this is considered to be medium. The magnitude of the effect will be low given the number of routes and people affected. Overall, the effect on the levels of recreational walking during operation is of minor, negative significance.

8.6.6.104 As per construction, effects on salmon and sea trout fisheries from operation of the three proposed wind farms will occur indirectly if the ecology of the species is negatively affected. This is fully discussed in Chapter 7.2 (Fish and Shellfish Ecology) and Chapter 8.1 (Commercial Fisheries).

Decommissioning Effects on Other Recreation

8.6.6.105 The effects and significance will be the same as for construction.

Other social effects

8.6.6.106 Most of the other social effects are derived from effects on population and the economic and environmental conditions. These include; population, access to services and strength of communities. These are difficult to assess directly, although some elements can be inferred from other aspects of the analysis.

8.6.6.107 These social effects depend heavily on where the economic activity takes place, but there is considerable uncertainty around how much activity will be generated and where. Decisions have yet to be taken on the use of any port(s) in the study area, or the locations for assembly, construction and operation and maintenance activity. It will be of considerable importance to specific communities where these activities are undertaken.

8.6.6.108 The assessment can therefore only be general. The demand for labour and services has the potential to bring positive social changes, through generating income for the area. Income will also be generated indirectly through the supply of some services to contractors and also through the spending of wages and salaries within the local economy. This in turn helps maintain shops, bars, restaurants and other local services within the study area, contributing to quality of life.

8.6.6.109 The baseline estimates suggest that the population within the study area has increased and is expected to increase further over the next 20 years, with the fastest growth in Aberdeenshire. The three proposed wind farm developments are likely to contribute to this by providing employment and encouraging some residents to stay

8-212 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.7.4 8.6.7.3 8.6.7.2 8.6.7.1 8.6.6.112 8.6.6.111 8.6.6.110 Section3 Measures Enhancements 8.6.7

Proposed Monitoring andMitigation –

nry iiin Mrn Soln, I, n S i odr o eemn how determine to order in multi SE new and significant a aspirations HIE, create these deliver Scotland, can working Marine collaborative Division, with engage Energy to steps undertaken therefore has MORL lead should wind offshore of development. economic in national and for local opportunities development the that representatives aspirations and their expectations communities, local representativ with as well as Parliament, Scottish and UK the and authorities, local councils, work, community engagement Through enhancement. pos Maximising required. is mitigation no therefore and significance greater or moderate of effects negative EIA the of terms the under moderate of effects negative Only viable. remain services and businesses local other ensuring and communities their sustaining for benefit major a be would income additional and opportunities employment the of provision the on or place takes activity communities, where on depend will services, these public of lives the affect to workers enough significant new t so accommodating yards, to fabrication accustomed the as well as Dounreay, and airbases the at work to area the to moved have residents new many past the In ( c the chain” supply Skills and wind Employment for Commission offshore the in skills and employment contractors farm wind the for available were lab of pool a create also could Kinloss RAF of jobs status of change the and Dounreay right the if Highlands potential the the with to return would skills who relevant with people are there that HIE from understand We combined sector, that in wa and on demand growth but impact to likely is decommissioning as well as expansion further around employment industry, gas and Area skills of pipeline future a ensure to children school with promote sector to the important be also will it opportunities, term long the and projects these achieved be will projects wor of lines offshore other from transfers market, new labour the to employees the new of mixture a of through demand additional the Meeting slightly. fall to expected was which in population, the residents age working area the to others bringing and oa Firth Moray Outer the in infrastructure generation wind offshore operate and deliver to required OffshoreGenerating Station e.g.

rough weather and limited facilities). and limited weather rough haracteristics to cope with long periods of time in difficult working conditions conditions working difficult in time of periods long with cope to haracteristics oil the with associated skills relevant the of use make to opportunities are there k and retraining, and other people moving to Scotland to moving people other and retraining, and k

. es of the UK and Scottish government, MORL is acutely aware of the the of aware acutely is MORL government, Scottish and UK the of es However, translating that market into local and national economic economic national and local into market that translating However,

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significance or above are deemed significant significant deemed are above or significance

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8 - our 213

CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

growth will be dependent upon the local supply chain being equipped, ready, and well placed to compete.

8.6.7.5 HIE and SE have a strong track record in delivering economic development, are the agencies best placed for supply chain development. In late 2011, MORL shared the preliminary findings of the socio-economic impact assessment with Marine Scotland and the Scottish Government, and as a result of ongoing engagement have developed a pilot project to allow enterprise staff to be embedded within the MORL project team, gaining access to various aspects of the procurement process (with due respect to confidentiality and fair competitive practices).

8.6.7.6 It is anticipated that this joint working will enable the enterprise agencies to undertake focussed development of the supply chain, based on Project specific information, thus allowing those agencies to efficiently maximise local economic opportunity, and move economic effect from base case toward high case.

8.6.7.7 This would have a positive effect on the estimates of retained income and employment within the Study Area and Scotland. These effects will have a direct effect on other social and economic conditions in the Study Area. Greater employment opportunity will generate more income locally and, in turn help to support population, local businesses and the provision of services in some communities.

8.6.8 Secondary Assessment: Individual Wind Farm Sites

8.6.8.1 There has been no further secondary assessment undertaken as there are no differences in / effect significance between the sites.

8.6.8.2 The economic effects generated by the expenditure on the construction, operation and decommissioning of the wind farms does not depend on the sites themselves, but on their scale and resources required to develop them. At this stage there is no clear difference between the plans for the sites and therefore the expenditure allocated for the full development would simply be divided across the three proposed sites.

8.6.8.3 In relation to the tourism and recreation elements of this chapter, the effect of the sites would vary depending on their visibility onshore. Chapter 8.4 (Seascape, Landscape and Visual Receptors) presents detailed assessments for the three proposed wind farms as summarised below:  MacColl has less effect on landscape and visual receptors in Caithness as it is located further offshore – 29 km at closest point, but often considerably further. MacColl does not have significant effects on landscape and visual receptors in Caithness due to its greater distance offshore and lower magnitude of change;  Telford and Stevenson have significant effects on the closest visual receptors in Caithness (as assessed for all three proposed wind farm sites in the primary assessment). Telford and Stevenson have a similar effect, being a similar distance offshore and horizontal spread on the skyline;  Telford and Stevenson have less effect on landscape and visual receptors in Moray / Aberdeenshire, being located further offshore than MacColl (over 49 km from the closest point); and  MacColl has relatively more effect on landscape and visual receptors in Moray / Aberdeenshire, but is still assessed as having a low magnitude of change to the baseline conditions and assessed as not significant (as assessed for all three proposed wind farms sites in the primary assessment).

8-214 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.6.8.5 8.6.8.4 Section3 experience tourist and numbers tourism on farms of wind impact University Tourism. of Business Needs Consultants Resource Tourism Government Scottish South and Scottish offshore to relation in seascape Scottish Commissioned Heritage Natural Scottish the of capacity and sensitivity the of K Scott, Limited. Farm Wind Offshore RPS and Partners & Tym Roger Gibson, D., tourism on Scottish farms of wind impacts McArthur, T., Harrison, G., Riddington, UK Renewable UK the in Parks Wind of Offshore Maintenance Economics Oxford Statistics National forOffice Vol Review, Market &Labour Economic Statistics National for Office Nordman, E Interests. and Users Marine Other to Benefits and Costs Waters: territorial Scottish in Energy Scotland Marine University. Carolina Demand Recreation C Landry, IPA Treasury HM on Tourism. Group Parliamentary Party BWEA 8.6.9

/

Scottish renewables renewables Scottish . .

References . (2006) –

E., Anderson, C Anderson, E., Despite the small differences between sites highlighted above, no significant significant no above, highlighted sites between differences foreac arepredicted assessments the in changes small the Despite draw above. that asdescribed differences similar alsoshow will receptors on farm wind conclu each upon from effects recreation and tourism The OffshoreGenerating Station f h Ws o England of West the of . . . . Aln T, hry T, Wteed J Withehead, & T., Cherry, T., Allen, E., (2011) (2003) . . . The impact of wind farms on the tourist industry in the UK prepared for the All the for prepared UK the in industry tourist the on farms wind of impact The . . (2011) ern Energy Energy ern (2011)

. . .

. West Michigan Wind Assessment. Wind Michigan West The Green Book. Green The . sions based on the visibility of the wind farms (leisure tourism, walking) tourism, (leisure farms wind the of visibility the on based sions (2010) . (2010) ., Dunsford, H., Benson, J Benson, H., Dunsford, ., Department of Economics & Center for Sustainable Tourism, East East Tourism, Sustainable for Center & Economics of Department Offshore Wind Forecasts of future costs and benefits. and costs of future Forecasts Wind Offshore . .

Economic Economic Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure . (2010)

. . . (2005) . . .

. . (2010) Input Output Output Input (2007) Analysis

(2010) Impact AssessmentImpact . . . (2011) . Scottish Offshore Win Offshore Scottish . . (2004) UK input . Assessment of the Short Term Options for Offshore Wind Wind Offshore for Options Term Short the of Assessment Labour pro Labour

. .

Tourism Impact of the Artfield Fell Wind Farm. Artfield Wind Fell of the Impact Tourism

. Caithness and Sutherland Serviced Accommodation Accommodation Serviced Sutherland and Caithness f h Epomn Efcs f h Oeain and Operation the of Effects Employment the of Report . . 4, No 5 . No 5 4, . Glasgow Caledonian University. Caledonian Glasgow MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited Socio Table Fullabrook Wind Farm Proposal Evidence of the the of Evidence Proposal Farm Wind Fullabrook - output output .

A No.103 (ROAME (ROAME No.103 . ductivity measures from the ABI: 1998 to 2007 2007 to ABI:1998 the from measures ductivity -

cnmc mat assessment impact Economic Report F., & MacFarlane, R MacFarlane, & F., s 2007 . s 2007 . & ilr K Millar, & H., table .

d: Creating an Industry. an Creating d:

(2011) for Vestas Offshore. for Vestas

s. h wind farm. wind h

. No. No. . Wind Turbines and Coastal Coastal and Turbines Wind North Devon Wind Power. Wind Devon North . F03A). . . (2008)

(2005) -

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. . The economic economic The An assessment assessment An

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8 - 215

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CHAPTER 8.6 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

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8.7.1.5 8.7.1.4 8.7.1.3 8.7.1.2 8.7.1.1 Section Unexploded Ordnance andHealth Structures Effectson ExerciseAreas Effectson Effectson Construction ofType Effect Table 8.7.1 8.7

8.7 Other Human Activities Human Other

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Impact Assessment Summary

– - OilOperations MilitaryPractice OtherOffshore Wind Farms

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8

- 217

. .

CHAPTER 8.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited – Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

Type of Effect Pre–Mitigation Effect Mitigation Post–Mitigation Effect

Operation

Effects on Other Offshore Wind Farms Not significant None Not significant

Effects on Military Practice and Not significant None Not significant Exercise Areas

Ongoing consultation Effects on Oil Operations and Moderate adverse and co–ordination with Moderate adverse Structures operators

Health and Safety Risk due to Not significant None Not significant Unexploded Ordnance

8.7.2 Introduction

8.7.2.1 The construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the three proposed offshore wind farms have the potential to disrupt or disturb other human activities, or damage existing infrastructure within and adjacent to the proposed wind farm sites. This chapter specifically assesses likely effects upon the following:  Other offshore wind farm projects;  Military practice and exercise areas (PEXA);  Oil and gas activity;  Subsea cables and pipelines; and  Unexploded ordnance (UXO).

8.7.2.2 It is judged that the MORL Project will not result in any significant effects upon marine dredging and disposal activities and sites, or telecommunications systems, and so potential effects upon these receptors are not considered any further in the impact assessment that follows. Justification for not taking these forward is provided in Chapter 5.8 (Other Human Activities) of the Environmental Statement (ES). Those projects, activities and infrastructure which are considered in impact assessment are described in Chapter 5.8 (Other Human Activities).

8.7.2.3 Note that likely effects upon the receptors listed below are discussed in detail in separate chapters:  Chapters 8.1 and 11.1 (Commercial Fisheries);  Chapters 8.2 and 11.2 (Shipping and Navigation);  Chapter 8.3 (Military and Civil Aviation); and  Chapters 8.6 and 11.6 (Socio–Economics, Recreation and Tourism).

8.7.3 Rochdale Envelope Parameters Considered in the Assessment

8.7.3.1 For the purpose of the other human activities impact assessment, a worst realistic case scenario has been defined and is presented in Table 8.7-2 below. In summary it assumes a maximum Project footprint, a maximum number of wind farm structures, and a maximum construction window.

8.7.3.2 The scenario defined below is also applied to the assessment of cumulative effects (see Chapter 15.8: Other Human Activities).

8-218 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.7.4.2 8.7.4.1 Section 8.7.4 HumanActivities Disrup Disturbance Damage Operation UXO Associated Risk Healthand HumanActivities Disruption Disturbance Damage Construction &Decommissioning PotentialEffect Table

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8.7

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8 - 219

CHAPTER 8.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited – Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

8.7.4.3 In determining the magnitude of any given effect, the following have been considered:  Spatial extent of the effect;  Duration of the effect; and  Frequency of the effect.

8.7.4.4 Sensitivity is also defined where appropriate, taking into consideration the:  Vulnerability of the receptor;  Recoverability of the receptor; and  Value / importance of the receptor.

8.7.4.5 The significance of an effect has been assessed by combining the evaluations of the magnitude of a potential effect and the sensitivity of the receptor affected, as indicated in Table 8.7-3 below.

Table 8.7-3 Significance of Effect Matrix

Sensitivity of Receptor

Low Medium High

Low Not significant Minor Minor / moderate

Medium Minor / moderate Moderate Moderate / major Effect

Magnitude of of Magnitude High Moderate Moderate / major Major

8.7.4.6 Definitions of significance were rated ‘not significant’ where no effect is foreseen or where the effect will be indistinguishable from background variation, to ‘major significance’ where interaction between the MORL Project and other human activities is likely to result in a measurable effect that exceeds acceptable limits or standards. The combination receptor sensitivity and impact magnitude has been used to define the level of significance of an impact, as defined in Chapter 1.3 (Environmental Impact Assessment).

8.7.4.7 MORL has developed a Preliminary Decommissioning Programme (Technical Appendix 1.3 E) but will not finalise its approach to decommissioning until consent is awarded and the details of Project construction are known. At the time of ES preparation it is considered likely that decommissioning will involve the removal of structures above the seabed, whilst subsea cabling is likely to be left in situ at the end of the Project’s lifetime. Decommissioning activities are likely to have effects on other human activities but for the purposes of this Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) they are regarded as being comparable to those that occur as a result of construction activities. As a result, the effects of construction and decommissioning activities on other human activities are considered together.

8-220 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.7.5.5 8.7.5.4 8.7.5.3 8.7.5.2 8.7.5.1 Section on Effects on Effects on Effects Construction 8.7.5

3

Primary Impact Assessment: Three –

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CHAPTER 8.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited – Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

negligible magnitude (exclusion would be temporary), the likely effect is deemed to be of minor adverse significance.

8.7.5.6 Effects associated with vessel access to existing oil and gas infrastructure are addressed in Chapter 11.2 (Shipping and Navigation) and effects upon helicopter access are detailed in Chapter 11.3 (Military and Civil Aviation).

Damage to Subsea Cables

8.7.5.7 The proposed wind farm sites do not overlap with any existing or proposed subsea cables and as such no effect is predicted. The proposed MORL export cable will need to cross subsea cables in order to make landfall; likely effects arising from the export cable are discussed in Chapter 11.8 (Other Human Activities).

Health and Safety Risk due to Unexploded Ordnance

8.7.5.8 There is potential for UXO associated with historic and current military activity to be encountered on the seabed in the area of the wind farms. During construction, activities which will have contact with the seabed, either directly (e.g. jack–up vessel) or via the placement of material (e.g. foundations or scour protection), run the risk of disturbing UXO with potentially damaging and dangerous effects to both employees and equipment. As human life is at risk, receptor sensitivity is considered to be high. Effect magnitude is considered to be medium and the effect is of potentially major adverse significance.

Operation

Effects on Other Offshore Wind Farms

8.7.5.9 Activity associated with the operation of the three proposed wind farm sites will be significantly reduced relative to the construction / decommissioning phases. Monitoring and maintenance vessels will require access, with any exceptional maintenance activity likely to have a temporary 500 m exclusion zone imposed around the relevant structure. With a pre–determined buffer between the MORL and BOWL of at least 600 m, it is theoretically possible for there to be an overlap between a temporary exclusion zone close to the proposed MORL boundary with one close to the adjacent BOWL boundary, and vice versa. The potential for two such maintenance events occurring concurrently is considered extremely unlikely and in light of established and ongoing coordination of works by MORL and BOWL, no significant effect is predicted.

Effects on Military Practice and Exercise Areas

8.7.5.10 As detailed with the ‘construction / decommissioning’ effects text, although two of the proposed wind farm sites overlap with a military PEXA, no concerns have been raised by the MoD during consultation with MORL. No significant effect is anticipated.

Effects on Oil Operations and Structures

8.7.5.11 As detailed above, the intentions of current oil and gas block licence holders are currently unknown. Should licence holders seek to commence block exploration once the wind farms are operational, it is expected that activities such as seismic survey will be spatially restricted by the presence of turbines with safety zones and inter–array cabling. With a medium sensitivity and magnitude, the potential effect is deemed to be of moderate adverse significance.

8-222 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.7.5.18 8.7.5.17 8.7.5.16 8.7.5.15 8.7.5.14 8.7.5.13 8.7.5.12 8.7.5.19 Section Savings Emissions and AirQuality Generation, Energy and Health to Damage 3

–

opnn sts eed o te ye f ul t elcs Te oeta CO potential The replaces. it fuel 500 individual the of and EDA the type of scenarios both for the savings emissions on depends sites component used fuel of type CO of amount The respectively. consumption 30 and 280,000 approximately 500 individual the by generated and Scottish domestic the to equivalent elect be will B and A potential Scenario both the by that generated indicate electricity calculations these context, in estimates these place To 4,045,806 estimated an generate 25 1,348,602 at estimated is farm wind scenarios both Under 30.79 of capacity) full th at for byDECC reported factors upon capacity operated had it if output potential its and time factor capacity numb build farm 1,500 wind achieve two the build considered 2.2 Calculations Chapter in presented scenarios below. presented are MacColl and Stevenson Telford, proposed the from produced Calculations surveys construction pre during identified been previously have will UXO as limited be to expected is risk UXO of risk inter a foundations, of activities is repair and there such, sites farm as wind and, MORL the objects into conditions, moving of movement seabed the to the action, contribute to also contribute tidal all weather, including bad seabed the and on objects of sea, movement action wave the waves, sand of of movement processes natural The in discussed are cable export the of effects likely landfall; make to order in cables subsea cross to need will cable such as and cables a with overlap not do sites farm wind proposed The in detailed are access exist to access in addressed vessel with associated Effects er (i.e. year CO potential in result to estimated is EDA The calculated. been OffshoreGenerating Station Impact

Safety Ris Safety er ieie f ah id am I total In farm. wind each of lifetime year Subsea Cables Subsea - iiy ead f prxmtl 8900 n 9600 oshls bsd on (based households 926,000 and 839,000 approximately of demand ricity out of the three the of out er of turbines to achieve 1,500 achieve to turbines of er

3. 68 k due to to due k relating to the potential energy generated and CO and generated energy potential the to relating

Chapter MtCO

K oetc consumption domestic UK W capacity MW

(i.e. Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

. 2 .

2

the ratio of the actual output of a power plant over a period of of period a over plant power a of output actual the of ratio the Unexploded Ordnance Unexploded ad 1,618,322 and ) o infcn effect significant no , emissions produced during energy production varies with the the with varies production energy during produced emissions

Therefore, Therefore,

T proposed the potential electricity generated by each proposed 500 proposed each by generated electricity potential the eeoe te oeta CO potential the herefore, Chapter 11.2 (Shipping and Navigation) and effects upon helicopter helicopter upon effects and Navigation) and (Shipping 11.2

Assessment Chapter and Scenario B involves involves B Scenario and 9,000 households based on Scottish and UK domestic domestic UK and Scottish on based households 9,000

11.3 (Military and Civil Aviation). Civil and 11.3(Military

no significant effect significant no wind farms using the greatest number of turbin of number greatest the using farms wind

MWh MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

W ie wl b euvln t te ead of demand the to equivalent be will sites MW

MWh MW. MW.

Poet Description) (Project . . tCO

11.8 (Other Human Human (Other 11.8 . / Human

year, or 101,145 year, – This will have implications for maintenance maintenance for implications have will This

2

array ca array s predicted is

/

Calculations are based upon an average an upon based are Calculations

e ya (i.e. year per respectively er o 33,715 or year,

2

emissions savings of 3,677,638 of savings emissions

, e years 2006 to 2010. 2006to e years activities such as seabed trawling will will trawling seabed as such activities

the three proposed wind wind proposed three the ing oil and gas infrastructure are are infrastructure gas and oil ing bles and scour protection but the the but protection scour and bles 2

is predicted. is ny existing or proposed subsea proposed or existing ny aig fo te D ad its and EDA the from savings . the the . h ptnil electricity potential The ).

The proposed MORL export export MORL proposed The GWh over 25 over GWh

1.6 . Scenario A involves the the involves A Scenario . Activities).

GWh over the predicted predicted the over GWh build

MtCO –

EnvironmentalStatement

- o u uig h least the using out 2 ffshore ffshore

2 emissions savings savings emissions

oe ca and coal over )

years.

MW sites has has sites MW w

%, based based %, farms will will farms ind

tCO

f es to es arms 2

8 - MW per per - out 223 – 2

CHAPTER 8.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited – Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

gas fired electricity generation respectively. Electricity production from the individual 500 MW sites will result in potential savings of 1,225,879 tCO2 per year and 539,441 tCO2 per year over coal and gas fired electricity generations respectively.

8.7.5.20 Assuming that the EDA is likely to be generating electricity for 25 years, and generation is calculated with a 30.79 % capacity factor, this could result in CO2 emission savings of 91,940,950 tCO2 (i.e. 91.94 MtCO2) and 40,458,050 tCO2 (i.e. 40.46 MtCO2) over coal-fired and gas-fired mix electricity generation respectively overall.

8.7.5.21 The Project will act as a major contributor to the reduction in the amount of C02 released into the atmosphere and hence help meet targets forming part of Scotland’s commitments on climate change action to reduce greenhouse gases. The operational phase of the Project has the potential to also displace gases other than CO2, such as those associated with acid rain (Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx)).

8.7.6 Proposed Monitoring and Mitigation

Construction / Decommissioning

8.7.6.1 There are a number of mitigation measures that will be implemented to reduce the risk of any effects on other human activities occurring; these are as follows:  To ensure the safety of all MORL assets, offshore wind farm infrastructure will not be sited within 50 m of existing abandoned oil well heads.  MORL will continue to engage with current oil and gas block licence holders in order to firstly understand their exploration plans, and secondly to limit any conflicts of interest and achieve co–existence where possible. MORL is actively engaged in ongoing discussions at industry level with RenewableUK, Oil and Gas UK, and the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), which are aiming to develop a protocol by which any conflicts of interest between the offshore wind, oil and gas industries may be amicably resolved.  Although the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 do not specifically require a dedicated UXO assessment, there is an obligation on those responsible for intrusive works to ensure that a comprehensive threat assessment is undertaken and risk mitigation measures are implemented with regard to all hazards on site. MORL will ensure that all practicable mitigation measures to minimise the risk of health and safety incidents associated with UXO are fully developed prior to construction. A UXO site survey will be undertaken prior to construction and site safety instructions will be prepared in the event that an item of UXO is located. All contractors’ staff will be given munitions awareness briefings prior to and during the construction work. Should suspected items of UXO be discovered, their location will be accurately mapped and recorded for future assessment and possible removal / disposal or remediation in situ by a specialist contractor. The MoD and emergency services will also be consulted as appropriate.

Operation

8.7.6.2 As per mitigation during construction and decommissioning phases, MORL will continue to engage with oil and gas operators to achieve co–existence where possible.

8-224 Section 3 – Offshore Generating Station Impact Assessment 8.7.8.1 8.7.7.1 Section 8.7.8 Unexploded Ordnance andHealth Structures Effectson ExerciseAreas Effectson Farms Effectson Operation Unexploded Ordnance andHealth Structures Effectson ExerciseA Effectson farms Effectson otheroffshore wind Construction ofType Effect Table 8.7.7

8.7

3

Residual Effe Secondary Assessment:Individual Sites

– -

OilOperations MilitaryPractice OtherOffshore Wind OilOperations MilitaryP reas

nnw dsie nta cnutto) ih hc t dfeetae h Telford, the differentiate holders to licence which block undertaken. has been assessment secondary gas with and consultation) s inform oil therefore and farms wind MacColl and Stevenson initial of intentions despite and unknown survey, by confirmed yet ( information insufficient all and of proposed three the of Each 4 in shown is assessment impact primary the of Asummary OffshoreGenerating Station Impact Safety Risk Safety Risk

/

Decommissioning Primary Impact AssessmentPrimary Summary racticeand overlap dueto dueto

and and cts and

to some extent with licensed oil and gas blocks gas and oil licensed with extent some to –

Primary Assessment Telford,Stevenson and OffshoreMacColl Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure Pre Moderate adverse Major adverse Not significantNot significantNot significantNot Minoradverse significantNot significantNot – Mitigation Effect i.e.

presence Assessment fshore wind farm sites are subject to potential UXO risk, risk, UXO potential to subject are sites farm wind fshore MorayOffshore RenewablesLimited

/

location of UXO and therefore UXO threat not threat UXO therefore and UXO of location Pre

co co

Ongoingconsultation and Ongoingconsultation and

– – – ordination operators with ordination operators with constructio UXO safety UXO plan

Mitigation None None None None None n UXOsurvey;

Table

econdary assessment econdary

8.7 –

. . EnvironmentalStatement - Post 4 At present there is there present At Moderate adverse

below. Not significantNot significantNot Minoradverse significantNot significantNot Not significantNot significantNot – Mitigation Effect

. .

8 - No

225

CHAPTER 8.7 Moray Offshore Renewables Limited - Environmental Statement Telford, Stevenson and MacColl Offshore Wind Farms and Transmission Infrastructure

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