Landscape & Visual Assessment

Aerohub Business Park Newquay Cornwall AirportAerohub Enterprise Zone @ Newquay Cornwall Airport -

SECTION 6

LANDSCAPE & VISUAL ASSESSMENT

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6 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ASSESSMENT

6.1 Introduction

6.1.1 The Landscape and Visual Baseline Assessment (LVIA) assesses the significance of effect by considering the sensitivity of the landscape or visual receptor, against the magnitude of change that would occur in the landscape or views as a result of the development. The assessment establishes the following;

A clear understanding of the site and its wider landscape setting, identifying the landscape and historic landscape character, value and sensitivity to the proposed development;

An assessment of the character of views from within the study area from visual receptors including residential properties and amenity landscapes, and their sensitivities;

The nature of the development proposals and mitigation measures; and

The potential direct and indirect effects of the proposal on the landscape resource (i.e. landscape elements and character) and on visual receptors.

6.1.2 The assessment includes a review of all relevant documents and landscape planning policy and guidance, field survey to assess baseline landscape character and views, development of generic and site specific mitigation and separate assessment of the predicted significance of effects on landscape resource/ character and visual amenity.

6.1.3 The area of the proposed Aerohub lies to the immediate south of the existing NQY; formerly RAF St Mawgan (refer to Illustrative Masterplan).

6.2 Planning Context

6.2.1 This section summarises the principal policies that are directly relevant to the LVIA. Refer to Figure 2.4 Landscape Planning Designations and Heritage Features.

6.2.2 The principal documents that comprise relevant landscape policies include the general protection of the landscape and historic landscape character and avoidance of adverse visual effects. These are:

CSP 2004

RLP saved policies 2007; and

Design Statement for Cornwall 2002.

Cornwall Structure Plan 2004

6.2.3 Relevant policies include:

Policy 2: Character Areas, Design & Environmental Protection requires planning proposals to have regard to the quality, character, diversity and local distinctiveness of the natural and built environment and respect local character.

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Restormel Borough Council Local Plan saved policies 2007

6.2.4 Relevant policies include:

Policy 14: Areas of Great Landscape Value (ALVA) - Relevant to the Watergate and Lanherne AGLV, approx 1.5km to the north east of the site, requires planning proposals to have regard for the landscape, features and characteristics of the ALVA.

Policy 15: Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) - Relevant to a number of SSSIs that lie within the study area, valued for their geological or moorland characteristics.

Policy 18: Protection of the Wider Countryside – Promotes protection and enhancement of landscape features to encourage conserving wildlife and landscape value.

Policy 20: New Habitats – States that proposals for habitat creation will be promoted and supported where there is no conflict with other policies for the countryside.

Policy 21: Trees – stipulates the provisions for the protection of trees; protected or subject to conditions on planning permissions.

Policy 24: Areas of Great Historic Value – promotes the protection of features and characteristics of areas of AGLV.

Policy 33: Listed Buildings - Relevant to a number of listed buildings within the study area that requires planning proposals to have regard to the historic value, quality and setting of listed buildings within the landscape.

Policy 30: Local Historic Parks and Gardens – Proposals shall have regard to the conservation and setting of any local Historic Park and Garden.

Design Statement for Cornwall 2002

6.2.5 This document serves to promote good/ appropriate design stressing the importance of responding to the site context, physical, biological features and human elements.

6.2.6 Landscape Designations

6.2.7 Figure 2.4: Landscape Planning Designations and Heritage Features illustrates designated landscapes and key features within the study area. Information has been collected from the following sources;

Landscape and relevant heritage designations from Local Plans and internet sources including Magic, English Heritage, Natural England etc; and

Ordnance survey maps to identify long distance recreational routes, Public Rights of Way, National Cycle Network routes etc.

6.2.8 There are no landscape designations associated with the site.

6.2.9 Within the study area, there is an AGLV (Watergate and Lanherene) approximately 1.5 km and the South West Coastal Path, which runs approximately 3.5km to the west and follows the cliff line through a Site of Great Historic Importance

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6.2.10 The site is in close proximity to two locally designated Historic Parks and Gardens; Nanswhyden (0.5km to the south) and Carnanton (1km to the north), and also to two Listed Buildings, one immediately adjacent to the south west corner of the site EH Ref 172579 and one at Trevithick Downs EH Ref; 173004 approximately 0.75km to the east, both milestones. No changes to settings or views are anticipated.

6.2.11 There are a number of other Listed Buildings within the 4km study area, mainly to the north and north west of NQY over 1km from the site. No changes to views or settings are anticipated.

6.2.12 There are four Scheduled Monuments (SMs) within the study area, the nearest being west of Trebarber. No changes to views or settings are anticipated.

6.3 Methodology

6.3.1 The assessment methodology is based on current best practice and guidance from the following sources:

Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, published by the Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, 2002 (GLVIA); and

Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland (LCAG), published by Scottish Natural Heritage and Countryside Agency, 2002.

Spatial Scope

6.3.2 A study area of 4km radius from the centre of the proposed site was determined based on desk-top analysis and field work. The proposed study area is shown on Figure 2.1 Site Location and Study Area.

Temporal Scope

6.3.3 Landscape and visual impacts are assessed for the construction phase, the opening year for phase 1 of the Business Park (2014) and the assumed year for completion (2030).

Baseline Data Collection

6.3.4 The baseline conditions have been established based on desk-based study and field survey carried out in April 2012 to record and analyse the existing landscape characteristics to establish the quality and value of the landscape and its capacity to accept change. The visual envelope was based on site survey analysis and denotes the approximate areas from where the undeveloped site is visible and is shown on Figure 2.3

6.3.5 To establish an approximate indication of the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) of the proposed site, a computer generated a ZTV of the theoretical area of proposed development based on an average built height of 14m when viewed at 1.6 metres AOD, i.e. average eye level, was created (Figure 2.2 shows the ZTV). The ZTV has been created using Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 Digital Terrain Model (DTM) analysed using the Viewshed tool in the 3D Analyst extension of ESRI ArcGIS. It should be noted that the ZTV is approximate only and does not take account of the screening

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effect of vegetation, buildings or structures; in some areas there are no views at all, there may also be views from outside the ZTV from localised areas of high ground.

6.3.6 Baseline information has been collected from the following sources:

Field Survey (April 2012); Landscape and relevant heritage designations from Local Plans and internet sources including Magic; Published landscape character assessments at national and regional scale; Ordnance survey maps to identify public rights of way as well as landform, drainage, field pattern, settlement and transport patterns; and Aerial photographs (where available).

Photomontages

6.3.7 A total of seven photomontages from viewpoint locations, chosen as representative of key views, were selected in consultation with CC’s Landscape Service. Refer to Photomontage Sheets PMon 1 -7.

6.3.8 Built form and materials have yet to be determined and will be subject to Design Codes, refer to the Design and Access Statement. For the purposes of the EIA, the photomontages aim to provide indicative visualisations of anticipated height and built mass, when viewed from specific viewpoints at operational Year 1..

6.4 Baseline Conditions

6.4.1 Field and desk-based studies were carried out to record and analyse the existing landscape characteristics to establish the quality and value of the landscape and its capacity to accept change. Key areas of visibility of the proposed development site were also identified and categorised according to their sensitivity. Refer to Landscape and Visual Baseline Figures 2.1 and 2.3 – 2.6, including Baseline Viewpoints Figure 2.7 (1 of 4).

6.4.2 An Arboricultural Survey of the site, carried out in September 2012 is also included in Appendix 6.2.

Landform and Drainage

6.4.3 The Aerohub Business Park site is located immediately south of the plateaux of land that serves NQY (refer to Figure 2.1 Site Location and Study Area).

6.4.4 The proposed site topography displays some upper valley plateaux characteristics in its central and southern parts lying at approximately 110m AOD at its highest point in the east, before gently sloping north and north west towards a shallow sided tributary valley forming the site’s northern boundary at approximately 80m AOD.

6.4.5 The southern boundary is bounded by the A3059 which follows a ridge crest between two, east-west parallel valleys, the southern valley being much steeper and deeper at approximately 30m AOD and containing the Porth Reservoir.

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Land Use and Vegetation

6.4.6 The traditional and most predominant land use in terms of area coverage is agriculture, mainly pasture land covering the steep hill and valley sides. Fields are generally small and irregularly shaped and divided by Cornish hedges containing few trees. The road verges and hedge banks contain numerous wild flowers and herbs.

6.4.7 The narrow tributary valleys are typically wooded with oak, hazel and willow or small conifer plantations that also serve as wind breaks.

6.4.8 Carnanton Woods, located approximately 0.5km north east of the site, are part of the Carnanton House estate (Local Historic Park and Garden). The Woods contain many conifer and ornamental trees and shrubs, as well as native broadleaved varieties which cover large areas within the Vale of Mawgan or Lanherne.

6.4.9 Part of the valley bottom at St Mawgan, approximately 2.5km north of the site, has been planted as a Japanese Garden, introducing exotic and ornamental species into the local landscape.

6.4.10 Within the 4km study area, NQY represents a major land user in the area. The buildings of the former RAF St Mawgan, and more recent additions associated with the development of NQY, are dominant landmark features within the surrounding landscape.

6.4.11 Other dominant land uses that lie on the fringes of, or just beyond, the study area, but are visually prominent over large distances, are windfarms, particularly to the north on Denzell Downs and St Eval and the china clay quarry waste heaps in the south east around St Dennis.

6.4.12 Caravan sites and campsites are numerous within the study area; two lying within 1km of the site. The Treloy Golf Course lies 1.5km to the west of the site. Refer to Socio-Economic Chapter 12 for related baseline topics.

6.4.13 There are few major roads in the area. The A3059 and A392 serve Newquay from the A39 in the east, and follow the plateaux top topography, making traffic movements visible at distance.

6.4.14 There are no public footpaths within the site and relatively few within the study area. The South West Coastal Path lies 3>km to the west of the site.

Settlement

6.4.15 Newquay is the largest settlement in the study area and has expanded inland from the traditional coastal resort, hotels and shopping areas with housing estates typical of the eastern fringes of the town. Others include St Columb Minor 2.8km to the west (on the outskirts of Newquay) and St Columb Major 2km to the east. The small hamlet of Trebarber lies 0.5km to the south. Refer to Socio-Economic Chapter 8 for related baseline topics.

6.4.16 With the exception of the larger main towns, settlements are more typically small, dispersed villages, hamlets or single farmsteads that nestle in the tributary valleys; served by narrow lanes flanked by high banked hedgerows. Properties in the wider rural areas are typically stone built with slate roofs. Many have been restored or converted to holiday accommodation.

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6.4.17 There are several Listed Buildings within the study area (refer to Figure 2.4 Landscape Planning Designations and Heritage Features).The following lie within 1km of the site:

Milestone (C19) Grade II Milestone (C19) Grade II Carnanton House Grade II* Kennels Carnanton House Grade II Pair of Gate Piers to Carnanton House Grade II Stables Carnanton House Grade II 6.4.18 No changes to settings or views of listed buildings are anticipated.

Baseline Landscape and Historic Landscape Character

6.4.19 The baseline description represents the existing situation both within the development site and the locality. Refer to Figure 2.4 Landscape Planning Designations and Heritage Features and Figure 2.5 Landscape Character Areas.

6.4.20 The landscape character of the study area is described using the following published assessments and planning guidance:

Countryside Character Volume 8: South West, published by Countryside Commission, 1998; Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Landscape Character Study, May 2007; Cornwall Landscape Character best practice guide, CC, June 2011. 6.4.21 Figure 2.5 Landscape Character Areas, shows the location of the regional and local landscape character areas occurring within the study area.

National Landscape Character

6.4.22 The study area lies within the Countryside Agency National Character Assessment Volume 8: South West within Joint Character Area 152 ‘Cornish Killas’, described as an undulating plateau landscape, cut by a complex pattern of valleys leading to a richly varied coastline. In the north, the coast is characterised by steep, high rugged cliffs. Inland, the plateau is a landscape of mixed farming, divided up by Cornish hedges. The key features in relation to the development site are:

Numerous broadleaved wooded valleys, varying greatly in size. Northern valleys generally narrow and densely wooded. Rugged coastal scenery. Exposed and windswept cliffs in the north with limited access to the sea. Outstanding historic parks. Generally, a dispersed settlement pattern of hamlets and farmsteads. Variable field pattern dominated by stone built Cornish hedges.

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Regional Landscape Character

6.4.23 The development site lies within the Newquay and Perranporth Coast Landscape Character Area (LCA CA15) as identified in the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Landscape Character Study (May 2007).

6.4.24 This character area hugs the coast, running from Perranporth to Newquay and is described as “an exposed northwest facing coastline with numerous surfing beaches and small sandy coves, backed by dramatic cliffs in the east and extensive coastal sand dunes in the west. Inland there are sheltered valleys with narrow woodlands and small areas of wetland along small streams which run to the coast and pastoral and arable land enclosed by Cornish hedges. The maritime cliff remains largely undeveloped and includes small areas of heath or rough ground. The area attracts large numbers of tourists and surfers and this has lead to a proliferation of holiday accommodation especially in association with the holiday resort of Newquay and settlements such as Perranporth. Caravan and campsites and associated roadside development have major impact on the landscape character especially during the summer months. Newquay and RAF St Mawgan lie in the north on the coastal plateau”.

6.4.25 The key characteristics of LCA CA15 which include the site include:

Gently undulating north west facing coastal shelf dissected by small streams within narrow valleys to the sea; Open and exposed landscape with little tree cover; Small to medium scale field pattern; Fields to the west are a medieval configuration, while the proposed site and fields to the east are of 20th century layout; 6.4.26 Areas to the east of the site are included in the Newlyn Downs Landscape Character Area (LCA CA 14), characterised by;

Open, gently undulating plateaux with shallow valleys, incised with minor river valleys. In the north these reach the coast; Medium to large broadly rectilinear fields of pasture or arable; Low Cornish hedges and hedgerows. 6.4.27 Within the character area unit description, the historic landscape character of the proposed site is described as Post Medieval Farmland. This distinction is based on the visible changes and differences to the shape and character of existing field compartments within the site compared to the smaller more linear ‘strip’ field compartments typical of to Medieval Farmland, present in the valleys to the west and south of the site Refer to Figure 2.6 Historic Landscape Characterisation.

Local Landscape Character (including the Site)

6.4.28 The local landscape features a highly undulating landform of ridge and valley, typical of this part of the coast. While hedgerows have few trees, large mixed and coniferous plantations are a common feature on steep valley slopes and within local estates such as Carnanton; serving as wind breaks or for commercial purposes.

6.4.29 The immediate landscape has a predominantly rural character, consisting of small arable and pasture fields bounded by Cornish hedges. It also supports other dominant

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land uses that influence the character of the landscape; namely the NQY runway and infrastructure, the former RAF St Mawgan base, several local campsites and the A3059 traffic corridor into Newquay which follows the ridgeline south of the site.

6.4.30 Proximity to these features has an urbanising influence on the landscape and reduces tranquillity levels.

6.4.31 The proposed development site comprises a number of semi-improved grassland fields, used as grazing with some arable and bounded by treeless Cornish hedges and hedgerows. The site is bordered to the north by a small wooded valley that divides the site from the NQY. To the south, the site is bounded by the A3059, to the west, by further arable farmland and to the east by land associated with residential property Trevithick Downs, a recently built Air Ambulance centre and areas of rough grassland situated around the southern ends of the NQY runway.

6.4.32 The nearest residential settlement is the small hamlet of Trebarber to the south west. The closest residence is situated off the A3059, approximately 350m to the west of the site

6.4.33 The development lies approximately 1.5km north east of the AGLV (Watergate and Lanherne)

6.4.34 The development site lies partly on a ridgeline along its southern boundaries and features a wedge shaped area of north, north west sloping land, bounded to the south by the A3059 and north by a shallow wooded valley with wetland areas either side of the Porth Stream, including oak, hazel, ash and willow. The NQY SAR has recently been built through the centre of the site, passing north, primarily in deep cutting through the site, from a wide entrance off the A3059. The access road contains wide visibility splays backed by new traditionally built Cornish hedges and new planting which will, in time, provide enclosure to the frontage. The quality of the site is considered to be of ordinary character and of medium value with medium sensitivity; having a distinguishable landscape structure, characteristic patterns of landform and land cover expressed by several good quality Cornish hedgerows but has some detracting features associated with the SAR.

6.4.35 The SAR is a dominant feature within the site and extends the urbanising influence of the airport into the site itself. However, the valley in the north has attractive tranquil qualities despite its proximity to the airport and recent bridging and culverting works carried out as part of the new NQY SAR. The woodland is of good quality and medium value of local importance and of high sensitivity.

6.4.36 There are few mature hedgerows along the boundary with the A3059, partly lost when the SAR was installed. While new Cornish hedges have been constructed behind visibility splays into the entrance, the southern boundary remains quite open in character from the south.

6.4.37 Northern parts of the site, sloping towards the wooded valley, have aspects of tranquillity and enclosure afforded by the wooded valley trees, narrow valley topography and tall Cornish hedges, which represent important landscape and wildlife features within the site.

The south western boundary is composed of a former farm track that runs south east and north west, ending in central position along the boundary. Recent changes to field compartments appear to have removed the northern section of track and hedgerow.

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The track is accessed via a farm gate off the A3059 and is bordered on both sides by tall overgrown hedgerows and hedgerow trees that provide enclosure.

Visual Baseline

6.4.38 The ZTV was based on desk and field analysis and denotes the approximate areas from where the undeveloped site is visible and is shown on Figure 2.3.Visual Envelope and Viewpoint Locations.

6.4.39 Landscape features of the local area that serve to limit the visibility of the site include the following:

Ridgeline topography (Refer to Figure 2.3): From Tregurrian in the north west to Tregaswith in the south east, limiting views from the north and north east; From Trevithick Downs to Trely, followed by the route A3059 and forming the southern boundary of the site, considerably limits views from the east and south; From Quintrell Downs and St Columb, limiting views from the south. Valley topography and vegetation Steep sloping ground south of the site towards Trebarber and Porth Reservoir limit near views of the site from the south; Combinations of intervening valley topography, hedgerows and mature conifer screen belts in the vicinity of Treloy Golf Course, limit near views of the site from the west; Built form Buildings associated with the NQY and RAF St Mawgan that occupy a prominent position on top of the ridgeline/plateau to the north of the site, obscure views from the north.

6.4.40 Local near distance views are primarily from the A3059 and focus on the immediate southern areas of the site only. Middle sections and lower valley sections of the site are not visible due to north sloping landform.

6.4.41 Middle distance views from the south, east and west are prevented by intervening valley and plateau landform, hedge banks and trees and views from the north are prevented by ridgeline topography and the infrastructure within the NQY.

6.4.42 There are no public footpaths within the proposed development site.

6.4.43 Views from public footpaths to the south within 1km of the site are screened by steep valley landform until they approach the A3059, where previously restricted views of the southern boundary become visible from the A3059.

6.4.44 There are no discernible views from the South West Coastal Path and AGHV or the AGLV.

6.4.45 There are no views from Carnanton House and Nanswhyden, Local Historic Park and Gardens and SMs or Conservation Areas within the study area due to combinations of intervening landform and/or woodland vegetation.

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6.4.46 Glimpsed and limited views are possible from a caravan and campsite near to the entrance to RAF St Mawgan but are restricted by landform and vegetation.

6.4.47 A limited view of the western boundary of the site is possible from an access road with public access leading to Higher Trewince, west of RAF St Mawgan.

6.4.48 Close side elevation views will be possible from Trevithick Downs, immediately adjacent to the eastern boundary of the site and highly oblique views may be glimpsed from a semi-detached property off the A3059 at the junction with Trebarber Road, approximately 350m west of the site.

6.4.49 Overall, views of the existing site were found to be few, and predominantly contained to within 1km of the site.

6.4.50 Photographs illustrating representative views from within the study area are described in Table 6.1 below, and are illustrated in Figure 2.7 (Sheets 1 to 4).

Table 6.1: Existing Views

View Location Receptor(s)/Distance Description of Existing View /Sensitivity 1 Track with Walkers/ 1.5km/ Looking south east wards towards St public High Mawgan base and eastern boundary access hedge to the site seen close to the leading to horizon. Higher Trewince 2 Junction of Property / 0.8 km/ High Looking eastwards along the A3059 from A3059 and close to a semi-detached house on the Trebarber corner of the junction. Hedgerow to the Road eastern boundary is just visible on the horizon. The proposed site is screened from this view. 3 A3059 near Walkers/Road users / Looking from the A3059 north east to Parkyns 10-15m/ High towards the southern boundaries of the Shop and site and new NQY Southern Access Road NQY Entrance. Views of the site are limited to Southern the areas immediate to the A3059. Access Entrance 4 Trevithick Road users/ 100m/ Low View from near Trevithick Downs looking Downs from west from the A3059 looking directly the A3059 towards the eastern end of the site. The majority of the site is screened in the valley below. 5 ‘The Sands’ Road users/ 3.8 km/ Looking east from the car park to the rear residents High of The Sands holiday apartments. Distant carpark, barely discernible partial view of site seen Whipsiderry beyond the narrow valley close to horizon. 6 A3058 south Road users / 2 km/ Low View north east from the A3058. Traffic on of St Columb the A3059 and water tower near Minor Trebarber are just visible on the distant skyline. Intervening ridgeline screens views of site.

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View Location Receptor(s)/Distance Description of Existing View /Sensitivity 7 A392 Road users/residential View from the A392 looking north. The between users/3km/High ridgeline followed by the A3059 and water Quintrell tower close to the site are visible on the Downs and horizon. Intervening ridgeline screens Mountjoy views of site 8 Minor road Road users, walkers & View north from a minor road between between cyclists/2.5km/High Mountjoy and Bosoughan. Traffic on the Mountjoy A3059 and water tower near Trebarber and are just visible on the distant skyline. Bosoughan Intervening ridgeline screens views of site. 9 Eastern Residential View north from residential edge of edge of users/2.2km/Hign Bosoughan towards immediate hill, Bosoughan located south of Porth Reservoir. Intervening landform and trees, screens views of site. 10 White Cross Recreational/residential View north west from within the holiday Holiday Park users/3.2km/High park looking towards A3059 ridgeline on horizon. Intervening ridgeline screens views of site. 11 Minor road Road users and PRoW View north westwards from a minor road Goss Moor Goss Moor Trail and Goss Moor Trail and National Cycle Route Trail and National Cycle Route ‘Newquay’ near Killaworgey. The ridgeline National ‘Newquay’ followed by the A3059 and water tower Cycle Route close to the site are visible on the distant ‘Newquay’ horizon. near Killaworgey 12 Penrose Recreational View south east towards buildings of Farm users/1.8km/High former RAF Mawgan. Middle distance, Holiday glimpse partial view of site seen between Park, access intervening buildings. road

6.4.51 From Table 6.1 it can be concluded that the existing site is currently substantially screened from most locations.

6.5 Impact Assessment

6.5.1 This section identifies the potential landscape and visual effects that would occur during the construction and operational phases of the proposed scheme using significance criteria identified in the Assessment Methodology. Mitigation is set out below and forms an integral part of the proposed Scheme and the potential effects have been assessed inclusive of the measures proposed.

6.5.2 Following the Landscape and Visual Baseline Analysis, the following measures were incorporated into design in order to minimise potential landscape and visual impacts. The following mitigation measures are assumed to form part of the design:

A minimum width of 10m-wide landscaped corridor along the A3059 road edge that includes Corrnish hedgerows and intermittent trees; balancing the need to provide views into the site as well as minimising visual impacts of buildings and car parking at ridge level from the road.

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Maintain set back of buildings from the A3059 to minimise visual impacts from the road and ridgeline. Provision of trees set within car parking areas to reduce glare of parked cars seen from a distance. Minimise overall height of built development to contain the height and mass of built development potentially visible in the skyline above the ridgeline and valley when viewed from the south and west. Encouraging good screening of the site from views along the valley from the west, by conserving and enhancing the existing hedgerow and providing a substantial belt of new tree and shrub planting. On the western boundary, maintain ‘breaks’ between built elevations to minimise ‘blocking off’ views and creating a potential barrier across the valley when viewed from areas in the west. Adopt, traditional materials such as stone and timber and neutral colours and non reflective surfaces of buildings and structures wherever possible to limit visibility and potential glare; Retain, conserve and enhance the semi-natural woodland valley habitat and allow opportunity for open space and green corridor connectivity through the site and alongside the steam and wooded valley, accessed by users of buildings. Provide maximum width possible adjacent to the wooded corridor to enable more scope for usable space for users of buildings. Buildings will cast shade in these areas, so ensure plenty of breaks between buildings to allow sun to penetrate into user spaces. Give consideration to safety and security of users in potentially enclosed spaces to rear of buildings by mixing front, rear and side entrances to buildings along this boundary. Maintain low level/ reduced glare lighting throughout site to reduce night-time visual impacts. Construction Phase - General

6.5.3 The works are planned to start in mid/late 2013 and will be carried out in phases subject to demand of units and for the purposes of this assessment, to be completed by 2030.

6.5.4 During construction, adverse temporary impacts could arise from the following general construction activities. These activities would include the following:

Movement of construction machinery and large scale construction equipment including cranes; Large scale soil excavation and movement of soils across the site; Presence of construction workers site compounds and parking on site; Batching plants and material stockpiles; Activities related to provision of infrastructure, utilities and erection of buildings, and Presence of temporary lighting. 6.5.5 Off-site related construction activities would include:

Vehicles moving materials to/from site.

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Operational Phase - General

6.5.6 The following potential landscape and visual effects have been considered during the operational phase:

Landscape and visual changes from built development impacting on the composition of views and landscape character; and Creation of soft landscape elements.

Evaluation of Landscape Effects

General

6.5.7 The proposals would not affect the character of the AGLV, Historic Parks and Gardens, Conservation Areas AGHV, or the settings to any listed buildings or scheduled monuments within the study area.

6.5.8 No adverse effects are predicted.

Construction Impacts

6.5.9 The development will involve major ground clearance and excavation works, involving cut and fill operations. Existing fields and some dividing hedges will be removed. The impact on the baseline landscape will be significant and would have a negative localised impact on the Regional Newquay and Perranporth Landscape Character Area by permanently changing the attractive agricultural pattern and valley side character. The urbanising elements being introduced and construction works and local landform changes, involved, are however, not unfamiliar to this area, with the recent introduction of the Newquay SAR.

6.5.10 The development will be undertaken in phases, planned to start in mid-end of 2013 and predicted for the purposes of this assessment to be completed by 2030. Phases will be subject to demand for units. The impacts on landscape will however, take place largely within the first phase of works during which the main site wide infrastructure and utilities are implemented.

6.5.11 Overall the magnitude of impact from construction on this character area, which has a medium sensitivity, is predicted to have a temporary high magnitude of change with substantial adverse effect. Refer to Table 6.2.

Operation Impacts

6.5.12 At operation in Year 1, landscape mitigation planting and new hedgerows are still immature and will make a positive, but limited contribution to reducing the overall impact on the landscape. The proposed development would be seen as out of scale with the local landscape pattern and landform and will leave an adverse impact on the landscape of moderate adverse significance in Year 1, and moderate adverse at year 15; although planting will be maturing and making a more established presence in the local landscape.

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Table 6.2: Landscape Impact Summary Schedule

Sensitivity Magnitude Construction Mitigation Operational Operational Residual Landscape Landscape Landscape Effects Effects Effects/ Effects/ /Significance Significance Significance Year 1 Year 15 Landscape Character Areas National No Change No Change No Change N/A No Change No Change None Character Area 152 ‘Cornish Killas’ Regional Medium High Temporary Retention Moderate Moderate Changes Character Substantial of existing adverse adverse to valley Area - hedgerows landform. Newquay and where Slight Perranporth possible adverse Coast (LCA and CA15) provision of new Cornish hedgerows and extensive tree planting Regional No Change No Change No Change N/A No Change No Change None Character Area - Newlyn Downs (LCA CA 14) Landscape Features within the Study Area AGLV No Change No Change No Change N/A No Change No Change None AGHV No Change No Change No Change N/A No Change No Change None Listed No Change No Change No Change N/A No Change No Change None Buildings Historic Parks No Change No Change No Change N/A No Change No Change None 7 Gardens Conservation No Change No Change No Change N/A No Change No Change None Areas Scheduled No Change No Change No Change N/A No Change No Change None Monuments Landform/Rid Medium Medium Temporary Significant Moderate Moderate Changes geline (Site) Substantial changes adverse adverse to valley adverse difficult to landform. mitigate. Slight Retention adverse of landscape corridors alongside valley and through

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site to retain hedgerows and existing levels to encourage connectivit y between ridge and valley. Cornish High Low Temporary Provision Moderate Slight None Hedgerows Moderate of new adverse adverse (Site) adverse Cornish hedgerows and manageme nt of retained hedgerows .

Assessment of Visual Impacts

General

6.5.13 The visual assessment considers the existing situation, i.e. baseline views, and the preliminary design proposals including the construction works at Year 1. Refer to Illustrative Masterplan.

6.5.14 The ZTV indicates that views of the site will be experienced over distances up to 4 km. Views from the north are limited by the ridge occupied by NQY and to the north east by the ridge topography and vegetation. Close, open views of the southern parts of the site are visible from the south along the A3059 and from middle and long distance viewpoints in the south. Limited views of the western parts of the site are visible along the valley from Whipsiderry.

Construction Impacts

6.5.15 The visibility of low level ground works occurring during the construction phase will be significantly screened from distant views to the south and south west and views from the north and north west by the intervening topography, built form and vegetation.

6.5.16 Close highly visible views of works occurring in the southern parts of the site would be experienced by footpath users and travellers on the A3059 and cranes and upper parts of new buildings would also be visible from wider areas.

6.5.17 Temporary lighting, associated with construction activities, will be targeted away from sensitive receptors and predicted to have a low magnitude of change.

6.5.18 The overall magnitude of change from construction on high sensitivity receptors in close proximity to the site is predicted to be medium with a temporary substantial adverse effect.

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6.5.19 The overall magnitude of change from construction on high sensitivity receptors in middle and distant proximity to the site is predicted to be low with a temporary moderate adverse effect.

Operation Impacts

6.5.20 No visual impacts are predicted from the north, north west and north east due to intervening topography and/ or built form associated with the airport.

6.5.21 From middle and distant views in the south, south east and south west, the central and northern parts of proposed development will be substantially screened from sensitive receptors by intervening topography, leaving the tops of buildings along the A3059 frontage, just visible in the skyline.on the ridgeline from a limited number of locations. Ref to PMON – 6 & 9. The overall magnitude of change is predicted to be low with slight adverse –neutral significance at Year 1 and 15.

6.5.22 From areas to the west, the western edges of development will be clearly visible in the skyline seen in the context of buildings in the neighbouring RAF St Mawgan. which, together with wide tree belt planting, will lessen the overall landscape and visual impacts of the scheme when viewed from the west. Ref to PMON – 1.

6.5.23 The overall magnitude of change is predicted to be medium with moderate adverse significance in Year 1 and slight adverse at Year 15, as tree planting matures.

6.5.24 From the A3059, the development will have a detrimental effect on road and footpath users by obstructing existing open views north and north west across the ridgeline; dominating the view and appearing out of scale with the surrounding countryside.

6.5.25 In the south east, the scale and close proximity of the development to residential property Trevithick Downs will dominant the view creating a very apparent detrimental change in the character and composition of the baseline views. Ref to PMON – 4. The overall magnitude of change is predicted to be high with substantial adverse significance in Year 1 and moderate adverse at Year 15, as tree planting matures.

6.5.26 Landscaping to the road edge will help reduce impacts by filtering views towards built development, whilst still enabling a visual presence of the EZ. Intermittent trees along the road verge will also minimise views of development on elevated parts of the site from middle and distant views to the south.

6.5.27 Night time lighting will cause a slight adverse impacts to close and middle distance views. A lighting strategy (Design Codes), has been designed to reduce navigational risks and minimise visual impacts by containing lighting to the immediate environment of access routes and buildings and to minimise light spillage,

6.5.28 Table 6.3 identifies the potential visual impacts on receptors from key viewpoint locations. The assessments are based on the Illustrative and photomontages PMon 1-7.

6.6 Mitigation and Monitoring

6.6.1 The Illustrative Masterplan has evolved through an iterative design process and feedback that has been received from consultees and CDC.

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6.6.2 In terms of landscape, the design has evolved to minimise visual impacts on sensitive receptors from the A3059 and valley looking from the west by establishing wide verges and/or belts of tree and hedgerow planting.

6.6.3 In addition, the concerns over potential impact to existing valley woodland and disruption to bat foraging corridors along the northern boundary have been addressed by incorporating a 15m > landscape corridor between the woodland and any proposed development. Similarly, concerns over potential loss of existing hedgerows and poor connectivity between the south and woodlands to the north of site have been addressed by making greater commitment to retaining existing hedgerows and incorporating these into proposed Green Corridors.

6.6.4 In addition to the mitigation that has been incorporated in design, the following measures will be used where appropriate:

Provide retaining walls (gabions) to building platforms alongside landscape corridors; to enable retention of existing hedgerow and levels. Provide retaining walls (gabions) to building platforms alongside the woodland valley and bat foraging corridor to retain existing levels and hedgerow and enable access and use of space for recreational activity. 6.6.5 The proposed planting on the site would follow specifications set out in the design codes (section 1.9 Design Codes). These are derived from local species set out in CC’s Guidance on ‘British native trees and shrubs and their status in Cornwall’ and the Cornish Hedges Library4. The design codes provide for:

Boundaries (hedges) – species include griselinia, holm oak, or crenate holly in central areas and hazel, field maple, beech on edge sites.

Micro-habitat creation – this would include wet grassland and sedge planting along the woodland edge, Cornish hedge planting and other native deciduous planting.

Avenue/ public realm – a selection of beech, fastigiate oak, holm oak, in addition to other species.

6.6.6 Planting along access roads and site borders would be undertaken by CDC, whereas the developer of each site would be responsible for submitting planting proposals for individual plots.

6.6.7 The elements of landscaping considered most important, to be developed first by CDC are the establishment of trees and new Cornish hedgerows along the 10m > wide verge to the A3059 and tree planting either side of the SAR.

6.6.8 It is strongly recommended that CDC also undertake the implementation of the Green Corridors, to ensure their protection, early establishment and consistency of approach. This should not be left to phase or individual plot developments.

6.6.9 Lastly, it is recommended that CDC undertake any landscape, drainage or wildlife related works within the 15m corridor alongside the woodland on the northern boundary of the site to ensure protection of habitat/s.

4 www.Cornishhedges.com

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6.6.10 The planting schedule is to provide sufficient diversity to avoid impacts from disease and die-back, e.g. the Chalara fraxinea fungus in ash trees.

6.7 Assumptions and Limitations

6.7.1 The field surveys were undertaken in April and September 2012 when the screening effect of vegetation was greater than is likely during winter months.

6.7.2 The assessment is based on outline design information available at the time of this report, based on the Illustrative Masterplan. While final construction methods have not been determined, this is not expected to significantly affect the assessment of the pattern or scale of visual impacts arising from the proposed Business Park.

6.7.3 For the purposes of this assessment the overall height of buildings has been assumed to be between 15m high (12m plus 3m to ridge for pitched roof).

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2 Junction of High Property / 0.8 Looking Middle distance Wide tree Upper storey Slight adverse Slight Pmon A3059 and km eastwards along glimpse views of belt buildings on adverse -2 Trebarber the A3059 from cranes and planting to southern Road close to a semi- upper sections western corner of site detached house of building boundary to visible on on the corner of construction on visually horizon. the junction. southern corner soften Slight adverse Hedgerow to the of site. . builtform. eastern boundary Temporary is just visible on Slight adverse the horizon. The proposed site is screened from this view. 3 A3059 near High Walkers/Road Looking from the Close views of Wide Buildings Moderate Moderate to Parkyns users / 10-15m A3059 north east vehicles, ground landscaped dominating adverse adverse Shop and towards the works, cranes verge to skyline ridge NQY southern and building A3059 position. Southern boundaries of the construction frontage Substantial Access site and new NQY Temporary and adverse Entrance Southern Access Substantial buildings

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View Location Sensitivity Receptor(s) Description of Construction Mitigation Operational Operational Residual /Distance Existing View Visual Effects Visual Visual Effects/ Effects /Sensitivity /Significance Effects/ Significance Significance Year 15 Year 1 Road Entrance. adverse set back Views of the site from road are limited to the to minimise areas immediate impacts of to the A3059. builtform . 4 Trevithick High Residential/Ro View from near Close views of Buildings Close Substantial Substantial Pmon Downs ad users/ Trevithick Downs vehicles, ground set back proximity of adverse adverse -4 from the 100m looking west from works, cranes from road large scale A3059 the A3059 looking and building to minimise buildings to directly towards construction impacts of residential the eastern end of Temporary builtform on property, and the site. The Substantial ridgeline buildings majority of the site adverse dominating is screened in the skyline ridge valley below. position Substantial adverse 5 ‘The High Road users/ Looking east from Not discernable N/A. Neutral Neutral None Pmon Sands’ 3.8 km the car park to the at this distance -5 residents rear of The Sands Neutral car park, holiday Whipsiderr apartments. y Distant barely discernible partial view of site seen beyond the narrow valley close to horizon. 6 A3058 Low Road users / 2 View north east Cranes and Buildings Slight adverse Slight adverse Slight Pmon south of St km from the A3058. building set back adverse -6 Columb Traffic on the construction from road Minor A3059 and water visible on to minimise tower near horizon. impacts of

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View Location Sensitivity Receptor(s) Description of Construction Mitigation Operational Operational Residual /Distance Existing View Visual Effects Visual Visual Effects/ Effects /Sensitivity /Significance Effects/ Significance Significance Year 15 Year 1 Trebarber are just Slight adverse builtform on visible on the ridgeline distant skyline. Intervening ridgeline screens views of site. 7 A392 High Road View from the Not discernable Buildings Neutral Neutral None between users/residenti A392 looking at this distance set back Quintrell al users/3km north. The from road Downs and ridgeline followed to minimise Neutral Mountjoy by the A3059 and impacts of water tower close builtform on to the site is ridgeline visible on the horizon. Intervening ridgeline screens views of site 8 Minor road High Road users, View north from a Barely Buildings Neutral Neutral None between walkers & minor road discernable at set back Mountjoy cyclists/2.5km between Mountjoy this distance from road and and Bosoughan. to minimise Bosoughan Traffic on the impacts of Neutral A3059 and water builtform on tower near ridgeline Trebarber are just visible on the distant skyline. Intervening ridgeline screens views of site. 9 Eastern High Residential View north from Distance Buildings Slight adverse Slight adverse Slight Pmon edge of users/2.2km residential edge of glimpse views of set back adverse

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View Location Sensitivity Receptor(s) Description of Construction Mitigation Operational Operational Residual /Distance Existing View Visual Effects Visual Visual Effects/ Effects /Sensitivity /Significance Effects/ Significance Significance Year 15 Year 1 -9 Bosoughan Bosoughan cranes and from road towards upper sections to minimise immediate hill, of buildings impacts of located south of seen on skyline. builtform on Porth Reservoir. Temporary slight ridgeline Intervening adverse landform and trees, screens views of site. 10 White High Recreational/r View north west Barely Buildings Neutral Neutral None Pmon Cross esidential from within the discernable at set back -10 Holiday users/3.2km holiday park this distance from road Park looking towards to minimise A3059 ridgeline impacts of Neutral on horizon. builtform on Intervening ridgeline ridgeline screens views of site. 11 Minor road High Road users View north Barely Buildings Neutral Neutral None Goss Moor and PRoW westwards from a discernable at set back Trail and Goss Moor minor road Goss this distance from road National Trail and Moor Trail and to minimise Cycle National Cycle National Cycle impacts of Neutral Route Route Route ‘Newquay’ builtform on ‘Newquay’ ‘Newquay’ near Killaworgey. ridgeline near The ridgeline Killaworgey followed by the A3059 and water tower close to the site is visible on the distant horizon.

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Aerohub Business Park Newquay Cornwall AirportAerohub Enterprise Zone @ Newquay Cornwall Airport -

6.8 Summary of Residual Impacts

6.8.1 A Landscape and Visual Assessment of the impacts of the proposed Business Park has been undertaken in accordance with the methodology and assessment criteria contained in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment.

6.8.2 The proposals will not affect the character of the AGLV, Historic Parks and Gardens, Conservation Areas or AGHV, or the settings to any Listed Buildings or SMs within the study area.

6.8.3 The impact on the baseline landscape will be significant and will have a localised negative impact on the Newquay and Perranporth Landscape Character Area by permanently changing the characteristic agricultural pattern and valley side character.

6.8.4 The development would introduce urbanising elements, which in the context of the existing NQY SAR and NQY, are not totally unfamiliar. However, the impacts on the local landscape are predicted to be seen as out of scale with the local landscape pattern and landform and will leave an negative impact on the landscape of moderate adverse significance in Year 1, and moderate adverse at Year 15,

6.8.5 The assessment has shown that adverse visual impacts from the development will be experienced primarily within close distance of the development and that within the study area, views are predominantly screened by intervening ridge formations and vegetation, particularly from middle and distant views from the south and north

6.8.6 Importantly, no discernible views will be experienced from Newquay.

6.8.7 The receptors identified as having greatest sensitivity to views of the development are users of the A3059, and the residential property at Trevithick Downs and footpath users to the west near Higher Trewince. From these receptors the development closest to the ridgeline location and/or within the valley to the west, will appear very dominant in the skyline.

6.8.8 From the west, the western edges of development will be clearly visible but seen in the context of buildings in the neighbouring RAF St Mawgan which, together with wide tree belt planting, will lessen the overall landscape and visual impacts of the scheme over time with slight adverse residual impact

6.8.9 Views from the A3059 will experience the greatest change and visual impact resulting from the scale and proximity of development situated close to or on the ridgeline. Residential property, Trevithick Downs, will experience significant adverse residual impact from the development situated in close proximity to the property at the highest point of the development site.

6.8.10 Landscaping to the road edge will help reduce impacts by filtering views towards built development, whilst still enabling a visual presence of the Business Park. Intermittent trees along the road verge will also minimise views of development from the A3059.

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SECTION 7 ECOLOGY

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7 ECOLOGY

7.1 Introduction

7.1.1 This chapter of the ES describes how the proposed Business Park is likely to affect the nature conservation and biodiversity value of the development site, and areas that are ecologically connected to it.

7.1.2 The chapter describes: the assessment methodology; the baseline conditions at the development site and surroundings; the likely significant environmental impacts; the mitigation measures required to prevent, reduce or offset any significant adverse impacts; and the likely residual effects after these measures have been employed.

7.1.3 This assessment has been undertaken by Spalding Associates (Environmental) Ltd. The surveys that provide the baseline information for the assessment have been undertaken by Spalding Associates (Environmental) Ltd and Parsons Brinckerhoff. The work has been carried out by members of the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM).

7.2 Legislation and Policy

7.2.1 Legislation, policy and plans that are relevant to ecology and biodiversity are listed below: National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2012 The Cornwall Structure Plan Restormel Borough Council Local Plan 2001 – 2011 The County Wildlife Site (CWS) system Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010) and Conservation of Habitats and Species (amendment) Regulations 2012 Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006 Protection of Badgers Act 1992 The Hedgerow Regulations 1997 The Water Resources Act 1991, Regulations 2009 (Amendment) and Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC UK Biodiversity Action Plans Cornwall Biodiversity Initiative

7.3 Methodology

Assessment Methodology

Method for Valuation of Receptors

7.3.2 Wildlife receptors are evaluated on a system that uses published designations assigned for nature conservation purposes, in particular rarity and decline, for both habitats and species. The criteria are weighted, using ecological judgment, at a level of geographical importance which is appropriate for the study area and the receptor and includes consideration of legal protections. Thus, for example, species that are rare nationally but regionally relatively common may be valued differently to a species that is rare both nationally and regionally.

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7.3.3 The system of value assigned to ecological receptors within the development site is listed in Table 7.1 and includes examples of how published criteria are used to assign value at the geographic scale and the categories of value level used in assessing impact significance. The examples are not exclusive and are subject to further professional ecological judgment.

Table 7.1: Categories of Value for Ecological Receptors Geographic importance Examples Value level for assessment of significance International Resident or regularly occurring significant population of a Very high European Protected Species which is also either UK Red Data Book listed or Red Listed according to IUCN guidelines

UK or National Sites, habitats and species populations of importance in a High UK or English context such as SSSIs Receptors are rare, unusual or restricted in distribution and of sufficiently high quality to be designated as part of a UK network Regional (south-west Sites, habitats and species populations of importance in Medium England) the context of the South West Region

County (Cornwall) Sites, habitats and species populations of importance in Medium the context of Cornwall District (Restormel) refers to Sites, habitats and species populations of importance in Low the obsolete county district the context of a sub-county area and may still be used in older Viable areas of, for example BAP, habitat identified within criteria a subcounty area Sub-county Viable areas of local biodiversity interest or are scarce at the subcounty scale in undesignated sites A diverse and/or ecologically valuable hedgerow network Local / parish Within the immediate locality (a smaller area than district Low but beyond site boundary) Viable areas of biodiversity interest in undesignated sites Sites, habitats and species populations of importance in the context of the two parishes of the proposal site (Colan Parish and St Columb Major) Site Widespread and common features the loss of which Negligible would not be considered detrimental to the ecology or social interest of the site and/or area, such as species poor/intensively managed grasslands and arable, small isolated areas of semi-natural habitat such as hedgerows, small areas of non-native plantings

7.3.4 Existing nature conservation site status, such as the national statutory designation Site of Special Scientific Interest or a county level status designation such as County Wildlife Site, directly assigns value.

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7.3.5 Value of species and habitats in the first instance is assessed according to rarity, identified from published assessments, and legal status. Habitats are assessed against the standard criteria used for designations of sites or other valuation systems and, where they meet those criteria, their importance in terms of nature conservation value is highlighted.

7.3.6 Species and habitats which have an appreciable proportion of their European population or extent in the UK may be highly valued. Species and habitats that are assigned Priority status in Biodiversity Action Plans are described as Priority BAP species or habitats.

7.3.7 The threshold for receptors to be considered further is ‘Local’ value or above, using the system defined in Table 7.1, to ensure that biodiversity issues are properly considered according to the principles of the NPPF. Also included as part of the impacts assessment are legal protections and species that have supporting or secondary value, particularly where there are opportunities to contribute to biodiversity objectives in the mitigation.

Prediction and characterisation of impacts

7.3.8 Potential impacts on ecological receptors, adverse or positive, are identified for construction and operational phases; they are assessed and characterised according to the following criteria:

Geographic extent; Duration (related to time and life cycle); Permanence and reversibility; Frequency and timing; Potential for cumulative effects; and Zone of influence (this is defined as the geographic area (land or water) and its associated biophysical features that are linked to the site of the proposal by ecological pathways (such as aquatic systems) and environmental conditions (such as noise). The ecological zone of influence does not necessarily coincide with the other technical zones of influence such as landscape). 7.3.9 Wherever possible, evidence is used to support the predictions; otherwise the predictions are based on professional judgment and referenced sources.

7.3.10 The assessment identifies any information gaps and also any uncertainties that may be material in the confidence of predicting impacts. Confidence levels are assigned using the following scale:

Certain - 100% confident; Near certain - probability estimated at 95% chance or higher; Likely - (Probable) probability estimated above 50% but below 95%; Unlikely - probability estimated above 5% but less than 50%; and Extremely unlikely - probability estimated at less than 5% (this category may be necessary if an extremely unlikely impact could nevertheless have serious consequences, such as once in 100 year events. 7.3.11 A precautionary principle is applied whenever there is substantial doubt.

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7.3.12 Impacts include, but are not restricted to:

loss or change of habitat; disturbance during construction, operation and decommissioning; introduction of invasive features; and Contravention of legal status or protection (including where the receptor would not meet or exceed the value threshold). 7.3.13 The impact is classified in terms of scale, and includes consideration of duration and extent, using the following terms:

Major – e.g. loss of whole population or major impact on viability, or adverse impact on integrity of a site; Intermediate – e.g. adverse impacts on a species population but not altering long-term viability of population; adversely affecting conservation objectives of a site or species population; Minor - e.g. small scale or of short duration but nevertheless perceptible adverse impact; Negligible – e.g. imperceptible impact Neutral – e.g. no measurable impact. 7.3.14 At this stage the scale of the impact is not weighted by the value of the receptor and does not indicate significance.

Assessment of the significance of the impact for planning decisions

7.3.15 For the purposes of EIA the significance of the impact is determined using the matrix in Table 7.2 where the scale of the impact is measured against the value of the receptor according to Table 7.1. For the purposes of EIA the impacts that are identified in shaded cells are considered to be significant.

Table 7.2: Matrix for assessment of significance of impact for planning purposes Scale of impact Evaluation of nature conservation receptor Very high/ High/ national Medium/ Low/ Negligible/site International regional local only Major positive Large positive Large positive Large positive Large positive Large positive impact Intermediate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate positive impact positive positive positive positive positive Minor positive Slight positive Slight positive Slight positive Slight positive Slight positive impact Negligible None None None None None Minor negative Slight adverse Slight adverse Slight adverse Slight adverse None impact Intermediate Large adverse Large adverse Moderate Slight adverse None negative impact adverse Major negative Very large Very large Large or Slight adverse None impact adverse adverse moderate

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adverse

Significance of impact with respect to European Protected Species

7.3.16 Significance is defined separately for European Protected Species by the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended). The Regulations require that disturbance should not:

‘significantly affect the ability of any significant group of animals of that species to survive, breed, or rear or nurture their young; or the local distribution or abundance of that species’.

Consultations and Scoping

7.3.17 The scope of the impact assessment was determined from a scoping opinion provided by CC in response to a request from CDC. The scoping opinion document includes responses relevant to ecology from CC, CC Principle Public Space Officer (Landscape), the EA, CC Tree Officer, NE, and Woodland Trust. These are included in Appendix 1.1. The scoping opinions have been followed in this assessment.

7.3.18 The assessment examines the potential for impacts on habitats and protected or notable species found on or using the development site, and potential for impacts on nearby nature conservation sites; it refers to the conclusions of the investigations into impacts on air quality, SuDS proposals, and landscape design aspects of the proposed development.

7.3.19 The currency of the data gathered during the period prior to submission of the application is well within established guidelines for the species and habitats concerned, in particular within 12 months of the planning application.

Baseline survey methods

7.3.20 Baseline information about the ecology of the development site was gathered to assess the potential for significant impacts on habitats and species of nature conservation importance, to identify the constraints to the proposed development in terms of compliance with relevant laws and strategies and policies, to inform the design, provide means of mitigation and assess the significance of any residual impacts.

7.3.21 The desk and field survey methodologies are based on the current European and UK nature conservation legislation and best practice guidelines.

Desk survey methods

7.3.22 Historic information on species and habitats was obtained from the Environmental Records Centre for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly (ERCCIS). Records of legally protected species, nationally rare and scarce species, national and county BAP Priority species were obtained for a radius of 1km from the centre of the Development Site. The search area was increased for European Protected Species that might reasonably be expected to occur on the site; the database was searched for records of bats within 5 km of the site and for Common Dormouse within 4 km. Maps of designated areas for nature conservation and habitats that are of nature conservation importance at European, national or county level were obtained and assessed as part of the baseline habitat survey report. The results of the search have been assessed

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for their relevance to the nature conservation interest of the proposed development site.

Field survey methods

7.3.23 The surveys carried out are listed in Table 7.3 with a summary of the method employed.

7.3.24 The Extended Phase One Habitat Survey method enables the understanding of the ecology of a site. The habitat survey was extended in accordance with the Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment issued by the Institute of Environmental Assessment (1995) by recording specific features that indicate the presence or likely presence of legally protected species or other species or features of nature conservation importance.

7.3.25 A walk-over survey of both sides of the hedgerows on the development site was carried out to assess the hedges according to the Hedgerow Regulations 1997 and Priority Biodiversity Action Plan criteria.

7.3.26 Habitat assessment, presence and/or activity surveys were carried out for the following legally protected features:

Nesting birds; Protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Bats; European Protected Species Badgers; Protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 Reptiles; Protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Common Dormouse; European Protected Species Invertebrates; Some are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981

Table 7.3: Ecology surveys undertaken for the Proposed Development Survey target Survey period Report title and reference Habitats, June 2012 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey of Land for the Aerohub Business Park, hedgerows, plants Newquay Airport, Cornwall. and indications of Method summary: A walk-over survey was undertaken by an ecologist on 1st potential for June 2012. Habitats were classified and mapped using the standard Phase protected species One Habitat Survey methodology (JNCC, 2010). The site was examined for species and habitats of nature conservation importance. A list of vascular plants found during the survey was compiled. Hedgerows November Hedgerow Survey of Land for the Aerohub Business Park, Newquay Airport, 2012 Cornwall. Method summary: A walk-over survey was carried out by an ecologist on 13th November 2012. The field method was based on the assessment method described in the Hedgerow Survey Handbook 2nd edition (DEFRA, 2007). Several items of hedgerow ecology were recorded including a full list of vascular plant species. Bats May to Aerohub Enterprise Zone @ Newquay Cornwall Airport Business Park – Bat September Activity Report. 2012 Method summary: Ten activity transects were carried out between May and September, two each month, in line with the recommended survey effort for sites which may be used by greater horseshoe bats. Remote monitoring surveys were also carried out for a period of five nights each month. These

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Survey target Survey period Report title and reference were undertaken by two ecologists, one of whom held a current Natural England licence, was and both were suitably experienced. Badgers November Badger Survey of Land for the Aerohub Business Park, Newquay Airport, 2012 Cornwall. Method summary: A walk-over survey was carried out during daylight hours on 13th November 2012 by a suitably qualified ecologist. Breeding Birds June & July Breeding Bird Survey of Land for the Aerohub Business Park, Newquay 2012 Airport, Cornwall. Method summary: 3 surveys were carried out between June and July 2012 during which common Bird Census techniques were employed by a suitably qualified ecologist. Common May to Aerohub Enterprise Zone @ Newquay Cornwall Airport Business Park – Dormouse September Dormouse Report. 2012 Method summary: A dormouse presence/absence survey was conducted within hedgerows and woodland within the site boundary. One hundred dormouse nest tubes were set up at approximately 20m intervals on 29th and 30th May 2012. These tubes were checked on a monthly basis through to September 2012 by a licensed ecologist. Reptiles July to Reptile Survey of Land for the Aerohub Business Park, Newquay Airport, September Cornwall. 2012 Method Summary: A reptile survey was carried out between July and September 2012 by a suitably qualified ecologist. Otters October 2012 Otter Survey of Land at the Proposed Cornwall Aerohub Business Park, Newquay, Cornwall Method Summary: A walk-over survey was carried out during daylight hours in November 2012 by a suitably qualified ecologist. Invertebrates June, Invertebrate Assessment of Land for the Aerohub Business Park, Newquay November Airport, Cornwall 2012 2012 Method summary: A targeted invertebrate survey and assessment was carried out in June and November 2012 by a suitably qualified ecologist.

7.4 Baseline conditions, ecological trends and evaluation

7.4.1 The descriptions of baseline conditions, ecological trends and evaluations, provided here for each ecological feature, (see Table 7.3) refer to the features either within the Development Site or within the Zone of Influence. For each feature an assessment of the ecological trend is given which is based on the assumption that there are no predictable changes in management on the development site.

Statutory Designated Sites

7.4.2 The site does not lie within or immediately adjacent to a statutory nature conservation site. Trelow Downs Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) lies ~6km to the north. This 150ha site was notified in 1999 for a large area of dry and wet heath, valley mire communities, stands of scrub and associated wildlife. By definition Trelow Downs SSSI is of national value; the ecological trend is described by the condition of the four units of the SSSI which are assessed as favourable (Unit 1); unfavourable declining (unit 2); unfavourable recovering (unit 3) and unfavourable no change (unit 4).

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Non-statutory designated sites

7.4.3 There are three non-statutory designated sites within the potential Zone of Influence.

7.4.4 St Columb Minor Marsh County Wildlife Site (R46) is a 23.5ha site of poorly drained valley floor supporting large areas of wetland habitat comprising reedbeds, marsh and fen, bordered by willow, together with small areas of adjacent mixed scrub and park woodland on the valley slope and a small hazel woodland. The CWS lies 2.5km west of the Development Site and supports the BAP Priority Habitats of Reedbed and Lowland Fen. Priority species include Grasshopper Warbler, Reed Bunting and Otter. Other notable species include Wavy St John's-wort, Cetti's Warbler, Woodcock, Grey Wagtail and Willow Warbler. St Columb Minor Marsh CWS is of county value. There is no available information on its ecological trend.

7.4.5 The Porth Reservoir & Firhill Wood CWS (R11) includes Porth Reservoir and the adjacent Firhill Wood, which is partly identified as ancient woodland. This CWS lies 1km south of the Development Site. Porth Reservoir covers ~11ha of open water and emergent vegetation, bordered by mixed broadleaved woodland, dense gorse scrub and wet willow woodland. The reservoir is used as a coarse fishery but also designated as a bird sanctuary, supporting a diversity of wintering species and passage migrants, large populations of wildfowl and gulls, and also occasional rarities. Firhill Wood consists of mixed broadleaved plantation locally dominated by oak or beech, with ash woodland and wet woodland bordering the stream. Of particular note are the areas of coppiced alder carr which support a herb-rich ground flora and well-developed epiphytic communities. The CWS supports the BAP Priority Habitats of Wet Woodland and Upland Mixed Ashwoods. Priority species include Otter and several species of bat, including Noctule, Lesser Horseshoe and Brown Long-eared. Other notable species include the locally scarce Black-tailed Skimmer and bird species. Porth Reservoir is managed by the South West Lakes Trust. The Porth Reservoir & Firhill Wood CWS (R11) CWS is of county value. There is no available information on its ecological trend.

7.4.6 The Carnanton/Nanskeval Wood CWS (R30) comprises Carnanton Woods and Nanskeval Woods.

7.4.7 These woods are ancient semi-natural woodlands, modified and invaded by sycamore, beech and conifers, but with areas of mature ash/oak-dominated woodland supporting a well-developed epiphytic flora and with several flushed areas along the valley floor. This CWS lies 800m north-east of the Development Site at its nearest point. The two woods are linked by a narrow band of mixed broadleaved woodland. The CWS supports the BAP Priority Habitat of Upland Mixed Ashwoods. Priority species include Song Thrush and Otter. Other notable species include Badger. The Carnanton/Nanskeval Wood CWS (R30) CWS is of county value. There is no available information on its ecological trend.

Habitats and Habitat Features on the Development Site

7.4.8 The development site is situated on open agricultural ground on the slopes of a shallow valley; the ground has a generally northerly aspect and is dominated by fields that are under intensive agricultural management. A new access road for the airport has bisected the most north-western field, leaving its eastern side under agricultural management and the western side a mosaic of unmanaged agricultural grassland and open post construction ground.

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7.4.9 The main semi-natural features of the site are the extensive hedgebanks that enclose the fields, the corridor of wetland and damp habitats on the northern boundary, areas of unmanaged tussocky coarse grasses adjacent to the new road junction on the south-western corner of the proposal site, and newly created grassland on the verges of the new access road.

Wet woodland

7.4.10 A zone of wet woodland is associated with the lower lying damp ground on the valley floor at the northern boundary of the site. This woodland is Priority Biodiversity Action Plan Habitat; it is located on the wet ground at the head of a small valley where water drains from the surrounding ground into the streams. The woodland is dominated by mature Grey Willow scrub and has a ground flora that includes common marginal and woodland ground flora species giving the character of the National Vegetation Classification community W6 Alnus glutinosa – Urtica dioica woodland. There are no signs of recent management but there is an earth bank, probably an old field boundary, alongside one of the streams that flow through the woodland. The woodland is unfenced resulting in localised poaching by stock on the fields, and the edge is defined by sharp breaks in the field slope and short sections of old hedge bank. There are indications of moderate levels of nutrient enrichment in the vegetation of the woodland but it contains no non-native invasives and is a moderate but small example of the habitat type in Cornwall. The ecological trend for this woodland is almost certainly gradual succession to mature wet woodland, probably with an increase in Alder trees. As a small area of BAP Priority habitat the wet woodland is of at least District value; it has important secondary value for its use by European Protected Species and its function in the headwaters of the river catchment. The wet woodland is of District value.

Scrub

7.4.11 There are small areas of scrub associated with the higher drier ground on the edge of the wet woodland; the scrub is dominated patchily by Grey Willow and European Gorse with occasional Hazel, frequent growths of Bramble and a ground cover of common grasses. This type of scrub is common and widespread in Cornwall and generally of low biodiversity, The trend of the scrub habitat is almost certain to be to succession to woodland habitat. The scrub is of Site value.

Agricultural ground

7.4.12 Semi-improved grasslands under intensive agricultural management are the dominant field crop; the grasslands are grazed by sheep and there are also areas of arable production and a small field in the south western corner which has developed a tussocky structure due to lack of management. These areas are of low biodiversity value. The agricultural ground has Site value at most.

Marshy grassland

7.4.13 Stands of marshy grassland are associated with the locally wet ground on the scattered flushes along the field/woodland interface. The marshy grassland is currently grazed and would probably very slowly develop to wet scrub and woodland. These areas are low biodiversity value. This habitat has Site value as part of the water catchment ecosystem.

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Tall ruderals

7.4.14 The recently disturbed ground near the works compound on the south-western corner and the ground at the partially demolished building on the eastern section of the site support growths of tall ruderal herbs. These areas of habitat would gradually develop to scrub if unmanaged; they are of negligible value.

Running water / streams

7.4.15 There are two small streams located in the woodland in the shallow valley at the northern edge of the proposal site; they arise from flushes and springs in the upper reaches of the valley on the eastern section of the proposal site and flow westward through the woodland, merging near an old footbridge in the western section of the site and then flowing through culverting under the new road. It then continues on down the valley toward its confluence near the coast with the main Porth valley stream.

7.4.16 The streams on the development site are generally narrow and shallow; their bank full depths grade from approximately 10 to 20cms on the eastern section, gradually deepening to approximately 80cms before the road bridge culvert on the western section, where the banks are vertical and support negligible vegetation. The streams in the woodland are divided by an earth bank. Upper sections of the southern stream flood the surrounding ground at several points to produce locally boggy conditions within the woodland, but largely the stream beds are poorly consolidated pebbles, gravels, clays and sands, with occasional riffles, on sections with small boulders. The streams are one metre wide at their widest and there are minimal pools, marginal vegetation, bank or other subfeatures within their courses between their rising and the culverting under the road bridge.

7.4.17 The South-west Observatory reports that in 2011 of the 80 river water bodies within the North Cornwall area 5% are classified as poor, 60% as moderate and 10% as good. South West Observatory Environment Module Local Profiles 2011 www.swenvo.org.uk/local-profiles/cornwall/north-cornwall-profile.

7.4.18 This habitat has District value as part of the water catchment ecosystem.

Hedges

7.4.19 The boundary features to the field system are largely stone-faced earth banks with vegetated tops and sides; this is a regional hedge type known as Cornish hedge bank. The Cornish hedges on the proposal site have been regularly managed; the top woody growth has been regularly trimmed and consists of Blackthorn, Oak and Hawthorn with occasional European Gorse. There are also scattered mature trees.

7.4.20 Linear features such as these hedges are recognised for their biodiversity value in Article 10 of the EC Habitats Directive 1992, which requires member states to encourage the management of linear, continuous features, such as hedges, in their land using planning and development policies. Of the 23 hedges within and bounding the proposal site, ten (Hedges 2/3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 11, 13a and 22/24) meet the criteria of Ecologically Important under the Hedgerow Regulations 1997 so that their removal would require consideration by the planning authority. Of the 23 hedges assessed, eighteen hedges (Hedges 2/3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13a, 15, 16, 17, 18/19, 22/24 and 26) qualify as Priority Biodiversity Action Plan habitat. Of the 23 hedges assessed at this site, all hedges with the exception of Hedge 13b and 25 adjacent to the A3059,

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would qualify as ancient and/or species rich hedgerows for the purposes of Local BAP priority habitats (Map 1, Phase One report)

7.4.21 NQY, the new access road and the A3059 limit the connectivity of the hedgerows to the surrounding countryside. The hedges are of secondary value for bats and Dormice. The hedge habitat resource on the application site is of Local value; the ecological trend is almost certainly stable.

Newly created habitats

7.4.22 A species poor neutral grassland community is developing on the newly created verges of the access road. An area of disturbed soils on ground to the west of the new road supports an open vegetation of common annual herbs. This habitat is of negligible value.

Bats

7.4.23 Survey work has shown that there is a low to moderate use of the site by bats. The following eight of the thirteen species of bat found in Cornwall use the development site and/or its boundaries: Common Pipistrelle, Soprano Pipistrelle, Nathusius Pipistrelle, Noctule, Myotis sp, Brown Long-eared bat, Greater and Lesser Horseshoe bats.

7.4.24 The most activity by the bat community is associated with the edge of the wet woodland, although Noctule bats feed high above the open grasslands. The greatest use of the site is almost certainly by Common Pipistrelle which, along with the myotid species, also use the hedgerows generally for foraging and commuting. Noctule bats particularly use a north/south aligned hedge in the east of the site.

7.4.25 Common Pipistrelle use of the site extends from spring through summer to September, with an increase in activity in summer; the levels of use throughout the season suggest that the proposal site is only part of the feeding resource for Common Pipistrelle. Noctule activity extends from spring through summer to September. Small numbers (one or two individuals) of Brown Long-eared appear to have a sporadic use of the site, recorded only In July and September, probably during occasional foraging visits. Similarly Soprano and Nathusius’ Pipistrelle appear to use the site at very low levels. Myotid bats use the site from summer to autumn with low levels of activity.

7.4.26 Greater Horseshoe appears to have a low level seasonal use of the site, being only recorded on woodland edge toward the eastern boundary in September. Lesser Horseshoe bats were recorded on the site in spring (on the east section of the site) and autumn (on the west section of the site); this use is almost certainly by individuals from known roosts of both species within the adjacent airport complex. Both Horseshoe species are, characteristically, using only those areas where there is shelter from artificial lighting. The levels of use do not indicate that the application site provides important commuting or foraging resource for the local bat community.

7.4.27 Bats are a high nature conservation priority in UK and Europe; numbers in the UK are declining and several species of bat are considered ‘threatened’ and more common bat species are declining. All bats and all bat species are fully protected by law in the UK; they are listed in Annex II of the European Habitats Directive and are thereby designated European Protected Species (EPS). The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) (Amendment) (England and Wales) Regulations 2010, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), and the Countryside and Rights of Way Act

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(2000) give bats legal protection; it is a criminal offence to intentionally or recklessly kill, take or injure a bat, to deliberately disturb a bat, to destroy damage or obstruct access by a bat to its place of shelter or the shelter itself. It is also an offence to deliberately disturb where that disturbance would have a significant adverse effect on the species.

7.4.28 Additionally Soprano Pipistrelle, Brown Long-eared, Greater Horseshoe, Lesser Horseshoe and Noctule are UK and Local BAP Priority species; these species have been identified as requiring conservation work in addition to the protection they receive by law.

7.4.29 The bat species occurring on the application site are evaluated at Local value at most as outlined in Table 7.4. The ecological trend for all these species is probably stable providing there are no significant changes in the other habitats (such as roosts) within their range.

Table 7.4: Summary of nature conservation status of bat species using application site Species UK status and long term trend (JNCC & County status Occurrence and BCT, 2010) (Williams & CBG evaluation of the species 2009) on the Development Site Common Throughout the UK Common Pipistrelle is Common and Regular low level use Pipistrelle the most common and widespread bat in widespread Local value the UK. Ecological trend: probably Population of 2,430,000 in UK, 1,280,000 stable in England. Possible upward trend in field count and negative trend in colony count in 2008. Soprano Common throughout the UK Common and Very low level use Pipistrelle Estimated population of 1, 300, 000 widespread, Site value although less so No significant trend than Common Ecological trend: probably UK BAP Priority Species Pipistrelle stable Cornwall BAP Priority Species Nathusius’s Rare but widespread in UK Rare but Very low level use Pipistrelle Trend uncertain widespread, Site value although possibly under-recorded Ecological trend: uncertain Noctule Throughout England and Wales and Widespread in Regular low level use southwest Scotland Cornwall but Local value Population of 30-50,000 in UK. numbers unknown. Population Ecological trend: probably Possible significant upward trend in field apparently stable stable count for first time in 2008 Cornwall BAP UK BAP Priority Species Priority Species Myotids Scarce but widespread throughout the UK Widespread and Seasonal low level use 148,000 in UK, 70,000 in England. Slight infrequent. Local value upward trend Possibly decreasing Ecological trend: probably stable Greater Very Rare, mainly confined to southwest Scattered colonies, Seasonal localised use Horseshoe England and Wales only 4 known Local value breeding colonies, 2 Estimated population of 4000-5000 in Ecological trend: probably Britain (potentially high). Possibly in SSSI. A non-

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Species UK status and long term trend (JNCC & County status Occurrence and BCT, 2010) (Williams & CBG evaluation of the species 2009) on the Development Site increasing. breeding colony at stable Newquay Airport. Cornwall BAP UK BAP Priority species Species Population apparently stable. Cornwall BAP Priority species Lesser Rare, mainly confined to southwest Colonies scattered Low level seasonal Horseshoe England and Wales. throughout except in (autumn and spring) use 50,000 in UK – significant upward trend the extreme west, Local value including a non- breeding colony at Ecological trend: probably stable UK BAP Priority Species Newquay Airport. Increasing in numbers. Cornwall BAP Priority species Brown Common Common and Very low level use Long-eared Found throughout the UK widespread except Local value in the most exposed Estimated population of 200,000 in UK, areas. Ecological trend: probably 155,000 in England. Small decrease in stable Colony Counts in recent years. Cornwall BAP Priority species UK BAP Priority Species

Reptiles

7.4.30 In general the northerly aspect of much of the proposal site, the agricultural management and the small number of positive sightings indicates the site is of low value for reptiles. The proposal site offers limited habitat resource for reptiles but the semi-natural habitat on the hedge banks with an east-west orientation, particularly those on the woodland edge are of local value. Viviparous Lizard is known to occur at a low population density associated with earth bank hedge on the southerly aspect of the woodland edge, near the north western boundary. Viviparous Lizard is listed in Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), and thereby is protected from killing, injuring and unlicensed trade in all life stages. The species is also a Priority Biodiversity Action Plan Species. No other reptiles were found.

7.4.31 The ecological trend for Viviparous Lizard is probably stable providing there are no changes in the management of the site or the adjacent landscape. The population of Viviparous Lizard is assessed as of Site value.

Common Dormouse

7.4.32 There is evidence of a low level of use of the development site by Common Dormouse; signs of presence were found on a thick hedge running perpendicular to the road meeting the road boundary hedge, although individual animals were not found. It is possible that Dormice are present on site at all times within all suitable habitat and that a small population on site is using the network of hedgerows for foraging and resting. Many of the hedges and the wet woodland within the site provide suitable Common Dormouse habitat that is well connected to other

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hedgerows and to the wet woodland which was considered to provide optimal Dormouse habitat to sustain a local population. However, the development site is fairly isolated due to a busy A-road to the south and the airport to the north of the site.

7.4.33 The Common Dormouse is a European Protected Species (EPS) and is therefore fully protected under Schedule 2 of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended), the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) as amended, Countryside Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000, and Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006. It is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or capture Common Dormice; deliberately or recklessly disturb them; and damage, destroy or obstruct Common Dormouse breeding sites or resting places. The UK and Cornwall’s Biodiversity Action Plans also list Common Dormice as a Priority Species.

7.4.34 Dormice occurring on the development site are assessed as Local value on the precautionary principle. The ecological trend for Dormice is probably stable providing there are no significant changes in the other habitats adjacent to the site.

Breeding birds

7.4.35 Twenty eight breeding bird species have been observed breeding within or directly adjacent to the site itself, as suitable habitat occurs. Ten of the species recorded are considered to be of medium or high conservation concern: Dunnock, House Sparrow, Linnet, Song Thrush, Yellowhammer and Whitethroat are breeding within the site and Kestrel, Skylark, Stock Dove and Swallow are either breeding on site or nearby. Six UK Biodiversity Action Plan (Priority) species were recorded, of which Dunnock, House Sparrow, Linnet, Song Thrush and Yellowhammer are considered to be breeding within the development site. With the exception of Dunnock and House Sparrow, the numbers of breeding territories is low. The valuation is based on the number of breeding territories.

Table 7.5: Bird Species, with their Conservation Status, that are using the Development Site Species BoCC list BAP No of breeding Evaluation Priority territories Dunnock Prunella Amber list 6-8 Local modularis House Sparrow Passer Red list 2-3 Local domesticus Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Amber list 0-1 Negligible Linnet Carduelis cannabina Red list 1-2 Site Skylark Alauda arvensis Red list 0 Negligible Song Thrush Turdus Red list 1-3 Site philomelos Stock Dove Columba Amber list 0-1 Site oenas Swallow Hirundo rustica Amber list 0-1 Site Whitethroat Sylvia 1-2 Site communis Yellowhammer Emberiza -1-3 Site citronella

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7.4.36 Legal protection is afforded to all wild birds, with certain conditional exceptions and to various levels, under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and amendments and The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. The status and nature conservation importance of bird species of the UK is identified by the Birds of Conservation Concern lists (Eaton et al, 2009) which are compiled to reflect global, European and UK status. These lists, referred to as the Red, Amber and Green lists, are nationally endorsed by the nature conservation organisations. Red Listed species are those that have shown a severe decline in population or range, or are listed by BirdLife International as being Globally Threatened using IUCN criteria (IUCN 2001). Of the species that have been recorded in the area and may use the site for nesting, Song Thrush, House Sparrow, Linnet and Yellowhammer are ‘Red List’ species and Dunnock, Kestrel, Stock Dove, Swallow and Whitethroat are ‘Amber List’ species. Except for Kestrel, Stock Dove, Swallow and Whitethroat, these species are UK BAP Priority species.

7.4.37 The bird species occurring on the site are assessed overall as of Local value. The ecological trend is probably stable.

Otter

7.4.38 No evidence of the use of the streams or adjoining habitats by Otter was found. The Otter underpass showed no signs of use. The main part of the site has little value to Otter as feeding or resting places. However the wooded area fringing the streams has some limited potential to support Otter prey species and provides cover which could be used by Otter travelling up from territories further down the river catchment, to make use of seasonal prey availability. The site does not provide adequate prey diversity to form part of a core Otter territory.

7.4.39 Otters are protected in law by their inclusion in Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended. The Otter is a European Protected Species (EPS) and is included in Annex II of the European Habitats Directive, transposed into national law through the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. Otters are thereby protected from deliberate capture, disturbance, injury or killing, and it is illegal to damage or destroy the breeding site or resting place of an Otter. The Otter is also a Priority Species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

7.4.40 Otters occurring on the development site are therefore assessed as of Local value. The ecological trend for Otter is probably stable, providing there are no significant changes in the other habitats adjacent to the site.

Badger

7.4.41 The Badger is widespread in Britain. In Cornwall the Badger is common and widespread in a variety of habitats and is not the subject of nature conservation policies but individual Badgers are protected by the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 and listed in Schedule 6 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

7.4.42 There were 16 sett entrances within the development site; four of these entrances are considered to be in “current use” by Badger and as such are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. There are no active main setts. Most of the sett entrances were clustered on a hedge towards the west of the site with some activity towards the east. For a site of this size and type, Badger activity was very low.

7.4.43 The Badger is considered of Site value on the development site. The ecological trend for species on the site is probably stable.

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Invertebrates

7.4.44 The development site supports a small number of generally common and widespread invertebrates. No Nationally Rare or Nationally Scarce species were recorded. Two Priority species have been previously recorded here but these were designated as Priority species for research only and as such are not generally considered important for biodiversity. Much of the assessment site comprises open intensively farmed agricultural fields which have little invertebrate value. The most valuable area for invertebrates is the area of wet woodland in the north of the site. The more closely managed hedgerows have limited plant diversity and a uniform structure; there are few flowering shrubs to provide nectar.

7.4.45 The development site is considered of negligible value for invertebrates; the ecological trend for this group is almost certainly stable.

7.5 Impact Assessment

7.5.1 This section considers the potential for impacts on the ecological receptors that are of Local or higher value; those ecological receptors that have less than local value are not considered further unless they are European Protected Species (in which case the regulatory context i.e. the Habitats Regulations is considered), or they are the subject of national legislation (i.e. Wildlife and Countryside Act, Protection of Badgers Act.

Table 7.6: Table of ecological receptors to be considered for significant effects Receptor Status Valuation Trelow Downs SSSI SSSI National (high) St Columb Minor Marsh County Wildlife site County (medium) County Wildlife Site The Porth Reservoir & Firhill County Wildlife site County (medium) Wood County Wildlife Site The Carnanton / Nanskeval County Wildlife site County (medium) Wood Hedgerows BAP Priority Local (low) Hedgerow Regulations Wet woodland BAP Priority District (low) Common Pipistrelle bat European Protected Species Local (low) Noctule bat European Protected Species Local (low) UK and Local BAP Priority Species Myotid bats European Protected Species Local (low) (probably Natterers) Greater Horseshoe bat European Protected Species Local (low) UK and Local BAP Priority Species Lesser Horseshoe bat European Protected Species UK Local (low) and Local BAP Priority Species Brown Long-eared bat European Protected Species Local (low) UK and Local BAP Priority

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Receptor Status Valuation Species Dormouse European Protected Species Local (low) UK and Local BAP Priority Species Otter European Protected Species Local (low) UK and Local BAP Priority Species Nesting birds Protected (W&C Act) Local (low) Dunnock BOCC Amber list BAP Priority Local (low) House Sparrow Red list BAP Priority Local (low) Badger Protection of Badgers Act 1992 Site (negligible)

7.5.2 The presence of protected species including bats, Dormouse, Badger, reptiles and nesting birds presents legal constraints during the construction and operational phase of the proposed development; measures to address these constraints, such as avoiding disturbance and injury of animals in accordance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 would be included in the construction environmental management plan (CEMP) design; these would be in addition to mitigation and biodiversity enhancement measures.

Construction Impacts Overview

7.5.3 During the construction phases there are predictable adverse impacts which are generally unavoidable; many are temporary or short term and can be minimised as part of the construction management, but some have the potential for more lasting effect. However the permanent loss of habitat under the development is addressed as an operational impact.

7.5.4 The potential for adverse impacts arises largely from disturbance (noise, vibration, light, dust, and human presence), the presence of construction equipment (e.g. security fencing, buildings that act as barriers or deterrents) and the possible short term habitat loss due to creating site access and work compounds.

7.5.5 Additionally there is potential for changes in water quality and surface water hydrology to affect the ecology of the local water catchment (the main Porth valley stream) to the west of the development site

7.5.6 The potential for adverse impacts would be minimised as far as possible through the application of good practice techniques and adherence to well-designed method statements; these would be managed through a CEMP.

7.5.7 Specific impacts are described for each ecological receptor in the following section.

Operational impacts Overview

7.5.8 The anticipated operational impacts would be from:

loss of habitat extent and resource; loss of habitat corridors and linkages within local ranges of mobile species including bats, Otter, birds and reptiles;

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disturbance of boundary and adjacent habitats from urbanisation impacts such as lighting, physical disturbance changes in management, local pollution, disturbance, predation and displacement by non-native species (both plants and animals) and changes in local microclimate; and off-site impacts within a Zone of Influence, in particular via impacts on local hydrology and air quality.

Consideration of Impacts for Each Receptor

Trelow Downs SSSI

Construction phase

7.5.9 Potential for impacts on this SSSI from disturbance, the presence of construction equipment, potential changes in hydrology and possible short term habitat loss is negligible since the SSSI lies within a different catchment and over 6km north-east of the Development Site.

Operational phase

7.5.10 Potential for impacts on this SSSI from loss of habitat corridors, disturbance of boundary and adjacent habitats, urbanization, impacts on local hydrology and air quality (e.g. on the heathland habitats) is negligible since the SSSI lies within a different catchment and over 6km north-east of the Development Site.

Assessment of Impacts

7.5.11 The potential for adverse impact on the Trelow Downs SSSI is near certain to be negligible.

St Columb Minor Marsh County Wildlife Site (R46)

Construction phase

7.5.12 Potential for impacts on this CWS from disturbance, the presence of construction equipment and the possible short term habitat loss is negligible since the CWS lies 2.5km west of the development site. However, the CWS lies within the same catchment and there is some potential for waterborne pollution on the key habitats and species of the CWS, including Otter.

Operational phase

7.5.13 Potential for impacts on this CWS from loss of habitat corridors, disturbance of boundary and adjacent habitats, urbanization and impacts on air quality is negligible since the CWS lies 2.5km west of the development site. However, the CWS lies within the same catchment and there is some potential for waterborne pollution on the key habitats and species of the CWS, including Otter.

Assessment of Impacts

7.5.14 The potential for adverse impacts on the St Columb Minor Marsh CWS is confined to waterborne pollution on the key habitats and species of the CWS and there is potential for a temporary moderate adverse impact during the construction phase and

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a permanent moderate adverse impact during the operational phase. Porth Reservoir & Firhill Wood CWS (R11)

Construction phase

7.5.15 Potential for impacts on this CWS from disturbance, the presence of construction equipment, potential changes in hydrology and possible short term habitat loss is negligible since the CWS lies within a different catchment and on the other side of the A3059, even though it is only 1km south of the development site.

Operational phase

7.5.16 Potential for impacts on this CWS from loss of habitat corridors, disturbance of boundary and adjacent habitats, urbanization, impacts on local hydrology and air quality is negligible since the CWS lies within a different catchment and 1km south of the development site.

Assessment of Impacts

7.5.17 The potential for adverse impact on the Porth Reservoir & Firhill Wood CWS is near certain to be negligible.

Carnanton/Nanskeval Wood CWS (R30)

Construction phase

7.5.18 Potential for impacts on this CWS from disturbance, the presence of construction equipment, potential changes in hydrology and possible short term habitat loss is negligible since the CWS lies within a different catchment and on the other side of NQY, even though it is only 800m north-east of the development site at its nearest point.

Operational phase

7.5.19 Potential for impacts on this CWS from loss of habitat corridors, disturbance of boundary and adjacent habitats, urbanization, impacts on local hydrology and air quality is negligible since the CWS lies within a different catchment and on the other side of NQY, even though it is only 800m north-east of the development site at its nearest point.

Assessment of Impacts

7.5.20 The potential for adverse impact on the Carnanton/Nanskeval Wood CWS is near certain to be negligible.

Wet woodland

Construction phase

7.5.21 There is potential for adverse impact on the wet woodland habitat from construction activities; adverse impacts may arise from air-borne pollution (including dusts), pollution from fuels and chemicals used on site, changes in surface water dynamics, sediments, damage by construction traffic, physical disturbance and changes in drainage. The potential impacts from the construction phase are likely to be short term major adverse.

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Operational phase

7.5.22 There is potential for adverse impact on the wet woodland habitat from air-borne pollution (including dusts), accidental pollution and changes in drainage. The potential impacts from the operational phase are likely to be negligible.

Hedges

Construction phase

7.5.23 There is potential for adverse impact on the hedgerow habitat throughout the development site from construction activities; adverse impacts may arise from air- borne pollution (including dusts), accidental pollution, damage by construction traffic, physical disturbance, ground compaction and changes in drainage.

7.5.24 The potential impacts from the construction phase are likely to be short term minor adverse

Operational phase

7.5.25 The proposed development would result in the loss of approximately 1961metres of Cornish hedge bank. This 1961metres comprises 278m of undesignated hedge, 51m of Local Priority BAP habitat, 785m of Local and National Priority BAP habitat and 847m of BAP habitat and Hedgerow Regulations habitat. This would be a certain permanent adverse impact on the aim of the BAP to achieve no net loss. The removal of these lengths of hedge would also reduce the connectivity in the local hedge network and has the potential to reduce local wildlife corridors for mobile species using the wider landscape, including internationally important bats, as well as Dormouse. In particular internal hedges H12, H15, H16, H17, H26 and parts of H11 and H18/19 will be lost. In addition, internal hedges H5, H8, H9 and H18/19 will be breached, thus reducing connectivity.

7.5.26 Additionally there is almost certain to be an increased level of artificial lighting on the hedge habitat which remains, which has the potential to disturb the semi-natural habitat that the hedge provides, possibly resulting in reduced value as an ecological corridor and shelter at night.

7.5.27 The impact would be permanent medium adverse due to the loss of hedgerow extent.

Bats

7.5.28 The main impact on bats is likely to be produced by the disruption of the feeding and commuting routes along internal and boundary hedges. Disruption of these flight paths would be caused by physical removal of sections of hedgerow, but also by light spill onto these flight paths for some of the species that are intolerant of artificial lighting. The proposed development may also have an impact on the surrounding landscape, especially with light spill onto possible adjacent bat roosts and feeding areas.

7.5.29 There is already some modest light pollution from the adjacent airport; this will be increased on site. Although this lighting may provide some foraging benefits for light tolerant bat species – most importantly Common Pipistrelle at this site – the lighting would be near certain to have an adverse impact for the other species (Noctule, Brown Long-eared, Greater and Lesser Horseshoe and myotid species).

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Common Pipistrelle

Construction phase

7.5.30 The removal of sections or all of the hedgerows would result during the construction in disruption of the landscape and physical features that Common Pipistrelle populations use for foraging and commuting. Lighting at night during construction works would also disrupt feeding and commuting activity. The potential impacts from the construction phase are likely to be short term minor adverse.

Operational phase

7.5.31 The removal of sections of or all of the hedgerows would result in the permanent disruption of the landscape and physical features that Common Pipistrelle populations use for foraging and commuting. The edge of the woodland will still be available for foraging and commuting. Nocturnal lighting may be beneficial for this species as lighting may attract insects on which Common Pipistrelles feed. However, overall the disruption to flying routes and foraging habitat has the potential to adversely affect the local population with the potential to affect the conservation status of the local population. The potential impacts from the operational phase are likely to be permanent minor adverse.

Noctule

Construction phase

7.5.32 The removal of sections or all of the hedgerows would result in disruption of the landscape and physical features that Noctules use for foraging and commuting. The loss of the open grasslands will also reduce foraging territories. Lighting at night during construction works would also disrupt feeding and commuting activity. The potential impacts from the construction phase are likely to be short term minor adverse.

Operational phase

7.5.33 The removal of sections of or all of the hedgerows and open grasslands (especially to the west of the site) would result in the permanent disruption of the landscape and physical features that Noctule populations use for foraging and commuting. Nocturnal lighting may be beneficial for this species as lighting may attract insects on which Noctules feed. However, overall the disruption to flying routes has the potential to adversely affect the local population and has the potential to be significant within the terms of the Habitat Regulations. The potential impacts from the operational phase are likely to be permanent minor adverse.

Brown Long-eared and myotid bats

Construction phase

7.5.34 The removal of sections or all of the hedgerows would result in disruption of the landscape and physical features that these bats use for foraging and commuting. Lighting at night during construction works would also disrupt feeding and commuting activity. The potential impacts from the construction phase are likely to be short term minor adverse.

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Operational phase

7.5.35 The removal of sections of or all of the hedgerows would result in the permanent disruption of the landscape and physical features that these bats use for foraging and commuting. These bats are light adverse and on-site lighting will have an adverse impact. However, overall the disruption to flying routes has the potential to adversely affect the local population and has the potential to be significant within the terms of the Habitat Regulations (European protected species regulations). The potential impacts from the operational phase are likely to be permanent minor adverse.

Lesser Horseshoe and Greater Horseshoe bats

7.5.36 The scale of the adverse impact on these species is near certain to be minor. The survey results indicated a low level of use of the Development Site by these species with the main areas of activity on the edge of the wet woodland, which will remain.

Construction phase

7.5.37 Lighting at night during construction works would disrupt feeding and commuting activity. The potential impacts from the construction phase are likely to be short term minor adverse.

Operational phase

7.5.38 Lighting at night during the operational phase would disrupt feeding and commuting activity.

7.5.39 This is likely to be a negligible impact for the low numbers of individuals that visit the site.

Nesting birds

7.5.40 The Development Site is considered to be of local value for these nesting birds, the value being in the presence of the band of willow woodland along the northern edge and, to a lesser extent, the network of Cornish hedges. The willow woodland is being retained. Of the individual species only Dunnock and Song Thrush are assessed as of Local value. The potential for adverse impact on Dunnock and Song Thrush arises from the overall loss of habitat resource and increasing pressure on the local population for feeding resources and nesting sites.

Construction phase

7.5.41 During the construction phase there is potential for disturbance of birds, particularly during the nesting season of March to August, and especially when hedges are removed. Work outside the nesting season would not impact directly on nesting birds. The impact would be temporary minor adverse.

Operational phase

7.5.42 There is some potential for disturbance of birds using the hedges during the nesting season, especially where access roads have been constructed and where nocturnal lighting affects the hedges. The impact would be permanent medium adverse due to the loss of extent of habitat, internal traffic and artificial lighting.

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Common Dormouse

Construction phase

7.5.43 During the construction phase there is potential for disturbance to Dormice during the removal of the hedges and hedgerow sections. Disturbance would be less during the winter months on hedges where there was no vegetation. The potential impacts from the construction phase are likely to be short term medium adverse.

Operational phase

7.5.44 Dormice are likely to use the wet woodland and the hedgerows. The wet woodland is not being affected by the development. However, the proposed development would result in the loss of approximately 1961metres of Cornish hedge bank, resulting in the direct loss of habitat and also in the loss of wildlife connectivity, with some hedgerow sections becoming isolated. This would be a certain permanent major adverse impact on the population of Dormice on the development site.

Otter

Construction phase

7.5.45 It is possible that there would be an adverse impact on the local Otter population during the construction works due to noise, and there is a low risk of an adverse impact on the conservation status of Otters on site. However, the wet woodland is being retained and will act as a barrier between potential Otter habitat and construction. The potential impacts from the construction phase are likely to be short term minor adverse.

Operational phase

7.5.46 It is possible that there would be an adverse impact on the local Otter population during the operational phase due to noise. However, the wet woodland is being retained and will act as a barrier between potential Otter habitat and site operation. The potential impacts from the construction phase are likely to be negligible.

Badgers

7.5.47 There are 16 sett entrances scattered across the site but no main Badger setts; only 4 of these entrances are in active use. 12 entrances were abandoned and currently are not protected under the Act. The main impact is likely to be on the foraging areas of badgers (which are not legally protected) and the potential loss of active setts (which are legally protected).

Construction phase

7.5.48 During the construction phase there is potential for adverse impact on all the Badger entrances. Construction work will be carried out very close to these setts which could be damaged, obstructed or destroyed; the two most active setts will be destroyed. Badgers could also be disturbed whilst occupying these setts. Badgers and their setts are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 from damage, obstruction, destruction and disturbance. The potential impacts from the construction phase are likely to be short term minor adverse.

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Operational phase

7.5.49 All the Badger entrances could be permanently lost (the most active ones by closure under licence). However, their loss would be of negligible significance to the local population since the main sett is off-site and these entrances are single outliers and do not constitute an important feature for Badgers within this site. There would be some loss of foraging habitats although there is considerable Badger foraging habitat nearby. The potential impacts from the operational phase are likely to be negligible.

7.6 Mitigation

Detailed mitigation for each of the potential impacts is provided in Table 7.7. General mitigation principles are provided here.

Construction Phase

7.6.2 The following mitigation would be provided to minimise the unavoidable effects of the construction phase:

Good practice construction methods (as indicated in Environment Agency’s Pollution Prevention Guidelines) which provide advice on methods of avoiding pollution and disturbance of nearby valued habitats.

Design and delivery of a CEMP that incorporates ecological protections for all sensitive ecological features.

Physical protection of the retained hedge features on the site by maintaining an undisturbed buffer zone along the hedge (incorporating British Standard Tree protection guidelines for the hedge trees).

Avoidance of artificial lighting spill onto the hedges during the construction phase.

Avoidance of potential disturbance to bat flight lines and adjacent bat habitat by the provision of a buffer zone around all hedges and sections thereof to be retained in order to ensure their protection.

Protection of the wet woodland by temporary fencing to ensure that there is no accidental harm of this important habitat.

Avoidance during site preparation of any areas where nesting birds are found, during the bird nesting season.

Undertaking reasonable avoidance measures (RAMs) prior to works on site, to avoid injuring reptiles during exclusion; this would include the use of reptile exclusion fencing and the translocation of reptiles from risk areas to a receptor site in accordance with industry good practice.

Clearance of vegetation in winter under licence from Natural England from hedges to be removed followed by destruction of hedges (under the same licence) in early spring when Dormice are active after hibernation will ensure that no Dormice are harmed during this operation. The work may be licensed by Natural England provided the three tests are met: the consented operation must be of overriding public interest, there must no satisfactory

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alternative and the action will be not be detrimental to the maintenance of the population.

Measures to ensure that disturbance of Otters is avoided would be included within the CEMP, although the site is of local value for Otter and no evidence of Otter was found.

Closure, as necessary, of the ‘occasional use’ Badger setts under licence from Natural England to ensure Badgers are not disturbed within their setts and that active setts are not damaged or destroyed. Closure would follow standard approved methodology, and should be designed into the scheduling to be carried out between June and November (inclusive).

Operational Phase

7.6.3 The following would be provided to mitigate for the adverse impacts that have been identified:

Establishment of bat foraging zones on the edge of the wet woodland which retains the important woodland edge habitat.

Construction of a SuDS ditch within the landscape corridor to ensure there is no effect on the water quality of the streams.

Establishment of enhanced landscape corridors alongside existing hedges to maintain wildlife corridors within and on the edge of the site and to maintain the existing habitat value for bats and Dormouse.

Enhanced management of the hedges to significantly improve the biodiversity value of the existing heavily managed hedge, which can result in a more diverse woody structure and tree growth that would improve habitat resource for local bird and bat populations.

Establishment of attenuation ponds to provide additional habitat for aquatic species such as amphibians and associated damp habitat provides foraging habitat for Grass Snake.

Installation of a planned scheme of permanent bat boxes suitable for Common Pipistrelles near suitable habitat to provide alternative roosts and mitigate for potential loss of flight corridor.

Creation of a detailed lighting strategy to minimise the effects on species that are not tolerant of light e.g. bats and nesting birds.

Maintenance of hedgerow connectivity corridors for Dormice through the site with strategically placed standard trees so the canopies grow together to reduce gaps over access roads etc. In addition gaps in existing hedges will be planted with appropriate species such as hazel, with hawthorn and blackthorn.

The creation of habitat mosaics for reptiles that include southerly slopes, with surfaces and aspects for thermoregulation, a diversity of scrub and ground cover heights, habitat piles, and hedgerow corridors connected into

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semi-natural landscape would benefit a wide range of biodiversity including reptiles.

Enhancement of habitat for nesting birds by installing bird boxes in suitable habitat.

7.7 Summary of Residual Impacts

7.7.1 During the construction phase the combination of good practice measures according to the CEMP and the protection of existing retained hedgerows and wet woodland during the construction phase would avoid significant adverse impacts on the valued receptors of the site.

7.7.2 During the operational phase the provision of mitigation which protects the habitat value of the hedgerows and the wet woodland and creates new habitats, together with a lighting strategy which limits lighting effects, would be near certain to avoid significant adverse impact on the nature conservation value (valued receptors) of the site.

7.7.3 The residual impacts are indicated in Table 7.7.

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Geographical Residual Effects Importance* (Major/Moderate/ Nature of Impact Scale of Mitigation / Minor) Potential Impact (Permanent/ impact Enhancement Measures (Beneficial/Adve Temporary) I UK E R C D L rse/ Negligible) Construction Phase Water-borne pollution on St Columb Permanent Medium Pollution controlled as part of the * Negligible Minor Marsh CWS adverse CEMP Damage & loss of biodiversity value to Temporary Minor Hedgerows will be protected * Negligible hedgerows adverse Air-borne pollution, accidental pollution, Temporary Major A landscape buffer zone will be * Negligible damage by construction traffic, physical adverse established; temporary fencing disturbance and changes in drainage in will be installed. the wet woodland Disturbance to Common Pipistrelle Temporary Minor Creation of buffer zone around * Negligible adverse hedges Disturbance to Noctule Temporary Minor Creation of buffer zone around * Negligible adverse hedges Disturbance to Brown Long-eared and Temporary Minor Avoidance of lighting at night; * Negligible myotid bats adverse creation of buffer zone around hedges Disturbance to Lesser Horseshoe and Temporary Minor Avoidance of lighting at night; * Negligible Greater Horseshoe bats adverse creation of buffer zone around hedges and woodland Disturbance to nesting birds Temporary Minor Avoidance of working during the * Negligible adverse nesting season. Disturbance to Dormouse Temporary Medium Clearance of hedgerow * Negligible adverse vegetation under licence Disturbance to Otter Temporary Minor Maintenance of wet woodland * Negligible adverse and creation of landscape buffer zones

Environmental Statement Prepared by Parsons Brinckerhoff December 2012 - 160 - for Cornwall Development Company Aerohub Business Park Newquay Cornwall AirportAerohub Enterprise Zone @ Newquay Cornwall Airport - Geographical Residual Effects Importance* (Major/Moderate/ Nature of Impact Scale of Mitigation / Minor) Potential Impact (Permanent/ impact Enhancement Measures (Beneficial/Adve Temporary) I UK E R C D L rse/ Negligible) Disturbance to Badger Temporary Minor Closure under licence from * Negligible adverse natural England Operational phase Water-borne pollution on St Columb Permanent Medium Pollution controlled as part of the * Negligible Minor Marsh CWS adverse CEMP Damage & loss of biodiversity value to Permanent Medium Hedgerows will be protected * Negligible hedgerows adverse Disturbance to Common Pipistrelle Permanent Minor Establishment of buffer zones * Negligible adverse adjacent to the wet woodland and enhanced landscape corridors alongside hedges; erection of bat boxes Disturbance to Noctule Permanent Minor Establishment of buffer zones * Negligible adverse adjacent to the wet woodland and enhanced landscape corridors alongside hedges Disturbance to Brown Long-eared and Permanent Minor Avoidance of lighting at night; * Negligible myotid bats adverse creation of buffer zone around hedges Disturbance to and loss of habitat for Permanent Medium Enhancement of hedges to * Negligible nesting birds adverse increase biodiversity; installation of bird boxes; development of lighting strategy Disturbance and loss of habitat Permanent Major Maintenance of habitat * Negligible connectivity for Dormouse adverse connectivity * Geographical Level of Importance I = International; UK = United Kingdom; E = England; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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7.8 Summary of Residual Impacts

7.8.1 During the construction phase the combination of good practice measures according to the CEMP and the protection of existing retained hedgerows and wet woodland during the construction phase would avoid significant adverse impacts on the valued receptors of the site.

7.8.2 During the operational phase the provision of mitigation which protects the habitat value of the hedgerows and the wet woodland and creates new habitats, together with a lighting strategy which limits lighting effects, would be near certain to avoid significant adverse impact on the nature conservation value (valued receptors) of the site.

7.8.3 The residual impacts are indicated in Table 7.7 above.

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SECTION 8 WATER & FLOOD RISK

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8 WATER AND FLOOD RISK

8.1 Introduction

8.1.1 This section looks at potential impacts on the water environment arising from the proposed Business Park. This includes increased run-off and flood risk, water quality, and water supply and discharge. The site is currently undeveloped agricultural land and comprises some 35.5Ha. It is bounded to the south by the A3059, to the north by a tributary of the Porth Stream and the SAR runs just inside the west boundary.

8.2 Legislation and Policy

8.2.1 In England water resources are protected and regulated through a number of legislative instruments and guidance documents, including the following: The Water Environment (Water Framework Directive) (England and Wales) Regulations 2003; The Water Resources Act 1991; The Flood and Water Management Act (FWMA) 2010; The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Technical Guidance to the NPPF, March 2012; and The Groundwater Regulations 2009.

8.3 Methodology

8.3.1 The methodology for assessment of water environment effects follows that set out in the DMRB 11.3.10: Road Drainage and the Water Environment HD 45/09, November 2009. Details of how to estimate the importance of water environment attributes are detailed below.

Table 8.1: Estimating the Importance of Water Environment Attributes (HA, DMRB HD 45/09) Importance/ Criteria Example Sensitivity Very High Attribute has WFD Class ‘High’ a high quality Site protected/designed under EC or UK habitat and rarity on legislation (SAC, SPA, SSSI, WPZ, Ramsar site, regional or salmonid water)/Species protected by EC legislation national scale EC Designated Salmonid / Cyprynid Fishery Principle aquifer providing a regionally important resource or supporting site protected under EC and UK habitat legislation. SPZ 1 Floodplain or defence protecting more than 100 residential properties from flooding High Attribute has WFD Class ‘Good’ a high quality Species protected under EC or UK habitat legislation and rarity on Major Cyprynid Fishery local scale Principle aquifer providing locally important resource or supporting river ecosystem. SPZ 2 Floodplain or defence protecting between 1 and 100 residential properties or industrial premises from flooding Medium Attribute has WFD Class ‘Moderate’

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Importance/ Criteria Example Sensitivity a medium Aquifer providing water for agricultural or industrial quality and use with limited connection to surface water. SPZ 3 rarity on local Floodplain or defence protecting 10 or fewer scale industrial properties from flooding Low Attribute has WFD Class ‘Poor’ a low quality Non-Aquifer and rarity on Floodplain with limited constraints and a low local scale probability of flooding of residential and industrial properties

8.3.2 Potential impacts will be assessed in two steps: estimation of the magnitude of the impact, followed by an estimation of the significance of the effect of an impact. The DMRB document also gives guidance for estimating these, estimation of magnitude is tabulated in Table 8.2 below. The prediction of the significance of the impact is based on Table 8.3.

Table 8.2: Estimating the Magnitude of an Impact on an Attribute (adapted from DMRB HD 45/09) Magnitude Criteria Example High Results in loss of Loss or extensive change to a fishery / (Adverse) attribute and / or designated Nature Conservation Site quality and Loss of, or extensive change to an aquifer / integrity of the groundwater supported designated wetlands attribute Increase in peak flood level (1% annual probability event (ape)) > 100mm Medium Results in effect Partial loss in productivity of a fishery (Adverse) on integrity of Partial loss or change to an aquifer attribute, or loss Increase in peak flood level (1% ape) > 50mm of part of attribute Low Results in some Potential high risk of pollution to surface water (Adverse) measurable Potential low risk of pollution to groundwater change in Increase in peak flood level (1% ape) > 10mm attributes quality or vulnerability Very Low Results in effect The proposed scheme is unlikely to affect the on attribute, but integrity of the water environment of insufficient No measurable impact upon an aquifer magnitude to Negligible change in peak flood level (1% ape) affect the use of < +/-10mm integrity Low Results in some Calculated reduction in existing spillage risk (Beneficial) beneficial effect 50% (when existing spillage risk is < 1% on attribute or a annually) reduced risk of Reduction in peak flood level (1% ape) > negative effect 10mm occurring Medium Results in Calculated reduction in existing spillage risk (Beneficial) moderate 50% (when existing spillage risk is > 1% improvement of annually) attribute quality Reduction in peak flood level (1% ape) > 50mm High Results in major Removal of existing polluting discharge, or (Beneficial) improvement of removing the likelihood of polluting discharges

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Magnitude Criteria Example attribute quality occurring Reduction in peak flood level (1% ape) > 100mm

Table 8.3: Sensitivity and Magnitude of Impact

RECEPTOR/ RESOURCE SENSITIVITY High Medium Low High Major Major Moderate

Medium Major Moderate Minor

Low Moderate Minor Minor

Very low Minor Insignificant Insignificant

IMPACT MAGNITUDE No change None None None

8.3.3 The concept drainage strategy for the scheme is based upon the master-plan following liaison with the EA and CC, adopting PPS25 guidelines, which now form part of the NPPF. Existing Flood Risk Assessments (FRA)’s have been reviewed as part of this process, namely that for the SAR. As per CC’s Drainage Guidance for Cornwall (2010 v2) infiltration will be the primary drainage objective, dependent upon ground conditions, and any discharge will be at or below greenfield rates. .

8.3.4 CC has also been consulted on this regarding their upcoming role as SuDS Approving Body (SAB) under the FWMA 2010.

8.4 Baseline

Topography and Drainage

8.4.1 The site sits near the top of its catchment and along a ridgeline. The site largely falls northwards (15Ha, 50%) to a tributary of the Porth Stream. The western quadrant (5Ha, 15%) falls towards the western boundary and ultimately north to the stream. There is a strip approximately 150m wide along 750m of the southern boundary (10Ha, 35%), parallel with the A3059, which falls to the south. There is a small area, some 3Ha to the west of the SAR junction with the A3059, which also falls to the south west and the A3059. The site generally falls at an average of 2% from east to west. There are low points in the A3059, some 250m east and 200m west of the SAR junction.

8.4.2 The geology of the site can be generally defined as the north half being Dartmouth Group (Devonian) Slate, siltstone and sandstone and the south half being Meadfoot Group (Devonian) Inter-bedded slate and sandstone.

8.4.3 The land to the east of the site is considered to contribute very little runoff towards the site due to the topography and the position of the stream and the A3079.

8.4.4 Access to the site will be from the A3059 and the SAR. There are no habitable properties immediately adjacent to the site which would be affected by flooding and

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the land is not known to have contamination issues (see section 9 Soils and Geology). The site does not lie within a Critical Drainage Area.

Existing Flood Risk

Fluvial

8.4.5 The site falls within flood zone 1; that is a low probability and less than 1 in 1000 annual probability of river or sea flooding in any year. The EA mapping in Figures 8.1 & 8.2 indicates this.

Figure 8.1 Newquay Airport area EA flood mapping Courtesy: Environment Agency, http://maps.environment-agency.gov.uk/

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Figure 8.2: LDO 2 area EA flood mapping Courtesy: Environment Agency, http://maps.environment-agency.gov.uk/

Tidal / Coastal

8.4.6 This is not considered further as the site is some 3.5 km from the coast and is located at approximately 85m AOD.

Groundwater

8.4.7 The geotechnical investigation (GI) report for the SAR, (Newquay Cornwall Airport – SAR Ground Investigation Report, 2009) identifies BH1 and BH2 within 40m of the water course as having water levels up to 0.5m of the surface. This would suggest a water level of approximately 80m AOD. No other reference is made to water levels in the GI. Seasonal variations need to be considered.

Infrastructure & Sewers

8.4.8 There are no known sewers nearby which could contribute to site flooding and as such the risk of flooding from this source is considered low.

8.4.9 The sensitivity of the site is currently assessed as being of low importance in relation to flood risk (Table 8.1).

Surface Water

8.4.10 The northern tributary of the Porth Stream flows from east to west along the northern boundary of the site. It is formed from two small streams which rise within the site. It joins the southern tributary of the Porth Stream approximately 5km downstream, just before it drains into the sea at Porth Beach. All the local coasts are designated under the EU Bathing Water Directive.

8.4.11 The WFD stipulates that all water bodies should aim to meet good status by a set timeframe. For natural surface waters, good status refers to ecological status and is defined as ‘Good Ecological Status’ (GES). Surface waters that are unnatural are classed as either Heavily Modified Water Bodies (HMWB) or Artificial Water Bodies

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(AWB) and the aim for these water bodies is to achieve Good Chemical Status and ‘Good Ecological Potential’ (GEP).

8.4.12 The main objectives of the WFD is that all water bodies should aim to achieve either GES or GEP before 2015 however, this deadline can be extended if required, provided that no further deterioration occurs in the status of the affected body of water.

8.4.13 River Basin Management Plans (RBMP) set out measures to achieve the aims of the WFD. For each River Basin District a programme of measures is set to ensure that good status or potential of surface water and groundwater bodies is achieved and that deterioration in the status of waters is prevented.

8.4.14 The Porth Stream falls within the 'North Cornwall, Seaton, Looe and Fowey District’ of the South West River Basin Management Plan. This overall status and ecological status are both currently classified as moderate, with an objective is to achieve good overall and ecological status by 2027.

8.4.15 Overall the sensitivity of the surface water for the site is assessed as being high, to reflect long term WFD objectives and downstream bathing waters.

Ground Water

8.4.16 In relation to groundwater the site is classified as a Secondary A Aquifer, which is associated with the Meadfoot Beds underlying geology (see Soils & Geology, chapter 9). These are permeable layers of rock capable of supporting water supplies at a local rather than strategic scale.

8.4.17 The SAR Ground Investigation (GI) report suggests ground permeability as varying between 2.5x10-4 m/s and 8x10-5 m/s, both of which are favourable values for infiltration drainage. Similarly, the site lies within Soil class 2, as defined within nationally established “Wallingford“ documentation and which is classified as generally having a moderate to high permeability.

8.4.18 The sensitivity of the groundwater is assessed as being of medium sensitivity (Table 8.3).

Water Supply and Foul Drainage

8.4.19 At NQY, runoff from hard-standing at NQY is understood to be directed to interceptor chambers, which are periodically pumped out. On-site temporary storage tanks are in place that discharge directly to the water courses south of the site. Recharge occurs where run-off collects in soakaways under the site and in areas of grass-covered ground between the hard-standing. The current foul water drainage system either connects to the sewage treatment works at St Mawgan or is allowed to discharge into individual sceptic tanks, the system discharges to a treatment works serving the airport north of the site (Entec, 2008)5.

8.4.20 The Business Park site is not currently connected to the Airport in terms of drainage. South West Water (SWW) has advised that the closest public sewer for a potential foul connection is at Trevelgue or St Columb Minor, circa 3.5km to the west. This is treated through the Newquay Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTW). There is also a public foul sewer to the north at Ball, but this discharges, partly via a pumped rising main, towards St Columb.

5 Entec, 2008, Newquay Cornwall Airport Draft Masterplan Strategic Environmental Assessment.

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8.4.21 Other foul water discharges in the area comprise:

The Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust Headquarters at Trevithick Downs approximately 50m to the east of the site has a “KEE Process” biodigester unit which discharges treated water via a soakaway. This site normally accommodates approximately 16 staff and has a discharge exemption approved through the Environment Agency. A “secondary treated sewage effluent” discharge consent is extant via the Environment Agency which discharges to the tributary of the Porth Stream halfway along the LDO2 northern site boundary and is for 20m3/day (20/30/20, BoD/solids/N). This serves a sewage treatment plant for airport hangars, offices and workshops.

8.5 Impact Assessment

8.5.1 The proposed development will comprise some 40,000m2 of new building footprint, comprising office and light industrial units, including a possible hotel (see Illustrative Masterplan). Some 1.9km of new adoptable access road will serve the development, with access from the SAR and the A3059. Associated parking and shared public realm areas will contribute to the new development along with associated landscaping.

8.5.2 This will mean a number of changes to the water environment. This section assesses the magnitude of these impacts and identify whether this leads to significant effects, based on the Tables 8.1-8.3. Table 8.3 at the end of this section summarises the assessment.

Construction Impacts

8.5.3 During construction, large areas of bare ground on the site will be exposed and there will be movement of spoil to create the plot areas. The drainage design for the site, the principles of which are described in section 8.6 below, will not yet be operational. Therefore there is a greater risk of impacts on the water environment, although these can be reduced to some extent by good construction site practice.

8.5.4 Potential impacts during construction comprise:

Surface water run-off causing local flooding particularly of the Porth Stream tributary downstream of the site and A3059. The magnitude of the impact is likely to be medium, as although there are measures which can be undertaken to reduce flood risk from construction sites, they are unlikely to be as effective as permanent design measures. The significance of the effect is predicted to be minor adverse. Potential contamination of the Porth Stream tributary from silt, oils and other pollutants from the construction site. Construction site best practice should ensure that this impact is of low magnitude. The significance of the effect is predicted to be moderate adverse. Potential contamination of groundwater from spillage of oils, fuel or other pollutants used during construction. Construction site best practice should ensure that this impact is of low magnitude. The significance of the effect is predicted to be minor adverse. 8.5.5 Temporary provision for water supply and sewage will be made on site for the construction workforce.

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Operational Impacts: Flood Risk

8.5.6 The highest risk of flooding at this site will be from new development, by creating impermeable areas which will intensify runoff rates and volumes.

8.5.7 The EA advises that proposed storm drainage should comprise conventional sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) and that there are no groundwater issues.

8.5.8 The CC Flood Officer has advised that when the SuDS Approving Body (SAB) is formally operational, pending the national guidelines being approved, they would probably adopt suitable commercial and residential SuDS features, albeit within public land or an easement, and with no “heavily engineered” features. In the interim storm drainage design will need to follow “Drainage Guidance for Cornwall Council, Including Areas with Critical Drainage Problems, Version 2 – January 2010” has been adopted for preliminary design purposes. This advocates infiltration drainage where possible. This site does not fall within a critical drainage area

8.5.9 Adopting Institute of Hydrology (IH124) principles and Microdrainage (w12) software, existing greenfield runoff from this site would be as follows:

Return period 40 Ha Area Equivalent l/s/Ha 1 year 88 l/s 2.2 10 year 169 l/s 4.2 30 year 216 l/s 5.4 100 year 274 l/s 6.8

8.5.10 The 100 year event equates to 6.8 l/s/Ha, which also matches the existing runoff rates established in the FRA developed by Entec in March 2009, for the Southern Access Route.

8.5.11 These flows need to be mimicked for the developed site. Guidance within the SuDS Manual (Ciria 697) and “Drainage Guidance for Cornwall Council” should be followed. Source control of flows should be promoted where possible. An allowance for climate change shall be included in new designs to increase rainfall peak intensity by 30%.

8.5.12 The defined site within the proposed development framework master plan is some 27 ha, out of the 35.5ha redline boundary. With 100 year greenfield runoff rates of 6.8l/s/ha, the equivalent allowable outflows will be as follows:

Area type Master plan area % area Allowable Q100 (Ha) discharge (l/s) Buildings 4.0 1427 Parking, access + Public realm 12 45 82 Highway 1.9 713 Landscape 9 34

8.5.13 Site Annual Average Rainfall (SAAR) for this site is established from “Wallingford” documentation as 1000mm. Climate change for design purposes is considered, and an allowance for 30% shall be included.

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8.5.14 With the increase in hardstanding, the potential magnitude of the impact on flood risk is high. However, given the design principals set out above, which are described in more detail under ‘Mitgation’ section 8.6 below, there will be no change to greenfield run-off rates and no impact on flood risk.

Operational Impacts: Surface & Groundwater

8.5.15 The proposed Business Park generally does not have any direct impacts on the Porth Stream tributary as a 15m buffer from the edge of the woodland has been maintained in the design.

8.5.16 However, the collection and treatment of surface water needs be considered in terms of impact upon groundwater and ultimately the receiving stream. Treatment procedures considered are in accordance with the SuDS Manual (Ciria 697) (Tables 3.3 & 5.10). The design includes porous pavements and a number of SuDS ditches leading to attenuation swales/ scrapes (Illustrative Masterplan). Further details are given in section 8.6 below. The use of SuDS in the design maximises infiltration to groundwater.

8.5.17 The impact of polluted run-off on surface and groundwater quality is therefore predicted to be of very low magnitude. This is assessed to have an insignificant effect on groundwater and minor adverse effect on the Porth Tributary.

8.5.18 Three options for discharge of foul sewage have been considered:

A pump station, with rising main pipeline could transfer foul water to the public sewer at St Columb Minor. The rising main (approximately 125mm diameter) would most likely be routed along the A3059, as opposed to along the stream, for access and reasons. As an indication, the pump station site would be some 25m x 30m to accommodate the pump sump, control panels and turning head for maintenance vehicles. A proprietary package treatment unit for this development would take up a minimum area of approximately 45m x 35m, depending on water quality outflow requirements and would be located at the lower end of the site (north west corner). There is potential for a new joint sewage treatment works with Kelda Water, who act on behalf of the adjacent Ministry of Defence (MoD) at RAF St Mawgan. The existing sewage treatment works at this site discharges 1.3km downstream (west) on the Porth Stream adjacent to the airport and is currently being considered for an upgrade. A new treatment works would ideally be located between the two sites. 8.5.19 Odour and aesthetics, along with water quality, cost and efficient land use will determine for the final foul discharge solution. The latter two options, comprising sewage treatment works, would discharge to the Porth Stream Tributary. A discharge consent from the Environment Agency would be required and compliance with this would reduce the impact on water quality to be very low, resulting in a minor adverse effect.

8.6 Mitigation and Monitoring

8.6.1 Mitigation has largely been incorporated in design. This section describes design undertaken to date and measure to be incorporated in detailed design.

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Construction

8.6.2 The construction stage needs to be considered during design in terms of erosion control and protection of new SuDS facilities and receiving waters. Procedures defined within the SuDS manual (Ciria report C697), section 21 should be considered and adopted as required during construction stage.

8.6.3 A draft CEMP is being prepared for use on the site during construction. The CEMP will provide instructions on the appropriate storage and use of fuels, oils and lubricants, and the use of the contractor’s compound to minimise the risk of polluting surface water and groundwater receptors through leaks and spills. The CEMP will also provide instruction on storage and reuse of topsoil and subsoil, and measures to minimise the risk of silt laden runoff from the site.

Highway

8.6.4 Approximately 1.9ha of highway may be adoptable by CC. This area would require an attenuation feature, with infiltration, of approximately 750m2, 1m deep, with an allowable outflow of 13 l/s. This will be similar to the pond recently constructed for the SAR. Ponds will require 1V:3H (or flatter) side slopes and the issue of netting is still being considered. Alternatively, underground storage with infiltration, with the same volume could be considered.

8.6.5 At least two stages of treatment would be incorporated to assist in removing pollutants from storm water. This could include filter drains or swales, prior to discharge to the attenuation / infiltration feature. Design would be phased in relation to the development of the LDO2 site.

8.6.6 The southern 200m of the SAR discharges to an infiltration area in the north east corner of its junction with the A3059. This includes a surface storage area for exceedance flows. This area would remain unaffected by developed runoff from the proposed development.

Site buildings and paved areas

8.6.7 As an indication, an area of 1ha of building and paved surfaces would require some 1,200m2 of permeable paving with 300mm depth of cellular storage, although this will vary dependent upon chosen depth and media of storage, ground permeability and gradient of the developed site.

8.6.8 Where possible conveyance to and from these storage areas would incorporate swales and / or filter drains. At least two stages of treatment should be incorporated to assist in removing pollutants from storm water.

8.6.9 Storage for water above the 30 year storm event could be accommodated above ground within open space areas such as car parks, but this will be dependent upon finished levels and sensitivity of the area.

8.6.10 During detail design, ground permeability rates across the site will require further investigation and verification and overland flow paths and exceedance flow paths will need to be established and confirmed.

8.6.11 It is recommended that individual plots be given an allowable rate of discharge for buildings and paved areas, based upon their respective plot areas, which can be brought on line as they are developed, and maintained accordingly by the plot owner. This would be equivalent to 6.8l/s discharge per hectare of impermeable area, in a

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100 year storm event. These areas should drain to swales and common storm drainage systems ultimately discharging to the stream. Infiltration devices should have a factor of safety of at least 3, provided suitable exceedance routes are available.

Site drainage (external to buildings)

8.6.12 Adoptable highway drainage shall conform to CC guidance and discharge via suitable SuDS systems to a suitable attenuation/infiltration feature(s) at the north, north west sides of the site. This shall drain surface water via an infiltration feature but where ground conditions prevail can adopt a maximum allowable discharge to the stream of 6.0l/s/ha of impermeable surface.

8.6.13 Individual plots and associated impermeable areas, including related public realm areas, shall drain surface water via soakaway features, such as permeable car parks; but where conditions prevail can adopt a maximum allowable discharge from the plots to the stream of 6.0l/s/ha of impermeable surface.

8.6.14 Individual plot owners would be responsible for pollution and storm water discharge control from their specific plot.

8.6.15 SuDS designs would follow the principles of the SuDS Manual, Ciria 697 and the guidance within the NPPF, including adherence as required to the Building Regulations. A 30% allowance for climate change is to be included in new storm drainage design.

8.6.16 All highway and other storm drainage would discharge towards the stream via green corridors through SuDS features such as swales and/or filter drains and be kept separate from existing highway drains.

SuDS Principles

8.6.17 To conform with SuDS principles of controlling quality and quantity and providing amenity and biodiversity. The following concepts would be anticipated:

Green corridors to suitable outfalls, for swales, filter strips, drains and ecology. No low points where flooding could exceed the design flows and flood property. SuDS features including: green roofs, porous paving and car parks (for non adopted areas only), swales, filter strips, dry ponds / infiltration areas, filter / infiltration drains / tanks. No storage/infiltration tanks under roads or within 5m of buildings.

8.6.18 Attenuation should ideally be located close to source, although it will often be in the lower parts of the site. These areas could include un-adopted parking areas, recreation / landscape areas etc. Permanent water bodies should be avoided due to the proximity to the airport, however short term above ground storage features are considered acceptable, however this still requires verification from the airport authorities.

8.6.19 Controlled flows from the site be discharged to the stream at various locations along the site’s north boundary, as opposed to one downstream location, to better mimic existing inflow characteristics.

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8.6.20 Exceedance flows, i.e. those flows which exceed the design capacity of the proposed site drainage system, or in the event of system failure, must be given free passage away from the site to avoid flooding of buildings or other sensitive property.

Management

8.6.21 An Integrated Water Management Strategy (IWMS) is proposed for the whole of the NQY Site. This IWMS will ensure that flood risks and pollution control are managed effectively by adopting a holistic, joined-up and integrated approach.

8.6.22 The surface water drainage from the LDO2 site shall be designed so that it can be incorporated into the wider IWMS once this is undertaken. Although this site is essentially isolated from other airport drainage networks, consistency of materials and techniques will assist in future management and maintenance of the wider site.

8.6.23 In relation to foul water drainage, pumps and treatment units can suffer if they have only partial flows from slow development or phasing of construction. The proposed development phasing needs to be carefully considered to enable efficient planning of the foul discharge elements. SWW normally only fully adopt a system once the development is 50% occupied. If this site is likely to be developed over many years then an alternative could be to have the site foul treatment features maintained by a management company. SWW would be consulted on design and specifications to ensure that the treatment option can be adopted.

8.7 Assumptions and Limitations

8.7.1 It is assumed that the approach to drainage is monitored throughout development to ensure that appropriate common infrastructure is put in place and that future sites are developed in accordance with this drainage strategy.

Environmental Statement Prepared by Parsons Brinckerhoff December 2012 - 175 - for Cornwall Development Company Aerohub Business Park Newquay Cornwall AirportAerohub Enterprise Zone @ Newquay Cornwall Airport - Table 8.3: Impact Assessment Table: Water and Flood Risk

Receptor/ Sensitivity Description of impact - include whether this is Magnitude of Mitigation Significance of Resource of indirect, short, medium or long term, temporary or impact effect receptor permanent, Construction Local flood risk Low Temporary and short-term indirect impacts on flood Medium Site good practice, Minor adverse risk through increase in surface run-off and early construction of changes to natural drainage of the site. the drainage design element. Porth Stream High Pollution (chemical and sedimentation) caused by Low Site good practice as Moderate adverse Tributary untreated surface water runoff outlined in the CEMP Groundwater Medium Pollution from spillage of chemicals, oils etc. Low Site good practice as Minor adverse outlined in the CEMP Operation Local flood risk Low Short-term flooding caused by uncontrolled flows Potentially high, but Use of SuDS to None due to alteration of surface drainage and no change due to maintain greenfield infiltration. Impact is direct and permanent. design. infiltration and runoff. Porth Stream High Pollution caused by untreated surface water runoff Very low Use of SuDS Minor adverse Tributary Potential for pollution from discharge of sewage Very low Treatment and Minor adverse from site treatment works if this option is pursued. monitoring of consented discharge Groundwater Medium Pollution caused by infiltration from areas of Very low Use of SuDS and Insignificant hardstanding, e.g. highways, car parks. interceptors.

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8.8 Summary of Residual Impacts

8.8.1 The site lies at the headwaters of a tributary to the Porth Stream, upstream of designated bathing waters. The underlying aquifer is capable of supporting local water supplies only, and infiltration rates are generally good. The flood risk at the existing site is currently low.

8.8.2 SuDS measures, including permeable pavements, ditches and attenuation areas have been incorporated into the site, to prevent surface run-off from the site causing local flood risks. No impact is predicted.

8.8.3 Pollution control measures are incorporated into the SuDS to minimise effects on surface and groundwater quality from polluted run-off from areas of hardstanding, including the highway. Effects on groundwater are predicted to be insignificant. Effects on the Porth Stream tributary are predicted to be minor adverse.

8.8.4 Depending on the preferred method of foul water treatment, there may also be effects on the Porth Stream tributary from the discharge of treated sewage. This would be within limits set by a discharge consent and the effect is predicted to be minor adverse.

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SECTION 9 SOILS & GEOLOGY

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9 SOILS, GEOLOGY AND AGRICULTURAL LAND

9.1 Introduction

9.1.1 This chapter of the ES assesses the potential impacts and subsequent effects on the soils, geology and agricultural land arising from the construction of the proposed Business Park. The focus of the assessment is upon those potential impacts likely to occur on sensitive receptors during the construction process and the likelihood of potential impacts and effects once the scheme has been developed and is in operation.

9.1.2 The agricultural impact assessment has been derived from the present planning advice from central and local Government on the treatment of agricultural issues in development affecting farmland. This advice provides a guide to the factors which ought to be examined in an assessment of the impacts of development proposals upon agriculture, as well as a policy framework within which weight can be attached to the significance of particular impacts. This part of the chapter has been prepared in conjunction with Reading Agricultural Consultants (RAC) Ltd.

9.1.3 The total area considered is approximately 35.5ha. Most of the site is in grassland, although an area to the east is under arable cultivation. Approximately 9ha in the west of the site is in non-agricultural use, including with a road running from north to south through the site. The site is bounded to the north by NQY and in all other directions by agricultural land. The A3059 borders the site along the southern edge.

9.2 Legislation and Policy

Environmental Standards and Publications

9.2.1 This section has been prepared with specific reference to the following environmental standards and publications: DMRB Volume 11 Section 3 Part 11 – Geology and Soils; Environmental Protection Act 1990, Part 2A, Section 78; Water Resources Act 1991; DEFRA Circular 01/2006 Contaminated Land – This circular gives statutory guidance on the new regime for the treatment of contaminated land, as set out in Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. It also describes the way in which the new regime is expected to work. The circular covers sustainable development, actions to deal with contamination, the new contaminated land regime and interaction with other regimes; Environmental Act 1995, Section 57; Contaminated Land (England) Regulations 2000; and CLR11: Model Procedures for the Management of Land Contamination, DEFRA 2004. This document details a framework for decision making involved in managing the risk of land affected by contamination.

National Policy

9.2.2 National planning policy guidance regarding development related to land use and agriculture is set out in the NPPF. The policies seek to safeguard scarce natural resources in the long-term national interest. Consequently, policies for development in

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the countryside give protection to the best and most versatile agricultural land (defined as Grades 1, 2 and 3a in the ALC). Paragraph 112 of NPPF advises that local planning authorities should take into account the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile land.

9.2.3 The guidance states that where significant development of agricultural land is demonstrated to be necessary, local planning authorities should seek to use poorer quality land in Grades 3b, 4 and 5 in preference to higher quality land.

9.2.4 Paragraph 109 of the NPPF lists the protection and enhancement of soils as a priority in the conservation and enhancement of the natural environment. In this regard, the inherent quality of soil, as distinct to its agricultural value, is recognised in the Government’s ‘Soil Strategy for England – Safeguarding our Soils’ (2009) which seeks to encourage the more sustainable management of soil resources. The Strategy sets out the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ (Defra) vision that by 2030 all the soils in England will be managed sustainably and degradation threats tackled successfully in order to improve the quality of England’s soils and safeguard their ability to provide essential services for future generations. The Strategy sets out priorities for action in respect of: better protection of agricultural soils; protecting and enhancing stores of soil carbon; building the resilience of soils to a changing climate; preventing soil pollution; effective soil protection during construction and development; and dealing with the legacy of contaminated land.

9.2.5 Defra also published the ‘Code of Practice for the Sustainable Use of Soils on Construction Sites’ in 2009. This is a practical guide to assist the construction industry to protect the soil resources with which it works, and achieve good soil management at all stages of the construction process. It advises that the protection, use and movement of soil should be considered from the outset of a development project’s planning, through its design and construction phases and on into future maintenance and operation. The code provides practical guidance on the following aspects of the sustainable use of soils on construction sites: identifying existing soil resources on site; on-site soil management; topsoil and subsoil stripping; soil stockpiling and placement; sourcing, importing and manufacturing topsoil; soil aftercare; and uses for surplus topsoil.

9.2.6 Sustainable use and management of soil resources during construction can help with re-establishment of soil functions following their storage or movement, including food production, habitat provision and support, and cycling of elements such as carbon and nitrogen.

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6 9.2.7 Further guidance in NE’s Technical Information Note 049 indicates that land quality is not the sole consideration in how development proposals affect agriculture within the planning system. Other factors, such as the impact on farm size and structure, the use of buildings and other fixed equipment, or any stimulus a development might give to rural economic activity, are also relevant.

Local Policy

9.2.8 Within the CSP, Policy 3: Use of Resources states that:

“Development must be compatible with the prudent use of natural and built resources and energy conservation. Development should: Give priority to the re-use of previously developed land and buildings to meet development needs including, where appropriate, derelict land reclamation; Protect the best and most versatile agricultural land; [...] Avoid, directly or indirectly, risk of significant levels of pollution or contamination to air, land, soil or water, including noise and light pollution; [and] Follow sustainable construction principles including consideration of the use of resources, energy efficiency and local materials.”

9.3 Methodology

9.3.1 This assessment will consider the potential effects on geology, soils and agricultural land associated with the scheme during its construction and operation. Adverse environmental effects arising from the development could include: loss of agricultural soils; sterilisation of mineral resources and damage to geological features of significance.

9.3.2 The following information has been used to assess the effect of the proposed Business Park: Consideration of previous land uses: this includes the study of historical site maps and anecdotal information, covering both the site itself and the surrounding area; Site inspection and investigation: Site visits were undertaken in April and September 2012; and Data review: including a review of hydrological and geological maps, Landmark Envirocheck reports and previous site investigation reports.

Soils and Geology 9.3.3 Site visits were undertaken in April and September 2012, for geology and contamination. The site visit involved the inspection of visible or suspected evidence of contamination, such as surface staining, seepages of contaminated groundwater or land uses suggesting the presence of made ground or contaminated material.

6 Technical Information Note 049, Agricultural Land Classification: protecting the best and most versatile agricultural land, Natural England, 2009

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Agricultural Land 9.3.4 RAC surveyed the site in September 2012 in accordance with the MAFF revised ALC Guidelines (19887). Thirty one soil profiles were examined using an Edelman (Dutch) auger and spade. The locations of observations are given in Figure 9.1. At each observation point, the following characteristics were assessed for each soil horizon, up to a maximum depth on 120 cm or any impenetrable layer: soil texture; significant stoniness; colour (including local gley and mottle colours); consistency; structural condition; free carbonate; and depth.

9.3.5 Soil Wetness Class (WC) was inferred from the soil matrix colour, presence or absence of, and depth to, greyish and ochreous gley mottling and/or poorly permeable subsoil layers at least 15 cm thick.

9.3.6 Soil droughtiness was investigated by the calculation of moisture balance equations. Crop-adjusted Available Profile Water (AP) is estimated from texture, stoniness and depth, and then compared to a calculated moisture deficit (MD) for the standard crops wheat and potatoes. The MD is a function of potential evapotranspiration and rainfall. Grading of the land can be affected if the AP is insufficient to balance the MD and droughtiness occurs. When a profile is found with significant stoniness, sufficient to prevent penetration of a hand auger, then it is assumed, for the purposes of calculating droughtiness, that similar levels of stoniness continues to the full 1.2 m depth considered.

9.3.7 Three soil samples were subject to laboratory determination of particle size distribution, pH, organic matter content and the nutrients phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. Results are in Appendix 9.1.

9.3.8 Physical characteristics of the site are identified, including the size and boundaries of the site; the nature of current agricultural practice at the site; items of fixed farm capital; the potential physical effects of the proposed development; and their management or mitigation.

9.3.9 The extent of existing agri-environment schemes has been established from www.magic.defra.gov.uk and through consultation with the farmers.

Significance Criteria

Soils & Geology 9.3.10 For geology and soils the presence and sensitivity of receptors at risk from potential land contamination has been assessed by considering the following: Surrounding land uses, based on mapping and existing planning designations; Proposed end-use, based on the nature of the Scheme;

7 Agricultural Land Classification of England and Wales. Revised guidelines and criteria for grading the quality of agricultural land. MAFF Publications, 1988

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Type of construction operations likely to be required; Surrounding sites of nature conservation importance; and Geology, hydrogeology and hydrology of the site and its surrounding area.

Table 9.1: Defining Attribute Importance for Soil and Geology Receptors

Attribute Attribute Geological\ Groundwater Surface Construction Built End Users Sensitivity Geomorph- Water Workers Environment ological High Nationally In the In the Extensive Buildings of Residential significant catchment of catchment of earthworks high historic Allotments, features or a Nationally a nationally and value or other play areas mineral sites significant significant demolition of sensitivity hydrological surface water buildings asset feature Medium Locally In a In a Limited Buildings, Landscaping significant Groundwater Groundwater earthworks including or public open features Source Source services and space Protection Protection foundations Zone or a Zone or a Nitrate Nitrate Vulnerable Vulnerable Zone Zone Low/ Very No Not in an area No nearby Minimal Not Hard end use Low significant protected surface water disturbance of applicable (e.g. Geological\ groundwater features ground industrial, car Geomorph- identified parking) olgical features

Agricultural Land 9.3.11 The agricultural land survey provides a statement of the amount and quality of the agricultural land on the application site. Agricultural land in England and Wales is graded between 1 and 5, depending on the extent to which physical or chemical characteristics impose long-term limitations on agricultural use. Grade 1 is excellent quality agricultural land with very minor or no limitations to use, and Grade 5 is very poor quality land, with severe limitations due to adverse soil, relief, climate or a combination of these factors. Grade 3 land is subdivided into subgrade 3a (good quality land) and 3b (moderate quality land). The best and most versatile agricultural land - that is afforded a measure of protection in the planning system - comprises Grades 1, 2 and 3a.

9.3.12 In accordance with national policy, the weight and significance to be placed on the loss of the best and most versatile agricultural land shall be viewed in light of: opportunities for using poorer quality agricultural land in preference to higher quality land; and the continued availability of the basic soil resources for a potentially wide variety of uses for future generations.

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9.3.13 The NPPF emphasises that local planning authorities must take into account the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land and that they should seek lower quality land in preference, and thus this matter is considered to be of district significance. The criteria used to assess the sensitivity of land use/resources are set out in Table 9.3.

9.3.14 Unless soils have some demonstrable and discrete value other than their agricultural capability, their protection in policy terms is included within the objectives of the ALC system.

Table 9.3: Defining Sensitivity and Importance of Agricultural Land Receptor Receptor Sensitivity Land use/ resources of national/ international importance High present on the Application Site or in vicinity. Land use/ resources of regional/ county level importance Medium present on the Application Site or in vicinity. Land use/ resources of district/ local importance present on the Low Application Site or in vicinity. Land use/ resources of no importance present on the Very Low Application Site or in vicinity.

Establishing Magnitude / Severity of Impact

9.3.15 Specific guidance on the methodology to be adopted in undertaking a contamination assessment for EIA is limited. For Soils and Geology the magnitude of impact, and typical descriptors, is detailed within Table 9.4 (adapted from the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges). For the agricultural land assessment the thresholds for the magnitude of impact and change have regard to the statutory consultation procedures in the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2010 in which Defra has to consider proposals which individually or cumulatively involve the loss of more than 20ha of best and most versatile land.

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Table 9.4: Magnitude of Impact - Land Resources Land Magnitude Critical Descriptors Resource High Geology & Loss of resource and/or quality and integrity of Soil resource; severe damage to key characteristics, features or elements; exposure to acutely toxic contaminants (Adverse). Large scale or Major improvement of resource quality; extensive restoration or enhancement; Major improvement of attribute quality; (Beneficial). Agricultural The proposed development would directly lead to Land the loss of over 50 hectares of best and most versatile agricultural land. (Adverse) The impact of the scheme would be likely to render a commercial farm non-viable (Adverse) The potential profitability of many farms would be enhanced and/or day-to-day management of the unit would be made easier (Beneficial) Medium Geology & Loss of resource, but not adversely affecting the Soil integrity; partial loss of/damage to key characteristics, features or elements; short-term exposure to contaminants with chronic (long-term) toxicity (Adverse). Benefit to, or addition of, key characteristics, features or elements; improvement of attribute quality (Beneficial). Agricultural The proposed development would directly lead to Land the loss of between 20 and 50 hectares of best and most versatile agricultural land. (Adverse) The long-term viability of a commercial farm would not be threatened but significant changes in day-to- day management may be required. (Adverse) The potential profitability of a farm would be enhanced and/or day-to-day management of the unit would be made easier (Beneficial) Low Geology & Some measurable change in attributes, quality or Soil vulnerability; Minor loss of, or alteration to, one (maybe more) key characteristics, features or elements (Adverse). Minor benefit to, or addition of, one (maybe more) key characteristics, features or elements; some beneficial impact on attribute or a reduce risk of negative impact occurring (Beneficial). Agricultural The proposed development would directly lead to Land the loss of less than 20 hectares of best and most versatile agricultural land. (Adverse)

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Land Magnitude Critical Descriptors Resource The long-term viability of a commercial farm would not be threatened but minor changes to structure would be required. (Adverse) The potential profitability of a farm would be enhanced or day-to-day management of the unit would be made easier (Beneficial) Very Low Geology & Very Minor loss or detrimental alteration to one or Soil more characteristics, features or elements (Adverse). Very Minor benefit to or positive addition of one or more characteristics, features or elements (Beneficial). Agricultural No permanent effect on best and most versatile Land agricultural land, or other lower quality land affected. (Adverse) A temporary impact on the profitability or day-to-day management of the farm (Beneficial) No Change Geology & No loss or alteration of characteristics, features or Soil elements; no observable impact in either direction. Agricultural No effect on best and most versatile agricultural Land land, or other lower quality land affected. The financial impact would be insignificant in relation to net farm income.

Defining Significance of Effect

9.3.16 The approach to assigning significance of effect relies on reasoned argument, professional judgement and taking on board the advice and views of appropriate organisations (DMRB). In order to aid the decision-making process, each potential impact has been assigned a significance category. The methodology for determining the significance of effect categories is detailed within Table 9.5.

Table 9.5: Significance of Effect Matrix Sensitivity Magnitude of Impact of Receptor High Medium Low Very Low No Change

High Major Major Moderate Minor Neutral

Moderate/ Minor/ Medium Major Moderate Neutral Minor Negligible Moderate/ Low Moderate Minor Negligible Neutral Minor Moderate/ Negligible/ Very Low Minor Negligible Neutral Minor Neutral

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9.4 Baseline

Soils & Geology

9.4.1 Previous excavation work (SAR Ground Investigation, 2009) indicates that the site is underlain by topsoil, which is dark brown or dark reddish brown organic rich topsoil, up to 0.55m thick. The underlying subsoil comprises of orange-brown clayey gravel or red-brown sandy gravel, between 0.3m and 1.25m thick. In the northernmost area of the site, adjacent to the surface watercourse, there is the potential for Alluvium to be present. The soils in the area of the site are classified by the Environment Agency as soils of intermediate leaching potential (I1) which are soils which can transmit a wide range of pollutants.

9.4.2 The bedrock beneath the subsoil comprises the Dartmouth Group described by previous excavation work as, weak moderately laminated pale pinkish brown siltstone. Standard penetration test results suggest that the weathered upper portions of these strata have a relative density of medium dense to very dense, with density increasing at depths greater than 2.0m. Structurally, the strata appear in a major anti- clinorium plunging east from Watergate Bay. The thickness of the strata exposed is estimated to be 240m to 300m thick, however the base has not yet been encountered.

9.4.3 Geological maps indicate that the Meadfoot Beds extend within the south-eastern most corner of the site, conformably overlying the Dartmouth Group. The Meadfoot Beds comprise of uniformly grey coloured shales, calcareous slates, siltstones, sandstones, and rare thin limestones.

9.4.4 Based upon information from the Cornwall Wildlife Trust, the site is not designated as Regionally Important Geological Sites (RIGS).

9.4.5 The Dartmouth Group is classified as a Secondary A Aquifer under the Environment Agency guidelines. These are permeable layers capable of supporting water supplies at a local rather than strategic scale, and in some cases forming an important source of base flow to rivers. The site is not located within a Groundwater Source Protection Zone nor is it located within a Nitrate Vulnerable Zone. The site is not in an area of risk for drinking water from either surface water or groundwater.

9.4.6 The nature of the unnamed stream is unknown, although flow direction is observed to be from east to west, it is not known whether the stream is gaining or losing.

9.4.7 The land slopes downwards towards the north (from 94.0m AOD and 78.5m AOD). Within the woodland in the northern area of the site near to the stream, the ground is waterlogged suggesting a shallow water table. Waterlogging is also apparent in high- use areas of the site (e.g. field access gates), where the sandy clay topsoil has become compacted.

9.4.8 The site is not a designated SSSI i.e. the woodland in the northern area of the site, with the closest SSSI being more than 4km to the northwest of the site – Bedruthan Steps and Park Head.

9.4.9 Limited shallow soil sampling has previously been undertaken in the central area of the site. Chemical analysis for a range of heavy metals and metalloids did not record concentrations that would pose a risk to human health under a future commercial land use. Analysis of these samples to test for aggressiveness to concrete produced an ACEC class of AC-1 and DC-1.

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9.4.10 No British Geological Society (BGS) recorded mineral sites, mining instability, mineral occurrences or mining cavities have been recorded in the area of the site. Shallow mining hazards are reported as ‘low’. It is however noted that the 1880 and 1908 editions of the Ordnance Survey maps shown a small quarry immediately to the north of the wooded area on the northern site boundary.

9.4.11 The site is located in an area that is affected by radon as between 5% and 10% of homes are above the action level of 200 Bq/m3.

9.4.12 A number of potentially contaminative land uses recorded on, or in proximity to, the site have been identified. These include;

On-site Agricultural land use on-site, potentially including the use of pesticides; Agricultural barn located in the south easternmost corner of the site with part of the roof potentially constructed of asbestos cement; Potential for small quantities of fly-tipped asbestos containing material around the barn; Fly-tipped vehicles (box van, car and tractor) and metal scrap in southern area of Cornwall Council-owned fields amongst overgrown vegetation; A former blacksmith workshop at Parkyn’s Shop, historically located in the south easternmost corner of the site; (although the remains of this site were reported as having been removed during the work on the South Access Road); and Off-site RAF St Mawgan is located on land to the north of the site. Potential contaminant sources have been reported as an underground fuel pipeline, above and below ground fuel tanks, aircraft refuelling areas, a spoil mound, an electrical substation and a bulk fuel storage installation, motor transport engine test facility, battery storage, registered radioactive substance storage, former incinerators, firing ranges.

Agricultural Land

Land value

9.4.13 Climate, in this part of England, does not in itself place any limitation upon land quality, but the interactions of climate with soil characteristics are important in determining the wetness and droughtiness limitations of the land. The influence of climate on soil wetness is assessed by reference to median field capacity days (FCD) when the soil moisture deficit is zero, soil wetness class (WC) and topsoil texture. Droughtiness is determined by comparing the available water capacity of the soil (AP), adjusted for the crop, with the moisture deficit (MDM) for the locality for two crops, winter wheat and potatoes.

9.4.14 Local climatic factors have been interpolated from the Meteorological Office’s standard 5km grid point data set for the site at a representative altitude in Table 9.6. Average annual rainfall is very high and temperatures are warm. Moisture deficits are moderate to moderately small. The FCD regime is larger than is average for lowland England and is considered to be unfavourable for providing opportunities for agricultural field work. Ultimately there is no climatic limitation to the grading of this site.

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Table 9.6: Local climatic factors Factor Measurement Average Annual Rainfall (AAR) 1069mm Accumulated Temperature >0°C (AT0) 1523 day° Field Capacity Day Regime (FCD) 209 days Average Moisture Deficit, wheat (MDw) 86mm Average Moisture Deficit, potatoes (MDp) 74mm

9.4.15 The principal underlying geology is that of the Dartmouth Group, which consists of slate, siltstone and sandstone. Along the southern edge of the site, the Meadfoot Group is mapped, comprising interbedded slate and sandstone, with beds of shell debris.

9.4.16 The Soil Survey of England and Wales 1:250,000 scale soil association map shows the Denbigh 2 Association present at this site. This association is characterised by fine, permeable clay loam soils with slate or very stony layers at moderate depth. Soils are well drained and typically assessed as being of WC I. Denbigh 2 soils are easily worked but have a tendency to droughtiness.

9.4.17 The main factor affecting the ALC at this site is droughtiness which is a reflection of the soil depth, stone content and topsoil texture. Droughtiness limits most of the land to lower quality subgrade 3b and Grade 4. Where deeper soils are found, there is also a slight wetness limitation which restricts soils to no better than Subgrade 3a. This limitation applies to approximately 15% of the site. The extent of each ALC grade found is given in Table 9.7 and mapped in Figure 9.2.

Table 9.7: ALC Areas Grade Description Area (ha) Area (% of agric. land) Subgrade 3a Good Quality 4.3 15 Subgrade 3b Moderate Quality 12.3 45 Grade 4 Poor Quality 10.5 40 Total agricultural land 27.1 100 Non-agricultural land 9.4 Total area 36.5

9.4.18 Soil depth is highly variable across the site. Topsoil thickness averages around 26cm, but ranges from 12cm to almost 50cm. At only six observation points across the site could subsoil horizons be distinguished.

9.4.19 Topsoils are typically heavy clay loam or heavy silty clay loam in texture, with instances of silt loam, and clay, and are brown to yellowish brown in colour. Soils have a well developed, medium and fine subangular blocky structure. Stone content is up to 20% in some areas which is high enough to impose a limitation on the land of Subgrade 3b.

Farm Business 9.4.20 The land is owned by CC. Since acquiring the land approximately four years ago it has been rented to the two former owners on renewing annual Farm Business Tenancies, for a peppercorn rent. The majority of the land is improved permanent grassland and is grazed with sheep. A small field to the east comprising around 3.7ha is farmed separately and used for arable cropping.

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9.4.21 There are no agri-environment schemes applied to this land.

9.5 Impact Assessment

9.5.1 There is potential for a range of impacts on the soils and geology as a result of the proposed development. These include the disturbance and exposure of currently buried strata, surcharging of ground resulting in the acceleration of erosion and subsidence, loss of agricultural land and loss of mineral and soil resources. The impact assessment is summarised in Table 9.10 and described below.

Construction Impacts: Geology & Soils

Geological and Morphological Features 9.5.2 No geological or geomorphological features of national importance have been identified within the study area and the impact is considered to be no change.

9.5.3 The impact with regards to exposing new geological strata and accelerating a natural rate of erosion based on the current information is considered to be very low.

9.5.4 The possibility exists for the machinery used in the construction of the proposed Business Park to contaminate the soil in the vicinity of the site. The risk arises through the use and storage of fuels on site, however through the implementation of best practice and environmental policies the impact is considered to be very low.

9.5.5 The generation of spoil requiring disposal will have a very low impact on the general environment as any arisings are likely to be useable within other construction projects, on or off site, or daily cover to landfill elsewhere.

9.5.6 The significance of effect on the geology and soils within the study area during the construction scheme is considered to be negligible adverse.

Ground Water 9.5.7 Pollution of surface water on construction sites can occur following the release of suspended solids, oils, fuels, hydrocarbons etc. The most common instance of water pollution from construction activities is suspended solids. Sources of suspended sediment pollution include excavations; exposed ground and stockpiles; plant and wheel washing; build up of dust and mud on roads; disturbance of river beds; and the deposition of waste material in watercourses.

9.5.8 The impact on the hydrogeology of the area is considered as a result of the underlying Secondary A Aquifer associated with the Meadfoot Beds. Due to the low possibility of ground contamination and low leaching potential and permeability of the soil the potential for contamination of the underlying groundwater is considered to be low. However, the earthworks associated with the development will result in extensive scales of soil movement, to allow the re-profiling associated with the scheme. Import and export of soils may also be necessary. As a result the potential exists for localised increases and reductions in the ground permeability effecting aquifer recharge. However, where possible the use of SuDS techniques would compensate for any likely effect on permeability. Discharges of pollution resulting from construction works entering the ground or ground water regime to contaminate the groundwater is likely to be minimal due to implementing the mitigation measures mentioned earlier. The impact to groundwater regime due to the development would cause a very low impact.

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9.5.9 The effect on the ground water during the construction scheme is considered to be minor adverse.

Surface water 9.5.10 During the construction phase of the scheme there is the potential for the increased mobilisation of sediment, resulting from large scale open excavations at the works site. The baseline assessment has not identified any significant potential for contaminants to be found within the made ground soils, although there is the possibility of the mobilisation of soil particles which could temporarily impact the local waters.

9.5.11 In addition, procedures set out in the SuDS Manual will be considered and adopted during the construction stage (Chapter 8). This will limit the potential for contaminants to reach the receiving stream (a tributary of the Porth Stream). The potential for contamination of surface water is considered unlikely, and in any case would give rise to a very low impact.

9.5.12 The effect on the surface water within the study area during the construction scheme is considered to be minor adverse.

Construction workers 9.5.13 Existing soil conditions are not anticipated to negatively impact upon construction workers as a result of the construction phase of the development. Potential impacts to health, arising from oral, inhalation or dermal contact with potential contaminants and / or asbestos fibres within the made ground are negated by the implementation of best practice techniques in line with all relevant legislation, including mitigation measures such as the use of correct and appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times. There are very low impacts to construction workers as a result of the scheme.

9.5.14 The effect on construction workers within the study area during the construction scheme is considered to be negligible adverse.

Built environment 9.5.15 The soil conditions are not anticipated to impact the built environment as a result of the construction phase; therefore the impact is no change.

9.5.16 The effect on the built environment within the study area during the construction scheme is considered to be neutral.

End Users 9.5.17 Throughout the construction phase there is the possibility that off-site human receptors could be exposed to high levels of dust. Since land adjoining the Scheme is predominantly agricultural land with limited residential properties, impacts to off-site human receptors are considered to be negligible. The magnitude of any potential adverse impact associated with off-site exposure to dust is significantly reduced through the implementation of best practice techniques in line with all relevant legislation. Therefore the impact to off-site receptors is considered to be very low.

9.5.18 The effect on the end users during the construction scheme is considered to be neutral.

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Construction Impacts: Agricultural Land

Land Value 9.5.19 Construction impacts will relate primarily to the loss of agricultural land within the application site. The proposed development will involve the loss to agriculture of approximately 27.1ha, including 4.3ha of subgrade 3a (best and most versatile) land.

9.5.20 Given that it is for local planning authorities to decide whether best and most versatile agricultural land can be developed, this resource is of district or local significance and thus of low sensitivity in Table 9.3. The magnitude of change (see Table 9.4) is also low. From Table 9.3 it can be seen that the proposed development will have a direct, permanent, adverse effect on the agricultural land of minor significance prior to the implementation of mitigation measures (impacts are summarised in Table 9.10).

9.5.21 Soils should be stripped, stored and utilised separately in site restoration according to soil type and good practice guidance. For agricultural soils, the appropriate guidance is that published by MAFF in 20008. Additional guidance for soil to be affected by construction can be found in Defra 2009Error! Bookmark not defined..

9.5.22 There is also the significant risk of long-term damage to soil structure, and the loss of potentially valuable soil, if there is uncontrolled trafficking of land and soil by heavy machinery, especially wheeled machinery. Trafficking of areas that are not to be built on, hard surfaced or landscaped should be avoided.

9.5.23 Damage to, and loss of, topsoil would also occur if other dissimilar materials such as subsoil, overburden or mineral were stockpiled directly on it without a separating layer or possibly by poor work causing mixing of topsoil, subsoil and overburden during stockpile placement or removal. Biodegradation of topsoil would occur if it is compacted in storage, stockpiled when wet, if stockpiled in the medium to long-term, or covered by soil stores for significant periods.

9.5.24 Topsoils from the areas of built development should be used as and when required on-site, for example for garden areas, although the proposed development is likely to displace a surplus of topsoils. The potential indirect effect on the soil resource would accrue mainly from the re-use of soil off-site in a manner inappropriate to its quality.

9.5.25 In the event that agricultural activity is retained in proximity to any of the construction activity in the initial phases of the proposed development, there will be the need to be sensitive to the potential of fugitive dust, noise, spillages or polluted water on adjoining agricultural land, and to minimise interference with any necessary movements of farm traffic. Control of these matters is subject to normal measures of best environmental management practice, and it is not anticipated that they would be of significance. Any of these construction related impacts would be temporary in nature.

9.5.26 The overall impact on Land Value, which is expected to be permanent in nature, will result in a low impact. The significance of the effect will be minor adverse.

Farm Business

9.5.27 Two farm businesses will be affected by the loss of this land. The single field to the east measures around 3.7ha and represents a small percentage (less than 5%) of the

8 MAFF (2000) Good Practice Guide For Handling Soils: Sheets 1 to 4. MAFF Publications

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overall area occupied by the farmer. Loss of this area will have a permanent adverse but negligible impact on the overall running of the farm.

9.5.28 The larger area to the west extends to around 23.4ha and forms part of a farming enterprise extending to around 202ha. The loss of this land represents a reduction of around 12% of the area farmed and will have a material impact on the overall running of the farm. However, it remains a fact that this land was sold voluntarily to Cornwall County Council and the owners must have been content that the loss of this land (and the potential to re-invest the sale funds in other land) would not render the remainder of the farming business unviable.

9.5.29 The overall impacts on Farm Business, which are expected to be permanent in nature, will result in a low impact. The significance of effect will be minor adverse.

Operational Impacts – Geology and Soils

Geological and Geomorphological features 9.5.30 No geological or geomorphological features of national importance have been identified within the study area and therefore impacts on these features will be very low.

9.5.31 The effect on the geology and soils within the study area during the operation of the scheme is considered to be negligible.

Groundwater 9.5.32 The use of SuDS and swales would compensate for any likely effect on permeability during the operation of the scheme resulting in a no change.

9.5.33 The effect on the ground water during the operation of the scheme is considered to be neutral.

Surface water 9.5.34 The possibility exists for the mobilisation of aqueous contaminants from the commercial activities of site users directly affecting the nearby surface water features. This possibility will be limited by the incorporation of SuDS principles into the design. The features which will limit the potential of contamination of Surface Water will include: Green corridors to suitable outfalls, for swales, filter strips, drains; SuDS features including: green roofs, porous paving and car parks (for non adopted areas only), swales, filter strips, dry ponds / infiltration areas, filter / infiltration drains / tanks. 9.5.35 The above features are considered in further detail in Chapter 8 Water and Flood Risk. Following the incorporation the above features the magnitude of any such impacts would be assessed as very low.

9.5.36 The effect on the surface water within the study area during the operation of the scheme is considered to be minor adverse.

Construction workers 9.5.37 Existing soil conditions are not anticipated to impact upon construction workers as part of the operational phase of the development resulting in no change.

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9.5.38 The effect on construction workers within the study area during the operation of the scheme is considered to be neutral.

Built environment 9.5.39 The soil conditions are not anticipated to impact the built environment as a result of the construction phase; therefore the impact is no change.

9.5.40 The effect on the built environment within the study area during the operation of the scheme is considered to be neutral.

End Users 9.5.41 The soil conditions are not anticipated to impact the built environment as a result of the construction phase; therefore the impact is no change.

9.5.42 The effect on the end user within the study area during the operation of the scheme is considered to be neutral.

Operational Impacts - Agricultural Land

9.5.43 Once the proposed Business Park has been constructed it will not have an impact on agricultural land value or farm business; therefore the impacts on Agricultural Land (including Land Value and Farm Business) will result no change.

9.5.44 The effect on Agricultural Land within the study area during the operation of the scheme is considered to be neutral.

9.6 Mitigation and Monitoring

Soils and Geology

9.6.1 The effects of the scheme on geology described above are sufficiently low or negligible to require little in the way of mitigation to make the development acceptable.

9.6.2 A number of methods are proposed to mitigate the loss of soil resources, and these will be captured within the CEMP: to re-use as much of the soils displaced during the construction phase on-site in the landscaped areas to the north; to dispose of any surplus soils in a sustainable manner (i.e. as close to the Application Site as possible) to an afteruse appropriate to the soil’s quality in accordance with the Construction Code of Practice for the Sustainable Use of Soils on Construction Sites (Defra, 2009); and

to ensure that the quality of soils retained on-site or disposed off-site (if required) is maintained by following best practice guidance on soil handling.

9.6.3 Following general principles of soil handling can prevent damage and degradation of the soil resource, which on construction sites is commonly by compaction and smearing. The soil movement and handling methods that would be adopted for this scheme will seek to ensure that soil compaction and smearing problems do not occur. Low moisture content in the soil at the time of stripping is critical for avoiding damage

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and guidelines for safe handling of soils, including a determination of suitable weather, ground and soil states.

9.6.4 The topsoil storage bunds should be separated from other stored soils by means of a layer of material such as geotextile. This layer should, if carefully placed prior to soil storage and carefully removed after soil storage, prevent mixing of soil materials that could otherwise adversely affect soil quality. Measures should then be taken to re- activate topsoil biological activity, for example by manuring or by restricting traffic or tillage to prevent unnecessary compaction and maintain aeration.

9.6.5 Provided that the topsoil is properly managed after placement, principally to encourage the re-activation of biological activity, the direct, but temporary, adverse impact should not be significant beyond the short-term.

9.6.6 The main risks are associated with the construction works that will take place. Consequently, all construction activities should take place using best practice techniques in line with all relevant legislation. In addition, it is assumed the construction site will be suitably secure to ensure trespassing and unregulated access to the site is not possible.

9.6.7 Health and Safety plans for construction works should include details of the suspected risks and the mitigation measures required.

9.6.8 The impact on construction workers will be mitigated using conventional health and safety procedures. These will include, but not limited to: Minimising potential contact with site soils by operating good hygiene methods and use of plant rather than hand excavation; PPE; and Dust monitoring.

9.6.9 During the construction phase of the scheme, it is likely that waste arisings would result from the works. In the event of potentially contaminated material being encountered on-site, their handling, storage and removal would be subject to current waste management legislation and guidance (a Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) would be implemented by the contractor to this effect). Appropriate disposal or reuse of materials, including the need for pre-treatment, should be considered as part of the detailed design.

Agricultural Land

Land value

9.6.10 There are no effective measures available to mitigate the direct loss of agricultural land.

Farm Business

9.6.11 The only measures available to mitigate the loss of land to farm holdings is financial compensation that may allow farm businesses to reinvest in land or buildings, but these are largely matters of private negotiation and are not predictable or certain. In this case, the land has recently been sold to CC and no other mitigation is proposed for the existing farm businesses.

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9.7 Assumptions and Limitations

Soils and Geology

9.7.1 This assessment has been made by way of a desk based study of the site and the surrounding area. Limited intrusive ground investigation works have been conducted at the site and there remains the potential that excess soils arising from the development may be potentially contaminated or geotechnically unsuitable for re-use on-site or elsewhere without some form of pre-treatment.

9.7.2 It has been assumed that because of the predominantly agricultural use of the site, that the potential for contamination to be present is very low.

Agricultural Land

9.7.3 The system used to classify agricultural land in England and Wales is based upon a number of assumptions to ensure a consistent approach. These are:

that land is graded according to the degree to which physical of chemical properties impose long-term limitation on agricultural use. It is assessed on its capability at a good but not outstanding standard of management; where limitations can be reduced or removed by normal management operations or improvements, for example cultivations of the installation of an appropriate drainage system, the land is graded according to the severity of the remaining limitations. Where an adequate supply of irrigation water is available, this may be taken into account when grading the land. Chemical problems which cannot be rectified, such as high levels of toxic elements or extreme subsoil acidity are also taken into account; where long-term limitations outside the control of the farmer or grower will be removed or reduced in the near future through the implementation of a major improvement scheme, such as new arterial drainage or sea defence improvements, the land is classified as if the improvements have already been carried out. Where no such scheme is proposed, or there is uncertainty about implementation, the limitations will be taken into account. Where limitations of uncertain but potentially long-term duration occur, such as subsoil compaction or gas-induced anaerobism, the grading will take account of the severity at the time of survey. the grading does not necessarily reflect the current economic value of land, land use, range of crops, suitability for specific crops or level of yield. For reasons given in the preface, the grade cut-offs are not specified on the basis of crop yields as these can be misleading, although in some cases crop growth may give an indication of the relative severity of a limitation. the size, structure and location of farms, the standard of fixed equipment and the accessibility of land do not affect grading, although they may influence land use decisions.

Environmental Statement Prepared by Parsons Brinckerhoff December 2012 - 197 - for Cornwall Development Company Aerohub Business Park Newquay Cornwall AirportAerohub Enterprise Zone @ Newquay Cornwall Airport -

Table 9.10: Impact Assessment Table

Receptor/ Resource Sensitivity Description of impact - include whether this Magnitude of Mitigation Significance of of receptor is indirect, short, medium or long term, impact effect temporary or permanent, Construction Soils, Geology Geological / Low Exposure of geological strata and accelerating Very Low None Negligible Adverse and Geomorph- rate of erosion (long term, permanent impact). Contamination ological Generation of spoil (short term temporary impact). Groundwater Medium Reduction in permeability of ground and Very Low See section 9.6 Minor Adverse consequent reduction in recharge (long term, temporary impact). Surface Water High Mobilisation and migration of sediment to the Very Low See section 9.6 Minor Adverse watercourse (short term temporary impact). Construction High Ingestion, inhalation or direct contact with Very Low See section 9.6 Minor Adverse Workers unexpected contaminated soils / dust and / or vapours (short term, permanent impact). Built Negligible No impact anticipated. No Change See section 9.6 Neutral Environment End Users Negligible Ingestion, inhalation or direct contact with Very Low See section 9.6 Neutral or unexpected contaminated soils / dust and / or Negligible Adverse vapours (short term, permanent impact). Agricultural Land value Low Direct, permanent, adverse Low See section 9.6 Minor Adverse Land Farm Low Direct, permanent, adverse Low None Minor Adverse Business Operation Soils, Geology Geological / Low Exposure of geological strata and accelerating Very Low None Negligible Adverse and Geomorph- rate of erosion (long term, permanent impact). Contamination ological

Environmental Statement Prepared by Parsons Brinckerhoff December 2012 - - 198 for Cornwall Development Company Aerohub Business Park Newquay Cornwall AirportAerohub Enterprise Zone @ Newquay Cornwall Airport - Groundwater Medium Reduction in permeability of ground and No Change See section 9.6 Neutral consequent reduction in recharge (long term, temporary impact). Surface Water High Mobilisation and migration of contaminants to Very Low None Minor Adverse the watercourse (short term temporary impact). Construction High No impact anticipated. No Change None Neutral Workers Built Negligible No impact anticipated. No Change None Neutral Environment End Users Negligible No impact anticipated. No Change None Neutral Agricultural Land Value Low No impact anticipated No Change None Neutral Land Farm Low No impact anticipated No Change None Neutral Business

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9.8 Summary of Residual Impacts

Soils and Geology

9.8.1 Potential impacts of the Scheme on the geology and soils of the study area have been assessed in accordance with DMRB 11.3.11 (‘Geology and Soils’).

9.8.2 Desk based research and the limited intrusive investigation of the study area indicates that in its current condition, there would be limited impact on the Geology and Soils environment. Mitigation measures are only deemed to be required during the construction stages, to minimise potential impacts to the identified receptors as detailed in Section 9.6.

9.8.3 Mitigation measures if required (Section 9.6) would be implemented at the construction stage, and therefore there would be no unacceptable risks to any of the identified receptors from contaminated material during the operational stage of the scheme.

Agricultural Land

9.8.4 The proposed development will cause the loss of approximately 4.3 hectares of best and most versatile quality land in Subgrade 3a and is a permanent adverse effect of minor significance. Provided that soil handling is carried out carefully, according to good practice, there should be no other residual impact on agricultural land quality.

9.8.5 There will be a direct, permanent effect on farm holdings of minor significance. There will be no residual effects on agricultural interests during the operational phase of the proposed Business Park.

Environmental Statement Prepared by Parsons Brinckerhoff December 2012 - 200 - for Cornwall Development Company

Aerohub Business Park Newquay Cornwall Airport

SECTION 10 NOISE & VIBRATION

Environmental Statement Prepared by Parsons Brinckerhoff December 2012 - 202 - for Cornwall Development Company