ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT SCREENING REPORT
Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera FRS Interim Works
CP19008RP0002 Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera FRS Interim Works EIA Screening Report F01 03 December 2019
rpsgroup.com
REPORT
Document status
Version Purpose of document Authored by Reviewed by Approved by Review date
3 December F01 Final Karen Dineen Michelle Bennett Michelle Bennett 2019
Approval for issue
Michelle Bennett 3 December 2019
© Copyright RPS Group Limited. All rights reserved. The report has been prepared for the exclusive use of our client and unless otherwise agreed in writing by RPS Group Limited no other party may use, make use of or rely on the contents of this report. The report has been compiled using the resources agreed with the client and in accordance with the scope of work agreed with the client. No liability is accepted by RPS Group Limited for any use of this report, other than the purpose for which it was prepared. RPS Group Limited accepts no responsibility for any documents or information supplied to RPS Group Limited by others and no legal liability arising from the use by others of opinions or data contained in this report. It is expressly stated that no independent verification of any documents or information supplied by others has been made. RPS Group Limited has used reasonable skill, care and diligence in compiling this report and no warranty is provided as to the report’s accuracy. No part of this report may be copied or reproduced, by any means, without the written permission of RPS Group Limited.
Prepared by : Prepared for :
RPS Cork County Council
Innishmore, Ballincollig Coastal Management & Flood Projects Dept., Co. Cork P31 KR68 County Hall, Carrigrohane Road Cork T +353 21 466 5900 T +353 21 4276891 E [email protected] E [email protected]
REPORT
Contents INTRODUCTION ...... 1 SITE LOCATION AND PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ...... 3 Site Location...... 3 Description of Proposed Development ...... 4 2.2.1 Works Methodology ...... 6 2.2.2 Duration and Phasing of Works ...... 7 2.2.3 Management and Organisation of Works ...... 7 2.2.4 Working Hours and Traffic Management ...... 8 2.2.5 Management Plans and Method Statements for Construction Stage ...... 8 2.2.6 Operational Stage ...... 8 2.2.7 Decommissioning ...... 8 LEGISLATION AND SCREENING FOR MANDATORY EIS ...... 9 European Legislation ...... 9 EIA Screening Process and Guidelines ...... 9 3.2.1 Requirement for EIA ...... 10 SUB-THRESHOLD DEVELOPMENT EIA SCREENING ...... 13 Methodology / Approach ...... 13 Consideration of Potential for Cumulative Impacts ...... 13 Characteristics of the Proposed Development ...... 15 The Size of the Whole Project ...... 15 Cumulation With Existing and/or Approved Projects ...... 15 The Nature of any Associated Demolition Works ...... 15 The Use of Natural Resources (in Particular Land, Soil, Water and Biodiversity) ...... 15 The Production of Waste ...... 16 Pollution and Nuisances ...... 16 The Risk of Major Accidents and/or Disasters which are Relevant to the Project Concerned Including Those Caused by Climate Change in Accordance with Scientific Knowledge ...... 16 Risk to Human Health ...... 17 LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT ...... 18 Introduction ...... 18 5.1.1 Existing and Approved Land Use ...... 18 5.1.2 Absorption Capacity of Natural Environment ...... 18 TYPE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ...... 19 Introduction ...... 19 Population and Human Health ...... 19 6.2.1 Receiving Environment ...... 19 6.2.2 Potential for Significant Impact ...... 20 6.2.3 Cumulative Impacts ...... 21 6.2.4 Conclusion ...... 21 Biodiversity, with particular attention to species and habitats protected under Directive 92/43/EEC and Directive 2009/147/EC – Terrestrial Biodiversity ...... 21 6.3.1 Receiving Environment ...... 21 6.3.2 Habitats ...... 22 6.3.3 Species ...... 23 6.3.4 Potential for Significant Impact ...... 24 6.3.5 Cumulative Impact ...... 26 6.3.6 Conclusion ...... 26
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Biodiversity, with particular attention to species and habitats protected under Directive 92/43/EEC and Directive 2009/147/EC – Aquatic Biodiversity ...... 27 6.4.1 Receiving Environment ...... 27 6.4.2 Potential for Significant Impact ...... 28 6.4.3 Cumulative Impact ...... 29 6.4.4 Conclusion ...... 29 Land, Soil, Geology and Hydrogeology ...... 29 6.5.1 Receiving Environment ...... 29 6.5.2 Potential for Significant Impact ...... 32 6.5.3 Cumulative ...... 32 6.5.4 Conclusion ...... 32 Hydrology and Drainage ...... 33 6.6.1 Receiving Environment ...... 33 6.6.2 Potential for Significant Impact ...... 36 6.6.3 Cumulative Impact ...... 36 6.6.4 Conclusion ...... 36 Air, Noise and Climate ...... 36 Material Assets ...... 37 6.8.1 Receiving Environment ...... 37 6.8.2 Potential for Significant Impact ...... 37 6.8.3 Cumulative Impact ...... 38 6.8.4 Conclusion ...... 38 Cultural Heritage ...... 38 6.9.1 Receiving Environment ...... 38 6.9.2 Potential for Significant Impact ...... 39 6.9.3 Cumulative Impact ...... 39 6.9.4 Conclusion ...... 39 Landscape ...... 39 6.10.1 Receiving Environment ...... 39 6.10.2 Potential for Significant Impact ...... 40 6.10.3 Cumulative Impact ...... 41 6.10.4 Conclusion ...... 41 Interrelationship between the Environmental Topics ...... 41 CONCLUSION ...... 42
Figures Figure 1-1: Site Location Map ...... 2 Figure 2-1: Ballymakeera and Ballyvourney Villages and the River Sullane and its Tributaries ...... 3 Figure 2-2: Location of Proposed Interim Works at Ballymakeera ...... 5 Figure 2-3: Details of Sand Bags ...... 6 Figure 6-1: Central Statistics Office (CSO) the Small Area ...... 20 Figure 6-2: Subsoil Map for Ballymakeera ...... 30 Figure 6-3: Aquifer Classification in Area of Interim Works ...... 31 Figure 6-4: Works Area in Context of Watercourses ...... 33 Figure 6-5: Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management Mapping ...... 35 Tables Table 6-1: Terrestrial Habitats Present within the Proposed Interim Works Area ...... 22
Appendix A Interim Works Report
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INTRODUCTION Cork County Council (CCC) proposes to carry out interim flood defence works at Ballymakeera, a village located approx. 13.6km north-west of Macroom, Co. Cork. The location of the proposed interim flood relief works can be seen in Figure 1-1. These interim works are to defend parts of the village vulnerable to flooding pending a main flood relief scheme for both Ballymakeera and the adjacent village of Ballyvourney. RPS has been commissioned by CCC to conduct a Screening to determine if an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required in respect of the proposed works. The EIA screening process ascertains whether a development requires EIA and is determined by reference to mandatory and discretionary provisions. The intention of this EIA Screening Report is to detail findings from a desktop analysis (as well additional studies relating to ecological constraints, aquatic surveys and invasive species) of the receiving environment that may be affected by the proposed works. The purpose of the report is then to establish if there would be likely significant effects of the proposal on the environment and advise if an EIA would be appropriate for the development proposal. This EIA Screening Report is set out as follows: Section 1 – Introduction; Section 2 – Overview of the proposed project; Section 3 – Legislative context of the screening exercise; Section 4 – Evaluation of the proposal in respect of relevant guidance in relation to screening for an EIA; Section 5 – Conclusions.
It should be noted that a number of other documents have informed the considerations within this screening. These include: Ballymakeera and Ballyvourney FRS (River Sullane) – Appropriate Assessment Screening of Interim Flood Defence Works , (Green Leaf Ecology and RPS, 2019) Ecological Impact Assessment Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera FRS Interim Works (RPS, 2019) Aquatic Ecology Survey - Sullane River Habitat Assessment (Conservation Services, 2018)
In addition, consideration was given to potential cumulative impacts with other projects where relevant.
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Figure 1-1: Site Location Map
Ballymakeera
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SITE LOCATION AND PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Ballymakeera and Ballyvourney villages are located along on the River Sullane in mid County Cork and have a history of flooding. As part of the Lee Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management Study (CFRAMS), Ballymakeera and Ballyvourney were highlighted as an area where a Flood Relief Scheme (FRS) was required due to flood events generally arising from flooding of the River Sullane. Plans for the flood relief works are currently being progressed. Interim works are now proposed to be carried out pending the finalisation, approval, and implementation of a permanent solution. The objective of these interim works is to provide interim defences to defend against a 20-year flood event, that are practical, safe and do not increase flood risk in Ballymakeera. The interim works have been designed by the Office of Public Works (OPW), who are the lead agency for flood risk management in the Republic of Ireland. The contracting authority is Cork County Council (CCC). Due to the objective of the interim works to provide temporary flood defences only prior to the implementation of the Main FRS, which is currently subject to the EIA process, alternatives to the proposed works were not considered by the OPW. Site Location The village of Ballymakeera and the River Sullane and its tributaries are depicted in the aerial photograph in Figure 2-1. The N22 passes through the village and runs parallel to the River Sullane. The study area contains houses, 2 no. schools, commercial properties, playing pitches and a church. Also, within the study area are areas of improved agricultural grassland used for grazing and forage. St. Gobnait’s Wood Special Area of Conservation (SAC) is situated to the north and west of and outside of the proposed interim flood defence works area. Further, the SAC is upstream of the proposed works. Figure 2-1: Ballymakeera and Ballyvourney Villages and the River Sullane and its Tributaries
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Description of Proposed Development The interim hard defences will consist of 1,000kg (10KN) sand bags and / or impermeable liners and other works as set out below. The specific locations of the proposed defences and detail on the flood levels to be protected against are included in the OPW Ballymakeera Proposed Interim Works Report (2018) as included in Appendix A. The following interim works are proposed (as detailed in Appendix A): Interim hard defences are anticipated to consist of 1000Kg (I0KN) sand bags and impermeable liners. The location of the interim hard defences is illustrated by the maroon line in Figure 2-2. No instream works will be required to install the sandbags. Land-raising at field access points at three locations, to allow access to/from the existing gateways whilst also mitigating against the 20-year flood levels. The proposed land raising areas are illustrated with green lines in Figure 2-2. The fitting of two non-return valves on the outlets of two existing pipe outfalls. Also, a sump would likely need to be constructed on the dry side of each piped outlet and a pump is to be available in times of need. The pipes requiring non-return valves and a sump are illustrated with a red line in Figure 2-2. Monitoring of the condition of the interim defences will be by way of quarterly inspections. Furthermore, in the event of a flood warning from the national weather services, a site inspection will also be carried out beforehand if required. The interim defences will be removed as the construction of the main scheme progresses. The area hatched in green shows the area to be protected from flooding during the 20-year flood event and the OPW Report (Appendix A) also identified individual buildings to be protected. The assessment of the impacts from the proposed works methodology described above considers those impacts which are predicted to occur during the construction, operational and decommissioning phases of the proposed works.
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Figure 2-2: Location of Proposed Interim Works at Ballymakeera
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2.2.1 Works Methodology
2.2.1.1 Site Preparation Prior to commencement of works a site compound will be set up in a location to be approved by CCC taking account of site constraints and mitigation measures set out in the Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) (RPS, 2019) for the interim works. Traffic management measures will also be put in place as agreed between the Contractor and CCC.
2.2.1.2 Sandbag Defence Wall The proposed development will involve the construction of a sandbag defence wall, which will be wrapped in heavy gauge polythene. 1000Kg (1 tonne) sand bags and impermeable liners are likely to be used. Where the flood defence height is then greater than 0.75m, it is proposed to use 0.5 tonne sandbags on top of the 1 tonne bags as these typically settle to 900mm over time as detailed in Figure 2-3 below. It is intended that sandbags will be delivered to site pre-filled, but this may change as work proceeds. The precise line of the proposed defence wall will be agreed with Cork County Council following a site walkover prior to commencement of development. Figure 2-3: Details of Sand Bags
Source: Cork County Council
2.2.1.3 Ground Raising For the ground raising at the three field access points, soil stripping of small areas will take place underneath the proposed ramp area. The stripped soil will be used to create a core bund which will be surrounded by clean imported stone. If necessary, a liner will be used in the cores to make the completed core impermeable. This will avoid the need for importation of other soil material to the site, reduce the risk of invasive species spread and allow for the reuse of all material when the temporary works are subsequently removed. The existing topsoil will then be regraded to the original levels and the stone removed. The liner will be removed to a licenced facility.
2.2.1.4 Works to Pipes Non-return valves and sumps (as necessary) will be fitted to two pipes as indicated.
2.2.1.5 Staff and Equipment There will be an estimated six workers involved on average during the project. Machinery required includes excavators, trucks, vans, dumpers, load-all and miscellaneous smaller plant.
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2.2.1.6 Longevity of Materials While the proposed development is an interim proposal and the development of a permanent scheme is under way, it is noted that there is a significant lead in time for consultation, consent process, procurement and delivery of the main FRS. Therefore, materials proposed to be used are for a design life of 20 years. 2.2.2 Duration and Phasing of Works The proposed construction stage is anticipated to take c.14 weeks and it is intended that these would be carried out during Q3-Q4 of 2019. The following is an overview of the phasing of the works: Land raising Installation of sand bag defence wall Installation of 2 no. Non-return valves and sumps if necessary This programme is indicative only at this time. The exact order and programme of works will be agreed between the Contractor and CCC following appointment. It will however be an objective for the Contractor, and a requirement of CCC to minimise disruption to traffic, businesses and properties within the village. 2.2.3 Management and Organisation of Works Proposals are in place for landowner and stakeholder liaison prior to and during the carrying out of the works by means of an appointed Liaison Officer. Stakeholders identified include relevant landowners and occupiers, CCC, An Garda Síochána, National Parks and Wildlife Services (NPWS) and Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). The proposed site compound for the works will be agreed with CCC and with local landowners. Mitigation measures are provided within the EcIA. Materials and plant required for the works are anticipated to be stored in this compound at a minimum setback distance of 10m from the river bank and where possible, over 50m from same in line with the EcIA mitigation measures. All storage areas shall be appropriately bunded where required. The compound will provide for the following: Welfare/office facilities for site staff; Plant/machinery parking/storage area; Fuel storage/refuelling area; Segregated waste area; and Construction staff parking. Temporary security fencing will need to be installed in gardens of private properties for the duration of the works. The Contractor’s Ecologist will prepare an Invasive Species Management Plan for the works. It is not envisaged that material will need to be removed from site. Any hedgerows or trees required to be removed will be removed in accordance with the provisions of the Wildlife Act. The EcIA for the interim works provides further mitigation. A detailed method statement will be agreed with CCC on the measures to be taken by the Contractor to avoid sediment or soil loss and hydrocarbon / polluting substance release and these measures will be designed to ensure the protection of the water quality of the Sullane River and its associated salmonid and freshwater pearl mussel habitat. The EcIA provides mitigation measures in this respect.
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The local authority will advise the Contractor that Ballyvourney Bridge is a constraint as this structure is a protected structure and a recorded monument. 2.2.4 Working Hours and Traffic Management Construction working hours will be agreed with the local authority and will be such as to minimise disruption to local residents and other receptors. No night time work is envisaged to be required. It is not envisaged that any road closures will be required. A full Traffic Management Plan will be prepared for the construction stage in agreement with CCC and An Garda Síochána. 2.2.5 Management Plans and Method Statements for Construction Stage As outlined above, a number of detailed management plans and method statements will be prepared by the scheme Contractor to ensure that significant adverse impacts on the environment do not arise. The Contractor’s Method Statements and management plans will demonstrate how the works are to be executed in accordance with the environmental management requirements including the mitigation measures provided within the EcIA. Cork County Council has commissioned the EcIA, will be responsible for appointing the Contractor and will approve all management plans and method statements in advance of the works commencing. 2.2.6 Operational Stage Inspections will occur at quarterly intervals and in advance of forecasted flood events while the interim measures are in place. This is to ensure that all sandbags are of good integrity. The EcIA requires that in the event of wear and tear, sandbags will be replaced as required and that sand-bags must be carefully handled when replaced to prevent bursting. 2.2.7 Decommissioning Decommissioning of the interim works is to be undertaken when the main FRS measures are being put in place. No definitive date can be provided for same at the current juncture, however this the main scheme is anticipated to be in place within 5 years of the construction of the interim works. As a precaution, the interim defences have a design life of 20 years to ensure that the structures are suitably robust. Mitigation measures for ecological receptors of the decommissioning phase are set out within the EcIA for the interim works.
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LEGISLATION AND SCREENING FOR MANDATORY EIS
European Legislation EIA requirements derive from EU Directive 85/337/EEC (as amended by Directives 97/11/EC 2003/35/EC and 2009/31/EC and codified under 2011/92/EU) and further amended under 2014/52/EU. These Directives relate to the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment. The primary objective of the EIA Directive is to ensure that projects which are likely to have ‘significant effects’ on the environment are subject to an assessment of their likely impacts. The EIA Directives have been transposed into Irish law by reason of a number of statutory provisions. Key enacting legislation is provided in the Planning and Development Act, 2000 as amended and the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 - 2019. This screening assessment has regard to the up to date requirements of the Directive, the Planning and Development Acts 2000 - 2019 and the Planning and Development Regulations 2000 - 2018. EIA Screening Process and Guidelines
Screening is the first stage in the EIA process, whereby a decision is made on whether or not EIA is required. This screening assessment was undertaken with regard to the following legislation and guidance: EIA Directives; The Planning and Development Acts (2000-2019); The Planning and Development Regulations (2001-2019); Environmental Impact Assessment of Projects Guidance on Screening , European Commission (2017); Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Guidance for Consent Authorities regarding Sub-threshold Development (DoECLG, 2003); Guidelines for Planning Authorities and An Bord Pleanála on Carrying out Environmental Impact Assessment (Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, 2018); Guidelines on the Information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements (EPA, 2002); Advice Notes on Current Practice in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements (EPA, 2003); Revised Guidelines on the Information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements , Draft September 2017 (EPA, 2017); and Advice Notes for Preparing Environmental Impact Statements Draft September 2015 (EPA, 2015). In August 2018, the Department of Housing Planning and Local Government published Guidelines for Planning Authorities and An Bord Pleanála on carrying out Environmental Impact Assessment. The Guidelines note “that screening is the initial stage in the EIA process and determines whether or not developments are likely to have significant effects on the environment and, as such, require EIA to be carried out”. The Guidelines also note that the EIA screening exercise initially assesses the development for mandatory EIA using classifications of development specified in the relevant legislation. Where no mandatory requirement is identified, but where the development is of a class of development specified but of a lower threshold, screening advances to evaluate whether the sub-threshold development project would be likely to have a significant effect on the environment, with reference to its scale, nature, location and context. The relevant legislative provisions are set out and considered below.
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3.2.1 Requirement for EIA The Planning and Development Act (Section 172(1)) states that EIA must be carried out in the case of either of the following two scenarios: “(a) the proposed development would be of a class specified in - (i) Part 1 of Schedule 5 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, and either – (I) Such development would equal or exceed, as the case may be, any relevant quantity, area or other limit specified in that Part, or (II) No quantity, area or other limit is specified in that Part in respect of the development concerned, or (ii) Part 2 of Schedule 5 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 and either – (I) Such development would equal or exceed, as the case may be, any relevant quantity, area or other limit specified in that Part, or (II) No quantity, area or other limit is specified in that Part in respect of the development concerned. or (b) (i) the proposed development would be of a class specified in Part 2 of Schedule 5 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 but does not equal or exceed, as the case may be, the relevant quantity, area or other limit specified in that Part, and (ii) the planning authority or the Board, as the case may be, determines that the proposed development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.” It is clarified within Section 172 (1A) that ‘proposed development’ in the foregoing subsections includes development that may be carried out by a local authority under Part X or Part XI of the Planning and Development Act, i.e. development by local and state authorities, and that an application for consent includes consent to development under Part XI of the Act 1. In the case of development falling within the provisions of sub-section 172(1)(a), EIA must be undertaken by the Planning Authority and/or An Bord Pleanála as appropriate. In support of this requirement, an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) must be prepared and considered by the consenting authority. In the case of sub-section 172(1)(b), the Planning Authority, or An Bord Pleanála as appropriate, is required to undertake EIA for sub-threshold development which would likely have significant effects on the environment. In support of this requirement, the consenting authority may require the submission of information for the purposes of a screening determination or of an EIAR, where it considers that the development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment. The various elements of the proposed development have been considered to determine if they fall within a class of development specified in Schedule 5 and for which a mandatory or a discretionary EIA may be required. The works as noted above comprises of installation of sand bags, impermeable liners, land raising, non-return valves and sumps to be fitted on the 2 no. pipe outfalls as seen in Figure 2-2. These are part of an interim flood relief scheme. The development is not deemed to fall within any class of development specified under Part 1 of Schedule 5 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001.
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1 Where this is also known as ‘Part 8 procedures’ as set out in the Planning and Development Regulations.
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Part 2 of Schedule 5 includes the following under subsection 10(f)(ii): “Canalisation and flood relief works, where the immediate contributing sub-catchment of the proposed works, (i.e. the difference between the contributing sub-catchments at the upper and lower extent of the works) would exceed 100 hectares or where more than 2 hectares of wetland would be affected or where the length of river channel on which works are proposed would be greater than 2 kilometres.” In this case, no canalisation is proposed. Due to the localised nature of the proposed flood relief works area, no mandatory trigger for EIA arises due to the foregoing. The works are located within the same contributing sub-catchment at both the upper and lower extent of the works 2, no wetlands are to be affected and the works are to be carried out adjacent to a section of river channel which is significantly less than the 2km threshold. The development does not therefore require a mandatory EIAR but could be considered to be a sub- threshold class of development under Schedule 5 Part 2 as it is a flood relief project. Article 120(1)(a) of the Planning and Development Regulations advises that: “Where a local authority proposes to carry out a subthreshold development, the authority shall carry out a preliminary examination of, at the least, the nature, size or location of the development.” Subsection (b) then provides that: “Where the local authority concludes, based on the preliminary examination, that – (i) There is no real likelihood of significant effects on the environment arising from the proposed development, it shall conclude that an EIA is not required, (ii) There is significant and realistic doubt in regard to the likelihood of significant effects on the environment arising from the proposed development, it shall prepare, or cause to be prepared, the information specified in Schedule 7A, for the purposes of a screening determination, or (iii) There is a real likelihood of significant effects on the environment arising from the proposed development, it shall – (I) Conclude that the development would be likely to have such effects, and (II) Prepare, or cause to be prepared, an EIAR in respect of the development.” This current EIA screening report prepared by RPS on the instruction of CCC (i.e. the local authority) comprises of the information required under Schedule 7A of the Planning and Development Regulations and will allow the local authority to undertake its own screening determination. Article 120(1A) further adds as follows: “(a) Where the local authority prepares, or causes to be prepared, the information specified in Schedule 7A, the information shall be accompanied by any further relevant information on the characteristics of the proposed development and its likely significant effects on the environment, including, where relevant, information on how the available results of other assessments of the effects on the environment carried out pursuant to European Union legislation other than the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive have been taken into account. (b) Where the local authority prepares, or causes to be prepared, the information specified in Schedule 7A, the information may be accompanied by a description of the features, if any, of the proposed development and the measures, if any, envisaged to avoid or prevent what might otherwise have been significant adverse effect on the environment of the development.”
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2 Confirmed on EPA website
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This current screening report includes any additional information which has been identified by RPS as potentially relevant for the purposes of EIA Screening. As appropriate it references the screening for appropriate assessment undertaken under the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC). It also identifies mitigation measures which will be applied to the proposed development which will reduce or eliminate potentially negative impacts as identified within the EcIA for the proposed development for example and the measures proposed to be put in place by CCC on contracting the implementing team. Mitigation measures are specified for a range of magnitudes of potentially adverse impacts, not only those which would otherwise have been ‘significant’ adverse. To determine whether an EIAR is warranted then in respect of the sub-threshold development it is necessary to consider whether it is likely to have a significant effect on the environment. The Regulations make provisions for such consideration by the local authority. When a local authority is making its screening determination as to whether or not there is a real likelihood of significant effects on the environment arising from the proposed development, it is to have regard to the following: The criteria set out in Schedule 7 3, The information submitted pursuant to Schedule 7A, Further relevant information (as specified in Article 120 (4)(a)(iii) and as discussed above), The available results of other assessments (as specified in Article 120 (4)(a)(iv) and as discussed above), The likely significant effects of the development on such site, area, land, place or feature, as appropriate where the development proposed would be located on or would have potential to impact on a European site, an area the subject of a notice under section 16 (2)(b) of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000 (No. 38 of 2000); an area designated as a natural heritage area under section 18 of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000; land established or recognised as a nature reserve within the meaning of section 15 or 16 of the Wildlife Act 1976 (No. 39 of 1976) (as amended by sections 26 and 27 of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000); land designated as a refuge for flora or as a refuge for fauna under section 17 of the Wildlife Act 1976 (as amended by section 28 of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000); a place, site or feature of ecological interest, the preservation, conservation or protection of which is an objective of a development plan or local area plan, draft development plan or draft local area plan, or proposed variation of a development plan, for the area in which the development is proposed; or a place or site which has been included by the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in a list of proposed Natural Heritage Areas published on the National Parks and Wildlife Service website. Article 120(4)(b) requires that the local authority in setting out its screening determination, shall include or refer to the main reasons and considerations on which the determination is based, with reference to the relevant criteria listed in Schedule 7.
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3 The criteria specified in Schedule 7 of the Regulations are based on the criteria set out in Annex III of codified Directive 2011/92/EU as amended by Directive 2014/52/EU. These criteria now provided for in a revised Schedule 7 (per European Union (Planning and Development) (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2018) form the basis for the detailed screening evaluation in Section 4 below.
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SUB-THRESHOLD DEVELOPMENT EIA SCREENING
Methodology / Approach As stated in Section 3 above, a mandatory EIAR is not required in this instance for any element of the proposed project but in order to consider whether a discretionary EIAR may be required in this instance for the proposed interim works, a description and examination of the development with reference to the provisions of Annex IIA and III of the EIA Directive and Schedule 7 and 7A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 - 2019 is presented below. With reference to Annex IIA of the Directive, information to be provided to inform the screening is information on: 1. Characteristics of Project. 2. Location of the Project. 3. Type and Characteristics of Potential Impacts. Thereafter, Annex III of the Directive and Schedule 7 of the Planning and Development Regulations set out criteria to be considered in determining whether or not the project should be subject to EIA. To facilitate a logical approach to considering the characteristics of potential impacts we have undertaken this element of the screening on the basis of the various environmental topics set out in Article 3(1) of the 2014 EIA Directive. These are: a) Population and human health; b) Biodiversity, with particular attention to species and habitats protected under Directive 92/43/EEC and Directive 2009/147/EC; c) Land, soil, water, air and climate; d) Material assets, cultural heritage and the landscape; and e) The interaction between the factors referred to in points (a) to (d). A Screening for AA and an EcIA were also prepared by RPS in 2019. Site visits were carried out between May 2017 and June 2018 and 2019 as part of the main scheme and the Interim Works and an Aquatic Ecology Survey was conducted also in 2018 and those visits along with desktop assessments also informed those reports. Consideration of Potential for Cumulative Impacts This screening assessment also has regard to any potential cumulative impacts that could arise from the proposed development in combination with other projects in the area. The following plans were reviewed when considering in combination effects: Cork County Development Plan (CDP) 2014-2020. Blarney-Macroom Municipal District Local Area Plan (MDLAP) 2017. Planning applications within the last 5 years within the vicinity of the proposed works. Other consented developments. There are no objectives or policies within the CDP or the MDLAP that could act in combination with the proposed site investigations and construction works to give rise to significant adverse effects on the environment. The policies of these documents are positive with respect to the environmental resources of the area and impacts from individual projects are to be assessed at consent stage.
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Other projects of potential relevance were searched for by undertaking a desktop review of the Planning Enquiry System for CCC and via consultation. Outside of the local authority planning register, one large scale infrastructure project which has development consent locally and is identified as being of potential relevance for consideration for potential cumulative impacts is the N22 road upgrade. The route of the road however runs to the north of Ballymakeera from a point outside of the village and physical interactions between the proposed working areas will not arise. There are mitigation measures in place for the protection of the environment within the Environmental Impact Statement and other environmental reporting with respect to that project. Irish Water also proposes to provide a new 1,800pe wastewater treatment plant (WwTP) at Shanacloon, Ballymakeera and to decommission the existing septic tank at Ballymakeera as part of the Cork Mid-West project bundle. Cork County Council obtained Part 8 Planning Approval 4 for the proposed WwTP during 2013. In addressing submissions made on the proposal during the Part 8 process, it was decided to raise the levels of the proposed development to ensure no flooding of the facility, though a site was selected outside of the indicated flood plain. A Construction and Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) will be in place during the construction period; this includes a Dust Minimisation Plan. Mitigation measures for any potential for noise, traffic and access during the construction stage are to be provided for within the contract documents to ensure no adverse impacts to local receptors. Specific measures for blasting and rock breaking will be included if necessary. The WwTP is to be located inside a mature, screened boundary ditch and new boundary fences are to be landscaped in accordance with a landscaping plan. Noise and odour limits are specified within the Part 8 planning documents and are to be adhered to when the plant is operational. Best practice sediment and pollution control measures are to be in place during the construction process, including measures relating to the use of concrete and the storage and management of fuels and chemicals and further, an Emergency Response Plan will form part of the CEMP for the project. This construction stage is likely to occur in the short-term and there is potential for overlap during the construction period; however, the works will be further to the east than the proposed works area (the WWTP particularly will be located east of Ballymakeera Bridge across a local road on the opposite bank of the Sullane) and like the proposed development, will be localised. The provision of an upgraded treatment system will be positive in the long-term; the current system is a septic tank which is located on the flood plain of the Sullane and presents an unsatisfactory risk of pollution during flood events. Further, the current septic tank cannot meet emissions limits for orthophosphates, ammonia and BOD as specified in the relevant legislation; the new WWTP is designed to meet the required limits, which will be positive for the receiving waters of the Sullane and the aquatic ecology of the river. An Appropriate Assessment Screening 5 has been carried out for the proposed construction and operation of the WWTP and has concluded that it will not have a significant effect on the Natura 2000 network, and that further, a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment is not required. An EIA Screening Report has also been prepared and concludes that EIA is not required 6.
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4 Part 8 Planning documents provided by CCC for reference.
5 Ballyvourney / Ballymakeera WwTP Appropriate Assessment Screening Report (2016) prepared by Nicholas O’Dwyer Ltd. for Irish Water
6 Ballyvourney / Ballymakeera EIA Screening Report (2016) prepared by Nicholas O’Dwyer Ltd. for Irish Water.
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There are a number of small-scale planning applications that have been approved within the vicinity of the proposed interim works. Some have been implemented and some may be constructed in the future. The planning permissions are predominantly for the construction of new dwellings or extensions to existing dwellings. The planning applications reviewed are not considered likely to give rise to impacts that could act in-combination with the potential impacts of the proposed works to give rise to significant effects due to their nature, scale and location. A planning application for a wind farm has been lodged to the north west of the village (Reg. Ref. 19/4972) but as of the time of writing 7 no consent has been granted. The interim works are to be decommissioned during the implementation of the FRS permanent solution; however, the detail of the main scheme is not yet consented. An EIAR is being prepared for the main FRS and will take into account the interim works in its consideration of cumulative impact. Characteristics of the Proposed Development Annex IIA of the EIA Directive requires a description of the physical characteristics of the project as a whole to be provided. Annex III lists specific characteristic criteria of the development which may affect whether the development would or would not be likely to have significant impacts on the environment. The general physical characteristics of the works are described in Section 2.5 of this report above. The development is further described and considered below with reference to the criteria of Annex III specifically. The proposed development is specifically designed to protect a defined area and number of properties from the 20-year flood event. While it will be decommissioned once the main FRS for the wider study area and the 100-year flood event is in place, it operates as a distinct project from that FRS. The Size of the Whole Project The proposed interim works are to be located on the narrow stretch of land approx. 660m in length to the south of the N22 and to the north of the River Sullane as indicated on Figure 2-2. Land raising at entrances and installation of valves and sumps in three and two locations are minor and highly localised in nature. Cumulation With Existing and/or Approved Projects The N22 road project is to be carried out within a route alignment that is located at a remove from the village to the north of same and will not intersect with the proposed works area. The WWTP development will be located to the east of the village (east of Ballymakeera Bridge). A number of private developments are consented within the village, however these are minor. The Nature of any Associated Demolition Works No demolition works are proposed to facilitate the construction of the interim works proposal. The interim defences will be carefully removed as the construction of the main scheme progresses, or when the design life of the design components is reached. Mitigation measures are in place for the decommissioning stage. The Use of Natural Resources (in Particular Land, Soil, Water and Biodiversity) To facilitate the interim works there will be permanent/temporary loss of land/habitat as follows:
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7 July 2019
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Short sections of the non-native garden hedges to be potentially removed at the rear of the properties to facilitate the installation of hard defences (i.e. sand bags). There is potential that trees will require removal or cutting back adjacent to the River Sullane. Soil stripping works will be required in small areas primarily for the proposed ground raising at three locations. The stripped soil will be used to create a core bund which will be surrounded in clean imported stone. No water extraction or instream works are required for the proposed works. The Production of Waste Given the scale and nature of the project, significant volumes of waste will not be generated. No demolition is required. A small amount of soil stripping is required but soil will be reused in ground raising works. Mitigation measures are in place within the EcIA for the management of sediment. Waste such as plastic wrapping or wooden pallets and waste from standard construction practices will be disposed of off-site at a licensed waste facility as appropriate. Pollution and Nuisances Construction Phase The proposed works will be undertaken in the village of Ballymakeera along the River Sullane near a small number of residential units along with other properties. Furthermore, the works will require the mobilisation of construction machinery along public roads, delivery of construction materials to the site and the removal of wastes. The main potential sources of pollution and nuisance arising from the construction stage of the development relate to temporary air quality (dust) and noise and disturbance to residents where works are being carried out at the end of rear gardens close to the village bend adjacent to the Sullane. The main potential receptors will be local residents, users of the N22 road and wildlife. The proposed works have the potential to cause direct and indirect impacts to water quality. There is potential for sediment to become entrained in the river and impact on aquatic species. Operational Phase The potential for pollution arises at the operational stage should there be a failure of the sandbag defence wall resulting in sediment loss. Otherwise, there is potential for pollution from hydrocarbons and sediment where repairs are being carried out following inspection. A design life of 20 years has been proposed for the sand bag defence walls to ensure a robust structure is in place and this minimises the risk of failure and the need for repair. Decommissioning Phase The predicted impacts for the decommissioning phase are similar to those discussed during the construction phase where construction workers will need to remove the infrastructure put in place. The Risk of Major Accidents and/or Disasters which are Relevant to the Project Concerned Including Those Caused by Climate Change in Accordance with Scientific Knowledge A major emergency is defined by the EPA as an event which, usually occurs with little or no warning, causes or threatens death or injury, serious disruption of essential services, or damage to property, the environment or infrastructure beyond the normal capabilities of the principal emergency services in the area in which the event occurs and requiring the activation of specific additional procedures to ensure an effective, co- ordinated response.
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At construction stage, the proposed project will be constructed in accordance with the Safety and Health at Work Act 2005 and any subsequent regulations or amendments and with the requirements of the Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations, (SI 291 of 2013), any subsequent amendments and any other relevant Health and Safety legislation. The site will be operated in accordance with an agreed HSQE Plan. A Safety File will be kept and updated throughout the development. Overall the nature of construction works involved is standard and not particularly complex. New method or technologies are not involved, and the scheme has been designed and approved by the lead agency for flood protection nationally. In this case, a flood event would be of relevance; the frequency and extent of same which would be impacts by climate change. The scheme is however designed to respond to a flood event that could occur every twenty years. There is the potential for a flood event occurring while in the construction phase of the interim works. If such an event should occur the properties to be defended will be vulnerable to flooding as is the case at the moment. It is clear that it is not designed to defend properties from any flood event of higher intensity than the twenty- year event. In the event that a flood event of greater magnitude occurs while the interim defences are in place, again there will be flooding such as has previously occurred. Best practice measures will be followed at operational stage including a planned regime of inspections with additional inspections in advance of forecast flood events. No substances such as would be non-standard to general construction projects are proposed to be used. Mitigation will be in place to protect water quality, as per the EcIA for the project. Therefore, the risk of accidents or disasters arising during construction, having regard to substances and technologies to be used, is not considered to be likely or significant. Risk to Human Health As outlined above in Section 4.9 no sources of significant noise and air pollution or nuisances are identified during the construction or operation phase. No drinking water sources will be impacted. Those properties that could be impacted by flood events are already vulnerable to same.
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LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT Introduction According to Annex IIA and III of the EIA Directive, the environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected by projects must be described and considered, with particular regard to the following criteria: a) The existing and approved land use; b) The relative abundance, availability, quality and regenerative capacity of natural resources (including soil, land, water and biodiversity) in the area and its underground; c) The absorption capacity of the natural environment, paying particular attention to the following areas: (i) wetlands, riparian areas, river mouths; (ii) coastal zones and the marine environment; (iii) mountain and forest areas; (iv) nature reserves and parks; (v) areas classified or protected under Member States’ legislation; Natura 2000 areas designated by Member States pursuant to Directive 92/43/EEC and 2009/147/EC; (vi) areas in which there has already been a failure to meet the environmental quality standards laid down in Union legislation and relevant to the project, or in which it is considered there is such a failure; (vii) densely populated areas; and (viii) landscapes and sites of historical, cultural or archaeological significance. The location of the proposed project is described and considered with reference to each of these criteria hereunder. 5.1.1 Existing and Approved Land Use The land in the vicinity of the proposed interim works comprises agriculturally improved grassland, immature woodland, treelines and hedgerows, lowland depositing rivers; and the built land comprising Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera. St. Gobnait’s Wood Special Area of Conservation (Site Code: 000106) is situated to the north of the proposed interim works. Abundance, Quality and Regenerative Capacity of Natural Resources The riparian habitat adjacent to the River Sullane in the works area contains riverside vegetation but is close to modified urban development within the village. The water quality in the river is of high quality and contains sensitive species such as salmonids and freshwater pearl mussel. The sites is close to but downstream of the nearby SAC; potential impacts associated with the proposed development were assessed in the AA Screening and conclude that there will be no significant impacts to the SAC. 5.1.2 Absorption Capacity of Natural Environment The setting for the proposed works is within the village of Ballymakeera. The sand bags are to be placed along the boundary of the residential properties/businesses at the village bend. The areas which are proposed for soil stripping are set out in agricultural grassland and are not particularly sensitive. There will be no instream works associated with the interim works. The works should be easily absorbed in the existing setting of the built-up area of the village and by their proximity to existing boundary features. Protective measures for the adjacent river channel, which is sensitive, are provided for within the EcIA and method statements are to be provided to detail these further.
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TYPE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Introduction As noted in Section 4.1 above our description and assessment of potential impacts of the project is undertaken with reference to the various environmental topics set out in Article 3(1) of the EIA Directive. These are: Population and human health; Biodiversity, with particular attention to species and habitats protected under Directive 92/43/EEC and Directive 2009/147/EC; Land, soil, water, air and climate; Material assets, cultural heritage and the landscape; and The interaction between the factors referred to in points (a) to (d).
The description and assessment of impacts is presented in Section 6.2-6.10 . Each of these descriptions and considerations of potential for likely significant effects on the environment has regard to the criteria identified in Annex III of the Directive and Schedule 7 of the Planning and Development Regulations as follows: a) The magnitude and spatial extent of the impact; b) The nature of the impact; c) The transboundary nature of the impact; d) The intensity and complexity of the impact; e) The probability of the impact; f) The expected onset, duration, frequency and reversibility of the impact; g) The cumulation of the impact with the impact of other existing and/or approved projects; and h) The possibility of effectively reducing the impact. For ease of presentation a number of the criteria listed above are combined in criteria sections presented in sections below. It is noted that in the case of the current proposal it does not have potential for transfrontier impacts given its location and the nature of the development. Population and Human Health 6.2.1 Receiving Environment The proposed interim works are to be located within development boundary of Ballyvourney/ Ballymakeery [sic] as set out in the Blarney Macroom MDLAP 2017. The proposed interim works are to be constructed at the rear of 13 no. residential properties and 1 no. commercial property and will provide protection for these properties and from the 20-year flood event, noting a small number current have floor levels above this flood level. Residential properties and businesses on the northern side of the N22 as indicated earlier in this report will benefit from the interim works also. According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO) the Small Area within which the interim works and this part of the village of Ballymakeera sit within has a population of 255 as seen in Figure 6-1.
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Figure 6-1: Central Statistics Office (CSO) the Small Area
6.2.2 Potential for Significant Impact
6.2.2.1 Construction Phase The construction phase will require on average c.6 workers on site. While some will travel into the area daily it is possible that a number will stay within the area locally on a temporary basis and will make purchases locally with resultant positive impacts for local businesses and accommodation. This is considered an imperceptible to not significant local positive impact of a temporary nature. The objective of these works is to provide interim defences to defend against a 20-year flood event, that are practical, safe and do not increase flood risk. The location of the interim defence line was selected in order to minimally affect landowners, both residential and agricultural. The maroon line is the proposed interim hard defence line to prevent floodwaters reaching buildings from their gardens and other external areas; the waters currently flow through gates and seep through walls. The number of properties the 20-year event interim measures seek to benefit are 14 no. properties, along with a further14 no. with floor levels within 0.2m of the 20-year flood level. 1 no. property will be defended using local flood defences. The works are predicted to generate a significant short-term positive impact (noting the potential to extend to medium or long-term impact based on the lifetime of the defence design) in terms of impacts on health and safety and protection of property from flooding.
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There is potential for noise and dust generation during the construction phase from plant and construction traffic associated with works. The noise and dust associated with the construction works have potential to impact on the neighbouring residential properties for the duration of construction works. However, protective fencing is to be erected within gardens, construction working hours will be during daytime only and the overall construction period is short, i.e. approximately 14 no. weeks, with works being carried out in various areas and not confined to close proximity to individual receptors for the full duration of the contract. Traffic impacts will be managed in accordance with a Construction Traffic Management Plan and a landowner liaison officer will be in place to minimise disruption to locals and other road users and to landowners that could arise. Given the limited duration of the construction works and the construction practices specified the impacts on the property close by would likely be not significant to imperceptible, local negative and over a brief to temporary duration.
6.2.2.2 Operational Phase There will be traffic/activity associated with inspections/monitoring of the conditions of the interim defences on a quarterly basis and also site inspections will be carried out should a flood warning from the national weather services be issued. This increased level of vehicular activity and human activity is negligible and will be imperceptible. Residents, visitors and business owners in the vicinity will benefit from the interim flood measures in that they will be protected up to the 20-year flood event. This represents a short-term (minimum) significant positive impact for residents, visitors and business owners.
6.2.2.3 Decommissioning Phase Similar to the construction phase there will be potential for noise and dust pollution during the removal of the interim works. This activity will again be of brief to temporary and localised duration. 6.2.3 Cumulative Impacts Based on the foregoing and the scale and location of the proposed development and other consented and existing developments, particularly the location of the proposed new WwTP and the fact that mitigation measures will be in place for dust and noise management during the construction period of same, no potential for adverse significant cumulative impacts are identified in relation to population and human health. 6.2.4 Conclusion Overall the proposal has the potential for not significant to imperceptible adverse impacts which will be brief to temporary in nature during the construction phase and decommissioning phase. The impacts are localised and are not considered significant with standard best practice measures in place as are proposed to be adopted by the Contractor during the construction phase. The project has potential for significant positive short-term impacts on the local population and those travelling through the area due to the flood protection that will arise. Biodiversity, with particular attention to species and habitats protected under Directive 92/43/EEC and Directive 2009/147/EC – Terrestrial Biodiversity 6.3.1 Receiving Environment Ecological surveys of the Main Scheme area were carried out by Ecologist, Karen Green Leaf Ecology, between April 2017 and July 2018. These surveys were verified and updated for the proposed interim works area by a walkover survey conducted on 25 th March 2019. An invasive species survey was undertaken on
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28 th June 2017. Further targeted IAS surveys of the proposed interim works area were undertaken in March 2018 (verified in the 25 th March 2019 walkover survey). 6.3.2 Habitats
6.3.2.1 European Designated Sites The AA identified five Special Area of Conservations (SACs) and two Special Protection Areas (SPA) located within the 15km Zone of Influence (ZoI) of the proposed works. The nearest of the SACs is St. Gobnait’s Wood SAC (Site Code: 000108) approx. 115m to west of the proposed works. The Screening for AA prepared for the interim works confirmed that there is no potential source-pathway-receptor links between the proposed scheme and this site and the other four designated European sites. The site is downstream of the St. Gobnait’s Wood site.
6.3.2.2 Nationally Designated Sites The Ecological Impact Assessment undertook a review of nationally designated sites and notes that there is one Natural Heritage Area (NHA) and nine proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs) within 15km of the proposed works area.
6.3.2.3 Local Habitats The habitats present within the interim flood defence works area include agriculturally improved grassland, immature woodland, treelines and hedgerows; and the built land comprising Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera. St. Gobnait’s Wood SAC (Site Code: 000106) is located outside (to the north) of the interim flood defence works area and is upstream of the proposed works. The adjacent river is a lowland depositing river. The habitats recorded within the site are summarised in Table 6-1. Table 6-1: Terrestrial Habitats Present within the Proposed Interim Works Area
Conservation Habitat Rationale Evaluation 8 Stone walls (BL1) Negligible The walls are mortared and are of little value to wildlife. Buildings and Negligible The built land present in the study area is of little value artificial surfaces to wildlife. (BL3) Agriculturally Local importance This habitat is not of botanical importance, however it improved grassland (lower value) does provide potential habitat for mammals and (GA1) avifauna. Amenity grassland Local importance This habitat is not of botanical importance, however it (GA2) (lower value) does provide potential habitat for invertebrates and shelter and foraging opportunities for avifauna. Dry meadows and Local importance While the parcels of this habitat within the proposed site grassy verges (GS2) (lower value) are relatively species poor, these areas do provide potential habitat for mammals and avifauna.
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8 In accordance with NRA (2009) Guidelines for the Assessment of Ecological Impacts of National Road Schemes Rev. 2. National Roads Authority
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Conservation Habitat Rationale Evaluation 8 Mixed conifer Local importance The species within this small belt of woodland are not of woodland (WD3) (lower value) conservation importance, however they do provide potential habitat for avifauna. Immature woodland Local importance This area is relatively dense and undisturbed and as (WS2) (higher value) such provides potential habitat for mammals and avifauna within the village. Hedgerows (WL1) Local importance This habitat provides potential habitat for avifauna and (higher value) commuting and foraging areas for bats. Treelines (WL2) Local importance This habitat provides potential habitat for avifauna and (higher value) commuting and foraging areas for bats.
6.3.3 Species
6.3.3.1 Avifauna The EcIA documents records of important bird species recorded within the Main FRS area between April and July 2017 which include Kingfisher Dipper, and Grey Wagtail. None of these bird species were recorded nesting in the vicinity of the interim works area. Bird species observed within the proposed interim works area were limited to typical garden species, including rook ( Corvus frugilegus ), blackbird ( Turdus merula ), robin ( Erithacus rubecula ), great tit ( Parus major ) and blue tit ( P. caeruleus ).
6.3.3.2 Roosting Bats Seven species of bat were recorded in the interim works area, namely soprano pipistrelle, common pipistrelle, Nathusius’ pipistrelle, Leisler’s bat, Daubenton’s bat, natterer’s bat and whiskered/ Brandt’s bat. No roosts were recorded in the interim works area. However, there are potential tree roosts adjacent to the River Sullane.
6.3.3.3 Otter A number of otter activity signs and holts were recorded in the vicinity of the River Sullane and Bohill River during the ecological surveys of the overall FRS area undertaken in 2017 and 2018. The activity signs recorded include prints, paths, spraint and hair caught on barbed wire. Both active and inactive holts were recorded, but these are outside of the proposed interim works area.
6.3.3.4 Badger An active badger sett and evidence of badger activity, including a latrine and badger prints were recorded approx. 0.22km to the north-west of the proposed interim works area within St. Gobnait’s wood in May 2017. No badger setts or signs of badger activity were recorded within the interim works area.
6.3.3.5 Invertebrates Kerry Slug was recorded in Cascade Woods during ecology surveys for the Main Scheme (2018). The survey and assessment undertaken for the Main Scheme indicates that the interim works area is unsuitable to support Kerry Slug and did not find any evidence of Kerry Slug within the proposed interim works area.
6.3.3.6 Invasive Species The following invasive species were recorded within the FRS Main Scheme area: Giant knotweed ( Fallopia sachalinensis ); Japanese knotweed ( Fallopia japonica ); Himalayan knotweed ( Persicaria wallichii ); Rhododendron ( Rhododendron ponticum ); and Cherry laurel ( Prunus laurocerasus ). Giant knotweed, Himalayan knotweed and Cherry laurel have been recorded within the interim works area and its environs.
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Cherry laurel and Giant knotweed are located at the ‘village bend’ and are likely to be within 7m of the proposed works area. 6.3.4 Potential for Significant Impact
6.3.4.1 Construction Phase
6.3.4.1.1 Habitats
6.3.4.1.1.1 European Sites A screening for AA has been completed for the proposed interim works considering impacts to European Sites (SACs and SPAs) within 15km. The AA screening cconcluded that the proposed interim flood defence works: Are not directly connected with or necessary to the management of any European Site; and Will not give rise to significant effects on the qualifying interests of The Gearagh SAC, Mullaghanish Bog SAC, Blackwater River (Cork / Waterford) SAC, Killarney National Park, Macgillycuddy's Reeks and Caragh River Catchment SAC, The Gearagh SPA and Mullaghanish to Musheramore Mountains SPA. The proposed works are located approx. 115m from this St. Gobnait’s Wood SAC. However, from the findings of the Screening exercise, it was concluded that the proposed interim flood defence works, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, will not have a significant effect on St. Gobnait’s Wood SAC due to the lack of hydrological or habitat connectivity; and the nature of the works (temporary, small-scale works). The screening for AA report found that a Stage 2 AA is not required.
6.3.4.1.1.2 Nationally Designated Sites Only one NHA or pNHA was identified to have potential connectivity to the proposed works. Prohus Wood pNHA is located adjacent to the River Sullane c. 8km downstream of the proposed works area. This pNHA is located on rocky sloping ground to the west of the River Sullane. The ecological interest of this site is woodland and does not include any aquatic habitats or species. In consideration of the above factors, and the nature of the works, the findings of the EcIA are that no significant adverse impacts as a result of the proposed interim works are anticipated.
6.3.4.1.1.3 Local Habitats No works are proposed to the area of immature woodland identified, therefore no significant impacts are predicted. There is potential for small sections of the non-native garden hedges to be removed at the rear of the properties to facilitate the installation of hard defences (i.e. sand bags). Considering the minor scale nature of the works, it is not anticipated that the proposed works will have a significant adverse impact on hedgerow habitat of conservation interest. Likewise, there is potential that trees will require removal or cutting back adjacent to the River Sullane. The EcIA considered that this has potential to be a significant temporary adverse impact at the local level. Mitigation measures have been recommended however, including minimum clearance to facilitate works and no scrub clearance or other removal of vegetation on site during the bird breeding season from 1 st March to 31 st August. Potential impacts on the Lowland Depositing Rivers are discussed under Sections Salmon, Lamprey and FWPM in Aquatic Biodiversity.
6.3.4.1.2 Species
6.3.4.1.2.1 Avifauna The proposed development may require removal of sections of hedgerows and the removal of trees or branches that may potentially support breeding birds. If the removal of trees/branches is not timed appropriately, nests containing eggs or young chicks could be destroyed. This would result in a negative impact on birds which would be significant at a local level. In the absence of mitigation this impact would be
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permanent and irreversible. Mitigation measures in the EcIA provide that where feasible no scrub clearance will occur during the bird breeding season. If the bird breeding season is unavoidable then pre-construction surveys are recommended.
6.3.4.1.2.2 Roosting Bats The removal of trees or branches to install sand bags adjacent to the River Sullane may result in the loss of potential or actual roosting sites for bats. There is potential for adverse impacts to individual/ small numbers of bats as a result of the removal of mature broadleaf trees during the construction phase. In the absence of mitigation, it is considered that the loss of potential or actual roosting sites would have a direct, permanent and irreversible, significant negative impact on bats at the local level. All trees proposed for felling/trimming shall be checked for Potential Roost Features by an experienced bat ecologist as part of a pre-construction surveyed and the procedures followed if there is medium to high potential for bats. Should lighting be used during construction potential tree roosts located to the rear of the properties backing on to the River Sullane may experience an indirect, significant negative impact at the local level. The impact would be temporary and would persist for the duration of construction. If lighting is required, it will be directed away from all hedgerows and linear habitats to be retained. The small-scale loss of foraging material is not anticipated to have a significant adverse impact on foraging or commuting bats.
6.3.4.1.2.3 Otter No evidence of otter was recorded within the proposed site. No holts were recorded in the vicinity of the site. As such, no fragmentation or loss of otter habitat is anticipated to arise from the proposed interim works. Survey evidence indicates that otter forage along the River Sullane. The main activity period for otter is outside standard construction working hours and abundant available foraging habitat is located along the River Sullane and River Bohill. Disturbance impacts would not be expected to have a significant adverse effect on otters.
6.3.4.1.2.4 Invasive Species The presence of invasive species within the vicinity of the proposed works, Cherry Laurel and Giant Knotweed located within 7m of the proposed works at the “village bend” has the potential to spread as a result of the construction phase. The growth of these species at this location is restricted to the existing rock armour and stone river bank and does not extend to the built land and amenity grassland present adjacent to the bank. The Contractor is to prepare an Invasive Species Management Plan (IASMP) for the interim works.
6.3.4.2 Operational Phase
6.3.4.2.1 Habitats The Screening for AA and the EcIA for the proposed development have been reviewed. No significant adverse impacts on designated sites are anticipated and no significant adverse impacts on any other terrestrial habitats identified at the local level are anticipated during the operational phase. Mitigation is in place within the EcIA for local receptors; this does not impact the outcome of the Screening for AA.
6.3.4.2.2 Species The EcIA for the proposed development has been reviewed. No significant adverse impacts on avifauna, bats, otter or relating to invasive species are anticipated.
6.3.4.3 Decommissioning Phase
6.3.4.3.1 Habitats The Screening for AA has been reviewed and no significant adverse impacts on designated sites are anticipated during the decommissioning phase.
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The EcIA has been reviewed. No works are proposed within the area of immature woodland, therefore there will be no significant impacts on this habitat. No significant adverse impacts on hedgerows are anticipated during the decommissioning phase. There is potential that trees will need trimming to facilitate the removal of hard defences (i.e. sandbags) adjacent to the River Sullane. However, in view of the likely small scale of the potential branch trimming works, no significant adverse impacts on this habitat are anticipated to arise.
6.3.4.3.2 Species
6.3.4.3.2.1 Avifauna If tree work is inappropriately timed, nests containing eggs or young chick could be destroyed. This would result in a negative impact on birds, which would be significant at a local level. In the absence of mitigation this impact would be permanent and irreversible. Mitigation set out in the EcIA restricts the timing of the works outside of the bird breeding season. Indirect effects on birds associated with the proposed development may include potential disturbance during the decommissioning works, which would be a significant at a local level. In the absence of mitigation this impact would be a temporary and reversible. Mitigation again provides for restrictions on the timing of the works.
6.3.4.3.2.2 Roosting Bats The potential removal of trees or branches may result in the loss of potential or actual roosting sites for bats. This impact provides for potential for adverse impacts to individual/small numbers of bats. In the absence of mitigation, it is considered that the loss of potential or actual roosting sites would have a direct, significant negative impact on bats at the local level. In the absence of mitigation this impact would be permanent and irreversible. Similar to the construction phase in the absence of mitigation, disturbance of bats due to lighting used during the decommissioning phase would have an indirect, significant negative impact at the local level. The impact would be temporary and would persist for the duration of decommissioning. Mitigation measures set out for the construction phase shall be employed again at this stage to prevent any detrimental impacts.
6.3.4.3.2.3 Otter No significant adverse impacts on otter are anticipated during the decommissioning phase.
6.3.4.3.2.4 Invasive Species Giant knotweed is located within 7m of the proposed works at the “village bend”. As such, there is potential for decommissioning of the proposed interim works to cause the spread of invasive plant species. The measures as set out in the IASMP are to be undertaken during the decommissioning phase. 6.3.5 Cumulative Impact Substantial mitigation is proposed for the N22 with respect to terrestrial biodiversity, in particular compensatory habitat is being provided for Kerry slug. This species will not be impacted by the interim works project. No invasive species, protected species or species of conservation interest were identified on the site of the proposed WwTP. An AA Screening was carried out for the project and appropriate assessment was concluded to be screened out. No significant cumulative impacts are identified with regard to terrestrial biodiversity. 6.3.6 Conclusion The project will give rise to some permanent loss of hedgerow and tree habitat to facilitate the interim works. No instream works are proposed. Adherence to the mitigation measures in the EcIA will ensure there will be no significant residual impacts on terrestrial biodiversity arising from the proposed development.
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Biodiversity, with particular attention to species and habitats protected under Directive 92/43/EEC and Directive 2009/147/EC – Aquatic Biodiversity
6.4.1 Receiving Environment With respect to Freshwater pearl mussel, the distribution of mussels in the Sullane system was surveyed in 2007 by Dr. Evelyn Moorkens (Moorkens, 2007) and a focused Study on two sections of the river were surveyed again in 2016 (Moorkens, 2017). From Moorkens studies it is evident that the location of the proposed interim flood defences is adjacent to the stretch of the River which supports one of the better habitats for FPM along the Sullane River, however it was noted that conditions in stable habitat were poor in 2007 and 2016. This is consistent with surveys undertaken by RPS in 2013/2014 as part of the aquatic surveys for the main Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera Flood Relief Scheme (FRS) where FPM habitat and live mussels were recorded along the reach of the Sullane River where the interim works are proposed. Other aquatic surveys and habitat assessment for the main FRS have been carried out by Conservation Services during 2018 and 2019.
6.4.1.1 Habitat Assessment The aquatic habitat assessment included within the EcIA notes that the River Sullane at Ballymakeera supports a good diversity of habitats, with areas of riffle, glide and pool over a substrate that includes cobble, large rocks, gravel and sand. Water quality is high. The habitat type of the river adjacent the proposed interim works site is a lowland depositing river; potential impacts are discussed later in this report under Salmon and Lamprey.
6.4.1.1.1 Salmon and Lamprey The EcIA notes that the River Sullane supports suitable salmonid spawning, nursery and adult habitat. The habitats provide no, or some poor quality, Lamprey nursery habitat but some areas of the river do provide fair-good Lamprey spawning habitat. The Q-assessment of the River Sullane undertaken in July 2018 indicates that the invertebrates recorded in the River Sullane merits a Q-rating of Q4-5 indicating unpolluted conditions and “High” ecological quality.
6.4.1.1.2 Freshwater Pearl Mussel (FPM) The freshwater pearl mussel ( Margaritifera margaritifera ) is listed on Annex II and Annex V of the EU Habitats Directive and is protected under the Irish Wildlife Acts (1976 and 2000). This stretch of the River Sullane (and downstream) supports poor-fair habitat for FPM.
6.4.1.2 Species Aquatic plants recorded along this stretch of the River Sullane include unbranched filamentous algae, Ranunculus penicillatus var. penicilatus , Oenanthe crocata and Fontinalis species of mosses. Suitable habitat and pearl mussel populations do exist in the vicinity of and downstream of the proposed interim works based on the outcome of surveys. Based on the outcome of aquatic assessments it is concluded that salmonids are found within the waters of the Sullane adjacent to the site.
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6.4.2 Potential for Significant Impact
6.4.2.1 Construction Phase
6.4.2.1.1 Salmon and Lamprey While no instream works are required as part of the proposal, suspended sediment from runoff can have severe negative impacts on invertebrate and plant life and all stages of salmonid fish. Pollution by suspended solids will be a potential issue where works are carried out adjacent to the River Sullane. There is potential for siltation and sedimentation of salmon and lamprey habitat should sandbags burst. If hydrocarbons (fuels and oils) were to be transported in runoff to the River Sullane via construction machinery working in proximity to the river bank, there is potential for localised toxic effects on aquatic organisms in the river. The extent of the downstream impact would depend on the amount of substance released and instream concentration. Degradation of salmon and lamprey habitat as a result of sediments and other polluting substances entering the River Sullane would have a direct impact that would be significant at a local level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary and reversible. Mitigation measures include the works to be supervised by an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) and that the Contractor will adhere to the mitigation as set out in the EcIA for best practice silt control measures. Further the Contractor is to provide a method statement to address the avoidance of sediment or soil loss and release of hydrocarbons and polluting substances during the works with CCC.
6.4.2.1.2 FPM It is anticipated that the potential for inputs of sediment from the construction works, will be the primary impact with the potential to have a significant impact on the remaining extant FPM populations in the River Sullane. The movement of machinery causing ground disturbance within the floodplain and the localised raising of land at three separate locations with the stripping of soil has the potential to provide a source of sediment that could find a pathway to the river. If the integrity of the sandbags is compromised through rupture then this could also represent a source of sediment. Mitigation measures centred on sediment trapping are to be employed in the form of silt fences and no plant or machinery is to enter the river without an FPM survey licence at any time. Like the impacts on salmon and lamprey above, a fuel or oil spill could pose detriment to FPM populations. Degradation of FPM habitat as a result of sediments and other polluting substances entering the River Sullane would have a direct impact that would be significant at a National Level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary but could have a significant impact in terms of FPM populations. Mitigation measures to prevent detrimental impacts are set out in the EcIA.
6.4.2.2 Operational Phase It is noted that the works designer has confirmed that there will be no practicable impacts on the behaviour of the river with the proposed works in place.
6.4.2.2.1 Salmon and Lamprey There is potential for siltation and sedimentation of salmon and lamprey habitat should sandbags burst. Degradation of salmon and lamprey habitat as a result of sediments entering the River Sullane would have a direct impact that would be significant at a local level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary and reversible.
6.4.2.2.2 FPM There is potential for siltation and sedimentation of FPM habitat should sandbags burst . Impacts noted above in relation to sedimentation are applicable to this case. Degradation of FPM habitat as a result of sediments and other polluting substances entering the River Sullane would have a direct impact that would
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be significant at a National Level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary but potentially permanent and irreversible in terms of FPM populations. Mitigation measures are recommended in the EcIA to prevent such impacts from occurring.
6.4.2.3 Decommissioning Phase
6.4.2.3.1 Salmon and Lamprey The potential impacts on salmon and lamprey are of a similar nature to those described for the construction phase. Degradation of salmon and lamprey habitat as a result of sediments and other polluting substances such as hydrocarbons entering the River Sullane would have a direct impact that would be significant at a local level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary and reversible. Mitigation to prevent detrimental impacts are proposed as set out in the EcIA are to be employed.
6.4.2.3.2 FPM Similar to the construction phase impacts, the decommissioning impacts there is potential for siltation and sedimentation through the movement of machinery in the floodplain and any bursting of sand bags during their removal. Additionally, there is potential for oil and fuel spills from plant and machinery similar to those impacts as set out in the construction phase. Considering the works duration and small scale works nature of the works it is expected that impacts would be temporary but potentially irreversible. Mitigation measures to prevent detrimental impacts as set out in the EcIA will be adopted. 6.4.3 Cumulative Impact The proposed WwTP will bring emissions from wastewater treatment facilities in the village in line with those required by legislation, whereby the existing septic tank cannot meet same. Positive impacts on water quality and consequently on biodiversity are anticipated. No adverse cumulative impacts are identified in regard to aquatic biodiversity. 6.4.4 Conclusion The interim work has the potential to impact on aquatic biodiversity in the following ways: release of sediment and hydrocarbons. With mitigation none of these impacts have been assessed as causing significant residual impacts on aquatic biodiversity. Land, Soil, Geology and Hydrogeology 6.5.1 Receiving Environment
6.5.1.1 Land The proposed and bag defences will be placed on a narrow strip of land adjacent the Sullane on river bank which in places forms part of private gardens and in one area forms land adjacent the car park of a commercial premises. Land raising works and at a number of agricultural fields. Other works are more minor (e.g. works to pipes). The area where works are to be carried is small in nature.
6.5.1.2 Bedrock The study area is located in the Southern Derrynasaggart Mountains in an Old Red Sandstone (ORS) sequence which was deposited in a trough called the Munster Basin. The Munster Basin is a large depositional trough which contains one of the thickest sequences of Old Red Sandstone encountered anywhere in the world. The bedrock within the study area comprises rocks from the Devonian ‘Old Red Sandstone’ facies from late Middle Devonian age. The bedrock geology of the works is predominantly
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siltstone and sandstone of the Bird Hill (BH) Formation. Within the study area The Bird Hill Formation forms the vast majority of the ground along the River Sullane. The Bird Hill Formation (BH) comprises purple-grey to grey-green fine-grained sandstone with bed thickness of usually less than 1m.
6.5.1.3 Quarries or Minerals Following a review of the GSI Aggregate Potential Map, the GSI Active Quarries and Pits Directory 2014 and the EPA’s Extractive Industries Register, no quarries or mineral deposits were identified in or close to the area where the interim works are to be carried out.
6.5.1.4 Geological Heritage No county geological heritage sites have been identified in or close to the area where the interim works are to be carried out. The Cork County Development Plan 2014 was consulted, and one Site of Geological Interest within the Study Area is listed at Balymakeery, Macroom; River Sullane - Fluvial - river channel with bog.
6.5.1.5 Subsoil and Subsoil Geology Information on the overburden (Quaternary) geology is available from the Teagasc Subsoil Map which is available on the GSI website. The subsoil data for the study area is illustrated on Figure 6.2. The main subsoil type within the study area is A - Alluvium deposits (shown yellow on Figure 6.2) along the corridor of the River Sullane. To the north of the work area are ‘ Gravels derived from Devonian sandstones’ (GDSs) (shown green on Figure 6.2). No fill or contaminated material was encountered during the site investigations for the main FRS and there are no known areas of contaminated land within the study area. Figure 6-2: Subsoil Map for Ballymakeera
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6.5.1.6 Hydrogeology Information on the hydrogeology of the area has been obtained from the GSI online mapping as well as the ground investigations carried out by Priority Geotechnical for the Main Scheme.
6.5.1.6.1 Aquifer Characteristics The Study Area is underlain by the Ballinhassig West Groundwater Body (GWB). Within the Study area The Ballinhassig GWB is composed of the Devonian ORS sequence that are devoid of intergranular porosity therefore groundwater flow occurs in fractures and faults where significant yields can be obtained. Information on the groundwater body status for the study area is available to view on the EPA website. Information from the EPA viewer indicates the WFD Status for 2010 to 2015 for the Ballinhassig West GWB has been classed as ‘Good status’ and has an overall Risk Result of ‘Not at Risk’. The objective set for this water body is to protect its ‘good’ status under the WFD.
6.5.1.6.2 Aquifer Classification To the south of the N22 the aquifer is classed as Poor Aquifer (Pl)- Bedrock which is generally unproductive, except for local zones . However, along the corridor of the River Sullane the sand and gravel overburden deposits which overlie the Poorly productive bedrock aquifer form a Locally Important Gravel Aquifer (Lg). In general, the GSI classification scheme is based on ‘Regionally Important Aquifers being capable of supporting a large number of yields in excess of 400m 3/day’ ; ‘Locally Important Aquifers being capable of having moderate well yields (100-400m 3/day)’ ; and ‘Poor Aquifers being capable of only low yielding wells (< 100m 3/day) ’. See Figure 6.3 below. Figure 6-3: Aquifer Classification in Area of Interim Works
6.5.1.6.3 Aquifer Vulnerability The GSI has completed the aquifer vulnerability map for the area which is available to view and download through the GSI website ( www.gsi.ie ). Along the corridor of the River Sullane the aquifer vulnerability has been rated by the GSI as ‘H’ (High). Outside of the corridor of the River Sullane the vulnerability rating decreases to Extreme (E and X) corresponding to the higher ground north and south of the river valley.
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6.5.2 Potential for Significant Impact
6.5.2.1 Construction Phase Temporary land take will be required for the construction phase. This will be short in duration and a landowner liaison officer will be in place. Given the benefits of flood protection for most of the properties affected, the potential for impact is on the whole not considered to be significant. There are no in-stream works proposed and no excavations are proposed beyond minor surface soil stripping in localised areas. Materials arising from excavations/soil stripping will be reused on site as part of the core bund in locations where land raising is proposed. Any potential for exposed soil or stockpiles to be carried by wind or water and cause pollution or nuisance will be mitigated with measures outlined in the EcIA which will be developed in detail in method statements for the management of soil and sediment loss. Similarly, any potential for pollution of receiving waters by hydrocarbons or other polluting substances will be mitigated by EcIA mitigation measures as will be developed further within the specific method statement to be prepared by the contractor. The local authority is to agree the content of the method statements in advance of works. There are proposals in place for reinstatement following completion of the works.
6.5.2.2 Operational Phase Short-term land take will be required for the areas where the flood defence line is to be erected and where land raising is carried out. This will impact on a number of residential and some commercial / agricultural properties. However, the area of land affected will be minimal, will be discussed with landowners and will serve a flood defence purpose which will protect the remainder of those lands, parts of the N22 national road and some dwellings and commercial buildings from the 20-year flood event. Slight impacts on individual properties will be outweighed by the positive impact of flood protection. Access to agricultural fields will be available notwithstanding the works. The works will require inspections/monitoring of the conditions of the interim defences on a quarterly basis and also site inspections will be carried out should a flood warning from the national weather services be issued. Should any of these reveals less than adequate results, maintenance will be undertaken.
6.5.2.3 Decommissioning Phase During the decommissioning phase there will be similar potential impacts as the construction stage, including temporary land take to remove the works elements. This includes the potential for sediment to enter watercourses as a result of bursting during the removal of the sand bags. There is also potential for oil/fuel spills associated with the machinery involved in the works. Mitigation measures are in place within the EcIA to address same. 6.5.3 Cumulative Given the minor scale of the works, the site’s remove from other projects consented in the area and the measures in place for each project, no potential for cumulative impact on land, soils, geology and hydrogeology is identified. 6.5.4 Conclusion There will be slight impacts on land, soils, geology and hydrogeology in terms of direct impacts due to soil stripping and requirement for disposal of some material off site and land take of some private property however there will be positive impacts to land and land use by virtue of the flood protection afforded by the interim works. No significant adverse impacts are predicted.
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Hydrology and Drainage 6.6.1 Receiving Environment
6.6.1.1 Surface Water Features A part of the EPA’s monitoring of the River Sullane undertaken in July 2018 indicates that the invertebrates recorded in the River Sullane merits a Q-rating of Q4-5 indicating unpolluted conditions and High ecological quality. The overall WFD status for the Sullane_030 waterbody for 2010-2015 was ‘High’ status. The River Sullane risk characterisation is classed as ‘Not At risk’ of failing to meet the WFD environmental objectives. Figure 6-4 shows the proximal watercourses in relation to the proposed works. The watercourses that the proposed works have the potential to interact with and their available water quality data are identified below in Table 6-4 Figure 6-4: Works Area in Context of Watercourses
6.6.1.2 Flood Potential Baile Mhic Ire Flood Relief Scheme Options Report Final Draft (OPW, 2018) notes that the village of Ballymakeera has a history of flooding. The main sources of flooding are; from the river itself and primarily the three tributaries to the north of the village, including a storm network that can independently cause flooding through gullies and overland flow from two of the tributaries. The severest floods from the River occurred on April 1962 and August 1986. Significant flooding occurred during December 2001, December 2006 and to a lesser degree November 2009, 2011 and September and
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December 2015. Several times surface water flooding has occurred in the village, primarily from gullies surcharging and damaging a number of residential houses opposite the Co-op. Overland flow is understood to have flooded the primary school in 2008. The www.floodinfo.ie website records past flood events and corroborates with the record of flood events above. The CFRAM (Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management) programme is a national programme which produced a series of Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment (PFRA) which cover the entire country and is available on https://www.floodinfo.ie/map/floodmaps . The mapping published for the Ballymakeera area was reviewed to identify areas that may be at risk of flooding. Figure 6-4 is an extract from Baile Mhic Ire/Baile Bhuirne (Ballymakeera/Ballyvourney) Fluvial Flood Extent Map published for the area. The site is located in an area that is classed as Indicative 1% AEP (100 year) event.
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Figure 6-5: Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management Mapping
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6.6.2 Potential for Significant Impact
6.6.2.1 Construction Phase It is intended that sandbags will be delivered to site pre-filled but this may change as work proceeds. There is potential during construction works for sediment to be leaked from damaged bags to enter the watercourses and to reduce the water quality. Mitigation measures as outlined in the EcIA will be implemented throughout the works areas which will minimise the potential for sediment release. Further, method statements are to be agreed in advance of works with Cork County Council. The potential for such impacts arising thereafter is considered slight adverse. There is potential for accidental spillage of oils, fuel, chemicals, hydraulic fluids etc. from the construction machinery to enter the River Sullane. To minimise the potential for such impacts to arise the Contractor will be required to adhere to measures specified for the safe storage of chemicals and fuelling of plant and machinery. The potential for such impacts arising thereafter is considered slight adverse. During construction there is potential for sediment from exposed soil or stockpiles to be carried by wind or water and cause pollution or nuisance. The site management will be subject to strict best practice measures as will be set out in agreed method statements.
6.6.2.2 Operational Phase There is potential for oils, fuel, chemicals, hydraulic fluids etc. from plant and vehicles accessing the interim works for maintenance. There is also potential for sediment to be released from the sand bags and enter the river. However, a regular programme of inspections will be in place and further mitigation is recommended by the EcIA. The flood defence line is to be located on land as opposed to directly on the bank and the proposed development is reversible. The design team has advised that there will be no practicable alteration to the behaviour of the River Sullane as a result of the proposed works. No significant adverse impacts on river morphology or hydrology are therefore anticipated.
6.6.2.3 Decommissioning Phase Similar to the construction stage there is potential for sediment and oil/fuel to enter the river due to the proposed removal of the interim works. Mitigation measures as identified in the EcIA will be in place. 6.6.3 Cumulative Impact Specific controls will be agreed for the project, and particularly no in-stream works are proposed. There are best practice measures specified for the construction of the WwTP further downstream, particularly in relation to the use of concretes and the management of sediment, fuels and other pollutants. An Emergency Response Plan is also to be provided. No cumulative impacts are identified in relation to hydrology and drainage. 6.6.4 Conclusion While there are potential negative construction impacts associated with the works such sediment and oil/fuel entering the river with mitigation measures any impacts are predicted to be slight adverse. Air, Noise and Climate The potential for impact on air and noise are as previously discussed under the Population and Human Health section. No potential for significant impacts is identified. With respect to climate change, the proposed development is a response to a climatic event, i.e. flooding and is designed to protect against a flood event of a specified standard over a short-term period. Climatic
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6.8.1.1 Traffic and Transportation The existing N22 runs through the village of Ballymakeera and serves as the main route from Macroom to the County boundary and there are a number of local roads linking the N22 to the southern side of the River Sullane via Ballyvourney Bridge and Ballymakeera Bridge.
6.8.1.2 Services and Utilities There are a number of known utilities in the vicinity of the proposed works. Foul, storm and combined sewers run along the N22, just to the north of the works area. In addition, there are culverts/outlets within the works area. 6.8.2 Potential for Significant Impact
6.8.2.1 Construction Phase
6.8.2.1.1 Traffic and Transportation During the construction period there will be an increase in traffic volumes on the local road network as a result of employees travelling to and from the site, construction/delivery trucks and trucks removing/disposing of waste and any excess stripped material. These impacts have potential to cause delays and inconvenience to local road uses. The impacts will be short-term and the construction activity will be restricted to normal working hours, ensuring that residual impacts then are slight and temporary. It is anticipated that the road network in the area (which is a national road) will also be physically capable of accommodating construction trucks with no mitigation works necessary. The construction traffic may have negative impacts on the local road surface. A Construction Traffic Management Plan will be in place and will be agreed with Cork County Council. No potential for significant adverse impacts are identified.
6.8.2.1.2 Services and Utilities The fitting of two non-return valves on the outlets of two pipe outfalls/culverts is also proposed as part of the proposed interim works. A sump would likely be required to be constructed on the dry side of each piped outlet and a pump is to be available in times of need. The pipes requiring non-return valves and a sump are illustrated with a red line in Figure 2-2. No potential for significant impact on the integrity of these utilities is envisaged.
6.8.2.2 Operational Phase
6.8.2.2.1 Traffic and Transportation There will be traffic associated with the quarterly inspections/monitoring of the conditions of the interim defences. Furthermore, in the event of a flood warning issued from the national weather services, a site inspection will also be carried out beforehand if required. This increased level of vehicular activity and human activity will be negligible and imperceptible in the context of traffic movements on the N22. The works will have no impact on the capacity of the adjacent road and no access difficulties are identified. No potential for
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6.8.2.2.2 Services and Utilities No proposed operational impacts are predicted to arise as a result of the proposed development.
6.8.2.3 Decommissioning Phase
6.8.2.3.1 Traffic and Transportation Decommissioning phase impacts will be similar to the construction phase impacts.
6.8.2.3.2 Services and Utilities Decommissioning phase impacts will be similar to the construction phase impacts. 6.8.3 Cumulative Impact The Traffic Management Plan will be agreed with the local authority and this will ensure any overlap with other construction projects will be taken into account. The proposed WwTP and new N22 will enhance the infrastructural assets of the area. No cumulative impacts are identified in relation to material assets.
6.8.4 Conclusion The project will see an increase in construction traffic volumes on the adjacent road network when the proposed defences are being put in place and removed; the potential for impact is not considered to be significant. It will be temporary and localised. There will be no significant impacts from the project on traffic due to the maintenance of the interim works. Cultural Heritage 6.9.1 Receiving Environment There are no archaeological sites located within the footprint of the proposed works but there are a number in the vicinity of the works. The nearest are Ballyvourney Bridge CO058-073 at the western end of the proposed works area and adjacent an area of proposed sand bag wall and land raising and a Fulacht Fia CO058-038 located on the opposite side of the river to the row of houses to be protected. There are no architectural heritage features located within the footprint of the proposed interim works. There are a number of designated Record of Protected Structure (RPS) and National Inventory of Architectural Heritage architectural heritage (NIAH) buildings and structures located within the study area. Ballyvourney Bridge is designated as both an RPS (RPS No.: 00372) and a NIAH (Reg. No. 20905810). St Gobnait’s Church located on the northern side of the N22 opposite the Village Bend is designated as an RPS No.:00371 and a an NIAH (Reg. No. 20905813). The Parochial House to the east of St Gobnait’s Church is designated an NIAH (Reg. No. 20905814). The house at the junction of the N22 and the local road over the Ballyvourney Bridge is designated as an NIAH also Reg. No. 20905811. There are no archaeological or architectural features located within the benefiting area as indicated by the green area to the north of the N22 opposite Ballyvourney Bridge or the individual benefitting properties identified by diamonds or the green or maroon diamonds as identified in Figure 2-2. The works area is located in a Gaeltacht area.
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6.9.2 Potential for Significant Impact
6.9.2.1 Construction Phase There are no features such archaeological sites/architectural features located directly within the footprint of the proposed interim works so there will be no direct impacts. A section of the proposed sand bag wall is to be located adjacent to the zone of notification to the northeastern side of Ballyvourney Bridge. The sand bag structure is to be placed within a field inside the line of an existing stone wall which runs between the bridge parapet wall and a field gate west of the N22 in this location. The works will not be intrusive and are not expected to interfere in any manner with the integrity of Ballyvourney Bridge. The local authority will advise the Contractor of the heritage constraint to ensure steps can be taken to avoid any accidental damage to the bridge, though there should be no requirement for machinery to be in contact with the structure or to operate within the zone of notification. No in-stream works are proposed and there can therefore be no potential for impact on the underwater archaeology resource of the area. With respect to the location within a Gaeltacht area, local and state authorities will comply with legal requirements with respect to the provision of bilingual information as necessary and no potential for impact on the language is anticipated. Soil stripping for the land raising exercise will be minimal and localised.
6.9.2.2 Operational Phase A section of the proposed sand bag wall is to be located adjacent the western side of Ballyvourney Bridge and will be present within views of that structure. However, the proposed structure will be low, will likely be in place for a short-term period and impacts will be reversible. The potential for impact is considered slight and short-term.
6.9.2.3 Decommissioning Phase Similar to the construction phase, there will be no direct impacts or any significant indirect impact on the cultural heritage resource. 6.9.3 Cumulative Impact No cumulative impacts are identified in relation to cultural heritage. Particularly, there are no known projects that are consented in the vicinity of Ballyvourney Bridge. 6.9.4 Conclusion No significant impacts are expected to arise on cultural heritage as a result of the proposed interim works. Landscape
6.10.1 Receiving Environment The proposed interim works site is located along the north bank of the River within the village of Ballymakeera. The river is located on the south side of the N22 road. Both the river and N22 road are located on low lying ground within a broad valley. Linear development extends along the N22 corridor through the village of Ballymakeera along much of the proposed area identified for interim works. At the proposed works area, the Sullane is fringed by riverside trees. The minor road network is not extensive but does extend up the valley sides from where elevated and panoramic views across the valley are occasional available particularly at locations to the northern side of the N22.
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The linear development along the N22 at Ballymakeera faces directly onto the roadside turning its back onto the river and is located directly adjacent to the roadside. On the left bank, where the works are to be carried out, there are predominantly residential properties on the left bank, which restrict visibility of the river and those parts of the proposed works area at the riverside from the N22 and public areas generally. There are two of agricultural land where the works area will be visible from the N22, i.e. the field across the road from the Abbey Hotel and extending westwards, the area where the local road network crosses the river at Ballyvourney Bridge at the western end of the works area, and from the commercial car park area at the village bend, which serves a garage and cafe. The landscape character of the study area is defined by the Cork Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) 2007. The proposed development is located within one Landscape Character Type (LCT) as defined by the Cork LCA 2007 as ‘Rolling Marginal and Forested Middleground LCT 12A’. This landscape type is located in the vicinity of Ballymakeera and is described as a middle ground landscape comprising rolling topography with rugged rocky ridges and knolls of old red sandstone spread across shallow river basins formed by low hills . This LCT has: - Landscape Value: High - Landscape Sensitivity: High - Landscape Importance: Local
Scenic Routes within ‘Rolling Marginal and Forested Middleground LCT 12A’ include the route of the N22 primary route from Macroom to the County Boundary which passes through the village of Ballymakeera and just north of the interim works area.
6.10.2 Potential for Significant Impact
6.10.2.1 Construction Phase There will be a visual impact during the construction phase associated with the presence of construction machinery, construction traffic, and construction workers within the local urban landscape. Impact on the landscape and visual amenity of the general area would be slight at worst and temporary in duration.
6.10.2.2 Operational Phase There will be a short-term slight visual impact associated with the operational stage of the proposed interim works due to the existence of the sand bag defence wall and its visibility from the N22 (a scenic route) and receptors such as the Abbey Hotel. Given the scale and extent of the proposed interim works, particularly in terms of the low height of the proposed sand bag defence wall and the proposed routing of the structure along existing boundary features, it is not considered that the works will detract from the existing landscape in a manner that could be considered significant adverse. Further, the proposed structures are intended to be removed within the short-term and any slight impact arising along this short section of road within that period is therefore reversible. Views from the scenic route of the fields and wooded hillsides will not be impacted. The hotel is one of the benefitting properties from the proposed scheme and on balance will be affected positively. Some vegetation removal is likely to be required at the rear and riverside of individual residential properties which could have a slight adverse impact on those garden areas for the occupants. However most of those properties affected will benefit from flood relief during the 20-year event which outweighs any loss of vegetation. Further, a landowner liaison officer will discuss the line of the proposed defences with land owners and also mitigation measures in the EcIA seek to minimise removal of trees and vegetation.
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6.10.2.3 Decommissioning Phase As with the construction phase there will be machinery, traffic and works associated with the works but any impacts are not deemed to be significant in nature. 6.10.3 Cumulative Impact The proposal is at a remove from other consented developments and a landscaping plan is to be implemented at the site of the new WwTP. No cumulative impacts are identified in relation to landscape and visual impact. 6.10.4 Conclusion Construction impacts will be temporary in duration and is not considered significant. Operational impacts are predicted to be slight and decommissioning impacts are not considered significant. Interrelationship between the Environmental Topics The greater the number of different aspects of the environment which are likely to be affected and the greater the links between the effects, the more likely significant effects may occur. Impact interrelationships/interactions relate to the reactions between impacts within a project and the interrelationship between impacts identified under one topic with impacts identified under another topic. The consideration of impact interrelationships and interactions provides an opportunity to consider the overall impacts of a project which might not be immediately apparent. The most important interaction in this case is that between ecology and water quality. It is very important that the development is undertaken in such a manner so as to ensure that water quality of the River Sullane is not unduly harmed. It is considered that the works as outlined contains such safeguards as integral components of the overall project, such as to minimise potential for impact in this regard. Further, method statements are to be prepared and agreed with Cork County Council in advance of works commencing to protect water quality, and there are mitigation measures set out in the EcIA for the interim works. There will also be potential for interrelationships between air, noise and traffic related impacts and human beings as a result of construction stage impacts. However overall these impacts are unlikely to be significant due to the scale of the proposed interim works and given the protective environmental measures proposed as part of the EcIA and those to be agreed by the Contractor with CCC which will be implemented as part of the proposed works. There is potential interaction between the visual impact and cultural heritage resource of the area, particularly where a short section of sand bag defence wall is to be located close to and within a viewpoint of Ballyvourney Bridge, which is a protected structure and recorded monument. However, the sand bag wall is to be low, and at a remove from the main section of the crossing point and is likely to be removed within the short-term, thus reversing any impact on the setting of the heritage feature. No significant impacts such as would warrant the preparation of an EIAR arise through impact interactions.
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CONCLUSION The development, namely that of the proposed interim works at Ballymakeera, has been examined in detail and assessed against criteria as prescribed by current legislation, to determine if EIA is required. The proposed development does not equal or exceed the thresholds of any of the classes of development prescribed by Parts 1 or 2 of Schedule 5 (and Article 93) of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001-2019 and therefore an EIAR is not mandatory with reference to section 172(1)(a)(ii) of the Act. The proposed development was also screened in respect of sub-threshold development based on the criteria set out in Annex IIA and III of the Directive and Schedule 7 of the Planning and Development Regulations. This EIA screening assessment determines that the development is not considered likely to have significant effects on the environment. It is concluded that an EIAR is therefore not required.
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Appendix A
Interim Flood Relief Works Report
CP19008RP0002 | EIA Screening Report | F01 | 03 December 2019 rpsgroup.com
1.0 Baile Mhic Ire Interim Measures
Plan View: Baile Mhic Ire Interim Measures (Find attached better resolution plan views)
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Ref. Pts A B C D E F G H I J K Flood Level 120.16 119.7 118.85 118.6 118.35 118.12 118.12 117.8 117.77 117.45 117.38 (m) OD Ground Level * 119.83 119.1 118.4 117.7 117.4 117.13 117.3 117.3 117 116.68 116.85 (m) OD Defence Height 0.33 0.6 0.45 0.9 0.95 0.99 0.82 0.5 0.77^ 0.77^ 0.53^ (m)
Table 1: Flood Levels, Ground Levels and Interim Works Defence Heights Information Flood Levels (highlighted above) are the 20-year modelled event levels plus, a 0.3m freeboard. Note. Ground Levels* (highlighted above) are attained from a specific site survey and Lidar survey, these may vary when on-site. ^ refers to defence levels that may need to be altered to allow for a safe flood event breach (refer below ' Design for Breaching'). Justification for the Interim Works Defence Levels Objective: To provide interim defences that are practical, structurally safe and do not increase flood risk. It is considered the interim hard defences may consist of 1000Kg (10KN) sand bags and impermeable liners. Using this information for the interim design, defending against a 20-year event is considered most suitable, for the following reason: The maximum height (allowing for a factor of safety) for the interim hard defence measures is considered as 1m (i.e. 5KN in-line hydrostatic flow pressure). For health and safety reasons, there may be a need for adding an additional non-load bearing high to the above defences heights, to attain 1.2m. Flood Mechanism for the 20-year event Based on local information and from the events hydraulically modelled levels, floodwaters first spill from the village bend and out-of-bank up and downstream of this location, then soon after from the gates at Point B, D and then from the gate at Point A (ree attached plan views).
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What the above Baile Mhic Ire Interim Measures Plan View illustrates The interim defence line, its location was selected in order to minimally effect landowners, both residential and agricultural. The Maroon line is the proposed interim hard defence line, to prevent floodwaters reaching properties from their gardens, flowing through gates and seeping though walls. Note. It is possible some units (garages) at the back of some properties may effect this line. This must be confirmed on-site and the line altered, though still accounting for the 20-year flood levels. The Green line indicates land-raising, to allow access to/from the existing gateway whilst also mitigating against the 20-year flood levels, this respective line may vary for best access (again determined on-site), regardless the 20-year flood level must be maintained. Property areas defended can be seen within the Green hatch polygon, also, the Green diamonds (properties with floor level less that the 20-year event) and Maroon diamonds (properties with floor levels above the 20-year event though are within a mitigated flood cell). The Red Diamonds show properties outside the interim defences line with floor levels below the 20-year event (refer to below paragraph, 'Properties outside of 20-year Interim mitigation measures'). The Pink polygon highlights individual property protection (refer below, for information on property No. 83, 'Properties outside of 20-year Interim mitigation measures'). Navy Diamonds indicate properties outside of schemes defended study area. Reference points are identified A to K. Defence line ties into high ground at K. Piped Outfalls There are two identified pipe outfalls (identified in red), Out 1 and 2, both would need a non-return valve placed on their outlets. Also, a sump would likely need to be constructed on the dry side of each piped outlet and pump be available in times of need. A site inspection is needed to confirm these requirements. Though at this stage, it appears possibly only at Out 2 may require a sump and pump as this outfall appears to be taking surface water from the road to the river, again a local site inspection is needed to confirm. A local site inspection is also needed to determine if other pipes outfalls enter the river and back-up onto the mitigated areas, if so, these must have non return valves fitted and possibly sump and pump system installed also.
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Interim Hard Defence Design The above paragraph under 'Justification for Interim Works - Defence Levels' outlines what defence type (1000Kg sand bags and impermeable liners) may be used in the defences. The Local Authority must ensure whatever defence material and construction process that is used, along the defence line, it must be suitably designed to take the respective hydrostatic pressure from the river at the above flood levels. Also, special consideration must be taken into account by the Local Authority for the design of the interim defences around the village bend, from point I to K, as secondary lateral forces will need to be included, due to the rivers barrelling velocities into the defence line.
Design for Breaching It is also recommended that a 'low point' is created in the defence line, to allow for breaching during an exceedance event. This should allow for the safest possible transfer of floodwaters into the study areas flood cells. It is suggested this should occur at a point in the defence line that has the most confidence to when out of bank flooding first occurs and at a point for safest transfer of exceedance flow. This should be confirmed through on-site discussion and assessing of the local topography. Though from previous information, it would appear this local point may be around the village bend. If so, it is recommended a 0.3m reduction in the above flood level around point 'I'. This would also look to allow the floodwaters to flow down along the N22 toward the COOP, where during an event of this nature the floodwaters will likely have also approached the same location from an independent floodwater flow route (i.e. from the river adjacent to the COOP).
Degree of Confidence - In the modelled flood levels: It must be noted that there is always uncertainty in hydraulically modelling flood profiles, for this study while it is calibrated on best available data, there is still uncertainty. This is also why it is very important to have a breaching mode that most safely accommodates for an exceedence event breaching the defence line. - Underground Seepage: Without SI results, there is uncertainty regarding seepage rates and the true benefit of interim hard defences, as it is likely these would not accommodate for (underground) seepage flow. While the duration of large events through Baile Mhic Ire is traditionally not for long periods, uncertainly currently exists regarding seepage rates.
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- Interim Works Standard of Construction Considering the interim defence line is considered to be constructed with 1000Kg sand bangs, and it is assumed also with impermeable liners. Defending the flood cells inside the interim defence line against the 20-year event flood risk is hugely dependant on the practicability, standard and quality of the interim defence line construction. The Design Section takes no responsibility for this area of work. - Topography On-site inspection/measurement is needed to determine the above tabled Defence Heights, between the reference points, where 1m should not be exceeded.
Potential benefit The number properties the 20-year event interim measures potentially benefits are; 14 (fourteen) properties and another 14 (fourteen) with floor levels within 0.2m. And 1 (one), property 83**, defended from local defences (refer below).
Conclusion A review of the above proposed interim works needs to be undertook by the distribution list. Largely to ensure constructing such interim measures will not in any way increase the existing risk caused from all sources of flooding. Perhaps defending to a lower event return period may be deemed more practical in terms of ensuring flood risk is not increased. Again the interim defence lines construction practicability, standard and quality is an overriding consideration when considering the possible effects on increasing the existing flood risk.
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Properties outside the Interim Defence Measures, and their respective Flood Depth to the 20-year event. Property No. 83** Residential: 0.124m, recommend local defences to 116.138m OD i.e. grouting and local door flood gates (to average height 0.424m). 93 Business Park: 0.13m, not to mitigation against, as ground levels for a possible interim defence line would require defences greater than 1m. 99 Dairygold – Storage Yard: 0.112m, not to mitigation against, as ground levels for a possible interim defence line would require defences greater than 1m. 100 County Council Treatment Plant/Yard: 0.675m, outside of studies defended area. 102 Old Storage Yard: 0.484m, outside of studies defended area.
20-year event Property Flood Depths without mitigation from the Interim Measures. (Positive 'depths' are property flood depths)
Depth of Flooding (20 -Year Event) Map Reference (m) Property Type
6 0.418
7 0.164 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 11
8 0.146 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 12 11 -0.199 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 15 26 -0.081 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 10 27 -0.121 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 9 28 -0.106 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 8 29 -0.095 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 7 30 -0.142 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 6 31 -0.093 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 5 32 0.533 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 4 33 0.596 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 3 6
34 0.578 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 2 35 0.606 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 1 36 0.495 39 -0.070 40 -0.074 43 -0.114 The Abbey Hotel 46 -0.184 Tranquilla 50 0.236 Ionad Cultúrtha 57 0.075 58 -0.002 1 59 0.025 2 60 -0.165 3 62 -0.191 5 66 0.397 Esso Garage 67 0.373 68 0.331
83** 0.124** Residential**
93 0.130 Business Park
99 0.112 Dairygold – Storage Yard County Council Treatment 100 0.675 Plant
102 0.484 Old Storage Yard
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