Environmental Impact Statement Addendum Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION 1-1 1.1 Overview of Scheme 1-1 1.2 Brief Description of The Proposed Development 1-1 1.3 Purpose and Scope of the EIS Addendum 1-2 1.4 Structure and Content of the EIS Addendum 1-2 1.4.1 General Structure 1-2 1.4.2 Description of Impacts 1-2 1.5 Project Team 1-2 1.5.1 Project Team Responsibilities 1-2
2 BACKGOUND OF THE PROPOSED SCHEME 2-1 2.1 Site Location 2-1 2.2 Physical Characteristics of Site and Surrounding Lands 2-1 2.3 Need for the Proposed Development 2-2 2.4 Strategic Planning and Development Context 2-2 2.4.1 National Flood Policy 2-2 2.4.2 Regional and Local Level 2-3 2.5 Scheme Design Process 2-3 2.5.1 Consideration of Alternatives 2-4 2.6 Scoping & Consultation 2-4
3 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 3-1 3.1 Proposed Works 3-1 3.1.1 Moanarone Stream Works 3-1 3.1.2 Kilbrittain Stream Works 3-2 3.1.3 Fish Pass 3-2 3.1.4 Allin Institute 3-2 3.1.5 Flood Defences 3-2 3.1.6 Existing Flood Wall Improvement Works 3-2 3.1.7 Additional Drainage Works 3-3 3.2 Location of Proposed Works 3-3 3.3 Anticipated Construction Methods 3-3 3.4 Construction Programme and Sequencing of Proposed Works 3-4 3.5 Temporary Construction Works Facilities 3-4 3.6 Estimated Cost of Proposed Works 3-5 3.7 Operation and Maintenance of Scheme 3-5
4 HUMAN BEINGS 4-1 4.1 Introduction 4-1 4.2 Methodology 4-2 4.3 Human Beings in the Existing Environment 4-3 4.3.1 Study Area 4-3 4.3.1.1 Definition of Study Area 4-3 4.3.1.2 Settlements and Planning Policy 4-3 4.3.2 Population 4-3 4.3.2.1 Population Trends 4-3 4.3.2.2 Population Density 4-4 4.3.2.3 Household Statistics 4-4 4.3.2.4 Age Structure 4-4 4.3.3 Current Economic Activity 4-5 4.3.3.1 Sources of Employment 4-5 4.3.3.1.1 Proposed Employment 4-6 4.3.3.2 Economic Status of the Study Area 4-6 4.3.3.3 Employment by Socio-economic Group 4-7 4.3.3.4 IPPC Licensed Facilities 4-8 4.3.4 Landuse 4-9 4.3.5 Tourism 4-10 4.3.5.1 Angling Tourism 4-11 4.3.5.2 Other Local Tourist Attractions 4-12 4.3.6 Social Consideration 4-13 4.3.6.1 Education 4-13 4.3.6.2 Sports and Recreation 4-13 4.3.6.3 Local Amenities 4-13 4.3.7 Health and Safety 4-14 4.4 Likely and Significant Impacts on Human Beings and associated 4-14 Mitigation measures 4.4.1 ‘Do-Nothing’ Scenario 4-14 4.4.2 Construction Phase 4-15 4.4.2.1 Traffic 4-15 4.4.2.2 Impact on Economic Activity 4-15 4.4.2.3 Nuisance – Noise, Dust & Vibration 4-15 4.4.2.4 Amenity 4-16 4.4.2.5 Employment 4-17 4.4.2.6 Tourism 4-17 4.4.3 Operational Phase 4-18 4.4.3.1 Health and Safety 4-18 4.4.3.2 Angling 4-18 4.4.3.3 Local Economy and Tourism 4-19
5 FLORA & FAUNA 5-1 5.1 Introduction 5-1 5.2 Methodology and Limitations 5-1 5.3 Desk study 5-1 5.3.1 Designated Areas 5-1 5.3.2 Flora 5-2 5.3.3 Fish and Shellfish 5-2 5.3.4 Birds 5-2 5.3.5 Consultation 5-2 5.3.6 Water Quality 5-2 5.4 Assessment of Various Amendments and Additions 5-3 5.4.1 Moanarone Stream Works 5-3 5.4.1.1 Habitat Description 5-3 5.4.1.2 Significance of Habitats 5-5 5.4.1.3 Fauna 5-5 5.4.1.3.1 Mammals 5-5 5.4.1.3.2 Birds 5-6 5.4.1.3.3 Fish 5-6 5.4.1.3.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel 5-6 5.4.1.4 Significance of Fauna 5-6 5.4.1.5 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation 5-6 5.4.1.5.1 Habitat Loss 5-6 5.4.1.5.2 Habitat Disturbance 5-7 5.4.1.5.3 Pollution of Watercourses 5-8 5.4.1.5.4 Introduction of Invasive Species 5-9 5.4.2 Kilbrittain Stream Works 5-10 5.4.2.1 Significance of Habitats 5-12 5.4.2.2 Fauna 5-13 5.4.2.2.1 Mammals 5-13 5.4.2.2.2 Birds 5-13 5.4.2.2.3 Fish 5-13 5.4.2.2.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel 5-13 5.4.2.3 Significance of Fauna 5-14 5.4.2.4 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation 5-14 5.4.2.4.1 Habitat Loss 5-14 5.4.2.4.2 Habitat Disturbance 5-14 5.4.2.4.3 Pollution of Watercourses 5-15 5.4.2.4.4 Introduction of Invasive Species 5-17 5.4.3 Flood Defence Works at Allin Institute 5-18 5.4.3.1 Significance of Habitats 5-18 5.4.3.2 Fauna 5-19 5.4.3.2.1 Mammals 5-19 5.4.3.2.2 Birds 5-19 5.4.3.2.3 Fish 5-19 5.4.3.2.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel 5-19 5.4.3.3 Significance of Fauna 5-20 5.4.3.4 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation 5-20 5.4.3.4.1 Habitat Loss 5-20 5.4.3.4.2 Habitat Disturbance 5-20 5.4.3.4.3 Pollution of Watercourses 5-21 5.4.3.4.4 Introduction of Invasive Species 5-23 5.4.4 Flood Defence Wall at Mill Place 5-24 5.4.4.1 Significance of Habitats 5-26 5.4.4.2 Fauna 5-26 5.4.4.2.1 Mammals 5-26 5.4.4.2.2 Birds 5-27 5.4.4.2.3 Fish 5-27 5.4.4.2.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel 5-27 5.4.4.3 Significance of Fauna 5-27 5.4.4.4 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation 5-27 5.4.4.4.1 Habitat Loss 5-27 5.4.4.4.2 Habitat Disturbance 5-28 5.4.4.4.3 Pollution of Watercourses 5-28 5.4.4.4.4 Introduction of Invasive Species 5-29 5.4.5 Fish Pass 5-31 5.4.5.1 Significance of Habitats 5-32 5.4.5.2 Fauna 5-32 5.4.5.2.1 Mammals 5-32 5.4.5.2.2 Birds 5-33 5.4.5.2.3 Fish 5-33 5.4.5.2.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel 5-33 5.4.5.3 Significance of Fauna 5-33 5.4.5.4 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation 5-33 5.4.5.4.1 Habitat Loss 5-34 5.4.5.4.2 Habitat Disturbance 5-34 5.4.5.4.3 Pollution of Watercourses 5-35 5.4.5.4.4 Introduction of Invasive Species 5-36 5.4.6 Additional Drainage Works 5-38 5.4.6.1 Significance of Habitats 5-38 5.4.6.2 Fauna 5-38 5.4.6.2.1 Mammals 5-38 5.4.6.2.2 Birds 5-39 5.4.6.2.3 Fish 5-39 5.4.6.2.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel 5-39 5.4.6.3 Significance of Fauna 5-39 5.4.6.4 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation 5-40 5.4.6.4.1 Habitat Loss 5-40 5.4.6.4.2 Habitat Disturbance 5-40 5.4.6.4.3 Pollution of Watercourses 5-41 5.4.6.4.4 Introduction of Invasive Species 5-42
6 GEOLOGY AND SOILS IN THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT 6-1 6.1 Methodology & Limitations 6-1 6.1.1 Published Material 6-1 6.1.2 Definitions 6-1 6.2 Geology 6-1 6.2.1 Geomorphology 6-1 6.2.2 Bedrock Geology 6-2 6.2.3 Quaternary Geology (Subsoils) 6-2 6.2.4 Geological Heritage 6-2 6.2.5 Potential Impacts on Geology 6-2 6.2.5.1 Loss of Bedrock 6-3 6.2.5.2 Loss of Geological Heritage 6-3 6.2.5.3 Loss of Quaternary Geology 6-3 6.3 Soils 6-4 6.3.1 Potential Impacts on Soil 6-4 6.3.1.1 Loss of Soil 6-4 6.3.1.2 Contaminated Land 6-4 6.4 Hydromorphology 6-5 6.4.1 Hydromorphological Characteristics 6-5 6.4.2 Potential Impacts on Hydromorphology 6-5
7 WATER - HYDROLOGY & HYDROGEOLOGY 7-1 7.1 Surface Water Quality 7-1 7.1.1 Methodology 7-1 7.1.2 Legislation 7-1 7.1.3 Desk Study 7-2 7.1.3.1 Introduction 7-2 7.1.3.2 EPA Water Quality Data 7-2 7.1.4 Results of Water Sampling 7-3 7.1.4.1 Kick Sampling 7-3 7.1.4.2 Surface Water Abstraction 7-3 7.1.5 Impacts on Water Quality 7-3 7.1.5.1 Generation of Silt-Laden Run-off & Increase in Suspended Solids 7-3 7.1.5.2 Use of Potential Water Contaminants 7-5 7.2 Hydrogeology 7-5 7.2.1 Methodology 7-5 7.2.2 Hydrogeology in the Existing Environment 7-5 7.2.2.1 Ground Water Vulnerability 7-6 7.2.2.2 Well Card 7-6 7.2.3 Potential impacts on Hydrogeology 7-6 7.3 Flooding 7-6 7.3.1 Methodology 7-7 7.3.2 Hydrology in the Existing Environment 7-7 7.3.2.1 Flooding 7-7 7.3.2.2 Proposed Scheme in terms of Flooding 7-7 7.3.3 Potential Impacts on Flooding 7-7 7.3.3.1 Impacts on Flooding 7-8 7.3.3.2 Impacts on Water Levels Upstream and Downstream of Proposed Works 7-8
8 AIR QUALITY & CLIMATE / NOISE & VIBRATION 8-1 8.1 Air Quality & Climate - Existing Environment 8-1 8.2 Noise & Vibration - Existing Environment 8-1 8.2.1 Results & Discussion 8-3 8.2.2 Noise Sensitive Receptors 8-4 8.3 Assessment of the Proposed Works 8-6 8.4 Potential Impacts 8-6 8.4.1 Air Quality & Climate 8-6 8.4.1.1 Air Quality - Dust Generation Rates 8-6 8.4.1.2 Climate 8-7 8.4.2 Noise Impact 8-7 8.4.2.1 Modification to Kilbrittain Stream 8-7 8.4.2.2 Construction of a Flood Defence at Mill Place 8-8 8.4.2.3 Construction of a Flood Defence at the Allin Institute 8-8 8.4.2.4 Construction of a Flood Defence at Bandon Weir 8-9 8.4.2.5 Construction of an Embankment at Ballylangley 8-9 8.4.2.6 Re-grading of Roads and Upgrade of Storm and Surface Water Drainage 8-9 Systems/ Construction of Culverts 8.4.2.7 Fit-put of Existing Pumping Station at Brady's Lane 8-10 8.4.2.8 HGV Movements 8-10 8.4.2.9 Sheet Piling 8-11 8.4.3 Vibration Impact 8-11 8.5 Mitigation Measures 8-12 8.5.1 Air Quality & Climate 8-12 8.5.2 Noise & Vibration 8-12 8.6 Residual Impact 8-13 8.6.1 Air Quality & Climate 8-13 8.6.2 Noise & Vibration 8-13 8.7 MONITORING 8-13 8.7.1 Air Quality & Climate 8-13 8.7.2 Noise & Vibration 8-14
9 LANDSCAPE 9-1 9.1 Introduction 9-1 9.2 Methodology 9-1 9.3 Receiving Environment 9-2 9.3.1 Landscape Character Assessment 9-2 9.3.1.1 Landscape Value and Sensitivity 9-2 9.3.1.2 Scenic Amenity, Views and Prospects 9-3 9.3.1.3 Scenic Routes and Landscapes 9-3 9.3.2 Bandon Electoral Area Local Area Plan (LAP) 2011 9-4 9.3.3 Landscape Character 9-5 9.3.3.1 Physical Unit 9-5 9.3.3.2 Landform 9-6 9.3.3.2.1 Geological Processes 9-6 9.3.3.2.2 Topography 9-6 9.3.3.2.3 Drainage 9-6 9.3.3.3 Landcover 9-6 9.3.3.4 Visual Unit 9-7 9.3.3.5 Image Unit 9-7 9.3.3.6 Landscape Sensitivity 9-7 9.4 Kilbrittain Stream 9-7 9.4.1 Landscape and Site Context 9-7 9.4.1.1 Views From the Site 9-7 9.4.1.2 Views to the Site 9-9 9.4.2 Proposed Works to Kilbrittain Stream 9-10 9.4.3 Likely and Significant Impacts and Associated Mitigation Measures 9-11 9.4.3.1 Construction Traffic, Materials and Temporary Site Buildings 9-11 9.4.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity 9-11 9.4.3.3 Disturbance to Birchvale Development during Proposed Works 9-11 9.4.3.4 Removal of Trees, Vegetation and Banks/Wall 9-12 9.4.3.5 Lowering of Stream Bed and Works to Stream Banks 9-12 9.4.3.6 Resurfacing Works to Kilbrittain Road and Installation of New Gullies 9-13 9.4.3.7 Construction of Fence and Headwall 9-13 9.4.3.8 Replacement of Culvert inside GAA Grounds 9-13 9.5 Moanarone Stream Proposed Works 9-14 9.5.1 Landscape and Site Context 9-14 9.5.1.1 Views from the Site 9-14 9.5.1.2 Views to the Site 9-16 9.5.2 Proposed Works to Moanarone Stream 9-17 9.5.3 Likely and Significant Impacts and Associated Mitigation Measures 9-18 9.5.3.1 Construction Works and Traffic, Materials and Temporary Site Buildings 9-18 Views to the Site 9.5.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity 9-18 9.5.3.3 Removal of Trees, Vegetation and Bankside Habitats 9-18 9.5.3.4 Construction of Culvert under the Road from Distillery Road, Road 9-19 Resurfacing Works on Moanarone and Distillery Road 9.5.3.5 Resurfacing of Section of Distillery Road and Moanarone Road 9-19 9.5.3.6 Drainage works; Installation of surface water sewers, new gullies and 9-20 installation of drainage channel between Cork Marts storage yard entrance and grain yard 9.5.3.7 Replacement of small section of embankment with flood defence wall 9-20 9.6 Fish Pass at Bandon Weir 9-21 9.6.1 Landscape and Site Context 9-21 9.6.1.1 Views from the Site 9-21 9.6.1.2 Views to the Site 9-22 9.6.2 Proposed Works 9-24 9.6.2.1 Photomontages 9-24 9.6.2.1.1 Definition and Uses 9-24 9.6.2.1.1 Photo-location 1 9-25 9.6.3 Likely and Significant Impacts and Associated Mitigation Measures 9-27 9.6.3.1 Construction Traffic, Materials and Temporary Site Buildings 9-27 9.6.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity 9-27 9.6.3.3 Construction of Rock Ramp Fish Pass, Removal of Vegetation and Bankside 9-27 Habitats 9.7 Flood Defence Works at Allin Institute 9-29 9.7.1 Landscape and Site Context 9-29 9.7.1.1 Views From the Site 9-29 9.7.1.2 Views to the Site 9-29 9.7.2 Proposed Works 9-29 9.7.3 Impacts during the Construction Phase 9-30 9.7.3.1 Construction Works and Traffic, Materials and Temporary Site Buildings 9-30 9.7.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity 9-30 9.7.3.3 Removal of Bankside Vegetation, Walls and Ornamental Planting and 9-30 Construction of a Ramp, Wall and Railing 9.8 Flood Defence Wall at Mill Place 9-31 9.8.1 Landscape and Site Context 9-31 9.8.1.1 Views From the Site 9-31 9.8.1.2 Views to the Site 9-31 9.8.2 Proposed Works 9-32 9.8.3 Likely and Significant Impacts and Associated Mitigation Measures 9-32 9.8.3.1 Construction Traffic, Materials and Temporary Site Buildings 9-32 9.8.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity 9-33 9.8.3.3 Temporary Disturbance to Landscaped Area and Vegetable Garden during 9-33 Construction Works 9.8.3.4 Construction of Flood Defence Wall and Removal of Existing Fences 9-33 9.9 Additional Drainage Works 9-34 9.9.1 Landscape and Site Context 9-34 9.9.1.1 Views from the Site 9-34 9.9.1.1 Views to the Site 9-34 9.9.2 Proposed Works 9-34 9.9.3 Likely and Significant Impacts and Associated Mitigation Measures 9-34 9.9.3.1 Construction Traffic, Materials and Temporary Site Buildings 9-34 9.9.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity 9-35 9.9.3.3 Removal of Bankside Vegetation and Habitats 9-35 9.1 Additional Maintenance Works 9-35
10 CULTURAL HERITAGE 10-1 10.1 Introduction 10-1 10.2 Assessment Methodology 10-2 10.2.1 Introduction 10-2 10.2.2 Desktop Survey 10-2 10.2.3 Field and Underwater Survey 10-3 10.2.4 Significance and Impact Criteria 10-4 10.3 The Existing Environment 10-5 10.3.1 Introduction 10-5 10.3.2 Legal Status 10-5 10.3.3 Desktop Survey 10-8 10.3.4 Site Survey 10-13 10.4 Predicted Impacts 10-18 10.5 Recommendations 10-19 10.5.1 General 10-21 10.5.2 Recommended Mitigation Measures 10-22
11 MATERIAL ASSESTS IMPACT ASSESSMENT 11-1 11.1 Receiving Environment 11-1 11.2 Traffic & Roads 11-1 11.2.1 Description of Project and Roads Network 11-1 11.2.2 Existing Traffic 11-2 11.2.3 Construction Traffic 11-2 11.2.4 Potential Impacts on Traffic and Transport Infrastructure 11-3 11.2.4.1 Potential Impact on Traffic and Transport Infrastructure 11-3 11.2.4.2 Potential Impact of Construction Traffic 11-4 11.2.4.3 Potential Impact of Works in the Vicinity of Road Network 11-5 11.3 Potential Impacts on Services & Proposed Mitigation Measures 11-6 11.3.1 Potential impact on Wastewater Collection Network 11-6 11.3.2 Potential Impact to Existing Surface Water Network 11-6 11.3.3 Potential Impact to the Water Distribution Network 11-7 11.3.4 Potential Impact to the Gas Network 11-8 11.3.5 Potential Impact to the Electricity Network 11-9 11.3.6 Potential Impact to the Telecommunications Network 11-9 11.4 Waste Management During Construction 11-9 11.4.1 Background Information 11-10 11.4.2 Classification of Waste 11-10 11.4.3 Potential Impact during Construction Phase 11-11 11.4.4 Potential Impact during Operational Phase 11-12
12 INTERACTION OF THE FOREGOING 12-1 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 OVERVIEW OF SCHEME
This Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Addendum has been prepared by Ryan Hanley in association with McCarthy Keville O’Sullivan Ltd. on behalf of the Office of Public Works (OPW). The Office of Public Works (OPW) is the lead agency for flood risk management in Ireland. The coordination and implementation of the Government's policy on the management of flood risk in Ireland, in conjunction with its responsibilities under the Arterial Drainage Acts, 1945-1995, form one of the four core services of the OPW.
Ryan Hanley in association with McCarthy Keville O’Sullivan Ltd. has been appointed by the OPW as Environmental Consultants on the project and commissioned to complete an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which fulfils the requirements set out by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the ‘Guidelines on the Information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements’ and Schedule 6 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, relating to the information to be contained in an EIS.
1.2 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
The design of the proposed Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme has evolved through an initial screening process of a range of potential engineering measures typically considered for flood alleviation schemes, the development of potential options and finally the development of a preferred scheme design. The scheme was the subject of the preparation of an EIS document which was presented to the general public in 2012. Subsequently, following further detailed design, some additional components are being considered as part of the scheme. These are subject to EIA and presented within this EIS Addendum.
Chapter 3 describes the details of the works which are proposed in addition to those which were considered in the original EIS document. These include:
Moanarone Stream works
Kilbrittain Stream works
Amendments to the Fish Pass design at Bandon Weir
Construction of new flood defences
Improvement works to existing flood defence walls
Additional drainage works
In the initial stages of the project, the Study Area for the proposed scheme encompassed a larger area in order to allow for the consideration of all potential scheme options and their various impacts on the receiving environment. The Study Area at the constraints study stage was described as ‘the channel, floodplain and immediate surrounding areas of the River Bandon extending along the main channel of the river’ from just downstream of Baxter’s Bridge, east of Bandon Town to just upstream of the village of Ballinadee on the Bandon estuary, measuring approximately 18.08 square kilometres in area. However as the scheme design progressed based on feedback from the constraints study and other relevant assessments, the Study Area was refined to a more specific area, within which impacts may occur.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 1-1 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
1.3 PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE EIS ADDENDUM
The purpose of this EIS Addendum is to document the current state of the environment in the vicinity of the proposed scheme in an effort to quantify the possible effects, if any, of the proposed amendments to the scheme on the environment. The assessment process that led to the compilation of this document served to highlight any areas where mitigation measures may be necessary in order to protect the surrounding environment from any negative impacts of the proposed development.
The objective of this process is to facilitate the most efficient and positive design of the proposed scheme in order to enable the scheme to be incorporated into the receiving environment insofar as possible and to plan for the identified effects so that measures are in place to ensure that any adverse impacts are avoided, reduced or remedied as appropriate.
1.4 STRUCTURE AND CONTENT OF THE EIS ADDENDUM
1.4.1 General Structure
This EIS Addendum, similar to the original EIS document, uses the grouped structure method to describe the existing environment, the potential impacts of the proposed scheme thereon and the proposed mitigation measures. The grouped format sections describe the impacts of the proposed scheme in terms of human beings, flora and fauna, soils and geology, water, air, noise and climate, landscape, cultural heritage and material assets such as traffic and transportation, along with the interaction of the foregoing.
1.4.2 Description of Impacts
As stated in the ‘Guidelines on the Information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements’ (EPA, 2002), an assessment of the likely impacts of a proposed development is a statutory requirement of the EIA process. The statutory criteria for the presentation of the characteristics of potential impacts requires that potential significant impacts are described with regard to the extent, magnitude, complexity, probability, duration, frequency, reversibility and transfrontier nature (if applicable) of the impact.
The classification of impacts in this EIS Addendum follows the definitions provided in the Glossary of Impacts contained in the following guidance documents produced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
Advice Notes on Current Practice in the Preparation of Environmental Impact Statements (EPA, 2003)
Guidelines on the Information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements (EPA, 2002)
1.5 PROJECT TEAM 1.5.1 Project Team Responsibilities
The companies and staff listed in Table 1.1 were responsible for completion of the EIS Addendum. Further details regarding project team members are provided below.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 1-2 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Consultants Principal Staff Involved in Project EIS Input
Ryan Hanley Consulting Engineers Jonathan Reid BE (Civil) CEng MIEI EIS Addendum Chapters 3,6,7,8 & 11 Sherwood House, Dr. Kathryn Carney BE (Civil) PhD MIEI Sherwood Avenue, Taylor’s Hill, Galway
McCarthy Keville O’ Sullivan Ltd. Corina Colleran B.Sc. (Env.) EIS Addendum Planning and Environmental Chapters 1, 2, 4, 5, 9 & Consultants Pat Roberts B.Sc. (Env.) 12, AA Screening Block 1 GFSC, Evelyn Sikora BA, MA (MPLAN) Moneenageisha Road, Galway
Byrne Looby Consulting Engineers Kieran Thornton Scheme Design
Building 2100, Sean Harrington Cork Airport Business Park, Kinsale Road, Cork
John Cronin & Associates John Cronin BA MRUP MUBC Dip Geol Cultural Heritage MIAI Section 3a Westpoint Trade Centre, Link Road, Tony Cummins BA MA Ballincollig, Cork, Co. Cork
The Archaeological Diving Dr. Niall Brady B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Underwater Company Ltd. (ADCO) Archaeology, Cultural Heritage Section Brehon House, Kilkenny Road, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny
Peterson Focus Ltd. Jesper Pederson B.E. (Mech) Photomontages
4 Combermere Glounthaune Co. Cork Table 1.1 EIA Project Team
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 1-3 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
2 BACKGROUND TO THE PROPOSED SCHEME
2.1 SITE LOCATION
For the purposes of the initial constraints study and assessment of flood relief options as part of the proposed Flood Relief Scheme, a broad Study Area encompassing approximately 18 kilometers was chosen. This consisted of the channel, floodplain and immediate surrounding areas of the Bandon River, extending along the main channel of the river. During the course of the assessment process, the Study Area was refined to account for the more specific area within which impacts were likely to arise, on the basis of the preferred option. Within the original EIS and this EIS Addendum relevant parts of the Study Area to each chapter are further defined.
The main population centres within the Study Area are Bandon Town and the village of Inishannon, Co. Cork. Bandon is located approximately 25 kilometres southwest of Cork City. The Grid Reference co- ordinates for the approximate centre of the study area are E152,500 N57,500. The land within the Study Area falls generally towards the river and its tributaries, which include the Bridewell and Brinny Rivers. The River Bandon has a relatively flat gradient within the Study Area.
2.2 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF SITE AND SURROUNDING LANDS
The Study Area is located primarily within the Landscape Character Area: Enniskeane/ Bandon/ Ballinhassig (LCA No. 58), as set out in the Draft Landscape Strategy for County Cork. The Enniskeane/ Bandon/ Ballinhassig LCA forms part of the general Landscape Type: Broad Fertile Lowland Valley (Type 6a). The Broad Fertile Lowland Valley Landscape Type extends east and west from Bandon and is found also in the eastern parts of the county.
The eastern-most section of the Study Area extends into the Landscape Type: Indented Estuarine Coast (Type 3). While there are no areas of coastline within the Study Area, certain aspects of this Landscape Type are indeed found within the Study Area, for example undulating topography and the shallow river valley.
The topography of the study area is undulating with the river valley being the dominant topographical feature. The valley walls are relatively steep in places with elevations in the range 60 to 90 metres O.D. in general and a valley floor at approximately 10 metres O.D.
Current land-use within the study area comprises mainly pastoral agriculture with some arable agriculture. Continuous urban fabric occurs at the settlements of Bandon, Inishannon and Shippool. The outskirts of Bandon are characterised in most directions by discontinuous urban fabric, which gives way to pastoral and arable farmland. To the west of Bandon, an area of mixed forest is present. Intertidal flats are found in the eastern-most section of the Study Area adjacent to the River Bandon.
Three proposed Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs), sites designated for nature conservation of national importance, are located along the course of the Bandon River within the Study Area.
Bandon Valley – West of Bandon pNHA (Site Code 001034). This site is important as it contains remnants of broadleaved oak woodland. The Bandon Valley is especially valuable for its woodlands and unmodified river bed. Bandon Valley – Above Inishannon pNHA (Site Code 001740). This area is important for its oak woodland on steep valley sides.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 2-1 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Bandon River – Below Inishannon pNHA (Site Code 001515) This site is important for its wetlands including the extensive areas of Common Reed and the more diverse areas of wetland vegetation. The general flora surrounding Shippool Wood may also be of interest.
There are no sites designated for nature conservation of International or European importance within or in close proximity to the Study Area. Further details regarding the designated areas are provided in Chapter 5 of this document on Flora and Fauna.
The study area is entirely within the Bandon catchment and also includes a number of tributaries such as the Bridewell and the Brinny Rivers.
2.3 NEED FOR THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
Bandon Town has a long history of serious flooding. Flooding is primarily due to heavy rainfall in the catchment of the Bandon River and of its tributary, the Bridewell River, which joins the Bandon River immediately downstream of the Bandon Bridge. Since the previous highest recorded flood in 1975, serious flooding has occurred in the town in 1978, 1982, 1986, 1988 and November 2009. Minor flooding in the past decade has occurred in 2004, 2005, 2006 and January 2011.
The risk of flooding may increase with time. Future changes, which have the potential to affect the risk of flooding include:
Climate change resulting in higher rainfall and higher tide levels Geomorphological processes, such as (i) Sedimentation transport, which affects the area of conveyance of the river channel and (ii) Erosion Development within the catchment of the Bandon River, which does not conform with the principles of Sustainable Drainage, and which adversely affect the response of the catchment to rainfall Changes in land use, including forestation and land drainage
The management of flood risk at present consists of a Flood Early Warning System (FEWS) which was installed in early 2011 and an associated Flood Emergency Response Plan (FERP). The FEWS operates by monitoring river levels at three gauging stations located at Longbridge, Bealaboy and Bandon and issuing text alerts to designated people depending on the level of the river and the associated colour of the alert – yellow (low), yellow (high), orange and red. The level of the alert determines the resulting actions by the people contacted ultimately resulting in the implementation of the FERP. In the consideration of alternatives and the selection of a preferred scheme option, it was considered that the existing scenario was not acceptable due to the excessively high level of risk and further options were examined.
2.4 STRATEGIC PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXT
2.4.1 National Flood Policy
The Office of Public Works has the main responsibility for devising and implementing measures to deal with flooding. This responsibility is assigned by Government Decision S 28507 of 7 March 1995. In addition, the Arterial Drainage (Amendment) Act, 1995 enables the OPW to undertake local flood relief work schemes.
The National Flood Policy that was adopted by Government in 2004 identified OPW as the lead agency in coordinating the management of flood risk in the State. The Policy introduced a shift away from solely
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 2-2 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with structural to non-structural measures to protect against flooding. The report prepared by the Flood Management Review Group decided that future Flood Management policy in Ireland would be:
"to minimise the national level of exposure to flood damages through the identification and management of existing, and particularly potential future, flood risks in an integrated, proactive and river basin based manner”.
It encompasses a series of measures regarding sustainable flood prevention, protection and mitigation. An implementation plan of work programmes and associated resources that would be required to put the new policy into effect was developed by OPW.
In November 2007 the EU Floods Directive (Directive on the Assessment and Management of Flood Risks - 2007/60/EC) came into effect. The existing national Flood Policy described above is in line with the Directive. 2.4.2 Regional and Local Level
The Regional Planning Guidelines (RPGs) for the South West Region 2010 – 2022 provide a framework for long-term strategic development in the South West Region, which comprises the administrative areas of Cork County Council, Cork City Council and Kerry County Council. Flood protection is identified in Chapter 1 of the guidelines as a priority for the 2010 to 2022 period. Flood Risk Management is highlighted as an important issue for the region.
The Cork County Development Plan 2009 – 2015 sets out the overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the administrative area of Cork County Council. Chapter 6 of the Plan deals with the issues of Transport and Infrastructure and also contains a subsection on Flooding. One of the key needs in terms of surface water drainage identified in the plan is the construction of major flood relief schemes in Fermoy, Mallow (Blackwater and Spa Rivers), Bantry, Clonakilty, Dunmanway, Skibbereen, Ballincollig, Bandon, Blarney, and Carrigtwohill. Local Level
The Interim Bandon Electoral Area Local Area Plan (August 2011) makes specific reference to flood risk. The introduction to the plan states that one of the main changes from the previous plan is the inclusion of
‘the assessment and management of flood risks in relation to planned future development and the inclusion of ‘Indicative Flood Extent Maps’ for the settlements of this electoral area’.
In addition,
‘a significant increase in concerns over the incidence and effects of flooding’ was cited as having a significant influence on the preparation of the Interim Plan.
2.5 SCHEME DESIGN PROCESS
The design process comprises a number of steps involving co-ordination of project engineering and environmental teams. The design and assessment process consists of the following steps:
Constraints Study Hydrology Study Hydraulic Modelling Site Investigation Flood Risk Assessments Selection of Preferred Option
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 2-3 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Appropriate Assessment Screening Cost Benefit Analyses Environmental Impact Assessment
The consultation and outcome of the above assessments are discussed below and within the various relevant EIS chapters in this document. Previous engineering and environmental reports have been completed and are available to access online at http://www.bandonfloodwarning.ie/bandonfloodrelief.htm 2.5.1 Consideration of Alternatives
A number of alternatives were considered within the original EIS document. These outlined the main alternatives considered during the design process and provided an indication of the main reasons for the final choice, taking into account the environmental effects. The consideration of alternatives typically refers to alternative sites, designs and processes.
A copy of the Flood Risk Management Options is available at http://www.bandonfloodwarning.ie/bandonfloodrelief.htm The various options were appraised using a multi-criteria analysis. The results from the multi-criteria analysis show that the combined dredging and defences option is slightly preferable to the dredging only option and that both of these are strongly preferable to the defences only option. It was considered that the option of dredging only would result in too great an environmental impact both in terms of the depth and extent of dredging required. The preferred option therefore is to use flood defences in combination with dredging. The additional works proposed (details of which are provided in Chapter 3 of this EIS Addendum) are in line with the overall preferred option.
2.6 SCOPING & CONSULTATION
Consultation in relation to the project has been completed on a number of occasions at various stages in the design process. These have included broad general consultation at the Constraints Study stage and an associated Public Information Event and Questionnaire. Subsequently, the emerging preferred option was presented to the public in another Information event in Bandon and formal scoping as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment process was undertaken. Following the preparation of the original EIS, the documents were put on display for the public in June 2012.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 2-4 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
3 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
Additional works have been proposed for Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme since the completion of the Environmental Impact Statement. The locations of the proposed additional works are shown in Appendix 3A and are described in the following section. The scheme has been designed to cater for the 1% Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP) flood event.
3.1 PROPOSED WORKS
The following works are proposed in addition to those defined in Chapter 3 of the Environmental Impact Statement for Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme:
Moanarone Stream works.
Kilbrittain Stream works.
Fish pass at Bandon Weir.
Construction of new flood defences
Improvement works to existing flood defence walls
Additional drainage works.
Drawing C008064-124 indicates all works proposed as part of the Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme.
3.1.1 Moanarone Stream Works
The Moanarone Stream Works comprise the following (Appendix 3A, Drawing C008065-154):
Construction of a new 20m long 1.2m x 0.6m precast box culvert. The culvert will be installed to replace the existing pipe from the storage yard to the main entrance at Cork Marts.
Construction of a new 26m long 1m x 1m precast concrete channel. The channel will connect the new culvert to the outfall at the Mill River and replace the existing open channel and pipe.
Construction of a new concrete outfall structure at the confluence of the Moanarone Stream and the Mill River.
Resurface of sections of the Moanarone and Distillery Roads in order to provide camber towards the open channel.
Installation of new surface water sewers on the Moanarone and Distillery Roads.
New gullies will be installed to connect new and existing storm sewers.
Installation of a new linear drainage channel across the entrance to the Cork Marts storage yard to the grain yard
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 3-1 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
3.1.2 Kilbrittain Stream Works
The Kilbrittain Stream Works include the following (Appendix 3A Drawings C008065-160A and C008065- 160B): Installation of a new 157.4m long 2.4m x 1.5m precast box culvert to replace the existing culvert from Birchvale, under the Bandon GAA grounds, with outfall to the Bridewell River. The existing culvert will be decommissioned.
Construction of a new headwall at the inlet to the new culvert. The banks will be modified and the bed lowered locally by up to 1.24m at the approach channel to the inlet.
A short section of new culvert will replace the existing short culvert at Birchvale.
Lowering of the stream bed by up to 0.685m between chainage 310 and 450.
Local improvement works to the channel and embankments will be carried out between chainage 170 and 310.
Replacement of a portion of the existing stone and earth bank between the Kilbrittain Road and the stream with a crash barrier.
Construction of new gullies to connect to the existing storm sewer on Kilbrittain Road.
Resurface of the Kilbrittain Road to direct water to the stream/gullies.
Installation of a new fence around the stream channel between chainage 170 and 310.
The replacement of the existing combined sewer with a new combined sewer.
3.1.3 Fish Pass
The proposed fish pool pass downstream of Bandon Weir has now been replaced with a rock ramp fish pass upstream of Bandon Weir. The proposed rock ramp is 12.6m wide and approximately 137m long. Layout and section drawings are detailed in Appendix 3A Drawings C008065-159A and C008065-159B.
3.1.4 Allin Institute
The original proposed works at the Allin Institute included the construction of a flood gate. It is now proposed that flood defence walls be constructed as detailed in Appendix 3A, Drawings C008065-157 and C008065-158.
3.1.5 Flood Defences
A flood defence wall is now proposed in lieu of an embankment along the western boundary at Mill Place (Drawings C008065-141 and C008065-154). A flood defence wall is proposed to the south bank of the river at Bandon Weir running perpendicular to river. An embankment is proposed at the Mill River at Ballylangley in lieu of a flood defence wall proposed in the original EIS.
3.1.6 Existing Flood Wall Improvement Works
Improvement works to existing flood defence walls are proposed along Mc Sweeney Quay, St. Patrick’s Quay, on both sides of the N71 connecting St. Patrick’s Quay to St. Finbarr’s Place, along a section of the north bank of the Bandon River at Knockbrogan and along a section of the N71 at the Kilbrittain Stream.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 3-2 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
3.1.7 Additional Drainage Works
Drainage works proposed under the Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme are shown in Appendix 3A, Drawing C008065-122. Drainage works along South Main Street, Weir Street (east), Oliver Plunkett Street, Mc Sweeney Quay, Bridge Street, St. Finbarr’s Place, Chapel Street and Watergate Street which were proposed as part of the original Environmental Impact Statement are no longer included in the Scheme.
Additional drainage works include the following:
Construction of new gravity and rising pumped storm drains from Brady’s Lane to a new outfall at the Bandon River. The works also include the fit out of an existing pumping station at Brady’s Lane.
Construction of a new gravity storm drain along Bridge Place to a new outfall at the Bridewell River.
Storm drainage works on Glasslinn Road, North Main Street, Distillery Road, Ballylangley and Weir Street (west).
3.2 LOCATION OF PROPOSED WORKS
The proposed additional works detailed in Appendix 3A are all located within Bandon Town. The Moanarone Stream Works are located at the junction of Distillery Road and Moanarone Road. The Kilbrittain Stream works are located along the Kilbrittain Road, Brichvale, the GAA grounds and the Bridewell River. The proposed rock ramp fish pass spans 137 metres upstream of Bandon weir along the south bank. Works at the Allin Institute are located north of the Bandon River close to the junction of St. Finbarr’s Place and North Main Street. The proposed flood defence wall at Mill Place is located in the vicinity of the weir at the Mill Place Apartment block, perpendicular to the riverbank. The proposed flood defence wall at Bandon weir is located on the south river bank and runs perpendicular to the river. Improvement works to existing flood defence walls will be carried out along St Patrick’s Quay, Mc Sweeney Quay, along a section of the north bank of Bandon River at Knockbrogen and along sections of the N71. Additional storm drainage works are located on the Glasslinn Road, North Main Street, Weir Street, Distillery Road, Brady’s Lane and Bride Place.
3.3 ANTICIPATED CONSTRUCTION METHODS
The construction of the rock pool fish pass will include the following activities:
temporary works including silt barrages;
sheet piling;
excavation for foundations;
blinding of formation;
fixing of reinforcement;
placing of formwork;
placing of concrete;
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 3-3 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
stripping of formwork;
placing of weir stones, railing and rip rap;
reinstatement of area.
The construction of the reinforced concrete flood defence walls is likely to comprise the following activities:
temporary works including silt barrages;
excavation for foundations;
blinding of formation;
fixing of reinforcement;
placing of formwork;
placing of concrete;
stripping of formwork;
reinstatement of area.
The construction of culverts at the Moanarone and Kilbrittain Stream works will include the following construction activities:
temporary works including flow diversion if necessary;
blinding;
placing of culverts;
diversion of flow through new culvert;
ancillary drainage works;
backfill and reinstatement.
3.4 CONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME AND SEQUENCING OF PROPOSED WORKS
Construction will commence in March 2015. The river and stream works will be carried out in two works periods; May to September 2015 and May to September 2016. Improvement works to existing flood defences, drainage and ancillary works and the construction of the proposed flood defence walls and embankments will be ongoing over the duration of the contract. It is envisaged that construction will be completed by December 2016. The actual construction programme will depend on the time of year the contract is awarded, the Contractor’s proposals and the selected construction methods.
The expected normal working hours are 8:00am to 6:00pm Monday to Friday. These are likely to be extended from 7:00am to 9:00pm Monday to Saturday to facilitate the in stream works during the summer period.
3.5 TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION WORKS FACILITIES
An alternative location for the temporary construction works facilities for the Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme has not been proposed.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 3-4 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
3.6 ESTIMATED COST OF PROPOSED WORKS
The estimated cost of the proposed works is €12M. Non-contractual costs are estimated at €5M, which brings the total cost of the Bandon River Drainage Scheme to €17M.
3.7 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF SCHEME
Operational requirements of the flood defence walls include an inspection regime to ensure there is no deterioration in the structural integrity of the defences. Embankments will require repair works should minor settlement or flood damage occur as well as regular strimming to control vegetation growth. The pumping stations will require regular maintenance.
As discussed in the Environmental Impact Statement, the main maintenance requirement of the proposed scheme will be in relation to the dredged section of the river bed. Periodic maintenance of the rock pool fish pass, Moanarone Stream works and Kilbrittain Stream works will also be required.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 3-5 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
4 HUMAN BEINGS
4.1 INTRODUCTION
This section of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) describes the potential impacts of the proposed additional works to the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme (FRS) on human beings and has been completed in accordance with the guidance set out by the Environmental Protection Agency in ‘Guidelines on Information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements’ (EPA, 2000). These additional works are described in detail in in Chapter 3 of this Addendum. The proposed works are located throughout Bandon Town and include locations at the Kilbrittain Stream, the Moanarone Stream, Bandon Weir, Mill Place, as well as other locations in the town.
One of the principle concerns in the development process is that people, as individuals or communities, should experience no diminution in their quality of life from the direct or indirect impacts arising from the construction and operation of a development or project. Ultimately, all the impacts of a development impinge on human beings, directly and indirectly, positively and negatively.
The key issues examined in Chapter 4 of the original EIS include population, employment and economic activity, land-use, residential amenity, facilities and services, tourism, and health and safety. Reference was also made, in this chapter, to nuisance impacts on human beings that are dealt with in other sections of this EIS such as flooding from Chapter 7 - Hydrology and Hydrogeology; Dust and Noise from Chapter 8 - Air and Climate; and Traffic from Chapter 11 - Material Assets.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-1 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
4.2 METHODOLOGY
As this chapter forms an addendum to the original EIS, and the proposed works are all located within the same Study Area Boundary, the baseline data consulted was the same as for the original EIS. It is however noted that while some of this information has been updated (such as population, employment, land use and economic activity) for consistency the same baseline data as in the original EIS. The sources consulted in the original EIS are as follows:
• Interim Bandon Electoral Area Local Area Plan, August 2011 • Cork County Development Plan, 2009; Cork Area Strategic Plan (Update) 2008 • Regional Planning Guidelines for the South West Region 2010 • Census of Ireland2002, 2006 (www.cso.ie) • Preliminary 2011 Census Data (www.cso.ie) • Cork County Council Website • Local Websites www.bandon.ie and www.mytown.ie • The economic impact of salmon angling in the SW of Ireland. Buck., P.J. South Western Regional Fisheries Board
The original EIS included an examination of the population and employment characteristics of the area. At the time of the original EIS, only preliminary data is currently available from the most recent census (2011), the majority of information was sourced from the previous census, the Census of Ireland 2006, and from the CSO website. However relevant preliminary data available from the 2011 census was also consulted. The Bandon Local Area Plan 2011 now replaces the interim Bandon Local Area Plan.
Census information is divided into State, Provincial, County, Major Town and District Electoral Division (DED or ED) level, but may not be available for all levels. For the purposes of Section 7 of the EIS, data for the lowest district level was used wherever possible.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-2 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
4.3 HUMAN BEINGS IN THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
4.3.1 Study Area
4.3.1.1 Definition of Study Area The definition of the Study Area remains the same as all additional works will take place within the Study Area as outlines in the original EIS.
4.3.1.2 Settlements and Planning Policy As outlined in the methodology, the same baseline data as was used for the previous EIS was used. The Bandon Local Area Plan 2011 has zoned 16 areas in the town for residential development but the amount of units to be developed remains the same as in the original EIS, at 233 units, to reach the new house construction target of 1485, by 2020. 4.3.2 Population
4.3.2.1 Population Trends The population trends remain as those identified in the original EIS. It is recognized that the original EIS used the preliminary 2011 Census data figures, which have been updated by the final 2011 Census data. However the differences are minor and therefore it was decided for consistency to use the figures as contained in the original EIS. The population trends are outlined in the table below, which is shown in Section 4.3.2.1 of the original EIS.
Area Population % Population Change
2002 - 2006- 1996 2002 2006 2011* 1996 - 2002 2006 2011*
State 3,626,087 3,917,203 4,239,848 4,581,269 8.0% 8.2% 8.2%
County Cork 293,323 324,767 361,877 399,216 10.7% 11.4% 10.5%
Study Area 9,152 10,094 11,030 12,304 10.3% 9.3% 11.6%
Table 4.1 Population Density in 2006 and 2011 (Source: CSO)
Based on the census data from 2011, the population of the Study Area increased by 11.6% between 2006 and 2011, which is higher than both the State and County increases at 8.2% and 10.5% respectively. The percentage population increase within the Kilbrogan ED was the most marked at over 30%. By contrast Ballymodan ED experienced a percentage population increase of approximately 5% in the same period.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-3 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
4.3.2.2 Population Density
Area Population Density (persons per Population Density (persons per square kilometre) 2006 square kilometre) 2011
State 60.4 65.3
County Cork 48.5 53.5
Study Area 75.1 83.8
Table 4.2 Population Density in 2006 and 2011 (Source: CSO)
The population density for the Study Area was calculated in the original EIS as 83.8 persons per square kilometer, which is higher than that of the state or the county, and has increased in the period 2006-2011. This higher population density in the Study Area is due to the inclusion of Bandon Town in the Study Area.
4.3.2.3 Household Statistics The number of households and average household size recorded within the State and County Cork during the 2002 and 2006 Censuses are shown in Table 4.3. Data for the 2011 Census in relation to household statistics was not included in the original EIS.
Area 2002 2006
No. of Average Size No. of Average Size Households (persons) Households (persons)
State 1,287,958 2.94 1,469,521 2.81
County Cork 105,248 3.02 123,295 2.88
Study Area 3,289 3.00 3,782 3.25
Table 4.3 Number of Households and Average Household Size 2002 – 2006 (Source: CSO)
In general, the figures in Table 4.3 show that while the number of households at a national and county level continued to increase over the 2002 and 2006 period, the average number of people per household has decreased, i.e. there are more households but less people per house. By contrast, in the Study Area both the number of households and the average household size had increased. In addition, while the average household size recorded within the Study Area during the 2002 Census was comparable with that recorded at State and County level, the 2006 figures demonstrated a higher average household size in this area.
4.3.2.4 Age Structure Table 4.4 shows the percentage of the population within different age groups as defined by the Central Statistics Office during the 2002 Census. Data for 2006 and 2011 was unavailable at the time of the original EIS being prepared.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-4 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Area Age Category
0-14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65+
State 827,428 641,522 1,1802,59 831,993 436,001
County Cork
72,697 48,318 98,227 70,185 35,346
Study Area 2,254 1,583 2,964 2,180 1,113
Table 4.3 Number of Households and Average Household Size 2002 – 2006 (Source: CSO)
The proportion of the Study Area population within most age categories is similar to those recorded for the County and national population, indicating that population trends within the Study Area are in broad agreement with those on a county and national level. 4.3.3 Current Economic Activity
4.3.3.1 Sources of Employment Bandon Town is designated as a district employment centre in the County Development Plan 2009. The primary type of employment provided in Innishannon is service based employment. Main employers in the Electoral Area include the Eli Lilly Pharmaceutical Plant in Dunderrow, the Laragh IDA Estate near Bandon, Henry Good Millers in Kinsale and the agri-food based employers in Bandon, Bandon Co-op, Anglo Irish Beef Processors and the local mart. In addition, within Bandon and Inishannon, a large proportion of employment is generated from the tourist and services industry. As part of the County Development Plan strategy for delivery of new jobs, the number of jobs in the Bandon Electoral Area is envisaged to increase by up to 1,000. About 20% of the new jobs (including jobs in the leisure and tourism sector) are likely to be in rural locations rather than the main urban areas. The CASP Update estimates an additional job target of 500 jobs in Bandon Town (increase of 500 based on baseline 2006 figure of 3,897). In relation to zoning for industry and employment, the Interim LAP states that:
‘In previous plans there were 29ha of land zoned for employment uses in the environs of Bandon. By 2008 when the area was surveyed again a total of 2 hectares had been taken up leaving a remainder of 27ha to achieve the 500 increase in jobs to 2020. The availability and suitability of the current land supply to accommodate the proposed employment growth is reviewed in this plan and this will also include the identification of additional (new) zoned lands for employment uses. In addition, the ability of the town centre to accommodate further expansion and regeneration will also be considered in line with the overall strategy for the settlement’
Provision has been made for industrial uses and business uses. On the northern side of the town, provision has been made for the expansion of an existing area of food related industry. Provision has also been made for the development of an extension to the Donpack Business Park to the east of the town and in addition the site designated for office based industry has been retained to the north of the relief road.’ In relation to retail, according to the Interim LAP:
‘Bandon town is identified as a ring town in the retail hierarchy supporting 2,315m2 of convenience goods floorspace. The town also supports 6,715m2 of comparison goods
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-5 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
floorspace. Any further major comparison development should be located within or adjoining the town centre in order to ensure that the current retail services are supported providing a critical mass to the centre of the town. In the event that such a proposal came forward, the town centre would be the preferred location. In addition, the Retail Strategy states that significant regeneration measures are required in Bandon in order to help attract new investment in the town.’
While it is intended that the town centre will continue to be the principal focus for retail and commercial activity, provision has been made for modest extensions to the four main established primarily commercial areas outside the town centre. Provision has also been included in these zones for the development of a new hotel.
4.3.3.1.1 Proposed Employment
It is estimated that the proposed Bandon Flood Relief Scheme will provide employment for approximately 35 people during the construction phase, which is expected to be approximately 24 months in duration. It is likely that at least some prospective employees will be sourced from the local area, therefore benefitting the local economy and skill base to some extent. There will also be indirect employment during both the construction phase of the proposed development such as hauliers and waste contractors among others.
4.3.3.1.2 Economic Status of the Study Area
The labour force consists of those who are able to work, i.e. those who are aged 15+, out of full-time education and not performing duties that prevent them from working. In 2006, there were 2,109,498 persons in the labour force in Ireland. Table 4.5 shows the percentage of the total population aged 15+ who were in the labour force during the 2006 Census. This figure is further broken down into the percentages that were at work, seeking first time employment or unemployed. It also shows the percentage of the total population aged 15+ who were not in the labour force, i.e. those who were students, retired, unable to work or performing home duties.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-6 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Status State County Study Area
% of population aged 15+ who are in the labour force 62.5% 62.7% 61.3%
% of which At work 91.5% 94.1% 92.8% are: First time job
seeker 1.4% 1.0% 1.6%
Unemployed 7.1% 4.9% 5.5%
% of population aged 15+ who are not in the labour force 37.5% 37.3% 38.7%
% of which Student 27.6% 26.6% 26.7% are: Home duties 30.6% 34.0% 35.1%
Retired 29.9% 28.7% 26.5%
Unable to work 10.9% 9.8% 11.1%
Other 1.0% 0.9% 0.6%
Table 4.5 Economic Status of the Total Population Aged 15+ in 2006 (Source: CSO)
During the 2006 Census, over 90% of those recorded as being in the labour force at State, County and Study Area level were in employment. In assessing the 2006 Census economic status data, the significant rise in unemployment that has taken place nationally since 2006 must be taken into consideration. In December 2006, the live register figure for County Cork was 15,208 persons. By December 2011, this figure had increased to 43,651 persons. A similar trend is evident from live register figures for Bandon Town, which had risen from 500 to 1,506 in the same period. While the live register cannot be used to determine the unemployment rate, it does give an idea of how the unemployment rate has increased in County Cork and Bandon town since the 2006 Census.
Of those who were not in the labour force during the 2006 Census, the highest percentage of the Study Area population were those undertaking home duties. The percentage of those within the Study Area categorised as Students reflected national and county figures.
4.3.3.2 Employment by Socio-economic Group Socio-economic grouping divides the population into categories depending on the level of skill or educational attainment required. The ‘Higher Professional’ category includes scientists, engineers, solicitors, town planners and psychologists. The ‘Lower Professional’ category includes teachers, lab technicians, nurses, journalists, actors and driving instructors. Skilled occupations are divided into manual skilled, such as bricklayers and building contractors; semi-skilled, e.g. roofers and gardeners; and unskilled, which includes construction labourers, refuse collectors and window cleaners. Figure 4.1 shows the percentages of those employed in each socio-economic group in the State, County Cork and the Study Area during 2006.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-7 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
18.0 16.0 14.0 12.0 State 10.0 Co Cork 8.0 Study Area 6.0 4.0
% of Population over 15 Years 2.0 0.0
Other Unskilled Farmers Non-manual Semi-skilled Own Account Manual Skilled Employer/Manager Higher ProfessionalLower Professional Agricultural Workers Socio-economic Group
Figure 4.1 Employment by Socio-Economic Group in 2006 (Source: CSO)
The highest level of employment within the Study Area was recorded in the Employer/Manager category. Approximately 16.7% of those employed within the Study Area form part of this category, compared to 16.5% of the County population and 16% of the national population. The Study Area and County population also show a higher proportion as working within the Agricultural Worker category, compared to the levels recorded at national level. After Farming, the next highest levels of employment within the Study Area were in the Non-manual and the Manual Skilled sectors. The CSO figures for socio-economic grouping have a limitation of including the entire population, rather than just those who are in the labour force. It is likely that this is what gives rise to the high proportion of the population shown to be in the Other category in Figure 4.1. Bandon is the main centre of employment in the area. A large portion of the population of the Study Area may commute to here for work purposes. Cork City is approximately 24 kilometres from Bandon and it is likely that residents of the Study Area may travel to the greater Cork City area to work.
4.3.3.3 IPPC Licensed Facilities The EPA licenses large-scale industrial and agricultural activities under the Integrated Pollution Prevention Control Directive. The following facilities within the Study Area are listed on the EPA website as licensed. Some facilities downstream of the Study Area at Kinsale have also been included in list.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-8 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Facility Address Activity Category
Schering-Plough (Brinny) Brinny, Inishannon, Co. Cork Manufacture of pesticides, pharmaceutical or Company veterinary products and their intermediates. The use of a chemical or biological process for the production of basic pharmaceutical products.
Eli-Lilly S.A. Irish Branch Dunderrow, Kinsale, Co. Manufacture of pesticides, pharmaceutical or Cork veterinary products and their intermediates The use of a chemical or biological process for the production of basic pharmaceutical products.
AIBP Limited Kilbrogan, Bandon, Co. Cork The slaughter of animals in installations where daily capacity exceeds 1500 units
Acorn Environmental Ltd. Glasslyn Road, Ballylangley, The manufacture of inorganic chemicals Bandon, Co. Cork
Oldpark Pigs Ltd. Oldpark, Templemartin, The rearing of pigs in installations, whether Bandon, Co. Cork within the same complex, where the capacity exceeds 1,000 units on gley soils or 3,000 units on other soils.
ITW Ireland Farm Lane, Rathvallikeen, The manufacture or use of coating materials in Kinsale, Co. Cork processes with a capacity to make or use at least 10 tonnes per year of organic solvents and powder coating manufacture with a capacity to produce at least 50 tonnes per year.
Mr. Derek Good Ardnaclug, Innishannon, Co. The rearing of poultry in installations, whether Cork, Cork. within the same complex or within 100 metres of the same complex, where the capacity exceeds 40,000 places.
Mr Nigel Sweetnam Knockduff, Kinsale, County The rearing of poultry in installations, whether Cork, Cork. within the same complex or within 100 metres of the same complex, where the capacity exceeds 40,000 places.
Table 4.6 IPPC Licenced Facilities in vicinity of Study Area
4.3.4 Landuse
The total area of farmland within the Study Area measures approximately 12,224 hectares or 83.2% of the Study Area, according to the CSO Census of Agriculture 2006. There are 350 farms located within the Study Area, with an average farm size of 34.9 hectares. This is slightly smaller than the 37.4 hectare average farm size for County Cork. Within the Study Area, farming employs 714 people, and the majority of farms are family-owned and run. Table 4.6 shows the breakdown of farmed lands within the Study Area. Pasture forms the largest proportion of farmland, followed by silage. Preliminary results are available from the 2010 CSO Census of Agriculture. No data is available, however, at ED level. The average farm size in County Cork has increased in the period between the 2006 and 2010 censes from 37.4 hectares to 38.1. Nationally, the preliminary figures show a corresponding increase in farm size (4%) and decrease in number of farms of 1.2%.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-9 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Characteristic Value
Size of Study Area 14,687 ha
Total Area Farmed within Study Area 12,224 ha
Farmland as % of Study Area 83.2%
Breakdown of Farmed Land (ha)
Total Cereals 1,243
Other Non-Cereal Crops 229
Total Pasture 5,676
Total Silage 3,736
Rough Grazing 63
Total Hay 153
Total Crops, Fruit & Horticulture 614
Table 4.7 Farm Size and Classification within the Study Area in 2000 (Source: CSO)
4.3.5 Tourism
Tourism is one of the major contributors to the national economy and is a significant source of full time and seasonal employment. Ireland is divided into seven tourism regions. The South West Region, in which the Study Area is located, comprises Counties Cork and Kerry. During 2009, the South West Region benefited from 18.4% of the total number of tourists to the country and 21.2% of the total tourism income generated in Ireland for that year. The total revenue generated by tourism in the South West Region in 2009 was approximately €1 billion, which was the highest for any region outside Dublin. Preliminary findings for 2010, suggest that the southwest was visited by 25% of all overseas visitors to Ireland in 2010 and that revenue generated in the South-west by overseas visitors accounted for 18.4% of the total for Ireland in 2010 (Table 4.8). The South West region was surpassed only by the Dublin region, which was visited by 59% of all overseas visitors to Ireland in the same period and accounted for 37.8% of overall revenue generated by overseas visitors.
2009 Preliminary 2010
County No. of Revenue Generated No. of Overseas Revenue Overseas by Overseas Visitors [000s] Generated by Visitors Visitors (€m) Overseas Visitors [000s] (€m)
Cork 1,001 438 966 352
Kerry 784 190 751 154
Table 4.8 Overseas Tourism in South-west Region during 2009 and 2010 (Source: Fáilte Ireland)
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-10 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The Irish tourism and hospitality industry employed an estimated 177,935 people in 2010. All sectors of this industry experienced a decline in employment levels in 2010. After Dublin, tourism enterprises in the South West region comprised the most significant employer in the tourism sector, employing 20% of those employed in the tourism and hospitality trade in Ireland. Table 4.9 provides Fáilte Ireland figures showing the type of activities that overseas tourists engaged in and a breakdown of the percentages that undertook each activity for the period from 1999 to 2009. From these figures it can be seen that Historical/cultural visits form the majority of all activities enjoyed in Ireland but with other activities including visiting gardens, hiking/walking, golf, fishing, cycling and equestrian pursuits and also significant activities in terms of tourism.
Holiday - Activities Engaged in (%)
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Fishing 4 4 3 1 2 2 2 3 3 3 3
Equestrian 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Pursuits
Golf 6 7 4 2 3 3 3 5 4 3 3
Cycling 3 3 2 3 3 2 1 2 3 2 2
Hiking/Walking 9 7 5 5 4 6 7 9 17 11 20
Historical/ 43 53 52 42 44 54 56 67 74 67 73 Cultural visits
Visits to 11 17 12 9 9 12 12 18 21 23 33 gardens
Table 4.9 Activities undertaken by overseas visitors whilst visiting Ireland (%)
Fáilte Ireland data relating to the times of year that overseas tourists visit Ireland indicates that the peak season is July and August with less activity in the months of May, June and September and relatively low visitor activity during the winter autumn, winter and early spring months (October – April).
4.3.5.1 Angling Tourism In 2009, an estimated 132,000 overseas visitors engaged in angling in Ireland spending an estimate €105 million. The majority of anglers visiting Ireland in 2009 were from Britain and Mainland Europe, contributing 45% each to the total volume of visiting anglers to Ireland in that year. Most anglers surveyed by Bord Fáilte in 2009 did not specify the type of angling engaged in, but 14% stated that they had engaged in game angling, while visiting the country. The highest proportion of visitors engaging in angling visited Ireland in July and similar figures were recorded through the May to September period inclusive. The lowest numbers of angling overseas visitors in 2009 were recorded in the period from January to March.
The South West region appeared to be the most popular with those engaging in angling while visiting Ireland with 49% of all respondents in 2009 having visited this region. A total of 45% of all nights
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-11 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with spent in Ireland by those overseas visitors engaging in angling in 2009 were spent in the South West region, compared with 16% of nights in the West region, the next most popular region. 42% of those overseas visitors to Ireland engaging in angling in Ireland went fishing in the South West region, making this region the most popular for angling nationally, with the West region following at 25%. A total of 78% of overseas anglers surveyed stated that they were either very satisfied or satisfied with the angling on their trip, with only 7% expressing dissatisfaction with the angling product in Ireland.
Preliminary data for 2010 shows that an estimated 123,000 overseas visitors engaged in angling while in Ireland in 2010, representing 2.1% of all overseas visitors during that year. An estimated 113,000 overseas visitors engaged in Angling in Ireland during 2011.
Data on tourism angling in the Southwest (source publication: The Economic Impact of Salmon Angling in the SW of Ireland by P.J. Buck, Southwestern Regional Fisheries Board) indicates that the SW region takes approximately 16% of the national salmon rod catch each year, second only to the NW region (39%). Estimates of the value generated from salmon angling tourism angling vary, but figures of €65.8 million and €11 million have been cited from various studies (GENISIS, 2005 and INDECON, 2003 respectively).
Angling is an important tourist attraction in the Bandon area. The Bandon River rises in the mountains north-west of Dunmanway, and enters the sea at the estuary near Kinsale. The river provides good fishing for Salmon, Sea Trout and Brown Trout. Much of the Salmon angling on the Bandon River is privately owned or controlled by groups of angling interests such as the Bandon Angling Association. The Bandon River is also renowned as a Sea Trout fishery with good runs of Sea Trout. These are usually found in the July and August periods. Sea Trout angling is confined to the area from Innishannon upstream as far as Bandon. Brown Trout angling is available throughout the Bandon River system but average fish size is generally small. The best of the Brown Trout fishing is usually in the Bandon area. (Source: http://www.discoverireland.ie).
The Inland Fisheries Ireland (www.ifi.ie) describe the Bandon River as follows:
‘This large river drains a catchment of 235 square miles beginning in the Shehy Mountains of West Cork and ending up in Kinsale Harbour. The salmon fishing on this river extends from Innishannon up to Togher Castle….. All legal angling methods are allowed depending on the rules for the particular fisheries. Some stretches are fly only.’
It has an estimated catch of 1300 Salmon and a similar catch of Sea-Trout per year.
4.3.5.2 Other Local Tourist Attractions The Bandon Local Area Plan –2011 describes tourism in Bandon as follows:
‘Tourism is a significant industry in the Bandon Electoral Area as it includes a large amount of attractive coastline and estuary, which contain features of historical, cultural and natural significance, popular with visitors. Kinsale attracts significant visitor numbers and contains some specific coastal, maritime and historic tourist attractions. Similarly, on the coast Garrettstown/Garylucas, Oysterhaven and the Old Head area provide attractions for daytrippers, long stay tourists, water-based activities and leisure breaks. The attractive coastline and beaches in the area which have features of historical, cultural and natural significance also provide opportunities for shore angling, deep-sea fishing and walks’. Kilmacsimon Quay, on the shores of the Bandon River Estuary is also an important attraction for tourist and leisure breaks’.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-12 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The Local Area Plan covers a wider area than the Study Area itself and primarily focuses on the coast as a tourist destination. However the towns, villages and river within the Study Area provide a base for a number of activities that are significant tourist attractions. Bandon is located on the National Secondary Road, the N71, which is the main tourist gateway to West Cork and therefore experiences significant passing tourist traffic. Bandon Town has an 18 hole golf course and Pitch and Putt is available in the local area.
4.3.6 Social Consideration
4.3.6.1 Education The following extracts are taken from the Interim Bandon Local Area Plan (August 2011).
‘There are 4 Primary schools in Bandon, Scoil Padraig Naofa (boys), Presentation Primary School (girls), Gaelscoil Droichead na Bandan (mixed) and Bandon Bridge National School catering for a combined student population of over 650 pupils.
There are four secondary schools catering for Bandon and its local catchment, Hamilton High School (boys), St. Brogans College (mixed), Colaiste na Toirbhirte (girls), and Bandon Grammar School (mixed).
The primary school in Inishannon, Scoil Eoin, is a co educational mixed school with 270 children and a staff comprising of 14 teachers, special needs assistants and other ancillary staff.’
4.3.6.2 Sports and Recreation There are a number of sports clubs in Bandon; the local GAA club have playing pitches and changing facilities to the southwest of the Town Centre. Bandon AFC has two large size soccer pitches and smaller soccer pitch which is flood lit on the former pitch and putt course to the north of the town. Bandon RFC facilities (including pavilion and 3 full sized pitches) are located at Old Chapel, approximately one mile outside Bandon. Bandon Golf Club is located on the Castlebernard Estate and is an 18-hole golf course. Bandon Lawn Tennis Club has 3 all weather courts and a club house and is located to the west of the town. There is also a very active Athletics Club in the town. In addition to the facilities mentioned above there are a number of angling clubs in the area, Game Protection Association, pitch and putt facilities, a walking club and a rowing club at Kilmacsimon. The County Council operates a library service in Bandon town.
4.3.6.3 Local Amenities The Interim Bandon LAP outlines the proposals for public amenity space in the town:
‘There are three main designated areas of open space for active and informal public recreation in Bandon. The largest and most important in terms of the town’s setting and amenity value are the areas north and south of the River Bandon to the west of the town centre. A number of pedestrian walkways have also been proposed; again the most notable of these is the pedestrian walkway along the Bandon River which is intended to connect to the town centre and the third designated area. Some of these walks have been developed and the local area plan will seek to enhance and extend these walks where possible.
An additional pedestrian bridging point has been identified in the Bandon Action Programme (2008) from the Glasslinnn Road to Watergate Street and this is also included in the zoning map for this settlement. Two public civic spaces have also been identified as having the potential to provide better amenities in the town. These are the Shambles areas to the north
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-13 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
of the town centre and Ballymodan Place to the south of the town. The proposals for these spaces include the provision of tree planting, specialised paving treatment, signage, seating and protective bollards.
Castlebernard Estate – wooded estate predominantly used by Bandon Golf Club and there is potential to expand this use and create new opportunities for outdoor recreation. There is also some potential to restore the historic house with potential for commercial use such as a hotel. Estate is also recognised for its local walking routes, some of which are included in this plan.’
4.3.7 Health and Safety
Bandon has a long history of serious flood events, which pose a risk to the health and safety of residents and visitors present at any particular time. Major recent flood events have been recorded in 1975, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1988 and 2009 and less severe flood events have occurred in Bandon in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2011. As described below in Section 1.4.1, in the current situation, a substantial health and safety risk exists with regard to the flooding of residences and commercial premises in Bandon Town. Currently 151 residences and 201 commercial properties are at risk of flooding, as well as housing for the elderly, the Garda station, infrastructure such as the N71 National Primary Road and the R586 Regional Road, the telephone exchange and the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
4.4 LIKELY AND SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS ON HUMAN BEINGS AND ASSOCIATED MITIGATION MEASURES
This section deals with the impacts of the proposed development on the population of the Study Area with regard to population, employment and economic activity, land use, services and tourism. As well as these the health and safety, dust, noise and traffic impacts will be dealt with. Noise and traffic impacts will be dealt with in more detail in Chapters 8 and 11 respectively. 4.4.1 ‘Do-Nothing’ Scenario
The following ‘Do-Nothing’ impacts on human beings have been identified in the Flood Risk report conducted by WYG for the purposes of this project. This is the same as for the original EIS.
151 residences and 201 commercial properties, housing for the elderly, the Garda station and the park at Glaslinn Park would be at risk
There would be a public health risk from potential flooding of the Wastewater Treatment Plant and nearby petrol station
Protected structures such as Bandon Bridge, the old town walls and buildings on South Main Street would be at risk, with knock-on effects on tourism, local amenity and local identity.
The density of the economic risk in Bandon Town would be in the region of €600/1,000m2
There would be a risk to important transport routes such as the N71 National Primary Road (Cork-Clonakilty-West Cork) and the R586 Regional Road (Cork-Dunmanway-West Cork).
There would be a risk to the telecommunications network as the telephone exchange would be at risk.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-14 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
4.4.2 Construction Phase
4.4.2.1 Traffic
Construction Traffic Movement The construction phase of the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme Additional works will have a temporary impact on traffic volumes in Bandon town and its environs due to the increase in additional traffic movements associated with the additional works. However, taking into account the large numbers of vehicles using the road network in and in the vicinity of Bandon, it is unlikely that traffic generated during the construction phase will have a significant impact on traffic flow in the town. It is not anticipated that the construction traffic will significantly affect the flow of traffic through Bandon town.
Mitigation Measures A Traffic Management Plan based on industry standards will be put in operation during the construction phase to reduce any disruption to road users. All traffic management measures will be designed in accordance with the ‘Guidance for the Control and Management of Traffic at Roadworks – Second Edition’.
Mitigation Measures The contractor will be responsible for the maintenance of roads used as haul routes for the purposes of the flood relief works. All road surfaces will be reinstated on completion of the works. Residual Impact: None There will be no residual impact once the reinstatement works are complete.
4.4.2.2 Impact on Economic Activity Short-term Slight Negative Impact There is potential for some disruption to economic activity during the construction phase of the flood relief additional works scheme as traffic and access issues and elevated noise and dust levels may impinge on local businesses.
Mitigation Measures A traffic management plan will be prepared and implemented for the duration of the works in order to ensure that any impacts on traffic mobility are minimised. In addition, works will be limited to normal working hours (08.00 to 18.00 Monday to Friday) with an extension in the summer months (07.00 – 21.00 Monday to Saturday). An Environmental Management Plan will be implemented during the construction phase to ensure that environmental nuisances relating to the works are minimised. This will include measures to avoid and reduce noise and dust.
Residual Impact The implementation of a Traffic Management Plan and Environmental Management Plan to reduce traffic and environmental nuisance impacts on the receiving environment during the construction phase will minimise the impact on local businesses.
4.4.2.3 Nuisance – Noise, Dust & Vibration Short-term Slight Negative Impact
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-15 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
During the construction phase of the flood relief scheme, there are likely to be elevated levels of noise, dust & vibration at times, which may constitute a nuisance to local inhabitants and visitors to the town at times during this period. Elements of the project likely to generate elevated noise levels include the in-stream works, which will include sheet piling, rock breaking and use of heavy plant and general increased traffic movements as materials and plant are moved to and from the working area.
According to the noise and vibration study conducted for the purposes of this EIS, the likely short term impacts of earthen embankment construction, wall and culvert construction, construction traffic on the local noise and vibration environment will not be significant. The likely impact of the additional works in terms of noise and vibration is expected to be mostly insignificant with a temporary slight impact at dwellings along the Kilbrittain Road, in the Birchvale and neighbouring dwellings. Assuming an alternative ‘press-in’ piling method is employed, the likely impact of piling noise and vibration on the local environment will not be significant.
The majority of construction activities are not expected to generate perceptible vibrations at the nearby noise sensitive locations. The exception to this will be sheet piling and rock–breaking. Provided the ‘press-in’ method of piling is employed at all piling locations, the likely impact of vibration from the flood relief construction works on the local environment would not be significant.
Further Information on noise and vibration impacts is available in Chapter 8 of this EIS.
Mitigation Measures
In order to sufficiently ameliorate the likely noise and vibration impacts from the proposed works, a schedule of noise control measures has been formulated for the construction phase.
Reference will be made to BS 5228-1: 2009: Code of Practice for Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites: Noise, which offers detailed guidance on the control of noise & vibration from construction activities. Specific mitigation measures are set out in chapter 8.
A dust minimisation plan will be formulated for the construction phase of the project, the details of which are provided in Chapter 8.
Residual Impact Negligible residual impact is anticipated.
4.4.2.4 Amenity Short-term Moderate Negative Impact
During the periods of in-stream works, there will be a moderate impact on local amenities related to the use of the Bandon River. Anglers are the main users of the river amenity, though the visual amenity of the river as well as riverside walks for residents and visitors alike is also of importance to the town. Although in-stream works will be restricted to two five month periods from May to September inclusive, these months coincide with the period of peak amenity usage of the river. Loss of recreational amenity will be limited to the areas primarily around the Bandon Weir and the area immediately downstream of these works. Other areas affected will be the area around the Allin Institute, and residential amenity in the Birchvale area and dwellings along the Kilbrittain road. However as water quality is likely to be adversely affected in the construction phase of the scheme, diminution of the amenity value of the river will occur downstream of the working area also during the construction phase. In addition, the proposed works have the potential to impact negatively on the resident fish stocks and potentially hinder the migration of fish. Indirect impacts may include the smothering of downstream spawning beds and fish gills with suspended solids. The hindrance of
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-16 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with migrating fish has the potential to impact on salmonid populations throughout the entire Bandon catchment and therefore impact angling not only in the works areas but also on a wider scale.
Mitigation Measures
Works will be designed to minimise impacts upon the amenity value of the study area during the construction period. Mitigation will include measures to minimise pollution of the river, minimise impacts on fish, limit working hours and prevent un-necessary damage to bankside habitats. Full details of this mitigation is provided in Chapter 5.
Residual Impacts
Although upstream stretches of the River Bandon will remain unaffected by the works and impacts on the water quality of the river downstream of the works will be minimised through implementation of mitigation measures, the amenity value of the River Bandon will be inaccessible to the public within much of the study area for the duration of the works. Therefore the nature of the impact will remain moderate within and downstream of the works area for residents and visitors during the construction phase of the scheme.
4.4.2.5 Employment Short-term Moderate Positive Impact
It is estimated that approximately 30 people will be employed directly during the construction phase of the proposed development, which is expected to be of two year’s duration.
4.4.2.6 Tourism
Potential Short Term Minor Negative Impact
Whilst the proposed works will have little impact on many sectors of the tourism industry in Bandon, Angling forms a large part of the industry in the town and is likely to be affected by the proposed works. Therefore it is possible that the tourism sector in Bandon will experience a temporary adverse impact during the construction phase as two periods of in-stream works during the summer months will coincide with the peak visitor season. The angling amenity within the works area will be reduced during the two periods of in-stream works proposed and impacts on water quality downstream may affect fisheries further downstream in the catchment. This is of particular significance to the Sea Trout angling, which only occurs locally between Inishannon and Bandon Town. Angling in areas upstream of Bandon Town and elsewhere in the catchment is unlikely to be affected by the proposed works and thus the impact is considered to be relatively minor. Potential increases in noise and dust levels, traffic issues and temporary impacts on visual amenity related to the works are also likely to deter and/or disturb visitors during the construction phase.
Mitigation Measures
The mitigation outlined in section 4.4.2.4 above is designed to minimise the impacts on the amenity value of the river and applies equally to the value of the river as a tourism amenity.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-17 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Traffic management and environmental management plans will be implemented and will reduce the impact of increased traffic, noise and dust levels. Alternative recreational amenity upstream of the works area will be promoted to tourists visiting the area.
Residual Impacts
Although upstream stretches of the River Bandon will remain unaffected by the works and impacts on the water quality of the river downstream of the works will be minimised through implementation of mitigation measures, the amenity value of the River Bandon within sections of the work area will be diminished for tourists for the duration of the works. Therefore the nature of the impact on tourism overall will remain minor during the construction phase of the scheme.
4.4.3 Operational Phase
4.4.3.1 Health and Safety Long-term Significant Positive Impact
Flooding poses a risk to human health and safety. The OPW document ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk Management: Guidelines for Planning Authorities’ (OPW, 2009) states that flooding can cause physical injury, illness and loss of life. Deep, fast flowing or rapidly rising flood waters can be particularly dangerous, with increased risk if the floodwater is carrying debris. Some of these impacts may be immediate, the most significant being drowning or physical injury due to being swept away by floods. Floodwater contaminated by sewage or other pollutants (e.g. chemicals stored in garages or commercial properties) can potentially cause illness, either directly as a result of contact with the polluted floodwater or indirectly as a result of sediments left behind. Flood water may also hide other hazards for wading pedestrians, such as manhole openings where the covers have been lifted by flood flows.
The impact on people and communities as a result of the stress and trauma of being flooded, or even of being under the threat of flooding, can be immense. Long-term impacts can arise due to chronic illnesses and the stress associated with being flooded and the lengthy recovery process. The ability of people to respond and recover from a flood can vary. Vulnerable people, such as those who are old, disabled or have a long-term illness, are less able to cope with floods than others. Some people may have difficulty in replacing household items damaged in a flood and may lack the financial means to recover and maintain acceptable living conditions after a flood.
4.4.3.2 Angling Long-term Moderate Negative Impact
The works involved in the proposed flood relief scheme have the potential to significantly reduce good fishery habitat diversity within the works area in the long-term, including exceptional salmonid spawning and nursery habitat within the river channel. This has the potential to result in a Long Term significant impact on angling on the Bandon River in the long-term. Ongoing maintenance associated with the proposed scheme will involve the removal of deposited material and could potentially result in disturbance of resident fish populations both directly and indirectly. The works will however be much smaller in scale than the original dredging works and will not significantly impact on the fisheries amenity.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-18 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Mitigation
A river rehabilitation programme has been included in the design of the scheme. This will include the provision of a defined flow path with varying gradients, pools and riffles. Gravels boulders and rocks will be replaced into the drained channel to provide cover for fish and habitat for invertebrates. The stretch of river will be monitored following completion of the works and where possible additional features will be included to improve the angling amenity. Full details of mitigation proposals are provided in Chapter 5. Residual Impact
With the proposed mitigation in place and with careful monitoring and overseeing of the construction of the mitigation features the proposed, this section of river has the potential to remain as a productive angling reach despite the reduction in the gradient of the river.
4.4.3.3 Local Economy and Tourism Long-term Significant Positive Impact
The flood relief scheme will provide increased protection to commercial premises and businesses in Bandon Town from flooding. This will constitute a long-term positive effect on the local economy. Any negative impact on the fishery value will be confined to the relatively short reach of the works area and this will be ameliorated through mitigation within the dredge design.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 4-19 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
5 FLORA AND FAUNA
5.1 INTRODUCTION
This section of the addendum describes the potential impacts of the proposed additions and amendments to the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme (FRS) on flora and fauna and has been completed in accordance with the guidance set out by the Environmental Protection Agency in ‘Guidelines on Information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements’ (EPA, 2000).
This section is based on published literature and field visits that were made to the site by ecologists working for McCarthy Keville O’Sullivan Ltd. and Ecofact Ltd. Visits were made during January, August and September 2011, January, March, April and May 2012 in the preparation of the original EIS and in September 2013 in relation to the current addendum The site of the proposed works was surveyed extensively in order to assess the habitats and bird, mammal, fish and invertebrate populations in the area.
The survey work associated with the addendum was carried out by Eamonn O’Sullivan (B.Sc. Env.) and reviewed by Pat Roberts (B.Sc. Env., MIEEM)
5.2 METHODOLOGY AND LIMITATIONS
This chapter of the EIS addendum has been completed using existing information that is contained in the original EIS where this is relevant to the current proposals. Where necessary additional field surveys have been carried out to assess the ecological impacts of the amendments and additions to the scheme
The following sources were also used in the compilation of this section of the Addendum:
Information contained in the original EIS. Both from the desk study and also information gathered in the extensive surveying completed in the preparation of the EIS.
1:50,000 scale Discovery series mapping;
1: 5000 OS Maps of the study area
Aerial photography of the Study Area
NPWS site synopses and database of information on designated sites and records of protected species.
New Atlas of the British & Irish Flora (Preston et al., 2002)
The Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland’ (Sharrock, 1976), ‘The New Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland: 1988-1991’ (Gibbons et al., 1993) and ‘The Atlas of Wintering Birds in Britain and Ireland’ (Lack, 1986)
The EPA website http://www.epa.ie/rivermap/data
The Water Framework Directive website www.WFD.ie
5.3 DESK STUDY
5.3.1 Designated Areas
Information on sites that are designated for conservation in the area was considered in this assessment and is provided in full in the original EIS.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-1 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
5.3.2 Flora
A search was made in the New Atlas of the British & Irish Flora (Preston et al., 2002) to find which rare or unusual plant species had been recorded in the 10 km squares in which the study area is situated. In addition, the NPWS records of protected species in the area of the proposed development were obtained for the relevant 10 km squares.
Information gained from these studies is presented in the original EIS. 5.3.3 Fish and Shellfish
Records of Freshwater Pearl Mussel in the Bandon River were gained from the EPA river monitoring staff (John Lucey, 1989. Pers.Comm.) and are provided in the original EIS. 5.3.4 Birds
‘The Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland’ (Sharrock, 1976), ‘The New Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland: 1988-1991’ (Gibbons et al., 1993) and ‘The Atlas of Wintering Birds in Britain and Ireland’ (Lack, 1986) were consulted for information regarding the distribution of birds in Ireland.
Information gained from these studies is presented in the original EIS 5.3.5 Consultation
Consultation was undertaken with various statutory and non statutory consultees. These are listed in the original EIS. In addition, there has been further consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) and the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) in relation to the amendments and additions to the scheme. No response has been received as yet from the NPWS. The IFI had no particular concerns about the proposed works but made the following comments:
Works likely to cause increased suspended solid levels in downstream waters should be carried out in the period May to September inclusive. The invert of the outflow end of the proposed culverts should be 200-300mm below bed level of the receiving watercourse.
These concerns have been taken into consideration in this EIS addendum and are included in the design of the amended scheme. 5.3.6 Water Quality
Information was gained on existing water quality within the study area from data available from the EPA. This was used in the current assessment and is presented in the original EIS.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-2 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
5.4 ASSESSMENT OF VARIOUS AMENDMENTS AND ADDITIONS
5.4.1 Moanarone Stream Works
5.4.1.1 Habitat Description A total of four habitats were recorded in the vicinity of the Moanarone Stream (Table 5.1).
Table 5.1. Habitats recorded in the vicinity of the Moanarone Stream along with their respective codes. The habitat classifications and codes correspond to those described in ‘A Guide to Habitats in Ireland’ (Fossit 2000). Habitat Code Eroding/Upland Rivers FW1 Building and artificial surfaces BL3 Amenity Grassland GA2 Hedgerow WL1
Most of the proposed works are within the road surface (BL3). There is a small patch of Amenity Grassland (GA2) next to the Cork Marts main entrance (Plate 5.1). The existing channel is located along the eastern edge of Distillery Road and is partly culverted with outfall to the Mill River (Plate 5.2). Some of the channel is an open sunken ditch with little vegetation and an accumulation of leaves and other organic detritus. The road and the channel are bordered by a Hedgerow (WL1), composed of a number of tree species, mostly non-native: Sycamore and Bay (Laurus nobilis) (Plate 5.3). Elm (Ulmus sp.) and Elder are also present. Although the trees of this habitat feature are probably greater than 5m in height, it is classified as Hedgerow (WL1), rather than Treeline (WL2), on the basis that is has been regularly pruned and therefore has a dense, bushy structure. It is likely that many of the trees will have to be removed to facilitate construction. There was almost no flow in the Moanarone Stream at the time of the site visit (Figure 5.2). The Mill River, into which the stream discharges, is an Eroding/Upland River (FW1) with a rock/gravel bed. A section of previously proposed embankment surrounding the Mill River close to its confluence with the Bandon River at Ballyangley will, under the current scheme be replaced with a small section of flood wall, though it is anticipated that there will be no significant additional impacts resulting from these works.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-3 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 5.1. Photo of the Distillery Road-Moanarone Road junction, showing the Cork Marts main entrance, the small Amenity Grassland area (GA2) and, in the background, the Hedgerow (WL1).
Plate 5.2. Existing Moanarone Stream outfall to the Mill River. This outfall will be replaced. At the time of the site visit, there was almost no flow in the Moanarone Stream.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-4 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 5.3. Hedgerow (WL1) and Stone Wall (BL1) bordering the distillery Road. Photo taken facing the Distillery Road- Moanarone Road junction.
5.4.1.2 Significance of Habitats
None of the habitats recorded at the site are listed in Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive.
The habitats of highest ecological significance are the Mill River and the Hedgerow on the site. The Mill River is an important fishery and a potential pathway for contaminants to enter the wider environment including sensitive fishery habitat downstream. The hedgerow, although composed mainly of non-native species, is also of some ecological significance in that it provides structural and species diversity within the urban environment of Bandon Town.
5.4.1.3 Fauna
5.4.1.3.1 Mammals A walkover survey for mammal species was carried out during the ecological assessment of the proposed works. No evidence of any mammal activity was recorded during this survey. The presence of Otter is however possible. The Mill River is perhaps the most likely to regularly support Otter due to its known use as a fishway and its banks being heavily vegetated, thereby providing good cover.
Given the nature of the existing culverts that the proposed works intend to replace-small concrete pipes with few fissures or crevices-it is unlikely that they are used as significant roosting or breeding sites for bats. During the Environmental Impact Assessment of the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme as presented in the main EIS document, a daytime and night-time bat survey of the Mill River Culvert was carried out. No significant bat activity was recorded.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-5 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
It is probable that species of small mammal, such as Wood Mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus), Pygmy Shrew (Sorex minutus) and Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) inhabit the Hedgerows, Scrub, Earth Banks and Treelines recorded within the Moanaroan Stream area.
5.4.1.3.2 Birds Whilst no detailed bird survey was carried out, a brief search for Dipper (Cinclus cinclus) and Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) nests was undertaken. None were found. It is likely that Swallows (Hirundo rustica) nest in the outlet of the large existing Mill River culvert, near the proposed new outfall structure.
No species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive or the Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland (BoCCI) Red List were observed on site.
5.4.1.3.3 Fish It is highly unlikely that the existing Moanarone Stream culvert and channel could harbour any aquatic species since it appears to have a very low flow during periods of little rainfall and there is a large step between the outfall structure and the Mill River (Plate 3.6). The Mill River itself is known to support Salmonid fish and may also support any of the other protected aquatic species that inhabit the Bandon River, e.g. Brook and River Lamprey (Lampetra planeri & L.fluviatilis).
5.4.1.3.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel A dedicated and licenced survey for Freshwater Pearl Mussel was undertaken during the during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. On the basis of the this survey it is considered unlikely that Freshwater Pearl Mussel are present within the study area though habitats within the river appear suitable for this species.
5.4.1.4 Significance of Fauna No direct evidence of protected fauna was recorded at the site. Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) is known to occur in the Mill River, which could also support Brook and River Lamprey. These species are listed in Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. No evidence of Otter was recorded, but it is likely that the species uses the site to some extent
Works within the aquatic environment have the potential to allow the transmission of pollutants downstream to areas outside the site, which may contain sensitive faunal habitat and in the case of the Mill Stream and Bandon River do contain good quality, spawning and nursery areas for Salmonid and Lamprey species and habitat for other protected species such as Otter.
5.4.1.5 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation The impact classification terminology used in the following sections is based on the scheme set out in Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements (EPA 2002).
5.4.1.5.1 Habitat Loss Permanent Moderate Negative Impact In order to facilitate the works, some of the trees will be removed from the hedgerow at Moanarone. Trees will be retained where possible but it is estimated that at Moanarone, approximately 20m of hedgerow will be lost. Whilst most of these trees are non-native, none are veteran specimens and none are likely to provide suitable cavities for bat roosting, although they are nevertheless of local ecological value.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-6 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Construction of the new open channel at the Moanarone Stream, will result in the permanent loss of a small area of Earth Bank (BL2), Scrub (WS1), Stone Walls and other Stonework (BL1) and Amenity Grassland (GA1). None of these habitats are uncommon or of high ecological significance and the loss of a small area of them will not affect the quality of the environment. After landscaping has been completed these areas will readily be recolonised by similar species.
Mitigation Trees will be retained where practicable. Where a section of treeline/hedgerow is removed, it will be replanted with native species provided doing so would not destabilise the bank or hamper the drainage installations. Suitable native species would include Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), Whitebeam (Sorbus aria), Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea), and Wych Elm (Ulmus glabra), Downy Birch (Betula pubescens), Silver Birch (B. pendula) and Aspen (Populus tremula).
Residual Impact Provided the above mitigation measures are implemented, the residual impact can be reclassified as a Short-term Slight Negative Impact. As the replanted hedgerow/treeline matures, it will be of greater ecological value than that which it replaced because it will be composed of native species. It remains a slight negative impact as it is unlikely that all the hedgerow that is removed will be replaced.
5.4.1.5.2 Habitat Disturbance Permanent Minor Negative Impact A number of habitats will be disturbed during the proposed in-stream works associated with the construction of the outfall. These include the stream bed and bankside habitats. Although only covering a very small area, these operations have the potential to disturb aquatic species and habitats. These include Salmon and Lamprey species that are protected under European and Irish legislation.
Mitigation The following mitigation/precautionary measures will be adhered to during the construction process:
. Where an outfall structure is to be constructed, only the minimum area necessary, at the edge of the river, will be dammed with sandbags to provide a work area for installation of the outfall apron/headwall. . Works will be carried out in such a way as to prevent suspension of solids or contamination with pollutants, as outlined elsewhere in this document. . All instream works will be carried out in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) staff. IFI-imposed stipulations will be adhered to. . In order to minimise impacts on salmonids, all instream works and any works likely to result in elevation of suspended solid levels in downstream waters will be carried out in the period May-September inclusive. . The invert of the outfall structure will be 200-300mm below the level of the receiving watercourse. . There will be no tracking of machinery in the stream/river beds. Works will be carried out from the bank. . A suitably sized excavator will be used. . Works will be carried out simultaneously with works already planned as part of the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-7 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
. All works will be subject to mitigation and best practice that is detailed within the main body of the EIS.
Residual Impact With the above mitigation measures in place the impact can be re-classified as a Permanent Neutral Impact. In other words the character of the Moanarone Stream bed will be permanently altered, but in a way that does not significantly affect its quality.
5.4.1.5.3 Pollution of Watercourses Temporary Significant Negative Impact The proposed works have the potential to cause pollution of the downstream watercourses, especially during the construction phase. The main pollution risks are from hydrocarbon spills/leaks and contamination with suspended solids or uncured concrete. The use of machinery at the sites carries the potential for accidental hydrocarbon contamination of the area, by fuel spillages or oil leaks for example. Pollution of the watercourses, in particular the Mill and Bandon Rivers would be extremely significant because they support several species and habitats protected under European and Irish legislation. There is potential for the proposed drainage scheme to cause the discharge of pollutants picked up from the road surfaces into the watercourses. However, the proposed development is considered to represent, at worst, no change to the existing situation whereby the existing drainage scheme continues to operate. The upgrading of gullies and drains will probably reduce the potential for this impact by directing more surface water to underground channels.
Mitigation Mitigation for this impact involves a number of general precautionary measures as well as more specific prescriptions: . The surface soil layer, including vegetation, will be stripped for reinstatement after infilling. . Where practicable, existing vegetation and trees will be avoided and left in-situ. . Where short-term soil storage is required during the construction phase, it will be stored a minimum of 10m from the river/stream banks and covered to avoid excessive sediment run-off or windblow. . Where excavation/landscaping is required close to the stream/river banks and where appropriate, a silt fence will be erected to avoid silt contamination entering the rivers. . Any areas of bare soil remaining after the landscaping phase will be revegetated as soon as possible by spreading a grass seed mix in order to minimise sediment run-off potential. . Any tracking or rutting caused by the construction works will be landscaped and reseeded to avoid creation of erosion channels. . Any excavated material that is not re-used will be disposed of to an EPA approved waste disposal facility . Excavations will be carried out using a suitably sized excavator. . Care will be taken at all times to avoid contamination of the rivers/streams with concrete or any other contaminant. . Where an outfall structure is to be constructed, the minimum area necessary, at the edge of the river, will be dammed with sandbags in order to provide a work area for installation of the outfall apron/headwall and to prevent contamination of the river with uncured concrete. . If required in order to maintain a dry working area, the water will be pumped to grass at a suitable distance from the river, or back to the river via a settlement tank or filter.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-8 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
. Leak-proof shuttering will be erected and pouring will be done with care, by hand if necessary. . Precast concrete units will be used where suitable. . All instream works will be carried out in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) staff. IFI-imposed stipulations will be adhered to. . In order to minimise impacts on salmonids, all instream works and any works likely to result in elevation of suspended solid levels in downstream waters will be carried out in the period May-September inclusive. . Works will only be undertaken in good weather when there is little chance of flooding or excessive sediment run-off. . There will be no tracking of machinery in the stream/river beds. Works will be carried from the bank. . Mobile storage such as fuel bowsers will be bunded to 110% capacity to prevent spills. Tanks for bowsers and generators shall be double skinned. . When not in use all valves and fuel trigger guns from storage containers will be locked. . All plant refueling will take place on site using mobile fuel bowsers, only dedicated trained & competent personal to carry out refueling operations. Plant refueling will take place as far as practicable from watercourses. A spill kit and drip tray shall be available for all refueling operations. Equipment shall not be left unattended during refueling. All pipework from containers to pump nozzles will have anti siphon valves fitted. . Strict procedures for plant inspection, maintenance and repairs shall be detailed in the contractor’s method statement and machinery shall be checked for leaks before arrival on site. . All site plant will be inspected at the beginning of each day prior to use. Defective plant shall not be used until the defect is satisfactorily fixed. . All major repair and maintenance operations will take place off site. . Stringent plant refueling procedures shall be detailed in the contractor’s method statement.
Residual Impact Provided all mitigation measures and prescriptions are adhered to, no significant negative impact as a result of the proposed works is likely.
5.4.1.5.4 Introduction of Invasive Species Long-term Significant Negative Impact No invasive species were recorded on the site. Highly invasive species that thrive in riparian habitats, such as Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam, commonly occur in Ireland. Machinery that has worked at an infected site has the potential to cause the spread of such species by transferring the tiny seeds or plant fragments of these species. Such invasive species pose a serious threat to biodiversity and the health of native vegetation types. The duration of the impact could be short-term or permanent depending on whether or not an eradication effort is made but once established, eradication is often difficult to achieve.
Mitigation All Machinery will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to arrival on site. This procedure will be detailed in the contractor’s method statement.
Residual Impact
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-9 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
With the above precautionary measure in place, no introduction of invasive species is likely.
5.4.2 Kilbrittain Stream Works
A total of six habitats were recorded in the vicinity of the Kilbrittain Stream (Table 5.2).
Table 5.2. Habitats recorded in the vicinity of the Kilbrittain Stream along with their respective codes. The habitat classifications and codes correspond to those described in ‘A Guide to Habitats in Ireland’ (Fossit 2000). Habitat Code Eroding/Upland Rivers FW1 Scrub WS1 Treelines WL2 Building and artificial surfaces BL3 Amenity Grassland GA2 Recolonising Bare Ground ED3 Earth Banks BL2
The Kilbrittain Stream, itself classified as Eroding/Upland River (FW1) with a gravel and stone bed, flows adjacent and parallel to Kilbrittain Road in a ditch bordered by masonry Stone Walls (BL1) (Plate 5.4) and, towards the southwestern end of the works area, Earth Banks (BL2).The bank nearest to the road is mostly devoid of trees. Instead, its vegetation is overgrown and ‘weedy’ in appearance. It is mostly composed of Nettles (Urtica dioica), Hedge Bindweed (Calystegia sepium), Yarrow (Achillea millefolium), Ivy (Hedera helix) and Bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.) (Plate 5.4). In places this vegetation may be classified as Scrub (WS1). The opposite bank, nearest Birchvale, on the southwestern side of the stream, supports a Treeline (WL2) and Hedgerow (WL1) (Plate 5.5) with abundant Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) and Willow (Salix sp.) with some Elder (Sambucus nigra), Elm (Ulmus sp.) and Beech (Fagus sylvatica). Under the treeline, the bank supports a number of common shaded-bank species such as Broad Buckler Fern (Dryopteris dilatata), Polypody Fern (Polypodium Vulgare), Bramble, Hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) and Ivy.
The Kilbrittain Stream is culverted, with a concrete pipe, for approximately 155m as it flows under the GAA grounds towards its outfall to the Bridewell River. The existing outfall emerges, via a concrete pipe, through the masonry stone wall of the river channel (Plate 5.6). The Bridewell River itself is an Eroding/Upland River (FW1), with a bed of gravel. It is bounded within the urban area by Stone Walls (BL1). Whilst the presence of water crowfoot (Ranunculus sp.) in the Bridewell River indicates good water quality, the area surrounding the existing outfall has relatively heavy algal growth, suggesting that the Kilbrittain Stream has undergone a certain amount of nutrient enrichment (Plate 5.6).
The route of the proposed new culvert, which will replace the existing one, passes under the grounds of the GAA Club, mostly through a graveled parking area/road, classifies as Buildings and Artificial Surfaces (BL3) (Plate 5.7). Within the grounds, the only other habitats present along the route are Amenity Grassland (GA2) and Recolonising Bare Ground (ED3), where several grassland species, including Ribwort Plantain (Plantago lanceolata), Gorse (Ulex europaeus) and various grasses, are colonising graveled areas.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-10 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 5.4 The Kilbrittain Stream channel (FW1), with masonry stone wall banks (BL1).
Plate 5.5. Photo of Kilbrittain Road showing the Earth Banks (BL2) and Treelines (WL2) bounding the stream. At the far left of the image, the stream is culverted for a short distance. The proposal includes the upgrading of this culvert.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-11 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 5.6. Existing Kilbrittain Stream outfall to the Bridewell River.
Plate 5.7. Entrance road and graveled area within the GAA grounds (BL3) through which the route of the proposed new culvert passes.
5.4.2.1 Significance of Habitats None of the habitats recorded at the sites are listed in Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. In the area surrounding the Kilbrittain Stream, the most ecologically significant habitats are the Eroding/Upland River,
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-12 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with particularly the Bridewell River, and the Treeline/Hedgerow. The Bridewell is an important fishery and a river of relatively high water quality. The Kilbrittain Stream is less ecologically sensitive, since it is apparently of lesser water quality and, due to the barrier to fish passage formed by the existing culvert, unlikely to be used by large numbers migratory fish. It is significant as a potential pathway for pollutants, such as nutrients, hydrocarbons and silt, to enter the more sensitive habitats downstream of it, including the Bridewell and Bandon Rivers. Whilst the trees in the area are mostly non-native and therefore of lesser ecological importance than native trees, Hedgerows and Treelines are generally significant because of their tendency to support a large diversity of species, to act as habitat corridors, and because of their relative scarcity in the wider countryside.
5.4.2.2 Fauna
5.4.2.2.1 Mammals A walkover survey for mammal species was carried out during the ecological assessment of the proposed works. No evidence of any mammal activity was recorded during this survey. The presence of Otter is however possible. The Bridewell River is perhaps the most likely to regularly support Otter due to its known use as a fishway and its banks being heavily vegetated, thereby providing good cover.
It is considered unlikely that the culvert or any of the trees to be removed provide suitable habitat for bat species given the concrete nature of the culvert and the size and age of the trees.
It is probable that species of small mammal, such as Wood Mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus), Pygmy Shrew (Sorex minutes) and Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) inhabit the Hedgerows, Scrub, Earth Banks and Treelines recorded on site.
5.4.2.2.2 Birds Whilst no detaileded bird survey was carried out, a brief search for Dipper (Cinclus cinclus) and Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) nests was undertaken. None were found. It is likely that the tree line and bank side habitats along the Killbritain Stream are used by a range of common passerine species.
No species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive or the Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland (BoCCI) Red List were observed on site.
5.4.2.2.3 Fish At the Kilbrittain Stream, the existing c.155m dark culvert through the GAA grounds is potentially passable by fish but given its steepness, its length and the absence of light ports, it would seem unlikely that it is widely used as a fishway by migratory species. The Bridewell River, into which the Kilbrittain Stream flows, is known to be an important salmonid fishery and may also support River Lamprey.
5.4.2.2.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel A dedicated and licenced survey for Freshwater Pearl Mussel was undertaken during the during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. On the basis of the this survey it is considered unlikely that Freshwater Pearl Mussel are present within the study area though habitats within the river appear suitable for this species.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-13 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
5.4.2.3 Significance of Fauna No direct evidence of protected fauna was recorded at the site. Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) is known to occur in the Bridewell River, which could also support Brook and River Lamprey. These species are listed in Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. No evidence of Otter was recorded, but it is likely that the species uses the site to some extent
Works within the aquatic environment have the potential to allow the transmission of pollutants downstream to areas outside the site, which may contain sensitive faunal habitat and in the case of the Bridewell and Bandon Rivers do contain good quality, spawning and nursery areas for Salmonid and Lamprey species and habitat for other protected species such as Otter.
5.4.2.4 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation The impact classification terminology used in the following sections is based on the scheme set out in Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements (EPA 2002)
5.4.2.4.1 Habitat Loss Permanent Moderate Negative Impact In order to facilitate the works, some of the trees will be removed from the treeline/hedgerow at the Kilbrittain Stream. Trees will be retained where possible but it is estimated that an estimated 175m of treeline/hedgerow will be lost or disturbed by the proposed works. Whilst most of these trees are non- native, none are veteran specimens and none are likely to provide suitable cavities for bat roosting, they are nevertheless of some ecological value as they provide species and structural diversity in the area.
Construction of some of the bank improvements will result in the permanent loss of a small area of Earth Bank (BL2), Scrub (WS1), Stone Walls and other Stonework (BL1) and Amenity Grassland (GA1). Excavation of the new culvert under the GAA grounds will result in the loss of a certain amount of Amenity Grassland (GA1) and Recolonising Bare Ground (ED3). None of these habitats are uncommon or of high ecological significance and the loss of a small area of them will not affect the quality of the environment. After landscaping has been completed these areas will readily be recolonised by similar species.
Mitigation Trees will be retained where practicable. Where a section of treeline/hedgerow is removed, it will be replanted with native species provided doing so would not destabilise the bank or hamper the drainage installations. Suitable native species would include Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), Whitebeam (Sorbus aria), Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea), and Wych Elm (Ulmus glabra), Downy Birch (Betula pubescens), Silver Birch (B. pendula) and Aspen (Populus tremula).
Residual Impact Provided the above mitigation measures are implemented, the residual impact can be reclassified as a Long Term-term Slight Negative Impact. As the replanted hedgerow/treeline matures, it will be of greater ecological value than that which it replaced because it will be composed of native species. It will however remain a slight negative impact as it is unlikely that all the habitat that is affected will be fully replaced.
5.4.2.4.2 Habitat Disturbance Permanent Minor Negative Impact
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-14 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
A number of habitats will be disturbed during the proposed in-stream works associated with the construction of the outfall. These include the stream bed and bankside habitats. Although only covering a very small area, these operations have the potential to disturb aquatic species and habitats. These include Salmon and Lamprey species that are protected under European and Irish legislation.
Mitigation The following mitigation/precautionary measures will be adhered to during the construction process:
. Where an outfall structure is to be constructed, only the minimum area necessary, at the edge of the river, will be dammed with sandbags to provide a work area for installation of the outfall apron/headwall. . Works will be carried out in such a way as to prevent suspension of solids or contamination with pollutants, as outlined elsewhere in this document. . All instream works will be carried out in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) staff. IFI-imposed stipulations will be adhered to. . In order to minimise impacts on salmonids, all instream works and any works likely to result in elevation of suspended solid levels in downstream waters will be carried out in the period May-September inclusive. . The invert of the outfall structure will be 200-300mm below the level of the receiving watercourse. . There will be no tracking of machinery in the stream/river beds. Works will be carried out from the bank. . A suitably sized excavator will be used. . Works will be carried out simultaneously with works already planned as part of the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme. . All works will be subject to mitigation and best practice that is detailed within the main body of the EIS.
Residual Impact With the above mitigation measures in place the impact can be re-classified as a Permanent Neutral Impact. In other words the character of the Kilbrittain Stream bed will be permanently altered, but in a way that does not significantly affect its quality.
5.4.2.4.3 Pollution of Watercourses Temporary Significant Negative Impact The proposed works have the potential to cause pollution of the respective watercourses, especially during the construction phase. The main pollution risks are from hydrocarbon spills/leaks and contamination with suspended solids or uncured concrete. The use of machinery at the sites carries the potential for accidental hydrocarbon contamination of the area, by fuel spillages or oil leaks for example. Pollution of the watercourses, in particular the Bridewell and Bandon Rivers would be extremely significant because they support several species and habitats protected under European and Irish legislation. There is potential for the proposed drainage scheme to cause the discharge of pollutants picked up from the road surfaces into the watercourses. However, the proposed development is considered to represent, at worst, no change to the existing situation whereby the existing drainage scheme continues to operate. The upgrading of gullies and drains will probably reduce the potential for this impact by directing more surface water to underground channels.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-15 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Mitigation Mitigation for this impact involves a number of general precautionary measures as well as more specific prescriptions:
. The surface soil layer, including vegetation, will be stripped for reinstatement after infilling. . Where practicable, existing vegetation and trees will be avoided and left in-situ. . Where short-term soil storage is required during the construction phase, it will be stored a minimum of 10m from the river/stream banks and covered to avoid excessive sediment run-off or windblow. . Where excavation/landscaping is required close to the stream/river banks and where appropriate, a silt fence will be erected to avoid silt contamination entering the rivers. . Any areas of bare soil remaining after the landscaping phase will be revegetated as soon as possible by spreading a grass seed mix in order to minimise sediment run-off potential. . Any tracking or rutting caused by the construction works will be landscaped and reseeded to avoid creation of erosion channels. . Any excavated material that is not re-used will be disposed of to an EPA approved waste disposal facility . Excavations will be carried out using a suitably sized excavator. . Care will be taken at all times to avoid contamination of the rivers/streams with concrete or any other contaminant. . Where an outfall structure is to be constructed, the minimum area necessary, at the edge of the river, will be dammed with sandbags in order to provide a work area for installation of the outfall apron/headwall and to prevent contamination of the river with uncured concrete. . If required in order to maintain a dry working area, the water will be pumped to grass at a suitable distance from the river, or back to the river via a settlement tank or filter. . Leak-proof shuttering will be erected and pouring will be done with care, by hand if necessary. . Precast concrete units will be used where suitable. . All instream works will be carried out in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) staff. IFI-imposed stipulations will be adhered to. . In order to minimise impacts on salmonids, all instream works and any works likely to result in elevation of suspended solid levels in downstream waters will be carried out in the period May-September inclusive. . Works will only be undertaken in good weather when there is little chance of flooding or excessive sediment run-off. . There will be no tracking of machinery in the stream/river beds. Works will be carried from the bank. . Deepening of the Kilbrittain Stream will be carried out in such a way as to avoid significant elevation of suspended solids downstream of the works. This will be achieved as instructed by the IFI or as follows: channel deepening shall be carried out in sections by damming above and below the works area and over-pumping the water back to the stream below the works using an appropriately sized submersible pump. . Installation of the culvert under the GAA grounds will be carried out as far as possible ‘in the dry’ before diverting the stream through it.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-16 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
. Mobile storage such as fuel bowsers will be bunded to 110% capacity to prevent spills. Tanks for bowsers and generators shall be double skinned. . When not in use all valves and fuel trigger guns from storage containers will be locked. . All plant refueling will take place on site using mobile fuel bowsers, only dedicated trained & competent personal to carry out refueling operations. Plant refueling will take place as far as practicable from watercourses. A spill kit and drip tray shall be available for all refueling operations. Equipment shall not be left unattended during refueling. All pipework from containers to pump nozzles will have anti siphon valves fitted. . Strict procedures for plant inspection, maintenance and repairs shall be detailed in the contractor’s method statement and machinery shall be checked for leaks before arrival on site. . All site plant will be inspected at the beginning of each day prior to use. Defective plant shall not be used until the defect is satisfactorily fixed. . All major repair and maintenance operations will take place off site. . Stringent plant refueling procedures shall be detailed in the contractor’s method statement.
Residual Impact Provided all mitigation measures and prescriptions are adhered to, no significant negative impact as a result of the proposed works is likely.
5.4.2.4.4 Introduction of Invasive Species Long-term Significant Negative Impact No invasive species were recorded at the site. Highly invasive species that thrive in riparian habitats, such as Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam, are commonly occur in Ireland. Machinery that has worked at an infected site is likely to cause the spread of such species by transferring the tiny seeds or plant fragments of these species. Such invasive species pose a serious threat to biodiversity and the health of native vegetation types. The duration of the impact could be short-term or permanent depending on whether or not an eradication effort is made but once established, eradication is time-consuming and expensive.
Mitigation All Machinery will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to arrival on site. This procedure will be detailed in the contractor’s method statement.
Residual Impact With the above precautionary measure in place, no introduction of invasive species is likely.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-17 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
5.4.3 Flood Defence Works at Allin Institute
A total of four habitats were recorded in the vicinity of the Allin Institute (Table 5.3).
Table 5.3. Habitats recorded in the vicinity of the Allin Institute along with their respective codes. The habitat classifications and codes correspond to those described in ‘A Guide to Habitats in Ireland’ (Fossit 2000). Habitat Code Eroding/Upland Rivers FW1 Scrub WS1 Building and artificial surfaces BL3 Flowerbeds and Borders BC4
A small stream enters the Bandon River at this point (FW1). This is culverted at present close to the discharge point and is surrounded by built structures (BL3) including the Bandon Bridge, The Allin Institute building, a concrete slipway and an amenity street area. There are flowerbeds (BC4) located in the amenity street area. On the bank downstream of the outfall point, there is a small patch of Bramble dominated Scrub (WS1) and a Sycamore Tree. The location of the proposed alteration is shown in Plate 5.8
Plate 5.8. Site of proposed alteration to the plan at the Allin Institute in the urban area of Bandon Town).
5.4.3.1 Significance of Habitats None of the habitats recorded at the site are listed in Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. In the area surrounding the proposed works adjacent to the Allin Institute, the most ecologically significant habitats is the adjacent Bandon River (FW1).
The other habitats in the surrounding area include a culverted stream that discharges into Bandon River at this point but is highly modified from its natural state and urban, street habitats. Other than the Bandon
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-18 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
River, none of these habitats are considered to be of ecological significance, being highly modified from their natural state and supporting very limited species diversity.
5.4.3.2 Fauna
5.4.3.2.1 Mammals A walkover survey for mammal species was carried out during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. This included dedicated Otter and Bat surveys of the study area for the proposed scheme as well as a general walkover survey for mammal species.
The site of the proposed works was previously assessed in the EIS and no habitat of particular suitability for Mammal species was recorded in this area.
Otter spraint was recorded under the bridge during the EIS surveys but no other signs of Otter or potential holt sites were identified at this location.
A dedicated bat survey of the adjacent Bandon Bridge was carried out on two occasions during the surveys for the original EIS. Soprano Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmeaus) was recorded feeding over the river in this area throughout the survey period. Occasional contacts were made with Leisler’s Bat (Nyctalus leisleri) and a Bat of Myotis genus that was not seen but is likely to be a Daubentons (Myotis daubentoni).
It was concluded that there was constant Soprano Pipistrelle feeding activity around the bridge and walls. It is possible that small numbers of this species roost within the bridge but no evidence of a significant roost was recorded.
5.4.3.2.2 Birds A bird survey of this section of the study area was undertaken during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS.
No species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive the Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland (BoCCI) Red List were observed on this site and no habitat of particular significance was identified in the area..
5.4.3.2.3 Fish A fish stock survey covering this section of the Bandon River was undertaken during the during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. This identified the Bandon River as being of importance for a range of fish species including Salmon, Brook and River Lamprey. Spawning has been confirmed in the river downstream of the weir.
5.4.3.2.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel A dedicated and licenced survey for Freshwater Pearl Mussel was undertaken during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. On the basis of the this survey it is considered unlikely that Freshwater Pearl Mussel are present within the study area though habitats within the river appear suitable for this species.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-19 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
5.4.3.3 Significance of Fauna No species that are listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive were recorded at the site of the proposed works with limited habitat for faunal species recorded in the terrestrial section of the site.
The River Bandon however, is of considerable significance for a number of faunal species.
The river is described in the fish stock survey report as having exceptional juvenile salmon populations. This survey also confirms that salmon spawn throughout the lower river.
The same report describes the lower River Bandon also having exceptional juvenile lamprey populations. Both River lampreys and Brook lampreys are thought to be present.
Both of the above species are listed on Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive. In addition, the river and surrounding vegetation provide habitat for two further species that are protected under European legislation. These are Otter (Annex II, Habitats Directive) and Kingfisher (Annex I, Birds Directive). No signs of these species were recorded in the vicinity of the proposed works during the surveys associated with the proposed works. Otter spraint was found under the nearby Bandon Bridge.
5.4.3.4 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation The impact classification terminology used in the following sections is based on the scheme set out in Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements (EPA 2002)
5.4.3.4.1 Habitat Loss Permanent Negligible Negative Impact The proposed works will not result in any additional loss of habitat from that which is detailed in the original EIS for the scheme. Any impacts were considered in the original EIS. Habitat loss will be minimal as the existing urban, built habitats will be replaced with new urban, built habitats. There will however be the loss of a patch of scrub and small, non native trees along the river bank immediately downstream of the existing culvert outfall.
Mitigation Mitigation detailed in the original EIS to prevent habitat loss outside the site footprint will be employed and the works will be undertaken in conjunction with the main phases of the drainage works that are the subject of the original EIS.
Residual Impact With mitigation in place, the impact associated with this element of the works is considered to be negligible.
5.4.3.4.2 Habitat Disturbance Short Term Negligible Negative Impact The proposed works will not result in any additional habitat disturbance from that which is detailed in the original EIS. There will be only minimal disturbance to the existing urban and built habitats on the site. There will be some works within the existing highly modified stream at this location
Mitigation The following mitigation/precautionary measures will be adhered to during the construction process:
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-20 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
. Where an outfall structure is to be constructed, only the minimum area necessary, at the edge of the river, will be dammed with sandbags to provide a work area for installation of the outfall apron/headwall. . Works will be carried out in such a way as to prevent suspension of solids or contamination with pollutants, as outlined elsewhere in this document. . All instream works will be carried out in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) staff. IFI-imposed stipulations will be adhered to. . In order to minimise impacts on salmonids, all instream works and any works likely to result in elevation of suspended solid levels in downstream waters will be carried out in the period May-September inclusive. . The invert of the outfall structure will be 200-300mm below the level of the receiving watercourse. . There will be no tracking of machinery in the stream/river beds. Works will be carried out from the bank. . A suitably sized excavator will be used. . Works will be carried out simultaneously with works already planned as part of the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme. . All works will be subject to mitigation and best practice that is detailed within the main body of the EIS.
Residual Impact With the above mitigation measures in place the impact can be re-classified as a Permanent Neutral Impact. In other words the character of the Stream bed will be permanently altered, but in a way that does not significantly affect its quality.
5.4.3.4.3 Pollution of Watercourses Temporary Significant Negative Impact The proposed works have the potential to cause pollution of the respective watercourses, especially during the construction phase. The main pollution risks are from hydrocarbon spills/leaks and contamination with suspended solids or uncured concrete. The use of machinery at the sites carries the potential for accidental hydrocarbon contamination of the area, by fuel spillages or oil leaks for example. Pollution of the watercourses, in particular the Bandon River would be extremely significant because they support several species and habitats protected under European and Irish legislation. There is potential for the proposed drainage scheme to cause the discharge of pollutants picked up from the road surfaces into the watercourses. However, the proposed development is considered to represent, at worst, no change to the existing situation whereby the existing drainage scheme continues to operate. The upgrading of gullies and drains will probably reduce the potential for this impact by directing more surface water to underground channels.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-21 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Mitigation Mitigation for this impact involves a number of general precautionary measures as well as more specific prescriptions: . The surface soil layer, including vegetation, will be stripped for reinstatement after infilling. . Where practicable, existing vegetation and trees will be avoided and left in-situ. . Where short-term soil storage is required during the construction phase, it will be stored a minimum of 10m from the river/stream banks and covered to avoid excessive sediment run-off or windblow. . Where excavation/landscaping is required close to the stream/river banks and where appropriate, a silt fence will be erected to avoid silt contamination entering the rivers. . Any areas of bare soil remaining after the landscaping phase will be revegetated as soon as possible by spreading a grass seed mix in order to minimise sediment run-off potential. . Any tracking or rutting caused by the construction works will be landscaped and reseeded to avoid creation of erosion channels. . Any excavated material that is not re-used will be disposed of to an EPA approved waste disposal facility . Excavations will be carried out using a suitably sized excavator. . Care will be taken at all times to avoid contamination of the rivers/streams with concrete or any other contaminant. . Where an outfall structure is to be constructed, the minimum area necessary, at the edge of the river, will be dammed with sandbags in order to provide a work area for installation of the outfall apron/headwall and to prevent contamination of the river with uncured concrete. . If required in order to maintain a dry working area, the water will be pumped to grass at a suitable distance from the river, or back to the river via a settlement tank or filter. . Leak-proof shuttering will be erected and pouring will be done with care, by hand if necessary. . Precast concrete units will be used where suitable. . All instream works will be carried out in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) staff. IFI-imposed stipulations will be adhered to. . In order to minimise impacts on salmonids, all instream works and any works likely to result in elevation of suspended solid levels in downstream waters will be carried out in the period May-September inclusive. . Works will only be undertaken in good weather when there is little chance of flooding or excessive sediment run-off. . There will be no tracking of machinery in the stream/river beds. Works will be carried from the bank. . Mobile storage such as fuel bowsers will be bunded to 110% capacity to prevent spills. Tanks for bowsers and generators shall be double skinned. . When not in use all valves and fuel trigger guns from storage containers will be locked. . All plant refueling will take place on site using mobile fuel bowsers, only dedicated trained & competent personal to carry out refueling operations. Plant refueling will take place as far as practicable from watercourses. A spill kit and drip tray shall be available for all refueling operations. Equipment shall not be left unattended during refueling. All pipework from containers to pump nozzles will have anti siphon valves fitted.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-22 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
. Strict procedures for plant inspection, maintenance and repairs shall be detailed in the contractor’s method statement and machinery shall be checked for leaks before arrival on site. . All site plant will be inspected at the beginning of each day prior to use. Defective plant shall not be used until the defect is satisfactorily fixed. . All major repair and maintenance operations will take place off site. . Stringent plant refueling procedures shall be detailed in the contractor’s method statement. . Works will be carried out simultaneously with works already planned as part of the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme. . All works will be subject to mitigation and best practice that is detailed within the main body of the EIS.
Residual Impact Provided all mitigation measures and prescriptions are adhered to, no significant negative impact as a result of the proposed works is likely.
5.4.3.4.4 Introduction of Invasive Species Long-term Significant Negative Impact No invasive species were recorded at the site. Highly invasive species that thrive in riparian habitats, such as Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam, are commonly occur in Ireland. Machinery that has worked at an infected site is likely to cause the spread of such species by transferring the tiny seeds or plant fragments of these species. Such invasive species pose a serious threat to biodiversity and the health of native vegetation types. The duration of the impact could be short-term or permanent depending on whether or not an eradication effort is made but once established, eradication is time-consuming and expensive.
Mitigation All Machinery will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to arrival on site. This procedure will be detailed in the contractor’s method statement.
Residual Impact With the above precautionary measure in place, no introduction of invasive species is likely.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-23 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
5.4.4 Flood Defence Wall at Mill Place
A total of six habitats were recorded in the vicinity of the proposed flood wall at Mill Place (Table 5.4).
Table 5.4. Habitats recorded in the vicinity of the proposed flood wall at Mill Place along with their respective codes. The habitat classifications and codes correspond to those described in ‘A Guide to Habitats in Ireland’ (Fossit 2000). Habitat Code Eroding/Upland Rivers FW1 Depositing River FW2 Treeline WL2 Building and artificial surfaces BL3 Bramble Scrub WS1 Amenity Grassland GA3 Dry Meadows & Grassy Verges GS2
The proposed flood wall replaces an embankment, which was previously proposed as part of this scheme. The river in this area is classified as an Upland River (FW1) where it is downstream of the weir but is classified as a Depositing River (FW2) where it is upstream of this feature. The bank is relatively steep in this area with a mixture of Tree Line (WL2), Rank Grasses (GS2) and Bramble Scrub (WS1) (Plate 5.9). The habitats on the bank top are urban and are classified as Buildings & Artificial Surfaces (BL3) with car parks, roads and buildings present (Plate 5.10). At the western end of the proposed wall, there is a Tree Line (WL2) with a mature Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) and a Elm (Ulmus sp.) (Plate 5.11). The proposed wall bisects this tree line and turns to the north through a field of rank grassland (GS2) before terminating at an existing wall where there is also a break in slope up away from the river. Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) was recorded within the grassland.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-24 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 5.9. Site of proposed wall as viewed from the opposite bank of the river.
Plate 5.10. Urban habitats where the wall is proposed.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-25 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 5.11. Rank Grassland and Tree Line at the western end of the proposed flood wall.
5.4.4.1 Significance of Habitats None of the habitats recorded at the site are listed in Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. In the area surrounding the proposed works adjacent to the proposed flood wall, the most ecologically significant habitats is the adjacent Bandon River (FW1).
The other habitats in the surrounding area include a Tree Line (WL2) and built residential and car parking developments. Other than the Bandon River, none of these habitats are considered to be of particular ecological significance, being highly modified from their natural state and supporting very limited species diversity.
5.4.4.2 Fauna
5.4.4.2.1 Mammals A walkover survey for mammal species was carried out during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. This included dedicated Otter and Bat surveys of the study area for the proposed scheme as well as a general walkover survey for mammal species.
The site of the proposed works was previously assessed in the EIS and no habitat of particular suitability for Mammal species was recorded in this area.
A dedicated bat survey of the area including the trees at the site was undertaken during the surveys for the original EIS. This survey was undertaken from 22:10 until 22:36 on the 10th May 2012. During this period, there was continuous feeding activity from a small number of Soprano Pipistrelles associated with the river but little activity associated with the terrestrial elements of the survey area. Leisler’s were also
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-26 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with recorded flying high over the study area during this period. Particular attention was also paid to the hydro- electric building but no bat activity was recorded. No bats were recorded in this area during the dawn survey.
5.4.4.2.2 Birds A bird survey of this section of the study area was undertaken during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS.
No species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive the Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland (BoCCI) Red List were observed on this site and no habitat of particular significance was identified in the area..
5.4.4.2.3 Fish No in-stream works are proposed as part of this element of the development.
5.4.4.2.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel No in-stream works are proposed as part of this element of the development.
5.4.4.3 Significance of Fauna No species that are listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive were recorded at the site of the proposed works with limited habitat for faunal species recorded in the terrestrial section of the site.
The River Bandon however, is of considerable significance for a number of faunal species, though no in- stream works are proposed in this element of the works.
The river is described in the fish stock survey report as having exceptional juvenile salmon populations. This survey also confirms that salmon spawn throughout the lower river. The riverbanks and surrounding vegetation provide habitat for two species that are protected under European legislation. These are Otter (Annex II, Habitats Directive) and Kingfisher (Annex I, Birds Directive). No signs of these species were recorded in the vicinity of the proposed works during the surveys associated with the proposed works.
5.4.4.4 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation The impact classification terminology used in the following sections is based on the scheme set out in Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements (EPA 2002)
5.4.4.4.1 Habitat Loss Permanent Negligible Negative Impact The proposed works will not result in any additional loss of habitat from that which is detailed in the original EIS for the scheme. The new proposal of a wall instead of an embankment will have a smaller footprint and thus a lesser impact with regard to habitat loss. Any impacts were considered in the original EIS. Habitat loss will be minimal as the existing habitats include urban, built areas, rank grasslands of low ecological value and a tree line (which will be retained).
Mitigation Mitigation detailed in the original EIS to prevent habitat loss outside the site footprint will be employed and the works will be undertaken in conjunction with the main phases of the drainage works that are the subject of the original EIS. In addition, specific work practices will be employed to protects the existing
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-27 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with trees on the site during the construction of the wall. Works will be carried out in accordance with the British Standard BS:5837 – Trees in relation to construction.
Residual Impact With mitigation in place, the impact associated with this element of the works is considered to be negligible.
5.4.4.4.2 Habitat Disturbance Short Term Negligible Negative Impact The proposed works will involve no in-stream works or disturbance in areas of ecologically sensitive habitats. The majority of the wall will be constructed in built, urban habitats that are in the vicinity of existing residential buildings. There will be a smaller footprint associated with a proposed wall than with an embankment and thus, less potential for disturbance than previously assessed in the original EIS.
Mitigation The following mitigation/precautionary measures will be adhered to during the construction process:
. The works area will be fenced off to ensure that the minimum area necessary is disturbed and there is no access to the river. . All the mitigation and best practice set out in the original EIS will be adhered to.
Residual Impact With mitigation in place, the impact associated with this element of the works is considered to be negligible.
5.4.4.4.3 Pollution of Watercourses Short Term Negligible Negative Impact The proposed works do not involve any in-stream works and have been designed to avoid all contact with the nearby Bandon River. Pathways for pollution to enter the river have been avoided through the employment of best construction practice. This is described as mitigation below.
Mitigation Mitigation for this impact involves a number of general precautionary measures as well as more specific prescriptions: . The surface soil layer, including vegetation, will be stripped for reinstatement after infilling. . Where practicable, existing vegetation and trees will be avoided and left in-situ. . Where short-term soil storage is required during the construction phase, it will be stored a minimum of 10m from the river/stream banks and covered to avoid excessive sediment run-off or windblow. . Where excavation/landscaping is required close to the stream/river banks and where appropriate, a silt fence will be erected to avoid silt contamination entering the rivers. . Any areas of bare soil remaining after the landscaping phase will be revegetated as soon as possible by spreading a grass seed mix in order to minimise sediment run-off potential. . Any tracking or rutting caused by the construction works will be landscaped and reseeded to avoid creation of erosion channels. . Any excavated material that is not re-used will be disposed of to an EPA approved waste disposal facility
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-28 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
. Excavations will be carried out using a suitably sized excavator. . Care will be taken at all times to avoid contamination of the rivers/streams with concrete or any other contaminant. . Leak-proof shuttering will be erected and pouring of concrete will be done with care, by hand if necessary. . Precast concrete units will be used where suitable. . Works will only be undertaken in good weather when there is little chance of flooding or excessive sediment run-off. . There will be no tracking of machinery in the stream/river beds with no access to the watercourse. . Mobile storage such as fuel bowsers will be bunded to 110% capacity to prevent spills. Tanks for bowsers and generators shall be double skinned. . When not in use all valves and fuel trigger guns from storage containers will be locked. . All plant refueling will take place on site using mobile fuel bowsers, only dedicated trained & competent personal to carry out refueling operations. Plant refueling will take place as far as practicable from watercourses. A spill kit and drip tray shall be available for all refueling operations. Equipment shall not be left unattended during refueling. All pipework from containers to pump nozzles will have anti siphon valves fitted. . Strict procedures for plant inspection, maintenance and repairs shall be detailed in the contractor’s method statement and machinery shall be checked for leaks before arrival on site. . All site plant will be inspected at the beginning of each day prior to use. Defective plant shall not be used until the defect is satisfactorily fixed. . All major repair and maintenance operations will take place off site. . Stringent plant refueling procedures shall be detailed in the contractor’s method statement.
Residual Impact Provided all mitigation measures and prescriptions are adhered to, no significant negative impact as a result of the proposed works is likely.
5.4.4.4.4 Introduction of Invasive Species Long-term Significant Negative Impact Japanese Knotweed was recorded in the grasslands in the vicinity of the proposed works. It will be avoided where possible. Machinery that has worked at an infected site is likely to cause the spread of such species by transferring the tiny seeds or plant fragments of these species, in soil trapped in their tyre thread for instance. Such invasive species pose a serious threat to biodiversity and the health of native vegetation types. The duration of the impact could be short-term or permanent depending on whether or not an eradication effort is made but once established, eradication is time-consuming and expensive.
Mitigation All Machinery will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to arrival on site. This procedure will be detailed in the contractor’s method statement. The affected area will be fenced off and avoided where possible. No soil will be exported off the site and any disturbed soils will be isolated within the site and treated for the eradication of the species as necessary.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-29 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
A programme of works to eradicate and control the spread the above invasive species will be started prior to the outset of works. This will follow the ‘Knotweed Code of Practice’ (English Nature)
Residual Impact With the above precautionary measure in place, the invsasive species on the site will be actively managed and measures will be in place to avoid the spreading of the species. This is considered to be a positive impact when compared with the existing unmanaged situation.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-30 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
5.4.5 Fish Pass
A total of six habitats were recorded in the vicinity of the proposed fish pass (Table 1.5).
Table 1.5. Habitats recorded in the vicinity of the proposed fish pass along with their respective codes. The habitat classifications and codes correspond to those described in ‘A Guide to Habitats in Ireland’ (Fossit 2000). Habitat Code Eroding/Upland Rivers FW1 Depositing River FW2 Tree Line WL2 Amenity Grassland GA2 Building and artificial surfaces BL3 Spoil & Bare Ground ED2
The proposed alternative fish pass is located immediately upstream of the existing Bandon Weir. This section of the river is affected by the weir, which slows the flow of the water upstream. The river is classified as a Depositing River (FW2) in this area. The weir itself is classified as Buildings & Artificial Surfaces (BL3) with the river downstream classified as an Eroding River (FW1). The bankside close to where the ramp is proposed supports a sparse Tree Line (WL2) with dominant Grey Willow (Salix cinerea) and Alder (Alnus glutinosa). Behind the tree line, the bank supports a regularly mown Amenity Grassland (GA2) with a footpath with an unbound surface (ED2) and a grassy embankment behind. Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) was recorded in this area. The weir is shown in Plate 3.16 and the bankside habitats adjacent to the proposed rock ramp are shown in Plate 3.17.
Plate 3.16. Bandon Weir as viewed from downstream
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-31 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 3.17. Bankside habitat upstream of existing weir. Japanese Knotweed re-growth evident
5.4.5.1 Significance of Habitats None of the habitats recorded at the site are listed in Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. In the area surrounding the proposed works adjacent to the proposed fish pass, the most ecologically significant habitats is the Bandon River (FW2) in which the proposed development is located. This river also has the potential to transmit pollution to a wider area downstream and outside the works footprint.
The other habitats in the surrounding area include a Tree Line (WL2) and built residential and car parking developments. Other than the Bandon River, none of these habitats are considered to be of particular ecological significance, being highly modified from their natural state and supporting very limited species diversity.
5.4.5.2 Fauna
5.4.5.2.1 Mammals A walkover survey for mammal species was carried out during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. This included dedicated Otter and Bat surveys of the study area for the proposed scheme as well as a general walkover survey for mammal species.
The site of the proposed works was previously assessed in the EIS and no habitat of particular suitability for Mammal species was recorded in this area.
Otter spraint was recorded under the bridge during the EIS surveys but no other signs of Otter or potential holt sites were identified at this location.
A dedicated bat survey of the downstream Bandon Bridge was carried out on two occasions during the surveys for the original EIS. Soprano Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmeaus) was recorded feeding over the
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-32 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with river in this area throughout the survey period. Occasional contacts were made with Leisler’s Bat (Nyctalus leisleri) and a Bat of Myotis genus that was not seen but is likely to be a Daubentons (Myotis daubentoni).
It was concluded that there was constant Soprano Pipistrelle feeding activity around the bridge and walls. It is possible that small numbers of this species roost within the bridge but no evidence of a significant roost was recorded. Another bat survey was undertaken in the area surrounding the weir on the opposite bank During this survey, there was continuous feeding activity from a small number of Soprano Pipistrelles associated with the river but little activity associated with the terrestrial elements of the survey area. Leisler’s were also recorded flying high over the study area during this period. Particular attention was also paid to the hydro-electric building but no bat activity was recorded. No bats were recorded in this area during the dawn survey.
5.4.5.2.2 Birds A bird survey of this section of the study area was undertaken during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS.
Kingfisher, a species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive was recorded flying over the river in this area. No suitable nesting habitat was however recorded. No species listed on the Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland (BoCCI) Red List were observed on this site and no habitat of particular significance was identified in the area..
5.4.5.2.3 Fish A fish stock survey covering this section of the Bandon River was undertaken during the during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. This identified the Bandon River as being of importance for a range of fish species including Salmon, Brook and River Lamprey. Spawning has been confirmed in the river downstream of the weir.
5.4.5.2.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel A dedicated and licenced survey for Freshwater Pearl Mussel was undertaken during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. On the basis of the this survey it is considered unlikely that Freshwater Pearl Mussel are present within the study area though habitats within the river appear suitable for this species.
5.4.5.3 Significance of Fauna The River Bandon within the study area is of considerable significance for a number of faunal species.
This section of river is described in the fish stock survey report as having exceptional juvenile salmon populations. This survey also confirms that salmon spawn throughout the lower river.
The same report describes the lower River Bandon also having exceptional juvenile lamprey populations. Both River lampreys and Brook lampreys are thought to be present.
Both of the above species are listed on Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive. In addition, the river and surrounding vegetation provide habitat for two further species that are protected under European legislation. These are Otter (Annex II, Habitats Directive) and Kingfisher (Annex I, Birds Directive). No proof of either of these species breeding within the study area was recorded during the surveys but both
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-33 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with species were observed during surveys and on this basis and the presence of suitable habitat, there is a high likelihood that they breed in the area. No evidence of Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Annex II, Habitats Directive) being present in the study area was recorded
5.4.5.4 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation The impact classification terminology used in the following sections is based on the scheme set out in Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements (EPA 2002)
5.4.5.4.1 Habitat Loss Permanent Minor Negative Impact The proposed rock ramp differs from the original proposal in that it is located upstream of the weir rather than downstream as previously proposed. This is to facilitate the more effective operation of the fish pass. The design will involve additional loss of habitat upstream of the weir of approximately 137m x 12.6m (1,726 sqm.), which when put into the context of the overall scheme that includes the excavation of the entire riverbed for a distance of approximately 3.6km downstream of the weir, is considered to be a minor negative impact.
The additional habitat lost will include the Depositing River (FW2) that is present upstream of the weir and possibly some of the bankside habitat on the right (southern) bank of the river. The Depositing River habitat will be replaced with Eroding River Habitat (FW1). The bankside habitat includes Amenity Grassland (GA2) and a gappy Tree Line (WL2) with small riparian trees. These habitats will be should their loss be required in the construction of the fish pass.
Mitigation The proposed alteration to the fish pass will be subject to all the mitigation set out to prevent habitat loss in the main body of the EIS. This will include minimization of the work area within the river and creation of new Eroding River habitat in the place of artificially created Depositing River conditions upstream of the weir at present. These works will better facilitate the passage of fish to the upper Bandon catchment.
Residual Impact Given the design of the scheme and measures that are in place within the original EIS, it is unlikely that the proposed alteration to the fish pass design will result in any negative impact on the habitat diversity and quality in the area.
5.4.5.4.2 Habitat Disturbance Short Term Negligible Negative Impact The proposed works will result only in minor habitat disturbance when assessed in conjunction with that which is detailed in the original EIS. There will be additional disturbance to a relatively small area in Depositing River Habitat that has been artificially created by the weir. The additional disturbance will be negligible when considered as part of the overall scheme.
Mitigation The following mitigation/precautionary measures will be adhered to during the construction process:
. All works will be subject to mitigation and best practice that is detailed within the main body of the EIS.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-34 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
. Instream works will only be undertaken during the period May – September inclusive, to minimise the impact on Salmon, as outlined in IFI Guidelines regarding permission for instream works. This avoids the main periods of migration and spawning for the species. . Works will be designed to avoid the blocking of the river and approximately 60% of the width of the river will be subject to works at any one time. . Measures described in Section 5.6.1.2 below will be put in place to minimise the impacts of suspended solids in the water column. . Works will be carried out between the hours of 8:00 and 6:00 leaving the river undisturbed for 14 hours each day . Additional mitigation will include electro-fishing of work areas prior to outset of the works and relocation of adult and juvenile Lamprey to areas upstream of the works and upstream of Bandon weir. . All instream works will be carried out in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) staff. IFI-imposed stipulations will be adhered to. . Works will be carried out simultaneously with works already described in the original EIS.
Residual Impact It is likely that, with the mitigation in place this impact will continue to be a Short Term Negligible Negative Impact when considered in context as part of the overall scheme.
5.4.5.4.3 Pollution of Watercourses Short Term Negligible Negative Impact The proposed works represent only a minor alteration to the original proposal that was the subject of the original EIS with similar operations being undertaken to those that are already proposed. There is an increase of approximately 137m x 12.6m (1,726 sqm.) of in-stream works, which when put into the context of the overall scheme that includes the excavation of the entire riverbed for a distance of approximately 3.6km downstream of the weir, is considered to be a minor negative impact.
Mitigation Mitigation for this impact includes all the measures that were set out in the original EIS. These are listed below: The proposed works will only take place over approximately 60% of the width of the river at any one time. Works will only be undertaken in the period May – September inclusive to avoid the periods of greatest sensitivity for Salmonids. Whilst the methodology for carrying out these works has not been finalised at this point, it will include measures to minimise the suspension and transfer of sediment downstream. These measures are likely to include the use of silt barriers downstream of the works areas and removal of any accumulated silt, construction of silt sumps downstream of the works areas, cofferdamming and dewatering of works areas where concrete and other building works are proposed. Works will only be undertaken during normal working hours (8:00 – 6:00) thus allowing the river to run clean for 14 hours per day. Rock will be broken out in such a manner as to ensure that fish passage up the river is possible at all times. Either the broken rock will be graded to ensure that there is never
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-35 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
an in surmountable lip or portable rock ramps or fish ladders will be employed to allow continued fish passage. All works undertaken on the banks will be fully consolidated to prevent scour and run off of silt. Consolidation may include use of protective and biodegradable matting (coirmesh) on the banks and also the sowing of grass seed on bare soil. All concrete works will be carried out in dry conditions with no in-stream pouring of concrete. In areas where concrete is required within the river channel such as the bridge piers and flood defence walls, a dry working area will be created or pre-cast solutions will be used. There will be no refueling of machinery within the river channel. Refueling will take place at designated locations at distances of greater than 30 metres from the watercourse. No vehicles will be left unattended when refueling and a spill kit including an oil containment boom and absorbent pads will be on site at all times. Any fuel that is stored on the site will be in a double skinned, bunded container that will be located within a designated works compound at a location that is removed from the river. All other construction materials and plant will be stored in this compound. The compound will also house the site offices and portaloo toilets. This compound will either be located on ground that is not prone to flooding or will be surrounded by a protective earth bund to prevent inundation. All vehicles will be regularly maintained and checked for fuel and oil leaks. During the construction phase, minor changes to the design must be provided for to ensure that the mitigation is effective. The works will be overseen by an ecologist and ideally the mitigation will be constructed in conjunction with the IFI. The main excavation of the channel and thalweg will be undertaken in the initial phase of works with habitat creation works and other mitigation undertaken afterwards once the initial works have been completed. This will allow the careful placement of boulders, gravels and rubble mats in the locations that they will work most effectively. An ongoing scheme of monitoring will be undertaken. This will follow on from the initial baseline fish stock survey and will be carried out annually until one year following the first maintenance of the channel. The obvious compaction of salmonid gravels and /or the creation of new silt berms in river reaches downstream of the proposed works zone, while unlikely, could occur. Should this happen any silted gravel shoals will subsequently be tossed and new silt berms generated by the scheme will be removed as part of the works programme. Residual Impact It is likely that, with the mitigation in place this impact will continue to be a Short Term Negligible Negative Impact when considered in context as part of the overall scheme
5.4.5.4.4 Introduction of Invasive Species Permanent Moderate Negative Impact The bankside supports extensive growth of the invasive plant species Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and Himalayan Knotweed (Persicaria wallichii). The proposed works have the potential to result in the spread of these species through soil and bankside disturbance. This could have the effect of destroying the native floral communities and also bank destabilisation as bare earth will pervade during the winter.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-36 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Mitigation Measures All Machinery will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to arrival on site. This procedure will be detailed in the contractor’s method statement. The affected area will be fenced off and avoided where possible. No soil will be exported off the site and any disturbed soils will be isolated within the site and treated for the eradication of the species as necessary. A programme of works to eradicate and control the spread the above invasive species will be started prior to the outset of works. This will follow the ‘Knotweed Code of Practice’ (English Nature)
Residual Impact It is likely that, with the mitigation in place this impact will constitute a Long Term Moderate Positive Impact as there is no control of these invasive species currently in place.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-37 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
5.4.6 Additional Drainage Works
A total of two habitats were recorded in the vicinity of the proposed additional drainage works (Table 5.6).
Table 5.6. Habitats recorded in the vicinity of the proposed additional drainage works along with their respective codes. The habitat classifications and codes correspond to those described in ‘A Guide to Habitats in Ireland’ (Fossit 2000). Habitat Code Eroding/Upland Rivers FW1 Building and artificial surfaces BL3
The proposed additional drainage works are all proposed within the existing road and urban habitats within Bandon town (BL3). There are however, four outfalls to the surface water in the region. Two of these are located on vertical walls that are within canalised sections of the Bridewell and Bandon Rivers. These are classified as Eroding Rivers (FW1). Another will be located adjacent to existing outfalls from the Bandon Sewage Treatment Plant. The habitats surrounding this outfall include Buildings and Artificial Surfaces (BL3), Amenity Grassland (GA2) and a Tree Line (WL2). The river is classified as a Depositing River (FW2) at this location. The fourth outfall will be located upstream of the weir and will be located adjacent to a shopping centre car park. The outfall will be located in the riverbank, which supports Amenity Grassland (GA2) with a gappy Tree Line (WL2) also. The river is classified as a Depositing River (FW2) at this location.
5.4.6.1 Significance of Habitats None of the habitats recorded at the site are listed in Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. In the area surrounding the proposed works adjacent to the proposed flood wall, the most ecologically significant habitats is the adjacent Bandon River (FW1).
The other habitats in the surrounding area include a Tree Line (WL2) and built residential and car parking developments. Other than the Bandon River, none of these habitats are considered to be of particular ecological significance, being highly modified from their natural state and supporting very limited species diversity.
5.4.6.2 Fauna
5.4.6.2.1 Mammals The urban, built habitats where the majority of the works are proposed support little or no suitable habitat for mammal species. A walkover survey for mammal species which covered the areas of the proposed outfalls was undertaken during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. This included dedicated Otter and Bat surveys of the study area for the proposed scheme as well as a general walkover.
The site of the proposed works was previously assessed in the EIS and no habitat of particular suitability for Mammal species was recorded in the areas surrounding the outfalls.
Otter spraint was recorded at various locations during the EIS surveys but no other signs of Otter or potential holt sites were identified at these locations.
A dedicated bat survey of the adjacent Bandon Bridge (close to one of the outfalls) was carried out on two occasions during the surveys for the original EIS. Soprano Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmeaus) was
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-38 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with recorded feeding over the river in this area throughout the survey period. Occasional contacts were made with Leisler’s Bat (Nyctalus leisleri) and a Bat of Myotis genus that was not seen but is likely to be a Daubentons (Myotis daubentoni).
It was concluded that there was constant Soprano Pipistrelle feeding activity around the bridge and walls. It is possible that small numbers of this species roost within the bridge but no evidence of a significant roost was recorded.
5.4.6.2.2 Birds A bird survey of this section of the study area was undertaken during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS.
Kingfisher, a species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive was recorded flying near Bandon Bridge but no suitable nesting habitat was recorded in the area of any of the outfall points. No species listed on the Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland (BoCCI) Red List were observed on the outfall sites and no habitat of particular significance for birds was identified in the area.
5.4.6.2.3 Fish A fish stock survey covering this section of the Bandon River was undertaken during the during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. This identified the Bandon River as being of importance for a range of fish species including Salmon, Brook and River Lamprey. Spawning has been confirmed in the river downstream of the weir.
5.4.6.2.4 Freshwater Pearl Mussel A dedicated and licenced survey for Freshwater Pearl Mussel was undertaken during the ecological assessment carried out as part of the original EIS. On the basis of the this survey it is considered unlikely that Freshwater Pearl Mussel are present within the study area though habitats within the river appear suitable for this species.
5.4.6.3 Significance of Fauna No species that are listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive were recorded at the outfall sites with limited habitat for faunal species recorded in the terrestrial section of the site.
The River Bandon however, is of considerable significance for a number of faunal species.
The river is described in the fish stock survey report as having exceptional juvenile salmon populations. This survey also confirms that salmon spawn throughout the lower river.
The same report describes the lower River Bandon also having exceptional juvenile lamprey populations. Both River lampreys and Brook lampreys are thought to be present.
Both of the above species are listed on Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive. In addition, the river and surrounding vegetation provide habitat for two further species that are protected under European legislation. These are Otter (Annex II, Habitats Directive) and Kingfisher (Annex I, Birds Directive). No signs of these species were recorded in the vicinity of the proposed works during the surveys associated with the proposed works. Otter spraint was found under the nearby Bandon Bridge.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-39 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
5.4.6.4 Impacts on the Receiving Environment and Related Mitigation The impact classification terminology used in the following sections is based on the scheme set out in Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements (EPA 2002).
5.4.6.4.1 Habitat Loss Permanent Negligible Negative Impact The majority of the works will be located in the built, urban habitats (BL3) within Bandon Town. This habitat will not be lost as the completed development will comprise similar built habitat. The outfalls will also replace existing built habitats in two cases, whilst in the other two, they will result in the loss of small amounts Amenity Grassland (GA2) around the outfall point. Individual trees have been avoided in the design of the scheme.
Mitigation Mitigation detailed in the original EIS to prevent habitat loss outside the site footprint will be employed and the works will be undertaken in conjunction with the main phases of the drainage works that are the subject of the original EIS.
Residual Impact With mitigation in place, the impact associated with this element of the works is considered to be negligible.
5.4.6.4.2 Habitat Disturbance Short Term Minor Negative Impact A number of habitats will be disturbed during the proposed in-stream works associated with the construction of the outfall. These include the riverbed and bankside habitats. Although only covering a very small area, these operations have the potential to disturb aquatic species and habitats. These include Salmon and Lamprey species that are protected under European and Irish legislation.
Mitigation The following mitigation/precautionary measures will be adhered to during the construction process:
. Where an outfall structure is to be constructed, only the minimum area necessary, at the edge of the river, will be dammed with sandbags to provide a work area for installation of the outfall apron/headwall. . Works will be carried out in such a way as to prevent suspension of solids or contamination with pollutants, as outlined elsewhere in this document. . All instream works will be carried out in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) staff. IFI-imposed stipulations will be adhered to. . In order to minimise impacts on salmonids, all instream works and any works likely to result in elevation of suspended solid levels in downstream waters will be carried out in the period May-September inclusive. . The invert of the outfall structure will be 200-300mm below the level of the receiving watercourse. . There will be no tracking of machinery in the stream/river beds. Works will be carried out from the bank. . A suitably sized excavator will be used.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-40 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
. Works will be carried out simultaneously with works already planned as part of the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme. . All works will be subject to mitigation and best practice that is detailed within the main body of the EIS.
Residual Impact With the above mitigation measures in place the impact can be re-classified as a Short Term Negligible Impact.
5.4.6.4.3 Pollution of Watercourses Temporary Significant Negative Impact The proposed works have the potential to cause pollution of the downstream watercourses, during the construction of the outfalls. The main pollution risks are from hydrocarbon spills/leaks and contamination with suspended solids or uncured concrete. The use of machinery at the sites carries the potential for accidental hydrocarbon contamination of the area, by fuel spillages or oil leaks for example. Pollution of the Bandon River would be extremely significant because it supports several species and habitats protected under European and Irish legislation. There is potential for the proposed drainage scheme to cause the discharge of pollutants picked up from the road surfaces into the watercourses. However, the proposed development is considered to represent, at worst, no change to the existing situation whereby the existing drainage scheme continues to operate. The upgrading of gullies and drains will probably reduce the potential for this impact by directing more surface water to underground channels.
Mitigation Mitigation for this impact involves a number of general precautionary measures as well as more specific prescriptions:
. The surface soil layer, including vegetation, will be stripped for reinstatement after infilling. . Where practicable, existing vegetation and trees will be avoided and left in-situ. . Where short-term soil storage is required during the construction phase, it will be stored a minimum of 10m from the river/stream banks and covered to avoid excessive sediment run-off or windblow. . Where excavation/landscaping is required close to the stream/river banks and where appropriate, a silt fence will be erected to avoid silt contamination entering the rivers. . Any areas of bare soil remaining after the landscaping phase will be revegetated as soon as possible by spreading a grass seed mix in order to minimise sediment run-off potential. . Any tracking or rutting caused by the construction works will be landscaped and reseeded to avoid creation of erosion channels. . Any excavated material that is not re-used will be disposed of to an EPA approved waste disposal facility . Excavations will be carried out using a suitably sized excavator. . Care will be taken at all times to avoid contamination of the rivers/streams with concrete or any other contaminant. . Where an outfall structure is to be constructed, the minimum area necessary, at the edge of the river, will be dammed with sandbags in order to provide a work area for installation of the outfall apron/headwall and to prevent contamination of the river with uncured concrete.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-41 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
. If required in order to maintain a dry working area, the water will be pumped to grass at a suitable distance from the river, or back to the river via a settlement tank or filter. . Leak-proof shuttering will be erected and pouring will be done with care, by hand if necessary. . Precast concrete units will be used where suitable. . All instream works will be carried out in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) staff. IFI-imposed stipulations will be adhered to. . In order to minimise impacts on salmonids, all instream works and any works likely to result in elevation of suspended solid levels in downstream waters will be carried out in the period May-September inclusive. . Works will only be undertaken in good weather when there is little chance of flooding or excessive sediment run-off. . There will be no tracking of machinery in the stream/river beds. Works will be carried from the bank. . Mobile storage such as fuel bowsers will be bunded to 110% capacity to prevent spills. Tanks for bowsers and generators shall be double skinned. . When not in use all valves and fuel trigger guns from storage containers will be locked. . All plant refueling will take place on site using mobile fuel bowsers, only dedicated trained & competent personal to carry out refueling operations. Plant refueling will take place as far as practicable from watercourses. A spill kit and drip tray shall be available for all refueling operations. Equipment shall not be left unattended during refueling. All pipework from containers to pump nozzles will have anti siphon valves fitted. . Strict procedures for plant inspection, maintenance and repairs shall be detailed in the contractor’s method statement and machinery shall be checked for leaks before arrival on site. . All site plant will be inspected at the beginning of each day prior to use. Defective plant shall not be used until the defect is satisfactorily fixed. . All major repair and maintenance operations will take place off site. . Stringent plant refueling procedures shall be detailed in the contractor’s method statement. . Works will be carried out simultaneously with works already the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme. . All works will be subject to mitigation and best practice that is detailed within the main body of the EIS.
Residual Impact Provided all mitigation measures and prescriptions are adhered to, no significant negative impact as a result of the proposed works is likely.
5.4.6.4.4 Introduction of Invasive Species Permanent Moderate Negative Impact The only place where this species was encountered on the sites for this element of the works was on the bankside in the vicinity of the westernmost outfall (upstream of the weir). The bankside in this area supports extensive growth of the invasive plant species Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and Himalayan Knotweed (Persicaria wallichii). The proposed works have the potential to result in the spread of these species through soil and bankside disturbance. This could have the effect of destroying the native floral communities and also bank destabilisation as bare earth will pervade during the winter.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-42 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Mitigation Measures The bankside habitats containing this invasive species will be excluded from the works area with no access to them. A programme of works to eradicate and control the spread the above invasive species will be started prior to the outset of works. This will follow the ‘Knotweed Code of Practice’ (English Nature) All plant and equipment used by the appointed contractor will be cleaned and disinfected prior to the commencement of works in the Bandon River to ensure that invasive species are not introduced to the Bandon system.
Residual Impact It is likely that, with the mitigation in place this impact will constitute a Long Term Moderate Positive Impact as there is no control of these invasive species currently in place.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 5-43 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
6 GEOLOGY AND SOILS IN THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
This chapter presents available information on the soils and geology of the Study Area and is an addendum to Chapter 6 of the Environmental Impact Statement for Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme. The additional proposed works which may impact the geology and soils in the Study Area include the construction of new storm and surface water drains, construction of new flood defences and culverts, modification of Kilbrittain Stream channel and banks and construction of a rock ramp fish pass upstream of Bandon Weir to replace the proposed rock pool fish pass which was examined as part of the works identified in the Environmental Impact Statement. The proposed additional works fall within the Study Area described in the Environmental Impact Statement.
This chapter of the EIS Addendum investigates how the existing soil and geology may be altered in the short and long-term by the construction and operation of the additional proposed developments. Mitigation measures are proposed where significant impacts on soil and geology are identified.
6.1 METHODOLOGY AND LIMITATIONS
This chapter was compiled in accordance with the EPA publications; ‘Guidelines on the information contained in Environmental Impact Statements’ and ‘Advice Notes on Current Practice in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements’. The Institute of Geologists of Ireland guidance document entitled ‘Geology in Environmental Impact Statement – A Guide’ was also consulted during the preparation of this chapter.
A desktop study was carried out to ascertain a comprehensive baseline for the Study Area and existing environment. The ‘Bandon Flood Relief Scheme (Contract 2) Factual Ground Investigation Report’ produced by Irish Geotechnical Services Limited was consulted during the preparation of this chapter (Appendix 6A). This report was produced after the completion of the original Environmental Impact Statement. The information was used in assessing the potential impact the Scheme will have on the geology and soils in the Study Area. Mitigation measures are proposed to ensure that any potential impacts due to the construction and operation of the proposed additional works will not have a significant impact on the geology and soils in the existing environment.
6.1.1 Published Material
The following documents were consulted in the preparation of this chapter in addition to the GSI online database and publications listed in the Environmental Impact Statement:
Bandon Flood Relief Scheme (Contract 2) Factual Ground Investigation Report’ (Irish Geotechnical Services Limited, 2013) Draft Cork County Development Plan (2013)
6.1.2 Definitions
For the purpose of this EIS Addendum, The term ‘soil’ refers to the unconsolidated, organic rich material closest to the Earth’s surface (‘topsoil’). The term ‘subsoil’ refers to all other unconsolidated (non- lithified) materials which occur above bedrocks.
6.2 GEOLOGY
6.2.1 Geomorphology
The topography of South Cork consists of anticlines forming upland areas and synclines forming valleys. The valleys in the South Cork region were formed 2 million to 10 thousand years ago during the Pleistocene glaciations. As a result of lowered sea levels during the last glaciation, rivers eroded down to
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 6-1 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with a new base level cutting steep sided gorges. As the temperatures increased and the ice receded, the gorges were infilled with fluvioglacial sand and gravels as the rivers responded to the changing base level.
6.2.2 Bedrock Geology
All rocks exposed in South Cork were deposited during the late Devonian and Carboniferous Periods about 310 to 370 million years ago. All exposed rock in the region are sedimentary with the exception of one small intrusion of igneous rocks near Bandon and a few occurrences of tuffs. The majority of South Cork is underlain by the carboniferous Kinsale formation which is a grey mudstone with subordinate sandstone (Sleeman and Pracht, GSI, 1994, ‘Geological Survey of Ireland Online Database’ extract in Appendix 6B). The formation is defined as a mud-dominant succession and is divided into three members; the Castle Slate, Narrow Cove and Pig’s Cove Members.
The Site Investigation Report indicates that Mudstone was encountered in the majority of the rotary core boreholes taken throughout the Study Area which is in line with of the bedrock described above.
6.2.3 Quaternary Geology (Subsoils)
The Study Area comprises the following subsoils (Extract from GSI Database presented in Appendix 6C); Made ground Aluvium Till derived from mixed Devonian Carboniferous rocks Glaciofluvial Sands and Gravels Marine/Estuarine Silts and Clays
6.2.4 Geological Heritage
The Cork County Council Draft County Development Plan 2013 identifies 103sites of geological and geomorphological interest in the county which are classified as proposed National Heritage Areas (pNHA). None of the pNHAs are located within the Study Area.
6.2.5 Potential Impacts on Geology
The key impacts on geology due to the proposed additional works are associated with the construction phase; the excavation, handling, storage, processing and transport of earthworks materials. The estimated volume of excavation anticipated during the construction phase for the proposed additional works is presented on Table 6.1;
Origin of Excavation Volume of Material Additional Works Dredging 2,000 m3 Fish Pass 5,000 m3 Wall Foundations 310 m3 Embankment Foundations 60 m3 Pipe Trenches 1,800 m3 Miscellaneous 1,500 m3 TOTAL 10,670 m3 Table 6.1 – Excavation Volumes
The volume of excavation material associated with the additional works is small in comparison to the total volume for the scheme.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 6-2 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
6.2.5.1 Loss of Bedrock
Potential Permanent Slight Negative Impact
The vast majority of the area covered by the proposed additional works is underlain by Old Head of Kinsale bedrock. The volume of excavated material associated with the additional works is small in comparison to the volume to be excavated during works for entire scheme. Excavated material will be reused where possible.
As the type of bedrock is abundant throughout the Study Area and the volume of bedrock to be removed is imperceptible in comparison to the volumes retained, the proposed additional works will not have a significant impact on the bedrock of the Study Area.
Mitigation Measures
Where it is necessary to remove bedrock during the construction of the proposed additional works, all suitable material will be reused wherever possible. Material removed from site will be transported to the closest suitable licenced facility to be processed and used on other construction projects in the vicinity, where possible.
Residual Impact - Permanent Imperceptible Negative Impact.
With mitigation measures in place the impact will constitute a Permanent Imperceptible Negative Impact.
6.2.5.2 Loss of Geological Heritage
Neutral Impact
There are currently no sites in the vicinity of the proposed additional works that have been designated as National Heritage Area (NHA). Three sites in the area have been identified as proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHA); Bandon Valley West of Bandon, Bandon Valley Above Inishannon and Bandon Valley Below Inishannon. The proposed additional works are not located within any of the proposed Natural Heritage Areas. The impact of the proposed additional works is just as likely to be positive as negative as exposure to new bedrock as a result of lowering Kilbrittain Stream may promote understanding of the local geological heritage.
6.2.5.3 Loss of Quaternary Geology
Potential Permanent Slight Negative Impact
As described in Section 6.2.6 of the Environmental Impact Statement, the Study Area is underlain by a number of different classifications of subsoil. The proposed additional works will be predominantly underlain by Alluvium and Made Ground (Appendix 6C). The site investigation recorded that gravels are also present. The removal of excavated material due to the proposed additional works will be minimal.
Results of the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme (Contract 2) Factual Ground Investigation Report indicate that a large fraction of the proposed additional works are underlain by made ground, therefore there is a risk of encountering contaminated material although there are no records of activities leading to soil contamination in the vicinity of the proposed additional works. Given that the volume of made ground to be evacuated is small, the potential impact is regarded as being imperceptible.
Mitigation Measures
Subsoils excavated as part of the proposed additional works will be reused as fill where possible.
Residual Impact – Potential Permanent Imperceptible Negative Impact
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 6-3 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
It is likely that, with the mitigation measures in place this impact will constitute a Permanent Imperceptible Negative Impact.
6.3 SOILS
The General Soil Map of Ireland classifies the Study Area as Rolling Lowland with occupies approximately 1.75million hectares. Soil in the Study Area is made up primarily of Brown Podzolic soil (60%). Associated soil classification are defined as Acid Brown Earths (20%) and Gleys (20%). These soils are derived from sandstone and Lower Avonian Shale glacial till which is consistent with the findings of the site investigation.
6.3.1 Potential Impacts on Soil
6.3.1.1 Loss of Soil
Potential Permanent Imperceptible Negative Impact
It is unlikely that the additional proposed works will have a significant effect on soil in the area. Results of the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme (Contract 2) Factual Ground Investigation Report indicated that soil was not encountered in all boreholes. The proposed additional works involve works on existing structures or in urban areas and therefore soil loss will be minimal.
Any potential impacts to soil from the proposed additional works will occur during the construction phase. The installation of new surface water sewers, gullies, drainage channels, modification of stream banks, lowering of the stream bed and additional drainage works associated with the proposed additional works may potentially impact the soil due to excavation, handling, processing and transport of earthworks materials during the construction phase. In addition, construction machinery may compact in-situ soils thereby leading to increased water run-off and soil erosion. The Ground Investigation Report indicates that the volume of soils will be small in comparison to the total volume of material to be excavated during the construction phase of the proposed additional works.
Mitigation Measures
The construction of the proposed additional works are unlikely to impact on the soil in the area due to the small volumes of undisturbed subsoil that is likely to be encountered.
Where subsoils are encountered, the following mitigation measures should be implemented:
Vegetation and soil should be left in place for as long as possible prior to excavation and stockpiling of soil to be minimised during wet weather periods. Soil stockpiles should be shaped so as to shed water. Surface water run-off from exposed soil surface should be intercepted and channelled to sumps and to silt traps thereafter. Granular materials should be placed over bare soil, particularly in the vicinity of watercourses, to prevent erosion of fines and/or rutting by construction machinery.
Residual Impact – Neutral Impact
As the volume of soil encountered during the construction of the proposed additional works is likely to be very small, the residual impact of the proposed scheme on the soil in the area is insignificant. This impact will constitute a Neutral Impact.
6.3.1.2 Contaminated Land
Potential Temporary Moderate Negative Impact
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 6-4 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Potential impacts resulting from the improper handling and storage of hazardous wastes and fuels and lubricants for plant and machinery are discussed in the Environmental Impact Statement. Localised contamination of soils could result from accident, spill or leak during the construction phase of the works.
Mitigation Measures
The following mitigation measures are recommended in order to reduce the risk of soil contamination:
Fuels, chemicals, liquid and solid wastes will be stored on impermeable surfaces; Plant refuelling will be undertaken on impermeable surfaces within a suitably constructed bund in accordance with best practice guidelines. No refuelling will be permitted in or near soil or rock cuttings; All hydrocarbons and other potential contaminants will be stored within suitably constructed bunds in accordance with best practice guidelines; Spill kits will be provided at refuelling areas and in sensitive areas.
Residual Impact – Potential Temporary Slight Negative Impact
With mitigation measures in place, it is likely that the residual impact will constitute a Potential Temporary Slight Negative Impact.
6.4 HYDROMORPHOLOGY
Hydromorphology is the study of the structure, evolution and continued morphology of water courses over time. The material in this section is based on a report prepared by JBA Consulting Engineers entitled ‘Baseline Hydromorphological Assessment of the River Bandon through Bandon, County Cork’ (Appendix 6D). The rock pool fish pass located upstream of Bandon Weir may affect hydromorphology of the Bandon river pass. Works at Kilbrittain and Moanarone may affect the hydromorphology of the Kilbrittain Stream and Moanarone Stream, respectively.
6.4.1 Hydromorphological Characteristics
The sediment supply within the Bandon River catchment is low, slow and relatively constant. Sediment supply comes from a variety of natural sources including the upper catchment, middle reach tributaries and direct band and bar erosion. Catchment gravel inputs to the study reach at Bandon would not be controllable without significantly disrupting the present hydromorphology of the river. Sediment transfer can be split into two categories; coarse bedload and fine suspended load. A strong link has been shown between the volume of material moved and the river discharge with higher flows carrying a disproportionately large volume of suspended material, particularly during the rising limb of a flood. Bed load transport is less well linked to the river discharge as the process of entrainment and transport is more complex and sediment supply from the catchment is less uniform. Zones of sedimentation tend to remain fixed in the system, especially in engineered low energy zones.
The main channel through Bandon has been significantly altered in order to reduce the risk of flooding and to utilise the energy of the water. Alterations include channel diversions, construction of high vertical banks, disconnecting the river from its floodplain and the construction of a 2m high weir across the bedrock rapid in Bandon. The weir disrupts sediment transport at low magnitude events but is drowned out during large floods allowing gravels to move downstream. The widening of the channel in the reach below Bandon Bridge has resulted in artificially low energy conditions as flood flows recede. This promotes gravel deposition at the banks.
6.4.2 Potential Impacts on Hydromorphology
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 6-5 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Potential Permanent Slight Negative Impact
As discussed in the Environmental Impact Statement, the main impact to the hydromorphology of the Bandon River is the sediment movement downstream as a result of channel dredging. The constructing of the rock pool fish pass is likely to add to the sediment movement downstream, however this impact is minute in comparison to the dredging works.
The lowering of the Kilbrittain Stream bed as part of the proposed additional works will temporarily disrupt the channel morphology and hydraulic habitats over a short section of the stream. The lowering of the stream bed will also result in sediment movement downstream of the works during the construction period. The additional works will generate a slight negative temporary impact of hydromorphology.
Mitigation Measures
Vegetation control is likely to be required at the Kilbrittain Stream as full development of vegetation may compromise flood relief. It is important that gravel movement is not disrupted in order to maintain channel dynamics downstream of the works.
Residual Impacts – Permanent Slight Negative Impact
It is not possible to carry out the proposed additional works without impacting slightly on the existing hydromorphology of the Bandon River and Kilbrittain Stream. Mitigation measures will be put in place in order to minimise impacts on hydromorphology.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 6-6 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
7 WATER – HYDROLOGY & HYDROGEOLOGY
This chapter presents available information on water quality, hydrology and hydrogeology of the Study Area and is an addendum to Chapter 7 of the Environmental Impact Statement for Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme. The Study Area for this Chapter for the Environmental Impact Statement Addendum covers 18km of the Bandon River, extending from 4km upstream of Bandon Bridge, to 5.5km downstream of Inishannon town centre and covers an area of 18km2.
The Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme additional works construction phase will include the following;
Construction of a rock pool fish pass upstream of Bandon weir Culvert replacement and ancillary works at Kilbrittain Stream including lowering a section of the stream bed and channel works Culvert construction and ancillary works at Moanarone Stream, including the construction of a new outfall at the confluence of the Moanarone Stream and the Mill River Construction of flood defences at the Allin Institute, Mill Place, Ballylangley and at the south bank of Bandon Weir running perpendicular to the river. Drainage works at various locations in Bandon Town, including the construction of new outfalls to the Bandon River and the Bridewell River Site preparation works including temporary fencing / hoarding Re-instatement of footpaths / roadways
7.1 SURFACE WATER QUALITY
7.1.1 Methodology
The following documentation and sources were reviewed to collate hydrological data for the study area:
Environmental Protection Area (EPA) water quality data (J. Lucey, pers. comm.) South West River Basin District Management Plan The EPA Map Viewer http://gis.epa.ie/Envision The Water Framework Directive website www.wfdireland.ie
Kick sampling was conducted at locations on the Bandon River within the Study Area and water samples were taken at two locations within the Study Area on the Bandon River for physico-chemical analysis.
7.1.2 Legislation
The Water Framework Directive (WFD) requires all countries in the EU to control, manage and protect their water resources from all impacts. The Directive requires that all waters within Europe must achieve at least “Good” status by December 2015 unless otherwise agreed upon by the relevant authority and the European Commission. Similarly, the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Water) Regulations, 2009, requires that all waters must be maintained or improved to at least “Good” status and no deterioration of status is permitted.
In Ireland, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for assigning Status which is dependent on the ecological and hydrochemical data for the watercourse and the surface water quality standards set out in legislation.
The European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Water) Regulations 2009 (S.I. No 272 of 2009), transpose into Irish Law the measures needed to give effect to the environmental objectives of the
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 7-1 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Water Frame Directive. Surface water quality standards prescribed by the regulations are set out in the original Environmental Impact Statement.
7.1.3 Desk Study
7.1.3.1 Introduction
Bandon River is the main hydrological feature within the Study Area. The river flows into the study area from the West and flows through Bandon Town. The river then veers to the north, loops southwards to its estuary below Inishannon and reaches the sea in Kinsale Harbour. The Bridewell and Brinny Rivers are the two main tributaries within the Study Area that flow into the Bandon River.
Watercourses in the vicinity of the proposed additional works include the Bandon River, Bridewell River, Mill Stream, Moanarone Stream and Kilbrittain Stream.
7.1.3.2 EPA Water Quality Data
Information regarding water quality of selected Irish rivers is available on the EPA website (www.EPA.ie/water/wm/rivers). Water quality information within and upstream of the Study Area was obtained from EPA monitoring stations located on the Bandon River and the Brinny River. Biological information is provided in the form of Q values as shown in Table 7.1.
Quality Ratings Quality Class Pollution Status Condition (re beneficial uses) Q5, Q4-5, Q4 Class A Unpolluted Satisfactory Q3-4 Class B Slightly Polluted Unsatisfactory Q3, Q2-3 Class C Moderately Polluted Unsatisfactory Q2, Q1-2, Q1 Class D Seriously Polluted Unsatisfactory
Table 7.1 Q value classification
Information was gained on the Bandon River as a whole, including five monitoring points that were within or very close to the Study Area and nine that were located upstream. The EPA also test various chemical parameters at monitoring points. Table 7.2 indicates the biological quality ratings (Q values) for monitoring points on the Bandon River. The EPA concluded that water quality in the Bandon River was ‘Mostly satisfactory, with good ecological quality, but only moderate downstream of Dunmanway and Ballineen (at Enniskean) with improvement, since previous survey, below Enniskean’.
Biological Quality Ratings (Q Values) Station 1971 1976 1978 1982 1986 1989 1994 1997 2000 2003 2006 2009 2012 Nos. Keenrath Br 0050 - - - - - 4-5 4-5 4 4-5 4-5 4-5 - - Br u/s Ardcahan Br 0100 5 4-5 4-5 4-5 4 3-4 ------Ardcahan Br 0150 - - - - 4-5 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 Br near River View 0200 - - 4-5 4-5 4-5 4 ------Bealboy Br 0300 5 4-5 4-5 4 4 4 4 4 3-4 3-4 4 3-4 3-4 Manch Br 0400 5 4-5 4 4 4 3-4 4 3-4 3-4 3-4 4 4 4 Ballineen Br 0500 5 4-5 4 3-4 3-4 3-4 ------Enniskeen Br 0550 - - - - - 4 4-5 4 3-4 4 3-4 3-4 3-4 Murragh Br 0600 5 5 5 3-4 3-4 4 4-5 4 4 4 - 3-4 3-4 Baxter's Br 0700 5 4-5 4 3-4 4 3-4 4-5 4 4 4 4 4 4 Bandon Br 0780 - - - - - 3-4 ------1.5km d/s Bandon Br 0800 5 3 2-3 3 4 3 3-4 3 3 3 4 4 4 French's Wood 0850 - - - - - 3-4 ------Inishannon Br 0900 5 4-5 4 4 4 3-4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 Table 7.2 Biological water quality in the Bandon River Study Area based on EPA data.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 7-2 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Table 7.3 below indicates the biological quality ratings for sampling points on the Brinny River that are located within or close to the Study Area. The EPA concluded that the water quality in the Brinny River is ‘continuing satisfactory with good and high ecological quality’.
Biological Quality Ratings (Q Values) Station 1976 1978 1982 1986 1989 1994 1997 2000 2003 2006 2009 2012 Nos. Br N of Templemartin 0010 - - - - 4 ------Br S of Aghnamorroge 0030 - - - - 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4-5 Cross Roads Tuough Br 0700 - - - - 4-5 4 3-4 4 3-4 4 4 4 Br nr Ballinacurra Ho 0090 - - - - 4 ------Brinny Br 0100 - 5 5 4-5 4-5 4-5 4 4 4-5 4-5 4-5 4-5 Downdaniel Br 0200 4-5 4 4 4 4-5 4-5 4-5 4 4 - - Table 7.3 Biological water quality in the Brinny River Study Area based on EPA data.
7.1.4 Results of Water Sampling
7.1.4.1 Kick Sampling
Kick sampling was carried out by staff from McCarthy Keville O’Sullivan in August 2011 to inform invertebrate abundance for the Environmental Impact Statement.
The invertebrate communities that were recorded indicated water of a high quality with samples taken in riffle areas ranging from unpolluted status (Q5) to slightly polluted (Q3) and the majority of the samples registering Q4 and Q3/4. The samples taken in glides and pools recorded invertebrate communities that were more typical of the less well oxygenated habitats. Overall, species diversity was good with approximately 40 genera recorded and an average of eight genera recorded in each sample. A heavy cover of algae was evident in many of the deeper glides and pools. This is often an indicator of organic pollution. However the samples were taken at the end of the summer when water levels were low. During river surveys in early January 2012, there was considerably less algae in the river, as it had presumably been washed away by higher flows in the winter period. Samples taken upstream and downstream of the proposed works were tested for physical, chemical and bacteriological parameters as presented in the original Environmental Impact Statement.
7.1.4.2 Surface Water Abstraction
Inishannon Regional Water Supply Scheme (RWSS) has an abstraction rate of 1,120 m3/day from Bandon River at Inishannon. Inishannon RWSS supplies a large population, including the town of Kinsale and the Western side of Carrigaline. It also supplements the water supply of Rafeen and Monkstown, which are otherwise fed from the Cork Harbour Water Supply Scheme.
7.1.5 Impacts on Water Quality
7.1.5.1 Generation of Silt-Laden Run-off & Increase in Suspended Solids
Short-term Significant Negative Impact
Groundworks and site clearance during the preparation and construction phase will lead to the exposure of bare ground. This has the potential to generate silt-laden run-off. This is likely to continue until the ground has consolidated. Channel works at the Kilbrittain Stream (Channel lowering, embankment improvement etc.) will result in a significant increase in suspended sediment in the stream within and
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 7-3 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with downstream of the working area for the duration of this aspect of the proposed additional works. Damage to the bank during in-stream works may cause persistent scouring and siltation of the watercourse over time if left unconsolidated.
Excessive suspended sediment in water can be harmful to fish health, egg and fry development, aquatic invertebrates and can interfere with fish navigation and feeding. Once deposited, excessive amounts of silt may damage fish habitat by clogging interstices between gravels in spawning grounds, resulting in diminished flow of oxygenated water to eggs and rendering these gravels unsuitable for egg incubation. Deposited sediment may also impact on the habitat of bottom dwelling aquatic invertebrates and damage the nursery habitat for young fish.
Mitigation Measures
It is expected that any coarser sediment and fines brought about by the proposed additional works will settle before reaching the water intake at Inishannon, particularly as flows will be low during the works. There may be a flushing effect during short periods of intense rainfall and suspended sediment levels will increase but are not expected to increase beyond the natural range in the river which has been observed previously. However, if suspended sediment concentrations are deemed to be higher than the desired intake concentration, then measures will be implemented to reduce the suspended sediment levels locally by means of gabion walls, straw bales or other appropriate measures.
The rock pool fish pass will be constructed upstream of the dredging works specified in the Environmental Impact Statement, therefore the mitigation measures specified in the Environmental Impact Statement are relevant to mitigate impacts associated with the construction of the rock pool fish pass construction. Sile management will be facilitated as the new location is in calmer water upstream of a natural silt barrier (existing weir).
Measures will be implemented to minimise the suspension and transfer of sediment downstream for the works on the rock pool fishpass and Kilbrittain stream works. These measures are likely to include the use of silt barriers downstream of the works areas and removal of any accumulated silt, construction of silt sumps downstream of the works areas, cofferdamming and dewatering of works areas where concrete and other building works are proposed. Any stockpiling will also be greater than 10 metres from the river bank.
Works will only be undertaken during normal working hours (8:00 – 6:00) thus allowing the river to run clean for 14 hours per day.
All works undertaken on the banks will be fully consolidated to prevent scour and run off of silt. Consolidation may include use of protective and biodegradable matting (coirmesh) on the banks and also the sowing of grass seed on bare soil.
An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) will be prepared prior to the commencement of any works in order to ensure all works are carried out in a manner designed to avoid and minimise adverse impacts on the receiving environment.
Residual Impact - Temporary Moderate Negative Impact
With the abovementioned mitigation measures in place, it is likely that this impact will constitute a Temporary Moderate Negative Impact. This residual impact will be fully identified as the works method statements and mitigation measures become finalised.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 7-4 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
7.1.5.2 Use of Potential Water Contaminants
Potential Temporary Moderate to Significant Negative Impact
Construction activities can give rise to the emission of numerous substances which, if untreated, have the potential to pollute ground and surface waters. Such substances include fuels, lubricants, cement, mortar, silt, soil and other substances, which arise during construction. Washing of construction vehicles and equipment also poses a pollution risk to ground and surface waters.
Spillage of fuel and oil may lead to contamination of soils, groundwater and surface water. Such substances entering Bandon River or any of the tributary streams could damage the habitat of local populations of fish and aquatic invertebrates and also cause direct harm to aquatic fauna.
Mitigation Measures
All concrete works will be carried out in dry conditions with no in-stream pouring of concrete. A dry working area will be created for concrete pours during the construction of the fish pass.
Refuelling of machinery will take place at designated areas located greater than 30m from all watercourses.
No vehicles will be left unattended when refuelling and a spill kit including an oil containment boom and absorbent pads will be on site at all times.
Any fuel that is stored on the site will be in a double skinned, bunded container that will be located within a designated works compound at a location that is removed from the river. All other construction materials and plant will be stored in this compound. The compound will also house the site offices and portaloo toilets. This compound will either be located on ground that is not prone to flooding or will be surrounded by a protective earth bund to prevent inundation.
All vehicles will be regularly maintained and checked for fuel and oil leaks.
Residual Impact - Temporary Slight Negative Impact
With mitigation measures in place it is likely that this impact will constitute a Temporary Slight Negative Impact.
7.2 HYDROGEOLOGY
This section assesses the potential impacts of the proposed additional works on the existing hydrogeological environment.
7.2.1 Methodology
A desktop study was carried out as part of the Environmental Impact Statement in order to ascertain a comprehensive baseline for the Study Area and give a description of the existing environment. This section assesses the impact the proposed additional works will have on the hydrogeology within the Study Area.
7.2.2 Hydrogeology in the Existing Environment
The desktop study presented in the Environmental Impact Statement indicates that the Study Area is underlain by locally important bedrock aquifers. A productive gravel aquifer was located to the north of Study Area running along the Ballymahane and Brinny Rivers. A second gravel aquifers is located at Drumkeen. The groundwater aquifer within the Study Area is characterised by the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) as ‘locally important’ indicating that it is moderately productive only in local zones.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 7-5 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
7.2.2.1 Groundwater Vulnerability
The Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) online database indicates that the local aquifers with sandstone bedrock near the surface are generally highly or extremely vulnerable to contamination from ground waters.
7.2.2.2 Well Card
The well card data by the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) indicates that a number of wells in the vicinity of Bandon and Inishannon are used for public water supply and industrial use.
The Industrial abstractions are located in the townlands of Brinny, Kilbrogan and Clogheenavodig, with other industrial abstractions further upstream in the catchment of the Bandon River at Ballineen. The Brinny wells are located in a productive gravel aquifer with yields described as ‘excellent’ on the GSI database.
The abstractions for public water supply are located in the townlands of Clashanimud, Larragh, Gaggan and Dunkerreen. There is also an abstraction for public water supply in Killountain, within the Study Area.
The remaining wells in the vicinity of Bandon and Inishannon, which are registered on the GSI well card database, are mainly used for domestic or agricultural water supply.
7.2.3 Potential Impacts on Hydrogeology
Potential Temporary Significant Negative Impact
Aquifers in the study area are classified as being highly or extremely vulnerable to infiltration. Contamination of the ground water could lead to the pollution of industrial or public water supplies. Numerous substances will be used during the construction and maintenance phases of the proposed additional works, such as fuels, lubricants, cement, silt, soil, washings and hydrocarbons, which have to potential to pollute ground water. Impacts to hydrogeology as a result of the proposed additional works are likely to be significant and temporary in nature.
Mitigation Measures
The site compound will not be located in an area classified as having ‘extreme’ vulnerability. A bunded area will be construction within the site compound to contain any spills. All plant refuelling, maintenance and washing will take place within the bunded area. Spill kits will be available in the area to facilitate the quick and effective cleaning of any spills.
Residual Impact - Potential Temporary Slight Negative Impact
With the abovementioned mitigation measures in place it is likely that the impact will constitute a Temporary Slight Negative Impact.
7.3 FLOODING
This section describes the existing hydrological environment within the Study Area and potential impacts of the proposed additional works on this hydrology. Mitigation measures are provided for any potentially significant impacts identified. The following two reports were consulted in order to ascertain a baseline for the existing environment;
WYG Ireland in association with JBA Consulting (2011) Bandon Flood Relief Scheme – Final Hydrology Report WYG Ireland in association with JBA Consulting (2011) Bandon Flood Relief Scheme – Final Hydraulic Report (Appendix 7A).
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 7-6 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
7.3.1 Methodology
A desktop study was carried out as part of the original Environmental Impact Statement in order to ascertain a comprehensive baseline for the Study Area and give a description of the existing environment. This information was used to assess the potential impact the proposed additional works will have on the hydrology of the Study Area.
7.3.2 Hydrology in the Existing Environment
The dominant feature of the hydrology of the Study Area is the Bandon River and its tributaries. The Bandon River rises in the Maughanaclea Hill in West Cork, is 56km long and has a catchment area of over 500km2. The river flows into the Study Area from the west, through Bandon town before veering to the north and then turning southwards where it becomes an estuary past Inishannon and reaches the sea at Kinsale Harbour.
There are a number of tributaries of the Bandon River which discharge upstream of Bandon town. The Bridewell River runs through Bandon town from south to north and meets the Bandon River just downstream of Bandon Bridge. The Mill Stream joins Bandon River at the downstream end of Bandon town.
7.3.2.1 Flooding
There is a long history of flooding of the Bandon River within the Study Area. Flooding due to heavy rainfall in the catchment is occasionally exacerbated by high tides in the river estuary. Incidents of flooding on record include flooding in 1975, 1982, 1986, 1988, 2004, 2006, 2009 and 2011. The most severe flooding on record occurring in 2009 when approximately 200 residential and commercial premises in Bandon Town were flooded.
The gradient of Bandon River is steep in the upper reaches of the catchment and reduces as the river approaches its estuary at Inishannon. This decreased gradient reduces the velocity of water in the channel and therefore the capacity of the channel itself. Typically a river with this characteristic will flood at times of heavy rainfall, possibly coinciding with high tides, as the steep catchment combined with the steeper gradient of the river bed in mountainous regions will convey these rain waters to lower reaches of the river at a greater velocity than this stretch of river can replicate. This typically causes the river level to raise, the bank to be overtopped and flooding of the surrounding landscape. This may be the mechanism by which Bandon Town flooded.
7.3.2.2 Proposed Scheme in terms of Flooding
The Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme discussed in the Environmental Impact Statement provides for the construction and upgrade of flood defence embankments and walls on the Bandon and Bridewell Rivers along with extensive dredging of the Bandon River over a 3.6km length. The proposed additional works include for the construction of a flood defences, culvert construction, drainage and ancillary works. Works proposed at the Moanarone Stream include the construction of a culvert and a new outfall structure at the confluence of the Moanarone Stream and the Mill River. Works at the Kilbrittain Stream include installation of a new culvert, lowering of the bed level over a section of the stream and improvement works to the channel and embankments. The works to Kilbrittain Stream will increase the volume of water that can be conveyed in the channel at times of heavy rain. The works will not have a significant effect on the velocity of flow in the stream and therefore it is not anticipated likely that there will be an increase in erosion as a result of the proposed works.
7.3.3 Potential Impacts on Flooding
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 7-7 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
7.3.3.1 Impact on Flooding
Potential Permanent Significant Positive Impact
The Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme will reduce the risk of flooding by increasing the capacity of the river channel in Bandon. The proposed additional works will further reduce the risk of localised flooding due to works at the Kilbrittain and Moanarone streams and construction of flood defences.
7.3.3.2 Impact on Water Levels Upstream and Downstream of Proposed Works
Potential Permanent Slight Negative Impact
The only additional work in the Bandon River is the construction of a rock pool fish pass upstream of Bandon Weir. The fish pass will not significantly impact on the water levels upstream or downstream of the works. The proposed flood defence wall along the western boundary at Mill Place may result in an increase in upstream water levels during flood events.
Mitigation Measures
All flood defences for the Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme including the proposed additional flood defence wall along the western boundary at Mill Place have been designed to mitigate the potential increase in upstream levels.
Residual impact - Potential Permanent Imperceptible Impact
The residual impact of the proposed additional works, on upstream and downstream water levels will be imperceptible.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 7-8 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
8 AIR QUALITY & CLIMATE / NOISE & VIBRATION
This chapter is an addendum to Chapter 8 of the Environmental Impact Statement. The impact on air quality & climate and noise and vibration impacts brought about by the proposed additional works described in Chapter 3 of the Environmental Impact Statement Addendum are discussed in this chapter. Mitigation measures will be identified where impacts are likely to occur.
The proposed additional works will include the following:
Re-grading of roads and upgrade of storm and surface water drainage systems
Construction of culverts
Modification to Kilbrittain stream channel and banks
Construction of flood defences at the Allin Institute, Mill Place, Ballylangley and on the South Bank at Bandon Weir
Construction of a rock pool fish pass upstream of Bandon weir
Fitting out and commissioning of an existing foul sewer pumping station at Brady’s Lane
8.1 AIR QUALITY & CLIMATE - EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
Available Background Data
Air quality monitoring programs have been undertaken in recent years by the EPA and Local Authorities. The most recent annual report on air quality “Air Quality Monitoring Report 2012” (Environmental Protection Agency), details the range and scope of monitoring undertaken throughout Ireland. In terms of air monitoring, Bandon is categorised as Zone D
Existing baseline levels of NO2, PM10, PM2.5, CO and benzene based on extensive long-term data from the EPA remain below ambient air quality limit values in the vicinity of the proposed development, as they did at the time the original EIS was prepared.
8.2 NOISE & VIBRATION - EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
Environmental noise surveys were conducted in February 2012 in order to assess and quantify the existing noise environment. The survey was conducted in general accordance with ISO 1996: 2007: Acoustics – Description, measurement and assessment of environmental noise.
Measurement Locations
Six measurement locations were selected for the survey. The locations are described below and shown in Figures 8.1 & 8.2.
Location 1 is located in the vicinity of the southern façade of the Mill Street Apartment Block. Location 2 is located in the vicinity of the southern façade of The Riverbank apartment complex. Location 3 is located in the vicinity of the southern façade of a row of terraced houses along Watergate St. Location 4 is located in the vicinity of the west end of a row of terraced houses located at the end of Casement Rd Location 5 is located in the vicinity of a number of detached dwellings along New Rd just northeast of the Topaz service station. Location 6 is located in the vicinity of a number of mobile homes located along Mill Rd.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-1 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Location 2
Location 1
Location 3
Location 4
Location 5
Figure 8.1 Site Layout Showing Approximate Positions of Measurement Locations 1 – 5
Location 6
Figure 8.2 Site Layout Showing Approximate Positions of Measurement Location 6
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-2 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
8.2.1 Results & Discussion
The results of the survey, which were included in the original EIS, are included again here for discussion purposes.
Location 1
The survey results for Location 1 are summarised in Table 8.1 below.
Measured Noise Levels (dB re. 2x10-5 Pa) Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA10 LA90 09:25 – 09:40 56 69 54 56 55 Daytime 10:30 – 10:45 54 72 52 54 53 11:25 – 11:40 55 74 52 54 53 Table 8.1 Summary of Measured Noise Levels at Location 1
The sources of noise noted in the area were the river, traffic on nearby roads, seagulls / general birdsong and occasional car park events. Noise levels were in the range 54 to 56dB LAeq and 53 to 55dB LA90.
No significant source of vibration was noted during the survey periods.
Location 2
The survey results for Location 2 are summarised in Table 8.2 below.
Measured Noise Levels (dB re. 2x10-5 Pa) Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA10 LA90 09:45 – 10:00 57 75 52 59 55 Daytime 10:45 – 11:00 57 78 52 59 54 11:45 – 12:00 58 72 53 59 55 Table 8.2 Summary of Measured Noise Levels at Location 2 The sources of noise noted in the area were the river, traffic on nearby roads, seagulls / general birdsong and occasional pedestrian events. Noise levels were in the range 57 to 58dB LAeq and 54 to 55dB LA90.
No significant source of vibration was noted during the survey periods.
Location 3
The survey results for Location 3 are summarised in Table 8.3 below.
Measured Noise Levels (dB re. 2x10-5 Pa) Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA10 LA90 10:10 – 10:25 53 79 37 52 41 Daytime 11:05 – 11:20 50 68 37 52 40 12:00 – 12:15 52 69 37 55 42 Table 8.3 Summary of Measured Noise Levels at Location 3
The sources of noise noted in the area were the river, traffic on nearby roads, seagulls / general birdsong and occasional dog barking and car parking events. Noise levels were in the range 50 to 53dB LAeq and
41 to 42dB LA90.
No significant source of vibration was noted during the survey periods.
Location 4
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-3 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The survey results for Location 4 are summarised in Table 8.4 below.
Measured Noise Levels (dB re. 2x10-5 Pa) Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA10 LA90 12:20 – 12:35 58 77 55 59 56 Daytime 13:25 – 13:40 58 72 55 60 56 14:30 – 14:45 59 74 55 61 56 Table 8.4 Summary of Measured Noise Levels at Location 4 The sources of noise noted in the area were the river, traffic on nearby roads, pedestrian events and occasional car park events. Noise levels were in the range 58 to 59dB LAeq and of the order of 56dB LA90.
No significant source of vibration was noted during the survey periods.
Location 5
The survey results for Location 5 are summarised in Table 8.5 below.
Measured Noise Levels (dB re. 2x10-5 Pa) Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA10 LA90 12:40 – 12:55 74 89 49 78 59 Daytime 13:45 – 14:00 74 89 47 78 55 14:50 – 15:05 74 93 50 78 58 Table 8.5 Summary of Measured Noise Levels at Location 5 The predominant source of noise noted in the area was traffic along New Road. Other contributing sources were the adjacent stream and occasional dog barking. Noise levels were of the order of 74dB
LAeq and 55 to 59dB LA90.
No significant source of vibration was noted during the survey periods.
Location 6
The survey results for Location 6 are summarised in Table 8.6 below.
Measured Noise Levels (dB re. 2x10-5 Pa) Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA10 LA90 13:05 – 13:20 76 88 53 79 58 Daytime 14:10 – 14:25 75 90 51 79 57 15:10 – 15:25 76 93 53 79 57 Table 8.6 Summary of Measured Noise Levels at Location 6 The sources of noise noted in the area were the river, traffic on nearby roads, seagulls / general birdsong and occasional dog barking and car parking events. Noise levels were in the range 50 to 53dB LAeq and
41 to 42dB LA90.
No significant source of vibration was noted during the survey periods. 8.2.2 Noise Sensitive Receptors
Eleven noise sensitive locations that are currently adjacent to each of the proposed works areas were established with reference to works locations proposed at the time the original EIS was conducted. Two additional locations which have now been added as a result of the additional proposed works. The following diagrams / photos detail each of the adjacent noise sensitive receptors that were identified as being in close proximity to the various proposed work areas.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-4 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
7
6 5 8 4 2 3
1
9 13
10
11
12
Figure 8.3 Noise Sensitive Location Map NSL 12: Birchvale
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-5 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
NSL 13: Weir Road
8.3 ASSESSMENT OF THE PROPOSED WORKS
The criteria used to assess the works proposed at the time of the original EIS have again been used to assess the additional works.
8.4 POTENTIAL IMPACTS
8.4.1 Air Quality & Climate
8.4.1.1 Air Quality – Dust Generation Rates Temporary Negligible Impact
The proposed works will not have any air quality impact during its operational phase. As a result, it is only considered necessary to assess the potential impact on the air quality during the construction phase.
Dust is regarded as particulate matter with a particle size of 1 – 75 µm. Dust may be emitted during construction activities, particularly excavation, earth moving and construction traffic. Environmental factors such as rainfall, wind speed and wind direction, affect the level of dust emitted. Dust generation rates are greatly reduced when rainfall occurs. As indicated in the Environmental Impact Statement, rainfall occurs on over 55% of the days in County Cork, therefore indicating little or no dust generation over half of the time. In general, the potential impacts of dust occur within 500 m of the generation source. Larger particles fall out of suspension in the air closer to the source of dust generation and decrease as distance from the source increases.
Construction of the proposed additional works are likely to generate some level of dust during activities involving excavation and earth moving. These activities have been shown to generate dust particles greater than 10 microns which do not have the potential to cause significant health impacts associated with particles less than 10 microns in size.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-6 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The construction of the proposed additional works is not likely to occur over a prolonged period of time, therefore the impact to air quality due to dust generation will be temporary. As the construction works will be carried out at in phases and at various locations the potential for dust nuisance and significant levels of
PM10 & PM2.5 will vary temporally and spatially over the construction period.
Construction traffic will lead to dust emissions of approximately 2 g/m2 per hour along haul roads at a restricted speed of less than 40 km/hr. Dust emissions of this level are unlikely to exceed the German TA- Luft Limit value for dust nuisance.
The proposed additional works are expected to have a negligible impact on the air quality during construction and an imperceptible impact once in operation.
Hence the impact on air quality of the proposed additional works will be insignificant.
8.4.1.2 Climate Temporary Negligible Impact
The main source of greenhouse gas emissions associated with the proposed additional works is emissions of CO2 and N2O from construction vehicles during the construction phase of the works. This will have a temporary negligible impact on the climate. 8.4.2 Noise Impact
Works associated with the proposed additional works with may contribute to noise impact are as follows:
Modification to Kilbrittain stream channel and banks
Construction of a flood defences at Mill Place, the Allin Institute, Ballylangley and at Bandon Weir at the south bank of the Bandon River
Re-grading of roads and upgrade of storm and surface water drainage systems/ construction of culverts
Fit-out and commissioning of an existing pumping station at Brady’s Lane
HGV movements
Construction of the additional works will require the operation of a variety of plant such as excavators, lifting equipment, dumper trucks, compressors and generators. Rock breaking as well as vehicular traffic are expected to be the main sources of noise and vibration.
Calculations of indicative noise levels for noise sources associated with the proposed works are presented in the following section. Typical noise levels for items of construction plant were obtained from BS 5228: 2009: Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and open sites – Part 1: Noise.
8.4.2.1 Modification to Kilbrittain Stream Temporary Negligible Impact
Modifications to the Kilbrittain stream include the modification of the banks, lowering of the stream bed by 1.24m at the inlet to a new culvert, lowering of the stream bed by up to 0.685m over 95m and improvement works to the channel and embankment over 140m. Lowering of the stream bed will be carried out with excavation equipment and local use of rock breakers where required. Any excavated
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-7 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with material will be removed from the site by loading the material on to dump trucks. The nearest noise sensitive locations to these works as identified in the Environmental Impact Statement are 11 and 12.
Table 8.7 lists the expected noise sources associated with the dredging activities, their assumed noise levels and the predicted noise emission levels at each of the nearest noise sensitive locations.
Predicted Noise Level at NSL Locations (dB Item Of Plant Noise Level At LAeq,1hr) (BS5228 Ref.) 10m 11 12 Excavation Phase 170kW Tracked 75 54 58 Excavator (C.2.16) 170kW Wheeled 76 55 59 Loader (C.2.28) Dumper (C.2.32) 74 53 57 Rock Breaker (D.8.13) 82 n/a 65 Cumulative n/a 60 69 Construction Phase Dumper (C.2.32) 78 62 64 82kW Dozer (C.2.13) 78 62 64 Hydraulic Vibratory 78 62 64 Compactor (C.2.42 Cumulative n/a 67 69 Table 8.7 Predicted Kilbrittain Stream Activity Noise Emission To Nearest Noise Sensitive Locations
The predicted noise levels presented in Table 8.7 represent the worst case scenario that would only occur at a time when the plant are closest to the noise sensitive location. Noise level emission will be lower for the majority of the time as the plant will be a greater distance away from the noise sensitive locations.
It is noted from Table 8.7 that none of the plant are expected to exceed the minimum adopted daytime criterion of 70dB LAeq. Therefore, the short term impact of the Kilbrittain Stream works would not be significant.
8.4.2.2 Construction of a Flood Defence Wall at Mill Place Temporary Negligible Impact
The construction of a defence wall is in lieu of an earthen embankment at this location, the impact of which was assessed as part of the original EIS. As the noise levels expected to be generated from construction of an earthen embankment and retaining wall are similar, and the footprint of the excavation has not changed, the likely impact of the construction of the flood defence wall at Mill Place is therefore expected to be not significant.
8.4.2.3 Construction of a Flood Defence Wall at the Allin Institute Temporary Negligible Impact
The construction of a flood wall is in lieu of demountable flood defences at this location in combination with flood defence walls along the river bank both upstream and downstream of this location. The impact of the flood walls and structure for the demountable defences was assessed as part of the original EIS. As the noise levels expected to be generated from construction of the flood walls are similar and the footprint of the excavation has not changed, the likely impact of the construction of a ramp at this location is therefore expected to be not significant.
8.4.2.4 Construction of a Flood Defence Wall at Bandon Weir Temporary Negligible Impact
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-8 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The construction of a defence wall in lieu of an embankment, as proposed in the original EIS, at Bandon Weir. As the noise levels expected to be generated from construction of an earthen embankment and retaining wall are similar, and the footprint of the excavation has not changed, the likely impact of the construction of the flood defence wall at Bandon Weir is therefore expected to be not significant
8.4.2.5 Construction of an Embankment at Ballylangley Temporary Negligible Impact
The construction of an embankment is in lieu of flood wall, as proposed in the original EIS, at Ballylangley. As the noise levels expected to be generated from construction of an earthen embankment and retaining wall are similar, and the footprint of the excavation has not changed, the likely impact of the construction of the embankment at Ballylangley is therefore expected to be not significant.
8.4.2.6 Re-grading of Roads and Upgrade of Storm and Surface Water Drainage Systems/ Construction of Culverts Temporary Negligible Impact
Drainage works are proposed in parallel with other flood defences primarily along the Glasslinn/ Cork Road. The impact of the flood walls was assessed as part of the original EIS, the likely impact from which was expected to be not significant.
A sensitive receptor has however been identified near a proposed storm water drain along an unnamed street connecting Weir Street to O’Mahony Terrace. Pipe laying activities will consist of:
Cutting out and removing the existing road surface
Trench excavation
Installing a pipe in the trench
Backfilling
Reinstatement
Table 8.8 lists the expected noise sources associated with the pipe laying activities, their assumed noise levels and the predicted noise emission levels at each of the nearest noise sensitive location.
Predicted Noise Level at NSL Locations (dB Item Of Plant Noise Level At LAeq,1hr) (BS5228 Ref.) 10m 13 Excavation Phase Con saw (C4.73) 73 58 170kW Tracked 75 60 Excavator (C.2.16) 170kW Wheeled 76 61 Loader (C.2.28) Dumper (C.2.32) 74 59 Cumulative n/a 66 Construction Phase Dumper (C.2.32) 74 59 170kW Tracked 75 60 Excavator (C.2.16) Hydraulic Vibratory 78 63 Compactor (C.2.42 Cumulative n/a 68 Table 8.8 Predicted Kilbrittain Stream Activity Noise Emission To Nearest Noise Sensitive Locations
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-9 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The predicted noise levels presented in Table 8.1 represent the worst case scenario that would only occur at a time when the plant are closest to the noise sensitive location. Noise level emission will be lower for the majority of the time as the plant will be a greater distance away from the noise sensitive locations.
It is noted from Table 8.1 that none of the plant are expected to exceed the minimum adopted daytime criterion of 70dB LAeq. Therefore, the short term impact of construction of surface water drainage along the unnamed street connecting Weir Street to O’Mahony Terrace would not be significant.
8.4.2.7 Fit-out of existing pumping station at Brady’s Lane Short Term Temporary Negligible Impact
It is proposed to carry out a mechanical and electrical fit-out of an existing pumping station at Brady’s Lane as part of the Project. The pumping station structure was originally constructed under a separate project for Bandon Main Drainage Scheme. The fit out of the pumping station will not involve construction work and will not result in significant noise levels.
8.4.2.8 HGV Movements Temporary Negligible Impact
In addition to the construction activities discussed above, the noise impact of additional traffic on the adjacent noise sensitive locations should also be addressed. Access to the development site for construction traffic will be along existing roads adjacent to the works areas as well as on easements that run along both sides of the river. The relative impact on the noise sensitive locations associated with construction traffic is assessed in the following paragraphs.
The noise level associated with an event of short duration, such as a passing vehicle movement, may be expressed in terms of its Sound Exposure Level (LAX). The Sound Exposure Level can be used to calculate the contribution of an event or series of events to the overall noise level in a given period.
The appropriate formula is given below:
LAeq,T = LAX + 10log10(N) – 10log10(T) + 10log10(r1/r2)dB where:
LAeq,T is the equivalent continuous sound level over the time period T (in seconds);
LAX is the “A-weighted” Sound Exposure Level of the event considered(dB); N is the number of events over the course of time period T;
r1 is the distance at which LAX is expressed;
r2 is the distance to the assessment location.
The mean value of Sound Exposure Level for truck moving at low to moderate speeds (i.e. 15 to 45km/hr) is in the order of 82dB LAX at a distance of 5 metres from the vehicle. This figure is based on a series of measurements conducted under controlled conditions.
Worst-case construction traffic volumes have been estimated at 16,675 total round trip movements for excavated material over the two year construction period and an additional 2,588 for delivery of materials, bother represent a 15% increase relative to those projected in the original Environmental Impact Assessment due to the additional works. Given these figures, it would be appropriate to consider a maximum of 5 truck movements per hour at each works location as an adequate estimation of a worst case scenario. Using the equation detailed above and taking into account the attenuation due to distance, the predicted noise levels at each of the nearest residential dwellings are listed in Table 8.9.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-10 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Distance From Roadway / Location Predicted Noise Level (dB, LAeq,1hr) Easement NSL 1 20m 47 NSL 2 10m 50 NSL 3 2m 56 NSL 4 10m 50 NSL 5 2m 56 NSL 6 5m 53 NSL 7 5m 53 NSL 8 50m 43 NSL 9 5m 53 NSL 10 2m 56 NSL 11 15m 48 NSL 12 20m 47 NSL 13 2m 56 Table 8.9 Predicted Construction Traffic Noise Emission At Nearest NSLs
The predicted noise emission levels range between 43 and 56dB LAeq,30min with 56dB LAeq,30min being the expected maximum at the remaining noise sensitive locations along construction traffic routes that are located immediately adjacent to the road (i.e. 2m away). These noise levels would all be within the minimum design criterion of 70dB LAeq.
In summary, the likely impact of construction traffic on the local environment would not be significant.
8.4.2.9 Sheet Piling Temporary Significant Negative Impact
With the concrete reinforcement wall section at Mill Place and at the fish pass, there is a possibility that sheet piling may be required either as part of the foundation works or to provide cut-off beneath the flood defences. Unfortunately it cannot be determined whether or not sheet piling will be required until a more detailed site investigation is conducted (which will not occur until after this document is lodged). Given this situation, it would be appropriate in this instance to consider piling at all concrete wall and embankment locations.
The impact of piling was considered as part of the original EIS. Similar to this assessment, assuming a ‘press-in’ piling method is employed, the likely impact of piling noise on the local environment as a result of the additional works would not be significant. If normal piling is employed, there is likely to be a moderate amount of noise impact although it would be likely to occur over relatively short durations. 8.4.3 Vibration Impacts
Short Term Temporary Negligible to Significant Negative Impact
Construction activities associated with the proposed additional works are not expected to generate perceptible vibrations at noise sensitive locations with the exception of sheet piling works.
Piling activity is typically one of the most significant sources of vibration on construction sites. However, as discussed in the previous section, if piling operations are conducted through the ‘press-in’ method, vibration transmission would be significantly minimised. Although the exact levels will depend on ground composition, measured data provided in the ‘Press-in Piling: Ground vibration and noise during piling installation’ published report indicates that vibration levels at a distance of 10m from the piling rig would be of the order of 1mm/s. This level is well below the BS 5228 guidance criteria limits.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-11 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
If an alternative piling method is conducted to the press-in type, a test pile should be erected at the piling location that is closest to one of the noise sensitive locations. Vibration monitoring should then be conducted to confirm that groundborne vibration will be within the guidance criteria limits listed in Table 8.9 and that no structural damage will therefore occur to adjacent buildings.
In summary, provided the ‘press-in’ method of piling is employed at all piling locations, the likely impact of vibration from the proposed construction works on the local environment would not be significant.
If normal piling is employed, there is likely to be a moderate amount of vibration impact although it would be likely to occur over relatively short durations.
8.5 MITIGATION MEASURES
8.5.1 Air Quality & Climate
Mitigation measures are as specified in the Environmental Impact Statement.
A dust minimisation plan will be formulated for the construction phase of the project, as construction activities are likely to generate some dust emissions. The potential for dust to be emitted depends on the type of construction activity being carried out in conjunction with environmental factors including levels of rainfall, wind speeds and wind direction. The potential for impact from dust depends on the distance to potentially sensitive locations and whether the wind can carry the dust to these locations. The majority of any dust produced will be deposited close to the potential source and any impacts from dust deposition will typically be within several hundred metres of the construction area (UK ODPM, 2000).
In order to ensure that no dust nuisance occurs, a series of measures will be implemented. Site roads shall be regularly cleaned and maintained as appropriate. Hard surface roads shall be swept to remove mud and aggregate materials from their surface. Furthermore, any road that has the potential to give rise to fugitive dust must be regularly watered, as appropriate, during dry and/or windy conditions.
Speeds shall be restricted on hard surfaced roads as site management dictates. Vehicles delivering material with dust potential shall be enclosed or covered with tarpaulin at all times to restrict the escape of dust.
Public roads in the vicinity of the site shall be regularly inspected for cleanliness, and cleaned as necessary.
At all times, the dust mitigation measures put in place will be strictly monitored and assessed. In the event of dust nuisance occurring outside the site boundary, movement of materials will be immediately terminated and satisfactory procedures implemented to rectify the problem before the resumption of the operations.
The dust minimisation plan shall be reviewed at regular intervals during the construction phase to ensure the effectiveness of the procedures in place and to maintain the goal of minimisation of dust through the use of best practice and procedures. 8.5.2 Noise & Vibration
In order to sufficiently ameliorate the likely noise and vibration impacts from the proposed works, a schedule of noise control measures has been formulated for the construction phase.
Reference will be made to BS 5228-1: 2009: Code of Practice for Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites: Noise, which offers detailed guidance on the control of noise & vibration from demolition and construction activities. In particular, it is proposed that various practices be adopted during construction, including:
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-12 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
limiting the hours during which site activities likely to create high levels of noise or vibration are permitted; provision of a 2.4m high hoarding around concrete wall and embankment works areas; establishing channels of communication between the contractor/developer, Local Authority and residents; appointing a site representative responsible for matters relating to noise and vibration; monitoring typical levels of noise and vibration during critical periods and at sensitive locations.
Furthermore, it is envisaged that a variety of practicable noise control measures will be employed. These may include:
selection of plant with low inherent potential for generation of noise and/ or vibration; erection of enclosures as necessary around noisy processes and items such as generators, heavy mechanical plant or high duty compressors; placing of noisy / vibratory plant as far away from sensitive properties as permitted by site constraints and the use of vibration isolated support structures where necessary;
We would also recommend that vibration from construction activities be limited to the values set out in Table 8.8. It should be noted that these limits are not absolute, but provide guidance as to magnitudes of vibration that are very unlikely to cause cosmetic damage. Magnitudes of vibration slightly greater than those in the table are normally unlikely to cause cosmetic damage, but construction work creating such magnitudes should proceed with caution. Where there is existing damage, these limits may need to be reduced by up to 50%.
8.6 RESIDUAL IMPACT
8.6.1 Air Quality & Climate
Temporary Negligible Impact
No residual impact is anticipated due to the construction or operation of the proposed additional works. 8.6.2 Noise & Vibration
Residual Negligible Impact
The pumping station at Brady’s Lane will house pumps, a control panel and other miscellaneous mechanical and electrical equipment, the operation of which has the potential to cause elevated noise levels in the vicinity of the existing structure.
All items of plant and equipment will be designed to operate without excessive vibration or noise. The Night Time equivalent sound level, measured at 1m. from the installation, shall not exceed 40dB(A) and revolving equipment shall be balanced both statically and dynamically, strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, such that vibration is not caused by out of balance forces. In addition, precautions shall be taken to ensure that vibration is not transmitted to adjacent equipment, or to the building structure.
8.7 MONITORING
Monitoring should be carried out as specified in the Environmental Impact Statement. 8.7.1 Air Quality & Climate
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-13 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The dust mitigation measures put in place will be strictly monitored and assessed throughout the construction phase to ensure their effectiveness. If a dust minimisation plan is effectively implemented there will be no need for dust monitoring during the construction phase. 8.7.2 Noise and Vibration
During the proposed works, noise and vibration monitoring may be conducted during certain activities. It is considered that short term attended noise and vibration measurements would be appropriate to ensure that the project design criteria are being met.
For attended noise monitoring, the following survey methodology should be employed:
survey engineers should measure LAeq, LAMax, LAMin, LA10 and LA90 over a sample period of 15 minutes; detailed notes should be taken in relation to primary noise sources, weather and prevailing winds; measurements should be conducted at various locations on a cyclical basis over the course of a typical day.
Noise monitoring should be conducted in accordance with ISO 1996: 2007: Acoustics – Description, measurement and assessment of environmental noise.
For attended vibration monitoring or test pile measurements, the following survey methodology should be employed:
survey engineers should measure the maximum ppv at each location over a sample period of 15 minutes; detailed notes should be taken in relation to primary vibration sources; and measurements should be conducted at the locations on a cyclical basis over the course of a typical day (attended vibration monitoring only).
Vibration monitoring should be conducted in accordance with either BS 7385-1 (1990) Evaluation and measurement for vibration in buildings — Part 1: Guide for measurement of vibrations and evaluation of their effects on buildings or BS 6841 (1987) Guide to Measurement and Evaluation of Human Exposure to Whole-Body Mechanical Vibration and Repeated Shock as appropriate.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 8-14 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
9 LANDSCAPE
9.1 INTRODUCTION
This section forms an addendum to the permitted Bandon Flood Relief Scheme and addresses the landscape and visual aspects of two locations of proposed additional flood relief works and a proposed amendment to the permitted scheme. The additional flood relief works will be carried out in several locations within the Study Area, and relate to works at two streams, the Kilbrittain Stream and the Monarone Stream. This section also addresses the amended location of the fish pass at the weir in the Bandon River, which is to be located upstream instead of downstream of the weir. Other works include flood defences at the Allin Institute, Mill Place and additional drainage work in a number of other locations. The overall Study Area boundary as in the original EIS remains unchanged.
The proposed flood relief works to the Kilbrittain Stream include modifications to the stream channel and embankments, construction of new and replacement culverts and installation of gullies and surface improvements to the Kilbrittain Road. Proposed works to the Monarone Stream include modification of the stream channel along Distillery Road, upgrading of the storm and surface water drainage and resurfacing and regrading of part of the road. Proposed amendments to the fish pass at the Bandon Weir involve the relocation of the rock ramp fish pass upstream of the weir.
A detailed description of the proposed developments is contained in Chapter 3 of this Addendum.
The locations of additional and amended works are described with reference to Landscape Character and Landscape Type, and any ratings that have been assigned in terms of Value, Sensitivity and Importance. Any particular policy recommendations which have been set out by Cork County Council for this area in terms of landscape and visual characteristics have also been included.
The only available, quasi-official document providing guidance on landscape at a national level is ‘Outstanding Landscapes’, published by An Foras Forbartha in 1976. In 2000, the then Department of the Environment and Local Government built on this document by producing ‘Landscape and Landscape Assessment: Consultation Draft of Guidelines for Planning Authorities’, which recommended that all Local Authorities adopt a standardised approach to landscape assessment for incorporation into Development Plans and consideration as part of the planning process. This chapter of the addendum has been broadly based on these guidelines.
9.2 METHODOLOGY
This section of the addendum to the EIS is based on a combination of desk and field studies and also refers to the original EIS document. The desk study reviews previous landscape character assessments and reviews that have been carried out within the Study Area. It incorporates a description of the policies and objectives of Cork County Council with regards to Landscape Character Assessment, Scenic Amenity, Views and Prospects, and Scenic Routes and Landscapes, with specific reference to the additions and amendments to the original scheme.
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A field study was carried out on March 28 2014. This involved a windshield survey and a walkover survey to ascertain the important landscape elements, as well as views to and from the proposed development locations. Photographs of the locations of the proposed works were taken and notes taken on key landscape elements such as stream banks, tree lines and hedgerows.
The visual impact assessment of the proposed development also encompasses the use of photomontages in the case of the fish pass above Bandon Weir.
9.3 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT
A full description of the receiving environment of the Study Area is contained in the original EIS document. The following relates only to the areas of proposed additional works 9.3.1 Landscape Character Assessment
The Cork County Council Draft Landscape Strategy is presented as a detailed supporting document to the 2009 County Development Plan which contains further details on Landscape Character Assessment. Section 7.2 of the 2009 County Development Plan refers to 16 broad Landscape Types across the County, which are an amalgamation of 76 Landscape Character Areas. It is stated in the 2009 Plan that Cork County Council intends to finalise the Draft Strategy to include policy recommendations for the County Development Plan before proceeding with a Variation to the Plan to give effect to the Strategy.
Landscape Character and Type The Landscape Character and Type of the Study Area are described in the original EIS document. Both the locations of additional works at the Kilbrittain and Monarone Streams, as well as the amended fish pass at Bandon weir are located within Landscape Character Area Enniskeane/ Bandon/ Ballinhassig (LCA No. 58), as shown in Map 1 of the Draft Landscape Strategy for County Cork 2007. This is part of the Broad Fertile Lowland Valley Landscape Type (Type 6a) as shown in Map 2 of the Draft Strategy and extends to the east and west of Bandon.
Study Area Land Cover As mentioned in the original EIS, a CORINE map of land cover was obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency. A CORINE land cover map is a map of the environmental landscape based on the interpretation of satellite images which provides comparable digital maps of land cover for each country for much of Europe. The areas relevant to the proposed additional and amended works include continuous urban fabric which occurs at the settlement of Bandon, while the outskirts of Bandon are characterised in most directions by discontinuous urban fabric, which gives way to pastoral and arable farmland.
9.3.1.1 Landscape Value and Sensitivity The Draft Landscape Strategy for County Cork classifies the Landscape Value of each Landscape Type within the county, using a scale ranging from Low to Very High. The Landscape Value of each area was derived from an assessment of the natural, scenic and cultural value as determined within that area. The locations of proposed works and amendments lie within Landscape Type Broad Fertile Lowland Valley, in which, has been assigned an overall Landscape Value of High.
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Landscape sensitivity, which can be described as the degree to which the landscape can accommodate change without suffering unacceptable change to its character and values, is ascribed to each of the 16 Landscape Types in the Draft Landscape Strategy. Landscape Type Broad Fertile Lowland Valley has been described as an area of High Landscape Sensitivity, meaning that it is a high quality landscape that is vulnerable to change and can accommodate limited development pressure.
9.3.1.2 Scenic Amenity, Views and Prospects Section 7.2 of the Cork County Development Plan 2009 refers to the features within the landscape that are recognised for their visual aspects and quality, and which play a significant role in maintaining the County’s vitality as a visitor attraction and as an attractive place to live and work. It is a general objective of Cork County Council therefore to protect the visual and scenic amenities of the county’s built and natural environment, as stated in Objective ENV 2-6 of the Plan.
“It is a general objective to preserve the character of all important views and prospects, particularly sea views, river or lake views, views of unspoilt mountains, upland or coastal landscapes, views of historical or cultural significance (including buildings and townscapes) and views of natural beauty as recognised in the Landscape Strategy.”
9.3.1.3 Scenic Routes and Landscapes
The Cork County Development Plan identifies specific Scenic Routes and Scenic Landscapes, which in general make up the areas of natural beauty and important views and prospects most valued by residents and visitors to Cork. Scenic Routes act as indicators of high value landscapes and identify more visually sensitive locations where higher standards of design, siting and landscaping are required. The objectives of the Planning Authority with regards to the Scenic Routes and Landscapes are as follows:
o Objective ENV 2-7 Scenic Landscape: It is a particular objective to preserve the visual and scenic amenities of those areas of natural beauty identified as scenic landscape and shown in the scenic amenity maps in Volume 3 of this plan. o Objective ENV 2-11 Scenic Routes: It is a particular objective to preserve the character of those views and prospects obtainable from scenic routes identified in this plan. These routes are shown on the scenic amenity maps in Volume 3 and listed in Volume 2 of this plan. A profile of each route and the views to be protected are listed in Volume 2 of this plan. o Objective ENV 2-12 Details of Scenic Routes: It is an objective to protect the character and quality of those particular stretches of scenic routes that have very special views and prospects. o Objective ENV 2-13: Development on Scenic Routes: (a) It is also an objective of the Planning Authority to require those seeking to carry out development in the environs of a scenic route and/or an area with important views and prospects, to demonstrate that there will be no adverse obstruction or degradation of the views towards and from vulnerable landscape features. In such areas, the appropriateness
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of the design, site layout, and landscaping of the proposed development must be demonstrated along with mitigation measures to prevent significant alterations to the appearance or character of the area. (b) It is an objective to encourage appropriate landscaping and screen planting of developments along scenic routes. Where scenic routes run through settlements street trees and ornamental landscaping may also be required. Refer to Objective ENV 4-13, which provides guidance in relation to landscaping.
A total of 118 Scenic Routes are identified within the county, as listed in Volume 2 – Chapter 4 of the County Development Plan. Three of these Scenic Routes are partially located within the Study Area, as identified in the original EIS, however only one, Route S64, is close to one of the areas where additional works are proposed, near to the Moanarone Stream.
o Route S63: R605 Regional Road and Local Road between Inishannon and Kinsale via Shippool. Views of woodland and the Bandon River Valley. o Route S64: N71 National Secondary Road between Bandon and Inishannon. Views of the Bandon River and woodland. o Route S65: Local Roads from Inishannon to Ballinadee to Barrel Cross Roads to Kilnacloona. Views of open countryside, hills, woodland and the Bandon River.
The locations of these routes are shown in Figure 9.1 of the original EIS.
A profile of each Scenic Route identified in the County Development Plan is set out in Appendix B of Volume 2 of the Plan. Profiles of the scenic routes are contained in Table 9.2 of the original EIS.
The Landscape Maps in Volume 3 of the County Development Plan show the designated Scenic Routes and Landscapes within each Landscape Type. The Study Area is shown in Maps 14 and 15 of Volume 3. These maps show the areas to the west, north and east of Bandon that have been designated as Scenic Landscapes. The locations of these areas are also shown in Figure 9.1 of the EIS report. It should be noted that the Scenic Landscapes identified in the 2009 Plan are currently being amended in the draft Cork County Development Plan 2013, which proposes a new landscape designation of High Value Landscapes. There were none of these within the Study Area boundary. 9.3.2 Bandon Electoral Area Local Area Plan (LAP) 2011
The locations of additional and amended works are located within the Study Area, located within the Bandon Electoral Area. The Bandon Electoral Area Local Area Plan (LAP) 2011 was published in August 2011. Section 3 of the Interim LAP sets out the planning proposals for the settlements within electoral area, including a description of the issues faced by individual settlements. The proposals for the main settlement area of Bandon are set out in Section 3.1 of the Interim LAP. Within this section, under the heading of Environment and Heritage, the LAP makes the following points with regards to Landscape and Visual properties:
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
o To the west of the town, the steeply sloping river valley sides make an important contribution to the setting of the town and are, in part, designated as Scenic Landscape. o The N71 to the east of the town is designated as part of a Scenic Route (S64). o The Landscape Character Type (LCT) for the area around Bandon is Broad Fertile Lowland Valleys. The landscape value and sensitivity in this area are both deemed to be high. The landscape importance is at a county level. o The valleys in these areas are created by rivers flowing east to west, for example the Bandon River, and are surrounded by low well-spaced ridges. They have also created imposing views across the landscape.
Landscape Policy Recommendations It is an objective of Cork County Council to ensure that landscape issues will be an important factor in all land-use proposals, thereby ensuring that a pro-active view of development is undertaken while maintaining respect for the environment and heritage generally in line with the principle of sustainability. (Cork County Development Plan 2009: Objective ENV 2-2 The Landscape). In this regard, the Draft Landscape Strategy for County Cork 2007 sets out specific recommendations for each Landscape Type within the county. The relevant recommendations for the Broad Fertile Lowland Valley Landscape Type, for the additional works and the amendments to the original EIS include:
Protect and preserve the Bandon River and its surrounding floodplains as unique landscape features in this Landscape Character Type and as valuable resource for scenic and amenity values.
o Conserve and enhance the characteristics in this Landscape Character Type that are important to tourism. o Recognise that the lowlands are made up of a variety of working landscapes that are critical resources for sustaining the economic and social well being of the county. 9.3.3 Landscape Character
Landscape character refers to the distinct and recognisable pattern of elements that occurs consistently in a particular type of landscape, and how people perceive this. It reflects particular combinations of geology, landform, soils, vegetation, land use and human settlement, and creates the particular sense of place found in different areas. The identification of landscape character comprises the identification of the physical, visual and image units and these are described in the original EIS.
9.3.3.1 Physical Unit The topography, vegetation and anthropological features on the land surface in an area combine to set limits on the amount of the landscape that can be seen at any one time. These physical restrictions form individual areas or units, known as physical units, whose character can be defined by aspect, slope, scale and size. A physical unit is generally delineated by topographical boundaries and is defined by landform and landcover.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The physical landscape unit in which the Study Area is located is shown on Figure 9.2 of the original EIS. The topography of this physical landscape unit is evenly undulating with shallow, flat river valleys surrounded by low well-spaced ridges. The highest peaks are in the region of 200 metres O.D.
9.3.3.2 Landform Present-day landscapes owe to their form to the geological materials from which they were carved. Landform is the term used to describe the spatial and formal arrangement of landscape components as a natural product of geological and geomorphologic processes in the past, and refers primarily to topography and drainage.
9.3.3.2.1 Geological Processes Geological information on the Study Area is contained in the original EIS. More information on the Soils & Geology of the Study Area is available in Chapter – Soils & Geology of the original EIS.
9.3.3.2.2 Topography In Munster differential erosion has produced a series of parallel ridges of sandstone mountains with fertile limestone valley floors. In Cork and Kerry, glaciation has accentuated this topography. Rivers, such as the Bandon River, are forced to flow along an east-axis in these valleys until they manage to breach the ridges and turn suddenly south to the coast, a characteristic feature of this region. Although the valley walls can be quite steep in places, in general the Bandon valley in the vicinity of the Study Area is best described as a broad fertile valley.
9.3.3.2.3 Drainage The proposed development sites lie within the Bandon catchment.
The Bandon River flows through a valley cut into rocks of the Carboniferous period. The valley floor is covered with glacial drift and alluvium. The river rises in the Maughanaclea Hills in West Cork. It flows eastwards to a point west of Caha Bridge where it turns south, before turning east again to the southeast of Dunmanway. It then flows in a broad fertile valley, with woodlands, to Bandon, and loops in an arc past Inishannon, where it flows southeast and then east, becoming an estuary and reaching the sea in Kinsale Harbour.
In addition, there are two main tributaries that flow into the Bandon River within the Study Area; the Bridewell and Brinny Rivers. The Kilbrittain Stream flows into the Bridewell River, while the Moanarone Stream flows into the Mill Stream, which flows into the Bandon River.
9.3.3.3 Landcover Landcover is the term used to describe the combinations of vegetation and land-use that cover the land surface. It comprises the more detailed constituent parts of the landscape and encompasses both natural and man-made features. The EPA web based ENVision database was consulted in relation to land cover. Landcover within the Study Area is dominated by pastoral land with some broadleaf woodland and urban fabric, as described in the original EIS.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
9.3.3.4 Visual Unit A visual landscape unit is defined by spatial enclosure and pattern, i.e. by landform and landcover. The limits of the views that are available from a particular area are therefore determined by the physical landscape, such as topographical and vegetation boundaries. The visual unit of the immediate area around the Study Area is displayed in Figure 9.3 of the original EIS, based on local topography. It should be noted that Bandon’s townscape and vegetation is likely to restrict the visual unit to a greater extent than illustrated in Figure 9.3, but that this representation shows the likely maximum visual unit of the study area from peaks around river valley.
9.3.3.5 Image Unit An image unit is a feature that acts as a major focal point within the landscape. Such features contribute to the creation of a strong identity or sense of place. The landscape of this area, as a whole, is intrinsic to the character of this part of County Cork. However there is no one single feature or image unit that contributes specifically to the identity of the area.
9.3.3.6 Landscape Sensitivity The sensitivity of a landscape to development and therefore to change varies according to its character and to the importance that is attached to any combination of landscape values. The sensitivity of a landscape is derived from consideration of designations such as Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) and National Parks, from information such as tourist maps, guidebooks and brochures, and from the evaluation of indicators such as uniqueness, popularity, distinctiveness, and quality of the elements of the area. As indicated in Section 1.3.3 above, the areas within which the proposed amendments lay is in an area of High Landscape Sensitivity.
An assessment of the landscape sensitivity of the whole study area was carried out and is referred to in the original EIS in Table 9.2 Features of Landscape Sensitivity.
9.4 KILBRITTAIN STREAM
9.4.1 Landscape and Site Context
The Kilbrittain Stream runs along the Kilbrittain Road (R603) where it joins the N71 to the west of Bandon town and flows into the Bridewell River by the GAA grounds (which are located at the junction with the Clonakilty Road). Part of the stream bed is bordered by an earthen bank and trees, while the section by the GAA grounds is culverted. The northern section of the stream is bordered by sections of stone wall, while further to the south, it is bordered by a stone and earth bank along the roadside, with some vegetation and scattered trees. The bank to the west of the stream contains more vegetation and some tree lines. A fence separates this vegetation from the Birchvale estate, and a grass strip lies inside this fence.
9.4.1.1 Views from the site Views from the site are restricted by the higher ground to the northwest of the stream and the road.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 9.1: View of earth bank and trees bordering Kilbrittain Stream.
Plate 9.1 above shows the Kilbrittain Stream on the left of the photograph, running parallel to the road towards the junction with the Clonakilty Road. It is bordered by a low earth/stone bank which is partially vegetated. Certain sections of this bank are in poor condition and there are gaps in some sections. A row of deciduous trees is evident, mostly on the bank to the west of the stream, which partially screens the houses behind.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 9.2: View of stone wall and trees bordering Kilbrittain Stream.
The view in Figure 9.2 above is taken looking north showing the stone wall and vegetation bordering the Kilbrittain Stream.
9.4.1.2 Views from the site A further view to the location of the proposed works is gained on the approach down the hill from the Bandon bypass road where the tree line and earth bank is are evident in front of the viewer.
There are also views towards the area of proposed works from the residences along in the road, including the Birchvale estate and adjoining houses on the west of the stream. These views include the trees and vegetation growing along the stream bank, which provides a certain amount of screening between the residences and the road.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 9. 3: View of from junction of Bypass road and Kilbrittain Road looking towards the stream bank
9.4.2 Proposed Works to Kilbrittain Stream
The proposed works to the Kilbrittain Stream are described in Chapter 3 of this addendum and include the following works:
Removal of existing ditch/embankment on the right bank and erection of new crash barrier between chainage 310 and 405 Lowering of stream bed by up to .685m between chainage 320 to 420 Local improvement works to channel and embankments between 170 and 310 New fence between chainage 170 and 310 in lieu of trash screen Installation of new gullies to connect to storm water sewer on Kilbrittain Road between chainage 0 and 295. Resurfacing of Kilbrittain Road between chainage 0 and 310 to direct water to gullies. Resurface Kilbrittain Road between chainage 310 and 420 to direct water directly to stream. A new 2.4m x 1.5m (of 157.4m length) box culvert to replace the existing culvert under Birchvale, under Bandon GAA grounds with outfall to the Bridewell River New headwall and modifications including localized bed lowering of up to 1.24m, to the approach channel of the proposed culvert. New 2.4m x 1.5m high box culvert to replace existing culvert at Birchvale at chainage 325.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
9.4.3 Likely and Significant Impacts and Associated Mitigation Measures
‘Do Nothing’ Scenario In the case of all the proposed amendments to the original scheme, in the ‘Do Nothing Scenario, no additional works will take place. The proposed works as outlined in the original EIS would take place. In the event of further flooding, at various locations in the town associated impacts would include landscape and visual impacts, where flooding may damage structures and features of the urban landscape.
Impacts during the Construction Phase
9.4.3.1 Construction Works and Traffic; Materials and Temporary Site Buildings
Short Term, Slight to Moderate Negative Impact The proposed works will involve the movement of vehicles in and out of the working area, and temporary site buildings. Prefabricated temporary buildings will be provided during the construction works as specified in the original EIS. Construction plant and machinery may be stored here. These buildings will include office space and welfare facilities. These works will have a have a localised, short term, slight to moderate negative impact in terms of landscape character and visual amenity. It is envisaged that the construction period will be up to 24 months.
Mitigation Any negative impacts associated with the above works will be minimised through the implementation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and a Traffic Management Plan.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a short term, slight negative impact.
9.4.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity
Short Term, Slight to Moderate Negative Impact The construction phase of the proposed works at the Kilbrittain Stream will involve construction noise and activity associated with both traffic and works.
Mitigation The measures in outlined Chapter 8 of the Addendum on Air, Climate and Noise will address the potential impacts of construction noise and activity during construction stage.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a short term, slight negative impact.
9.4.3.3 Disturbance to Birchvale Development during Proposed Works.
Temporary, Slight negative Impact There will be temporary disturbance to the Birchvale turning area and the public grassed area during construction. The landscape and visual impact will be temporary to short term, slight negative impact.
Mitigation The turning and grassed areas will both be reinstated following completion of works.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Residual Impact Following re-instatement, the residual impacts are expected to be neutral.
Impacts during the Operational Phase
9.4.3.4 Removal of Trees, Vegetation and Banks/Wall.
Long Term, Moderate Negative Impact These will involve the removal of a section of the existing stone and earth bank along the Kilbrittain Road, between chainage 310 and 405, which will be replaced with a steel crash barrier. The western bank will also be affected and some vegetation will be removed, resulting in opening up of views and a reduction in screening. This will be most noticeable where there are dwellings to the west of the stream. Stream bank stabilization in the form of gabions or rip-rap will also be constructed. This will cause a noticeable change in the environment. Other likely impacts include the removal of trees and earth above the culvert at chainage 325.
Localised improvement works to the channel between chainage 170 and 310 will include changes to the profile of the stream banks, with gabions in certain sections. Sections of the existing stone wall may be removed in certain sections to facilitate culvert construction, but will be re-instated following works. Some vegetation, mainly on the western bank close to the Birchvale estate, including some trees, will be removed as part of the localised improvement works to the channel. It is estimated that approximately 175 metres of treeline and hedgerow will be disturbed or removed due to the works, causing noticeable changes in terms of screening. Where possible these areas will be replanted with native species. A proposed 1.8m high Palladin fence will be constructed on both banks of the stream between chainage 170 and 310.
Mitigation: Retention of trees and vegetation where possible - where vegetation has been removed, it is to be replanted with native hedgerow species (as outlined in Chapter 5 Flora and Fauna) where this is possible without affecting the stability of the stream bank. The proposed Palladin fence is to be finished in green to blend in with surroundings and vegetation.
Residual Impact The residual impact will be a Long term Slight to Moderate Negative impact as a result of the mitigation measures.
9.4.3.5 Lowering of Stream Bed and Works to Stream Banks
Permanent Slight Negative Impact Lowering of the stream bed and regrading of right (west) bank will also result in the removal of some existing vegetation to the right bank. The right bank will be retained and where possible, native hedging will be planted in areas of the right bank. 1.8m high green Palladin fencing to the right bank, between the western bank and existing dwellings, is proposed. Bank stabilization in the form of gabions or rip-rap will also be constructed. Other modifications, including localised bed lowering of up to 1.24m, to the approach channel of the proposed culvert under the GAA grounds, are also proposed. The deepening of sections of the river will change the appearance of the stream, and the proposed works to the stream bed will be of a long-term to permanent duration
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Mitigation Where possible vegetation will be retained, and re-growth of vegetation will be facilitated where it occurs if possible.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, a Permanent Slight Negative Impact is likely.
9.4.3.6 Resurfacing Works to Kilbrittain Road and Installation of New Gullies
Temporary to Short term Slight Negative impact Resurfacing works to the road will have a temporary, slight negative impact in terms of landscape and visual impacts. This will be temporary in nature.
Mitigation: The measures contained in Chapter 8 of the addendum, Air, Noise and Climate and The Environment Management Plan will minimize negative impacts.
Residual Impact: Temporary to short term, Slight Negative Impact
9.4.3.7 Construction of Fence and Headwall The 1.8m high Palladin fence will be on top of the headwall, and will be clearly visible from the approach from the Clonakilty road. Proposed gabions/rip-rap will also be visible near the headwall.
Long term, Imperceptible to Slight Negative Impact This will have both a visual impact and an impact on the landscape, though these will be of a long term, imperceptible to slight nature.
Mitigation: The proposed fence will be finished in a green colour in order to blend in with the surroundings, and the head wall should be finished to be consistent with the existing masonry wall.
Residual Impacts: These will be of a long term, imperceptible to slight nature.
9.4.3.8 Replacement of Culvert inside GAA Grounds
Temporary to Short term, Slight, Neutral Impact A new culvert is to replace the existing culvert from Birchvale, under Bandon GAA grounds with outfall to the Bridewell River. This will be further to the west of the existing channel, and will run under the main entrance road to the GAA grounds as well as through an area of gravel. This area is screened from the main road by a block wall. The landscape and visual impact is expected to be temporary, slight negative impact of the culvert will cause temporary slight and negative.
Mitigation Proposed mitigation includes the re-instatement of the surface on the entrance road to the GAA grounds and the gravel surface within the grounds. The landscape in this area is not of a sensitive nature and no sensitive views are affected, the area not being visible from the road.
Residual Impact The residual impact is likely to be temporary to short term and of slight, neutral impact.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
9.5 MOANARONE STREAM PROPOSED WORKS
9.5.1 Landscape and Site Context
This site is located to the east of Bandon town, on the periphery of the urban area. The Moanarone Stream flows under Distillery Road to the entrance to the Cork Marts Building, and flows in an open channel along Distillery Road, and joins the Mill River at the junction of Distillery Road and Old Quay Road. The open channel along Distillery Road is bordered by a stone wall, trees and other vegetation, while on the opposite side of the road is the Old Still pub. To the front of the Cork Marts Building are some grassed areas bounded by concrete kerbs. There will be a small change to works proposed at the mouth of the Mill stream at Ballyangley involving the replacement of a previously proposed embankment with a flood wall.
9.5.1.1 Views from the Site Views are not extensive from the site, which is relatively flat, and the roads leading to the site are bordered by vegetation and buildings, which include the Cork Marts building, the Old Still pub, and the Grain yard. The view in Plate 9.4 below is taken from the junction of Distillery Road and Old Quay Road, looking North towards the River Bandon, N71 and the area of Scenic Landscape (as designated in the Cork County Development Plan 2009) in the background.
Plate 9.4: View from the site at junction of Distillery Road and Old Quay Road
The view in Plate 9.5 below shows the view towards the west, towards the yard buildings with the Old Still pub to the immediate left.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 9.5: View looking from Distillery Road towards Yard and Moanarone Road junction
Plate 9.6: Amenity grass and concrete wall to entrance of Cork Marts building
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
9.5.1.2 Views to the site Views to the site are available from the approach roads. The images below shows two main views - view from Distillery Road, both looking to the east towards the junction with Old Quay road and the Ballylangley Road as seen below in Plate 9.7. This view shows the stream channel bordered by a stone wall and with vegetation and a treeline along the stream. There are sheds and some structure also along the stream bank. The view looking to the west towards the grain yard in Plate 9.8.
Plate 9. 7: View looking along Distillery Road to junction with Moanarone Road
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Plate 9.8: View along Distillery Road towards the grain yard
Part of the Moanarone Stream is currently covered and the northern bank is heavily vegetated in sections as is evident in Plates 9.7 and 9.8 above.
9.5.2 Proposed Works to Moanarone Stream
Proposed works to the Moanarone Stream include construction of a precast concrete channel to replace the existing open channel and pipe, the construction of a new concrete outfall at the confluence of Mill River and Moanarone Stream, specifically:
Construction of a new 20m long 1.2m x 0.6m precast box culvert. The culvert will be installed to replace the existing pipe from the storage yard to the main entrance at Cork Marts. Construction of a new 26m long 1m x 1m precast concrete channel. The channel will connect the new culvert to the outfall at the Mill River and replace the existing open channel and pipe. Construction of a new concrete outfall structure at the confluence of the Moanarone Stream and the Mill River. Resurface of sections of the Moanarone and Distillery Roads in order to provide camber towards the open channel. Installation of new surface water sewers on the Moanarone and Distillery Roads. New gullies will be installed to connect new and existing storm sewers. Installation of a new linear drainage channel across the entrance to the Cork Marts storage yard and to the grain yard. Replacement of section of proposed embankment with a short section of flood wall.
______Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 9-17
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
In terms of landscape and visual impacts, the primary works which will cause impacts are the removal of vegetation and stream bank due to the addition of the concrete channel.
9.5.3 Likely and Significant Impacts and Associated Mitigation Measures
Impacts during the Construction Phase
9.5.3.1 Construction Works and Traffic, Materials and Temporary Site Buildings Views to the Site
Short Term, Slight to Moderate Negative Impact The proposed additional works will involve the movement of vehicles in and out of the working area, and temporary site buildings. Prefabricated temporary buildings will be provided during the construction works as described in the original EIS. Construction plant and machinery may be stored here. These buildings will include office space and welfare facilities. These works will have a have a localised, short term, slight to moderate negative impact in terms of landscape character and visual amenity. It is envisaged that the construction period will be up to 24 months.
Mitigation Any negative impacts associated with the above works will be minimised through the implementation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and a Traffic Management Plan.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a short term, slight negative impact.
9.5.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity
Short term, slight to moderate negative impact The construction phase of the proposed works at the Moanarone Stream will involve construction noise and activity associated with both traffic and works.
Mitigation The measures in outlined Chapter 8 of this Addendum on Air, Climate and Noise will address the potential impacts of construction noise and activity during construction stage.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a short term, slight negative impact.
Impacts during the Operational Phase
9.5.3.3 Removal of Trees, Vegetation and Bankside Habitats
Long term Moderate Negative Impact
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The proposed works, particularly the installation of a 26m long concrete channel to replace the open channel along Distillery road will result in the removal of vegetation and trees and stream bank. This removal of vegetation (approximately 20m of hedgerow) and stream bank will result in a slight to moderate impact as the removal of vegetation will result in the buildings and structures on the north side of the stream (which are currently partially screened by the vegetation) being much more visible, and will affect the character of the environment. Part of the proposed concrete channel (approximately 13m) will be enclosed, however part will be left open. A small area of amenity grassland will be removed to allow for the construction of the channel near the entrance to the Cork Marts.
Mitigation Trees and bankside vegetation will be retained where possible. Where removal of vegetation is necessary, the bank to the north of the proposed channel will be backfilled and either seeded with grass, planted with native tree and shrub species or allowed to revegetate naturally, depending on the space available and ensuring that this does not interfere with the stability of the bank or affect the drainage works. Species should be native species as outlined in Chapter 5 (Flora and Fauna), and tall growing species are not recommended in areas which are proximate to buildings or structures. The existing stone wall is to be retained and underpinned, while any sections of existing block wall which have to be removed during construction will be rebuilt.
Residual Impact If the mitigation measures are carried out, it is expected that the impact will be short term, slight negative impact. The re-vegetation and re-colonisation of the north bank of the channel will mitigate the effects of the vegetation removal. The vegetation will take some time to mature and the visual and landscape impacts will decrease as vegetation grows. The retention of the stone wall will greatly reduce the potential for adverse visual impact.
9.5.3.4 Construction of Culvert under the Road from Distillery Road, Road Resurfacing Works on Moanarone and Distillery Road
Long Term Imperceptible Neutral impact
This culvert will not have any significant landscape or visual impacts at operational stage.
Mitigation
Additional mitigation measures are not deemed necessary.
Residual Impact
Long term imperceptible neutral impact.
9.5.3.5 Resurfacing of Sections of Distillery Road and Moanarone Roads Long Term, Imperceptible, Positive Impact The road resurfacing works on Distillery Road and Moanarone Road are envisaged to have very minor landscape and visual impacts and it is likely that the proposed works will create a slight improvement in terms of visual impact.
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Mitigation Additional mitigation measures are not deemed necessary
Residual Impact Long term, imperceptible, positive impact.
9.5.3.6 Drainage works: Installation of surface water sewers, new gullies and installation of drainage channel between Cork Marts storage yard entrance and grain yard.
Long term, imperceptible, neutral impact The proposed drainage works will constitute minor changes in terms of landscape and visual impact, and will not constitute changes which affect the quality of the environment.
Mitigation: No mitigation measures are deemed necessary at operational stage.
Residual impact: Long term, imperceptible, neutral impact
9.5.3.7 Replacement of small section of embankment with flood defence wall
Long Term, Imperceptible, Neutral Impact The proposed replacement of a small section of embankment with a low wall in an urban environment is not considered to be a negative impact.
Mitigation No mitigation measures are deemed necessary at operational stage.
Residual impact Long term, imperceptible, neutral impact
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
9.6 FISH PASS AT BANDON WEIR
9.6.1 Landscape and Site Context
The proposed Fish pass will be located upstream of Bandon Weir, which lies in the centre of Bandon Town.
9.6.1.1 Views from the site Views from the weir area are restricted by urban infrastructure, including walls and buildings, and tree planting. Views are mainly concentrated upstream and downstream. The view below in Plate 9.9 shows the view looking downstream from Weir St., towards the pedestrian bridge, towards the dwellings across the river.
Plate 9.10: View downstream of weir towards pedestrian bridge
The view in Plate 9.10 below shows the view from the site downstream, which shows the buildings and vegetation on both sides of the river which restrict the view. Views looking upstream of the proposed fish pass consist of mostly riverbank vegetation which restrict the view on both sides, as shown in Plate 9.10.
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Plate 9.11: View riverbank upstream of weir, with embankment and steps providing some screening of views
9.6.1.2 Views to the site: Views to the site are available from the pedestrian bridge, from both sides of river banks immediately around the weir. Other intermittent views are available from the walkway along the riverbank, with some screening afforded by the embankment as seen in Plate 9.13 below. The photomontages show views to the proposed fish pass looking upstream towards the weir.
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Plate 9.12: View from upstream of weir, showing buildings and vegetation on both sides of riverbank.
______Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 9-23
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 9.13: View from downstream of weir, with vegetation upstream of weir on both sides of river.
9.6.2 Proposed Works
The initial proposal for a fish pool pass down stream of Bandon Weir as proposed in the original EIS has been replaced with the proposal of a rock ramp fish pass upstream of Bandon Weir. The proposed rock ramp is 12.6m wide and approximately 137m long.
9.6.2.1 Photomontages
9.6.2.1.1 Definition and Uses Photomontages are visualisations that superimpose an image of a proposed development upon a photograph or series of photographs. They are intended as graphical representations of how a proposed development will appear in the existing landscape. A series of photomontages has been prepared as part of the EIA, which show the proposed scheme from different locations in the receiving environment. The photo-location is illustrated in Figure 9.2.
Visualisations such as photomontages are tools that can represent the likely effect of a development at a particular time and are used to inform the viewer’s prediction of how that development will appear. In terms of impact quality however, i.e. whether a visual impact is deemed to be positive, negative or neutral, this involves a degree of subjectivity.
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9.6.2.1.2 Photo-location 1
Existing View
Plate 9.14: Existing View from Photo Location 1
Plate 9.15: Proposed View of the Bandon Weir at mid water level
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Plate 9.16: Proposed View of the Bandon Weir at low water level
Existing View - Looking Upstream
Photo-location 1 is on the pedestrian footbridge linking the north and the south banks of the Bandon River upstream of Bandon Bridge and just downstream of the Bandon Weir. The existing view looking upstream from the footbridge presented in Plate 9.14 shows the Bandon Weir in the centre of the photograph with the river wall visible to the left of the picture (southern bank) and modern apartment block to the right (northern bank). The Bandon River itself flows through the centre of the photograph. Upstream of the Bandon Weir, mature broadleaved trees line the river bank, although some are also present downstream of this point. Downstream of the weir within the river channel, areas of bedrock and small islets vegetated with rank grasses are visible, particularly to the left of the photograph. On the southern bank, part of the urban fabric of Bandon Town is also shown.
Proposed View – Mid water Level
Plate 9.15 shows the proposed view of the fish pass, which is visible to the left of the image. The weir and all other infrastructure visible in the existing view will remain. (This proposed view also shows the flood defence walls in front of Mill Place, which are included in the original EIS). The walls on either side of the fish pass are clearly noticeable from this view, as they are higher than the weir. At mid-water level, however, the base of the fish pass is covered.
Proposed View – Low Water level
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Plate 9.16 shows the proposed fish pass at low water level. The most noticeable difference at low water level is that the stone at the base of the fish pass will be visible. In comparison with the originally proposed fish pass downstream of the weir, the visual impact of the amended fish pass is considered to be significantly less. 9.6.3 Likely and Significant Impacts and Associated Mitigation Measures
Impacts during the Construction Phase
9.6.3.1 Construction Traffic, Materials and Temporary Site Buildings
Temporary to Short-term, Slight to Moderate Temporary Negative Impact
The construction phase of the proposed scheme will involve the movement of construction vehicles into and out of the working areas in all additional locations, the storage of machinery on site and temporary site buildings and building materials on site. These activities will have a slight to moderate negative temporary impact on the surrounding area in terms of landscape and visual impact. It is envisaged that the construction will take place during the first summer season.
Mitigation Measures
Any negative impact associated with the proposed works on the visual amenity and landscape within the study area, will be minimised through the implementation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and a Traffic Management Plan. A construction compound will be used to house materials, plant and machinery, welfare facilities and site offices as part of the EMP and traffic movements will be subject to regulation through the traffic management plan.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a temporary to short term, slight negative impact.
9.6.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity
Temporary to Short term, Slight to Moderate Negative Impact The construction phase of the proposed works will involve construction noise and activity associated with both traffic and works.
Mitigation The measures in outlined Chapter 8 of this addendum, on Air, Climate and Noise will address the potential impacts of construction noise and activity during construction stage.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a temporary to short term, slight negative impact.
9.6.3.3 Construction of Rock Ramp Fish Pass, Removal of Vegetation and Bankside Habitats
Long term, Slight to Moderate Negative Impact The proposed rock ramp fish pass will have a visual impact which can be described as long term, slight negative impact. The fish pass will be visible from both downstream, from the
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with pedestrian bridge and both banks, and upstream, where the path runs along the river bank. However buildings and the wall near the weir on the Southern bank, will provide some screening. Some bankside vegetation will be removed to facilitate construction of the fish pass, which will reduce screening and lessen the visual amenity of the immediate surrounds.
Mitigation The moving of the fish pass upstream of the weir has resulted in a lesser visual impact than in the original location. Where possible, bankside vegetation will be retained, and where removal is necessary, will be re-planted using native species, and natural regeneration will be allowed.
Residual impact The residual impact, following mitigation, is likely to be long term, slight negative impact.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
9.7 FLOOD DEFENCE WORKS AT ALLIN INSTITUTE
9.7.1 Landscape and Site Context
The Allin Institute is located in the centre of Bandon town, on the Northern side of the Bandon Bridge. The landscape context is therefore one of an urban area, in close proximity to the river.
9.7.1.1 Views from the Site Views from the site include views across the bridge and River Bandon. In other directions the views are mostly restricted by the surrounding urban fabric.
9.7.1.2 Views to the Site
Plate 9.16: View of the Allin Institute from the Bandon Bridge.
Views to the site are mainly from the immediate surroundings, from Bridge Place and Sean Hale Place, from the Bandon bridge (as seen in Plate 9.16 above) and across the river on Glaslinn Road.
9.7.2 Proposed Works
The original proposed works at the Allin Institute included the construction of a flood gate. It is now proposed that a ramp be constructed. In addition the works involve the removal of ornamental planting to the front of the Allin Institute. A wall will also be constructed to the front of Allin Square.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
9.7.3 Impacts during the Construction Phase
9.7.3.1 Construction Works and Traffic; Materials and Temporary Site Buildings Short Term, Slight to Moderate Negative Impact The proposed additional works will involve the movement of vehicles in and out of the working area, and temporary site buildings. Prefabricated temporary buildings will be provided during the construction works as described in the original EIS. Construction plant and machinery may be stored here. These buildings will include office space and welfare facilities. These works will have a have a localised, short term, slight to moderate negative impact in terms of landscape character and visual amenity.
Mitigation Any negative impacts associated with the above works will be minimised through the implementation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and a Traffic Management Plan.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a short term, slight negative impact.
9.7.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity
Short Term, Slight to Moderate Negative Impact
The construction phase of the proposed works will involve construction noise and activity associated with both traffic and works.
Mitigation The measures in outlined Chapter 8 of this addendum on Air, Climate and Noise will address the potential impacts of construction noise and activity during construction stage.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a short term, slight negative impact.
Impacts during the Operational Phase
9.7.3.3 Removal of Bankside Vegetation, Walls and Ornamental Planting and Construction of Ramp, Wall and Railing.
Permanent, Slight Negative Impact. The proposed works will involve the removal of the raised planted areas to the front of Allin Square, and of some sections of existing stone wall, as well as removal of vegetation to the south along the riverbank. The masonry wall to the south of the square is to be retained.
Mitigation Measures The removal of both ornamental and bankside vegetation, even though these are small amounts, and walls will cause a change in visual amenity, and result in the removal of any vegetation from the square, causing the hard surfaces to dominate. The proposed block wall will be clad on both faces in stone to fit in with the surroundings, and the benches will be re-
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with instated. Bankside vegetation will be removed but ground will be re-graded, and following this vegetation may re-colonise this area.
Residual Impact The visual and landscape impacts associated with the removal of vegetation and wall on Allin Square will be mitigated by the re-design of Allin Square and the construction of a wall faced in stone, replaced seating and surfacing, and the provision of street lighting, resulting in a redesigned open space. Although the impact is characterised as slight, the nature of the impact is likely to be neutral as a result of the proposed design of the open space, resulting in a permanent, slight neutral impact.
9.8 FLOOD DEFENCE WALL AT MILL PLACE
9.8.1 Landscape and Site Context
Mill Place lies on the north bank of the River Bandon, north of the existing weir.
9.8.1.1 Views from the Site Views from the site are the same as those described for the weir in Section xx, the main views being across the river to the south. Views are restricted by the wall and buildings to the south. There are also views upstream and downstream.
9.8.1.2 Views to the Site Views to the site are available from across the river, as illustrated in Plate 9.17 below. Views of the location of the proposed flood wall from upstream on the opposite will be intermittent and restricted by vegetation; however the works will include the removal of some of this vegetation. Views to the site from downstream are restricted by the apartment block building.
Plate 9.17: View of Mill Place from the southern bank of the River Bandon.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Plate 9.18: View of Mill Place and to proposed location of flood defence wall
9.8.2 Proposed Works
A flood defence wall will now be constructed in lieu of the previously proposed embankment along the western boundary at Mill Place. The proposed wall will replace the previously proposed embankment, and will be constructed to the west of the Mill Place apartments. A tree line lies to the western end of the proposed wall.
9.8.3 Likely and Significant Impacts and Associated Mitigation Measures
Impacts during the Construction Phase
9.8.3.1 Construction Traffic, Materials and Temporary Site Buildings
Short-Term, Slight to Moderate Temporary Negative Impact The construction phase of the proposed amendments will involve the movement of construction vehicles into and out of the working areas in all additional locations, the storage of machinery on site and temporary site buildings and building materials on site. These activities will have a slight to moderate negative temporary impact on the surrounding area in terms of landscape and visual impact.
Mitigation Measures Any negative impact associated with the proposed works on the visual amenity and landscape within the study area, will be minimised through the implementation of an
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and a Traffic Management Plan. A construction compound will be used to house materials, plant and machinery, welfare facilities and site offices as part of the EMP and traffic movements will be subject to regulation through the traffic management plan.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a short term, slight negative impact.
9.8.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity
Short Term, Slight to Moderate Negative Impact The construction phase of the proposed works will involve construction noise and activity associated with both traffic and works.
Mitigation The measures in outlined Chapter 8 of this addendum on Air, Climate and Noise will address the potential impacts of construction noise and activity during construction stage.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a short term, slight negative impact.
9.8.3.3 Temporary Disturbance to Landscaped Area and Vegetable Garden during Construction Works
Temporary to Short term Slight Negative Impact Temporary to Short term disturbance to the landscaped area and vegetable garden will result during works.
Mitigation These areas will be reinstated following the construction works.
Residual Impact Following mitigation and the completion of construction works, the impact is likely to be temporary to short term imperceptible neutral impact.
Impacts during the Operational Phase
9.8.3.4 Construction of Flood Defence Wall and Removal of Existing Fences
Permanent Slight Negative Impact The works at this location will involve the construction of a flood defence wall to the west of Mill Place apartments. This will involve the removal of the existing Palladin fencing to the west of the building, where it will be replaced by the wall. A small section of fencing is proposed to join the proposed wall to the river bank. The proposed wall will join the existing masonry wall. A subterranean wall which lies under the location of the proposed wall is to be archaeologically resolved and removed.
Mitigation The proposed flood defence walls will be finished in local stone to fit in with the surroundings in order to minimise visual impact. The existing masonry wall to the north is to be retained and
______Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 9-33
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with will be repaired and repointed, made good up to 17.59m OD. The tree line to the west of Mill Place apartments is to be retained.
Residual Impact The proposed wall will be built instead of an embankment, and will have a smaller footprint than the embankment, which was assessed in the original EIS. Thus any loss of bankside vegetation is likely to be less than in the case of the construction of the embankment. The tree line is also to be retained, which will minimize the visual impact. It is considered that the replacement of a palladin fence with a stone faced wall will be regarded as an improvement by some. Following mitigation, the residual impact will be Permanent, Imperceptible Neutral Impact.
9.9 ADDITIONAL DRAINAGE WORKS
9.9.1 Landscape and Site Context
The proposed additional drainage works are all proposed within the existing urban areas within Bandon town – along Glasslinn Road, Brady’s Lane and Bridge Place.
9.9.1.1 Views from the Sites Views from the sites where the proposed additional works will take places are generally restricted by the urban fabric of Bandon Town and are concentrated along the streets. More expansive views are available from Glasslinn Road.
9.9.1.2 Views to the Sites Views from the sites where the proposed additional works will take places are generally restricted by the urban fabric of Bandon Town. 9.9.2 Proposed Works
The proposed additional drainage works include:
Construction of a new gravity storm drain on Glasslinn Road
Construction of new gravity and rising pumped storm drains from Brady’s Lane to a new outfall at the Bandon River. The works also include the fit out of an existing pumping station at Brady’s Lane
Construction of a new gravity storm drain along Bridge Place to a new outfall at the Bridewell River. 9.9.3 Likely and Significant Impacts and Associated Mitigation Measures
Impacts during the Construction Phase
9.9.3.1 Construction Traffic, Materials and Temporary Site Buildings
Short-term, slight to moderate temporary negative impact.
The construction phase of the proposed amendments will involve the movement of construction vehicles into and out of the working areas in all additional locations, the storage of machinery on site and temporary site buildings and building materials on site. These activities will have a slight to moderate negative temporary impact on the surrounding area in terms of landscape and visual impact.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Mitigation Measures
Any negative impact associated with the proposed works on the visual amenity and landscape within the study area, will be minimised through the implementation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and a Traffic Management Plan. A construction compound will be used to house materials, plant and machinery, welfare facilities and site offices as part of the EMP and traffic movements will be subject to regulation through the traffic management plan.
Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a short term, slight negative impact.
9.9.3.2 Construction Noise and Activity
Short Term, Slight to Moderate Negative Impact The construction phase of the proposed works will involve construction noise and activity associated with both traffic and works. Mitigation The measures in outlined Chapter 8 of this EIS on Air, Climate and Noise will address the potential impacts of construction noise and activity during construction stage. Residual Impact Following mitigation, the residual impact will be reduced to a short term, slight negative impact. Impacts during the Operational Phase
9.9.3.3 Removal of Bankside Vegetation and Habitats
Permanent Imperceptible Negative Impact The proposed additional works will result in a disturbance and loss of bankside vegetation, primarily amenity grassland, and in other cases will be carried out within existing hard surfaced areas.
Mitigation Trees which are close to the areas of works will be retained, thus minimising the visual impact.
Residual Impact
Following mitigation, the residual impact is likely to be a permanent imperceptible negative impact.
9.10 ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE WORKS
Maintenance may be required periodically on the Moanarone and Kilbrittain Streams as well as on the Fish Pass.
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
10. CULTURAL HERITAGE
10.1 INTRODUCTION
This Chapter assesses the cultural heritage impacts of the proposed Bandon Flood Relief Scheme EIS Addendum and is intended to be read in conjunction with the Cultural Heritage Chapter in the EIS previously compiled for the wider scheme. The term ‘cultural heritage’ is used to encompass the archaeological, architectural, historical and folklore heritage resource. The assessment identifies potential impacts on this resource and recommends appropriate mitigation measures. It should be noted that a process of consultation between the Project Archaeologists for the overall scheme (Lane Purcell Archaeology) and the Underwater Archaeological Unit of the National Monuments Service is ongoing at the time of writing and that the results of that consultation should be read in conjunction with this chapter.
Details on the proposed redesigns to the scheme are provided in Chapter 3 of the present report and can be summarised as follows:
Moanarone Stream works.
Kilbrittain Stream works.
Flood defence works at the Allin Institiute
Flood defence at Mill Place.
Fish pass at Bandon Weir.
Additional drainage works.
A Cultural Heritage Constraints Report compiled in 2011 for the overall scheme by John Cronin & Associates (JCA). The study area for that report focused on a portion of the Bandon River from a point 4km west of Bandon town centre to Kilmacsimon, located 10km downstream. It identified the locations of all recorded archaeological and architectural heritage features within the study area and summarised their legal status. The subsequent EIS for the flood relief scheme was based on a desktop study, field survey and an underwater archaeological survey of the scheme. A range of potential impacts on the cultural heritage resource were noted and appropriate mitigation strategies were presented as recommendations. Various additional archaeological assessments and site investigations have been undertaken since the EIS was compiled. These have been recent collated in a draft report compiled by the scheme’s Project Archaeologists (Lane Purcell Archaeology 2014) which outlines proposed archaeological mitigation strategies. A draft copy of this report was provided to the present writers by the scheme engineer’s (Byrne Looby Engineers) for consultation purposes.
The present chapter assesses more focused study areas that are centred on the areas that will be impacted by the proposed additions to the scheme. The assessment methodology is outlined below and included a comprehensive desk top survey of the study areas. The results of a second Archaeological Inspection Report undertaken by the Archaeological Dive Company (ADCO) in 2014 in the area of the redesigned fish pass have been incorporated into the present chapter and a full copy of the ADCO report is included in Appendix 10C.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-1
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
10.2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
10.2.1 Introduction The methodology used for this assessment is based on the EPA (2003) Advice Notes on Current Practice (in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements) on Cultural Heritage, including folklore/tradition, architecture/settlements and monuments/features, following a baseline study of the existing cultural heritage features in the area of the proposed development, as well as per the Institute of Archaeologists (IAI) Good Practice Guidelines.
This assessment is based on a desk top survey, carried out by John Cronin Associates (JCA), which identified all recorded and potential archaeological, architectural and other cultural heritage sites within the Study Area. The desk top survey informed an Archaeological Inspection undertaken by ADCO, which consisted of an onsite dive and wade survey to observe and record sites and features of archaeological interest and potential. The underwater archaeological survey work was conducted under licences issued by the National Monuments Service (14D0011, 14R0036) and took place in June 2014. Additional field inspection of dryland sections of the proposed redesigned elements of the scheme was carried out by JCA staff in June 2014.
10.2.2 Desktop Survey The principal sources reviewed for the assessment of the known archaeological resource were the Sites and Monuments Record (SMR) and the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) for County Cork. These provide comprehensive lists of the known archaeological resource and their legislative basis is outlined below (Section 10.3.2). The Record of Protected Structures (RPS) and the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) were the main sources consulted for assessing the known architectural heritage resource. The following sources were also consulted:
Database of Irish Excavation Reports The Database of Irish Excavation Reports contains summary accounts of all archaeological excavations carried out in Ireland – North and South – from 1970 to 2010. The excavations database contains summaries of a number of excavations within the vicinity of the additional works and the relevant information is incorporated into this chapter.
Topographical Files of the National Museum of Ireland The museum holds an archive of Topographical Files which record the find spots of artefacts within the collection. The paper and digital files are arranged by townland and can also include references to monuments. The discovery of apparently stray artefacts within a townland can indicate the presence of an unrecorded archaeological site.
Development Plan The local authority development plan relevant to the study area was consulted as part of this assessment. These plans outline the local authorities’ policies for the conservation of the archaeological and architectural heritage resource and include the Record of Protected Structures (RPS) and designate Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA). The relevant development plan for the study area comprises the Cork County Development Plan 2009-2015. The Draft County Cork Development Plan (2013) was also consulted during the desktop study.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-2
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Cartographic Sources
The detail on cartographic sources can indicate past settlement and land use patterns in recent centuries and can highlight the increased impact of modern developments. This information can aid in the identification of the location and extent of unrecorded, or partially levelled, features of archaeological or architectural interest. The cartographic sources examined for the study areas are provided in Appendix 10A and include relevant extracts from the 1st edition of the 6-inch OS maps (surveyed and published in the 1830s & 1840s) and the 25-inch OS maps (surveyed and published 1887-1913). Other cartographic sources consulted as part of the desktop study were:
1613 Jefford (Trinity College Catalogue ref. MS1209/39) 1620 Anon. (Trinity College Catalogue ref. MS1209/41) 1630 Anon. (Trinity College Catalogue ref. MS1209/42) 1657 Down Survey 1775 Scalé’s map
Photographic Sources A number of photographic sources were consulted as a means of identifying possible cultural heritage sites, including the Digital Photographs database of the National Library of Ireland (http://www.nli.ie/).
Literary Sources Literary sources are a valuable means of completing the written archaeological, historical and architectural record of study area and gaining insight into the history of the environs of the proposed scheme. A list of all literary sources consulted is provided in the bibliography (Section 10.6) and includes the following:
Archaeological Inventory of County Cork Volume 1: West Cork Urban Archaeological Survey of County Cork. Irish Historic Towns Atlas No.3, Bandon Bandon Historical Journal Bandon Town Wall Conservation Plan (Heritage Council report prepared by Tobar Archaeological Services and Carrig Conservation)
Placenames Database of Ireland The Placenames Branch (Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht) provides a comprehensive management system for data, archival records and placenames research conducted by the State. Its primary function is to undertake research in order to establish the correct Irish language forms of the placenames of Ireland and to publish them on a public website (www.logainm.ie).
10.2.3 Field and Underwater Survey The archaeological inspection of the river bed and riverbanks was undertaken by ADCO in June 2014 and additional inspection of dryland elements of the scheme was carried out by JCA staff in the same month. A photographic record was kept for both surveys and extracts are provided in Appendix 10B.
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10.2.4 Significance and Impact Criteria The assessment for the significance and impacts on Cultural Heritage Assets are based on various criteria guidelines published by the National Monuments Service (NMS), the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) and the National Road Authority (NRA). The significance criteria used to evaluate an archaeological and architectural site, monument or complex are: existing status (level of protection), condition or preservation, documentation or historical significance, group value, rarity, visibility in the landscape, fragility or vulnerability, and amenity value.
Impacts are generally categorised as either being direct, indirect or of no predicted impact. The criteria for determining the nature of impacts are based on the following:
Direct Impact – where a cultural heritage site is physically located within the footprint of the scheme, which will result in its complete or partial removal.
Indirect Impact – where a cultural heritage site or its setting is located in close proximity to the footprint of the scheme.
No predicted impact – where the potential scheme will not adversely or positively affect a cultural heritage site.
The impact categories are assessed further in terms of the quality of the impact, which is deemed to be negative, neutral, or positive:
Negative Impact is applied when a change will detract from or permanently remove a cultural heritage site from the landscape.
Neutral Impact is applied when a change does not affect cultural heritage sites.
Positive Impact: is applied when a change improves or enhances the setting of a cultural heritage site.
A significance rating for these impacts is then applied; whether profound, significant, moderate, slight, or imperceptible
A profound impact applies where mitigation would be unlikely to remove adverse effects that arise where a cultural heritage site is completely and irreversibly destroyed by a proposed development.
A significant impact applies when an impact, by its magnitude, duration or intensity, alters an important aspect of the environment. It applies where part of a cultural heritage site would be permanently impacted upon, leading to a loss of character, integrity and data about the feature/site.
A moderate impact applies when a change to a cultural heritage site is proposed that, though noticeable, does not compromise the integrity of the site and which is reversible. This arises
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where a cultural heritage site can be incorporated into a modern day development without damage and where all procedures used to facilitate this are reversible.
A slight impact causes changes in the character of the environment which are not significant or profound and do not directly impact or affect a cultural heritage site.
An imperceptible impact applied where an impact is capable of measurement but does not carry noticeable consequences.
10.3 THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
10.3.1 Introduction The Bandon River (total length c. 64km) rises in the Maughanaclea Hills in west Cork and flows eastward through the towns of Dunmanway, Ballineen, Enniskeane, Bandon and Inishannon before reaching the river estuary at Kinsale. It flows through a valley cut into limestone rocks of the Carboniferous period and the valley floor is covered with glacial drift and alluvium. The River Bandon has historically been an important strategic element of the landscape of south County Cork, a fact evidenced by the presence of medieval tower houses (e.g. Downdaniel Castle, Poulnalong Castle, Carriganassig Castle) which stand on its banks and which were clearly built to survey and control river traffic. The settlements at Bandon and Inishannon were sited to take advantage of convenient crossing points while boat traffic used Collier’s Quay and other small river quays between Inishannon and Kilmacsimon to load and unload goods bound for Bandon. The lower reaches of the river, particularly between Inishannon and Kilmacsimon, are characterised by extensive mud flats and shoals which shift over time. This has necessitated periodic dredging of the channel since the post- medieval period, including dredging carried out within Bandon town following severe flooding events in recent years.
10.3.2 Legal Status The management and protection of cultural heritage in Ireland is achieved through a framework of international conventions and national laws and policies. This is undertaken in accordance with the provisions of the ‘European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage’ (the Valletta Convention) and ‘European Convention on the Protection of Architectural Heritage’ (Grenada Convention). Cultural heritage can be divided loosely into the archaeological resource covering sites and monuments from the prehistoric period until the post-medieval period and the architectural heritage resource, encompassing standing structures and sites of cultural importance dating from the post-medieval and modern period. In addition, local place-names, folklore and traditions are considered part of our cultural heritage.
The legislation; national policy statements, guidelines and advice notes relevant to this assessment include:-
National Monuments Act 1930 (and amendments in 1954, 1987, 1994 and 2004).
Heritage Act (1995).
National Cultural Institutions Act (1997)
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Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with Policy for the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage (Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands 1999).
Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and National Monuments (Misc. Provisions) Act (1999).
Local Government (Planning and Development) Act (2000).
Department of Environment, Heritage, and Local Government’s Architectural Heritage Protection: Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2004).
Archaeological Resource The Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (DAHG) is presently responsible for the statutory functions and the administration of the national policy in relation to archaeological heritage management. The National Monuments Act 1930 (and subsequent amendments in 1954, 1987, 1994 and 2004), the Heritage Act 1995 and relevant provisions of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997 are the primary means of ensuring the satisfactory protection of archaeological remains, which are held to include all man-made structures of whatever form or date except buildings habitually used for ecclesiastical purposes. A national monument is described as ‘a monument or the remains of a monument the preservation of which is a matter of national importance by reason of the historical, architectural, traditional, artistic or archaeological interest attaching thereto’ (Section 2, National Monument Act, 1930).
There are a number of mechanisms under the National Monuments Act that are applied to secure the protection of archaeological monuments. These include the Register of Historic Monuments, the Record of Monuments and Places (formerly the Sites and Monuments Record), and the placing of Preservation Orders and Temporary Preservation Orders on endangered sites.
National Monuments National monuments may be acquired by the Minister whether by agreement or by compulsory order. The State or Local Authority may assume guardianship of any national monument (other than dwellings). Once a monument is in ownership or guardianship of the State it may not be interfered with without the written consent of the Minister. Town walls are designated as National Monuments subject to ministerial direction under the National Monuments Acts by virtue of ownership by the Local Authority.
Register of Historic Monuments Historic monuments and archaeological areas listed on the register are afforded statutory protection under the 1987 National Monuments (Amendment) Act. The register was made largely redundant with the establishment of the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) under the National Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1994.
Preservation Orders and Temporary Preservation Orders Sites deemed to be in danger of injury or destruction can be allocated Preservation Orders under the 1930 Act, which makes make any interference to the site illegal. Temporary Preservation Orders can be attached under the 1954 Act. Work may only be undertaken on or in the vicinity of sites under Preservation Orders by the written consent of the Minister.
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Record of Monuments and Places (RMP)/Sites & Monuments Record (SMR) The 1994 Act provides that the Minister shall establish and maintain a Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) that comprises lists and maps of known monuments and relevant places. The RMP is based on the Sites and Monuments Record (SMR) files maintained by the National Monuments Services (NMS) which comprise lists with accompanying maps and files of all certain or possible archaeological sites and monuments mainly dating to before 1700 AD for all counties in the State. Archaeological sites listed in the RMP receive statutory protection under the National Monuments Act
1994 (Section 12 (3)) of the 1994 Act which requires that the Minister be given two months advance notice in advance of any works to the RMP site.
There were sixteen RMP sites identified within the wider study area for the overall scheme and information on these is provided in the EIS. It should be noted that while these are recorded archaeological sites, it is possible that further archaeological sites and artefacts still remain undetected just below the present ground surface or river sediments. The proposed defence works in the Mill Place property on the north bank of the river are in close vicinity to a former mill building (CO110-092----) and a levelled section of the western line of the town wall (CO110-019014-). The section of the weir structure to be impacted by the proposed fish pass is not listed in the RMP although it is in close vicinity to an upstanding section of the town wall on the south river bank. There are no RMP sites within 100m of the area to be impacted by the proposed works to the Kilbrittain Stream on the western outskirts of the town. The RMP includes the site of a former distillery (CO110- 037----) to the southeast of the section of the Moanarone Stream to be impacted by proposed upgrading works.
Architectural Heritage Protection of architectural heritage is provided for through a range of legal instruments that include the Heritage Act, 1995, the Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and National Monuments (Misc. Provisions) Act, 1999, and the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act 2000. Section 2.1 of the 1995 Heritage Act describes architectural heritage as: ‘all structures, buildings, traditional and designed, and groups of buildings including streetscapes and urban vistas, which are of historical, archaeological, artistic, engineering, scientific, social or technical interest, together with their setting, attendant grounds, fixtures, fittings and contents, and, without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, includes railways and related buildings and structures and any place comprising the remains or traces of any such railway, building or structure’.
Record of Protected Structures (RPS) Under the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 2000, all Planning Authorities are obliged to keep a ‘Record of Protected Structures’ of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest. As of the 1st January 2000, all structures listed for protection in current Development Plans, have become ‘protected structures’. Since the introduction of this legislation, planning permission is required for any works to a protected structure that would affect its character. If a protected structure is endangered, planning authorities may issue a notice to the owner or occupier requiring works to be carried out. The Act contains comprehensive powers for local authorities to require the owners and occupiers to do works on a protected structure if it is endangered, or a protected structure or a townscape of special character that ought to be restored. The County Cork Development Plan 2009-2015 includes thirty-three protected structures within the wider study area for the scheme and of these, only Bandon Bridge is close vicinity to an element of the proposed additional works (Allin Institute area). The County Cork Development Plan
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-7
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with presents a number of objectives for RPS sites in order to ensure the protection of the structures and their curtilages (HE 4-1).
Architectural Conservation Areas Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA) are designated by local authorities and are defined in the County Cork Development Plan 2009-2015 as a place, area, group of structures or townscape that is of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest or contributes to the appreciation of protected structures. The Bandon ACA as outlined in the development plan encompasses the sections of the Bandon and Bridewell Rivers within the environs of the town centre. The Draft County Council Development Plan (2013) designates the following five ACAs within Bandon town: Christchurch, South Main Street, St Peter’s, Irishtown and Knockbrogan. A number of objectives are outlined in the Plan in order to conserve and enhance the special character of all designated ACAs. These include protecting all features considered to be intrinsic elements to the special character of the ACA from demolition and non-sympathetic alterations, promoting appropriate and sensitive reuse of buildings and ensuring that new developments respect the established character of the area (HE 4-5).
National Inventory of Architectural Heritage The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) identifies a range of built heritage structures within the Republic of Ireland and it is used to advise local authorities on compilation of a Record of Protected Structures (RPS) as required by the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 2000. The NIAH does not list the weir to be impacted by the proposed fish pass or any features or structures within the vicinity of the sections of the Kilbrittain and Moanarone Streams to be impacted by proposed works. The additional works on the north bank will also include the construction of a new ramp and flood defences adjacent to the Allin Institute. The institute building is not a protected structure but it is listed in the NIAH (ref. 20844062). The Riverside Hall apartment building immediately to the east of the institute is a converted Presbyterian church, dating to 1847, and is also listed in the NIAH (20844061).
10.3.3 Desktop Survey The following section is based on a desktop survey on the archaeological, architectural and historical heritage of the Study Area in order to inform assessment of the potential impacts of the proposed scheme. It provides a summary of the main phases of the Irish archaeological record and the date ranges used are based on those published by the National Monuments Service (2006). The desktop, field inspection and underwater survey for the original EIS resulted in the identification of a total of fifty-one Cultural Heritage Sites (CHS) within the overall study area for the flood relief scheme. Of these, three recorded archaeological sites are in close proximity to the proposed redesigned works at the Weir and Mill Place property (CO110-019014 [Town Wall]; CO110-092 [Mill] and CO110-019013 [Barracks]). A former distillery to the southeast of the proposed works to the Moanarone Stream is also listed as an RMP site (CO110-037----). The proposed works at the Allin Institute are in close vicinity to the north end of Bandon Bridge (CO110-019009-).
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-8
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Table 10.1: Recorded Archaeological Sites within the vicinity of additional works (Note: ITM References sourced from www.archaeology.ie) SMR/RMP Classification Townland ITM E ITM N
CO110-019001 Historic town Coolfadda,Gully 549044 555058
CO110-019009- Bridge Coolfadda,Gully 549223 555132
CO110-019013 Barracks Coolfadda 548894 555253
CO110-019014 Town defences Gully 548848 554990
CO110-092---- Mill Coolfadda 548927 555136
CO110-037---- Distillery Ballylangley 550306 555169
Early Prehistoric Period The earliest recorded evidence for human settlement in Ireland dates to the Mesolithic period (7000– 4000 BC) when groups of hunter-gatherers arrived on the island. The Neolithic period (4000-2400 BC) represents the arrival and establishment of agriculture as the principal form of economic subsistence. The nature of the agricultural economy allowed the new farmers to live in more permanent settlements. As a consequence of the new way of life, new site-types, such as megalithic tombs, begin to appear in the archaeological record during this period. While there are no recorded Mesolithic or Neolithic sites located within the study areas, the topographical files of the National Museum of Ireland do record the discovery of a tanged flint arrowhead of probable early prehistoric period in the nearby townland of Kilpatrick (Reg no. 1996:4). It is described as a “small arrowhead of pale grey/brown flint. Tanged, triangular blade, no real barbs. Mainly flat with bevelled retouched edges. One basal corner of blade is missing. Dimensions: 23mm x 17mm”.
The Bronze Age Metalworking arrived in Ireland with the advent of the Bronze Age period (c. 2400–500 BC). This new technology introduced a new artefactual assemblage into the Irish archaeological record and this period was also associated with the construction of new monument types such as standing stones, stone rows, stone circles, barrows and fulachta fiadh. Burial in cairns (stone mounds), barrows and tumuli (earthen mounds) or cists (box-like and slab-built burial compartments) was fairly common during this period. The results from excavations suggest a long tradition for these classes of monuments ranging in date from the Neolithic to Early Bronze Age times. There are no recorded Bronze Age sites within the study areas around the additional works.
The Iron Age The later first millennium BC and the early centuries AD are amongst the most obscure in Irish prehistoric archaeology (Waddell 1998, 279). There is general agreement that the development of an iron technology, which saw the advent of the Iron Age (c. 600 BC – 400 AD), was a significant factor in the eventual demise of bronze working on a large scale, but the nature of this transition in Ireland is unclear (ibid). There are no recorded Iron Age sites within the study areas around the additional works.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-9
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with Early Medieval
The early medieval period (400–1169 AD) was a time of profound internal social and economic change in Ireland. The dominant types include ringforts, souterrains, enclosures and monuments associated with early ecclesiastical activity. There are no recorded early medieval sites within the study areas around the additional works although the SMR does record the former presence of a now unlocated ringfort (CO110-083----) and souterrain (CO110-084----) in Coolfadda townland.
Late Medieval (1169 – 1600) The arrival and conquest of large parts of Ireland by the Anglo-Normans in the late 12th-century broadly marks the advent of the Irish late medieval period, which continued up until the beginning of the post-medieval period in c.1550. Within the late medieval period, towns, markets, and fairs were established and change and reform attempted in the Irish church. By the 15th-century the native Irish chieftains and lords began to establish tower houses and smaller castles as centres of territorial control. There is one recorded tower house within the wider study area for the overall scheme, which comprises the site of a levelled structure in Kilbeg South (CO096-065001-). Evidence for late medieval activity on the south side of the river was uncovered during recent archaeological site investigations when late 15th / early 16th century ‘Transition Ware’ pottery was recovered, indicating activity near the fording area in the century before the formal town was developed (Tobar Archaeological Services 2012).
Post-Medieval (1600+) By the early 17th-century the lands around the fording point in the Bandon area were leased to two tenants: William Newce on the south bank and John Archdeacon on the north – and both set about establishing settlements exclusively for English tenants. These earliest settlements, Bandon Bridge on the south side of the river and Coolfadda to the north, were not walled and appear to have been somewhat haphazard in layout. The two settlements were amalgamated into a single municipal and parliamentary borough in 1613 and this was then purchased by Richard Boyle in 1618. The construction of the town wall started in 1620 and it was largely completed by 1627 although it only stood for a period of 70 years before being largely reduced to ground level in 1689 during the Jacobite rebellion. There are also 17th-century references to the removal of timber defensive pallisado within the river channel but no cartographic or physical remains of these features have been noted (Thomas 1992, 20). The historical and cartographic evidence for the town wall, including the sections in the vicinity of the proposed fish pass and Mill Place defences, is outlined below. A conservation plan assessing the physical remains of Bandon town wall has recently been compiled on behalf of the Heritage Council (2014) and was consulted as part of the desktop study.
The 17th-century walled town covered an area of approx. 16.5 ha and included High Street (now South Main St), Bridge Street, Market Street, Weir Street and Castle Street (now Pearse Street). This period also saw the development of suburban settlements at Ballymodan and Cloghsimon (known as Irishtown). A large corn mill was established on the north side of the river at Coolfadda and a smaller mill was built in Gully to the west of the town. The rebellion of 1641 had a detrimental effect on Bandon as it was effectively cut off from the sea and its associated trade routes. The hinterland of the town was also ravaged and there was an influx of Protestant refugees into the town. By the 1680s the town had recovered somewhat but it suffered once more during the Jacobite rebellion of 1689-1690. The late 17th and early 18th-centuries were a period of stagnation with no new streets or public buildings being constructed. In 1753 the Boyle estates were acquired by the Duke of Devonshire who instigated a new phase of development in the town including the construction of new bridges, quays,
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-10
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with market houses and churches. Devonshire undertook a number of cartographic surveys of the town, including Bernard Scalé’s 1775 survey, which provides valuable information of the property types within the town. By the 1830s there were 1,580 houses in the town which had a recorded population of 9917 (Lewis 1839). The earliest cartographic and historical evidence for the construction of the Bandon town wall dates to the early 17th-century period when the settlement developed under the patronage of Richard Boyle. It has been noted that the early maps appear to be conceptual in nature rather than a reflection of the true appearance of the town at that time (Thomas 1992, 22). While conceptual in design, a 1620 plan of Bandon (Fig. 10.3) shows a weir in the general location of the existing structure and a riverside mill is also depicted near the northern terminus of the weir. The true alignment of the Bandon walls and streets can be gleaned from a combination of later maps including the Down Survey of 1655 (Fig. 10.3) and the 6” Ordnance Survey (OS) map of 1841 (ibid.). In terms of the present study, of particular relevance are the depictions of the two riverside sections of the western line of the town wall on the north and south banks of the river. The northern section is adjacent to the site of the former Bandon Mills in Coolfadda townland and various cartographic sources indicate the presence of a wall tower within the area of the river channel close to the north bank. The historic maps show the west line of the town wall on the south bank terminating at the river’s edge and none indicate the presence of associated structures in this area. A description of the physical remains of the town walls located in the vicinity of the additions to the scheme is included in the site survey section (10.3.4).
Excavations Database The Database of Irish Excavation Reports contains summary accounts of all the excavations carried out in Ireland. Forty three excavations / investigations were undertaken in Bandon town between 1997 and 2012, mainly within the historic core or adjacent to the town defences and only eight of these produced archaeologically positive results (The Heritage Council 2014).
A phase of archaeological testing of the proposed flood defences was undertaken in May 2013 at various locations (Tobar Archaeological Services 2013a). This included the excavation of a number of test trenches on the proposed location of an embankment (E08) in the field to the west of the section of the town wall that extends northwards from the river bank. An exposed east-west ditch was found to measure 2.1m wide and was excavated to a depth of 0.75m when it became water filled. Its base was not reached and no finds were revealed. Two east-west stone culverts were revealed to the north of the ditch and a drainage feature shown on the 25” OS map dating to c.1900 may correspond to these features (Fig. 10.5). Further north again a section of a 0.8m wide east-west stone wall foundation was identified. It did not appear to extend to the town wall to the east and it was noted that it may date from the 18th to the 20th century (ibid.). No traces of an external fosse associated with the town defences were noted. Four test trenches were also excavated on the line of the largely sub- surface town wall outside the Mill Place fence. The top of the wall was exposed at depths varying between 0.3m-0.7m below present ground level and its denuded remains ranged between 2.9m and 3.06m in width. A possible foundation cut was revealed on the west side of the wall but this could not be investigated due to water ingress.
A program of archaeological test trenching was carried out in advance of the development of the Mill Place residential property (Cummins 2007). This included trenching at right angles to the west fence line and no sub-surface traces of the town wall were encountered within the Mill Place property. The western half of the property was found to have been reclaimed from the river channel in the period after the mill burned down in 1968. The stratigraphy encountered in the reclaimed area consisted of
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-11
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with thick deposits of backfilled rubble and soil containing frequent inclusions of modern materials, such as scrap metal, plastics, bottles and concrete slabs. These backfilled reclamation deposits directly overlay the natural glacial till, which was encountered at a depth of 2m below modern ground levels. Test-trenching in the area of the former mill building in the east end of the property exposed the fragmented remains of concrete slab floors associated with modern upgrading works to the mill. The concrete floors sealed a 19th/20th-century rubble deposit and this overlay the natural glacial till, which was encountered at a depth of 1.4m below modern ground level.
Other potential sites It is possible that unrecorded, sub-surface archaeological sites and artefacts still remain undetected just below the present ground surface and river bed. Riverine contexts were particularly attractive to hunter-gatherer groups in the early prehistoric period and later, in the Bronze Age and Iron Age, rivers and marshes were occasionally the sites of ritual deposition. A review of the historic mapping for the area reveals a number of specific features within the river channel which would increase the potential for archaeology (none of these features are included in the RMP or the RPS). The features include man-made weirs, fish weirs, quays and fords. The antiquity of such features is uncertain but it is possible that fords in particular may have been used as convenient crossing points since prehistoric times.
Placename evidence The boundaries and nomenclature of the Irish townlands were recorded and standardised by the Ordnance Survey in the 19th-century. The Irish roots of townland names often refer to natural topographical features but some name elements may also give an indication of the presence of past human activity within the townland, e.g. dun, lios or rath indicate the presence of a ringfort while temple, saggart, termon or kill record an association with a church site.
Table 10.2 Translation of Townland Names in vicinity of study areas (Source: www.logainm.ie) Townland Translation North bank Coolfada 'long corner or angle' Knockbrogan Cnoc Brógáin, ‘Brogan’s hill’ South bank Clancool More Cluain Cuile Mor ‘lawn or meadow of the corner’ Cloghmacsimon Cloch Mhic Shíomoin, ‘Mac Simon’s stone (building)’ Clogheenavodig Cloichín an Bhodaigh, ‘The clown's little stone’
Architectural Heritage The post-medieval period saw the development of high and low status housing and urban settlements throughout Ireland. In particular local landlords improved their estates and built residences for themselves. During this period any given settlement cluster is likely to have consisted primarily of single-storey thatched cottages with associated farm buildings. From later Victorian times onwards, two-storey farm houses became more common. In the latter half of the twentieth-century, there was a radical change in the nature and character of Irish domestic architecture manifested by the replacement of older stone-built structures with modern bungalows of concrete blockwork construction. Almost all of the surviving built fabric in Bandon town and its hinterland, dates to the 18th and 19th-centuries and includes townhouses, country houses, bridges, quays, civic buildings such as market houses, and churches. The study area for the wider scheme contains thirty-five RPS
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-12
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with structures listed in the County Cork Development Plan 2009. The Draft County Council Development Plan of 2013 designates the following five Architectural Conservation Zones (ACA) within Bandon town: Christchurch, South Main Street, St Peter’s, Irishtown and Knockbrogan. The east end of the Mill Place site and the Allin Institute are within the Christchurch ACA while the weir and the section of the town wall on the south bank of the river are within the South Main Street ACA. While a section of the additional works in the Allin Institute area is in close vicinity to the north end of Bandon Bridge, the proposed additional works do not include any works to the bridge. The Allin Institute building is listed in the NIAH (ref. 20844062) and the following is an extract from the published description:
Detached six-bay two-storey over basement former school, built 1867, having pedimented central two-bay breakfront to front (west) elevation flanked by single-storey canted bay windows. Recent single-storey extension to side (south). Now in use as hall…. Located at a busy junction, this highly decorated structure is a striking roadside addition. The pedimented breakfront, channelled render, heavy cornice and over sized console keystones, make a profound impression to streetscape. Retention of historic features such as sash windows, cast-iron down pipes and panelled timber doors further enhance the building's character. Built by James Allin of Youghal for Protestant young men, it was rebuilt in the 1920s, following its burning by the IRA on the 23rd June 1921, in reprisal for some of the building's members involvement in the destruction of the Maid of Erin monument.
10.3.4 Site Survey The following section contains direct extracts from the ADCO report on the 2014 underwater archaeological inspection of the fish weir and the full report is provided in Appendix 10C. The results of a program of dryland site inspection works undertaken by JCA staff in June 2014 are also provided in this section. This involved undertaking visual inspections of the riverside sections of the west line of the town walls, the proposed fish pass, and the sections of the Kilbrittain and Moanrone Streams due to be impacted by upgrading and culvert works.
2014 Underwater Survey The inspection area extended upriver from the weir in Bandon town, and focused on the south side of the river channel, associated with Gully and Cloughsimon townlands, Co. Cork. The inspection area was between ITM 548895E, 555064N downstream of the weir, and ITM 548774E, 555037N upstream (Fig. 10.1). The work was completed on 6th June 2014, under licences issued by the Department of Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht (14D0011 & 14R0036).
Survey Methodology A visual non-disturbance survey of the river bed and river banks was conducted along the c. 120m extent of the proposed new fish pass. This work extended across the full width of the river, and upstream and downstream of the development area, to include a sizeable buffer zone that will inform the wider context. The work builds on the observations made by ADCO in the 2011 survey, which used the weir as the upper limit of the survey area. The work was completed with a team of three experienced archaeologists and divers. Water depths were shallow enough to permit wading, with underwater work limited to the deeper places. Despite heavy rainfall on 6th June, water levels were low, and water flow was not problematic. Full unimpeded access was possible throughout. Visual inspection was supported by photographic record, limited measured survey, and underwater metal- detection.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-13
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Town Wall The former town wall terminates immediately upstream of the weir on its south side (Fig. 10.6). A new earth-built levee or flood relief embankment has been constructed on the south side upstream of the weir, and is built against the town wall, overlooking the riverbank and channel. The town wall extends to the river’s edge. It is stone-built and is covered in low vegetation. There is no indication below the waterline for a stone plinth, but the exterior of the wall is masked by a narrow concrete apron that is associated with the modern sluice inserted beside it. The new fish pass that is proposed will not impact with the town wall. Care needs to be taken to ensure that all impacts are avoided, direct and indirect. Remedial works may be needed to ensure that the town wall is protected against such impacts.
Weir The weir is stone-built and survives in relatively good order, retaining its distinctive curving masonry feature that serves as the existing fish pass, known as the ‘salmon bar’, which is built into the south side of the weir (Fig. 10.6). Bandon Corn Mill was destroyed by fire in the 1960s and is now occupied by the Mill Place block of residential apartments. The mill formed a large L-shaped complex that stood on the north side of the weir, opposite Burlington Quay (now McSwiney Quay). The south end of the weir structure is situated 8m west of the terminus of Burlington Quay (ITM 548875E, 555061N). The weir crosses the river in a north-northeast direction to a point 6m south of the north riverbank (ITM 548915E, 555106N), where it accommodates a recently constructed electricity generation unit. The electricity unit appears to have been constructed on the site of the original mill-wheel and sluice gates that once powered the water mill.
The weir has been repaired and altered, but the original fabric survives along with much of its extent. The surface of the weir is constructed from limestone blocks, which form a broad embrasure that slopes downwards. It measures 40cm high on the upstream lip of the weir. The embrasure slopes along its depth and meets a vertical drop on the downstream side that is 2.4m deep. The limestone blocks are revealed in the vertical section, but they occur only in the upper c. 1m of the weir. Solid bedrock occurs beneath. A noticeable passage of deeper water runs along the base of the weir, between the bedrock underlying the weir and the bedrock that occurs downstream of the weir. The passage has a sandy bottom. It is most logically explained as the quarry that was exploited to produce the limestone blocks that form the constructed surface of the weir. It is possible to conclude that the weir used a pre-existing exposure of bedrock as its foundation. Such a location would have been raised somewhat above the ambient riverbed, perhaps starting an area of shoaling or rapids. It may also have formed a natural ford across the river that predates the use of the bridge downstream.
The ‘salmon bar’ is a substantial detail of the weir constructed from the limestone blocks. It is convex in shape and curves broadly from south to north. It presents a graduated curving passage for salmon to leap and traverse the weir. The lower sections of the bar are eroded and partly exposed.
A modern concrete sluice is inserted beside the bar. It is associated with other modern engineering works including a water gauge that are located along the south bank of the river. The new fish pass will be inserted across the footprint of the ‘salmon bar’ and the concrete sluice. The works represent direct negative permanent impacts, and will require the removal of both these features. Comprehensive detailed survey is recommended in advance of the development, to ensure that the older features of the weir are fully recorded prior to their destruction.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-14
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Riverbed Topography The riverbed below the weir retains an erosion channel that is also interpreted as the quarried passage from which the stonework of the weir was derived. Waterflow is fast through this channel, but the base is sandy. No features or inclusions of an archaeological nature were observed within the sands. The channel upstream of the weir has a much gentler flow, and extends to c. 50m in width. A narrow deep channel measuring c. 2m deep by c. 7m wide occurs below the south bank, and feeds directly into the modern concrete sluice. The riverbed in the central section of the river is noticeably shallow, with depths of only c. 20cm recorded 14m from the south bank. From this shallowest depth, the bed drops gradually as one proceeds north across the channel, so that by its midpoint (c. 28m from the south bank) the bed is 1.5m deep before dropping to c. 2m depth below the north bank. The riverbed surface upstream of the weir is dominated by a fine river gravel that is quite mobile, as one might expect in proximity to a weir.
Riverbank Topography The riverbank running upstream of the weir on the south side retains the termination of the town wall, but the presence of actual stonework is masked by a concrete apron that is inserted as part of the modern sluice works. There is some more recent drystone walling constructed along the riverbank, some 12m upstream of the sluice (Fig 10.8). That stonework is of no antiquity and is built over a concrete plinth. Further upstream, 20m from the weir, the riverbank is formed from made-ground, and modern inclusions, such as car wheels, are exposed at and below the waterline, indicating that this feature is of recent date.
Terrestrial Survey A program of site inspection works were undertaken by JCA staff in June 2014. This involved undertaking visual inspections of the riverside sections of the west line of the town walls, the proposed fish pass, and the sections of the Kilbrittain and Moanrone Streams due to be impacted by upgrading and culvert works.
The Town Wall (South Bank) The western line of the town wall terminates at the north and south banks of the River Bandon in the area immediately to the west of the weir. The wall has been partially truncated by a public road at south and then continues on the opposite side of the road. The upstanding wall remains on the south bank are composed of an 11.5m long section that survives to approx. 2m in maximum height and 2.6m wide. It is constructed of mortar-bonded shale slabs and blocks which are laid in rough courses and has been refaced at its southern end immediately north of the public road (Heritage Council 2014). As with other recorded areas of the Bandon town wall, the section by the river’s edge is composed of an inner and outer facade with an internal filled core that has become colonised by trees and weeds in this area. The existing earthen embankment flood defence extending around the retail car park to the southwest abuts the well-maintained western facade of the wall and the east face is completely obscured by overgrowth and is inaccessible. The overgrown south end of the town wall is terminates at the river’s edge and is described in the above extract from the underwater archaeological survey (Plate 10.4).
The Town Wall (North bank) and Mill Place Property The southernmost element of the western town defences on the north bank comprises a small overgrown mound within the river channel at the recorded site of a levelled wall tower, which is shown on the historical maps as a free-standing structure within the channel. The overgrown remains are
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-15
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with located 3m from the north bank and will not be impacted by the proposed scheme. The line of the town wall as it extends north from the river bank is barely perceptible as a low, grass-covered bank, with occasional masonry outcropping, on the outer (west) edge of the Mill Place fence (Plate 10.4). The projected line of the wall then continues under the west boundary wall (c. 30cm thick) of the farmyard to the north. There were no visible surface traces of an associated feature, such as an external fosse, noted in the boggy floodplain immediately to the west of the wall and no traces of an external fosse were uncovered during archaeological testing immediately outside the line of the town wall (Tobar 2013).
The adjacent Mill Place property to the east is also within the recorded site of a historic mill listed in the RMP (CO110-092). While there are historical references to milling at this site from the 17th century onwards, the mill was extensively re-developed in the 19th/20th centuries and was then burned down to the ground in 1968. The site was subsequently cleared and was in use as a County Council depot and spoil retention area until it was re-developed as the Mill Place residential property in recent years. As part of the redesign a proposed north-south embankment (E08) in the field to the west will now be replaced by a secant piled wall within the Mill Place property. As described above, trenching at right angles to the west fence was undertaken in advance of the residential development and no sub-surface traces of the town wall were encountered (Cummins 2007). The western half of the Mill Place site was found to have been reclaimed from the river channel in the period after the mill burned down in 1968. The stratigraphy encountered in the reclaimed area consisted of 2m thick deposits of modern reclamation deposits that directly overlay the natural glacial till. Test trenching in the area of the former mill building in the east end of the property exposed the fragmented remains of concrete slab floors associated with modern upgrading works to the mill. The concrete floors sealed a 19th/20th- century rubble deposit and this overlay the natural glacial till, which was encountered at a depth of 1.4m below modern ground level. A modern riverside electricity unit to the south of the Mill Place fence appears to have been constructed on the site of the original mill-wheel and sluice gates that once powered the water mill (ADCO 2014). The ground to be impacted by the Mill Place flood defences comprise a tarmac-covered car parking area to the south of the residential building with a small garden area in the west end of the property (Plates 10.2 & 10.3). The ground surface within the site is at the same level that existed prior to construction of the residential building, indicating that the underlying glacial till may be located beneath reclamation deposits measuring 1.4m to 2m in depth.
Kilbrittain Stream The section of this narrow stream that will be impacted by upgrading and a new culvert flows downhill from the south before joining the River Bridewell is located in Clancool More townland on the western outskirts of the town (Plate 10.5). The south end of the stream is contained by a roadside modern wall at east and an overgrown embankment within a modern residential estate at west. The stream then enters a modern culvert which flows under a public road and then extends through a gravel-covered car park located at the east end of the Pairc Uí Muirtile GAA grounds before entering the River Bridewell through a modern pipe (Plate 10.6). There are no recorded archaeological or architectural sites located in the vicinity of the proposed works in this area and no potential examples were noted during the site inspection. The northeast entrance to the GAA grounds is formed by a stone arched gateway composed of cut limestone blocks with an inserted memorial plaque (Plate 10.7) and, while not a protected feature, it is interpreted as of local cultural heritage significance. The line of the proposed works culvert will not impact on this feature. There are no visible surface traces of a millrace shown to extend east-west through this area on the 6-inch and 25-inch OS maps (Fig. 10.9 & 10.10). The 25-inch map shows the former West Cork Railway line extending through the north end of the GAA property (Fig. 10.10). The Cork to Bandon railway service commenced in 1851 while the Bandon Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-16
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with to Dunmanway line opened in 1866 and was amalgamated into the Cork, Bandon and South Coast Railway in 1880. The west Cork lines had gone out of operation by the 1960s and much of the tracks were subsequently removed. There were no surface traces of the former railway line or millrace noted during the site inspection and the existing ground levels appear to have been extensively landscaped in order to create the GAA pitch and car park. The proposed new culvert will enter the south side of the River Bridewell through an overgrown area of the bank that extends along the south side of the GAA pitch (Plate 10.8).
Moanarone Stream This area is located at Distillery Road on the southeast outskirts of the town (Plate 10.9). The existing line of the culvert that requires upgrading extends through the yard of a former 19th-century distillery site which is a recorded archaeological site (CO110-037----). The distillery was modernised in the 20th-century and there are no traces of any associated features along the line of the existing culvert, which extends through a yard surface surfaced with a modern layer of hardcore stone chippings. The section of Moanarone stream that will be upgraded extends along an overgrown channel on the opposite side (northwest) side of Distillery Road, which is delimited by a low, random rubble boundary wall that averages 0.5m high by 0.3m wide. This wall does not appear to be present on the 1st edition 6-inch OS map (Fig. 10.11) and the detail on the 25-inch map (Fig. 10.12) suggests that the existing line of the stream may have been diverted in the late 19th-century to avoid the market site to the north. The works on the stream will involve the construction of a 1.5m high by 1m wide concrete channel along the section of the stream on the northwest side of Distillery Road and the upgrading of an existing culvert in the yard of the former distillery. These works will not directly impact on any recorded archaeological or architectural heritage sites.
The Allin Institute The proposed works in this area are centred on a modern plaza area and existing culvert along the outlet of the Kilbrogan stream immediately to the west of the Allin Institute (Plates 10.11 & 10.12). The additional works will also entail the construction of a flood defence wall along the overgrown section of river bank on the south side of the institute property (Plate 10.13). The existing institute building was constructed in the 1920s following an arson attack on the original structure and the description published by the NIAH (ref. 20844062) is provided in Section 10.3.3 above. The walls and paved ground surface in the plaza area and slipway on the west side of the building are of modern construction and are not present on the historic OS mapping (Figs 10.13 & 10.14). A culvert is indicated in this area on the historic OS mapping but the visible section of the existing culvert is built with concrete blocks with a cement floor. The culvert egresses into the river from underneath the slipway, the paved surface of which has been cemented on top of the culvert structure (Plates 10.14 & 10.15). The adjacent area of the river bank was inspected during the underwater archaeological inspection undertaken as part of the EIS for the wider scheme and no features of cultural heritage were noted (ADCO 2011).
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-17
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
10.4 PREDICTED IMPACTS
The Weir and Town Wall (South Bank) The assessment of impacts in relation to works on the weir and adjacent section of town wall provided in this section was compiled by the underwater archaeology specialists (ADCO 2014; Appendix 10C). In general terms, the proposed additional flood relief measures represent a direct impact on the salmon weir at the west end of the proposed scheme and further mitigations can be anticipated to resolve the archaeological and architectural requirements associated with the scheme. Such mitigations would take place in advance of the flood relief measures being implemented, and a monitoring requirement would apply during the construction phase.
The insertion of a new fish pass at Bandon weir represents a direct impact that is negative and significant. The works require the removal of portion of the weir that include the ‘salmon bar’ and the modern sluice, as well as works within the riverbed immediately downstream of the weir and over a length of the riverbed upstream of the weir. It is recommended that the impacted area of the weir be fully surveyed and recorded archaeologically in advance of its destruction, and that all disturbance works are monitored archaeologically.
The proposed works in this area are summarised in Figure 10.2. The new fish pass will be framed within a concrete culvert that will be retained on its upstream and downstream sides by sheet piling. The sheet piling downstream of the weir will extend to the south bank.
It is apparent that the new structure will require excavation into the riverbed, and that the depth of excavation will be graduated from upstream to downstream, but it is not clear what the actual excavation depth will be. Any excavation of riverbed levels presents the opportunity to observe and recover archaeological material, and such work will need to be monitored archaeologically.
There is no intention to impact on the town wall. The proposal requires the fish pass to lie no closer than 1500mm from the known location of the town wall. This buffer is welcomed but it is very narrow and does not permit much variation if the town wall is seen to extend out further at its basal levels. Consideration needs to be given to ascertaining the full depth and extent northwards of the town wall below the waterline. Should it transpire that impacts with the town wall will occur, the DAHG will need be notified and consideration given to either protecting that portion of the town wall from destruction or preserving it by record.
The Mill Place Property The construction of flood defences within the Mill Place property represents a direct impact on the ground surfaces affected that may include unrecorded sub-surface features of archaeological interest. The Mill Place property was a Cork County Council depot and soil retention site in advance of its development in the late 2000s. There were no surface traces of the mill building, which burnt down in the 1960s, present on the site in advance of the construction of the Mill Place residential building. The previous proposal for flood defences in this area entailed a construction of an embankment in the field to the west of the town wall. The redesigned flood defences in the Mill Place property will now extend inside the line of the existing property fence which extends through garden plots to the south and west of the residential building, thereby avoiding direct impacts on the known line of the town wall. As noted above, a programme of archaeological test trenching was previously undertaken in advance of the construction of the residential building and no sub-surface traces of the wall were encountered
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-18
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with within the site (Cummins 2007). Nonetheless, given the proximity of the west line of the flood defences to the town wall the potential exists for a direct impact on unrecorded sub-surface sections of the monument that may be negative and significant.
Kilbrittain Stream There were no existing cultural heritage sites noted in the section of this narrow stream that will be impacted by upgrading and the creation of a new culvert. The ground works required to create the modern GAA pitch and car park in the south end of this area appear to have removed the former rail track and millrace noted on the historic OS maps (Figs 10.9 and 10.10). The northeast entrance gate to the GAA pitch and its associated memorial plaque, while modern in date, are interpreted as being of local cultural heritage interest. The entrance feature will not be impacted by the proposed culvert works in the car park area to the west.
Moanarone Stream The works along this stream will involve the construction of a 1.5m high by 1m wide concrete channel along the section on the northwest side of Distillery Road. Works in this area will also entail the upgrading of an existing culvert in the yard of the former distillery, a recorded archaeological site (CO110-037----). The existing culvert extends under a modern yard surface and the proposed works will not impact on any recorded archaeological or architectural heritage features associated with the distillery. The impact of the proposed works on the distillery are interpreted as indirect/imperceptible in nature
Allin Institute The proposed works in this area will entail direct impacts on the modern walls and paved surface of a small plaza area, a culvert of concrete block construction and a slipway overlying the culvert. These modern features are located between the west façade of the Allin Institute building, which is listed in the NIAH (20844062), and the northeast end of Bandon Bridge (RMP CO110-019009-). The proposed works in this area will have no predicted direct impacts to the institute building or the bridge structure and impact levels to these two features are interpreted as indirect and moderate in nature. While there were no features of cultural heritage identified during the underwater archaeological survey along in the section of river bank to the south of the institute property (ADCO 2011), the proposed works will have a significant and profound impact on any unrecorded sub-surface archaeological features that may exist in this area.
10.5 RECOMMENDATIONS
10.5.1 General The design development of the proposed scheme has endeavoured to minimise the impact on the archaeological and architectural heritage resource wherever possible. Where it has not been possible to avoid adverse impacts, mitigation measures are proposed below. Mitigation measures, both at pre- construction and construction phases, will be undertaken in compliance with national policy guidance and statutory provisions for the protection of the archaeological, architectural and cultural heritage resource (Section 10.3.2). It is recommended that any ancillary construction works located outside the boundary of the proposed additions to the scheme, including site compounds, haul roads, spoil retention should be subject to an Archaeological, Architectural and Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-19
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The proposed mitigation measures are presented as recommendations as they are subject to the approval of the Department of the Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
10.5.2 Recommended Mitigation Measures The combination of desk top study and underwater archaeological survey has allowed an assessment of the cultural heritage impacts for the redesigned elements of the Bandon River Flood Relief Scheme Addendum. It is recommended that further archaeological mitigations are carried out to assess and record the nature and extent of the archaeological resource described in this chapter more fully. Many of the predicted impacts created by the proposed works will be within the river channel and, therefore, the following section provides the recommended mitigation measures presented in the underwater archaeological assessment prepared by ADCO in June 2014. The proposed mitigation strategies outlined in the Project Archaeologists draft report on the overall scheme were consulted in advance of compiling this section (Lane Purcell Archaeology 2014).
The Weir and Town Wall (South Bank) This section is based on the mitigation strategies presented in the underwater archaeological inspection of the proposed additional works in the weir area (Appendix 10C; ADCO 2014). An archaeological consultant experienced in underwater and riverine archaeology should be appointed to undertake the following archaeological mitigations:
Pre-construction Measures Scaled and measured archaeological survey of the base of the town wall and the south side of the weir, including the ‘salmon bar’ feature is required prior to construction proceeding. This work will record such detail as to permit the generation of detailed plan, elevation and sectional drawings that record the construction design and detail of the weir and its immediate context. The work should also seek to ascertain the extent northwards into the river channel and the depth of the town wall foundations, by undertaking limited investigations of the silt that has built up at the riverside foot of the town wall structure. The results will inform the engineering design and will also assist in consulting with the DAHG in relation to developing appropriate mitigation strategies.
Construction Phase Measures All impacts with the town wall should be avoided, and measures put in place to protect the town wall against impacts during construction. Archaeological monitoring will be required during all ground disturbances associated with the removal of existing structures and the insertion of the proposed fish pass, both at the existing weir and upstream in the existing channel.
The Mill Place Site The proposed flood defences within the Mill Place site will broadly extend along the line of the existing property fence which extends through garden plots to the south and west of the Mill Place building. A levelled section of the town wall is visible as a slightly raised feature in the area of the field immediately outside the west fence line (Plate 10.4).
Pre-construction Measures As noted above, a programme of archaeological test trenching was previously undertaken in the Mill Place site in advance of the construction of the residential building and no sub-surface traces of the town wall were noted within the Mill Place property. The presence of sub-surface ESB services and frequent inclusions of modern metallic rubbish in the reclamation deposits in this area of the site is likely to interfere with remote sensing surveys of the property. The excavation of the secant piled wall Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-20
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with will offset the town wall by 0.5m. A trench 1m wide and 1m deep along the line of this wall should be archaeologically excavated by hand (unless otherwise agreed with the NMS) in advance of construction works.
Construction Phase Measures All potential impacts on the known extent of the town wall immediately outside the west end of the Mill Place property should be avoided. Surface measures will be put in place to securely cordon off the monument during construction phase in order to protect it against impacts during ground works. No ancillary works will be allowed within the cordoned off area, e.g. storage, portable offices, machine traffic, spoil retention, etc, and all contractors should be made aware of the presence of the monument and site constraints in advance of works commencing. A programme of archaeological monitoring should be undertaken during the construction phase in all areas of the Mill Place property. In the event that any unrecorded sub-surface traces of the town wall (or any other archaeological features) are uncovered then all works will halt in that area until the DAHG are notified and consultation to determine the appropriate mitigation strategy has been completed.
Kilbrittain Stream There are no recorded archaeological or architectural sites in the vicinity of the proposed works to the Kilbrittain stream. No potential sites were noted during the site inspection undertaken as part of the compilation of the present chapter or during a previous assessment of this area (Tobar Archaeological Services 2013b). The gateway and attached plaque at the northeast entrance to the GAA grounds is deemed to be of local cultural significance and no disturbance to this feature will occur as part of the works. The existing ground levels in the area of the Kilbrittain stream works have been extensively disturbed in modern times and given the absence of any recorded archaeological sites, it is recommended that works in this area proceed with no further archaeological intervention.
Moanarone Stream This watercourse is in close vicinity to a former distillery complex listed in the RMP (CO110-037----). No potential cultural heritage features were noted in the areas to be impacted by proposed works during the site inspection undertaken as part of the compilation of the present chapter or during a previous assessment of this area (Tobar Archaeological Services 2013b). Given the vicinity of the proposed works to a recorded archaeological monument, it is recommended that archaeological monitoring of ground works should be undertaken in this area during construction phase.
Allin Institute The works in this area will impact on a modern plaza, slipway and culvert in close vicinity to the Allin Institute building (NIAH ref. 20844062) and Bandon Bridge, which is a recorded archaeological monument (RMP CO110-019009-) and a protected structure (RPS 00952). The additional works will not impact on the institute building or the bridge. A full photographical survey of the existing setting and streetscape in this area should be compiled in advance of construction in order to compile a record of the existing setting and environs of the Allin Institute, Bandon Bridge and slipway. Given the vicinity of the proposed works to a recorded archaeological monument, it is recommended that archaeological monitoring should be undertaken in this area during the construction phase.
General Project Management Measures
The timescale for the pre-construction and construction phases should be made available to the archaeologist, with information on where and when the various elements will take place. Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-21
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
It is essential for the developer to give sufficient notice to the archaeologist/s in advance of the pre- construction and construction works commencing. This will allow for prompt arrival on site to undertake additional surveys and to monitor ground disturbances.
Discovery of archaeological material: In the event of archaeological features or material being uncovered during the construction phase, it is crucial that any machine work cease in the immediate area to allow the archaeologist/s to inspect any such material.
Archaeological Material: Once the presence of archaeologically significant material is established, full archaeological recording of such material is recommended. If it is not possible for the construction works to avoid the material, full excavation would be recommended. The extent and duration of excavation would be a matter for discussion between the client and the licensing authorities.
Archaeological team: It is recommended that the core of a suitable archaeological team, including an archaeological dive team, be on standby to deal with any such rescue excavation. This would be complimented in the event of a full excavation.
Secure offices and facilities should be provided on or near those sites where excavation is required.
Secure wet and dry storage for artefacts recovered during the course of the monitoring and related work should be provided on or near those sites where excavation is required.
Buoying of any such areas would be necessary once discovered and during excavation.
Adequate funds to cover excavation, post-excavation analysis, and any testing or conservation work required should be made available.
PLEASE NOTE: All of the above observations and conclusions are based on information supplied in June 2014. Should any alteration occur, further assessment will be required.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 10-22
Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
11 MATERIAL ASSETS IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Material assets refer to physical resources in the environment of natural or human origin such as transport infrastructure, subterranean infrastructure, traffic and waste management. This chapter investigates the impacts of the proposed additional works set out in Chapter 3 of the EIS Addendum on material assets.
11.1 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT
The proposed additional works for Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme, described in Chapter 3, have potential to impact on the following (Drawing MA001 in Appendix 11A);
Roads Network (incl. increased traffic) and Traffic Disruption Wastewater Collection Network Surface Water Collection Network Water Distribution Network Bord Gáis Distribution Network Electricity Network Telecommunications Network
11.2 TRAFFIC AND ROADS
Impacts on existing traffic volumes in Bandon due to the proposed additional works are likely to be caused by hauling of excavated materials, delivery of materials and work force traffic during the construction phase. In comparison to the Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme as a whole, the proposed additional works are not anticipated to significantly increase the impact on traffic and roads.
11.2.1 Description Of Project And Roads Network
The proposed additional works are situated at a number of locations in Bandon Town; Moanarone Road, Distillery Road, Cork Road (N71), Glasslinn Road (N71), Brady’s Lane, Bridge Place, Kilbrittain Road, Birchvale, Mill Place, Weir Street, North Main Street and the Allin Institute. The proposed additional works are likely to impact traffic and roads due to:
Laying approximately 610 m of storm water sewers on Glasslinn Road, North Main Street, Distillery Road, Ballylangley and Weir Street (west). The construction of new outfalls in the Bandon and Bridewell River Construction of a new precast box culvert and ancillary works at the Moanarone and Distillery Roads Installation of a new precast box culvert and ancillary works at Kilbrittain Road and Birchvale Temporary increase in traffic volumes during construction of the fish pass upstream of Bandon Weir Construction of a flood defence wall at the Allin Institute, Mill Place and on the south bank at Bandon Weir Construction of a flood embankment at Ballylangley Improvement works to existing flood defence walls at Mc Sweeney Quay, St. Patrick’s Quay, on both sides of the N71 connecting St. Patrick’s Quay to St. Finbarr’s Place, along a section of the north bank of the Bandon River at Knockbrogan and along a section of the N71 at the Kilbrittain Stream Drainage works along South Main Street, Weir Street (east), Oliver Plunkett Street, Mc Sweeney Quay, Bridge Street, St. Finbarr’s Place, Chapel Street and Watergate Street which were
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-1 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
proposed as part of the original Environmental Impact Statement are no longer included in the Scheme. A further impact on the road network as a result of the proposed additional works is a temporary increase in traffic volumes as a result of construction activity. The following section assesses these impacts on the traffic in the study area and provides mitigation measures.
11.2.2 Existing Traffic
Results of a traffic survey of Bandon town centre commissioned by Cork County Council in 2008 indicate that Bandon Bridge is the busiest area of the town, with 10,424 vehicles traversing the bridge daily between 7am and 7pm. Glasslinn Road, St. Patricks Quay and North Main Street were also identified as busy at peak traffic times.
The anticipated routes of the traffic generated during the construction phase of the proposed additional works are presented on Table 11.1 and Drawing TIA001 in Appendix 11A.
Peak Hourly Traffic Flow Peak Hourly Traffic Flow Road Name (am) (pm) N71 – Glasslinn Road 830 - 880 900 – 1,160 N71 – St. Patricks Quay 920 1,040 N71 – New Road 520 690 Bandon Bridge 1,350 1,150 Old Quay Road No Data Available No Data Available McSweeney Quay 160 170 North Main Street 1,030 930 Watergate Street No Data Available No Data Available Bandon Relief Road 560 – 600 700 - 800 Distillery Road No Data Available No Data Available Moanarone Road No Data Available No Data Available South Main Street 500 380 Weir Street No Data Available No Data Available Table 11.1 – Recorded Traffic Flows on Anticipated Construction Traffic Routes 11.2.3 Construction Traffic
Construction traffic associated with the proposed additional works will mainly be used for the following:
Delivery of materials to site. The main materials to be delivered are concrete, clay, stone, pipes and culvert sections. The estimated increase in the number of round trips due to the construction of the proposed additional works is 340 over a period of 2 years.
Removal of surplus excavated material from site, particularly the material removed during the lowering of Kilbrittain Stream, excavated material from the flood defence foundations and from trenches for pipe lines and culverts. Excavation for the construction of the rock pool fish pass will result in approximately 5000 m3 of additional river bed material. The estimated number of round trips for removal of excavated material from the site due to the additional works is 900 over the anticipated 2 year construction period.
Transport of employees to and within the site. The estimated number of round trips for transport of construction personnel on site for the additional works is approximately 3 round trips per day over the construction period.
It is estimated that the construction of the scheme including the proposed additional works will commence in March 2015. The working schedule will be decided on by the Contractor subject to the Employer’s Requirements.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-2 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
All estimated numbers of round trips and the estimated works programmes for works proposed in the Environmental Impact Statement were provided by the engineer for the Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme (WYG, Scheme Details for EIS, January 2012). It is estimated that the additional works will result in a 15% increase in workforce from that specified in the Environmental Impact Statement.
Table 11.2 gives a breakdown of the estimated construction traffic for the scheme including the proposed additional works.
Total Round Total Round Trips (Including Round Trips Description of Trip Trips (Original Location Additional Per Day* Works EIS) Works) Delivery of Materials 2,250 2,590 5 All Routes Glasslinn Road, Bandon Bridge, Removal of Dredged Material 12,500 49 McSweeney Quay, North Main (Bandon River) 12,920 Street & Watergate St. Removal of Excavated 2,000 2,710 5 All Routes Material Workforce 11,440 13,156 23 All Routes Total (while dredging) 82 Total (outside of dredging) 33 *Trips per Day calculated based on total works programme of 572 working days and dredging programme of 264 working days Table 11.2 – Estimated Construction Traffic 11.2.4 Potential Impacts on Traffic and Transport Infrastructure
11.2.4.1 Potential Impact on Transport Infrastructure
Potential Temporary Significant Impact
The proposed additional works have the potential to impact on the transport infrastructure in the area, particularly during the construction phase. The impact is most likely to occur in the following areas;
1. Glasslinn Road and N71 (Cork Road) 2. Bandon Bridge 3. Distillery Road 4. Bandon Relief Road at Kilbrittain Stream Works 5. St. Patrick’s Quay 6. McSweeney Quay 7. Brady’s Lane 8. Bridge Place 9. Mill Place 10. Weir Street 11. North Main Street
Excavation of the culverts on the Kilbrittain Road and at the junction of the Distillery and Moanarone Roads will have a temporary impact on transport in these areas. The installation of drainage works on Glasslinn Road, Brady’ Lane, Weir Street, Mill Place, North Main Street and Bridge Place will also have a temporary impact on transport during the construction phase.
Road closures will be required to facilitate works on Bridge Street and Brady’s Lane. This will result in temporary diversion of traffic. The proposed works will not have a permanent impact as this transport infrastructure should be reinstated completely.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-3 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Mitigation Measures
Excavation and reinstatement of the Kilbrittain and Moanarone culvert trenches will be carried out in consultation with Local Authority engineers, and will also follow the Department of Environment and Local Government published document entitled ‘Guidelines for the Opening, Backfilling and Reinstatement of Trenches in Public Roads’. These works will be designed and supervised by a suitably qualified and experienced professional to ensure they are carried out correctly.
Construction of the additional drainage works will be carried out in consultation with the National Roads Authority and will follow the NRA published specification entitled ‘Specification for the Reinstatement of Openings in National Roads’. These works will be designed and supervised by a suitably qualified and experienced professional to ensure they are carried out correctly.
Residual Impacts - Potential Temporary Moderate Impact
With mitigation measures in place, the proposed scheme will have a temporary moderate impact on the transport infrastructure during the construction phase. There will be no residual impact on completion of the proposed works.
11.2.4.2 Potential Impact of Construction Traffic
Neutral Impact
It is unlikely that the traffic generated during the construction phase of the proposed additional works will have a significant impact on the traffic flow in the town as a large number of vehicles use the road network in and in the vicinity of Bandon.
The predicted impact that the construction traffic due to the entire works for Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme including the additional works is presented in Table 11.3. The maximum hourly flows of construction traffic are calculated based on a working day of between 8am and 6pm and take into account the additional traffic generated by the removal of dredged material as part of the scope of works in the original EIS. It is assumed that the workforce will arrive during peak morning traffic and leave during peak evening traffic. A conservative value of 3 deliveries in any one hour was taken as these trips are not likely to be spread evenly throughout the day. Each round trip was calculated as two trips, to site and from site.
Table 11.3 compares the construction traffic generated to the existing traffic flows;
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-4 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Construction Traffic Existing Maximum Road Name Hourly Traffic Flow Maximum Hourly As a Percentage of Traffic Flow* Existing Traffic N71 – Glasslinn Road 1,160 41 3.53% N71 – St. Patricks Quay 1,040 31 2.98% N71 – New Road 690 31 4.49% Bandon Bridge 1,350 41 3.04% Old Quay Road - 31 - McSweeney Quay 170 41 24.12% North Main Street 1,030 41 3.98% Watergate Street - 41 - Bandon Relief Road 800 31 3.88% Distillery Road - 31 - Moanarone Road - 31 - South Main Street 500 31 6.20% Weir Street - 31 - *Maximum construction hourly traffic flow based on working day from 8am to 6pm, with workforce arriving during morning peak flow and leaving during evening peak flow. Table 11.3 – Recorded Traffic Flows on Anticipated Construction Traffic Routes
Table 11.3 indicates that McSweeney Quay will have the largest increase in traffic volume as a result of the Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme. The large increase predicted is as a result of the relatively low volume of traffic currently using this road and not as a result of a larger volume of construction traffic in this area. The proposed additional works account for an increase of 3.12%, which is small in comparison to the overall increase of 24.12%.
It is not anticipated that the construction traffic associated with the proposed additional works will significantly affect the flow of traffic through Bandon town. The impact of construction traffic will be short term.
11.2.4.3 Potential Impact of Works in the Vicinity of Road Network
Potential Temporary Slight Impact
Construction of the proposed additional works on or in the vicinity of the road network are likely to lead to localised traffic disruptions. These works include laying of drainage pipes on Glasslinn Road, Brady’s Lane, Weir Street, North Main Street, Distillery Road and Bridge Place, the replacement of existing culverts and ancillary words at Kilbrittain and Moanarone streams, the construction of a rock pool fish pass upstream of Bandon Weir and the construction of a flood defences at the Allin Institute, Bandon Weir (south bank), Mill Place and Ballylangley. The proposed additional works also include the improvement works to existing flood defence walls along McSweeney Quay, St. Patrick’s Quay, on both sides of the N71 connecting St. Patrick’s Quay to St. Finbarr’s Place, along a section of the north bank of the Bandon River at Knockbrogan and along a section of the N71 at the Kilbrittain Stream.
Mitigation Measures
Industry standard traffic management measures will be put in place in order to mitigate the localised traffic disruptions as a result of the proposed additional works. These traffic management measures should be designed in accordance with the ‘Guidance for the Control and Management of Traffic at Roadworks – Second Edition’.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-5 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Residual Impact – Potential Temporary Imperceptible Impact
Relatively short, localised delays are likely to be encountered by motorists at the locations of proposed additional works in the immediate vicinity of the road network. This impact will be a short term impact and there will be no residual impact on completion of the proposed works.
11.3 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON SERVICES AND PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES
There is limited interaction between the proposed additional works and existing services in the area. This section will explore the potential impact the scheme could have on existing services, and propose necessary mitigation measures.
The proposed additional works have the potential to impact existing services however standard industry methodologies will mitigate this impact.
11.3.1 Potential Impacts on Wastewater Collection Network
Potential permanent slight positive impact
The wastewater collection network currently includes five pipes crossing under the Bandon River in two separate locations. Both are just downstream of Bandon Bridge. The proposed additional works are not likely to cause any additional impacts on these crossings. The additional works are likely to have a permanent slight positive impact on the foul sewers on Glasslinn Road as the works will relieve surcharging (Drawing MA002.1 in Appendix 11A).
The proposed additional storm network works were originally part of the Bandon Sewerage Scheme Project. Therefore the storm network works have been designed so as not to impact the existing wastewater collection network. The Kilbrittain stream works include the replacement of the existing combined sewer. The remaining additional works are not in the vicinity of the wastewater collection network and will therefore not create an impact.
11.3.2 Potential Impacts to Existing Surface Water Network
Potential Temporary Slight Impact
Details of the existing and proposed surface water discharges are shown in table 11.4. The additional works include the provision of four new surface water discharges. The new discharges will have a permanent positive impact on the stormwater collection network. One of the five existing surface water discharges are in the vicinity of the proposed additional works at the Kilbrittain Stream (Drawing MA003.1 in Appendix 11A). Part of the proposed Kilbrittain stream works is to connect new gullies to the existing storm sewer. It is possible that the excavation for these works could impact on these pipe lines and therefore impact the surface water system during the construction phase for the proposed scheme.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-6 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
At location of Discharge Type - Existing Receiving River Location Proposed Additional Works (Y/N) X=149928.4, Surface Water Discharge Bandon River No Y=55217.7 X=149734.2, Surface Water Discharge Bandon River No Y=55123.9 X=149546.7, Surface Water Discharge Bandon River No Y=55141.2 X=148874.3, Surface Water Discharge Bridewell River No Y=54519.8 X=148832.7, Surface Water Discharge Bridewell River Yes Y=54470.8 At location of Discharge Type – Proposed Receiving River Location Proposed Additional Works (Y/N) X=148679.1 Surface Water Discharge Bandon River Yes Y=54906.3 X=149233.4 Surface Water Discharge Bandon River Yes Y=55080.5 X=149297.6 Surface Water Discharge Bandon River Yes Y=55063.9 X=149258.1 Surface Water Discharge Bridewell River Yes Y=54299.7 X=150454.6 Surface Water Discharge Bandon River - Y=55831.9 Table 11.4 – Surface Water Discharge, Existing & Proposed
Mitigation Measures
The depth of the discharge pipework based on the invert level of the outfall will be assessed. Should it be anticipated that excavation for the proposed additional works will impact on this pipework this will be taken into consideration at detailed design stage and replaced or deepened prior to foundation excavation if necessary.
Residual Impact – Permanent positive impact
With mitigation measures in place the residual impact of the proposed additional works on the existing surface water network will be imperceptible during the construction phase. The proposed new discharges will have a permanent positive impact on the surface water network.
11.3.3 Potential Impact to the Water Distribution Network
Potential Temporary Slight Impact
The proposed additional works will potentially impact the water distribution network in the following two locations, as shown on Drawing MA004.1 in Appendix 11A;
1. R603 along Kilbrittain Stream (Kilbrittain Stream Works) 2. The junction of the Moanarone and Distillery roads (Moanarone Stream works)
Excavation for the construction of the new culvert at the Monarone Stream works and the replacement of the existing culvert at the Kilbrittain Stream works will encounter a watermain in the road at both locations. It is possible that this watermain could be damaged during the construction phase, resulting in properties having no potable water supply.
Mitigation Measures
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-7 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
The Contractor will assess record drawings and the results of the Site Investigation Contract in order to determine the exact depth and location of existing watermains in the works areas. Prior to construction the Contractor will carry out additional site investigation to confirm the location of the existing watermains. This will reduce the risk of striking the watermain and causing interruption to water supply during the construction phase.
Residual Impact - Neutral Impact
Taking into account the abovementioned mitigation measures, no residual impact to the watermains following the construction phase is predicted.
11.3.4 Potential Impact to the Gas Network
Potential Temporary Moderate Impact
There is an extensive gas distribution network throughout Bandon town which interacts with the proposed additional works in the three following places, as shown on Drawing MA005.1 in Appendix 11A;
1. R603 along Kilbrittain Stream (Kilbrittain Stream Works) 2. The junction of Distillery and Moanarone Roads (Moanarone Stream Works) 3. Glasslinn Road, Brady’s Lane and Bridge Place (Drainage Works)
Excavation for the construction of a new culvert at the Moanarone Stream and the replacement of the culvert at the Kilbrittain Stream will encounter a gas main in the road at both locations. It is possible that this gas main could be damaged during the construction phase, affecting the supply to a number of properties and potentially causing a fire or explosion.
Excavation for the proposed additional drainage works on Glasslinn Road, Brady’s Lane and Bridge place will also encounter a gas main in the road. Damage to the gas main during the construction phase could lead to disruption of the supply, a leak and possibly cause a fire or explosion.
The impacts described above are predicted to be temporary and significant.
Mitigation Measures
The Contractor will assess record drawings and the results of the Site Investigation Contract in order to determine the exact depth and location of existing gas mains within the works areas. Prior to construction the Contractor will carry out additional site investigation to confirm the location of the existing gas mains. This will reduce the risk of striking the gas mains and causing interruption to gas network during the construction phase.
Residual Impact - Neutral Impact
Taking into account the abovementioned mitigation measures, there will be no residual impact to the gas mains following the construction phase.
11.3.5 Potential Impact to Electricity Network
Potential Temporary Significant Impact
The proposed additional works may impact on the underground electricity network during the construction phase at the following locations, as shown on Drawing MA006.1 in Appendix 11A;
1. Drainage works on Bridge Place, Weir Street, North Main Street and Glasslinn Road 2. Proposed Flood Defence Wall on the Western Boundary at Mill Place (Assessed as an embankment in the original EIS)
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-8 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
Electrical cables could be damaged during excavation for drainage works on Bridge Place and for the foundations of the proposed flood defence wall at Mill Place. This would result in the loss of electricity to a number of properties throughout the town and could also prove very dangerous, or even fatal, for site staff if struck during construction operations.
There are a number of locations where overground electricity cabling crosses in the vicinity of the proposed additional works.
The potential impact to the electricity infrastructure as a result of the construction of the proposed works is predicted to be temporary and significant.
Mitigation Measures
The Contractor will assess record drawings and the results of the Site Investigation Contract in order to determine the exact depth and location of existing electrical cables in the works areas. Prior to construction the Contractor will carry out additional site investigation to confirm the location of the existing electrical cables. This will reduce the risk of striking the cable and causing interruption to electricity network during the construction phase.
Residual Impact – Neutral Impact
Taking into account the abovementioned mitigation measures there will be no residual impact to the electrical infrastructure following the construction phase.
11.3.6 Potential Impact to Telecommunications Network
Potential Temporary Moderate Impact
The telecommunications network intersects the proposed additional works at the following locations, as shown on Drawing MA007.1 in Appendix 11A;
1. Drainage Works on Glasslinn Road, Brady’s Lane, N71, Bridge Place, Distillery Road and North Main Street 2. The junction of the Moanarone and Distillery roads (Moanarone Stream Works) 3. R603 along Kilbrittain Stream (Kilbrittain Stream Works)
Excavation will be required for the proposed works mentioned above where telecommunication cables are present. These cables could become damaged during the construction phase. The potential impacts are considered to be temporary and moderate.
Mitigation Measures
The Contractor will assess record drawings and the results of the Site Investigation Contract in order to determine the exact depth and location of existing telecommunications network cables in the works areas. Prior to construction the Contractor will carry out additional site investigation to confirm the location of the existing cables. This will reduce the risk of striking the network cables and causing interruption to telecommunications network during the construction phase.
Residual Impact - Neutral Impact
Taking into account the abovementioned mitigation measures there will be no residual impact to the telecommunications infrastructure following the construction phase.
11.4 WASTE MANAGEMENT DURING CONSTRUCTION
The proposed additional works will bring about an increase in the volume of waste material produced during the construction phase of the Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme. The additional volume
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-9 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with from the proposed additional works will be small in comparison to the overall volume of waste associated with the scheme. This section examines the potential impacts associated with this waste and any mitigation measures required.
11.4.1 Background Information
In accordance with Best Practice Guidelines the Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme and the proposed additional works require a C&D Waste Management Plan due to the expected volume of waste material to arise during the construction period.
The Waste Management Plan for Cork County Council indicates that “Cork County Council is committed to a system of waste management that will see the least possible amount of waste going to modern engineered landfills.”
In line with the Waste Management Plan, excavated material will be reused on site as much as practicable. Where this is not possible, the recycling rates for the C&D waste produced throughout the construction of the Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme should be maintained at or above 85%, if possible, as outlined in the Waste Management (Planning) Regulations 1997.
11.4.2 Classification Of Waste
As identified in the Environmental Impact Statement, the proposed scheme will give rise to a significant volume of excavated material, much of which will have to be exported from site. The volume of excavated material pertaining to the proposed additional works will be small in comparison to the entire scheme. Excavated material will generally comprise of gravels, sands and broken rock. During construction wastes from construction materials can also be anticipated.
The European Waste Codes (EWC) for typical waste materials that may possibly be generated during the construction phase are outlined in Table 11.5;
Waste Material EWC
Soil, stones and dredged spoil 17 05 Bituminous mixtures, coal tar and tarred products 17 03 Concrete, Bricks, Tiles and Ceramics 17 01 Metals (including their alloys) 17 04 Waste Hydraulic Oils* 13 01 Wastes of Liquid Fuels* 13 07 * Denotes Hazardous Materials Table 11.5 – Applicable European Waste Codes
A breakdown of the estimated volumes of waste, origin of waste, and European Waste Codes for the proposed additional works are shown on Table 11.6;
Origin of Waste EWC Estimated Volume of Waste
Dredging 17 05 5000 m3 Wall Foundations 17 05/17 03 4500 m3 Pipe Trenches 17 05/17 03 500 m3 17 05/ 17 04/17 03/17 01/ Miscellaneous 2000 m3 13 01/ 13 07 Total 12,000 m3 Table 11.6 – Estimated C&D Waste resulting from the proposed scheme
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-10 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
11.4.3 Potential Impact during Construction Phase
Potential Temporary Moderate Impact
The waste produced during the construction phase of the proposed additional works is predicted to be short term and moderate. Waste produced during the construction of the additional works accounts for approximately 7% of the overall scheme.
Waste which is not managed and stored correctly has the potential to impact on the environment, resulting in water and ground pollution. Litter may be generated during construction activities causing a nuisance impact. Hazardous materials such as fuels and hydraulic oils/lubricants have to potential to cause serious harm to the surrounding environment if not managed correctly.
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation measures are as specified in the Environmental Impact Statement. All current and applicable waste management legislation will be applied and adhered to. Contractors must ensure that all waste is handled, transported and disposed of in a manner that ensures there is no adverse impact on the environment. Contractors involved in the transport of waste must obtain a collection permit issued by Cork County Council. Waste facilities must hold a waste permit granted by Cork County Council and must be licensed by the EPA to receive the waste.
All waste generated at the construction compound will be removed to a dedicated Waste Storage Area and skips or bays will be provide for recyclable materials.
Bedrock, Block and Concrete
Bedrock, block and concrete are anticipated to be generated during the construction phase of the proposed additional works. Gravely and broken rock can be reused locally for embankment construction. Any gravels and broken rock which are not reused will be sent to the appropriate recycling or waste facility.
Soil/Subsoil
Silts/soils will be encountered during the fish pass construction, Moanarone and Kilbrittain Stream works and other excavations. Any soils encountered will be stored separately and transported to an appropriately licensed facility. If any soils are deemed to be contaminated they will be stored separately and tested to establish the criterial for acceptance at landfills. All contaminated materials will be transported to an appropriately licensed facility.
Scrap Metal
Any scrap material generated during the construction phase of the proposed additional works will be segregated from other waste material and recycled.
Timber
A small amount of timber waste may be generated as a result of hoarding around works areas, or from shuttering for in-situ concrete pours. Timber will be reused for a number of functions throughout the construction phase. Uncontaminated timber will be recycled. Any timber deemed contaminated will be collected by an appropriately permitted contractor and disposed of in an appropriately licenced facility.
Hazardous Materials
If hazardous material are used or encountered during the construction phase of the proposed additional works a specialist contractor, licenced under the ‘Waste Management (Collection Permit) Regulations,
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-11 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
2007 (as amended), will be employed to carry out an environmental clean-up to remove all traces of contaminated material from the site. The material will be disposed of at an appropriately licensed facility.
All plant refuelling, maintenance or washing will be carried out in a specially constructed bunded area within the site compound in order to prevent the infiltration of any hazardous materials into the ground water. Spill kits will also be available at the bunded area to facilitate the cleaning of any spills.
Documentation
A waste management system will be maintained on site. Waste will be weighed by weighing mechanism on the truck or at the receiving facility, and records will be kept by the contractor. A copy of all waste collection permits for all waste contractors and all waste permits or EPA Waste Licences for receiving sites will be kept by the Waste Manager on site. A copy of the Transfrontier Shipping (TFS) document obtained by Dublin City Council and receipt from the final destination of the material must be kept on site for all waste material that is shipped abroad.
Residual Impacts – Neutral Impact
Taking into account the abovementioned mitigation measures the residual impact of the construction phase will be imperceptible.
11.4.4 Potential impact during the Operational Phase
Potential Temporary Slight Impact
The operational phase of the proposed additional works is unlikely to produce any waste of significant volume. Maintenance works on the fish pass, Kilbrittain Stream and Moanarone Stream may generate very small volumes of waste material such as litter, packaging, scrap material or soils with may impact on the local environment if not managed correctly.
Mitigation Measures
All waste generated from maintenance works will be removed from site and taken to the site compound for reuse, recycling or disposal.
Residual Impacts – Neutral Impact
Taking into account the abovementioned mitigation measures the residual impact of the operational phase will be imperceptible.
Environmental Impact Statement Addendum 11-12 Bandon River (Bandon) Drainage Scheme in association with
12 INTERACTION OF THE FOREGOING
The preceding Chapters 4 to 11 of this addendum to the Addendum to the original EIS identify the potential environmental impacts that may occur in terms of Human Beings, Flora and Fauna, Soils and Geology, Hydrology and Hydrogeology, Air and Climate, Landscape, Cultural Heritage and Material Assets, as a result of the proposed development. All of the potential impacts of the proposed development and the measures proposed to mitigate them have been outlined in the preceding sections of this report. However, for any development with the potential for significant environmental impact there is also the potential for interaction amongst these impacts. The result of interactive impacts may either exacerbate the magnitude of the impact or ameliorate it.
The following paragraph details an instance where there is or was a potential for interaction between the impacts of the minor amendments and additions to the overall scheme in the various sections and how any resultant adverse impacts have been averted.
Human Beings, Surface Water, Flora and Fauna & Landscape
The proposed works to prevent flooding on the Moanarone and Killbrittain Streams will involve loss of tree lines, which will result in minor (non significant) impacts on floral and faunal habitat and the landscape value of the area but will benefit the residents through the avoidance of flooding. The scheme has been designed with both of these objectives in mind and has minimised loss of habitat whilst still achieving the flood relieving objective of the works.
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Sources of Information
1:50,000 scale Discovery series mapping 1:10,560 OS Maps of the study area Aerial photography of the Study Area Environmental Protection Agency CORINE Land Cover Map