Preliminary Options Report Scheme Assessment Report 1 - Constraints Report

5 Environmental Assessment

5.1 Introduction

The Stage 1 appraisal of environmental constraints has been undertaken in accordance with DMRB Volume 11 Section 3. The summary of key data provided is based on the detailed Stage 1 Environmental Assessment Report (EAR1) for the project.

5.2 Scope of the assessment

Volume 11 provides guidelines in relation to 12 environmental topics. These comprise:

ƒ Air Quality.

ƒ Cultural Heritage.

ƒ Disruption Due to Construction.

ƒ Ecology and Nature Conservation.

ƒ Landscape Effects.

ƒ Land Use.

ƒ Traffic Noise and Vibration.

ƒ Pedestrian, Cyclists, Equestrians and Community Effects.

ƒ Vehicle Travellers.

ƒ Road Drainage and the Water Environment.

ƒ Geology and Soils.

ƒ Policies and Plans.

This summary of the findings of the preliminary investigation into primary environmental constraints adopts the format of the guidelines.

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5.3 Key tasks

Identification of constraints has involved a combination of desk based review and analysis, consultations and preliminary site surveys and familiarisation.

5.3.1 Desk - based review Reference has been made to:

ƒ Literature related to the environmental study area,

ƒ Databases, records and schedules relating to environmental designations,

ƒ National, regional and local policy documents,

ƒ Historic and current maps of the environmental study area,

ƒ Aerial photographs.

Specific sources referred to in relation to each of the environmental topics are described in Section 5.6.

5.3.2 Consultation Consultation has involved correspondence with statutory environmental authorities and bodies and a wider range of national, regional and local environmental organisations and groups. A schedule of consultees is provided in Appendix B. The prime objective has been to collect and verify known data relating to the environmental study area. Consultees have also been invited to highlight issues and interests which could inform the preliminary process of identifying constraints and refining a preferred corridor for further assessment.

Meetings have also been held with Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) to discuss and outline the framework being adopted for the overall assessment process and the specific approach relating to ecology and nature conservation.

5.3.3 Site walkovers and familiarisation Specific and joint site walkovers and drive-throughs have been undertaken by individual environmental specialists and groups of specialists. The objective has been to verify and consolidate the desk based review and consultation responses and evaluate the relationships between specific environmental interests and their wider environmental value.

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5.4 Environmental Study Areas

The extent and location of specific study areas for each of the environmental topics detailed in Volume 11 is described in Chapter 5.6.

5.5 Constraints Criteria

The focus has been on designated areas, sites and features of international or national importance, implications in relation to strategic policies and plans and development plans and existing land use.

Consideration has also been given to areas within the wider environmental study area where the assessment team have concluded that the relationship between primary criteria and / or a combination of environmental interests frame areas of discernable environmental quality. Whilst these areas have no formal status, they have influenced the review and determination of the preferred corridor. There has been no evaluation / rating of the significance of these identity areas. They have been identified as areas considered to be potentially sensitive to change as a result of linear development such as that being proposed.

These areas have been nominated as Identity Areas. Three types of Identity Area have been defined:

ƒ Heritage Identity Areas (HIA) - these comprise areas where the extent and relationship of recorded heritage assets, reference to literature relating to the history of the environmental study area and topographic location and context within the landscape combine to frame and highlight an area with a discernable sense of cultural value.

ƒ Ecology Identity Areas (EcIA) – these comprise locations where mosaics of habitat types and combinations of designated areas and associated habitats frame areas of discernibly high ecological quality and nature conservation value.

ƒ Environmental Identity Areas (EnIA) – these comprise areas that have been identified as being of high environmental quality by virtue of the relationship between landscape, landform, hydrology, habitat types and building form and which currently are not markedly affected by intrusive features. EnIAs are described in Chapter 5.6.5, landscape and visual context.

The identified constraints have been plotted using a GIS database. In addition to specific topic related figures supporting the text, a series of composite environmental constraints plans have been prepared for each of the nine sub-sections of the overall

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environmental study area. These are included in Volume 2. The relevant drawing numbers are 796036-3000-D-00006 - 00012 respectively.

5.6 The existing environment

5.6.1 Air quality

Data sources reviewed and consultees contacted during the constraints study comprise:

ƒ Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) of each Local Authority and the

Northern Ireland Air Quality (NIAQ) website relating to NO2, PM10 and Dust Monitoring.

ƒ Northern Ireland Air Quality (NIAQ) website http://www.airqualityni.co.uk.

ƒ Consultation Review and Assessment Reports undertaken by the Local Authorities.

ƒ National Air Quality Information Archive (NAQIA) website http://www.airquality.co.uk/archive/.

ƒ NIEA - location of potentially nitrogen sensitive designated nature conservation sites and areas)

Key issues identified in relation to local air quality comprise:

ƒ The presence of Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs). The Environment (NI) Order 2002 requires local authorities to review air quality periodically. Local authorities are required to consider present and likely future air quality and assess whether national air quality objectives are likely to be achieved within prescribed timescales. If these objectives are likely to be exceeded then an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) must be declared.

ƒ The presence of Industrial Sources of Local Air Pollution. Part Ai, Aii and B are industrial processes regulated by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) and Local Authorities. Such processes may emit pollutants to the atmosphere which could contribute to local air quality concentrations.

ƒ The presence of nitrogen sensitive Nature Conservation Sites. The DMRB assessment process identifies a need to consider the location of European Designated Sites (ASSI, SAC, pSAC and Ramsar) that are potentially sensitive to nitrogen deposition in the context of potential route corridors and alignments. The paragraphs below list the nitrogen sensitive sites (for both flora and fauna) within each section of the study area.

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ƒ The presence and distribution of sensitive receptors within the environmental study area. Sensitive Receptors comprise locations where people might potentially be vulnerable to exposure to changes in local air quality. These include such locations as residential properties, schools, hospitals and homes for the elderly.

Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane (Drawing 796036-3000-D- 05001)

Air Quality Management Areas

An AQMA has been declared by Strabane District Council for exceedences in 24

Hour Mean PM10 Objective Limit within Strabane. It is an area that takes in most of the urban area south of Railway Street / Newtown Street.

Industrial sources of local air pollution

There are no Part A or Part B processes that are likely to release significant quantities of NO2 and PM10 within this section of the environmental study area.

Designated sites

There are three designated sites within this section of the study area (see 5.6.4):

ƒ River Foyle and Tributaries ASSI, SAC.

ƒ Strabane Glen ASSI.

ƒ McKean’s Moss ASSI.

Sensitive receptors

The principal centres of population are New Buildings, Magheramason, Bready, Donagheady, Cloghcor, Ballymagorry and Strabane. There are also 18 schools and 5 care homes within this section of the study area.

Existing concentrations of NO2 and PM10

There are no NO2 monitoring units within this section of the study area. The nearest monitoring unit for NO2 is north of the study area at Derry Brooke Park (Londonderry). Data from the unit for 2005, 2006 and 2007 indicate there were no 3 exceedences of the Annual Mean NO2 Objective Limit (40µg/m ).

However, there was an exceedence of the Annual Mean NO2 Objective in 2005 at Derry Dale’s Corner (outside the limits of the engineering study area). No data was available in 2006 as data capture at this site was not sufficient. The Annual Mean concentration in 2007 was below the Objective Limit at this location.

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There is one PM10 continuous monitoring unit in Strabane. Data collected to date shows that the Annual Mean PM10 concentrations are below the Objective limit (40µg/m3).

Section 2 – South of Strabane to South of Omagh (Drawing 796036-3000-D- 05002)

Air Quality Management Areas

There are two AQMAs associated with this section of the environmental study area, one at Newtownstewart and one at Castlederg. The area at Newtownstewart takes in the majority of the urban area south west of the Strule River and extends east to and includes Newtownstewart Model Primary School. The one at Castlederg takes in the majority of the urban area north of William Street. It extends east, taking in the Derg Valley Hospital and the town’s leisure centre, and west to include the playing fields of St Eugene’s Secondary School.

Both designations relate to exceedences of the 24 Hour Mean PM10 Objective Limit, the prime source being associated with the burning of coal as a household fuel. The imposition of Smoke Control Orders has resulted in decreases in PM10 concentrations; however, the Local Authority has not as yet revoked the AQMAs.

Industrial sources of local air pollution

There are no Part A or Part B processes that are likely to release significant quantities of NO2 and PM10 within this section of the environmental study area.

Designated sites

There are five designated sites within this section of the study area (see 5.6.4):

ƒ River Foyle and Tributaries ASSI, SAC,

ƒ Owenkillew River ASSI, SAC,

ƒ Owenkillew and Glenelly Woods ASSI,

ƒ Grange Wood ASSI,

ƒ Tully Bog ASSI, SAC,

Sensitive receptors

The principal centres of population are Glebe, Sion Mills, Victoria Bridge, Douglas Bridge, Ardstraw, Newtownstewart, Mountjoy, Gillygooly, Omagh and Clanabogan.

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There are also 33 schools and 5 care homes within this section of the environmental study area.

Existing concentrations of NO2 and PM10

There are no NO2 monitoring units within this section of the environmental study

area. There is one PM10 continuous monitoring unit within Strabane. Data from this monitoring unit for 2005, 2006 and 2007 indicate concentrations in the order of 50%

of the Annual Mean PM10 Objective Limit.

Section 3 – South of Omagh to Aughnacloy (Drawing 796036-3000-D-05003)

Air Quality Management Areas

There are no AQMAs within this section of the environmental study area.

Industrial sources of local air pollution

There are no Part A or Part B processes that are likely to release significant

quantities of NO2 and PM10 within this section of the environmental study area.

Designated sites

There are three designated sites within this section of the environmental study area (see 5.6.4):

ƒ Cranny Bogs ASSI, SAC,

ƒ Deroran Bog ASSI,

ƒ Fymore Lough ASSI,

Sensitive receptors

The principal centres of population are Gortaclare/Moylagh, Eskragh, Newtownsaville, Garvaghy, Altamuskin, Ballygawley and Aughnacloy. There are also 30 schools and 3 care homes within this section of the study area.

Existing concentrations of NO2 and PM10

There are no continuous NO2 or PM10 monitoring units within this section of the environmental study area.

5.6.2 Cultural Heritage Data sources reviewed and consultees contacted during the constraints study comprise:

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Northern Ireland Environmental Agency (NIEA) Built Heritage and Sites and Monuments Records,

National Monuments Service Monuments database (ROI),

Development Plan documents,

Primary constraints criteria considered include the following national designations:

Ancient Monuments

Under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, the Northern Irish Minister can schedule any building, structure or other work above or below ground, or in territorial waters, which appears to be of architectural, traditional, artistic or archaeological interest. The designation is statutory – once a monument is scheduled, any development that would affect it requires the consent of the Minister. In this context ‘affect’ means works which would have the impact of demolishing, destroying, damaging, removing, repairing, altering, adding to, flooding or covering up the monument.

Listed Buildings

In Northern Ireland listing is carried out by NIEA: HMB under the Planning (NI) Order 1991. In selecting buildings, particular attention is paid to their importance in illustrating economic and social history, their architectural quality, their association with well-known historical events, characters or works of literature and their group value. Some listed buildings are also scheduled monuments. Where this is the case scheduling takes precedence over listing and scheduled monument consent is required for works that would affect them, but not listed building consent. Listed buildings are classified in grades (in descending order of importance) where:

Grade A – buildings of exceptional interest (covers 2% of listed buildings in NI),

Grade B+ - particularly important buildings of more than special interest (covers 3% of listed buildings in NI),

Grade B – buildings of special interest,

Grade C – equivalent the former Grade III in England (i.e. locally listed),

Listing is a statutory designation, except for Grade C.

Historic Parks, Gardens and Demesnes of Special Interest

NIEA compiles a non-statutory Register of Historic Parks, Gardens and Demesnes of Special Interest. Inclusion on the Register does not involve any new restrictions on

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development, nor does it affect the statutory listing or planning controls on any listed building within a registered park or garden.

Local interests identified and recorded comprise:

Conservation Areas

Local authorities may designate as conservation areas sections of land or buildings within their jurisdiction. They must be of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance. Section 72(1) of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 requires authorities to have regard to the fact that there is a conservation area when exercising any of their functions under the Planning Acts and to pay special attention to the desirability of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of conservation areas. A conservation area is a statutory designation.

Non – designated buildings and sites

Buildings of historic or architectural interest may not be listed, or included within a conservation area, but may still be sufficiently important to merit special assessment.

The Sites and Monuments Records are the records curated by NIEA and National Monuments Service. They comprise a list of known archaeological sites.

In addition to recorded national and local designations and schedules, the assessment team has identified and defined a number of Heritage Identity Areas (HAI) as defined in Chapter 5.5.

A complete gazetteer of the recorded heritage sites is included within the EAR 1.

Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane (Drawing 796036-3000-D- 04000)

National designations

There are a significant number of individual sites with national designations of varying periods and types within this section of the environmental study area. These include the Scheduled Monuments of Dunnalong Fortified Town and the former Strabane Canal.

Registered Parks, Gardens and Demesnes of Historic Interest include Ashbrook, Beechill, Brook Park, St Columb’s Park, Ardmore, The Oaks Government House and Molenan House.

Within section 1 of the study area, there are 521 Listed Buildings and 74 Scheduled Monuments.

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Local Designations

There are no conservation areas within this section.

Heritage Identity Areas

The Bready Ancestry HIA

The cultural heritage of the Bready area has a fascinating history stretching back thousands of years. A few remains of earlier settlements have survived, including standing stones, ringforts and souterrains. In the medieval period a monastery was founded at Grange where the old burial ground now is. In 1568 Turlough Luineach O’Neill, chieftain of the O’Neills, built a castle at Dunnalong, the site of an important crossing of the River Foyle and a customary landing place for Scottish mercenary forces arriving in north west Ulster. In 1600, during the Nine Years’ War, an English army built a star-shaped artillery fort at Dunnalong and established a garrison here which at its height numbered more than 1,000 men.

In the early 17th century most of the townlands in the Bready region area were granted to the 1st Earl of Abercorn and formed part of the manor of Dunnalong. In the course of the 17th century these lands were settled by people from Scotland, giving the area a distinctive Scottish feel that survives to this day. Most of the people who lived in the Bready area were farmers or were labourers employed to work on farms. A few individuals owned mills and shops and there were some fishermen, teachers and ministers. The churches in the Bready area are Magheramason Presbyterian Church, Bready Reformed Presbyterian Church and Dunnalong Church of Ireland. Bready Primary School was founded in 1834.

The Bready Ancestry area also lies within the Foyle floodplain area, with associated potential for buried archaeological remains and palaeoenvironmental potential.

The Eranide HIA

This area has been identified as being sensitive to change due to its considerable time depth which is still evident in the landscape, in the form of Cloghole megalithic tomb, standing stones, Ernaidhe Ecclesiastical Site (monastery, church and graveyard), battle sites, raths and Urney Park and Castletown House (Listed Plantation Houses).

Non Designated Sites

There are 439 non-designated sites within section 1.

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Section 2 – South of Strabane to South of Omagh (Drawing 796036-3000-D- 04001)

National designations

There are a significant number of individual sites with national designations of varying periods and types within this section of the engineering study area.

Registered Parks, Gardens and Demesnes of Historic Interest within the study area include Baronscourt, Moyle House, Lisnamallard House and Beltrim Castle.

Within section 2 of the study area, there are 274 Listed Buildings and 106 Scheduled Monuments.

Local designations

There are conservation areas at Sion Mills, Newtownstewart and Omagh.

Heritage Identity Areas

The Sion Mills HIA

Sion Mills is a historic Linen community founded in 1835 when the Herdman company built a flax-spinning Mill on the banks of the spectacular Mourne River - the furthest west in Europe of the large Mills of the Industrial Revolution. Steeped in the tradition and skill of flax-spinning for centuries, the people of Sion Mills produced the finest linen yarn in the world until 2004, and Herdsman’s Mill became renowned as the "Rolls Royce" of the Linen Industry worldwide. The heart of the town was made a Conservation Area in 1977. The Herdsman’s Mill site is statutory listed B+ (i.e.: it is in the top 6% of heritage buildings in the UK) and there are 41 other listed buildings in the town. The site itself is spectacular, overhanging the Mourne River, with the 35 ft wide, 6 ft deep Mill Stream (or Lade) running through between the two main buildings to the Turbine House and thence falling 14 ft back into the river, creating hydro-electricity. This was originally produced by 4 huge waterwheels until 1900 when 5 new turbines were installed which operated undisturbed until 1989 when the old Mill stopped. Now there are 3 new French turbines which were installed in 1996 to produce electricity cleanly from renewable energy and these are still in operation and helping to meet Government renewable energy targets. As the Mourne River valley is considered to form an integral part of the cultural landscape of Sion Mills, the heritage identity area extends further to the east than the limits of the conservation area designation, to highlight the sensitivity of that landscape to change through linear development.

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Non Designated Sites

There are 468 non-designated sites within section 2.

Section 3 – South of Omagh to Aughnacloy (Drawing 796036-3000-D-04002)

National designations

There are a significant number of individual sites with national designations of varying periods and types within this section of the engineering study area.

Registered Parks, Gardens and Demesnes of Historic Interest within the study area include Clogher Park, The Thistle and Favour Royal.

Within section 3 of the study area, there are 301 Listed Buildings and 136 Scheduled Monuments.

Local designations

There are no Conservation Areas within this section of the engineering study area.

Heritage Identity Areas

Tycanny Hillfort HIA

This area is sensitive to change due to the prominent position of the Tycanny Hillfort and associated cultural landscape. The hillfort enclosed the natural defensible position of the hilltop and although the purpose of hillforts is generally not well defined, they are thought to have served as ritual centres or temporary refuges for the local population and have held few permanent inhabitants. By its nature, the hillfort has an extensive associated cultural landscape, which would not easily absorb a major linear development, not least due to severance of associated elements on a landscape scale.

West Ballygawley HIA

This area has been identified as a heritage sensitive area with reference to the passage tomb cemetery at Sess Kilgreen. Passage tombs were used for collective burial in the Neolithic period and are a testament to the enduring links between local communities and their territories. Immediately to the south of the passage tombs, another sensitive area in cultural landscape terms has been identified around Errigal and Gort with remains of a Friary, multi-period church and graveyard, a number of raths, tree rings and enclosures. When considered in combination with the Sess Kilgreen cluster of monuments, considerable time depth can be perceived within the

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landscape, contributing to distinctive character, which wouldn’t easily absorb change of a linear nature.

Non Designated Sites

There are 826 non-designated sites within section 3.

5.6.3 Disruption Due to Construction Issues relating to disruption associated with construction are matters for more detailed assessment once a preferred corridor and specific potential alignments have been identified. At this early stage it can be inferred that where initial corridor options indicate potential routeing through or in close proximity to existing settlement, the potential for disruption during construction would be potentially greatest.

5.6.4 Ecology and Nature Conservation Data sources reviewed and consultees contacted during the constraints study comprise:

ƒ Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) (formerly Environment & Heritage Service [EHS]) for NI and National Parks & Wildlife Division (NPWD) for the ROI,

ƒ NIEA website, National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) website, Ulster Wildlife Trust website, Woodland Trust website, Countryside Survey for NI 2000,,

ƒ Development plan documents, the NI BAP, Local BAPs, draft RSNI BAP,,

ƒ The Royal Irish Academy Research Reports; and the Habitats of Ireland Handbook (Heritage Council 2000),

ƒ Previous Ecological Impact Assessments and ecology surveys undertaken for schemes within the environmental study area,

ƒ Statutory and non-statutory bodies with reference to information including: ancient/long established woodland; BAP habitats and species; and other ecologically notable sites, habitats and / or species within the environmental study area.

Primary constraints identified and recorded during the stage 1 assessment comprise:

ƒ International or national statutory designated sites for Ecology and Nature Conservation, including: Special Areas of Conservation (SAC); RAMSARs;

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Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) (Northern Ireland); Natural Heritage Areas (NHA) (Republic of Ireland) and Nature Reserves (NR).

ƒ Ecological Identity Areas with or without current statutory designation but with the potential to receive such designation during the lifespan of the project. This includes those Ecological Identity Areas that were preliminarily assessed as being of likely biodiversity value at the national or international scale.

Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane (Figure 796036-3000-D-03033)

International designations

The River Foyle and Tributaries SAC (NI)

The SAC is designated for its habitats of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation and the largest population of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar in Northern Ireland (some 15% of the estimated spawning numbers nationally). The presence of otter Lutra lutra is a subsidiary qualifying feature.

The River Finn cSAC (RoI)

The SAC is designated for its active blanket bog, lowland oligotrophic lakes, wet heath and transition mires and its populations of Atlantic salmon and otter.

The River Faughan and Tributaries cSAC (NI)

Qualifying features comprise habitats of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation, old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum and Atlantic salmon and otter.

National Designations

River Foyle and Tributaries ASSI (component ASSI to River Foyle and Tributaries SAC) (NI) (declared 2003)

Physical features of river and associated flora and fauna including Atlantic salmon and other fish species, otter, birds, fresh water mussel and aquatic vegetation communities and riparian woodland.

River Faughan and Tributaries ASSI (component ASSI to River Faughan and Tributaries cSAC) (NI) (declared 2008)

Physical features of river and associated flora and fauna including Atlantic salmon and other fish species, invertebrates, birds, aquatic vegetation communities and riparian woodland.

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Strabane Glen ASSI (declared 1993)

Woodland flora and characteristic associated fauna: calcareous upland mixed Ash/Hazel woodland which is considered atypical and rare for the region and is due to the underlying geology. The valley represents a line of weakness between the Upper Dalradian schists and a basic igneous unit.

Corbylin Wood ASSI (declared 1999)

Woodland flora and fauna: the semi-natural woodland habitat is extensive and supports a variety of woodland plant communities which include several rare or notable plant and animal species. The majority of the wood occurs on acidic soil but there are some base rich areas and some sections of wet woodland.

McKean’s Moss (NI) and McKean’s Moss part II (NI) (declared 1996 and 1997)

Peatland flora and associated flora: biological interest relates to its position within NI, in addition to the diversity of peatland flora and fauna and the presence of rare and notable species. It is the most north westerly lowland raised bog in the country and has a moderately well defined dome. The bog has been cut in the past and is dominated by wet woodland. The hand cuttings are extensive but are confined to the edges of the site.

Port Lough NHA (RoI)

At the time of writing no information regarding this site had been received from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

Feddyglass Woods NHA (RoI).

At the time of writing no information regarding this site had been received from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

Local designations and EcIAs

There are no locally designated sites within this section. Eight international/national (EcIAs) have been defined as indicated in Figure 796036-3000-S-03033.

Section 2 – South of Strabane to South of Omagh (Drawing 796036-3000-D- 03034)

International designations

The River Foyle and Tributaries SAC

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See Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane for a description of the River Foyle SAC.

The Owenkillew River SAC

The SAC is designated for its habitats of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation, old sessile oak woods and population of Freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera. Subsidiary qualifying features comprise bog woodland (priority feature), Atlantic salmon and otter.

Tully Bog SAC

The SAC is designated for its habitat of active, primary raised and bog woodland (EC priority SAC qualifying feature).

Fairy Water Bogs SAC and RAMSAR

The SAC and RAMSAR are designated for their habitat of active, primary raised bog and bog woodland (EC priority SAC qualifying feature).

Monegal Bog SAC

The SAC is designated for its habitat of active, primary raised and bog woodland (EC priority SAC qualifying feature).

National designations

River Foyle and Tributaries ASSI (component ASSI to River Foyle and Tributaries SAC) (NI) (declared 2003)

See Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane.

Owenkillew River ASSI (component ASSI to River Owenkillew SAC) (component ASSI to River Owenkillew SAC) (NI) (declared 2001)

Physical features of river and associated flora and fauna, with adjacent woodlands providing additional interest. The river is notable for the physical diversity and naturalness of the bank and channel, and the richness and naturalness of its animal and plant communities. It is a very important river for aquatic plant communities and rare plant and animal species; it includes the largest known population of freshwater pearl mussel in NI and it also supports a diverse fish community including Atlantic salmon and other species. The river gradually changes in character from ultra- oligotrophic to mesotrophic as it flows from its source to its confluence with the Strule. The river flows through plantations, moorland, riparian semi-natural broad leaved woodland, rough pasture and some fen/swamp communities. The woodlands are characteristically acid in type and provide shelter for riverine animals such as otter and a wide variety of riparian bird species. 796036/0000/R/006 Version 3 145 ©Mouchel 2008 Preliminary Options Report Scheme Assessment Report 1 - Constraints Report

Tully Bog ASSI (component ASSI to Tully Bog SAC) (component ASSI to Tully Bog SAC) (NI) (declared 1996)

Peatland flora and associated fauna: biological interest relates to size and intactness of the bog, in addition to the diversity of the vegetation and structural features and presence of rare and notable species. Special features include a well-defined dome. Hand cutting has been restricted to edges of the peat and the lagg and has created a mosaic of habitat including pools which are known to support characteristic invertebrate fauna including a diverse water beetle and damselfly and dragonfly assemblage.

Grange Wood ASSI (NI) (declared 1999)

Woodland flora and fauna: a range of woodland vegetation types are present including base-rich woodland communities that are characteristic of Carboniferous limestone rocks. The structure and composition of the wood is very variable and reflects the variation in environmental conditions and past and present management practices. The canopy is generally dominated by hazel with occasional tall ash standards; there are some water logged areas that support alder and willow species. The field layer is diverse. The woodland supports many animal species including breeding birds.

Owenkillew and Glenelly Woods ASSI (component ASSI to River Owenkillew SAC) (NI) (declared 1993)

Woodland flora and characteristic associated flora: represents the second largest intact semi-natural deciduous woodland block surviving in the Sperrins, and is one of the finest river valley woodlands in NI. The wood is notable for the wide diversity in the structure and in the plant communities occurring and in its species richness. The woodland displays a calcifugous character throughout with the canopy dominated by sessile oak with planted Fagus sylvatica and frequent birch species. There is a diverse bryophyte ground cover and pockets of flushed and waterlogged ground occur which add to the overall diversity.

Drumlea and Mullan Woods ASSI (component ASSI to River Owenkillew SAC) (NI) (declared 1993)

Woodland flora and characteristic associated fauna: it is one of the largest intact, semi-natural deciduous woodland sites in the Sperrins and represents one of the largest calcifugous oak woods remaining in NI. The woodland structure is variable throughout and has a well defined gradient from an open, mature and over-mature canopy in the west to a young and dense canopy in the east. The general woodland canopy is dominated by sessile oak. The woodland also contains a series of small acid flushes and supports an abundance of bryophytes and lichen species.

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Fairy Water Bogs ASSI (component ASSI to Fairy Water Bogs SAC and RAMSAR) (NI) (declared 1990)

Lowland raised bog: considered to comprise the most important concentration of lowland raised bogs in NI. Extensive areas of the surfaces remain intact despite a long history of cutting and the overall extent of the intact bog make this complex of three bogs – Bomacktall, Claragh and Kilmore Robinson – unique; each bog has a classic dome structure.

Monegal Bog ASSI (component ASSI to Monegal Bog SAC) (NI)

Lowland raised bog: one of the most westerly active raised bogs in Northern Ireland. The site is large, with a well-developed dome and one the finest hummock and pool complexes in Northern Ireland. The pools are arranged concentrically around the site of an old bog-burst. The peatland flora is dominated by active bog vegetation with a high cover of bog-mosses, including the hummock-forming species.

Kirlish ASSI (NI) (declared 2007)

Woodland and grassland habitats: a small acid oakwood on damp soils dominated by sessile oak but supporting a range of woodland communities with a high structural diversity and rich assemblage of plant species. On the upper valley slopes there is an area of species-rich wet grassland which resembles the purple moor- grass and rush pasture type, which is rich is rushes, sedges and wild flowers. The woodland supports nesting birds, important invertebrates and mammals including badger.

Borrin National Nature Reserve (NR) (declared 1975)

Wet heath and blanket bog: well developed heath on moorland with an area of oak and birch woodland also present.

Local designations and EcIAs

There are no locally designated sites within this section. Eleven international/national EcIAs have been defined as indicated in Figure 796036-3000-D-03034.

Section 3 – South of Omagh to Aughnacloy (Figure 796036-3000-D-03035)

International Designations

Deroran Bog SAC

Cranny Bogs SAC

Tonnagh Beg Bog SAC

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All three are designated for their active, primary raised and bog woodland (EC priority SAC qualifying feature). See the paragraphs below for a more detailed description of each site.

National designations

Deroran Bog ASSI (component ASSI to Deroran Bog SAC) (NI) (declared 1994)

Peatland flora and associated fauna: it is one of the few predominately intact bogs of a type associated with the drumlin belt of County Tyrone, where peat has accumulated in drumlin hollows and spread outwards. There is history of reclamation around edges and extensive peat cutting, but approximately 50 hectares of the surface remains intact; it is therefore one of the largest remaining lowland bogs in NI. It displays a typical convex domed profile. The microtopography of the surface is generally subdued.

Cranny Bogs ASSI (component ASSI to Cranny Bog SAC) (NI) (declared 1996)

Peatland flora and associated fauna: biological interest is related to the size and intactness of three closely associated lowland raised bogs, in addition to the vegetation and structural features and the presence of rare and notable species. Cranny bogs are among the best remaining examples of lowland raised bogs in west NI. Disturbance has been confined to cutting around the edge and occasional burning. The area takes in three lowland raised bog domes. The bog also provides habitat for birds, including snipe and mammals including Irish Hare.

Tonnagh Beg Bog ASSI (component ASSI to Tommagh Beg Bog SAC) (NI) (declared 1996)

Peatland flora and associated fauna: biological interest relates to size of intactness of the bog, in addition to the diversity of the vegetation and structural features and presence of rare and notable species. It is one of the best remaining examples of lowland raised bog in the west of NI. Hand cutting has been restricted to edges but some history of burning in parts.

Glenmore Wood ASSI (NI) (declared 1993)

Woodland flora and characteristic associated fauna: the free draining and leached soils support oak and birch dominated calcifugous woodland, while the shallower, wetter slopes are strongly flushed and mineral-enriched with a more localised flushed woodland cover dominated by ash, alder and willow species. The wood has a well developed structure and supports a wide variation of plant communities. The woodland habitat extends both sides of the deeply incised Glemore Valley, merging into scrub and acid grassland on the north side of the valley.

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Rehaghy Wood ASSI (NI) (declared 2005)

Woodland flora and fauna: predominately sessile oak oakwood on dry soils but containing a good range of plant communities with a rich assemblage of woodland species. Structural diversity is high and the woodland represents one of the largest remaining examples of semi-natural broadleaved woodland in south Tyrone. Some alder, ash and birch wet woodland occurs where the soils are water logged or flushed and this provides additional diversity. The woodland also provides an important habitat for animals, including birds and animals.

Fymore Lough ASSI (NI) (declared 2001)

Wetland flora and fauna: a small mesotrophic lake situated in an inter-drumlin hollow surrounded by improved pasture but consisting of open water with a mosaic of transitional habitats including swamp, fen, base-rich flushes and areas of fen carr. The invertebrate community is important for its overall diversity and includes several rare species especially beetle species.

Derryclooney Lough ASSI (NI)

Wetland flora and fauna: a small mesotrophic lake situated close to Fymore Lough though isolated by improved pasture. The adjacent land consists of a mosaic of supporting habitats including swamp, fen, scrub and marshy grassland. The site is likely to support important invertebrate communities.

Black Lough ASSI (NI) (declared 2004)

Wetland flora and fauna: a diverse site with good quality fen, swamp and freshwater communities, with additional diversity provided by wet woodland, scrub, wet heath, neutral and acid grasslands. The site supports a wide range of plants including some scarce species and the invertebrate community is important for its overall diversity and includes some species with restricted distributions within the UK including the Irish Damselfly.

Straduff ASSI (NI) (declared 2005)

This is principally a geological ASSI but the citation does mention the presence of wet heath adjoining the quarry which is dominated by gorse scrub, heather and crossed-leaved heath which supports a diverse community of moths and butterflies. The scarce blue-tailed damselfly has also been recorded on site which is the rarest species of damselfly in NI.

Killyhoman Marsh NHA (RoI)

At the time of writing no information regarding this site had been received from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS)

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Local designations and EcIAs

There are no locally designated sites within this section. Seventeen EcIAs have been defined as indicated in Figure 796036-3000-D-03035.

5.6.5 Landscape and Visual Context Data sources reviewed and consultees contacted during the constraints study comprise:

ƒ NIEA.

ƒ Development Plan Documents.

ƒ Northern Ireland Landscape Assessment (NILA).

ƒ http://www.forestserviceni.gov.uk/index.htm

ƒ http://www.wesleyjohnston.com/users/ireland/geography/physical_landscape.h tml

ƒ http://www.irelandwide.com/regional/ulster/county_tyrone/index.htm

ƒ http://www.barons-court.com/

ƒ http://www.ni-environment.gov.uk/newtownstewart

ƒ http://www.sionmills.org/

ƒ http://www.ni-environment.gov.uk/landscape/plan.htm

The Primary constraints criteria considered include the following national designation:

The Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The AONB was designated in 1968 under the Amenity Lands Act (1965). The AONB encompasses a largely mountainous area of great geological complexity. Stretching from the Strule Valley in the west to the perimeter of the Lough Neagh lowlands in the east this area presents vast expanses of moorland penetrated by narrow glens and deep valleys. In its south the Burren area is noted for its lakes, sandy eskers and other glacial features. The area is rich in historic and archaeological heritage and folklore.

In addition to this nationally designated area the assessment team has identified and defined a number of Environmental Identity Areas (EnIA) as defined in 5.5.

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Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane (Figure 796036-3000-D-01001)

Overview

This section of the environmental study area is dominated by the broad valley of the River Foyle. The existing A5 links several of the smaller villages and hamlets such as Magheramason, Bready and Ballymagorry, all located above and along the eastern margin of the river’s floodplain. West of the River Foyle the landform is steeper and forms a rounded ridgeline and plateau extending to the west.

Landscape character

This section of the environmental study area comprises all or part of the following Landscape Character Areas as defined in the Northern Ireland Landscape Assessment: Derry Slopes (No.32); Foyle Valley (No.27); Burngibbagh & Drumahoe (No.31); and Sperrin Foothills (No.30). Key characteristics of each of the character areas of relevance to this section of the study area are outlined below.

Derry Slopes

This character area is located along the western margins of the River Foyle. The prominent Minkey Hill and its eastern / southern slopes frame the River Foyle in the north eastern part of the environmental study area. Minkey Hill appears as a smooth rounded form on which telecommunication masts appear as a dominant and disruptive feature. Lower slopes comprise undulating and open farmland.

Foyle Valley

This area comprises the wide floodplain of the River Foyle between New Buildings and Strabane. Between New Buildings and Bready it extends from the western margins of the river to a narrow fringe of land between the existing A5 and the steeply rising slopes of Clondermont and Gortmonly Hill. Further east Slievekirk rises prominently above the foothills of the Sperrins. The valley landscape blends with that of the surrounding hills; a well-enclosed, geometric patchwork of fields and hedgerows sweeps up onto the steep slopes of the Sperrins. There are arable fields as well as pastures in areas with a shallower landform and in the Maghereagh area, where there is an alluvial plain alongside the Foyle.

South of Bready the area extends to the east along the increasingly enclosed Burn Dennet valley as far as Mountcastle and to the south east along the enclosed and undulating valley of the Glenmornan River to Artigarvan. The landscape of the floodplain is most open and expansive where these two tributaries and two tributaries from the west (the Swilly Burn and Deele River) flow into the River Foyle.

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The valley landscape becomes markedly enclosed to the east of Strabane as the steep slopes of the Sperrins (Knockavoe) descend sharply to the margins of the town. The enclosure is less pronounced to the west of the town where River Finn and Mourne River flow from the south into the River Foyle and Croaghan Hill rise more gently above Lifford west of the confluence of the rivers.

Notable settlements are generally located along the existing A5, Strabane being the largest and New Buildings of moderate size. Other small settlements include Magheramason, Ballymagorry, Artigarvan (B49) Bready, Magherareagh and Tullyard.

Burngibbagh and Drumahoe

The part of this character area within the environmental study area comprises the narrow and secluded valley of the Burngibbagh as it flows north east to south west between New Buildings and the valley’s confluence with the Burn Dennet at Moyagh. The valley is framed by rolling hills and low ridges between Clondermont and Gortmonly Hill to the west and the foothills of the Sperrins below Slievekirk to the east.

Fields are relatively small. There are numerous hedgerow trees which increase in density towards the valley floor. There are two prominent lines of pylons, one to each side of the relatively inconspicuous watercourse. The NILA highlights the sensitivity of the valley and indicates that development would potentially have a significant impact on its secluded character.

Sperrin Foothills

This area comprises a series of rounded hills dissected by winding and relatively incised rivers. The western part of the area frames the project environmental study area with Slievekirk rising to some 370m between Burngibbagh and the River Faughan. Fields are enclosed by hedgerows and wire fencing. There are numerous hedgerows trees, particularly towards the lower slopes. Mature beech trees are an important local feature.

Visual Context

Due to the extensive nature of the environmental study area several towns, villages and hamlets are included and potentially form key visual receptors in addition to the scattered farmsteads and dwellings that occur throughout. Strabane is the main urban centre within the study area. The towns / villages / hamlets of New Buildings; Magheramason; Bready; Ballymagorry; Artigarvan; and Donemana may also comprise key visual receptors. The study area also comprises the steeply rising western slopes of Owenreagh Hill to the east of Strabane that are afforded expansive views across the broader farmland and settlements contained within.

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Key constraints

The principal landscape constraints within this section comprise: The Sperrin Mountains AONB.

The western margins of the nationally designated area of upland and mountain landscape extend to within 2km of the urban edge of Strabane. The AONB was designated in 1968 under the Amenity Lands Act (1965). The AONB encompasses a largely mountainous area of great geological complexity. Stretching from the Strule Valley in the west to the perimeter of the Lough Neagh lowlands in the east this area presents vast expanses of moorland penetrated by narrow glens and deep valleys. In its south the Burren area is noted for its lakes, sandy eskers and other glacial features. The area is rich in historic and archaeological heritage and folklore.

The Foyle Flood Plain Environmental Identity Area (EnIA)

Extending from Magheramason in the north, to northern fringes of Strabane in the south, the area broadly comprises the flood plain of the River Foyle and is typified by a drained landscape with a rectilinear field pattern of medium size. Vegetation is generally limited. It is open, large-scale landscape where the relationship between the mountains and high hills to the east and west of the wide river valley, combine with internationally acknowledged ecological interests and recognised heritage interests (Bready).

The Tully Valley EnIA

Comprising a small narrow valley extending from the south of Londonderry and to the east of New Buildings; the valley then broadens to the east of Magheramason affording views of the village along with Bready and more distant views of Ballymagorry and Artigarvan. It is a secluded valley where ecological interests combine with a declining but still perceptible former agricultural area reflective of past times and practices.

Sperrin Hinterland (north) EnIA

Extending from the northern boundary of the Sperrin AONB to include an area to the east of Artigarvan, the landscape is dominated by its rolling landform, heavily wooded in places with an intimate field pattern and network of lanes that reflect historical patterns.

Other constraints

Other more localised areas of interest include the Registered Parks, Gardens and Demenses of Ashbrook; Beech Hill; Brooke Park; Brook Hall; St. Columb's; Holy Hill or Holly Hill House.

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The landscape/townscape value of parts of this section of the study area is also recognised in current policy within the Strabane Area Plan (1986 – 2001) and the Derry Area Plan (2011). The plans include policies related to protection of the greenbelt around Derry and Strabane, the landscape and townscape quality both within and around these towns and the protection of areas of high scenic quality including the Rivers Foyle and Faughan.

Section 2 – South of Strabane to South of Omagh (Figure 796036-3000-D- 01002)

Overview

Strabane and Lifford lie at the confluence of two main rivers; the landform is dominated by the steeply rising lower slopes of Owenreagh Hill to the east and local hills to the west. The landform rapidly changes to the south of Strabane to a deeply incised river valley that extends to Omagh. West and south of Omagh the landform is dominated by the glacial drumlins that combine with pockets of woodland and steeper slopes that create an enclosed landscape, scattered with properties and interlaced with a network of narrow lanes and hedgerows.

Landscape character

This section of the environmental study area comprises all or part of the following Landscape Character Areas as defined in the Northern Ireland Landscape Assessment: Sperrin Mountains (No.29); Glenelly Valley (No.28); Derg Valley (No.20); Bessy Bell and Gortin (No.26); and Fairy Water Valley (No.21).

Sperrin Mountains

The part of this character area of relevance to this section of the environmental study area comprises the westernmost end of the east / west orientated Sperrin Mountain Range. The high hills of the Sperrins frame the eastern valley side of the Mourne River, the most prominent being Owenreagh Hill at 400m. The ridges tracing the skyline along the eastern side of the valley have a broad, rounded profile. Historic field patterns remain on many of the lower valley slopes where hedgerows, earthbanks and stone walls enclose a diverse patchwork of fields and woodlands. There are occasional large blocks of conifer plantation. Stone walls on the upper slopes often follow the historic townland boundaries.

Derg Valley

The part of this character area or relevance to this section of the study area comprises the eastern valley between Castlederg and the river’s confluence with the Strule River and Mourne River. The valley is broad with a flat valley bottom framed by low rounded hills with relatively gentle and undulating side slopes. Settlement

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comprises dispersed farmsteads and houses other than for the small hamlet of Ardstraw where the stone mill buildings are a distinctive feature.

Bessy Bell and Gortin

This is an extensive character area focused on outliers to the Sperrins, with rounded hills in the west and more prominent peaks to the east. It is dissected by the Strule River as it runs in a deeply incised valley between Newtownstewart and Mountjoy. The focus of the western part of the character area is the rounded 420m high Bessy Bell. The crest and upper slopes comprise open moorland which features a small but prominent windfarm. Lower eastern slopes comprise marginal pasture which gives way to richer land towards the valley bottom. The western slopes of the hill feature extensive plantation woodland and the extensive Baron’s Court deer park. There are a number of man-made loughs which have been formed within the deer park along a tributary of the River Derg. The whole of this western area falls within the non- statutory Sperrins Foothills Area of Scenic Quality.

The central narrow river valley is steep sided with the existing A5 cut into the side slope as it follows the course of the river along its western margins.

East of the Strule Valley there is a ridge which extends west to east in a gradual arc which increase in height from Mary Gray to Beauty Hill and Curraghchosaly Mountain. The ridge links into a higher series of outlier peaks to the south of the Sperrins, the highest being Mullaghcarn. The ridge and peaks frame the eastern Strule Valley where the lower slopes of Mullaghcarn, Crocknakeeferty and Slieveard have a striking landscape pattern, with stone walls and earthbanks following the historic townland boundaries. There are attractive stone farmsteads on the slopes. The upper, steeper slopes comprise the Gortin Glen Forest Park, an area of extensive blocks of conifer plantation.

Fairy Water Valley

This character area extends west from the confluence of the Fairy Water and Drumquin River. The section of the character area of relevance to the study comprises the easternmost part of the valley where there is a flat valley floor and undulating valley slopes, with a small-scale, irregular patchwork of pastures interspersed with bogs and marshes. It is on the margins of the drumlin lowlands and the rounded landforms reflect this influence. Fields are enclosed by a mixture of hedgerows and stone walls. The landscape in the valley and on the upland margins has numerous hedgerow trees, as well as copses and more extensive woodlands. Settlement is sparse.

Visual context

Omagh is the main town within this section of the environmental study area. In addition, the towns / villages of Sion Mills, Clady, Ardstraw, Newtownstewart and Gortin are included within the study area and may also comprise key visual

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receptors. The hills and upland areas afford expansive views across the broader farmland and settlements and along the Strule Valley. These comprise the steep slopes and summit of Bessy Bell to the south of Newtownstewart, the upland slopes and foothills of Mullaghcarn to the north east of Omagh and the eastern slopes and summit of Pollnalaght to the west of Omagh. There is a noted viewpoint at Gortin Glen Forest Park.

Key constraints

The principal landscape constraints within this section comprise:

The Sperrin Mountains AONB.

The western hills and mountains of the AONB provide a dramatic and impressive profile along the eastern margin of the environmental study area.

Bessy Bell EnIA

Including the summit and slopes of Bessy Bell and including an area of farmland extending to the west. The rounded summit of Bessy Bell forms a distinctive landform visible from an extensive area in all directions. The steeply rising slopes typically comprise pastoral fields to the east with commercial plantations clothing the western slopes.

Sperrin Hinterland (south) EnIA

Extending to the south of the Sperrin AONB the area extends to the east of Omagh as far south as Beragh and Sixmilecross. The landscape differs from that identified within the Sperrin Hinterland to the north in that the landform is less well defined and vegetation pattern is not as well structured. The area comprises distinctive landscape, ecological and cultural heritage assets.

Other constraints

Other more localised areas of interest include the Registered Parks, Gardens and Demenses of Baronscourt, Moyle House, Lisnamallard House and Beltrim Castle.

The value of parts of this section of the environmental study area are also recognised in current policy within the Strabane Area Plan (1986 – 2001) and the Omagh Area Plan (1987 - 2002). The plans include policies related to protection of the landscape quality of the Strule Valley between Newtownstewart and the district boundary and associated with Gortin.

Areas of recognised townscape value comprise conservation areas at Sion Mills, Newtownstewart and Omagh.

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Section 3 – South of Omagh to Aughnacloy (Figure 796036-3000-D-01003)

Overview

The broad rounded ridgeline of the Brougher Mountains run in a north easterly direction and mark the transition from the relatively gentle and elevated north facing dip slope to the Clogher Valley below to the south. The town of Fintona and the villages of Seskinore and Beragh are located in the expansive area to the north of the ridge. The villages of Clogher, Augher and Ballygawley are located in the valley to the south. The ridgeline forms a local high point referred to as Slievemore to the east of the existing A5.

Landscape character

This section of the environmental study area comprises all or part of the following Landscape Character Areas as defined in the Northern Ireland Landscape Assessment : Omagh Farmland (No.22); Camowen Valley (No.23); Slievemore (No.44); Dungannon Drumlins and Hill (No.45); Blackwater Valley (No.46); Clogher Valley Lowlands (No.17); and Brougher Mountain (No.16).

Omagh Farmland

This is a drumlin lowland landscape extending south of Omagh as far as Fintona. It is dissected by the Camowen River to the north and the intricate river systems of the Drumragh River, Ballynahatty Water and Quiggery Water to the south. A relatively dense distribution of drumlins results in a constantly undulating landform criss- crossed by hedgerows defining small scale fields and frequently punctuated by small copses and areas of woodland. Many of the low lying areas between the drumlins are marshy and support interesting habitats which contrast with well grazed pasture on the rounded landforms, adding to the complexity and appeal of the landscape. There is a dense network of local roads which is generally responsive to the landform and avoids significant conflict with the rounded drumlin forms. Principal roads are less responsive and assume straighter and less undulating alignments. There are no large settlements, the largest towns and villages being Fintona and Seskinore, Beragh and Sixmilecross in the southern part of the area. Individual farmsteads are uniformly scattered throughout the area and typically located halfway up the slopes of the drumlins.

Camowen Valley

This character area extends from the east of Omagh to Carrickmore or Termon Rock. It comprises the broad valley of the Camowen River and its tributaries framed to the north and east by hills and high ground extending from Slieveard to Mullaghcarn to Loughmacrory Hill and Cregganconroe. The profile of Cregganmore is a prominent local landmark. The landscape is a complex, patchy mosaic of conifer plantations, marsh and pastures. There are numerous branching streams and peaty marsh extends across the low-lying parts of the valley floor. There are extensive

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conifer plantations on the shallow slopes just above the marsh and pastures on ridges of glacial moraine. Small-holdings and farms are confined to these shallow ridges. Pastures are typically small and rectangular though they become less regular in form on steeper slopes.

Slievemore

Slievemore (313m) is the high point of the eastern end of the Brougher sandstone ridge. The summit is well rounded whilst the lower slopes have a more complex, lumpy landform, a result of glacial deposition. The broad ridgetops are a large-scale mosaic of moorland and conifer plantations, with smaller pastures on the marginal slopes. Peat-cutting has had a significant influence in many parts of the moorland. The conifers form prominent, geometric blocks in the landscape and there are strong contrasts in scale, colour and character between the landscape of the ridge tops and that of the undulating pastures and marshy hollows on the fringes of the moorland. There are long views from the ridge top summits over the surrounding lowlands.

Dungannon Drumlins and Hill

This is an expansive area of large scale drumlin landforms stretching from Augher beyond Ballygawley and Aughnacloy to the north east and Dungannon. The locally prominent grouping of Aghnahoe Hill, Ivy Hill and The Burnt Hill stand above the lower drumlins some 4km east of Ballygawley. Within the study area fields are relatively large in the lower lying areas, becoming smaller and more angular on the steeper hill slopes. There are remnant areas of marsh though much of this local area has been drained for agricultural purposes.

Blackwater Valley

The character area follows the course of the River Blackwater from Ravellea immediately west of Aughnacloy to Cor Hill south of the village, returning northwards along the river valley as it flows to Oona Bridge. The river meanders and twists around a complex of drumlins that shape the valley. There are few local roads crossing the valley while roads along the valley margins comprise hedge-banked lanes that limit views of the valley. Habitats include wet semi-improved grassland, improved pasture and marsh. Mature hedgerows and trees enclose fields within the valley. The combination of enclosure associated with vegetation and the drumlin landform framing the valley result in a high quality landscape with a sense of seclusion and maturity.

Clogher Valley Lowlands

The Clogher Valley Lowlands comprise a wide swathe of undulating lowland, framed by the sandstone ridges of Brougher Mountain to the north, and Slieve Beagh to the south. It is an area of boulder clay drumlins and eskers of sand and gravel with occasional solid rock outcrops. Pasture is the dominant landcover in the lower areas between the drumlins and eskers. Fields are relatively large and are bounded by

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hedges which are often overgrown with tall, mature trees. The lowland has many notable estate landscapes, including the Colebrooke, Clogher and Tempo Manor estates. All are distinctive and attractive landscapes, with a mix of woodland, parkland and historic estate buildings. Housing is associated with farms and with older houses on the top or sides of drumlins and ridges. Most have been modernised but elements of traditional design still remain. Some of the larger dwellings have small parkland settings. The lowland is criss-crossed with minor roads. Fivemiletown, Clogher and Augher are important local centres along the principal A4 route from Belfast to Fermanagh.

Brougher Mountain

This is an area of broad sandstone ridges which extends from Cloghtogle Mountain (near Enniskillen) to Slievedivena north east of the existing A5. The northern part of the character area (that which is associated with this section of the environmental study area) is in the form of a plateau with a very steep south eastern escarpment slopes and a shallow northwest facing dip slopes. The plateau is dissected by two narrow and steep-sided northwest / south east orientated valleys. There are extensive views from the escarpment over the wide Clogher Valley to the south. There are some extensive blocks of conifers on the upper slopes and stands of mixed woodland on the steep escarpment.

Broad visual context

The villages / hamlets of Sixmilecross, Beragh, Seskinore, Fintona, Carrickmore, Ballygawley, Augher, Clogher and Aughnacloy lie within the environmental study area and may comprise key visual receptors. The study area also comprises the gentle uplands associated with Slievemore to the north of Ballygawley that are afforded expansive views across the broader farmland and settlements contained within. There are noted viewpoints at Knockmanny Forest.

Key constraints

The principal landscape constraints within this section comprise:

Slievemore EnIA

Forming a distinctive ridgeline the Brougher Mountains comprise a number of local hills and wooded vales. To the east of the A5 as it crosses this ridgeline, the landform rises to unenclosed moorland, the summit of which is referred to as Slievemore.

Favour Royal EnIA

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To the south of the environmental study area the landscape associated with the area of Favour Royal comprises a distinctly historical field pattern in associated with extensive woodland. The ID Area has been identified as a result of a combination of landscape, ecological and cultural heritage assets.

Other constraints

Other more localised areas of interest include the Registered Parks, Gardens and Demenses of Clogher Park, The Thistle, Aughnacloy and Favour Royal.

The value of parts of this section of the environmental study area are also recognised in current policy within the Omagh Area Plan (1987 - 2002) and the Dungannon and South Tyrone Area Plan 2010.The plans provide for local landscape policy areas in Carrickmore and Sixmilecross and Augher, Aughnacloy, Ballygawley and Clogher.

The Dungannon and South Tyrone Area Plan also nominate areas of recognised townscape value in the form of townscape character areas in Augher, Aughnacloy, Ballygawley and Clogher.

5.6.6 Land Use Data sources reviewed and consultees contacted during the constraints study comprise:

ƒ Planning Service,

ƒ DARD Countryside Management Branch and Forest Service,

ƒ Waterways Ireland and the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI),

ƒ Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA),

ƒ Northern Ireland Department of Recreation, Arts, and Leisure,

ƒ Northern Ireland Tourist Board,

ƒ Irish Peatland Conservation Council,

ƒ Development Plan Documents.

Information has been collected and recorded in relation to the following topic areas and interests.

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ƒ Settlements - settlement boundaries, community/public lands, community facilities and development lands,

ƒ Local Government Designated Areas - locally designated areas and features beyond settlement limits (including green belts, countryside policy areas, sites of local conservation importance, and historic parks, gardens, and demesnes),

ƒ Agriculture - agricultural land classification (including best and most versatile land), agri-environment schemes and Forest Service managed and grant-aided woodland,

ƒ Waterways and Waterway Restoration Projects - navigable waterways (both active and disused) and any earmarked restoration projects,

ƒ Fisheries and Fishing Rights - designated inland fishing waters.

Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane (Figure 796036-3000-D-02010 and 796036-3000-D-02050)

Settlements

Larger settlements and villages within this section of the study area are generally located along the A5 or to the east of the existing road. The largest settlements are the city of Londonderry immediately to the north of the study area and the district town of Strabane at the southern end of the section. Smaller villages and hamlets located along the existing A5 comprise New Buildings, Magheramason, Bready, Cloghcor, Ballymagorry and Tullyard. Other small settlements east of the A5 and below the foothills to the Sperrins include Ardmore, Donagheady, Donemana, Artigarvan, Glenmornan and Altishane.

Beyond these settlements, individual farmsteads, homes, small hamlets and extended ribbons of dispersed housing are located along a dense network of local roads routed along local valleys and across the lower lying areas to the east of the A5. Relatively dense ribbon settlement is most marked along the Burn Dennet Valley. Settlement west of the A5 is limited to a small number of individual properties, primarily on ground above the River Foyle floodplain.

The principal constraints relating to the location and pattern of settlement comprise:

ƒ the proximity of existing villages and property along the margins of the A5 and immediately along local roads off the A5,

ƒ marked ribbon settlement along the Burn Dennet Valley,

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to the River Foyle and its floodplain to the west and the steep lower slopes of the Sperrin Foothills to the east,

ƒ the relationship of the existing A5 through Strabane to areas of housing, retail uses and open space.

Community/public lands and community facilities

The principal interests / constraints related to community facilities are associated with Strabane. These comprise the Town Parks (to the east of the retail centre), the Strabane Golf Course, (set between the eastern edge of the town and the Mourne River), playing fields along the Mourne River, open space associated with the existing A5 corridor through the town and behind St. Mary’s / St. Colman’s schools which would not be directly impacted by the proposed scheme. Route options around or through Strabane (online) have the potential to impact other existing and zoned open space areas, particularly the public park on the easternmost settlement limits at Pattens Glen and open space zonings with frontage on the existing A5.

Development lands

Work on the West Tyrone Area Plan has temporarily ceased in order to allow the European Courts to consider a challenge under the Strategic Environment Assessment Regulations. The initial studies suggest that there will not be a need to extend the towns of Strabane and Omagh in order to provide additional housing lands. However there is a justification for zoning additional industrial which could be outside the existing limits. Work on a replacement Derry Area Plan has not yet commenced.

Additionally, a preliminary review has been undertaken of major planning applications submitted (2000 to present) within the engineering study area.

A current initiative being investigated by Donegal County Council in partnership with Strabane concerns the exploration of a joint riverside regeneration project which includes the provision of a pedestrian / recreational corridor at the “Camel’s Hump” (confluence of Rivers Mourne, Finn, and Foyle) utilising the existing alignment of the A38 between the towns of Lifford and Strabane. Support is being sought via the European Union Peace III Programme for Peace and Reconciliation 2007-2012. The relationship between such a proposal and a corridor west of Strabane or along the existing A5 corridor would influence though may not constrain such options.

Whilst most of these planning applications are located within existing settlement limits, major planning applications extending beyond these limits consist of:

• a new cricket and sports pitch at Magheramason (approval in 2006);

• sewage treatment works at Bready and Strabane (approvals in 2001 and 2002 respectively);

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• restoration of the Strabane Canal between the River Foyle and Glenmornan River (approval in 2006); and

• a proposed strategic mixed use development (employment park, a leisure complex, and hotel) along the River Foyle immediately west of the existing A5 (status pending).

Agriculture

A significant extent of the agricultural land associated with this section of the environmental study area qualifies as best and most versatile land, the key exception being land within the immediate floodplain of the River Foyle.

Private and DARD woodlands

A small number of grant-aided woodland tracts are located in the vicinity of Bready. Additionally, the Prehen Wood Area of Local Nature Conservation and Amenity Importance (north of New Buildings) and the Strabane Glen ASSI, while not aided or managed by the Forest Service, are also important woodland conservation features.

Waterways and waterway restoration projects

Restoration of part of the disused Strabane Canal located between the A5 and River Foyle and running from the Glenmornan River south towards Strabane is nearing completion. The works include the restoration of lock structures, provision of walkways and a car park. The Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI) has indicated that further restoration of the channel towards Strabane may be proposed in the future.

Fisheries and fishing rights

Inland water features within Section 1 of the environmental study area all lie within the catchment of Lough Foyle, and as such are administered by Loughs Agency of the Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission. The whole of the River Foyle and its tributaries are well known in Northern Ireland for game and coarse fishing, supporting a diverse mixture of fish and river dynamics. Major tributaries within Section 1 known to be used extensively by anglers consist of the Burn Dennet (originating in the West Sperrins and running west towards Cloghcor) and the River Mourne (running north from Newtownstewart to Strabane).

Section 2 – South of Strabane to South of Omagh (Figure 796036-3000-D-02011 & 796036-3000-D-02051)

Settlements

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In common with section 1, larger settlements within this section of the study area are generally located along the immediate A5 corridor. The largest settlement is the district town of Omagh. Other relatively large settlements comprise Sion Mills and Newtownstewart. Other smaller villages and hamlets include Clady, Glebe, Victoria Bridge, Douglas Bridge, Ardstraw, Gortin and Mountjoy.

Omagh is situated at the southern limit of the River Strule Valley at the confluence of the Camowen, Drumragh, and Fairy Water Rivers. In addition to its function as a major focus for housing industry, commerce, community/civic facilities, and recreation/open space, the town is the administrative centre for the District Council.

Sion Mills is located south of Strabane (along the Mourne River) and functions in part as a dormitory settlement for Strabane. A slightly more limited range of land uses are supported, including areas zoned for industry, commerce, and recreation / open space within the settlement limits. Given the historic character of the mill town, a large portion of the town centre was designated as a Conservation Area in 1977.

Newtownstewart is located at the northern end of the Strule Valley; Newtownstewart is a small town of similar size to Sion Mills, supporting a similar range of land uses. The town is surrounded to its north, east, and south by the Strule Valley Countryside Policy Area, which extends southward to the Green Belt surrounding Omagh Town.

Between and beyond the main settlements and smaller villages individual farmsteads and houses are generally sparsely located along local roads. The density of these individual and small groupings of properties increases noticeably but not markedly south of Mountjoy within the Fairy Water Valley to the west of the A5 and the Camowen Valley east of Omagh.

The principal constraints relating to the location and pattern of settlement comprise:

ƒ the relationship of Sion Mills to the Mourne River valley and lower slopes of the Sperrins west of the river,

ƒ the constrained nature of the relationship of Newtownstewart to Bessy Bell and the Strule River,

ƒ the proximity of Glebe to Sion Mills,

ƒ the disposition and density of individual and small groups of properties within the Fairy Water Valley and Camowen River Valley.

Development lands

Work on the West Tyrone Area Plan has temporarily ceased in order to allow the European Courts to consider a challenge under the Strategic Environment Assessment Regulations. The initial studies suggest that there will not be a need to extend the towns of Strabane and Omagh in order to provide additional housing

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lands. However there is a justification for zoning additional industrial which could be outside the existing limits. Work on a replacement Derry Area Plan has not yet commenced.

Whilst most of these planning applications are located within existing settlement limits, major planning applications extending beyond these limits consist of:

• a poultry house development north of Omagh (approval in 2006);

• a municipal wastewater treatment works north of Omagh (approval in 2005); and

• a golf driving range facility west of Omagh (approval in 2003).

None of these developments appears to pose a constraint to the refinement of a preferred alignment within the preferred route corridor, as these areas can be avoided in the development of a preferred route.

Agriculture

Agricultural land between Strabane and Newtownstewart, within the Mourne River Valley and on lower valley slopes, is substantially of best and most versatile quality. South of Newtownstewart the land is generally of poorer quality. Within the Fairy Water Valley there is a complex intermix of small areas of best and most versatile land and poorer quality land.

Private and DARD woodlands

There are two significant areas of Forest Service managed woodland and private grant-aided woodland within this section of the environmental study area one is located east of Sion Mills and is associated with the Ligfordrum Forest Estate. The second is associated with the Baronscourt Forest on the western slopes of Bessy Bell. Other areas are generally small and scattered sparsely through the area.

Waterways and waterway restoration projects

There are no active or disused inland waterways within this section of the environmental study area.

Fisheries and fishing rights

Inland waters within this section of the environmental study area are part of the catchment of Lough Foyle. As such they are administered by the Loughs Agency of the Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission.

Watercourses known to be used extensively by anglers comprise the Mourne River (running north from Newtownstewart to Strabane), the River Derg (running east from Castlederg), the Owenkillew River (originating in the Sperrins and running west to Newtownstewart), the Strule River (running north from Omagh to Newtownstewart)

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and the Fairy Water, Owenreagh, and Drumragh Rivers, which discharge to the Strule River near Omagh. One Public Angling Estate (Mourne River) is located east of Sion Mills, and three sites are recommended by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (Baronscourt Forest, and the Strule and Fairy Water Rivers near Omagh).

Section 3 – South of Omagh to Aughnacloy (Figure 796036-3000-D-02012 and 796036-3000-D-02052)

Settlements

There are no large settlements associated with this section of the study area. There are a number of moderately-sized villages and smaller hamlets located north of the Brougher sandstone ridge and within the Clogher and Blackwater valley. These comprise Loughmacrory, Drumnakilly, Drumduff, Edenderry, Tattyreagh, Seskinore, Gortaclare / Moylagh, Beragh, Sixmilecross, Newtownsaville, Eskragh, Garvaghy, Roscavey, Altamuskin, Dunmoyle, Augher, Clogher, Ballygawley, Aughnacloy and Carnteel.

Between these dispersed settlements there is a relatively uniform scattering of individual properties and small groupings of properties distributed throughout the study area, other than along the Brougher sandstone ridge and areas of peat / bog, were properties are relatively sparse. There is no significant ribbon settlement.

There are no significant constraints relating to the extent and distribution of settlement in this section beyond the general issues of potential impacts on dispersed individual properties found throughout much of the overall study area.

Development lands

Work on the West Tyrone Area Plan has temporarily ceased in order to allow the European Courts to consider a challenge under the Strategic Environment Assessment Regulations. The initial studies suggest that there will not be a need to extend the towns of Strabane and Omagh in order to provide additional housing lands. However there is a justification for zoning additional industrial which could be outside the existing limits. Work on a replacement Derry Area Plan has not yet commenced.

Significant planning applications identified within this section of the environmental study area and outside of the larger settlements comprise:

ƒ A playing field at Tattyreagh (approval in 2002),,

ƒ A gravel pit extension at Eskragh (approval in 2006),,

ƒ A free-range poultry house south of Eskragh (2008, pending),,

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ƒ Two wind turbine power generation sites at Slievemore Hill (one of which was approved in 2007),,

ƒ A free-range poultry house north east of Ballygawley (approval in 2001,),

ƒ A Gaelic sport facility at Garvaghy (GAA Centre of Excellence, 2007, pending).

Agriculture

There are distinct bands of land of varying agricultural quality following a north east to south west orientation within this section of the environmental study area. The first comprises a band of small areas of varying quality between best and most versatile soils and poorer soils extending south of Omagh as far as Beragh. The substantial part of the study areas south of Beragh comprises best and most versatile land other than towards the escarpment of the Brougher sandstone ridge where soils become poorer.

Private and DARD woodlands

There are two significant areas of Forest Service managed woodland and private grant-aided woodland parcels from Knockmanny Forest in the south west to Slievemore, Dunmoyle Forest and Cloghfin to the north east. There are also large areas of managed woodland at Seskinore and the Favour Royal Forest (between Augher and Aughnacloy).

Waterways and waterway restoration projects

There are no active or disused inland waterways within this section of the environmental study area.

Fisheries and fishing rights

Inland waters within this section of the environmental study area are part of the catchment of Lough Foyle and the River Blackwater, which drains to Lough Neagh to the east. The Blackwater and other watercourses within Section 3 outside of the Lough Foyle catchment are the responsibility of the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure - Inland Fisheries.

Watercourses known to be used extensively by anglers include the River Blackwater (passing through the Knockmany Forest, Augher, and south of Aughnacloy), and the Owenreagh, Quiggery, Cloghfin and Camowen Rivers, all of which are tributaries of the River Strule. One Public Angling Estate, White Lough, is located approximately 3km east of Aughnacloy and is designated as a rainbow trout fishery. This site is also popular for eel, perch, pike and roach fishing.

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5.6.7 Traffic Noise and Vibration Data sources reviewed and consultees contacted during the constraints study comprise:

ƒ Development Plan Documents and Local Authority plans,

ƒ Consultation with Environmental Health Officers at Derry District Council, Strabane District Council, Omagh District Council and Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council.

The consideration of constraints as part of the preliminary differentiation of potential corridors and evaluation of a preferred corridor has been focused on the identification and mapping of sensitive receptors within the limits of the engineering study area. The following sensitive receptors have been considered:

ƒ Settlements identified and scheduled under land use (see 5.6.6),

ƒ Schools,

ƒ Places of Worship,

ƒ Care / nursing homes,

ƒ Laboratories containing sensitive equipment,

ƒ Outdoor areas commonly used by people where the ambient noise levels are currently believed to be below 50dB (A).

A full schedule of noise sensitive receptors is provided in the Stage 1 Environmental Constraints Report. The locations of the noise sensitive receptors listed below are shown on the figures in Volume 2.

Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane (Figure 796036-3000-D-06000)

Consultation with officers of Derry City Council (DCC) and Strabane District Council (SDC) and a review of the local plans has indicated that there are no specific noise policies along the existing A5 or within this section of the study area No constraints have been identified relating to noise emissions from sources within the study area. There are no known instances of noise nuisance and no issues relating to traffic noise within the study area. There are 2453 residential properties within 300 meters of the current A5 route within this section.

Sensitive receptors

A total of 18 schools, 5 care homes, 24 church/church halls and 1 qualifying outdoor area have been identified within this section of the environmental study area.

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Section 2 – South of Strabane to South of Omagh (Figure 796036-3000-D- 06001)

Consultation with officers of Strabane District Council (SDC) and Omagh District Council and a review of the local plans has indicated that there are no specific noise policies along the existing A5 or within this section of the study area. No constraints have been identified relating to noise emissions from sources within the study area. There are no known instances of noise nuisance and no issues relating to traffic noise within the study area. There are 2662 residential properties within 300 meters of the current A5 route within this section.

Sensitive receptors

A total of 33 schools, 5 care homes, and 49 church/church halls and 2 qualifying outdoor areas have been identified within this section of the study area.

Section 3 – South of Omagh to Aughnacloy (Figure 796036-3000-D-06002)

Consultation with officers of Omagh District Council and Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council and a review of the local plans has indicated that there are no specific noise policies along the existing A5 or within this section of the study area. No constraints have been identified relating to noise emissions from sources within the study area. There are no known instances of noise nuisance and no issues relating to traffic noise within the study area. There are 582 residential properties within 300 meters of the current A5 route within this section.

Sensitive receptors

A total of 30 schools, 3 care homes, and 51 church/church halls and 2 qualifying outdoor areas have been identified within this section of the environmental study area.

5.6.8 Pedestrians, Cyclists, Equestrians and Community Effects Data sources reviewed and consultees contacted during the constraints study comprise:

ƒ Review of Local Authority Policies and Plans,

ƒ Consultation with local groups (e.g. the Sperrins Hill walking Club and the British Horse Society),

ƒ Tourism leaflets from local Tourist Information Offices / websites.

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The consideration of constraints as part of the preliminary differentiation of potential corridors and evaluation of a preferred corridor has been focused on the identification and mapping of public rights of way and the location of community facilities with a view to considering the extent to which options could result in severance or loss of amenity.

Information relating to the following interests has been collected and reviewed:

ƒ Places of worship: churches and others.

ƒ Education: schools and universities.

ƒ Health: doctors’ surgeries, hospitals and health centres.

ƒ Government Administration: county buildings, government offices and others.

ƒ Public service: libraries, post offices, community centres and sport centres.

ƒ Commerce: shops, retail parks, offices and others.

ƒ Tourist destination: key tourist attractions.

Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane (796036-3000-D-02100)

The large majority of community facilities are located within established development limits of the key settlements within this section of the study area. There are some such as cricket pitches and picnic areas, sited on the edge or just beyond defined settlement areas associated with a number of the smaller villages and hamlets.

In most instances impacts on or severance of the facilities from communities would be avoided, it being the case that detailed alignments would avoid direct impacts on most settlements. The key constraints at the preliminary stage of the assessment process are therefore those where there would be the potential to consider a corridor which could result in alignment through existing settlements. Within this section, such an option could involve widening of the existing A5 as it passes through New Buildings to Strabane and the intervening villages between the two settlements.

The potential for impact would be greatest at Strabane where options around or through the town would potentially impact on access between housing areas and town centre / communal facilities or accessibility to established recreational areas including the public park on the easternmost settlement limits at Pattens Glen and open space areas which front onto the existing A5.

In the context of access between settlements, Ballymagorry and Artigarvan are near neighbours separated by a narrow area of open space partially occupied by playing fields. The currently proposed pedestrian link between Lifford and Strabane is a

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further factor to be considered in the context of potential options to the west of Strabane.

There are many sections of footpath throughout this section of the environmental study area. There is, however no recognised network or pattern of use which could constrain the identification of options at this preliminary stage of the assessment process.

There are 2 National Cycle Routes within the section. Route 93 approaches the environmental study area from the north passing through New Buildings and continuing south along the Burngibbagh Valley to the Burn Dennet Valley where it proceeds east towards Dungiven. Route 92 travels south along the western margins of the River Foyle passing through Lifford and crossing to Strabane.

Section 2 – South of Strabane to South of Omagh (796036-3000-D-02101)

The large majority of community facilities are located within established development limits of the key settlements within this section of the environmental study area.

In most instances impacts on or severance of the facilities from communities would be avoided, it being the case that detailed alignments would avoid direct impacts on most settlements. The key constraints at the preliminary stage of the assessment process are therefore those where there would be the potential to consider a corridor which could result in alignment through existing settlements. Within this section, such an option could involve widening of the existing A5 as it passes through Sion Mills, a designated Conservation Area.

In the context of access between settlements, Glebe and Sion Mills are separated by a narrow area of open land.

In common with section 1 there are many sections of footpath throughout this section of the environmental study area. There is, similarly, no recognised network or pattern of use which could constrain the identification of options at this preliminary stage of the assessment process.

There are 2 national cycle routes within the section. Route 92 runs from Strabane to Omagh via a sequence of local roads along the lower valley slopes on the eastern margin of the Mourne and Strule Rivers. It largely reflects the line of the existing A5 on the western sides of the river valleys. Route 95 crosses the environmental study area, approaching from Gortin in the east along the Owenkillew River Valley to Newtownstewart where it continues west past Baronscourt and onto the Derg Valley. There is also a local route Sperrin Route 6 which links Routes 92 and 95. It crosses from Route 92 east of the Mourne River to Glebe and then runs south to join Route 95 at Castlederg.

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Section 3 – South of Omagh to Aughnacloy (796036-3000-D-02102)

The large majority of community facilities are located within established development limits of the settlements within this section of the environmental study area.

In most instances impacts on or severance of the facilities from communities would be avoided, it being that case that detailed alignments would avoid direct impacts on most settlements.

In common with Sections 1 and 2 there are many sections of footpath throughout this section of the environmental study area. There is, similarly, no recognised network or pattern of use which could constrain the identification of options at this preliminary stage of the assessment process.

National Cycle Route 92 continues its journey from Omagh crossing the Camowen River and A5 and running south west to Fintona.

5.6.9 Vehicle Travellers Views from the road and driver stress as part of the evaluation of vehicle traveller’s experience of use of the proposed road are matters for more detailed assessment once a preferred corridor and specific potential alignments have been identified.

5.6.10 Road Drainage and the Water Environment Information relating to the existing status and constraints associated with drainage and surface water hydrology within the environmental study area is provided in Chapter 4.4. This chapter outlines the status relating to surface water quality, groundwater vulnerability and superficial aquifers. Data sources reviewed and consultees contacted during the constraints study relating to the water environment comprise:

ƒ Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA – previously the EHS) General Quality Assessment (GQA) river water quality data for 2003-7 received in GIS shape file format,

ƒ Hydrogeological Map of Northern Ireland (1:250000 scale),

ƒ Groundwater Vulnerability Map for Northern Ireland (1:250000 scale).

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Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane (Figures 796036-3000-D-07000, 796036-3000-D-07003, and 796036-3000-D-07006)

Water quality

Within this section of the environmental study area water quality within the rivers appears to be very good for freshwater fish with only one non-compliance at Clady Bridge (River Finn) in 2006 and 17 compliances. The chemical quality of the rivers within this section between 2003 -7 has ranged from Class A (very good) to Class C (fairly good). For the same period, biological quality has ranged from Class A (very good) to Class E (poor).

There are numerous Central Procurement Directive (CPD) boreholes, waste water treatment locations and historic groundwater abstractions within the study area.

There are 2 industrial abstractions at Glenmornan, one from the Glenmornan River for quarrying / mineral washing and the other is from a quarry sump for quarrying / mineral mining. Devines Sand and Gravel are the licence holder for both abstractions. There are 6 industrial discharges within the environmental study area, all of which are site discharges apart from one at Artigarvan which is for private sewerage.

Groundwater vulnerability

Underlying aquifers within this section consist of Type B aquifers (moderately permeable) with soils of high leaching potential along the floodplains of the River Foyle and its tributaries. Elsewhere the area is classified as Type C aquifers (weakly permeable).

Superficial aquifers

The large part of this section of the environmental study area is classed as 3b – Precambrian. Classification 3b is described as ‘Aquifers of limited potential, regions without significant groundwater’ and ‘Regions underlain by impermeable rocks: generally without groundwater except at shallow depth’. To a lesser extent, the Section 1 study area is also made up of the following hydrogeological strata:

ƒ 1b: Glacial outwash sands and clays and glacial sands and gravels – located predominantly around River Foyle tributaries to the east of the existing A5 road,

ƒ 3a: Alluvium – located to the north of Strabane along the River Foyle.

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Section 2 – South of Strabane to South of Omagh (Figure 796036-3000-D- 07001, 796036-3000-D-07004, and 796036-3000-D-07007)

Water quality

Within this section of the study area water quality within the rivers appears to be generally good for freshwater fish with only 6 non-compliances and 56 compliances. The chemical quality of the rivers within Section 2 from 2003-7 has ranged from Class A (very good) to Class D (fair). For the same period, biological quality has ranged from Class A (very good) to Class D (fair).

There are numerous Central Procurement Directive (CPD) boreholes, waste water treatment locations and historic groundwater abstractions within the environmental study area, as shown on figure 796036-3000-D-07001.

Groundwater vulnerability

This section of the study area consists of Type B aquifers (moderately permeable) with soils of high leaching potential along the floodplains of the River Foyle and its tributaries. Type C aquifers (weakly permeable) are common to the south of Strabane, around Newtownstewart and Ardstraw, and to the southwest of Gillygooly. Type B aquifers (moderately permeable) with soils of low leaching potential are common to the south of Sion Mills and to the north of Omagh, around Mountjoy and Knockmoyle.

Superficial aquifers

The majority of this section of the study area is classed as 3b – Precambrian. Classification 3b is described as ‘Aquifers of limited potential, regions without significant groundwater’ and ‘Regions underlain by impermeable rocks: generally without groundwater except at shallow depth’.

To a lesser extent, the area is also made up of the following hydrogeological strata:

ƒ 3a: Carboniferous: Basal Clastics – located around Victoria Bridge and to the north of Omagh,

ƒ 1b: Glacial outwash sands and clays and glacial sands and gravels – predominantly located around the River Foyle to the south of Strabane, to the south of Newtownstewart, and around Mountjoy and Knockmoyle,

ƒ 3a: Alluvium – located on the River Foyle floodplains.

Within this section there are also 3 wells or boreholes in this area. Two are used for public supply and are located in Newtownstewart and to the north of Omagh. The other is not used for public supply and is also located to the north of Omagh.

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Section 3 – South of Omagh to Aughnacloy (Figures 796036-3000-D-07002, 796036-3000-D-07005 and 796036-3000-D-07008)

Water quality

Within this section of the environmental study area water quality within the rivers appears to be good for freshwater fish with only 14 non-compliances and 55 compliances. The chemical quality of the rivers within Section 3 from 2003-7 has ranged from Class A (very good) to Class F (bad). Overall, in this section the chemical and biological quality of the water appears to be significantly worse than in sections 1 and 2.

There are numerous Central Procurement Directive (CPD) boreholes, waste water treatment locations and historic groundwater abstractions within the environmental study area. There are no industrial abstractions within the study area. There are 13 industrial discharges within the study area, of which 5 are used for private sewerage, 3 for minerals washing, 2 for food processing and 2 for vehicle washing.

Groundwater vulnerability

This section of the study area consists of Type B aquifers (moderately permeable) with soils of high leaching potential along the floodplains of the River Foyle tributaries and other watercourses. Elsewhere in the area Type B aquifers with soils of low leaching potential are most common. In the vicinity of Aughnacloy, Type A aquifers (highly permeable) with soils of low and high leaching potential can be found.

Superficial aquifers

The majority of this section of the study area is classed as 3a – Devonian. Classification 3a is described as ‘Aquifers of limited potential, regions without significant groundwater’ and ‘Aquifers with limited or local potential’.

To a lesser extent, the Section 3 study area is also made up of the following hydrogeological strata:

ƒ 3a: Alluvium – located on minor watercourse floodplains,

ƒ 2a: Visean: Upper Limestone and Lower Limestone – located near Aughnacloy,

ƒ 2b: Visean and Tournaisian: Upper Visean Limestone and Shale, Calp Limestone and Shale, Clogher Valley Limestone and Shale and undifferentiated Visean (Ballycastle area) – located to the north of Aughnacloy.

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Within this section there is also a mineral water spring or borehole with less than 1000mg/l total dissolved solids located near Roscavey. There is also a well or borehole used for public supply to the west of Aughnacloy.

5.6.11 Geology and Soils Information relating to the existing status and constraints associated with geology, topography, ground conditions including contaminated ground within the environmental study area is provided in Chapter 2.5 and Chapter 4.4. This chapter outlines the status relating to soils. Data sources reviewed and consultees contacted during the constraints study relating to soils comprise:

ƒ Department of Agriculture for Northern Ireland Soils Maps,

ƒ Department of Agriculture and Rural Development – Land Classification map.

Information relating to the existing status and constraints associated with geology, topography, ground conditions including contaminated ground within the study area is provided in Chapter 2.5 and Chapter 4.4. This outlines the status relating to soils.

Section 1 – New Buildings to South of Strabane

The principal soil group is surface water Gley (75%) developed on mica-schist till with some Brown Earths and Peat Podzols on gravel (25%). To the south the land profile is dominated by Brown Earths and Gleys derived from mica-schist tills. Alluvium is noted along the floodplain areas.

The Agricultural Land Classification mapping for Northern Ireland indicates that the substantial part of agricultural land within this section comprises Grade 2, Grade 3a or Grade 3b land (very good quality, good quality and moderate quality). From New Buildings to Cloghcor and around Strabane the land is mainly Grade 3a with patches of Grade 2. South of Cloghcor the land is predominantly classed as Grade 2. The River Foyle floodplain comprises alluvial deposits, predominantly of Grade 3b capability.

Section 2 – South of Strabane to South of Omagh

A review of soil distribution across the area reveals the dominant soil type as Brown Earth and Gleys (80%) developed on mica-schist till with alluvium located along the Strule valley. At Newtownstewart there are large areas of brown podzolics on gravel. The south is largely a drumlin landscape primarily consisting of Gley (75%) derived

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on mica –schist till or carboniferous sandstone till. Peat (25%) dominates the Fairy Water Bogs to the south.

Section 3 – Omagh to Aughnacloy

A review of soil distribution across the area reveals the primary soil type as Gley (90%) developed on Old Red Sandstone till or Old Red Sandstone conglomerate till. Peat (10%) is present on Slievemore.

5.6.12 Policies and Plans The key constraints related to policies and plans are those where designated environmental resources and sensitive receptors (human, built and natural environment) are protected under national, regional and local policies, and where the current development plans identify specific areas for future uses. These constraints are identified within Chapters 7.3 – 7.5.

5.6.13 Mitigation The overall environmental mitigation strategy for the A5 WTC comprises of the following components:

ƒ Avoidance - avoidance will be achieved by the identification of significant environmental constraints (i.e. internationally protected sites) and consideration of alternatives early on in the project,

ƒ Reduction - reduction will only be considered when all options for the avoidance of impacts have been exhausted or deemed to be impracticable. This will be achieved through the examination of alternatives or by the addition of mitigation measures,

ƒ Compensation - when the potential for avoiding and reducing impacts has been exhausted, compensation will be considered, to ensure that the residual impacts are environmentally acceptable,

ƒ Enhancement - in addition to reducing the adverse impacts of a project, opportunities for enhancing the receiving environment will be identified.

The mitigation strategy for this stage 1 environmental assessment has been to focus on the avoidance of environmentally protected sites and/or features. The development of the preferred corridor has considered the potential impacts that an alignment may have upon internationally/nationally designated sites in addition to

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areas identified as having environmental qualities/character that merit consideration (ID Areas).

The preferred corridor avoids (as far as practicable) these features/receptors, ensuring that the damage to or loss of established environmental receptors/features is minimised.

Stages 2 and 3 of the environmental assessment process will identify specific reduction, compensation and/or enhancement measures. The mitigation strategy will consider best practice guidelines and consultations with the relevant Statutory Authorities will be carried out.

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