Report to inform Screening for Appropriate Assessment
Glanmire Road Improvements and Sustainable Transport Works, Co. Cork
Project Number: 60559532
3 May 2018
Revision 4
Report to Inform Screening for Appropriate Assessment
Quality information
Prepared by Checked by Approved by
Robert Fennelly Dr Miles Newman Dr Eleanor Ballard Principal Ecologist Consultant Ecologist Associate Director (of Ecology)
Revision History
Revision Revision date Details Authorized Name Position
Rev0 27 Feb 2018 Draft issue for CCC Yes Robert Fennelly Principal Ecologist comment
Rev1 13 Mar 2018 Minor changes to Yes Robert Fennelly Principal Ecologist address client comments
Rev2 13 April 2018 Revised for Cork Yes Robert Fennelly Principal Ecologist County Council comments; version for planning purposes
Rev3 26 April 2018 Revised for Yes Robert Fennelly Principal Ecologist drainage input statement
Rev4 03 May 2018 Minor revisions Yes Robert Fennelly Principal Ecologist prior to planning issue
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This document has been prepared by AECOM Ireland Limited (“AECOM”) for sole use of our client (the “Client”) in accordance with generally accepted consultancy principles, the budget for fees and the terms of reference agreed between AECOM and the Client. Any information provided by third parties and referred to herein has not been checked or verified by AECOM, unless otherwise expressly stated in the document. No third party may rely upon this document without the prior and express written agreement of AECOM.
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Table of Contents
1. Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Purpose of this Report ...... 1 1.2 Legal and Planning Context ...... 1 1.3 European Sites ...... 1 2. Project Description ...... 3 2.1.1 River Crossings ...... 3 2.1.2 Lighting ...... 3 2.1.3 Drainage ...... 3 2.1.4 Construction Management ...... 3 2.1.5 Avoidance of Instream Work ...... 4 2.2 Key aspects of individual projects ...... 4 3. Methodology ...... 7 3.1 Guidance ...... 7 3.2 Desktop and Field Surveys ...... 7 3.3 Steps in Screening ...... 8 3.3.1 Linkages with European Sites ...... 8 3.3.2 Zones of Influence and Proximity to Identify Relevant Sites ...... 8 3.4 Scoping of Effects ...... 12 3.5 The Precautionary Principle ...... 12 4. Baseline Description ...... 13 4.1 European Sites ...... 13 4.2 Habitats ...... 15 4.2.1 Overview ...... 15 4.2.2 Terrestrial Habitats ...... 15 4.2.3 Wetland Habitats, Surface Waters, and Groundwater ...... 16 5. Screening Assessment ...... 17 5.1 Is AA Screening Required? ...... 17 5.2 Summary of Information Required ...... 17 5.3 Screening Assessment ...... 18 5.3.1 Key Findings ...... 18 5.4 Summary of Screening Assessment (Proposed Development Alone) ...... 23 5.5 In-Combination Effects ...... 23 5.5.1 Planning Application Search ...... 23 5.5.2 Land-use plans ...... 24 5.5.3 Pollution ...... 24 5.5.4 Concluding remarks on In-Combination Effects ...... 24 6. Overall Screening Conclusion ...... 25 References ...... 26 Appendix A Figures ...... 28 Appendix B Complete Screening matrices ...... 29 B.1 Key to Screening matrices ...... 30
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Graphics
Graphic 1. Relationship between zone of influence and QI habitats and plants which are not mobile ...... 9 Graphic 2. Relationship between zone of influence and QI fauna species which are not mobile, ...... 9
Tables
Table 1. Zones of Influence Estimated for potential effects from the proposed development ...... 10 Table 2Conservation Objectives for Special Areas of Conservation Referenced in AA Screening Report ...... 13 Table 3Conservation Objectives for Special Protection Areas Referenced in AA Screening Report ...... 14 Table 4. Invasive plant species recorded during site visits ...... 15 Table 5.Summary of information required to complete Screening assessment ...... 17 Table 6 Key findings of Screening assessment for fauna species ...... 19 Table 7 Key findings of Screening assessment for habitats and plant species ...... 22 Table 8 Screening assessment for QI fauna species: includes all species for which European sites are designated in Ireland ...... 31 Table 9 Screening assessment for QI habitats and plant species: includes all habitats and plants for which European sites are designated in Ireland ...... 37
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1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose of this Report
AECOM Ireland Limited (hereafter referred to as AECOM) was asked by Cork County Council (hereafter referred to as ‘the Client’) to produce this Appropriate Assessment (AA) Screening report to inform the Part 8 planning package for the Glanmire Road Improvements and Sustainable Transport Works. This is hereafter referred to as ‘the proposed development’.
The proposed development is located within the townlands of Dunkettle, Ballinglanna, and Glanmire. This report will be provided to Cork County Council (CCC) who is the competent authority for making determinations in relation to Screening for AA under the legislation set out in Section 1.2.
1.2 Legal and Planning Context
Planning Context
The European Communities Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC (“the Habitats Directive”) provides, in Article 6 (3), the legal basis for AA (and by proxy the legal basis for Screening for AA1) at European level. In the context of the proposed development, the requirement (to screen for) AA under the Habitats Directive is transposed by the Act, and the Planning and Development Regulations 2010 to 2016.
Under Section 177U (1) of the Planning Acts, a Screening for AA of the proposed development shall be carried out by the competent authority (in this case, CCC) to assess in view of best scientific knowledge, if that proposed development, individually or in combination with another plans or projects, is likely to have a significant effect (s) on any European sites. The term ‘European site’ is defined in Section1.3.
Under Section 177U (5) of the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2010, as amended (‘the Planning Acts’), the competent authority shall determine that an AA of a proposed development is required if it cannot be excluded [emphasis added], on the basis of objective information, that the proposed development, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, will have a significant effect on a European site (s).
Appropriate Assessment
An AA is triggered by an AA Screening determination which significant effects on European sites (defined in Section 1.3) are likely (or more specifically ‘cannot be excluded on the basis of objective information2). If triggered by Screening, the competent authority must complete an AA to determine whether the project will adversely affect the integrity of any European site, in light of the site’s Conservation Objectives. The competent authority’s AA is typically informed by a Natura Impact Statement requested from a technical expert.
Consultation and Publication Requirements
Section 177U (7) states: “A competent authority shall, as soon as may be after making a decision in relation to the application for consent for proposed development, make available for inspection by members of the public during office hours at the offices of the authority, and may also publish on the internet—any determination that it makes under subsection (5), and reasons for that determination”.
1.3 European Sites
In the Republic of Ireland, European sites3 comprise:
Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) designated for habitats, plants, and non-bird species;
1 It is noted that there is, strictly speaking, no stated requirement to conduct Screening for AA in the Habitats Directive. The requirement for Screening arose from guidance issued by the European Commission (EC, 2001), and was subsequently made a statutory requirement in Irish law. 2 The’ Waddenzee’ ruling (C-127/02) is an influential judgement of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) which has clarified what "likely to have a significant effect" means; specifically that, "if it cannot be excluded on the basis of objective information, that it will have a significant effect on the site" and that unless a significant effect can be objectively ruled-out with certainty, then it is 'likely'. 3 “European site” replaced the term “Natura 2000 site” under the EU (Environmental Impact Assessment and Habitats) Regulations 2011 S.I. No. 473 of 2011.
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Special Protection Areas (SPA) designated for bird species and their habitats; and, Candidate sites including ‘cSAC’.
The process of designating cSAC as SAC is ongoing in Ireland. The term SAC is used throughout this report for both SAC and cSAC, given they are subject to equal protection.
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2. Project Description
The proposed development is one of several initiatives of the Irish government to address significant public infrastructure deficits, where the lack of infrastructure is considered to have hindered the development of housing.
AECOM were appointed in November 2017 to provide consulting engineering services to Cork County Council for the Glanmire Road Improvements and Sustainable Transport Works.
Whilst predominately relating to widening or improvement of existing public pathways and roadways, there are significant ‘greenfield’ portions of the proposed path/cycleway which will require construction on previously undeveloped land, in addition to a series of proposed crossings of the Glashaboy River.
The proposed development is divided into 20 individual ‘projects’ which have been illustrated in the overview map Figure 1.
2.1.1 River Crossings
Project no. 15 would include the construction of a shared pedestrian path and cycle way (3-4 m width; hereafter ‘the cycleway’). These proposed cycleway crossings will require five new bridges:
Immediately north of the existing Glanmire Bridge (P16);
Circa 100m upstream of Glanmire Bridge, onto low-lying undeveloped floodplain to the west of the Glashaboy River (P15);
Circa 200m upstream of Glanmire Bridge from the floodplain onto poorly drained scrubby grasslands and gravel to the west of the Riverside Football Club (FC) playing pitches (P15).
Circa 500m upstream of Glanmire Bridge at the northern end of Riverside Football Club (FC) near an existing weir, across to John O’Callaghan Park (P15);
Circa 300m upstream of the previous bridge, near the meeting of the Butlerstown and Glashaboy Rivers where both banks are within John O’Callaghan Park (P15);
There will be no instream works in the Glashaboy or Butlerstown Rivers as all bridges will be clear span.
There will be no new structures across the Butlerstown River albeit several projects cross the River by existing bridges.
2.1.2 Lighting
The design team has advised that lighting would be designed after Part 8 planning determination, subject to approval, and would be designed in accordance with British Standard Code of Practice for the Design of Road Lighting (BS 5489).
2.1.3 Drainage
The proposed road drainage will facilitate the efficient collection of surface water while minimising the impact of runoff on the receiving environment. Where possible, the surface water will be attenuated prior to discharge. The principle type of drainage system will consist of a piped network with kerb and gullies, which will be integrated into the existing drainage network. Treatment will be provided in the form of hydrocarbon and silt inceptors. The drainage will be designed in accordance with TII Standards and the requirements of Cork County Council.
2.1.4 Construction Management
A preliminary outline Construction and Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) has been produced and is included with the Part 8 planning package. The minimum requirements in the preliminary outline CEMP will be binding on the appointed contractor, who will develop a detailed CEMP prior to commencing construction. Relevant measures in the CEMP which will adequately address pollution risks include:
Use of high performance silt fencing (Hy-Tex or similar) shown by independent academic research to be the highest performing geotextile available as of 2013 (Liddon, 2013);
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Installation of silt fencing to best practice published standards (Caraco, 2000);
Monitoring of silt fencing performance during construction to inform repair and improvements as required.
2.1.5 Avoidance of Instream Work
As stated in the preliminary outline CEMP included in the Part 8 planning package, the design team has confirmed there will be no instream works for the proposed development;
2.2 Key aspects of individual projects
Full details of the project description (including widths of pedestrian, cycleway, and road alignments, signage/ and road marking requirements) are included within the Part 8 planning package. Projects may be refined during detailed design and/or as a condition of planning. A summary of the key aspects of each project is provided below:
Project No. 1 R639/Church Hill Junction;
Provision of a new right turn lane from the R639. To accommodate the layout the boundary wall of Cólaiste an Phiarsaigh will be set back. The benefits associated with the proposal include a more efficient junction which will provide higher levels of service for all users. Pedestrians will be provided with wider footways. The bus stops will be relocated to provide for more direct connectivity with Cólaiste an Phiarsaigh. A pedestrian crossing will support safer road conditions. Bus laybys will be provided so the efficiency of traffic movement on the Glanmire Road is improved. Project No. 2 Prohibit Right Turn M8 Merge;
This project will remove the right turn from Dunkettle Road onto the M8. The merging of traffic travelling onto the slip road of the M8 Merge can lead to operational difficulties for traffic travelling on the M8. There is also evidence that the Dunkettle Road is used a rat run for traffic seeking to get to avoid congestion at the Dunkettle Interchange. Project No. 3 Glanmire Bridge/Village;
This project will upgrade the existing road network on the R639, Glanmire Bridge and Glanmire Village. The aim of the project is to reduce speeds within Glanmire Village to provide a safer road network for all road users. The project will integrate with other proposals included within the project such as improvements to R639/Church Hill Junction, the Proposed Greenway, Proposed Pedestrian Bridge and L2999 Dunkettle Road Upgrades. Project No. 4 R639/L3010/Old Youghal Road (Riverstown Crossroads);
This project will provide an improved layout at the R639/L3010 junction. The existing junction is a four arm signalised junction. The proposal involves kerb realignments to increase the length of right turn lanes on the R639. The layout will include proposals to improve accessibility to O’Callaghan Park with a new entrance directly to the Park from the junction. This will also increase accessibility to Project No. 15 Proposed Greenway from Glanmire Community College to Cólaiste an Phiarsaigh via O’Callaghan Park. 1.75 m wide cycle lanes will be introduced on the R639 provided through the junction. A pedestrian and cycle ramp is proposed form the signalised junction to access John O’Callaghan Park. Project No. 5 R639/Hazelwood Road Junction;
This project will provide an improved layout at the R639/Hazelwood Road junction. The junction will be signalised. The proposal involves kerb realignments to increase the length of right turn lanes and improved pedestrians and cyclist facilities at the junction. The proposal provides greater cyclist provision at the junction and will make it easier to incorporate cyclist improvements to Hazelwood Road. The provision of 2m footways and 2.4m pedestrian crossings provided on all arms of the junction will improve the safety of pedestrians through the junction. Project No. 6 L3010/East Cliff Road Junction;
This project will provide an improved layout at the L3010/East Cliff Road junction. The junction will be signalised to include for the connection to Project No. 8, a New Link Road from L3010 to Hazelwood Road.
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Kerbs and footways will be realigned and resurfaced to improve conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. The Proposed Greenway will join the carriageway at a new toucan crossing on the L3010. Project No. 7 Riverstown Bridge;
A preliminary design option assessment report recommends that the existing bridge should be upgraded with a shuttle system (i.e. a ‘give-way’ system). There will be no instream works required for this proposal. Project No. 8 New Link Road (L3010 to Hazelwood Road);
This project will provide a new connection between the L3010 and Hazelwood Road. The benefit of this project is that it will reduce the traffic demand on Riverstown Bridge (Project No.7) by providing an alternative route from Riverstown Village. As part of Project 6, the junction between East Cliff Road and the L3010 will be signalised, this new link road will form part of the new signalised junction. Parking will also be provided along the new link road as minimal parking exists within Riverstown Village. This project will remove mature trees, referred to through this report as the remnant wooded avenue to the Riverstown House. Project No. 9 L2999 Dunkettle Road;
This project will upgrade the L2999 Dunkettle Road. From Glanmire Village to the consented O’Flynn development a 3m shared use footway/cycleway, a 6.5m carriageway and a 2m footway are provided. From the O’Flynn Development to Gaelscoil Uí Drisceoil a wider cross section consisting of a 2m footway either side of the carriageway, a 3m segregated cycle track, a 6.5m carriageway and 1m verge either side of the carriageway will be provided. There will be removal of some mature treelines (and demolition of two properties) within existing property boundaries along the southern/western side of Dunkettle Road. A new cross-section along this improvement within the Ballinglanna Estate lands, which provides for access to the consented O’Flynn Housing development, is not included within the proposed development. Project No.10 Flaring at Tivoli Roundabout;
This project will provide facilities to enable pedestrians and cyclists to safely negotiate Tivoli Roundabout. Kerb realignment and resurfacing will also be provided to increase the capacity of the roundabout from the R639 Southbound approach. There will be no instream works or removal of mature vegetation along the banks of the Glashaboy River for this project. Project No.12 R639/R615 Junction;
This project proposes a reorganisation of traffic movements at the junction of the R615 and R639. Left turners from the R639 have significant difficulty making this movement as a consequence of the geometry and gradient. As a result the proposal involves prohibiting the left turn and providing a right turn lane to R615. Pedestrian crossing movements will be accommodated through the provision of a controlled crossing at Project 5, R639/Hazelwood Road junction. Land acquisition will be required from to widen the carriageway from Glanmire GAA club. The proposed land acquisition will not impact the outline of the existing football pitch. Project No.13 Brook Inn Junction
This project proposes formalising the junction between the R639 and the L96391-0. The existing layout consists of two access roads joining the R639. Formalising the junction will improve safety for vehicular movements. As part of the works the existing bus layby will be formalised and pedestrian provision improved. The width of the carriageway on the R639 will be reduced to 6.5m. Reducing the carriageway width will reduce speeds on approach to Sallybrook and the “Green Space” provides additional areas for landscaping. The treatment acts as a gateway feature at the entrance point to Sallybrook. Parking will be provided at the entrance to The Brook Inn, the hardstanding also acts as a delivery area for The Brook Inn. Project No. 14 Footway Improvements Fernwood to Riverstown;
This project will involve upgrading the footways from the residential estate ‘Fernwood’ along the East Cliff Road. Street lighting will be provided on footway network from the entrance to Fernwood to Riverstown to improve the perception of safety on the route and will encourage people to use the improved facility. Project No. 15 Proposed Greenway;
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This project will deliver the primary spine for walking and cycling through the study area. It will connect Glanmire Community School in the north with Cólaiste an Phiarsaigh in the south, linking residential developments with facilities and services in Riverstown Village and Glanmire Village. The existing footpath from Hazelwood Road to Brooklodge Grove, adjacent to Glanmire Community College, will be widened to a 4m Greenway. Cycle chicanes will be provided at the access points to ensure cyclists slow down on approach to the junction with the main roads. The Greenway from Riverstown (East Cliff Road) to Glanmire Bridge will be completely offline (i.e. within the Glashaboy River corridor) where pedestrians and cyclists have no interaction with vehicular traffic. A new 4m shared use path will be provided from East Cliff Road to John O’Callaghan Park. The existing path within John O’Callaghan Park will be widened to a 4m shared use path. The construction of a bridge over Glashaboy River will be required to connect the greenway within John O’Callaghan Park to an existing path that connects to Riverstown FC grounds. The existing path will be upgraded to a 4m shared use path. Just north of Riverstown FC a 4m shared use path will be provided to connect to the new pedestrian/cycle bridge north of the existing Glanmire Bridge. The shared use path will require the construction of two bridges over Glashaboy River. The provision of a 3/4m shared use path from Glanmire Community College to Cólaiste an Phiarsaigh provides a greenway offering improved pedestrian and cycling connectivity between the two locations. In total, the project will require construction of three bridges over the Glashaboy River, all of which will avoid instream works. Project No. 16 Glanmire Bridge; and,
Glanmire Bridge is a listed structure with poor provision for pedestrians and cyclists. This project will provide a new bridge north of Glanmire Bridge which will run parallel to the existing bridge. The T-shape plane will provide connectivity between the R639, East Cliff Road and the Proposed Greenway, Project No. 15. The proposed cross section will consist of a 2m footway and 3m cycleway and the ramp structure will have a 1:20 gradient. The T-shape plan will provide connectivity between the R639, East Cliff Road and the proposed greenway.
The ramp structure will be located on the Irish Water Facility lands which will also allow for the bridge supports to be outside of the river channel. This option provides the pedestrian and cyclist facilities which meet the scheme objective and will tie into the existing footways along the R639 and East Cliff Road. P20 - East Cliff Road Pinch Point;
This project involves the upgrade of a section of East Cliff Road adjacent to the entrance to Riverstown FC. The existing road contains a pinch point for vehicular traffic and the footway is reduced to approximately 1m. The proposal will improve the alignment of the road at this location. An increased footway width will provide improved pedestrian facilities.
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3. Methodology
3.1 Guidance
The methodology for this Screening report broadly follows that for Screening in the European Commission guidance (EC, 2001) and guidance published by the Irish Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG, 2010).
The methodology used also draws on, and has evolved from guidance and recommendations from international AA practitioners (Levett-Therivel, 2009; Chvojková et al., 2013). For instance, in accordance with guidance from international AA practitioners (Levett-Therivel, 2009): “the precautionary principle should be used within reason and should be commensurate with the level of risk and the level of uncertainty concerned [and as such] time- consuming and costly ecological research should be required only in rare circumstances”.
3.2 Desktop and Field Surveys
The assessment was informed by habitat and protected species surveys of the proposed development site on 23 and 24 November, and14 and 15 December 2017 by AECOM ecologists Robert Fennelly MCIEEM CEcol and Dr Miles Newman MCIEEM.
The surveys assessed the potential for all Qualifying Interests (QIs) of European sites to occur, given their ecological requirements identified by Balmer et al. (2013) for birds, and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) for all other Qis (NPWS, 2013a, 2013b). Surveys included bespoke checks of suitable habitats for all highly mobile QI species potentially occurring. For instance the Glashaboy River and Estuary were checked for the presence of potential common kingfisher Alcedo atthis nest sites, and potential breeding or resting sites of otter Lutra lutra. Numerous non-breeding QI bird species travel many kilometres from their core areas, and surveys also assessed potential presence of roosting or feeding sites of such species. Species survey guidance had regard for sources including the National Roads Authority (2009) Ecological Surveying Techniques for Protected Flora and Fauna during the Planning of National Road Schemes.
Desktop studies were also carried out, with particular regard for the following sources :
Tabulated lists, in excel format, of all European sites and their QI in Ireland, obtained through a data request to the NPWS; Information on ranges of mobile QI populations in Volume 1 of NPWS’ Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland (NPWS, 2013a), and associated digital shapefiles obtained from the NPWS Research branch; Mapping of European site boundaries and QI in Conservation Objective mapping for Cork Harbour SPA published by the NPWS (2014c); Distribution of mobile QI populations of distant European sites held online by the National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC)4; Data including surface and ground water quality status, and river catchment boundaries available from the online database of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)5; Boundaries for catchments with confirmed or potential freshwater pearl mussel (FWPM) Margaritifera margaritifera populations in GIS format available online from the NPWS6; Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) of Glanmire Road Improvements and Sustainable Transport Works, Co. Cork. (AECOM, 2018); and, Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR), Chapter 7 Biodiversity (O’Flynn, 2018).
The assessment of potential disturbance effects to wintering birds in Cork Harbour SPA which adjoins the proposed development was informed by observations by AECOM ecologists on the availability of wetland bird roosting and feeding habitats in the Glashaboy River Estuary over four field surveys in November and December 2017, and bird survey data from the NPWS (NPWS, 2014c), and Jacobs Engineering for the Glashaboy River Estuary during the 2010/2011 winter season.
4 Available from http://maps.biodiversityireland.ie/# Accessed February 2018. 5 Available from http://gis.epa.ie/Envision Accessed February 2018. 6Available from https://www.npws.ie/maps-and-data Accessed February 2018.
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3.3 Steps in Screening
Irish departmental guidance states that “Screening is an iterative process that involves consideration of the plan or project and its likely effects and of the European sites and their ecological sensitivities, and the likely interaction between these” (DoEHLG, 2010). In summary, the steps for the Screening follow a protocol to:
1) Determine if the project is directly connected with or necessary to the management of a European site. 2) Describe the project . 3) Assess potential source-pathway-receptor models to determine relevant zones of influence. 4) Describe the baseline environment within relevant zones of influence. 5) Identify any linkages with European sites (defined as ‘relevant’ European sites) having regard for their Conservation Objectives. 6) Use Screening matrices to determine if LSE could arise due to the linkages with European sites having regard for:
Source-pathway-receptor models and zones of influence; Known distribution and ranges of QI; Likely ranging behaviours of mobile QI beyond their European sites; and,
Potential in-combination effects with other plans or projects. 7) Conclude the assessment with a Screening statement. A summary of the key information required to complete the above steps is tabulated later in this AA Screening Report, prior to presenting the Screening matrices in Section 5.4.
3.3.1 Linkages with European Sites
The ‘source-pathway-receptor’ conceptual model is a standard tool in environmental assessment to determine linkages between sensitive features and sources of effects. In order for an effect to occur, all three elements of this mechanism must be in place. The absence or removal of one of the elements of the mechanism means there is no likelihood for the effect to occur. An example of this model is provided below:
Source (s); e.g. Piling; Pathway (s); e.g. Vibration; and, Receptor (s); e.g. Underground otter Lutra lutra resting site at risk of disturbance and/or collapse.
The model is focused solely on relevant QI for which European sites are designated. Any Conservation Objectives referred to in this report are referenced to identify the date of publication and version number.
3.3.2 Zones of Influence and Proximity to Identify Relevant Sites
The construction and operation of the proposed development has the potential to result in a number of environmental effects. The analysis of these effects, using ‘best available’ scientific knowledge and professional judgement, leads to the identification of zone of influence. The proximity to the proposed development of European sites, and more importantly their QI, can be of importance in identifying source-pathway-receptor models which could result in significant effects. Irish departmental guidance on AA states:
“For projects, the distance could be much less than 15 km, and in some cases less than 100m, but this must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with reference to the nature, size and location of the project, and the sensitivities of the ecological receptors, and the potential for in combination effects ” (DoEHLG, 2010; p.32, para 1).
In this report a conservative approach has been used which minimises the risk of overlooking distant or obscure effect pathways, whilst also avoiding non-scientific and arbitrary buffer zones (e.g. 15 km) within which all European sites should be considered. The starting point for this approach is to assess the complete list of all QI of European sites in Ireland (i.e. potential receptors), obtained in digital from the NPWS, instead of listing European sites within arbitrary buffer zones.
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Habitats and plants are not mobile, however fauna species are and their predicted mobility outside European sites (i.e. range) will affect whether they occur within the zone of influence. The range of fauna species varies considerably, from a maximum of several metres (e.g. in the case of whorl snails Vertigo spp.), to hundreds of kilometres (in the case of migratory wetland birds). Whilst habitats and plants are not mobile, these features can still be significantly affected at considerable distances from an effect source; for instance where an instream habitat is located many kilometres downstream from a pollution source.
This difference in determining the zone of influence for (mobile) fauna versus (non-mobile) habitats has been illustrated in Graphic 1 and Graphic 2.
Graphic 1. Relationship between zone of influence and QI habitats and plants which are not mobile
Graphic 2. Relationship between zone of influence and QI fauna species which are not mobile,
In response to DoEHLG (2010) guidance, zone of influence were estimated for potentially relevant effects from the proposed development based on the “the nature size and location of the project”. These zones of influence are summarised in Table 1.
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Table 1. Zones of Influence Estimated for potential effects from the proposed development
Phase Source of Description of Effect Pathway Potential Zone of Influence of Effect Potential Relevance Potential Effect (References footnoted for brevity) of Effect to AA Screening
Noise, vibration, lighting During construction, noise or other construction-related disturbance could reduce the ability of Varies by species. Generally assessed within Potential relevance to and human presence populations of QI species to forage, roost or breed (if QI species are present within the 500 m of the proposed development footprint for QI fauna of European during movements of estimated zone of influence). wintering birds7. However, distance can be sites if present vehicles and staff significantly lower (e.g. 150 m for otter associated with underground sites8, or higher (e.g. hen harriers construction activities. may take flight when nesting at up to 750 m from disturbance9).
Surface water run-off Silt, hydrocarbons, or other contaminants (oils, fuels, etc.) could be washed overland into local No potential for LSE so no zone of influence Not relevant – scoped carrying suspended silt watercourses, or migrate laterally through shallow soils and be carried downstream potentially for this effect. out. or contaminants into affecting the viability or distribution of aquatic QI species (if present downstream). Instream local watercourses. works could significantly increase volumes of silt generated. Due to the proposed development design which excludes instream works and includes
a CEMP, no LSE are predicted and this pathway is scoped out (refer to Section 3.4)
Disturbance of invasive If invasive species are present, construction activities could lead to the dispersal of invasive No potential for LSE so no zone of influence Not relevant – scoped species during the species and/or material within and beyond the proposed development site; either via for this effect. out. construction of the machinery, clothing or wild animals including birds, depending on the species concerned. proposed development. CCC has advised all invasives within the zone of influence will be controlled and/or
Construction removed under existing commitments unrelated to the proposed development. No LSE are predicted and this pathway is scoped out (refer to Section 3.4)
Changes or yield of Earthworks could interfere with groundwater flow paths, potentially affecting the quality or The potential zone of influence of effects from Potential relevance to groundwater associated distribution of habitats dependent on groundwater supply, if such habitats are present. earthworks to ground water flow or yield is QI groundwater with earthworks during difficult to accurately estimate as it will depend habitats of European construction. on factors including the depth and intrusion of sites if present excavations, and time of year (related to water levels). As a precautionary measure, a reasonable worst-case spatial zone of influence is considered to be 500m from the point of excavation; which is a precautionary doubling of the 250 m stated as the potential zone of influence from intrusive excavations to sensitive upland peatland sites (SEPA, 2014).
Noise, vibration, lighting During operation of the development, noise or other disturbance could reduce the ability of Varies by species. Generally assessed within Potential relevance to and human presence populations of QI species to forage, roost or breed (if QI species are present within the 500 m of the proposed development footprint for QI fauna of European 7 ion during operation estimated zone of influence). wintering birds . However, distance can be sites if present Operat significantly lower (e.g. 150 m for otter
7 Wintering birds collectively considered at risk of disturbance at up to 500 m based on compilation of data from Madsen (1985); Smit & Visser (1993) and Rees et al., (2005). 8 In accordance with guidance on road construction-related disturbance of underground sites from the National Roads Authority (NRA, 2006). 9 Hen harrier flush or ‘flight initiation distance’ of 750 m from Whitfield et al., (2008).
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Phase Source of Description of Effect Pathway Potential Zone of Influence of Effect Potential Relevance Potential Effect (References footnoted for brevity) of Effect to AA Screening underground sites8, or higher (e.g. hen harriers may take flight when nesting at up to 750 m from disturbance9).
Surface water run-off During operation of the proposed road improvements, hydrocarbons, grit, or de-icing salts No potential for LSE so no zone of influence Not relevant – scoped carrying suspended silt could enter the local road network and be carried downstream into the Glashaboy River for this effect. out. or contaminants into Estuary potentially affecting the viability or distribution of aquatic QI species (if present there). local watercourses. Due to the petrol interceptor included in the Dunkettle Road (P9) and having regard for the existing water quality of receiving watercourses, no LSEs are predicted on European sites and this pathway is scoped out (refer to Section 3.4)
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3.4 Scoping of Effects
Due to the design of the proposed development (Section 2) and as per the zones of influence in Table 1, pollution effects, direct effects to instream features, and effects from invasive species have been scoped out from this AA Screening report.
Without undermining the validity of the above assumption regarding pollution, it is informative to note there are no QI aquatic features highly sensitive to siltation10 (such as FWPM, spawning QI Atlantic salmon Salmo salar, spawning or QI lamprey Lampetra spp.) within the river catchment downstream of the proposed development site. These statements are justified with reference to best available scientific evidence in the Screening matrices in Appendix B.
3.5 The Precautionary Principle
The Precautionary Principle, which is referenced in Article 191 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, has been defined by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO, 2005) as:
“When human activities may lead to morally unacceptable harm [to the environment] that is scientifically plausible but uncertain, actions shall be taken to avoid or diminish that harm. The judgement of plausibility should be grounded in scientific analysis”.
Reasoned application of the ‘Precautionary Principle’ is fundamental to all stages of Screening for AA. In this report, significant effects would be presumed without evidence to the contrary, where there was evidence of possible effects on a European site(s) from the proposed development, but uncertainty remained.
10 In this context, ‘highly significant’ to siltation is equated to species or habitats for which siltation is a threat of medium or high importance according to the NPWS (2013a, b)).
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4. Baseline Description
This Section describes desktop and field survey results within the zone of influence identified in Section 3.3.2, in order to describe the relevant baseline environment to the proposed development. The relevant baseline environment relates to anything that may be directly or indirectly related to the QI of European sites.
4.1 European Sites
All European sites identified in this report are illustrated in Figure 1 (Appendix A).
The closest European site to the proposed development is the Cork Harbour SPA (site code 4030), the nearest part of which is located immediately adjacent (and below) the ‘P10’ upgrades to the Tivoli roundabout, in the mouth of the Glashaboy River Estuary where it enters the area of Cork Harbour known as ‘Lough Mahon’.
The next nearest European site to the proposed development is the Great Island Channel SAC (site code 1058) which covers the area of tidal mudflat bordered with salt marsh within Cork Harbour c. 2.5 km to the south east and is broadly coincident with a section of the Cork Harbour SPA. The SAC is not downstream of the proposed development.
There are no other European sites within 10 km of the proposed development site, or within the surface water catchment in which the proposed development is located. If relevant, more distant European sites will be discussed in the Screening assessment in Section 5.
The Conservation Objectives and QIs of the Great Island Channel SAC and Cork Harbour SPA are detailed in Table 2 and
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Table 3 respectively. As will become clear in the Screening assessment in Section 5.3, there are no other more distant European sites of relevance to this AA Screening Report.
Table 2Conservation Objectives for Special Areas of Conservation Referenced in AA Screening Report
Site (Code), Conservation Qualifying Interest (s) Conservation Objective (Maintain or and distance Objectives Restore) from version proposed development
Great Island Version 1 ( To maintain favourable conservation Mudflats and sandflats Channel SAC (NPWS, condition (1058) 2014b); To maintain favourable conservation 2.5 km from Atlantic salt meadows site condition
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Table 3Conservation Objectives for Special Protection Areas Referenced in AA Screening Report
Site (Code) and Conservation Qualifying Scientific Name Population Conservation Objective distance from Objectives Interest (s) proposed version development
Cork Harbour Version 1 Tachybaptus Little grebe Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition SPA (4030) NPWS, ruficollis SPA is located 2014a; Great-crested Podiceps immediately Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition adjacent to the grebe cristatus existing Tivoli Phalacrocorax roundabout (P8) Cormorant Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition carbo
Grey heron Ardea cinerea Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Shelduck Tadorna tadorna Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Wigeon Anas penelope Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Teal Anas crecca Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Pintail Anas acuta Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Shoveler Anas clypeata Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Red-breasted Mergus serrator Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition merganser
Haematopus Oystercatcher Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition ostralegus
Golden plover Pluvialis apricaria Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Pluvialis Grey plover Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition squatarola
Vanellus Lapwing Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition vanellus
Calidris alpina Non breeding Dunlin To maintain favourable conservation condition alpina
Black-tailed Limosa limosa Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition godwit
Bar-tailed Limosa Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition godwit lapponica
Numenius Curlew Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition arquata
Redshank Tringa totanus Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Greenshank Tringa nebularia Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Black-headed Chroicocephalus Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition gull ridibundus
Common gull Larus canus Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Lesser black- Larus fuscus Non breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition backed gull
Common tern Sterna hirundo Breeding To maintain favourable conservation condition
Wetland and N/A N/A To maintain favourable conservation condition waterbirds
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4.2 Habitats
4.2.1 Overview
The locale of the proposed development is suburban east Cork City, north of Cork Harbour.
The proposed development encompasses the townlands areas of Glanmire, Riverstown, Brooklodge, and Dunkettle, and hosts a mix of residential, commercial, and amenity land uses. The Glashaboy River, steep wooded banks of the Dunkettle and Ballinglanna Estates, and old sandstone/brick walls along road and property boundaries are a conspicuous feature of the local landscape. The primary road networks (R639, L2999, L3010, M8 and N8) frame the area.
The individual elements of the proposed development are located adjacent to both upstream freshwater and downstream estuarine reaches of the Glashaboy River.
4.2.2 Terrestrial Habitats
The footprint of proposed road improvements overlap existing grassland road verges, ornamental shrub borders, stone and brick walls, one localized area of heavily managed broad-leaved woodland dominated by mature beech Fagus sylvatica, and (along (along the Dunkettle Road) semi-mature broad-leaved treelines fronting properties. The footprint of the proposed cycleway has been designed to follow paths and tracks in many locations (e.g. the Riverside Football Club, the John O’Callaghan Park, and a path west of Glanmire Community College. However, the proposed cycleway crosses wet grassland, riparian treeline, and seasonally flooded native wet woodland habitats in the vicinity of the five crossings of the Glashaboy River. None of the terrestrial habitats within the footprint or wider zone of influence of the proposed development are Annex 1 habitats, and none are within SAC or SPA.
The invasive plant species identified within the proposed development footprint during site visits, and checks of records from the ‘National Invasive Species Database’ are listed in Table 4. Two non-scheduled invasives have been included in Table 4 because of their known impacts to rare species in the locality (winter heliotrope Petasites fragrans; O’Mahoney, 2015), or their known impacts elsewhere on the island of Ireland (two-spined acaena Acaena ovalifolia ).
Table 4. Invasive plant species recorded during site visits
Common Name Scientific Name ‘Scheduled’ Species to Impact Rating Frequency within European (O’Flynn, 2014) Proposed Development Regulations11 Footprint
Giant knotweed Fallopia Yes High impact Locally dominant in sachalinensis floodplain near Riverside FC
Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica Yes High impact Common throughout in roadsides and hedgerows
Three-cornered leek Allium triquetrum Yes Medium impact Abundant throughout in roadside verges in woodlands
Two-spined acaena Acaena ovalifolia No Medium impact Localized to two gravel banks at the entrance of Riverside FC
Winter heliotrope Petasites fragrans No Low risk Abundant throughout in roadside verges in woodlands
11 Schedule Three to S.I. No. 477/2011 as amended.
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However as already stated in Section 3.4, effects from invasive species have been scoped out from the AA Screening, because:
CCC are already carrying out control of Japanese knotweed within the proposed development footprint; and,
CCC has committed to control and/or remove all the invasive species populations in Table 4 prior to commencement of construction of the proposed development.
The potential presence of habitats for QI species within the zone of influence of the proposed development is discussed in the Screening assessment in Section
4.2.3 Wetland Habitats, Surface Waters, and Groundwater
The proposed development crosses (several times), and is elsewhere located adjacent to the Glashaboy River and its tributary the Butlerstown River. Both these rivers discharge into the transitional waters of the Glashaboy River Estuary and eventually Lough Mahon’ in Cork Harbour downstream.
Downstream of Glanmire Bridge (the approximate tidal limit), the Glashaboy River Estuary adjacent to the proposed development comprises Annex 1 Estuary habitat, which overlies Annex 1 Mudflat habitat exposed at low tide. Whilst neither of these habitat areas are SAC QI, they are together QI wetland bird habitat of the Cork Harbour SPA.
As defined under the South Western River Basin Management Plan 2009-2015 (SWRBMP; Water Matters, 2010)12, the proposed development is within the Glashaboy ‘Water Management Unit’ (i.e. river catchment); whose overall water quality status was “good” in 2010 at the time the SWRBMP was produced. The most recent water quality status for the Glashaboy River in the EPA’s online database5 is from 2014, at which time monitoring of the Glashaboy near Riverstown recorded a water quality status of Q4-5 (“High”). The most recent EPA data for the quality of transitional waters dates from 2012, at which time the Glashaboy River Estuary was “potentially eutrophic” and Lough Mahon was of “intermediate” status.
However, as already stated in Section 3.4, water pollution effects from the proposed development been scoped out from the AA Screening, due to the design of the proposed development (e.g. avoidance of instream works, and drainage proposals for the Dunkettle Road), and the CEMP included in the Part 8 Planning Package.
According to the SWRBMP, the proposed development is located within the Ballinhassig groundwater catchment (IE_SW_G_004) whose overall status was “good” at the time the SWRBMP was produced in 2010. There are no SAC or SPA designated for highly groundwater dependent QI within this groundwater body
12 The first cycle of River Basin Management Plans for Ireland was published in July 2010 and planning for the second cycle is underway. The second cycle of plans, intended for implementation in 2017, had not been adopted at the time of writing.
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5. Screening Assessment
5.1 Is AA Screening Required?
AA Screening is not required where the proposed development is connected with, or necessary to the management of any European site. In this case, the proposed development is not connected to the management of any such site. The competent authority is therefore required to make a Screening determination.
5.2 Summary of Information Required
The detailed methodology underpinning this AA Screening report has been set out in Section 3.
A summary table of the specific information required is presented in Table 5, for the benefit of the reader in advance of presenting the Screening assessment.
Table 5.Summary of information required to complete Screening assessment
Best Available Scientific QI Fauna Species (Mobile) QI Habitats/Plants (Not Mobile) Evidence Required
Zones of influence for Zones of influence (Table 1) Zones of influence (Table 1) different effects from proposed development
I. Presence/absence of SAC(s) Distribution of QI relative to I. Habitat requirements of QI fauna designated for QI habitat/plant within zone of influence species (see footnote) relevant zone of influence
II. Presence of habitat for QI fauna within II. Distribution of QI habitat/plants within zone of influence from field and desk relevant SAC(s) from field and desktop studies data
III. Range of QI species beyond their
designated sites (see footnote)
IV. Seasonality of QI usage of habitats relative to programme for proposed development
Analyses required to inform I. Could the range of the QI fauna species I. Do any SAC designated for the QI the Screening assessment overlap with the zone of influence of the habitat/plant occur within the zone of proposed development? influence of the proposed development?
II. If yes, is suitable habitat present? II. If yes, what are the specific locations of QI habitats/plants within the relevant III. If suitable habitat is present, will LSE SAC(s)? arise? III. Are the locations of QI habitats/plants within the zone of influence of LSE?
Footnotes: Range data and habitat requirements for QI fauna species primarily from Balmer et al., (2013) for birds, and NPWS (2013) for other species.
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5.3 Screening Assessment
As explained in the detailed methodology (Section 3.3.1), the AA Screening assessment adopts a comprehensive and precautionary approach for which the starting point is a complete list of all QI of European sites in Ireland, obtained in digital from the NPWS.
5.3.1 Key Findings
The key findings of the Screening presented in Table 6 discuss only:
Potential QI species which could or do occur within the zone of influence of the proposed development; and/or
Potential QI species with which potential source-pathway-receptor linkages were identified.
The complete Screening matrices for all Qs in Ireland are included in Appendix B. QIs meeting one or both of the above bulleted criteria are colour-coded orange in Appendix B.
The complete Screening matrices include the rationale for determining why all other QIs do not occur and/or are not linked with the proposed development via source-pathway-receptor linkages.
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Table 6 Key findings of Screening assessment for fauna species
Scientific Common Population Screening assessment Potential linkages with Screening conclusion name name European sites
Alcedo atthis Common Breeding Kingfisher does occur in the River Glashaboy, but these populations are not QI None No LSE to QI populations of this species from the kingfisher populations of any SPA. proposed development There are no SPAs for kingfisher within 100 km of the proposed development. Kingfishers on Irish river systems typically have breeding territories of less than ten linear km (Cummins et al., 2010).
Lampetra River N/A Larvae of this species have been potentially recorded in the Glashaboy River None No LSE to QI populations of this species from the fluviatilis lamprey (Lampetra sp.; indistinguishable from the similar brook lamprey). This is according to proposed development desktop records (Ecofact, 2008 cited in Jacobs, 2012). However there are no SACs for river lamprey within the river catchment in which the proposed development is located, or marine areas further downstream.
Lampetra Brook N/A Larvae of this species have been potentially recorded in the Glashaboy River None No LSE to QI populations of this species from the planeri lamprey (Lampetra sp. ; indistinguishable from the similar river lamprey). This is according to proposed development desktop records (Ecofact, 2008 cited in Jacobs, 2012). However there are no SACs designated for the species within the river catchment in which the proposed development is located, or the estuarine areas downstream.
Lutra lutra Otter N/A Field surveys carried out during the appropriate season (November-December 2017) None No LSE to QI populations of this species from the found no evidence of otter breeding or resting sites within the zone of influence of the proposed development proposed development site. One confirmed holt reported in the scientific literature (Sleeman and Moore, 2005) is located c. 100m from the proposed development. One potential holt reported in the EIAR for the Ballinglanna Housing development (O’Flynn, 2017) is located c. 50 m from the proposed development Both holts are outside the zone of influence of LSE having regard for topography and the nature of the proposed development, considering both construction and operation. In Ireland, the territory of female river otters has been estimated as 7.5 ± 1.5km in length (6.5 ± 1.0 km in coastal environments (Ó Néill et al. 2008 and de Jongh et al. 2010, both cited in Reid et al., 2013)). There are no SACs designated for otter within 12 km of the proposed development, and there are no SACs designated for otter within the same river catchment as the proposed development.
QI wader, Non- Feeding birds Linkage with Cork QI populations of eight wader, duck and gull QI gull and breeding Relative to the size of non-breeding populations feeding in expansive habitats in Cork Harbour SPA: species of Cork Harbour SPA occur within the zone duck Harbour downstream, small feeding populations of eight species13 (excluding Disturbance during of influence of effects. However, having regard for species not cormorant already assessed) feed in in the Glashaboy River Estuary within the zone construction and the Conservation Objectives (2014a), these effects
13 little grebe Tachybaptus ruficolis, grey heron Ardea cinerea, teal Anas crecca, redshank Tringa totanus, black-headed gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus, lesser black-backed gull Larus fuscus, common gull Larus canus, curlew Numenius arquata
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listed on of influence of disturbance effects from the proposed development. The usage of this operation to QI are not likely to be significant, because there will not Annex 1 to area by birds is small, due in significant part to the existing disturbance regime from cormorant populations be a long-term change in population trend or Birds the busy road network on the banks of the Glashaboy River. The additive disturbance distribution, Directive* from construction and operation of the proposed development will not significantly reduce the numbers or frequency of populations present. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the There are no instream works for the proposed development. None of the proposed proposed development. crossing points of the Glashaboy River Estuary overlap the estuarine part of the river south of Glanmire Bridge. The bend in the Glashaboy River downstream of Glanmire Bridge screens the Glashaboy Estuary downstream from the proposed crossing by Glanmire Bridge upstream. Roosting birds The existing N8 road provides a visual and auditory buffer between the proposed development and the nearest known roost site for QI wader species of Cork Harbour, which is located in the polder west of the Jack Lynch tunnel
Phalacrocorax Cormorant Non- This is a QI of the Cork Harbour SPA. Linkage with Cork Whilst QI cormorant populations of Cork Harbour carbo breeding Feeding birds Harbour SPA: SPA occur within the zone of influence of effects. There are no significant feeding populations of this species within the Glashaboy River Disturbance during However, having regard for the Conservation construction and Objectives (2014a), these effects are not likely to be or Estuary (NPWS, 2014a; Jacobs, 2012). operation to QI significant, because there will not be a long-term Roosting birds cormorant populations change in population trend or distribution, The desktop data (Jacobs, 2012; NPWS, 2014c) identified a known (dusk/nocturnal) roost for this species in mature woodland plantations on the eastern bank of the No LSE to QI populations of this species from the Glashaboy River Estuary, c. 400m downstream of the proposed crossing of the Glanmire Bridge. proposed development. The bend in the Glashaboy River downstream of Glanmire Bridge screens the cormorant roost downstream from the proposed crossing of the Glashaboy River upstream. The birds do not roost upstream of the proposed crossing point so there is no potential for collision with the new cycleway crossing.
Pluvialis Golder Breeding or There are no QI breeding populations of this species within at least 100 km of the Linkage with Cork QI golden plover populations of Cork Harbour SPA apricaria plover non- proposed development. Harbour SPA: may occasionally occur within the zone of influence breeding Non-breeding populations of this species are a QI of the Cork Harbour SPA. Disturbance during of effects. However, having regard for the depending Feeding birds construction and Conservation Objectives (2014a), these effects are on SPA operation to QI golden not likely to be significant, because there will not be Occasional occurrence of non-breeding birds feeding in the Glashaboy River within plover populations a long-term change in population trend or the zone of influence of disturbance from the proposed development cannot be ruled distribution, out, and there are NBDC records for golden plover in the vicinity of the Glashaboy No LSE to QI populations of this species from the River Estuary. However, these populations are unlikely to use the area regularly and/or intensely due to the absence of core feeding or roosting sites within the zone of proposed development. influence of likely significant disturbance effects. Roosting birds The existing N8 road provides a visual and auditory buffer between the proposed development and the nearest known roost site for the species, in the polder west of the Jack Lynch tunnel, recorded by Jacobs in the winter of 2010/2011(Jacobs, 2012).
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Other QI wader, Various Non- Feeding birds Disturbance during Populations of eight QI species of Cork Harbour 14 gull and duck breeding Relative to the size of non-breeding populations feeding in expansive habitats in Cork construction and SPA occur within the zone of influence of potential species not Harbour downstream, small feeding populations of eight species14 (excluding operation to QI disturbance effects (excluding cormorant; already listed on Annex cormorant already assessed) feed in in the Glashaboy River Estuary within the zone populations of Cork assessed). However these disturbance effects are 1 to Birds of influence of disturbance effects from the proposed development. The usage of this Harbour SPA not likely to be significant having regard for the Directive* area by birds is small, due in significant part to the existing disturbance regime from Conservation Conservation Objectives (2014a), because there will the busy road network on the banks of the Glashaboy River. The additive disturbance Objectives; NPWS, not be a long-term change in population trend or from construction and operation of the proposed development will not 2014a) distribution, There are no instream works for the proposed development. None of the proposed crossing points of the Glashaboy River Estuary overlap the estuarine part of the river No LSE to QI populations of these species from the south of Glanmire Bridge. proposed development. The bend in the Glashaboy River downstream of Glanmire Bridge screens the Glashaboy Estuary downstream from the proposed crossing by Glanmire Bridge upstream. Harbour, which is located in the polder west of the Jack Lynch tunnel.
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Table 7 Key findings of Screening assessment for habitats and plant species
Habitat Directive Screening Assessment Potential Linkages with Screening Conclusion Annex I habitat European sites name (*denotes Priority Habitats) Plant Species Killarney fern This species occurs in crevices and overhangs on cliffs and rocky slopes, in stream gullies, by None. No linkages with European sites. Trichomanes waterfalls and in woodlands, and occasionally occurs under fallen trees and on the floor of damp No LSE to QI populations of this species from the speciosum woodlands. Surveys by AECOM to inform this report in November 2017 identified some limited proposed development. potentially suitable habitat for the species. However there are no SAC are designated for the plant in Cork city or the wider area. Coastal Habitats Atlantic salt meadows This habitat occurs downstream of the proposed development site in Cork Harbour (Jacobs, None No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed 2012), but the area is not designated as an SAC. development. Estuaries There are no SAC designated for this habitat downstream of the proposed development. The None No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed Glashaboy River Estuary is not designated as an SAC for its estuarine habitats. Whilst the development. Glashaboy River Estuary is designated QI wetland habitat of the Cork Harbour SPA, there are no instream works in the estuary, proposed river crossings are upstream of the SPA extent and there will be no changes to the extent of QI wetland bird habitat. Large shallow inlets This habitat occurs downstream of the proposed development site in Cork harbour, but the area is None No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed and bays not designated as an SAC. development.
Mediterranean salt This habitat occurs downstream of the proposed development site in Cork Harbour (Jacobs, None No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed meadows 2012), but the area is not designated as an SAC. development.
Tidal mudflats There are no SAC designated for this habitat downstream of the proposed development. The None No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed mudflats in the Glashaboy River downstream are not within an SAC. The Great Island Channel development. SAC is designated for this habitat, but this SAC is not downstream of the proposed development or within the same surface water catchment as it. Whilst the Glashaboy River Estuary is designated as QI wetland bird habitat of Cork Harbour SPA there are no instream works in the estuary, proposed river crossings are upstream of the SPA extent and there will be no changes to the extent of QI wetland bird habitat.
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5.4 Summary of Screening Assessment (Proposed Development Alone)
Potential linkages were identified between the proposed development and Cork Harbour SPA (QI cormorant, and eight species of QI waders, gulls, and ducks); the pathway identified was bird disturbance to construction and operation of the proposed development.
5.5 In-Combination Effects
This assessment has particular regard for developments potentially affecting Cork Harbour SPA, given this was the only European site, with which the proposed development was identified to have a potential linkage.
The Natura Standard Data Form for Cork Harbour SPA (NPWS, 2012a) ranks five activities as posing a threat of high importance to the SPA (roads/motorways, port areas, aquaculture, human habitation, and commercial areas). No specific projects or plans are identified in the form.
The conservation objective supporting documentation for Cork Harbour SPA (NPWS, 2014c) identifies walkers with dogs as a constant (albeit “Low”-ranked) threat across most of the SPA’s 30 subsites. Bait digging is a secondary threat of “Low” importance identified by NPWS in only a few subsites
5.5.1 Planning Application Search
A search was conducted of planning applications within the vicinity of the proposed development, using the Cork County Council Planning Enquiry System15 and the National Planning Application Map Viewer16. The search was limited to the five year period preceding the date of issue of this report (due to the typical five-year lifetime of planning permission).
Excluding retention applications (i.e. typically local-scale residential or commercial developments where an impact has already occurred), and withdrawn and refused applications, a number of applications were identified as having significant effects on local habitats including grasslands and woodlands, including:
Ballinglanna Housing Development - a mixed use development consisting of 608 no. residential units, community features, retail units, a crèche and a land for the future development of a school;
Dunkettle Interchange Improvement Scheme – a significant upgrade to the existing infrastructure to increase capacity in line with future increases in traffic;
Planning reference 17/7137 - Construction of 25 no. residential properties and ancillary site works;
Planning reference 16/5554 - Construction of 89 no. residential properties and ancillary site development works and a new access road;
Planning reference 15/6722 - Construction of 54 no. residential properties with ancillary site development works using an existing access road;
Planning reference 15/6341- Construction of a football centre including several pitches, six of which will be floodlit, a pavilion building, power substation, parking facilities for cars and coaches and storage buildings;
Planning reference 15/4277 - Construction of 74 bed, three storey nursing home with 8 no. independent living houses including ancillary services;
Planning reference 15/4276 - Construction of 84 bed, three storey nursing home with 12 no. independent living units including ancillary services;
These developments are likely (if consented and constructed) to increase traffic volumes (and associated noise and lighting) along the road network surrounding the Cork Harbour SPA. However none of the applications listed above (including the Ballinglanna Housing Development) will introduce new recreational paths in proximity to bird roosting or feeding habitats, or result in removal of intertidal areas. Birds within Cork Harbour SPA are habituated to the existing heavy volumes of traffic in the industrial context of Cork Harbour. No significant in-combination effects are predicted.
15 http://maps.corkcoco.ie/planningenquiryv3/LAResources/info.aspx [accessed 06 February 2018] 16 www.myplan.ie [accessed 06 February 2018].
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5.5.2 Land-use plans
The Cork County Development Plan (CDP) 2014 identifies Glanmire as part of the County Metropolitan Cork Strategic Planning Area (CMCSPA). The CMCSPA is seen as an area for population growth and identifies the importance of transport infrastructure improvements to cope with the additional demands caused by population growth. The strategic aim of the CDP towards the Glanmire area involves the construction of medium and some high density housing with the improvement of local employment opportunities, infrastructure and public transport while maintaining or enhancing the natural and built heritage of the Cork Harbour area.
Under the Cobh Municipal District Local Area Plan 2017 (‘the LAP’), the Ballinglanna – Dunkettle area has been identified as an Urban Expansion Area (UEA). UEA (previously known as Metropolitan Cork development sites) are areas identified under the LAP for significant urban growth though construction of medium to high density residential properties. Whilst several greenfield locations close to Lough Mahon and the Glashaboy River will be preserved under the LAP, large scale housing developments will be constructed in phases along with transport infrastructure improvements.
As for the planning applications identified above, the intensification of urban growth may elevate traffic volumes and noise in the vicinity of existing roadways. However, no clear link between these developments and SPA threats has been identified.
Cycling routes connecting the area with Cork City have been proposed under the Cork Cycle Network Plan 2017. However, all these routes will be subject to screening for AA (and if necessary AA) prior to grant of planning permission, which should minimise the risk that any effects would arise from these projects, which would act in – combination with the proposed development.
5.5.3 Pollution
There are binding obligations on all Irish local authorities including Cork County Council to achieve good status of surface waters, under the terms of the EU Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC, and in related policies in applicable county development plans. Furthermore, Irish Water, who has national statutory remit for wastewater and drinking water services, has committed to a 25 year programme of improvements to wastewater impacts on surface waters in their Water Services Strategic Plan (WSSP).
5.5.4 Concluding remarks on In-Combination Effects
No proposed projects or plans were identified which would, in-combination with the proposed development, have LSE on any European sites.
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6. Overall Screening Conclusion
Following analysis of the effect of the proposed development design, which avoids instream works and includes a Construction and Environmental Management Plan, AECOM advises the competent authority (CCC) that an Appropriate Assessment of the proposed development is not required, as the Screening process concludes that there is no potential for Likely Significant Effects on European sites.
In the legally accurate language of the Court of Justice of the European Union, it can be excluded [emphasis added], on the basis of objective scientific information, and in light of the Conservation Objectives of relevant sites, that the proposed development, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, would have Likely Significant Effects on any European sites.
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References
AECOM (2018) Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) of Glanmire Road Improvements and Sustainable Transport Works. Unpublished draft report issued to Cork City Council.
Balmer, D. E., Gillings, S., Caffrey, B. J., Swann, R. L., Downie, I. S., and Fuller, R. J. (Editors) Bird Atlas 2007– 11: The Breeding and Wintering Birds of Britain and Ireland. BTO Books, Thetford, UK.
Bontadina, F., Schmied, S. F., Beck, A., & Arlettaz, R. (2008) Changes in prey abundance unlikely to explain the demography of a critically endangered Central European bat. Journal of Applied Ecology, 45(2), pp. 641-648.
Caraco, D. (2000) Strengthening Silt Fences: the Practice of Watershed Protection. Watershed Protection Techniques 2; 434-428.
Chvojková, E., Roth, P., Volf, O. (2013) Conclusions of the International Workshop on Appropriate Assessment held in Mikulov, Czech Republic, 4th October 2013.
Cummins, S., Fisher, J., McKeever, R. J., McNaghten, L., & Crowe, O. (2010). Assessment of the distribution and abundance of Kingfisher Alcedo atthis and other riparian birds on six SAC river systems in Ireland. Report commissioned by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and prepared by BirdWatch Ireland.
Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (2013). Design manual for Urban Roads and Streets. Available online at http://www.dttas.ie/corporate/publications/english/design-manual-urban-roads-and-streets
DoEHLG (2010). Appropriate Assessment of plans and projects in Ireland. Guidance for Planning Authorities. Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government: Ireland.
EC (2001). Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting European sites: Methodological Guidance on the Provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC (European Commission Environment Directorate-General).
Jacobs Engineering (2012). Environmental Impact Statement for the Dunkettle Interchange Improvement Scheme. Available online from the planning portal of Cork City Council.
Levett-Therivel (2009) Guidelines for Good Practice Appropriate Assessment. International Workshop on Assessment of Plans under the Habitats Directive, Oxford, December 2009. Available at: http://www.levett- therivel.co.uk. Accessed February 2018.
Liddon, K. (2013). Prevention of Diffuse Pollution from Active Forestry Harvesting Sites: A preliminary study into the source of sediment and the practical use of material for sediment retention. Undergraduate Honours Dissertation.
Madsen, J. (1985) Impact of disturbance on field utilisation of pink-footed geese in West Jutland, Denmark. Biological Conservation 33: 53-63.
NRA (2006) Guidelines for the Treatment of Otters Prior to the Construction of National Road Schemes. National Roads Authority.
NRA (2009). Ecological Surveying Techniques for Protected Flora and Fauna during the Planning Of National Road Schemes. National Roads Authority: Ireland
NPWS (2013a) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Species Assessments Volume 1. Version 1.1. Unpublished Report, National Parks & Wildlife Services. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland.
NPWS (2013b) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Habitat Assessments Volume 2. Version 1.1. Unpublished Report, National Parks & Wildlife Services. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland.
NPWS (2014a) Conservation Objectives: Cork Harbour SPA 004030. Version 1. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
NPWS (2014b) Conservation Objectives: Great Island Channel SAC 001058. Version 1. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
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NPWS (2014c) Conservation Objectives Supporting Document Cork Harbour SPA 004030. Version 1. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
NPWS (2015) Natura Standard Data Form. Cork Harbour SPA. Compiled October 2015.
O’Flynn, C., Kelly, J. and Lysaght, L. (2014). Ireland’s invasive and non-native species – trends in introductions. National Biodiversity Data Centre Series No. 2. Ireland.
O’Flynn (2017) Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) for the proposed Ballinglanna Housing development, Chapter 7 Biodiversity. Available online at http://ballinglanna.ie/ Accessed February 2018.
O’Mahoney, (2015) A report on the Flora of Cork (H3-H5), Irish Botanical News No. 25 March.
Reid, N., Hayden, B., Lundy, M.G., Pietravalle, S., McDonald, R.A. & Montgomery, W.I. (2013) National Otter Survey of Ireland 2010/12. Irish Wildlife Manuals No. 76. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland.
Rees, E. C., Bruce, J. H., & White, G. T. (2005) Factors affecting the behavioural responses of whooper swans (Cygnus c. cygnus) to various human activities. Biological conservation, 121(3), 369-382.
Rush, T., Billington, G. (2014) Galway bat radio-tracking project. Radio tracking studies of lesser horseshoe and vesper bat species, August and September 2014. Greena Ecological Consultancy. Witham Friary, 2014. Available online at http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:1LMEoWDgp3UJ:www.n6galwaycity.ie/wp- content/uploads/2015/Volume%25203A%2520- %2520Appendices%2520Part%25201/A.4.2%2520Ecological%2520Constraints%2520Report%2520- %2520Appendix%2520E.pdf+&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=ie
Sleeman, D.P., and Moore, P.G. (2005) Otters Lutra lutra in Cork City. The Irish Naturalists' Journal 28: 73-79.
Smit, C. J., & Visser, G. J. (1993) Effects of disturbance on shorebirds: a summary of existing knowledge from the Dutch Wadden Sea and Delta. Wader Study Group Bulletin. 68: 6-19.
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (2005) The Precautionary Principle. World Commission on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology, UNESCO.
Water Matters (2010) South Western River Basin Management Plan (2009-2015), Water Matters: Our Plan!
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Appendix A Figures
Figure 1. European Sites, Watercourses and River Catchments
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This document has been prepared by AECOM for the sole use of our Client (the "Client") and in accordance with generally accepted consultancy principles, the budget for fees and terms of reference agreed between AECOM and the Client. Any information provided by third parties and referred to herein has not been checked or verified by AECOM, unless otherwise expressly stated in the document. No third party may rely upon this document without the prior and express written agreement of AECOM.
P13 Legend Projects comprising proposed development Waterbodies River catchments (Water Framework Directive P12 Water Management Unit) Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) P15 Special Protection Areas (SPA) P5 P8 Glashaboy 0 1,000 Metres
P7 P6 Ü P4 P15 P14 P15
P20
P3 P17 P1 P16 Lower Lee/Owenboy Cork Harbour SPA P9
Great Island Channel SAC
P2 Owennacurra P9
P10
Cork Harbour SPA
Esri, HERE, Garmin, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS user community Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS,
Client: Title: Drawn: BM Check e d : MN (minor changes) Cork County Council Verified: RF Approved: RF Figure 1: European Sites Detailed in AA Screening Report 4th Floor, Adelphi Plaza Project: George's Street Upper Tel +353-1-238-3100 Date: 4/13/2018 Scale at A3: 1:20,000 Glanmire Road Improvements and Sustainable Dun Laoghaire, A96 T927 www.aecom.com Transport Works, Co. Cork Co Dublin, Ireland Drawing Reference: 09042018 _Fig1_European Sites2 A3 Path: \\du-man-002\Dublin-Jobs\Ecology Projects\Ballinglanna\Drawings\MXD\Final Planning Issue_April 2018\09042018 _Fig1_European Sites2.mxd Report to Inform Screening for Appropriate Assessment
Appendix B Complete Screening matrices
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B.1 Key to Screening matrices
A traffic light system has been applied to the complete Screening matrices. The significance of the different colours in this system are defined in Table B1
Table B1. Key to traffic light system used in complete Screening matrices.
Screening conclusions Possible scenario (s) for each conclusion Cell colour in Screening matrix No Likely Significant Effects No linkage identified between QI and proposed development. The species range does not overlap the zone of influence and/or Subject to view of competent there is no potential habitat present authority, QI does not occur within the zone of influence of any effects No AA required No Natura Impact Statement required Linkage potentially identified between QI and proposed development because the species range overlaps the zone of influence and there is potential habitat present.
QI may occur within the zone of influence of effects, and there may be records of the species occurring.
However, the population of QI species is not associated with any European sites and/or any effects are not likely to be significant Judgement considers in-combination effects (Section 5.4) Likely Significant Effects or Linkage confirmed between QI and proposed development reasonable doubt remains QI does occur within the zone of influence of effects* Subject to view of competent Effects are likely and significant LSE* authority (*or reasonable doubt remains) AA required Natura Impact Statement required
Note that there are no instances of confirmed linkages and LSE in the screening matrices overleaf (i.e. all cells are green or orange.
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Table 8 Screening assessment for QI fauna species: includes all species for which European sites are designated in Ireland
Scientific Common Population Screening assessment Potential Screening conclusion name name (birds only) linkages with (chronological European sites order)
Alcedo atthis Common Breeding Kingfisher does occur in the River Glashaboy, but these populations are not QI None (any No linkages with European sites. kingfisher populations of any SPA. kingfisher present No LSE to QI populations of this species from the There are no SPA for kingfisher within 100 km of the proposed development. in the Glashaboy proposed development, taking account of in- Kingfishers on Irish river systems typically have breeding territories of less than ten River are not combination effects in Section 5.4 linear km (Cummins et al., 2010). linked with any SPA)
Anser albifrons Greenland Non-breeding There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. flavirostris white- the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the fronted This goose species feeds in coastal root crops or upland peatlands in Ireland during proposed development, taking account of in- goose the non-breeding season. combination effects in Section 5.4
Austropotamobi White- N/A The catchment downstream of the proposed development is outside the range for the None No linkages with European sites. us pallipes clawed species .This crustacean lives in marginal vegetation and beneath boulders and other No LSE to QI populations of this species from the crayfish refuges in small and medium-sized lakes. The species only occurs in base-rich rivers. proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4 Calidris alpina Dunlin Breeding There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. schinzii the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the This rare breeding wader is found on upland bogs and coastal machair in the proposed development, taking account of in- northwest of Ireland. combination effects in Section 5.4
Circus cyaneus Hen harrier Breeding or There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. non-breeding the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the depending on This bird of prey species breeds in upland coniferous plantation or (rarely) in peatland SPA habitats. proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4 Crex crex Corncrake Breeding There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. the proposed development. This bird breeds in extensive areas of undisturbed No LSE to QI populations of this species from the farmlands on offshore islands in the west and north and (formerly, but now extinct proposed development, taking account of in- there) in the floodplains of the River Shannon. combination effects in Section 5.4
Cygnus Bewick’s Non-breeding There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. columbianus Swan the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the bewickii This swan species feeds in undisturbed pasture, floodplain, lake, or estuarine habitats during the non-breeding season. proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4 Cygnus cygnus Whooper Non-breeding There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. Swan the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the
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This swan species feeds in undisturbed pasture, floodplain, lake, or estuarine habitats proposed development, taking account of in- during the non-breeding season. combination effects in Section 5.4
Euphydyas Marsh N/A Surveys in winter 2017 confirmed there was no potential habitat for the species to None No linkages with European sites. aurinia fritillary occur within the zone of influence of the proposed development. This butterfly lives in No LSE to QI populations of this species from the peaty wet grasslands in the uplands and lowlands. The larvae of the butterfly primarily proposed development, taking account of in- feed on devil’s bit scabious Succisa pratensis, combination effects in Section 5.4
Falco Merlin Breeding There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. columbarius the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the This bird of prey breeds in upland coniferous plantations, undisturbed islands in proposed development, taking account of in- western lakes and (rarely in Ireland) upland peatlands. combination effects in Section 5.4
Falco Peregrine Breeding There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. peregrinus the proposed development. This bird of prey species breeds on inland or coastal cliffs No LSE to QI populations of this species from the or tall urban structures safe from human disturbance. proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4
Gavia immer Great Non-breeding There is no habitat for this bird of open sea costs within the zone of influence of LSE None No linkages with European sites. northern from the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the diver There are no SPA for the species within more than 100 km from the proposed proposed development, taking account of in- development. combination effects in Section 5.4
Gavia stellata Red- Breeding There is no habitat for this bird of open sea costs within the zone of influence of the None No linkages with European sites. throated proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the diver There are no SPA for the species within more than 100 km from the proposed proposed development, taking account of in- development. combination effects in Section 5.4
Geomalacus Kerry slug N/A There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. maculosus the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the This invertebrate breeds in coniferous plantations and rocky peatlands. proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4
Halichoerus Grey seal N/A There is no suitable habitat for this estuarine species within the zone of influence of None No linkages with European sites. grypus LSE from the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the There are no records of haul out areas within the Glashaboy River Estuary. proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4
Hydrobates Storm petrel Breeding There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. pelagicus the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the This seabird breeds on offshore islands. proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4
Lampetra River N/A Whilst larvae of this species have been potentially recorded in the Glashaboy River None (species No linkages with European sites. fluviatilis lamprey (Lampetra sp.; indistinguishable from the similar brook lamprey) according to desktop potentially No LSE to QI populations of this species from the records (Ecofact, 2008 cited in Jacobs, 2012), there are no SAC designated for the present but proposed development, taking account of in- species within the river catchment in which the proposed development is located, or populations are combination effects in Section 5.4 the estuarine areas downstream. not SAC QI)
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Lampetra Brook N/A Whilst larvae of this species have been potentially recorded in the Glashaboy River None (species No linkages with European sites. planeri lamprey (Lampetra sp.; indistinguishable from the similar river lamprey) according to desktop potentially No LSE to QI populations of this species from the records (Ecofact, 2008 cited in Jacobs, 2012), there are no SAC designated for the present but proposed development, taking account of in- species within the river catchment in which the proposed development is located, or populations are combination effects in Section 5.4 the estuarine areas downstream. not SAC QI)
Lutra lutra Otter N/A Field surveys carried out during the appropriate season (November-December 2017) None (species No linkages with European sites. and having regard for relevant survey guidance (NRA, 2009) found no evidence of present but No LSE to QI populations of this species from the otter breeding or resting sites within zone of influence of the proposed development populations are proposed development, taking account of in- site. not SAC QI) combination effects in Section 5.4 One confirmed holt reported in the scientific literature (Sleeman and Moore, 2005) is located c. 100m from the proposed development One potential holt reported in the EIAR for the Ballinglanna Housing development (O’Flynn, 20117) is located c. 50 m from the proposed development Both holts are outside the zone of influence of LSE having regard for topography and the nature of the proposed development, considering both construction and operation. In Ireland, the territory of female otters has been estimated as 7.5 ± 1.5km in length (and 6.5 ± 1.0 km in coastal environments (Ó Néill et al. 2008 and de Jongh et al. 2010, both cited in Reid et al., 2013). There are no SAC designated for otter within 12 km of the proposed development, and there are no SAC designated for otter within the same river catchment as the proposed development.
Margaritifera Irish N/A The proposed development is not located within any catchments known to contain (or None No linkages with European sites. margaritifera freshwater potentially contain) this crustacean species. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the durrovensis pearl proposed development, taking account of in- mussel combination effects in Section 5.4
Margaritifera Freshwater N/A The proposed development is not located within any catchments known to contain (or None No linkages with European sites. margaritifera pearl potentially contain) this crustacean species. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the margaritifera mussel proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4
Oceanodroma Leach’s N/A There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. leucorhoa Petrel the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the This seabird breeds on offshore islands. proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4
Petromyzon Sea N/A There are no records of this estuarine species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. marinus lamprey the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the No SAC are designated for this species in the estuarine habitats downstream of the proposed development, taking account of in- proposed development. combination effects in Section 5.4
Phalacrocorax Cormorant Non-breeding This is a QI of the Cork Harbour SPA. The desktop data (Jacobs, 2012; NPWS, 2014c) Disturbance Whilst QI cormorant populations of Cork Harbour SPA carbo identified a known (dusk/nocturnal) roost for this species in mature woodland during occur within the zone of influence of effects, these plantations on the eastern bank of the Glashaboy River Estuary, c. 400m downstream construction and effects are not likely to be significant. of the proposed crossing of the Glanmire Bridge. operation to QI No LSE to QI populations of this species from the The bend in the Glashaboy River downstream of Glanmire Bridge screens the roosting populations of proposed development, taking account of in-
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feature downstream from the proposed crossing of the Glashaboy River upstream. Cork Harbour combination effects in Section 5.4 The birds do not roost upstream of the proposed crossing point so there is no potential SPA for collision with the new cycleway crossing. Conservation Objectives; NPWS, 2014a)
Phoca vitulina Harbour N/A There are no records of this marine mammal within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. seal the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the . No SAC are designated for this species in the estuarine habitats downstream of the proposed development, taking account of in- proposed development. combination effects in Section 5.4
Phocoena Harbour N/A There are no records of this marine mammal within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. phocoena porpoise the proposed development. No SAC are designated for this species in the estuarine No LSE to QI populations of this species from the habitats downstream of the proposed development. proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4
Pluvialis Golder Breeding or There are no QI breeding populations of this species within at least 100 km of the Disturbance Whilst QI golden plover populations of Cork Harbour apricaria plover non-breeding proposed development. during SPA occur within the zone of influence of effects, these depending on Non-breeding populations of this species are a QI of the Cork Harbour SPA. construction and effects are not likely to be significant. SPA Occasional occurrence of non-breeding birds in the Glashaboy River within the zone of operation to QI No LSE to QI populations of this species from the influence of disturbance from the proposed development cannot be ruled out, and populations of proposed development, taking account of in- there are NBDC records for golden plover in the vicinity of the Glashaboy River Cork Harbour combination effects in Section 5.4 Estuary. However, these populations are unlikely to use the area regularly and/or SPA intensely due to the absence of core feeding or roosting sites within the zone of (Conservation influence of likely significant disturbance effects. The existing N8 road provides a Objectives; visual and auditory buffer between the proposed development and the nearest known NPWS, 2014a) roost site for the species, in the polder west of the Jack Lynch tunnel, recorded by Jacobs in the winter of 2010/2011(Jacobs, 2012).
Pyrrhocorax Chough Breeding or There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. pyrrhocorax non-breeding the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the depending on This species of the crow family breeds on undisturbed headlands, offshore islands, proposed development, taking account of in- SPA and (rarely) undisturbed inshore lake habitats. combination effects in Section 5.4
Rhinolophus Lesser N/A There are no SAC for the species within at least 50 km of the proposed development. None No linkages with European sites. hipposideros horseshoe Maximum foraging ranges for the species from its SAC have not been recorded No LSE to QI populations of this species from the exceeding 6 km in Ireland (e.g. 5.2km in Galway; Rush and Billington, 2014), or Wales proposed development, taking account of in- (4.2km; Bontadina et al., 2002). The range of this light-sensitive bat species of rural combination effects in Section 5.4 areas does not overlap with the zone of influence of the proposed development.
Salmo salar Salmon N/A Whilst, this species has been recorded in the Glashaboy River according to desktop None No linkages with European sites. records (Ecofact, 2008 cited in Jacobs, 2012), there are no SAC designated for the No LSE to QI populations of this species from the species within the river catchment in which the proposed development is located, or proposed development, taking account of in- the estuarine areas downstream. combination effects in Section 5.4
Sterna albifrons Little tern Breeding This seabird breeds on coastal shingle; there is no habitat for the species within the None No linkages with European sites. zone of influence No LSE to QI populations of this species from the
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proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4
Sterna dougallii Roseate Breeding or There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from tern passage the proposed development. depending on This seabird primarily breeds on offshore islands; there is no habitat for the species SPA within the zone of influence.
Sterna hirundo Common Breeding or This seabird breeds primarily on offshore islands, but also on structures including None No linkages with European sites. tern passage artificial nesting platforms. It is a QI of Cork Harbour SPA where the population nests No LSE to QI populations of this species from the depending on on derelict steel barges and the roof of a Martello Tower more than 300 m downstream proposed development, taking account of in- SPA of the proposed development (NPWS, 2014c). None of the Cork Harbour nesting combination effects in Section 5.4 structures are within the likely zone of influence of disturbance from noise or visual presence of construction staff/traffic
Sterna Arctic tern Breeding or There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. paradisaea passage the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the depending on This seabird primarily breeds on offshore islands; there is no habitat for the species proposed development, taking account of in- SPA within the zone of influence. combination effects in Section 5.4
Sterna Sandwich Breeding There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. sandvicensis tern the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the This seabird primarily breeds on offshore islands or islands in sea loughs. proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4
Tursiops Bottlenose N/A No SAC are designated for this coastal/estuarine marine mammal downstream of the None No linkages with European sites. truncatus dolphin proposed development No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in- combination effects in Section 5.4
Vertigo Narrow- N/A There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. angustior mouthed the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the whorl snail This invertebrate lives in dune and coastal grassland, fen, marsh, salt marsh and flood proposed development, taking account of in- plain. combination effects in Section 5.4
Vertigo geyeri Geyer's N/A There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. whorl snail the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the This invertebrate lives in the root zone of sedges growing in localized wetlands fed by proposed development, taking account of in- calcareous groundwater. combination effects in Section 5.4
Vertigo Desmoulin's N/A There is no suitable habitat for this species within the zone of influence of LSE from None No linkages with European sites. moulinsiana whorl snail the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the This invertebrate lives in calcareous, lowland wetlands; especially swamps fens and proposed development, taking account of in-
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marshes bordering rivers, canals, lakes and ponds. combination effects in Section 5.4
Other QI wader, Various Non-breeding Feeding birds Disturbance Whilst populations of eight QI species of Cork Harbour 14 gull and duck Relative to the size of non-breeding populations feeding in expansive habitats in Cork during SPA (excluding cormorant already assessed) occur species not Harbour downstream, small feeding populations of eight species17 (excluding construction and within the zone of influence of effects, these effects are listed on Annex cormorant already assessed) feed in in the Glashaboy River Estuary within the zone of operation to QI not likely to be significant. 1 to Birds influence of disturbance effects from the proposed development. The usage of this populations of No LSE to QI populations of this species from the Directive* area by birds is small, due in significant part to the existing disturbance regime from Cork Harbour proposed development, taking account of in- the busy road network on the banks of the Glashaboy River. The additive disturbance SPA combination effects in Section 5.4 from construction and operation of the proposed development will not significantly Conservation reduce the numbers or frequency of populations present. Objectives; There are no instream works for the proposed development. None of the proposed NPWS, 2014a) crossing points of the Glashaboy River Estuary overlap the estuarine part of the river south of Glanmire Bridge. The bend in the Glashaboy River downstream of Glanmire Bridge screens the Glashaboy Estuary downstream from the proposed crossing by Glanmire Bridge upstream.
Roosting birds The existing N8 road provides a visual and auditory buffer between the proposed development and the nearest known roost site for QI wader species of Cork Harbour, which is located in the polder west of the Jack Lynch tunnel.
QI geese Non-breeding The range of greylag goose Anser anser does not overlap the zone of influence of None No linkages with European sites. species not potential disturbance effects from the proposed development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the listed (light- Whilst there are NBDC records of light-bellied Brent goose Branta bernicla hrota within proposed development, taking account of in- bellied Brent Cork Harbour, there is no habitat for the species within the zone of influence of combination effects in Section 5.4 potential disturbance effects from the proposed development (i.e. c. 300 m downstream having regard for the visual and auditory screening provided by the bend in the Glashaboy River downstream of the proposed cycleway crossing by Glanmire).
17 little grebe Tachybaptus ruficolis, grey heron Ardea cinerea, teal Anas crecca, redshank Tringa totanus, black-headed gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus, lesser black-backed gull Larus fuscus, common gull Larus canus, Curlew Numenius arquata
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Table 9 Screening assessment for QI habitats and plant species: includes all habitats and plants for which European sites are designated in Ireland
Habitat Screening Assessment Potential Screening conclusion Directive linkages with Annex I European sites habitat name (*denotes Priority Habitats) Plant species Slender naiad There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. Najas flexilis development. This plant species occurs in soft water lowland lakes. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4
Killarney fern This species occurs in crevices and overhangs on cliffs and rocky slopes, in stream gullies, by waterfalls and None. There is No linkages with European sites. Trichomanes in woodlands, and occasionally occurs under fallen trees and on the floor of damp woodlands. Surveys by some limited No LSEs to QI populations of this species from the proposed speciosum AECOM to inform this report in November 2017 identified some limited potentially suitable habitat for the potentially development, taking account of in-combination effects in species. However there are no SAC designated for the plant in Cork city or the wider area. suitable habitat Section 5.4 for the species but if present populations are not within SAC
Petalwort There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. Petalophyllum development. This is a species of bare, moist, stable sand or of short turf mainly on mildly to strongly base- No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed ralfsii rich dune slacks and machair, where the habitat can be subject to inundation in the winter development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4
Yellow marsh There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. saxifrage development No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed Saxifraga This plant species occurs in upland heathland habitats. development, taking account of in-combination effects in hirculus Section 5.4 Coastal Habitats Atlantic salt This habitat occurs downstream of the proposed development site in Cork Harbour (Jacobs, 2012), but the None (the No linkages with European sites. meadows area is not designated as an SAC. habitat present No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed in Lough Mahon development, taking account of in-combination effects in downstream is Section 5.4 not within an SAC) Decalcified There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. dune heath* development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4
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Decalcified There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. empetrum development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed dunes* development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Drift lines There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Dune slack There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Dunes with There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. creeping willow development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Embryonic There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. shifting dunes development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Estuaries There are no SAC designated for this habitat downstream of the proposed development. The Glashaboy None (the No linkages with European sites. River Estuary is not designated as an SAC for its estuarine habitats. habitat present No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed in the development, taking account of in-combination effects in Glashaboy Section 5.4 River downstream is not within an SAC) Fixed dunes There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. (grey dunes)* development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Halophilous There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. scrub development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Lagoons* There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Large shallow This habitat occurs downstream of the proposed development site in Cork harbour, but the area is not None (the No linkages with European sites.
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inlets and bays designated as an SAC. habitat present No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed in Lough Mahon development, taking account of in-combination effects in downstream is Section 5.4 not within an SAC) Machair* There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Marram dunes There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. (white dunes) development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Mediterranean This habitat occurs downstream of the proposed development site in Cork Harbour (Jacobs, 2012), but the None (the No linkages with European sites. salt meadows area is not designated as an SAC. habitat present No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed in Lough Mahon development, taking account of in-combination effects in downstream is Section 5.4 not within an SAC) Perennial There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. vegetation of development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed stony banks development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Reefs There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Salicornia mud This habitat could occur downstream of the proposed development site in Cork Harbour (Jacobs, 2012), None No linkages with European sites. but the area is not designated as an SAC. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Sandbanks This is a marine habitat, or habitat of lower estuaries characterised by a bank of sand which is covered by None No linkages with European sites. seawater at high tide. There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the footprint of the proposed No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development or downstream of it. development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Sea caves There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Sea cliffs There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed
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development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Tidal mudflats There are no SAC designated for this habitat downstream of the proposed development. The mudflats in None (the No linkages with European sites. the Glashaboy River downstream are not within an SAC. The Great Island Channel SAC is designated for habitat present No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed this species, but this SAC is not downstream of the proposed development or within the same surface in the development, taking account of in-combination effects in water catchment as it. Glashaboy Section 5.4 River Estuary is not within an SAC) Freshwater Habitats Dystrophic There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. lakes development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Floating river There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. vegetation development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Hard water There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. lakes development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Natural There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. eutrophic lakes development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Oligotrophic There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. soft water lakes development. No LSEs to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Soft water There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. lakes with development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed base-rich development, taking account of in-combination effects in influences Section 5.4 Grassland, heath, and peatland habitats Alkaline fens There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Alpine and There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. subalpine development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed
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heath development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Blanket bog There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. (active)* development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Calaminarian There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. grassland development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Chenopodium There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. rubri development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Cladium fen* There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Degraded There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. raised bogs development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Dry heaths There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Hydrophilous There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. tall herb development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Juniper scrub There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Lowland hay There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. meadows development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Molinia There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. meadows development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed
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development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Orchid-rich There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. calcareous development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed grassland* development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Petrifying There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. springs* development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Raised bog There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. (active)* development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Rhyncosporion There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. depressions development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Species-rich There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. nardus upland development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed grassland* development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Transition There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. mires development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Turloughs* There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Wet heath There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Rocky habitats Calcareous There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. rocky slopes development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Caves There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites.
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development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Eutric scree There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Limestone There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. pavement* development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Siliceous rocky There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. slopes development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Siliceous scree There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Woodlands Bog woodland* There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Old oak There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. woodlands development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Residual There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. alluvial forests* development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4 Taxus baccata There are no SAC designated for this habitat within the zone of influence of LSE from the proposed None No linkages with European sites. woods* development. No LSE to QI populations of this species from the proposed development, taking account of in-combination effects in Section 5.4
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