C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.Docx

South Sebastopol Environmental Statement

January 2011

Waterman Transport & Development Limited 38 Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9LL, United Kingdom www.watermangroup.com

Client Name: Barratt Homes Wales, Taylor Wimpey and Welsh Assembly Government Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Project Number: CIV11765

Quality Assurance – Approval Status

This document has been prepared and checked in accordance with Waterman Group’s IMS (BS EN ISO 9001: 2009 and BS EN ISO 14001: 2004)

Issue Date Prepared by Checked by Approved by Draft 18.01.2011 Susana Parker/Kevin Andrew Wilkinson Alan Wilkinson Llewellyn

Comments

Our Markets

Property & Buildings Transport & Infrastructure Energy & Utilities Environment

Disclaimer

This report has been prepared for the sole and exclusive use of the Consortium involving Barratt Homes Wales, Taylor Wimpey and the Welsh Assembly Government from whom it was commissioned and has been prepared in response to their particular requirements and brief. This report may not be relied upon by any other party. The Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 shall not apply to this report and the provisions of the said Act are expressly excluded from this report. This report may not be used for any purpose other than that for which it was commissioned. This report may not be reproduced and/or made public by print, photocopy, microfilm or any other means without the prior written permission of Waterman Transport & Development Ltd. The conclusions resulting from this study and contained in this report are not necessarily indicative of future conditions or operating practices at or adjacent to the Site. Much of the information presented in this report is based on information provided by others. That information has neither been checked nor verified by Waterman Transport & Development Ltd.

Contents 1. Introduction ...... 1 Preamble ...... 1 Legislative Background ...... 1 Method Statement...... 2 2. Project Description ...... 3 The Site – Context ...... 3 Site and Surroundings ...... 3 3. Project Proposal ...... 4 Aims ...... 4 Objectives ...... 4 4. Residual Impacts, Environmental Effects and Management ...... 8 Introduction ...... 8 Review Procedure ...... 8 5. Ecology and Nature Conservation ...... 29 Introduction ...... 29 Legislative and Planning Policy Context ...... 29 Assessment Methodology and Significance Criteria ...... 36 Evaluation of Ecological Features ...... 44 Evaluation of Significance ...... 45 Baseline Conditions ...... 45 Potential Effects ...... 65 Mitigation Measures and Recommendations ...... 70 Residual Effects ...... 72 Summary ...... 77 Cumulative Effects ...... 78 Summary ...... 79 References ...... 79 6. Services (Utilities) ...... 82 Introduction ...... 82 Planning Policy Context ...... 84 Assessment Methodology ...... 85 Baseline Conditions ...... 85 Likely Significant Effects ...... 86 Mitigation Measures ...... 89 Residual Effects ...... 95 Cumulative Effects ...... 96 Summary ...... 96 7. Planning Policy and Society & Economy ...... 98

South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Policies and Plans...... 98 Introduction ...... 98 Methodology ...... 98 Baseline Conditions ...... 98 Policies ...... 99 Conclusion ...... 110 Socio Economic Issues ...... 110 8. Landscape Character and Visual Assessment...... 115 Introduction ...... 115 Planning Policy Context ...... 115 Assessment Methodology ...... 118 Baseline Conditions ...... 120 Likely Significant Effects ...... 127 Mitigation Measures ...... 136 Residual Effects ...... 137 Cumulative Effects ...... 137 Summary ...... 138 9. Transportation Assessment (Traffic, Transport and Movement) ...... 143 Introduction ...... 143 Planning Policy Context ...... 143 Assessment Methodology ...... 151 Baseline Conditions ...... 152 Likely Significant Effects ...... 153 Mitigation Measures ...... 159 Residual Effects ...... 161 Cumulative Effects ...... 177 Summary ...... 178 10. Archaeological, Built and Cultural Heritage ...... 180 Introduction ...... 180 Planning Policy Context ...... 180 Assessment Methodology ...... 181 Baseline Conditions ...... 183 Likely Significant Effects ...... 185 Mitigation Measures ...... 187 Residual Effects ...... 187 Summary ...... 187 11. Ground Conditions (Hydrogeology, Soils and Contaminated Land) ...... 190 Introduction ...... 190 Planning Policy Context ...... 190 Assessment Methodology ...... 190

Baseline Conditions ...... 190 Likely Significant Effects ...... 194 Mitigation Measures ...... 197 Residual Effects ...... 197 Cumulative Effects ...... 198 Summary ...... 198 12. Water Resources (Water Quality, Hydrology, Flood Risk and Drainage Assessment) ...... 204 Introduction ...... 204 Planning Policy Context ...... 204 Assessment Methodology ...... 206 Baseline Conditions ...... 206 Likely Significant Effects ...... 217 Mitigation Measures ...... 218 Residual Effects ...... 223 Cumulative Effects ...... 223 Summary ...... 223 13. Noise and Vibration Assessment ...... 227 Introduction ...... 227 Planning Policy Context ...... 227 Assessment Methodology ...... 229 Baseline Conditions ...... 233 Likely Significant Effects ...... 235 Mitigation Measures ...... 240 Residual Effects ...... 244 Summary ...... 244 14. Air Quality Assessment ...... 248 Introduction ...... 248 Planning Policy Context ...... 248 Assessment Methodology ...... 251 Likely Significant Effects ...... 257 Baseline Conditions ...... 259 Potential Effects ...... 261 Mitigation Measures ...... 267 Residual Effects ...... 269 Summary ...... 269 15. Sustainability ...... 272 Introduction ...... 272 Planning Policy Context and Guidance ...... 272 Assessment Methodology and Significance Criteria ...... 276 Baseline Conditions ...... 278

Likely Significant Effects ...... 278 Mitigation Measures ...... 284 Residual Impacts ...... 285 Summary ...... 285 References ...... 285 16. Non-Technical Summary ...... 289 Ecology and Nature Conservation ...... 289 Services (Utilities) ...... 289 Planning Policy and Society & Economy ...... 290 Landscape Charter and Visual Assessment ...... 291 Transportation Assessment (Traffic, Transport and Movement) ...... 292 Archaeological, Built and Cultural Heritage ...... 293 Ground Conditions (Hydrogeology, Soils and Contaminated Land) ...... 293 Water Resources (Water Quality, Hydrology, Flood Risk and Drainage Assessment) ...... 295 Noise and Vibration Assessment ...... 298 Air Quality Assessment ...... 298 Sustainability ...... 299

Tables Table 1: Summary of mitigation and monitoring measures ...... 10 Table 2: All bird species recorded during the surveys ...... 57 Table 3: Birds recorded during the visits, locations and breeding status ...... 58 Table 4: Summary table ...... 77 Table 5: Table of Significance – Ecology and Nature Conservation ...... 80 Table 6: Significance Matrix - Services (Utilities) ...... 86 Table 7: Table of Significance – Services (Utilities) ...... 97 Table 8: Relevant Planning Policies and Significance of Impact ...... 105 Table 9: WAG 2008 – Based Population Projections - Torfaen CBC ...... 111 Table 10: Table of Significance – Society and Economy ...... 114 Table 11: Significance Matrix – Landscape Character and Visual Assessment ...... 120 Table 12: Description of Photoviewpoint Locations, identification of receptors and classification of sensitivity ...... 124 Table 13: Table of Significance – Landscape Character and Visual Assessment ...... 139 Table 14: Residential Trip Rates ...... 153 Table 15: Village Centre Trip Rates ...... 154 Table 16: Weekday Arrivals – Proposed Residential ...... 155 Table 17: Weekday Departures – Proposed Residential ...... 155 Table 18: Weekday Arrivals – Proposed Village Centre ...... 155 Table 19: Weekday Departures – Proposed Village Centre...... 155 Table 20: Saturday Arrivals – Proposed Residential ...... 155 Table 21: Saturday Departures – Proposed Residential ...... 155

Table 22: Saturday Arrivals – Proposed Village Centre ...... 156 Table 23: Saturday Departures – Proposed Village Centre ...... 156 Table 24: Total Village Centre External Trips ...... 156 Table 25: Avesta Development Trips ...... 157 Table 26: Gravity Model for Proposed Residential Traffic ...... 157 Table 27: Significance Matrix – Transportation Assessment (Traffic, Transport and Movement) ...... 159 Table 28: Baseline Traffic Growth Rates ...... 161 Table 29: Avondale Roundabout – AM Peak ...... 165 Table 30: Avondale Roundabout – PM Peak ...... 165 Table 31: Cwmbran Drive Roundabout ...... 166 Table 32: Cwmbran Drive Roundabout – Sensitivity Test ...... 167 Table 33: Oaklands Road Access ...... 167 Table 34: Lowlands Crescent Access – Priority Junction ...... 167 Table 35: Grove Park Roundabout – AM Peak ...... 169 Table 36: Grove Park Roundabout – PM Peak ...... 169 Table 37: Rechem Roundabout – AM Peak ...... 171 Table 38: Rechem Roundabout – PM Peak ...... 171 Table 39: Summary of Accidents at Existing Junctions ...... 172 Table 40: Transport Implementation Strategy ...... 174 Table 41: Table of Significance – Transportation Assessment (Traffic, Transport and Movement) ...... 179 Table 42: Significance Matrix – Archaeology, Built and Cultural Heritage ...... 186 Table 43: Significance Matrix – Archaeology, Built and Cultural Heritage – assessment of effects ...... 186 Table 44: Table of Significance – Archaeology, Built and Cultural Heritage ...... 189 Table 45: Site Investigations ...... 191 Table 46: Summary of Ground Conditions ...... 192 Table 47: Significance Matrix – Ground Conditions (Hydrogeology, Soils and Contaminated Land) ..... 196 Table 48: Summary of Ground Conditions ...... 199 Table 49: Table of Significance – Ground Conditions (Hydrogeology, Soils and Contaminated Land) .. 201 Table 50: Summary of Site Hydrogeology ...... 207 Table 51: Base Flow Assessment ...... 210 Table 52: Extreme Design Flows ...... 211 Table 53: Greenfield Runoff Rates ...... 211 Table 54: Significance Matrix – Water Resources (Water Quality, Hydrology, Flood Risk and Drainage Assessment) ...... 217 Table 55: Table of Significance – Water Resources (Water Quality, Hydrology, Flood Risk and Drainage Assessment) ...... 226 Table 56: TAN 11 Noise Exposure Categories for Road Noise ...... 228 Table 57: Construction Noise Significance Criteria ...... 230 Table 58: Road Traffic Noise Significance Criteria ...... 232 Table 59: Potential Noise Sensitive Receptors ...... 233 Table 60: Noise Monitoring Locations ...... 234 Table 61: Baseline Noise Measurements ...... 234

Table 62: Distances at which vibration may be just perceptible ...... 236 Table 63: Average Ambient Noise Levels and Corresponding NEC ...... 237 Table 64: Indoor Ambient Noise Levels (BS 8233:1999) ...... 241 Table 65: Indicative Glazing Specification ...... 241 Table 66: Table of Significance – Noise and Vibration Assessment ...... 246 Table 67: National Air Quality Strategy Objectives for the Purposes of Local Air Quality Management 249 Table 68: Dust Sensitive Receptors ...... 252 Table 69: Selected Receptor Locations...... 253 Table 70: 24 Hour AADT Flows and Percentage of HGV for 2010, 2012, 2022 and 2027 ...... 254 Table 71: Speed Limit and Road Type for Roads used for all years in DMRB Modelling ...... 256 Table 72: Average Background Concentrations in the Vicinity of the Site ...... 256 Table 73: Construction Significance Criteria ...... 257

Table 74: Magnitude of Change Descriptor in Relation to Changes in Concentrations of NO2 and PM10 ...... 258

Table 75: Effect Significance Criteria for Annual Mean NO2 and PM10 ...... 258

Table 76: Effect Significance Criteria for PM10 Daily Mean ...... 259

Table 77: NO2 (μg/m3) Diffusion Tube (TCBC 5) Monitoring in the Vicinity of the Site ...... 260 3 Table 78: NO2 (μg/m ) Diffusion Tube (TCBC 5) Monitoring in the vicinity of the site ...... 260 3 Table 79: PM10 (μg/m ) Monitoring in TCBC ...... 260 Table 80: Results of the DMRB modelling at sensitive receptors ...... 263 Table 81: Summary of the Significance of Potential Effects...... 267 Table 82: Table of Significance – Air Quality Assessment ...... 271 Table 83: Significance Criteria ...... 277 Table 84: Table of Significance – Sustainability ...... 287 Table 85: Summary of Ground Conditions ...... 294

Appendices A. Environmental Statement - Appendices Part 1 B. Environmental Statement - Appendices Part 2

1. Introduction

Preamble 1.1. Waterman has been appointed by the Consortium involving Barratt Homes Wales, Taylor Wimpey and the Welsh Assembly Government (henceforth in this Document referred to as ‘the Consortium) to coordinate and collate an Environmental Statement (ES) as part of the EIA process for residential and ancillary retail and community development at a site known as South Sebastopol, Cwmbran, Torfaen (see Site Location Plan in Appendix 1.1). The application is in outline with all matters except means of access to Cwmbran Drive and Lowlands Crescent reserved for future approval. Access to Oaklands Road is reserved for future approval. 1.2. The adopted Torfaen Local Plan designates some 138 hectares of land at South Sebastopol as a General Development Area under policy S2/2. The reasoned justification for this policy confirms that this allocation constitutes the Local Plan's principal housing allocation and is intended to accommodate some 1200 dwellings in addition to neighbourhood shopping, a primary school, community facilities and formal and informal open space. The precise extent of the site and the distribution of land uses, landscaping and infrastructure is to be controlled by a Development Framework. This Environmental Statement and the application which it supports is intended to take forward that allocation. It is relevant to note that the planning application site, and therefore the area covered by the ES is not exactly co-terminus with the General Development Area boundary defined by the Local Plan. Most significantly the golf course is excluded from the application site boundary. 1.3 The need for, and the possible locations of, land for housing was considered extensively as part of the Local Plan preparation process. 1.4 The consortium has worked closely with Torfaen County Borough Council and other stakeholders to develop the Masterplan and Management Plan. The final document has been the subject of wide-ranging consultation with the Council and other interest groups. Where relevant the assessments in this Environmental Statement are based on the illustrative proposals set out in the Masterplan (included in Appendix 1.2). It is anticipated that, where appropriate, the consent will be conditioned to ensure that subsequent reserved matters applications are consistent with the aforementioned Masterplan and Phasing Plan (included in Appendix 1.3), Landscape Plan (included in Appendix 1.4) and Management Plan (prepared by Asbri Planning).

Legislative Background 1.5 The purpose of Environmental Impact Assessment is to provide the local planning authority, when determining a planning application, with sufficient information to allow it to properly assess the environmental effects of a project. The legislative background to this requirements originated with the EEC Directive on "The Assessment of the Effects of Certain Public and Private Projects on the Environment' (85/337/EEC) and was amended by Council Directive 97/11/EC. These Directives are implemented for the purpose of determining planning applications via the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 1999 which came into force on 14 March 1999. 1.6 The above Regulations establish the criteria which determine whether Environmental Impact Assessment is necessary or not and identify the nature and scale of the projects and their applicability to be determined as Schedule 1 or Schedule 2 projects. Schedule 1 projects require EIA in every case. Schedule 2 projects may or may not require EIA dependent on whether the

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project in question is likely to give rise to significant environmental effects by virtue of factors such as nature, size or location. Column 2 of Schedule 2 establishes that urban development projects with an area exceeding 0.5 hectares fall to be screened using the criteria set out in Schedule 3. In this case the applicant has volunteered the ES in accordance with Regulation 4(2)(a). Therefore the development is defined as EIA development for the purposes of the Regulations.

Method Statement 1.7 The scope of the ES has been determined in accordance with Schedule 4 of the Regulations. The methodology adopted in preparing the Statement is largely that described in the Department of the Environment Planning Research Programme "Good Practice Guide" produced in 1995 which gives advice on the preparation of Environmental Statements for planning projects that require environmental assessment. The scope of that exercise has been discussed in advance with Torfaen County Borough Council. In specific areas of analysis the methodology adopts specific National Guidance for Wales, or where none has been published, the methodology defaults to best practice methodology. Specific methodology in these cases are referred to in each individual Chapter. 1.8 Much of the analysis has also been supplemented by field survey and recourse to recent and historical records and data. 1.9 The Statement follows the conventional structure and format as recommended by the DoE Good Practice Guide.

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2. Project Description

The Site – Context

Site and Surroundings 2.1. The site lies in the southern part of Torfaen County Borough, some 2km to the north-west of Cwmbran town centre. Pontypool is approximately 3.5km to the north and Newbridge 7.5km to the west. Further afield, Newport is some 10.5km to the south and Cardiff 24km to the south-west (all straight line distances). 2.2. The site itself, which is essentially rectangular in shape, extends to some 100.6 hectares (249 acres). It sits between the northern edge of the closely built-up area of Cwmbran and the southern edge of Panteg / Sebastopol. The northern and southern boundaries are therefore formed by fairly dense urban development. To the east the development pattern is more fractured being disrupted by the A4051 and A4042(T) roads together with the Newport / Hereford railway line and large scale industrial plants. To the west is a golf course, beyond which is open countryside with existing built development being limited to sporadic and isolated residential properties. Chapter 8 of this Environmental Statement describes the landscape and visual contexts of the site in greater detail. 2.3. The largest part of the site is currently in agricultural use although it is interspersed with woodland blocks. Built development is limited to six detached properties or small farmsteads and an isolated hay barn. The most significant man-made feature on the site is the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal which runs through the centre of the site on a meandering route in a generally north-south direction. In the northern part of the site the canal is below the general ground level and sits in a low cutting whereas to the south it is at or slightly above ground level. At one point it passes through a short tunnel. 2.4. In general the land falls from north-west to south-east with the steepest gradients being at the western part of the site. However various parts of the site have gradients greater than 1:8. 2.5. In addition to the canal, the site is crossed by a number of minor streams and watercourses which, following, the landform, flow generally from west to east. The northern and central streams (Streams 1 and 5 shown in Appendix 2.1) are culverted under the canal whilst, to the south, a further stream 6 (see Appendix 2.1) discharges into the canal from the west and outflows from the canal to the east. The canal, together with vegetation associated with the central watercourse (Stream 5 in Appendix 2.1) divide the site into four roughly equally sized quadrants. The upper, western parts of the site are more visually prominent when seen from the east at medium and long range. The eastern part of the site is more low-lying in the overall landscape. 2.6. A dismantled railway line runs north-south on the site's eastern boundary. At the southern end of the site this line has been built over by Cwmbran Drive but, to the north, the line crosses the site and separates a small area from the remainder. 2.7. The site is classified on the provisional Agricultural Land Classification Map for Wales as predominantly Grade 4 Agricultural Land with some non-agricultural use.

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3. Project Proposal 3.1. The Environmental Statement supports a refreshed Planning Application (No.01/P/05525), with the components included on a Masterplan and Management Plan with sufficient detail so as to facilitate the preparation of an Environment Impact Assessment. 3.2. The proposals will comprise predominantly residential uses but with a mix of public and commercial uses. The number of residential, public, commercial and other buildings will be stated, and the range, size and types of units described in the Environmental Statement. The location and size of other uses, such as open space, will also be shown on the master plan. 3.3. This scheme will be developed on predominantly greenfield land (i.e. land which has not sustained building development previously).which comprises mostly agricultural land with small pockets of woodland, a number of detached properties and the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, which bisects the centre of the site in a north to south direction. 3.4. The proposed development comprises up to 1200 dwellings and a village centre. 3.5. The documents referred to and included as part of the Planning Application are: • Masterplan (prepared by PAD Design Ltd) • Development Brief and Design & Access Statement (prepared by PAD Design Ltd) • Masterplan Phasing Plan (prepared by PAD Design Ltd) • Strategic Landscape Plan (prepared by Soltys Brewster Consulting) • Landscape Strategy Supporting Document (prepared by Soltys Brewster Consulting) • Management Plan (prepared by Asbri Planning Ltd, Soltys Brewster Consulting & Waterman Transport & Development Ltd)

Aims 3.6. The Development Framework seeks to draw on the distinctive aspects of the site identified on the Principal Constraints Plan in order to create: y An integrated, comprehensive and sustainable development in accordance with the policies and proposals of the adopted Local Plan; y A development which takes account of the existing landscape, the canal, pedestrian and cycle routes and existing dwellings; 3.7. While at the same time promoting: y A distinct community with a well defined village centre, a bold landscape setting and an urban form which reflects and reinforces the character of the area. y A development area of 48.5 hectares (120 acres) accommodating approximately 1,200 dwellings.

Objectives 3.8. Given the opportunity to provide a totally new residential environment the overall approach is to create a new balanced community that: y Makes best use of the existing features such as woodland, tree lined hedgerows, streams and the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. 4 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

y Has a clear identity that gives residents and visitors a sense of place. y Echoes the features of a traditional urban settlement including a mix of homes and recreational, social, welfare and educational facilities with local small scale employment opportunities intermixed to create a balanced community. y Has a focus in the form of a village centre providing a range of facilities and which also relates well to the existing housing to the north of the site thereby fostering a sense of community y Provides a range of housing from first time buyer homes, through to family homes and includes smaller units suitable for the elderly with the aim· of creating a balanced community of all ages and incomes. y Creates a safe and pleasant place for pedestrians and cyclists and which accommodates the motorcar within a traffic calmed predominantly 20mph environment. y Ensures that buildings enhance the pedestrian environment in the way that they relate to public streets and thereby provide an attractive, safe and inviting public realm. y Provides an integrated public transport solution with emphasis on bus penetration throughout the site and direct and safe pedestrian and cycle routes serving destinations within and adjoining the site. y Creates a community with a connected and permeable public network of streets and open spaces that act as the main structuring elements within the settlement. y Reinforces that structure with a hierarchy of buildings and spaces that provide a sense of place, and act as landmarks of community identity. 3.9. The broad principles that are incorporated into the Development Framework are:

Landscape 3.10. The existing landscape structure constitutes a major determinant of the disposition of land uses within the proposed development. The overriding principle adopted is to retain and protect those existing landscape features which give the site its existing quality and character. These are the canal, woodland, streams and associated riparian vegetation, and the site hedges. They have been afforded generous buffer zones not only to built development but also from groundworks. The localised hill and ridge lines around Wrens Nest Farm are treated with particular care as they are particularly visually sensitive and provide topographical relief from the general eastward slope of the site. In the order of 50% of the gross site area is left undeveloped and will be retained as open space or woodland. The following principles are adopted in respect of specific landscape components:

Central Open Space Corridor. 3.11. The formulation of a central open space strategy through the core of the site, focusing around the pedestrian crossing over the canal tunnel, linking areas of substantial vegetation within the site.

Canal Corridor. 3.12. Protecting and enhancing the distinct character of the canal corridor, limiting views to the development in sensitive locations and opening up the canal in the vicinity of the local centre/canal basin.

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Focal Open Space 3.13. Retaining the 'special' landscape character of the pedestrian crossing of the canal over the existing tunnel. Views out to the hillside should be retained, as should existing buildings to create focal points within the landscape. The exposed ridge line above Wren's Nest Farm should remain free from development.

Visually Prominent Slopes 3.14. Where possible visually prominent slopes should be broken up with bands of new structure planting, reinforcing existing hedgerow networks where appropriate.

Ecologically High Quality Hedgerows 3.15. Where feasible the hedgerows identified within the ecological assessment as being particularly valuable from an ecological aspect should be retained, incorporating them meaningfully within the development.

Road Linkages through Open Space 3.16. Establishing the alignment of key road corridors as they pass through the open space. The roads should be designed to follow the existing site contours, thereby reducing the impact in these principal areas.

Ecology 3.17. The aim is to endeavour to retain as much of the existing higher value habitats and features of the site within the proposed development as possible. The principles to be adopted are: y All areas of woodland will be retained within the development. The detailed design will aim to maintain hydrological continuity with the wet woodlands. y The hedgerows identified in the surveys as being of high ecological quality will be retained where possible. y The canal will be preserved as a navigable waterway and all aspects of the development that will impact upon it will be given the highest consideration with regard to ecological impacts. y Principal wildlife corridors associated with the site will be maintained wherever practicable. y The areas to be retained will be made as large as is possible within the constraints of the proposed development, with the aim of creating substantial blocks of mixed habitats that can be sustainably managed for wildlife in the long term. y The long term preservation and management of some areas of scrub vegetation and grassland associated with locally important invertebrate species will be supported. y The areas to be retained will remain true to the Local Plan requirement for a 'green wedge' through the proposed development. The detailed design will place infrastructure at points of minimum ecological impact as far as is practicable. In that respect existing breaches in hedgerows will be used, wherever possible, for the siting of roads, footpaths, or services.

Hydrology 3.18. The site is currently drained by a series of streams flowing west to east through the site and discharging to the Afon Llwyd to the east. The southern stream initially discharges into the canal before appearing again as an overflow from the canal.

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3.19. Torfaen County Borough Council have confirmed that they will not permit flows in the streams, particularly the central and southern ones, to be increased by discharging from the development as sewer systems further downstream which they pass through prior to outfalling to the Afon Llwyd occasionally surcharge. Conversely flows should be maintained at levels to ensure continued supply to vegetation etc along the streams lengths. It is thus intended, where possible, to retain all streams and their tributaries by culverting where appropriate within the development infrastructure. Flows from the .development will be collected in new sewer networks, pass under the canal and discharge to balancing ponds strategically located on the low eastern side of the development. Flow from the main balancing ponds will discharge to the offsite requisition sewer and then to the Afon Llwyd whilst two smaller ponds located in the. north east and south east of the site will discharge to the adjacent streams as agreed in principle with TCBC. 3.20. Allowable discharge from the ponds will be based on 20 l/sec/hectare of development area as agreed with the Environment Agency and endorsed by TCBC.

Topography 3.21. Significant parts of the site lie at gradients that are steeper than 1:8. This makes residential development more expensive both in terms of construction costs and landtake (eg. split level buildings and retained slopes) and substantially reduces the density that is achievable. This constraint makes it necessary to achieve at least 48.5 hectares (120 acres) of developable area.

Circulation 3.22. The aim is to make South Sebastopol a safe and convenient place for pedestrians and cyclists while accommodating the motorcar in a traffic calmed environment in accordance with the latest version of Manual for Streets. The two principal vehicular access points are to the east in Cwmbran Drive, with secondary access to the residential areas north and south of the site. The existing footpath and cycle network will be incorporated into the scheme with the aim of safeguarding existing routes and providing new linkages within the site, especially to the village centre and open space areas, and to adjoining routes and areas. 3.23. The topography of the site will also play a major part in the alignment and route of the network of access roads on the site. The slope and the need to minimise cut and fill on the site will mean that the looped distributor road will have to meander with the contours not against them.

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4. Residual Impacts, Environmental Effects and Management

Introduction 4.1. This chapter of the ES presents a summary of the mitigation, monitoring measures and Residual Impacts identified through the EIA process and full details can be found in the respective ES chapters. 4.2. Schedule 4 of the EIA Regulations requires ESs to include: “…a description of the measures envisaged to prevent, reduce and where possible offset any significant adverse effects on the environment.” 4.3. The mitigation measures included in this ES ,generally fall into one of four categories: y mitigation incorporated into the Development Parameters; y additional mitigation to be applied to the Proposed Development during detailed design; y mitigation through controls on construction procedures; or y mitigation through controls on operational procedures. 4.4. Table 1 outlines a topic by topic summary of the key issues addressed by the EIA including the mitigation measures identified and the Residual Impacts. It can be seen that prior to the implementation of mitigation measures the significance rating is generally negligible to adverse. There are a few exceptions to this however as in the case of Sciety and Economy where job creation even in the construction stage would be beneficial. Following the implementation of the proposwed mitigation measures however the residual significance rating is generally neglibile to beneficial. This confirms that the proposed mitigation measures are considered to be effective in dealing with the potential development impacts. 4.5. With regard to cumulative effects generally there are In the immediate area two planning application as part of the Avesta scheme that are considered likely to have cumulative effects on in particular ecology and landscape. A full application is currently being processed and an approved reserved matters application has been approved these are for: y 10/P/00542(W) – full application – “residential let mixed use development comprising apartments and housing (amended scheme)” – not yet determined (Barratt Homes) 4.6. 10/P/00033(W) – reserved matters application – “reserved matters for 209 dwellings” – approved 31st August (Persimmon Homes) 4.7. This ES has considered the cumulative effects relating to ecology and landscape and the cumulative effects of traffic generation and transportation issues generally have also been considered.

Review Procedure 4.8. The Proposed Development will be built out over a period of at least ten years (from 2012 to 2022), subject to securing planning permission. It is recognised that environmental standards and legislation that currently apply to the Proposed Development may change during this period. In light of this, the Applicant intends to undertake regular reviews of the Proposed Development, to ensure that best practice and environmental legislation is being followed. The review process will be iterative and ongoing, so that new information is identified at an early stage and incorporated into the Proposed Development.

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4.9. The best practicable construction techniques will be incorporated into the works, which will be updated when new techniques are devised. This would also apply to monitoring of the works, and ensuring that the most effective mitigation measures are used to minimise disturbance to surrounding receptors. The Applicant has committed to producing an CEMP which will clearly set out the methods of managing environmental issues during the demolition and construction works. The CEMP will be set out in an iterative document which will be updated for each phase of work, thus ensuring it always incorporates current mitigation techniques and practices. The CEMP will be formulated at the detailed design stage and will be agreed with Torfaen County Borough Council and the Environment Agency (Wales) prior to works commencing on the Application Site.

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Table 1: Summary of mitigation and monitoring measures

Residual Effects Significance Nature of Effect (Major/ Moderate/ (Major/ Moderate/ Minor) Mitigation/ ES Chapter/ Topic Potential Effect (Permanent/ Minor) (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Enhancement Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Negligible) Negligible)

ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION

Construction

Designated Sites Negligible Negligible None Required Negligible

Woodland and Scrub Temporary Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Minor Beneficial Temporary and Hedges Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Minor Beneficial Permanent Temporary and Grassland Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Minor Beneficial Permanent Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Temporary Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Negligible Temporary and Badgers Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Negligible Permanent Temporary and Bats Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Minor Beneficial Permanent Temporary and Birds Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Minor Beneficial Permanent Great Crested Newts Negligible Negligible Detailed within EMP Negligible Temporary and Invertebrates Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Negligible Permanent Temporary and Reptiles Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Negligible Permanent Common Dormouse Negligible Negligible None Required Negligible

White-clawed Crayfish Temporary Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Negligible

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Temporary Minor Minor Beneficial/ Otters and Water Voles Detailed within EMP Adverse/Negligible Negligible

Completed Development

Designated Sites Negligible Negligible None Required Negligible

Woodland and Scrub Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Hedges Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Grassland Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Negligible

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Badgers Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Bats Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Birds Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Great Crested Newts Negligible Negligible None Required Negligible

Invertebrates Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Reptiles Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Common Dormouse Negligible Negligible None Required Negligible

White-clawed Crayfish Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Negligible Permanent Minor Minor Beneficial/ Otters and Water Voles Detailed within LEMP Adverse/Negligible Negligible

Cumulative Effects

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During the construction and completed development stage of the development there is likely to be a cumulative effect in the local area. It Site specific mitigation proposed Permanent Negligible Negligible is anticipated however that these within the EMP and LEMP impacts as a result of the scheme are minimal due to the geographical context of the site.

SERVICES (UTILITIES)

Construction

Accidental damage caused to Temporary Minor Adverse Introduction and enforcement of Negligible existing services during the construction phase protocols to construction phase mitigate the potential for accidental damage, etc

Current risk of flooding by overland Temporary Minor Adverse Programme of construction of Negligible flow from the site could continue drainage works early in the throughout the construction phase construction programme Completed Development Current inadequacies in delivery Permanent Re-design of off-site distribution Major Beneficial capacity on mains water supply Major Adverse systems to provide adequate require off-site enhancements to water supplies. supply. Electricity supply adequate for Permanent Negligible On-site distribution Major Beneficial proposed development enhancements may be required to accommodate extended use of electricity Gas supply adequate for proposed Permanent Negligible On-site distribution Major Beneficial development enhancements may be required to accommodate extended use of Gas Supply. Cumulative Effects

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No other schemes in locality contributing to a cumulative effect assessment

SOCIETY AND ECONOMY

Construction A variety of construction jobs Temporary Moderate, beneficial Impacts of construction phase Moderate/beneficial provided over a 20 year period, controlled by conditions on effect, eg local spending depending on future take-up rates planning permission patterns. Completed Development Provision of range and choice of Permanent Moderate, beneficial Moderate beneficial, eg market and affordable units will reduce need for releases in more sensitive areas Provision of improved education and Permanent Moderate, beneficial Moderate beneficial, eg community facilities reducing need to travel to existing facilities Enhancement of canal corridor and Permanent Minor, beneficial Part of overall mitigation to Minor beneficial – linked improved recreation/open space reduce visual and environmental to wider canal initiatives impact of built development Cumulative Effects Regeneration benefits – combination Permanent Moderate beneficial Moderate beneficial, eg of job creation, provision of housing increasing catchment of expansion area and increasing Pontypool/Cwmbran catchment population. town centres

LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND VISUAL ASSESSMENT

Construction Landscape Character

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LCA1A: Afon Lwyd Valley: Direct, medium- Minor to major adverse • Phased build out Direct, medium-term

Escarpment term • Adoption of CoCP moderate adverse • Tree protection fencing • Selective use of hoarding Direct, medium- Moderate adverse • As above Direct, medium-term Special Landscape Area to the west term minor adverse LCA1B: Afon Lwyd Valley: Rolling Direct, medium- Minor adverse • As above Direct, medium-term

Countryside term negligible Special Landscape Area to east Direct, medium- Minor adverse • As above Direct, medium-term term negligible

LCA2: Mynydd Twyn-glas Uplands Direct, medium- Negligible • None specific required Direct, medium-term term negligible

LCA3: Afon Lwyd Valley Settlements Direct, medium- Negligible • None specific required Direct, medium-term term negligible

Brecon Beacons National Park Direct, medium- Negligible • None specific required Direct, medium-term term negligible Landscape Features Woodland Blocks Direct, medium- Minor adverse • Adoption of CoCP Direct, medium-term

term • Tree protection fencing negligible

Hedgerows Direct, Minor adverse • As above Direct, medium-term medium/long-term negligible

Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal Direct, medium- Minor adverse • As above Direct, medium-term term negligible Visual Amenity Receptors within the site Direct, medium- Major adverse • Phased build out Direct, medium-term

term • Adoption of CoCP moderate to major • Tree protection fencing adverse • Selective use of hoarding

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Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal Direct, medium- Moderate to Major • As above Direct, medium-term term adverse moderate adverse

Private dwellings within the site Direct, medium- Major adverse • As above Direct, medium-term

term • Provision of open space moderate to major adverse

Receptors in Sebastopol Direct, medium- Negligible • None specific required Direct, medium-term term negligible

Receptors in Cwmbran Direct, medium- Negligible • None specific required Direct, medium-term term negligible

Receptors in countryside to the west Direct, medium- Minor adverse • Phased build out Direct, medium-term

term • Adoption of CoCP negligible • Strengthening of boundary vegetation

Middle distance receptors from the Direct, medium- Negligible • None specific required Direct, medium-term

east term negligible Brecon Beacons National Park Direct, medium- Negligible • None specific required Direct, medium-term term negligible

Completed Development Landscape Character LCA1A: Afon Lwyd Valley: Direct, long-term Moderate to Major • Retention of landscape Direct, long-term

Escarpment beneficial features of value moderate to major • Adoption of strategic beneficial landscape strategy

Direct, long-term Minor adverse • As above Direct, long-term Special Landscape Area to the west negligible

LCA1B: Afon Lwyd Valley: Rolling Direct, long-term Negligible to minor • As above Direct, long-term

Countryside adverse negligible

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Special Landscape Area to east Direct, long-term Negligible to minor • As above Direct, long-term adverse negligible

LCA2: Mynydd Twyn-glas Uplands Direct, long-term Negligible • None specific required Direct, long-term negligible

LCA3: Afon Lwyd Valley Settlements Direct, long-term Negligible • None specific required Direct, long-term negligible

Brecon Beacons National Park Direct, long-term Negligible • None specific required Direct, long-term negligible Landscape Features Woodland Blocks Negligible • Retention, enhancement and Direct, long-term Direct, long-term future management as part of negligible adopted landscape strategy

Hedgerows Negligible • As above Direct, long-term Direct, long-term negligible

Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal Negligible • As above Direct, long-term Direct, long-term negligible Visual Amenities Receptors within the site Negligible Direct, long-term Direct, long-term • Retention of landscape negligible features of value • Creation of new features of interest and high quality design • Adoption of strategic landscape strategy Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal Moderate beneficial • As above Direct, long-term Direct, long-term moderate beneficial

Private dwellings within the site Negligible • As above Direct, long-term Direct, long-term negligible

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Receptors in Sebastopol Negligible • None specific required Direct, long-term Direct, long-term negligible

Receptors in Cwmbran Negligible • None specific required Direct, long-term Direct, long-term negligible

Receptors in countryside to the west Negligible • Strengthening of boundary Direct, long-term Direct, long-term vegetation negligible

Middle distance receptors from the Negligible • None specific required Direct, long-term Direct, long-term east negligible Brecon Beacons National Park Negligible • None specific required Direct, long-term Direct, long-term negligible

Cumulative Effects Landscape Character Direct, long-term Negligible • Direct, long-term negligible

Visual Amenity Direct, long-term Negligible • Direct, long-term negligible

TRANSPORTATION ASSESSMENT (TRAFFIC, TRANSPORT AND MOVEMENT)

Construction Use of Existing residential highway Temporary Minor Adverse Provision of Construction Traffic Negligible Network by Construction Traffic Management Plan. Provision of Construction Traffic routes Completed Development Residual Traffic Permanent Minor Adverse Introduce Travel Plan to Major Beneficial encourage the uptake of more sustainable travel modes.

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Traffic Safety Permanent Major Beneficial Major Beneficial Assessment has investigated the impact of the proposed development on existing infrastructure, and has recommended measures where necessary to mitigate potential increases in traffic and to improve highway safety, including the implementation of Travel Plans to encourage more sustainable forms of travel.

Traffic Safety Permanent Major Beneficial Reduction of Speed Limits Major Beneficial

Cumulative Effects The cumulative effect of the South Permanent Minor adverse Reduction in Speed Limits Major beneficial Sebastopol and Avesta developments have been assessed in addition to the organic growth of traffic in the immediate area

ARCHAEOLOGY, BUILT AND CULTURAL HERITAGE

Construction Canal Tunnel – new canal crossing to Permanent Direct and indirect, New crossing designed so as to Indirect, Moderate be built over this structure - Grade II Moderate adverse preserve the structure of the adverse Listed (23957) tunnel in situ. Construction Management plan will limit traffic noise and dust effects. Milepost – adjacent to new canal Temporary Indirect, Minor adverse Will be protected during the Negligible

crossing - Grade II Listed (80863) construction phase, unchanged thereafter.

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Permanent Indirect, Minor adverse Landscape planting will help Negligible Tyr-Brychiad - Grade II Listed screen listed buildings from new (80864) - not part of development development and a construction plan but adjacent to main road into management plan will limit traffic site noise and dust effects on the setting of this structure. Permanent Indirect, Minor adverse As above. Negligible Wren’s Nest Barn – Grade II Listed (80861) - not part of development plan but adjacent to main road into site Permanent Indirect, Minor adverse Sensitive landscape design and Direct or Indirect, Minor Canal – setting will be changed along screening. Suitable investigation adverse its route where directly affected. Permanent Direct, Minor adverse Incorporated as part of design as Indirect, Minor adverse Hedgerows, tracks and field far as possible. boundaries Permanent Direct, Minor to Suitable archaeological Minor adverse Buried remains throughout the site – Moderate adverse investigation prior to potential sites construction. Completed Development As above As above As above As above As above Cumulative Effects No other schemes in locality contributing to a cumulative effect assessment

GROUND CONDITIONS (HYDROGEOLOGY, SOILS AND CONTAMINATED LAND)

Construction Earthworks

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Material generation and re-use Temporary / Minor Effective site waste management Minor Permanent plan and materials management plan will be produced to facilitate the earthworks and management of all materials on the scheme in accordance with established industry practice. Effective site waste management plan and materials management plan will be produced to facilitate the earthworks and management of all materials on the scheme in accordance with established industry practice.

Sediment and silt generation and Temporary Negligible quality of discharged water Minor pollution of watercourses controlled through an engineered sediment lagoons with interceptors

Filling Sediment migration into river Temporary from rainfall and surface water to Minor be minimised by sealing and establishment of grass cover.

Piling works – arisings Temporary Negligible All arisings will be restricted to Negligible the area of the specific construction activity and will be incorporated into landscaped bunds

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Piling works – vibration / noise Temporary Negligible Well maintained equipment will Negligible be used , suitably equipped with noise attenuation facilities. Vibration effects will be local to works area and since there are no other operating facilities or housing in the area then no adverse effects will be experienced by third parties. Minor disturbance to bird life may result.

Services/utilities/other infrastructure Temporary Negligible Where made ground is present Negligible - Maintenance or replacement all apparatus to be constructed within clean backfill materials

Services/utilities/other infrastructure Temporary Negligible Where made ground is present Negligible - all apparatus to be constructed within clean backfill materials Contact with made ground materials

Contamination

Contamination causing pollution Temporary / Minor No specific measures are Negligible

harm to site users Permanent required to protect the development from known areas of made ground. However further investigation of potential contamination sources will be required as development layouts are finalised to verify assumptions and development site preparation strategy

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Contamination leachate causing Temporary Minor Quality of existing made ground Negligible

pollution of river from leachates materials already assessed as generally acceptable. Further testing will also ensure continued compliance with this assumption. All excavated made ground to be strictly controlled at source and during placement. Specification limits placed on acceptable levels of compounds. Completed Development Loss or geological resource Temporary/ Negligible Judicious design and No loss of geological Permanent minimisation of scale of resource. No impact on earthworks. geology and soils Impact on Geological and Permanent Negligible Judicious design and Minor / Negligible Topographic Features minimisation of scale of earthworks Impact’ on Site Stability Temporary / Negligible Judicious design and Minor / Negligible Permanent minimisation of scale of earthworks. Appropriate management of materials Cumulative Effects It has been assessed that with regard Negligible Negligible to Ground Conditions there are no cumulative effects associated with other developments

WATER RESOURCES (WATER QUALITY, HYDROLOGY, FLOOD RISK AND DRAINAGE ASSESSMENT)

Construction

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Accidental spillages of contaminants Temporary Major Adverse Introduction and enforcement of Negligible during construction affecting construction phase protocols to groundwater and quality of surface enhance surface water management and to mitigate the water (overland flow) potential for accidental spillages, etc Current risk of flooding by overland Temporary Minor Adverse Programme of construction of Negligible flow from the site could continue drainage works early in the throughout the construction phase construction programme Completed Development Increased surface water run-off from Permanent Major Adverse Design and implementation of Major Beneficial impermeable areas could (without SUDS drainage system to mitigation) cause increased flooding prevent surface water emanating in urban environment from the development discharging off site to offsite sewer and urban environment generally Increased surface water run-off from Permanent Major Adverse Design and implementation of Major Beneficial impermeable areas could (without SUDS drainage system to mitigation) cause increased flooding prevent surface water emanating in urban environment. Applies to all from the development mechanisms of flooding discharging off site to combined sewer and urban environment generally Cumulative Effects It has been assessed that no other Negligible Negligible schemes in locality contributing to a cumulative effect assessment

NOISE AND VIBRATION ASSESSMENT

Construction

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Construction Noise Temporary Minor to Substantial Implementation of Site Specific Moderate Adverse Adverse EMP, including: Selecting inherently quiet plant; The use, where necessary and practicable, of enclosures and screens around noisy fixed plant; Limiting Site work where possible to daytime hours; and

Adherence to relevant British Standards. Construction Traffic Temporary Minor Adverse Implementation of construction Negligible logistics plan Construction Vibration Temporary Substantial Adverse Implementation of Site Specific Minor Adverse EMP, including: Selecting inherently low vibration plant; Limiting Site work where possible to daytime hours; and

Adherence to relevant British Standards. Completed Development Road Traffic Noise Permanent Negligible to Moderate Implementation of green travel Negligible Adverse plan; Construction of acoustic barrier along site access from Lowlands Road Building Service Plant Assessment Permanent Minor Adverse Plant noise to be restricted Negligible secured by way of a suitably worded planning condition.

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Cumulative Effects It has been assessed that there are no Permanent Negligible Negligible other schemes in the local area which would add to the cumulative effect

AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Construction

Dust emissions from demolition and Temporary Minor adverse to Routine environmental Negligible to minor management control measures construction activities moderate for existing adverse for existing to prevent and control dust, as surrounding properties part of EMP surrounding properties

Emissions from construction vehicles Temporary Negligible to minor Routine environmental Negligible to minor adverse management control measures adverse Completed Development Emissions from traffic associated with Permanent Minor adverse to Implementation of Travel Plan Minor adverse to the completed Development moderate adverse in moderate adverse terms of NO2 (depending on receptor concentrations and location) in terms of NO2 Negligible in terms of concentrations and PM10 concentrations Negligible in terms of PM10 concentrations Introduction of new residential uses Permanent Negligible to moderate Implementation of Site’s Travel Negligible to the site adverse Plan

Cumulative Effects It has been assessed that there are no Permanent Negligible Negligible other schemes in the local area which would add to the cumulative effect

SUSTAINABILITY

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Construction Energy Use and Carbon Emissions Temporary Negligible Prepare and implement an Negligible Environmental Management Plan (EMP).

Consideration of the Taylor Wimpey and Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Reuse of Land and Buildings Temporary Minor adverse None Minor adverse

Resource Efficiency Temporary Minor beneficial Prepare and implement an Minor beneficial Environmental Management Plan (EMP).

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Economic Prosperity Temporary Minor beneficial None Minor beneficial

Climate Change Temporary Minor beneficial None Minor beneficial

Completed Development Energy Use and Carbon Emissions Permanent Negligible Consideration of the Taylor Negligible Wimpey and Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Reuse of Land and Buildings Permanent Minor adverse None Minor adverse

Resource Efficiency Permanent Minor beneficial Consideration of the Taylor Minor beneficial Wimpey and Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Waste Permanent Minor beneficial Consideration of the Taylor Minor beneficial Wimpey and Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Pollution Permanent Minor beneficial Use of petrol interceptors to Minor beneficial prevent pollution entering surface water courses.

Use of SuDS techniques. Transport Permanent Minor beneficial Consideration of the Taylor Minor beneficial Wimpey and Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage.

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Natural Environment Permanent Negligible Consideration of the Taylor Negligible Wimpey and Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Community and Social Needs Permanent Minor beneficial None Minor beneficial

Economic Prosperity Permanent Minor beneficial None Minor beneficial

Climate Change Permanent Minor beneficial Use of SuDS techniques. Minor beneficial

Consideration of the Taylor Wimpey and Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Cumulative Effects No other schemes in locality contributing to a cumulative effect assessment

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5. Ecology and Nature Conservation

Introduction 5.1. This chapter has been prepared by Waterman Energy, Environment & Design Limited (Waterman). It assesses the potential effects of the Development upon the ecological and nature conservation resources on, and in proximity to the proposed development site at South Sebastopol referred to as the ‘Site’ for the purposes of this Chapter. 5.2. Relevant policy context and methods used to assess the effects are described, together with the baseline conditions that would exist in the area surrounding the Site in the absence of the proposed Development. The potential effects of the Development are discussed, and the residual effects of the Development, following the employment of appropriate mitigation measures. 5.3. Details of the most recent ecological reports undertaken by RSK Carter Ecological Ltd (hereafter referred to as RSK) in 2010 were used to inform the assessment and these reports are being provided as part of this Application. The type and scope of surveys to support the outline planning application were agreed with the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) and Torfaen District Council (TDC). Previous surveys undertaken by ADAS and RPS Chapman Warren Planning and Environment (hereafter referred to as RPS) were also used to inform this assessment.

Legislative and Planning Policy Context

Legislation 5.4. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (WCA)i, the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010ii, the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CRoW Act)iii and the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 (NERC Act)iv are the major pieces of legislation protecting wildlife species and habitats in the UK.

The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations, 2010 5.5. The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (formerly The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended) and The Offshore Marine Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 2007 (as amended)) implement the Natural Habitats and Wild Fauna and Flora (92/43/EC) (Habitats Directive)v in England and Wales. The Regulations mainly deal with the protection of sites that are important for nature conservation in a European context such as Special Areas for Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs). However, they also give protection to certain species of flora and fauna including bats (Chiroptera).

The Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981 (as amended) 5.6. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) is a key piece of national legislation which implements the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention) and implements the species protection obligations of Council Directive 2009/147/EC (formerly 79/409/EEC)vi on the Conservation of Wild Birds (EC Birds Directive) in Great Britain. The Regulations mainly deal with the protection of sites that are important for nature conservation in a European context (SACs and SPAs). However, they also give protection to certain species of flora and fauna including all nesting birds, roosting bats and native reptile species, although the level of protection varies from species to species.

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The Countryside and Rights of Way Act, 2000 5.7. Part III of the CRoW Act deals specifically with wildlife protection and nature conservation. It strengthens the protection of statutory designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and makes it an offence to “…recklessly disturb…” the sheltering places of wild animals designated under Schedule 5 of the WCA. The CRoW Act also provides a statutory underpinning to the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) process and promotes the conservation of the priority species and habitats listed in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP). BAPs are discussed later in this Chapter.

Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act, 2006 5.8. Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 (NERC Act) requires that every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity in accordance with the United Nations environmental programme convention on Biological Diversity of 1992. Under Section 42 of the NERC Act, the Welsh Assembly Government has published a list of the living organisms and types of habitat which are of principal importance for the purpose of conserving biodiversity in Wales.

National Planning Policy

Planning Policy Wales, Edition 3, July 2010 5.9. National planning policy emphasises the importance of integrating nature conservation or biodiversity into all planning decisions at an early stage, whilst looking for development to deliver social, environmental and economic objectives together over time (PPW 2.4, 2.4.1). 5.10. Within Planning Policy Wales there is reference to the desirability of: y Looking for development to realise opportunities to integrate nature conservation, enhance biodiversity, to avoid significant loss of habitats or species populations locally or nationally, ensuring that the UK’s international obligations for site, species and habitat protection are fully met in all planning decisions and where damage is unavoidable, to compensate for it (PPW 5.1.2-4, 5.2.3, 5.2.5, 5.3.2, 5.3.9, 5.4.2-3). y Forging and strengthening links between the town and country planning system and biodiversity action planning given that the planning system can help implement biodiversity action plans and work to achieve nature conservation objectives through a partnership between local planning authorities, CCW, the Environment Agency, voluntary organisations, developers, landowners and other key stakeholders (PPW 5.1.5, 5.2.6-7, 5.2.8). 5.11. The advice contained within PPW is supplemented for some subjects by Technical Advice Notes (TAN’s), with TAN 5 addressing Nature Conservation.

UK Biodiversity Action Plan 1994 5.12. The UK Biodiversity Action Plan’ (HMSO 1994; updated 2007) lists a number of priority habitats and species for conservation action in the UK. Although the Action Plan does not confer any statutory legal protection, in practice many of the species listed already receive statutory legal protection under UK and/or European legislation. In addition, there are some Priority Species and Habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plans which are also Species and Habitats of Principal Importance for the Conservation of Biodiversity under Section 74 of the Countryside and Rights of

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Way Act 2000 (CRoW 2000). This places a duty on government departments to have regard for these species and habitats when carrying out their functions.

Regional and Local Planning Policy

The Torfaen Local Development Plan (LDP) Preferred Strategy 2006-2021 5.13. Key Objectives within the Torfaen LDP Preferred Strategy which relate to ecology and biodiversity include: “8. To ensure that all new development reflects best practice in sustainable design and location, construction and operation”; “10. To protect, manage and enhance biodiversity and ecological networks across Torfaen”; “12. To protect and enhance the valued landscape character of Torfaen, including important open space and sense of rurality between settlements”. 5.14. The Torfaen LDP also contains a number of Strategic Policies. The Environmental Protection Policy SP9 states: “Development proposals shall protect and enhance the following: Ecology and biodiversity assets beyond designated sites, including the integrity of the strategic ecological corridors of the Afon Lwyd, Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and the National Cycle Route 42; The water environment; Important network of public open space and recreation facilities; The integrity of the Blaenavon World Heritage Site; The character of the built environment. The valuable character of the built environment includes local distinctiveness and setting of settlements and townscape character; Identified Special Landscape Areas; Conservation and heritage assets; and Green Wedge areas between Cwmbran and Newport, Ponthir and Caerleon and Mamhilad and New Inn/Pontypool”. 5.15. Section 6.27 of the LDP relating to Ecology and Biodiversity states: “The LDP will identify, protect and link the following ecological corridors: Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal; Afon Lwyd River; and National Cycle Route 42”. 5.16. Section 6.28 also relating to Ecology and Biodiversity states: “The LDP will also protect and enhance important international, national, regional and local species and habitats, including: European Protected Species; Special Areas of Conservation (SAC);

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Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI); Local Nature Reserves (LNR); and Sites of Interest for Nature Conservation (SINC)”. Torfaen Adopted Local Plan 2000 5.17. The Torfaen Adopted Local Plan provides: “i) An interpretation of the Gwent Structure Plan at a local level. ii) A basis for co-ordinating investment in the development and use of land. iii) Guidance as to which land will or will not be released for development in the future. iv) Guidance for development control decisions.” 5.18. Chapter 7 of the plans concerns the environment with 7.2 dealing with the structure plan. 7.2.1 states; “The structure plan's overall aim is to protect and enhance the environment. Within the County Borough three land classifications have been identified: 1) Green Spaces which are intended to prevent the coalescence of urban areas. 2) Special Landscape Areas (SLAs) which are intended to protect and conserve individual and characteristic landscapes. 3) Landscape Improvement Areas (LIAs) which are intended to identify areas within which efforts and resources should be concentrated to gain environmental improvements”. 5.19. Concerning the environment 7.3 states: “One of the overall aims of the local plan is to safeguard and improve the quality of life for the communities of Torfaen. The policies of this section are intended to create a pleasant and attractive environment by: 1) Adopting a planning role which is effective in dealing with the changing pressures being placed upon the countryside. 2) Protecting important environmental features in the countryside, by identifying and protecting important areas of public open space and important landscape features within the urban boundaries and by resisting all development proposals which would be detrimental to their existence. 3) Safeguarding the countryside from inappropriate forms of development, whilst at the same time, promoting its sensitive management and positive use. 5.20. A number of General Policies are included within this chapter and described below. 5.21. Policy E1: “Green spaces are identified at the following locations in order to prevent the coalescence of urban areas. E1/1 Land south of Cwmbran E1/2 Land between Llantarnam and the B4236 Caerleon Road Development within designated Green Spaces will only be permitted where the proposal can be justified on agricultural or forestry grounds, or where the proposal constitutes an appropriate rural use and can satisfy all of the following criteria:

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a) The site is or can be adequately serviced without requiring visually intrusive infrastructure. b) The scale, design and character of the development is appropriate to the area. c) The proposal respects its rural setting in terms of layout and design and minimises the visual intrusion into the landscape. d) The proposal can be accessed without detriment to highway safety.” 5.22. Policy E2: “The following areas of high quality landscape value are identified as Special Landscape Areas:- E2/1 Land to the west of the designated Urban Boundary from Mynydd Henllys in the south to Coity Mountain in the north. E2/2 Land to the east of the designated Urban Boundary from Ponthir in the south to New Inn in the north. E2/3 Land to the east of the designated Urban Boundary from New Inn in the south to the Brecon Beacons National Park boundary in the north. E2/4 Land to the east of the designated Urban Boundary from the Brecon Beacons National Park boundary in the south to Mynydd-y-Garn Fawr in the north. Within areas designated as Special Landscape Areas, the conservation of the environment and landscape will be the primary consideration. Development within designated Special Landscape Areas will only be permitted where the proposal can be justified on the grounds of agriculture or forestry or where the proposal constitutes an appropriate rural use and satisfies all of the following criteria: a) The site is, or can be, adequately serviced without requiring visually intrusive infrastructure. b) The scale, design and character of the development is appropriate to the area. c) The proposal respects its rural setting in terms of layout and design and minimises the visual intrusion into the landscape. d) The proposal can be accessed without detriment to highway safety.” 5.23. Policy E3: “The following area is identified as an area of restraint and is designated on the Proposals Map. Development which would change the nature of character of this area will not be permitted. E3/1 Land to the east of Candwr Lane” 5.24. Policy E4: “The following areas are identified as Landscape Improvement Areas: E4/1 Lower and Upper Race and Cwm Lickey E4/2 Pen Tranch E4/3 Land to the west of the B4246 from Snatchwood in the south to Garn-yr-Erw / Pwll-Du in the north (including Blaenserchan Colliery and Pant Glas) Land reclamation and environmental enhancement schemes within Landscape Improvement Areas will be permitted where the proposal improves and enhances the quality, character, and visual and ecological amenities of the area.”

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5.25. Policy E5: “The reclamation of derelict land will be permitted where the proposal enhances and improves the environment and satisfies all of the following criteria: The proposal has regard to the existing nature conservation value of the site. The proposal has regard to the underlying archaeology and historic buildings or structures on the site. Proposals for after use that respect the setting of the site and its surroundings have been submitted to and approved by the County Borough Council.” 5.26. Policy E6: ”Proposals for development which may affect a National Nature Reserve or proposed or notified Sites of Special Scientific Interest and their consultation zones will only be permitted where they have no unacceptable effects which would directly or indirectly: a) Damage the site. b) Detrimentally affect its conservation interest, or c) Detrimentally affect the site’s value in terms of its designation.” 5.27. Policy E7: “Proposals for development on non-statutory sites of wildlife, geological or geomorphological importance will only be permitted where they satisfy all of the following criteria: a) Proposals shall preserve as far as possible the site’s conservation value. b) Wherever possible, proposals shall provide for replacement habitats or features where damage is unavoidable. c) Proposals shall comply with other policies in this Local Plan. The County Borough Council will consider the attachment of conditions or enter into agreements that would overcome the potentially damaging effects of development on the habitats of species of conservation importance.” 5.28. Policy E8: “Proposals for development in areas not formally designated as being of nature conservation importance will only be permitted where they satisfy all of the following criteria: a) Trees considered as being of high amenity value, on the site, are retained as far as is reasonably practicable and are protected during any construction periods. b) The existing hedgerows on the site are retained as far as is reasonably practicable and are protected during any construction periods. c) Wetlands habitats, watercourses, geological features and other important natural features or habitats are retained as far as is reasonably practicable and are protected during any construction periods. d) Landscaping schemes, submitted as part of the Proposals, include appropriate native species, except where special requirements in terms of purpose and location dictate otherwise.” e) Where trees, hedgerows, wetland habitats and other important natural features or habitats 34 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

are inevitably required to be lost as a result of the development, proposals will only be permitted where compensatory provision will be made as part of the proposal to a minimum standard of that has been lost”. 5.29. Policy 9: “The change of use of land or buildings for appropriate farm diversification will be permitted where the proposals satisfy all of the following criteria: a) The proposal would be and remain ancillary to the farm enterprise. b) The proposal would not be significantly detrimental to agricultural operations on the farm. c) The proposal would not cause demonstrable harm to the amenity of residents adjoining or in the near vicinity of the proposal.” Torfaen Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2003-2008 5.30. The plan consists of two volumes. Volume 1 sets out the overall strategy for biodiversity action, key objectives and Habitat Action Plans (HAPs). Volume 2 contains Species Action Plans (SAPs) for both national priority species and locally valued ones alike. Both habitats and species action plans are included within the document. Both sections of the action plan provide a programme of biodiversity conservation within Torfaen”. 5.31. A total of 24 habitats and 38 species were selected to be included in the plan. Some of the species will be of national priority, others of local value and some will represent community value. Some local HAPs and SAPs of potential relevance to the current development are: Habitats y Ancient and/or Species Rich Hedgerow; y Boundary and Linear Features; y Lowland Ancient and/or Species Rich Woodland; y Lowland Dry Acid Grassland; y Lowland Meadows; y Open Standing Water and Canal; y Purple Moor Grass and Rush Pasture; y Rivers and Streams; y Scrub Woodland; y Wet Woodland; Birds y Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula); y Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus); y Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus); y Skylark (Alauda arvensis); y Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos); Invertebrates y Glow-worm (Lampyris noctiluca); y Longhorn Beetles - Cerambycidae species; 35 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

y White-clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes); Mammals y Badger (Meles meles); y Otter (Lutra lutra); y Bats – all bat species; Reptiles y Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara); Vascular plants y Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera); y Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta); y Dyers Greenweed (Genista tinctoria); y Western Gorse (Ulex gallii); and y Yellow Bartsia (Parentucellia viscosa).

Assessment Methodology and Significance Criteria 5.32. This section outlines the methodology used to assess the ecological baseline conditions of the Site and to place the Site in the wider ecological context. Ecology surveys at the Site have been undertaken over an approximate 10 year period as agreed with Torfaen County Council (TCC) and the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW). The list below therefore only lists the most up to date surveys undertaken. The assessment methodology has comprised the following: y Undertaking of an updated ecology desk-study 2010; y Undertaking of an updated extended phase I habitat survey 2010; y Undertaking of a phase II flora and fauna surveys 2007-2010 y Evaluation of the ecological value of the Site; and y Identification and evaluation of potential and residual effects. 5.33. Evidence of all of the species listed at paragraph 5.31 above was recorded on the site, with the exception of great crested newt, water vole and dormouse, which were considered to be absent. In addition, the invasive plant species Japanese Knotweed Fallopia japonica has been identified on the site. 5.34. A description of the methodologies adopted for the relevant surveys is provided below. The study areas are indicated by the red line boundary plan included in Appendix 1.1.

Desk-Study (Completed by RSK)

5.35. An ecological desk-study and data search was requested from the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) and South East Wales Biodiversity Records Centre (SEWBRC) for the Site. The aim of the desk-study was to obtain information regarding the present and historical ecological interest within the Study Area. Nature conservation organisations with interests in the Study Area were then approached in order to provide the most recent information and records on: y Sites designated for their nature conservation value; y Protected species;

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y Other species of conservation concern; and y Any other information that they considered relevant.

Field Surveys (Completed by RSK) 5.36. Field surveys were also undertaken to determine the baseline conditions for the Site. These were carried out in accordance with standard methodologies for ecological assessmentvii and included: y An updated extended Phase I habitat survey; y A Phase II botany survey y An updated badger survey* y An updated bat survey y An updated breeding bird survey y A great crested newt survey y An invertebrate survey y An updated reptile survey y A common dormouse survey y An updated white-clawed crayfish survey y Undertaking of a otter and water vole survey* *Survey undertaken during the updated extended phase I habitat survey 2010

Updated Extended Phase I Habitat Survey (Completed by RSK) 5.37. An updated extended Phase I habitat survey was carried out from 27th to 30th May 2010 inclusive. The extended Phase 1 habitat surveys in this report are based on the Phase 1 Habitat Survey approach (Joint Nature Conservation Committee 2003) as extended for use in Environmental Impact Assessment (Institute of Environmental Assessment 1995). This involves the following elements.

y Habitat mapping using a set of standard colour codes to indicate habitat types on a Phase 1 Habitat Map. y Description of features of ecological or nature conservation interest in notes relating to numbered locations on the Phase 1 Habitat Map, called ‘target notes’.

5.38. Basic Phase 1 Habitat Survey methods are described in detail in Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC 2003). Limits to the achievable reliability of the method are discussed in Cherrill & McClean (1999). There are no firm guidelines to specify what extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey involves, but the Institute of Environmental Assessment (1995) suggests that it simply involves more extensive and detailed target notes and plant species listing. 5.39. Plant species were so far as possible – given the time of year – listed for the Site as a whole (Figure 2). Subjective estimates of the relative abundance of species in selected habitat parcels were added to the plant species list using a modified DAFOR scale. The DAFOR scale ranks species according to their relative abundance in a given parcel of land as follows: d – dominant, a – abundant, f – frequent, o – occasional, r – rare. In addition, the following prefixes are used: l – locally, v – very.

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5.40. The terms ‘abundant’ and ‘rare’ are used by convention, and apply only to relative abundance within the recorded area. It does not mean that species are ‘rare’ in the general sense. Scientific and English names of vascular plants follow Stace (2010). Mosses and liverworts follow Hill et al. (2008). 5.41. Based on the findings of the updated extended Phase I habitat survey (incorporating surveys for badgers and otters and water voles) it was concluded and agreed with TCC and CCW that surveys for Phase II botany, breeding birds, bats and white-clawed crayfish would be required to support an outline planning application.

Phase II Botany surveys (Completed by RSK) Woodlands 5.42. Following the completion of the extended Phase I Habitat Survey, detailed Phase II botany surveys were undertaken in July 2010 of the woodlands and species-rich mesotrophic grasslands of value on the Site. 5.43. For each of 17 woodland parcels in the Site, plant species were listed in walkthrough surveys. In each parcel, all vascular plant species seen during the walkthrough were noted together with subjective estimates of relative abundance using a modified DAFOR scale. The more conspicuous and abundant mosses and liverworts were also noted, but detailed searches for mosses and liverworts were not carried out especially along streams in the woods where many species could be present. 5.44. The DAFOR scale ranks species according to their relative abundance in a given parcel of land as follows: d – dominant, a – abundant, f – frequent, o – occasional, r – rare. In addition, the following prefixes are used: l – locally, v – very. The terms ‘abundant’ and ‘rare’ are used by convention, and apply only to relative-abundance within the recorded area. It does not mean that species are ‘rare’ in the general sense. Woodland NVC Survey 5.45. The NVC types of woodlands in the survey area can mostly be determined by inspection alone. Moreover, in the relatively steep-sided stream valleys the woodland NVC types tend to form narrow strips according to the wetness of the soils, and the strips grade into the types on either side, so that sampling homogenous stands of woodland is difficult. Nevertheless, woodland quadrats have been sampled in a few places to support the diagnosis of NVC types from inspection. Methods follow Rodwell (1991a, 2006) and use quadrats of different size in different layers of the woodland (50 metres-square in canopy and shrub-layer, 10 metres-square in the field layer). Grassland 5.46. Most fields in the survey area contain grassland that is agriculturally improved to an appreciable degree. However from the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey the more species-rich and therefore less obviously agriculturally improved grasslands of the survey area were selected for Phase II botanical surveys. 5.47. Species were listed in walk-over surveys of each field, subject to the methodologies and limitations of the species-listing approach above. Grassland NVC Methods 5.48. The methodology of the National Vegetation Classification (Rodwell 1992, 2006) was used to describe grassland vegetation types in the areas listed above. Vegetation was appraised during a

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walkover of the fields, and homogeneous areas of vegetation were noted as advised in Rodwell (2006). Quadrat data were collected from homogeneous stands of vegetation, which were subjectively selected to represent key vegetation types. The cover of each species in a quadrat was estimated by eye and recorded on the Domin Scale (10 - over 90% cover, 9 - 76-90%, 8 - 51- 75%, 7 - 34-50%, 6 - 26- 33%, 5 - 11-25%, 4 - 5-10%, 3 - under 5% yet abundant, 2 - under 5% and occasional, 1 - under 5% and rare). Five quadrats were recorded in each sampled vegetation type, so that not only cover but also frequency estimates were available for each species (i.e. percentage occurrence in a quadrat - a species in 3 quadrats out of 5 has 60% frequency). NVC communities are determined primarily in terms of species frequency, so this facilitates the identification of NVC types, and especially improves computer matching to identify NVC types (Rodwell 2006). Two-metre square quadrats were used for grassland as recommended in Rodwell (1992). The data are presented in Section 7 as floristic tables in the style of the NVC tables in British Plant Communities (Rodwell 1992). Species are ordered by their relative abundance, first by frequency class (class I – 0-20%, II – 21-40%, III - 41-60%, IV –61-80%, V – 81-100%), then by maximum cover value on the Domin Scale, and then by minimum cover value; any remaining ties are ordered alphabetically. 5.49. Stands of vegetation were identified from quadrat data with the assistance of the computer- program MATCH (Malloch 1999), which computes similarity-coefficients between quadrat data and the published NVC tables that define the NVC communities and sub-communities. This gives only an initial indication of which NVC types the data are most likely to have been drawn from – the highest coefficient does not necessarily indicate the correct NVC diagnosis (though it is naturally to be preferred unless there are good reasons for not preferring it). It is necessary to identify the NVC type through careful consideration of the NVC descriptions in British Plant Communities (Rodwell 1992, Rodwell et al. 2000). In the floristic tables in Section 4, matching coefficients highlighted in bold text indicate the best acceptable NVC diagnosis in each case, and coefficients highlighted in italics are informative but unacceptable (the remainder being those not accepted in each case). 5.50. Identification of BAP Grassland Types Natural England (2010), which also covers Wales, sets out objective criteria for recognizing grassland types having various levels of nature conservation value ranging from unimportant agriculturally improved grasslands to important UK BAP habitats such as Lowland Meadows. In this document, guidance for the identification of species-rich grassland requires that at least two of the following must apply (set out in Key 2a). The cover of Lolium perenne (Perennial Rye-grass) and Trifolium repens (White Clover) is less than 10%. These are the species characteristically most abundant in agriculturally improved swards, though they are almost always present at lower levels of abundance in unimproved swards as well. y The sward is species-rich, defined in Natural England (2010) as 15 species per square metre including grasses. y High cover of wildflowers and sedges - defined in Natural England (2010) as more than 30% - excluding Ranunculus repens (Creeping Buttercup), Trifolium repens (White Clover) and injurious weeds. 5.51. To assess these grassland-quality conditions, Natural England (2010) stipulates recording species presence (not relative abundance) in 10 one-metre square quadrats at ‘regular intervals or random points’ on a walk around the survey area. This simple procedure was followed in addition to collecting quadrat data using the methods of the National Vegetation Classification. The latter provide more information, but do not provide figures that very directly address these grassland- quality conditions. In Natural England (2010), species recorded at 1 or 2 of the 10 one-metre square quadrats are called ‘rare’, species recorded in 3 or 4 are called ‘occasional’, and species recorded in 5 or more are called ‘frequent’. 39 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

5.52. Using these data, Key 2a in Natural England (2010) allows species-rich grassland to be distinguished from improved or semi-improved grassland. Species-rich grassland can then either be assigned to a BAP habitat type, or relegated to the category ‘G02 Semi-improved Grassland, using Key 2b together with tables of indicator species. The BAP habitat relevant here is the BAP Priority Habitat ‘GO6 Lowland Meadows’ (trivially the grassland in our survey area could not be any of the other BAP grassland types), and indicator species for this BAP feature are listed in Table 4 in Key 2b. To qualify as ‘GO6 Lowland Meadows’ an area of grassland must have a complement of Table 4 indicator species sufficient to exceed one of the following thresholds. Two indicator species from Table 4 ‘frequent’ and two ‘occasional’ in the sward (these abundance terms defined as above) to qualify as ‘good-quality species-rich grassland’ representing the BAP feature ‘GO6 Lowland Meadows’. Not meeting the threshold explained in the previous bullet, but nevertheless having four indicator species from Table 4 present at any level of abundance, or three at least ‘occasional’ to qualify as ‘species-rich grassland’ representing the BAP feature ‘GO6 Lowland Meadows’ - in this case having only moderate quality (Natural England 2010) though in most cases potentially restorable.

Badger surveys (Completed by RSK) 5.53. A thorough and systematic search of suitable habitats was undertaken during the updated extended Phase I habitat survey by RSK in order to locate all holes and any other signs of badger (Meles meles) activity. All areas within 30m of the site boundaries were searched for signs of badgers. 5.54. Signs of activity are marked onto a map, using symbols to represent latrines and paths. Setts and holes and other indications of badger activity are noted and numbered with details given in tabulated format in the results section. The setts were mapped as accurately as possible to enable their distance from the works areas to be measured if necessary. 5.55. Individual holes or setts were assessed for their usage using the criteria described by Harris et al (1989) and used during national badger surveys undertaken in 1989 and 1995-96. The status of each sett was also classified according to Harris et al 1994.

Bat surveys (Completed by RSK) 5.56. Following the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey and a review of previous bat surveys undertaken at the Site during 2005-2008, the following surveys for bats were undertaken at the Site. The scope and methods of surveys were agreed with Torfaen Borough Council (TBC) and Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) prior to commencing surveys in 2010. Emergence Survey Methodology 5.57. Two evening emergence surveys were conducted on the Hay Barn to the north east of the Site in 2010 covering the period when bats are likely to be emerging from their roosts to forage. Potential bat entrance and exit points were covered by locating several surveyors around the building. Surveyors recorded bat emergence activity and foraging and commuting activity around the barn. Electronic bat detectors (Duet and Pettersson D240x) enabled surveyors to accurately identify most bat species by their unique echolocation calls and identification was confirmed by recording bat calls onto digital Edirol R-01 recorders and analysing the calls using BatSound software. Bat Activity Survey Methodology 5.58. To provide further information about bat activity on the site and to identify important commuting and foraging areas, four bat activity surveys were undertaken in 2010. Initially six transects were

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surveyed, involving surveyors walking pre-defined transect routes around the Site so that all features of the Site were covered. However, following a health and safety incident on the canal towpath during Bat Activity Survey 1, this number was reduced to five transects to allow the canal transect to be walked by two surveyors. As Transects E and F were the two shortest transects, it was considered that merging them would not significantly compromise the integrity of the survey. All areas of the Site continued to be surveyed for Bat Activity. Surveyors monitored bat activity along the transect routes from sunset to up to three hours after sunset. The surveyors noted the activity engaged in by the bats (i.e. commuting, foraging etc.), and where possible the direction that the bats were travelling. Electronic bat detectors (Duet and Pettersson D240x) enabled surveyors to accurately identify most bat species by their unique echolocation calls and identification was confirmed by recording bat calls onto digital Edirol R-01 recorders and analysing the calls using BatSound software. Other equipment included a head torch, thermometer, earphones, clipboard, recording sheets, pencils, spare batteries, a Clu-lite and personal protective equipment. Anabat Detector Surveys 5.59. A review of aerial photography and the results of the updated extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey identified areas on the Site likely to support commuting and foraging bats. Eight suitable locations were identified and further siting of the Anabat detectors was continually informed as the transect surveys progressed. Weather conditions were monitored over the survey periods via the Met Office website (www.metoffice.gov.uk) and were considered to be suitable for bat activity. 5.60. Anabat detectors deployed prior to each bat activity survey for a minimum period of three nights recording all activity from dusk to dawn. All activity was recorded directly to a compact flash card. Subsequently, Analook software was used to identify all bats that were recorded by the Anabat detectors.

Breeding bird surveys (Completed by RSK) 5.61. Five breeding bird survey visits were made to survey the breeding birds on the Site. The surveys concentrated on establishing the areas used by breeding birds, especially in habitats directly affected by the construction of the proposed housing development. The five breeding bird surveys were undertaken using techniques based on BTO Common Bird Census (CBC) methodology (Gilbert et. al, 1998). The site was slowly criss-crossed and all bird species that were seen or heard, on and immediately adjacent to the site were recorded using standard BTO codes and symbols. Any relevant behaviour such as the gathering of nesting material, territorial calling, fighting or feeding young was also recorded. Counts were made of any notable assemblages of birds, which include any significant numbers of feeding, roosting and/or non-breeding flocks of any species. Special attention was paid to the areas of optimal breeding bird habitat within the survey area (scrub, reedy ditches and buildings) and to Schedule 1, Birds of Conservation Concern and UK/LBAP species and also species listed on the relevant SPA/Ramsar/SSSI citations.

Great crested newt surveys (Completed by RSK) 5.62. The survey was undertaken by ADAS in 2007 and was based on guidance contained within English Nature (2001) which is also recognised in Wales, where it is stated that at least four visits to the water bodies are required. Two of these visits should be mid march to mid June with at least two visits carried out between mid April and mid May. 5.63. Four water bodies known as the Cwmbran Day Care Centre pond, mountain pond, reservoir north of the Site and the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal originally surveyed by RPS in 2005, were resurveyed.

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Invertebrate surveys (Completed by RSK) 5.64. The survey was undertaken by RPS in June 1999 when invertebrate samples were collected by an experienced entomologist. The methods employed for the invertebrate sampling depended on the habitat being sampled, with all methodologies complying with Royal Entomological Society technical and ethical guidelines. The entomologist, prior to selecting the number and location of sampling points undertook a full walkover of the Site. 5.65. The survey aimed to identify the relative potential of the habitats that were most likely to support invertebrate species or assemblages of species considered being of conservation interest. Aquatic Invertebrate Sampling 5.66. Samples of aquatic invertebrates were taken at three locations within the Site. These were selected to reflect the diversity of aquatic habitats present. At each aquatic sample location a stretch of approximately 50m of watercourse was sampled. Sampling was carried out with a standard Freshwater Biological Association pattern net. In deeper water, the net was swept through the channel to the fullest extent possible, collecting invertebrates from within the water column and from amongst marginal vegetation. Shallower channels were sampled by placing the net on the stream bed and disturbing the substrate upstream of the net, so that the current swept the disturbed material into the net. The full width of the channel was sampled in this manner for a three minute period. After each sweep or kick sample, the contents of the net were emptied into a white tray. The invertebrates were then removed from the sample and preserved in alcohol of subsequent laboratory identification. Terrestrial invertebrate sampling 5.67. Six terrestrial invertebrate sample locations were identified to characterise the habitats within the Site that held potential to support invertebrates of conservation interest. The methods primarily employed in terrestrial habitats were the use of a sweep net to collect invertebrates from within dense vegetation and from scrub and trees, and a diperist’s net for the capture of invertebrates flying above or amongst sparser vegetation. Hand searching for invertebrates amongst leaf litter and deadwood was also carried out. All collected material was preserved in alcohol for subsequent identification.

Reptile surveys (Completed by RSK) 5.68. The survey was undertaken by ADAS between 31 May 2007 and 8 June 2007 based on a standard survey methodology (JNCC 2003). Seven survey areas were previously surveyed by RPS in 2005, based on previous habitat assessments. To provide information that could be compared to that collected by RPS these same seven areas were surveyed. A total of 55 refugia were placed in the survey areas with either five or ten mats in each area. Refugia were checked for reptiles on 5 occasions. Checks were carried out in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Common dormouse surveys (Completed by RSK) 5.69. Surveys were carried out by RPS in 1999. Dormice are an inherently difficult species to survey due to their arboreal habit and dormancy periods. They can be located using various methods including that described by Bright et al 1992, Mammal Society. This method uses feeding signs to determine the presence/absence of the species. Dormice feed on, amongst other things, hazel nuts. The gnawing marks left on the shell of the nut can be used to distinguish which species of mammal has eaten the kernel. In the case of dormice these gnawing marks are distinctive. To this end, where hazel was abundant on the Site searches were made in 10 by 10 metre quadrats for a

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period of twenty minutes. Any nuts showing signs of gnawing by small mammals were inspected.

White-clawed crayfish surveys (Completed by RSK) 5.70. In 2010 RSK undertook update surveys for white-clawed crayfish. A habitat assessment of watercourses within the Site boundary was undertaken to establish their suitability to support white- clawed crayfish. If the watercourse was suitable to support crayfish, surveys were undertaken using two different techniques, manual searching and trapping. A total of five streams were surveyed using manual searching. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal was considered unsafe for manual searching. In this case, the canal was surveyed using Crayfish traps. Manual Search 5.71. The manual search technique was undertaken using the standard protocol for monitoring the white- clawed crayfish (Peay, 2003). Firstly, a habitat assessment was used to establish whether a watercourse was suitable to support crayfish. Suitable habitat patches of 15 m in length were selected along the watercourses at intermittent intervals. Potential refuges of crayfish were turned or searched within each 15 m habitat patch. The number, sex, condition and size of each crayfish found within each 15 m habitat patch were recorded. Trapping 5.72. The entire length of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal that dissects the site was surveyed using a trapping technique. Sixteen traps were set at locations of suitable crayfish habitat including in areas close to the streams where white-clawed crayfish had previously been identified. The trapping was undertaken on 7th July 2008. The traps were left in the canal overnight for approximately 12 hours. They were retrieved and checked in the morning. Each trap was constructed from 20mm mesh and measured 400 mm in length and 300mm in diameter. The entrance size was 50mm. Traps were tied to trees on the bank and baited with mackerel.

Otter and water vole survey (Completed by RSK) 5.73. In 2007 two separate surveys were undertaken by ADAS to determine the presence or absence of otters and water voles were undertaken within a period of two months. The initial survey was conducted on 11-23 June 2007 followed by a survey on 11-12 August 2007. All areas within the survey boundary were thoroughly examined for any evidence of otters and water voles including: y Otter spraints and water vole droppings y Otter sprainting areas and water vole latrine sites y Footprints y Otter holts and water vole burrows y Otter runs (pathways leading to holts) y Other otter resting sites y Feeding areas 5.74. The identification of otter holts was determined by examining additional evidence found at the Site. Depending upon this additional information a resting site/holt was divided into one of three categories y Actual holt – These show signs that the entrance is well used by otters, including a well trampled entrance, extra excavation, spraints or footprints. y Probable holt – These sites meet the typical needs of otters and that there is known otter 43 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

activity in the area but there are no obvious otter signs in close vicinity to the holt. y Potential holt – These sites are typical of an otter resting area but no evidence confirming evidence of otter activity could be found. y Resting area – Similar to holt but animal unable to enter and disappear from view. 5.75. During the updated extended Phase I habitat survey in 2010, RSK undertook a survey of otters. Watercourses, areas of wetland and adjacent habitat of potential use to otter (Lutra lutra) were assessed for suitability. This included an assessment of water depth, water quality, vegetation and cover. A detailed survey on the watercourses was also undertaken including a systematic search of suitable habitat within the site and up to 30m beyond the site boundary where accessible. Field signs were recorded when encountered and include spraint (droppings), footprints, slides, paths, feeding evidence, holts (underground resting places) or couches (temporary resting places).

Evaluation of Ecological Features 5.76. The basis for the evaluation of ecological features is provided by the 2006 Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM) guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)viii. These guidelines aim to provide consistency in the approach to evaluating the importance of ecological features and any effect that a new development would have upon them. 5.77. In accordance with the IEEM EcIA guidelines, the ecological features identified must be assigned a value. Secondly, the effects of the relevant development should be predicted, taking into account the different stages and activities within the development process. These identified effects must then be assessed for their significance. The significance of the effect is a function of the value of the ecological feature and the type and nature of the effect. 5.78. The value of ecological features is defined according to the following geographical scales: y International value; y UK value; y National value (i.e. England / Northern Ireland / Scotland / Wales); y Regional value; y County / Metropolitan value; y District / Borough value; y Local or Parish value; y Of value within the Site only; and y Negligible. 5.79. IEEMs criteria are broadly similar to those set out in Chapter 2: EIA Methodology with the terms ‘Local or Parish’ and ‘District / Borough’ equivalent to the ‘local’ scale, and ‘County / Metropolitan’ equivalent to the ‘district’ scale. The remaining geographical scales are consistent with both methodologies. 5.80. The following factors are considered in assessing whether ecological effects are significant: y The extent of the effect; y The magnitude of the effect; y The duration of the effect; y The reversibility of the effect; and

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y The timing and frequency of the effect.

Evaluation of Significance 5.81. In accordance with Chapter 2: EIA Methodology, the potential and residual effects of the Development upon identified ecological features are expressed as follows: y Adverse: Detrimental or negative effect on a valued ecological receptor; y Negligible: No significant effect on a valued ecological receptor; and y Beneficial: Advantageous or positive effect on a valued ecological receptor. 5.82. Where adverse or beneficial effects have been identified, these are then assessed against the following scale: y Minor: Slight, very short or highly localised effect; y Moderate: Limited effect (by extent, duration or magnitude) which may be considered significant; and y Substantial: Considerable effect (by extent, duration or magnitude) of more than local significance or in breach of recognised acceptability, legislation, policy or standards. 5.83. A ‘valued’ ecological receptor has been defined as any receptor valued at the Assessment Site level or above, in accordance with the geographical scales provided above. 5.84. In accordance with IEEM guidelines, where activities associated with the Development could result in the intentional killing or injury of protected species, this is stated and a level of significance is not given. This is because such killing or injury must be avoided by law. For other activities that could lead to an offence but may be permissible under licence or agreement with a government body, the significance of the effect is assessed according to the significance criteria described previously.

Consultation 5.85. As previously stated consultation with agreement on the scope of the ecological surveys at the Site and the master plan design have been undertaken with the local Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) office and Torfaen Borough Council (TBC) throughout the life of the project dating back to 1999.

Baseline Conditions

Designated sites 5.86. The 5km search area from the Site boundary contains nine statutory designated sites: y Llandegfedd Reservoir Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI); y Cilwrgi Quarry SSSI; y Henllys Bog SSSI; y Ty'r Hen Forwyn SSSI; y The Brecon Beacons National Park (NP) lies within 5km; y Church Wood and Springvale Ponds Local Nature Reserve (LNR), y Cwmynyscoy Quarry LNR, y Henllys Open Space LNR; and

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y Tir-pentwys LNR. 5.87. The 1km search area from the Site boundary contains thirteen non-statutory designated sites of which eight are unnamed Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland (ASNW), one is an unnamed Plantation Ancient Woodland (PAW) and four Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) Grasslands (unconfirmed), Craig y Felin, Chapel Lane Road Verge, New Inn Road Verge and Whitehall Marsh. 5.88. A list and brief description of statutory sites within 5 km and SINCs within 1 km of the development site is given below. The sites are listed in order of closest proximity to the development site. y Whitehall Marsh SINC is an area of marshy grassland. y Craig y felin / Chapel Lane Road Verge SINC is a verge of semi-improved neutral y grassland. y Coed Gwaun-y-fferiad Grasslands SINC contains species-rich acid grassland, marshy grassland and well-vegetated water channels. y New Inn Road Verge SINC is a verge of semi-improved neutral grassland. y Church Wood and Springvale Ponds LNR contains woodland, some of which is classed as Ancient Woodland, ponds and wetland. y Cwmynyscoy Quarry LNR is situated in a disused quarry and is inhabited by to a number of notable species including Noctule bats and Barn Owls. y Llandegfedd Reservoir SSSI is the largest inland open water habitat in Torfaen and is an important area for overwintering birds. y Brecon Beacons NP covers 519 square miles and contains a diverse variety of habitats and species. y Henllys Open Space LNR comprises a range of habitats including grassland and broadleaf woodland. The site is important for moths and butterflies. y Tir-pentwys LNR is a former landfill site that is now made up a number of different habitats including grassland, ponds, rock faces, woodland and streams. The site is important for birds, bats, invertebrates and lower plants. y Cilwrgi Quarry SSSI is designated for its geological interest due to the exposed Wenlock Limestone within the site. y Henllys Bog SSSI comprises an area of wet neutral grassland that is particularly species-rich in places. y Ty'r Hen Forwyn SSSI is mostly species-rich neutral grassland with areas of acid grassland, scrub, bracken and well-developed hedgerows. The site is of special interest for its large population of Wood Bitter-Vetch Vicia orobus.

Notable Species Records (Completed by RSK) 5.89. At number of notable species were identified from records in the search area. Of these, 3 are amphibians, 28 are birds, 3 are fish, 9 are invertebrates, 13 are mammals (of these, at least 10 are bats) and 12 are plants or bryophytes. Species that are protected by UK law under The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and have been recorded in the search area include: y 3 amphibian species - common frog (Rana temporaria), common toad (Bufo bufo) and great crested newt (Triturus cristatus)

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y 3 bird species - common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), Mediterranean gull (Larus melanocephalus) and redwing (Turdus iliacus) y 4 invertebrate species - freshwater crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes), high brown fritillary (Argynnis adippe), marsh fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia) and pearl-bordered fritillary (Boloria euphrosyne) y 10 species of bat including brandt's bat (Myotis brandtii), brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus), common pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus), daubenton’s bat (Myotis daubentonii), leisler's bat (Nyctalus leisleri), lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros), noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula), natterer’s bat (Myotis nattereri), serotine bat (Eptesicus serotinus) and soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus) y 2 other mammals’ species - european otter (Lutra lutra) and European water vole (Arvicola terrestris) y 2 plant species – Hyacinthoides non-scripta (bluebell) and Rhinanthus angustifolius (greater yellow-rattle) 5.90. There are no designated sites or direct species records within or directly adjacent to the Site boundary. It is therefore considered that they are of negligible value to the Site.

Phase 1 Habitats 5.91. The updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey recorded the following habitats:: y semi-natural broad-leaved woodlands mostly on steep valley sides, but including wet woodland in valley bottoms or more extensively at valley heads; y very occasional broad-leaved or mixed plantation woodlands; y thorn scrub and incipient secondary woodland occurring rather rarely in small patches, mostly in stream valleys; y hedges, mostly modestly species-rich; y bramble scrub mostly at field edges, but locally extensive in the few places where the steep sides of stream valleys are not well-wooded; y stands of bracken sometimes with tall semi-ruderal herbs in similar situations to thorn scrub; y rough mesotrophic grassland of limited extent, mostly on road and track verges; y very large amounts of semi-improved agricultural grassland, often including extensive wet areas grading into rough pasture; y small amounts of improved agricultural grassland; y amenity-turf (e.g. on the towpath of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and the sides of the cycle track); and y very occasional patches of ruderal vegetation. 5.92. Each habitat type is assigned the corresponding Joint Nature Conservancy Council (JNCC) Phase 1 coding in the summary descriptions below.

Woodland and Scrub Dry Semi-natural Broad-leaved Woodland 5.93. On the sides of stream valleys, woodland canopies are mostly dominated by Quercus robur (pedunculate oak) with smaller amounts of Fraxinus excelsior (ash) and more occasionally Acer 47 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

pseudoplatanus (sycamore) or Prunus avium (wild cherry). Betula pendula (silver birch) and Sorbus aucuparia (rowan) are rare but occur in a few places where the woodland takes on a marginally calcifugous character. All of these species could occur in naturally developing ancient or secondary woodland. Additionally in the southern part of the Site some woods contain Fagus sylvatica (beech) in the canopy - a species that is native in south eastern England but here is likely to have been planted. In these woodlands the shrub layer generally consists of Corylus avellana (hazel) coppice-stools, together with Crataegus monogyna (hawthorn) and Ilex aquifolium (holly). Field-layers are variously dominated by Hedera helix (ivy) and Rubus fruticosus agg. (bramble) often with small amounts of Dryopteris dilatata (broad buckler-fern) and Hyacinthoides non-scripta (bluebell). Areas with a wider range of woodland herbs - often including among other species Anemone nemorosa (wood anemone), Conopodium majus (pignut), Geum urbanum (wood avens), Lamiastrum galeobdolon (yellow archangel), Lysimachia nemorum (yellow pimpernel), Oxalis acetosella (woodsorrel) and Veronica montana (wood speedwell) - are however very frequent throughout most of the woodlands. Only where Ilex aquifolium (holly) - or very locally towards houses on the southern edge of the survey area Prunus laurocerasus (cherry laurel) - shades out the field-layer are these generally lacking. These valleyside woodlands are loosely referable to various sub-communities of the NVC type W10 Quercus robur-Pteridium aquilinum-Rubus fruticosus woodland, but may locally tend towards W8 Fraxinus excelsior-Acer campestre- Mercurialis perennis woodland on the transition towards wet-woodland NVC types. In wetter places Alnus glutinosa (alder) rises to dominance in the canopy, often to the exclusion of all other species. Most but not all Alnus in the survey area takes the form of large coppice stools. There is little sign of recent planting. In these wet woodlands there may be some Quercus robur (pedunculate oak) in the canopy, while Fraxinus excelsior (ash) is more frequent than in the valley-side woods. In the shrub-layer Sambucus nigra (elder) becomes prominent together with the species listed above, and Salix caprea (goat willow) or Salix cinerea ssp. oleifolia (rusty willow) may occur locally (mainly in very wet woods on level ground at valley heads). Field-layers in the wet woods may be dominated by sparse Rubus fruticosus agg. (bramble) together with tall herbs, especially Rumex sanguineus (wood dock) and Urtica dioica (common nettle), but more commonly, and especially on flood-plains by streams, they take the form of species-rich carpets of low-growing herbs, especially Cardamine flexuosa (wavy bitter-cress), Chrysosplenium oppositifolium (opposite-leaved golden-saxifrage), Circaea lutetiana (enchanter’s–nightshade) and Ficaria verna (lesser celandine). The ferns Athyrium filix-femina (lady-fern), Dryopteris dilatata (broad buckler-fern) and Dryopteris filix-mas (male-fern) are frequent. The wettest woodlands may also have Caltha palustris (marsh-marigold) together with species more commonly associated with water-margins. These wet woodland types are mostly referable to the NVC type W7a Alnus glutinosa-Fraxinus excelsior-Lysimachia nemorum woodland, Urtica dioica sub-community, especially in stream valleys, but they may be transitional towards W6d Alnus glutinosa-Urtica dioica woodland, Sambucus nigra sub-community in a few places. Stream-sides in the wet woodlands support extensive and probably species-rich carpets of mosses and liverworts. Though the ubiquitous Kindbergia praelonga is widely dominant, such species as Atrichum undulatum, Mnium hornum and Plagiomnium undulatum occur widely, and thalloid liverworts such as Lunularia cruciata, Pellia epiphylla and Conocephalum conicum are common. Trees and deadwood near the streams are also generally clothed in mosses and liverworts. These areas may therefore have bryophyte assemblages of some interest, though whether they are likely to be exceptional for Wales is more doubtful. 5.94. From the extended Phase 1 survey we cannot say whether the semi-natural broad-leaved woodlands are ancient woodland or recent secondary woodland. The range of broadleaved herbs and prevalence of coppice stools suggests some sort of ancient status, but decisive indications such as very large coppice stools seem to be lacking. The likelihood is that the stream valleys have

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long been partially wooded owing to their intractability for agriculture, and that they accordingly have many of the characteristics of ancient countryside features even if they are not discrete parcels of ancient woodland of the kind commonly described from eastern Britain. The presence of Fagus sylvatica (beech) in some woods suggests tree-planting, but that is not necessarily incompatible with a long site-history of partial woodland management. Plantation Woodland and Scrub 5.95. Plantations are scarce in the Site, being mostly located close to roads on the eastern side of the Site, where one parcel consists of Quercus robur (pedunculate oak) and another consists of non- native Acer campestre cf. var. oxytomum (field maple)1 and Fraxinus excelsior (ash) with scattered Pinus cf. Nigra ssp. laricio (corsican pine). Scrub is likewise rare, but a in a few places - mainly where the steep sides of stream valleys are not wooded - Crataegus monogyna (hawthorn) is invading among Rubus fruticosus agg. (bramble) to the extent that thorn scrub referable to the NVC type W21a Crataegus monogyna-Hedera helix scrub, Hedera helix-Urtica dioica sub community is forming. Mature examples are rare, but some are scattered on the northern edge of the site where stream valley woodland thins towards the houses. Most scrub of this kind contains saplings of Acer pseudoplatanus (sycamore) and Quercus robur (pedunculate oak), so that it may develop towards woodland. 5.96. As Phase II botany surveys have been undertaken at the woodlands of merit on Site, their valuation has been assigned within the Phase II botany section below.

Hedges 5.97. Most hedges within the Site boundary consist mainly of Corylus avellana (hazel), Crataegus monogyna (hawthorn) and Ilex aquifolium (holly); many seem to contain only these three species. Other species often present at lower levels of abundance are Rosa canina (dog-rose), Prunus spinosa (blackthorn) and Sambucus nigra (elder). A few of the more species-rich hedges - mostly road hedges - also contain amongst the laid, trimmed or coppiced shrub component Acer campestre (field maple), Fraxinus excelsior (ash) and Quercus robur (pedunculate oak). Of these only the latter two are commonly present additionally as standard hedgerow trees. Rubus fruticosus agg. (bramble) is abundant in the hedges and often fills gaps. So too is the woody climber Lonicera periclymenum (honeysuckle). A few hedges close to water contain Alnus glutinosa (alder), Salix caprea (goat willow) or Salix cinerea ssp. oleifolia (rusty willow). Calcicolous shrubs are more-or-less lacking in all of these hedges. A few of the hedges consist only of Crataegus monogyna (hawthorn), but they are the exception rather than the rule. A few hedges consist only of Corylus avellana (hazel). Many of the hedges are defunct with extensive gaps, and many have been allowed to grow up tall to heights of four or five metres; mostly these are defunct. In the hedge bottoms Hedera helix (ivy) is commonly dominant together with Rubus fruticosus agg. (bramble) and shade-tolerant herbs, especially Arum maculatum (lords-and-ladies), Cardamine flexuosa (wavy bitter-cress) and Ficaria verna (lesser celandine), and often Brachypodium sylvaticum (false brome), Geum urbanum (wood avens), Geranium robertianum (herb-robert), Lamiastrum galeobdolon (yellow archangel), Potentilla sterilis (barren strawberry), Stellaria holostea (greater stitchwort) and Viola riviniana (common dog-violet). Taller herbs including Anthriscus sylvestris (cow parsley), Heracleum sphondylium (hogweed), Rumex sanguineus (wood dock) and Urtica dioica (common nettle) are commonly frequent as well. Many of the hedges contain Pteridium aquilinum (bracken) at high levels of abundance, and a much less species-rich and mildly calcifugous assemblage of species associated with it includes Digitalis purpurea (foxglove), Ficaria verna (lesser celandine), Holcus mollis (creeping soft-grass), Hyacinthoides non- scripta (bluebell), Galeopsis tetrahit (common hemp-nettle) and Galium aparine (cleavers). 49 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

5.98. The majority of hedgerows on Site are of low species diversity with more species richness occurring within the north eastern part of the Site. As such it is considered that none of the hedgerows on Site qualify under the ecology criteria of the Hedgerow Regulations 1997 or qualify as UKBAP habitat. The more species rich hedgerows in the north eastern part of the Site in the vicinity of Bevans Lane are however likely to qualify under the Torfaen local BAP. The hedges within the Site are considered to be key ecological features for a variety of biodiversity. As such, and considering the survey results above, the hedges on Site is considered to be of local value.

Grassland Semi-improved Agricultural Grassland 5.99. Most grassland in the survey area qualifies as semi-improved grassland. Typically the sward consists of Lolium perenne (perennial rye-grass) which is sometimes, but not always, the most abundant grass, together with the grasses Agrostis capillaries (common bent), Anthoxanthum odoratum (sweet vernal-grass), Dactylis glomerata (cock’s-foot) and Holcus lanatus (Yorkshire- fog). Cover of broad-leaved herbs commonly stands between 10% and 30% and the following species are very consistently among the most abundant - Bellis perennis (daisy), Plantago lanceolata (ribwort plantain), Ranunculus acris (meadow buttercup), Ranunculus repens (creeping buttercup), Rumex acetosa (common sorrel), Taraxacum sect. Ruderalia species (dandelion) and Trifolium repens (white clover). These swards are loosely referable to the NVC type MG6a Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus Grassland, typical sub-community but may often be closer to MG7e Lolium perenne leys and related grasslands, Lolium perenne-Plantago lanceolata grassland. Additional forb species often indicate a transition towards more species-rich agricultural grassland, but a few may be scattered at low levels of abundance, especially Ficaria verna (lesser celandine) and Trifolium pratense (red clover). Slightly wetter areas in relatively species-poor swards often have Cardamine pratensis (cuckooflower) and the rushes Juncus effusus (soft-rush) and Juncus inflexus (hard rush) at high levels of abundance, though more distinctly wet places usually have a much more species-rich assemblage albeit centred on these species. Where Holcus lanatus (Yorkshire-fog) rises in abundance in such areas it marks the beginning of a transition towards rush pasture loosely referable to the NVC type MG10 Holcus lanatus-Juncus effusus rush-pasture. Improved Agricultural Grassland 5.100. Leys of Lolium perenne (perennial rye-grass) and Trifolium repens (white clover) referable to the NVC type MG7 Lolium perenne leys and related grasslands, Lolium perenne-Trifolium repens leys are very rare in the survey area. However, many fields contain impoverished forms of the sward- type with a reduced range of forbs, and these are best regarded as improved grassland. Many swards in the survey area must be on the borderline between the two types, for which precise definitions are lacking. Unimproved Grassland, Rush Pasture and Mires 5.101. A few fields contain grassland similar to that described above with many additional forbs, and these are to be regarded as species-rich semi-improved grassland or unimproved grassland. These swards are often marked by the presence of Centaurea nigra (common knapweed) at relatively high levels of abundance, plus a suite of forbs including Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Agrimonia eupatoria (agrimony), Conopodium majus (pignut), Hypochaeris radicata (cat’s-ear), Lathyrus pratensis (meadow vetchling), Lotus corniculatus (common bird’s-foot-trefoil), Luzula campestris (field wood-rush), Prunella vulgaris (selfheal), Ranunculus bulbosus (bulbous buttercup), Scorzoneroides autumnalis (autumn hawkbit), Veronica chamaedrys (germander speedwell) and Viola riviniana (common dog-violet). They may well be locally referable to the NVC type MG5 50 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Cynosurus cristatus-Centaurea nigra grassland. Wet places in these fields - and also beneath open canopies in partially felled woodlands have species-rich assemblages centred around the grasses Agrostis stolonifera (creeping bent) and Holcus lanatus (Yorkshire-fog) and the rushes Juncus effusus (soft-rush) and Juncus inflexus (hard rush). Many broad-leaved herbs are locally abundant in such vegetation including Cardamine pratensis (cuckooflower), Galium palustre (common marsh-bedstraw), Lotus pedunculatus (greater bird’s-foot-trefoil), Lychnis flos-cuculi (ragged-robin), Mentha aquatica (water mint), Ranunculus flammula (lesser spearwort) and Stellaria uliginosa (bog stitchwort). They often contain the relatively uncommon Valeriana dioica (marsh valerian), and they are referable to the NVC type MG10 Holcus lanatus-Juncus effusus rush-pasture, though where Juncus articulates (jointed rush) is abundant together with Ranunculus flammula (lesser spearwort) they may tend towards M23 Juncus effusus/acutiflorus-Galium palustre rush pasture. In places the tall rush-sward is replaced by lower-growing swards characterized by carpets of the moss Calliergonella cuspidata together with sedges including Carex flacca (glaucous sedge), Carex cf. leporina (oval sedge) and Carex cf. viridula ssp. oedocarpa (common yellow-sedge),Carex cf. otrubae (false foxsedge) and such broad-leaved herbs as Ajuga reptans (bugle), Pedicularis sylvatica (lousewort) and Succisa pratensis (devil’s-bit scabious). There are falcate-leaved mosses not identified in the extended Phase 1 survey, and there may well be bryophyte assemblages of some interest. Other Grassland and Vegetation 5.102. Road verges in a few places have rough grassland dominated by coarse grasses such as Arrhenatherum elatius (false oat-grass) and dactylis glomerata (cock’s-foot) loosely referable to the NVC type MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland. The towpath of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal has mown swards featuring such grasses as Agrostis stolonifera (creeping bent), Dactylis glomerata (cock’s-foot), Lolium perenne (perennial rye-grass) and Poa trivialis (rough meadow- grass) together with semi-ruderal grassland forbs such as Taraxacum sect. Ruderalia species (dandelion). These swards are loosely referable to the NVC type OV23 Lolium perenne-Dactylis glomerata community and similar swards occur by tracks and around horse paddocks in a few places. 5.103. The water-margin of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal has fragmentary emergent aquatic vegetation that includes including Apium nodiflorum (fool’s water-cress), Carex remota (remote sedge), Elodea nuttallii (nuttall’s waterweed), Glyceria maxima (reed sweet-grass), Iris pseudacorus (yellow Iris), Juncus effusus (softrush), Juncus inflexus (hard rush), Mentha aquatica (water mint), Myosotis scorpioides (water forget-me-not), Oenanthe crocata (hemlock water- dropwort), Phalaris arundinacea (reed canary-grass) and Veronica beccabunga (brooklime). It is perhaps loosely referable to the NVC type S23 other water margin vegetation. 5.104. Nettle-bed vegetation dominated by Urtica dioica (common nettle) with Galium aparine (cleavers) and a limited range of tall semi-ruderal herbs including Cirsium arvense (creeping thistle) and Rumex obtusifolius (broad-leaved dock) is referable to the NVC type OV24 Urtica dioica-Galium aparine community and occurs in a very few places. More common where the sides of stream valleys are not well-wooded are stands of Pteridium aquilinum (bracken) probably - due to their woodland association with nearby woodland - referable to the NVC type W25a Pteridium aquilinum-Rubus fruticosus under scrub, Hyacinthoides non-scripta sub-community. 5.105. Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed) is distributed throughout the site but as expected, is generally located in areas close to the watercourses on the Site. 5.106. As Phase II botany surveys have been undertaken at the grasslands of merit on Site their valuation has been assigned within the Phase II botany section below. 51 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Phase II botany

Woodland 5.107. The woodlands of the survey area are remarkably uniform in respect of their vegetation and species composition, grading from woodland dominated by Quercus robur (pedunculate oak) on the drier soils to woodland dominated by Alnus glutinosa (alder) on the wettest soils, with mixed Alnus and Fraxinus excelsior (ash) woodland on the transition between the two. Most woods in the survey area show this transition, especially those in stream valleys, where the whole transition is commonly to be seen from Alnus woodland in the valley bottom to Quercus woodland at the upper edges. 5.108. We cannot say from field signs alone whether the semi-natural broad-leaved woodlands are ancient woodland or recent secondary woodland. The range of broadleaved herbs and prevalence of coppice stools suggests some sort of ancient status, but decisive indications such as very large coppice stools seem to be lacking. The likelihood is that the stream valleys have long been partially wooded owing to their intractability for agriculture, and that they accordingly have many of the characteristics of ancient countryside features even if they are not discrete parcels of ancient woodland like those commonly described from eastern Britain. The presence of Fagus sylvatica (beech) in some woods suggests tree-planting, but that is not necessarily incompatible with a long site-history of partial woodland management. None of the species recorded from woodland in the survey area are rare in the Watsonian Vice-county 35, Monmouthshire, according to local Floras (Wade 1970, Evans 2007), though several are relatively uncommon and confined to a suitable habitats in something in the order of 40 tetrads (i.e. 2-km grid-squares) across the county, e.g. Carex laevigata (smooth-stalked sedge), Hypericum androsaemum (tutsan). The most notable species is Carex strigosa (thin-spiked wood-sedge), which occurs by stream sides in woods on the southern boundary of the survey area. 5.109. It can’t be determined if the woodlands on Site are ancient woodland or recent secondary woodland. The woodlands are not considered to be UKBAP habitat but could be covered under the Torfaen local BAP. The woodlands within the Site are considered to be a key ecological feature for a variety of biodiversity. The species recorded at the woodlands are common for this type of habitat within the local area with no notable species recorded. As such and considering the survey results above, the woodland on Site is considered to be of district value.

Grassland 5.110. The general prevalence of the grasses Cynosurus cristatus (crested dog’s-tail) and Lolium perenne (perennial rye-grass) in the few species-rich swards of the Site places these swards in the Cynosurion alliance, and means that they are likely to belong either to the NVC type MG5 cynosurus cristatus-Centaurea nigra grassland or to the type MG6 Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus grassland. In lowland Britain at large the most species-rich swards are MG5, while semi- improved swards are commonly MG6, though some unimproved swards are MG6. Some swards, especially in the south-eastern part of the survey area, contain a few species that are encountered in calcicolous grasslands, e.g. the sedge Carex flacca (glaucous Sedge), the grass Briza media (quaking-grass), but there are no strong calcicoles, and these species with weak calcicolous associations are a characteristic feature of the mesotrophic grassland type MG5 (Rodwell 1992). 5.111. Some swards, especially in the north-eastern and south-western parts of the Site, contain a few species that are mildly suggestive of calcifugous swards, e.g. Danthonia decumbens (heath-grass), Stellaria graminea (lesser stitchwort), Succisa pratensis (devil’s-bit scabious), but all of these are

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found in mesotrophic swards as well and thus no firm conclusion can be drawn. In this case, however, the beginnings of a transition towards calcifugous swards is suggested by the presence of these species in swards that otherwise lack the more calcicolous elements among the mesotrophic grassland species, and have a low diversity of broad-leaved herbs as well. Although this tendency in the swards is marginal, it does help in understanding the grasslands in the survey area, especially as the transition from MG6 to the least calcifugous of the calcifugous grassland NVC types, viz. U4b Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile grassland, Holcus lanatus- Trifolium repens sub-community, is very common in the Welsh borders. All that said it remains that the species-rich swards of the survey area are mesotrophic grassland types, mostly in the Cynosurion alliance, centred on the NVC types MG5 or MG6. They are accordingly liable to belong to the BAP habitat type G06 Lowland Meadows and not to any other grassland BAP habitat type. 5.112. The more species-rich mesotrophic grasslands of the survey area belong to the Cynosurion alliance and to the NVC type MG5 Cynosurus cristatus-Centaurea nigra grassland, which is highly valued from a nature conservation point-of-view wherever it occurs, owing to its very high biodiversity value, and to the huge losses of such species-rich mesotrophic grassland - mostly MG5 - caused by agricultural intensification since 1945 (as much as 94% of the 1945 acreage). Mostly they represent the BAP Priority Habitat ‘G06 Lowland Meadows’. Grasslands of this kind in the survey area may be summarized as follows. y The most species-rich examples occur in fields to the south east of the Site. They are clearly referable to the NVC type MG5a Cynosurus cristatus-Centaurea nigra grassland, Lathyrus pratensis sub community and they qualify as ‘good-quality species-rich grasslands’ representing the BAP feature G06 Lowland Meadows, when assessed on the basis of guidance in Natural England (2010). y A somewhat less species-rich example in a field heavily grazed by horses at the south central part of the Site is referable to the NVC type MG5 Cynosurus cristatus-Centaurea nigra grassland and is undifferentiated. It qualifies only as ‘species-rich grassland’ (i.e. not ‘good- quality species-rich grassland’) representing the BAP feature G06 Lowland Meadows, when assessed on the basis of guidance in Natural England (2010). y Another somewhat less species-rich grassland in a field in the north east of the Site is marginally transitional towards more calcifugous swards, and therefore referable to the NVC type MG5c Cynosurus cristatus –Centaurea nigra grassland, Danthonia decumbens sub- community. It too qualifies only as ‘species-rich grassland’ (i.e. not ‘good-quality species-rich grassland’) representing the BAP feature G06 Lowland Meadows, when assessed on the basis of guidance in Natural England (2010), but its importance in the context of the survey area is greatly enhanced by the presence of species-rich sedge and rush mire communities (M23 Juncus effusus/acutiflorus-Galium palustre rush-pasture) in the north-western corner of the field. 5.113. Other semi-improved grasslands in the survey area are less species-rich, and the best of these are even more clearly referable to the NVC type MG6b Lolium perenne- Cynosurus cristatus grassland, Anthoxanthum odoratum sub-community rather than MG5. For that reason they have not been widely investigated at Phase 2, but demonstrate that the grassland is MG6b, grading via rush pasture referable to the NVC type MG10a Holcus lanatus-Juncus effusus rush pasture, typical sub- community towards rush-mire referable to the NVC type M23 Juncus effusus/acutiflorus-Galium palustre rush-pasture in wet places. None of the species recorded from grasslands in the survey area are rare in the Watsonian Vice-county 35, Monmouthshire, according to local Floras (Wade 1970, Evans 2007), though several are relatively uncommon and confined to suitable habitats in something in the order of 30 tetrads (i.e. 2-km grid-squares) across the county, e.g. Equisetum sylvaticum (Wood Horsetail). Feature G06 Lowland Meadows, when assessed on the basis of 53 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

guidance in Natural England (2010), but its importance in the context of the survey area is greatly enhanced by the presence of species-rich sedge and rush mire communities (M23 Juncus effusus/acutiflorus-Galium palustre rush-pasture) in the north-western corner of the field. Somewhat less species-rich mesotrophic grasslands are referable to the more widespread NVC type MG6 Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus grassland, which is characteristic of agriculturally semi-improved grasslands. These swards are perhaps transitional to the calcifugous grassland type U4b Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile grassland, Holcus lanatus-Trifolium repens sub-community though distinctly closer to MG6b Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus grassland, Anthoxanthum odoratum sub-community. On the basis of Natural England (2010) they qualify only as the grassland type ‘G02 Semi improved Grassland’, which is not a BAP Priority Habitat. Other semi-improved grasslands in the survey area are less species-rich, and the best of them are even more clearly referable to the NVC type MG6b Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus grassland, Anthoxanthum odoratum sub-community rather than MG5. For that reason they have not been widely investigated at Phase 2, but demonstrate that the grassland is MG6b, grading via rush pasture referable to the NVC type MG10a Holcus lanatus-Juncus effusus rush pasture, typical sub-community towards rush-mire referable to the NVC type M23 Juncus effusus/acutiflorus- Galium palustre rush-pasture in wet places. None of the species recorded from grasslands in the survey area are rare in the Watsonian Vice-county 35, Monmouthshire, according to local Floras (Wade 1970, Evans 2007), though several are relatively uncommon and confined to suitable habitats in something in the order of 30 tetrads (i.e. 2-km grid-squares) across the county, e.g. Equisetum sylvaticum (wood horsetail). 5.114. The grasslands on Site vary in species diversity. The most diverse are the MG5, MG6 and M23 grasslands that best resemble UKBAP priority habitat and of lowland meadows under the Torfaen local BAP. These more diverse grasslands within the Site are considered to be a key ecological feature for a variety of biodiversity. As such and considering the survey results above, the grasslands on Site are considered to be of county value.

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal 5.115. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is the only site for many of the aquatic and wetland plants recorded from the Site. Among submerged aquatics Elodea nuttallii (nuttall’s waterweed) is the most abundant, while Ceratophyllum demersum (rigid hornwort), Lemna trisulca (ivy-leaved duckweed) and Potamogeton cf. pusillus (lesser pondweed) are rare. Floating-leaved aquatics are scarce but include Lemna minor (common duckweed), Persicaria amphibia (amphibious bistort) and Potamogeton natans (broad-leaved pondweed). Emergent aquatics are locally frequent at the water-margin and include Equisetum fluviatile (water horsetail), Iris pseudacorus (yellow iris), Sagittaria sagittifolia (arrowhead), Sparganium cf. emersum (unranched bur-reed) and Sparganium erectum (branched bur-reed). Other water-margin plants include Alisma plantago-aquatica (water- plantain), Apium nodiflorum (fool’s water-cress), Berula erecta (lesser water-parsnip), Eleocharis palustris (common spike-rush), Glyceria fluitans (floating sweet-grass), Lycopus europaeus (gipsywort), Mentha aquatica (water mint), Oenanthe crocata (hemlock water-dropwort), Phalaris arundinacea (reed canary-grass), Stachys palustris (marsh woundwort) and Veronica beccabunga (brooklime). Together with woodland plants on the sides of the towpath, these wetland plants amplify the contribution to the species list for the Site made by the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. Together with the cycle path, it includes rough grassland and semi-ruderal habitats (especially towards the southern end), and since these are scarce in the survey area, the contribution to species listed is disproportionate. Wetland species aside, a few other species recorded only here include Clinopodium vulgare (wild basil) and Juncus tenuis (slender rush) on the cycle path, and tentatively Festuca heterophylla (various-leaved fescue) from the wooded 54 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

section above the canal tunnel-mouth. This last would be of some botanical interest if confirmed but as this is an alien species its nature conservation importance is low. 5.116. The canal hosts the majority of aquatic and wetland plants recorded within the Site and is considered to be a key ecological feature for a variety of biodiversity. The species recorded at the canal are common for this type of habitat with no notable species recorded. As such, the canal is considered to be of local value.

Badgers 5.117. The ecological data search from the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010 highlights no records of badger within 2km of the Site. 5.118. During the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010 two disused badger setts were located at the centre of the Site but are now considered to be occupied by rabbits. A partially active sett was however identified in the south of the Site with evidence of activity including a large spoil heap and badger hairs within two sett entrance holes. 5.119. The data search did not contain any records of badgers within 2km of the Site. The habitats present on Site are of value to badgers for all their life cycle activities. The surveys undertaken have recorded the presence of a probable outlier sett to the south of the Site that is considered to be in partial use. As such, the Site is considered to be of value within the Site only for badgers.

Bats 5.120. The ecological data search from the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010 highlights records of 10 species of bat including brandt's bat (Myotis brandtii), brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus), common pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus), daubenton’s bat (Myotis daubentonii), leisler's bat (Nyctalus leisleri), lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros), noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula), natterer’s bat (Myotis nattereri), serotine bat (Eptesicus serotinus) and soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus) within 5km of the survey Site.

Hay Barn Emergence Surveys 5.121. The first emergence survey noted common pipistrelle bats constantly foraging around the barn that entered and re-exited the barn many times through the large open barn doors. As a result, it was difficult to establish the exact numbers of bats roosting in the barn. However, approximately six bats were recorded as roosting in the barn. Common pipistrelle bats and noctule (Nyctalus noctula) were recorded foraging within the vicinity of the barn during the survey. 5.122. The second Emergence Survey noted a single common pipistrelle bat emerging from the Hay Barn. Common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle (Pipstrellus pygmaeous) and noctule bats were recorded foraging within the vicinity of the barn during the survey. 5.123. The evidence from the two emergence surveys undertaken by RSK during the maternity period of 2010 indicate that the Hay Barn is being used by low numbers of common pipistrelle bats (maximum count of 6) for roosting. Previous surveys undertaken by ADAS (2008) in September 2007 recorded a single common pipistrelle roosting in the building. The evidence suggests that it is likely that the building is being used on an occasional basis by this species throughout the active season. 5.124. No winter survey work has been carried out to establish if the building is used for hibernation and it is possible that individual or small numbers of Common pipistrelle bats use the building for roosting

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during the hibernation period.

Activity Surveys 5.125. The following bat species were recorded during the bat activity surveys: y Common pipistrelle; y Soprano pipistrelle; y Noctule; y Leisler’s bat; y Leisler’s / serotine; and y Myotis species.

5.126. The canal was considered to be the main focus for bat activity on the Site, along with the wooded streams. The fields in the east of the Site generally had low bat activity. Periods of constant foraging activity were recorded on all of these features. 5.127. Bats were also recorded on many of the other linear features on the site such as lines of trees and hedgerows, although this was mainly restricted to individual or small numbers of bats. Bats were observed using the features for commuting or as part of foraging routes. 5.128. Bat activity was generally considered to be lower than expected in the south-east of the Site. It was expected to be higher due to the presence of good linear features (hedgerows and lines of trees) containing many mature trees. However, bats were seen to be using the wooded streams on this transect. 5.129. Surveyors walked around the western edge of a small woodland to the west of the canal and considered this area of the transect to have relatively low bat activity. Bats in this area are probably drawn to the canal for foraging and this may be the reason for the low numbers. However, the woodland shelters the canal on its eastern side and as this area of the canal was the most active area of the site the woodland may still be important for bats on the site.

Anabat Detector Surveys 5.130. The majority of most bats were recorded at the bottom of a track in the wooded valley in the east of the site. A total of 1357 bat passes were recorded at this location on one night alone (18th May 2010). Other Anabat’s across the Site also recorded levels of activity associated with this habitat in the north of the Site. 5.131. A total of 3159 (77.6%) bat passes recorded on the Anabat units were identified as pipistrelle bats. 5.132. Other confirmed bat species recorded on the site by the Anabat detectors were noctule, serotine, leisler’s bat and Myotis bats. No barbastelle bats were recorded on the Anabat detectors. 5.133. Anabats to the northern edge of the wooded stream located south of Uplands Farm, recorded levels of bat activity associated with this habitat. As the southern edge of this woodland is located in a depression, it is likely that bats are just using this sheltered southern edge for foraging and commuting. Bats were confirmed as using the southern edge of the woodland as part of a foraging route during the bat activity surveys. 5.134. A large number of bats were recorded on the bottom of a track in the wooded valley in the east of the Site. Bats were obviously using this feature as a sheltered foraging area for long periods of time and this is not surprising given the woodland edge and stream habitat. 56 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

5.135. The remaining Anabat detectors recorded above average levels of activity on the site indicating that the habitats in which they are located are being used for foraging and commuting. 5.136. The habitats on Site including the farm buildings, woodlands, hedgerows and grasslands offer commuting, foraging and roosting opportunities for bats. The data search notes the presence of ten bat species within 5km of the survey Site. Of the bats recorded, only a single roost of low numbers (1-6) of common pipistrelle was noted at Hay Barn to the north east of the Site. The activity and Anabat surveys recorded three UKBAP species (noctule, soprano pipistrelle and brown long-eared bat) and all species recorded are listed on the Torfaen BAP. As such the Site is considered to be of County value for bats.

Birds 5.137. The ecological data search from the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010 highlights records of birds including common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), Mediterranean gull (Larus melanocephalus) and redwing (Turdus iliacus) within 2km of the Site.

5.138. A total of 55 bird species were recorded during all of the survey visits in 2010. A full list of species recorded and their breeding status is shown in Table 2 below.

Table 2: All bird species recorded during the surveys

English name Latin name Breeding status Mallard* Anas platyrhynchos Confirmed Eurasian sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Probable Common buzzard Buteo buteo Probable Common kestrel* Falco tinnunculus Possible Eurasian hobby‡ Falco subbuteo Possible Common moorhen Gallinula chloropus Confirmed Northern lapwing**† Vallenus vallenus Non-breeder Eurasian curlew*† Numenius arquata Possible Black-headed gull* Larus ridibundus Non-breeder Lesser black-backed gull* Larus fuscus Non-breeder Herring gull**† Larus argentatus Non-breeder Common wood pigeon Columba palumbus Confirmed Eurasian collared dove Streptopelia decaocto Probable Common cuckoo**† Cuculus canorus Possible Common swift* Apus apus Possible Green woodpecker* Picus viridis Confirmed Great spotted woodpecker Dendrocopus major Confirmed Barn swallow* Hirundo rustica Confirmed House martin* Delichon urbica Possible Pied wagtail Motacilla alba Probable Winter wren Troglodytes troglodytes Confirmed Hedge accentor*† Prunella modularis Confirmed European robin Erithacus rubecula Confirmed Common blackbird Turdus merula Confirmed Song thrush**† Turdus philomelos Confirmed Mistle thrush* T. viscivorus Confirmed Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla Confirmed Garden warbler Sylvia borin Confirmed Common whitethroat* Sylvia communis Confirmed Common chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita Confirmed Willow warbler* Phylloscopus trochilus Confirmed Goldcrest Regulus regulus Confirmed Pied flycatcher* Ficedula hypoleuca Possible

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Long-tailed tit Aegithalos caudatus Confirmed Blue tit Cyanistes caeruleus Confirmed Great tit Parus major Confirmed Coal tit Periparus ater Confirmed Marsh tit**† Peocile palustris Confirmed Wood nuthatch Sitta europaea Confirmed Eurasian treecreeper Certhia familiaris Confirmed Eurasian jay Garrulus glandarius Probable Black-billed magpie Pica pica Confirmed Eurasian jackdaw Corvus monedula Possible Rook Corvus frugilegus Non-breeder Carrion crow Corvus corone Confirmed Common raven Corvus corax Non-breeder Common starling **† Sturnus vulgaris Probable House sparrow**† Passer domesticus Confirmed Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Confirmed Common linnet**† Carduelis cannabina Confirmed European greenfinch Carduelis chloris Confirmed European goldfinch Carduelis carduelis Confirmed Eurasian siskin Carduelis spinus Non-breeder Lesser redpoll**† Carduelis cabaret Possible Common bullfinch*† Pyrrhula pyrrhula Confirmed

‡ Schedule 1 species ** Red list Birds of Conservation Concern * Amber list Birds of Conservation Concern † UKBAP species

Notable Bird Species and Breeding Status 5.139. All Schedule 1, UKBAP and Red and Amber List Birds of Conservation Concern species recorded during the visits, their locations and breeding status have been summarised in Table 3.

Table 3: Birds recorded during the visits, locations and breeding status (C=Confirmed; PR=Probable; PO=Possible; N=Non-breeder,?= Present in suitable breeding habitat but not thought to have bred)

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5.140. Of the 55 species recorded, 48 potentially nest within the boundaries of the Site. 33 species have been confirmed as breeding, 6 probably breed on the site and a further 9 species possibly breeds on Site. The woodlands, scrub and hedgerows support the majority of nesting bird species, including all but two (mallard and barn swallow) of the confirmed notable nesting species.

5.141. No species were confirmed as ground nesting in the open grassland, although the short grassland is important foraging habitat for birds such as common kestrel, green woodpecker, thrushes and common starling. Flocks of feeding common swift, barn swallow and house martin fed over the open fields, particularly during the later surveys when flocks included family parties.

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Notable Breeding Species

Schedule 1 5.142. One Schedule 1 species, Eurasian hobby, was recorded during the survey. During the second survey visit an adult male was observed flying over the line of trees alongside the canal and briefly alighted in one of the trees before continuing along the canal. Eurasian hobby nest in old corvid nests usually within woodlands or copses. Although there is suitable habitat within the site boundaries for nesting Eurasian hobby, thorough searches for the species during further visits produced no other sightings. The bird observed was most likely to have been just moving through the area during its migration north and the species is not thought to nest on the Site.

UKBAP 5.143. Six UKBAP species, hedge accentor, song thrush, marsh tit, house sparrow, common linnet and common bullfinch, were confirmed as breeding within the boundaries of the proposed development. In addition, common starling (a UK BAP species) was recorded during all surveys and thus probably breed on Site. hedge accentor, song thrush, marsh tit and common bullfinch were all found to be breeding on Site and were associated with the woodlands, hedgerows and dense scrub scattered across the Site. Common linnet bred in patches of low dense scrub along the field boundaries. 5.144. House sparrow were found to have successfully bred and are associated with farm buildings present in the eastern half of the site as well as the residential areas bordering the Site. Common Starling were observed during all visits either feeding in the fields or flying over the Site. Although evidence of breeding was not confirmed during the survey, it is probable that common starling nest in holes in the larger trees scattered across the site or in farm buildings.

Red List 5.145. Five Red List species, song thrush, marsh tit, common starling, house sparrow and common linnet, were recorded as confirmed or probably breeding. These species are also UKBAP species and discussed above.

Amber List 5.146. Eight Amber List species were recorded as confirmed or probably breeding within the proposed development Site boundaries. Hedge accentor and common bullfinch are also UKBAP species and have been discussed previously. green woodpecker, willow warbler and common bullfinch were all found to have successfully bred in the woodland or associated scrub.

5.147. Common whitethroat were confirmed as breeding along two of the more overgrown hedgerows in the eastern half of the site. Mallard families were observed along the canal with at least one second brood observed during the last two visits. Barn swallow were confirmed as nesting in the farm buildings in the eastern half of the site. House martin may also nest in these buildings. 5.148. The habitats on Site including the woodlands, hedgerows and grasslands offer both foraging and nesting opportunities for birds. The data search notes the presence of common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), Mediterranean gull (Larus melanocephalus) and redwing (Turdus iliacus) within 2km of the survey Site. However none of these species were recorded on Site during the 2010 survey. Of the birds recorded on Site only a single Schedule 1 species was recorded passing over Site. Species of bird listed on the UKBAP, Red and Amber lists of conservation concern have been recorded breeding on Site As such the Site is considered to be of county value for birds.

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Great crested newts 5.149. The ecological data search from the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010 highlights records of great crested newts within 2km of the survey Site. 5.150. No great crested newts or their eggs were found during the survey in 2007 by ADAS. Most of the water bodies were of low suitability for great crested newts. A small number of common newts (T. Vulgaris) and palmate newts were found in the canal and the mountain pond. 5.151. Although the habitats on Site offer opportunities for great crested newts (predominantly within the terrestrial habitat, given the condition of the water bodies surveyed) and the data search notes their historical presence within 2km of the Site, their absence has been confirmed by the survey work undertaken. As such the Site is considered to be of negligible value for great crested newts.

Invertebrates 5.152. The ecological data search from the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010 highlights records of invertebrate species including high brown fritillary (Argynnis adippe), marsh fritillary and pearl bordered fritillary (Boloria euphrosyne) within 2km of the Site. Aquatic Invertebrate habitat sample locations 5.153. The aquatic habitats surveyed for invertebrates consisted of the canal and a number of streams. The canal is the largest body of water within the Site. It supports some well developed marginal habitats and is likely to support a range of invertebrates not found elsewhere within the Site. The smaller watercourses were characterised by relatively fast water flows, were shaded by adjacent woodland and supported less marginal vegetation than the canal. These streams are likely to support distinctive invertebrate fauna. The three sample areas were as follows: y A stream running along the southern edge of the Site. The stream supported a good flow of water with riffle and pool sequences. y Samples taken from the canal running north to south through the Site. There was little marginal vegetation at the sample location. y A small shaded stream at the northern edge of the Site. This sample was taken to be representative of the other woodland streams present within the Site. Aquatic invertebrate habitat results 5.154. None of the aquatic invertebrate species recorded during the survey are considered to be nationally or regionally rare. 5.155. The steam at the northern edge of the Site supported a good range of aquatic invertebrate taxa, including larvae of some of the more pollution sensitive groups, such as stoneflies (Plecoptera) and mayflies (Ephemeroptera). The variation in habitat features of the stream, including riffle and pool sequences, marginal vegetation and slack areas all contribute to the diversity of this location. 5.156. The canal had low species diversity, comprising a range of common species. Due to the profile of the canal, deeper areas and much of the open water habitats were not accessible for sampling. This is likely to have resulted in an under-recording of species at this location. However, the lack of marginal vegetation and other features within the channel would be unlikely to result in higher species diversity, even if the full extent of the canal could have been sampled. 5.157. The shaded stream at the northern edge of the Site was sampled as a representative of several streams of this type, which flow through the Site. It supported a range of common and widespread invertebrate species typical of shaded watercourses with relatively low flows and poor habitat 61 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

diversity. Terrestrial invertebrate habitat sample locations 5.158. The terrestrial habitats surveyed for invertebrates consisted of woodlands, woodland margins, scrub, marshy grassland and flushes. Woodland, woodland margins and scrub have the capacity to support a range of invertebrates that are not commonly found in other habitat types. Different types of woodland can support distinct features. Therefore, a range of woodland and scrub habitats were sampled during the survey to reflect the variety of types present within the study area. 5.159. Marshy grassland and flushes were selected because they occur in discrete areas, are of restricted occurrence within the Site and have the capacity to support a characteristic invertebrate fauna. The fauna of individual flushes is dependant to a certain extent upon a wide range of parameters, including associated vegetation, substrate type and water quality. Several locations within the Site were sampled to reflect this variation. The six sample areas were as follows: y An area of flushed grassland with semi-improved pasture, supporting a diverse marshy flora including brooklime Veronica beccabunga, hemlock water-dropwort Oenanthe crocata and rushes Juncus spp. y An area of pasture with damper areas dominated by rushes with some invading alder Alnus glutinosa, adjacent to mixed oak Quercus robur and ash Fraxinus excelsior woodland. y A beech Fagus sylvatica, oak and ash woodland with a bracken Pteridium aquilinum understorey. y A flushed area adjacent to a stream and bracken dominated bankside. y Alder woodland adjacent to the canal. Other dominant species present were sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, hawthorn Crataegus monogyna and ivy Hedera helix. y Species rich rush pasture, including lousewort Pedicularis sylvatica, black knapweed Centurea nigra and ox-eye daisy Leucanthemum vulgare together with areas of scattered willow and hawthorn scrub. Terrestrial invertebrate habitat results 5.160. None of the terrestrial invertebrate species recorded during the survey are considered to be nationally or regionally rare. 5.161. The flushed grasslands supported a good diversity of invertebrates, including many which are restricted to marshy grassland habitats. This included species of somewhat local distribution, such as beetles Cassida murraea and Chrysolina menthastri. 5.162. The other areas of wet grassland sampled were relatively dry and more typical of rush pasture habitats. These areas supported a less diverse fauna than the flushes, with fewer specialist species. However, the species present are reliant upon this habitat for maintenance of populations. 5.163. The woodland habitats surveyed were generally species poor. The species recorded were all common and widespread, typical of woodland habitats. 5.164. The local wildlife trust holds records for glow-worm Lampyris noctiluca from the north east of the Site adjacent to the cycle path. The glow worm is listed on the Torfaen Local Biodiversity Action Plan.

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Assessment of habitats for invertebrates 5.165. The most valuable habitat within the study area was the stream along the southern boundary of the Site. The diversity of habitat and invertebrates, together with apparently good water quality are all features which indicate local conservation interest. The value of the canal for invertebrates is considered to be limited given the habitats present. 5.166. Of the terrestrial habitats, the flushed grassland areas have an invertebrate fauna of some local interest. The other wet grassland habitat supported common and widespread species, but with many restricted to rush pasture. 5.167. The data search contained records of high brown fritillary (Argynnis adippe), marsh fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia) and pearl-bordered fritillary (Boloria euphrosyne) invertebrate species within 2km of the Site. The survey found no notable species of invertebrates other than glow worms located at the north east and adjacent to the Site on the cycle track. Glow worms are listed on the Torfaen Local BAP. The majority of habitats present on Site are of value to common invertebrate species but some are restricted to specific habitat types. As such, the Site is considered to be of local value for invertebrates.

Reptiles 5.168. The ecological data search from the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010 highlights no records of reptiles within 2km of the Site. 5.169. In 2005, RPS found a single grass snake (Natrix natrix) at the north of the Site just off Bevans Lane but no other reptiles, although they suggested that slow-worms (Anguis fragilis) might also be present.

5.170. In 2007, ADAS also found one grass snake in the same location at Bevans Lane. One juvenile grass snake was observed on four occasions in the north west corner of the Site. This was considered to have been the same individual as it was under the same refuge on each occasion. There were three observations of a single adult slow-worm adjacent to the canal in the centre of the Site. ADAS reported that anecdotal evidence from a landowner suggested adders (Vipera berus) are also present in the west of the Site. During the 2010 Phase 1 Habitat Survey, a grass snake was observed on the woodland edge south of Uplands Farm. 5.171. The combined results show reptiles were found in very low numbers within the centre, northern and north western parts of the Site, all of which were west of the canal. No reptiles were found in the two sample areas surveyed on the east side of the canal. However, given the suitable habitat on the eastern side of the canal, and the fact that the surveys were just a sample, it is likely that reptiles are distributed throughout the site. 5.172. The data search did not contain any records of reptiles within 2km of the Site. The habitats present on Site are of value to reptiles for all their life cycle activities. The surveys undertaken have recorded the presence of both grass snake and slow worms in very low numbers. As such, the Site is considered to be of local value for reptiles.

Common dormouse 5.173. The ecological data search from the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010 highlights no records of common dormice within 2km of the survey Site. 5.174. Discussions with the County Ecologist and the Local Wildlife Trust at the time of survey indicated that the presence of dormice was unlikely at the Site, although there were records in similar habitats elsewhere in the county and within 5km of the Site. No signs of dormice were found in any 63 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

of the nut searches undertaken. It is considered unlikely that the proposed development is of any value to this species. As such the Site is considered to be of negligible value for common dormouse.

White-clawed crayfish 5.175. The ecological data search from the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010 highlights records of white-clawed crayfish within 2km of the Site.

5.176. During the survey in 2010 the presence of White-clawed Crayfish were found in the stream to the south east of the Site. White-clawed Crayfish were indentified during the manual search undertaken on 7th July. On average, two crayfish were found for every 10 refuges searched indicating that the stream has a moderate to high population. Both adult male and females were recorded along with juveniles indicating a breeding population. No crayfish were found during the trapping survey of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.

5.177. The survey results in 2007 undertaken by ADAS recorded that the stream in the central eastern location of the Site also contained white-clawed crayfish. However during the survey in 2010 this stream was dry due to changes in water flow as a result of land management alterations by the landowner. 5.178. The data search notes the presence of white-clawed crayfish within 2km of the Site. The habitats present on Site are of value to white-clawed crayfish for all their life cycle activities. The surveys undertaken have also recorded their presence in the stream to the south east of the Site with a moderate to high population present. As such, the Site is considered to be of County value for white-clawed crayfish.

Otters and Water voles 5.179. The ecological data search from the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010 highlights records of both otter and water voles within 2km of the Site. 5.180. During the survey in 2007 by ADAS no signs of water vole were recorded within the Site. Individual otter signs were recorded throughout the site along the canal, the steam along the northern Site boundary, the stream along the centre of the Site and the stream to the south of the centre of the Site. The evidence of otters recorded included recent and old spraint sites and adult footprints. 5.181. . During the updated extended Phase 1 habitat survey in 2010, evidence of otters was also recorded throughout the Site by RSK and within the same watercourses as in 2007. At the time of survey in 2007 and 2010 no evidence of water voles were recorded. Otters were found to be utilizing most of the watercourses on the Site with the presence of recent and old spraints indicating that otters have been in the area for a good number of years. Most of the streams have high banks and numerous exposed root systems. In addition, many sections of the streams have become overgrown with dense vegetation. This habitat provides ideal undisturbed foraging and movement corridors for otters. No holts were recorded on Site during the surveys. However, potential layup sites were noted but with no evidence of otters recorded at these locations. 5.182. The data search notes the presence of otters within 2km if the Site. The habitats present on Site are of value to otters for commuting and probably foraging. The surveys undertaken have recorded a number of spraint sites and potential layup sites but have not confirmed the presence of otter holts. As such, the Site is considered to be of district value for otters

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5.183. Although the habitats on Site offer opportunities for Water voles and the data search notes their historical presence within 2km of the Site their absence has been confirmed by the survey work undertaken. As such the Site is considered to be of negligible value for water voles.

Potential Effects

Demolition and Construction 5.184. The Development has the potential to result in a number of ecological effects. Those relevant to the Site include: y Land take and associated habitat loss; y Disturbance due to construction operations, including noise, dust, vibration and changing habitats throughout construction; y Changes in the pattern of human activity and associated disturbance and/or damage; y Creation of barriers or other obstacles affecting the movement of wildlife; y The likely increase in domestic cats within the Site; and y Creation of additional habitat for species favouring the urban environment. 5.185. The significance of these potential effects is assessed in the following section. Effects are assessed against the current baseline conditions.

Designated Sites 5.186. There are considered to be no likely effects on any statutory and non-statutory sites owing to their sufficient separation from the demolition and construction works. It is therefore considered that there will be a negligible effect on designated sites during the demolition and construction stage.

Woodland and Scrub 5.187. The proposed development would retain the existing areas of broadleaved semi-natural woodland and adjacent scrub habitats. However, in the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works adjacent to this habitat would result in an increase in dust, noise and vibration and would result in a temporary, local potential effect of minor adverse significance to this habitat.

Hedges 5.188. The proposed development would retain most notable species rich hedgerows that resemble Torfaen local BAP habitat on site with removal of hedgerows confined to species poor hedgerows where possible. In addition, and in the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works adjacent to retained hedgerows would result in an increase in dust, noise and vibration. The impacts on hedgerows during the demolition and construction phase would therefore result in a temporary and permanent, local potential effect of minor adverse significance to this habitat.

Grassland 5.189. The proposed development would retain the most diverse areas of grassland that resemble UKBAP and Torfaen local BAP habitat with removal of the more species poor and agricultural grassland on Site. In addition and in the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works adjacent to retained hedgerows would result in an increase in dust, noise and

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vibration. The impacts on grasslands during the demolition and construction phase would therefore result in a temporary and permanent, county potential effect of minor adverse significance to this habitat.

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal 5.190. The proposed development would retain the canal and no new canal crossings are proposed as part of the development. However, in the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works adjacent to this habitat would result in an increase in dust, noise and vibration and would result in a temporary, local potential effect of minor adverse significance to this habitat.

Badgers 5.191. The Site is considered to be of value ‘within the Site only’ to badgers. The proposed development would retain the majority of the most valuable habitats to badgers such as the woodland and grassland habitats. The only partially active sett on site will also be retained as part of the development. Some habitat would however be lost as part of the development. However, the retained habitats provide excellent green infrastructure for this species across and bordering the site for both sett building and foraging. In the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works would create an increase in dust, noise and vibration and would result in a permanent and temporary, ‘within the Site only’ potential effect of minor adverse significance due to potential disturbance to badgers and to habitats of value to this species group.

Bats 5.192. The Site is considered to be of county value to bats. The proposed development would retain the majority of the most valuable habitats to bats such as the woodland and grassland habitats. The only roost recorded on Site would also be retained as part of the development. Some habitat would be lost as part of the development. However, the retained habitats provide excellent green infrastructure for this species across and bordering the Site. In the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works would create an increase in dust, noise and vibration and would result in a permanent and temporary, county potential effect of minor adverse significance due to indirect disturbance roosting, commuting and foraging bats via changes to the local landscape.

Birds 5.193. The Site is considered to be of county value to birds. The proposed development would retain the majority of the most valuable habitats to birds such as the woodland and grassland habitats. Some habitat would be lost as part of the development. However, the retained habitats provide excellent green infrastructure for this species across and bordering the Site. In the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works would create an increase in dust, noise and vibration and would result in a permanent and temporary, county potential effect of minor adverse significance due to disturbance to birds and adverse effect of habitats of value to this species group for nesting and foraging.

Great crested newts 5.194. The Site is considered to be of negligible value to great crested newts given the survey and consultation work undertaken. It is therefore anticipated that the demolition and construction phase would give rise to potential effects of negligible significance to great crested newts.

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Invertebrates 5.195. The Site is considered to be of local value to invertebrates. The proposed development would retain the majority of habitats of value to invertebrates such as woodland, grassland, streams and the canal. Some habitat would r be lost as part of the development. However the retained habitats provide excellent green infrastructure for this species across and bordering the Site. In the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works would create an increase in dust, noise and vibration and would result in a permanent and temporary, local potential effect of minor adverse significance due to disturbance to reptiles and adverse effect of habitats of value to this species group.

Reptiles 5.196. The Site is considered to be of local value to reptiles. The proposed development would retain the majority of habitats of value to reptiles such as woodland, grassland and the canal. This includes the retention of woodland to the north east of the Site containing the glow worm population. Some habitat would be lost as part of the development. However, the retained habitats provide excellent green infrastructure for this species across and bordering the Site. In the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works would create an increase in dust, noise and vibration and would result in a permanent and temporary, local potential effect of minor adverse significance due to disturbance of habitats of value to this species group.

Common dormouse 5.197. The Site is considered to be of negligible value to common dormouse given the survey and consultation work undertaken, therefore it is anticipated that the impacts during the demolition and construction phase would therefore be a potential effect of negligible significance to common dormice.

White-clawed crayfish 5.198. The Site is considered to be of county value to white clawed crayfish. The proposed development would retain all habitats of value to white-clawed crayfish including all water bodies on Site. This includes the retention of the stream to the south east of the Site where a breeding population was recorded in 2010. However, there would be an increased risk in the spread of signal crayfish plague in water bodies on Site due to vehicle and human movement across the Site. The culvert allowing access to agricultural fields will be slightly enlarged as part of the development resulting in the potential disturbance and habitat loss for white clawed crayfish. In the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works would create an increase in dust, noise, vibration and pollution run off into water bodies. Taken the above it is considered that the reinstatement of the stream would be of a positive impact. However, the culvert instalment and pollutant runoff into water bodies would overall result in a temporary, county potential effect of minor adverse significance due to disturbance of habitats of value to this species group.

Otters and Water voles 5.199. The Site is considered to be of district value to Otters. The proposed development would retain all habitats of value to otters including all water bodies and woodland on Site. No new canal crossings are proposed as part of the development which could cause barrier for otter dispersal. In the absence of mitigation measures, demolition and construction works would create an increase in dust, noise, vibration and pollution run off into water bodies. Taken the above it is considered that the reinstatement of the stream would be of a positive impact. However the pollutant runoff into 67 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

water bodies would overall result in a temporary, district potential effect of minor adverse significance due to disturbance of habitats of value to this species group. 5.200. The Site is considered to be of negligible value to water voles given the survey and consultation work undertaken. It is therefore anticipated that the demolition and construction phase would give rise to potential effects of negligible significance to water voles.

Completed Development

Designated Sites 5.201. As previously noted, it is considered that there will be no likely effects on any statutory and non- statutory sites. As such it is considered that the operation of the proposed development would also result in a negligible effect on designated sites.

Woodland and Scrub 5.202. The woodland and adjacent scrub habitat is considered to be of district ecological value and would be retained during demolition and construction. However, in the absence of mitigation, as a result of the development there is likely to be an increase in human pressure on the woodland. The effect of the completed Development on this habitat would be of permanent district minor adverse significance.

Hedges 5.203. The most species rich hedgerows that resemble Torfaen local BAP habitat would be retained during demolition and construction but the more species poor hedgerows will be removed to predominantly allow for the development infrastructure. In the absence of mitigation the completed development will result in the reduction of this habitat on Site. As such it is considered that the effect of the completed Development on this habitat would be of permanent local minor adverse significance.

Grassland 5.204. The most diverse areas of grassland that resemble UKBAP and Torfaen local BAP habitat would be retained with removal of the more species poor and agricultural grassland during the demolition and construction phase on Site. In the absence of mitigation the completed development will result in the reduction of this habitat on Site. In addition, as a result of the development there is likely to be an increase in human pressure on the retained grassland habitats. As such it is considered that the effect of the completed Development on this habitat would be of permanent county minor adverse significance

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal 5.205. The canal is considered to be of local ecological value and would be retained during demolition and construction. However, in the absence of mitigation, as a result of the development there is likely to be an increase in human pressure on the canal. The effect of the completed Development on this habitat would be of permanent local minor adverse significance.

Badgers 5.206. The ecological value of the Site is considered to be of ‘within the Site only’ for badgers. The completed development would retain the currently partially used badger sett to the south of the 68 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Site. However, in the absence of mitigation, during the operational stage of the development, it is considered that there would be an increase in lighting and human disturbance that could impact on badger activity. In addition in the reduction in hedgerows and grassland on site will further reduce the foraging habitats available to badgers. As such the effect of the completed Development on this species would be permanent of value ‘within the Site only’, minor adverse significance.

Bats 5.207. The ecological value of the Site is considered to be of county importance for bats. The completed development would retain the roost site and the predominant habitats of value to bats. However during the operational stage of the development it is considered that there would be an increase in lighting and human disturbance. In addition in the absence of mitigation there would also be loss of commuting and foraging habitat of ecologically poor hedgerows and grassland. As such the effect of the completed Development on this species would be of permanent county minor adverse significance.

Birds 5.208. The ecological value of the Site is considered to be of county importance for birds. The completed development would retain habitats of value to nesting and therefore breeding birds.. However, during the operational stage of the development it is considered that there would be an increase in lighting and human disturbance. In addition in the absence of mitigation there would also be loss of and foraging and nesting habitat (hedgerows only) of ecologically poor hedgerows and grassland. As such the effect of the completed Development on this species would be of permanent county minor adverse significance.

Great crested newt 5.209. The ecological value of the Site for great crested newts is considered negligible based on the survey work and consultation undertaken. Therefore the potential effects of the completed Development on this habitat would be of negligible significance.

Invertebrates 5.210. The ecological value of the Site is considered to be of local importance for invertebrates. The completed development would retain habitats of value to invertebrates including woodland, grassland and the canal. However during the operational stage of the development, it is considered that there would be an increase in lighting and human disturbance. In addition, in the absence of mitigation there would also be loss of habitat of ecologically poor hedgerows and grassland. As such the effect of the completed Development on this habitat would be of permanent local minor adverse significance.

Reptiles 5.211. The ecological value of the Site is considered to be of local importance for reptiles. The completed development would retain habitats of value to reptiles including woodland, grassland and the canal. However during the operational stage of the development it is considered that there would be an increase in lighting and human disturbance. In addition in the absence of mitigation there would also be loss of habitat of ecologically poor hedgerows and grassland. As such the effect of the completed Development on this habitat would be of permanent local minor adverse significance.

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Common dormouse 5.212. The ecological value of the Site for common dormice is considered negligible based on the survey work and consultation undertaken. Therefore the potential effects of the completed Development on this species would be of negligible significance.

White-clawed crayfish 5.213. The ecological value of the Site is considered to be of county importance for white-clawed crayfish. The completed development would retain all habitats of value to white-clawed crayfish including the streams and the canal. During the operational stage of the development it is considered that there would be an increase in lighting and human disturbance. This level of disturbance is likely to be very minimal given the steep sided banks and poor accessibility of the crayfish stream to the south east of the Site. However there would be an increased risk in the spread of signal crayfish plague due to increased human activity in water bodies on Site. As such the effect of the completed Development on this habitat would be of permanent local minor adverse significance.

Otters and Water voles 5.214. The ecological value of the Site is considered to be of district importance for Otters. The completed development would retain all habitats of value to otters including the streams, canal and woodland. However, in the absence of mitigation during the operational stage of the development, it is considered that there would be an increase in lighting and human disturbance. As such the effect of the completed Development on this habitat would be of permanent district minor adverse significance. 5.215. The ecological value of the Site for water voles is considered negligible based on the survey work undertaken. Therefore the potential effects of the completed Development on this habitat would be of negligible significance.

Mitigation Measures and Recommendations 5.216. This section provides a summary of mitigation measures which would be implemented in order to: y Avoid, mitigate and compensate for the identified potential adverse effects; y Ensure that all works comply with relevant nature conservation legislation; and y Promote biodiversity on the Site. 5.217. The mitigation proposals set out below describe additional mitigation measures which would be implemented during the demolition and construction and operational phases of the Development.

Demolition and Construction

Environmental Management Plan 5.218. Demolition and site clearance works would be undertaken outside the main bird breeding season where practicable (i.e. only during September to February inclusive). If these works cannot be restricted to within this period, an Ecological Watching Brief would be maintained during the main bird breeding season to ensure that no nesting birds were adversely affected. This would entail checking all suitable habitats for nesting birds by a suitably qualified ecologist prior to the commencement of works.

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5.219. It is recommended that low level lighting is used during demolition and construction works, particularly in areas adjacent to all the broadleaved woodland 5.220. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) would ensure that appropriate environmental controls would be implemented during the demolition and construction works. The EMP would be in accordance with relevant British Standards Best Practice Guidelines and would include ecological mitigation such as: y Tree protection measures including protective fencing around the root zones of retained trees, woodlands and hedgerows during construction to prevent damage from compaction; y Lighting would be controlled in order to ensure there is minimal light spill on to the broadleaved woodland and connecting features to minimise any potential impacts on foraging or commuting bats and other wildlife; y Measure to reduce potential disturbance activities around the bat roost at Hay Barn via set haul routes and avoidance of night time working in the local vicinity. y Protection of the retained grassland areas from encroachment of the works through appropriate fencing; y Protection of the watercourses including the canal and streams from encroachment of works via a suitable fenced buffer; y Measures to prevent the possible spread of signal crayfish disease via control checks of equipment and machinery on Site; y Measures to minimise dust arising during demolition and construction would, when necessary, include regular damping down of the Site by spraying with water; and y The EMP would be agreed with TBC and CCW prior to the commencement of demolition and construction works on the Site, and would be a condition of contract for all contractors.

Proposed Landscape Strategy 5.221. The proposed Development’s landscape strategy would create new areas of hedgerows, semi- improved grassland and tree planting. This would be done using native species and/or species of benefit to wildlife indicative of the local area. The landscape strategy would increase the botanical biodiversity of the Site. Once fully established, deciduous trees would provide habitat for invertebrates, and therefore foraging opportunities for birds and bats and other wildlife.

Proposed Nesting/Roosting Opportunities 5.222. Artificial bat roosting and bird nesting opportunities could be provided as an integral part of the proposed development either within the broadleaved woodland.

Completed Development

Landscape and Ecological Management Plan 5.223. The landscape and ecological value of the Site would be enhanced by implementing management regimes on the retained and created habitat, for example by planting the created areas of semi- improved grassland with a wild flower mix and managing it as a wildflower meadow, via specific cutting regimes. These management regimes, along with management of the proposed whip and hedgerow planting and management of retained habitats would be detailed in a Landscape and Ecological Management Plan (LEMP) for the operational Development. The LEMP would also

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detail measures to be implemented to minimise human disturbance to habitats, for example: y Existing pathways would be clearly delineated to avoid trampling; y Design and Implementation of a lighting strategy would be undertaken to minimise impacts on nocturnal species such as bats; y Access to the retained wet woodland and grassland would be limited through the provision of signs, fencing and planted buffers around this habitat (also for health and safety reasons).

Residual Effects

Demolition and Construction

Designated Sites 5.224. The residual effect of the demolition and construction stage of the Development on the designated sites does not require any mitigation. The residual effect would therefore remain identical to the potential effect of negligible.

Woodland and Scrub 5.225. The existing woodland and adjacent scrub habitats are to be retained on Site. Under the EMP, measures would be implemented to prevent impacts from the construction and development stage such as root damage, soil compaction and encroachment of dust and other pollutants (under British Standards). The retention of this habitat and measures under the EMP would have a temporary, district residual effect of minor beneficial significance.

Hedges 5.226. The existing species rich hedgerows resembling Torfaen local BAP habitat are to be retained on Site with species poor hedgerows removed to facilitate development infrastructure. . Under the EMP, measures would be implemented to prevent impacts from the construction and development stage to the hedgerows such as root damage, soil compaction and encroachment of dust and other pollutants (under British Standards). The retention and creation of this habitat and measures under the EMP would have a temporary, local residual effect of minor beneficial significance.

Grassland 5.227. The most diverse areas of grassland that resemble UKBAP and Torfaen local BAP habitat would be retained with removal of the more species poor and agricultural grassland. . Under the EMP measures would be implemented to prevent impacts from the construction and development stage to the retained and created areas of grassland grasslands to prevent encroachment of development activities and impacts of dust and other pollutants (under British standards). The retention and creation of this habitat and measures under the EMP would have a temporary, county residual effect of minor beneficial significance.

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal 5.228. The existing canal is to be retained on Site. In addition the implementation of the EMP would ensure best practice British standards are employed when working near water bodies and the installation of a buffer will protect this resource during construction. As a result it is considered that this would result in a negligible impact upon the canal.

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Badgers 5.229. The Site is considered to be of value within the site to badgers. The completed development would retain the partially active badger sett and the predominant habitats of value to badgers on site. It is considered that this would result in a negligible impact upon badgers.

Bats 5.230. The Site is considered to be of county value to bats. The completed development would retain the roost site and the predominant habitats of value to bats. Under the EMP measures would be implemented to prevent impacts from the construction and development stage to bats such as the use of controlled lighting and measures to minimise noise and vibration around the roost site at Hay Barn to the north east of the Site. It is considered that this would result in a temporary, county residual effect of minor beneficial significance to bats.

Birds 5.231. The Site is considered to be of county value to birds. The retention of foraging and nesting opportunities from the woodland, grassland and hedgerows would be undertaken as part of the development. The timing of works to avoid the breeding bird season and the implementation of an EMP would ensure that significant adverse effects to birds from disturbance (e.g. noise, dust, vibration, etc) would be avoided as much as practicable. It is considered that this would result in a temporary, county residual effect of minor beneficial significance to birds.

Great crested newt 5.232. The Site is considered to be of negligible value to great crested newts. As such no specific mitigation is proposed for this species during the demolition and construction stage therefore it is considered that the residual effect would also be of negligible value.

Invertebrates 5.233. The Site is considered to be of local value to invertebrates. The completed development would retain the most valuable habitats for invertebrates including the glow worm habitat to the north east of the Site. In addition under the EMP measures to protect invertebrate habitat would be undertaken during the demolition and construction stage. It is considered that this would result in a negligible impact upon invertebrates.

Reptiles 5.234. The Site is considered to be of local value to reptiles. The completed development would retain the most valuable habitats for invertebrates including the glow worm habitat to the north east of the Site. In addition under the EMP measures to protect reptile habitat would be undertaken during the demolition and construction stage. It is considered that this would result in a negligible impact upon reptiles.

Common dormouse 5.235. The Site is considered to be of negligible value to common dormouse. As such no specific mitigation is proposed for this species during the demolition and construction stage therefore it is considered that the residual effect would also be of negligible value.

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White-clawed crayfish 5.236. The Site is considered to be of county value to white clawed crayfish. The proposed development would retain all habitats of value to white-clawed crayfish including all water bodies on Site. Under the EMP measures to protect white-clawed crayfish habitat would be undertaken during the demolition and construction stage. In addition to prevent the possible spread of signal crayfish plague would also be undertaken. This would include checks to be made to ensure any equipment arriving at the Site, having previously worked on another site where signal crayfish are present would be cleaned of mud and appropriately disinfected and allowed to dry before being used. It is considered that this would result in a negligible impact upon white-clawed crayfish.

Otters and Water voles 5.237. The Site is considered to be of district value to Otters. The proposed development would retain all habitats of value to otters including all water bodies and woodland on Site. In addition as part of the demolition and construction phase the stream to the central eastern part of the Site that has been dry post 2007 because of land management by the landowner will be reinstated as part of the proposed scheme. Under the EMP measures to protect otter habitat would be undertaken during the demolition and construction stage. It is considered that this would result in a temporary county residual effect of minor beneficial significance to otters.

5.238. The Site is considered to be of negligible value to water voles. As such no specific mitigation is proposed for this species during the demolition and construction stage therefore it is considered that the residual effect would also be of negligible value.

Completed Development

Designated Sites 5.239. The residual effect of the completed development stage on the designated sites does not require any mitigation. The residual effect would therefore remain identical to the potential effect of negligible.

Woodland and Scrub 5.240. As part of the scheme over 500 trees are to be planted. The completed Development under the LEMP would introduce areas of managed woodland on Site to enhance their quality. A wildlife friendly lighting strategy would also be devised to prevent unnecessary light spill on to woodland habitat. In addition well marked out pathways (on a level of no more than currently existing) would be established to prevent trampling. The area of wet woodland in the centre of the Site would be fenced off to prevent public access to this area. This would aid the management of this area and create a wildlife friendly area. The residual effect of woodlands as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would be permanent, district and of minor beneficial significance.

Hedges 5.241. As part of the scheme new species rich hedgerows, tree lines and the planting of over 500 trees are proposed. The completed Development under the LEMP would introduce areas of managed retained and created hedgerows on Site to enhance their quality. A wildlife friendly lighting strategy would also be devised to prevent unnecessary light spill on to hedgerow habitat. The residual effect of hedgerows as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would be 74 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

permanent, district and of minor beneficial significance.

Grassland 5.242. The creation of semi-improved grassland of native species indicative of the local area would be undertaken as part of the development. The completed Development under the LEMP would introduce areas of managed grassland on Site to enhance their quality. A wildlife friendly lighting strategy would also be devised to prevent unnecessary light spill on to grassland woodland habitat. In addition the highest quality grassland that resemble UKBAP and Torfaen local BAP habitat will be fenced off to prevent trampling and other disturbance by the public. Current management of these grasslands is predominantly through stock grazing. This will not be able to be replicated within a residential environment. Therefore, staggered cutting regimes and controlled soil enrichment would be undertaken to retain the species diversity but enhancement is unlikely. The residual effect of grasslands as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would be of negligible significance.

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal 5.243. The completed Development under the LEMP would manage areas adjacent to the retained canal to enhance its quality to wildlife. A wildlife friendly lighting strategy would also be devised to prevent unnecessary light spill and the adjacent woodland and hedgerow habitats would be managed to provide a better quality understorey therefore providing better links to adjacent habitat. The residual effect of hedgerows as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would be permanent, local and of minor beneficial significance.

Badgers 5.244. The creation of additional suitable commuting and foraging habitat in the form of hedgerows, semi- improved grassland and over 500 trees would be undertaken as a result of the development. The completed Development under the LEMP would introduce areas of managed woodland, grassland, hedgerows and other habitats retained and created of value to commuting foraging and sett building habitat to badgers. A wildlife friendly lighting strategy would also be devised to prevent unnecessary light spill on to habitat of value to badgers. The residual effect to badger setts as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would be permanent, within the site only and of minor beneficial significance.

Bats 5.245. The creation of additional suitable commuting and foraging habitat in the form of hedgerows, semi- improved grassland and the erection of bat boxes in the woodland would be undertaken as a result of the development. The completed Development under the LEMP would introduce areas of managed woodland, grassland, hedgerows and other habitats of value to commuting foraging and roosting bats. A wildlife friendly lighting strategy would also be devised to prevent unnecessary light spill on to habitat of value to bats In addition the provision of roosting opportunities through the provision of bat boxes on trees within the broadleaved woodland on site would also be undertaken. The residual effect to bats as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would be permanent, county and of minor beneficial significance.

Birds 5.246. The creation of foraging and nesting opportunities in the form of over 500 planted trees, semi- improved grassland and hedgerows would be undertaken as part of the development along with 75 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

the erection of bird boxes in the woodlands to enhance nesting opportunities on Site. The completed Development under the LEMP would introduce areas of managed woodland, grassland, hedgerows and other habitats of value to commuting, foraging and nesting birds. In addition the provision of roosting opportunities through the provision of bird boxes on trees within the broadleaved woodland on Site would also be undertaken. The residual effect to birds as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would be permanent, county and of minor beneficial significance.

Great crested newt 5.247. The Site is considered to be of negligible value to great crested newts. As such no specific mitigation is proposed for this species during the completed development stage therefore it is considered that the residual effect would also be of negligible value.

Invertebrates 5.248. The creation of semi-improved grassland, hedgerows and the planting of over 500 trees would be undertaken as a result of the development. The completed Development under the LEMP would introduce areas of managed habitat of value to invertebrates. This would include specific management of the glow worm habitat to the north east of the site to provide additional refugia and a mosaic of habitat to create addition micro climates which this species favours. A wildlife friendly lighting strategy would also be devised to prevent unnecessary light spill on to habitat of value to invertebrates. The residual effect to invertebrates as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would be permanent, local and of minor beneficial significance.

Reptiles 5.249. The creation of semi-improved grassland, hedgerows and the planting of over 500 trees would be undertaken as a result of the development. The completed Development under the LEMP would introduce areas of managed habitat of value to reptiles. This would include specific management of the wet woodland to the centre of the Site for species such as grass snake. The residual effect to reptiles as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would be permanent, local and of minor beneficial significance.

Common dormouse 5.250. The Site is considered to be of negligible value to common dormouse. As such no specific mitigation is proposed for this species during the completed development stage therefore it is considered that the residual effect would also be of negligible value.

White-clawed crayfish 5.251. The stream to the central eastern part of the Site that has been dry post 2007 because of land management by the landowner will be reinstated as part of the proposed scheme. The completed Development under the LEMP would introduce areas of managed habitat of value to white-clawed crayfish. This would include specific management of marginal habitat to create additional refugia for this species. A wildlife friendly lighting strategy would also be devised to prevent unnecessary light spill on to water bodies of value to white-clawed crayfish. In addition the residential areas are buffered from the water bodies by existing woodland and the natural topography of the Site to help prevent any spread of signal crayfish plague. The residual effect to white-clawed crayfish as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would be of negligible significance.

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Otters and Water voles 5.252. The stream to the central eastern part of the Site that has been dry post 2007 because of land management by the landowner will be reinstated as part of the proposed scheme No new canal crossings are proposed as part of the development which could cause barrier for otter dispersal. The completed Development under the LEMP would introduce areas of managed habitat of value to otters. This would include specific management of marginal and bank habitat to create additional cover for this species. The area of wet woodland to the centre of the Site is to be fenced off to the public to create an undisturbed area for wildlife. As such the creation of refugia to encourage otter lay-up site would be undertaken. A wildlife friendly lighting strategy would also be devised to prevent unnecessary light spill on to water bodies of value to otters. In addition the residential areas are buffered from the water bodies by existing woodland and the natural topography of the Site to help prevent disturbance of this species at night. The residual effect to otters as a result of the operation of the proposed Development would permanent, district and of minor beneficial significance. 5.253. The Site is considered to be of negligible value to water voles. As such no specific mitigation is proposed for this species during the completed development stage therefore it is considered that the residual effect would also be of negligible value.

Summary 5.254. A comprehensive sweep of ecological surveys have been undertaken at the Site (type and scope agreed with CCW and TBC) have concluded that the Site is currently of negligible to County ecological value. 5.255. Though there would be change to the existing habitats of ecological value at the Site as a result of the Development, the extent and nature of the proposed enhancement inherent to the Development design and additional mitigation including the production of an Ecological Management Plan during construction and a Landscape and Ecological Management plan post construction would result in a negligible and beneficial effect to the biodiversity of the Site. This would include the introduction of habitats for suitable new species, whilst protecting the existing species of ecological value. 5.256. A number of potential and residual effects have been identified for the demolition and construction phases of the Development and once the Development is completed and operational. These are summarised below in Table 4.

Table 4: Summary table Potential Effect / Residual Effect / Issue Mitigation Measures Significance Significance Demolition and Construction

Designated Sites Negligible None Required Negligible

Woodland and Scrub Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Minor Beneficial

Hedges Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Minor Beneficial

Grassland Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Minor Beneficial

Monmouthshire and Brecon Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Negligible Canal

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Potential Effect / Residual Effect / Issue Mitigation Measures Significance Significance Badgers Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Negligible

Bats Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Minor Beneficial

Birds Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Minor Beneficial

Great Crested Newts Negligible Detailed within EMP Negligible

Invertebrates Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Negligible

Reptiles Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Negligible

Common Dormouse Negligible None Required Negligible

White-clawed Crayfish Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP Negligible

Minor Minor Beneficial/ Otters and Water Voles Detailed within EMP Adverse/Negligible Negligible

Completed Development

Designated Sites Negligible None Required Negligible

Woodland and Scrub Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Hedges Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Grassland Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Negligible

Monmouthshire and Brecon Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial Canal

Badgers Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Bats Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Birds Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Great Crested Newts Negligible None Required Negligible

Invertebrates Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Reptiles Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Minor Beneficial

Common Dormouse Negligible None Required Negligible

White-clawed Crayfish Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP Negligible

Minor Minor Beneficial/ Otters and Water Voles Detailed within LEMP Adverse/Negligible Negligible

Cumulative Effects 5.257. In the local area there are two planning application as part of the Avesta scheme that are considered likely to have cumulative effects on ecology during the construction and completed development stage of the scheme. A full application is currently being processed and an approved reserved matters application has been approved these are for: y 10/P/00542(W) – full application – “residential let mixed use development comprising apartments and housing (amended scheme)” – not yet determined (Barratt Homes) y 10/P/00033(W) – reserved matters application – “reserved matters for 209 dwellings” –

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approved 31st August (Persimmon Homes) Construction and Completed Development 5.258. During the construction and completed development stage of the development there is likely to be a cumulative effect on ecology within the local area. It is anticipated however that these impacts as a result of the scheme are minimal due to the geographical context of the site, separation caused by the A4051 and best practice and Site specific mitigation proposed within the EMP and LEMP. During construction and completed development stage the cumulative effects would be associated with: y Land take and associated habitat loss; y Disturbance due to construction operations, including noise, dust, vibration and changing habitats throughout construction; y Changes in the pattern of human activity and associated disturbance and/or damage; y Creation of barriers or other obstacles affecting the movement of wildlife; y The likely increase in domestic cats within the Site; and y Creation of additional habitat for species favouring the urban environment.

Summary 5.259. A comprehensive sweep of ecological surveys have been undertaken at the Site (type and scope agreed with CCW and TBC for the outline planning application) have concluded that the Site is currently of negligible to County ecological value. 5.260. Though there would be change to the existing habitats of ecological value at the Site as a result of the Development, the extent and nature of the proposed retention and enhancement of existing features of ecological value inherent to the Development design would result in a negligible and beneficial effect to the biodiversity of the Site. This mitigation would include the production of an Ecological Management Plan during construction and a Landscape and Ecological Management Plan post construction. This would detail the protection of existing habitats and species of ecological value during construction and the creation and enhancement of habitats and opportunities for species utilizing the Site.

References

i OPSI (1981): ‘The Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA) (as amended)’, HMSO, London.

ii OPSI (2010): ‘The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations, 2010’, HMSO.

iii OPSI (2000): ‘The Countryside and Rights of Way Act (CRoW)’, HMSO, London.

iv OPSI (2006): ‘Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (NERC)’ HMSO, London. v EC (1992): ‘European Council Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna (92/43/EC)’, The Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg. vi EEC (1979): ‘European Union Conservation of Wild Birds (79/409/EEC)’ The Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg. DEFRA (2007): ‘Guidance for Public Authorities on Implementing the Biodiversity Duty’, DEFRA, London. vii Institution of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM), 2003, Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment viii Institution of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM), 2006, Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM) guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)

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Table 5: Table of Significance – Ecology and Nature Conservation

Significance Geographical Residual Effects Nature of Effect (Major/ Moderate/ Importance* (Major/ Moderate/ Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Permanent/ Minor) Minor) Enhancement Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/ Adverse/ I UK E R C D L (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Negligible) Negligible) Construction

Designated Sites Negligible Negligible None Required Negligible

Woodland and Scrub Temporary Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP x Minor Beneficial

Hedges Temporary and Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP x Minor Beneficial Permanent Grassland Temporary and Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP x Minor Beneficial Permanent Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Temporary Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP x Negligible

Badgers Temporary and Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP X Negligible Permanent

Bats Temporary and Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP x Minor Beneficial Permanent

Birds Temporary and Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP x Minor Beneficial Permanent Great Crested Newts Negligible Negligible Detailed within EMP Negligible

Invertebrates Temporary and Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP x Negligible Permanent

Reptiles Temporary and Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP x Negligible Permanent Common Dormouse Negligible Negligible None Required Negligible

White-clawed Crayfish Temporary Minor Adverse Detailed within EMP x Negligible

Temporary Minor x Minor Beneficial/ Otters and Water Voles Detailed within EMP Adverse/Negligible Negligible

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Completed Development

Designated Sites Negligible Negligible None Required Negligible

Woodland and Scrub Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP x Minor Beneficial

Hedges Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP x Minor Beneficial

Grassland Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP x Negligible

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP x Minor Beneficial

Badgers Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP X Minor Beneficial

Bats Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP x Minor Beneficial

Birds Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP x Minor Beneficial

Great Crested Newts Negligible Negligible None Required Negligible

Invertebrates Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP x Minor Beneficial

Reptiles Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP x Minor Beneficial

Common Dormouse Negligible Negligible None Required Negligible

White-clawed Crayfish Permanent Minor Adverse Detailed within LEMP x Negligible

Permanent Minor x Minor Beneficial/ Otters and Water Voles Detailed within LEMP Adverse/Negligible Negligible

Cumulative Effects

* Geographical Level of Importance

I = International; UK = United Kingdom; E = England; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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6. Services (Utilities)

Introduction 6.1. The existing site comprises mostly agricultural land with small pockets of woodland, a number of detached properties and the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, which bisects the centre of the site in a north to south direction. 6.2. The Site is crossed by two 66kV overhead power lines on wooden poles together with a number of 11kV and low voltage overhead lines. At the time of the last enquiry, it was confirmed that the 11kV network has sufficient capacity to serve the proposed development. 6.3. A number of gas mains cross the site and were also reported to have capacity to serve the proposed development. 6.4. The existing water supply in the vicinity of the site was reported previously to have insufficient capacity and therefore a new off-site connection was required. 6.5. The proposed development comprises up to 1200 dwellings and a village centre.

Utilities Strategy 6.6. The scope of the Assessment to be undertaken to derive a Utilities Strategy is to include inter alia the following:- y Strategic Services Option Review - Provide the Consortium with a Recommendations Report to enable visibility of costs, ensure future provision of adequate capacity for connections and to identify long lead in times. - Review of services provision to cover Electricity, Gas, Potable Water and Telecoms. - Obtain up to date existing utility records from the incumbent Utility Providers for the proposed development area in order to assess the existing local network and the current available services capacities. - Review the investigations and recommendations of previous consultants who have reviewed the Utilities provision on the site. - Assess the likely diversified load requirements based on Consortium requirements. - Provide budgetary costs for new utility supply infrastructure requirements. - Ascertain way leave rights of utilities over existing infrastructure - highlight way leave issues. - Provide overview of likely way leave requirements for new utility infrastructure. - Identify long delivery items that can impact on programme. - Identify requirement to divert existing utility infrastructure and estimated costs for doing so. - Identify requirements to disconnect existing utility infrastructure and estimated costs for doing so. - Identify the required points of connection to existing utility networks to provide the required capacity for the development taking into account phased requirements. - Provide high level assessment of alternative heat and energy solutions (such as district heating).

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y Diversion/Disconnection/Removal of Existing Infrastructure - Agree diversion / disconnection / removal of existing infrastructure requirements with Utility companies whilst maintaining uninterrupted services where required. - Complete application forms and supporting information and submit to the host network operator for C4 estimates / programmes for the diversions / disconnections / removal of equipment. - Challenge costs/programme by seeking to apply the terms of licenses, statutory acts, legal agreement clauses etc. - Review proposals to ensure compliance with Project objectives. - Consider diversion elements open to competition and obtain contestable prices where relevant. - Resolve matters in respect of existing rights identified in Strategic Services Options Review. - All diversions / disconnections / removal works to form enabling works contract. y New Supply Design & Procurement - Scheme Design. - Assess diversified load requirements as appropriate. - Apply for and agree preferred phased points of connection to existing utility networks. - Evaluate detailed route planning and design. - Negotiate and agree optimum servicing / metering strategy. - Advise on utility servicing cost plan. - Prepare all detailed design, CAD drawings and specification of the site-wide services system for approvals, tender and construction. y Procurement - Obtain, challenge and reduce non-contestable costs. - Pre qualification and tender to competitive installation contractors. - Utilise alternative asset ownership strategies by also tendering to embedded network operators (including consideration of adoption of water and sewerage system). - Procure and manage the bid process, receive the bids from the incumbent hosts and competitors in the open market [IDNO'S, IGT'S & ESCO]. - Compile and present a recommendation report for the appointment of utility service providers taking into account the phased build requirements to ensure availability of capacity at the correct time. - Establish a framework for the on-going plot infrastructure procurement. y Construction Stage - Manage and co-ordinate the pre-construction process and design approvals. - Co-ordinate any off-site works, reinforcement, asset adoption / acceptance, along with the on-site works. - Manage and co-ordinate the pre-construction works, including route proving, network control approvals, and procurement of major plant, equipment and cable. - In conjunction with the project engineers, review and co-ordinate the Infrastructure design.

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- Review, agree and monitor the programme for the works. - Meet with external stakeholders with regards to the off-site works, including Local Authority Highways, local Bus Companies, Police and 3rd party landowners. - Manage adoption of assets by the appointed distribution company. y Phasing - For the purpose of the assessment it is assumed that the Primary infrastructure works will be implemented in 3 phases.

Planning Policy Context

National Planning Policy

Planning Policy Wales 6.7. Planning Policy Wales’ (2010) (PPW) is the overarching policy document that deals with planning matters in Wales. Chapter 4 of PPW confirms WAG’s commitment to sustainable development and the document states that; ‘Sustainable development in Wales means enhancing the economic, social and environmental well- being of people and communities, achieving a better quality of life for our own generations in ways which Promote social justice and equality of opportunity; and Enhance the natural and cultural environment and respect its limits – using only our fair share of the earth’s resources and sustaining our cultural legacy’’ 6.8. This is a general requirement to achieve sustainability through the development process. Chapter 12 of PPW deals with Infrastructure and Para 12.1.1 explains that adequate and efficient infrastructure is crucial for the economic, social and environmental sustainability of all parts of Wales. This again is a general objective which requires local interpretation to ensure compliance with the sustainability objectives. 6.9. The provision of Utilities is fundamental to any development and in order to comply with general sustainability objectives the proposed type and level of services provision for any development should be sustainable.

Local Planning Policy

Adopted Local Plan for County Borough of Torfaen (adopted July 2000). 6.10. The County Borough of Torfaen has incorporated the general principles and objectives of PPW in their Unitary Development Plan. The Plan defines the general development objectives of the Authority to be commensurate with the objectives of PPW in general and in respect of sustainability principles in particular. The provision of services utilities involves careful consideration of sustainability principles.

Discussion 6.11. The determination of a Utilities Strategy for any proposed development needs to involve the consideration of the sustainability of provision given the status of the primary infrastructure reasonably available in the vicinity of the proposed development. 84 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

6.12. The general principles promoted by PPW in terms of sustainability of infrastructure provision provide a general framework for assessing utilities provision 6.13. In practical terms the determination of a Utilities Strategy must ensure that the utilities provision associated with a proposed development is compatible with the requirements of the proposed development and must cater for the cumulative effects of other users.

Assessment Methodology

Philosophy of Approach

Assessment of existing Infrastructure and Consideration of future Provision 6.14. The philosophy of approach in the assessment of existing services infrastructure and future requirements of the development has involved inter alia the following: y Contact with Service Providers to establish status of existing supplies to the site via the primary distribution system; y Liaison with Service Providers to establish actual or perceived operational delivery problems; y Assessment of site infrastructure and identification of operational problems (through discussions with Client Site Management); y Assessment of future services requirements including option appraisals; y Discussions with other Design Team Members; and y Preparation of recommendations in respect of a Utilities Strategy for the proposed development site. 6.15. The following services have been considered in the assessment: y Electricity; y Gas; y Potable Water; and y Telecommunications. 6.16. In summary the methodology of approach has been to establish the existing baseline situation and to compare this with the future baseline situation following development. Depending on the impact mitigation measures may need to be incorporated into the design of the works. The assessment identifies alternative solutions to overcome development constraints and provides recommendations for the provision of utilities generally.

Baseline Conditions

Existing Services

Electricity 6.17. The site is crossed by two 66KV overhead power lines. As shown on Drawing No. 11765/C/SA/90/0002-A01, which is included in Appendix 6.1 herewith, both overhead lines trend east-west with the northern line following close to the northern boundary of the site and the other running through the centre of the site. There are also several 11 KV and LV overhead power lines crossing the site in various directions. An underground 11 KV cable is also present in Cwmbran

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Drive adjacent to the eastern site boundary. Existing dwellings on the site are supplied via overhead lines and pole mounted transformers.

Gas 6.18. The site is crossed by two gas mains as shown on Drawing No. 11765/C/SA/90/0002-A01, which is included in Appendix 6.1 herewith. 6.19. A high pressure (HP) gas main runs in an east west orientation close to the northern boundary of the site. The HP gas main (Ref: Hafod yr ynys – Panteg (HS004) is a 300mm high pressure gas pipeline, which was diverted within the Site in the mid-1990s. Wales and West Utilities (WWU) have confirmed that it is a heavy wall steel pipe which means effectively reducing the building proximity distance to 3m either side of the main. Any future planning application will be subject to further consultation with WWU on safe building proximity distances and to PADHI (Planning Advice for Developments near Hazardous Installations) guidelines issued by the Health and Safety Executive. The gas main is also covered by easements that WWU have agreed with the landowner. 6.20. An intermediate pressure (IP) main runs north-south along the alignment of the former railway line near the eastern boundary of the site, adjacent to Cwmbran Drive. Although the IP main has an associated easement that WWU have been agreed with the landowner, it is not subject to the same safety clearances as the HP main. 6.21. A low pressure main is located within Lowlands Crescent to the south of the proposed development site.

Water 6.22. Dwr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) have confirmed that there is no existing water supply in the vicinity of the site with sufficient capacity to serve the development. All existing water supply pipework within the curtilage of the development boundary is privately owned. It will therefore be necessary to provide a new offsite connection from the network in the nearby Springvale Industrial Estate. A requisition scheme is proposed by DCWW to complete these works.

Telecommunications 6.23. BT advise that the telephone network immediately adjoining the site has sufficient capacity to serve the development. Existing dwellings within the site boundary are served by overhead lines. Underground service supplies are located at Lowlands Crescent and at the A4051 main site entrance. Virgin Media (originally NTL) services, if required, will have to be brought in from elsewhere, details of this network are unknown.

Likely Significant Effects

Table 6: Significance Matrix - Services (Utilities)

Sensitivity / Value of Magnitude of Effect Receptor High Medium Low

High Moderate Major Major/ Moderate (Wales/UK/International)

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Medium Moderate/ Minor Major/ Moderate Moderate (County/Regional)

Low Minor Moderate Moderate/ Minor (Local/District) Construction

Construction Protocols 6.24. In general the serviceability of the services infrastructure should not be affected by the construction of the proposed works. On the assumption that existing facilities will need to remain ‘live’ whilst the construction works proceed the construction programme will take account of the presence of live services and appropriate protocols would be put in place to ensure continuity of servicing to the existing facilities. 6.25. Should there be a requirement for new distribution systems to be incorporated in the development works the construction and installation of the new distribution elements would be included in the construction works and taken account of in the construction programme and method statements. 6.26. In this case any adverse effects, however unlikely, would only occur in the short term, i.e. throughout the construction phase, and would without the implementation of construction protocols be minor adverse . 6.27. The development of 1200 dwellings on a predominantly Greenfield site will clearly have an impact on the local services infrastructure. In general terms, the primary distribution networks for the principal services are adequate to accommodate the proposed development except in the case of Potable Water Supply where enhancements will be required to the primary distribution network. Completed Development

Electricity 6.28. Currently the site is serviced by 66Kv and 11Kv overhead supplies. There has been no supply problems reported on the site. 6.29. WPD has confirmed that the existing overhead network would have sufficient capacity to accommodate the proposed development. In this case, there are no capacity requirements which would require any modifications to the existing network. Further consideration would however need to be given to the adequacy of the on-site distribution system between the WPD apparatus and the points of demand. In general the development areas would be served by local ring mains fed off a main feeder supply. Further consideration of the onsite distribution would take place at detail design stage. 6.30. The undergrounding of all overhead networks would be undertaken as the development phases progress, and in accordance with further discussion with WPD. 6.31. In general, the extension or enhancement of the existing services provision will facilitate the demands of the proposed development. In this case, since there are no plans to enhance the capacity supply the likely significant effect without any mitigation is considered to be negligible.

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Gas

High Pressure Gas Main 6.32. The general philosophy of approach in terms of the master planning of the site area has been to design around existing principal services wherever possible. In this respect consideration has been given to locating access roads and public open spaces over the line of the HP Gas Main. In addition it has been acknowledged given the nature of the HP Gas Main that any planning application for the master plan area will be subject to consultation with Wales and West Utilities (WWU) on safe building proximity distances and to PADHI (Planning Advice for Developments near Hazardous Installations) guidelines issued by the Health and Safety Executive. 6.33. Discussions have been on-going with the Services Provider in respect of the practical details which need to be incorporated in the master plan design to safeguard the existing service and to ensure the safety of construction workers and future occupiers of the development. The main considerations have related to the loading on the pipeline caused by development over the line of the service and the accommodation of the safety distances to satisfy PADHI requirements. A summary of the principal concerns is provided below: -

General: 6.34. With regard to the cover over the main WWU has stated that they would oppose any reduction in cover regardless of the type of land use above. WWU has also stated that they would allow a maximum increase in cover of 300mm. These tolerances are particularly restrictive but are imposed because of the nature of construction of the main.

HP Gas Main under future Roads: 6.35. There is no objection to locating the main under future roads provided that there is no reduction in cover over the main and that there are no increases in cover. If there is a requirement to increase cover then mitigation measures will need to be implemented. In this case, the likely significant effect without any mitigation is considered to be negligible.

HP Gas Main under Public Open Space: 6.36. There is no objection to locating the main under future POS provided that there is no reduction in cover over the main and that increases in cover do not exceed 300mm (in open ground). If there is a requirement to increase cover then mitigation measures will need to be implemented as in the case of locating the main under access roads. In this case, the likely significant effect without any mitigation is considered to be negligible.

HP Gas Main under Footpaths: 6.37. In principle there is no objection to locating the main under future footways but the consideration would need to be given to vehicular loading at driveways/junction cross-overs. In this case mitigation measures may also need to be carried out as in the case of the access roads. The safety zone could be located in gardens to properties provided that there are no permanent structures or buildings in the restricted zone. If this option was to be adopted then the future development restrictions would need to be reflected in the deeds to properties.

HP Gas Main under Front or Rear Gardens to Residences: 6.38. In principle the main could also be located under front or rear gardens provided that the 88 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

maintenance easement and the safety zone is not encroached on by any permanent structures (i.e. dwellings). If this option was to be adopted then the future development restrictions would need to be reflected in the deeds to properties.

Intermediate Pressure Gas Main: 6.39. There are no plans to divert the IP Main. The location of the main and its easement is regarded as a constraint to the spatial development of the site. Should there be an unavoidable requirement to undertake local diversions of this main then this will be identified at detail design stage. 6.40. WWU have indicated that the IP Main will be able to accommodate the demand for the proposed development. The source of on-site distribution will be a new Governor Station located in a services compound near the north eastern boundary of the site. The governor will reduce the pressure to serve the future Low Pressure mains distribution systems on site. LP Mains will be located under access roads wherever possible. In this case, the likely significant effect without any mitigation is considered to be negligible.

Low Pressure Gas Mains; 6.41. A low pressure main is located within Lowlands Crescent to the south of the proposed development site. The development proposals do not affect this main, which serves the properties in the area of Lowlands Crescent. In this case, since there are no plans to enhance the capacity supply the likely significant effect without any mitigation is considered to be negligible.

Potable Water 6.42. The proposed development includes the provision of 220no. units (plus associated facilities) and a 40 bed Hotel. Currently there are only 77 units operational on the site although the extant permission is for 117no. units. In this case, the potable water demand will increase on the site and the existing supply will need to be enhanced to accommodate the increased demand. 6.43. As in the case of the gas supply the future development could not function without an enhancement to the energy supply. In this case the likely significant effect of progressing the development without supply enhancement would not be feasible and as such the affect would have to be regarded as adverse major. Mitigation measures must be implemented.

Telecommunications 6.44. BT has advised that the telephone network in the immediate vicinity of the site has sufficient capacity to accommodate the proposed development. No problems are anticipated in supplying the development with BT and cable communications services from existing networks in the vicinity of the site. 6.45. Apart from the enhancement of on-site distribution, if required, there are no capacity issues relating to the servicing of the proposed development. In this case the likely significant effect without mitigation is negligible.

Mitigation Measures 6.46. As part of the master planning for the proposed development various forms of mitigation in respect of services provision have been considered. The principal forms of mitigation can be defined as follows:- y Modifications to Primary Distribution Networks (where necessary) to provide required capacity. 89 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

y Modifications to Primary Distribution Networks to protect visual amenity of existing and future residents. y Design of Master Plan layout to accommodate existing Primary Distribution Networks in order to minimise services diversions. y Design of Master Plan layout to accommodate existing easements and safety zones associated with Primary Distribution Networks. y Design of on-site services distribution systems such that services routes will generally be under or adjacent to principal access roads. y Design of on-site services distribution systems such that future crossings of the Canal will be (wherever possible) coincident with access road bridge crossing points. y Design of existing services diversions and new services infrastructure on a phased basis. 6.47. The design of the services provision for the proposed development has involved the consideration of the above mitigation options. The recommendations in respect of the provision of the principal services are described in the following sections. Construction

Construction Protocols 6.48. During the construction phase protocols would need to be put in place to ensure that the existing services infrastructure would not be accidentally damaged by the construction works. Where enhancements are proposed to the services distribution systems these works will be included in the scope of the contract works. Normal construction protocols would apply. 6.49. The agreed construction protocols would be included as part of the Construction Management Plan which would be approved prior to the commencement of construction works. 6.50. There would be no special mitigation measures required for the construction phase of the development and as such the likely significant effect would be negligible. Completed Development

General 6.51. The actual services demands will be established for the completed Development, if necessary on a phased basis and the Service Providers will be able to plan their network development to accommodate the future demands and other future development proposals in the immediate area. The proposed mitigation measures in respect of the principal services are summarised as follows:

Electricity

Primary Distribution Network 6.52. The two existing 66KV overhead lines crossing the northern and central parts of the site are part of the Regional Distribution Network. The overhead lines merely cross the site and do not directly contribute to the servicing of the site area. There are no sub-stations on this overhead system in the vicinity of the site. Both lines need to be retained in order to maintain the links between the Regional Distribution Networks to the east and west of the site. 6.53. It is recommended that the northern 66KV line will be retained but realigned as necessary to suit the development layout. Any re-alignment and undergrounding has been considered having regard 90 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

to the need to protect the amenity of both the existing residents to the north of the site and new residents in the northern part of the site. The landscape buffer in this area will help to minimise those effects. 6.54. The existing northernmost 66kV overhead line crosses the Canal at a point approximately midway along the northern boundary of the site. The crossing point is close to the location where the High Pressure Gas Main crosses under the Canal. If the overhead line is undergrounded in this area the 66KV line would also have to pass under the Canal. This may cause difficulties with maintenance easements, dealings with British Waterways, etc and as such re-routing under the Canal should be avoided if at all possible. One mitigation option would be for two overhead sections (the one crossing the Canal and the adjacent section to the west) should be repositioned to be to the immediate north of the High Pressure Gas Main. The adjacent two sections to the east could then be re-positioned (by introducing another pole) such that the overhead line is almost totally north of the High Pressure Gas Main. Alternatively the two most easterly overhead sections could be undergrounded along site access roads. This would also involve a coincident Canal Crossing to the highway crossing, which under the current Masterplan is via the existing bridge crossing carrying Bevan’s Lane over the Canal. This latter option appears to be the most straightforward depending on development phasing. 6.55. With regard to the 66KV overhead line routed through the centre of the site, the presence of this service would detract from the visual amenity of the site. In order to enhance the visual amenity of the site it has been determined that the service would need to be undergrounded. 6.56. Discussions with the Service Provider, Western Power Distribution (WTD) have resulted in the Service Provider undertaking, at their cost, to underground the central 66KV line under the site access roads. This however has phasing implications and consideration has been given to undertaking undergrounding works over two/three phases. In this case, some temporary sections of overhead or underground cabling may be necessary to facilitate the phasing requirements. The undergrounding of the central 66kV overhead electricity line will have a positive visual and landscape impact. This is very important due to the fact that the sensitivity of the area will be increased as a result of the proposed development. 6.57. In this respect the likely significant effect following the development works would be regarded as major beneficial.

Local Distribution Network 6.58. A number of inter-connecting 11KV overhead lines cross the site area. The existing properties on the site are served by Low Voltage connections from pole mounted transformers on the 11KV system. The existing 11KV network runs obliquely in a number of directions and the existing configuration of overhead lines would provide a considerable constraint to development of the site. It is therefore clear that the onsite distribution of 11KV lines would need to be rationalised as part of the development works. 6.59. It is proposed that the 11KV lines and other limited low voltage lines serving existing properties will be undergrounded or replaced by the new site supplies as the development proceeds. WPD has confirmed that the 11KV underground cables present in the verge of Cwmbran Drive, together with the existing on-site overhead 11KV lines have sufficient spare capacity to serve the development via a series of on-site sub stations. 6.60. As in the case of the 66KV crossing the central area of the site WPD have agreed to divert the 11KV system to underground locations compatible with the Master Plan layout. Phasing of the

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development works also comes into consideration in the diversion and undergrounding of the 11KV system. 6.61. In this respect the likely significant effect following the development works would be regarded as major beneficial.

Gas

High Pressure Gas Main 6.62. The HP gas main close to the northern boundary of the site comprises a 300mm diameter steel pipe. Consultation with Wales & West Utilities has confirmed that the main was diverted in 1995,. The pipeline operates at 24.1 bar pressure. 6.63. Wales & West Utilities have advised that a main of this construction and operating pressure normally requires a 12m wide easement. At the time of the construction of the main however an easement was agreed with the landowners and the agreed easement is indicated on Drawing No. 11765/C/SA/90/0002-A01 included in Appendix 6.1 herewith. It can be seen that the easement width varies (between 6m and 12m) depending on the depth of the main. 6.64. At the time of planning and construction of the HP Main the terrain and the nature of the land through which the main is routed was very much as it is at present, i.e. undeveloped agricultural land. In this case, the design loading for the main has related to the service being constructed in fields. 6.65. The general philosophy of approach in terms of the master planning of the site area has been to design around existing principal services wherever possible. In this respect consideration has been given to locating access roads and public open spaces over the line of the HP Gas Main. In addition it has been acknowledged given the nature of the HP Gas Main that any planning application for the master plan area will be subject to consultation with Wales and West Utilities (WWU) on safe building proximity distances and to PADHI (Planning Advice for Developments near Hazardous Installations) guidelines issued by the Health and Safety Executive. WWU have confirmed that the minimum building proximity distance from a safety point of view is 3m either side of the main. In this case, the easement widths referred to in Section 6.63 will define the ultimate building constraint.. 6.66. Discussions have been on-going with the Services Provider in respect of the practical details which need to be incorporated in the master plan design to safeguard the existing service and to ensure the safety of construction workers and future occupiers of the development. The main considerations have related to the loading on the pipeline caused by development over the line of the service and the accommodation of the safety distances to satisfy PADHI requirements. A summary of the principal concerns is provided below:

General: 6.67. With regard to the cover over the main WWU has stated that they would oppose any reduction in cover regardless of the type of land use above. WWU has also stated that they would allow a maximum increase in cover of 300mm. These tolerances are particularly restrictive but are imposed because of the nature of construction of the main.

HP Gas Main under future Roads: 6.68. There is no objection to locating the main under future roads but, given the nature of construction

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of the main, the existing service would need to be protected. It has been suggested that the protection would comprise of exposing the main by hand dig, the installation of a shell around the existing main to strengthen the steel pipe (and the welding) followed by the construction of a concrete slab to relieve pressure on the pipeline. Strengthening of the main in this way would relieve the restrictions relating to increasing cover or loading on the pipe provided that the mitigation works would accommodate the proposed loading. This is however a particularly onerous and costly exercise and the solution may not be feasible in many areas given the topography and the requirement to design the access roads to adoptable standards (e.g. compliance with gradient standards in adverse topography may require a cut and fill exercise which could be restricted by the cover restrictions on the main.

HP Gas Main under Public Open Space: 6.69. There is no objection to locating the main under future POS provided that there is no reduction in cover over the main and that increases in cover do not exceed 300mm (in open ground). If there is a requirement to increase cover then mitigation measures will need to be implemented as in the case of locating the main under access roads.

HP Gas Main under Footpaths: 6.70. In principle there is no objection to locating the main under future footways but the consideration would need to be given to vehicular loading at driveways/junction cross-overs. In this case mitigation measures may also need to be carried out as in the case of the access roads. The safety zone could be located in gardens to properties provided that there are no permanent structures or buildings in the restricted zone. If this option was to be adopted then the future development restrictions would need to be reflected in the deeds to properties.

HP Gas Main under Front or Rear Gardens to Residences: 6.71. In principle the main could also be located under front or rear gardens provided that the maintenance easement and the safety zone is not encroached on by any permanent structures (i.e. dwellings). If this option was to be adopted then the future development restrictions would need to be reflected in the deeds to properties.

Down grading of HP to IP Service: 6.72. WWU have considered the option of down grading the high pressure service to and intermediate pressure service. If this option was feasible then easement widths may potentially be reduced, , and there would be a far less requirement for mitigation works to protect the main. Preliminary investigations carried out by WWU suggest however that the option would not be feasible because of the resulting additional transportation costs for the supply of gas and the resulting reduction in pressure in the IP and LP mains downstream of the existing HP Service.

HP Main: 6.73. The Masterplan has aimed to retain the existing HP main within Public Open Space, with 2no. road crossings in the north-west of the Site. In order to achieve this existing ground levels will need to be retained above the main and it’s easement.

Intermediate Pressure Gas Main: 6.74. An intermediate pressure (IP) main runs north-south along the alignment of the former railway line

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near the eastern boundary of the site, adjacent to Cwmbran Drive. The main comprises a steel pipe (WWU to confirm pipe diameter). As in the case of the HP Main the easement widths agreed with the landowners varies along its length but the average easement is around 3m each side of the pipe. There is no formal safety zone to be accommodated as in the case of the HP Main. 6.75. There are no plans to divert the IP Main. The location of the main and its easement is regarded as a constraint to the spatial development of the site. Should there be an unavoidable requirement to undertake local diversions of this main then this will be identified at detail design stage. 6.76. WWU have indicated that the IP Main will be able to accommodate the demand for the proposed development. The source of on-site distribution will be a new Governor Station located in a services compound near the north eastern boundary of the site. The governor will reduce the pressure to serve the future Low Pressure mains distribution systems on site. LP Mains will be located under access roads wherever possible.

Low Pressure Gas Mains; 6.77. A low pressure main is located within Lowlands Crescent to the south of the proposed development site. The development proposals do not affect this main, which serves the properties in the area of Lowlands Crescent.

Summary 6.78. In summary, there will be no primary network supply problems on account of the proposed development. In this case whatever the decision relating to the energy source the supply provision would be enhanced. As such the likely significant effect following completion of the development would be considered as major beneficial.

Water 6.79. With regard to water supply, discussions with Dwr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) over a period of time have confirmed that the existing distribution systems in the vicinity of the site do not have the required capacity to accommodate the proposed development. This is accepted and in this case enhancement works are required to the primary distribution mains in order to facilitate the development. 6.80. In this respect, DCWW have proposed that various off-site works be undertaken to facilitate a new supply connection to serve the proposed development. The proposed works to the primary distribution network are planned in three phases as indicated on DCWW Drawing titled ‘Proposed Water Mains’, which isA01 included in Appendix 6.21 herewith. The three phases of the up- grading works are as follows: - y Phase 1 - Croesyceiliog Crematorium to Race Farm – excavate and lay approx. 1200m of 300mm ductile iron pipe (between points A and B on the drawing) y Phase 2 - Pontyfelin Avenue to Polo Grounds Industrial Estate - excavate and lay approx. 380m of 300mm ductile iron pipe (between points C and D on the drawing) y Phase 3 - Foundry Cottages to Bevans Lane - excavate and lay approx. 1500m of 225mm HPPE pipe (between points E and F on the drawing). 6.81. The termination point for the enhanced service will be at a booster pumping station, which is proposed to be located in a dedicated services compound close to the north eastern boundary of the site. The booster pumping station will service the on-site distribution mains, which will be located under the access roads wherever possible. 94 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

6.82. DCWW have confirmed that the new supply will accommodate the demand from the proposed development. 6.83. The cost associated with this DCWW requisition scheme is currently being reviewed by DCWW. Following confirmation of these costs and a subsequent Consortium instruction, DCWW have advised that there would be a three month lead-in to the start of the works and then the construction works would take six months. 6.84. On the basis of the improvements to the supply which will need to be incorporated in the proposed works the likely significant effect following the development works is considered to be major beneficial.

Telecommunications 6.85. No problems are anticipated in supplying the development with BT and cable communications services from existing networks in the vicinity of the site. 6.86. The existing on-site distribution system will be extended to service the additional facilities. In this case there would be a benefit to the service and as such the likely significant affect following development would be major beneficial.

Residual Effects

Construction

Residual Effects following Mitigation during the Construction Phase 6.87. The implementation of the construction phase protocols will protect existing services distribution apparatus. There will however not be an improvement to the services distribution until all development works have been completed. 6.88. With regard to water supply, discussions with Dwr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) over a period of time have confirmed that the existing distribution systems in the vicinity of the site do not have the required capacity to accommodate the proposed development. This is accepted and in this case enhancement works are required to the primary distribution mains in order to facilitate the development. 6.89. In this respect, DCWW have proposed that various off-site works be undertaken to facilitate a new supply connection to serve the proposed development. In this case the development works will be designed to incorporate the alterations to the supply system. 6.90. In this respect there is a residual effect but the effect has been mitigated by design and the residual effect is regarded as major beneficial.

Completed Development

Residual Effects following completion of the Development Works 6.91. As in the case of the construction phase the only residual effect following completion of the development works is that the existing distribution systems in the vicinity of the site do not have the required capacity to accommodate the proposed development. This deficiency in supply will have been mitigated in the design of the onsite and offsite enhancements to the water supply. In this case the residual effect would be considered to be major beneficial.

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Cumulative Effects

Construction and Completed Development 6.92. The likely significant effects associated with the proposed development should also be considered with the cumulative effects of other schemes in the locality. 6.93. It is understood however that currently there are no other schemes in the immediate area which could be considered to be part of a cumulative effects assessment. In this case there are no cumulative and interactive effects to consider in this assessment. 6.94. With regard to Interactive effects in respect of other site assessments the following comments apply: -

Landscape and Visual Impact 6.95. The undergrounding of the overhead 66KV and 11KV cables will have a beneficial effect in terms of visual amenity

Summary 6.96. This document has provided a Strategic Services Option Review of the principal services to facilitate the proposed development. The Strategic Options review is the first phase of the Utilities Strategy. Subsequent sections of the Utilities strategy will deal with detail design elements and procurement of the various services supplies through discussions with the Services Providers. 6.97. This chapter on Utilities has assessed the likely impact of the proposed development on the existing services provision to the site and the distribution of services on the site. 6.98. The enhancements proposed to the services supplies will result in considerable betterment (considered to be major beneficial) in the long term. 6.99. Table 7 below, contains a summary of the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development.

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Table 7: Table of Significance – Services (Utilities)

Accidental damage caused to Temporary Minor Adverse Introduction and enforcement of L Negligible existing services during the construction phase protocols to mitigate construction phase the potential for accidental damage, etc

Current risk of flooding by overland Temporary Minor Adverse Programme of construction of drainage L Negligible flow from the site could continue works early in the construction throughout the construction phase programme Completed Development Current inadequacies in delivery Permanent Re-design of off-site distribution systems L Major Beneficial capacity on mains water supply Major Adverse to provide adequate water supplies. require off-site enhancements to supply. Electricity supply adequate for Permanent Negligible On-site distribution enhancements may L Major Beneficial proposed development be required to accommodate extended use of electricity Gas supply adequate for proposed Permanent Negligible On-site distribution enhancements may L Major Beneficial development be required to accommodate extended use of Gas Supply. Cumulative Effects No other schemes in locality contributing to a cumulative effect assessment * Geographical Level of Importance

I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = Wales; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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7. Planning Policy and Society & Economy

Policies and Plans

Introduction 7.1. This section considers the predicted effects of the development at South Sebastopol on policies and plans. It includes only those impacts, which directly affect, either beneficially or adversely, policies and plans within the development envelope of the site. It is based upon the information available and contained within the scoping opinion request from Torfaen County Borough Council in accordance with Regulation 10 (i) of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulation 1999.

Methodology 7.2. The assessment of the proposed development impacts upon policies and plans was undertaken through a desktop review of relevant planning policy documents, both adopted and emerging. 7.3. Consideration will be given to national, regional and development planning guidance, taking into account the following: i) Planning Policy Wales – 3rd Edition (July 2010) ii) Technical Advice Note (TAN) 1: Joint Housing Availability Studies (2006) iii) Technical Advice Note (TAN) 2: Planning and Affordable Housing (2006) iv) Technical Advice Note (TAN) 4: Retailing and Town Centres (1996) v) Technical Advice Note (TAN) 5: Nature Conservation and Planning (2009) vi) Technical Advice Note (TAN) 8: Renewable Energy (2005) vii) Technical Advice Note (TAN) 12: Design (2009) viii) Technical Advice Note (TAN) 15: Development and Flood Risk (2004) ix) Technical Advice Note (TAN) 18: Transport (2007) x) Technical Advice Note (TAN) 21: Waste (2001) xi) Welsh Office Circular 60/96: Planning and the Historic Environment: Archaeology xii) Welsh Office Circular 61/96: Planning and the Historic Environment: Historic Buildings and Conservation Areas xiii) Welsh Office Circular 20/01: New Guidance for Local Planning Authorities on European Protected Species and Changes in Licensing Procedures xiv) Adopted Gwent Replacement Structure Plan (1996) xv) Adopted Torfaen Local Plan (1999) xvi) Torfaen Local Development Plan: Preferred Strategy (Jan 2008) xvii) Torfaen Affordable Housing Delivery Statement (February 2010).

Baseline Conditions 7.4. The following represents the review of relevant planning policies / guidance notes pertinent to the proposed South Sebastopol scheme.

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Policies

Planning Policy Wales – 3rd Edition (July 2010)

Section 3.3: Environmental impact assessment 7.5. The guidance note describes the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, what should be included in the assessment and when it is necessary to carry out an EIA.

Section 4.5: Priorities for urban and rural areas 7.6. The guidance recognises the important function of urban areas and one of the priorities is to: ‘secure environmentally sound and socially inclusive regeneration to those urban areas which require it, so that they become more desirable places to live and work’.

Section 4.6: Sustainable settlement strategy: locating new development 7.7. The policy encourages local authorities to: ‘promote sustainable patterns of development, identifying previously developed land and buildings, and indicating locations for higher density development at hubs and interchanges and close to route corridors where accessibility on foot and by bicycle and public transport is good’. 7.8. Additionally, a mix of uses in town centres is encouraged.

Section 4.10: Promoting sustainability through good design 7.9. The guidance note states that good design could protect the environment and enhance its quality, help to attract business and investment, promote visual inclusion and improve the quality of life.

Section 5.2: Caring for biodiversity 7.10. The guidance note introduces the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) and describes its objectives, which include the conservation and where practicable, the enhancement of: ‘populations of native species and wildlife, quality and range of wildlife habitats, internationally important and threatened species, species, habitat and natural managed ecosystems characteristic of local areas and biodiversity of natural and semi-natural habitats where this has been diminished over recent decades’.

Section 5.3: Measures to conserve landscape and biodiversity: Statutory designations 7.11. The policy states that: ‘the Assembly will ensure that international responsibilities and obligations for conservation are fully met, and that, consistent with the objectives of the designation, statutorily designated sites are protected from damage and deterioration, with their important features conserved by appropriate management’.

Section 5.5: Development control and the conservation and improvement of the natural heritage 7.12. The policy advises how biodiversity and landscape issues should be taken into account in determining planning applications. Of particular relevance is part 5.5.9, which refers to the need for EIA where a development is likely to affect a designated area such as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Additionally, part 5.5.11 advises that the presence of a species that is protected under European or UK legislation is a material consideration, if the development is likely 99 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

to disturb or harm that species or its habitat.

Section 6.5: Development control and the historic environment 7.13. The policy expresses the desirability of preserving ancient monuments and their settings along with possible archaeological remains, which may be present at the site.

Section 7.2: Designating land for employment needs 7.14. Part 7.2.6 recognises that mixed use development should be promoted in, and adjoining existing settlements, where appropriate.

Section 8.2: Promoting walking and cycling 7.15. The policy seeks to promote opportunities for walking and cycling through the development plan system.

Section 8.4: Managing traffic and parking 7.16. Part 8.4.3 states that local authorities should ensure that new developments should provide lower levels of parking than have generally been achieved in the past and minimum parking standards are no longer appropriate.

Section 9.3: Development control and housing 7.17. The guidance note states that new housing developments should be well integrated and connected to existing patterns of settlement. Additionally, the guidance recognises that high quality design and landscaping standards are important to enable high-density developments to fit into existing residential areas.

Section 10: Planning for retailing and town centres 7.18. The policy recognises the importance of town centres with one of the Welsh Assembly’s main priories being: ‘the promotion of access to these centres by public transport, walking and cycling’. 7.19. The policy also recognises the need to support existing town centres highlighting the need for ‘good access to, and convenient movement within town centres’.

Section 12.4: Development control and water 7.20. The policy outlines that adequacy of water supply and sewage infrastructure are material in considering planning applications. Development proposals in sewered areas must connect to the main sewer.

Section 12.7: Development control and waste planning 7.21. The guidance states that: ‘adequate facilities for the collection, composting and recycling of waste materials should be incorporated into the design of any major development’.

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Section 13.2: Flood risk and climate change 7.22. The policy states that consideration should be given to flood risk in land use planning and outlines how local authorities should approach flood risk issues.

Section 13.3: Development Plans and flood risk 7.23. The policy advises that consultation with the Environment Agency should be progressed and outlines the fact that hard flood defences are unlikely to be sustainable in the long term and may increase the likelihood of flooding elsewhere.

Section 13.4: Development control and flood risk 7.24. The policy outlines the need to work closely with the Environment Agency when planning a development within areas of flood risk.

Guidance notes

TAN 1: Joint Housing Land Availability Studies 7.25. The advice note describes the process for undertaking Joint Housing Land Availability Studies. The purpose of the studies is to: ‘Monitor the provision of market and affordable housing, provide an agreed statement of residential land availability for development planning and control purposes, and set out the need for action in situations where an insufficient supply is identified’. 7.26. The advice note also states that local planning authorities must ensure that sufficient land is genuinely available to provide a five-year supply of land for housing.

TAN 2: Planning and Affordable Housing 7.27. The advice note outlines the general concept of affordable housing being; ‘the ability of households or potential households to purchase or rent property that satisfies the needs of the household without subsidy’. The guidance requires local planning authorities to: ‘include an affordable housing target in the development plan which is based on the housing need identified in the local housing market assessment, indicate how the target will be achieved using identified policy approaches and monitor the provision of affordable housing against the target and where necessary take action to ensure that the target is met’.

TAN 4: Retailing and Town Centres 7.28. This advice note emphasises the importance of obtaining information and classifying retail outlets when preparing development plans. Additionally, car parking standards and management is addressed with recognition of the need for appropriate parking for town centre and edge of centre residents. Annex B of the advice note addresses the management of town centres.

TAN 5: Nature Conservation and Planning 7.29. The advice note summarises issues relevant to nature conservation and planning. This includes advice on the protection of species and development plans in protected areas such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Special Protection Areas (SPA) and Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) among others. It is stated that when a SAC will be potentially affected by a proposed development, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will usually be required. 101 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Additionally if the proposals are likely to have a significant effect on the site, then an Appropriate Assessment of the development’s implications will need to be carried out as required by the Habitats Regulations 1994.

TAN 8: Renewable Energy 7.30. The advice note addresses issues relating to renewable energy, energy efficiency, and energy conservation and planning. Of particular relevance is Section 4.0 of the advice note, Design and Energy and Section 5.0, Implications for Development Plans. These sections address how new developments can be more energy efficient and outlines guidance the Welsh Assembly consider best practise (i.e. EcoHome scheme for residential developments and BREEAM scheme) for non- residential developments.

TAN 12: Design 7.31. The advice note recognises the Assembly Government’s commitment to achieving good design in all developments at every scale throughout Wales. The advice note details how this can be achieved within the planning system. 7.32. Section 5.0 describes in more detail on how good design can be integrated into developments under several sub-headings. Of particular relevance to this project are: transport and movement, biodiversity, urban regeneration, the public realm, the historic environment, housing design and layout, employment and commercial areas, resource efficient layout, resource efficient layout and design and public safety.

TAN 15: Development and Flood Risk 7.33. The advice note highlights issues relating to planning and flood risk, including background information regarding flooding, such as climate change, development advise maps, assessing flooding consequences, action through development plans and development control.

TAN 18: Transport 7.34. The advice note covers all aspects of transport and the planning system. Sections 12-16 addresses “Complementary Transport Measures” with specific reference to pedestrians and cyclists. Local authorities are encouraged to promote the development of facilities for these users. Other issues addressed in the TAN, which are relevant to the development include: traffic management and parking.

TAN 21: Waste 7.35. The advice note covers a range of planning issues relating to waste, including how compliance with legislation should be met (i.e. The Waste Framework Directive, The Landfill Directive and the Waste Strategy 2000). Of most relevance in terms of the development are issues described under the following sub-headings: sustainable waste management, planning considerations in waste issues and construction and demolition waste.

Welsh Office Circular 60/96: Planning and the Historic Environment: Archaeology 7.36. The Welsh Office Circular covers a range of issues relating to archaeology in the planning system. Section B advises on handling archaeological matters in the planning process, which gives detail on early consultation with developer and planning authority, archaeological assessments, field evaluations, consultations by planning authorities and planning decisions. 102 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Welsh Office Circular 61/96: Historic Buildings and Conservation Areas 7.37. The Welsh Office Circular covers a range of issues relating to historic buildings and historic conservation areas. Issues of most relevance to the proposed development include development control and the setting of listed buildings, which are covered in the Circular.

Welsh Office Circular 20/01: New Guidance for Local Planning Authorities on European Protected Species and Changes in Licensing Procedures 7.38. The circular informs local planning authorities in Wales of the new licensing procedures under EC Directive 92/43/EEC (the Habitats Directive) for developments affecting European Protected Species, of which otters are one of.

Development Plans 7.39. Gwent Replacement Structure Plan 1991-2006 – Adopted 1996, Torfaen Local Development Plan – Adopted 2000 7.40. Torfaen County Borough Council abandoned work on its Unitary Development Plan in 2004 and formally opted to commence work on a new Local Development Plan (LDP). Until the LDP is adopted the Development Plan for the purposes of Section 38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 will consist of the Gwent Replacement Structure Plan and the Torfaen County Borough Council Local Plan.

Structure Plan Policies 7.41. H1 – the policy provides for a sufficient supply of housing land during the period 1991-2006 of 20,750 new dwellings in Gwent. Of these 3,600 are allocated to Torfaen. In each Borough, a housing land supply of at least 5 yrs will be maintained.

Local Plan Policies 7.42. G1 – provides general criteria for development where it satisfies related policies in the plan. These include: y Impact of the proposed development on the general character of the area and on the environment; y Does not result in the loss of valuable agricultural land; y Does not prejudice service provision; y Sustains or enhances community facilities; y Has access to the public transport network; y Access can be achieved without detriment to highway safety; y The road network can sustain additional traffic generated; y A landscaping scheme is included as part of the proposal; y The site can be adequately serviced including foul drainage; y It does not affect water quality; y It does not result in the loss of important open space or woodland; y The proposal is not at risk from flooding or will increase flood risk elsewhere. 7.43. G4 – allows for negotiation with developers to address related infrastructure, community facilities 103 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

and environmental and community benefits. 7.44. G5 – provides for all development to be considered against highways and transportation criteria; 7.45. S2 – designates the South Sebastopol site as a General Development Area – S2/2 and allows for development which is in conformity with the development framework and other relevant policies. 7.46. L5 – favours proposals for the improvement of the former Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. 7.47. L7 – makes provision for long distance cycle routes which partly utilise the former canal towpath. 7.48. E7 – allows for proposals on non-statutory sites of wildlife, geological or geomorphological importance where they preserve the site’s conservation value, provide for replacement habitats and comply with other policies of the plan. 7.49. E8 provides criteria for development proposals in areas not formally designated as being of nature conservation importance. These include provision for trees, hedgerows, wetland habitats and other important natural features or habitats to be retained as far as is reasonably practicable and to submit landscaping schemes which include appropriate native species. 7.50. R2 – provides criteria for new retail and leisure development subject to impact on town centre viability, access and transportation issues.

Local Development Plan (2006-2021) Preferred Strategy 7.51. A Preferred Strategy document was published in January 2008. This favours a ‘Network of Integrated Communities Strategy’ which focuses on the two key settlements of Cwmbran and Pontypool to ensure that they are successful and function as service hubs for the surrounding settlements. 7.52. South Sebastopol is proposed as a ‘Strategic Housing Site’ (paragraph 6.7).

Policies 7.53. SP1 – provides for development sites within and adjacent to urban areas to meet various criteria, including the promotion of sustainable resources; regeneration of communities; promoting sustainable transportation; protection of the environment; and maximising the efficient use of community infrastructure. 7.54. SP2 – provides for all development to mitigate against the effects of climate change. 7.55. SP3 – proposals for new development must have regard to the principles of placemaking and good design by promoting local distinctiveness, incorporation of energy efficiency and designing out crime. 7.56. SP4 – makes provision for the development of 7,000 dwellings in Torfaen (Approx 900 dwellings in North Torfaen and Blaenavon, 2,800 dwellings in Pontypool, and 3,300 dwellings in Cwmbran. 7.57. SP5 – the authority will seek to negotiate the inclusion of an appropriate element of affordable housing. 7.58. SP9 – development proposals shall protect and enhance ecology and biodiversity interests; the water environment; public open space and recreation facilities; the character of the built environment, special landscape areas; conservation and heritage assets and green wedge areas. 7.59. SP10 – seeks contributions through Section 106 obligations to address the impacts of developments.

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7.60. SP 11 – supports developments which make a positive contribution to highways and transportation infrastructure and promote a sustainable transport hierarchy.

Development Framework 7.61. In March 2004 a Development Brief and Design and Access Statement for the site prepared by PAD, setting out the parameters for the development of the site.

Potential Impacts 7.62. All the policies and plans identified within the baseline conditions review will be potentially impacted upon by the proposed South Sebastopol development.

Significance of Impacts 7.63. Assessment of the significance of any environmental impact is based upon characteristics of the impact and the receptor. Within this assessment, magnitude of effect has been defined using the Highways Agency’s WebTAG criteria. WebTAG is an appraisal tool used by the Highway’s Agency for EIAs, and for this particular topic uses a three-point contextual scale adopted from the Land Use Policy Sub Objective – Unit 3.7.2, Beneficial, Neutral and Adverse. This represents the best practise methodology for assessment of policies and plans in EIAs for road schemes, and can be used when assessing other development schemes. 7.64. WebTAG guidance is now seen as a requirement for all projects/studies that require government approval. It is therefore a suitable methodology for assessing how the proposed South Sebastopol development may affect current policy and planning guidance. An explanation of the criteria is as follows: y Beneficial – where the proposals complement the objectives of the policy / plan y Neutral – where the proposal has neither a beneficial or adverse affect on the objectives of the policy / plan, or where more than one policy applies, benefits / adverse effects are cancelled out. y Adverse – where the scheme adversely affects the objective for the policy / plan.

Table 8: Relevant Planning Policies and Significance of Impact

Policy Topic Impact

Planning Policy Wales

Section 4.5 Priorities for urban and Beneficial – the scheme will help to secure environmentally sound rural areas and socially inclusive regeneration in proximity to those areas of Torfaen which require it, so that overall they become more desirable places to live and work’.

Section 4.6: Sustainable settlement Beneficial – the development reflects sustainable principals such strategy: locating new development as being located on previously developed land, being close to public transport and being of mixed-use.

Section 4.8: Preference for the re- Adverse – the development is not located on previously developed use of land land but represents a sustainable urban extension.

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Policy Topic Impact

Section 4.10 Promoting Beneficial – the proposed development will help enhance the sustainability through good design quality of the environment, and help attract business and investment through good design.

Section 3.3: Environmental Impact Beneficial – an Environmental Impact Assessment is being carried Assessment out as part of the planning application for the proposed development.

Section 5.2: Caring for biodiversity Neutral – the scheme will have a detrimental effect on biodiversity by potentially losing vegetation which bounds field parcels. However, vegetation will be relocated/replanted as part of the mitigation measures to be carried out. Additionally, relevant measures will be taken during construction in order to mitigate construction related disturbance.

Section 5.3: Measures to conserve Neutral – the development may potentially affect the existing trees landscape and biodiversity: and hedgerows. However, vegetation will be relocated/replanted as Statutory designations part of the mitigation measures to be carried out. Additionally, relevant measures will be taken during construction in order to mitigate construction related disturbance.

Section 5.5: Development control Neutral – as described previously, the scheme will have the and the conservation and potential to detrimentally effect natural heritage by reducing the improvement of the natural heritage amount of vegetation. However, vegetation will be relocated/replanted as part of the mitigation measures to be carried out. Additionally, relevant measures will be taken during construction in order to mitigate construction related disturbance.

Section 6.5: Development control Neutral – development may have negative impacts on features of and the historic environment archaeological interest due to ground disturbance but the recommended mitigation measures listed in the policy will be taken note of.

Section 7.2: Designating land for Beneficial – whilst the development is predominantly residential the employment needs community, retail uses and a small amount of office space will create some local employment opportunities.

Section 8.2: Promoting walking and Beneficial – the development will involve the construction of a cycling pedestrian/cycleway along the former canal towpath.

Section 8.4: Managing traffic and Beneficial – the development makes provisions for car parking that parking will conform to the requirements of the local authority.

Section 9.3: Development control Beneficial – the development will integrate well with existing and housing patterns of settlement.

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Policy Topic Impact

Section 12.4: Development control Beneficial – there is an adequacy of water supply and sewage and water capacity for the development to take place.

Section 12.7: Development control Beneficial – the development has regard for the waste and waste planning management objectives in the national waste strategy.

Section 13.4 Development control Beneficial – only small parts of the site in its eastern fringes are and flood risk identified as Zone B on the TAN 15 Development Advice Maps.

Technical Advice Notes

TAN 1: Joint Housing Land Beneficial – the development will provide residential housing, which Availability Studies will help the local planning authority provide a five-year supply of land for housing.

TAN 2: Planning and Affordable Beneficial – An appropriate proportion, to be agreed with the LPA, Housing of the housing provided by the development will be ‘affordable housing’.

TAN 4: Retailing and Town Centres Beneficial – the development is of mixed use and so some retail outlets will be provided.

TAN 5: Nature Conservation and Neutral – the development will have an affect on existing Planning vegetation. However, vegetation will be relocated/replanted as part of the mitigation measures to be carried out. Additionally, relevant measures will be taken during construction in order to mitigate construction related disturbance.

TAN 8: Renewable Energy Beneficial – various energy efficient and energy saving methods have been incorporated into the design and the development scheme.

TAN 12: Design Beneficial – the advice note has been fully considered and taken account of when developing the design for the scheme.

TAN 15: Development and Flood Beneficial – the site lies largely outside areas at risk from flooding Risk as identified in the TAN 15 Development Advice Maps -2009. Small areas on the eastern fringes of the site lie within Zone B – Areas previously known to have flooded.

TAN 18: Transport Beneficial – the scheme will provide and integrate facilities for walking and cycling.

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Policy Topic Impact

TAN 21: Waste Beneficial – any arisings within the scheme will seek to be reused within the scheme. Additionally, the development itself will comply with relevant legislation (i.e. The Waste Framework Directive, The Landfill Directive and the Waste Strategy, 2000).

Welsh Office Circulars

WOC 60/96: Planning and the Beneficial – the WOC is broadly supported by the advice and Historic Environment: Archaeology recommendations given by the archaeological assessment carried out as part of this EIA.

WOC 61/96: Historic Buildings and Neutral – The integrity of the canal corridor and the settings of Conservation Areas neighbouring listed buildings will be respected in the development.

WOC 23/01: New Guidance for Neutral – the advice given in the circular will be taken account of in Local Planning Authorities on relation to protected species when developing the scheme. European Protected Species and Changes in Licensing Procedures

Gwent Replacement Structure Plan 1991-2006

H1 Beneficial – Whilst the Structure Plan period only extends to 2006 the development will make a significant contribution to meeting overall housing needs and providing a sufficient range and choice of housing opportunities.

Adopted Torfaen Local Plan

G1 - General Neutral – the development would result the loss of agricultural land, although it is not of a high grade; it will not prejudice service provision and will enhance community facilities; there will be access to the public transport network and cycling; where possible, trees and woodland will be retained. A comprehensive landscape scheme will be implemented. Whilst benefits will emerge from the scheme and overall compatibility with the policy will be achieved, the scale of loss of open countryside results in a neutral assessment.

G2 – General Beneficial – the development seeks to provide benefits for the community through provisions such as open space, landscaping and land for education, community facilities and retail.

G5 – General Beneficial – the layout will incorporate a hierarchy of routes and measures to ensure safe and efficient movement through the site by various modes of transport.

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Policy Topic Impact

S2 – General Development Areas Beneficial – the development is wholly compatible with its allocation as a General Development Area in the adopted Local Plan.

L5 – Monmouthshire and Brecon Beneficial – the canal corridor will form an integral part of the Canal development. Forms of development, including the ‘village core’ which have a positive relationship with the canal will enable a unique canal side environment to be created.

L7 – Long Distance Routes Beneficial – The use of the canal towpath as a footpath/cycleway will provide a sustainable transport corridor which will link parts of the site as well as providing routes to nearby employment areas, passenger rail facilities and Cwmbran Town Centre.

E7 – Proposals on Non Statutory Beneficial – The proposals will preserve features of conservation Sites value on the site and will provide additional habitats.

E8 – Areas Not Formally Beneficial – replacement habitat along the canal corridor will be Designated as being of Nature provided as part of the mitigation for the scheme. Areas of Conservation Importance. woodland will be retained and vegetation will be relocated/replanted as part of the measures to be carried out which will preserve green wedges and ‘wildlife corridors’ between the village areas of the scheme. Mitigation for any species protected by European and UK law will be provided. Additionally, relevant measures will be taken during construction in order to mitigate construction related disturbance.

R2 – New Retail and Leisure Beneficial – The provision of retail and community facilities in the Development proposed ‘village core’ will meet demand from the development and contribute to a sense of community.

Torfaen Local Development Plan: Preferred Strategy

SP1 – Sustainable Development Beneficial – the development relates well to existing communities and will create new communities with separate identities within the overall context of the scheme. As well as encouraging sustainable modes of transport, the scheme will promote sustainable resource use and construction techniques.

SP2 – Climate Change Beneficial – the proposals will incorporate principles relating to sustainable design, energy efficiency, renewable energy and will promote sustainable transport options.

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Policy Topic Impact

SP3 Place Making/Good Design Beneficial – the scheme takes account of the need for local distinctiveness in the creation of separate communities design objectives and design principals described within the guidance document.

SP4 – Housing Beneficial – the development of the site for 1,200 units will make a major contribution to meeting the overall housing land requirements

during the plan period.

SP5 – Affordable Housing Beneficial – an appropriate proportion of affordable housing will be provided through the scheme.

SP9 – Environmental Protection Beneficial – the scheme involves the protection and enhancement of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, and creating a network of open space and recreation facilities.

SP 10 – Community Infrastructure Beneficial – the development will provide open space, play space and recreation facilities, new primary school and community facilities, and enhancement and management of conservation interests.

SP11- Transport Beneficial – The development will promote a sustainable transport hierarchy by improved accessibility through public transport, walking and cycling provision.

Conclusion 7.65. The assessment has established that 46 national, regional and local planning policies will be affected by the scheme. Of these, the scheme will effect 37 beneficially, 1 adversely and 8 neutrally. The fact that the vast majority of polices considered are supported beneficially by the scheme suggests that the proposals have been well integrated within the planning framework and broadly supports national, regional and development planning policy.

Socio Economic Issues

Social Issues

Population 7.66. The population of Torfaen according to the 2001 census was 90,949. There was nil population change during the period 1991-2001. The census showed a decrease in the number of children aged between 0-4 and an increase in people over the age of 65 and an increase in people over the age of 80. 7.67. In May 2010 the Office for National Statistics released revised national and local authority population estimates for mid-2002 to mid 2008 for England and Wales. This shows that the population for Torfaen at mid-2008 was 91,100, a very slight rise since 2001.

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7.68. 2008 – based local authority population projections for Wales were also published in May 2010 by the Welsh Assembly Government. These have been based on revised population and migration estimates. They are not, however, policy based forecasts of what may happen and, as such do not make allowances for the effects of local and central government policies. It is acknowledged that these are trend-based projections and consequently they become more uncertain the further they are carried forward. 7.69. Torfaen’s population is projected to remain roughly the same from mid-2008 to mid-2023 (See Table below). In each year of the projection, Torfaen is forecast to experience around 100 more people migrating out of the authority area than moving in. Natural change is projected to increase to over 100 more births than deaths for Torfaen, but is projected to decrease below 100 from 2019/20 onwards, which results in a net change that fluctuates around zero for the first few years of the projection period, resulting in Torfaen’s population remaining roughly constant.

Table 9: WAG 2008 – Based Population Projections - Torfaen CBC

2008 2013 2018 2023 90,600 90,700 90,800 90,700

Housing 7.70. The Welsh Assembly Government 2003 Household and Population projections for South East Wales forecast an increase of 108,900 households between 003 and 2021 or 7.8%, compared to an increase of 3.2% over the previous 20 years. This increase is split almost 50:50 between an increase through natural change and increase through net migration. In determining housing land requirements for the LDP Preferred Strategy, the South East Wales Strategic Planning Group apportionment of the 108,900 households based on these projections indicated that Torfaen should accommodate 6.1% of the household share equating to approximately 6600 households. This figure was considered as a potential option, but further work undertaken by Torfaen, considering various emerging issues identified that the Preferred Strategy for the LDP would be based on 7000 new dwellings. 7.71. The 2006-based Household Projections for Wales, published by the Welsh Assembly Government in 2009 show that Torfaen had 38,600 households in 2006. This was forecast to rise to 42,400 by 2021,ie the end of the LDP period. The average household size in 2006 was 2.34, predicted to fall to 2.19 by 2021. 7.72. The Torfaen Housing Market and Needs Study 2003-2004 indicated the need for affordable housing is a key issue in the borough. Affordable housing need was identified as 2001 units, but there is only 1719 supply, which leaves a 282 units shortfall. 7.73. The estimated total housing stock as at April 2000 was some 38,940 dwellings; comprising 70% in the owner-occupied and private rented sectors, 26% local authority stock and 4% social rented (RSL) provision. 11.3% of the dwellings are unfit, compared with the Welsh average of 8.5%. In March 2007 council tenants voted in favour for transferring their homes to Bron Afon Community Housing. A programme of improvements to tenants homes is being undertaken to bring them up to the Welsh Housing Quality Standard. 7.74. Average house prices doubled in the period 2000-2006 with the average house price being £125,545. Average house prices relative to income are also increasing with the average house price now being 5.3 times the average income. This is an important issue for economic growth, as many young people are forced to migrate out of the borough due to the lack of affordable homes.

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7.75. There is a need to bring empty properties, which have a negative impact, back into residential use where possible. Between 2005-2006 463 properties were vacant for more than 6 months, and 5 were brought back into use. That represented 1.07% of the 2.89% target. The figures for 2006- 2007 indicate an improvement as only 253 empty properties were vacant for more than 6 months, and 7 were brought back into use. That represented 2.70% of the 2.89% target. 7.76. Torfaen has a problem with the simultaneous ageing of housing stock, which can be attributed to the development of Cwmbran New Town. It has been identified that 11.3% of the housing stock is classed as unfit, which is substantially higher than the Welsh average of 8.5%. 7.77. The key themes in relation to housing in Torfaen that emanated from the Local Housing Strategy are that aside for the need for more affordable housing provision, investment is required in existing housing stock for it to be brought up to the Welsh Housing Quality Standard, other forms of assisted home ownership is required such as equity release; there is a lack of private rented housing; need to recognise the needs of older people and the ageing population and also gypsies and travellers.

Health and Well Being 7.78. The Health and Well-Being Needs Assessment undertaken for Torfaen indicates that there are some serious challenges affecting the health and well being of the people in Torfaen. 7.79. These challenges include: y Our people have, on average, shorter and less healthy lives than people elsewhere in Wales. y There are high levels of long-term illness, of disability and of death from coronary heart disease. y The population is ageing and the numbers of older people are growing and older people locally have a high level of ill health, impairments and physical discomfort that may require health and social care support. y There is significant deprivation and economic inactivity amongst adults in some parts of the County Borough, contributing to poverty amongst children and young people in many families in Torfaen y Local people have one of the lowest levels of physical activity in Wales and this is linked to increasing levels of obesity, which, in turn, leads to poorer health. More people smoke in Torfaen and eat a less than healthy diet. 7.80. The majority of peoples health needs are self managed or managed within the primary care arena. Primary care facilities are normally owned by independent contractors and include family doctors, community dentists, community pharmacists etc. Gwent Healthcare Trust manages the three local hospitals in Torfaen – Blaenavon, County and Llanfrechfa Grange as well as Health clinics in Trevethin, Pontypool, Croesyceiliog, Cwmbran Town Centre and Fairwater. Torfaen residents also rely on services provided at Royal Gwent Hospital and Nevill Hall Hospital and to lesser extent, hospitals outside Gwent. 7.81. Life Expectancy in Torfaen increased by 3.1 years during 1992-2004. In Torfaen life expectancy at birth in Wales was 75.8 years for males and 80.3 years for females in 2002-2004. Torfaen is now above the welsh average for life expectancy. Infant mortality rates are below the welsh average. 7.82. Torfaen has a significant level of limiting long term illness, and according to the 2001 census this figure is 24.8%, which is above the welsh average. Mortality rates from heart disease and cancer in Torfaen is higher than the welsh average. The trends show that deaths from heart disease have fallen since the 1990’s, but death rates from cancer have continued at the same level despite

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prioritisation of resources towards cancer services. 7.83. Torfaen has 2 wards out of 24 included amongst the 100 most deprived wards in Wales, but also has 2 wards in the top 100 for the least deprived out of 865 wards in Wales. Therefore, there is a range of health inequality across different parts of the borough and therefore reducing these inequalities is an important objective for Torfaen. Poor lifestyle choices attribute to the poor health of people in Torfaen with significant amounts of ill health caused through smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, drug and alcohol abuse and unsafe sexual practise.

Economic Issues

Economic Activity 7.84. Torfaen suffers from a north –south split in terms of investment and private sector interest. Whereby the south of the borough attracts the greatest investment and economic activity, the north of the borough, does not attract such interest and the poor transport infrastructure to the north is a significant problem in generating economic development. However, this tends to be dictated to a certain extent by business demand as locations in the south of the county borough are generally more attractive for example due to improved transport infrastructure in terms of proximity to the M4. 7.85. Torfaen has 1570 businesses registered for VAT in 2005, a decrease of 15 from 2004. Between 1999-2003 the number of VAT registrations in Torfaen increased from 9.7-10.1%. During the same time period business de registrations fell from 9.0-7.5%. Therefore this data shows there was a growth in business start ups and a corresponding decrease in the number of businesses closing down. 7.86. Commuting statistics for Torfaen indicate that 4,500 of the population commute outside the borough for work purposes. In order to redress, this issue and the corresponding issue that the borough has had nil growth in population over the ten-year period 1991-2001, there is a need for the economy to diversify in order to attract increased employment opportunities and attract people into Torfaen. One issue that has been identified is the fact that old business estates in Torfaen do not satisfy the demands of new businesses looking to locate into the area. 7.87. The number of people economically inactive between 2000-2005 was 13,600 people. This equates to 25.1% of the workforce, but this figure is below the Welsh average of 28.1%. However, reducing the numbers of economically inactive in the County Borough should be a key aim, and the promotion of increased employment opportunities in Torfaen will be a key facet in reducing this figure. 7.88. More up to date information from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), however, shows that between October 2008 and September 2009 the percentage of those economically inactive had risen to 28% (15,200), compared with 24.6% in Wales as a whole and the British average of 21.1%. 7.89. Data from the 2001 census in relation to Employment by sector indicates that the largest employment sector in Torfaen is manufacturing which accounts for nearly a quarter of all employment. Other notable trends are that sectors such as financial intermediation, real estate, renting and business activities fall behind neighbouring authorities and the welsh average. In terms of satisfying objectives to diversify the economy, it would be an objective for employment in such sectors to increase. ONS data for 2008/2009 however, shows that the proportion of employees in manufacturing had decreased to 20.4%. The largest sector now is Public Admin, education and health 36.4%. 113 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Table 10: Table of Significance – Society and Economy

Residual Effects Significance Geographical Importance* Nature of Effect (Major/ Moderate/ (Major/ Moderate/ Minor) Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Permanent/ Minor) (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Enhancement Measures Temporary) I UK W R C D L (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Negligible) Negligible) Construction A variety of construction jobs Temporary Moderate, beneficial Impacts of construction phase controlled √ √ √ Moderate/beneficial provided over a 20 year period, by conditions on planning permission effect, eg local spending depending on future take-up rates patterns. Completed Development Provision of range and choice of Permanent Moderate, beneficial √ √ √ Moderate beneficial, eg market and affordable units will reduce need for releases in more sensitive areas Provision of improved education and Permanent Moderate, beneficial √ √ √ Moderate beneficial, eg community facilities reducing need to travel to existing facilities Enhancement of canal corridor and Permanent Minor, beneficial Part of overall mitigation to reduce visual √ √ √ Minor beneficial – linked improved recreation/open space and environmental impact of built to wider canal initiatives development Cumulative Effects Regeneration benefits – combination Permanent Moderate beneficial √ √ √ Moderate beneficial, eg of job creation, provision of housing increasing catchment of expansion area and increasing Pontypool/Cwmbran catchment population. town centres * Geographical Level of Importance

I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = Wales; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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8. Landscape Character and Visual Assessment

Introduction 8.1. This chapter has been written by Waterman Energy, Environment & Design Ltd (Waterman) and identifies and evaluates the existing landscape and visual resources at South Sebastopol, Pontypool (hereafter referred to as ‘the site’) and surrounding areas. The chapter considers the likely significant effects of the proposed Development both during the construction phase and following completion of the Development at the site. 8.2. The chapter highlights relevant policy and guidance concerning landscape and visual matters, describes the methodology used to assess the baseline conditions of the site and its environs and describes potential landscape and visual effects as a result of the proposed Development. The chapter then details any mitigation that may be required in order to avoid, reduce or offset any likely significant adverse impacts arising from the Development and assesses the resulting residual effects. 8.3. The chapter has been informed and accompanied by a tree survey report of the site, produced by Waterman (ref. E11338-R-2-2-2-101212-BC) in accordance with BS5837:2005 – ‘Trees In Relation To Construction’ and submitted as part of the planning application documentation.

Planning Policy Context 8.4. This section outlines relevant landscape and visual related aspects of national, strategic and local planning policies in relation to the site. This section should be read in conjunction with Figure 8.1: Landscape Planning Policy Context which illustrates the location and extents of policies detailed. 8.5. The site is within the historical county of Gwent, which no longer has any regional planning jurisdiction and the district authority of Torfaen.

National Planning Policy Planning Policy Wales, 3rd Edition, July 2010 8.6. This document provides strategic guiding principles for planning within Wales. Of pertinence in landscape and visual terms is the hierarchy of landscape designations from National Parks (NP) and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) to non statutory designations such as Special Landscape Areas (SLA) and their role to protect landscapes of value within Wales. The use of CCW’s LANDMAP information system is advocated. Planning Policy Wales - Technical Advice Note 10 (TAN 10): Tree Preservation Orders 8.7. TAN 10 provides strategic guidance for the need, scope and protection of trees and woodland designated under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). Consent to carry out works to TPOed trees or woodland must be obtained from the local authority if a detailed planning consent has not been secured. Planning Policy Wales - Technical Advice Note 12 (TAN 12): Design 8.8. TAN 12 provides overarching guidance for the design of new development and commits the Welsh Assembly Government to delivery of good design which fosters environmental sustainability, economic development and social inclusion at every scale throughout Wales. In relation to landscape issues, an appreciation of the landscape context and character of the environment is specifically highlighted as being integral to the delivery of good design. 115 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Wales Spatial Plan (WSP) – People, Places, Futures, 2008 8.9. The WSP outlines the Welsh Assembly’s strategic vision for shaping Wales. The importance of protecting and enhancing the environment is advocated. Chapter 14 also notes the value of distinctiveness of both the natural and built environment.

Regional Planning Policy Gwent Structure Plan 1991 – 2006 (adopted 1996) 8.10. Until the adoption of the Local Development Framework (LDF), policies from the Gwent Structure Plan will be used to provide overarching policy guidance for the Borough. Policies relating to landscape and visual issues are summarised below. 8.11. Policy H3 relates to new settlements subsection iii) of which notes the effects on environmentally sensitive areas will be considered as part of the planning decision making process. 8.12. Policies C3 and C4 pertain to the Brecon Beacons National Park placing emphasis on the conservation of the natural environment over other factors for development within these designations. The policy does not make reference to the setting of the Park. The Brecon Beacons National Park is approximately 2km to the north of the site. 8.13. The creation of ‘Special Landscape Areas’ within local plans is enforced through Policy C5. The policy states that “where development is permitted it should harmonise with and preferably enhance the landscape”. The policy is strengthened by Policy C6 which resists development that would have a significant adverse effect on historical landscapes such as ‘Special Landscape Areas’. 8.14. Woodlands, trees and hedgerows of historical, amenity or nature conservation value are protected under Policy C11. 8.15. Policy L2 addresses ‘landscape improvement areas’ and assigns priority to land reclamation and environmental improvement of these areas.

Local Planning Policy Torfaen Local Plan (adopted July 2000) 8.16. Until the adoption of the Local Development Framework (LDF), policies from the Torfaen Local Plan will be used to provide specific policy guidance for the Borough. Policies relating to landscape and visual issues are summarised below and shown within Figure 8.1: Landscape Planning Policy Context. 8.17. The whole of the site falls within the General Development Area S2/2 of South Sebastopol. Proposals for development within these areas will be permitted provided they are in accordance with policy framework. 8.18. Policy G1 of the local plan outlines the general principles development should follow. In relation to landscape and visual issues development should respect the existing setting, visual appearance and urban fabric, of the site and its surroundings. The policy further states in subsection Biii) the effects of development upon the topography, landscape and natural features of the environment will be considered in particular. 8.19. Areas of high quality landscape value are protected as ‘Special Landscape Areas’ under Policy E2 of the local plan. The policy states “within areas designated as special landscape areas, the

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conservation of the environment and landscape will be the primary consideration”. Development will be considered, inter alia, against the following criteria: y “The site is, or can be, adequately serviced without requiring visually intrusive infrastructure; y The scale, design and character of the development is appropriate to the area; and y The proposal respects its rural setting in terms of layout and design and minimises the visual intrusion into the landscape.” 8.20. Special Landscape Area E2/1 abuts the site to west although it should be noted that the policy does not refer to the setting of these designations. 8.21. The Lower and Upper Race and Cwm Lickey areas (approximately 800m west) are identified as Landscape Improvement Areas (Ref. E4/1). Within these areas land reclamation and environmental enhancement schemes will be permitted where the proposal improves and enhances the quality, character, visual and ecological amenities of the area. 8.22. The Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal, which traverses through the middle of the site, is considered in Policy L5 of the local plan. Proposals which extend the navigational opportunities and improve the environs of this waterway will be supported by the Council. 8.23. The national cycle route which runs north to south in the eastern section of the site is addressed under Policy L7. The connectivity of these routes, particularly to urban areas, is encouraged.

Other Statutory Designations Public Rights of Way (PRoW) 8.24. A number of PRoW cross the site. Cycle routes are also present along the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal and Bevan’s Lane and following the route of the old railway in the east of the site as part of the National Cycle Network. Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) 8.25. Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) afford protection to trees, tree groups or woodland that are of significant value either intrinsically in their own right or as part of the amenity of an area. A TPO is extant on hedgerow trees forming the boundary vegetation adjacent to Five Locks Close in the southwest of the site (Ref.TPO30A). 8.26. TPO designations are also located beyond the site approximately 500m to the southwest at Upper Cwmbran Road and approximately 80m to the south of the site adjacent to Maesgwyn road, south of Five Locks Close (Ref.TPO122). Listed Buildings 8.27. The following structures within the site are Grade II listed: y Tyr Brychiad; y Barn in Bevans Lane y Canal Tunnel; y 6 – Mile Post (north side of Canal Tunnel) 8.28. Several other non-designated assets are also present within the site (refer to Chapter 10 Archaeological, Built and Cultural Heritage).

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Summary of Landscape Policy Context 8.29. The overarching designation of the site as a General Development Area encourages development to be located within the site as part of the strategic planning for the Torfaen district. However, development within this area will need to comply with the policy framework which, in landscape and visual terms will mean that it should seek to: y Respect and compliment the Special Landscape Area S2/2 to the west; y Respect features of value, such as woodlands and hedgerows which contribute positively to the character of the area; and y Improve the environs and recreational value of the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal and cycle network that traverse the site.

Assessment Methodology 8.30. The assessment methodology for the landscape and visual assessment is based on the following guidance: y “Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment”, Landscape Institute (LI) and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) 2002; and y “Landscape Character Assessment”, the Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) 2002. 8.31. The landscape and visual assessment consists of two separate, but inter-linked issues as follows: y Landscape Effects: The effects of Development on the physical and cultural characteristics of the site and its surroundings and on the landscape character of the study area; and y Visual Effects: The impacts of the Development on views from visual receptors and on the amenity value of these views. 8.32. The assessment methodology adopted for landscape and visual matters comprises a combination of desktop and field studies including the following: y An overview of statutory plans and other data regarding relevant designations and planning polices for the area; y A review of other recent Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments carried out on or in the vicinity of the Site, including the 2001 ES landscape and visual chapter produced by RPS and Chapman Warren Planning; y An analysis of the Countryside Council for Wales’s LANDMAP data for the site and its surrounds; y GIS analysis using Ordnance Survey profile data to create a Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) (refer to Figure 8.2); y An assessment of the landscape character and quality of the site, together with the sensitivity of the landscape to change. This includes the classification of the landscape into units of distinct and recognisable character; y Identification of viewpoints and classifications of sensitivity; y Identification and assessment of the potential landscape and visual effects of the Development, in terms of their magnitude and significance; and y The preparation of mitigation proposals with the aim where possible, of avoiding or reducing significant adverse landscape or visual effects, determined during the course of the 118 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

assessment. 8.33. The visual analysis is based on views from external spaces within the public domain and not from inside buildings or private spaces. However, assessment of private dwellings is made where appropriate. Site visits were undertaken in July 2010 and January 201, allowing an appreciation of seasonal changes to the landscape character and visual amenity to be considered as part of the assessment. Photographs were taken from selected viewpoints with a digital camera with a 50mm focal length lens at eye level (1600mm) from the ground. The camera location and details of each viewpoint was recorded. Photograph locations were selected in consultation with Torfaen District Council. 8.34. The assessment is based on the following plans produced by PAD design, the project’s masterplanners: y Concept Masterplan; y Access and Movement Strategy; y Green Space Strategy; y Development Strategy; y Building Heights Strategy; y Residential Density Strategy; y Land Use Strategy; and y Public Transport Strategy 8.35. Should significant deviations beyond those shown within the above plans at the detailed design stage occur, effects identified as part of this assessment may alter. 8.36. The assessment has also been informed by a tree survey report of the site, produced by Waterman (ref. E11338-R-2-2-2-101212-BC) and submitted as part of the planning application documentation.

Significance Criteria 8.37. The significance of landscape and visual effects are determined by assessing: y The sensitivity of the affected landscape; y The sensitivity of the visual receptor; and y The magnitude of the potential change that will occur. 8.38. Effects may be adverse or beneficial, the significance of which (including residual impacts following mitigation measures) is shown graphically as a significance matrix in Table 11 using the following definitions: y Minor – an effect which on its own is likely to have a minor influence on decision making but when combined with other effects could have a more material influence; y Moderate – an effect which on its own could have some influence on decision making, particularly when combined with other similar effects; or y Major – an effect which in isolation could have a material influence on the decision making process. 8.39. In addition, the nature of effect is also assessed as being either short-term (less than 5 years), medium-term (5 - 10 years) or long-term (10 years plus) in timescale. All landscape and visual effects are considered to be direct (i.e. a direct consequence of the Development proposals).

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8.40. The assessment of the nature of landscape and visual effects will depend on the degree to which the Development: y Complements, respects and fits into the existing scale, landform and pattern of landscape context; y Enables enhancement, restoration or retention of the landscape character and visual amenity; y Affects strategic and important views in addition to the visual context of receptors; and y Meets policy aspirations for the area.

Table 11: Significance Matrix – Landscape Character and Visual Assessment

Sensitivity / Value of Magnitude of Effect Receptor High Medium Low High Moderate (Wales/UK/International Major Major/ Moderate designation/private residents) Medium Moderate/ Minor (County/Regional Major/ Moderate Moderate designations/PROW/Outdoor Recreation) Low Minor (Local/District designations/ Moderate Moderate/ Minor

Local Road Users) 8.41. In addition, the term negligible is used if the development would cause very limited changes to the landscape and/or views, but creates no significant impact. 8.42. The assessment process aims to be objective and quantify effects as far as possible. However, it is recognised that subjective judgement is appropriate, if it is based upon training and experience, and supported by clear evidence, reasoned argument and informed opinion. Whilst changes to a view can be factually defined, the evaluation of landscape character and visual impact does require qualitative judgements to be made. The conclusions of this assessment therefore combine systematic observation and measurement with informed professional interpretation. Waterman is an assessor grade member of IEMA and has experience in assessing the visual effects for various development schemes in a variety of scenarios.

Baseline Conditions Landscape Character National Character – Countryside Council for Wales – LANDMAP 8.43. The Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) LANDMAP provides a detailed analysis and categorisation of the landscapes of Wales from a number of landscape perspectives. A summary of those for the site is provided below.

Geological Landscape 8.44. The site is identified within Oaksford undulating lowland hill terrain (area code TRFNGL006) as part of the geological landscape consisting of undulating plain with shallow slopes in red marls Lower 120 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Devonia St Maughans formation. The value of this geological landscape is considered to be moderate and principal management recommendations proposed are to conserve as existing.

Landscape Habitat 8.45. The site is classified as Dry (Relatively) Terrestrial Habitats/Grassland & Marsh/Improved Grassland (Level 3) (area code TRFNLH029) as part of the landscape habitat assessment, containing wet woodland, lowland meadows and ancient/species rich hedgerows. The value of this landscape habitat is concluded to be moderate with principal management recommendations considered to be the prevention of existing habitats and strengthening of connectivity with isolated sites.

Visual and Sensory 8.46. In visual and sensory terms the site is classified as Upland/Hills, Lower Plateau & Scarp Slopes/Hillside & Scarp Slopes Mosaic (Level 3) (area codeTRFNVS002). This descriptive text continues: “Upland area with easterly aspect ranging from approximately 120m to 200m AOD, dominated by slopes, wooded (broadleaf and conifer) blocks and open tops to produce a mosaic pattern. Very quiet, secluded, with slight lowland feel engendered by proximity to, and extent of views over, the adjacent rolling farmland, and the wider views to the urban area of Cwmbran. This proximity may explain the network of public footpaths that criss-cross the area, several of which provide a direct access link with the urban area.” 8.47. The assessment notes there are attractive views both in and out of this area although the sharp urban edge is considered as a detractor within views. The value of this landscape is assessed to be high with principal management recommendations being hedgerow and forestry management.

Historic Landscape 8.48. The site is identified as within HL010 Maesgwyn and Tir-brychiad (area codeTRFNHL010) area consisting of Rural environment/Agricultural/Regular Fieldscapes (Level 3). Historic characteristics and features include: Surviving post-medieval valley-bottom farmland and associated farms, agricultural landscape and farmsteads and the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal. The value of this historical landscape is considered to be moderate with principal management recommendations being ‘retain as existing’.

Cultural Landscapes 8.49. The cultural landscape assessment places the site within the Lowlands and Southern Ridges (area code TRFNCL913). The summary description describes this area thus: “This is the rural area to the west, south and east of the major urban settlements of Cwmbran, Sebastopol and Croesyceiliog. The ridge that forms Mynydd Henllys and Mynydd Twynglas falls technically into the description of uplands but has been included in this Aspect Area as it forms part of the general rural character. The ridge provides an important backdrop to Cwmbran and is an area well used by the local community.” 8.50. The cultural landscape value of this area is assessed to be high. No principal management recommendations are made. 8.51. The above analyses have been used to inform this assessment in accordance with the principles detailed within LANDMAP Information Guidance Note 3. (Using LANDMAP for Landscape and 121 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Visual Impact Assessment of onshore Wind Turbines, June 2010 CCW).

Local Assessment 8.52. As part of the landscape character assessment, Waterman has undertaken a local landscape character assessment specific to the site and its local environs to allow effects to be understood at the detailed level. The characterisation process has been informed by the LANDMAP data and observations made within the field. A total of four character areas have been identified and are described in detail below and shown within Figure 8.3: Landscape Character.

LCA1A: Afon Lwyd Valley: Escarpment 8.53. This character area is strongly linked to both the uplands of Mynyd Twyn-glas and the River Afon Lwyd, essentially representing the transition between the two. The area includes the site and extends along the escarpment face to the west of Sebastopol and beyond. This is an attractive landscape (as attested by its partial designation as a ‘Special Landscape Area’) of undulating rising terrain and mature vegetative networks. The isolated farmsteads and small scale grassland meadows result in an intimate and rural character. Woodland blocks, orientated perpendicular to the escarpment and often following the course of streams, are a feature of the site and contribute positively to its character. Traversing through the site from north to south is the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal which is an attractive, man-made aquatic feature and is described in detail within the landscape features baseline section. 8.54. Key characteristics of LCA1A include: y Undulating foothills rising to Mynydd Twyn-glas; y Small scale, mature vegetative network of woodland blocks and hedgerows; and y Isolated farmsteads and cottages. 8.55. Due to the designation of the majority of this area as a ‘Special Landscape Area’ the sensitivity of this character area is considered to be medium.

LCA1B: Afon Lwyd Valley: Rolling Countryside 8.56. The Afon Lwyd Valley: Rolling Countryside character area (LCA1B) lies to the east of Sebastopol and the site. It is similar to that of the LCA1A, founded on the valley of the River Afon Lwyd and consists of undulating countryside which spreads to the east. However, the escarpment face is less extreme than that of LCA1A with lower gradients of terrain. Field sizes are slightly larger and are used for a mixture of arable and pastoral uses. Woodland blocks are present and again slightly larger in scale than LCA1A although less frequent. 8.57. Key characteristics of LCA1B include: y Rolling countryside under arable and pastoral land use; y Medium scale network of fields and woodland blocks; and y Isolated farmsteads and small hamlets. 8.58. Due to the designation of the majority of this area as a ‘Special Landscape Area’ the sensitivity of this character area is considered to be medium.

LCA2: Mynydd Twyn-glas Uplands 8.59. The Mynydd Twyn-glas Uplands (LCA2) consist of the elevated uplands located to the west of

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Sebastopol and the site. The hills provide an attractive setting to the River Afon Lwyd valley and afford spectacular panoramic views over the surrounding countryside as far as the Usk valley in the east to Newport and beyond to the south. This is an upland landscape with thin soils devoid of trees or prominent vegetation. Settlement is limited to remote upland farmsteads. The remnants of historical mining activity within the area add to the cultural value of this landscape character area. 8.60. Key characteristics of LCA2 include: y Elevated, open uplands with expansive views; y Treeless, with little vegetation cover; and y Remnants of historic mining activities. 8.61. Due to the designation of the majority of this area as a ‘Special Landscape Area’ the sensitivity of this character area is considered to be medium.

LCA3: Afon Lwyd Valley Settlements 8.62. Urban areas within the locality have been classified as LCA3: Afon Lwyd Valley Settlements. This character area is a result of concentration of built form that follows the valley in a linear north to south orientation, chiefly the settlements of Pontypool to the north and Cwmbran to the south. Settlement is primarily located within the valley floor although more recent developments have encroached up the valley sides in places. Areas of greenspace, generally adjacent to the river, break up the density of built form and, along with the mature vegetation of the valley, retain a sense of verdancy within the character area. There is a great variety of vernaculars and built form within the character area although the two main forms are small scale residential and medium to large scale industrial. Knauf Insulation works and Cwmbran tower block are prominent urban features within this character area and are highly visible landmarks when viewed from the surrounding countryside. 8.63. Key characteristics of LCA3: Afon Lwyd Valley Settlements include: y Linear urban forms along Afon Lwyd valley; y Dominance of built form; and y Some areas of greenspace, notably adjacent to the river. 8.64. Due to the absence of relevant designations, the sensitivity of this character area is considered to be low.

Landscape Features 8.65. The site contains a number of attractive landscape features, which are addressed in turn below.

Woodland Blocks 8.66. A number of woodland blocks are present within the site, often orientated perpendicular to the Afon Lwyd Valley escarpment following the alignment of small streams which drain the uplands to the west of the site. These are mature vegetative networks and contain a number of species such as oak, beech and ash. The blocks are large natural features within the site, adding to its sense of rurality and breaking it into a series of sectors.

Hedgerows 8.67. The site contains a number of mature hedgerows, consisting of hawthorn, hazel and sycamore.

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These networks further compartmentalise the site, dividing it into intimate parcels: particularly in the north adjacent to the urban edge of Sebastopol. Holly is also prevalent across the site, particularly in the north where it forms a scrubby understory and also as a attractive well, clipped hedge to Bevan’s Lane. There is evidence to suggest that some may be of historical value, representing medieval field boundaries.

Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal 8.68. The Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal forms an attractive aquatic feature through the middle of the site. Sunken within the terrain and lined by a mature hedgerow of alder, sycamore and willow, the slow waters of the canal provide a tranquil and intimate setting with isolated views out to neighbouring environments. Some more open sections are also present. The canal is navigable to Five Locks Close where built form abutting the waterfront is apparent. The canal could benefit from some land management practices, such as the thinning of invasive species and the maintenance of some structures along its course in order to improve its amenity value.

Summary of Landscape Character 8.69. The landscape of the site and its surrounds demonstrate many characteristics associated with the landscape of the valleys of South Wales. The elevated uplands provide attractive settings to linear, southerly orientated settlements within the valleys. Vegetation, in the form of woodland blocks and plantations is also prominent within the landscape adding to the overall sense of rurality. 8.70. In relation to the site itself, the Brecon and Monmouthshire canal, undulating topography, mature vegetative network and isolated farmsteads combine to create an attractive, semi-rural landscape. However, the presence of urban features, such as settlement and industrial works within the Afon Lwyd valley provides detracting urban influences.

Visual Amenity 8.71. The visual assessment is based upon a number of representative views taken from within the site and surrounding environs. Table 12 below describes the composition, likely receptors and sensitivity of the representative views based on the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV), refer to Figure 8.2: GIS Analysis. The section should also be read in conjunction with Figures 8.4: Photoviewpoint Locations and Figures 8.5 to 8.18: Photosheets.

Table 12: Description of Photoviewpoint Locations, identification of receptors and classification of sensitivity

Photo- Description of View Receptors Sensitivit viewpoi y nt Location • Cyclists 1 View adjacent to the bridge over the Brecon and Medium Monmouthshire Canal, designated as a National Cycle • Walkers Route, looking east over the site. The mature hedgerow • Pleasure‐ networks and undulating slopes of the Afon Lwyd river craft valley are apparent within the view, as are the Knauf Insulation works and ‘The Tower Block’, Cwmbran. • Cyclists 2 View adjacent to the bridge over the Brecon and Medium Monmouthshire Canal looking west over the site. The • Walkers mature vegetative network of the site is apparent, rising to • Pleasure‐ form the Cwmbran hills in the background. craft

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Photo- Description of View Receptors Sensitivit viewpoi y nt Location • Residents 3 View adjacent to Wren’s Nest Farm looking south east High across the site. The terrain falls away from this location to at Wren’s the vegetated Afon Lwyd river valley. Built form at Nest Farm Lowlands can be glimpsed through the vegetation whilst the Knauf Insulation works are a prominent landmark to the north of the view. • Cyclists 4 View from the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal looking Medium north across the site. The terrain rises steadily from this • Walkers location, culminating in the Cwmbran hills in the • Pleasure‐ background. Bryn farmhouse is prominent in the middle craft ground whilst the roofline of the urban edge of Sebastopol can just be seen to the north. • Residents 5 View from Bryn farmhouse looking east across the site. High The terrain undulates steeply away from this location to the at Bryn Afon Lwyd river valley to the east. From this location farmhouse

panoramic views over the countryside are possible • Walkers Medium although much of the site remains hidden by the undulating terrain and vegetative network. • Residents 6 View from the footpath adjacent to Five Locks Close High looking south east across the site. The upper storeys of at Five private dwellings on Five Locks Close can be seen above Locks Close perimeter vegetation. The stack of the Knauf Insulation • Walkers Medium works can also be seen in the middle ground. Views over the site are restricted by the vegetative network. • Residents 7 View from Maesgwyn looking south east across the site. High Views across the Afon Lwyd valley are possible from this at elevated location where a tapestry of housing and wooded Maesgwyn

valley is visible. The tip of the Knauf Insulation works is a • Walkers Medium recognisable landmark. Views over the site are largely truncated by the vegetation although glimpsed views of dwellings at Five Locks Close can be seen. • Golfers 8 View from the footpath adjacent to the Pontnewydd Golf Medium Club looking east across the site. The elevated location • Walkers affords a wide panorama over the surrounding countryside, where landmarks such as the Knauf Insulation works and ‘The Tower Block’ in Cwmbran are visible. The western sections of the site are visible although its southern areas remain obscured by vegetation. • Residents 9 View from the footpath adjacent to Oaklands Road, High Sebastopol looking south across the site. A long distance at Oaklands view eastwards to Cwmbran is possible. However, the • Walkers mature vegetative network, creating a strong sense of High enclosure and limiting views across the site, is dominant. Properties on Oaklands Road can be seen to the east. • Residents 10 View from Berkeley Crescent looking southwest towards High the site. The belt of mature vegetation lining the northern at Berkeley boundary of the site is prominent in the south of the view Crescent and restricts views of the site from these properties. • Local Low pedestrian

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Photo- Description of View Receptors Sensitivit viewpoi y nt Location • Cyclists 11 View from the cycleway, designated as a National Cycle Medium Way, adjacent to Bevan’s Lane, looking north across the • Walkers site. The Cwmbran hills form a backdrop to the view, the terrain falling from them to the Afon Lwyd river valley. The chimney stacks of the Knauf Insulation works and the A4051 can be seen to the far east of the view. Southern sections of the site are visible although those to the north are obscured by vegetation. • Cyclists 12 View from the footpath at the back of Grove Park looking Medium north across the site. The rise in terrain is evident • Walkers obscuring the views of the majority of the site. The network of mature vegetation, a characteristic feature of the site, is also apparent. • Those 13 View from Avondale Road looking west across recreational Medium fields towards the site. Despite the openness of the engaged in recreation ground, views of the site are screened by outdoor recreation vegetation within the Afon Lwyd valley. The hills to the Low west of Cwmbran provide an attractive backdrop to the • Road users scene. • Residents 14 View from the footpath near Ysguborgoed looking south High west towards the site. The elevated location affords at panoramic views over the Afon Lwyd valley and beyond. Ysguborgoe d The majority of the site can be seen in the middle ground Medium between the urban fringes of Lowlands and Sebastopol. • Walkers The Knauf Insulation works is a prominent landmark within the view whilst the buffering by vegetation adjacent to Oaklands Road is also visible. • Walkers 15 View from the hills west of Cymbran looking east over the Medium site. The elevated location affords expansive panoramic views over Afon Lwyd valley and beyond. The Knauf Insulation works is a prominent landmark of the composition. The site is visible in the middle ground between the urban masses of Sebastopol and Lowlands. • Those 16 View from the Greenmeadow Golf Club looking west Medium toward the site. Vegetation in the foreground and within involved in the Afon Lwyd valley restricts views of the site to its more outdoor elevated regions. The hills to the west of Cwmbran recreation provide an attractive backdrop to the composition. • Local road 17 View from Sluvad Road, near the water treatment works, Low looking west toward the site. A glimpsed view through users vegetation lining road, many of the potential views from this area are screened as a result of topography. The site is visible between Lowlands and Sebastopol. • Walkers 18 View from the footpath to the north of Usk Road, within the Medium Brecon Beacons National Park, looking south toward the site. The wooded Afon Lwyd valley stretches out before the viewer, where clusters of built form nestle amongst the vegetation. The Knauf Insulation works is a notable landmark within the composition. Due to the aspect of the valley, the site is only partially visible.

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Photo- Description of View Receptors Sensitivit viewpoi y nt Location • Residents 19 View from St Dials Road, Cwmbran looking north toward High the site. The built form of Cwmbran is prominent to the of east whilst hills to the west provide and attractive Cwmbran

backdrop. The Knauf Insulation works is also prominent in • Local Road Low the middle ground. Despite the elevated location, views of users the site are screened by intervening vegetation.

Summary of Visual Amenity 8.72. The visual amenity of the area contrasts greatly between upland, where wide, expansive panoramas are possible, and valley where the flat topography and vegetation restrict potential long distance views. 8.73. The site itself, at the foothills of the uplands, is very much a combination of these two visual experiences, providing opportunities for both panoramic views over the Afon Lwyd valley and also secluded areas with truncated views. 8.74. Principal visual receptors of the site are considered to be: y Farmsteads and cottages within the site; y Recreational users of the footpaths, canal and cycle networks within the site; and y Walkers on the foothills of Mynydd Twyn-glas.

Likely Evolution of the Baseline 8.75. As required by the EIA Directive, an indication of the likely evolution in the absence of the development is required as part of the EIA process. In landscape and visual terms, the site is likely to remain relatively unchanged in the near future. However, the designation of the site and wider area between Cwmbran and Sebastopol as a General Development Area (GDA) within the Tofaen Local Plan means that its development, resulting in substantial change to the character and visual amenity, is likely in the future.

Likely Significant Effects 8.76. This section considers the effects of the proposals on the landscape character and visual amenity of the receiving environment throughout the life-cycle of the development, from construction to operational phase. The assessment also identifies the timescale over which these effects will occur, their direct or indirect nature as well as their potential reversibility. The significance of impact has been identified using the methodology detailed above and the matrices contained within Table 11. It should be noted that the all impact significances identified within this section are before the implementation of mitigation measures.

Construction 8.77. The effects of demolition, site preparation works and construction activities are assessed below and have the potential to affect the landscape character and visual amenity of the site and its environs in the following ways: y Limited demolition and clearance of existing structures on site;

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y Ground excavation works, including levelling and cut and fill activities; y Movement of heavy plant and material both within and to site; y Erection of construction infrastructure (e.g. scaffolding and mobile cranes) and siting of workers welfare facilities; and y Construction of new infrastructure and buildings. 8.78. The majority of effects identified for the construction phase are short-term to medium-term in nature, the build out of the entire site being approximately 10 years. However, due to the phasing of the construction activities, in reality areas of the site will become operational within this time period. Demolition and construction effects are generally considered to be reversible in landscape and visual terms. However, some impacts, such as the removal of trees and hedgerows are considered to be permanent.

Landscape Character 8.79. Due to the extensive nature of the Development, construction works within the site are likely to have a considerable impact on the site and its immediate environments. Processes will include earthworks, such as the grading of levels and movement of topsoil, the removal of small sections of hedgerows and trees for access and the construction of buildings and access routes. These processes are likely to result in significant intrusion into what is at present a relatively rural and tranquil environment. However, construction activities will not be seen in isolation and will be viewed in the context of existing built form and industrial works located within Afon Lwyd valley. The planned phased build out of the site will also ensure that any disruption is isolated to particular areas of the site at any given time. 8.80. The most apparent effects will be to LCA1A: Afon Lwyd Valley Escarpment in which the site lies. The relative rural character of this LCA will be replaced by construction activities as the build out of the site is completed, albeit on a phased localised scale. The retention of existing woodland and vegetation will ameliorate the potential disruption construction has on this LCA, serving as an important visual and acoustic screen. It is also important to note that, although the majority of this character area is designated as a Special Landscape Area, the site itself is not and construction will be seen within the context of the valley as opposed to the more open valley sides. Taking the above into consideration, the magnitude of change is considered to be high resulting direct, medium term effects of moderate to major adverse significance before mitigation. 8.81. In light of the above, impacts to the character of the Special Landscape Area (SLA) to the west of the site are also considered to be direct, medium-term of moderate adverse significance although the majority of this designation is likely to be unaffected. It is worth reiterating that policy relating to SLAs does not consider the ‘setting’ of this designation. 8.82. Character area LCA1B: Afon Lwyd Valley: Rolling Countryside to the east of the site is also designated a Special Landscape Area. However, it benefits from being geographically separate from the site by way of settlement within the Afon Lwyd valley. Construction within the site is therefore considered to be viewed largely as part of the existing settlement context of the valley floor. The magnitude of change to the character of this LCA is assessed to be low resulting in direct, medium-term impacts of minor adverse significance. 8.83. Consequently, impacts to the character of the Special Landscape Area to the east of the site are therefore also considered to be direct, medium-term of minor adverse significance. 8.84. Character areas LCA2: Mynydd Twyn-Glas Uplands and the majority of LCA3: Afon Lwyd Valley

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Settlements are unlikely to experience any significant change to their character owing to their distance from the site. Where areas of LCA3 about the site, they are often substantially buffered by vegetation or only influence a small proportion of the LCA as a whole and as such effects to character are anticipated to be extremely localised. Impacts to the character of these LCAs are therefore assessed to be direct, medium-term of negligible significance. 8.85. Owing to distance from the site, negligible effects to the character of the Brecon Beacons National Park are anticipated as a result of the construction phase within the site.

Landscape Features

Woodland Blocks 8.86. The character of woodland blocks within the site will be largely unaffected during the construction phase as every effort has been made to retain them as part of the iterative design process. As noted previously, the blocks will continue to provide an important visual and acoustic screen to construction activities, ensuring that disruption is kept to a minimum. The allocation of public open space adjacent to many of these features provides a buffer from construction ensuring that their integrity is protected. It is considered that where the removal of trees is required for access purposes this is not of a quantity to result in a significantly deleterious effect to the overall contribution of these features. The magnitude of change as result of the construction phase is considered to be low to medium resulting in direct, short-term impacts of minor adverse significance.

Hedgerows 8.87. As with woodland blocks, hedgerows within the site have largely been retained and incorporated into the design as part of the masterplanning strategy. Inevitably, some small sections of hedgerow will be removed for access but these are not considered to be significant in relation to the overall hedgerow resource of the site. Overall, the impact to hedgerow features of the site are considered to be direct medium-term (long-term for removal) of minor adverse significance.

Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal 8.88. The Development has looked to retain and enhance the rural character and setting of the canal and, as part of the iterative design process, development is set back from the whole length of this feature. Construction activities within the site will be screened by the vegetated banks that line the canal, although it is inevitable that some visual and audible intrusion will occur. This will be most acute at existing bridging points of the canal where enhancements for access are required. However, owing to the relative enclosure of the canal this impact is anticipated to be relatively localised and not significantly impinge on the character of the wider canal. Overall, impacts to the character of the canal during the demolition and construction phase are considered to be direct, medium-term of minor adverse significance.

Visual Amenity 8.89. Owing to the extensive nature of development across the site and the site’s slight raised location within the Afon Lwyd valley, construction is likely to be visible within views from much of the surrounding environs. However, the area benefits from a strong vegetative network which will help to screen views of construction activities. The retention of vegetation within the site will also aid screening. Moreover, the adjacent suburbs of Sebastopol and Cwbran mean that construction

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within the site will be seen in the existing context of settlement. 8.90. The most extensive views of construction across the whole of the site are likely to be from the east and west along the Afon Lwyd valley edges. However, owing to the distance of these views from the site and the panoramic views available from these locations, construction activities, although across a large area, are unlikely to dominate or be a significantly intrusive feature of the composition.

Views From Within the Site (photoviewpoints 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11) 8.91. Views from within the site are likely to experience considerable disruption as a result of the construction phase. Within these views construction is likely to be a visible and prominent feature of the composition. However, the phased build out of the site should ensure that construction does not appear to engulf the site in its entirety whilst the retention of the majority of the vegetative network within the site will also aid screening of construction activities. The magnitude of change is assessed to be high resulting in direct, medium-term impacts of major adverse significance before mitigation to local walkers and cyclists within the site.

Views From the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal (photoviewpoints 1, 2 and 4) 8.92. Owing to the recess of the canal within the terrain and the vegetated banks that line it, views from the canal of construction within the site will be limited to areas in close proximity of this feature. Due to the relative self containment of the canal, the set back of proposed built form from it and the retention of existing vegetation along its course, construction is not anticipated to be dominantly intrusive. There will, of course, be more localised disruption at bridging points where access enhancements are required although these are at isolated points along its length. The magnitude of change to views and visual amenity of the canal is considered to be medium to high resulting direct, medium-term impacts of moderate to major adverse significance before mitigation.

Views From Private Dwellings within the Site (photoviewpoints 3, 5 and 7) 8.93. Construction will be visible from dwellings currently within the site, namely Tir Brychiad, Hay Barn, Uplands, Wren’s Nest House and Farm, Wren’s Nest Cottage, Bryn Farm and Maes Gwyn Bungalow. From these properties construction is likely to form a prominent feature of the composition owing to its proximity. However, the retention of the existing vegetative network will minimise views to some extent, particularly at Uplands where the existing woodland belt provides considerable screening. The allocation of public open space adjacent to existing residential properties as shown within the masterplan will create a buffer between these properties and construction activities. Moreover, the retention/enhancement of screening planting and phasing of construction build out will also help ameliorate potential construction impacts. Nonetheless the magnitude of change to views is anticipated to be high resulting in direct, medium-term impacts of major adverse significance before mitigation. It should also be noted that, due to phasing of build out not all properties will experience this impact for the total duration of the construction phase.

Views From Sebastopol (photoviewpoints 9, 10 and 13) 8.94. It is visual receptors closest to the site within Sebastopol that are likely to be most affected by construction within the site, owing to their proximity. However, in many instances construction will be screened or partially hidden by the vegetative network of the site and its surrounds. A case in point being Berkeley Crescent which, although abutting the site boundary, is set below site level and screened visually by the intervening woodland block vegetation that forms the northern 130 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

boundary to the site (photoviewpoint 10). Direct, medium-term impacts of negligible significance are therefore concluded to the visual amenity of residential properties on this road. 8.95. Properties on the southern edge of Oaklands Road will obtain views of construction within the site although these will be limited to the northern sections of the site owing to its undulating topography. From within these views (photoviewpoint 9) construction is likely to be a notable feature of the view, particularly in the northwest of the site. However, the retention of the northern woodland block and mature hedgerow network present in this area of the site lessens to some extent the intrusion construction may have. It is also of note that it is back gardens and upper storey windows where most open views of construction will be possible, owing to the aforementioned boundary vegetation. Overall, changes to the view from residential receptors on Oaklands Road are assessed to be medium resulting in direct, medium-term impacts of moderate adverse significance before mitigation. 8.96. Views beyond Oaklands Road and from within Sebastopol are largely screened by intervening built form and are likely to result in negligible impacts.

Views From Cwmbran (photoviewpoints 6, 12 and 19) 8.97. As with views from Sebastopol, it is receptors closest to the site that will experience most change to the composition of their views as a result of the construction phase (photoviewpoint 12). The provision of open space and retention of hedgerow and tree belts in this area will limit the impact construction will have on visual amenity. As a result, views from properties along Grove Park are unlikely to experience significant change to their composition. 8.98. Clear views of the construction phase will be visible from dwellings on Five Locks Close owing to the relatively thin boundary vegetation that lines the northern perimeter of this estate (photoviewpoint 6). 8.99. Views from within Cwmbran are largely screened by intervening built form. Where they are possible, construction is likely to blend amongst the existing context (photoviewpoint 19) resulting in negligible impacts.

Views from Adjacent Countryside to the West (photoviewpoints 14 and 15) 8.100. The rising topography of Mynydd Twyn-glas to the west of the site allows panoramic views over the Afon Lwyd valley. Within these views construction is likely to be visible within the site, although somewhat limited by the network of woodland blocks and hedgerows within the site and valley itself, albeit in the context of existing built form within the valley. The magnitude of change to visual receptors is assessed to be low resulting in direct, medium-term impacts of minor adverse significance to local walkers and the private residence of Ysguborgoed.

Middle Distance Views from the east (photoviewpoints 16 and 17) 8.101. In middle distance views from the surrounding countryside to the east of the site, the construction phase is likely to blend amongst the existing built form within the Afon Lwyd valley, further aided by the retention of the woodland blocks and hedgerow network within the site. Impacts to visual receptors in this location are assessed to be direct, medium-term of negligible significance

Views From Brecon Beacons National Park (photoviewpoint 18) 8.102. Owing to distance, construction within the site is likely to be largely indiscernible from panoramic views within the Brecon Beacons National Park and largely blend amongst existing settlement

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within the Afon Lwyd valley. Effects to visual receptors are therefore assessed to be direct, medium-term of negligible significance.

Completed Development 8.103. The completed development will see the extension of development into currently agricultural farmland, essentially filling the area between South Sebastopol and Cwmbran with new built form. This is not considered to be out of place with the overall historic development pattern within the Afon Lwyd valley that has grown from the river up the valley sides over time. Importantly, the upper limit of the development within the site is below that of settlement at South Sebastopol and significantly lower than Upper Cwmbran meaning that the Development would be seen as strategic infilling between the two settlements and not as new settlement that encroaches incongruously upon the valley side. 8.104. The concept of the masterplan is based on five individual ‘villages’ clustered around existing buildings within each area of the site. Such an approach provides a link to the historical settlement context, contributing to sense of place and local distinctiveness - both in terms of the wider context and within the site itself. Linking the ‘villages’ together is the green infrastructure of retained woodland blocks and hedgerows and new areas of public open space, aiding the assimilation of development into the landscape and reflecting the characteristics of previous organic settlement growth within the valley. The sensitive treatment of the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal, via retention of vegetation and set back of dwellings along the majority of its course, will maintain its intimate character and rurality, allowing the Development to engage positively with it and providing an important central green spine through the site.

Landscape Character 8.105. The completed development will see the transformation of the farmland of LCA1A: Afon Lwyd Valley: Escarpment into new built form, resembling that of LCA3. This is a considerable change from the existing characteristics of the site although is not totally alien in the overall landscape context. As discussed previously, the Development will be seen in relation to surrounding built form, essentially linking South Sebastopol to Cwmbran. The band of LCA1 that runs parallel to the settlement within the Afon Lwyd valley will remain unbroken, maintaining this band of pastoral countryside as the foothill fringe setting to the Mynydd Twy-Glas uplands. The retention of woodland blocks and hedgerows will further soften the contrast between built form and countryside, aiding assimilation into the existing context. The policy aspirations for this area are clearly set out within the Local Plan as its designation as a General Development Area (GDA) which promotes the area for development, provided it is in accordance with policies within the Local Plan. It is considered that the completed Development will contribute significantly to the delivery of this policy. Taking the above into consideration, the magnitude of change is assessed to be high resulting in direct, long-term impacts of moderate to major beneficial significance. 8.106. Impacts to the character of the Special Landscape Area (SLA), designated for its scenic quality, to the west of the site are likely to be limited and certainly no more conspicuous than that of built form that abuts it currently at Sebastopol and Upper Cwmbran to the north and south of the site respectively. Crucially, the edge of built form within the site sits below that of existing levels on the valley side. Moreover, the retention of woodland and hedgerows is considered to significantly soften the interface between development and countryside avoiding a hard urban edge between the two. The magnitude of change to is assessed to be low resulting in direct, long-term impacts of minor adverse significance to the character of the SLA.

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8.107. The character of LCA1B: Afon Lwyd Valley: Rolling Countryside to the east of the site is likely to be largely unaffected by the completed Development, it being seen as a continuation of the ribbon development within the valley. The magnitude of change is assessed to be low resulting in direct, long-term impacts of negligible to minor adverse significance. 8.108. Consequently, impacts to the character of the Special Landscape Area to the east of the site are also considered to be direct, long-term of negligible to minor adverse significance. 8.109. Owing to their distance from the site, the character of LCA2: Mynydd Twyn-Glas Uplands and the majority of LCA3: Afon Lwyd Valley Settlements are unlikely to experience any significant change. Impacts to the character of these areas is assessed to be direct, long-term of negligible significance. 8.110. Negligible effects to the character of the Brecon Beacons National Park are also anticipated as a result of the completed development, owing to distance from the site.

Landscape Features

Woodland Blocks 8.111. The character of woodland blocks within the site will be largely unaffected as a result of the completed development as every effort has been made to retain them as part of the iterative design process. As noted previously, the blocks will continue to provide an important visual and acoustic screen to development, adding maturity and aiding assimilation. The allocation of public open space adjacent to many of these features provides a further buffer ensuring that their integrity is protected. 8.112. Where development abuts these features there will inevitably be an encroachment of urbanising features in the setting of that woodland although the actual character of the woodland itself will remain relatively unchanged. Negligible impacts are therefore predicted.

Hedgerows 8.113. Inevitably some small sections of hedgerows will be removed to allow for access. However, these sections will be limited and it is considered that retained hedgerows can continue to contribute positively to the character of the area and indeed the development itself, adding maturity to the scheme. Negligible impacts are therefore predicted.

Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal 8.114. The Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal is an attractive feature that runs through the centre of the site. Masterplanning of the Development has sought to engage positively with this feature and protect and enhance it wherever possible. Development is set back from the canal where possible, to avoid unnecessary urbanising intrusion to its character. This aim is further assisted by the relative self-containment of the canal, with its vegetated banks and position within the landscape below surrounding ground levels. Some urbanising influences to character will occur at existing bridging points where access enhancements are required, however this is considered preferable to the creation of new urbanising bridging structures as originally envisaged as part of the Sebastopol development framework. It is therefore concluded that the majority of the canal’s tranquillity and rurality will be maintained. Overall, negligible impacts are predicted.

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Visual Amenity 8.115. In visual terms the completed development is considered to replicate the existing ribbon settlement pattern within the Afon Lwyd valley. Owing to the topography, views of the completed development will be possible from middle and long distances although it is considered that within these views the Development will be seen as part of existing settlement rather than new development encroaching up the valley sides. Importantly, the edge of built form is below that of existing settlement to the north and south, maintaining the belt of countryside (LCA1A) between settlement and uplands. Furthermore, the retention of woodland blocks and hedgerows is considered to be significant in softening the appearance of the Development within views, aiding its assimilation into the composition. 8.116. Inevitably, local visual receptors will experience significant change owing to their proximity to the development. However, many of these effects will be localised and the allocation of public open space adjacent to existing properties will allow the openness of views to be maintained to some extent. Nonetheless, the current pastoral view of countryside will be replaced by that of suburban built form marking a significant change to the composition of views from properties within the site at present. 8.117. However, features such as the canal and woodland blocks within the site are likely to experience less change owing to their intimate and secluded nature. Although built form will often be visible it will often be screened by vegetation and is not considered to dominate the composition of views from within the majority of these features.

Views From Within the Site (photoviewpoints 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11) 8.118. Views from within the site will experience considerable change as a result of the completed development. Within these views built form will now be preponderant, set amongst areas of woodland and public open space. Receptors of these views are most likely to be walkers and cyclists along the recreational network. It should be noted, however, that may rights of way through the site are within the public open space where the immediate setting and recreational experience will be retained. The magnitude of change to the composition of views will be high. In the context of policy aspirations for the area, the impacts to views in the site are considered to be direct, long- term in nature of negligible significance.

Views From the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal (photoviewpoints 1, 2 and 4) 8.119. Despite the extensive nature of development within the site, the visual amenity of the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal will remain relatively unchanged. Built form will be more prominent although is not expected to be significantly intrusive in views from the canal owing to the canal’s enclosure and the set back of development from it. The creation of new open spaces adjacent to the canal are sensitive to its setting and the use of existing bridging points for access will negate the need for new intrusive structures over the Canal. Moreover, it should also be remembered that built form at Five Locks Close is also visible in the southern section of the Canal and therefore adjacent dwellings of the Development should not been seen as an incongruous feature within views. The magnitude of change to the visual amenity of receptors along the canal is assessed as medium resulting in direct, long-term impacts of moderate beneficial significance.

Views From Private Dwellings within the Site (photoviewpoints 3, 5 and 7) 8.120. The retention of boundary vegetation around private dwellings within the site and the provision of public open space next to many of them will mean that the openness of views will be maintained in 134 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

some circumstances. Nonetheless, the composition of views will be dominated by built form. However, it is important that retained buildings are incorporated within new settlement and contribute positively to the genius loci, to avoid forming isolated remnants visually detached from their surroundings. As such, a balance must be struck between maintaining the integrity of the building whilst assimilating them into the Development. Taking the above into consideration and in light of policy aspirations for the area, the impacts to the visual amenity of private dwellings is assessed as direct, long-term of negligible significance.

Views From Sebastopol (photoviewpoints 9, 10 and 13) 8.121. Some views of the completed development will be possible from Oaklands Road, abutting the site to the north, although these will be filtered and softened by the woodland belt aligning the northern boundary. Within these views it is likely that the rooflines of buildings will be visible amongst the intervening vegetation but will not be overtly conspicuous within the composition. Views from Berkeley Crescent will not be possible due to screening by the aforementioned woodland. The magnitude of change to receptors on Oaklands Road is assessed as low resulting in direct, long- term impacts of negligible to minor adverse significance. 8.122. The majority of receptors within Sebastopol will experience negligible impacts to their visual amenity as a result of intervening built form.

Views From Cwmbran (photoviewpoints 6, 12 and 19) 8.123. It is visual receptors adjacent to or in close proximity of the site where the greatest potential for changes to the visual amenity within Cwmbran will occur. Properties at Five Lock Close and those backing on to the site along Lowlands Crescent and the eastern end of Groves Park adjacent to the roundabout, are likely to have relatively clear views of the completed Development. However, properties along Lowlands Crescent and Highland Grove do benefit from the woodland belt that runs parallel to the settlement edge. Furthermore, the provision of public open space as part of the Development to the rear of Grove Park means that views from these properties will remain relatively unaltered. However, substantial change to the visual amenity of properties on Five Locks Close and a small section of Lowlands Close will occur. Taken in balance with policy aspiration for the area, the majority of receptors within Cwmbran will experience negligible effects to their visual amenity as a result of the completed development.

Views from Adjacent Countryside to the West (photoviewpoints 14 and 15) 8.124. Views of the completed development will be possible from the countryside to the west of the site as a result of the rising topography. However, the mature hedgerow network within this area will often filter views. Retained woodland belts and hedgerows within the site will further aid assimilation. Importantly, the edge of built form is below that at Sebastopol and Upper Cwmbran meaning that the completed development will read as part of the settlement pattern of the Afon Lwyd Valley, rather than to encroach incongruously on the countryside in this area. Taking the above into consideration, policy for the area and the context in which the completed development will be seen, the magnitude of change is considered to be low resulting in direct, long-term impacts of negligible significance.

Middle Distance Views from the east (photoviewpoints 16 and 17) 8.125. In middle distance views from the surrounding countryside to the east of the site, the completed development will read as part of the settlement pattern of the Afon Lwyd valley, largely inconspicuous amongst the existing suburbs. The retention of the woodland blocks and hedgerow 135 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

network within the site will further aid assimilation. Impacts to visual receptors in this location are assessed to be direct, long-term of negligible significance.

Views From Brecon Beacons National Park (photoviewpoint 18) 8.126. Owing to distance, the completed development is likely to be largely indiscernible from panoramic views within the Brecon Beacons National Park, blending amongst existing settlement within the Afon Lwyd valley. Effects to visual receptors are therefore assessed to be direct, long-term of negligible significance.

Mitigation Measures 8.127. The following mitigation measures are suggested for the construction phase and completed development and should be employed to reduce adverse landscape and visual effects where they occur, as identified during the course of this assessment. It should be noted that the EIA process has informed design as part of an iterative design process, designing out adverse impacts before they become cemented as part of the finalised scheme. The principles adopted as part of the strategic outline planning should be carried forward as part of the detailed design build out of the site.

Construction 8.128. The following mitigation measures should be adopted to reduce adverse impacts as a result of the construction phase: y Planned phased build out of the site to ensure that construction does not appear to ‘engulf’ the site area; y Adoption of Code of Construction Practice (CoCP) to ensure good site management and housekeeping; y Sensitive siting of welfare facilities, plant and material storage areas; y Erection of protective fencing in accordance with BS5837 – Trees in Relation to Construction around areas of important retained vegetation; y Selective use of wooden hoardings to visually demarcate working areas. In many instances the retained mature vegetative network of the site will provide a more natural screen; and y Where removal of vegetation is inevitable for access purposes, preference to be made towards existing gateways, thin or low value sections of hedgerow as shown within the arboricultural survey report.

Completed Development 8.129. The following mitigation measures should be adopted to reduce adverse impacts as a result of the completed development: y Retention of woodland blocks and hedgerows within the site as part of the iterative detailed design process, aiding assimilation of the Development into the landscape context; y The set back of built form from the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal and creation of new public spaces adjacent to it where appropriate to preserve the rural character of this feature; y The insistence of high quality design and materials of landscaped areas at the detailed design stage to ensure successful and cherished public spaces;

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y Adoption of a strategic landscape management plan to ensure both informal and formal public spaces, including woodland blocks within the site, are maintained and contribute positively to the Development and wider landscape context; y The provision of different types of public open space from equipped play areas to more natural 'unmanaged’ areas. y An appreciation of existing character of retained buildings at the detailed design stage in order to link to historical character and create a distinctive sense of place for each of the five ‘villages’; and y Strengthening of vegetative boundaries where appropriate within the site to further enhance their ecological and landscape value.

Residual Effects 8.130. Residual effects are those remaining effects following the success implementation of mitigation measures outlined above. It is considered that many local impacts can be reduced as a result of successful mitigation, particularly during construction. 8.131. Iterative design as part of the EIA process has been integral to the formulation of the proposals meaning that many potential impacts have been designed out before they become cemented as part of the finalised scheme. 8.132. Table 13 at the end of this chapter summarises the significance of effects and residual effects for both construction and completed development respectively

Cumulative Effects 8.133. In the local area there are two planning applications as part of the Avesta II scheme that are considered likely to have cumulative effects on landscaspe character and visual amenity. These are: y Planning Reference 10/P/00542(W) – full application – “residential let mixed use development comprising apartments and housing (amended scheme)” – not yet determined (Barratt Homes); and y Planning Reference 10/P/00033(W) – reserved matters application – “reserved matters for 209 dwellings” – approved 31st August (Persimmon Homes) 8.134. The Avesta II scheme is located within the Afon Lwyd valley, following the organic settlement pattern of the area. As such it, along with the Sebastopol scheme, will be seen as part of the organic growth of settlement within the area and not as intrusion into open uplands. The extent and character of LCA3: Afon Lwdy Settlements will remain relatively unchanged, albeit of a more contemporary vernacular. The cumulative effects in combination with the Avesta II scheme to landscape character are assessed to be of direct, long-term in nature of negligible significance. 8.135. In terms of visual amenity, the scheme is already being partially built out and is visible in views from within the site (photoviewpoint 11), although is largely screened by perimeter vegetation of the site. In the majority of views from within the site it is likely to be screend by intervening vegetation. It will, however, be visible from more elevated sections of the site although at this distance will largely blend amongst the settlement and works of Sebastopol in the valley. The overall cumulative effects to visual amenity are therefore found to be negligible.

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Summary 8.136. The landscape of the site and its surrounds demonstrate many characteristics associated with the landscape of South Wales. The elevated uplands provide attractive settings to linear, southerly orientated settlements within the valleys. In relation to the site itself, the Brecon and Monmouthshire canal, undulating topography, mature vegetative network and isolated farmsteads combine to create an attractive, semi-rural landscape. However, the presence of urban features, such as settlement and industrial works within the Afon Lwyd valley mean that it cannot be regarded to be devoid of urbanising influences entirely. 8.137. Due to the extensive nature of the Development, construction works within the site are likely to have a considerable impact on the site and its immediate environments. However, construction activities will not be seen in isolation and will be viewed in the context of existing built form and industrial works located within Afon Lwyd valley. The planned phased build out of the site will also ensure that disruption that does occur is isolated to particular areas of the site at any given time. Impacts to the character and visual amenity are assessed to be of direct, medium-term of negligible to major adverse significance. 8.138. The completed development will see the extension of development into currently agricultural farmland, essentially filling the area between South Sebastopol and Cwmbran with new built form. This is not considered to be out of place with the overall historic development pattern within the Afon Lwyd valley. Importantly, the upper limit of the development within the site is below that of settlement at South Sebastopol and significantly lower that Upper Cwmbran meaning that the Development would be seen as strategic infilling between the two settlements and not as new settlement that encroaches incongruously upon the valley side. The Development has sought to retain and enhance features of value, such as the Brecon to Monmouthshire Canal, woodland blocks, hedgerow networks and existing buildings, all of which contribute to the sense of place and local distinctiveness of the site and will aid assimilation of the Development into the existing context. The creation of new areas of public open space is welcomed. As the site within a General Development Area (GDA) as designated within the local plan, the development will contribute significantly towards policy aspirations for the area. The significance of impacts to landscape and visual receptors as a result of the completed development is assessed to be direct, long-term of negligible to major beneficial significance.

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Table 13: Table of Significance – Landscape Character and Visual Assessment

Nature of Effect Significance Geographical Importance* Residual Effects (short<1 year/ (Major/ Moderate/ Minor) Mitigation/ (Major/ Moderate/ Minor) Potential Effect Medium 1-5 years/ (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Enhancement Measures (Beneficial/ Adverse/ I UK W R C D L long term>5years) Negligible) Negligible) Construction Landscape Character LCA1A: Afon Lwyd Valley: Escarpment Direct, medium-term Minor to major adverse • Phased build out * Direct, medium-term • Adoption of CoCP moderate adverse • Tree protection fencing • Selective use of hoarding Direct, medium-term Moderate adverse • As above * Direct, medium-term minor Special Landscape Area to the west adverse LCA1B: Afon Lwyd Valley: Rolling Direct, medium-term Minor adverse • As above * Direct, medium-term Countryside negligible

Special Landscape Area to east Direct, medium-term Minor adverse • As above * Direct, medium-term negligible

LCA2: Mynydd Twyn-glas Uplands Direct, medium-term Negligible • None specific required * Direct, medium-term negligible

LCA3: Afon Lwyd Valley Settlements Direct, medium-term Negligible • None specific required * Direct, medium-term negligible

Brecon Beacons National Park Direct, medium-term Negligible • None specific required * Direct, medium-term negligible

Landscape Features Woodland Blocks Direct, medium-term Minor adverse • Adoption of CoCP * Direct, medium-term • Tree protection fencing negligible

Hedgerows Direct, medium/long- Minor adverse • As above * Direct, medium-term term negligible

Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal Direct, medium-term Minor adverse • As above * Direct, medium-term negligible

Visual Amenity Receptors within the site Direct, medium-term Major adverse • Phased build out * Direct, medium-term moderate to major adverse 139 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

• Adoption of CoCP • Tree protection fencing • Selective use of hoarding

Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal Direct, medium-term Moderate to Major adverse • As above * Direct, medium-term moderate adverse

Private dwellings within the site Direct, medium-term Major adverse • As above * Direct, medium-term • Provision of open space moderate to major adverse

Receptors in Sebastopol Direct, medium-term Negligible • None specific required * Direct, medium-term negligible

Receptors in Cwmbran Direct, medium-term Negligible • None specific required * Direct, medium-term negligible

Receptors in countryside to the west Direct, medium-term Minor adverse • Phased build out * Direct, medium-term • Adoption of CoCP negligible • Strengthening of boundary vegetation

Middle distance receptors from the east Direct, medium-term Negligible • None specific required * Direct, medium-term negligible

Brecon Beacons National Park Direct, medium-term Negligible • None specific required * Direct, medium-term negligible

Completed Development Landscape Character LCA1A: Afon Lwyd Valley: Escarpment Direct, long-term Moderate to Major • Retention of landscape features of value * Direct, long-term moderate beneficial • Adoption of strategic landscape strategy to major beneficial

Direct, long-term Minor adverse • As above * Direct, long-term negligible Special Landscape Area to the west

LCA1B: Afon Lwyd Valley: Rolling Direct, long-term Negligible to minor adverse • As above * Direct, long-term negligible Countryside

Special Landscape Area to east Direct, long-term Negligible to minor adverse • As above * Direct, long-term negligible

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LCA2: Mynydd Twyn-glas Uplands Direct, long-term Negligible • None specific required * Direct, long-term negligible

LCA3: Afon Lwyd Valley Settlements Direct, long-term Negligible • None specific required * Direct, long-term negligible

Brecon Beacons National Park Direct, long-term Negligible • None specific required * Direct, long-term negligible

Landscape Features Woodland Blocks Negligible • Retention, enhancement and future * Direct, long-term negligible Direct, long-term management as part of adopted landscape strategy

Hedgerows Negligible • As above * Direct, long-term negligible Direct, long-term

Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal Negligible • As above * Direct, long-term negligible Direct, long-term

Visual Amenity Receptors within the site Negligible * Direct, long-term negligible Direct, long-term • Retention of landscape features of value • Creation of new features of interest and high quality design • Adoption of strategic landscape strategy Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal Moderate beneficial • As above * Direct, long-term moderate Direct, long-term beneficial

Private dwellings within the site Negligible • As above * Direct, long-term negligible Direct, long-term

Receptors in Sebastopol Negligible • None specific required * Direct, long-term negligible Direct, long-term

Receptors in Cwmbran Negligible • None specific required * Direct, long-term negligible Direct, long-term

Receptors in countryside to the west Negligible • Strengthening of boundary vegetation * Direct, long-term negligible Direct, long-term

Middle distance receptors from the east Negligible • None specific required * Direct, long-term negligible Direct, long-term

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Brecon Beacons National Park Negligible • None specific required * Direct, long-term negligible Direct, long-term

Cumulative Effects Landscape Character Direct, long-term Negligible • * Direct, long-term negligible

Visual Amenity Direct, long-term Negligible • * Direct, long-term negligible

* Geographical Level of Importance

I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = Wales; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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9. Transportation Assessment (Traffic, Transport and Movement)

Introduction 9.1. In accordance with this allocation, this Transport Assessment (TA) has been produced to support an outline planning application for a development comprising up to 1200no. residential dwellings, neighbourhood shopping and community facilities, as well as formal and informal open space. 9.2. This Assessment draws on previous work undertaken by MVA Consulting Engineers (1991) and Peter Finlayson Associates PLC (2001), however due to changes in requirements for TA’s and amendments to the development proposals, this Assessment supersedes the previous Assessments and should be considered a stand-alone document. 9.3. It is proposed to access the development via 2no. primary highway links: via the Bevan’s Lane arm of the Avondale Road Roundabout; and via a proposed new roundabout on Cwmbran Drive, approximately half way between the Avondale Road and Grove Park Roundabouts. Additional highway links will connect the Site to Griffithstown to the north and Upper Cwmbran to the South. 9.4. This Transport Assessment (TA) will investigate the local transport systems serving the proposed development Site, including the highway network, public transport and cyclist / pedestrian facilities. The TA will also investigate the impact of the proposed redevelopment on the surrounding highway network.

Planning Policy Context

National Planning Policy

Planning Policy Wales – 3rd Edition (July 2010) 9.5. Planning Policy Wales (PPW) sets the context for sustainable land use planning for the Welsh Assembly Government. In terms of transport, PPW aims to ‘extend choice in transport and secure accessibility in a way which supports sustainable development by encouraging the establishment of an integrated transport system which is safe, efficient, clean and fair’. The Assembly Government’s Transport Framework is linked to the Wales Spatial Plan and provides the context for Local Transport Plans. 9.6. PPW promotes a number of measures to achieve the Assembly Government’s transport objectives, including: y ‘reducing the need to travel, especially by private car, by locating development where there is good access by public transport, walking and cycling; y locating development near other related uses to encourage multi-purpose trips and reduce the length of journeys; y improving accessibility by walking, cycling and public transport; y ensuring that transport is accessible to all, taking into account the needs of disabled and other less mobile people’ 9.7. PPW also provides guidance on car parking provision, which is considered to be a major influence on the choice of means of transport and the pattern of development. The document states that new developments should provide lower levels of parking than have generally been achieved in the past, and that minimum parking standards are no longer appropriate.

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Peoples, Places, Futures: The Wales Spatial Plan Update (2008) 9.8. The Wales Spatial Plan (WSP) is the overarching framework and integration tool for Wales. The purpose of the WSP is to ensure that development is integrated and sustainable. Although it is not part of the statutory development plan framework, the WSP does provide the context for the preparation of Local Development Plans and National and Regional Transport Plans. 9.9. The WSP notes that key settlements within South East Wales: ‘must be successful in their own right and, where appropriate, function as service and employment hubs for smaller settlements. The success of the key settlements should improve life in smaller rural and valleys communities, with good access to services being a key determinant of quality of life. Key settlements will provide the central framework around which high capacity sustainable transport links will be developed. A wider range of facilities and services, which add to employment opportunities, should be delivered locally within the key settlements to reduce the overall need to travel.’ 9.10. Improving accessibility is seen as vital to the future economic development of South East Wales. In order to achieve the benefits of sustainable accessibility, the WSP encourages effective land use planning and integrated transport strategies. 9.11. The WSP further recognises that in South East Wales: ‘concepts such as the Valleys Regional Park - extending across the South Wales Valleys - will promote the heritage and tourism of the Area, at the same time strengthening community pride and confidence through its collaborative approach. High quality natural and built environments, which everyone can enjoy through an emerging cycling and walking network, and spaces designed to enhance and create clean, safe environments are essential characteristics of these areas.’ 9.12. The WSP also understands that: ‘Improved transport for all is central to making the Capital Region work, and to the regeneration of Valleys communities. The upward trend in car usage points to increasing congestion across the Area if action is not taken. Measures to alleviate congestion and investment to tackle transport bottlenecks are important elements in the Area’s competitiveness. Road building in general is not a sustainable solution to the pattern of traffic growth. The overall priority is to make better use of the Area’s existing transport infrastructure, to deliver more sustainable access to jobs and services.’ 9.13. The Regional Transport Plan being developed by the South East Wales Transport Alliance (Sewta) will be the primary tool for meeting these challenges. General principles guiding the priorities for the South East region include: y ‘Bus priority measures should be implemented on key routes to ensure buses offer rapid travel between the key settlements; y Public transport should operate sufficiently frequently that passengers have the confidence to “turn up and go”; y Seating capacity should be sufficient to meet normal demand, reducing the need for passengers to stand; y The priority for road transport is to ensure that the existing road capacity is used with maximum efficiency. Innovative approaches to demand management will need to be part of this ... The timing of implementation will need to be judged so that improved public transport services are in place to offer car users realistic choices; y Safe cycling and walking routes should be identified for commuters and communities.’

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Technical Advice Note 18: Transport (2007) 9.14. Technical Advice Note (TAN) 18 was published in 2007 as a supplement to PPW. TAN 18 recognises that: ‘an efficient and sustainable transport system is a requirement for a modern, prosperous and inclusive society’. 9.15. TAN 18 further recognises that the integration of land use planning and development of transport infrastructure has a key role to play in addressing the environmental aspects of sustainable development. 9.16. TAN 18 states that integration can help to achieve the Assembly Governments sustainable development policy objectives, by: y ‘promoting resource and travel efficient settlement patterns; y ensuring new development is located where there is, or will be, good access by public transport, walking and cycling thereby minimising the need for travel and fostering social inclusion; y managing parking provision; y ensuring that new development and major alterations to existing developments include appropriate provision for pedestrians (including those with special access and mobility requirements), cycling, public transport, and traffic management and parking/servicing.’

Wales Transport Strategy: One Wales – Connecting the Nation (2008) 9.17. The Wales Transport Strategy (WTS) aims to promote sustainable transport networks that safeguard the environment, while strengthening Wales’ economic and social life. 9.18. The document is intended to feed into and inform national strategies and the WSP, and sets the outcomes and strategic priorities for National and Regional Transport Plans. 9.19. The WTS sets out long term social, economic and environmental outcomes, and in order to achieve these outcomes identifies several key strategic priorities to focus the Regional Transport Plans, including: y ‘reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts; y integrating local transport; y improving access between key settlements and sites; y increasing safety and security.’

Manual for Streets (2010) 9.20. The Manual for Streets (MfS) provides technical guidance to complement PPW, although it does not set out any new policy or legal requirements. The MfS aims to shift the primary function of streets from the movement of motor vehicles to places that work for all members of the community, giving a higher priority to pedestrians and cyclists. 9.21. The MfS aims to create streets that: y ‘help to build and strengthen the communities they serve; y meet the needs of all users; y form part of a well-connected network; y are attractive and have their own distinctive identity;

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y are cost-effective to construct and maintain; and y are safe.’

A Walking and Cycling Action Plan for Wales 2009-2013 9.22. A Walking and Cycling Action Plan for Wales 2009-2013 sets out the Assembly Government’s aim to increase levels of walking and cycling in place of car use, and is intended to assist in delivering the objectives of the WTS. 9.23. The core objectives of the Action Plan are to: y ‘improve the health and well-being of the population through increased physical activity; y improve the local environment for walkers and cyclists; y encourage sustainable travel as a practical step in combating climate change; y increase levels of walking and cycling through promotion of facilities; y ensure that walking and cycling are prioritised in crosscutting policies, guidance and funding.’ 9.24. The Action Plan sets out aims and strategies to achieve these outcomes through policy, infrastructure and involvement with local authorities and non-government organisations. Of particular relevance are the targets for walking and cycling participation. The targets refer to the National Averages for Wales, and are summarised below:

Travel to School y Walking: increase the percentage of children who walk to school to match the UK National Average y Cycling: to triple the percentage of children cycling to school in Wales

Adult Participation: Non-Recreational Journeys y Walking: increase the percentage of people who walk to work to 20% y Cycling: to triple the percentage of adults whose main mode of travel to work is cycling

Adult Participation: Recreational Journeys y Walking: to increase the number of people undertaking walking for recreation to 50% y Cycling: to double the percentage of adults cycling for recreation

Regional Policy

Sewta Regional Transport Plan (2009) 9.25. The Regional Transport Plan (RTP) draws on a range of national policies, including One Wales, the WSP and the WTS. The overall Vision is: ‘A modern, accessible, integrated and sustainable transport system for South East Wales, which increases opportunity, promotes prosperity for all and protects the environment; where walking, cycling, public transport, and sustainable freight provide real travel alternatives’. 9.26. The RTP lists eight priorities to achieve its Vision, in order of priority: 1) ‘To improve access for all to services, facilities and employment, particularly by walking, cycling and public transport.

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2) To increase the proportions of trips undertaken by walking, cycling and public transport. 3) To minimise demand on the transport system. 4) To develop an efficient, safe and reliable transport system, with improved transport links between the key settlements in South East Wales, and between South East Wales and to the rest of Wales, the UK and Europe. 5) To provide a transport system that encourages healthy and active lifestyles. 6) To reduce significantly the emission of greenhouse gases and the impact of the transport system on local communities. 7) To ensure developments are accessible by sustainable transport and to make sustainable transport and travel planning an integral component of regeneration schemes. 8) To make better use of the existing transport system.’

Sewta Walking and Cycling Strategy (2006) 9.27. As south-east Wales has almost half the population of Wales, the Sewta Walking and Cycling Strategy (which is an integral component of the RTP) has a major part to play in realising the targets of A Walking and Cycling Action Plan for Wales 2009-2013. 9.28. The Strategy notes that: ‘the role of walking and cycling as transport modes has been severely limited in recent decades for a number of reasons. A major factor has been the growth of out-of-town developments that, due to their location and design, are only practically accessible by the motor car. Another key constraint is the way that highway design and traffic management have tended to favour the free flow of motor vehicles, to the detriment of the mobility and safety of non-motorised road users.’ 9.29. The Vision of the Strategy is: ‘To maximise the levels of walking and cycling, including their contribution to the prosperity, accessibility and well-being of the people in South East Wales, and the protection of the environment’. 9.30. The Strategy lists eight aims: 1) ‘To maximise the number of journeys made by walking and cycling as alternatives to travel by car in south east Wales. 2) By 2011 to be on target to treble the number of cycling trips by 2016 from a 2006 base and devise appropriate targets and monitoring methods for walking. 3) To maximise the numbers of journeys made by walking and cycling in combination with public transport in the region. 4) To maximise walking and cycling access to employment, services and key leisure and tourism facilities. 5) To make walking and cycling attractive and practical travel options, through the provision of high quality infrastructure and information. 6) To achieve modal shift to walking and cycling through effecting travel behaviour change. 7) To improve standards of health and well-being by encouraging more people to regularly walk and cycle as part of their everyday routine. 8) To maximise the contribution of transport policy in the Sewta region towards meeting UK

Government targets on C02 reduction.’ 147 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

In order to achieve these aims, the Strategy sets out six strategic themes: y ‘Theme 1: Strategic Integration y Theme 2: High Quality Infrastructure y Theme 3: Make Better Use of the Transport System y Theme 4: Develop Technical Excellence y Theme 5: Influence Travel Behaviour y Theme 6: Measuring Success’

Sewta Rail Strategy (2006) 9.31. The Sewta Rail Strategy covers the period 2009 – 2018 and is designed to make better use of existing rail services, provide for passengers’ needs and achieve the regional economic and social objectives highlighted in the Strategy. 9.32. Planned improvements at Cwmbran Station (including refurbishment of the station and improvements to the car park and passenger facilities) are understood to have now been completed. Figures included in the Strategy indicate that the Park and Ride scheme at Cwmbran Station is fully utilised during the weekday peak period, and the Consultation Draft Plan for Cwmbran Town Centre notes that the council is considering measures to increase the parking available at the station. 9.33. The Strategy provides a number of recommendations to achieve its core objectives, including: y Expansion of the Park and Ride scheme at Pontypool and New Inn. y Increasing the frequency of services on existing lines, specifically the Abergavenny line which includes Cwmbran Station. The Strategy recommends the provision of a half-hourly service between Cardiff and Abergavenny. y The development of a station at Sebastopol, to relieve parking pressure at Cwmbran Station and to remove car traffic from the A4042. The Strategy notes that further development in the catchment area of Sebastopol Station (such as the proposed development Site) would improve the demand for the station and strengthen its business case. The Strategy recommends that funding should be sought in line with new developments to reduce the call on Government funding.

Sewta Regional Bus Strategy (2007) 9.34. The Sewta Regional Bus Strategy aims to: ‘provide priorities for investment to address the main inequalities in bus provision, and to promote general enhancements and improvements in bus services. It also provides guidance to local authorities on developing consistent and robust policies and schemes.’ 9.35. The primary objectives of the Strategy are to encourage: y ‘Modal shift to buses, through providing safe, attractive and reliable alternatives to the car; y Economic growth and prosperity through addressing spatial exclusion; and y Reductions in social exclusion.’ 9.36. The Strategy recognises that congestion currently causes significant delays between Pontypool/Cwmbran and Newport (A4051 / A4042). In response to these problems, Torfaen County Borough Council (TCBC) is currently progressing preliminary designs for bus lane 148 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

improvements along this corridor, which includes Cwmbran Drive and through Avondale Road Roundabout.

Sewta Highways Strategy (2008) 9.37. The Sewta Highways Strategy lists seven objectives, which reflect the economic, social and environmental objectives for the region: y ‘Objective 1: To achieve a high level of connectivity to key economic centres y Objective 2: To provide a core network that connects the Sewta region with strategic routes in the rest of Wales, the UK and Europe y Objective 3: To support an integrated and sustainable approach towards land use planning in south east Wales y Objective 4: To provide an efficient, reliable and sustainable highways network y Objective 5: To deliver and integrated and consistent approach towards highways safety and management y Objective 6: To ensure a high level of accessibility throughout the region y Objective 7: To reduce the impact of the highways network on the built and natural environment, including in relation to climate change’ 9.38. The strategy highlights a number of highways considered to form the Strategic Road Network (SRN), including the A4042(T). It is noted that the A4051, while being a key route, has been omitted from the SRN to avoid duplication of routes in the SRN – i.e. the A4042(T). The Strategy notes that Rechem Roundabout – the junction of the A4042(T) with the A4051 / New Inn – suffers from tailbacks on intersecting roads, a problem which is highlighted as being a high priority. 9.39. The strategy notes that (at the time of publication) corridor improvements along Cwmbran Drive had been received for inclusion in the RTP, however no funding had been sought or feasibility studies commissioned. Since the strategy was published, Torfaen County Borough Council has progressed preliminary designs for improvements to Avondale Roundabout including the provision of bus lanes on Cwmbran Drive and Avondale Road.

South Wales Counties Parking Guidelines (Revised Edition 1993) and Addendum (2001) 9.40. The South Wales Counties Parking Guidelines supplement the Adopted Torfaen Local Plan (which is described further below), and outline the parking requirements in the counties of South Wales according to land use and type of development. The document sets out minimum provisions for vehicle parking for the disabled, and general guidance for the provision of cycle parking.

Local Planning Policy 9.41. The current development plan for Torfaen comprises the Adopted Torfaen Local Plan (2000) and the Gwent Structure Plan (1996). These two documents will continue to retain Development Plan status until the Local Development Plan (LDP) is adopted.

Gwent Structure Plan (1996) 9.42. The Gwent Structure Plan was adopted by the former Gwent County Council in 1996, and covers the five former districts of Blaenau Gwent, Islwyn, Newport, Monmouth and Torfaen. Its main purpose is to provide a broad policy framework for determining planning applications, and to guide the preparation of local plans. 149 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

9.43. In terms of the transport implications of new development such as this, policies T9 and T11 of the Gwent Structure Plan state that: y ‘[Policy T9]: Where proposed developments create or exacerbate problems in the road system in the vicinity and are likely to lead to a highway objection, the county council will seek a contribution from the developer under section 278 of the highways act 1980 or other suitable statutory provision y [Policy T11]: New roads within private development shall be built in accordance with the highway authority's design guide.’ The Gwent Structure Plan also supports and encourages the greater use of public transport.

Adopted Torfaen Local Plan (2000) 9.44. The purpose of the Adopted Torfaen Local Plan is to interpret the Gwent Structure Plan at a local level, providing guidance for development control decisions and coordinating investment in the development and use of land. 9.45. The Local Plan recognises that an effective transport system is essential to the economic and social well-being of the County Borough. The principle objective of the Local Plan is: ‘to promote the creation of an efficient [and] safe transportation network for all users’. 9.46. The Site is allocated in the Local Plan as a large scale, “General Development Area”. The Local Plan identifies 3no. intended highway access points to the Site: ‘The primary access to the site will be from the Avondale Road roundabout. Two secondary accesses, open to all traffic, will be provided as part of the development, one onto Oaklands Road in Sebastopol and one onto Cwmbran Drive, mid-way between the Avondale Road and Grove Park roundabouts.’ 9.47. In terms of transport, the Local Plan states that proposals for development will be permitted providing that: y ‘The proposal has convenient access to and can be readily serviced by the public transport network y Access to the proposed site can be achieved without detriment to highway safety y The road network is capable of sustaining the additional traffic generated by the proposal.’

South Sebastopol Adopted Development Framework (2004) 9.48. The South Sebastopol Adopted Development Framework outlines the principles that are proposed to guide the Site’s development. The Framework was adopted by TCBC following a period of public consultation, and has the status of Supplementary Planning Guidance. 9.49. The Framework: ‘establishes the broad form and structure of a proposed new integrated and sustainable community at South Sebastopol. It is not its intention to set rigid standards but to provide future designers with clear guidance on design principles that are capable of creating an exciting and modern living environment, whilst at the same time respecting fully the inherent quality of the South Sebastopol environment and landscape ’.

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Assessment Methodology 9.50. The proposals will comprise predominantly residential uses but with a mix of public and commercial uses. The number of residential, public, commercial and other buildings will be stated, and the range, size and types of units described in the Environmental Statement. The location and size of other uses, such as open space, will also be shown on the master plan. 9.51. The proposed development comprises up to 1200 dwellings and a village centre. A copy of the current Master Plan is included in Appendix 1.2 herewith.

Transport Strategy 9.52. The transport strategy has been prepared and developed in accordance with the principles and aspirations of a number of documents, including the Adopted Torfaen Local Plan and the South Sebastopol Adopted Development Framework. 9.53. The principal objectives of the Transport Strategy for the proposed development are as follows: y Encourage a greater use of sustainable modes of transport, namely public transport, cycling and walking as opposed to car travel. y Ensure that the transport network to/from the proposed development is safe, efficient and pleasant for all commuters. y Identify the need for highway improvements to accommodate the increased traffic flows and ensure that the proposed development is accessible by modes of travel other than the private car, including access provisions for mobility impaired persons. y Mitigate any adverse impacts the proposed development may have on the local highway network. y Ensure construction traffic generated by the proposed development does not have an adverse impact on the local highway network and develop mitigation measures if necessary. y Ensure parking facilities are provided in line with the South Wales Parking Guidelines. 9.54. Primary access to the development will be via a new roundabout on Cwmbran Drive (mid way between the Avondale and Grove Park Roundabouts) and via Bevans Lane at the Avondale Roundabout. Secondary access points are proposed off Lowlands Crescent to the south and Oaklands Road to the north. 9.55. The movement corridors within the Site are shown on Masterplan, included in Appendix 9.1 herewith. It may be seen that the main routes are: y ‘Main Street’ network y ‘Minor Streets’ y ‘Shared Lanes’ y Cycle routes y Public footpaths y Canal towpath y Other rights of way 9.56. The Main Street network will link to the 4no. external access points, and will be designed to ensure safe routes for pedestrians, cyclists and for public transport provision. The network of Minor Streets and Shared Lanes are illustrative at this stage, indicating the possible access

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arrangements to each ‘sub-plot’. 9.57. It was previously proposed (within the Development Framework 2004) to construct two new single span bridge structures to provide the required link between land to the east and west of the Canal. A review of this strategy was recently carried out following comments that were received during the Design Council for Wales presentation. This review concluded that, from both a landscape and visual impact and a sustainability point of view, it would be preferable to: • Utilise the Existing Bevans Lane Bridge (albeit potentially upgraded) rather than constructing a completely new bridge structure a short distance to the north of the existing bridge. (It is noted that the existing bridge is an adopted structure that is owned by TCBC). • Form the southernmost crossing ‘at grade’ over the Existing Canal Tunnel rather than constructing a new bridge structure a short distance to the south of the Canal Tunnel. (It is noted that the Existing Canal Tunnel is a listed structure and therefore a subterranean bridge structure is likely to be required to ensure that no additional load is transferred to the Canal Tunnel Structure) 9.58. An ‘at-grade’ Toucan Crossing would be provided at each of these Canal crossings in order to retain the continuity of the existing towpath. 9.59. The network of pedestrian and cycle routes will in general follow the routes set within the Adopted Development Framework and along the existing right of way alignments. Where new routes are proposed, these will follow the alignment of existing mature hedgerows. 9.60. Five separate street types are proposed: y Main Street (which will be made up of two different road types): - Main Street (no direct vehicular access): is the section of loop road through the Site between the Avondale Roundabout and the proposed Cwmbran Drive Roundabout, which provides a route for public transport and has a footpath on both sides. - Main Street (direct vehicular access permitted): is the remainder of the loop road running through the Site, which also provides a route for public transport and has a footpath on both sides. y Minor Streets: are the routes leading from the Main Street into the neighbourhoods. These are narrower than the Main Street and in some cases have on street parking. y Shared Lanes: run through development blocks, providing parking and garage access to homes. y Shared Access Mews: provide access to small groups of properties. y Shared Private Drives: provide localised access to groups of 5 properties or less. 9.61. Parking will be provided in accordance with the South Wales Counties Parking Guidelines.

Baseline Conditions

Traffic Survey – Existing Network Flows 9.62. In order to determine the critical period over which the local highway network would experience its maximum loading, and to determine the volume and movement patterns of existing traffic, traffic surveys were undertaken by Road Data Services Ltd. on Thursday 27 May and Saturday 12 June 2010, as agreed with TCBC.

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9.63. The unusually low nature of the surveyed flows on the A4042 (T) necessitated a re-survey of the Rechem Roundabout on Thursday 25 November 2010. The newly surveyed flows have been compared with the ATC data that was obtained from the SWTRA and subsequently confirmed as appropriate. 9.64. The full results of the traffic surveys are included in Appendix E herewith. The surveys indicate that the weekday AM and PM peak hours are between 08:00 to 09:00 and 17:00 to 18:00 respectively. The Saturday peak is less defined, and is characterised more by a steady and consistent traffic profile over several hours. The Saturday ‘peak hour’ appears to occur between 13:00 and 14:00.

Likely Significant Effects

Proposed Development 9.65. As previously described, design measures will be implemented to encourage walking/cycling and the use of public transport, and a travel plan will be produced for the residential development. For the purposes of estimating traffic generated by the proposed development, the effectiveness of these measures has not been quantified, and therefore the estimated trips generated are conservative. This will ensure a robust analysis of the capacity of the local highway network. The peak hours referred to in the following sections are the network peak hours defined above.

Residential Development 9.66. The previous Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) for the Site (produced by PFA) estimated trip rates based on a TRICS analysis, however as part of the consultation process for the more recent TA for the Avesta development (Former Panteg Steelworks), TCBC requested that trip rates for the residential element of the development be calculated from surveyed traffic generation from the adjacent Churchwood development. 9.67. In this case, it was deemed appropriate that trip rates for the residential element of the South Sebastopol development be derived from surveyed trip rates from the Churchwood development, which have been extracted from the Transport Assessment Addendum for the Avesta Development (PFA Consulting, June 2008). Due to a lack of data the weekend traffic has been derived from average trip rates from a TRICS analysis (the full results of which are included in Appendix 9.2 herewith), however it has been noted during Saturday Site visits that the actual volumes of traffic generated by the Churchwood development are very similar to those estimated using TRICS. 9.68. 9.69. Table 14 summarises these trip rates, and provides a comparison of the surveyed trip rates with the TRICS derived average trip rates.

Table 14: Residential Trip Rates From Churchwood Survey From TRICS Analysis Time Period Direction Trip Rate (Per Trip Rate (Per Trips Trips Dwelling)* Dwelling)

Weekday AM In 0.150 180 0.156 187 Peak Out 0.286 343 0.457 548

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From Churchwood Survey From TRICS Analysis Time Period Direction Trip Rate (Per Trip Rate (Per Trips Trips Dwelling)* Dwelling) Total 0.436 523 0.613 735 In 0.593 712 0.405 486 Weekday PM Out 0.293 352 0.235 282 Peak Total 0.886 1063 0.640 768 In - - 0.293 352 Saturday Peak Out - - 0.313 376 Total - - 0.606 727 *Source: Avesta Development – Transport Assessment Addendum (PFA Consulting, June 2008)

Village Centre 9.70. Traffic generated by the proposed village centre has been derived from average trip rates from a TRICS analysis, the results of which are included in Appendix 9.2 herewith and summarised in Table 15

Table 15: Village Centre Trip Rates

From TRICS Analysis Time Period Direction Trip Rate (Per 100m2) Trips In 4.78 48 Weekday AM Peak Out 4.60 46 Total 9.38 94 In 5.64 56 Weekday PM Peak Out 5.67 57 Total 11.31 113 In 5.87 59 Saturday Peak Out 6.00 60 Total 11.87 119

Modal Split 9.71. TCBC’s Initial Sustainability Appraisal Report from the Torfaen Local Development Plan (2006- 2021) advises that 76% of all Trips in the County are currently by car. Notwithstanding this, the modal splits for Based on Average Trip Rates from TRICS for the proposed development uses are indicated below.

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Table 16: Weekday Arrivals – Proposed Residential

Vehicles Cyclist Pedestrian Public Transport

Time Range Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips

0800-0900 0.148 178 0.003 4 0.033 40 0.005 6

1700-1800 0.382 458 0.010 12 0.074 89 0.018 22

Table 17: Weekday Departures – Proposed Residential

Vehicles Cyclist Pedestrian Public Transport

Time Range Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips

0800-0900 0.435 522 0.012 14 0.157 188 0.027 32

1700-1800 0.223 268 0.009 11 0.054 65 0.003 4

Table 18: Weekday Arrivals – Proposed Village Centre

Vehicles Cyclist Pedestrian Public Transport

Time Range Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Rate/100m2 Trips Rate/100m2 Trips Rate/100m2 Trips Rate/100m2 Trips

0800-0900 4.359 44 0.103 1 4.752 48 0.047 0

1700-1800 4.836 48 0.103 1 3.386 34 0.047 0

Table 19: Weekday Departures – Proposed Village Centre

Vehicles Cyclist Pedestrian Public Transport

Time Range Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Rate/100m2 Trips Rate/100m2 Trips Rate/100m2 Trips Rate/100m2 Trips

0800-0900 4.153 42 0.065 1 4.453 45 0.019 0

1700-1800 4.920 49 0.122 1 3.405 34 0.075 1

Table 20: Saturday Arrivals – Proposed Residential

Vehicles Cyclist Pedestrian Public Transport

Time Range Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips

1300-1400 0.235 282 0.000 0 0.000 0 0.059 71

Table 21: Saturday Departures – Proposed Residential

Vehicles Cyclist Pedestrian Public Transport

Time Range Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips

1300-1400 0.176 211 0.000 0 0.000 0 0.000 0

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Table 22: Saturday Arrivals – Proposed Village Centre

Vehicles Cyclist Pedestrian Public Transport

Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips

1300-1400 5.475 55 0.000 0 3.069 31 0.000 0

Table 23: Saturday Departures – Proposed Village Centre

Vehicles Cyclist Pedestrian Public Transport

Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Trip No. Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips Rate/Dwelling Trips

1300-1400 5.265 53 0.120 1 3.490 35 0.150 2

Trip Rate Adjustments 9.72. The residential trip rates include all journey purposes, and therefore the traffic attracted to the proposed village centre from the proposed residential development is already accounted for in the residential trip rates. The trips calculated above for the village centre therefore are, to a degree, a duplication of the residential trips. It is noted however that the village centre is likely to attract some trips from outside the proposed development Site. In this regard, PFA assumed that 20% village centre trips would be ‘external’ trips (i.e. originating from outside the development Site). We believe that this is a reasonable and robust assumption, and the resulting ‘external’ traffic generated by the village centre is summarised in Table 24.

Table 24: Total Village Centre External Trips

Time Period Direction Trips

In 10 Weekday AM Peak Out 9 Total 19 In 11 Weekday PM Peak Out 11 Total 23 In 12 Saturday Peak Out 12 Total 24

Committed Development 9.73. The only significant committed development in the vicinity of the Site is the mixed use Avesta development at the former Panteg Steelworks site. Traffic generated by this development is shown in Table 25, and was extracted from the Avesta Development Transport Assessment Addendum (PFA Consulting, June 2008) which was submitted with the Site’s planning application.

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Table 25: Avesta Development Trips

Time Period Direction Trips In 160 Weekday AM Peak Out 118 Total 278 In 221 Weekday PM Peak Out 193 Total 414 Source: Avesta Development – Transport Assessment Addendum (PFA Consulting, June 2008)

Period of Assessment 9.74. The traffic survey indicates that the volume of traffic on the highway network during the Saturday peak hour is around 60-70% of the weekday AM and PM peaks, and is therefore not critical in terms of traffic. In this respect, only the weekday AM and PM peaks will be analysed in this Assessment. This has been agreed with Torfaen CBC Highways.

Completed Development - Trip Distribution and Assignment

Proposed Development

Residential Component – Gravity Model 9.75. In order to assess the likely origin/destination of vehicular traffic from the residential component of the proposed development, MVA created a gravity model. This model identified eight separate zones, and for the AM peak and total daily traffic assessed the volume of vehicular traffic attracted/generated by each zone. 9.76. PFA extended the work undertaken by MVA to identify PM peak hour trips to the various zones. It was highlighted that Zone D (Croesyceiliog) contains the principle secondary school in the area, and as such would attract ‘journey to school’ trips. In this case, the final gravity model reflects the fact that few ‘journey to school’ trips occur during the normal peak PM period. 9.77. For the purposes of this Assessment, we consider that the gravity model as amended by PFA provides a reasonable estimation of the likely origin/destination of traffic generated by the residential component of the proposed development. A summary of the gravity model is shown in Table 26.

Table 26: Gravity Model for Proposed Residential Traffic

AM Peak % Daily % Vehicle PM Peak % Zone Description Vehicle Trips Trips Vehicle Trips A Internal or Contained 1.3 0.8 1.1 B Sebastopol / Griffithstown 5.1 4.3 5.1 C Upper Cwmbran / Pontnewydd 9.4 6.9 9.4

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AM Peak % Daily % Vehicle PM Peak % Zone Description Vehicle Trips Trips Vehicle Trips D Croesyceiliog 4.0 4.3 3.0 E Central Cwmbran 37.7 40.6 37.8 F Pontypool 16.7 16.7 16.7 G North of Pontypool 2.1 2.1 2.1 H Newport / Cardiff 23.7 24.3 24.8 Total 100 100 100 Source: South Sebastopol, Torfaen – Traffic Impact Assessment (PFA Consulting, 2001) 9.78. It is noted that the above figures equate to a total of around 7 trips during the AM peak and around 12 trips during the PM peak that would be ‘internal or contained’ trips. The TRICS analysis indicates that there would be a total of 94 AM peak hour trips and 113 PM peak hour trips generated by the non-residential component of the development. Assuming that 20% of these trips would be ‘external’ trips (as described in Section 0), around 75 AM trips and around 90 PM trips would be expected to travel between the residential areas within the Site and the village centre. 9.79. It should be noted that the above zones are final origins/destinations and therefore do not include an allowance for any multiple destination / linked trips. It is expected that a significant proportion of trips to/from the proposed village centre originating from within the Site would have their ultimate origin/destination outside the Site, in one of the remaining zones identified. 9.80. We believe this adequately explains the difference between ‘internal’ trips generated by the residential and non-residential components. Despite the uncertainties caused by multiple destination and linked trips, the estimated ‘external’ traffic generated by the proposed development is a robust figure, and if anything is likely to over-estimate the number of peak hour trips. 9.81. Traffic travelling to/from each of the above zones has been distributed via the four proposed accesses and throughout the local highway network using a ‘manual’ methodology, based upon logical interpretation of likely traffic patterns. These distributions have been extracted from the previous TIA, and are summarised in Appendix 9.3 and 9.4 herewith. The exception is Zone H (Newport / Cardiff) traffic, which has been distributed slightly differently from the previous TIA for the Cwmbran Drive and Southern Accesses. We believe it is more likely that this traffic would use Cwmbran Drive (A4051) to the south, particularly given the existing congestion that occurs at Rechem Roundabout. This generates a fairly even split of Cardiff/Newport inbound/outbound vehicles between the A4051 and the A4042(T). 9.82. Journey time surveys undertaken between 8am and 9am on Thursday 27th November 2010 have confirmed that traffic would be equally likely (due to the almost identical journey times) to travel to/from Cardiff/Newport via the A4051 as they would via the A4042(T). Three journey times were logged for each of these routes between Avondale Roundabout and Woodlands Roundabout. The recorded times were 8.0mins/9.0mins/9.0mins and 7.0mins/8.0mins/8.5mins for the A4051 and the A4042(T) respectively. 9.83. The Central Cwmbran Traffic has been assigned to the A4051 (Cwmbran Drive South) as per the original gravity model, which was previously agreed with Torfaen CBC Highways.

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Non-Residential Component 9.84. Traffic generated by the village centre is assumed to be very local and will only have origins / destinations contained within the Site or within Zones B and C. The ‘external’ non-residential trips have been assumed to be distributed equally between these Zones, and will enter/leave the Site via the two secondary accesses.

Committed Development 9.85. Traffic generated by the Avesta Development has been distributed throughout the highway network as per the figures contained within the Avesta Development TA Addendum. It has been assumed that any Avesta development traffic travelling via Cwmbran Drive will continue on the A4051 through the Grove Park roundabout. 9.86. Turning diagrams showing the estimated distribution of traffic generated by the proposed and committed developments are included in Appendix H herewith.

Table 27: Significance Matrix – Transportation Assessment (Traffic, Transport and Movement)

Sensitivity / Value of Magnitude of Effect Receptor High Medium Low High Moderate Major Major/ Moderate (Wales/UK/International) Medium Moderate/ Minor Major/ Moderate Moderate (County/Regional) Low Minor Moderate Moderate/ Minor (Local/District)

Mitigation Measures

Completed Development 9.87. In order to ensure that the existing local highway network and the proposed Site access junctions will have sufficient capacity to accommodate both baseline traffic flows and the increase in traffic generated by the proposed development, flows throughout the local highway network have been derived for the predicted opening year of the proposed development (2012) and the ‘design year’, which is normally 10 years after the opening year (2022), as agreed with TCBC. The SWTRA requested that the analysis of the trunk road junction be carried out for the year 2027. 9.88. We are aware that during both the AM and PM peak hours there are queuing problems at several junctions on the local highway network in the vicinity of the Site. Discussions with TCBC and Site observations have indicated that the limited capacity of Rechem Roundabout is the principle cause of these problems. Significant queuing is known to occur on the A4042(T) and the A4051 as a result – during a Site visit in June 2010 a queue of around 1km was observed on the southern approach of the A4042(T). Significant queuing was also observed at the Avondale Road roundabout, predominantly on Cwmbran Drive and the southern approach of Avondale Road. Discussions with TCBC also indicated that at times queues on the A4051 from Rechem roundabout begin to affect Avondale Road roundabout, exacerbating the congestion problem. 9.89. The previous TIA modelled Avondale Road and Rechem roundabouts using ARCADY (TRL 159 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Limited) to assess the junctions’ capacities. Junction capacity is measured as the Ratio of Flow to Capacity (RFC), the capacity being determined by the geometry of the roundabout. A junction is generally regarded as operating within capacity if its RFC is at or below 1.00, however delays and queuing are likely to be experienced with RFC’s above 0.85. 9.90. The previous TIA found that initial modelling suggested that there were no capacity problems at the Rechem roundabout and no significant queuing was predicted. This is clearly not what occurs in reality and the anomaly was attributed to the high circulatory speeds that occur on Rechem roundabout which reduce its actual capacity. We acknowledge that ARCADY is limited in this regard, however the use of intercept corrections to calibrate the model is deemed to be appropriate in this scenario. The roundabout is known to be over capacity during the existing peak periods and in this respect we would expect the model to replicate it shortage of capacity. The Assessment will however focus on the impact of the traffic increase that may occur as a result of the proposed development, rather than the design of any works to improve the capacity of the junction. 9.91. The difference between modelled and observed queue lengths at Avondale Road roundabout was attributed to the ‘peakiness’ of the traffic flow profile, and it was suggested that the peak period is not a peak hour but a peak 10 minutes. In an attempt to calibrate the ARCADY model of Avondale Road roundabout, the ‘peakiness’ of the surveyed flow profile was increased. 9.92. We believe however that the difference between modelled and observed queuing at the Avondale Road roundabout is due to under-utilisation of the available approach width of both the southern Avondale Road and Cwmbran Drive arms. In other words, the ARCADY model predicts that vehicles will queue side-by-side, making use of the entire approach width and therefore increasing the rate that traffic that enters the roundabout. In reality however, observations indicated that the flare lengths on these approaches are too short to allow queuing traffic to fully utilise the available width at the stop line. 9.93. TCBC have provided preliminary design drawings of the proposed bus lanes and carriageway widening on the approaches to Avondale Road roundabout described earlier in this chapter.. Discussions with TCBC confirmed that although the designs are preliminary, the improvements may be considered to be a committed development. In this case, we have sought to design junction improvements that will fit in with this future scheme. The improved junction is likely to remedy the under-utilisation of the approach width. 9.94. It is also noted that ARCADY cannot model the effect of queues from Rechem Roundabout backing up to the Avondale Roundabout. It has been agreed with TCBC that this Assessment will use ARCADY to model the capacity of each junction individually. The Assessment will show that each junction operates satisfactorily in the design years, assuming that queuing does not back up from Rechem Roundabout.

Design Flows 9.95. To account for increases in baseline traffic flows due to population increases, TEMPRO (the Department for Transport’s forecasting software) and NRTF were used to growth the surveyed (baseline) traffic movements to the years of assessment. Weekday AM and PM factors have been used to growth baseline traffic flows from 2010 (the year of survey) to 2012 (first year of construction), 2022 and 2027, for both ‘trunk’ and ‘other’ roads. The calculations in respect of the above are included in Appendix I herewith, and the growth rates are summarised in Table 28.

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Table 28: Baseline Traffic Growth Rates

Urban Road 2010-2012 Growth Rate 2010-2022 Growth Rate 2010-2027 Growth Rate Type AM PM AM PM AM PM Trunk 0.996 1.002 1.072 1.060 1.097 1.078 Other 1.013 1.018 1.170 1.158 1.234 1.212 9.96. The growth factors have not been applied to traffic generated by the proposed or committed developments. A summary of baseline flows on the highway network in the vicinity of the Site in 2010, 2022 and 2027, as well as total flows (including committed and proposed development traffic) in 2022 and 2027 are included in Appendix 9.5 herewith. 9.97. As identified in the previous section, it has been agreed with Torfaen CBC Highways that the Year of Assessment for the Local Authority maintained highways would be 2022, which is opening year plus 10 years. The South Wales Trunk Road Agency have however requested that the Year of Assessment for the Local Authority maintained highways would be 2027, which is opening year plus 15 years.

Assessment Locations 9.98. The capacities of a number of junctions were analysed in the previous TIA, including: y Existing Avondale Road roundabout (and proposed improvements) y Proposed Cwmbran Drive roundabout y Proposed Oaklands Road priority T-junction y Proposed Lowlands Crescent signalised junction y Existing Grove Park roundabout (and proposed improvements) y Existing Rechem Roundabout 9.99. During early consultations regarding the scope of the TA, TCBC requested that the Pont-y-felin Road / Newport Road priority T-junction and the Avondale Road / Pontyrhydrun Road signalised junction be considered in the Assessment. The gravity model described in Section 0 shows that traffic generated by the proposed development would not generally use these junctions, and the proposed development would therefore have an insignificant effect on the existing capacity of these junctions. In this case, these junctions have not been modelled. 9.100. During the consultation process the SWTRA also requested that both the Rechem Roundabout and the Edlogan Roundabout on the A4042(T) be assessed. The impact of the traffic generated by the proposed development would only have a 2%/4% impact on the Edlogan Roundabout (during the AM/PM peaks) and given the conservative nature of the calculated traffic flows then this impact is likely to be even smaller in reality. We have however agreed to undertake the requested modelling of the Rechem Roundabout. 9.101. The remaining 6no. junctions have been modelled using the TRL modelling software suite – ARCADY, OSCADY and PICADY.

Residual Effects The assessment should assume that the described mitigation has been adopted, for both the construction and completed development phases and this section should use the same terminology

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to describe the effects as identified in “v. Likely Significant Effects”, above.

Avondale Road (North and South of Roundabout) 9.102. The percentage increase on Avondale Road is generally 1-2%, with a maximum 6% increase on Avondale Road south during the PM peak, on a road which is well within its design capacity. It is therefore considered that the development will have no material impact upon these links.

A4051 (Between Avondale and Rechem Roundabouts) 9.103. The predicted baseline AM peak flow on this link in 2022 is seen to be above the design capacity, and the baseline PM peak flow is very close to the design capacity. The proposed development flows increase the AM and PM peak flows by 6% and 15% respectively, and the link will experience flows up to 15% above its design capacity (during the AM peak). It is noted that this is only marginally above the likely daily variation in flow. 9.104. It should be noted that if this link were regarded as a UAP1 Road (the only difference being that the speed limit of the link is 60mph, not the standard 40mph of UAP1 roads), then the capacity of the link would be 3100vph, meaning that the link would be well within capacity during peak periods. In this respect, it is recommended that the speed limit of this link be reduced. 9.105. Discussions with TCBC indicated that their long term strategy is to extend the bus lane from Avondale Roundabout northbound as far as Rechem Roundabout. This is however dependent on improvements to Rechem Roundabout, which fall under the remit of the South Wales Trunk Road Authority. Furthermore, there is a ‘pinch point’ on the A4051 at the bridge crossing the main railway line, which does not have sufficient width to allow additional lanes to be provided. 9.106. There are presently significant delays and queuing problems at Rechem Roundabout, on both the A4042(T) and A4051 during peak periods. The A4051 link between Rechem Roundabout and the Avondale Roundabout is relatively short, and the operational capacity of the link is therefore controlled by the capacity of the Avondale and Rechem roundabouts. 9.107. In light of the above, it is considered that the impact of the development on the operation of this link is dependent on the capacity of the Avondale and Rechem Roundabouts (and the development’s impact on these capacities).

Cwmbran Drive 9.108. The percentage increase of traffic on Cwmbran Drive is between 6% and 28%, the greatest increase being south of the proposed access. The percentage increase during the AM peak is less than during the PM peak (around 10% compared with increases of around 25% during the PM peak). 9.109. The road is generally within capacity in 2022 in both ‘do nothing’ and ‘do something’ scenarios, with the exception of Cwmbran Drive between the proposed access and Grove Park Roundabout (which is seen to be 3% above its theoretical design capacity). Similarly to the A4051, if this link were regarded as a UAP1 Road, then the capacity of the link would be 3100vph or 26000vpd, meaning that the link would be well within capacity during peak periods. In this respect, the speed limit of Cwmbran Drive between Grove Park and Avondale Roundabout would need to be reduced as a result of the construction of the proposed roundabout, thereby increasing the theoretical capacity of the link. 9.110. Similarly to the A4051, it is considered that the impact of the development on the operation of this

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link is dependent on the capacity of the roundabouts along its length (and the development’s impact on these capacities).

Lowlands Crescent 9.111. The traffic survey indicates that during existing (2010) PM peak, the road is very close to its environmental capacity. The percentage increase of traffic on Lowlands Crescent is between 5% and 17%, the greatest increase being to the east of the proposed access. The road is within capacity in 2022 in both ‘do nothing’ and ‘do something’ scenarios during the AM peak, however the road is above its environmental capacity during the PM peak in both scenarios. 9.112. It should be noted that the growth rates applied to existing traffic flows on this link are likely to be conservative given the road’s location, and is likely to ‘double count’ the future increase in traffic (the proposed development is the only significant new development planned in the vicinity of this road that we are aware of). In this case, the actual flows are likely to be significantly less, and the analysis is conservative. 9.113. The development will increase two-way traffic flow along Lowlands Crescent by approximately 2 vehicles per minute during the PM peak, however the increase will be much less than this throughout the remainder of the day. This level of increase only occurs to the east of the proposed access, with the increase to the west being much less. 9.114. It will be described further that additional measures could be incorporated which would introduce a ‘deterrence factor’ to reduce the volume of traffic using the Lowlands Crescent access. Taking these mitigation measures into consideration, the development will not adversely affect the operation of this link.

Lowlands Road 9.115. The percentage increase on Lowlands Road is around 10%, on a road which is well within its design capacity. It is therefore considered that the development will have no material impact upon this link.

Grove Park 9.116. The percentage increase on Grove Park is around 10%, on a road which is well within its design capacity. It is therefore considered that the development will have no material impact upon this link.

Pontrhydyrun Road 9.117. The percentage increase on Pontrhydyrun Road is less than 10%, on a road which is well within its design capacity. It is therefore considered that the development will have no material impact upon this link.

South Street 9.118. The percentage increase on South Street is less than 10%, on a road which is well within its design capacity. It is therefore considered that the development will have no material impact upon this link.

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Oaklands Road 9.119. The percentage increase on Oaklands Road is up to 90%, however this is because the existing traffic flows are extremely low. The impact of the development will be to increase traffic flows by a maximum of about 30ph (1 vehicle movement every 2 minutes), with total flows below 100vph. This occurs on a road which is well within its design capacity, and it is therefore considered that the development will have no material impact upon this link.

A4042(T) 9.120. The percentage increase of the AADT on the A4042(T) is around 3% and 4% for the links to the north and south of the Rechem Roundabout respectively. The dual carriageway is indicated as being over its D2AP AADT link capacity with or without the development. However assuming that the peak AM or PM period accounts for 12% of the AADT, the links are indicated as being within its D2AP link capacity with or without the development. In this case, and due to the small percentage impact of the development, it is considered that the development will have no material impact upon either of these links.

Junction Capacity Analysis 9.121. The capacity of each junction has been assessed in 2010 in order to verify the accuracy of the computer model and also in 2022 for both the baseline scenario (‘do nothing’ – which considers existing traffic flows including the growth factors described above and committed development traffic), and the ‘do something’ scenario, which considers the impact of additional traffic generated by the proposed development. This has enabled the cumulative effect of the proposed development on the operation of the junctions to be quantified. 9.122. The impact of the proposed development on the Rechem Roundabout (Trunk Road) has also been assessed in 2027 as requested by the SWTRA. The impact of the development beyond this junction is small (i.e. 2% and 4% impacts on the approach to the Edlogan Roundabout to the south of the Rechem Roundabout in the AM and PM peaks respectively) and has therefore not been assessed. 9.123. In order to verify the baseline 2010 traffic models a queue length survey was undertaken on each of the analysed junctions. These surveys may be found in Appendix 9.6

Avondale Road Roundabout 9.124. Initial modelling of the existing roundabout without correction for entry width starvation confirmed the findings of the previous TIA, suggesting that the roundabout currently operates at capacity and no significant queuing was predicted. Sensitivity testing showed that if the modelled entry and approach widths were reduced (forcing traffic to queue in single file at the stop line, which is the general driver behaviour at this junction), the predicted queues would increase to lengths more similar to those observed on site. The only queue that was not replicated by the traffic model was on the approach to the roundabout along Avondale Road (north). Due to the close correlation of queue lengths on the other arms, it was not considered necessary to calibrate the model of the existing roundabout any further. 9.125. Improvements to this roundabout are being considered by TCBC, and therefore any improvements proposed under the South Sebastopol scheme will need to ‘marry in’ with the improvements being considered by TCBC. Improvement works are clearly required for the existing junction in order that the impact of the proposed development can be accommodated. The proposed works, which are 164 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

identified in the scheme plan located in Appendix J, have been modelled as part of the ‘do something’ scenario, which obviously includes the development traffic. 9.126. An ARCADY analysis of the Avondale Road Roundabout has been carried out, incorporating the proposed junction improvements described above, for both the ‘do something’ scenario identified below. The full results of the analysis are included in Appendix J herewith, and are summarised in Table 29 and Table 30 for the AM and PM peaks respectively.

Table 29: Avondale Roundabout – AM Peak

2022 ‘Do 2010 ‘Do Nothing’ 2022 ‘Do Nothing’ Something’

Arm Max. Max. Queue Max. Max. Max. Max. RFC (Modelled/ RFC Queue RFC Queue Observed) A4051 (n) 0.953 14/16 1.236 170 0.998 27.6 Avondale Rd 0.418 0.7/2 0.537 1.2 0.666 1.9 (s) Cwmbran 0.781 3.4/11 1.040 36.8 0.814 4.2 Drive Bevans Lane 0.017 0.0/0 0.023 0.0 0.335 0.5 Avondale Rd 0.427 0.7/25 0.661 1.9 0.730 2.6 (n)

Table 30: Avondale Roundabout – PM Peak

2022 ‘Do 2022 ‘Do 2010 ‘Do Nothing’ Nothing’ Something’ Arm Max. Max. Max. Max. Max. Max. Queue Queu RFC RFC RFC Queue (Modelled) e A4051 (n) 0.640 1.8 0.872 6.3 0.838 4.9 Avondale Rd (s) 0.452 0.8 0.654 1.9 0.876 6.2 Cwmbran Drive 0.844 5.1 1.172 95.8 0.999 24.1 Bevans Lane 0.018 0.0 0.025 0.0 0.397 0.6 Avondale Rd (n) 0.429 0.7 0.703 2.3 0.806 3.9 9.127. It may be seen that the Avondale Rd and Bevans Lane arms of the existing roundabout (i.e. ‘do nothing’ scenario) operate within acceptable limits during both AM and PM peaks in both 2010 and 2022. However the A4051 and Cwmbran Drive arms, which are within capacity in 2010 during the AM peak period, operate over capacity in 2022 with maximum queue lengths of 170no. and 37no. vehicles respectively. The Cwmbran Drive arm also operates over capacity in 2022 with maximum a queue length of 96no. vehicles.

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9.128. With the proposed improvement works (i.e. ‘do something’ scenario), the roundabout is shown to operate to a vastly improved level during both AM and PM peaks in 2022. It is noted that the RFC of the A4051 (north) approach is above 0.85 in both scenarios during the AM peak, and the RFCs of the Avondale Road and Cwmbran Drive approaches in the PM peak are above 0.85 in the ‘do something’ scenario. The predicted queue lengths on these arms in both scenarios are however not considered to be excessive or problematic, and the theoretical maximum capacity of the arm is not exceeded (i.e. RFC does not exceed 1.0). 9.129. In light of the above it is considered that, assuming the proposed improvement works are implemented, the development will not have an adverse impact on the operation of this junction. 9.130. In this respect there is a residual effect but the effect has been mitigated by design and the residual effect is regarded as major beneficial.

Proposed Cwmbran Drive Roundabout 9.131. The proposed Site access via Cwmbran Drive will be a 3-arm roundabout (a plan of which is included in Appendix 9.7 herewith) which will provide a safe and efficient form of junction achieving a suitable ‘gateway’ into the new development. Because this is a new junction proposed as part of the development, only a ‘do something’ analysis has been carried out, the details of which are included in Appendix 9.7 herewith and summarised in Table 31.

Table 31: Cwmbran Drive Roundabout

2022 AM Peak 2022 PM Peak Arm Max. Max. Max. Max. RFC Queue RFC Queue Cwmbran Drive (n) 0.669 2.0 0.622 1.6 Cwmbran Drive (s) 0.593 1.4 0.738 2.7 Site Access 0.201 0.2 0.224 0.3 *Analysis of ‘do something’ scenario only 9.132. It may be seen that the proposed roundabout operates with minimal queuing and RFC’s within acceptable limits during both AM and PM peaks in 2022, assuming that the full development is built out at this stage. 9.133. Due to the magnitude of the designed entry widths the model assumes that two lanes of traffic will queue at the give way line on each arm of Cwmbran Drive, however the majority of traffic at this junction is straight through traffic on Cwmbran Drive, and it is likely that this traffic will queue in single file (as the exit arms are only one lane). In order to assess the potential effects of unequal lane usage, a sensitivity test has been carried out where the entry width has been reduced to the approach width. This analysis therefore assumes that all traffic (including traffic turning into the Site access) will queue in single file. 9.134. The sensitivity analysis shows that in this extreme scenario, the junction would operate within capacity in 2022 during the AM peak, but in the PM peak the RFC of the Cwmbran Drive south arm is just over 1.00). This suggests that 2022 the Cwmbran Drive south arm would however be operating marginally above capacity. This is a very extreme scenario, as traffic turning into the Site will queue separately, and therefore the actual capacity of the junction is likely to be somewhere in between the two analyses.

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Table 32: Cwmbran Drive Roundabout – Sensitivity Test

2022 AM Peak 2022 PM Peak Arm Max. Max. Max. Max. RFC Queue RFC Queue Cwmbran Drive (n) 0.920 9.7 0.855 5.6 Cwmbran Drive (s) 0.811 4.1 1.012 32.4 Site Access 0.200 0.2 0.217 0.3 *Analysis of ‘do something’ scenario only 9.135. In light of the above it is considered that this junction will operate satisfactorily in the design years and the impact of development traffic on this part of the highway network can be satisfactorily accommodated. 9.136. In this respect there is a residual effect but the effect has been mitigated by design and the residual effect is regarded as major beneficial.

Proposed Oaklands Road Access 9.137. It is proposed that this access be in the form of a simple priority junction but with ‘shuttle working’ a short distance into the Site, as shown on the proposed layout included in Appendix 9.8 herewith. Because this is a new junction proposed as part of the development, only a ‘do something’ analysis has been carried out, the details of which are included in Appendix 9.8 and summarised in Table 33.

Table 33: Oaklands Road Access

2022 AM Peak 2022 PM Peak Arm Max. Max. Max. Max. RFC Queue RFC Queue Site Access 0.041 0.0 0.045 0.0 Oaklands Road (west) 0.011 0.0 0.035 0.0 *Analysis of ‘do something’ scenario only 9.138. It may be seen that the proposed junction has more than adequate capacity to accommodate the extremely low traffic flows which are predicted to occur. It is therefore considered that the impact of the development on this part of the highway network can be satisfactorily accommodated.

Lowlands Crescent Access 9.139. A number of options for the form of this junction have been examined including a simple priority junction, a mini-roundabout and traffic signals. A mini-roundabout would not adequately provide for vehicle movements in and out of Highland Grove. Although a simple priority junction would have more than adequate capacity to accommodate the proposed development traffic (as shown in the analysis in included in Appendix 9.9 herewith and summarised in Table 34), there is a concern regarding the available visibility at the junction.

Table 34: Lowlands Crescent Access – Priority Junction

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2022 AM Peak 2022 PM Peak Arm Max. Max. Max. Max. RFC Queue RFC Queue Site Access 0.138 0.2 0.157 0.2 Lowlands Crescent (east) 0.051 0.1 0.216 0.5 *Analysis of ‘do something’ scenario only 9.140. This solution would therefore require traffic calming measures to be provided along Lowlands Crescent to achieve a ‘target speed’ in the vicinity of the Site access of a maximum of 25mph. The introduction of traffic signals is generally accepted to increase the capacity of a normal priority junction (which the analysis above demonstrates is more than adequate). 9.141. It is proposed to signalise this junction, with priority given to traffic travelling along Lowlands Crescent and a built-in delay for traffic exiting from the Site. This will provide the deterrent referred to previously and would ensure that only a low level of traffic uses this access. Provision for the efficient movement of buses through this junction could be achieved by means of detectors which would recognise the ‘footprint’ of a bus as it approached the junction and ensure that it received a green light immediately. 9.142. An assessment of the proposed signal controlled junction has been undertaken using OSCADY, and the results are outlined in the Table below.

Table 32: Lowlands Crescent Access – Signal C.ontrolled Junction

2022 AM Peak 2022 PM Peak Arm Max. Max. Max. Max. RFC Queue RFC Queue Lowlands Crescent (west) 0.327 1.4 0.270 1.3 Site Access 0.278 0.7 0.377 1.0 Lowlands Crescent (east) 0.233 0.8 0.546 2.4 *Analysis of ‘do something’ scenario only 9.143. It is therefore considered that the impact of the development on this part of the highway network can be satisfactorily accommodated. An illustrative arrangement of this junction is included in Appendix 9.9 herewith.

Grove Park Roundabout 9.144. Because of the level of increase of traffic flows on Cwmbran Drive south of the proposed access and on Grove Park, it is considered appropriate to assess the impact of the proposed development on this junction. 9.145. Due to the existing junction’s entry widths the model assumes that two lanes of traffic will queue at the give way line on each arm of the roundabout, however the majority of traffic at this junction is straight through traffic to/from Cwmbran Drive, and it is likely that this traffic will queue in single file (as the exit arms are only single carriageway). In order to assess the effects of the unequal lane usage that occurs in reality, a sensitivity test has been carried out where the entry width has been reduced to the approach width. This analysis therefore assumes that all traffic (including traffic

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turning into the Site access) will queue in single file. Modelled Queue Lengths for this calibrated analysis correlate well with the Observed Queue Lengths, which were identified during a recent survey. 9.146. The results of the 2022 analysis clearly indicate that Improvement Works are required for the existing junction in order that the impact of the proposed development can be accommodated. The proposed works, which are identified in the scheme plan located in Appendix N, have been modelled as part of the ‘do something’ scenario, which obviously also includes the development traffic. 9.147. An ARCADY analysis of the Grove Park Roundabout has been carried out for both the ‘do nothing’ and ‘do something’ scenarios. The full results of the analysis are included in Appendix 9.10 herewith, and are summarised in Table 29 and Table 30 and Table 30 for the AM and PM peaks respectively.

Table 35: Grove Park Roundabout – AM Peak

2022 ‘Do 2022 ‘Do 2010 ‘Do Nothing’ Nothing’ Something’

Arm Max. Max. Queue Max. Max. Max. Max. RFC (Modelled/ RFC Queue RFC Queue Observed) Cwmbran Drive (nth) 0.747 2.9/5 0.922 9.8 0.978 19.8 Pontrhydyrun Road 0.451 0.8/1 0.405 0.7 0.552 1.2 Cwmbran Drive (sth) 0.572 1.3/3 0.759 3.1 0.635 1.7 Grove Park 0.224 0.3/3 0.475 0.9 0.569 1.3

Table 36: Grove Park Roundabout – PM Peak

2010 ‘Do 2022 ‘Do 2022 ‘Do Nothing’ Nothing’ Something’ Arm Max. Max. Max. Max. Max. Max. RFC Queue RFC Queue RFC Queue Cwmbran Drive (nth) 0.602 1.5 0.775 3.4 0.725 2.6 Pontrhydyrun Road 0.301 0.4 0.201 0.2 0.221 0.3 Cwmbran Drive (sth) 0.564 1.3 0.771 3.3 0.591 1.4 Grove Park 0.138 0.2 0.388 0.6 0.416 0.7 9.148. It may be seen that the proposed roundabout operates with minimal queuing and RFC’s within acceptable limits during both AM and PM peaks in 2022, assuming that the full development is built out at this stage. 9.149. In light of the above it is considered that this junction will operate satisfactorily in the design years and the impact of development traffic on this part of the highway network can be satisfactorily accommodated. 9.150. In this respect there is a residual effect but the effect has been mitigated by design and the residual 169 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

effect is regarded as major beneficial.

Rechem Roundabout 9.151. Significant queuing occurs at present at the existing roundabout, and accounting for increases in baseline traffic flows, congestion at the junction will steadily worsen over time. The SEWTA Highways Strategy acknowledges that: ‘measures aimed at improving network efficiency should be given considerably more emphasis than they are at present’, and stresses that ‘care must be taken to ensure that any capital investment or route management strategy proposed by WAG on the A4042 is adequate to mitigate congestion problems affecting strategic provision for bus services along the A4051’. In this respect, mitigation of the existing problems at Rechem Roundabout has been highlighted in the Strategy as a high priority. Initial designs in the previous TIA suggested that signalising the junction would improve its capacity significantly. 9.152. Discussions with TCBC have indicated that until the congestion problems at Rechem Roundabout have been addressed, a number of junctions will continue to be affected by this congestion, including Avondale Roundabout, and potentially the proposed Cwmbran Drive Roundabout and Grove Park Roundabout. In this case, it is clear that even without additional traffic flows from the proposed development, the problems at this junction need to be addressed by the South Wales Trunk Road Agency, if the A4042(T) is to operate efficiently as part of the Strategic Road Network (SRN). 9.153. As previously stated, it is acknowledged that ARCADY is limited in its ability to replicate what occurs at the Rechem roundabout in reality due to the nature of the existing layout, high circulatory speeds and traffic conditions at this location. On this basis, intercept corrections have been applied within the model in order to more accurately represent the existing situation. This approach to the validation of roundabouts accords with guidance set out within the ARCADY manual and also within the TRL Traffic Software News (TSN) (Issue 6), which discussed the problems in measuring queues for the purposes of validating an entry at a roundabout. The ARCADY manual is very clear that correction of the capacity formula for local conditions should only be undertaken where the relevant entry is substantially overloaded for at least 20 continuous minutes during a peak period. TSN confirms that the entry must be substantially overloaded for any such measurements to be undertaken. 9.154. Further to analysis of the queue survey data provided to Waterman by PCC Traffic Information Ltd in November 2010 (included in Appendix 9.11), it can be seen that the longest and most prolonged queues are experienced on the A4042(T) South Arm. Therefore, that arm has been validated against queue survey data and an intercept correction has been applied. It should be noted that, although the A4042(T) North Arm is observed to experience significant queues during peak hours, a local correction factor has not been applied because this arm is not substantially overloaded for 20 continuous minutes. 9.155. An ARCADY analysis of the Rechem Roundabout has been carried out for both the ‘do nothing’ and ‘do something’ scenarios in 2027. The full results of the analysis are included in Appendix 9.11 herewith, and are summarised in Table 37 and 9.156. Table 38 for the AM and PM peaks respectively.

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Table 37: Rechem Roundabout – AM Peak

2010 ‘Do Nothing’ 2027 ‘Do Nothing’ 2027 ‘Do Something’

Max. Arm Queue Max. Max. Max. RFC Max. RFC Max. RFC (Modelled/ Queue Queue Observed) A4042(T) (nth) 1.116 154.8/20.0 1.321 487.8 1.350 542.2 Newport Road 0.714 2.4/13.9 0.882 6.5 0.896 7.2 A4042(T) (sth)* 1.085 70.7/69.6 1.320 267.9 1.343 296.2 A4051 0.694 2.2/27.8 0.873 6.4 0.949 13.4 *Intercept Correction applied to A4042(T) (sth) arm within ARCADY model to match queue survey data

Table 38: Rechem Roundabout – PM Peak

2010 ‘Do Nothing’ 2027 ‘Do Nothing’ 2027 ‘Do Something’

Max. Arm Queue Max. Max. Max. RFC Max. RFC Max. RFC (Modelled/ Queue Queue Observed) A4042(T) (nth) 0.911 9.3/13.9 1.042 69.1 1.131 169.0 Newport Road 0.572 1.3/20.9 0.774 3.2 0.809 3.9 A4042(T) (sth)* 1.133 105.1/104.3 1.406 332.1 1.561 526.7 A4051 0.679 2.1/29.6 0.832 4.7 0.898 7.9 *Intercept Correction applied to A4042(T) (sth) arm within ARCADY model to match queue survey data 9.157. The results in the above tables indicate that queue lengths are particularly significant on the A4042(T) north and south arms in all scenarios. These arms are shown to be already very close to or over an RFC value of 1.00 during both peak hours in the existing 2010 ‘do nothing’ scenario and further to this the ARCADY model provides a pessimistic assessment of these arm’s capacity in the future year scenarios. 9.158. As stated previously, a local correction factor has been applied to the A4042(T) (sth) arm to match with the observed queue length data but no factor has been applied to the north arm. It should be noted that the modelled A4042(T) (nth) arm AM peak queue length is considerably longer than the observed queue and this disparity is exaggerated in the 2027 scenarios. 9.159. The difference between the 2027 ‘do nothing’ and ‘do something’ scenarios is relatively small in terms of RFC values; however, the results do indicate that there is reduction in junction capacity and an increase in queue length on all arms during both peak hours. However, it is noted that the Newport Road and A4051 arms are shown to still operate within capacity with RFC values under 1.00 and experience relatively small queues during both peak hours in the 2027 ‘do something’ scenario. 9.160. It is clear from the results shown in Table 37 and Table 38 that the roundabout exceeds operational capacity both with and without the development fully built out in 2027. 171 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

9.161. The effect of the proposed development would therefore be to marginally increase queuing at the existing junction. As part of the Strategic Highway Network we would expect SWTRA to carry out the necessary improvements to this junction to accommodate both existing traffic and future growth.

Accident Analysis 9.162. Accident data in the vicinity of the Site for the period 2005 – 2010 (inclusive) was obtained from TCBC, the full details of which are included in Appendix 9.12 herewith. The data indicates that there have been 124 accidents recorded in this period, of which there were 15 ‘serious’ accidents and 1 fatality. 9.163. The distribution, severity and cause of the accidents that occurred are summarised in Table 39 at the three existing junctions analysed in this Assessment.

Table 39: Summary of Accidents at Existing Junctions

Severity Location Predominant Causes Slight Serious Fatal y Rear shunt on approach Rechem Roundabout 21 2 - y Collision while circulating y Rear shunt on approach Avondale Roundabout 4 - - y Pedestrian crossing Grove Park Roundabout 1 - - y Rear shunt on approach

Rechem Roundabout 9.164. A high number of ‘slight’ accidents have occurred at Rechem Roundabout, as well as several ‘serious’ accidents. The majority of these accidents were either rear shunts to vehicles waiting to enter the roundabout or collisions while circulating on the roundabout. 9.165. TD 16/07 notes that the average accident rate for 4-arm roundabouts on dual-carriageways between 1999 and 2003 was 2.65 per year, meaning that the accident rate at Rechem Roundabout (4.6 per year) is almost double the national average. The proposed development is not expected to have a significant impact on the pattern or frequency of accidents at this junction, as the increase in traffic flows is relatively modest. The high number of accidents at this junction does however give further evidence to support the implementation of improvement works. 9.166. Signalising the junction and providing lane markings within the roundabout would not only significantly improve the junction’s capacity, but considering the predominant causes of accidents in the past 5 years would greatly improve the safety of the junction.

Avondale Roundabout 9.167. There have been relatively few accidents at the Avondale Roundabout (just under 1 per year). Three of the accidents were rear shunts to vehicles waiting to enter the roundabout, and one was caused by a pedestrian walking into the path of a vehicle exiting onto Cwmbran Drive. 9.168. TD16/07 recommends that the number of entries to a normal roundabout should up to 4, and that if a normal roundabout has more than four arms, it becomes large with the probability that higher circulatory speeds will result. Notwithstanding this guidance, the existing roundabout has 5 arms 172 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

(although it is acknowledged that the Bevans Lane arm is currently lightly trafficked), and it is not proposed as part of the development to alter the geometry of this roundabout (the improvements referred to throughout this report are proposed by TCBC). Furthermore, TD16/07 notes that the average accident rate for 5-arm roundabouts such as this is 1.72 per year. This compares to an accident rate of 0.8 per year for the Avondale Roundabout, which is less than the half the national average, and less than the average accident rate for 4-arm roundabouts of 1.08. 9.169. No accidents in the past 5 years have been recorded within the circulatory carriageway of the junction, and there is no evidence to suggest that high circulatory speeds have given rise to any accidents. 9.170. There are currently informal crossing points on each arm of the roundabout. The proposed improvements to the roundabout will increase the number of lanes that pedestrians must cross, and the preliminary design drawings do not provide detail of crossing points. Considering the likely increase in pedestrian traffic in the vicinity of the Site resulting from the proposed development, it is important that crossing points are provided, probably in the form of dropped kerbs and tactile paving. 9.171. In this case, it may be reasonably concluded that the proposed development will not have a significant impact on the pattern or frequency of accidents at the Avondale Roundabout.

Grove Park Roundabout 9.172. During early discussions, TCBC highlighted that there was a historic safety issue on the southern Cwmbran Drive approach to the Grove Park Roundabout, apparently due to the curvature of the approach road causing drivers to lose control. Signage has however been erected to reduce the speed at which drivers approach the junction, and the accident records suggest that this has effectively addressed the problem. 9.173. It is noted that the proposed development will cause an increase in traffic on Cwmbran Drive of up to 28% during the PM peak, however it is not expected that this will have an impact on the safety of the junction, as the signage and reduced speed limit of 30mph on the southern Cwmbran Drive approach is considered sufficient to reduce approach speeds.

Other Locations 9.174. The data included in Appendix 9.12 indicates a number of other accidents throughout the local highway network, however the proposed development is not expected to have a significant impact on the pattern or frequency of these accidents.

Construction

Construction Traffic 9.175. Construction traffic from the proposed development Site will utilise the Cwmbran Drive access and subsequently Cwmbran Drive to the north or south. In this case construction traffic will not utilise residential streets in the vicinity of the proposed development, and there will be no hindrance to existing traffic flows on Cwmbran Drive.

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Completed Development

Transport Implementation Strategy 9.176. The Transport Implementation Strategy for the proposed development summarises the measures recommended in this Assessment to deliver the principle objectives of the Transport Strategy, as outlined previously: y Encourage a greater use of sustainable modes of transport, namely public transport, cycling and walking as opposed to car travel. y Ensure that the transport network to/from the proposed development is safe, efficient and pleasant for all commuters. y Identify the need for highway improvements to accommodate the increased traffic flows and ensure that the proposed development is accessible by modes of travel other than the private car, including access provisions for mobility impaired persons. y Mitigate any adverse impacts the proposed development may have on the local highway network. y Ensure construction traffic generated by the proposed development does not have an adverse impact on the local highway network and develop mitigation measures if necessary. y Ensure parking facilities are provided in line with the South Wales Parking Guidelines. 9.177. Measures to achieve these objectives have been highlighted in the previous sections and include a combination of highway improvements, public transport improvements, improved pedestrian/cycle access facilities, and an Outline Travel Plan for the proposed development. The measures have been developed to reduce the number of car based trips, moving towards more sustainable forms of travel in line with national, regional and local policy. 9.178. Table 40 summarises the various measures which will be implemented in order to achieve the objectives of the Transport Strategy.

Table 40: Transport Implementation Strategy Measure Elements A Travel Plan Coordinator will be appointed to develop and manage the Travel Plan, which will be an ongoing commitment. Promote the use of a range of alternative travel modes to the private car to ensure a Travel Plans sustainable modal split and encourage modal shift.

Realistic and attainable targets will be set, which will be monitored and reviewed periodically.

The internal highways are designed to allow easy and direct access to all parts of the Site by the widest range of transportation modes. Streets are designed primarily for Internal the movement of people – highway safety, residential amenity and priority for Infrastructure pedestrians and cyclists have influenced the internal access arrangements. Although the Main Street is designed to 30mph standards, it will be traffic calmed to 20mph.

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Measure Elements Access to the Site is to be via 2no. primary accesses at Avondale Roundabout and the proposed Cwmbran Drive Roundabout, and 2no. secondary access via Oaklands Road and Lowlands Crescent. Aside from Avondale Roundabout, these are all new junctions that have been demonstrated to be able to accommodate the increases in traffic as a Links to result of the proposed development External Infrastructure Avondale and Grove Park Roundabouts are to be improved to accommodate the proposed development Speed limits are to be reduced between Grove Park Roundabout and the Rechem Roundabout to improve the capacity of these links. The Main Street is designed to accommodate new bus routes within the Site, with (the Public majority) dwellings within 400m distance from bus stops. Bus stops will have shelters, Transport information boards and easy access kerbs for use with low floor buses. The proposed development will connect to existing external footways and cycle routes at various locations. Walking and Traffic-free footways / cycle routes will be provided within the Site, and traffic calming Cycling measures / crossing points will be provided where these routes cross highways. Facilities such as cycle parking, seating areas, and landscaped areas will be provided to encourage walking and cycling.

Parking Assessment 9.179. It is important that the proposed development provides sufficient car parking, however the amount of parking provided within the development will influence transport mode choice. In this case, the South Wales Counties Parking Guidelines (2008) set out minimum provisions for residents’ and visitors’ parking for new-build residential developments, as well as requirements for other uses such as shops and community facilities. The document also sets out minimum disabled parking requirements, and also requires adequate cycle parking facilities to be provided. 9.180. The number of parking spaces required is dependent on the size of the residential dwellings, and the size of the shops / community facilities. This information is not currently available, and therefore the parking requirements will be determined (in line with the South Wales Counties Parking Guidelines) at the detailed design stage.

Rail Assessment

Existing Rail Network 9.181. A description of the existing rail network has been provided earlier in this Chapter.

Development Proposals 9.182. No changes to the existing rail network are envisaged as part of the proposed development, however future network improvements recommended in the Sewta Rail Strategy will increase the accessibility of the Site via rail. The following recommendations in the Strategy would have specific benefit to the development: y Expansion of the Park and Ride scheme at Pontypool and New Inn. 175 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

y Increasing the frequency of services on existing lines, specifically the Abergavenny line which includes Cwmbran Station. The Strategy recommends the provision of a half-hourly service between Cardiff and Abergavenny. y The development of a station at Sebastopol, to relieve parking pressure at Cwmbran Station and to remove car traffic from the A4042. The Strategy notes that further development in the catchment area of Sebastopol Station (such as the proposed development Site) would improve the demand for the station and strengthen its business case. The Strategy recommends that funding should be sought in line with new developments to reduce the call on Government funding.

Bus Assessment

Existing Bus Network 9.183. A description of the existing bus network has been provided in earlier in this Chapter.

Development Proposals 9.184. The ability for the development to be well served by public transport is fundamental if the development is to be sustainable in transportation terms. Previous discussions with local service providers indicated that existing routes that pass near the northern and southern accesses could potentially serve the development, and therefore these accesses have been designed to accommodate bus movements. 9.185. The Main Street will be designed to accommodate the bus route, and any traffic management features which may be provided within the Site should be ‘bus friendly’. The internal Site layout will be designed such that no dwelling will be more than 400m from a bus stop, and in general most dwellings will be within 300m. Bus stops will have shelters, information boards and easy access kerbs for use with low floor buses. 9.186. It is recognised that due to phasing constraints, the provision of a Spine Road network through the Site will only be achieved over a period of years in accordance with an agreed phasing strategy. Existing services which pass through Avondale Roundabout (i.e. Routes 15, 18 and 23) could serve initial phases of the development, which will be accessed from Avondale Roundabout and the proposed Cwmbran Drive Roundabout. 9.187. As the development proceeds, it is expected that public transport provision will be extended, with bus services ultimately using all four accesses. The provision of bus services upon completion of, and through early phases of the development, will be agreed with TCBC following the production of a detailed phasing plan (who will subsequently liaise with bus service providers). Bus routes servicing the Site would provide a link to both the bus and train stations at Cwmbran. 9.188. Consideration is currently being given by TCBC to the construction of a bus priority lane along Cwmbran Drive, which would improve the attractiveness of the off-site public transport infrastructure.

Pedestrian / Cycling Assessment

Existing Pedestrian / Cycle Network 9.189. A description of the existing pedestrian and cycle network in the vicinity of the Site has been provided earlier in this Chapter.

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Development Proposals 9.190. The network of pedestrian and cycle routes will in general follow the routes set within the Adopted Development Framework and along the existing right of way alignments. 9.191. New cycle and pedestrian access into the Site will be provided at the new access points and both the new and existing links will then form a comprehensive network of cycle routes and footways through the development. Streets are designed primarily for the movement of people – highway safety, residential amenity and priority for pedestrians and cyclists have influenced the internal access arrangements. 9.192. Green spaces and green corridors within the development will provide opportunities for both cycle routes and footways to be segregated from vehicular traffic and where routes cross roads, various traffic management features can be introduced to facilitate easy and safe crossing by pedestrians and cyclists. Such features could include traditional toucan crossings, road narrowing (so that pedestrians cross only a single lane carriageway), and the identification of pedestrian priority zones at junctions (for example by demarcating areas of blocked paving and slightly raised areas). 9.193. It is now proposed to construct a new canal crossing over the canal tunnel rather than the previously proposed visually intrusive but clear spanning highway bridge over both the canal and the towpath. Under the new proposals, the existing towpath will cross the proposed highway at grade by means of a toucan crossing to allow suitable passage for both pedestrians and cyclists. Both this towpath and the other Sustrans route to the east offer excellent links with central Cwmbran to the south of the Site. 9.194. The exact internal layout and of the above features will be determined at the detailed design stage.

Other Travel Considerations

Disabled Access Provision 9.195. In accordance with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 2005, the proposed development should be accessible to all members of public, including those with a disability. In this respect, the following provisions will be made: y Entrances to buildings will have the ability to be retro-fitted with level thresholds or suitable provisions for wheelchairs; y Dropped kerbs at all crossing points will be provided; y Where possible gradients on all routes of on-site access roads will be designed such that they are within the threshold criteria stipulated in DDA; and y Disabled parking spaces will be incorporated into the design (in line with the Parking Guidelines described in the Appendix ??), with the inclusion of appropriate signing of pedestrian routes.

Cumulative Effects

Construction and Completed Development 9.196. The likely significant effects associated with the proposed development should also be considered with the cumulative effects of other schemes in the locality. 9.197. The only significant scheme which is being undertaken in the immediate area is the Avesta development and the traffic impact of both developments have been considered in this

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assessment. The organic growth in traffic in the immediate area has also been considered in the assessment. In this case the cumulative effects relating to the transportation issues have been considered.

Summary 9.198. This Assessment has investigated the impact of the proposed development on existing infrastructure, and has recommended measures where necessary to mitigate potential increases in traffic and to improve highway safety, including the implementation of Travel Plans to encourage more sustainable forms of travel. 9.199. The targets set by the Travel Plans are likely to result in a reduction in traffic in the vicinity of the Site. The local highway network and proposed junctions have been shown to have sufficient capacity for existing and future traffic flows. 9.200. The Transport Assessment has been carried out in accordance with national, regional and local policy and legislation. In this respect, it is reasonable to conclude that the development proposals should be acceptable to the Local Highway Authority and Planning Authority. 9.201. The enhancements proposed to the existing highway network will result in considerable betterment (considered to be major beneficial) in the long term. 9.202. Table 41 below, contains a summary of the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development.

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Table 41: Table of Significance – Transportation Assessment (Traffic, Transport and Movement)

Significance Residual Effects Nature of Effect Geographical Importance* (Major/ Moderate/ Minor) Mitigation/ (Major/ Moderate/ Minor) Potential Effect (Permanent/ (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Enhancement Measures (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Temporary) I UK W R C D L Negligible) Negligible) Construction Use of Existing residential highway Temporary Minor Adverse Provision of Construction Traffic Management L Negligible Network by Construction Traffic Plan. Provision of Construction Traffic routes

Completed Development Residual Traffic Permanent Minor Adverse Introduce Travel Plan to encourage the uptake L Major Beneficial of more sustainable travel modes. Traffic Safety Permanent Major Beneficial L Major Beneficial Assessment has investigated the impact of the proposed development on existing infrastructure, and has recommended measures where necessary to mitigate potential increases in traffic and to improve highway safety, including the implementation of Travel Plans to encourage more sustainable forms of travel.

Traffic Safety Permanent Major Beneficial Reduction of Speed Limits L Major Beneficial Cumulative Effects The cumulative effect of the South Permanent Minor Adverse Reduction of Speed Limits Major beneficial Sebastopol and Avesta developments have been assessed in addition to the organic growth of traffic in the immediate area * Geographical Level of Importance

I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = Wales; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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10. Archaeological, Built and Cultural Heritage

Introduction 10.1. This chapter outlines the likely impact the development is expected to have on the archaeological and historical environment and the measures considered suitable to minimise any adverse impacts. 10.2. The information upon which this environmental chapter is based was collated as part of an Archaeological Desk Based Assessment by Waterman in December 2010. 10.3. The assessment of the potential impact of development is based on this information and on the latest Draft Master Plan issued, attached here as Appendix 10.1. The original Desk Based Assessment was based on a previous Draft Master Plan also attached here in Appendix 10.2.

Planning Policy Context

National Planning Policy 10.4. The Welsh Assembly has produced Planning Policy Wales (March 2010) to provide advice on all aspects of planning policy in Wales - Chapter 6 of this relates to “Conserving the Historic Environment”. Detailed advice on archaeology in the planning process is contained in Welsh Office Circular 60/96 Planning and the Historic Environment: Archaeology. Welsh Office Circular 61/96 Planning and the Historic Environment: Historic Buildings and Conservation Areas presents the Government’s advice on the handling of historic buildings and landscapes in the planning process.

Local Planning Policy 10.5. Chapter 9 of the Gwent Structure Plan (1996) relates to “The Built and Historic Environment” and contains several relevant policies, namely BC1 to BC5, relate to the protection of the archaeological, historical and architectural environment. Priority is given to the protection and enhancement of these cultural resources, and where development proposals are submitted which are likely to impact on archaeological sites or their setting, evaluation of the impact is recommended. Policy B5 states that : BC5 Where there is a justified need for development sites of archaeological importance sufficient to override their protection under policy B3: y Facilities for investigation and recording may be required; and y Preference will be given to the minimisation of areas of conflict, and y The preservation of remains in situ will generally be preferred to excavation. 10.6. Chapter 9 of the Adopted Local Plan for the County and Borough of Torfaen (2000) relates to “Heritage” and also contains several relevant policies, namely H1 to H7, as below: H1 Development within a conservation area will only be permitted where the proposal satisfies all of the following criteria: a) The proposal preserves or enhances the visual, architectural and historic character of the area. b) The proposal respects the scale and character of both the surrounding buildings and the conservation area. c) The provision of open space between and around buildings reflects the scale, layout and

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character of the conservation area. H2 The demolition, or part demolition, of any building or feature within a conservation area will only be permitted where a strong case can be made. Where a building is to be replaced, evidence will be required that a contract for redevelopment has been entered into. H3 The demolition, or part demolition, of a Listed Building will only be permitted where the proposal satisfies all of the following criteria: a) The building is so unsound that it constitutes a danger to the general public and is incapable of being refurbished at a reasonable cost. b) In the case of the owner being unable to finance the necessary works, the building has been publicly offered for sale or lease at a reasonable price without success. c) A realistic and appropriate development scheme for the site, which will make a positive contribution to the areas character, has been advanced. H4 The alteration or extension of listed buildings will only be permitted where the proposal reflects the original building in respect of the setting of the site and the mass, form, scale, materials, colour, character and design of the building. H5 Development on, or adjoining, a scheduled ancient monument will only be permitted where the proposal would not have an adverse impact upon its respective setting and character. H6 In determining applications for development, account will be taken of archaeological (sic) considerations. Where planning approval is to be granted, for development on a site known to contain archaeological (sic) remains, conditions will be imposed to require that adequate provision is made for the conservation and/or recording of the site during the period of development. H7 Development proposals which are of such a scale that they would adversely affect or visually impinge upon the overall integrity of the ‘Landscape of Outstanding Historical Interest’ at Blaenavon will not be permitted.

Assessment Methodology 10.7. This Chapter is based on a recently undertaken desk based assessment (Appendix 10.2). 10.8. The site was designated as one of the two major General Development Areas (GDAs) in the Adopted Local Plan for the County Borough of Torfaen (Adopted 27 July 2000) – policy S2/2 (centred on ST 285 975). The site relevant to this report does not cover the full extent of the GDA, as it excludes the Golf Course, for which there are currently no redevelopment proposals. 10.9. Subsequent to this allocation of the land, several studies were commissioned, including an Environmental Statement prepared in support of a planning application by a consortium comprising the Welsh Development Agency, Barratt Homes and Crest Strategic Projects. This document is dated 6th June 2001. 10.10. In May 2003 Torfaen County Borough Council adopted the South Sebastopol – Adopted Development Framework. This document relied on a Desk Based Assessment by the Glamorgan Gwent Archaeological Trust (GGAT) for the determination of archaeological and historical significance, as well as the above mentioned Environmental Statement. 10.11. In September 2010 a Scoping Opinion was issued – Planning Application 01/P/05526 – Residential Development Land at South Sebastopol, Cwmbran. The main purpose of this document was “To identify the information which needs to be incorporated into a refreshed Environmental Assessment…”. In terms of archaeology it stated that: 181 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

“Consideration should be given to the canal” (...) “The Historic Environment Record held by Glamorgan Gwent Archaeological Trust is the official archaeological record and should be visited to establish if any new information has been entered into the official record. The information included in the first four volumes of the Gwent County History and the revised cultural heritage aspect section in the Torfaen LANDMAP, and other relevant sources, should be included in the revised ES and should comply with the Standards and Guidance for Desk-based Archaeological Assessments issued by the Institute for Archaeologists.” 10.12. The assessment carried out by Waterman in December 2010 was therefore intended as a review of known archaeological and historical information relating to South Sebastopol, updating any previous searches, whilst conforming to the Institute for Archaeologists’ Standards in British Archaeology: Desk-based Assessments. 10.13. The following work was conducted to provide a baseline to inform the impact assessment: y Search of archaeological and historical record, including Historic Environment Record (HER) via an enquiry with the Glamorgan and Gwent Archaeological Trust Ltd., National Monuments Record (NMR), and local archives. y Search of Aerial Photography Record at the Central Registry for Aerial Photography in Wales. y Search of Local Cartographic Record, and other available information at the Gwent County Record Office. y Review of the information included in the first three volumes of the Gwent County History. y Review of the revised historical and cultural heritage aspect sections in the Torfaen LANDMAP. y Site visit/ walkover to consider the site and also potential impacts on nearby heritage assets. 10.14. A search of the archaeological and historical record was made via an enquiry to the Glamorgan Gwent Archaeological Trust. This was intended to identify all known Historic Environment Records (HERs), including any Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs) and listed building records held by CADW, and sites listed in the National Monuments Record held by the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historic Monuments of Wales, or any other relevant information on the site. 10.15. Historical maps were obtained from a visit to the Gwent County Record Office; aerial photographs were obtained via a search of the Aerial Photography Record at the Central Registry for Aerial Photography in Wales. Secondary sources were consulted at the Cardiff Central Library, such as the Register of Landscapes of Outstanding Historic Importance (1998) and Register of Landscapes of Special Historic Interest (2001). The adopted Local Plan for the County Borough of Torfaen also lists those within the Borough. The Torfaen LANDMAP was consulted online via the Countryside Council for Wales website. 10.16. The site was visited on the 17th September 2010. The aim of the visit and walkover was to identify the ground conditions, and identify remains of previously recorded sites, or any hitherto unrecorded remains.

Significance Criteria 10.17. In Table 43 below (assessment of effects), the following significance criteria against which the assessment of impact is made are used: a) Major (adverse) – total loss; b) Moderate (adverse) - significant loss – likely to result in reduction of value of surviving site; c) Minor (adverse) - loss unlikely to result in reduction of value of surviving site; and

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d) Where the receptor is not directly affected by the development it is classed as not significant and it is not listed. 10.18. Effects of the completed development have not been considered, as all likely significant effects will occur from during the construction phase. 10.19. In addition, the nature of effect is also assessed as being either short-term (less than 5 years), medium-term (5 - 10 years) or long-term (10 years plus) in timescale.

Baseline Conditions

Designated Heritage 10.20. There are no Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAM) within the site. 10.21. The nearest SAM lies approximately a mile west of the site being the Ironstone Works at the Upper Race (Primary Reference Number (PRN 07976g; NGR ST276986), dating from the 16th C. 10.22. The site does not lie within or contain any conservation area, designated landscape or park/ garden. 10.23. There are four listed buildings within the site. 10.24. The Canal Tunnel – Grade II Listed (23957) between Sebastopol and Cwmbran, including attached revetment walls (PRN 03263.73g; NGR ST 2874 9736). This tunnel was built circa 1792, has sandstone facings and no towpath. It is a part of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal - originally two canals, the Monmouthshire Canal was completed in 1799, and the Brecknock and Abergavenny Canal added in 1812. 10.25. Just north of the Canal Tunnel is a Milepost - Grade II listed (80863). During the site walkover a second milepost was observed, roughly across the canal from the Dock Cottage (the old lock keeper’s cottage), just north of Five Locks, south of the proposed development area. This is not listed, unlike the 7 mile milepost. 10.26. Tir-Brychiad - Grade II listed (80864) on the north side of Bevan’s Lane, is a one storey building, with white walls and black doors – this is recognisable in the regional tradition (PRN 00102g; NGR ST 2926 9767). It is a one storey farmhouse with semi-attic and slate roof. The interior has many thick ceiling beams, but the doors and windows are modern with brick surrounds. This is excluded from the proposed development master plan. This structure and its curtilage are not directly affected by the development plans. 10.27. On the south side of Bevan’s Lane, east of Tir-Brychiad, is Wren’s Nest Barn – Grade II listed (80861), also known as Hay Barn in some documents (PRN 07660g; NGR ST 2938 9757). On the 1840 Tithe map this is shown as belonging to Wren’s Nest Cottage. It survives as a well built stone structure, re-roofed relatively recently, but of some antiquity. This is also excluded from the proposed development master plan. This structure is also not affected by the development plans. 10.28. There are two further Listed Buildings to the west of the site – Glyn Bran 00103g and Capeli Llwyd 00113g). They are both listed as post-medieval houses.

Non-designated Heritage

Prehistoric, Roman and Medieval 10.29. There are no known remains or records pre-dating the 16th century within the site. 183 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

10.30. There is one HER listing (00126g) for possible Roman use of a quarry north of the site, although there are no physical remains to confirm this.

Post-medieval (after circa 1500 AD) 10.31. The Canal is the main historic feature within the site (PRN 3263g; NGR linear), and runs roughly from north to south across the proposed development area. This stretch was originally built circa 1792, and has been maintained – the towpath on the east side, has been tarmaced and is used as a pedestrian and cycle path. 10.32. In the Llandrechfa Upper Tithe Map (1842), land uses throughout the site are shown as mainly meadow, pasture, coppice, wood, arable and brake. The main land units belonged to Ty Brychiad, Maes Gwyn and Cwmbran House, and smaller units belonged to Wren’s Nest Farm, The Bryn and Oaklands. Land use has continued to focus around the same activities since then, although some of the smaller units have been merged into larger ones, old buildings fell into disuse (for example Oaklands Farm), and new buildings have appeared (for example Wren’s Nest Farm). 10.33. Other than the few farmsteads, the land units within the site are mainly used as pasture/ grazing, with several areas of woodland and mature hedgerows. This use of land reflects the use of land reported in historical maps consulted, and is probably post medieval in nature. 10.34. Main hedgerows, used as land unit boundaries, but which relate closely to topographical features and particularly to several streams crossing the site, also survive to the present day. The Hedgerows Regulations 1997 provide a set of criteria to determine the importance of historic hedges. The principal qualifying are those along the canal, Bevan Lane, and around the farm of Tir Brychiad. The lanes and public footpaths running through the site are all shown on the 1840 Tithe Map and may be earlier. They are for the most part bordered by hedgerows and wooded areas. 10.35. At the south eastern end of the proposed development area a culverted stream runs west to east under the canal and discharges on to what is suggested was once some sort of settling tank (PRN 07657g; NGR ST 2878 9720, see below). In the 1882 1st Edition OS Map the area is described with the labels “Well” and “Sluice”. 10.36. There are a further eight non-designated Historic Environment Record entries in south Sebastopol, although most are not included in the proposed development master plan. 10.37. The earliest entry is likely to be the Earthwork at Oaklands Farm (PRN 005231g, NGR ST 285 979). This was investigated during the Pontypool Gas Pipeline Rationalisation (HP4), and the GGAT desk-based assessment suggests it may be some sort of boundary, and date from the same period as the boundary to the south of it (possibly 16th century). It is possible that this earthwork is related to the earthworks on a field to the north of the site, and a part of the now ruined Oaklands Farm. 10.38. Oaklands House (PRN 00100g, NGR ST 2838 9786) - has been dated as 17th century, and is described as a “small stone farmhouse of early renaissance phase of regional style, 2-room plan with stud and panel partition, broad stairs set in projecting bay and semi attic. This is now a ruin which will be retained in the proposed master plan as it lies within a wooded area. 10.39. On the west side of the railway, within the site, but outside the proposed development area, lie the remains of the Pontrhydyrun Railway Station House (PRN 0943g, NGR ST 2943 2974 05). The remains of a façade at least 2 storeys high are visible from the cycle path, but obscured by mature vegetation, and it is hard to gauge the extent and condition of any surviving remains. This is to be retained in the proposed master plan as it lies within a wooded area.

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10.40. The Pontypool to Cwmbran Railway (PRN 07665g, NGR linear). The single track (mineral) railway has been dismantled and is now used as a cycle path. 10.41. Uplands Farm Barn (PRN 07656g, NGR ST 2853 9775) – is recorded on the 1840 Tithe Map as belonging to Cwmbran House. It was later developed into Uplands Farm, and the house dates from the late 19th century. This is excluded from the proposed development master plan. 10.42. Wren’s Nest Cottage (PRN 07659g; NGR ST 2923 9755) – is also recorded on the 1840 Tithe Map, and still survives. This is excluded from the proposed development master plan. 10.43. Wren’s Nest Farm (PRN 07664g; NGR ST 2900 9733) – is recorded in the 1840 Tithe Map as a small block of land with no buildings. Later in the 19th century/ 20th century the site was developed and there are several farm buildings. This is excluded from the proposed development master plan. 10.44. Bryn Barn (PRN 07658g; NGR ST 2852 9742) – is an unusual structure with brick piers supporting the roof over a larger basement floor. Surrounding farm buildings are of late 19th century date. This is excluded from the proposed development master plan.

Archaeological Potential 10.45. Information for the site is limited, especially pre-dating the post medieval period, although this may be a reflection of the limited investigation completed previously. Medieval and post medieval land use (ploughing, specifically) will have lead to truncation of any sub-surface earlier archaeological deposits which are often found on similar sites. Indeed, it is unlikely that the site contains any remains of greater than local importance. However, the possibility of the survival of some sub- surface remains of local importance cannot be discounted entirely.

Likely Significant Effects 10.46. The likely significant effects of the Proposed Development are considered here in relation to the future baseline conditions. The identification of significant effects covers all potential effects before any mitigation measures. The significance matrix within Table 42 defines the level of significance of effects and uses the following terms:

Beneficial or Adverse: y Beneficial – advantageous or positive effect to an environmental resource or receptor; or y Adverse – detrimental or negative effects to an environmental resource or receptor. 10.47. Where an effect is considered to be not significant or have no influence, irrespective of other effects, this is classified as negligible. 10.48. Minor, Moderate or Major – this is the level of significance after mitigation where effects are beneficial or adverse: y Minor – an effect which on its own is likely to have a minor influence on decision making but when combined with other effects could have a more material influence; y Moderate – an effect which on its own could have some influence on decision making, particularly when combined with other similar effects; or y Major – an effect which in isolation could have a material influence on the decision making process. 10.49. Short, Medium or Long Term – short to medium term effects are considered to be those associated with the construction phase, and long term effects are those associated with the 185 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

completed development, when it is occupied and occupational. 10.50. Effects of the completed development have not been considered, as all likely significant effects will occur from during the construction phase, and all therefore all effects considered on Table 43 below are long term. 10.51. Direct (for example, demolition) and indirect (for example, impact on setting). 10.52. The scale of effect e.g. Local level (on Application Site or neighbouring sites); District level (within Pontypool/ Cwmbran area); County level (within Torfaen); Regional level (South Wales); Wales level; UK level; International level.

Table 42: Significance Matrix – Archaeology, Built and Cultural Heritage

Sensitivity / Value of Magnitude of Effect Receptor High Medium Low High Major Major/ Moderate Moderate (Wales/UK/International) Medium Major/ Moderate Moderate Moderate/ Minor (County/Regional) Low Moderate Moderate/ Minor Minor (Local/District)

Table 43: Significance Matrix – Archaeology, Built and Cultural Heritage – assessment of effects

Sensitivity/ Magnitude Impact before PRN Description Value of Effect mitigation 00102g Tyr-Brychiad - Grade II Listed Medium Minor Indirect, Minor (80864) adverse (farmhouse) – not part of development plan but adjacent to main road into site 03263.73g Canal Tunnel – new canal Medium Major Direct and crossing to be built over this indirect, structure - Grade II Listed Moderate (23957) adverse --- Milepost – adjacent to new canal Medium Minor Indirect, Minor crossing, but in area which is adverse unchanged - Grade II Listed (80863) 07660g Wren’s Nest Barn – not part of Medium Minor Indirect, Minor development plan but adjacent to adverse main road into site - Grade II Listed (80861 3263g Canal – setting will be changed Medium Moderate Indirect, Minor (linear) along its route. adverse

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Sensitivity/ Magnitude Impact before PRN Description Value of Effect mitigation Buried remains throughout the Low to Major Direct, Minor to site – potential sites medium Moderate adverse Hedgerows, tracks and field Low Moderate Direct, Minor boundaries adverse

Mitigation Measures 10.53. The post medieval landscape can be established confidently from cartographic sources and a review of aerial photography throughout the 20th century, as well as examination of current land uses, and suggest continuity of use. It is however difficult to establish the presence/ absence of surviving archaeological features on this site before the post-medieval period, especially as previous work seems to point to low intensity of past activity. 10.54. It is therefore proposed that further archaeological investigation to define any actual remains, followed by suitable investigation to record any sub-surface features, will minimise the impact on archaeological potential. 10.55. In relation to the bridge across the canal tunnel, this will be designed to safeguard the structure of the tunnel such that there will be no direct adverse effect on this listed building. 10.56. Landscape planting will help screen other listed buildings from new development and a construction management plan will limit traffic noise and dust effects on the setting of all structures including the canal tunnel. 10.57. Interpretation panels along the canal towpath will disseminate information about the area gained from research to date and future investigation.

Residual Effects 10.58. Although most issues can be mitigated to restrict any adverse effects, traffic on the bridge over the listed canal tunnel will remain a moderate adverse impact. 10.59. Other residual impacts would be negligible if the mitigation measures set out above were implemented.

Summary 10.60. A number of listed buildings are identified as lying close to or surrounded by the site. A canal tunnel in the centre of the site is also listed, Grade II. The setting and fabric of these designated heritage receptors would be safeguarded in the main. 10.61. The proposals do require that the canal tunnel is crossed by a new road bridge. This will be designed so as to preserve the tunnel in situ. However, there will be a negative impact on the longer-term setting of this structure through the flow of traffic across the new structure and the structure itself. 10.62. A number of hedgerows and lanes survive within the site and are likely to be of some age. These are incorporated as far as practical within the new masterplan for development. 10.63. The undesignated remains of the old Pontrhydyrun Railway Station House survive within the site as 187 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

does a ruined cottage and a stone and brick water feature which may have been part of now degraded parkland in the south of the site. All these structures will be retained, but if they have to be removed as part of development, a full record should be made of their fabric, as agreed with the Council and their advisors. 10.64. There are no significant remains of earlier than post-medieval date known within the site area and the records for the surrounding area suggest relatively low archaeological potential. However, the paucity of hitherto recorded remains may reflect the dominance of pasture across the site and the absence of past archaeological investigation. Further archaeological investigation will be completed in advance of construction in order to minimise any adverse impact of the proposals.

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Table 44: Table of Significance – Archaeology, Built and Cultural Heritage

Residual Effects Significance Geographical Importance* Nature of Effect (Major/ Moderate/ (Major/ Moderate/ Minor) Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Permanent/ Minor) (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Enhancement Measures Temporary) I UK W R C D L (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Negligible) Negligible) Construction Phase and Completed Development Canal Tunnel – new canal crossing to Permanent Direct and indirect, New crossing designed so as to preserve * Indirect, Moderate be built over this structure - Grade II Moderate adverse the structure of the tunnel in situ. adverse Listed (23957) Construction Management plan will limit traffic noise and dust effects. Milepost – adjacent to new canal Temporary Indirect, Minor adverse Will be protected during the construction * Negligible crossing - Grade II Listed (80863) phase, unchanged thereafter. Permanent Indirect, Minor adverse Landscape planting will help screen listed * Negligible Tyr-Brychiad - Grade II Listed buildings from new development and a (80864) - not part of development construction management plan will limit plan but adjacent to main road into traffic noise and dust effects on the site setting of this structure. Permanent Indirect, Minor adverse As above. * Negligible Wren’s Nest Barn – Grade II Listed (80861) - not part of development plan but adjacent to main road into site Permanent Indirect, Minor adverse Sensitive landscape design and * Direct or Indirect, Minor Canal – setting will be changed along screening. Suitable investigation where adverse its route directly affected. Permanent Direct, Minor adverse Incorporated as part of design as far as * Indirect, Minor adverse Hedgerows, tracks and field possible. boundaries Permanent Direct, Minor to Suitable archaeological investigation prior * Minor adverse Buried remains throughout the site – Moderate adverse to construction. potential sites * Geographical Level of Importance

I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = Wales; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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11. Ground Conditions (Hydrogeology, Soils and Contaminated Land)

Introduction 11.1. This section of the ES reviews the nature of materials found across the Sebastopol site area and considers the implications of contamination and ground conditions on the proposed development. An assessment of risk and the potential impacts of the proposed development are considered and a series of mitigation measure are proposed.

Planning Policy Context 11.2. UK policy is based on the “suitable for use” principle for the control and treatment of existing contamination. This means that remediation is required where there are unacceptable risks to health or the environment arising from the actual or intended use of the site. The relevant guidance on the assessment of this aspect of ground conditions follows a risk-based framework, in line with the Model Procedures for the Management of Land Contamination (DEFRA & Environment Agency 2004) document.

National Planning Policy 11.3. Planning Policy Statement 23 (PPS23), which relates to England, recommends that contamination should be assumed on a precautionary basis where end uses that are particularly sensitive to contamination are being considered, e.g. housing, schools, hospitals, children’s play areas. Note that whilst there is no planning policy guidance for pollution control currently issued in Wales, land developers and their consultants should default to the PPS23 for best practice guidance.

Local Planning Policy 11.4. The regime for Contaminated Land is set out in the Environmental Protection Act 1990, Part IIA, Sections 78A to 78YC. The provisions of the Act are supplemented by the Contaminated Land (Wales) Regulations 2001 (SI 2001, No. 2197 (W.157)), DETR Circular 02/2000 and National Assembly for Wales Statutory Guidance to Enforcing Authorities in Relation to the Implementation of Part IIA of the EPA 1990 (November 2001).

Assessment Methodology 11.5. The legislation is contained in the Environmental Protection Act 1990 Part IIA as amended by the Environment Act 1995 11.6. Reference is made in this assessment to various codes of practice for the identification and assessment of contaminated land published by DEFRA and the Environment Agency for contaminated land BRE for the building industry and NHBC for the housing industry. 11.7. This assessment follows the guidance follows a risk-based framework, in line with the Model Procedures for the Management of Land Contamination (DEFRA & Environment Agency 2004) document.

Baseline Conditions 11.8. The baseline condition appraisal comprised a review of:

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y An up to date Envirocheck Report obtained for the site y Old Ordnance Survey maps covering the site, included in older reports y Geological maps of the area provided by the British Geological Survey y the NRA/Environment Agency groundwater vulnerability map for the area y Existing site investigation data from previous site investigations 11.9. A number of site investigations have been carried out within the site. 11.10. The following site investigations have been carried out within and around the site:

Table 45: Site Investigations

Howard Humphreys & Partners (1972) Borehole 73A for Pontypool bypass located with site’s north-east boundary (available via BGS database)

Intégral Géotechnique (Wales) Limited Trial pitting site investigation across the whole (August 2000) Ref: 7785/PB/00 site

Intégral Géotechnique (Wales) Limited Supplementary trial pitting investigations of (October 2000) Ref: 7785/PB/AFT four areas of ground around Wren’s Nest Farm and laboratory chemical testing of soil and water samples

ESP (March 2000) Ref: 19411 Extracts from a report including laboratory chemical testing of canal water samples

M.E. Andrews (February 2001) Ref: Geotechnical site investigation of the canal CV003807 earth structures

Peter Brett Associates (July 2003) Ref: Contamination summary report of previous 11381/023 contamination testing by Intégral Géotechnique (Wales) Limited and ESP

Peter Brett Associates (November Report on further ground contamination 2003) Ref: 11381/010 investigations

Peter Brett Associates (April 2004) Ref: Supplementary ground investigation report on 11381/11 proposed Canal and Ravine Crossings

Peter Brett Associates (December Contamination risk assessment report 2004) Ref: 11381/019/CBH/RP/HD/RF summarising and risk assessing all previous data

Peter Brett Associates (September Canal condition survey 2005)

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Peter Brett Associates (June 2006) Site investigations and assessments of Ref: 11381/38/CBH/RP/RHT/KB/JS proposed locations of sewers, pumping station and retaining gap

11.11. In addition to the above, a previous Environmental Statement prepared by RPS Chapman Warren in June 2001, contained summaries of the relevant ground condition data. 11.12. Based on the available geological and geomorphological information, it is considered that the ground conditions over most of the site are likely to be similar to those encountered by Integral Geotechnique in their Trinity Road investigation. The red brown/grey green silty clays with mudstone lithorelicts are typical of the Raglan Marl and the cohesive part of the weathered St. Maughans Group in the area. Exposures on site suggest that bedrock is present at relatively shallow depth over parts of the site. The sandstone bands encountered in some of the trial pits are probably representative of the sandstone bands within these strata and are anticipated to be present at shallow depth close to the top of the steep slopes at across the site, for example, to the north and south of Wren’s Nest Farm. 11.13. The presence of the canal tunnel in the centre of the site is probably indicative of a band of sandstone near the surface in this area. If, during construction of the tunnel, a strong sandstone was encountered at the surface, tunnelling in underlying softer marl could have been an easier option than to excavate a cut in strong sandstone. The extent of the sandstone present in this area will need to be investigated further in connection with the new canal crossing to the south of the tunnel. 11.14. The shallow ground conditions that have been encountered by the trial pits can generally be summarised as follows:

Table 46: Summary of Ground Conditions

Summary of Ground Conditions

Depth (m) Stratum From To

GL 0.1/0.2 TOPSOIL: Soft/firm brown clayey SILT/silty CLAY

0.1/0.2 0.3/1.0 Firm/firm to stiff brown silty CLAY with occasional gravels

0.3/1.0 1.2/2.6 Firm to stiff red brown and brown, locally purple, with grey mottling sandy silty CLAY/silty CLAY with some to many fine to medium ground size lithorelicts of mudstone and siltstone

11.15. Some localised made ground has been found at four locations around Wrens Nest Farm. Made ground has also been found in some other localised areas across the site including to the east of the proposed southern canal road crossing, along the disused railway line and former station, and on the southern boundary to the east of the Wrens Farm access track. The encountered made ground generally included variable granular and cohesive soils with gravels, cobbles, boulders including pieces of building rubble, metal, wood, glass, plastic and twigs/branches.

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11.16. Shallow mudstone and siltstone rock strata were found in the vicinity of the canal tunnel. Shallow relatively strong sandstones were found to the east of Wrens Nest Farm. 11.17. The presence of lithorelicts within shallow depths indicates that the underlying bedrock are present at relatively shallow depths beneath much of the site. A number of boreholes have been drilled in parts where road crossings are proposed and these generally encountered bedrock at depths of between approximately 1 and 4m. 11.18. Deeper excavation generally became difficult below approximately 2m, but several pits had to be aborted at depths of 1 to 2m. 11.19. No groundwater was encountered in the trial pits. 11.20. The areas where potential contaminated made ground had been identified are shown on Appendix 11.2 and listed below: Area A - North of Wrens Farm

Area B - South of Wrens Nest Cottage

Area C - South of Wrens Nest Farm

Area D - Southwest of Wrens Nest Farm

Southern Edge - South of Wrens Nest Farm, southern site boundary

Disused Railway Line - Disused railway line and former station, east part of site

Canal North End - Western bank of northern part of the canal

Wrens Nest Farm - Out buildings to the west of the farm

Southern Canal Crossing - Eastern bank towards southern site boundary

11.21. Of the above site areas where potential made ground was suspected, investigations indicated that no made ground was present at Wrens Nest Farm or the Southern Canal Crossing. 11.22. These data represent the baseline condition and it is anticipated that in addressing the geo- environmental issues raised by the ground conditions will benefit both the site and the environment. 11.23. The principal output will be advice and recommendations on the most cost-effective approach to site remediation and site preparation and will also include guidance on all geotechnical aspects of the proposed development works. 11.24. Review and collect relevant data and provide an analysis of: y Geological and ground conditions; y Groundwater regime; y Materials characteristics within the site and immediate vicinity; y Materials used to historically fill the site; y Materials proposed for ground raising; y Waste disposed on site, drainage and leachate potential; y The existence of contaminated materials and landfill gases; 11.25. The assessment will include the preparation and analysis of predicted impacts of the development 193 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

within the area of assessment, including construction activities taking into account the baseline conditions and advise on the areas of concern and appropriate measures to mitigate likely effects and advise on any beneficial effects. 11.26. This will include y Localised soil remediation strategy y Environmental controls y Foundation requirements 11.27. All the above assessment will be undertaken in accordance with DoE guidance materials, in particular, DoE Good Practice Guide 1995 Appendix 6 (Soil, Geology and Hydrology) and all other relevant legislation including all relevant legislative documentation.

Likely Significant Effects

Project Description 11.28. The scheme will be a residential development of principally two storey housing with associated infrastructure the layout of which is not known at this stage. 11.29. It is intended to prepare the South Sebastopol site for residential development. 11.30. To achieve successful site preparation requires a number of processes and some of these require integration with works at other sites. 11.31. The site will be subject to a comprehensive contamination assessment. Known, and any further identified, areas of contamination will be risk assessed in accordance with current best practice and strategies agreed with the regulators. The site will be remediated and certified to the satisfaction of all the regulators. Such works are entirely beneficial to the environment and development. 11.32. The site will be geotechnically evaluated and appropriate ground treatment works designed to achieve a satisfactory development. This may require locally regrading to create plateaux for development. The likely significant effects of the Proposed Development will be considered in relation to the future baseline conditions. The identification of significant effects should cover all effects but not include mitigation measures. All team members should use the significance matrix within Table 47 to define the level of significance of effects and use the following terms: Beneficial or Adverse: y Beneficial – advantageous or positive effect to an environmental resource or receptor; or y Adverse – detrimental or negative effects to an environmental resource or receptor. Where an effect is considered to be not significant or have no influence, irrespective of other effects, this is classified as negligible. Minor, Moderate or Major – this is the level of significance after mitigation where effects are beneficial or adverse: y Minor – an effect which on its own is likely to have a minor influence on decision making but when combined with other effects could have a more material influence; y Moderate – an effect which on its own could have some influence on decision making, particularly when combined with other similar effects; or

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y Major – an effect which in isolation could have a material influence on the decision making process. Short, Medium or Long Term – short to medium term effects are considered to be those associated with the construction phase, and long term effects are those associated with the completed development, when it is occupied and occupational.

Construction

Impact on Geological and Topographic Features 11.33. Although the nature of the development will require a change to the topographic and geomorphological features at the site, the current proposals allow for most of the existing major topographical and geological features to remain intact, e.g. the steep scarp slopes and incised stream valleys. Housing is proposed to be constructed in small development areas and, as far as possible, to conform to existing ground levels. This will minimise the need for cut and fill operations. Where the site is sloping, these will include areas of cut and fill earthworks. 11.34. Any roads crossing the valley to the east of Wren’s Nest Farm to service the south east of the site. will require a stream crossing with a moderately deep cutting (around 3m to 4m) to the south of the stream. The design and construction should be managed to minimise the impact on the valley and the slopes.

Impact on Site Stability 11.35. The site topography presently slopes generally towards the east with a number of local steep slopes to the north and south associated with stream valleys. The development will involve earthworks to construct cut and fill platforms for housing and access roads. With the exception of a moderately deep cutting to the east of the Wren’s Nest Farm, these .earthworks are unlikely to be more than 1m to 2m deep and, provided careful design and construction of slopes, batters and retaining structures Is achieved, there should be no impact on the overall stability of the site and its environs. 11.36. The detailed development layout has yet to be finalised, however it is possible that development will be proposed in the vicinity of the steep slopes. Where this occurs an assessment of a safe distance for construction back from the crest of the slope will be determined. Provided this is achieved, no impact is anticipated on the existing steep slopes across the site. 11.37. As stated the detailed development layout has yet to be finalised and it is currently assumed that development works close to the canal and associated structures will be restricted or avoided. However should such a need arise then it will be necessary for an assessment of a safe distance for construction back from the canal to be determined. Provided this is achieved, no impact is anticipated on the canal and associated structures.

Hydrogeology/Hydrology - Impact on Groundwater 11.38. The site is not located within a particularly sensitive or vulnerable area with regard to the groundwater. The proposed development will involve some cutting into the slopes’ to form access roads, particularly to the east of Wren’s Nest Farm. However at this stage, it is considered that no major aquifers are likely to be disturbed and therefore groundwater depletion is not considered an issue. 11.39. The proposed development does not include any site uses which could cause potential significant

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harm to the groundwater environment. Therefore it is considered that there would be no additional risk to the groundwater from the proposed development.

Hydrogeology/Hydrology - Impact on Surface Water 11.40. The development will include tarmacadam and/or surfaced roads and hardstanding which will increase surface run off from the site. This additional run off should be managed via a suitable surface drainage system such as balancing ponds. 11.41. During construction, potential contaminative sources will be present on site, e.g. fuel tanks, cement etc. Good site housekeeping should be employed to ensure that no contamination of the surface water courses occurs. The appointment of an Environmental Liaison Officer to periodically inspect the site development and the ongoing impact on water courses may be considered. 11.42. Wherever possible existing ditches on the site will be retained and culverted as necessary under roads etc as agreed with the, Environment Agency. Any surface flow on the upstream side of development areas will be intercepted by cut off french drains or ditches and taken to the nearest available outfall (existing ditch or new sewer).

Completed Development 11.43. Although the nature of the development will require a change to the topographic and geomorphological features at the site, the current proposals allow for most of the existing major topographical and geological features to remain intact, e.g. the steep scarp slopes and incised stream valleys. Housing is proposed to be constructed in small development areas and, as far as possible, to conform to existing ground levels. Where the site is sloping, these will include areas of cut and fill earthworks. 11.44. The design and construction of valley crossings should be managed to minimise the impact on the valley and the slopes. 11.45. The .earthworks are unlikely to be generally more than 1m to 2m deep and, appropriate designed slopes, batters and retaining structures will ensure there is no impact on the overall stability of the site and its environs. 11.46. The detailed development layout has yet to be finalised, however it is possible that development will be proposed in the vicinity of the steep slopes. Where this occurs an assessment of a safe distance for construction back from the crest of the slope will be determined.

Table 47: Significance Matrix – Ground Conditions (Hydrogeology, Soils and Contaminated Land)

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Mitigation Measures

Construction 11.47. The development will include tarmacadam and/or surfaced roads and hardstanding which will increase surface run off from the site both temporarily and in the permanent form. This additional run off should be managed via a suitable surface drainage system such as balancing ponds. 11.48. During construction, potential contaminative sources will be present on site, e.g. fuel tanks, cement etc. Good site housekeeping should be employed to ensure that no contamination of the surface water courses occurs. The appointment of an Environmental Liaison Officer to periodically inspect the site development and the ongoing impact on water courses may be considered. 11.49. A site waste management plan and materials management plan will be produced to facilitate the earthworks and management of all materials on the scheme in accordance with established industry practice. 11.50. Wherever possible existing ditches on the site will be retained and culverted as necessary under roads etc as agreed with the, Environment Agency. Any surface flow on the upstream side of development areas will be intercepted by cut off french drains or ditches and taken to the nearest available outfall (existing ditch or new sewer).

Completed Development 11.51. The proposed development comprises residential units with a village centre and associated Infrastructure. No contaminative uses are proposed. Residential Developments generally provide a low level impact on local ground conditions provided they are designed sympathetically. Therefore it is considered that no particular mitigating measures are required with regard to the impact of the development. 11.52. Basic protection measures against radon would be required in the extreme north western margins of the site. Protection measures against methane may be required if alluvium is present in the low lying eastern parts of the site. 11.53. Measures required to protect the development from known contamination are outlined above. However further investigation of potential contamination sources will be required as development layouts are finalised to verify assumptions and development site preparation strategy.

Residual Effects

Construction 11.54. Effective site waste management plan and materials management plan will be produced to facilitate the earthworks and management of all materials on the scheme in accordance with established industry practice. This will minimise the impact of earthworks and environment. This in conjunction with good construction site management and housekeeping will ensure there is no residual adverse effects from the construction phase. 11.55. Construction phase impacts associated with earthworks and foundation construction will be mitigated by appropriate design and engineering consideration prior to construction.

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Completed Development 11.56. The proposed development does not include any site uses which could cause potential significant harm to the groundwater environment. Therefore it is considered that there would be no additional risk to the groundwater from the proposed development. 11.57. The proposed development does not include any site uses which could cause potential significant harm to the site users or future residents. Therefore it is considered that there would be no additional risk to the proposed development 11.58. Residual effects are considered to be negligible due to the proposed scheme design generally enabling the re-use of materials on site and to ensure that stable designs are achieved.

Cumulative Effects

Construction 11.59. Effective site waste management plan and materials management plan will be produced to facilitate the earthworks and management of all materials on the scheme in accordance with established industry practice. This will minimise the impact of earthworks and environment. This in conjunction with good construction site management and housekeeping will ensure there is no residual adverse effects from the construction phase. 11.60. Construction phase impacts associated with earthworks and foundation construction will be mitigated by appropriate design and engineering consideration prior to construction.

Completed Development 11.61. The proposed development does not include any site uses which could cause potential significant harm to the groundwater environment. Therefore it is considered that there would be no additional risk to the groundwater from the proposed development. 11.62. The proposed development does not include any site uses which could cause potential significant harm to the site users or future residents. Therefore it is considered that there would be no additional risk to the proposed development 11.63. Residual effects are considered to be negligible due to the proposed scheme design generally enabling the re-use of materials on site and to ensure that stable designs are achieved.

Summary 11.64. The legislation is contained in the Environmental Protection Act 1990 Part IIA as amended by the Environment Act 1995 11.65. Reference is made in this assessment to various codes of practice for the identification and assessment of contaminated land published by DEFRA and the Environment Agency for contaminated land BRE for the building industry and NHBC for the housing industry. 11.66. This assessment follows the guidance follows a risk-based framework, in line with the Model Procedures for the Management of Land Contamination (DEFRA & Environment Agency 2004) document. 11.67. The baseline condition appraisal comprised a review of: • An up to date Envirocheck Report obtained for the site

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• Old Ordnance Survey maps covering the site, included in older reports • Geological maps of the area provided by the British Geological Survey • the NRA/Environment Agency groundwater vulnerability map for the area • Existing site investigation data from previous site investigations • A number of site investigations have been carried out within the site. 11.68. Based on the available geological and geomorphological information, it is considered that the ground conditions over most of the site comprise red brown/grey green silty clays with mudstone lithorelicts are typical of the Raglan Marl and the cohesive part of the weathered St. Maughans Group in the area. Exposures on site suggest that bedrock is present at relatively shallow depth over parts of the site. The sandstone bands encountered in some of the trial pits are probably representative of the sandstone bands within these strata and are anticipated to be present at shallow depth close to the top of the steep slopes at across the site, for example, to the north and south of Wren’s Nest Farm. The presence of the canal tunnel in the centre of the site is probably indicative of a band of sandstone near the surface in this area. If, during construction of the tunnel, a strong sandstone was encountered at the surface, tunnelling in underlying softer marl could have been an easier option than to excavate a cut in strong sandstone. 11.69. The shallow ground conditions that have been encountered by the trial pits can generally be summarised as follows:

Table 48: Summary of Ground Conditions

Summary of Ground Conditions

Depth (m) Stratum From To GL 0.1/0.2 TOPSOIL: Soft/firm brown clayey SILT/silty CLAY

0.1/0.2 0.3/1.0 Firm/firm to stiff brown silty CLAY with occasional gravels

0.3/1.0 1.2/2.6 Firm to stiff red brown and brown, locally purple, with grey mottling sandy silty CLAY/silty CLAY with some to many fine to medium ground size lithorelicts of mudstone and siltstone 11.70. Some localised made ground has been found at four locations around Wrens Nest Farm. Made ground has also been found in some other localised areas across the site including to the east of the proposed southern canal road crossing, along the disused railway line and former station, and on the southern boundary to the east of the Wrens Farm access track. The encountered made ground generally included variable granular and cohesive soils with gravels, cobbles, boulders including pieces of building rubble, metal, wood, glass, plastic and twigs/branches. No significant contamination has been noted. 11.71. No groundwater was encountered in the trial pits. 11.72. The site will be subject to a comprehensive contamination assessment. Known, and any further identified, areas of contamination will be risk assessed in accordance with current best practice and strategies agreed with the regulators. The site will be remediated and certified to the satisfaction of 199 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

all the regulators. Such works are entirely beneficial to the environment and development. 11.73. The site will be geotechnically evaluated and appropriate ground treatment works designed to achieve a satisfactory development. This may require locally regrading to create plateaux for development. 11.74. Although the nature of the development will require a change to the topographic and geomorphological features at the site, the current proposals allow for most of the existing major topographical and geological features to remain intact, e.g. the steep scarp slopes and incised stream valleys. Housing is proposed to be constructed in small development areas and, as far as possible, to conform to existing ground levels. This will minimise the need for cut and fill operations. Where the site is sloping, these will include areas of cut and fill earthworks. 11.75. The site is not located within a particularly sensitive or vulnerable area with regard to the groundwater. The proposed development will involve some cutting into the slopes’ to form access roads, particularly to the east of Wren’s Nest Farm. However at this stage, it is considered that no major aquifers are likely to be disturbed and therefore groundwater depletion is not considered an issue. 11.76. The proposed development does not include any site uses which could cause potential significant harm to the groundwater environment. Therefore it is considered that there would be no additional risk to the groundwater from the proposed development. 11.77. The development will include tarmacadam and/or surfaced roads and hardstanding which will increase surface run off from the site. This additional run off should be managed via a suitable surface drainage system such as balancing ponds. 11.78. During construction, potential contaminative sources will be present on site, e.g. fuel tanks, cement etc. Good site housekeeping should be employed to ensure that no contamination of the surface water courses occurs. 11.79. Construction phase impacts associated with earthworks and foundation construction will be mitigated by appropriate design and engineering consideration prior to construction. 11.80. Residual effects are considered to be negligible due to the proposed scheme design generally enabling the re-use of materials on site and to ensure that stable designs are achieved.

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Table 49: Table of Significance – Ground Conditions (Hydrogeology, Soils and Contaminated Land)

Sediment and silt generation and Temporary Negligible Water quality of discharged water x x Minor pollution of watercourses controlled through an engineered sediment lagoons with interceptors

Filling Sediment migration into river Temporary Minor Erosion from rainfall and surface water to x X Minor be minimised by sealing and establishment of grass cover.

Piling works – arisings Temporary Negligible All arisings will be restricted to the area of x Negligibl e the specific construction activity and will be incorporated into landscaped bunds

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Piling works – vibration / noise Temporary Negligible Well maintained equipment will be used , X Negligible suitably equipped with noise attenuation facilities. Vibration effects will be local to works area and since there are no other operating facilities or housing in the area then no adverse effects will be experienced by third parties. Minor disturbance to bird life may result.

Services/utilities/other infrastructure Temporary Negligible Where made ground is present all X Negligible - Maintenance or replacement apparatus to be constructed within clean backfill materials

Services/utilities/other infrastructure Temporary Negligible Where made ground is present all X Negligible - apparatus to be constructed within clean backfill materials Contact with made ground materials Contamination

Contamination causing pollution Temporary / Minor No specific measures are required to Negligible X harm to site users Permanent protect the development from known areas of made ground. However further investigation of potential contamination sources will be required as development layouts are finalised to verify assumptions and development site preparation strategy Contamination leachate causing Temporary Minor Quality of existing made ground materials Negligible x X pollution of river from leachates already assessed as generally acceptable. Further testing will also ensure continued compliance with this assumption. All excavated made ground to be strictly controlled at source and during placement. Specification limits placed on acceptable levels of

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compounds. Completed Development Loss or geological resource Temporary/ Negligible Judicious design and minimisation of x No loss of geological Permanent scale of earthworks. resource. No impact on geology and soils Impact on Geological and Permanent Negligible Judicious design and minimisation of X Minor / Negligible Topographic Features scale of earthworks Impact’ on Site Stability Temporary / Negligible Judicious design and minimisation of X Minor / Negligible Permanent scale of earthworks. Appropriate management of materials Cumulative Effects It has been assessed that with regard Negligible Negligible to Ground Conditions there are no cumulative effects associated with other developments

* Geographical Level of Importance

I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = Wales; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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12. Water Resources (Water Quality, Hydrology, Flood Risk and Drainage Assessment)

Introduction 12.1. Waterman Transport and Development Ltd. (WTD) have been commissioned to investigate the hydrological regime associated with the existing Site and to establish a sustainable drainage strategy that will serve to protect the hydrological status quo to support an outline planning application for a development comprising up to 1200no. residential dwellings, neighbourhood shopping and community facilities, as well as formal and informal open space. 12.2. Previous investigations have been carried out on the proposed development site by PBA and Integral Geotechnique and an Environmental Statement (ES) was produced by RPS in 2002. Reference is made in this report to the investigations and conclusions of these previous reports and documents, and text has been abstracted and quoted where it is considered that the factual data is relevant and agreed by WTD. 12.3. The principal conclusion in the previous ES regarding surface water drainage strategy was the requirement for an off-site section of sewer to connect the site to the Afon Lwyd to the east. It was subsequently proposed that, if the proposal to construct an off-site sewer was pursued, Dwr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) would construct the sewer under a requisition scheme. 12.4. On the basis of the previous investigations and conclusions the following issues, inter alia, were required to be addressed in this Chapter. y Investigate whether a more site based disposal strategy could be implemented rather than the current requisition proposal. y Discuss with TCBC and BWB why surface water cannot discharge into the canal even though the land to the west currently discharges into the canal. y Ascertain whether more surface water could be discharged into the Streams if an attenuation system were introduced to restrict the flow to similar levels to existing. y Seek quotations from DCWW for Requisition route options (for the off-site surface water sewer) with associated timescales y Investigate the status & condition of the existing offsite culverts to which the on-site watercourses discharge through y Identify opportunities to allow the use of soakaways y Meet with DCWW to discuss their current status of surface water sewers in the vicinity of the site and assess the potential impact of the South Sebastopol development

Planning Policy Context

National Planning Policy Planning Policy Wales – 3rd Edition (July 2010) 12.5. Planning Policy Wales’ (2010) (PPW) is the overarching policy document that deals with planning matters in Wales. Chapter 4 of PPW confirms WAG’s commitment to sustainable development and the document states that; ‘Sustainable development in Wales means enhancing the economic, social and environmental well-

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being of people and communities, achieving a better quality of life for our own generations in ways which Promote social justice and equality of opportunity; and Enhance the natural and cultural environment and respect its limits – using only our fair share of the earth’s resources and sustaining our cultural legacy’’ 12.6. This is a general requirement to achieve sustainability through the development process. Chapter 12 of PPW deals with Infrastructure and Para 12.1.1 explains that adequate and efficient infrastructure is crucial for the economic, social and environmental sustainability of all parts of Wales. This again is a general objective which requires local interpretation to ensure compliance with the sustainability objectives. 12.7. Planning Policy Wales and its associated Technical Advice Note 15 requires that consideration be given to any potential for flooding from surface water emanating from the developed Site. The redevelopment of existing grass and woodland areas to form hard (impermeable) surfaces such as highways and buildings will cause an increase in surface water runoff rates and volumes.

EU Directives 12.8. Reference is made in this assessment to various EU legislation on Water Quality including the following: y Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive y Nitrates Directive y Water Framework Directive 12.9. The references however relate to the work carried out by such authorities as the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW), Environment Agency Wales (EAW) and DCWW in their progressive and on-going efforts to ensure compliance with the EU Directives. DCWW’s compliance with these directives is regulated by the application of discharge consents granted by EAW

Local Planning Policy

Adopted Local Plan for County Borough of Torfaen (adopted July 2000). 12.10. The County Borough of Torfaen has incorporated the general principles and objectives of PPW in their Unitary Development Plan. The Plan defines the general development objectives of the Authority to be commensurate with the objectives of PPW in general and in respect of sustainability principles in particular. The assessment of water resources involves careful consideration of sustainability principles. 12.11. The proposed development has generally been considered in the context of local and national planning policy and in particular the Unitary Development Plan policy. The Plan provides policy guidance for proposed developments and provides an estimate of the scope of future development. Such information is used by the statutory authorities and service providers to plan services provision for the future. With particular reference to this chapter of the EIA the UDP Plans are utilised to provide an estimate of the size of future population centres to be served by DCWW assets. The data thus derived has been used in the design of the on-going AMP programme. Variations may occur between planned levels of UDP development and actual development allocations. Such variations may occur due to changes in Government policy (for example in terms of development densities, etc.) but it terms of water quality such variations can be accommodated 205 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

provided that the sewage treatment facilities within the development drainage catchment can be shown to be adequate to cater for the variance in development levels.

Assessment Methodology 12.12. In addition to the methodology outlined within the Introduction of this Chapter previously the following philosophy of approach was defined for investigation in the report: - 12.13. With regard to surface water drainage the preferred method of disposal was defined to be via the use of Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems, such as soakaways. In this case, the report would need to review the potential feasibility of these systems using the available Site Investigation information. 12.14. As a general principle it was stated that should soakaways not be feasible then all surface water run-off emanating from the proposed development areas would be discharged into the streams running through the Site. In order to do this however it would be necessary to investigate the hydrological status quo. Existing catchments and sub-catchments would need to be defined as would the points of outfall of the various catchments. 12.15. The current rates and points of discharge for the existing site runoff would be maintained as part of the development proposals, and any increased runoff as a result of the proposals would be attenuated within holding ponds, swales or sub-surface structures. It was not envisaged that any calculations relating to attenuation storage would be required at this stage, however it is key that the hydrological status quo is maintained such that third parties downstream of the development site are not adversely affected. 12.16. Maintaining the status quo, both in terms of rate/volume and quality of runoff, would be fundamental for the drainage catchments that are associated with the canal and wetland habitat. 12.17. It was envisaged that a hydraulic model of the existing network of streams would be carried out as part of the Flood Risk/Hydrological/Hydro-geological Assessment required by the EIA. The Flood Risk Assessment would highlight any potential for out-of-bank flood flow generated by an extreme rainfall event on the upstream catchment and as such provide constraints for the proposed development in terms of flood risk.

Baseline Conditions The Hydrological Regime

Hydrogeology 12.18. Investigations into the hydrogeology of the site and its environs generally concur with the findings of the previous ES prepared in 2002. A summary of the baseline conditions is included below. 12.19. With regard to the regional setting, the underlying bedrock of the St. Maughans Group and Raglan Marl is classified as a ‘Secondary A’ (Minor) Aquifer by the Environment Agency. The major constituents of these strata are bands of mudstone or siltstone. These would be of low permeability and would have a low yield, forming aquicludes (effectively preventing groundwater flow) or aquitards (severely restricting groundwater flow). Sandstone bands within the strata would be potential aquifers, which can have high permeability and yield. Their local importance would be determined by their setting, lateral persistence and thickness. They are more likely to be important within the St. Maughans Group than the Raglan Marl, due to their greater thickness and persistence. Groundwater flows are likely to be controlled by fracture flow. Generally, aquifers are

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noted to be of major local importance in South East Wales and the Welsh Borders. Groundwater in sandstone bands within the St. Maughans Group may contribute to some of the issues crossing the Site. 12.20. The Brownstone Group (to the west of the Site) comprises predominantly sandstone and therefore is likely to be a more persistent aquifer with higher yields. Indeed, the Environment Agency Groundwater Maps (included in Appendix D herewith) indicate a band to the west of the Site that is designated a Principle (Major) Aquifer. Groundwater within this stratum is considered to be the source of many of the issues and streams across the Site. 12.21. It is considered that, across the Site, groundwater is unlikely to be encountered at shallow depth in the cohesive strata. However where bands of sandstone are present, a limited groundwater body may be present. This groundwater is likely to be recharged where the sandstone is exposed at the ground surface or in stream channels. In general, the surface soils of the Site commonly weather to a fine grained consistency which significantly reduces the permeability of the strata. Therefore generally the scope for surface water infiltration is limited. However, based on available geological and geo-morphological information bedrock may be present at shallow depth in areas of the Site, particularly those which are more elevated the presence of more competent, fractured sandstone may locally offer some potential for infiltration capacity. 12.22. Groundwater within the gravels in the east of the Site is likely to be associated with the Afon Lwyd and could represent the regional groundwater table. 12.23. No licensed groundwater abstractions are recorded in the area of the Site, however historical maps indicate the presence of a number of wells at the site, e.g. at Bryn Farmhouse and Wren's Nest Cottages. These wells probably abstracted water from sandstone bands within the St. Maughans Group. Several wells are presently shown on Ordnance Survey maps on the elevated ground to the west of the site, probably in the Brownstone Group and Carboniferous Limestone. 12.24. Table 50 summarises the expected site hydrogeology based on the underlying geological unit.

Table 50: Summary of Site Hydrogeology

Source Aquifer Aquifer Groundwater Geological Unit Protection Classification Characteristics Abstractions Zone Made ground Not classified Highly variable No None permeability and porosity. Perched water may be present with variable flow directions. Glacial till Minor aquifer Variable No None deposits moderate permeability and porosity with intergranular flow possible. High clay content likely to restrict flow.

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Source Aquifer Aquifer Groundwater Geological Unit Protection Classification Characteristics Abstractions Zone Raglan Minor aquifer Low permeability No None Mudstone/St. mudstones Maughans interbedded with Formation siltstones and sandstones 12.25. A conceptual site model (which shows the relationship between groundwater and surface water runoff) has been established for the Site within the desktop Site Investigation (SI) carried out by Intégral Géotechnique, is included in Appendix E herewith.

Hydrology

General Description 12.26. The Site lies within the relatively narrow catchment area of the Afon Lwyd, which flows in a southerly direction approximately 300 – 400m beyond the eastern Site boundary. The catchment is fairly urbanised and receives approximately 1,150 mm of rainfall per year1. The catchment responds quickly to rainfall due to its steep, impermeable upper reaches and moderate urban area. 12.27. The Site is traversed in a generally north/south direction by the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and in a west/east direction by three primary watercourses. The northern watercourse drains an area to the west of the canal via a culvert under the canal, and passes through the east side of the Site before ultimately discharging to the Afon Lwyd to the east. The southern watercourse discharges into the canal before emerging again to the south-east as an overflow from the canal. The watercourse then passes through the east side of the Site before ultimately discharging to the Afon Lwyd. The central watercourse appears to have been historically culverted beneath the canal, however it currently discharges into the canal, the culvert being effectively redundant except possibly during storm events. 12.28. Several streams drain areas to the west of Maes Gwyn Bungalow, and gravitate in a southerly direction to discharge to the Blaen Bran. One of these streams passes through the south-western corner of the Site. 12.29. Plans showing the existing surface water features and catchment boundaries are included in Appendix F herewith. Each of the streams crossing the Site is described in more detail below.

Stream 1 12.30. Stream 1 runs along the northern Site boundary, and appears to originate from issues on higher ground to the west of the site, probably in outcrops of the Brownstone Group. A number of issues feed 3no. tributaries (denoted Streams 1A, 1B and 1C from north to south), which flow in partially straightened channels to converge in the north west of the site. 12.31. The resulting stream is of moderate flow in a valley along the northern Site boundary. This valley is initially slightly incised and closed, becoming deeper but more open with areas of grass and heather towards the canal in the east.

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12.32. The stream crosses beneath the canal in a deep culvert before flowing to the east in a heavily wooded valley at a significantly lower level than the Site.

Stream 2 12.33. Stream 2 is a small tributary of Stream 1 that originates from issues around Tir-Brychiad. The watercourse begins as a well defined drainage ditch, however its path becomes poorly defined prior to its confluence with Stream 1 just upstream of the old railway embankment.

Streams 3 and 5 12.34. Streams 3 and 5 cross the middle of the Site in a west to east direction. They originate from issues on the hillside to the west of the Uplands farmhouse, probably from outcrops of the Brownstone Group, passing to the north of the golf course and Bryn farmhouse to the canal. Stream 3 runs to the south of Uplands in a channel in dense woodland, before running partly in a culvert and open ditch. Stream 3 converges with Stream 5 via a 300mm diameter culvert near Bevans Lane. The culvert has collapsed in one location however the drainage system appears to operate satisfactorily. The watercourse subsequently flows east towards the canal in an incised, steep sided wooded valley. 12.35. Historically, the watercourse passed beneath the canal via a 900mm diameter culvert just to the north of the tunnel, however it currently discharges into the canal, the culvert being effectively redundant (except possibly during storm events). 12.36. It is not known whether the diversion of Stream 3 to discharge into the Canal was authorised but the loss of surface flow in the section of Stream 3 to the east of the canal may have had a detrimental effect on the fauna and flora. The previous ES identified crayfish along this section of Stream 3. 12.37. To the east of the canal, the stream runs in a significantly deeper, heavily wooded valley, with particularly high and steep sides on the southern side. It passes beneath a track through a stone arch near Wrens Nest Cottages. 12.38. Environment Agency records indicate that water is abstracted under licence from this stream from a point on the golf course to the west of the Uplands Farm (at Grid Reference 328180, 197800). The water is used by the golf course for irrigation and the licence allows abstraction between April and October.

Stream 4 12.39. To the north of Stream 5, Stream 4 has a low to moderate flow in an incised, steep sided and heavily wooded valley. The watercourse discharges into the canal just north of Stream 5.

Stream 6 12.40. Stream 6 originates close to Bryn farmhouse, and discharges into the canal to the south of the tunnel. The stream reappears from the canal as an overflow approximately 120m further south on the eastern side and flows in a channel across the south eastern part of the Site. 12.41. To the east of the canal, the channel is moderately incised and is overgrown with mature trees. In January 2000, Torfaen CBC Drainage Department indicated that some scour had occurred just to the east of the canal, and a weir had been reconstructed. The channel is partially brick lined, but some scour still remains. A further small tributary originates in the south east of the site, possibly at the junction of the St. Maughans Group with the underlying Raglan Marl. 209 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Stream 7 12.42. Stream 7 appears to originate from springs to the west of Bryn Farm near Stream 5, and crosses the golf course and the south-western corner of the Site in straightened channels, before converging with the Blaen Bran near Five Locks.

Stream 8 12.43. Stream 8 flows to the west of the Site in a slightly meandering, shallow channel along a deeply incised valley with high, steep slopes overgrown with bracken and mature trees. The stream bed is formed by cobbles and gravel, although it is obscured in places by fly tipping and vegetation debris. The watercourse converges with the Blaen Bran to the west of Stream 7.

Hydrological Calculations

Base Flow Assessment of Existing Streams 12.44. The previous investigations carried out into the Streamcourses included an assessment of the base flow in the water features. 12.45. In order to quantify spring-fed base flows, weirs were installed and monitored between August and October 2002 in Streams 1, 3, 5 and 6. The results, which are summarised in Table 51, indicated that base flows are low in comparison to design flood flows, and therefore no separate base flow assessment is required in design flood estimation, other than that allowed for in standard methods.

Table 51: Base Flow Assessment

Stream 1A Stream 1B Stream 1C Stream 3 Stream 5 Stream 6 Base Flow Base Flow Base Flow Base Flow Base Flow Base Flow (l/s) (l/s) (l/s) (l/s) (l/s) (l/s) 0.01 to 0.08 0.04 to 0.07 0.04 to 0.2 0.3 to 0.4 0.01 to 0.15 None Source: Peter Brett Associates, Study of Existing Streams, Addendum Report (2002) 12.46. Groundwater monitoring carried out as part of the previous EIA for the Site also suggests that the Stream 5 is not groundwater fed, at least in the drier summer months, however it is possible that during the winter months groundwater may maintain spring flow in Stream 4.

Flood Flows for Existing Streams 12.47. The catchments of the existing streamcourses have been estimated using both the topographical and the LIDAR surveys. 12.48. Due to the small size of these catchments, the 1%+CC and 0.1% probability flood flows for the streamcourses have been estimated using Report 124 – Flood Estimation for Small Catchments (Institute of Hydrology, 1994). The SUDS Manual (Ciria, 2007) recommends that catchment sizes between 50 and 200ha should be hydrologically investigated using the Report 124 method. The estimate was based on the area of each catchment along with the soil characteristics and average annual rainfall. The Institute of Hydrology Report 124 calculations are included in Appendix G herewith, and the peak flows are summarised in Table 52.

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Table 52: Extreme Design Flows

Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream 5 Stream 6 Stream 7 Event 1A Base 1B Base 1C Base 1D Base Base Base Base Flow (l/s) Flow (l/s) Flow (l/s) Flow (l/s) Flow (l/s) Flow (l/s) Flow (l/s) 1%+CC 0.13 0.10 0.03 0.41 0.18 0.11 0.18 0.1% 0.15 0.12 0.04 0.50 0.22 0.13 0.21

Surface Water Runoff from Existing Site 12.49. Catchment boundaries have been estimated based on LiDAR and topographical survey information, as shown on the plan included in Appendix 12.1 herewith. These catchment areas have been used to derive peak flood flows at various locations on each Stream using Report 124 – Flood Estimation for Small Catchments (Institute of Hydrology, 1994). The calculations in respect of the above are included in Appendix 12.2 herewith, and the Greenfield runoff rates for the Site are summarised in Table 53.

Table 53: Greenfield Runoff Rates

3.33% Probability 1% Probability 1%+CC Probability 0.1% Probability (l/s/ha) (l/s/ha) (l/s/ha) (l/s/ha) 6.6 8.3 10.0 12.1

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal 12.50. The canal trends north to south across the centre of the site. It was built over 200 years ago as a main communication highway between Brecon and the docks at Newport, with a general gradient of the order of four inches per mile towards the south. A towpath runs along the eastern edge of the canal along its length, excluding the tunnel. British Waterways are responsible for the water within the canal with Torfaen County Borough Council being responsible for maintaining the towpath and banks. 12.51. A number of structures are located along the canal in the vicinity of the site. One significant feature is a short section of tunnel located near the southern boundary of the site. The reason for the construction of the tunnel is not clear. It may be due to the presence of a band of sandstone at shallow depth in the area, with· tunnelling through softer marl having been easier than excavating strong sandstone. Alternatively, it is understood from British Waterways that, in the late 18th Century when the canal was constructed, covering a cut with a tunnel (and backfilling same) was considered safer than leaving a steep cut slope. 12.52. The Canal is a very influential part of the surface water regime. The feature acts as a cut-off for surface water flowing over the open ground to the west. The Canal also accommodates point discharges from three streams to the west of the Canal. The Canal is an earth structure generally and its structural stability depends on the stability of the supporting earthworks. 12.53. A study has recently been undertaken by Waterman Transport & Development Ltd. (Ref. C-11765- 101111-CF-GC-R-0001 – Canal Condition Survey) to assess the overall stability of the earth structures (embankments and cuttings) within the length of the canal as it passes through the site. 12.54. The Study Report also comments on the potential risk to the proposed development presented by the canal and identifies the scope of works required to improve the canal earth structures. The

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works include the replacement of a section of sheet piling and some erosion protection measures along the eastern embankment that retains the canal. 12.55. This length is constructed entirely on gently cross sloping ground falling to the east. The land on both sides over the southern length is heavily wooded and the west bank has several issues which enter the canal. There are numerous areas of wet and soft ground, both below and above the canal which appear to be longstanding. The towpath (east bank) is carried on a relatively low embankment, generally between 1.5-2.5m in height. 12.56. The length of embankment investigated was found to comprise a sandy clay fill, overlying similar in-situ material, with weathered mudstone bedrock at relatively shallow depth. No materials were found either comprising or beneath the embankment which would be particularly prone to excessive long-term consolidation settlement, for example peat or organic clays. 12.57. The local-hydrologeology, together with a temperature-based leakage detection survey indicates that there is no significant deep-seated leakage through the embankment which might significantly reduce the factor of safety against shear failure. It has been concluded previously that the wet areas observed above and below the canal exist as a result of the local hydrogeological conditions, and are not directly related to the canal. These wet areas are expected to show considerable seasonal variation in extent and severity, although some may remain wet even during extended period of dry weather, due to the poor drainage characteristics of the near-surface materials. 12.58. There is however evidence that under certain conditions (for example when the canal is relatively full), leakage occurs at a very high level within the embankment in places, and that this leakage is leading to internal erosion (piping) of the embankment. 12.59. The stability analysis undertaken as part of the previous investigations shows that under conditions where no leakage is taking place, the embankment is relatively stable, although steeper sections are likely to be prone to creep movements at shallow level. Factors of safety against significant shear failure using conservative, but assumed parameters, indicate that the embankment is unlikely to fail in this manner. 12.60. Where high level leakage is taking place, the stability analysis indicates that this leads to an unacceptable reduction in the factor of safety against a deeper-seated failure occurring. The probability of such a failure causing an immediate breach of the canal is considered to be low (this is helped by the relatively wide crest to the embankment). The reduced factor of safety against shallow failure, combined with localised internal erosion, may also be responsible for the apparent 'relaxation' of the embankment which has led to loss of freeboard and a noticeable slope across the crest in places.

Further Actions 12.61. Due to the undesirable effects of the high-level leakage, it is recommended that steps are taken to prevent this from occurring. A number of options have been considered in the aforementioned Canal Condition Survey, as follows: -. y Steel sheet piling y Masonry/mass concrete wall y Clay/soft 'engineered' bank protection 12.62. Following consideration of the relative merits of the above options it is recommended that the sheet pile option would be the most appropriate for the following reasons: - 12.63. The option of sheet piling would appear to be the simplest in terms of installation, as no particular 212 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

access problems are envisaged (subject to an assessment of temporary loads on the embankment), and the work can be carried out without the need to de-water the canal. The alternatives considered would require the water level to be lowered considerably to allow installation. However it should be recognised that there is a potential conflict between the creation of a hard edge to the canal and the maintenance / improvement of the potential water vole habitat, which requires the canal to have a soft edge.

Water Quality 12.64. In the existing situation surface water flow on the site either discharges to one of the streamcourses or discharges overland to the Canal. Some surface flow may percolate into the ground depending on ground conditions. 12.65. With regard to water quality the setting is currently agricultural with the fields used for grazing livestock. In this case, the surface water run-off would be expected to be relatively high in nutrients (i.e. nitrates and phosphates). The surface water run-off is either discharged into the Canal (and subsequently carried downstream until it is discharged via a Canal overflow) or alternatively it is carried by one of the on-site streams to finally discharge into the main rivers of the Afon Lwyd or the Blaen Bran.

Canal Waters 12.66. The water quality in the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal is monitored by the Environment Agency and British Waterways. However no records are available for the stretch of canal in the vicinity of the site. Environment Agency records indicate that to the south of L1antarnam (approximately. 5km south of the site), the water quality (General Quality Assessments) was 'fair' in 1990, but 'poor' between 1996 and 1998. North of Pontypool, British Waterways indicate the water quality to be 'fair' near Brecon, becoming 'poor' in the more industrialised valleys. 12.67. As part of a previous assessment, samples of water were recovered from the canal at Bevans Lane Bridge and Five Locks and were tested in the laboratory for a range of geo-environmental parameters. The purpose of this exercise was to provide a preliminary indication of the water quality of the canal in the vicinity of the site. The results indicated the levels of metals and suspended solids within the water to be less than the laboratory detection limits. The UK government has issued a list of contaminants, which should not be present at any significant level in surface waters (the UK 'Red List'), including volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds, pesticides, cadmium, mercury, PCBs and phenols. These were also found to be below the detection limits of the laboratory. 12.68. From the results of the testing, the water in the canal in the vicinity of the site may be tentatively considered 'fair', in the General Quality Assessments (GQA) system. 12.69. Environment Agency records indicate the water quality in the Afon Llwyd to be 'good' (GQA) in 1990, reducing to 'fair' between 1996 and 1998. No assessment has been undertaken on the other surface water courses. 12.70. Environment Agency records indicate water from the canal is abstracted at a number of locations to the north of the site for use in the Avesta Sheffield Works. The closest abstraction point is around 500m north of the site. It should however be noted that the Avesta Sheffield Works is no longer in operation. 12.71. A geotechnical study has also previously been undertaken on that part of the canal passing through the application site. Its scope and findings are reported in Chapter 11 of the ES. The 213 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

historical value of the canal is considered further in Chapter 10 (Archaeology and Cultural Heritage) of the ES. 12.72. Torfaen CBC (January 2000) indicated that dredgings from the canal are likely to have been placed on the ground uphill (to the west) to allow them to drain back into the canal. The silt in the canal in the Pontypool area is considered contaminated from the historical heavy industries in the area and this contamination could extend to the silts in the canal within the site boundaries. In order to provide a preliminary indication of the potential for contamination, a sample of soil was taken from the side of the canal and tested for a typical range of contaminants. 12.73. The results indicated levels of typical contaminants below their respective guideline levels. The level of total polyaromatic hydrocarbons was however found to be elevated – at 390mg/kg - almost ten times the trigger level in the most commonly used guideline levels (Dutch Intervention Values). Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are a group of a large number of organic compounds which result from the partial burning of organic materials or are contained within man-made products such as petroleum, coal tars and creosote. Some PAH are suspected carcinogens and hazardous to human health. 12.74. The source of the PAHs within the soils in the canal bank is not clear at present and further testing would be required to determine their nature. However, they may be indicative of a potential PAH contamination hazard within the silts in the base of the canal from historical heavy industries to the north. As discussed in the Ecological studies, the canal supports a wide diversity of fauna and therefore the current impact of this contamination maybe limited. 12.75. Any contamination present within the silts in the canals may also be present within any dredgings placed on the fields to the west of the canal. Ground levels to the west of the canal (uphill) do not obviously indicate such dredgings placement, however further investigation is recommended to confirm whether any elevated levels of contamination are present in placed dredgings. 12.76. In summary, the water quality in the streams is considered to be reasonably good and the quality of water in the Canal is considered to be fair. The philosophy of approach to be adopted in the detail design of the Master Plan works is to ensure that the quality levels in the streams and the canal do not deteriorate on account of the development works. The strategy for retaining the existing quality of surface water runoff from the Site into both the canal and the streams is described in Section 5, which deals with the surface water drainage strategy for the proposed development.

Flood Risk Assessment

Introduction 12.77. The Environment Agency’s Flood Map (included in Appendix12.3 herewith) indicates that the Site is not at risk of fluvial flooding from main rivers (i.e. the Afon Lwyd and the Blaen Bran). The TAN 15 Development Advice Map (also included in Appendix I herewith) shows parts of the eastern boundary of the Site around the A4051 to lie within Zone B, denoted as areas known to have been flooded in the past. This Zone B classification appears to relate to the Streams crossing the Site, and is likely to be based on historical fluvial deposits as the flood zone does not correlate with the existing topography. 12.78. We are not aware of any history of flooding to the Site.

Hydraulic Modelling 12.79. A hydraulic model of the existing network of streams has been carried out in order to highlight any

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potential for out-of-bank flood flow generated by an extreme rainfall event on the upstream catchment and as such provide constraints for the proposed development in terms of flood risk. 12.80. In this case, using topographical, Lidar and OS survey data a hydraulic model was created using the Tuflow software package. The design flows derived were then run through the model to determine the current risk of flooding. 12.81. It has been mentioned previously in this report that the Environment Agency’s Flood Maps and the TAN 15 DAM’s indicate that the site is not liable to flooding from the Afon Lwyd and Blaen Bran fluvial regimes. The TAN 15 DAM indicates some minor areas of Zone B on the eastern boundary of the site. These areas appear to have been established from the presence of historic alluvial deposits probably relating to the on-site ordinary watercourses. 12.82. As part of the investigations into the local hydrological regime the principal on-site streamcourses have been analysed to establish the potential flood risk in the case of a 0.1% event and also a 1% plus climate change event. In order to accurately simulate flood risk a thorough examination of the existing culvert structures have been carried out in order to assess vulnerability to blockage. The status of culverts downstream of the site boundary has also been investigated. 12.83. The flood extents derived from the analyses are indicated on Drawing No.’s 11765/C/SA/00/0003- A01 and 11765/C/SA/00/0004-A01 included in Appendix 12.4 herewith. It can be seen that in the case of both flood events there is a risk of flooding to areas on the northern boundary of the site and also in the south west corner of the site. 12.84. On the northern boundary of the site, overland flooding results from the overtopping of the left bank of Stream 1 and possibly Stream 1A. There are several culverts along this section of Stream 1 and the hydraulic analysis indicates a lack of capacity which could initiate the overtopping and overland flow. The overland flow potentially affects residential properties in the Oakdale Road area. The depth of overland flow is shallow (<150mm) but the in bank depth of flow does approximate to 1 m at a point just downstream of the confluence of Streams 1A, 1B and 1C. The offending culvert is also vulnerable to blockages, which would increase the quantity of overland flow and therefore increase the depths/velocities of the floodwaters. 12.85. In the south west corner of the site there are two distinct areas of flooding to the west of the Canal. The more northerly area of overland flow appears to emanate from a point on Stream 7A. This point appears coincident with the location of a culvert where partial blockage could initiate localised flooding. The depth of flow is very shallow. The area of flooding also affects the catchment areas of Streams 6 and 5. Some minor flooding occurs adjacent to the main channel of Stream 5. 12.86. In general, the hydraulic analyses of the on-site water features indicate the potential for flooding to occur in localised areas on the northern boundary and in the south west corner of the site. The extent and depth of flooding are relatively minor and result from such factors as inadequate channel or culvert capacity, and channel restrictions (including partial blockages of culverts). The investigations have indicated a requirement for mitigation measures on some Streams, without which some development areas could be at risk of flooding.

Potential Mechanisms of Flooding

Fluvial Flooding 12.87. It has been mentioned previously in this chapter that the Environment Agency’s Flood Maps and the TAN 15 DAM’s indicate that the site is not liable to flooding from the Afon Lwyd and Blaen Bran fluvial regimes. 215 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

12.88. The various watercourses that pass through the Site do however pose the potential to flood parts of the proposed development areas and in this case, as described in the previous section, a hydraulic model has been constructed to determine the risks.

Pluvial Flooding 12.89. Pluvial flooding is defined as flooding that results from rainfall-generated overland flow, before the runoff enters any watercourse or sewer. It is usually associated with high intensity rainfall events (typically >30mm/h) but can also occur with lower intensity rainfall or melting snow where the ground is saturated, frozen, developed or otherwise has low permeability resulting in overland flow and ponding within depressions in the topography. Urban pluvial flooding arises from high intensity ‘extreme’ rainfall events. 12.90. The steep topography of the existing Site and the relatively low permeability of the ground means that there may be potential for sheet flow to develop in the undeveloped agricultural land. In this case, appropriately sized and located land drainage systems should be installed on the up-slope side of each development parcel. This should be considered at each phase of the development.

Groundwater Flooding 12.91. Flooding from groundwater occurs when the ground water table reaches the surface and creates overland flow. Groundwater flooding is generally associated with porous rocks, namely sands, gravels, limestone and chalk. 12.92. There are several issues and springs around the Site, which indicate the emergence of groundwater at ground level just above the outcrop of an impermeable strata. The treatment of groundwater will need to be carefully considered before any terracing of the existing terrain is carried out. Without appropriate mitigation, groundwater flooding could be an issue for future residents.

Sewer Flooding 12.93. Another potential source of flooding could be resultant of a blockage or lack of capacity in the existing drainage system. In this case, overland flooding may initiate and in doing has potential to flood highways and properties that lie within its flow path. 12.94. The existing site is predominantly ‘Greenfield’ and it is understood that surface water runoff from the existing properties and highways is discharged by gravity to the nearest watercourse. Without consideration and possibly mitigation the proposed development could be affected by floodwaters caused by a failure of these existing systems. 12.95. Given that there will be an increase in impermeable surfaces as a result of the development proposals it is inevitable that there will be an increase in the rate and volume of surface water runoff unless appropriate mitigation measures are implemented. 12.96. A combined public sewer exists within the north-east boundary of the site, however the topography of this area is such that should there be a blockage or lack of capacity in this combined sewer then floodwater would escape from a manhole and flow in an easterly direction off-site. 12.97. The Masterplan layout and drainage design is such that the proposed dwellings would be unlikely to be affected by this form of flooding. 12.98. A sewerage plan in the vicinity of the Site is included in Appendix 12.5 herewith.

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Flooding from the Canal 12.99. As identified earlier in this report the land to the east of the canal would be affected by flooding should a breach of the eastern bank of the canal occur. 12.100. The Canal is an earth structure generally and its structural stability depends on the stability of the supporting earthworks. A study has recently been undertaken to assess the overall stability of the earth structures (embankments and cuttings) within the length of the canal as it passes through the site. This study is discussed in detail in Report No. CIV11765/HS01B – Hydrological Report compiled by Waterman TD, however the stability analysis undertaken as part of the previous investigations shows that under conditions where no leakage is taking place, the embankment is relatively stable. Where high level leakage is taking place, the stability analysis indicates that this leads to an unacceptable reduction in the factor of safety against a failure occurring. 12.101. The probability of such a failure causing an immediate breach of the canal is considered to be low (this is helped by the relatively wide crest to the embankment), however due to the undesirable effects of the high-level leakage, it is recommended that steps are taken to prevent this from occurring.

Likely Significant Effects

Table 54: Significance Matrix – Water Resources (Water Quality, Hydrology, Flood Risk and Drainage Assessment)

Sensitivity / Value of Magnitude of Effect Receptor High Medium Low

High Moderate Major Major/ Moderate (Wales/UK/International)

Medium Moderate/ Minor Major/ Moderate Moderate (County/Regional)

Low Minor Moderate Moderate/ Minor (Local/District)

Construction

Construction Protocols 12.102. In general, it is clear that the proposed development will generate additional surface water flows from the increased impermeable areas. It is therefore fundamental that surface water drainage and land drainage is appropriately managed to ensure that existing flood risk is not exacerbated. 12.103. During the construction phase of the works and prior to the construction of the proposed site drainage the status quo will prevail in that surface water emanating from the site would still discharge to the relevant natural watercourses previously detailed, creating real potential for downstream flooding. 12.104. In this case the adverse affects would continue in the short term, i.e. throughout the construction phase, and the affects rating would be major adverse.

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Completed Development 12.105. It has been demonstrated that in the baseline scenario there is real potential for flooding to occur from the sources described. 12.106. The proposed development would result in increased impermeable areas which in turn would result in higher levels of surface water run-off. The resulting surcharging of the downstream system would cause flooding in extreme rainfall events. 12.107. In this case the Likely Significant Effect in terms of sewer flooding without mitigation is major adverse.

Mitigation Measures

Construction

Construction Protocols 12.108. During the construction phase protocols would need to be put in place to ensure that the current flood risk situation is not exacerbated. The construction of the proposed drainage system early in the construction programme would reduce the surface water run-off discharging off-site into the sewer system. This would effectively mitigate the risk of flooding downstream. 12.109. The construction phase of the development could generate an increase in the concentrations of some pollutants, in particular suspended solids from the mobilisation of silts and sediments during earth works and from the movement of heavy plant. Construction plant may also generate a diffuse pollution source of hydrocarbons and, to a lesser extent, heavy metals, which could leach into the sub-soil and find their way into the groundwater regime and subsequently nearby watercourses. The majority of these pollutants would be mobilised during surface water run-off. It is important that strict protocols are put in place to ensure that polluted run-off is contained and disposed of or treated before discharge to a watercourse or public sewer. 12.110. In addition to the sources of diffuse pollution, there is also some risk of point source pollution of oils and hydrocarbons occurring from spillages or leaks, which could lead to a contamination of the surface water system and consequently any nearby watercourses. The greater risk of oil spillage occurs during vehicle re-fuelling. y Construction protocols relating to the protection of water quality and surface water management in general would include inter alia the following: y The provision of temporary storage areas and stilling basins; y Should the existing drainage system local to the development site not include a petrol interceptor then it is recommended that a petrol interceptor be incorporated into the system as early as possible during the construction programme; y Any trapped road gullies present on the existing on-site system will provide an initial stage of pollution protection and should be maintained during construction to ensure that collected sediments and pollutants are not re-mobilised; and y Mitigation of point source pollution such as oil spillage or leakage will be achieved by provision of designated storage and refuelling areas, with storage areas provided with adequate bunding to prevent spillage. 12.111. The agreed construction protocols would be included as part of the Construction Management Plan which would be approved prior to the commencement of construction works. 218 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

12.112. The likely significant effect during the construction phase with the above mitigation measures in place would be negligible. The affects would be short term. 12.113. The existing fluvial regime is in need of some maintenance, which would assist in regularising flood risk. The following general maintenance/mitigation measures are recommended:

Main Channel Improvements: y Clear debris and obstructions from the main flow channels. y Improve cross-sections of channel where necessary to streamline flow y Increase height of channel banks to prevent overtopping and shallow overland flow.

Culverts: y Clear debris and obstructions from culverts y Increase the conveyance capacity of culverts by replacement or repair y Construct bar screens on upstream faces of vulnerable culverts to prevent severe blockages taking place. 12.114. In addition there are specific recommendations in respect of maintenance in some parts of the regime, as follows: -

Stream 3: y Replace collapsed section of culvert on Stream 3 just upstream of the confluence of Streams 3 and 5.

Stream 5: y Reinstate connection of section of Stream 3 to the east of the Canal to the downstream section to the east of the Canal. Remove outfall into the Canal from the upstream section of Stream 5. The previous ES noted the ecological importance of the downstream section of Stream 5 which may be affected by the loss of surface flow. The re-introduction of surface flow should re-create the appropriate, and natural conditions in which the habitat can thrive again.

Stream 6: y Repair scour damage downstream of the overflow from the Canal to prevent the situation deteriorating. 12.115. The above maintenance/mitigation works are relatively minor (except in the case of Stream 5) and should be completed before the commencement of any development works on site. In all cases the design and implementation of the maintenance/mitigation measures must be such as not to adversely affect the hydrological status quo.

Completed Development 12.116. The general philosophy of approach to the development of the Master Plan has been to create proposals which are sympathetic to the site topography and environmental setting. 12.117. The previous sections of this Chapter described the local flood regime and potential mechanisms of flooding. The flood risk has been found to be minor with flooding being initiated by current capacity inadequacies in the fluvial regime. Such inadequacies can be effectively addressed by the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures. In this case, fluvial flood risk can be managed 219 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

and as such should not be a constraint to development.

Protection of Ecologically Sensitive Areas

MG5 and MG23 Grasslands 12.118. Areas of sensitive grassland are situated between Stream 2 and the right bank of Stream 1, in the north east corner of the site. (as shown on the plans included in Appendix M herewith). The actual area of the grasslands is designated Public Open Space on the Master Plan. The existing catchment area above the MG5 and MG23 grasslands is identified for development, and this will involve the paving of surfaces. This could, if not mitigated, change the hydrological regime and reduce the amount of runoff reaching the grassland. 12.119. To prevent this two mitigation measures are proposed. Firstly, the use of infiltration drainage techniques (soakaways, porous paviours, infiltration trenches etc.) to feed the local groundwater will be maximised in the detailed design although ground conditions may limit the effectiveness of these. 12.120. The second mitigation measure involves the construction of a feeder system to provide water to the grasslands. The feeder system would comprise a linear trench backfilled with granular material. It would be fed by surface water from the Site drainage system, having passed through a petrol interceptor. It would be designed to feed the grassland areas with surface water, either through passing the water into the ground through the trench sides, or controlled by overflow of the trench onto the grassland areas. Weirs in the feeder system would control flows and levels to allow this, with excess water returned to Stream 1. 12.121. This is a simple but flexible system which can be monitored and managed to ensure that the MG5 and MG23 grassland hydrological regimes are protected

W7 Woodland 12.122. Immediately above and north-west of the canal there is a triangular area of damp Alder dominated woodland that will be retained as part of the development (as shown on the plans included in Appendix M herewith). This wetland habitat relies on the existing hydrological regime being maintained. 12.123. As part of the investigations carried out for the previous EIA, 3no. boreholes were sunk for the purpose of groundwater monitoring. The monitoring concluded that Stream 4 (which runs through the centre of the W7 woodland) is not groundwater fed (at least in the drier summer months). The investigations also noted that previous groundwater monitoring carried out by British Waterways in 2000/2001 indicated that groundwater levels rise near to the surface during the winter months and may maintain spring flow for the W7 woodland and Stream 4. 12.124. The catchment above the W7 woodland is identified for development. The developed area will be more impermeable and will be subject to positive drainage. In this case, it is possible that without mitigation measures the quantity of ground and surface water available for the woodland and Stream 4 may be reduced. 12.125. Even though the impact is not absolutely clear it is considered prudent to adopt the same mitigation techniques described for the MG5 and MG23 grasslands for the W7 woodland and Stream 4, i.e. maximising infiltration techniques and the use of a feeder system, with excess water returned to Stream 5 or to the canal.

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Proposed Surface Water Drainage Strategy 12.126. Planning Policy Wales and its associated Technical Advice Note 15 requires that consideration be given to any potential for flooding from surface water emanating from the developed Site. The redevelopment of existing grass and woodland areas to form hard (impermeable) surfaces such as highways and buildings will cause an increase in surface water runoff rates and volumes. 12.127. It is proposed to provide separate foul and surface water drainage systems, and to implement a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) for the surface water drainage. One of the key aims of utilising SUDS is to replicate the quantity and quality of existing Site runoff, to ensure that the hydrological status quo is retained and thereby ensuring that the flood risk to third parties is not exacerbated. 12.128. Runoff from impermeable areas should be discharged to Soakaways, wherever appropriate ground conditions are found, or alternatively via a controlled and attenuated discharge to the on-site watercourses, which then subsequently discharge into the Afon Lwyd. The latter will require attenuation features (such as balancing ponds or sub-surface modular storage) to temporarily store excess runoff, with additional ‘long term’ storage dispersed using soakaways or similar, to ensure that the rate and overall volume of storm runoff is not increased. Surface water runoff from areas of hardstandings such as car parking or highways will pass through interceptors or trapped gullies prior to discharging to the watercourses. 12.129. In addition to considering the effects of the proposed development on third party flood risk, it is also of primary importance to ensure that the proposed development does not adversely affect areas of ecological sensitivity – notably the MG5 and MG23 grasslands near Streams 1 and 2 at the eastern boundary of the Site and the W7 woodland around Stream 4. Furthermore, it is important to ensure that the development does not significantly alter the catchment divisions identified in Section 0 of this report.

Highways 12.130. It is proposed that surface water runoff from highway infrastructure within the development will be collected by appropriately located gullies and then conveyed via a gravity piped system, to be discharged either through soakaways or at an attenuated rate to appropriate drainage ditches / watercourses such that the hydrological status quo is maintained. Surface water will pass through interceptors or trapped gullies prior to discharging to the watercourses. 12.131. Drainage systems for highways, including attenuation storage, will be independent from systems serving the remainder of the development and will comply with the Local Authority’s adoptable standards as a measure of good practice. 12.132. Where necessary, appropriately sized culverts will be designed to convey existing watercourses / drainage ditches and land drainage beneath proposed highway infrastructure.

Playing Fields 12.133. The Master Plan includes the provision of Playing Fields to be located in the north west corner of the development area. This area is currently occupied by open fields, which slope in a north-west to south-east direction. The nature of the topography is such that significant earthworks will be required to accommodate the intended use. 12.134. In the current situation surface water drainage from the majority of the proposed Playing Field area discharges overland to the south east to be intercepted by Stream 4 or Stream 5 before discharge

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to the Canal. 12.135. The design and construction of the Playing Fields will involve the installation of piped land drainage. Surface water collected by the land drains will either discharge to soakaways where ground conditions allow or alternatively the land drainage systems will discharge directly to one of the aforementioned streamcourses. Where discharge to a streamcourse is proposed it is important that the rate of discharge is restricted to Greenfield run-off rates. 12.136. With regard to water quality maintenance protocols will need to be put in place to ensure that any substances used in the maintenance of the Playing Fields should have no adverse impact on the quality of waters in the Streamcourses or the Canal.

Proposed Foul Water Drainage Strategy 12.137. The most sustainable method of disposal of foul water discharge from the proposed residential units is via the mains sewerage network. In this case, discussions have been pursued with Dwr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) to establish an appropriate point of connection. 12.138. Two options for a method of connection to the nearby public foul sewerage system are currently being considered by DCWW. A plan indicating the existing public foul sewerage system is included in Appendix 12.5. 12.139. One of the options is to construct a new off-site gravity sewer between Cwmbran Drive and a field between the Avondale Road/Chapel Lane Junction and the railway. This new sewer, which would connect directly into the Eastern Valley Trunk Sewer, would be constructed by DCWW through a requisition scheme. All the proposed development’s foul flows would be conveyed through this off- site sewer. DCWW have confirmed that the Eastern Valley Trunk Sewer has the capacity to accommodate the full development flow. A plan indicating the proposed requisition route for the new off-site sewer is included in Appendix 12.6. 12.140. The other option is to discharge the proposed development’s foul flows into a section of adopted combined sewer in the north-east corner of the Site. DCWW are currently reviewing the available capacity within this section of sewer, which connects to the Eastern Valley Trunk Sewer a short distance to the east of the Site boundary (i.e. off-site). There may be the need to upgrade this short section of off-site sewer, however we await the results of the DCWW hydraulic modelling exercise. 12.141. Where possible the sewage will be conveyed by gravity sewers to avoid the future maintenance costs and liability associated with foul water pumping stations. Due, however, to the topography of the Site and the likely point of connection to the public sewerage system, it is anticipated that a minimum of 2no. on-site foul water pumping stations will be required. The preliminary design of the on-site infrastructure has been developed to allow flexibility between the two options for a connection with the public sewer. A diagrammatic plan of the potential foul drainage strategy for each of these connection scenarios is included in Appendix 12.6 12.142. All on-site sewerage will be constructed to adoptable standards, in accordance with the current edition of ‘Sewers for Adoption’ and any of the adopting authority’s (DCWW) specific requirements. 12.143. The introduction of formalised drainage on site would effectively prevent surface water discharging off site and as such the risk of downstream flooding in the sewers would be prevented. This is a significant improvement on the existing situation and the works will also accommodate proposed development. In this case the likely significant effect following completion of the development can be regarded as major beneficial.

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Residual Effects

Construction 12.144. The implementation of the construction phase protocols will temporarily enhance the management of surface water on the site and the construction of the proposed drainage works in the early part of the construction programme will significantly reduce the risk of off-site flooding caused by the discharge of surface and near surface waters emanating from the site. 12.145. Surface water and groundwater flows emanating from undeveloped land up hydraulic gradient of the site will still be intercepted by the various Watercourses within the site. These will have the potential to be controlled, and the proposed on-site works will mitigate this situation. From a site specific point of view there will be betterment with and effect rating of major beneficial.

Completed Development 12.146. This chapter has assessed the likely impact of the proposed development on the existing hydrological regime. The assessment has demonstrated that there is no risk of flooding from any of the mechanisms of flooding described. 12.147. Considerable betterment (considered to be major beneficial) will result in the long term from the proposed drainage works.

Cumulative Effects Construction and Completed Development Phases 12.148. The likely significant effects associated with the proposed development should also be considered with the cumulative effects of other schemes in the locality. 12.149. It is understood however that currently there are no other schemes in the immediate area which could be considered to be part of a cumulative effects assessment. In this case there are no cumulative effects to consider further in this assessment.

Summary

Hydrological Regime 12.150. It is considered that, across the Site, groundwater is unlikely to be encountered at shallow depth in the cohesive strata. However where bands of sandstone are present, a limited groundwater body may be present. This groundwater is likely to be recharged where the sandstone is exposed at the ground surface or in stream channels. In general, the surface soils of the Site commonly weather to a fine grained consistency which significantly reduces the permeability of the strata. Therefore generally the scope for surface water infiltration is limited. 12.151. The investigations into the existing hydrological regime have established the natural drainage patterns for surface water flow between the site and the ultimate points of outfall at the Afon Lwyd. The onsite Streams convey the surface water either directly to the Afon Lwyd or Blaen Bran or alternatively discharge waters to the Canal. The Canal conveys surface water to the south and excess water is released via overflows to ultimately discharge to the main rivers. 12.152. The hydraulic analysis of the surface water flows has established that distinct parts of the site are vulnerable to flooding during extreme rainfall events. The flooding comprises shallow overland flow

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and the flooding appears to initiate from capacity inadequacies in the main channels. Partial blockages of culverts have also been identified as a cause of localised flooding. 12.153. This Report has identified areas where remedial work is required to channels, culverts, etc and has recommended measures to improve the efficiency of the existing surface water regime. 12.154. High level leakage has been identified along some sections of the embankment that retains the Canal. Due to the undesirable effects of the high-level leakage, it is recommended that the existing section of sheet piling be replaced. The reduced factor of safety against shallow failure, combined with localised internal erosion, may also be responsible for the apparent 'relaxation' of the embankment which has led to loss of freeboard and a noticeable slope across the crest in places. 12.155. The water quality in the streams is considered to be reasonably good and the quality of water in the Canal is considered to be fair. The philosophy of approach to be adopted in the detail design of the Master Plan works is to ensure that the quality levels in the streams and the canal do not deteriorate on account of the development works.

Flood Risk

Baseline 12.156. The Environment Agency’s Flood Maps and the TAN 15 DAM’s indicate that the site is not liable to flooding from the Afon Lwyd and Blaen Bran’s fluvial regimes. 12.157. The various watercourses that pass through the Site do however pose the potential to flood parts of the proposed development areas and in this case, as described in the previous section, a hydraulic model was constructed to quantify the risks. 12.158. The steep topography of the existing Site and the relatively low permeability of the ground means that there may be potential for sheet flow to develop in the undeveloped agricultural land. In this case, appropriately sized and located land drainage systems should be installed on the up-slope side of each development parcel. This should be considered at each phase of the development. 12.159. There are several issues and springs around the Site, which indicate the emergence of groundwater at ground level just above the outcrop of an impermeable strata. The treatment of groundwater will need to be carefully considered before any terracing of the existing terrain is carried out. Without appropriate mitigation, groundwater flooding could be an issue for future residents. 12.160. A combined public sewer exists within the north-east boundary of the site, however the topography of this area is such that should there be a blockage or lack of capacity in this combined sewer then floodwater would escape from a manhole and flow in an easterly direction off-site. The Masterplan layout and drainage design is such that the proposed dwellings would be unlikely to be affected by sewer flooding. 12.161. As identified earlier in this report the land to the east of the canal would be affected by flooding should a breach of the eastern bank of the canal occur. The probability of such a failure causing an immediate breach of the canal is considered to be low (this is helped by the relatively wide crest to the embankment), however due to the undesirable effects of the high-level leakage, it is recommended that steps are taken to prevent this from occurring.

Development Options and Flood Mitigation Measures 12.162. The flood risk has been found to be minor with flooding being initiated by current capacity 224 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

inadequacies in the fluvial regime. Such inadequacies can be effectively addressed by the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures. In this case, fluvial flood risk can be managed and as such should not be a constraint to development. 12.163. The existing fluvial regime is in need of some maintenance, which would assist in regularising flood risk, and in this respect several general maintenance/mitigation measures are recommended in this report. 12.164. The maintenance/mitigation works are relatively minor (except min the case of Stream 5) and should be completed before the commencement of any development works on site. In all cases the design and implementation of the maintenance/mitigation measures must be such as not to adversely affect the hydrological status quo. 12.165. Flood mitigation measures required to address the potential of a breach occurring in the eastern bank of the canal are described in paragraph 12.154 of this chapter. 12.166. Given that there will be an increase in impermeable surfaces as a result of the development proposals it is inevitable that there will be an increase in the rate and volume of surface water runoff unless appropriate mitigation measures are implemented.

Surface Water Drainage Strategy 12.167. It is proposed to provide separate foul and surface water drainage systems, and to implement a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) for the surface water drainage. 12.168. Runoff from impermeable areas should be discharged to Soakaways, wherever appropriate ground conditions are found, or alternatively via a controlled and attenuated discharge to the on-site watercourses. Surface water runoff from areas of hardstandings such as car parking or highways will pass through interceptors or trapped gullies prior to discharging to the watercourses. 12.169. It is of primary importance to ensure that the proposed development does not adversely affect areas of ecological sensitivity and in this respect a mitigation strategy has been recommended in this report.

Foul Water Drainage Strategy 12.170. Two options for a method of connection to the nearby public foul sewerage system are currently being considered by DCWW. A requisition scheme has already been prepared for one of these options, however there are benefits associated with the alternative point of connection. 12.171. Where possible the sewage will be conveyed by gravity sewers to avoid the future maintenance costs and liability associated with foul water pumping stations. Due, however, to the topography of the Site and the likely point of connection to the public sewerage system, it is anticipated that a minimum of 2no. on-site foul water pumping stations will be required. 12.172. The enhancements proposed to the on-site drainage system will result in considerable betterment (considered to be major beneficial) in the long term. 12.173. Table 55 below, contains a summary of the likely significant effects of the Proposed Development.

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Table 55: Table of Significance – Water Resources (Water Quality, Hydrology, Flood Risk and Drainage Assessment)

Residual Effects Significance Geographical Importance* Nature of Effect (Major/ Moderate/ (Major/ Moderate/ Minor) Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Permanent/ Minor) (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Enhancement Measures Temporary) I UK W R C D L (Beneficial/ Adverse/ Negligible) Negligible) Construction Accidental spillages of contaminants Temporary Major Adverse Introduction and enforcement of L Negligibl e during construction affecting construction phase protocols to enhance groundwater and quality of surface surface water management and to mitigate the potential for accidental water (overland flow) spillages, etc Current risk of flooding by overland Temporary Minor Adverse Programme of construction of drainage L Negligibl e flow from the site could continue works early in the construction throughout the construction phase programme Completed Development Increased surface water run-off from Permanent Major Adverse Design and implementation of SUDS L Major Beneficial impermeable areas could (without drainage system to prevent surface water mitigation) cause increased flooding emanating from the development in urban environment discharging off site to offsite sewer and urban environment generally Increased surface water run-off from Permanent Major Adverse Design and implementation of SUDS L Major Beneficial impermeable areas could (without drainage system to prevent surface water mitigation) cause increased flooding emanating from the development in urban environment. Applies to all discharging off site to combined sewer mechanisms of flooding and urban environment generally Cumulative Effects It has been assessed that no other schemes in locality contributing to a cumulative effect assessment * Geographical Level of Importance I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = W; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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13. Noise and Vibration Assessment

Introduction 13.1. This chapter of the Environmental Statement (ES) assesses the likely significant noise and vibration impacts of the Development. In particular, it considers the potential effects of noise and vibration during the demolition and construction works, and on completion of the Development upon occupants of the proposed buildings and surrounding sensitive receptors. 13.2. The chapter describes the relevant legislative and policy context, the methods used to assess the effects, the baseline conditions currently existing at the Site and surroundings, the potential direct and indirect effects of the Development arising from noise and vibration, the mitigation measures required to prevent, reduce or offset the effects, and the likely residual effects. 13.3. The chapter was written by Waterman Energy, Environment & Design Ltd (hereafter “Waterman”). Additional data relating to the Noise and Vibration Assessment is contained within the following technical appendices: y Appendix 13.1 Residential Suitability Assessment Guidelines y Appendix 13.2 Noise Survey y Appendix 13.3 BS 5228 Construction Noise Assessment y Appendix 13.4 Road Traffic Noise Assessment

Planning Policy Context

Legislation

Control of Pollution Act 13.4. Part III of the Control of Pollution Act 1974 (CoPA)ix is specifically concerned with pollution. With regards to noise, it covers construction sites; noise in the street; noise abatement zones; codes of practice and Best Practicable Means (BPM).

National Planning Policy

Planning Guidance Technical Advice Note 11: Noise 13.5. Planning Guidance Technical Advice Note 11 (TAN 11) x is the principal guidance adopted in Wales for assessing the impact of noise on and from proposed developments. For residential development, the guidance is presented in terms of four Noise Exposure Categories (NECs), ranging from NEC A, where noise need not normally be considered in determining planning applications to NEC D, where planning permission may need to be refused on noise grounds. The criteria relevant to the proposed development are presented in Table 56 below:

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Table 56: TAN 11 Noise Exposure Categories for Road Noise

L dB LAeq,T dB NEC Aeq,T Advice (07:00–23:00) (23:00–07:00)

A < 55 < 45 Noise need not be considered as a determining factor in granting planning permission, although the noise level at the high end of the category should not be regarded as a desirable level.

B 55 to 63 45 to 57 Noise should be taken into account when determining planning applications and, where appropriate, conditions imposed to ensure an adequate level of protection against noise.

C 63 to 72 57to 66 Planning permission should not normally be granted. Where it is considered that permission should be given, for example because there are no alternative quieter sites available, conditions should be imposed to ensure a commensurate level of protection against noise.

D > 72 > 66 Planning permission should normally be refused.

Note: Sites where individual noise events during the night-time (23:00 to 07:00) regularly exceed 82dB LAmax (S time

weighting) several times in any hour should be treated as being in NEC C, regardless of the LAeq, 8 hour (except

where the LAeq, 8 hour already puts the Site in NEC D). 13.6. With regard to commercial or industrial developments, TAN 11 advises that much of the development which is necessary for the creation of jobs and the construction and improvement of essential infrastructure would generate noise and that, whilst local authorities must ensure that development does not cause an unacceptable degree of disturbance, the planning system should not place unjustifiable obstacles in the way of such development.

Regional Planning Policy

The Gwent Structure Plan, 1996 13.7. The Gwent Structure Planxi was adopted by the former Gwent County Council in 1996, and covers the five former districts of Blaenau Gwent, Islwyn, Newport, Monmouth and Torfaen. 13.8. The Local Development Plan (LDP) for Torfaenxii is currently in production and would be a more concise and evidence based set of development policies to replace the adopted Gwent Structure Plan. However until the LDP is adopted, the Gwent Structure Plan Remains in force. 13.9. Policy ENV4 states: ‘Development which creates atmospheric, water and / or noise pollution which would have an unacceptable effect on communities or the environment would not normally be permitted.’

Local Planning Policy 13.10. The LDP for Torfaen would also replace the adopted Torfaen Local Planxiii (published in 2000), however until the LDP is adopted, the Torfaen Local Plan would remain in force. Policy S2 highlights the Development Site as a General Development Area (GDA) identified as ‘S2/2: South Sebastopol’ and states the following: 13.11. ‘Proposals for development within General Development Areas which are in conformity with the 228 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

development framework and other relevant policies of this local plan would be permitted.’ 13.12. The document then goes into more detail about the requirements of the GDA as outlined below: ‘South Sebastopol is the principal housing allocation in the local plan. Its development would span the plan period and beyond the year 2006. On completion it is expected to accommodate some 1200 dwelling units. The site would also include:- i) Neighbourhood shopping provision. ii) A primary school. iii) Community facilities. iv) Formal and informal open space. Provision of these facilities would be phased to coincide with appropriate stages of residential development. Before the commencement of each stage the County Borough Council would seek agreement from developers for the provision of appropriate facilities. ...It is expected that 600 dwellings would be built on this site during the plan period.’ 13.13. The document does not contain any policies which pertain directly to noise and vibration.

Assessment Methodology

Outline Methodology 13.14. The assessment of potential noise and vibration effects resulting from or impacting upon the Development was based upon the following: y Identifying potentially sensitive existing and future noise receptors on the Site and within the surrounding area; y Establishing baseline noise conditions currently existing at the Site and nearby receptor locations through an attended noise survey; y Assessing the suitability of the Site for the Development in terms of the prevailing baseline noise conditions; y Assessing likely noise and vibration levels generated during the demolition and construction works associated with the Development; y Establishing design aims for plant and services to be located on, or within, the proposed new buildings at the Site; y Assessing likely noise levels from the operation of the proposed Development including changes in traffic volumes as a result of the Development; y Formulating proposals for mitigation, where appropriate; and y Assessing the significance of any residual effects.

Establishing Baseline Conditions 13.15. To identify existing and future noise sensitive receptors (NSRs) that could potentially be affected by noise arising from the demolition and construction works and the operation of the proposed Development a desktop assessment of the site was carried out on 17th December 2010 and a site walkover was carried out on 11th January 2011. Various locations were identified and are detailed in Figure 13.1, which is included in Appendix 13.5. The NSRs are discussed in more detail in the

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baseline conditions section of this chapter.

Construction Assessment Methodology

Noise 13.16. In December 2008 the five parts of British Standard (‘Construction Noise and Vibration’) were withdrawn and BS 5228 parts 1 and 2: 2009xiv were published. The new BS 5228 does not have any significant material changes when compared to the previous version. However, it does now include the updated construction plant source noise level data published by DEFRA and provides examples of construction noise limits in Annex E to Part 1 of the Standard. The Standard continues to provide guidance on minimising potential effects through the use of mitigation and the adoption of Best Practicable Means (BPM). 13.17. Owing to the scale of the Development, noise generated during construction works would be considered. Detailed construction methodologies would be established in the post-planning phase. However, reasonable assumptions have been made in terms of types of operations, plant and operating hours of the Site during construction works, as outlined in Chapter 3: Project Proposals. 13.18. Due to the scale of the development, it is expected that the construction stage would be broken down into multiple phases. At this early stage of the planning process, exact details of the proposed construction phases are unconfirmed, hence any possible effects of noise transfer between phases has been discussed qualitatively. 13.19. A series of calculations were carried out in accordance with the methodology prescribed within BS 5228-1:2009 for each of the major stages of construction, accounting for the typical plant and activities expected within each stage. 13.20. To assess the potential effects of demolition and construction noise on existing NSRs ‘The ABC Method’ provided in BS 5228 - 1:2009 was used. This method defines category threshold values which are determined by the time of day and existing monitored ambient noise levels. The noise level generated by demolition and construction activities, corrected to take into account the existing monitored ambient noise levels (i.e. the total noise level), is then compared with the ‘threshold value’. If the total noise level exceeds the ‘threshold value’, a significant impact is deemed to occur. 13.21. To allow greater definition of the significance of the potential effects, the criteria in Table 57 below were adopted.

Table 57: Construction Noise Significance Criteria Level above Effect threshold Definition Significance value dB(A) Negligible < 0 The impact is not of concern. Minor adverse 0.1 to 4.9 The impact is undesirable but of limited concern. The impact gives rise to some concern but is likely to be tolerable Moderate adverse 5.0 to 9.9 depending on scale and duration. Substantial The impact gives rise to serious concern and it should be > 10 adverse considered unacceptable.

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Vibration 13.22. Two types of vibration impact were considered: y The effects on people or equipment within buildings; and y The effects on buildings (or other structures) themselves. 13.23. Owing to the expected nature of the proposed demolition and construction works, it is unlikely that vibration effects generated by the works would have any significant adverse effects on surrounding sensitive receptors. However, the following factors have been taken into consideration: y The severity of the potential impact; y Type and number of plant/equipment; y Duration of the works; y The distance between the source and receptor; y The number of sensitive properties subject to any effects; and y The number of listed buildings and their vulnerability to damage. 13.24. Determining the magnitude of significance of vibration effects is complex owing to the highly variable nature and duration of vibration effects arising from demolition and construction work. 13.25. At this stage in the design process, insufficient detail is available on the methods and equipment to be used during the demolition and construction works. Consequently, the significance of vibration effects arising from such works cannot be assessed quantitatively and was therefore determined using professional judgement.

Completed Development Assessment Methodology

Site Suitability for Residential Development 13.26. Due to the nature of the proposed Development it is necessary to determine the suitability of the Site for residential use. The methodology of a residential suitability assessment relies on comparison of measured noise levels with the absolute levels set out in Table 56. As such, the usual environmental impact assessment methodology of applying significance criteria to changes in noise or vibration levels would not be appropriate due to the lack of a baseline level against which to draw comparisons. As a result, the residential suitability assessment would be carried out solely on the basis of TAN 11 methodology, the guidance provided in BS 8233:1999 ‘Sound Insulation and Noise Reduction for Buildings’xv and the WHO Guidelines for Community Noisexvi (see Appendix 13.1).

Assessment of Road Traffic Noise 13.27. The Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment’s (IEMA) Guidance Notes No. 1 ‘Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic’xvii recommends assessment where traffic flows would increase by more than 30% (or the number of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) would increase by more than 30%), and where specifically sensitive areas experience traffic flow increases of 10% or more. The guidance indicates that projected changes in traffic of less than 10% create no discernible environmental effects. 13.28. Changes in noise levels attributable to changes in road traffic flows and volumes resulting from both the proposed Development have been calculated using traffic data provided by Waterman Transport and Development. Traffic flow data was provided for the ‘with’ and ‘without’

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Development scenarios. The scenarios include traffic associated with committed developments within the wider study area. 13.29. Basic Noise Levels (BNLs) were calculated for the road links covered by the traffic assessment. The calculations used the 18-hour Annual Average Weekly Traffic (AAWT), HDV compositions and vehicle speed for each road link. 13.30. The BNLs were calculated at positions 10m from the road using the guidance provided in the Calculation of Road Traffic Noise (CRTN). The potential effects of changes in road traffic noise

were evaluated by consideration of the estimated changes in LA10 (18 hour) road traffic noise levels on the local highway network as a result of the operation of the proposed Development. 13.31. Using this guidance, the significance of any effects was assessed in accordance with the criteria detailed in Table 58 below.

Table 58: Road Traffic Noise Significance Criteria Change in noise Definition Effect Significance levels dB(A)

> -10 The impact provides a significant positive gain. Substantial beneficial

-9.9 to -5.0 The impact provides some gain to the environment. Moderate beneficial

The impact is of minor significance but has some -4.9 to -3.0 Minor beneficial environmental benefit. The impact is likely to be imperceptible and is therefore -2.9 to +2.9 Negligible not of concern.

3.0 to 4.9 The impact is undesirable but of limited concern. Minor adverse

The impact gives rise to some concern but is likely to be 5.0 to 9.9 Moderate adverse tolerable depending on scale and duration. The impact gives rise to serious concern and it should be > 10 Substantial adverse considered unacceptable.

13.32. The criteria provided in Table 58 were derived by considering how changes in noise levels can be categorised by significance based on key benchmarks that relate to human perception of sound. For example, a change in noise levels of 3dB is generally considered to be the smallest change in noise which is perceptible and a 10dB change in noise represents a doubling or halving of the noise level.

Assessment of Building Services Plant Noise 13.33. TAN 11 makes reference to BS 4142 as being appropriate guidance for assessing new commercial operations and new building services plant noise. The document provides an objective method for rating the likelihood of complaint from industrial and commercial operations. It also provides a means of determining noise levels from fixed building services plant installations and background noise levels that prevail on and around the proposed developments. 13.34. At this stage in the design process, insufficient detail is available on the inclusion of any specific areas where building services plant may be included, such as retail units servicing the village core. Consequently, the significance of noise effects arising from the operation of such plant cannot be assessed quantitatively and was therefore discussed using professional judgement. 232 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Limitations and Assumptions 13.35. The key limitations to the noise and vibration assessments include the current absence of, or possible future changes to: y Details of the methods and plant likely to be used during the demolition and construction phase; y Details of the demolition and construction phasing programme; y Details of the proposed nature, type, number and location of plant; y Detailed design of residential elements of the proposed Development y Details of the frequency and hours of delivery vehicles; and y Details of the future end users of the business and retail uses.

Consultation 13.36. Torfaen Council (TC) were consulted during the EIA Scoping process. TC’s Scoping Opinion specifically requested that an assessment of noise and vibration effects in relation to nearby sensitive receptors was carried out. 13.37. Contact was made with Peter Oates of the TC Environmental Health Department to discuss the proposed Development and agree on a scope of works for the survey and assessment. Mr Oates was in agreement with the scope of works for the survey and assessment.

Baseline Conditions 13.38. Due to the size of the site, there are a significant number of potential noise sensitive receptors (NSRs) in close proximity to, or on the Site. Potential NSRs are listed in Table 59. Where a number of NSRs lie in close proximity to each other, the nearest to the site boundary has been chosen to represent the immediate area. 13.39. Residential dwellings of Sebastopol lie on the northern site boundary, The closest concentrations are located on Oaklands Road and Berkeley Crescent. Residential dwellings of Pontnewydd lie on the southern site boundary with the closest concentrations lying on Five Locks Close, Lowlands Crescent and Grove Park. There are also residential dwellings, currently farm buildings, located on and within the site boundary.

Table 59: Potential Noise Sensitive Receptors Noise Sensitive Description Predominant Noise Sources Receptor (see Figure 13.1) NSR A Wrens Nest Cottages Road traffic on Avondale Road / A4051 NSR B Tir-Brychiad Farm Road traffic on Avondale Road / A4051 NSR C Uplands Farm Distant road traffic, birdsong, occasional passing plane NSR D Wrens Nest Farm Distant road traffic, birdsong, occasional passing plane NSR E Bryn Farm Distant road traffic, birdsong, occasional passing plane NSR F Maes-gwyn Farm Distant road traffic, birdsong, occasional passing plane NSR G Properties on Oaklands Road Local suburban road traffic.

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Noise Sensitive Description Predominant Noise Sources Receptor (see Figure 13.1) NSR H Properties on Berkeley Crescent Local suburban road traffic. NSR I Properties on Five Locks Close Local suburban road traffic . Wind through trees. NSR J Properties on Five Locks Road Local suburban road traffic . NSR K Properties on Grove Park Local suburban road traffic . 13.40. A baseline noise survey was undertaken on the 10th and 11th January 2011 to provide an indication of the prevailing noise climate on and around the Site. Five locations were chosen to best represent the noise environment experienced at potential noise sensitive receptors. The selected monitoring locations are described in Table 60 and identified on Figure 13.1, which is included in Appendix 13.5.

Table 60: Noise Monitoring Locations Monitoring Representative Description Observations and Predominant Location (see NSR Noise Sources Figure 13.1) LT1 Eastern Eastern Site Boundary - Road traffic noise from Avondale Boundary Avondale Road Road and A4051 LT2 Eastern Eastern Site Boundary - Road traffic noise from A4051 Boundary Cwmbran Drive LT3 NSR C,E,F Western Site Boundary Distant Traffic Noise from surrounding road network ST4 NSR A,B,G,H Bevans Lane Distant Traffic Noise from surrounding road network ST5 NSR D,I,J,K Southern Boundary - Five Localised Traffic noise on Five Locks Locks Close Close and distant traffic noise from surrounding road network 13.41. Full details of the baseline survey are provided in Technical Appendix 13.2.As previously discussed baseline noise surveys were undertaken on the 10th and 11th January 2011. The monitored noise levels are provided in full in Appendix 13.2 and summarised in Table 61.

Table 61: Baseline Noise Measurements

Monitoring 1 1 1,2 3 LAeq,T LA10,T LA90,T LAmax Location (see Monitoring Period Duration dB(A) dB(A) dB(A) dB(A) Figure 13.1) Daytime 15hr 63.9 66.5 50.5 94.2 (07:00–23:00) LT1 Night-time 8hr 55.5 55.7 39.7 78.5 (23:00–07:00) Daytime 15hr 70.1 73.5 50.0 94.5 (07:00–23:00) LT2 Night-time 8hr 58.2 59.1 37.0 83.0 (23:00–07:00) Daytime 12hr 45.8 47.4 37.2 73.9 (07:00–23:00) LT3 Night-time 8hr 37.9 39.1 32.4 52.0 (23:00–07:00)

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Monitoring 1 1 1,2 3 LAeq,T LA10,T LA90,T LAmax Location (see Monitoring Period Duration dB(A) dB(A) dB(A) dB(A) Figure 13.1) Daytime ST4 1hr 48.0 48.7 45.6 72.1 (07:00–23:00) Daytime ST5 1hr 52.2 53.7 49.6 73.9 (07:00–23:00)

1 Average of 5 minute measurements over the survey period (LAeq arithmetically averaged) 2 Minimum 5 minute measurement over the survey period 3 Maximum instantaneous measurement over the survey period 13.42. The above tables give an overall indication of the averaged noise levels during the daytime and night-time periods. Monitored noise levels during the daytime and night-time periods are expected to vary subject to changing environmental conditions throughout the period. 13.43. When considering the hourly noise measurements as presented in full is Appendix 13.2 the following observations were made:

y Daytime monitored noise levels ranged between 64.0 and 72.8dB LAeq,1hr at the eastern boundary of the site during the daytime period. The surveyor noted that the dominant noise source in this area of the Site was road traffic associated with the local highway network.

y Daytime monitored noise levels ranged between 39.9 and 50.5dB LAeq,1hr at the western boundary of the site. The surveyor noted that the dominant noise source in this area of the Site was distant road traffic, wind through nearby shrubbery and birdsong.

y Night-time noise levels were typically lower and ranged between 38.3 and 69.2dB LAeq, 5min at

the eastern boundary, and between 33.3 and 46.3dB LAeq, 5min at the western boundary.

Likely Significant Effects

Construction

Noise 13.44. As previously discussed the construction phase of the proposed Development is anticipated to take approximately 10 years to complete. Due to the size of the Development it is expected that construction would take place in multiple phases meaning dwellings constructed on site would become NSRs while construction work is still being carried out. Details of the methods and plant likely to be used during the demolition and construction phases are necessarily indicative at this stage and would be likely to change during the course of the works. This makes it difficult to accurately predict the noise levels for direct comparison with the noise criteria described previously. Therefore, a maximum worst case noise scenario over a 1 hour period was estimated, assuming that plant would be operating at the closest point to the nearest NSRs and in the absence of mitigation. In practice, noise levels would tend to be lower owing to greater separation distances and screening effects. They would also tend to reduce over a 12-hour working day owing to periods of plant inactivity. 13.45. Calculations were undertaken using the data and procedures set out in BS 5228-1:2009 for the noisiest construction phases, to derive indicative noise levels at selected NSRs. The highest noise levels tend to be associated with plant used during piling, earthmoving, concreting and road pavement construction. During the fit-out, construction noise would be significantly lower. The calculated worst case noise levels are presented in Technical Appendix 13.3.

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13.46. The worst case predicted noise levels presented in Appendix 13.2 indicate that in the absence of mitigation construction noise levels would exceed the threshold levels at NSRs A to K, giving rise to negligible to substantial adverse effects. At NSR L, negligible effects would arise. In addition to the assessment results there would also be potential for substantial adverse effects to arise upon completed dwellings in earlier phases during the development of subsequent phases should this be taken forward. 13.47. In addition to construction plant operating on the Site, there would be some movement of materials to and from the Site by road. A construction logistics plan would be agreed with TC to minimise the temporary and intermittent adverse effects that construction traffic can cause. However, peak levels of noise or vibration arising from construction vehicles should not be any greater than can presently arise from existing heavy duty vehicle movements on the existing roads, and would be less than those from the main construction works on the Site. Nevertheless, without mitigation, noise from construction traffic would be likely to give rise to a temporary, minor adverse effect on nearby NSRs. 13.48. Given that some minor to substantial adverse effects are predicted, mitigation measures would be required. Mitigation measures are discussed in detail in the relevant section of this chapter.

Vibration 13.49. There are currently no British Standards that provide a methodology for predicting levels of vibration from construction activities other than BS 5228-2:2009, which relates to percussive or vibratory rolling and piling only. However, it is generally accepted that for the majority of people, vibration levels of approximately 0.14mm/s peak particle velocity (ppv) are just perceptible with cosmetic damage to buildings occurring at much higher levels (10mm/s). Based on historical field measurements undertaken by staff of Waterman, Table 62 below details the distance at which certain activities are likely to give rise to a just perceptible level of vibration.

Table 62: Distances at which vibration may be just perceptible Construction Activity Distance from Activity when Vibration may just be Perceptible (metres) Excavation 10 – 15 Heavy vehicles 5 – 10

13.50. Details of methods and plant likely to be used during the construction phase are necessarily indicative at this stage and may change during the Site redevelopment once further information on the ground conditions and the detailed design of foundations is known. This makes it difficult to accurately predict the likely vibration levels. 13.51. Given the distance between the closest sensitive receptors and the proposed construction work (less than 15m), there is potential for substantial adverse effects upon residents of nearby sensitive receptors to occur. However, these are likely to be short term and transitory in nature. Potential mitigation measures to protect residents of existing sensitive receptors from construction generated vibration are presented in the relevant section of this chapter. Although there would be the potential for adverse effects to arise upon residents of nearby sensitive receptors, vibration levels generated by construction activities would be significantly below those which may give rise to building damage.

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Completed Development

Residential Suitability Assessment 13.52. The development is expected to provide a large number of residential dwellings which would be constructed in multiple phases. At this early stage of the planning process details of site layout are not available. As such the assessment has been completed based upon the parameters as detailed in the Design and Access Statement. 13.53. The monitored noise levels presented in Table 61 have been used to represent building façades located on the site boundary. The noise levels have been compared against the NEC criteria for road traffic noise as presented in Table 56. 13.54. The measured noise levels and associated NECs are presented in Table 63.

Table 63: Average Ambient Noise Levels and Corresponding NEC Monitoring Representative Monitoring Noise Level Overall Location Duration NEC Site Boundary Period dB(A) NEC (see Figure 13.1) Daytime L 63.9 C (07:00–23:00) Aeq,15hr 1 Eastern C Night-time L 55.5 B (23:00–07:00) Aeq, 8hr Daytime L 70.1 C (07:00–23:00) Aeq,15hr 2 Eastern C Night-time L 58.2 C (23:00–07:00) Aeq, 8hr Daytime L 45.8 A (07:00–23:00) Aeq,12hr 3 Western A Night-time L 37.9 A (23:00–07:00) Aeq, 8hr Daytime 4 Northern L 48.0 A A (07:00–23:00) Aeq,1hr Daytime 5 Southern L 52.2 A A (07:00–23:00) Aeq,1hr 13.55. In addition to the monitored noise levels presented in Table 63 a contour plot showing the NEC criteria across the site has been generated using the software package CADNA-A (Figure 13.2 which is included in Appendix 13.6). In order to assess the accuracy of the noise model the measured noise levels detailed in Table 61 where compared against predicted noise levels at the same locations. The CADNA-A predicted noise levels were, on average, 1.9dB(A) over the measured noise levels, ensuring a worst case assessment and prediction of NEC categories for the site. 13.56. The assessment results presented in Table 63 indicate that those facades which face directly onto the eastern site boundary of the proposed Development with the A4051 would fall into NEC C. For dwellings exposed to noise levels in NEC C, TAN 11 states: ‘Planning permission should not normally be granted. Where it is considered that permission should be given, for example, because there are no alternative quieter sites available, conditions should be imposed to ensure a commensurate level of protection against noise.’

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13.57. Although small areas of the proposed Development fall into NEC C, noise levels would reduce with distance from the primary noise source (A4051) resulting in the majority of the proposed Development falling into NEC A and NEC B (see Figure 13.2, which is included in Appendix 13.6). However, given that small areas of the proposed Development fall into NEC B and NEC C, mitigation measures would be required to protect the amenity of future residents of the development. Potential mitigation measures are discussed in the relevant section below.

External Amenity Areas 13.58. The guidance presented within PPG 24 highlights the importance of noise in external amenity spaces such as gardens. The WHO ‘Guidelines for Community Noise’ suggest a design goal of

55dB LAeq,T in order to protect the majority of people from being seriously annoyed during the daytime. 13.59. However, a review of health effects based noise assessment methods undertaken for the DETR by Porter et al in 1998 , just before the issue of Guidelines for Community Noise, it is noted that: ‘Perhaps the main weakness of both WHO-inspired documents is that they fail to consider the practicality of actually being able to achieve any of the stated guideline values’. 13.60. The report goes on to state that: ‘Around 56% of the population in England and Wales are exposed to daytime noise levels exceeding 55dB LAeq and that around 65% are exposed to night-time noise levels exceeding 45dB LAeq (as measured outside the house in each case). The value of 45dB LAeq night-time outdoors is equivalent to the 1995 WHO guideline value of 30dB LAeq night-time indoors allowing 15dB attenuation from outdoors to indoors for a partially open window (for free air ventilation to the bedroom). The percentages exposed above the WHO guideline values could not be significantly reduced without drastic action to virtually eliminate road traffic noise and other forms of transportation noise (including public transport) from the vicinity of houses. The social and economic consequences of such action would be likely to be far greater than any environmental advantages of reducing the proportion of the population annoyed by noise. In addition, there is no evidence that anything other than a small minority of the population exposed at such noise levels find them to be particularly onerous in the context of their daily lives.’ 13.61. Based on the most recent national survey of noise exposure carried out in England and Wales in 2000/2001, the percentage of the population exposed to day and night-time noise levels exceeding the WHO guidelines are 54% and 67%, respectively. The studies indicate that: ‘The percentage of the UK population exposed to daytime levels of 55dB LAeq,16hr or greater, have decreased since 1990, whilst the percentage of the UK population exposed to night-time levels of 45dB LAeq,8hr or greater, have increased since 1990, although this change is not considered statistically significant.’ 13.62. Therefore, the levels suggested in Guidelines for Community Noise may be considered more aspirational than immediately attainable. 13.63. With reference to Table 61, it can be seen that small areas of the proposed Development would be

exposed to noise levels in excess of the 55dB LAeq,T criteria level for the onset of annoyance as presented in the WHO ‘Guidelines for Community Noise’. As such, mitigation measures would be required to minimise noise within external living spaces. Potential mitigation measures are discussed within the relevant section of this chapter below.

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Road Traffic Noise 13.64. As stated above, the 18-hour annual average weekday traffic flows (AAWT) for the roads around the Site were used to establish noise changes as a consequence of the proposed Development. Traffic flow data was provided by the project transport consultants, for the ‘with’ and ‘without’ Development scenarios for both the proposed opening year of 2022. The scenarios include traffic associated with committed developments within the wider study area, which enables the noise impact as a direct consequence of the proposed Development to be calculated. 13.65. Basic Noise Levels were calculated for the road links covered by the Transport Assessment (see Chapter Transportation Assessment (Traffic, Transport and Modelling). The calculations used the 18-hour AAWT, HGV compositions and vehicle speed for each road link. Calculated noise levels are detailed in Appendix 13.4. 13.66. For new proposed access roads, which currently have no flows associated with them the measured

baseline LA10 noise levels have been used for comparison with future predicted traffic noise levels. 13.67. The proposed Development would result in an increase in noise levels along all modelled links. For the most part an increase in noise levels of less than 3dB(A) has been predicted which would be imperceptible at nearby NSRs giving rise to predominantly negligible effects. 13.68. The greatest increase in noise levels is predicted to occur along Bevans Lane (+10.4dB(A)). An increase in noise levels of this magnitude would be perceptible at nearby NSRs. However, it should be noted that the predicted increase in traffic flows would occur gradually throughout the build out of the Scheme and as such the effects are likely to be less than those predicted. 13.69. Furthermore, note should be taken that the traffic data provided for Bevans Lane is applicable at the access point to the site only, at which there are no sensitive properties within 10m of the carriageway edge. As such, it is considered that changes in traffic flows along Bevan Lane would have at worst minor adverse effects upon nearby existing NSRs. Insufficient traffic data is available at this time to allow the potential effects of the internal road network upon proposed residential dwellings to be determined. A detailed assessment of road traffic noise levels within the site would be completed at the detailed design stage. 13.70. The assessment also indicates that the proposed site access on Lowlands Crescent could be subject to moderate adverse increases in noise levels. As there are residential dwellings located at the junction of the site access and Lowlands Crescent, mitigation would be required. Potential mitigation measures are discussed within the relevant section of this chapter below.

Building Services Plant Noise 13.71. Any items of fixed plant installed as part of the proposed Development particularly relating to the village core, would have the potential to generate noise. 13.72. BS 4142:1997 states that a rating noise level of +5 dB above background is of marginal significance when assessing the likelihood of complaints. It is understood that the general intent of the planning system is to ensure that the Development does not result in ‘significant’ adverse environmental effects. This intent is judged to be equivalent to a BS 4142:1997 marginal significance criterion of background noise level plus 5dB(A). 13.73. At this stage in the design process, plant specification is sufficiently flexible to ensure that suitably quiet non tonal plant can be procured and/or mitigation options such as screening (e.g. acoustic louvers) can be investigated as necessary to ensure that guideline noise criteria are met. However, it is considered that in the absence of suitable mitigation fixed plant and mechanical

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services noise would have the potential to have a minor adverse effect upon nearby NSRs.

Mitigation Measures

Construction

Noise and Vibration 13.74. The potential for adverse noise and vibration effects to arise during demolition and construction of the Site would be minimised through the implementation of the following mitigation measures. The contract documentation would refer to BS 5228:2009 and require the contractors to employ the Best Practicable Means (BPM) to minimise the effects of noise and vibration in the form of a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). This would include limiting working hours to those agreed with TC as well as minimising noise and vibration levels at source through the following measures: y Employing and correctly operating only modern, relatively quiet and well-maintained equipment (all equipment must comply with the EC Directives and UK Regulations set out in Annex A of BS 5228:2009 Part 1); y Using low impact techniques, such as bored piling instead of percussive piling or munchers instead of breakers, wherever practicable; y Using electrical equipment in preference to combustion-powered alternatives, wherever practicable; y Careful material handling, such as lowering rather than dropping items; and y Avoidance of unnecessary noise (such as engines idling between operations, shouting, loud radios or excessive revving of engines) by effective site management. 13.75. Maximising the distance between noise and vibration producing equipment/works and sensitive receptors would result in reduced adverse effects. This would be achieved by: y Erecting impervious hoardings, of at least 5kg/m2 surface density and of at least 2.4m in height to reduce demolition noise and vibration comparable with the existing ambient levels; y Siting stationary plant and loading/unloading areas away from sensitive receptors; y Use of existing non-sensitive structures to shield sensitive receptors from noisy works; and y Use of temporary structures, the site geometry or earth mounds to shield sensitive receptors from noisy works. 13.76. Heavy vehicles travelling to and from the Site would do so only on routes agreed with WBC as being most suitable in terms of minimising potential disturbance. 13.77. In addition to the physical considerations summarised above, an effective neighbourhood liaison scheme would be implemented as an essential element of the BPM (within the CEMP) to minimise the effects of noise and vibration.

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Completed Development

Residential Suitability

Internal Noise Levels 13.78. Given that areas of the proposed development fall into NEC B and NEC C, consideration has been given to appropriate acoustic attenuation measures to provide a commensurate level of protection against noise for future occupants. 13.79. BS 8233 suggests good and reasonable internal noise levels for various uses. The criteria relevant to the Development are presented in Table 64 below.

Table 64: Indoor Ambient Noise Levels (BS 8233:1999) Location Internal Noise Level

Living rooms Good Standard 30 dB LAeq (0700-2300hrs) Reasonable Standard 40 dB LAeq

Bedrooms* Good Standard 30 dB LAeq (2300-0700hrs) Reasonable Standard 35 dB LAeq 13.80. The amount of insulation provided by a building element is defined by the weighted sound

reduction index (Rw). The Rw is commonly quoted with the spectrum adaption term Ctr. The

spectrum adaption terms are added to the Rw and are used to take into account the characteristics

of a particular noise spectrum. The term Ctr is used for noise with a frequency spectrum content similar to road traffic noise. This frequency spectrum contains a certain amount of low frequency noise and can also be attributed to low speed railway traffic, aircraft at large distances and factories which emit low frequency noise. 13.81. Wherever possible sensitive rooms would be orientated away from the primary noise sources in the area of the proposed Development. However, should sensitive rooms such as living rooms be orientated towards the A4051 all façades of proposed dwellings in the development would be required to provide sufficient attenuation as to ensure that the guideline internal noise levels as provided in BS 8233 are met. 13.82. Indicative calculations have been completed to indicate the level of attenuation which the worst affected façade of dwellings on the eastern boundary would be required to provide. The results are presented in Table 65 below. It should be noted that the level of attenuation that the facade would be required to provide would decrease with increasing distance (i.e. height or lateral distance) from the road carriageway.

Table 65: Indicative Glazing Specification Location LT1 – Eastern Site Boundary (see Figure 13.1) Daytime Noise Levels Night-time noise levels (0700-2300) (2300-0700) In dB LAeq,T In dB LAeq,T Free Field Level 70.1 58.2 Façade Level 73.1 61.2 PPG 24 Noise Exposure C C Category

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Location LT1 – Eastern Site Boundary (see Figure 13.1) Daytime Noise Levels Night-time noise levels (0700-2300) (2300-0700) In dB LAeq,T In dB LAeq,T BS 8233 ‘Reasonable Internal Resting / Sleeping 40 35 Conditions’ Required Sound Insulation 33.1 26.2 in dB Rw + Ctr Suggested Glazing 10/12/6.4 6/12/6.4 Specification

13.83. It should be noted that the required sound insulation values detailed in this table can be viewed as a worst-case as they take no account of the improvement in composite sound insulation afforded due to the higher performance of the external wall. In addition, it should be noted that noise levels would reduce with height over the measured noise levels at second floor height and, as such, the noise levels used in the above assessment can be viewed as a worst-case scenario. 13.84. By using robust double-glazing units, suitable internal noise levels can be achieved inside habitable rooms within the proposed development. Furthermore, it should be noted that the above specification would relate to those units which are located immediately adjacent to the eastern site boundary. For façades which are further removed from the site boundary and those facades facing away from the carriageway edge , standard thermal double glazing would be sufficient to ensure that the BS 8233:1999 ‘good’ standard would be met as the road noise would be screened by the building itself.

Ventilation 13.85. Although the BS8233:1999 ‘reasonable’ standard is achieved with windows closed, when open the attenuation provided can drop as low as 10dB(A). As such, ventilation should be provided that does not compromise the attenuation of the windows. Furthermore, this should be in compliance with the requirements of the Building Regulations Approved Document F. 13.86. Where appropriate, the preferred choice of ventilation is through the use of natural ventilation openings, such as trickle vents, air bricks and passive ventilation systems. Such ventilators can be used to meet the requirements of the Building Regulations Approved Document F for background ventilation. The future occupants would then have the option of keeping windows closed for most of the time and opening windows for rapid ventilation and summer cooling. 13.87. It is likely that acoustically attenuated trickle ventilators would be suitable to provide air inlet into habitable rooms whilst maintaining suitable internal noise levels. The exact acoustic specification would be established once room volumes and window areas are finalised. 13.88. The Building Research Establishment (BRE) has published an information paper on the acoustic performance of such passive ventilation systems. IP4/99:1999 ‘Ventilators: Ventilation and Acoustic Effectiveness’xviii details a study into the sound reduction performance of fourteen different window mounted trickle ventilators and seven different though wall passive ventilators. The measured sound reduction performance after taking into account flanking sound paths (i.e. sound paths that do not travel directly through the vent) and the effective area of the ventilator were 14-46 dB(A) for ‘passive through wall ventilators’. 13.89. It can be seen from these figures that for the majority of rooms in the proposed development trickle

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vents or passive through wall ventilators are available that meet the requirements of the Building Regulations Approved Document F for background ventilation and also provide sound reduction performance that meets or exceeds that required from the glazing elements.

External Noise Levels 13.90. PPG 24 highlights the importance of noise in amenity spaces; however there are no suggested targets. The World Health Organisation has published guidance on desirable levels of environmental noise. The authors of the 2000 WHO document suggest that: "to protect the majority of people from being seriously annoyed during the daytime, the sound pressure level on balconies, terraces and outdoor living areas should not exceed 55 dB LAeq,16hr for a steady, continuous noise". 13.91. Ensuring that private garden areas face away from sources of noise would ensure that the intervening building structure provides acoustic screening, significantly reducing noise levels. This can be easily implemented in the building layout for the development. Where gardens are orientated towards the primary noise sources localised fencing would be used to reduce noise levels to within acceptable levels. 13.92. It is considered that all matters relating to the detailed design of the proposed Development could be dealt with by way of a suitably worded planning condition and through consultation with the schemes architects, glazing and fencing contractors.

Road Traffic Noise 13.93. A Travel Plan would be proposed which would encourage the use of sustainable transport. This plan would not be designed to deny the freedom of car use, rather it would seek to resolve and relieve any potential noise and air quality issues affecting the site and its immediate environs. Through a range of initiatives, the Travel Plan would help to manage the travel needs of residents and increase the range of travel options by which the site can be accessed. 13.94. At the proposed Site access point on Lowlands Crescent, moderate adverse effects have been predicted due to the future operation of the Development. As a result, mitigation measures should be implemented to ensure that noise levels incident on NSRs adjacent to the site access do not adversely affect the amenity of existing residents. 13.95. Minor adverse effects have been predicted on Oaklands Road and the access point on this road due to the future operation of the development. Note should be made here that these effects are marginally over the criteria where increases in traffic noise become perceptible. Additionally these potential increases in noise would take place over an extended period of time so the increases in noise would be less perceptible. 13.96. For existing dwellings adjacent to the site access point, it is recommended that an acoustic barrier be erected in the form of a continuous close boarded wooden fence of a minimum height 1.8m between the site access road and the dwelling boundaries. This localised fencing would reduce noise levels sufficiently to ensure that any potential increases in traffic noise levels cause negligible effects and a good level of amenity is provided for both future and existing residents.

Building Services Plant Noise 13.97. When considering building service plant associated with the operation of potential sites for retail or commercial use, suitably quiet non tonal plant would be procured and located so as to mitigate any potential noise effects. An appropriately worded planning condition would ensure that the amenity 243 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

of the nearby NSRs is maintained, ensuring negligible effects.

Residual Effects

Construction

Noise 13.98. Appropriate measures to mitigate and control noise from construction works are available and would be implemented in accordance with relevant planning conditions. As a consequence, it is envisaged that the construction works would proceed with the minimum disturbance to local residents. Nevertheless, some short term disturbance for premises immediately adjacent to the site is possible, resulting in at worst temporary negligible to moderate adverse effect.

Vibration 13.99. Owing to the proximity of vibration sensitive receptors to some of the demolition and construction works, some monitoring of vibration is recommended as part of the mitigation package for the Development. Vibration limits would be set to ensure compliance with national standards and hence to minimise the risk of complaints or building damage. With the appropriate mitigation, vibration effects would be at worst minor adverse.

Completed Development

Suitability of the Site for Noise Sensitive Development 13.100. With appropriate design of each building’s façade, negligible effects are predicted for the new residential Development within the Site. All design matters relating to the Development could be dealt with by way of planning conditions.

Road Traffic Noise 13.101. To ensure existing NSRs along Bevans Lane are suitably assessed, it is recommended that a traffic noise assessment be carried out for the proposed road network of the Site once detailed road layout has been agreed. 13.102. With appropriate mitigation as suggested in the previous section, residual effects of road traffic noise associated with the operation of the proposed Development at NSRs at the proposed Site access point on Lowlands Road would be negligible. 13.103. For the remaining roads assessed in this chapter, given the time period over which the current predicted increase in noise levels would occur and the adoption of a suitable sustainable travel plan, it is considered that the residual effects of road traffic noise associated with the operation of the proposed Development would be negligible.

Building Services Plant Noise 13.104. It is considered that providing suitable planning conditions would ensure the potential impact on the nearest NSRs as a result of fixed plant and mechanical services noise would be negligible.

Summary 13.105. A noise and vibration assessment has been completed to determine the potential effects of the 244 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

proposed Development upon nearby noise sensitive receptors. A baseline noise survey was undertaken in January 2011 to establish the existing ambient noise climate on the Site. The baseline noise measurements revealed that the existing site noise levels are relatively low with the exception of the eastern site boundary which is influenced by the A4051 and Avondale Road. There were no perceptible levels of vibration at any of the noise monitoring locations and no offsite sources capable of affecting the proposed Development other than road traffic were detected. 13.106. An assessment of the effects of the demolition and construction works, together with the completed and operational development was undertaken in relation to a number of existing and proposed noise and vibration sensitive receptors. 13.107. During the construction phase, measures to mitigate and control noise and vibration would be implemented in accordance with relevant planning conditions. Additionally, noise and vibration monitoring is recommended as part of the mitigation package to ensure compliance with national standards. Nevertheless, due to the proximity of the noise and vibration sensitive receptors, some short term disturbance would be likely, resulting in at worst a temporary moderate adverse effect. 13.108. With respect to traffic, the Development could have an impact on existing noise levels at premises adjacent to the proposed Site access points off the local approach road network, however. it is considered that through the implementation of a suitable travel plan and physical mitigation measures the potential road traffic noise effects would be minimised as far as is feasible resulting in largely negligible effects. 13.109. When considering the suitability of the site for residential development the assessment has shown that given the use of suitable mitigation measures such as appropriate glazing and trickle ventilators the site would be suitable for residential development. 13.110. It is considered that all design matters relating to internal noise and potential noise effects can be dealt with by way of planning conditions during the detailed design and as such that the development would be suitable for the proposed use.

ix The Stationery Office Limited. Control of Pollution Act, Chapter 40, Part III. 1974 x TAN 11 xi Gwent Structure Plan xii Torfaen Local Development Plan (in development) xiii Torfaen Local Plan (Published 2000) xiv BS 5228 xv BS 8233 xvi WHO Guidelines for Community Noise xvii Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (1993); ‘Guidance Note No. 1 Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic’, IEMA. xviii IP4/99: 1999 Ventilators

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Table 66: Table of Significance – Noise and Vibration Assessment

Construction Noise Temporary Minor to Substantial Implementation of Site Specific EMP, x Negligible to Moderate Adverse Adverse including: Selecting inherently quiet plant; The use, where necessary and practicable, of enclosures and screens around noisy fixed plant; Limiting Site work where possible to daytime hours; and Adherence to relevant British Standards.

Construction Traffic Temporary Minor Adverse Implementation of construction logistics x Negligibl e plan Construction Vibration Temporary Substantial Adverse Implementation of Site Specific EMP, x Minor Adverse including: Selecting inherently low vibration plant; Limiting Site work where possible to daytime hours; and

Adherence to relevant British Standards. Completed Development Road Traffic Noise Permanent Negligible to Moderate Implementation of green travel plan; x Negligibl e Adverse Construction of acoustic barrier along site access from Lowlands Road Building Service Plant Assessment Permanent Minor Adverse Plant noise to be restricted secured by x Negligible

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way of a suitably worded planning condition. Cumulative Effects It has been assessed that there are Permanent Negligible Negligible no other schemes in the local area which would add to the cumulative effect. * Geographical Level of Importance

I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = Wales; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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14. Air Quality Assessment

Introduction 14.1. This Chapter assesses the likely significant effects of the Development on local air quality, particularly in relation to existing sensitive receptors surrounding the Site (e.g. residential, education and health facilities) and its future occupants. It assesses the likely effects from dust and road traffic exhaust emissions generated during the demolition and construction phase, together with road traffic exhaust emissions and plant emissions resulting from the Development, once completed and operational. 14.2. The policy context and methods used to assess the effects are described, together with the ‘baseline’ conditions that would be likely to exist in the area in the absence of the proposed Development. The potential effects of the Development are discussed, together with mitigation measures that have been developed to prevent, reduce or offset these effects. Finally, the likely significant residual effects that will arise with the mitigation measures in place are described.

Planning Policy Context 14.3. Air pollutants at high concentrations can give rise to adverse effects on the health of humans and ecosystems. European Union (EU) legislation on air quality forms the basis for national UK legislation and policy on air quality. The EU air quality ‘framework’ Directive on Ambient Air Quality Assessment and Managementxix came into force in September 1996. This is a framework for addressing air quality through setting European–wide air quality limit values in a series of ‘daughter’ directives. The first four daughter directives have been put in to national legislation and recently consolidated in the Air Quality Standards Regulations 2007xx. A new air quality directive came into force in June 2008xxi. This has been transposed into national legislation through the Air Quality Standards Regulations 2010xxii which came into force on 11th June 2010. 14.4. In a parallel process, the Environment Act 1995xxiii required the preparation of a national air quality strategy setting health-based air quality objectives for specified pollutants and outlining measures to be taken by Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) in relation to meeting these (the Local Air Quality Management (LAQM) system). 14.5. The UK Air Quality Strategy, adopted in 1997xxiv, was subsequently reviewed and revised in 2000 as the Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Irelandxxv. An amendment to the Strategy was published in 2003xxvi. In 2007 a new Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland was published, introducing a national level policy framework for exposure reduction for fine particulatesxxvii. 14.6. The standards and objectives relevant to local air quality management have been prescribed through the Air Quality (Wales) Regulations (2000)xxviii and the Air Quality (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2002xxix. These are presented in Table 67. Local authorities are obliged to assess against, and work towards, these air quality objectives. Pollutant standards relate to ambient pollutant concentrations in air, set on the basis of medical and scientific evidence of how each pollutant affects human health. Pollutant objectives however, are future dates by which each standard is to be achieved, taking into account economic considerations, practicability and technical feasibility.

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Table 67: National Air Quality Strategy Objectives for the Purposes of Local Air Quality Management Standard Pollutant Objective Date Concentration Measured as 1

16.25 μg/m3 Running annual mean 31/12/2003 Benzene 5 µg/m3 Annual mean 31/12/2010

1,3 Butadiene 2.25 μg/m3 Running annual mean 31/12/2003

Carbon monoxide 10 μg/m3 Maximum daily running 8-hour mean 31/12/2003 (CO)

1 hour mean not to be exceeded more than 200 μg/m3 31/12/2005 Nitrogen dioxide 18 times per year (NO2) 40 μg/m3 Annual mean 31/12/2005

24-hour mean not to be exceeded more 50 μg/m3 31/12/2004 than 35 times per year Particulates (PM10) 40 μg/m3 Annual mean 31/12/2004 1 how the objectives are to be measured is set out in the UK Air Quality (England) Regulations (2000)

14.7. The EU and the Air Quality Standards Regulations 2007 have set NO2 objectives for 2010. However, these are equal to the UK Air Quality Strategy NO2 objectives. The 2007 Air Quality

Strategy introduced an exposure reduction approach for PM 2.5. However, there is currently no method which allows this to be assessed. 14.8. There are currently no statutory UK standards in relation to deposited dust and its propensity to cause nuisance. A deposition rate of 200mg/m2/day (averaged over a month) is sometimes used as a threshold value for potentially significant nuisance effectsxxx.

Local Authority Responsibility 14.9. Part IV of the Environment Act 1995 provides a system of LAQM under which local planning authorities (LPAs) are required to review and assess the future quality of the air in their area by way of a staged process. Should this process suggest that any of the Air Quality Strategy objectives will not be met by the target dates, the LPA must consider the declaration of an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and the subsequent preparation of an Air Quality Action Plan to improve the air quality in that area in pursuit of the objectives.

National Planning Policy

Planning Policy Statement 23: Planning and Pollution Control, 2004 (used as best practice, as no policy exists for Wales). 14.10. Planning Policy Statement 23 (PPS 23)xxxi states “LPA’s must be satisfied that planning permission can be granted on land use grounds taking full account of environmental impacts…” 14.11. so as to

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“…ensure that in the case of potentially polluting developments: y The relevant pollution control authority is satisfied that potential releases can be adequately regulated under the pollution control framework; and y The effects of existing sources of pollution in and around the site are not such that the cumulative effects of pollution when the proposed development is added would make that development unacceptable.” 14.12. Further emphasis is given to the importance of air quality objectives and AQMAs in the Appendices to PPS23 which states “the impact of a development on air quality is likely to be particularly important: y Where the development is proposed inside, or adjacent to an AQMA; y Where the development could in itself result in the designation of an AQMA; and y Where to grant planning permission would conflict with, or render unworkable, elements of a LPA’s air quality action plan” 14.13. In addition, PPS23 states that “it is not the case that all planning applications for developments inside or adjacent to AQMAs should be refused if the developments would result in a deterioration of local air quality. Such an approach could sterilise development, particularly where authorities have designated their entire areas as AQMAs”.

Regional Planning Policy

The Gwent Structure Plan, 1996 14.14. The Gwent Structure Planxxxii was adopted by the former Gwent County Council in 1996, and covers the five former districts of Blaenau Gwent, Islwyn, Newport, Monmouth and Torfaen. 14.15. The Local Development Plan (LDP) for Torfaenxxxiii is currently in production will replace the adopted Gwent Structure Plan. However until the LDP is adopted, the Gwent Structure Plan Remains in force. 14.16. Policy ENV4 states: ‘: “Atmospheric, Water and/or noise pollution which will have an unacceptable effect on communities or the environment will not normally be permitted”.

Local Planning Policy

The Adopted Local Plan, 2008 14.17. The Local Development Plan, January 2008xxxiv includes no specific policies on air quality.

The Torfaen Local Development Plan (2006-2021), Initial Sustainability Appraisal Report 14.18. The LDP ISARxxxv 2006 – 2021 will guide the development and use of land in the County Borough for the next 15 years. On adoption it will replace the existing Adopted Torfaen Local Plan (1991- 2006) and adopted Gwent Structure Plan (1991-2006) as the development plan for the County Borough. 14.19. The Sustainability appraisal will ensure the LDP helps contribute to the achievement of Sustainable

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Development. The LDP will need to consider the effects on air and work to reduce air pollution and ensure improvements in air quality to comply with the Strategic Environmental Assessment requirements of the SEA directive, the national and local policies..

Torfaen Local Development Plan, Preferred Strategy, January 2008 14.20. The Strategy states that all potential air pollution effects associated with developments should be avoided or mitigated.

Assessment Methodology 14.21. This air quality assessment has been undertaken using information from a variety of sources including: y A review of Torfaen County Borough Council’s (TCBC) air quality review and assessment documents in order to identify baseline conditions in the area; y A review of the diffusion tubes monitoring programme of NO2 concentrations in the vicinity of the Site, to identify baseline conditions at the Site and to support the verification of the air quality model. Further details of the monitoring study are provided in Appendix 14.1; y A review of the Development proposals and the Site’s local area to identify sensitive receptor locations, both existing and proposed, that could be affected by changes in air quality that result from the construction and operation of the completed Development; y Consultation with TCBC’s Environmental Health Department to agree the scope and methodology of the assessment; y Traffic flow data from the project Transport Consultants (Waterman), and a review of information presented in the Transport Assessment (TA) for the proposed Development; y Air Quality modelling using the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Air Quality Screening spreadsheet (Version 1.03c, dated July 2007) and NOx to NO2 Calculations, dated January 2010 spreadsheet to predict the effect on the annual mean NO2 objective and the annual mean and daily mean PM10 objectives of the completed Development and potential air quality concentrations at the Site and its surroundings. ); y A review of construction information, plant, activities and environmental management controls likely to be employed during the construction phase of the works; y Comparison of the predicted levels with the UK air quality objectives and significance criteria; and y Identification of mitigation measures, where appropriate.

Construction 14.22. Construction derived dust emission effects cannot be easily quantified. Therefore, a more qualitative approach has been employed to predict potential effects from these works. The emphasis of this approach lies in the minimisation of potential effects at source through appropriate environmental management controls relating to, at least, ‘good practice’ site management practices. In particular, this included: y A description of the assumed construction activities and their potential to generate emissions; and y Identification of good working practices and suitable mitigation measures in order to minimise the potential for dust emissions, and nuisance risk. 251 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

14.23. During the construction phase the potential for dust effects will be mitigated at source, through appropriate site management and control practices. Premises and occupants within 100m of a construction site are generally considered to be at most risk from dust nuisance. 14.24. Examples of dust-sensitive receptors are listed in Table 68 (taken from Minerals Policy Statement 2xxxvi.

Table 68: Dust Sensitive Receptors High Sensitivity Medium Sensitivity Low Sensitivity

Hospitals and Clinics Schools Farms

Retirement Homes Residential Areas Light and Heavy Industry

Hi-Tech Industries Food Retailers Outdoor Storage

Food Processing Offices

14.25. The proximity of sensitive receptors and their orientation in relation to the prevailing wind, in addition to the scale and duration of construction activities, will have a bearing on potential nuisance effects. This has been taken into account in the assessment which is based largely on professional judgement. 14.26. In addition, the Local Authority have requested that the following be addressed: y Further consideration should be given to airborne dust and contaminates entering the canal during the construction phase. · y Consideration be given to likely impact of the operation of Knauf Factory in relation to the development. y The ES should consider the impact of road traffic and its associated noise, congestion and pollution, will have on the development and the waterway and provide mitigation measures to reduce its adverse impact on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.

Completed Development 14.27. An assessment of the air quality impacts of the proposal due to the effect of local traffic flows has been carried out by calculating the contribution of air pollution from road sources with and without the proposed development. This is combined with known background pollution concentrations and compared with relevant air quality criteria. 14.28. DMRB is a screening model formulated by the Highways Agency to assess the air quality near roads. It is a procedure based on a tabulated input interface, which produces an estimate of concentrations at chosen receptor locations. The DMRB model requires information on vehicle flow, HGV mix, vehicle speed, and receptor-road distances. It contains a database of vehicular emissions factors for future years. DMRB includes the latest set of vehicle emissions factors approved by the National Assembly for Wales. This model is widely used in the UK for this type of assessments. 14.29. The assessment has been undertaken for the following:- y 2010 - baseline conditions; y 2022 - year of completing the construction, with and without the development 14.30. These dates, assessment years and methodology have been agreed with TCBC

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Potentially Sensitive Receptors 14.31. The approach adopted by the Air Quality Strategy is to focus on areas where members of the public (in a non-workplace scenario), at locations close to ground level, are likely to be exposed over the averaging time of the objective in question, i.e. over 1-hour, 24-hour or annual periods, as appropriate. Objective exceedances principally relate to the NO2 and PM10 annual means and daily mean PM10, so that potentially sensitive locations relate mainly to residential properties where the public may be exposed for protracted periods. 14.32. A number of potentially sensitive receptor locations within the Site’s surrounds were identified.

Predicted changes in NO2 and PM10 concentrations were quantified at these locations as part of the DMRB modelling study. These receptor locations include existing residential properties in the vicinity of the Site, the Waterloo Inn, existing farm on Bevan’s Lane (representing a worst case) and the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. The locations were selected on the basis of their proximity to the local road network where effects from traffic will potentially be the greatest or requested specifically by the TCBC. Therefore, for clarity, the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal has also been identified as an important ecological receptor. 14.33. Locations which are representative of sensitive uses proposed within the Development itself (i.e. proposed residential locations) were also considered. These represent areas of the proposed Development that are likely to be exposed to the worst-case air quality conditions, i.e. the lowest levels of the buildings that will be the nearest to road traffic and car park emissions. The locations of all receptors are presented in Table 69 and in Appendix 14.1.

Table 69: Selected Receptor Locations Distance from Link Receptor Centre to Address Number 1m from the façade (m) Diffusion Tube TCBC05 Monitoring Location 20.35 – distance from Grove Park 1 Diffusion Tube TCBC05 Monitoring Location 21.47 – distance from Cwmbran Drive 2 22 South Street 4.49 3 Waterloo Inn on Avondale Road 4.94 Proposed residential close to Avondale Road and Bevan’s Lane – distance 50.76 from Avondale Road 4 Proposed residential close to Avondale Road and Bevan’s Lane – distance 81.22 from Bevan’s Lane Access Road 1 Proposed residential close to Access Road 2 50.77 – distance from Cwmbran Drive 5 Proposed residential close to Access Road 2 81.22 – distance from Access Road 2 Existing Residential on junction of Cwmbran Drive and Grove Park – 28.97 distance from Grove Park 6 Existing Residential on junction of Cwmbran Drive and Grove Park – 24.44 distance from Cwmbran Drive South

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Distance from Link Receptor Centre to Address Number 1m from the façade (m) Existing Residential on Lowland Crescent/Grove Park junction 7.87 – distance from Grove Park 7 Existing Residential on Lowland Crescent/Grove Park junction 10.61 – distance from Lowland Crescent Existing Residential on Lowland Crescent/Access 3 junction 15.89 – distance from Lowland Crescent 8 Existing Residential on Lowland Crescent/Access 3 junction 15.34 – distance from Access Road 3 Proposed Internal Residential– distance from Access Road 1 12.68 9 Proposed Internal Residential– distance from loop road north 27.49 10 Brecon Canal – Bevan’s Lane bridge 5.68 Existing Residential on Oakland Road/Access 4 Junction 14.66 – distance to Oakland Road 11 Existing Residential on Oakland Road/Access 4 Junction 15.54 - distance to Access Road 4 12 Tyr Brychard farm on Bevan’s Lane 12.1

14.34. Details of existing and future traffic flows on the local roads for the proposed development were abstracted from the traffic data used in the TA. The Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) flows and the percentage of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) (see Tables 70 and 71) have been used for each of the scenarios (with and without development) for the baseline 2010, opening year 2012 & 2022 and the assessment year 2027.

Table 70: 24 Hour AADT Flows and Percentage of HGV for 2010, 2012, 2022 and 2027 Baseline (2010) Without (2012) Without With Without (2022) With (2022) (2027) (2027) Link % % % % % % No Road Name Flow HGV Flow HGV Flow HGV Flow HGV Flow HGV Flow HGV

16 South Road 6366 2 6481 2 7410 2 7410 2 7766 2 8394 2 18 Oaklands 0 0 Road (West) 189 192 220 0 220 0 230 0 457 0 4 Proposed Site 0 0 Access 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 454 0 1 Bevan's 0 0 Lane/site Access 1 273 278 318 0 318 0 334 0 3523 0 5 Avondale 2 2 Road (North) 11367 11571 13231 2 13231 2 13867 2 17270 2 7 A4051 (North) 21803 2 22196 2 25379 2 25379 2 26600 2 30635 2 6 Avondale 3 3 Road (South) 10806 11001 12578 3 12578 3 13184 3 13920 3

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Baseline (2010) Without (2012) Without With Without (2022) With (2022) (2027) (2027) Link % % % % % % No Road Name Flow HGV Flow HGV Flow HGV Flow HGV Flow HGV Flow HGV

8 Cwmbran 2 2 Drive (A4051 South) 19713 20067 22945 2 22945 2 24049 2 27326 2 14 Grove Park 6881 2 7005 2 8010 2 8010 2 8395 2 9091 2 9 Cwmbran 2 2 Drive (A4051 North) 19708 20063 22940 2 22940 2 24044 2 29065 1 10 Cwmbran 1 1 Drive (A4051 South) 16686 16986 19423 1 19423 1 20357 1 25203 1 12 Lowlands 1 1 Crescent (West) 5801 5905 6752 1 6752 1 7077 1 7427 1 3 Proposed Site 1 1 Access 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1246 0 11 Lowlands - 1- Crescent (East) 5801 5905 6752 1 6752 1 7077 1 7973 1 2 Proposed Site 1 0 Access 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3158 0 9 Cwmbran 22940 22940 Drive (A4051 2 22006 2 22294 North) 19708 3 0 2 22940 2 24044 2 29065 10 Cwmbran 19423 19423 Drive (A4051 1 11698 1 11942 South) 16686 6 3 19423 1 20357 1 25203 1 12 Lowlands 67521 67521 Crescent (West) 5801 15905 16752 6752 1 7077 1 7427 1 3 Proposed Site 01 01 Access 3 0 00 00 0 0 0 0 1246 0 11 Lowlands 6752- 67521- Crescent (East) 5801 15905 16752 6752 1 7077 1 7973 1 2 Proposed Site 01 00 Access 2 0 00 00 0 0 0 0 3158 0

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14.35. As there is no detailed information about the speed data, a speed limit as presented in Table 71 has been assumed in the DMRB modelling.

Table 71: Speed Limit and Road Type for Roads used for all years in DMRB Modelling

Link Speed Limit Road Type No Road Name mph

1 Bevan's Lane/site Access 1 30 C 2 Proposed Site Access 2 30 C 3 Proposed Site Access 3 30 C 4 Proposed Site Access 4 30 C 5 Avondale Road (North) 60 A 8 Cwmbran Drive (A4051 South) 60 A 9 Cwmbran Drive (A4051 North) 60 A 10 Cwmbran Drive (A4051 South) 60 A 11 Lowlands Crescent (East) 30 B 12 Lowlands Crescent (West) 30 B 14 Grove Park 30 B 16 South Road 30 B 18 Oaklands Road (West) 30 B

Background concentrations

14.36. An indication of likely background pollutant levels of NOX/NO2 and PM10 can be obtained from the Air Quality Archive. The National Environment and Technology Centre (NETCEN) have estimated

background concentrations on a 1kmx1km grid basis for the UK. These provide background PM10 ,

NO2 and NOX concentrations for each year up to 2020 and each Local Authority.

14.37. A summary of the estimated background PM10, NOx and NO2 concentrations in the vicinity of the proposed development is shown in Table 72 below. These are the annual means of the estimated background concentrations for the closest grid square location to the application site centred at NGR 329500,197500.

Table 72: Average Background Concentrations in the Vicinity of the Site Pollutant 2010 2020 for 2022

3 NOx (μg/m ) 20.98 14.42

3 14.8 NO2 (μg/m ) 10.6

3 PM10 (μg/m ) 15.97 14.97

14.38. These background concentrations have been used in this DMRB modelling assessment.

Model Verification 14.39. Model verification is the process of comparing monitored and modelled pollutant concentrations in

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order to give confidence in the accuracy of the modelling results. The model has been validated by

comparing modelled annual mean NO2 predictions with monitored values from the NO2 diffusion tube 05 monitored as part of the TCBC programme undertaken at the kerbside location at the junction of Grove Park and Cwmbran Drive between January 2010 and November 2010.

Likely Significant Effects

Construction 14.40. The assessment of construction effects has been based on: y Construction related traffic for the proposed Development in comparison to the total traffic on the surrounding road network; and y A review of the sensitive uses in the area immediately surrounding the Site in relation to their distance and orientation. 14.41. The significance of effect has been concluded through professional judgement based on the following: y The significance of the effect of construction traffic in Chapter 9: Transportation and Access; y The baseline air quality conditions in the area surrounding the Site; y The mitigation measures proposed; and y Knowledge of how such mitigation measures are routinely and successfully applied to construction projects throughout the UK. 14.42. In addition to the above, the classification system provided in Table 73 was adopted, again based on professional judgement, for the assessment of potential adverse air quality effects arising from dust generated by construction activities associated with the proposed Development.

Table 73: Construction Significance Criteria Effect Significance Definition

Substantial adverse Receptor is less than 10m from a major active construction site.

Moderate adverse Receptor is within 100m of a major active construction site.

Receptor is between 100m and 200m from a major active construction site or Minor adverse up to 100m from a minor active construction site, or construction compound.

Receptor is over 100m from any minor construction site or over 200m from Negligible any major construction site.

14.43. The proximity of sensitive receptors and their orientation in relation to the prevailing wind, in addition to the scale and duration of construction activities, will have a bearing on potential nuisance effects.

Completed Development 14.44. The significance of any changes in local air quality that are predicted, based on background pollutant concentrations and predicted traffic flows, can be established through the consideration of the following factors: y Geographical extent (local, district or regional); y Duration (temporary or long term);

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y Reversibility (reversible or permanent); y Magnitude of pollution concentration changes; y Exceedance of standards (e.g. Air Quality Objectives); and y Changes in pollutant exposure. 14.45. The Environmental Protection UK Guidance ‘Development Control: Planning for Air Quality (2010) Update’xxxvii provides an approach to defining magnitude of changes and describing the air quality effects at specific receptors recommended by the Institute of Air Quality Management (IAQM). 14.46. Table 74 below presents the magnitude of change descriptors, based on the change in concentration predicted to be brought about by a scheme as a percentage of the assessment level (i.e. the UK Objective, Limit Value of Environmental Assessment Level). Tables 72 and 73 present the effect significance descriptors that take account of the magnitude of changes (both positive and negative) given in Table 74, and the concentration in relation to the air quality objective.

Table 74: Magnitude of Change Descriptor in Relation to Changes in Concentrations of NO2 and PM10 3 Magnitude of Change Annual Mean NO2/PM10 Days PM10 > 50μg/m

Large Increase/decrease > 10% (>4 µg/m3) Increase/decrease >4 days

Medium Increase/decrease 5-10% (2-4 µg/m3) Increase/decrease 2-4 days

Small Increase/decrease 1-5% (0.4-2 µg/m3) Increase/decrease 1-2 days

Imperceptible Increase/decrease < 1% (<0.4 µg/m3) Increase/decrease <1 days

Note: Percentage calculated as a change of the level of assessment

Table 75: Effect Significance Criteria for Annual Mean NO2 and PM10 Concentration Small Medium Large in Relation to Standard

Decrease with Development

Above objective without Minor beneficial Moderate beneficial Substantial beneficial development (>40 µg/m3)

Just below without Minor beneficial Moderate beneficial Moderate beneficial development (36-40 µg/m3)

Below objective without Negligible Minor beneficial Minor beneficial development (30-36 µg/m3)

Well below objective without Negligible Negligible Minor beneficial development (<30 µg/m3)

Increase with Development

Above objective with Minor adverse Moderate adverse Substantial adverse development (>40 µg/m3)

Just below with Minor adverse Moderate adverse Moderate adverse development (36-40 µg/m3)

Below objective with Negligible Minor adverse Minor adverse development (30-36 µg/m3)

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Well below objective with Negligible Negligible Minor adverse development (<30 µg/m3)

Note: an imperceptible change would be described as ‘negligible’

Table 76: Effect Significance Criteria for PM10 Daily Mean Concentration Small Medium Large in Relation to Standard

Decrease with Development

Above objective without Minor beneficial Moderate beneficial Substantial beneficial development (>35days)

Just below without Minor beneficial Moderate beneficial Moderate beneficial development (32-35 days)

Below objective without Negligible Minor beneficial Minor beneficial development (26-32 days)

Well below objective without Negligible Negligible Minor beneficial development (<26 days)

Increase with Development

Above objective with Minor adverse Moderate adverse Substantial adverse development (>35days)

Just below with Minor adverse Moderate adverse Moderate adverse development (32-35 days)

Below objective with Negligible Minor adverse Minor adverse development (26-32 days)

Well below objective with Negligible Negligible Minor adverse development (<26 days)

Note: an imperceptible change would be described as ‘negligible’

Baseline Conditions

Torfaen County Borough Council Review and Assessment Process 14.47. The First and Second stage review and assessments for Torfaen County Borough Council were published in December 1999 and June 2000 respectively. These concluded that the risk of the air quality objectives in respect of carbon monoxide, benzene, 1,3 butadiene, lead, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and fine particulates (PM10) not being met within the prescribed time scales was negligible. 14.48. To date, the Council has also published three Updating and Screening Assessment of local air quality in October 2003, November 2006 and April 2009 respectively. These reports concluded that air quality currently was meeting the national objectives and that it was not necessary to undertake a Detailed Assessment or to declare an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA). 14.49. The Council has also published four Progress Reports on Air Quality. The first was published in September 2004, the second in August 2005, the third in July 2007 and the fourth in April 2008. The results of the April 2008 report confirmed that a Detailed Assessment for air quality within Torfaen is not required for any pollutants.

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Local Monitoring 14.50. Torfaen County Borough Council operates one automatic monitoring site located in the grounds of Croesyceiliog Comprehensive School in the town of Cwmbran in the south of the County Borough. In June 2001, the automatic analysers at the ‘Cwmbran’ site became affiliated to the Automatic Urban Rural Network. The site is classified as an ‘Urban Background’ Site (Grid Reference: ST 305 955).

Table 77: NO2 (μg/m3) Diffusion Tube (TCBC 5) Monitoring in the Vicinity of the Site Pollutant 2007 2008 2009 2010 Cwmbran 13.8 14.0 13.9 Not available yet

Annual Mean Air 40 40 40 40 Quality Objective 14.51. The nitrogen dioxide results from the automatic monitor as presented in Table 77 above show that the annual mean objectives have been met.

14.52. The Council also monitors Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) levels at 12 diffusion tube sites throughout the County Borough. The nearest roadside continuous air quality monitor to the Site is located within TCBC, at the junction of Grove Park and Cwmbran Drive (OS Grid Reference 329406 196990) adjacent to the Site, the most recent monitoring results form that monitor are presented in Table 78 below.

3 Table 78: NO2 (μg/m ) Diffusion Tube (TCBC 5) Monitoring in the vicinity of the site Pollutant 2007 2008 2009 2010

A4051, 20.8 24.6 24.3 27* Cwmbran Drive, Cwmbran

Air Quality Objective 40 40 40 40 *11 months average (Jan – Nov) 14.53. The 2008 results have been corrected for bias using a factor of 0.82 - 0.89

14.54. Table 79 below show the PM10 monitoring results from the automatic monitor operated by Torfaen

County Borough Council. These results show that the annual mean for PM10 have been met. The results were adjusted using the 1.3 Gravametric correction factor. The results for 2008 and 2009 have also been corrected using the appropriate Volatile Correction Model to provide a more accurate estimate of the gravimetric concentration.

3 Table 79: PM10 (μg/m ) Monitoring in TCBC Pollutant 2006 2007 2008

A4051, 19 18 15 Cwmbran Drive, Cwmbran Air Quality 40 40 40 Objective *11 months average (Jan – Nov) 14.55. Air quality is predicted to improve over time as improved vehicle emission control technologies and EU legislative requirements have an increased effect. Therefore, local pollutant concentrations are 260 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

expected to decrease over time and by the time the Development is complete and operational.

Stack Emissions 14.56. Knauf Factory is the only operating factory with an active stack. The factory is located over 200m north-east of the Site, separated by a the A4051 Cwmbran Drive, grassland and a disused railway line. 14.57. The EA has regulated this site since the mid 1990's initially as Owen Corning, through to its present owners, Knauf.. 14.58. The copy of the PPC permit to Knauf that contains conditions and limits that they need to operate by is attached as Appendix 14.1. This appendix also includes a copy of the latest variation of their permit, modifying some limits and a copy of the last air emissions' returns that are currently available for 1st half of 2010. These documents are held and were obtained from the public register. 14.59. Predicted Emissions from the site operations will have been modelled for the application for a PPC permit and are obtainable from the public register. Emissions from the plant are unlikely to be significant around the surrounding environment as this is dominated by traffic. 14.60. The EA regularly audits the operations on-site and they confirmed that there have been no substantive problems of the site meeting their environmental limits. 14.61. The South Wales PPC Compliance Team confirmed that they are in discussions with the company over their current equipment to monitor sulphur dioxide as the there is a suspicion that the existing monitoring kit reads higher than the emissions are in reality. 14.62. All other factories, namely Exide Batteries, Seibe Gorman & Co and Avesta Sheffield, historically located in the locality, has been closed and have no current licence to operate.

Potential Effects

Construction 14.63. The anticipated programme of construction works, which it is estimated could take approximately 10 years. Given the size of Development and timeframe over which it is to be constructed, it is considered to be a major construction site. 14.64. The construction works in relation to the Development are likely to affect local air quality conditions, as follows: y Dust generated from construction activities, including stockpiles of excavated material and exposed excavations; y Emissions from construction plant, e.g. piling rigs, compressors, excavators, concrete mixers and generators; and y Emissions from vehicles (e.g. lorries, cars and vans) associated with the construction of the Development and removal of waste materials, accessing and leaving the sites of the relevant applications on the local road network. 14.65. The National Air Quality Objectives seek to control the health implications of fine particulate matter, which is derived largely from combustion sources such as motor vehicle engines. In the case of particles released from ground excavation works and construction, the majority of these tend to be larger particles, which generally settle out close to the works and may cause annoyance due to 261 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

their soiling capability. In this respect, there are no formal standards or criteria for adverse effects caused by deposited particulate matter. 14.66. Dust from construction activities within the urban environment generally does not arise at distances beyond approximately 200m from the works (in the absence of mitigation). The majority of any deposition that could give rise to significant soiling tends to occur within 50 to 100m xxxviii. Receptors that are downwind of a construction site are at more risk of dust effects than those that are upwind. The occupiers of residential properties tend to be more sensitive to dust than occupiers of commercial properties. 14.67. The area surrounding the Site comprises mostly residential uses. The nearest, existing, residential properties, which are most sensitive to dust nuisance, are located beyond 10m but within 100m to the east of the Site. However, there are number of farms within the Site itself. The prevailing wind direction in the area is from the south-west; therefore, the majority of the residential properties surrounding the Site are not aligned with the prevailing winds, however special care should be given to mitigate the impact of dust on the farms. 14.68. Other sensitive receptors including properties to the north and northeast are located 100m to 200m from the Site beyond a strip of high vegetation and therefore there will be the potential for negligible dust effects from Site construction activities at these properties. 14.69. The Monmouthshire and Brecon canal crosses the site from south to north and as such, without mitigation there will be the potential for moderate adverse dust effects from Site construction activities at the Canal. 14.70. It is anticipated that the Development will be constructed in 12 phases. Therefore, there is the potential for residential units which will be constructed in first few phases and be occupied whilst the remainder of the Development is constructed. 14.71. It is likely that, without mitigation, there will be moderate adverse to, at worst, substantial adverse effects from Site construction activities particularly during dry and windy conditions, should they be occupied whilst the remainder of the Development is constructed. 14.72. Plant operating on the construction site and construction vehicles entering and leaving the construction site have the potential to contribute to local levels of air pollution, particularly NO2 and

PM10. 14.73. Construction traffic to/from the proposed development Site will utilise either the Cwmbran Drive access or the Bevans Lane access, and subsequently the wider strategic highway network to the north or south. In this case construction traffic will not utilise residential streets in the vicinity of the proposed Development. 14.74. The effect of construction traffic on local air quality is likely to be minor adverse on roads leading to the Site Access Roads 1 and 2 leading to Cwmbran Drive and on Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, when sections of the Development close to these are built but negligible on the wider main road network and in context of local background concentrations. 14.75. Any emissions from plant operating on the construction site will also be small in comparison to the emissions from the road traffic movements on the Avondale Road and Cwmbran Drive adjacent to the Site. The potential effect is therefore expected to be negligible, particularly taking into account the use of modern, well serviced plant and equipment

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Completed Development

Operational Traffic 14.76. The results of the ADMS-Road air quality modelling of operational traffic, and car park emissions, are presented in Table 80.

Table 80: Results of the DMRB modelling at sensitive receptors

NO2 PM10 PM10 - Number Annual Mean Annual Mean of Days (µg/m3) (µg/m3) >50µg/m3

Receptor 1: Diffusion Tube TCBC05 Monitoring Location

20010 Existing 27 19.49 2

2012 Without Development 25.52 18.94 2

2022 Without Development 19.13 17.38 1

2022 With Development 19.89 17.61 1

2022 Change 0.76 0.22

2025 Without Development 22.63 18.28 1

2025 With Development 23.62 18.57 1

2025 Change 0.99 0.29 1

Receptor 2: 22 South Street

20010 Existing 37.38 17.12 0

2012 Without Development 36.29 16.74 0

2022 Without Development 30.24 15.98 0

2022 With Development 30.58 16.06 0

2022 change 0.34 0.09 0

2025 Without Development 30.48 16.04 0

2052 With Development 30.82 16.12 0

2025 Change 0.34 0.0.9 0

Receptor 3: Waterloo Inn on Avondale Road

2010 Existing 40.54 18.02 1

2012 Without Development 39.06 17.56 1

2022 Without Development 33.34 16.77 0

2022 With Development 34.59 17.10 0

2022 Change 1.25 0.33 0

2025 Without Development 33.73 16.88 0

2025 With Development 34.72 17.15 0

2025 Change 1.04 0.27 0

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NO2 PM10 PM10 - Number Annual Mean Annual Mean of Days (µg/m3) (µg/m3) >50µg/m3

Receptor 4: Proposed residential close to Avondale Road and Bevan’s Lane

2010 Existing 38.42 17.33 0

2012 Without Development 36.94 16.94 0

2022 Without Development 30.96 16.16 0

2022 With Development 32.46 16.58 0

2022 Change 1.5 0.33 0

2025 Without Development 31.24 16.88 0

2025 With Development 32.60 17.15 0

2025 Change 1.36 0.27 0 Receptor 5: Proposed residential close to Access Road 2 2010 Existing 38.23 17.41 1

2012 Without Development 36.69 17.02 0

2022 Without Development 30.43 16.23 0

2022 With Development 30.88 16.37 0

2022 Change 0.45 0.14 0

2025 Without Development 30.58 16.29 0

2025 With Development 31.45 16.45 0

2025 Change 0.87 0.17 0

Receptor 6: Existing Residential on junction of Cwmbran Drive and Grove Park

2010 Existing 43.78 19.4 2

2012 Without Development 42.24 18.85 2

2022 Without Development 36.46 17.9 1

2022 With Development 36.59 18.19 1

2022 Change 0.13 0.20 0

2025 Without Development 36.80 18.13 1

2025 With Development 36.90 18.33 1

2025 Change 0.10 0.20 0

Receptor 7: Existing Residential on Lowland Crescent/Grove Park junction

2010 Existing 40.37 18.02 1

2012 Without Development 38.95 17.58 1

2022 Without Development 33.30 16.81

2022 With Development 34.03 17.00

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NO2 PM10 PM10 - Number Annual Mean Annual Mean of Days (µg/m3) (µg/m3) >50µg/m3

2025 Without Development 33.69 16.91 0

2025 With Development 34.03 17.00 0

2025 Change 0.73 0.20 0

Receptor 8: Existing Residential on Lowland Crescent/Access 3 junction

2010 Existing 36.38 16.73 0

2012 Without Development 34.92 16.40 0

2022 Without Development 28.80 15.66 0

2022 With Development 29.39 15.83 0

2022 Change 0.59 0.17 0

2025 Without Development 28.98 15.70

2025 With Development 29.57 15.87

2025 Change 0.59 0.17

Receptor 9: Proposed Internal Residential

2010 Existing 34.18 16.01 0

2012 Without Development 32.71 15.74 0

2022 Without Development 26.29 15.01 0

2022 With Development 28.40 15.62 0

2022 Change 2.11 0.61 0

2025 Without Development 26.35 15.01 0

2025 With Development 28.47 15.63 0

2025 Change 2.12 0.63 0

Receptor 10: Brecon Canal on Bevan’s Lane Bridge

2010 Existing 34.20 16.02 0

2012 Without Development 32.73 15.74 0

2022 Without Development 26.32 15.01 0

2022 With Development 26.91 15.19 0

2022 Change 0.59 0.17 0

2025 Without Development 26.37 15.02 0

2025 With Development 26.97 15.19 0

2025 Change 0.60 0.17 0

Receptor 11: Existing Residential on Oakland Road/Access 4 Junction

2010 Existing 34.14 15.99 0

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NO2 PM10 PM10 - Number Annual Mean Annual Mean of Days (µg/m3) (µg/m3) >50µg/m3

2012 Without Development 32.68 15.72 0

2022 Without Development 26.25 14.99 0

2022 With Development 26.50 15.06 0

2022 Change 0.25 0.07 0

2025 Without Development 26.30 14.99 0

2025 With Development 26.55 15.07 0

2025 Change 0.25 0.07 0

Receptor 12: Tyr Brychard farm on Bevan’s Lane

2010 Existing 34.18 16.01 0

2012 Without Development 32.71 15.74 0

2022 Without Development 26.30 15.01 0

2022 With Development 26.33 15.02 0

2022 Change 0.03 0.01 0

2025 Without Development 26.35 15.01 0

2025 With Development 26.38 15.02 0

2025 Change 0.03 0.01 0

14.77. Table 80 indicates that for 2010, exceedances are predicted in relation to the annual mean NO2 at receptor 3, 6 and 7, all of which represent existing residential receptor locations along Avondale Road and Grove Park due to their proximity to the road.

14.78. The pollutant concentrations are predicted to be below 40µg/m3 in 2012 at all receptors except receptor 6, which is predicted to have the highest concentration due the proximity of its eastern

façade to the A4051 Cwmbran Drive. All receptors are within AQ standards for NO2 in 2022 and 2025 for 2027. 14.79. The modelling indicates that air quality concentrations are predicted to decrease over time in the without development scenario, with the concentrations predicted for 2012 ‘being significantly lower than for 2010, and for 2022, lower than 2012, as the background concentrations are continuously decreasing. Concentrations in 2025 for 2027 and 2022 are of similar values as they are based on the same background concentrations with only a nominal growth in traffic, . They will be below the objective level of 40µg/m3 in all cases at existing and proposed receptors. Details of the model verification is provided in Appendix 14.2.

14.80. The annual mean concentrations of PM10 are predicted to be well below the objective value of 40µg/m3 in 2010 and in 2012 both ‘with’ and ‘without’ the Development in place, at all the receptor

locations. Furthermore, there are no predicted exceedances of the daily PM10 objective in 2010, nor later, with’ or ‘without’ the Development in place. 14.81. According to the magnitude of change criteria in Tables 75 & 76 , the results in Table 80 indicate

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that ‘small’ and ‘medium’ changes in NO2 concentrations are predicted as a result of the Development at two (Receptor 3 and 4) of the modelled receptor locations, however, as mentioned above, the annual mean concentrations are well below the air quality standards objectives.

Imperceptible changes are predicted in the rest of the locations for NO2.

14.82. Only imperceptible changes are occurring for all receptors in annual mean PM10 concentrations

and in PM10 daily mean exceedances.

14.83. Table 81 below summarises the significance of the effects on NO2 and PM10 for the modelled receptors in accordance with the significance criteria described in Table 75 and 76.

Table 81: Summary of the Significance of Potential Effects

PM10 No. Receptor Location NO2 Annual Mean Annual Days PM10 Mean

1 Negligible Negligible Negligible 2 Negligible Negligible Negligible 3 Negligible Negligible Negligible 4 Negligible Negligible Negligible 5 Negligible Negligible Negligible 6 Negligible Negligible Negligible 7 Negligible Negligible Negligible 8 Negligible Negligible Negligible

9 Negligible Negligible Negligible

10 Negligible Negligible Negligible

14.84. Table 81 demonstrates that the operation of the proposed Development is predicted to have a

negligible effect at all receptor locations in relation to annual mean NO2 concentrations. 14.85. Table 81 demonstrates that the operation of the proposed Development is predicted to have a

negligible effect in relation to annual, and daily mean PM10 concentrations at all of the receptors modelled. 14.86. For the residential units proposed within the Site, the effect of introducing traffic along access routes without any mitigation is considered to be negligible significance in subsequent years in

terms of annual mean NO2 and negligible for the rest of the residential units within the Development.

14.87. The effect of introducing residential uses to the Site will be negligible in terms of PM10 annual and daily means.

Mitigation Measures

Construction 14.88. A range of environmental management controls will be developed with reference to the BRE guidance ‘Controlling Particles, Vapour and Noise from Construction Sites’xxxix and the GLA ‘Control of Dust and Emissions from Construction and Demolition, Best Practice Guidance’20, with 267 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

particular reference to the mitigation measures listed within this document for risk sites. These will be detailed in an EMP with the objective to prevent the release of dust entering the atmosphere and/or being deposited on nearby receptors. Such measures, which will be adopted and secured through planning obligations and/or appropriate planning conditions, will include: y Routine dust monitoring at sensitive residential locations, particularly those close to the construction site boundary, with the results and effectiveness of controls reviewed at regular meetings; y Damping down surfaces during dry weather; y Erection of appropriate hoarding and/or fencing to reduce dust dispersion and restrict public access; y Sheeting of buildings, chutes, skips and vehicles removing demolition wastes; y Building elevations which front public boundaries or are immediately adjacent to adjoining properties will be fully scaffolded and completely enclosed by sheeting to provide a dust and safety shield during the demolition process; y Appropriate handling and storage of materials, especially stockpiled materials; y Restriction of drop heights onto lorries and other equipment; y Use of ‘deconstruction’ demolition techniques, where appropriate; y Use of a wheel wash, limiting of vehicle speeds to 5 mph, avoidance of unnecessary idling of engines and routing of Site traffic as far from residential and commercial properties as possible; y Fitting all equipment (e.g. for cutting, grinding, crushing) with dust control measures such as water sprays wherever possible; y Use of gas powered generators rather than diesel if possible (these are also quieter) and ensuring that all plant and vehicles are well maintained so that exhaust emissions do not breach statutory emission limits; y No fires will be allowed on the construction site; and y Ensuring that a road sweeper is available to clean mud and other debris from hardstanding roads and footpaths. 14.89. Specific attention will be made to any demolition and construction activities that will inevitably take place close to the boundaries of the construction site and thus in close proximity to existing sensitive properties, in close proximity to the Monmouthshire Canal and close to the proposed residential development, should they be occupied whilst further construction works are undertaken. 14.90. Such measures are routinely and successfully applied to construction projects throughout the UK, and are proven to reduce significantly the potential adverse nuisance dust impacts associated with the various stages of demolition and construction work. They will be detailed in the EMP for demolition and construction (see Chapter 6: Development Programme, Demolition and Construction).

Completed Development 14.91. As outlined in Chapter 9: Transportation and Access, Residential and Commercial Travel Plans have been produced as part of the TA. The implementation of the Travel Plans will encourage travel by modes of transport that are more sustainable than the private car and measures to facilitate walking and cycling within the Development. By minimising vehicle trips associated with the Development this will reduce the predicted effect on local air quality.

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14.92. The DMRB modelling is predicting only negligible effects of the proposed development on the existing ambient air quality, therefore no additional mitigation measures are required than those already incorporated into the development.

Residual Effects

Construction 14.93. The effects of plant operating on the construction site will be negligible in the context of local background concentrations or existing adjacent road traffic emissions. 14.94. The effects of construction vehicles entering and leaving the Site will be negligible (on the wider main road network) to minor adverse (on roads closest to the Site) in context of local background concentrations. 14.95. Following the employment of appropriate environmental management controls as described above, the effects of the demolition and construction works upon local air quality will be significantly reduced. As such, the worst-case (anticipated during dry and windy conditions only) residual effects resulting from demolition and construction related dust will be temporary, short to medium term and of negligible to minor adverse significance at residential properties located 10m to 100m from the Site boundary and at the Brecon Canal. In addition, should buildings built in the first few phases be occupied whilst the remainder of the Development is constructed, minor adverse to moderate adverse impacts (during dry and windy conditions) will arise from construction-related dust emissions, with mitigation in place.

Completed Development 14.96. The residual effect of operational phase plant on local air quality, with the imposition of suitable conditions to control effects, is considered to be negligible. 14.97. The operational traffic associated with the completed Development is predicted to result in

negligible residual effects on local air quality in relation to annual mean NO2. 14.98. The operational traffic associated with the completed Development is predicted to result in

negligible residual effects on local air quality in relation to annual and daily PM10.

Construction and Completed Development 14.99. The likely adverse effects associated with the proposed development should also be considered with the cumulative effects of other schemes in the locality, such as Churchwood Development. As long as each development ensures compliance with the national and local policies, the cumulative effect will be no worse than the impacts of the individual schemes.

Summary 14.100. An assessment of the effect of the Development on local air quality arising from the construction and operational phases was undertaken. The construction effects of the Development will be related to dust and exhaust emissions from construction vehicles and plant. The effects of the completed Development are likely to include emissions from traffic associated with the Development. A summary of the potential effects, mitigation measures and residual effects are presented in Table 82.

xix EC, Council Directive 96/62/EC on Ambient Air Quality Assessment and Management, 1996. 269 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

xx HMSO, ‘The Air Quality Standards Regulations 2007 (Statutory Instrument 2007 No. 64)’, 2007. xxi EC, Directive 2008/50/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2008 on Ambient Air Quality and Cleaner Air for Europe xxii HMSO, 2010, ‘The Air Quality Standards Regulations 2010 (Statutory Instrument 2010 No. 1001)’. xxiii Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM), The Environment Act 1995 xxiv HMSO, London. Department of the Environment (DoE), 1997, ‘The UK National Air Quality Strategy’. HMSO xxv Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, 'UK Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland’. HMSO, London, 2000. xxvi Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Scottish Executive, Welsh Assembly Government and the Department of the Environment in Northern Ireland, 2003, ‘The Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: (Addendum)’. DEFRA, London. xxvii Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), 2007. The Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland xxviii HSMO, The Air Quality (England) Regulations 2000 (Statutory Instrument 928 No.), 2000. xxix HMSO, ‘The Air Quality (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2002 (Amended Statutory Instrument 2002 No. 3034)’. HMSO, London, 2002. xxx Bate, K. J. and Coppin, N. J. (1991) ’Dust impacts from mineral workings’, Mine and Quarry, 20 (3), 1991, pp31 – 35. xxxi Planning Policy Statement 23: Planning and Pollution Control, 2004 xxxii Gwent Structure Plan xxxiii Torfaen Local Development Plan (in development) xxxiv The Torfaen Local Development Plan, 2007. xxxv The Torfaen Local Development Plan (2006-2021), Initial Sustainability Appraisal Report xxxvi Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, Minerals Policy Statement 2: Controlling and mitigating the environmental effects of mineral extraction in England - Annex 1: Dust, 2005. xxxvii Environmental Protection UK, 2010, ‘Development Control: Planning for Air Quality’ xxxviii Arup Environmental/Ove Arup and Partners. 1995.‘The Environmental Impacts of Dust from Surface Mineral Workings’ HMSO. xxxix Building Research Establishment (BRE), Controlling particles, vapour and noise from pollution from construction sites, 2003.

Table 82: Table of Significance – Air Quality Assessment

Dust emissions from demolition and Temporary Minor adverse to Routine environmental management X Negligible to minor construction activities moderate for existing control measures to prevent and control adverse for existing dust, as part of EMP surrounding properties surrounding properties

Emissions from construction vehicles Temporary Negligible to minor Routine environmental management X Negligible to minor adverse control measures adverse Completed Development Emissions from traffic associated with Permanent Negligible in terms of Implementation of Travel Plan x Negligible in terms of the completed Development NO2 concentrations and NO2 concentrations and Negligible in terms of Negligible in terms of PM10 concentrations PM10 concentrations Introduction of new residential uses Permanent Negligible Implementation of Site’s Travel Plan x Negligible to the site

Cumulative Effects It has been assessed that there are no Permanent Negligible Negligible other schemes in the local area which would add to the cumulative effect. * Geographical Level of Importance

I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = Wales; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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15. Sustainability

Introduction 15.1. This Chapter presents an assessment of the extent to which the Development accords with national, regional and local sustainable development policies and guidance. It also describes the approach of the Applicant towards achieving a more sustainable development, in relation to a range of key sustainability issues. 15.2. The importance of sustainable development is highlighted by a number of Welsh Assembly Government strategies and planning policy documents and there is a growing acceptance of an imminent need to consider and tackle climate change. Many definitions of sustainable development exist, although the common objective for all is the integration of economic, social and environmental issues, to ensure a better quality of life for people today, without compromising the needs of future generations. A key mechanism for delivering the principles of sustainable development within Wales lies within the national, regional and local planning system.

Planning Policy Context and Guidance

National Policy

One Wales: One Planet, a new Sustainable Development Scheme for Wales (Ref. 15.1) 15.3. One Wales: One Planet, a new Sustainable Development Scheme for Wales interprets sustainable development as: “In Wales, sustainable development means enhancing the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of people and communities, achieving a better quality of life for our own and future generations: y In ways which promote social justice and equality of opportunity; and y In ways which enhance the natural and cultural environment and respect its limits - using only our fair share of the earth’s resources and sustaining our cultural legacy. Sustainable development is the process by which we reach the goal of sustainability.” 15.4. To achieve forms of development that are more sustainable than previous projects, proposals must strike an acceptable balance between maximising resource and energy efficiency; minimising environmental impacts; delivering social benefits; and supporting a healthy economy. 15.5. The land use planning process therefore offers the opportunity to deliver substantial progress towards achieving the Welsh Assembly Government Sustainable Development priorities. In order to achieve this goal, the Sustainable Development Scheme for Wales sets the following targets: y 80-90% reduction in use of carbon-based energy to build on existing 3% per annum reduction target in Wales and ambitions to make all new buildings zero carbon buildings and to move to producing as much electricity from renewable sources by 2025 as consumed; y Move towards becoming a zero waste nation. This will build on our stated goal of achieving 70% recycling of municipal waste by 2025; y Travel less by car, and create a stronger connection with local economies and communities; y Source more of our food locally and in season; and y Do all this in ways which make us a fairer society, building on our commitments to tackling child 272 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

and fuel poverty.

Planning Policy Wales, Edition 3, July 2010 (Ref. 15.2) 15.6. Planning Policy Wales (PPW) sets out the land use planning policies of the Welsh Assembly Government and is supplemented by a series of Technical Advice Notes (TANs). PPW states that the planning system has a fundamental role in delivering sustainable development in Wales. It must help in the process of balancing and integrating these objectives in order to meet current development needs while safeguarding those of the future. In particular the planning system, through both development plans and the development control process, must provide for homes, infrastructure, investment and jobs in a way which is consistent with sustainability principles and the urgent need to tackle climate change. Sustainability objectives set out in PPW include: y Developments should plan for the impacts of climate change, and reduce the vulnerability of the natural environment and built environment to climate change; y Development proposals should mitigate the causes of climate change by minimising carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions associated with their design, construction, use and eventual demolition; y Previously developed (or brownfield) land should, wherever possible, be used in preference to greenfield sites, particularly those of high agricultural or ecological value; y Mixed-use developments should be encouraged; y High density urban development is encouraged, especially near to major transport nodes or near corridors well served by public transport; y Development proposals should reduce car dependence by facilitating walking, cycling and public transport use; y Development proposals should provide access by public transport to work, education, health facilities, shopping, leisure and social services; y Development proposals should provide a range of employment, leisure and community facilities; y A range of dwelling types and tenures, including affordable housing, should be provided; y Biodiversity should be protected and enhanced; y Buildings should use passive design and efficient technologies to reduce energy use; y Schemes should incorporate low and zero carbon energy technologies; y Developments should ensure access to open spaces; and y Development should be appropriately sited with regards to flood risk.

TAN 22: Sustainable Buildings (2010) (Ref. 15.4) 15.7. TAN 22 was published by the Welsh Assembly Government in June 2010. It recognises that the planning system can play an important part in improving the sustainability of new developments whilst also tackling climate change. The purpose of this TAN is to provide technical guidance on the implementation of the national planning policy on planning for sustainable buildings through the planning application process. The TAN provides an introduction to sustainable buildings and the standards of assessment, the design solutions that may be employed in meeting these standards, and further design guidance on delivering low carbon buildings. 15.8. TAN 22 reiterates the need to consider the energy hierarchy when designing new buildings. Developers should look to achieve the minimum required carbon standard through passive design

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and energy efficiency first, before considering how further emission savings can be achieved through the use of low and zero carbon (LZC) energy technologies.

Local Policy

Torfaen County Borough Adopted Local Plan, 2000 (Ref. 15.5) 15.9. One of the primary aims of the Local Plan is to ensure that development within the County Borough is sustainable, and protects non-renewable and finite resources for future generations. Proposals for Development will be permitted where the proposal is consistent with the principles of sustainable development.

South Sebastopol Adopted Development Framework (2004) (Ref. 15.6) 15.10. The South Sebastopol Adopted Development Framework outlines the principles that are proposed to guide the Site’s development. The Framework was adopted by TCBC following a period of public consultation, and has the status of Supplementary Planning Guidance. 15.11. The Framework: ‘establishes the broad form and structure of a proposed new integrated and sustainable community at South Sebastopol. It is not its intention to set rigid standards but to provide future designers with clear guidance on design principles that are capable of creating an exciting and modern living environment, whilst at the same time respecting fully the inherent quality of the South Sebastopol environment and landscape ’.

Gwent Structure Plan 1991 – 2006 (Ref. 15.7) 15.12. The overall goal of the Gwent Structure Plan is to accommodate the necessary growth while minimising its impact, and where possible enhancing the environment and quality of life. 15.13. Policy ENV 1 of the Structure Plan states that proposals which make a positive contribution to energy conservation will be supported. This includes the use of low energy building forms, improved site layouts, better design of settlements, and closer links between employment, houses and community facilities,

Torfaen County Borough Council Local Development Plan (LDP) 2006 – 2021, Preferred Strategy (Ref. 15.8) 15.14. Although not yet adopted, the emerging LDP provides an indication of the future sustainability policy requirements in the Borough. The Preferred Strategy includes 19 objectives. Objectives of relevance to sustainability and the Site include: y To promote health and well being through the provision of community facilities, leisure and outdoor recreational opportunities, accessible to all. y To ensure that the location of development does not result in unacceptable risk from flooding, subsidence or health hazards. y To ensure the highest quality of design in all developments and delivering safe and attractive environments. y To conserve and enhance the distinctive cultural and historic resources of the County Borough. y To ensure that all new development reflects best practise in sustainable design and location, construction and operation.

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y To protect, manage and enhance biodiversity and ecological networks across Torfaen. y To minimise climate change impacts through reduced emissions of greenhouse gases in both new and existing development. y To protect Greenfield land by enabling and promoting the most efficient use of brownfield sites for redevelopment across Torfaen. y To ensure all development contributes to improving water quality, protecting water supply and maximising the efficiency of water consumption. y To ensure the allocation of an appropriate quantity and variety of housing sites to deliver high quality choice in sustainable locations, well served by essential facilities and accessible by a range of transport modes. y To develop integrated and efficient transport infrastructure, public transport and communication networks which are accessible and attractive to all, and encourage a reduction in private car use. y To ensure people and organisations reduce, reuse and recycle waste and to foster this through the provision of regional and local waste management facilities. 15.15. The LDP will mitigate further climate change and also adapt to those effects of climate change which are already inevitable by prioritising the allocation of development sites which are not building in areas at risk from flooding or land instability. The development of urban and brownfield sites will be prioritised. The Preferred strategy also states that the LDP will require:

y a minimum 10% reduction in CO2 emissions from all major new developments; y a financial contribution from all non BREEAM Excellent developments to improve the carbon footprint of existing buildings; y development to be resource efficient; y development to consider small to medium renewable energy generation; y ensure that developments are designed to be resilient to the likely future effects of climate change; and y maintain habitat connectivity to allow wildlife to adapt to a changing climate.

Corporate Policy

Taylor Wimpey ‘Delivering Sustainable Development - A Guide (April 2008) (Ref. 15.9) 15.16. As the UK’s largest house builder, Taylor Wimpey recognises their responsibility to build increasingly sustainable homes and communities. ‘Delivering Sustainable Development – A Guide’ outlines the ways in which Taylor Wimpey can respond to the UK Government’s sustainability agenda, including the requirements of the Code for Sustainable Homes. This document demonstrates Taylor Wimpey’s sustainability agenda. The guidance contained within this document will be considered during the detailed design stage.

Taylor Wimpey ‘Climate Policy’ (Ref. 15.10) 15.17. Taylor Wimpey’s Climate Policy states that they aim to build homes responsibly and efficiently, and

reduce the CO2 emissions generated by their developments. They will aim to work with their customers to maximise the benefit of the increased energy efficiency of the homes they build. Homes will be built to the higher standards set out in the new Building Regulations, and other

regulations, in the most effective way to maximise reductions in CO2. They review with their 275 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

suppliers the embodied energy within the materials that they use and work towards reduction of the embodied energy where feasible. They are also reducing the amount of construction waste they produce and the percentage disposed to landfill.

Taylor Wimpey ‘Sustainable Procurement Policy’ (Ref. 15.11) 15.18. Taylor Wimpey afford advantage to those materials and processes that have a lesser environmental impact when undertaking its developments. They review alternative materials that have a lower environmental impact when developing material specifications, including recycled materials and seek and evaluate the environmental policies of its suppliers.

Barratt Developments Plc ‘Corporate Responsibility’ and ‘Environmental’ Policies (Ref. 15.12) 15.19. Barratt Developments Plc has an established Corporate Responsibility policy, which includes various commitments and targets relating to sustainable development. In 2009 they set a target to increase the amount of waste segregated for recycling on-site during construction by 7% and reduce the volume of waste produced per unit legally completed by 7% to achieve their Charter objective of reducing their impact from waste by 20% over three years. Both of these targets were exceeded and the charter objective was achieved. 15.20. In 2009 they also set a target to reduce the amount of energy used in construction by 7% in order to achieve the Charter objective to reduce their impact from energy by 20% in three years. The key

performance indicator used to monitor this is the average amount of CO2 emitted per unit legally

completed. This metric reduced by approximately 1% in 2009 to 1,787 kg CO2/unit. Although the target of 7% was not achieved Barratt are focusing on achieving the target in future years and are undertaking energy audits at several developments to understand where they use energy and how they can reduce their energy consumption.

Assessment Methodology and Significance Criteria 15.21. In order to gain a detailed understanding of the guiding sustainability policy framework relevant to the Site a desk based review of all relevant national, regional and local planning policy was undertaken. The desk based policy review enabled key sustainability objectives to be identified against which the development proposals have been assessed. A brief summary of the key documents that were reviewed as part of this process is included in the preceding sections. In light of the above policy context and guidance, ten underlying sustainability principles have been identified relevant to the proposed Development: y Energy Use and Carbon Emissions; y Reuse of Land and Buildings; y Resource Efficiency; y Waste; y Pollution; y Transport; y Natural Environment; y Community and Social Needs; y Economic Prosperity; and y Climate Change Adaptation.

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15.22. The proposals have been appraised against the identified sustainability principles. Due to the current nature of the Site, a direct impact assessment against the prevailing baseline conditions would be irrelevant. The impact assessment has therefore considered the extent to which the proposals accord with current and future sustainability policy objectives. However, the nature of the planning application means that the proposals are not required to comply with some of the current planning policy such as the latest policy in PPW or TAN 22. This is because the original application was submitted prior to this coming into force (the planning context of the application is described in detail in Chapter 7). The following significance criteria has been used in making the impact assessment:

Table 83: Significance Criteria

Major adverse The proposals fail to meet the majority of the requirements of current/applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and are not in accordance with any future sustainability policy requirements and objectives. Moderate adverse The proposals fail to meet a considerable number of the requirements of current/applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and are not in accordance with any future sustainability policy requirements and objectives. Minor adverse The proposals fail to meet a small number of the requirements of current/applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and are not in accordance with any future sustainability policy requirements and objectives. Negligible The proposals are in general accordance with the current/applicable sustainability policy and objectives. Minor beneficial The proposals go a small way beyond the requirements of current/applicable sustainability policy and objectives, or are in accordance with some of the future sustainability policy requirements and objectives. Moderate beneficial The proposals go a considerable way beyond the requirements of current/applicable sustainability policy and objectives, or are in accordance with most of the future sustainability policy requirements and objectives. Major beneficial The proposals go well beyond the requirements of current/applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and start to go beyond the future sustainability policy requirements and objectives.

Consultations 15.23. TCBC has confirmed that the ES should: ‘consider a sustainability chapter to include the environmental issue of climate change and what the developer was proposing as regards carbon reduction on the site. Consideration should be given to the Welsh Assembly Government’s Sustainable Development policies.' 277 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

15.24. This Chapter has been prepared in response to these comments.

Baseline Conditions 15.25. The majority of the Site is currently in agricultural use, interspersed with woodland blocks. Existing built development is limited to six detached properties or small farmsteads and an isolated hay barn. Due to the nature of sustainability and the fact that the Site is currently largely undeveloped, a direct impact assessment against the prevailing baseline conditions would be irrelevant and therefore the baseline conditions are not considered further.

Likely Significant Effects 15.26. The following sections outline how the proposals accord with current and future sustainability policy objectives. The proposed Development will be constructed in phases over approximately a 10 year time period, and during this time sustainability standards will continue to be tightened. For example, permitted carbon emissions will continue to be tightened as Part L of the Building Regulations (Ref. 15.12) are updated. Consequently, reserved matters proposals for the later phases of development at South Sebastopol will need to be reviewed in light of the applicable sustainability standards at that time.

Energy Use and Carbon Emissions 15.27. In line with Barratt and Taylor Wimpey’s policies and sustainability guidelines, energy consumption during construction will be minimised where possible. This will include managing energy use on Site during construction, using energy efficient plant and equipment where available, and sourcing materials sustainably, including efforts to reduce the energy required to transport them to site. 15.28. All buildings will be required to comply with the requirements of the version of Part L of the Building Regulations which is valid at the time of registration. The requirements of Part L will be progressively tightened over the course of the next 5 years. In 2013 the requirements will be updated to require a 44% improvement over the requirements of the 2006 version of Part L, and in 2016 the requirement for zero carbon residential buildings will be introduced. Given the likely duration of the construction phase it is possible that later phases will have to meet the requirements of future versions of Part L. 15.29. Due to the outline nature of the planning application energy strategies for the buildings have not yet been developed, however it is expected that building carbon emissions will be minimised through the use of passive design measures, thermal efficiency and efficient building services. The energy hierarchy would be followed during the development of the energy strategy for the scheme at the reserved matters stage. This would include, where possible, locating the longest face of the residential properties towards the south or west to maximise light into the rooms, particularly in the late afternoon and evenings, when most people tend to be at home. 15.30. The properties will include a number of apartments and terraces that are, by their nature, grouped together into development blocks. The grouping will result in fewer external walls and thereby reduce heat loss and energy use. 15.31. The locations of the principal habitable rooms within the development are not known at this outline stage. However, in order to reduce the energy demand, priority will be given to locating these rooms in areas which receive the most natural light - therefore predominantly south and west facing. Cloakrooms, toilets and other low use rooms will, where possible, be located in parts of the dwelling receiving lower levels of natural light. Due to the potential for kitchens to become hot

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during cooking, the kitchens may benefit from being located on the north facing side of the building to minimise solar gains, which could increase heat levels. Although the locations of the rooms are important in determining levels of natural light and heat, views from the rooms are also important and their location may alter as a result. The views and potential to provide appropriate levels of natural lighting and heating will therefore be considered in conjunction with each other. 15.32. Internal lights throughout the development will be installed with energy efficient light bulbs where possible, and where appropriate external lighting will utilise energy efficient LEDs. Electricity meters will be installed to allow users to monitor how much electricity they are using and set targets for reducing their consumption. If fitted by the developer any appliances will be 'A' rated energy efficient appliances. If these are not fitted, guidance on the benefits and availably of 'A' rated energy efficient appliances will be provided. 15.33. The opportunities for incorporating on site renewable energy will be considered at the reserved matters stage, however at this stage no commitment to any on site contribution from renewable energy technologies has been made as it is not required by the applicable planning policy. 15.34. Carbon emissions associated with transport will also be reduced through sustainable transport measures. Further details of these measures are provided in the ‘Transport’ section below. 15.35. Based on the commitments made at this outline stage, the proposals are in general accordance with the current applicable sustainability policy and objectives but do not go beyond these requirements. Accordingly the proposals are predicted to have a negligible effect on energy use and carbon emissions.

Reuse of Land and Buildings 15.36. The allocated Site is greenfield in nature. The largest part of the Site is currently in agricultural use although it is interspersed with areas of woodland. Existing built development on the Site is limited to six detached properties or small farmsteads and an isolated hay barn. These buildings are being retained and incorporated into the masterplan. The most significant man-made feature on the site is the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal which runs through the centre of the Site in a generally north-south direction. The canal and its towpath will be maintained and enhanced as a result of the Development. The proposals have incorporated the canal in order to provide a blue corridor through the Site. 15.37. The retention, improvement and incorporation of the Canal will help to integrate the Site with the surrounding area, and will help to maintain the Canal for the use and enjoyment of future generations. The Site is allocated for development in the adopted Local Plan, however, the overarching sustainability objective of prioritising the use of previously developed land has not been met, and therefore the proposals are predicted to have a minor adverse effect on the sustainability objective of reusing land and buildings. Notwithstanding this, the development site has been committed to within the Local Plan and as such it is understood that the site’s selection for inclusion within the Plan was the result of a sequential assessment of all potentially suitable/sustainable development sites.

Resource Efficiency 15.38. In line with Barratt and Taylor Wimpey’s policies and sustainability guidelines consideration will be given to selecting materials with low environmental impacts. This includes using timber from accredited sustainable sources, and obtaining other materials from companies with established environmental management systems in place wherever possible.

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15.39. Energy efficiency measures are discussed in the ‘Energy Use and Carbon Emissions’ section above. 15.40. Based on the commitments made at this outline stage, the proposals are in accordance with the applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and are likely to meet some of the policies relating to resource efficiency contained within PPW and the emerging local development plan. Accordingly the proposals are predicted to have a minor beneficial effect on resource efficiency.

Waste 15.41. A Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) is now a legal requirement under the Site Waste Management Plans Regulations 2008 (Ref. 15.14). Initiated by the Client, the appointed Principal Contractor will then be required to develop and implement a SWMP. In line with Barratt and Taylor Wimpey’s policies and sustainability guidelines waste generated during the construction phase will be minimised with the rate of recycling and re-use maximised in line with their corporate objectives. 15.42. TCBC operates a Twin Bin recycling scheme, which provides a black bin for general non recyclable waste, a green bin for garden waste and kitchen food scraps, and a black box for dry recyclable items such as tins, cans, empty aerosols, paper, glass, textiles and shoes and plastic bottles. Adequate space will be provided within the Development for the storage and collection of these vessels, within close proximity of the entrance to the property 15.43. Based on the commitments made at this outline stage, the proposals are in accordance with the applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and are likely to meet some of the policies relating to waste management contained within PPW and the emerging local development plan. Accordingly the proposals are predicted to have a minor beneficial effect on resource efficiency

Pollution 15.44. As detailed in Chapters 11, 12, 13 and 14, the construction phase of the development could generate an increase in the concentrations of some pollutants, in particular surface water pollution from suspended solids from the mobilisation of silts and sediments during earth works and from the movement of heavy plant; dust emissions from earthworks; and noise emissions from site activities. During construction, potential contaminative sources will be present on site, e.g. fuel tanks, cement etc. Appropriate construction site protocols will be implemented to ensure that potential sources of pollution are contained and managed so as to minimise any potential effects. 15.45. The proposed end users of the Site are not likely to give rise to sources of future ground contamination. Surface water runoff from areas of hardstandings such as car parking or highways will pass through interceptors or trapped gullies prior to discharging to the watercourses. 15.46. As detailed in Chapter 14: Air Quality, the increased traffic generated by the proposed development will have a minor adverse effect on local air quality. However, as outlined in Chapter 9: Transportation and Access, Residential and Commercial Travel Plans have been produced as part of the Transport Assessmemt. The implementation of the Travel Plans will encourage travel by modes of transport that are more sustainable than the private car and measures to facilitate walking and cycling within the Development. By minimising vehicle trips associated with the Development this will reduce the predicted effect on local air quality. 15.47. Based on the commitments made at this outline stage, the proposals are in accordance with the applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and are likely to meet some of the policies relating to pollution contained within PPW and the emerging local development plan. Accordingly the

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proposals are predicted to have a minor beneficial effect on pollution.

Transport 15.48. The proposals for South Sebastopol will create an integrated mixed use neighbourhood where people can walk or cycle to a range of facilities. Facilities on the Site will include playing fields and play spaces, and a Village Centre. 15.49. The aim is to make South Sebastopol a safe and convenient place for pedestrians and cyclists while accommodating the motorcar in a traffic calmed environment in accordance with the latest version of Manual for Streets. The two principal vehicular access points are to the east in Cwmbran Drive, with possible secondary access to the residential areas north and south of the site. The existing footpath and cycle network will be incorporated into the scheme with the aim of safeguarding existing routes and providing new linkages within the Site, especially to the village centre and open space areas, and to adjoining routes and areas. 15.50. An important aspect of the sustainability of this proposal will be to encourage residents to walk or cycle. Therefore a comprehensive network of footpaths/cycleways is proposed throughout the scheme in order to encourage people to walk or cycle within the community and beyond. They will be attractive routes which are direct, safe and convenient. New footpath and cycleways will reinforce the linkages with the existing surrounding housing, especially to the north. The overall footpath cycleway network will be designed to link the individual housing areas with each other and specific attractions such as the Village Centre, linear park and the bus route. It will also retain the National Cycle Route along the canal towpath. No pedestrian access through the areas of wet woodland is proposed in order to protect this area of ecological value. Residential and Commercial Travel Plans have been produced as part of the Transport Assessment. The implementation of the Travel Plans will encourage travel by modes of transport that are more sustainable than the private car and measures to facilitate walking and cycling within the Development. 15.51. The ability for the development to be well served by public transport is fundamental if the development is to be sustainable in transportation terms. Previous discussions with local service providers indicated that existing routes that pass near the northern and southern accesses could potentially serve the development, and therefore these accesses have been designed to accommodate bus movements. 15.52. The Main Street will be designed to accommodate the bus route, and any traffic management features which may be provided within the Site will be ‘bus friendly’. The internal Site layout will be designed such that no dwelling will be more than 400m from a bus stop, and in general most dwellings will be within 300m. Bus stops will have shelters, information boards and easy access kerbs for use with low floor buses. 15.53. It is recognised that due to phasing constraints, the provision of a Spine Road network through the Site will only be achieved over a period of years in accordance with an agreed phasing strategy. Existing services which pass through Avondale Roundabout (i.e. Routes 15, 18 and 23) could serve initial phases of the development, which will be accessed from Avondale Roundabout and the proposed Cwmbran Drive Roundabout. 15.54. As the development proceeds, it is expected that public transport provision will be extended, with bus services ultimately using all four accesses. The provision of bus services upon completion of, and through early phases of the development, will be agreed with TCBC following the production of a detailed phasing plan (who will subsequently liaise with bus service providers). Bus routes servicing the Site would provide a link to both the bus and train stations at Cwmbran.

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15.55. Based on the commitments made at this outline stage, the proposals are in accordance with the applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and are likely to meet some of the policies relating to transport within PPW and the emerging local development plan. Accordingly the proposals are predicted to have a minor beneficial effect on transport.

Natural Environment 15.56. As detailed in Chapter 5: Nature Conservation and Ecology, the Site has many existing features of ecological value. The proposed Development has endeavoured to retain as much of the existing higher value habitats and features of the Site as possible. All areas of woodland will be retained and the detailed design will aim to maintain hydrological continuity with the wet woodlands. The hedgerows identified as being of high ecological quality will be retained where possible. The canal will be preserved as a navigable waterway and all aspects of the Development that will impact upon it will be given the highest consideration with regard to ecological impacts. Principal wildlife corridors associated with the Site will be maintained wherever practicable. 15.57. The areas to be retained will create substantial blocks of mixed habitats that can be sustainably managed for wildlife in the long term. The long term preservation and management of some areas of scrub vegetation and grassland associated with locally important invertebrate species will be supported. 15.58. The areas to be retained will comply with the Local Plan requirement for a 'green wedge' through the proposed development. The detailed design will place infrastructure at points of minimum ecological impact as far as is practicable. In that respect existing breaches in hedgerows will be used, wherever possible, for the siting of roads, footpaths, or services. 15.59. In the order of 42% of the gross site area is left undeveloped and will be retained as open space or woodland. The following principles are adopted in respect of specific landscape components: y The formulation of a central open space strategy through the core of the Site, focusing around the crossing over the canal tunnel, linking areas of substantial vegetation within the Site. y Where feasible the hedgerows identified within the ecological assessment as being particularly valuable from an ecological aspect will be retained, incorporating them meaningfully within the development along pedestrian corridors. y A linear park will run east-west through the centre of the site to provide a central consolidated opportunity to create a parkland setting as well as providing areas managed for their ecological value. 15.60. As detailed in Chapter 5, the overall impact of the proposals on Ecology and Nature Conservation is predicted to be negligible due to the ability to mitigate against any loss of disturbance of habitat and species. However, at this outline stage it is not certain whether there would be an overall increase in the ecological value of the Site. Such an increase could be achieved at the detailed design stage depending on the landscape strategy within each plot. At this stage the predicted effect of the proposals on this sustainability objective is negligible.

Community and Social Needs 15.61. The Development will respond fully to the principles set out in the ODPM document ‘Safer Places: The Planning System and Crime Prevention (2004)’ (Ref. 15.15) which states that ‘designing out crime and designing in community safety should be central to the planning and delivery of new development’. 15.62. A Village Centre will be provided in the northern part of the Site, providing a range of facilities. The 282 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

proposed Village Centre is in close proximity to the existing housing to the north of the Site and will be connected to this housing via several pedestrian and cycle routes, as well as a vehicular route from Oaklands Drive. This will help to integrate the proposed Development into the existing community. The Village Centre streets and the loop road as it passes the centre will be traffic calmed to give pedestrians priority. 15.63. A range of housing types are proposed, including affordable housing, which will help to create a balanced community of all ages and incomes. It is possible that some form of specialist housing, such as retirement accommodation, will be provided in the Village Centre. 15.64. A linear park is proposed and will run east-west through the centre of the Site. The park will be linked to the wider footpath/cycleway network at key locations and will provide opportunities to provide both informal kick about areas and children's play areas and picnic spaces as well as areas managed for their nature conservation interest. 15.65. Two hectares of playing fields are proposed to the west of the village centre to serve the local community. They will be served by footpath links to the existing housing areas. The following areas will be provided within the Site: y Recreational Open Space - 2 hectares playing fields shared facilities with kick about area within the Green Wedge; y Play Areas - 2.5 hectares within the Green Wedge; and y Amenity Space - 11.3 hectares of Green Wedge and 14:4 hectares of woodland and structure planting including green footpath/cycleways. 15.66. Based on the commitments made at this outline stage, the proposals are in accordance with the applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and are likely to meet some of the policies relating to community and social needs contained within PPW and the emerging local development plan. Accordingly the proposals are predicted to have a minor beneficial effect on community and social needs.

Economic Prosperity 15.67. The proposed Development will provide employment opportunities during the construction period, which will last at least 10 years. The local work force will also have a secondary benefit of spending in local businesses and there is the potential for benefits to the local supply chain depending on where materials are sourced from. It is likely that a proportion of materials will be sourced from the local area to help meet Barratt and Taylor Wimpey’s sustainability policy objectives relating to energy and materials. 15.68. The proposed Village Centre will provide employment opportunities in proposed shops and businesses. The proposed residential population at the Site will provide additional customers to existing and proposed local businesses and service providers, underpinning the viability of existing and proposed local businesses. 15.69. Based on the commitments made at this outline stage, the proposals are in accordance with the applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and are likely to meet some of the policies relating to economic prosperity contained within PPW and the emerging local development plan. Accordingly the proposals are predicted to have a minor beneficial effect on the sustainability objective of economic prosperity.

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Climate Change Adaptation 15.70. Scientists predict an increase in wet and windy weather in the UK in future as a consequence of climate change. A landscaping belt will be provided around the perimeter of the Site and within the Site itself, such as along the edges of internal roads. This will dissipate wind that may be funnelled into the more open areas. Long straight roads have been avoided in the masterplan and an irregular street pattern favoured to avoid channelling of wind. 15.71. As detailed in Chapter 12: Water Resources, the Environment Agency’s Flood Map indicates that the Site is not at risk of fluvial flooding from main rivers (i.e. the Afon Lwyd and the Blaen Bran). The TAN 15 Development Advice Map shows parts of the eastern boundary of the Site around the A4051 to lie within Zone B, denoted as areas known to have been flooded in the past. This Zone B classification appears to relate to the Streams crossing the Site, and is likely to be based on historical fluvial deposits as the flood zone does not correlate with the existing topography. There is no knowledge of any history of flooding to the Site, however any risk of flooding will be mitigated through maintenance and improvements to the on site water courses. 15.72. It is proposed to provide separate foul and surface water drainage systems, and to implement a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) for the surface water drainage. One of the key aims of utilising SUDS is to replicate the quantity and quality of existing Site runoff, to ensure that the hydrological status quo is retained and thereby ensuring that the flood risk to third parties is not exacerbated. Runoff from impermeable areas should be discharged to Soakaways, wherever appropriate ground conditions are found, or alternatively via a controlled and attenuated discharge to the on-site watercourses, which then subsequently discharge into the Afon Lwyd. The latter will require attenuation features (such as balancing ponds or sub-surface modular storage) to temporarily store excess runoff, with additional ‘long term’ storage dispersed using soakaways or similar, to ensure that the rate and overall volume of storm runoff is not increased. Allowable discharge will be designed to deal with the predicted impact of increased surface water run off resulting from the impact of climate change. 15.73. With regards to adapting to increased temperatures, this issue will be considered at the detailed design stage to ensure that occupant comfort is achieved. 15.74. Based on the commitments made at this outline stage, the proposals are in accordance with the applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and are likely to meet some of the policies relating to economic prosperity contained within PPW and the emerging local development plan. Accordingly the proposals are predicted to have a minor beneficial effect on the sustainability objective of adapting to climate change.

Mitigation Measures 15.75. To maximise sustainability during the construction phase the contractor will prepare and implement an Environmental Management Plan (EMP), which will include monitoring and reporting requirements. A full Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) will also be prepared and implemented, which will include targets for waste minimisation and recycling. 15.76. The assessment of likely significant effects during the operational phase, as detailed in the sections above, largely relies on mitigation measures which are inherent to the masterplan, and consequently these mitigation measures have been taken into consideration when establishing the significance of the effect. Such measures include the retention of areas of ecological value, the provision of community facilities such as public open space and play spaces, and the connectivity of the Site to the local area through pedestrian and cycle links.

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15.77. When considering the predicted effect of detailed design items, reference has been made to Barratt and Taylor Wimpey’s sustainability policies and guidelines. These policies and guidelines will be considered at the detailed design stage to maximise the sustainability of the proposals, specifically in relation to sustainable resource use.

Residual Impacts 15.78. With the exception of the ‘re-use of land and buildings’ objectives no adverse impacts are proposed. This minor adverse impact cannot be mitigated as it is due to the use of greenfield land, which cannot be altered. As detailed in the ‘Mitigation’ section the majority of mitigation measures are inherent to the masterplan. Consequently the residual impacts are those detailed in the assessment of likely significant effects.

Summary 15.79. This Chapter presents an assessment of the extent to which the Development accords with national, regional and local sustainable development policies and guidance. It also describes the approach of the Applicant towards achieving a more sustainable development, in relation to a range of key sustainability issues. 15.80. The importance of sustainable development is highlighted by a number of Welsh Assembly Government strategies and planning policy documents and there is a growing acceptance of an imminent need to consider and tackle climate change. Many definitions of sustainable development exist, although the common objective for all is the integration of economic, social and environmental issues, to ensure a better quality of life for people today, without compromising the needs of future generations. A key mechanism for delivering the principles of sustainable development within Wales lies within the national, regional and local planning system. 15.81. An assessment has been undertaken of the outline proposals against the key applicable sustainability policy and objectives. Due to the outline nature of the application detailed design elements are not yet known and as such have not been considered in the assessment. Such items, such as specific energy efficiency measures, would be considered at the reserved matters stage. 15.82. The proposals have been found to be generally in accordance with applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and also accord with some of the more recent and emerging sustainability policy objectives. The main non compliance, and consequent minor adverse impact, with sustainability policy is the use of greenfield land opposed to previously developed land, however, the Site is allocated for development under the adopted Local Plan. Negligible and minor beneficial effects are predicted for all other sustainability issues.

References

1. Welsh Assembly Government (May 2009) ‘One Wales: One Planet - The Sustainable Development Scheme of the Welsh Assembly Government’. 2. Welsh Assembly Government (July 2010) ‘Planning Policy Wales, Edition 3’ 3. Welsh Assembly Government (November 2010) ‘Policy Clarification Letter cl-04-10 Planning for Sustainable Buildings – Update to the Code for Sustainable Homes’ 4. Welsh Assembly Government (June 2010), Technical Advice Note 22: Planning for Sustainable Buildings (TAN 22) 285 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

5. Torfaen County Borough Council (2000) ‘Torfaen County Borough Adopted Local Plan’ 6. Torfaen County Borough Council (2004) ‘South Sebastopol Adopted Development Framework (2004)’ 7. Gwent County Council (1996) ‘Gwent Structure Plan 1991 – 2006’ 8. Torfaen County Borough Council (2008) ‘Torfaen County Borough Council Local Development Plan (LDP) 2006 – 2021, Preferred Strategy’ 9. Taylor Wimpey (2008) ‘Delivering Sustainable Development - A Guide’ 10. Taylor Wimpey (2009) ‘Climate Change Policy’ available from http://www.taylorwimpeyplc.com/CorporateResponsibility/Policies 11. Taylor Wimpey (2009) ‘Sustainable Procurement Policy’ available from http://www.taylorwimpeyplc.com/CorporateResponsibility/Policies 12. Barratt Developments Plc ‘Corporate Responsibility’ and ‘Environmental’ Policies ‘ available from http://www.barrattdevelopments.co.uk/barratt/en/csr/planet 13. HMSO (2010) Approved Document L1A: Conservation of fuel and power (New dwellings) (2010 edition) Part L 14. HMSO (2008) Site Waste Management Plans Regulations 2008 15. ODPM (2004) ‘Safer Places: The Planning System and Crime Prevention’

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Table 84: Table of Significance – Sustainability

Consideration of the Taylor Wimpey and Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Reuse of Land and Buildings Temporary Minor adverse None X Minor adverse Resource Efficiency Temporary Minor beneficial Prepare and implement an Environmental X Minor beneficial Management Plan (EMP).

Consideration of the Taylor Wimpey and Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Waste Temporary Minor beneficial Prepare and implement a Site Waste X Minor beneficial Management Plan (SWMP). Pollution Temporary Minor beneficial Prepare and implement an Environmental X Minor beneficial Management Plan (EMP). Transport Temporary Minor beneficial Prepare and implement an Environmental X Minor beneficial Management Plan (EMP). Natural Environment Temporary Negligible Retention of ecologically valuable X Negligible habitats (as detailed in Chapter 5). Community and Social Needs Temporary Minor beneficial None X Minor beneficial Economic Prosperity Temporary Minor beneficial None X Minor beneficial Climate Change Temporary Minor beneficial None X Minor beneficial Completed Development Energy Use and Carbon Emissions Permanent Negligible Consideration of the Taylor Wimpey and X Negligible 287 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Reuse of Land and Buildings Permanent Minor adverse None X Minor adverse Resource Efficiency Permanent Minor beneficial Consideration of the Taylor Wimpey and X Minor beneficial Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Waste Permanent Minor beneficial Consideration of the Taylor Wimpey and X Minor beneficial Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Pollution Permanent Minor beneficial Use of petrol interceptors to prevent X Minor beneficial pollution entering surface water courses.

Use of SuDS techniques. Transport Permanent Minor beneficial Consideration of the Taylor Wimpey and X Minor beneficial Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Natural Environment Permanent Negligible Consideration of the Taylor Wimpey and X Negligible Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Community and Social Needs Permanent Minor beneficial None X Minor beneficial Economic Prosperity Permanent Minor beneficial None X Minor beneficial Climate Change Permanent Minor beneficial Use of SuDS techniques. X Minor beneficial

Consideration of the Taylor Wimpey and Barratt sustainability policies and guidelines at the detailed design stage. Cumulative Effects It has been assessed that no other schemes in locality are contributing to a cumulative effect assessment * Geographical Level of Importance

I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = Wales; R = Regional; C = County; D = District; L = Local

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16. Non-Technical Summary

Ecology and Nature Conservation 16.1. A comprehensive sweep of ecological surveys have been undertaken at the Site (type and scope agreed with CCW and TBC for the outline planning application) have concluded that the Site is currently of negligible to County ecological value. 16.2. Though there would be change to the existing habitats of ecological value at the Site as a result of the Development, the extent and nature of the proposed retention and enhancement of existing features of ecological value inherent to the Development design would result in a negligible and beneficial effect to the biodiversity of the Site. This mitigation would include the production of an Ecological Management Plan during construction and a Landscape and Ecological Management Plan post construction. This would detail the protection of existing habitats and species of ecological value during construction and the creation and enhancement of habitats and opportunities for species utilizing the Site.

Services (Utilities) 16.3. Chapter 6 of the Environmental Statement serves to consider and assess the predicted effects on the development at South Sebastopol for the provision of a new Utilities Strategy plan and the likely effects on the existing utility provision for the wider area. 16.4. The scope of the Assessment to be inform the Environmental Statement and undertaken to derive a Utilities Strategy includes the following:

Strategic Services Review y Provide a Recommendations Report to enable visibility of costs, ensure future provision of adequate capacity for connections and to identify long lead in times. y Review of services provision to cover Electricity, Gas, Potable Water and Telecoms. y Obtain up to date existing utility records from the incumbent Utility Providers for the proposed development area in order to assess the existing local network and the current available services capacities. y Assess the likely diversified load requirements based on Masterplan requirements. y Ascertain way leave rights of utilities over existing infrastructure - highlight way leave issues. y Provide overview of likely way leave requirements for new utility infrastructure. y Identify long delivery items that can impact on programme. y Identify requirement to divert existing utility infrastructure and estimated costs for doing so. y Identify requirements to disconnect existing utility infrastructure and estimated costs for doing so. y Identify the required points of connection to existing utility networks to provide the required capacity for the development taking into account phased requirements. y Provisional discussion based on the Masterplan layout, the diversion / disconnection / removal of existing infrastructure requirements with Utility companies whilst maintaining uninterrupted services where required. 16.5. This document has provided a Strategic Services Option Review of the principal services to

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facilitate the proposed development. The Strategic Options review is the first phase of the Utilities Strategy. Subsequent sections of the Utilities strategy will deal with detail design elements and procurement of the various services supplies through discussions with the Services Providers. 16.6. This chapter on Utilities has assessed the likely impact of the proposed development on the existing services provision to the site and the distribution of services on the site. 16.7. The enhancements proposed to the services supplies will result in considerable betterment (considered to be beneficial major) in the long term.

Planning Policy and Society & Economy 16.8. Section 7 (Society and Economy) considers the predicted effects of the development at South Sebastopol on policies and plans as well as the socio-economic impact of the development.

Policy and Plans 16.9. The impact of the proposed development is assessed against relevant local and national policy comprising: y Planning Policy Wales (3rd Edition) y Technical Advice Note 1: Joint Housing Land Availability Studies y Technical Advice Note 2: Planning and Affordable Housing y Technical Advice Note 4: Retailing and Town Centres y Technical Advice Note 5: Nature Conservation and Planning y Technical Advice Note 8: Renewable Energy y Technical Advice Note 12: Design y Technical Advice Note 15: Development and Flood Risk y Technical Advice Note 18: Transport y Technical Advice Note 21: Waste y Welsh Office Circular 60/96: Planning and the Historic Environment – Archaeology y Welsh Office Circular 61/96: Historic Buildings and Conservation Areas y Welsh Office Circular 20/01: New Guidance for Local Planning Authorities on European Protected Species and Changes in Licensing Procedures y Gwent Replacement Structure Plan (1996) y Torfaen Local Development Plan (2000) y Local Development Plan Preferred Strategy y Development Framework 16.10. It is concluded that of the 46 national, regional and local planning policies which are identified as being affected by the scheme, 37 will be affected beneficially, 1 adversely and 8 neutrally. The fact that the vast majority of policies considered are supported beneficially by the scheme suggests that the proposals have been well integrated within the planning framework and broadly supports national, regional and development planning policy.

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Socio-Economic Issues 16.11. The socio-economic impact of the development on the locality is considered. 16.12. The population of Torfaen according to the 2001 census was 90,949. There was nil population change during the period 1991-2001. The census showed a decrease in the number of children aged between 0-4 and an increase in people over the age of 65 and an increase in people over the age of 80. 16.13. In May 2010 the Office for National Statistics released revised national and local authority population estimates for mid-2002 to mid 2008 for England and Wales. This shows that the population for Torfaen at mid-2008 was 91,100, a very slight rise since 2001. 16.14. The 2006-based Household Projections for Wales, published by the Welsh Assembly Government in 2009 show that Torfaen had 38,600 households in 2006. This was forecast to rise to 42,400 by 2021,ie the end of the LDP period. The average household size in 2006 was 2.34, predicted to fall to 2.19 by 2021. 16.15. The northern and mid-areas of Torfaen comprise communities historically formed around the iron and coal industries. Whilst historically independent, de-industrialisation and associated depopulation means increasingly there has been a need for employment and services to be accessed outside these areas. Topographical and access issues constrain development opportunities and therefore it is important to maximise the benefits of development opportunities where they arise and provide appropriate services to facilitate a more sustainable future for this area. 16.16. It is concluded that the socio-economic impacts of the development, both during construction, once completed and cumulative will all be beneficial to the area.

Landscape Charter and Visual Assessment 16.17. The landscape of the site and its surrounds demonstrate many characteristics associated with the landscape of the valleys of South Wales. The elevated uplands provide attractive settings to the linear, north-south orientated settlements within the valleys. Vegetation, in the form of woodland blocks and plantations, is also prominent within the landscape, adding to the overall sense of rurality. 16.18. In relation to the site itself, the Brecon and Monmouthshire canal, undulating topography, mature vegetative network and isolated farmsteads combine to create an attractive, semi-rural landscape. However, the presence of urban features, such as settlement and industrial works within the Afon Lwyd valley provide detracting urban influences. 16.19. The visual amenity of the area contrasts greatly between upland, where wide, expansive panoramas are possible, and valley, where the flat topography and vegetation restrict potential long distance views. The site itself, at the foothills of the uplands, is very much a combination of these two visual experiences, providing opportunities for both panoramic views over the Afon Lwyd valley and also secluded areas with truncated views. 16.20. Due to the extensive nature of the Development, construction works within the site are likely to have a considerable impact on the site and its immediate environments. However, construction activities will not be seen in isolation and will be viewed in the context of existing built form and industrial works located within Afon Lwyd valley. The planned phased build out of the site will also ensure that disruption which does occur is isolated to particular areas of the site at any given time. Impacts to the character and visual amenity are assessed to be of direct, medium-term of 291 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

negligible to major adverse significance. 16.21. The completed development will see the extension of development into currently agricultural farmland, essentially filling the area between South Sebastopol and Cwmbran with new built form. This is not considered to be out of place with the overall historic development pattern within the Afon Lwyd valley. Importantly, the upper limit of the development within the site is below that of settlement at South Sebastopol and significantly lower than that at Upper Cwmbran meaning that the Development would be seen as a logical extension between the two settlements and not as new settlement that encroaches incongruously upon the valley side. 16.22. The Development has sought to retain and enhance features of value, such as the Brecon to Monmouthshire Canal, woodland blocks, hedgerow networks and existing buildings, all of which contribute to the sense of place and local distinctiveness of the site and will aid assimilation of the Development into the existing context. The creation of new areas of public open space is welcomed. As the site within a General Development Area (GDA) as designated within the local plan, the development will contribute significantly towards policy aspirations for the area. The significance of impacts to landscape and visual receptors as a result of the completed development is assessed to be direct, long-term of negligible to major beneficial significance.

Transportation Assessment (Traffic, Transport and Movement) 16.23. In accordance with this allocation, this Transport Assessment (TA) has been produced to support an outline planning application for a development comprising up to 1200no. residential dwellings, neighbourhood shopping and community facilities, as well as formal and informal open space. 16.24. This Chapter draws on previous work undertaken by MVA Consulting Engineers (1991) and Peter Finlayson Associates PLC (2001), however due to changes in requirements for TA’s and amendments to the development proposals, this Assessment supersedes the previous Assessments and should be considered as a stand-alone document. 16.25. It is proposed to access the South Sebastopol development via 2no. primary highway links: y via the Bevan’s Lane arm of the Avondale Road Roundabout; and y via a proposed new roundabout on Cwmbran Drive, approximately half way between the Avondale Road and Grove Park Roundabouts. 16.26. Additional highway links will connect the Site to Griffithstown to the north and Upper Cwmbran to the South. 16.27. This Transport Assessment (TA) investigates the local transport systems serving the proposed development site, including the highway network, public transport and cyclist / pedestrian facilities. The TA also investigates the impact of the proposed redevelopment on the surrounding highway network. 16.28. This Assessment has investigated the impact of the proposed development on existing infrastructure, and has recommended measures where necessary to mitigate potential increases in traffic and to improve highway safety, including the implementation of Travel Plans to encourage more sustainable forms of travel. 16.29. The targets set by the Travel Plans are likely to result in a reduction in traffic in the vicinity of the Site. The local highway network and proposed junctions have been shown to have sufficient capacity for existing and future traffic flows. 16.30. The Transport Assessment has been carried out in accordance with national, regional and local

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policy and legislation. In this respect, it is reasonable to conclude that the development proposals should be acceptable to the Local Highway Authority and Planning Authority. 16.31. The enhancements proposed to the existing highway network will result in considerable betterment (considered to be beneficial major) in the long term.

Archaeological, Built and Cultural Heritage 16.32. A number of listed buildings are identified as lying close to or surrounded by the site. A canal tunnel in the centre of the site is also listed, Grade II. The setting and fabric of these designated heritage receptors would be safeguarded in the main. 16.33. The proposals do require that the canal tunnel is crossed by a new road bridge. This will be designed so as to preserve the tunnel in situ. However, there will be a negative impact on the longer-term setting of this structure through the flow of traffic across the new structure and the structure itself. 16.34. A number of hedgerows and lanes survive within the site and are likely to be of some age. These are incorporated as far as practical within the new masterplan for development. 16.35. The undesignated remains of the old Pontrhydyrun Railway Station House survive within the site as does a ruined cottage and a stone and brick water feature which may have been part of now degraded parkland in the south of the site. All these structures will be retained, but if they have to be removed as part of development, a full record should be made of their fabric, as agreed with the Council and their advisors. 16.36. There are no significant remains of earlier than post-medieval date known within the site area and the records for the surrounding area suggest relatively low archaeological potential. However, the paucity of hitherto recorded remains may reflect the dominance of pasture across the site and the absence of past archaeological investigation. Further archaeological investigation will be completed in advance of construction in order to minimise any adverse impact of the proposals.

Ground Conditions (Hydrogeology, Soils and Contaminated Land) 16.37. The legislation is contained in the Environmental Protection Act 1990 Part IIA as amended by the Environment Act 1995 16.38. Reference is made in this assessment to various codes of practice for the identification and assessment of contaminated land published by DEFRA and the Environment Agency for contaminated land BRE for the building industry and NHBC for the housing industry. 16.39. This assessment follows the guidance follows a risk-based framework, in line with the Model Procedures for the Management of Land Contamination (DEFRA & Environment Agency 2004) document. 16.40. The baseline condition appraisal comprised a review of: y An up to date Envirocheck Report obtained for the site y Old Ordnance Survey maps covering the site, included in older reports y Geological maps of the area provided by the British Geological Survey y the NRA/Environment Agency groundwater vulnerability map for the area y Existing site investigation data from previous site investigations y A number of site investigations have been carried out within the site.

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16.41. Based on the available geological and geomorphological information, it is considered that the ground conditions over most of the site comprise red brown/grey green silty clays with mudstone lithorelicts are typical of the Raglan Marl and the cohesive part of the weathered St. Maughans Group in the area. Exposures on site suggest that bedrock is present at relatively shallow depth over parts of the site. The sandstone bands encountered in some of the trial pits are probably representative of the sandstone bands within these strata and are anticipated to be present at shallow depth close to the top of the steep slopes at across the site, for example, to the north and south of Wren’s Nest Farm. The presence of the canal tunnel in the centre of the site is probably indicative of a band of sandstone near the surface in this area. If, during construction of the tunnel, a strong sandstone was encountered at the surface, tunnelling in underlying softer marl could have been an easier option than to excavate a cut in strong sandstone. 16.42. The shallow ground conditions that have been encountered by the trial pits can generally be summarised as follows:

Table 85: Summary of Ground Conditions

Summary of Ground Conditions

Depth (m) Stratum From To GL 0.1/0.2 TOPSOIL: Soft/firm brown clayey SILT/silty CLAY

0.1/0.2 0.3/1.0 Firm/firm to stiff brown silty CLAY with occasional gravels

0.3/1.0 1.2/2.6 Firm to stiff red brown and brown, locally purple, with grey mottling sandy silty CLAY/silty CLAY with some to many fine to medium ground size lithorelicts of mudstone and siltstone 16.43. Some localised made ground has been found at four locations around Wrens Nest Farm. Made ground has also been found in some other localised areas across the site including to the east of the proposed southern canal road crossing, along the disused railway line and former station, and on the southern boundary to the east of the Wrens Farm access track. The encountered made ground generally included variable granular and cohesive soils with gravels, cobbles, boulders including pieces of building rubble, metal, wood, glass, plastic and twigs/branches. No significant contamination has been noted. 16.44. No groundwater was encountered in the trial pits. 16.45. The site will be subject to a comprehensive contamination assessment. Known, and any further identified, areas of contamination will be risk assessed in accordance with current best practice and strategies agreed with the regulators. The site will be remediated and certified to the satisfaction of all the regulators. Such works are entirely beneficial to the environment and development. 16.46. The site will be geotechnically evaluated and appropriate ground treatment works designed to achieve a satisfactory development. This may require locally regrading to create plateaux for development. 16.47. Although the nature of the development will require a change to the topographic and geomorphological features at the site, the current proposals allow for most of the existing major

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topographical and geological features to remain intact, e.g. the steep scarp slopes and incised stream valleys. Housing is proposed to be constructed in small development areas and, as far as possible, to conform to existing ground levels. This will minimise the need for cut and fill operations. Where the site is sloping, these will include areas of cut and fill earthworks. 16.48. The site is not located within a particularly sensitive or vulnerable area with regard to the groundwater. The proposed development will involve some cutting into the slopes’ to form access roads, particularly to the east of Wren’s Nest Farm. However at this stage, it is considered that no major aquifers are likely to be disturbed and therefore groundwater depletion is not considered an issue. 16.49. The proposed development does not include any site uses which could cause potential significant harm to the groundwater environment. Therefore it is considered that there would be no additional risk to the groundwater from the proposed development. 16.50. The development will include tarmacadam and/or surfaced roads and hardstanding which will increase surface run off from the site. This additional run off should be managed via a suitable surface drainage system such as balancing ponds. 16.51. During construction, potential contaminative sources will be present on site, e.g. fuel tanks, cement etc. Good site housekeeping should be employed to ensure that no contamination of the surface water courses occurs. 16.52. Construction phase impacts associated with earthworks and foundation construction will be mitigated by appropriate design and engineering consideration prior to construction. 16.53. Residual effects are considered to be negligible due to the proposed scheme design generally enabling the re-use of materials on site and to ensure that stable designs are achieved.

Water Resources (Water Quality, Hydrology, Flood Risk and Drainage Assessment) 16.54. Waterman Transport and Development Ltd. (WTD) have been commissioned to investigate the hydrological regime associated with the existing Site and to establish a sustainable drainage strategy that will serve to protect the hydrological status quo to support an outline planning application for a development comprising up to 1200no. residential dwellings, neighbourhood shopping and community facilities, as well as formal and informal open space. 16.55. Previous investigations have been carried out on the proposed development site by PBA and Integral Geotechnique and an Environmental Statement (ES) was produced by RPS in 2002. Reference is made in this report to the investigations and conclusions of these previous reports and documents, and text has been abstracted and quoted where it is considered that the factual data is relevant and agreed by WTD. 16.56. The principal conclusion in the previous ES regarding surface water drainage strategy was the requirement for an off-site section of sewer to connect the site to the Afon Lwyd to the east. It was subsequently proposed that, if the proposal to construct an off-site sewer was pursued, Dwr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) would construct the sewer under a requisition scheme. 16.57. On the basis of the previous investigations and conclusions the following issues, inter alia, were required to be addressed in this Chapter: y Investigate whether a more site based disposal strategy could be implemented rather than the current requisition proposal.

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y Discuss with TCBC and BWB why surface water cannot discharge into the canal even though the land to the west currently discharges into the canal. y Ascertain whether more surface water could be discharged into the Streams if an attenuation system were introduced to restrict the flow to similar levels to existing. y Seek quotations from DCWW for Requisition route options (for the off-site surface water sewer) with associated timescales y Investigate the status & condition of the existing offsite culverts to which the on-site watercourses discharge through y Identify opportunities to allow the use of soakaways y Meet with DCWW to discuss their current status of surface water sewers in the vicinity of the site and assess the potential impact of the South Sebastopol development 16.58. It is considered that, across the Site, groundwater is unlikely to be encountered at shallow depth in the cohesive strata. However where bands of sandstone are present, a limited groundwater body may be present. This groundwater is likely to be recharged where the sandstone is exposed at the ground surface or in stream channels. In general, the surface soils of the Site commonly weather to a fine grained consistency which significantly reduces the permeability of the strata. Therefore generally the scope for surface water infiltration is limited. 16.59. The investigations into the existing hydrological regime have established the natural drainage patterns for surface water flow between the site and the ultimate points of outfall at the Afon Lwyd. The onsite Streams convey the surface water either directly to the Afon Lwyd or Blaen Bran or alternatively discharge waters to the Canal. The Canal conveys surface water to the south and excess water is released via overflows to ultimately discharge to the main rivers. 16.60. The hydraulic analysis of the surface water flows has established that distinct parts of the site are vulnerable to flooding during extreme rainfall events. The flooding comprises shallow overland flow and the flooding appears to initiate from capacity inadequacies in the main channels. Partial blockages of culverts have also been identified as a cause of localised flooding. 16.61. This Chapter has identified areas where remedial work is required to channels, culverts, etc and has recommended measures to improve the efficiency of the existing surface water regime. 16.62. High level leakage has been identified along some sections of the embankment that retains the Canal. Due to the undesirable effects of the high-level leakage, it is recommended that the existing section of sheet piling be replaced. 16.63. The water quality in the streams is considered to be reasonably good and the quality of water in the Canal is considered to be fair. The philosophy of approach to be adopted in the detail design of the Master Plan works is to ensure that the quality levels in the streams and the canal do not deteriorate on account of the development works.

Flood Risk - Baseline 16.64. The Environment Agency’s Flood Maps and the TAN 15 DAM’s indicate that the site is not liable to flooding from the Afon Lwyd and Blaen Bran’s fluvial regimes. 16.65. The various watercourses that pass through the Site do however pose the potential to flood parts of the proposed development areas and in this case, a hydraulic model was constructed to quantify the risks. 16.66. The steep topography of the existing Site and the relatively low permeability of the ground means 296 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

that there may be potential for sheet flow to develop in the undeveloped agricultural land. In this case, appropriately sized and located land drainage systems should be installed on the up-slope side of each development parcel. This should be considered at each phase of the development. 16.67. There are several issues and springs around the Site, which indicate the emergence of groundwater at ground level just above the outcrop of an impermeable strata. The treatment of groundwater will need to be carefully considered before any terracing of the existing terrain is carried out. Without appropriate mitigation, groundwater flooding could be an issue for future residents. 16.68. A combined public sewer exists within the north-east boundary of the site, however the topography of this area is such that should there be a blockage or lack of capacity in this combined sewer then floodwater would escape from a manhole and flow in an easterly direction off-site. The Masterplan layout and drainage design is such that the proposed dwellings would be unlikely to be affected by sewer flooding.

Development Options and Flood Mitigation Measures 16.69. The flood risk has been found to be minor with flooding being initiated by current capacity inadequacies in the fluvial regime. Such inadequacies can be effectively addressed by the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures. In this case, fluvial flood risk can be managed and as such should not be a constraint to development. 16.70. The existing fluvial regime is in need of some maintenance, which would assist in regularising flood risk, and in this respect several general maintenance/mitigation measures are recommended in this report. 16.71. The maintenance/mitigation works are relatively minor and should be completed before the commencement of any development works on site. In all cases the design and implementation of the maintenance/mitigation measures must be such as not to adversely affect the hydrological status quo. 16.72. Given that there will be an increase in impermeable surfaces as a result of the development proposals it is inevitable that there will be an increase in the rate and volume of surface water runoff unless appropriate mitigation measures are implemented and these are recommended.

Surface Water Drainage Strategy 16.73. It is proposed to provide separate foul and surface water drainage systems, and to implement a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) for the surface water drainage. 16.74. Runoff from impermeable areas should be discharged to Soakaways, wherever appropriate ground conditions are found, or alternatively via a controlled and attenuated discharge to the on-site watercourses. Surface water runoff from areas of hardstandings such as car parking or highways will pass through interceptors or trapped gullies prior to discharging to the watercourses. 16.75. It is of primary importance to ensure that the proposed development does not adversely affect areas of ecological sensitivity and in this respect a mitigation strategy has been recommended in this report.

Foul Water Drainage Strategy 16.76. Two options for a method of connection to the nearby public foul sewerage system are currently being considered by DCWW. A requisition scheme has already been prepared for one of these 297 South Sebastopol Project Number: CIV11765 Document Reference: C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES Z:\Projects\CIV11765 - Sebastepol\DOCUMENTS\Reports\Environmental Statement\C 11765 110107 CF SP R ES MASTER FINAL.docx

options, however there are benefits associated with the alternative point of connection. 16.77. Where possible the sewage will be conveyed by gravity sewers to avoid the future maintenance costs and liability associated with foul water pumping stations. Due, however, to the topography of the Site and the likely point of connection to the public sewerage system, it is anticipated that a minimum of 2no. on-site foul water pumping stations will be required. 16.78. The enhancements proposed to the on-site drainage system will result in considerable betterment (considered to be beneficial major) in the long term.

Noise and Vibration Assessment 16.1. An assessment of the potential noise and vibration impacts of the Development has been undertaken. The assessment included a noise monitoring survey at the Site to measure the existing noise levels to assess whether the Site is suitable for residential development. It also included an assessment of any potential increase in noise or vibration resulting from the Development on local existing and future receptors that are sensitive to noise and vibration. 16.2. The most sensitive existing receptors to noise and vibration near to the Site are residential properties including those farm buildings which are contained within the boundaries of site but outside of the redline application area. 16.3. Demolition and construction activities would inevitably give rise to some noise and vibration impacts to the receptors closest to the Site. However, during the demolition and construction works a number of steps would be taken to minimise the amount of noise and vibration, which would be implemented through planning conditions and would form part of the Environmental Management Plan. This would include careful selection of modern and quiet plant and machinery, agreed working hours, traffic management measures and monitoring of construction vibration levels. 16.4. The assessment found that, taking account of existing noise sources, the majority of the Site is suitable for residential use. However, proposed residential dwellings located immediately adjacent to the eastern site boundary, would require appropriate choice of materials and design to façades, windows and ventilation to meet guidance; but with these design measures, internal noise would be sufficiently reduced such that residents would be unlikely to be affected by traffic and railway noise. 16.5. The assessment showed that given the adoption of suitable mitigation including the provision of acoustic barriers at selected locations the Development would generate a negligible amount of additional road traffic noise. 16.6. It is considered that all design matters relating to internal noise and potential noise effects can be dealt with by way of planning conditions during the detailed design and as such that the development would be suitable for the proposed use.

Air Quality Assessment 16.7. An assessment of the potential air quality impacts of the Development on the ambient air quality was undertaken using a DMRB modelling to establish the anticipated effects arising from the generation of extra traffic associated with the proposed development. 16.8. The effects of plant operating on the construction site will be negligible in the context of local background concentrations or existing adjacent road traffic emissions. 16.9. The effects of construction vehicles entering and leaving the Site will be negligible (on the wider main road network) to minor adverse (on roads closest to the Site) in context of local background

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concentrations. 16.10. Following the employment of appropriate environmental management controls as described above, the effects of the demolition and construction works upon local air quality will be significantly reduced. As such, the worst-case (anticipated during dry and windy conditions only) residual effects resulting from demolition and construction related dust will be temporary, short to medium term and of negligible to minor adverse significance at residential properties located 10m to 100m from the Site boundary and at the Brecon Canal. In addition, should buildings built in the first few phases be occupied whilst the remainder of the Development is constructed, minor adverse to moderate adverse impacts (during dry and windy conditions) will arise from construction-related dust emissions, with mitigation in place. 16.11. The predicted air quality values for all receptors during the operation of the development fall well

within the NAQS thresholds objectives for NO2 and PM10 at all modelled receptors. 16.12. The operation of the proposed Development is predicted to have a negligible effect at all receptor

locations in relation to annual mean NO2 concentrations, annual, and daily mean PM10 concentrations at all of the receptors modelled.

Sustainability 16.13. This Chapter presents an assessment of the extent to which the Development accords with national, regional and local sustainable development policies and guidance. It also describes the approach of the Applicant towards achieving a more sustainable development, in relation to a range of key sustainability issues. 16.14. The importance of sustainable development is highlighted by a number of Welsh Assembly Government strategies and planning policy documents and there is a growing acceptance of an imminent need to consider and tackle climate change. Many definitions of sustainable development exist, although the common objective for all is the integration of economic, social and environmental issues, to ensure a better quality of life for people today, without compromising the needs of future generations. A key mechanism for delivering the principles of sustainable development within Wales lies within the national, regional and local planning system. 16.15. An assessment has been undertaken of the outline proposals against the key applicable sustainability policy and objectives. Due to the outline nature of the application detailed design elements are not yet known and as such have not been considered in the assessment. Such items, such as specific energy efficiency measures, would be considered at the reserved matters stage. 16.16. The proposals have been found to be generally in accordance with applicable sustainability policy and objectives, and also accord with some of the more recent and emerging sustainability policy objectives. The main non compliance, and consequent minor adverse impact, with sustainability policy is the use of greenfield land opposed to previously developed land, however, the Site is allocated for development under the adopted Local Plan. Negligible and minor beneficial effects are predicted for all other sustainability issues.

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APPENDICES

A. Environmental Statement - Appendices Part 1 Please see separate volume.

B. Environmental Statement - Appendices Part 2 Please see separate volume.