TROSTON LOCH WIND FARM
EIA Report – Volume 1 – Main Text
Chapter 6 Landscape and Visual
Troston Loch Wind Farm Chapter 6 EIA Report Landscape and Visual
CHAPTER 6
6 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ...... 6-2 6.1 Introduction ...... 6-2 6.2 Policy and Guidelines ...... 6-3 6.3 Consultation ...... 6-9 6.4 Description of the Development ...... 6-1 6.5 Assessment Method ...... 6-2 6.6 Landscape and Visual Baseline ...... 6-4 6.7 Wind Energy Development Baseline ...... 6-11 6.8 Assessment of Physical Landscape Effects ...... 6-17 6.9 Assessment of Landscape Character Effects ...... 6-19 6.10 Assessment of Effects on Views ...... 6-42 6.11 Summary of Effects and Statement of Significance ...... 6-91 6.13 References ...... 6-98
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6 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL
6.1 Introduction This landscape and visual impact assessment (LVIA), which has been undertaken by Optimised Environments Limited (OPEN), evaluates the effects of the Troston Loch Wind Farm (the Development) on the landscape and visual resource. The assessment considers effects on the landscape resource - both direct effects and effects on how the landscape is perceived - and the effect on visual amenity (views) within the study area (Figure 6.1 – Site location and study area). Cumulative effects arising from the addition of the Development to other wind farms are also considered. The following technical appendices accompanying this LVIA, are included in Volume 3 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIA Report) and should be read in conjunction. They are as follows: • Technical Appendix A6.1: LVIA Methodology, description of the methodology used in the landscape and visual assessment; and • Technical Appendix A6.2: Residential and Visual Amenity Survey (RVAS) (summarised in the Assessment of Visual Effects section of this report). This Chapter is supported by the following figures which illustrate the landscape and visual effects of the Development: • Fig6-01 Site Location and Study Area • Fig6-02 Landform • Fig6-03a Landscape Character • Fig6-03b Landscape Character Legend • Fig6-04 Landscape Designations • Fig6-05 Landscape Character & Designations & Viewpoints (15 kilometres [km]) • Fig6-06 Principal Visual Receptors • Fig6-07 Principal Visual Receptors (15 km) • Fig6-08 Principal Visual Receptors (5 km) • Fig6-09 Blade Tip Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) with Viewpoints • Fig6-10 Blade Tip ZTV with Viewpoints (A1) • Fig6-11 Hub Height ZTV with Viewpoints • Fig6-12 Hub Height ZTV with Viewpoints (A1) • Fig6-13 Horizontal ZTV with Viewpoints (A1) • Fig6-14 Blade Tip ZTV with Landscape Character • Fig6-15 Blade Tip ZTV with Landscape Designations • Fig6-16 Blade Tip ZTV with Principal Visual Receptors • Fig6-17 Blade tip ZTV with Landscape Character, Designations, Principal Visual Receptors and Viewpoints (15 km) • Fig6-18 Cumulative Wind Farms (CWF) • Fig6-19 Cumulative ZTV (CZTV): Development and all Operational, Under Construction and Consented • Fig6-20a CZTV: Afton • Fig6-20b CZTV: Blackcraig • Fig6-20c CZTV: Hare Hill & Extension • Fig6-20d CZTV: Sanquhar • Fig6-20e CZTV: Torrs Hill • Fig6-20f CZTV: Twenty Shilling (UC) • Fig6-20g CZTV: Wether Hill • Fig6-20h CZTV: Whiteside Hill • Fig6-20i CZTV: Windy Standard & Extension • Fig6-20j CZTV: Benbrack • Fig6-20k CZTV: Knockman Hill
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• Fig6-20l CZTV: Mochrum Fell • Fig6-20m CZTV: Sandy Knowe • Fig6-20n CZTV: Sanquhar Six • Fig6-20o CZTV: South Kyle • Fig6-20p CZTV: Windy Rig • Fig6-20q CZTV: Cornharrow • Fig6-20r CZTV: Enoch Hill • Fig6-20s CZTV: Glenshimmeroch • Fig6-20t CZTV: Longburn • Fig6-20u CZTV: Lorg • Fig6-20v CZTV: Margree • Fig6-20w CZTV: Pencloe Forest • Fig6-20x CZTV: Shepherds Rig • Fig6-20y CZTV: Twenty Shilling (Resub) • Fig6-20z CZTV: Ulzieside • Fig6-20aa CZTV: Wether Hill Extension • Fig6-20ab CZTV: Windy Standard III • Fig6-21 Sequential Overview • Fig6-22a Southern Upland Way (SUW) Sequential • Fig6-22b SUW Sequential CWF • Fig6-23a B729 Sequential • Fig6-23b B729 Sequential CWF • Fig6-24a – 6.44c LVIA Viewpoint Visualisations • Fig6-45a-d Wireline only Viewpoint Visualisations
6.2 Policy and Guidelines The following legislation, policy and guidelines have been taken into consideration during the assessment of landscape and visual effects. An assessment of the Development against relevant planning policy is provided in the separate Planning Statement.
6.2.1 Strategic Policy
6.2.1.1 European Landscape Convention (ELC) The ELC is devoted exclusively to the protection, management and planning of all landscapes in Europe. Landscape is described as “an area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors” (ELC, 2000). The definition applies to all urban and peri-urban landscapes, towns, villages, rural areas, the coast and inland areas. In addition, it applies to ordinary or even degraded landscape as well as those areas that are of outstanding value or protected. The ELC became binding in the UK from 1 March 2007. As a signatory, the UK government has therefore undertaken to adopt general policies and measures to protect, manage and plan landscapes as follows: • To recognise landscapes in law as an essential component of people’s surroundings, an expression of the diversity of their shared cultural and natural heritage, and a foundation of their identity; • To establish and implement landscape policies aimed at landscape protection, management and planning through the adoption of the specific measures. These include awareness-raising, training and education, identification and assessment of landscapes, definition of landscape quality objectives and the implementation of landscape policies;
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• To establish procedures for the participation of the general public, local and regional authorities, and other parties with an interest in the definition and implementation of the landscape policies mentioned in the bullet above; and • To integrate landscape into regional and town planning policies and in cultural, environmental, agricultural, social and economic policies, as well as in any other policies with possible direct or indirect impact on landscape. The ELC provides a framework for Scottish Natural Heritages (SNH) work for Scotland's landscapes based on the following five guiding principles: • Our landscape - people, from all cultures and communities, lie at the heart of efforts for landscape, as we all share an interest in, and responsibility for, its well- being; • All landscapes - the landscape is important everywhere, not just in special places and whether beautiful or degraded; • Changing landscapes - landscapes will continue to evolve in response to our needs, but this change needs to be managed; • Understanding landscapes - better awareness and understanding of our landscapes and the benefits they provide is required; and • Tomorrow's landscapes - an inclusive, integrated and forward-looking approach to managing the landscapes we have inherited, and in shaping new ones, is required. Given the UK’s adoption of the ELC and its aims, the ELC gives an appropriate basis for the importance placed on the Scottish landscape.
6.2.1.2 National Planning Framework 3 (NPF3) Scotland’s third National Planning Framework (NPF31) was published by the Scottish Government in June 2014. NPF3 is a long-term strategy for Scotland and is the spatial expression of the Government’s Economic Strategy and plans for development and investment in infrastructure.
6.2.1.3 Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) The key national policy document in relation to land use planning is Scottish Planning Policy (SPP2) 2014. As part of Scotland’s commitment to sustainable economic growth it is recognised in Paragraph 2 that the planning system should “…take a positive approach to enabling high-quality development and making efficient use of land to deliver long-term benefits for the public while protecting and enhancing natural and cultural resources”. In Table 1: Spatial Framework, SPP sets out the basis for a spatial framework in relation to wind farm development in which a hierarchy of protection is defined. Group 1 areas are based on National Parks and National Scenic Areas and are defined as ‘Areas where wind farms will not be acceptable’. Group 2 areas are defined as ‘Areas of Significant Protection’. Group 2 areas are based on the following criteria: a range of national designations, other nationally important environmental interests (such as wild land or carbon rich soils, deep peat and priority peatland habitat), and community separation (2 km from cities, towns and villages identified on the Local Development Plan). The site is not subject to any of the group 2 criteria listed in Table 1: Spatial Frameworks (noted above) and it is therefore considered that the Development lies within a Group 3 area.
1 National Planning Framework (NPF3 ), Scottish Government in June 2014. https://www.gov.scot/publications/national- planning-framework-3/ 2 Scottish Planning Policy (SPP), Scottish Government, 2014. https://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-planning-policy/
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Group 3 areas are defined as ‘Areas with potential for wind farm development’ and described as follows: “Beyond groups 1 and 2, wind farms are likely to be acceptable, subject to detailed consideration against identified policy criteria”. Policy criteria are contained in the Local Development Plan as described in the following section.
6.2.1.4 National Scenic Areas Paragraph 212 of SPP sets out the following policy in respect of National Scenic Areas (NSAs): ‘Development that affects a National Park, National Scenic Area, Site of Special Scientific Interest or a National Nature Reserve should only be permitted where: • the objectives of designation and the overall integrity of the area will not be compromised; or • any significant adverse effects on the qualities for which the area has been designated are clearly outweighed by social, environmental or economic benefits of national importance’. The potential for significant effects of the Development on NSAs has been scoped out of the LVIA as they lie at the edges of the 40 km study area and do not fall within the 15 km detailed assessment area agreed in consultations with the Council.
6.2.1.5 Gardens and Designed Landscapes In Paragraph 148 of SPP protection is given to Gardens and Designed Landscapes: ‘Planning authorities should protect and, where appropriate, seek to enhance gardens and designed landscapes included in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes and designed landscapes of regional and local importance’.
6.2.1.6 Wild Land Paragraph 200 of SPP states the importance of Wild Land: “Wild land character is displayed in some of Scotland's remoter upland, mountain and coastal areas, which are very sensitive to any form of intrusive human activity and have little or no capacity to accept new development. Plans should identify and safeguard the character of areas of wild land as identified on the 2014 SNH map of wild land areas.” Paragraph 215 further explores the ability of Wild Land to accommodate development: “In areas of wild land (see paragraph 200), development may be appropriate in some circumstances. Further consideration will be required to demonstrate that any significant effects on the qualities of these areas can be substantially overcome by siting, design or other mitigation.”
6.2.2 Local Development Plan Policy
6.2.2.1 Dumfries & Galloway Local Development Plan 2014 (LDP) The LDP3 sets out a long-term vision for Dumfries and Galloway Council (the Council), promoting a sustainable economy and safeguarding of the area’s landscape and natural and historic environments. In describing the vision for rural areas, the LDP states there will be “a viable rural economy and community” characterised by a number of factors including: • ‘High quality distinctive landscapes; • High quality accessible viewpoints, paths and green networks; • A range of renewable energy developments; and
3 Dumfries & Galloway Local Development Plan (LDP), Dumfries and Galloway Council 2014 https://www.dumgal.gov.uk/ldp
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• A protected and enhanced natural and historic environment.’ The LDP emphasises the importance of the region’s landscapes including how they are perceived and experienced by local communities and visitors or tourists. The LDP notes that the Council will take account of all of these factors when considering planning applications and that the LDP contains a number of policies which underpin the aim of protecting and enhancing the natural and historic environments. Key landscape and visual related policies are listed below, the assessment against these policies is considered in detail in the Planning Statement.
6.2.2.2 Policy NE1 - National Scenic Areas ‘Development within or that would have an effect on a National Scenic Area (NSA) should only be permitted where: • it will not adversely affect the integrity of the area or the qualities for which it has been designated; or • any such adverse effects are clearly outweighed by social, environmental or economic benefits of national importance.’ The potential for significant effects of the Development on NSAs has been scoped out of the LVIA as they lie at the edges of the study area and do not fall within the 15 km detailed assessment area agreed in consultations with the Council.
6.2.2.3 NE2 – Regional Scenic Areas ‘The siting and design of development within a Regional Scenic Area (RSA) should respect the special qualities of the area. Development within, or which affects RSAs, may be supported where the local Council is satisfied that: • the landscape character and scenic interest for which the area has been designated would not be significantly adversely affected; or • there is a specific need for the development at that location which could not be located in a less sensitive area.’ The effects of the Development on RSAs are assessed in Section 6.10 of this LVIA.
6.2.2.4 Policy ED12 – Dark Sky Park ‘The Council supports the designation of the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park, and will presume against development proposals that produce levels of lighting which adversely impact on the Dark Sky status of the Park. Development proposals will require to comply with supplementary guidance on lighting for development proposals within the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park.’ It is considered that the Development will not require permanent visible lighting and the darkness qualities of the Dark Sky Park will be unaffected. This designation is not therefore considered further within the LVIA.
6.2.2.5 Policy HE6 – Gardens and Designed Landscapes ‘a) The Council will support development that protects or enhances the significant elements, specific qualities, character, integrity and setting, including key views to and from, gardens and designed landscapes included in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes or the Non-Inventory List. In considering development proposals the Council will need to be satisfied that: • the development protects or enhances the significant elements of the garden or landscape in-situ; and
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• due consideration has been given to the significance and value of the asset in relation to the long-term benefit and specific need for the development in the location proposed. b) Developers will be required to submit the results of an assessment of the impact of their proposals on the sites and their settings plus details of any potential mitigation measures. c) Proposals that would have a detrimental effect on the specific quality, character or integrity of a garden or designed landscape will not be approved unless it is demonstrated that the proposal has benefits of overriding public interest.’ The effects of the Development on GDLs are assessed in Section 6.10 of this LVIA.
6.2.3 Supplementary Guidance (SG)
6.2.3.1 Local Development Plan SG Part 1 Wind Energy Development: Development Management Considerations (2017) (DGWED4) ‘The purpose of this Supplementary Guidance (SG) is to provide further detail on the criteria contained in Part 1 of Policy IN2: Wind Energy.’ … ‘Local Development Plan (LDP) policy IN2 is split into two parts; Part 1 deals with development management considerations that apply to all wind energy proposals whilst Part 2 deals with the Spatial Framework.’ Part 1 provides the considerations against which the Council will assess the acceptability of proposed wind energy developments. These considerations include: ‘Landscape and visual impact: • the extent to which the proposal addresses the guidance contained in the Dumfries and Galloway Wind farm Landscape Capacity Study. • the extent to which the landscape is capable of accommodating the development without significant detrimental impact on landscape character or visual amenity • that the design and scale of the proposal is appropriate to the scale and character of its setting, respecting the main features of the site and the wider environment and that it fully addresses the potential for mitigation. Cumulative Impact: The extent of any detrimental landscape or visual impact from two or more wind energy developments and the potential for mitigation. Impact on local communities: The extent of any detrimental impact on communities and local amenity including assessment of the impacts of noise, shadow flicker, visual dominance and the potential for associated mitigation. Impact on Aviation and Defence Interests: The extent to which the proposal addresses any impacts arising from location within an area subject to potential aviation and defence constraints including the Eskdalemuir Safeguard Area. Other Impacts and considerations:
4 Dumfries and Galloway Council, LDP Supplementary Guidance - Part 1 Wind Energy Development: Development Management Consideration, Adopted 6th March 2015
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a) the extent to which the proposal avoids or adequately resolves any other significant adverse impact including: on the natural and historic environment, cultural heritage, biodiversity; forest and woodlands; and tourism and recreational interests. b) the extent to which the proposal addresses any physical site constraints and appropriate provision for decommissioning and restoration. (1) Further details on this assessment process including its application to smaller capacity Wind farms are to be provided through Supplementary Guidance on Wind Energy Development: This will also include mapping of the constraints relevant to the considerations above. • Acceptability will be determined through an assessment of the details of the proposal including its benefits and the extent to which its environmental and cumulative impacts can be satisfactorily addressed. Part 2: Spatial Framework The considerations in Part 1 above will be applied in the context of the following Spatial Framework*: • Areas of Greatest Potential (1): areas free from significant constraint where proposals for large and medium turbine typologies will be supported subject to detailed assessment. • Areas of Significant Protection (2): Areas where a presumption against development applies due to significant constraints. These include: 1. Sites designated for their national or international landscape or natural heritage value where Policies NE1, NE3, NE4 and NE5 also apply. 2. Areas where the cumulative impact of existing and consented Wind farms limit further development. • Cumulative Sensitivity Zones (3): Areas where cumulative impact is a potential constraint. In these areas proposals should: address potential future cumulative impact and avoid unacceptable coalescence between clusters of Wind farms to retain an acceptable and coherent pattern of Wind farm development. • All other areas (4): Areas where potential constraints apply but with potential for mitigation. Wind energy proposals will be assessed against all the considerations set out above in Part 1. For Regional Scenic Areas the proposal should assess the potential impact on the objectives of the designation and demonstrate the extent to which these can be addressed. (1) - (4) The relevant mapping of these areas including an updated and consolidated spatial framework map is to be included within supplementary guidance.’ Appendix A: Landscape Sensitivity Assessment Tables The table included in DGWED provides a summary of landscape and visual sensitivity / value assessments for each of the different turbine typologies (range of wind turbine heights) within each landscape character type as considered within the Dumfries and Galloway Wind Farm Landscape Capacity Study, Appendix C (2017) (DGWLCS). The draft Supplementary Guidance for the Dumfries and Galloway Council LDP 25 includes the Wind Energy Development: Development Management Considerations draft SG (2018)6. This draft SG includes the same table of landscape character sensitivities as extracted from the 2017 DGWLCS.
5 Dumfries & Galloway Draft Local Development Plan 2 (LDP2), Dumfries and Galloway Council 2018 6 Dumfries and Galloway Council, LDP Draft Supplementary Guidance - Wind Energy Development: Development Management Consideration, 2018
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6.2.3.2 2014 LDP Technical Paper7 - Wind Energy Interim Spatial Framework Maps The 2014 LDP8 includes reference to this spatial framework mapping and although it has been noted in the 2014 LDP and in the 2017 DGWED that this spatial framework mapping will be replaced. The draft Supplementary Guidance for the Dumfries and Galloway Council LDP 2 (2018) does not include a draft replacement for this technical paper or spatial framework mapping. The mapping within this technical paper has therefore not been updated to ensure consistency with SPP. As described above in section 6.2.1.3 the Development is considered to lie within a Group 3 area defined in SPP as ‘Areas with potential for wind farm development’.
6.2.3.3 Dumfries and Galloway Wind Farm Landscape Capacity Study, Appendix C (2017) (DGWLCS)9 The DGWLCS was adopted in June 2017. The DGWLCS revises and updates the 2011 study of the same name, in response to changes in baseline conditions and to reflect current planning policy and guidance. The DGWLCS represents the most recent characterisation study in the area and has therefore been used as the basis for identifying Landscape Character Areas within Dumfries and Galloway. The Development is located within the Foothills with Forest (18a), Stroan unit LCA. The DGWLCS has assessed a High – Medium sensitivity to large typology development (80- 150 metres (m) high). The executive summary of the DGWLCS states that ‘The study identifies the greatest scope for additional development in parts of the Southern Uplands with Forest, with some more limited remaining opportunities likely in the Plateau Moorlands, Plateau Moorlands with Forest and Foothills with Forest landscape character types. Cumulative effects with operational and consented wind farms and likely increased effects on surrounding more sensitive landscapes are key constraints in the remaining undeveloped parts of these landscapes.’ Considered reference has been made to this Landscape Capacity Study throughout the report.
6.3 Consultation The Council and SNH have been consulted on various aspects of the landscape and visual assessment process, including viewpoint locations, the production of visualisation information and wind farms to be included in the cumulative assessment. Table 6.1 - Consultation Consultee Consultee Comments How Addressed Name
Dumfries & The detailed study area should be 15 km The detailed landscape character Galloway taking in: the Upper Glenkens, flooded valley assessment included within the Council and ‘Deeside drumlins’; Galloway Forest Park LVIA focusses on 15 km. Scoping including the Rhinns of Kells, the Carsphairn Assessment of Landscape Response Hills; and the watershed ridges towards Character Effects in section 6.8 of Nithsdale; foothills and uplands around the LVIA. Moniaive.
7 LDP Technical Paper - Wind Energy Interim Spatial Framework Maps, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Sept 2014 8 Dumfries & Galloway Local Development Plan (LDP), Dumfries and Galloway Council 2014 https://www.dumgal.gov.uk/ldp 9
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Consultee Consultee Comments How Addressed Name
A local landscape character assessment Individual properties and should be undertaken to assess and mitigate farmsteads are considered in the against potential landscape and visual Residential Visual Amenity Survey impacts on the local landscape and setting of (RVAS) in Technical Appendix features, which contribute to its sense of A6.2 (The Troston Farmhouse is place and local distinctiveness. demolished and not considered as • The setting of Troston farmstead and a residential receptor, this associated fields. approach was agreed during • The setting and character of the open subsequent consultation with the upland valley between the site and Fingland Council). Hill / Meikle Bennan / Bennan ridgeline, Assessment of Physical Landscape including Auchenshinnoch and Fingland Effects in section 6.8 of the LVIA. farmsteads and associated fields. Assessment of Landscape • The historic farmstead Knocksting, and Character Effects in section 6.9 of nearby lochs. the LVIA. • Any detailed features within the forested area, with potential to enhance the settings, access.
Indirect landscape and visual effects are Assessment of Landscape anticipated in nearby landscape character Character Effects in section 6.9 of types, and reference to the DGWLCS should the LVIA. be made in terms of detailed assessments for landscape context and visual sensitivities. The proposals lie 1.5 km to the west of the RSAs are assessed in the Thornhill Uplands RSA and 6 km to the east Assessment of Landscape of the Galloway Hills RSA. There are no Character Effects in section 6.9 of direct landscape effects on the RSA areas, the LVIA. but there may be indirect landscape effects on the backdrop to character areas, and / or visual effects in terms of important views which should be assessed The ZTV indicates theoretical visibility with GDLs and NIDLs are considered in Non Inventory Designed Landscapes (NIDL) the Assessment of Landscape Kenmure Castle NIDL, Earlstoun Castle NIDL Character Effects in section 6.9 of at short range, and potentially others which the LVIA. should be assessed The ZTV takes in a study area of 40 km, but A follow up meeting with the from the pattern of theoretical visibility any Council landscape architect and significant effects are not expected beyond planning officer confirmed which 15 km, and views taking in wind farm viewpoints should have pattern and cumulative context would be photomontage visualisations. likely to fall within the Glenkens, and Viewpoints listed in section 6.6.4. potentially the upper glens of western visual baseline overview. Nithsdale, visual envelopes, given the site’s position. 15 km is suggested in this instance as an outer limit of visual interest for full visualisations, although wirelines could usefully be provided beyond this to pick up particularly sensitive visual receptors.
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Consultee Consultee Comments How Addressed Name
A range of visual receptors were identified Following scoping a meeting was and a list of suggested viewpoints provided held with the Council landscape offering new and / or alternative viewpoints architect and planning officer to to those proposed within the scoping report. agree the general approach to the project and in particular the LVIA. Stated that visualisations should conform to The meeting focused on a review the most recent SNH and Landscape of the viewpoints as suggested by Institute (LI) guidance the Council as well as other consultees specially SNH, supported by visualisations. The meeting and subsequent consultation resulted in an agreed list of viewpoints for assessment including whether photomontage visualisations were required for the agreed viewpoints. Viewpoints listed in section 6.6.4. visual baseline overview.
The potential for adverse effects is complex The cumulative assessment within and in order to assess when the capacity of the LVIA is comprehensive across the area is reached the assessment should all landscape and visual receptors address the different potential scenarios of considered in detail. The scenarios development. considered are operational / under construction; consented; and application. Troston Loch Wind Farm lies immediately Both Glenshimmeroch and adjacent to two scoping schemes: Cornharrow are now in planning Glenshimmeroch and Stroanshalloch, and and are included in the cumulative also in-planning Margree. There is potential assessment. Margree has been in for four contiguous schemes to proceed at planning for some time and is also the current time, which would make a included. combined footprint, and potential other scale Cumulative sites considered in the effects significant, given the sensitivities of LVIA includes operational, the landscape. In terms of GLVIA3 (7.14) it consented and application stage is recommended that the following scoping wind energy developments as of schemes are included in the cumulative the cumulative cut-off date of assessment, given their proximity and likely November 2018. Whilst broader potential interactions: changes to the cumulative • Adjacent Stroanshalloch and Shepherds Rig baseline since this date have not (at 5km). been accounted for, Shepherds • Adjacent Glenshimmeroch and Cornharrow Rig wind farm application was (at 2km) wind farms. known to be approaching application submission in November 2018 and given its proximity to the Development was also incorporated into the assessment when the detail of this application became available in January 2019. Stroanshalloch was withdrawn prior to the cumulative cut-off date.
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Consultee Consultee Comments How Addressed Name
An approved 132kv overhead line is routed The overhead line is now built and to the north of Lochinvar, and this should be is included in baseline factored in to the cumulative assessment photography where visible. also. The line should be represented in the cumulative visualisations, preferably in the photomontage.
The LVIA should test the scenarios of The design workshops considered alternative 115m and 130m turbine sizes, to various turbine geometries as part check issues of scale with the receiving of the landscape and visual design landscape and also the cumulative baseline input to the design process in of existing and consented schemes. tandem with energy yield and layout efficiency analysis. Most of the proposed scheme lies within an A forest design plan forms part of established area of forestry. The LVIA the application. The LVIA has should address the assessment of effects in considered this and is shown on relation to the Forest Plan, detail forestry the photomontage for viewpoint proposals, including any potential mitigation 4. Local topography restricts views by design / compensatory mitigation. of changes resulting from forestry Photomontage visualisations should show the removals from all other proposals, including forest cover. The LVIA should consider and the Site infrastructure and tracks are photomontages should include any visible not visible from any viewpoints infrastructure including road improvements, within close enough proximity for compounds, substations, site offices, these elements to be discerned. batching plants. Dumfries and Viewpoints discussed in detail and final The viewpoints considered within Galloway locations and approach to visualisations the LVIA are as agreed at this Council agreed. meeting. Viewpoints listed in Meeting on section 6.6.4. visual baseline 12/12/2017 overview.
The Council landscape architect drew After discussing this initial view of attention to the Dumfries and Galloway Wind the location of the Development Farm Landscape Capacity Study (DGWFLCS), by the Council in wider strategic adopted as of June 2017, in particular terms within DGWFLCS, the Section 3.4.2, which comments on some very Council landscape architect limited scope for the large typology (turbines acknowledged that the location of 80 – 150m) sited on less prominent ridges the Development is relatively and hills in the Stroan area of the Foothills positive in landscape and visual with Forest. Noting that the scale of the terms, being in a transitional turbines within the landscape will be a key landscape, amongst less consideration. prominent ridges and well separated from the more populated valleys. The approach to the Residential Visual The RVAS considers all residential Amenity Survey (RVAS) was discussed. The properties within 3 km. See Council stated that in general properties Technical Appendix 6.2. within 2km should be considered. The cumulative context as presented during Whilst the focus of the cumulative scoping was discussed and the following assessment within 40 km was information on cumulative was provided by agreed at this meeting, the status the Council by way of an update to status: of sites in the area evolves over • Older scoping sites may be discounted time and a detailed trawl of including the adjacent Stroanshalloch cumulative sites has since verified and nearby Shepherds Rig. the cumulative information for use
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Consultee Consultee Comments How Addressed Name • Loch Hill has now been refused at in the LVIA. appeal and can be discounted. Cumulative sites considered in the • Knockman Hill technically still consented. LVIA include operational, • Longburn is subject to an appeal and consented and application stage should be considered as an wind energy developments as of undetermined application. the cumulative cut-off date of November 2018. Whilst broader • Quantuns Hill has been withdrawn and changes to the cumulative may be discounted. baseline since this date have not • Wether Hill Extension currently been accounted for, the undetermined, although there is limited Shepherds Rig wind farm activity. application was known to be approaching application submission in November 2018 and given its proximity to the Development was also incorporated into the assessment when the detail of this application became available in January 2019. SNH The overriding issue is likely to be one of The cumulative assessment within cumulative landscape and visual effects and the LVIA is comprehensive across therefore this aspect should be all landscape and visual receptors Scoping comprehensively assessed within the considered in detail. The scenarios Response appraisal. We expect that the majority of considered are operational / under viewpoints will be cumulative with construction; consented; and 360˚/180˚ panoramas where required. application. Additional baseline panoramas have been included for all instances where cumulative wind farms are found in wider views from agreed viewpoints. Design fit and rationale will be of importance The Design Statement illustrates given the number of other proposed, in the design process and rationale construction and built schemes in close in achieving the layout and proximity to the Troston Loch proposal. We turbine dimensions. consider it will be challenging to fit a development with the proposed turbine size into the baseline and achieve a coherent pattern of development, especially given the relatively large level changes present on site. We expect the assessment to illustrate how this could be achieved. We consider the advice within the DGWLCS 2016 to be particularly relevant to this development Request for additional viewpoint from A viewpoint at or around Carsphairn and from experience, suggest Carsphairn was explored and war memorial would be suitable. discussed with the Council. Minimal visibility of the Development in this area led to an alternative viewpoint being agreed on the A713 road bridge over the Water of Deugh. Recommend that our guidance is followed The cumulative assessment within for the cumulative assessment although it the LVIA is comprehensive across should be noted that SNH's base plan is no all landscape and visual receptors longer regularly updated. In terms of considered in detail. The scenarios applications to include, priority should be considered are operational / under given to developments that are close by, construction; consented; and
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Consultee Consultee Comments How Addressed Name including some scoping/in application application. proposals where necessary, given the Based on surrounding topography amount of proposed development in the and the locations of groups of ‘cluster’ surrounding the Troston Loch wind farm developments within development. the wider study area the LVIA has considered that there is no likelihood of significant cumulative effects between the Development and any of the cumulative sites that lie beyond 20 km of the Development. For this reason, the detailed assessment within the LVIA has focussed on the cumulative sites within 20 km of the Development. We expect all visualisations to be compliant LVIA in in accordance with with our visualisation guidance. guidance.
With respect to LVIA methodology, we LVIA in in accordance with expect the methodology to be compliant with guidance. GLVIA 3 and SNH guidance Carsphairn Existing and proposed revues of the Consultation with the Council and Community cumulative wind farm sites within 60 km SNH has included discussions of Council search area are too broad a desk top sites within a 40 km study area. Scoping exercise. Based on surrounding topography Response and the locations of groups of wind farm developments within the wider study area the LVIA has considered that there is no likelihood of significant cumulative effects between the Development and any of the cumulative sites that lie beyond 20 km of the Development. For this reason, the detailed assessment within the LVIA has focussed on the cumulative sites within 20 km of the Development. Carsphairn Residential Amenity: ‘Receptors’ should The RVAS considers all residential Community include every occupied or potentially properties within 3 km. See Council habitable dwelling; Technical Appendix 6.2
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6.4 Description of the Development The Development is described in full in Chapter 4 The Development. The Development layout consists of 14 turbines with a maximum height of 149.9 m. The turbine dimensions assessed in this chapter are for a turbine with a 133 m rotor diameter and an 83.4 m hub height. The assessment also considers the infrastructure required for the Development, which includes turbine access tracks, control building and substation, borrow pits and a temporary construction compound. The LVIA has been carried out in conjunction with the design iteration of the Development and has closely informed the layout and design of the Development as described in Chapter 3 Site Selection and Design.
6.4.1 Embedded Mitigation The layout design of the Development is a vital part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process and is the stage where the biggest contribution can be made to mitigate potential landscape and visual effects, creating a wind farm which is appropriate for the existing landscape character and visual features of an area. The design of the Development has evolved as part of an iterative process which has aimed to provide an optimal design in environmental, as well as technical and economic terms. Landscape and visual mitigation measures have been a central consideration in the design process that has evolved throughout the design process, these are summarised in the Landscape and Visual Design Strategy and Site Mitigation Measures Sections below.
6.4.1.1 Landscape and Visual Design Strategy The landscape and visual design strategy for the Development has taken into account the following objectives: • To ensure that the turbine layout appears as a simple form, which relates to the landscape character of the Site and its surroundings; • To ensure that the design and layout of the turbines expresses the function of the Development as an energy generator as clearly as possible by avoiding complexity and visual confusion; • To ensure the turbine layout relates to the scale of the landscape in which it is located; • To ensure a visually balanced composition of turbines is achieved against the landscape, skyline and other cumulative wind farm developments; • To respond to the various other environmental and technical constraints identified within the Site; and • To take account of relevant national, regional and local policy and guidance.
6.4.1.2 Site Design Mitigation Measures The proposed turbine layout has been designed to minimise the effect on the surrounding landscape and visual resource. As a consequence, the resulting turbine layout design presents a simple, well balanced image of the Development in the majority of views. The design process, site selection and layout iterations which have led to the final design solution are summarised in Chapter 3 Site Selection and Design. The location and management of construction activities has been carefully considered to minimise landscape and visual effects. Ground disturbance on-site would be restricted as far as practicable and any soil materials excavated would be retained on the site for re-use on areas to be re-vegetated following the construction phase.
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The proposed borrow pits, substation, construction compound and tracks are positioned to minimise visual impact. The landform surrounding the Site limits the level of visibility of these infrastructure elements to elevated locations and where visible the design of these has been considered further to ensure they relate to the Site landform as far as possible taking advantage of on-site screening from localised landform and minimising the visual effect of these elements.
6.5 Assessment Method This LVIA is an objective evaluation which is informed by experienced professional judgement based on the application of a methodology. The methodology, assessment criteria and assignment of significance for the LVIA are as set out in Technical Appendix A6.1 - LVIA Methodology. The objective of the LVIA of the Development is to predict the likely significant effects on the landscape and visual resource. As required by the EIA Regulations10 the LVIA effects are assessed to be either significant or not significant. The LVIA does not define intermediate levels of significance as the EIA Regulations do not provide for these. The significance of effects is assessed through a combination of two considerations; the sensitivity of the landscape receptor or view and the magnitude of change that would result from the addition of the Development. The LVIA is intended to determine the effects that the Development would have on the landscape and visual resource. Described in more detail within Technical Appendix A6.1, the potential effects on the landscape and visual resource are assessed under four categories of effects as follows:
Physical Effects: Physical effects are restricted to the area within the Development site boundary (the Site) and are the direct effects on the existing fabric of the Site, such as alteration to ground cover. This category of effects is made up of landscape elements, which are the components of the landscape such as trees, forestry or moorland that may be directly and physically affected by the Development.
Effects on landscape character: Landscape character is the distinct and recognisable pattern of elements that occurs consistently in a particular type of landscape, and the way that this pattern is perceived. Effects on landscape character arise either through the introduction of new elements that physically alter this pattern of elements, or through visibility of the Development, which may alter the way in which the pattern of elements is perceived. This category of effects is made up of landscape character receptors, which fall into two groups; landscape character areas and landscape-related designated areas.
Effects on views: The assessment of effects on views is an assessment of how the introduction of the Development would affect views throughout the LVIA study area. The assessment of effects on views is carried out in two parts: • An assessment of the effects that the Development would have on a series of viewpoints within the LVIA study area; and • An assessment of the effects that the Development would have on views from principal visual receptors, including residents, road-users, people using recreational
10 The Electricity Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017
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routes and people visiting features and attractions throughout the study area (as ascertained through the baseline study).
Cumulative Effects: Cumulative effects are considered where the presence of other developments of a similar type and scale within the study area may have an impact on the perception of the landscape character of that area, or on views from visual receptors. Cumulative effects on the landscape and visual resource arise where the effects of two or more developments occur concurrently or in sequence. In accordance with GLVIA3 this LVIA considers those that would ‘result from additional changes to the landscape or visual amenity caused by the proposed development in conjunction with other developments (associated with or separate to it), or actions that occurred in the past, present or would be likely to occur in the foreseeable future.'
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6.6 Landscape and Visual Baseline
6.6.1 Introduction The landscape and visual baseline identifies aspects of the landscape and visual resource that may be significantly affected by the Development and provides a description of the existing landscape and visual conditions in the area that may be affected. Establishing the baseline will, when reviewed alongside the description of the Development (Chapter 5), form the basis for the identification and description of the landscape and visual effects of the Development. The baseline description of the landscape that may be affected is primarily determined by the physical footprint of the Development components and the associated ZTV. The baseline also describes current pressures that may cause change in the landscape in the future, in particular drawing on information for wind energy developments that are not yet present in the landscape but are at other stages in the planning process. Operational and under construction wind energy developments are regarded as part of the baseline landscape character of the area. Any changes resulting from the Development are assessed within this context in the assessment of landscape and visual effects. A preliminary assessment identifies those landscape and visual receptors that may experience significant effects, which require to be assessed in full. This section provides a baseline overview and a detailed baseline description is provided separately within the assessment section for each receptor that may be significantly affected.
6.6.2 Study Area Overview The study area for the LVIA covers a radius of 40 km from the outermost turbines of the Development, as illustrated on Figure 6.1. This is considered to provide sufficient landscape and visual context for the identification of significant landscape and visual effects and is in accordance with current best practice as set out in SNH guidance. The Site is located in Dumfries and Galloway, approximately 7.0 km west of Moniaive, in a foothills with forest landscape, which forms the foothills to the Southern Uplands between the Upper Glenkens valley to the west and the Castlefairn and Craigdarroch Valleys to the east. The Rhinns of Kells form a distinctive ridgeline beyond the Glenkens to the west. To the north of the site, the landform rises steeply into the elevated domed shaped summits of the Southern Uplands. To the north-east, the summits around Cairnhead, including Benbrack and Colt Hill are notable for their elevation (580- 600 m Above Ordance Datum (AOD)) and Striding Arch sculptures, while the landform of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn rises to 797 m to form a prominent landform to the north- west. Blackcraig forms a pronounced ridge to the south.
6.6.3 Landscape Baseline Overview
6.6.3.1 Site Context The landform of the Site is formed by a broad arc of gently rounded foothill summits at elevations of 290-380 m AOD, defined by Lochwinnie Hill (290 m AOD), Lochlee Hill (352 m AOD), College Hill (350 m AOD), Bennieloan (360 m AOD), Troston Hill (385 m AOD) and Brecken Brae (380 m AOD). Elevations are higher to the north and east of the Site at 350-380 m AOD, with the landform dropping to the south to the Troston Burn and Black Water at 230-250m AOD. The landform drops fairly steeply on the northern side of College Hill into College Glen, which is traversed by a minor road connecting to the B729. The Site is contained by adjacent landforms; including Auchenstroan Crag, Fingland Hill and Bennan rising to the north; Bennan and Pointfoot
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Hill to the south; Big Morton Hill to the east; and Glenshimmeroch Hill to the west. The landform of the Site is shown in Figure 6.2. The primary land use within the Site consists of commercial coniferous woodland plantation, in rotation, with areas of mature plantation and clear fell matrix within the site. There are some limited areas of marginal, semi-improved farmland in the lower lying part of the Site around the now demolished Troston Farmhouse. There are two small lochs in the eastern part of the Site - Troston Loch and Mckay’s Loch. There is a aspirational Core Path which traverses the Site north-south between College Glen and the former Troston Farmhouse and Knocksting. The area is sparsely settled and consists of large expanses of open moorland and coniferous forest. To the immediate north of the Site, College Glen is traversed by a minor road connecting to the B729.
6.6.3.2 Landscape Character The landscape assessment considers the effect of the Development on the Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) within the Site and the surrounding area. The LCAs found in the study area are shown on Figure 6.3 (Figures 6.14 and 6.17 show LCAs with the ZTV of the Development). The study area is covered by the following SNH landscape character reviews: Dumfries and Galloway Landscape Assessment, SNH Review No 94, 1998; Ayrshire Landscape Assessment, SNH Review No 111, 1998; and Glasgow and Clyde Valley Landscape Assessment, SNH Review No 116, 1999. Each of the above landscape character reviews described and categorised the landscape of the study area into distinct character types as defined in SNH’s landscape character dataset. More recent characterisation studies have since been produced for each local authority in the study area as part of wind farm Landscape Capacity Studies: the Site and majority of the study area is covered by the Dumfries & Galloway Landscape Wind Capacity Study (DGWLCS) (Carol Anderson, Alison Grant Landscape Architects, June 2017); South Ayrshire Landscape Wind Capacity Study, 2013; East Ayrshire Landscape Wind Capacity Study, 2013; and South Lanarkshire Landscape Capacity Study for Wind Energy, 2015. These form the most up to date characterisation studies in the area which update and refine some of the landscape characterisation in the SNH Landscape Assessments.
6.6.3.3 Landscape Designations A landscape designation is an area of landscape identified as being of importance at international, national or local level, either defined by statute or identified in development plans or other documents. These landscapes are designated in relation to their special qualities or features which warrant protection through the planning system. National and local designations occur in parts of the study area and are designated at a national level by SNH and at a local level by the local planning authority. There are three ways in which such designations are relevant to the LVIA: • The presence of a designation can give an indication of a recognised value that may increase the sensitivity of a landscape character receptor, viewpoint or visual receptor, and may therefore affect the significance of the effect on that receptor; • The presence of a relevant designation can lead to the selection of a representative viewpoint within the designated area, as the viewpoint will provide a representative outlook from that area; and
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• Designated areas may be included as landscape character receptors so that the effects of the Development on these features of the landscape that have been accorded particular value can be specifically assessed. Landscape designations found in the study area are shown on Figure 6.4 (Figures 6.15 and 6.17 show designations with the ZTV of the Development). Those that lie within the study area include the following: • National Scenic Areas (NSA) - Fleet Valley, East Stewarty Coast and Nith Estuary all of which are found to the south at the edges of the study area; • Dumfries and Galloway Regional Scenic Areas (RSAs) – Galloway Hills, Thornhill Uplands, Solway Coast, Torthorwald Ridge and Terregles Ridge; • East Ayrshire Sensitive Landscape Areas (EA-SLA) – the EA-SLAs are not named, the closest part of the EA-SLA lies to the east of Carsphairn Forest; • South Lanarkshire Special Landscape Areas (SA-SLA) – Leadhills and the Lowther Hills and Douglas Valley; • South Ayrshire Scenic Area (SA) – the SAs are not named, the closest part of the SA lies to the north west of Merrick; and • Gardens and Designed Landscapes (GDLs) – there are 16 GDLs within the study area with Drumlanrig Castle and Maxwelton within 15 km. Whilst not specifically recognised as landscape designations the Galloway Forest Park (and Dark Sky Park) are highly valued recreational destinations in the LDP and the Merrick SNH Wild Land Area (WLA) lies to the west. These areas have been included on Figure 6.4 for reference to where the WLA, the park and its boundaries intersect with other landscape designations and landscape character areas.
6.6.4 Visual Baseline Overview
6.6.4.1 Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) The blade tip ZTV is shown on Figures 6.9 (A3 size) and 6.10 (A1 size) and the hub height ZTV is shown on Figures 6.11 (A3 size) and 6.12 (A1 size). The ZTVs indicate that potential theoretical visibility of the Development within the immediate context of the Development is contained within 5 km across the upland plateau of Foothills with Forest (18a), Stroan unit and Southern Uplands with Forest (19a), Ken unit LCAs. Theoretical visibility is limited in this way due to the surrounding hills and ridges that combine at the edges of the area of upland plateau within which the Site is located, as follows: • To the south the ZTV is limited by the elevated Blackcraig ridge (Barscobe Hill, Troquhain Hill, Blackcraig Hill and Fell Hill) combined with the higher hills at the edges of the northern area of upland plateau (including Knockman Hill, Ewe Hill); • To the west the ZTV is limited by higher hills that define the western edges of the upland plateau (including Glenshimmeroch, Kilnair Hill, Hog Hill, Corseglass Hill and Knockman Hill; • To the east the ZTV is limited by higher upland edge hills (including Stroanshalloch Hill, Neis Hill and Big Morton Hill); and • To the north the ZTV is limited by Carroch Hill, Wether Hill and Corriedow Hill. Theoretical visibility is more limited within the 5-20 km area with most areas restricted to higher ground. To the north, east and south this takes the form of patches of theoretical visibility across occasional hill summits. To the west theoretical visibility has a more consistent coverage across the east facing slopes and hill summits of the Rhinns of Kells and Glenkens. Beyond 20 km, theoretical visibility is much more restricted with little or no visibility predicted for the north-west half of the study area and with other areas to the south
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and east becoming more fragmented and restricted to more elevated hill slopes and summits (either within the southern Galloway Hills north of Cairnsmore of Fleet or Southern Lowther Hills and Forest of Ae to the east of the A76) or elevated coastal areas at the southern edge of the study area. The hub height ZTV is different than the blade tip ZTV in that the number of hubs visible within areas of theoretical visibility is far fewer than blades. It shows that there are large areas of the study area to the north, east and south that have around half the number of hubs visible than blade tips. Other than within the immediate area of the site, locations where the hubs of all 14 turbines would be visible are limited to the more elevated land to the west on the Rhinns of Kells and north-west on the slopes of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. A difference in theoretical visibility extent can also be seen when the hub and blade ZTVs are compared with much less extent for hub visibility than for blade. This typically happens at the edges of ZTV areas, which often less elevated are prone to blade only visibility on lower slopes or as found within the valley landscapes of the Cairn Water or Ken Water for example. The Horizontal Angle ZTV (HZTV) is illustrated on Figure 6.13. The HZTV measures how much of the horizontal field of view is theoretically occupied by the Development. It is calculated from a grid of receptors in the study area and measures the maximum spread from the furthest left to the furthest right theoretically visible turbine of the Development. The information is stored as a horizontal angle in degrees. The HZTV provides further information about the likely magnitude of effect of the Development because the results reflect the effect that distance has on the apparent size of the Development: a large object up-close has more visual impact than the same sized object further away (all other things being equal). The HZTV is displayed using coloured bands showing incremental degrees of horizontal angle, in order to highlight areas of higher effect. The HZTV shows that the widest, theoretical, horizontal field of view is occupied in close proximity to the Development, particularly within the Site itself, where the turbines could occupy more than 180 degrees (50%) of the field of view. In the areas immediately surrounding the Development site, particularly within 1-2 km the degree of HZTV ranges between 20-60 degrees (5-16%) from the north-east and south-west to between 60-180 degrees (16-50%) from the north-west and south-east. The HZTV reduces to less than 35 degrees (10%) of the field of view beyond 3 km. Beyond around 5-6 km the HZTV drops to less than 15 degrees (4%) for much of the affected area, apart from some swathes of up to 25 degrees (7%) HZTV across the Balckcraig ridge, the forested south facing slopes of the upper Ken Water valley and the slopes of Benbrack. Beyond 10 km the majority of the HZTV is below 10 degrees (3%) with many areas dropping to below 5 degrees (1%) beyond 15 km. The HZTV shows the Development would have a wider horizontal extent in views from the north-west, where the layout of the Development would be viewed at its widest in views from the surrounding landscape in areas where theoretical visibility is not as restricted as to the south-east for example. Correspondingly, the HZTV would have a reduced horizontal extent in views from the north-east and south-west, where the Development turbines would appear more clustered within a smaller part of the skyline. Considering the implications therefore of what the HZTV illustrates in relation to magnitude of change, it is clear that as a result of reduced horizontal angle of view potentially occupied by the Development that the visual effect will diminish with distance. Generally, this will result in a higher magnitude of change from locations at closer proximity, where the Development might occupy a wider horizontal extent, and a lower magnitude of change from distant locations for much of the study area where the extent of the horizon occupied by the Development is very small.
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6.6.4.2 Overview of Visual Receptors Visual receptors are shown on Figures 6.6, 6.7 and 6.8 (Figures 6.16 and 6.17 also show visual receptors with the ZTV of the Development).
Settlements The primary settlements within15km are shown in Figure 6.7 and include Moniaive, Carsphairn and St John’s Town of Dalry. The ZTV shows St John’s Town of Dalry has very little theoretical visibility of the Development and visibility towards the Development from Carsphairn is restricted by intervening forest covered landforms and intervening trees found at the settlement edge. Larger settlements in the wider study area are shown in Figure 6.6 and include Dumfries, Newton Stewart, Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie, Kirkcudbright, New Cumnock, Cumnock, Dalmellington and Sanquhar although there is little or no visibility from these settlements due to intervening topography within the more immediate landscape context of the site. The landscape is only settled at lower elevations, either into the Craigdarroch / Cairn Water Valleys to the east, where the village of Moniaive is located or to the west within the valley of the Water of Ken, within which the village of St John’s Town of Dalry is located. The surrounding uplands enclose local valleys and as a result provide a backdrop in views from these settled areas.
Residential Properties The upland landscape of the Site and immediately surrounding landscape context is sparsely populated, with extensive areas of either remote moorland or commercial coniferous woodland with few individual properties. The following properties have been identified within 2 km - Fingland, Yellow Craig, Minnygryle, Auchenshinnoch, properties at Auchenstroan and Carroch and are considered further in the Residential Visual Amenity Survey (RVAS) in Appendix A6.2.
Roads The principal transport routes within 15 km are shown on Figure 6.7. Key routes that have potential visibility of the Development include the A702, B729 and A713. The potential for significant effects to other routes in the wider study area (Figure 6.6) is considered unlikely due to limited, distant or no visibility of the Development.
Rail The Dumfries to Glasgow railway line crosses the 40 km study area from Dumfries in the south east to Mauchline in the north west although the ZTV shows only one small area of theoretical visibility near Thornhill. The Ayr to Dalmellington railway line is found in the north west quadrant of the study area where the ZTV shows no theoretical visibility.
Long Distance Recreational Routes Long distance recreational routes in the area include the Annandale Way, River Ayr Way and Southern Upland Way (Figure 6.6). The Striding Arches sculptures add greater value to parts of the Southern Upland Way (Figure 6.7) and the potential effect from these hilltop sculptures and associated sightlines will be considered within the LVIA. The ZTV (Figure 6.16) shows no visibility from the Annandale Way and River Ayr Way and will not therefore be considered in the assessment. The national cycle routes NCN7, NCN73 and NCN74 are found in the outer parts of the study area and significant effects are not considered likely due to limited, distant or no visibility of the Development.
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Core paths There are no Core Paths within the Development application boundary. The ‘Margree’ Core Path passes approximately 1 km to the south of the Development (Figure 6.7) although the core path will not be altered in any way by the Development and is therefore not considered further in this assessment. The Southern Upland Way is also identified as a Core Path and is considered as a recreational receptor.
6.6.4.3 Overview of Viewpoints The viewpoints used in the assessment have been selected to cover points of specific importance such as recognised viewpoints, designated landscapes, settlements, important routes and attractions, and to inform the definition of the likely extent of significant visual effects arising from the Development. A variety of landscape character areas and points from different directions and distances have also been represented in the selected views. 21 LVIA viewpoints have been selected in consultation with the Council and SNH. Table 6.2 lists the viewpoints and provides information on their location, the receptors which may experience views at these locations, viewpoint elevation and distance and direction from the Development. Viewpoint locations are shown in conjunction with the blade tip ZTV on Figures 6.9 (A3 size) and 6.10 (A1 size) and are shown at detailed scale in the visualisations in Figures 6.24 – 6.44. Visualisations have been prepared to meet the requirements of SNH (Visual Representation of Wind Farms Version 2.2, December 2017), (listed in Table 6.1 and shown on Figures 6.24 – 6.44). The visualisation requirements were discussed and agreed with the Council at the consultation meeting held on 12th December 2017 and those LVIA viewpoints highlighted grey in Table 6.2 are agreed as not requiring photomontages (baseline panorama photography and wirelines will be provided for these viewpoints). Table 6.2 - LVIA Viewpoints Landscape Character Area Elevation (AOD m) Viewpoint / Nearest Ref Receptor (LCA) / Grid Ref Name proposed turbine Landscape (m) / Direction Designation B729 junction LCA: Southern 1 with minor road Road User Uplands with Forest 268990 591012 306.4 519 S to Fingland (Ken unit) Minor Road, LCA: Foothills with 2 Road User 266400 589332 268.0 1,142 E Auchenshinnoch Forest (Stroan unit) LCA: Southern B729, Guttery 3 Road User Uplands with Forest 266335 591382 257.6 2,498 SE Glen (Ken unit) Southern Upland Recreational LCA: Foothills with 4 Way (SUW), 264422 589525 295.3 2,909 E Walker Forest (Stroan unit) Culmark Hill LCA: Foothills with 5 Lochinvar shore. Road user 265679 585560 227.8 3,232 NE Forest (Stroan unit) SUW near Recreational LCA: Foothills with 6 263744 585602 216.2 4,421 E Barlaes Walker Forest (Stroan unit) LCA: Southern Stroanfreggan Recreational 7 Uplands with Forest 264204 592404 290.9 4,724 SE Fort Walker (Ken unit)
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LCA: Foothills (Dalmacallan unit) 8 Craigdarroch Road user 275487 590873 136.2 5,214 W Designation: Thornhill Uplands RSA LCA: Upper Dale Dunbeg, Recreational (Upper Glenkens unit) 9 260969 589738 224.5 6,290 E Dundeugh Forest Walker Designation: Galloway Hills RSA LCA: Foothills Fork in minor (Dalmacallan unit) 10 road near Loch Road User 274972 585706 211.4 6,258 NW Urr Designation: Thornhill Uplands RSA LCA: Southern Southern Upland 11 Hill Walker Uplands with Forest 268034 597045 580.4 6,626 S Way, Benbrack (Ken unit) LCA: Upland Glen (Castlefairn and Moniaive, Settlement / 12 Dalwhat unit) 278174 591130 138.4 7,906 W Dunreggan Brae Road user Designation: Thornhill Uplands RSA LCA: Upper Dale (Upper Glenkens unit) A713 near 13 Road User 258511 590516 198.1 8,859 E Polquhanity Designation: Galloway Hills RSA; Edges of Galloway Forest Park LCA: Upper Dale SUW, Waterside Recreational (Upper Glenkens unit) 14 260845 582071 168.5 8,952 NE Hill Walker Designation: Galloway Hills RSA LCA: Flooded Valley A762 north of (Ken Valley unit) 15 Road User 263119 578922 106.5 10,303 NE New Galloway Designation: Galloway Hills RSA LCA: Foothills (Tynron Auchengibbert unit) 16 Hill Walker 280627 594424 372.1 11,207 W Hill Designation: Thornhill Uplands RSA LCA: Intimate Pastoral A702, Cairn Valley 17 Water (near Road User 281549 590188 110.1 11,193 W Maxwelton) Designation: Thornhill Uplands RSA; LCA: Upper Dale Carsphairn, A762 (Upper Glenkens unit) 18 Road User 256906 592923 171.4 11,155 E Bridge Designation: Galloway Hills RSA; LCA: Southern Uplands (Carsphairn Cairnsmore of 19 Hill Walker unit) 259469 597998 796.5 12,029 SE Carsphairn Designation: Galloway Hills RSA LCA: Rugged Granite Corserine, 20 Hill Walker Upland (Rhinns of 250443 587281 798.3 16,723 E Polmaddy Cairn Kells unit)
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Designation: Galloway Hills RSA;
Turners LCA: Foothills 21 Hill Walker 282186 576972 398.0 17,548 NW Monument (Dalmacallan unit)
‘Wireline only’ illustrative viewpoints were also agreed in consultation with the Council and although not included in the assessment, wireline visualisations have been prepared for these four locations (listed in Table 6.2a and shown on Figures 6.45a-d). Table 6.2a - Wireline only viewpoints Landscape Character Area (LCA) Elevation (AOD m) / Nearest proposed Ref Viewpoint Name / Grid Ref turbine (m) / Landscape Designation Direction LCA: Upland Glen (Castlefairn and A702, near Dalwhat unit) 273360 586947 151.3 4235 A Castlefairn NW Designation: Thornhill Uplands RSA LCA: Foothills with Forest Clatteringshaws (Cairnsmore unit) B 253964 575180 200.3 18690 NE Loch Designation: Galloway Hills RSA; Galloway Forest Park LCA: Foothills (Fleet unit) C Airie Hill 262179 568733 283.8 20225 N Designation: Galloway Hills RSA LCA: Southern Uplands (Lowthers D Queensberry unit) 298890 599756 695.9 30174 W Designation: Thornhill Uplands RSA
6.7 Wind Energy Development Baseline
6.7.1 Introduction The cumulative assessment set out in the LVIA assesses only the additional landscape and visual effects of the Development, in the context of different baseline scenarios that make assumptions about existing and proposed wind farms. It does not present an assessment of the combined effects of all of the relevant wind farms on the landscape. While the combined effects are of relevance to the decision maker, the Applicant does not have detailed information about each of the other projects that would allow a combined effects assessment to be presented. The difficulty with combined effects is acknowledged by the Landscape Institute in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA) at paragraph 7.18: "Agreement should also be reached about whether the cumulative effects assessment is to focus primarily on the additional effects of the main project under consideration, or upon the combined effects of all of the past, present and future proposals together with the new project. Some of those involved may tend to favour a limited view focused on the additional effects of the project being assessed, on top of the cumulative baseline. Some stakeholders may however be more interested in the combined effects of all the past, current and future proposals, including the proposed scheme. Again, discussion will be needed at the scoping stage with the competent authority and the consultation bodies about what can reasonably be expected, especially as assessing combined effects involving a range of different proposals at different stages in the planning process can be very complex. Furthermore, the assessor will not have assessed the other schemes and cannot therefore make a fully informed judgement. A more
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comprehensive overview of the cumulative effects must rest with the competent authority."
6.7.2 Scope of Cumulative Assessment
6.7.2.1 Existing Wind Energy Developments Operational wind energy developments are a long-established feature of the immediate and wider upland landscape context within the study area. The wider area does however include some under construction wind farms. Operational and under- construction wind farms are assumed to be part of the baseline conditions. There are two operational wind farms within the immediate area - Wether Hill Wind Farm, located 2.73 km to the north and Blackcraig Wind Farm11 5.11 km to the south. Windy Standard and its extension are operational at 12.67 km to the north-west with Hare Hill & Extension, Whiteside Hill and Sanquhar occupying the northern edges of the southern uplands. Torrs Hill and Twenty Shilling are considered to have under construction status in this assessment although turbine construction has not yet commenced and construction activity is minimal.
6.7.2.2 Consented Wind Energy Scenario In addition to the existing wind energy developments, there is potential for further change to the landscape and visual baseline as a result of consented wind energy developments being built. The 'consented scenario' assumes that all consented stage wind energy developments have become operational and are part of a theoretical baseline situation that also includes the existing and under construction stage wind farms. There are a large number of consented wind farms in the area, the closest of these, Knockman Hill Wind Farm, is located 4.35 km to the south of the Development. Mochrum Fell lies 12.96 km to the south. Most other consented wind farms are found to the north of the Development with Windy Rig, Benbrack & South Kyle within close context to the operational Windy Standard & Extension and Sandy Knowe & Sanquhar Six within similar context to the operational Sanquhar and Hare Hill wind farms. The consented wind farm development beyond 20 km forms clusters to the north west with the two consented single turbines of Trostle and High Barcaple at 30km to the south.
6.7.2.3 Application Wind Energy Scenario Similar to the consented scenario, the 'application scenario' assumes that all application stage wind energy developments have become operational and are part of a theoretical baseline situation that also includes existing, under construction and consented stage wind farms. There is greater uncertainty in the prediction of potential changes resulting from wind farm planning applications, as they may or may not ultimately become built features in the landscape. The study area includes several undetermined wind farm applications, including Margree to the south; Glenshimmeroch to the west; and Wether Hill Extension, Cornharrow, Shepherds Rig, Longburn and Lorg in the Southern Uplands to the north. There are also a number of scoping stage proposals in the area. A large cluster of scoping sites is currently located around the Windy Standard / Whiteside Hill cluster of existing, consented and application schemes. Scoping stage sites are mapped on Figure
11 Blackcraig wind farm was constructed and became operational during the timeframe of assessment and field survey and as such does not always appear fully constructed in viewpoint photography.
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6.18 for reference but are not considered further in the assessment, due to layout and design uncertainties at the pre-application stages.
6.7.2.4 Preliminary Assessment of Cumulative Wind Farms An initial map of cumulative sites was produced to provide a broad understanding of the pattern of wind energy development in the surrounding landscape within the 40 km study area (Figure 6.18). This cumulative map includes operational, consented and application stage wind energy developments as of the cumulative cut-off date for this LVIA of November 2018. Whilst broader changes to the cumulative baseline since this date have not been accounted for, Shepherds Rig wind farm application was known to be approaching application submission in November 2018 and given its proximity to the Development was also incorporated into the assessment when the detail of this application became available in January 2019. Based on surrounding topography and the locations of groups of wind farm developments within the wider study area it is considered that there is no likelihood of significant cumulative effects between the Development and any of the cumulative sites that lie beyond 20 km of the Development. For this reason, the detailed assessment within the LVIA has focussed on the cumulative sites within 20 km of the Development and these are listed below in Table 6.3. Cumulative wind farms are shown on Figure 6.18 and diagrams showing Cumulative Zone of Theoretical Visibility (CZTV) for those developments within 20 km of the Development are shown on Figures 6.20a-6.20ab. Whilst not assessed in detail in the LVIA cumulative developments beyond 20 km are included in wireframe diagrams to support the approach to cumulative assessment. For reference these cumulative wind farms beyond 20 km are also listed in Table 6.4.
Table 6.3 - Cumulative wind farms within 0-20km of the Development Distance from No. of Wind Energy Blade Tip the Local Turbine Status Height (m) Development Authority Development s (km)
Afton 27 100/120 12.74 East Ayrshire Operational
Dumfries & Blackcraig 23 110 5.11 Operational Galloway
Hare Hill 20 63.5 19.12 East Ayrshire Operational
Hare Hill Extension 35 91 / 81 /70 17.51 East Ayrshire Operational
Dumfries & Sanquhar (Blackhill) 12 126.5 16.59 Operational Galloway Dumfries & Wether Hill 14 91 2.73 Operational Galloway Dumfries & Whiteside Hill 11 120 14.19 Operational Galloway Dumfries & Windy Standard 36 53.5 12.67 Operational Galloway 100/114.75/119. Dumfries & Windy Standard II 30 13.44 Operational 5 Galloway Dumfries & Under Torrs Hill 2 100 14.14 Galloway Construction Dumfries & Under Twenty Shilling 9 125 15.41 Galloway Construction
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Distance from No. of Wind Energy Blade Tip the Local Turbine Status Height (m) Development Authority Development s (km) Dumfries & Benbrack 18 130 17.50 Consented Galloway Dumfries & Knockman Hill 5 81 4.35 Consented Galloway Dumfries & Mochrum Fell 8 116.5/126.5 12.96 Consented Galloway Dumfries & Sandy Knowe 24 125 19.20 Consented Galloway Sanquhar "Six" Dumfries & 6 130 15.29 Consented Community WF Galloway Dumfries & South Kyle 50 149.5 16.27 Consented Galloway Dumfries & Windy Rig (Moorbrock) 12 125 11.31 Consented Galloway Dumfries & Cornharrow 11 149.9 2.75 Application Galloway
Enoch Hill 19 130 19.95 East Ayrshire Application
Dumfries & Glenshimmeroch 10 149.9 0.35 Application Galloway Dumfries & Lorg 15 130/150 8.62 Application Galloway Dumfries & Margree 17 120 0.91 Application Galloway
Pencloe Forest 21 125 16.71 East Ayrshire Application
Dumfries & Shepherds Rig 19 149.9 6.29 Application Galloway Dumfries & Twenty Shilling (Resub) 18 140 15.41 Application Galloway Dumfries & Ulzieside 12 120 14.85 Application Galloway Dumfries & Wether Hill Extension 11 100 3.30 Application Galloway Dumfries & Windy Standard III 20 125/177.5 12.67 Application Galloway Dumfries & Appeal/Applicati Longburn 10 134 3.99 Galloway on
Ashmark Hill 7 135 18.99 East Ayrshire Scoping
Dumfries & Barlay Hill 10 126 9.77 Scoping Galloway Dumfries & Benshinnie 24 125 14.32 Scoping Galloway Dumfries & Collieston Hill 18 141.4 10.75 Scoping Galloway
Euchanhead 31 145 8.43 Dumfries & Scoping
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Distance from No. of Wind Energy Blade Tip the Local Turbine Status Height (m) Development Authority Development s (km) Galloway
Dumfries & Knocknalling 14 150 7.49 Scoping Galloway Dumfries & Knockower 16 145 15.38 Scoping Galloway Dumfries & Marnhoul Up to 16 146.5 10.30 Scoping Galloway
Monquhill 5 150 18.20 East Ayrshire Scoping
Dumfries & Sanquhar II 58 200-225 10.13 Scoping Galloway
Table 6.4 - Cumulative wind farms within 20-40 km of the Development Distance from No. of Wind Energy Blade Tip the Local Turbine Status Development Height (m) Development Authority s (km) South Andershaw 14 125 36.92 Operational Lanarkshire South Clyde 152 125 35 Operational Lanarkshire Dumfries & Dalswinton 15 121 23.24 Operational Galloway
Dersalloch 23 110/115/125 28.68 South Ayrshire Operational
South Galawhistle 22 110.2/121.2 39.63 Operational Lanarkshire
Hadyard Hill 52 100/110 38.63 South Ayrshire Operational
Harestanes / Forest of Dumfries & 71 125/115 29.1 Operational Ae Galloway
High Park Farm 1 75 21.93 East Ayrshire Operational
Dumfries & Minnygap 10 125 32.53 Operational Galloway Dumfries & Plascow Farm 3 74 30.97 Operational Galloway Dumfries & Sunnyside Farm 2 62 22.98 Operational Galloway South Under Middle Muir 15 152 36.97 Lanarkshire Construction
Crofthead Farm 1 77 39.52 East Ayrshire Consented
South Crookedstane 4 126.5 35.11 Consented Lanarkshire Dumfries & Glenmuckloch 8 133.5 24.95 Consented Galloway Dumfries & High Barcaple 1 62 29.93 Consented Galloway
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Distance from No. of Wind Energy Blade Tip the Local Turbine Status Development Height (m) Development Authority s (km) South Kennoxhead 19 145 33.10 Consented Lanarkshire
Knockshinnock 2 126.5 34.21 East Ayrshire Consented
Lethans 22 136/152/176 25.18 East Ayrshire Consented
Linburn Farm 2 67 39.22 East Ayrshire Consented
South Lion Hill 4 126.5 34.09 Consented Lanarkshire South Penbreck/Carmacoup 9 125 30.52 Consented Lanarkshire Dumfries & Trostie 1 53.71 30.21 Consented Galloway South Glentaggart 5 132 38.29 Application Lanarkshire South Harryburn 17 149.9 33.89 Application Lanarkshire Dumfries & North Lowther 35 149 25.24 Application Galloway Dumfries & Appeal/Applicatio Blackwood 5 140 / 120 22.47 Galloway n Appeal/Applicatio Polquhairn 9 100 32.05 East Ayrshire n
Auchenlongford 5 100 37.56 East Ayrshire Scoping
Dumfries & Bargrennan 15 137 34.63 Scoping Galloway Dumfries & Barskeoch 1 130 39.00 Scoping Galloway Dumfries & Blackmyre Moor 5 - 10 > 80m 33.81 Scoping Galloway Dumfries & Byecroft Farm 1 80 25.46 Scoping Galloway Dumfries & Corra Farm 1 78 28.72 Scoping Galloway Dumfries & Duncow Common 6 125 25.77 Scoping Galloway Dumfries & Gelston 31.51 Scoping Galloway
Greenburn 20 149 26.31 East Ayrshire Scoping
Dumfries & Hartwood Hill 7 126.5 37.28 Scoping Galloway Kissock & Breconside Dumfries & 16 126.5 28.98 Scoping (Lotus Hill) Galloway
Mark Hill Extension 28 121.5 37.15 South Ayrshire Scoping
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Distance from No. of Wind Energy Blade Tip the Local Turbine Status Development Height (m) Development Authority s (km) Dumfries & Meikle Culloch 1 80 28.19 Scoping Galloway
North Kyle 69 149 24.91 East Ayrshire Scoping
Dumfries & Sypland 4 107 34.52 Scoping Galloway West Kirkcarswell Dumfries & 1 56.3 38.23 Scoping Farm Galloway
6.8 Assessment of Physical Landscape Effects
6.8.1 Introduction The first category of effects covered in the assessment is physical effects, which are direct effects on the fabric of the Site, such as changes to ground cover. Physical effects are found only on the Site, where existing landscape elements may be removed or altered by the Development. The methodology for the assessment of physical effects is described in full in Technical Appendix A6.1. It should be noted that landscape elements are assessed with reference to their contribution to the landscape rather than in ecological terms. The areas of the Site in which the turbines and the majority of infrastructure would be located almost entirely within areas of commercial forestry of variable age. The physical landscape effect of the Development on this Coniferous Forestry landscape element has therefore been assessed in detail below in Section 6.8.2. There are areas of grazing and moorland surrounding the former now demolished Troston farmhouse, although the turbines and/or infrastructure would not affect this area and as such has no potential for physical landscape effects as a result of the Development.
6.8.2 Coniferous Forestry A large amount of the forestry has been felled across the Site in recent years leading to a mosaic of coniferous forest with contrasting open areas of recently felled / replanted areas.
6.8.2.1 Sensitivity All of the 14 proposed turbines are located within areas of coniferous plantation forestry with seven of these located in areas recently replanted / felled. The value of this landscape element is medium-low; it is a widespread and commercially-grown landscape element that is not rare or specifically recognised for its value. Commercial forestry is a characteristic of the Foothills with Forest character type, however, the ‘with forest’ characteristic is also common to neighbouring character types e.g. ‘Plateau Moorland with Forest’ and ‘Southern Uplands with Forest’ and other than the topographical variation between these areas the commercial forestry is a common feature between them. The mosaic of forestry and areas of clear fell are constantly changing as areas of forestry are felled and replanted. Whilst the forestry contributes to the overall character of the upland landscape in its contrast to areas of moorland, it is planted with the intention that it will eventually be felled. Once felled, coniferous forestry can relatively easily be replaced and over time will mature to the scale and age of trees removed. Susceptibility of the forestry to the further changes that the
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Development would bring is therefore considered to be medium-low. The combination of the medium-low susceptibility to change with medium-low value results in a medium- low sensitivity for coniferous forestry.
6.8.2.2 Magnitude of Change The Site area includes approximately 330 ha of commercial forest. The vast majority of this forest is coniferous forestry plantation species. A ‘Wind Farm Felling Plan’ (Figure 13.6) has been produced in Chapter 13 of the EIA Report. It describes in detail the species composition of the forest area of the site, a proposed felling plan period (2021- 2040) for the Development and how the proposed felling compares to the baseline felling plan across the same time period. The majority of this forestry will be felled outside the ‘Wind Farm Felling Plan’ period as these are younger crops recently replanted (approximately 238.4ha). This recent felling has taken place as part of the wider forestry plan for the area and forms part of the continuing and changing baseline situation. Some of the forestry planned to be felled as part of the baseline felling plan has not yet taken place although it has however been included as a landscape element here in order that the physical effect of the forestry removal can be described against the current baseline situation. Mature stands of existing forestry within the Site have also been included in the LVIA baseline assessment and where visible, visualisations include the forestry of the Site. Approximately 72 hectares (ha) of coniferous forestry would be removed as a direct result of the Development, requiring felling on the routes of access tracks, crane hardstandings and compounds as well as the keyholed areas within which the proposed turbines would be located (See Figure 13.6 - Troston Loch Wind Farm Felling Plan). Areas of long term retention and later phases of felling would combine in northern parts of the Site to help in screening views of elements construction activity from the B729 where access to the Site is proposed. The magnitude of change for this landscape element is considered to be low.
6.8.2.3 Significance of the Effect The effect of the Development on coniferous forestry would not be significant due to the factors that contribute to the medium-low sensitivity of the forestry and the low magnitude of change upon it. A restocking plan has also been produced (See Figure 13.7 - Troston Loch Wind Farm Restocking Plan). Species composition takes into account existing restocking plans, the Development operational objectives, landowner objectives and forestry policies and Chapter 13 of the EIA Report lists the following additional considerations – • Fragmentation of coupes to be minimised as much as possible; • Coupe shapes would be modified to ensure that access for future forestry operations, principally harvesting, is maintained; and • Coupe shapes and edges would be modified to follow good practice.
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6.9 Assessment of Landscape Character Effects
6.9.1 Introduction Landscape character is the distinct and recognisable pattern of elements that occurs consistently in a particular type of landscape, and the way that this pattern is perceived. Effects on landscape character occur both on the site, where the pattern of elements that characterises the landscape would be directly altered by the addition of the Development to the landscape; and off-site, around the study area, where visibility of the Development may alter the way in which this pattern of elements is perceived. It should be noted that levels of magnitude of change on landscape character receptors are generally found to be lower than the magnitude of change on viewpoints that lie within these landscape character areas. This means, for example, that if a viewpoint is assessed to undergo a medium-high magnitude of change it does not necessarily follow that the landscape character area within which it lies would also undergo a medium- high magnitude of change, but may undergo a medium magnitude of change instead. This is because the effects on viewpoints are assessed within the context of a specific outlook of the Development and are usually specifically selected to gain a direct view over the site. The landscape character of a receptor is not necessarily determined so specifically by the outlook over the Development, and there are many other considerations, both visual and perceptual, that may combine to give an area its landscape character. This means that the Development may have a lesser degree of influence on landscape character than on a specific view. This is particularly true of areas that lie slightly further away from the Development. In the immediate vicinity of the Site, up to around 2 km away - the magnitude of change on viewpoints and landscape character is likely to be similar, but beyond this, the magnitude of change on landscape character is found to often diminish more rapidly as the influence of the turbines is subsumed in the many other influences on landscape character. Viewpoints are referred to in this assessment as they do give a useful indication of the appearance of the Development from specific locations within the various landscape receptors, but the level of magnitude of change may vary between the viewpoint assessment and the landscape character assessment. The initial assessment within the scoping report considered that due to the context of the Site and Theoretical visibility of the Development, significant landscape character effects would not arise within the wider study area, beyond approximately 20 km. The Council landscape advisor is in agreement with this although has suggested a more focussed area of landscape assessment recommending a study area of 15 km. Following on from this advice, the landscape assessment within this LVIA is focussed on a 15 km study area. For additional context, landscape character areas and designations outwith the 15 km detailed study area are mapped to 40 km.
6.9.2 Preliminary Assessment Landscape Character Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) in the study area are assessed using ZTV analysis (Figures 6.14 & 6.17), to identify which of the LCAs are likely to be influenced by the Development. Using this analysis, Table 6.5 identifies the LCAs within 15 km that have the potential to undergo significant effects and require to be assessed in full, and the LCAs that can be scoped out of the assessment at this stage.
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Table 6.5 - Preliminary Assessment LCAs within 15km Status - Potential for significant effects and included in detailed assessment.
Landscape Character Area (LCA) Comment
Dumfries and Galloway: The Site is located across these LCAs. • Foothills with Forest (18a), Stroan unit; All of the turbines and associated infrastructure would be located in the • Southern Uplands with Forest (19a), Ken unit; Foothills with Forest (18a), Stroan unit and the access to Site from the B729 would be located in the Southern Uplands with Forest (19a), Ken unit. Dumfries and Galloway: Neighbouring LCAs that fringe the • Foothills (18), Dalmacallan and Keir units; uplands within which the Development is located. Potential for significant effects due to close relationship with upland setting of host LCAs. Dumfries and Galloway: LCAs with a less immediate • Southern Uplands (19), Carsphairn unit; relationship with host LCAs. However, LCAs are susceptible to changes due • Foothills with Forest (18a), Rhinns of Kells unit; to the elevated views across the wider landscape including in the direction of the Development. Status – Considered further in preliminary assessment but found to have no potential for significant effects and not included in detailed assessment.
Landscape Character Area (LCA) Comment
• Narrow Wooded River Valleys (4), Ken unit; The ZTV shows that theoretical visibility is restricted from the majority of this area. Where theoretical visibility does occur to the west of the LCA commercial forestry restricts views and the experience of the wider landscape is limited. No potential for significant effects. • Upper Dale (Valley) (9), Upper Glenkens unit; The ZTV shows that theoretical visibility occurs in patches along the A713 or on several elevated east facing slopes of small hills found within the valley landscape. The views from the A713 corridor are often restricted by intervening commercial forestry. Whilst the views from elevated hills within this LCA present an opportunity for views of the wider landscape, the Development would represent part of the background view beyond an upland ridge to the east that includes existing turbines and it is considered that there is no potential for the character of this LCA to be significantly affected.
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• Rugged Granite Upland (21), Rhinns of Kells unit; No potential for significant effects. Existing cumulative backdrop experienced to the east from these elevated locations with some Glenkens hills intervening. Status - Limited level of influence to the defining characteristics, due to limited or restricted visibility of the Development, such that there is no potential for significant effects. Landscape Character Area (LCA)
• Intimate Pastoral Valley (5), Cairn & Old Water unit; • Middle Dale (7), Mid Nithsdale unit; • Flooded Valley (8), Ken Valley unit; • Upland Glens (10), Castlefairn & Dalwhat unit; • Drumlin Pastures (13), Deeside unit; • Upland Fringe (16), Corsack Fringe unit, Dunscore unit; • Foothills (18), Tynron unit; • Southern Uplands (19), Nithsdale unit; • Rugged Granite Upland with Forest (21a), Cairn Edward unit; Status - No potential for significant effects and not included in detailed assessment. LCAs are found to have either no visibility or very limited visibility and/or distant visibility of the Development. Dumfries and Galloway: • Narrow Wooded River Valleys (4), Urr Water unit; • Upland Glens (10), Shinnel unit, Scar unit; • Upland Fringe (16), Cairn Fringe unit; • Foothills (18), Nithsdale unit; • Southern Uplands with Forest (19a), Carsphairn unit; East Ayrshire: • Upland Glen (14); • East Ayrshire Southern Uplands (20a); • Southern Uplands and Forestry (20c);
6.9.3 Preliminary Assessment Landscape Designations Landscape Designations in the study area are assessed using ZTV analysis (Figures 6.15 & 6.17), to identify which are likely to be influenced by the Development. Using this analysis, Table 6.6 identifies the landscape designations within 15 km that have the potential to undergo significant effects and require to be assessed in full, and those that can be scoped out of the assessment at this stage. Table 6.6 - Preliminary Assessment Landscape Designations within 15 km Status - Potential for significant effects and included in detailed assessment.
Landscape Designation Comment
• Galloway Hills RSA Landscape Designations with a contextual • Thornhill Uplands RSA. relationship to the Development and/or due to proximity, level of influence or visibility of the Development, which may influence the defining characteristics such that there is potential for significant effects on landscape character that require more detailed assessment.
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Status - Limited level of influence to the defining characteristics, due to limited or restricted visibility of the Development, such that there is no potential for significant effects. Landscape Designation
• Drumlanrig Castle GDL; • Maxwelton GDL; and • Solway Coast RSA, Torthorwald Ridge RSA and Terregles Ridge RSA.
Status - No potential for significant effects and not included in detailed assessment. Landscape Designations are found to have either no visibility or very limited visibility and/or distant visibility of the Development. • Brooklands GDL; and • East Ayrshire Sensitive Landscape Areas (EA-SLA) - east of Carsphairn Forest.
6.9.4 Summary of Preliminary Landscape Character Assessment The preliminary assessment has identified the following principal landscape receptors that require to be assessed in full as a result of the potential effects of the Development.
6.9.4.1 Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) • Foothills with Forest (18a), Stroan unit; • Southern Uplands with Forest (19a), Ken unit; • Foothills (18), Dalmacallan and Keir units; • Foothills with Forest (18a), Rhinns of Kells unit; and • Southern Uplands (19), Carsphairn unit.
6.9.4.2 Landscape Designations • Galloway Hills RSA; and • Thornhill Uplands RSA.
6.9.5 Detailed Assessment of Landscape Character Effects Foothills with Forest (18a), Stroan unit (vi) Baseline Conditions
Baseline description
The Development is located within this LCA. The key characteristics are described within SNH Dumfries and Galloway Landscape Assessment, Review No 94 as follows: • ‘Dark green blanket of forest covering undulating foothills; • Various stages of forest rotation evident in the landscape – young plantation, clear fell and deep ploughing; • Tall mature conifers at roadside; • Semi improved pasture with walled enclosures on open ground; and • Some evidence of archaeological remains.’ The DGWLCS describes the overall character type as: ‘Nine landscape units of the Foothills with Forest character type are identified in the Landscape Assessment. Although the predominantly dense coniferous forest cover of these areas gives a strongly unified character, the scale and the context of some of these landscape units is distinctly different.’
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Further describing the Stroan unit as: ‘The Stroan area of the Foothills with Forest forms an undulating upland plateau of generally smoothly rounded hills which is punctuated by occasional, higher and more well-defined ridges and hills. Blackcraig ridge lies at the centre of this area and divides the unit into distinct northern and southern sections. The long south-east facing slopes of the ridge, cumulate in a shallow basin around Monybuie Flow. Numerous water course cut shallow channels into this landscape and small lochans sit at the foot of hills. More complex, small scale hummocky landform occurs on the eastern fringes of this area close to the Drumlin Pastures (13). This landscape is predominantly forested although areas of moorland and moss occur in places with some walled semi-improved pastures present on lower slopes at the transition with surrounding more settled lowland landscapes. The unit contains some smaller scale areas of local distinctiveness, and local landscape features such as the Lochinvar area and Mochrum Fell. The A702 and A712 are aligned through this landscape and a few narrow minor roads provide access to isolated farms. This landscape is sparsely settled particularly in the more densely forested area north of the Blackcraig ridge.’ Sensitivity to a ‘large turbine typology’ (80 to 150 m tip height) for this LCA for each of the landscape criteria considered in DGWLCS is summarised as: • Scale and openness – Medium • Landform – Medium • Land cover and landmark features – Medium • Settlement and archaeology – Medium • Landscape context – High-Medium (‘Large turbines sited on or close to landmark hills and ridges would adversely affect the rugged backdrop and contrast they provide to settled small scale glens.’) • Perceptual qualities – Medium – Low • Views and visibility – High – Medium (‘Turbines located on sensitive ridges or focal hills seen at the heads of glens would be visually prominent from roads and settlement.’) • Landscape values - Low Sensitivity to a ‘large turbine typology’ within this LCA is also summarised in the DGWED SG (in reference to DGWLCS) as: • Landscape and Visual Sensitivity: High-Medium • Landscape Value: Low Viewpoints within this LCA include Viewpoint 2 – Minor Road, Auchenshinnoch, Viewpoint 4 – SUW, Culmark Hill, Viewpoint 5 – Lochinvar Shore and Viewpoint 6 – SUW, near Barlaes. The Site is of a typical character to the typology in that it is characterised by forest covered undulating upland plateau which is surrounded by higher edge hills. The operational Blackcraig wind farm is located within this LCA. Wether Hill Windfarm is located close to the northern boundary of the LCA. The consented Mochrum Fell and Knockman Hill schemes will also be located within this LCA. Value Susceptibility Sensitivity
This LCA is not subject to This LCA is a large-scale and open landscape The combination any national landscape dominated by simple land cover such as large of the value of designations and only the areas of undulating coarse grassland and forestry the landscape southern edges are within plantations. The overall character is typified by and its the Galloway hills RSA. The these characterising elements and it is considered susceptibility to presence of wind farm that this LCA is an appropriate receiving landscape the development and extensive for wind energy development. The baseline wind Development forestry denote an farm influence in this LCA reduces susceptibility to leads to an established level of human change as wind turbines are not an overall intervention. The value of uncharacteristic feature in the overall landscape, sensitivity of this LCA is considered to however, the potential for cumulative effects Medium. be Low. increases susceptibility. On balance, the susceptibility of this unit of Foothills with Forest to the Development is Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Magnitude of Change
The ZTV shows that other than a few patches on forested hills to the south that theoretical visibility
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is generally limited to the northern parts of this LCA. This is due to the elevated Blackcraig ridge (Barscobe Hill, Troquhain Hill, Blackcraig Hill and Fell Hill) combined with the higher hills at the edges of the northern area of upland plateau (including Knockman Hill, Ewe Hill). The ZTV extent is also limited at the western edges of the northern half of the LCA due to other higher hills that define the western edges of the upland plateau (including Glenshimmeroch, Kilnair Hill, Hog Hill, Corseglass Hill and Knockman Hill. Whilst theoretical visibility extends towards the eastern boundary of this LCA before transitioning with the Foothills (18) Dalmacallan unit LCA, it is restricted by the higher upland edge hills found to the east of the Site (including Stroanshalloch Hill, Neis Hill and Big Morton Hill). The hub height ZTV shows less theoretical visibility extents than the blade tip ZTV across this LCA this is particularly true to the south of the elevated Blackcraig ridge where a substantial difference is shown. Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Change to the experience of the landscape character of the LCA resulting from the addition of large scale wind turbines within it; • The Development would increase the influence of wind energy development; • The degree to which the Development would contrast in turbine size and scale in comparison to the existing wind farms in the surrounding landscape context (Wether Hill and Blackcraig); • The level of construction activity experienced within this LCA within close proximity to the Development; and • The simple pattern of moorland and forestry within the Site would change with the introduction of the infrastructure of the Development. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The influence of the Development would be generally limited to the northern part of the LCA; • The experience of the Development would occur within the context of a strong existing baseline of wind development characteristics of Wether Hill and Blackcraig which are notable features of the northern part of the LCA in which the Development would be located; • The proposed turbines of the Development would therefore introduce elements that are not uncharacteristic; and • the Development would be located away from the higher ‘edge’ hills to the west and south limiting the ZTV extent within the LCA and in the wider landscape context. Viewpoint 2 – Minor Road, Auchenshinnoch and Viewpoint 4 – SUW, Culmark Hill are useful vantage points when viewing the key characteristics of this LCA with specific relation to the Site. The visual effects of the Development on these views is assessed as significant (see detailed assessment of viewpoints in section 6.11.5). The significant effects on these views are largely as a result of the proximity to the Development and the resulting prominent appearance of the turbines in close views. In relation to their landscape context, however, the large scale of the upland plateau within this LCA of Foothills character type would provide a large scale surrounding landscape context to tthe Development. The simple pattern of upland moorland and commercial forestry landscape that immediately surrounds the Site is clearly evident when viewed from within close context to the LCA, particularly in contrast to the upland fringe landscapes of Upper Dale (9), Glenkens unit to the west and the Upland Glens (10), Castlefairn and Dalwhat unit to the east. The Development would also appear set back from the edges of the upland plateau and the large scale of the upland would not be diminished by the scale of the Development in these views into the LCA. For these reasons it is considered that the location of the Development addresses the relevant guidance for this LCA contained with the DGWLCS, since it is sited in an area of broader less prominent hills, set well back from upland glens and located within the northern part of the Stroan unit that is less visible from roads and settlement. Taking all of this into account, it is considered that changes to key characteristics within a localised northern part of this LCA (area restricted by surrounding hills as described previously) would be substantial and the resulting magnitude of change is assessed as High (providing views are not obscured by forestry blocks). To the south the magnitude of change would reduce to Medium – Low where visibility occurs, with much of this southern area unaffected by the Development. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on the landscape character of the northern half of this LCA would be significant. Construction and decommissioning effects would also be significant but experienced for a short duration. The effect of the Development on the landscape character of all other parts of this LCA are assessed as not significant. The addition of the Development would increase the extent of a 'landscape with wind farms' characteristic for the immediately surrounding landscape context.
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Cumulative Assessment (See CZTVs on Figures 6.20j-6.20ab)
Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Sandy Knowe wind farm has no theoretical visibility within this LCA. The Mochrum Fell CZTV shows that combined visibility with the Development is limited. The theoretical visibility of the South Kyle, Benbrack and Sanquhar Six schemes is limited in extent and in scattered patches within this LCA. The CZTVs show that Knockman Hill and Windy Rig share some areas of combined theoretical visibility but these tend to be on areas with substantial forestry or where forestry intervenes, reducing the cumulative interaction between them. Of the consented scenario schemes, most will be seen as distant elements to this character area other than Knockman Hill which has limited combined influence. The cumulative interaction of the Development and the consented scenario is considered to be minimal and when considering the addition of the Development to the consented situation the cumulative magnitude of change is therefore negligible resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The theoretical visibility of the Windy Standard III, Ulzieside, Pencloe Forest, Twenty Shilling (resub), Lorg and Enoch Hill schemes is limited in extent and in scattered patches within this LCA. As a result of this and due to distance between these schemes and the Development, there would be little cumulative interaction. Margree and Glenshimmeroch would be located within this LCA creating a band of turbine development to the south west of the Development. Margree would tend to be experienced in the context of the existing Blackcraig wind farm extending development along the upland ridgeline of this LCA as viewed from the south and west. Glenshimmeroch would add to this effect extending development to the north and west. The Development is relatively contained within the core of the larger area of upland and set further back from distinctive edge hills that help define the plateau upland area (particularly when viewed from the west). Should the Longburn, Cornharrow, Wether Hill Extension and Shepherds Rig schemes be consented a proliferation of turbine development would occur to the north of this LCA. Although these schemes are not located within this LCA these schemes would diminish the lower elevated uplands to the north of this LCA and so contributing to a loss of distinctiveness currently experienced between the larger area of upland plateau of the Site and the lower elevated upland to the north between Wether Hill and Cairnsmore of Carsphairn which is not currently developed. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the presence of so much further wind development in the immediate landscape (within the LCA and to the north) potentially moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. However, the Development would appear to bridge the gap between the cluster of wind farms to the north of the Development (Wether Hill, Wether Hill Extension, Cornharrow, Longburn and Shepherds Rig) with the cluster of wind farms to the south of the Development (Glenshimmeroch, Margree Knockman Hill and Blackcraig). Taking all of this account, the magnitude of cumulative change is therefore predicted to be Medium - High for this scenario resulting in a Significant cumulative effect.
Southern Uplands with Forest (19a), Ken unit (ii) Baseline Conditions
Baseline description
The northernmost corner of the Site is located within this LCA. Whilst no turbines would be located within this area, access to the Site and the construction compound would be. The key characteristics are described within SNH Dumfries and Galloway Landscape Assessment, Review No 94 as follows: • ‘Large, smooth dome-shaped hills with large scale dark green plantations on slopes and over lower summits; • Sitka spruce dominated, interspersed with Larch; and • Changing landscape with large scale felling, ploughing and replanting.’ The DGWLCS describes this character type as: ‘The Southern Uplands with Forest (19a) generally comprises an expansive, gently undulating upland plateau of smoothly rounded hills which extends
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into neighbouring Scottish Borders in the Craik Forest area and into East Ayrshire north of the Carsphairn unit. Occasional more well-defined hills occur close to the Moffat, Dalwhat and Upper Water of Ken Glens, mostly on the outer edges of this character type. These are more prominent in views from surrounding roads and settlement than the very sparsely settled interior of these uplands. The Ken unit is more intercut by valleys and features a number of smaller scale local landscapes and dramatic corries at the heads of glens. Extensive coniferous forest cover masks landform and there is often little open ground with this largely confined to grass moorland within valleys and on the higher hill tops and ridges. An exception to this is the Ken unit which has a greater proportion of open ground to forest cover. Wind farm development is a key feature within the West Langholm, Carsphairn and Ken units of this landscape character type.’ ‘The potential creation of a concentrated band of wind farm development visually linking wind farms located in the Ken unit with the Blackcraig and Mochrum wind farms located in the Stroan unit of the Foothills with Forest (18a) to the south’ is noted as key cumulative issue within DGWLCS. It is also noted in DGWLCS that there is ‘strong consistency’ across the 4 units of this character type and they have therefore been considered together in a single sensitivity assessment. Sensitivity to a ‘large turbine typology’ (80 to 150 m tip height) within the LCA for each of the landscape criteria considered in DGWLCS is summarised as: • Scale and openness: Medium - Low • Landform: Medium - Low • Land cover and landmark features: Medium - Low • Settlement and archaeology: Medium - Low • Landscape context: Medium (‘While development sited in the more sensitive outer hills would dominate the scale of adjacent settled valleys and glens, there is scope for this typology to be sited within the interior of the hills in the more extensive landscape units of Ken, Carsphairn and Eskdalemuir to avoid impacting on the wider landscape context.’) • Perceptual qualities: Low • Views and visibility: Medium (‘There is scope for this typology to be located within the interior of the more extensive landscape units of this character type (Ken, Carsphairn and Eskdalemuir) without widespread significant visual impact occurring due to the sparse population, absence of roads and limited visibility from more settled areas.’) • Landscape values: Medium - Low Sensitivity to a ‘large turbine typology’ within this LCA is also summarised in the DGWED SG (in reference to DGWLCS) as: • Landscape and Visual Sensitivity: Medium • Landscape Value: Medium - Low. Viewpoints within this LCA include Viewpoint 1 – B729, Fingland Junction, Viewpoint 3 – B729, Guttery Glen, Viewpoint 7 – Stroanfreggan Fort and Viewpoint 11 – SUW, Benbrack. The operational Wether Hill wind farm is located within this LCA. Parts of Sanquhar and Hare Hill are also located in the northern parts of this LCA. The consented Mochrum Fell and Knockman Hill schemes will also be located within this LCA along with the consented Sanquhar Six and Sandy Knowe. Value Susceptibility Sensitivity
This LCA is not subject to any This LCA is only susceptible to the The combination national landscape designations. Development in a localised area due to of the value of Only the west and east edges of intervening hills and landform immediately the landscape the LCA are within the Galloway to the north which limit the potential for and its hills and Thornhill Uplands RSAs large parts of this LCA to be influenced by susceptibility to respectively. The presence of wind the Development. Wind farm development the farm development and extensive is an established feature and existing Development forestry denote an established characteristic of this landscape. There is leads to an level of human intervention. also the potential for increased overall Whilst not specific landscape susceptibility relating to cumulative sensitivity of designations, the presence of the influence and new parts of this LCA being Medium. SUW and Striding Arches changed by this type of development. On sculptures within this LCA increase balance, the susceptibility of this unit of value. The value of this LCA is Foothills with Forest to the Development is considered to be Medium-Low. Medium.
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Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Magnitude of Change
The ZTV shows that theoretical visibility is found as a series of narrow bands of visibility on elevated ground. The closest of these is orientated east to west across the south facing slopes of Carroch Hill and Wether Hill. The next nearest one is on a south-west to north-east axis along the ridgeline of Manquhill Hill and Benbrack (and a section of the Southern Upland Way). A final strip of theoretical visibility, on a north to south axis, is found on the east facing lower slopes of the Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. This LCA is substantially covered in commercial forest. Areas of theoretical visibility are however found on the most elevated parts of the LCA where ground cover is moorland rather than forest and as a result views of the surrounding landscape can be found within parts of the theoretically visibility shown on the ZTV. Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Change to the experience of the landscape character of the LCA resulting from addition of large scale wind turbines to the south; and • When visibility is possible, the Development would appear to increase the influence of wind energy development in views south. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The change to key characteristics would be restricted from large areas of the LCA which are forested or that have no theoretical visibility; • Successive layers of forest covered hills within this LCA and in neighbouring LCAs, that intervene to the south, would also contribute to screening of the Development from within this LCA. Further limiting the change to key characteristics; • When visible, the Development would be experienced within a wider context of existing wind turbine development; • The existing Wether Hill wind turbines are already strong features on the upland ridge to the south. The proposed turbines would therefore introduce elements that are not uncharacteristic, albeit as an intensification of wind turbines in this part of the view; and • When the Development is viewed from the LCA, the proposed turbines would appear set back into the core of the upland plateau, characterised for the northern parts of the Foothills with Forest (18a), Stroan unit LCA, immediately to the south of this LCA. The visual effect of the Development on Viewpoint 1 – B729, Fingland Junction is assessed as significant (see detailed assessment of viewpoints in section 6.11.5), largely as a result of the proximity to the Development and the resulting prominent appearance of the turbines in close views. Viewpoint 7 – Stroanfreggan Fort is also assessed as significant due to the level of change from a relatively sensitive receptor. In relation to the landscape context of these views the large scale of the upland plateau within this and the neighbouring LCA to the south LCA would provide a large scale surrounding landscape context to the Development, moderating the level of effect experienced. Taking all of this into account, it is considered that changes to key characteristics within a localised southern part of this LCA (Carroch Lane area to the south of Carroch Hill and Wether Hill) would be noticeable and the resulting magnitude of change is assessed as High – Medium. To the north the magnitude of change would reduce and range between Medium to Low depending on distance from the Development. It should also be noted that much of this northern area of LCA would be unaffected by the Development due to a lack of theoretical visibility or forestry screening. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on the landscape character of the southern half of this LCA would be significant due to the closer proximity of proposed turbines leading to more notable changes to key characteristics within the valley of Carroch Lane. All other parts of this LCA are assessed as not significant. This is largely due to moderating factors of: distance; scale of change in relation to large scale of receiving landscape; the presence of existing wind farms; and the forest and moorland upland landform of the Site provides a simple and large scale upland context in which the Development would be clearly located within. Cumulative Assessment (See CZTVs on Figures 6.20j-6.20ab)
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Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Sanquhar Six and Sandy Knowe will be located within the northern part of this LCA. Windy Rig is located in the neighbouring Southern Uplands (19), Carsphairn unit LCA. These wind farms will increase the influence of the existing clusters to the north and west of this LCA. The CZTVs for Mochrum Fell and Knockman Hill show that theoretical visibility of these schemes is restricted to elevated parts of the southern area of this LCA as a series of bands across higher ground, some of which is combined with theoretical visibility of the Development. When considering the addition of the Development to the consented situation, the cumulative interaction of the Development is minimal and the cumulative magnitude of change is therefore Negligible resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Lorg, Wether Hill Extension, Longburn and Shepherds Rig would be located within this LCA. The CZTVs of Margree and Glenshimmeroch show quite similar visibility extents as the Development. The CZTVs of Pencloe Forest and Enoch Hill show very little theoretical visibility of these schemes within this LCA. The CZTVs of Windy Standard III, Ulzieside and Twenty Shilling (resub) show that theoretical visibility is different than the Development, with much of the theoretically visible areas on opposite slopes of the same landforms within the LCA. Whilst combined visibility is limited, key characteristics would be affected by the presence of multiple wind farms experienced from multiple areas or multiple aspects of the same landform or hillside. The application scenario would in itself increase the effect to the key characteristics of this LCA due to the substantial increase in scale and number of visible turbines within this LCA but also within the surrounding landscape. As the DGWLCS highlights, the addition of large scale wind development within this LCA tends to create ‘a concentrated band of wind farm development visually linking wind farms located in the Ken unit with the Blackcraig and Mochrum wind farms located in the Stroan unit of the Foothills with Forest (18a) to the south.’ These increases would lead to a cumulative influence not currently apparent whereby wind farms are found to coalesce across the landscape, some of which is experienced at close range within the LCA itself. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation the presence of so much further wind development in this scenario potentially moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. However, the Development would appear to bridge the gap between the cluster of wind farms within this LCA (Wether Hill, Wether Hill Extension, Cornharrow, Longburn and Shepherds Rig) with the cluster of wind farms to the south of the Development (Glenshimmeroch, Margree, Knockman Hill and Blackcraig). Taking all of this account, the magnitude of cumulative change is therefore predicted to be Medium - High for this scenario resulting in a Significant cumulative effect.
Foothills (18), Dalmacallan unit (iii) Baseline Conditions
Baseline description
The Development is located to the west and north-west of this LCA. Key characteristics are described within SNH Dumfries and Galloway Landscape Assessment, Review No 94 as follows: • ‘Generally undulating land between 170 and 250 m, with rounded peaks. Higher in the west, up to over 350m with craggier peaks; • Foothills dissected by incised valleys; • Semi-improved pasture enclosed in medium – large fields by stone walls. Grazed by sheep and cattle. Some rough pastures and heath on higher ground; • Trees in sheltered pockets with some copses on top of hills; • Many scattered farmsteads and small settlements; • Network of minor roads; • Numerous archaeological sites particularly iron Age defensive and Roman monuments.’ The DGWLCS also describes this character type as: ‘The Dalmacallan foothills form a gently undulating basin with occasional more pronounced and isolated small hills. This landscape has a medium to large scale and a simple land cover of rough grassland, coniferous woodland and some
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enclosed pasture. Loch Urr forms a focus and is fringed by some more diverse wetland. It is a sparsely settled landscape with a few widely dispersed hill farms. These foothills lie adjacent to settled lowland landscapes where they are important in providing a backdrop of often rugged open hills to these more patterned, managed and smaller scale landscapes.’ There are no operational wind farms located within this LCA, however, Wether Hill wind farm is located approximately 2.5 km to the north west of the northern edges and Blackcraig wind farm is located approximately 1.5 km to the west of the central part of this LCA. Viewpoints located within this LCA include Viewpoint 8 – Craigdarroch, Viewpoint 10 – Minor road near Loch Urr and Viewpoint 21 – Turners Monument. Value Susceptibility Sensitivity
This LCA is not subject to This LCA is part of a medium-large scale The combination of any national landscape landscape which transitions to the larger the value of the designations. The north scale uplands to the west, offering a landscape and its and south parts of the LCA backdrop to the smaller scale valleys that susceptibility to the are within the western incise the LCA to the east as well as Development leads to edges of the Thornhill providing the opportunity for elevated views an overall sensitivity Uplands RSA. The value of to the west. The susceptibility of this LCA to of Medium - High. this LCA is considered to the Development is Medium - High. be Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Magnitude of Change
In the northern part of the LCA, the ZTV shows that theoretical visibility is found on south facing slopes and the valley floor of the Craigdarroch Water valley and on the Big Morton Hill summit. In the central section of the LCA (in the Loch Urr area), the ZTV shows that theoretical visibility is relatively widespread across north facing slopes of the Castlefairn Water valley and also on Girharrow Hill and Craigenputtock Moor. Further to the south theoretical visibility only occurs in a few small patches on the most elevated terrain including Turners Hill (viewpoint 21). Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Change to the experience of the landscape character of the LCA resulting from addition of large scale wind turbines to the north and west; • Parts of this LCA (surrounding the Craigdarroch Water valley) are within relatively close proximity to the Development; and • The Development would increase the influence of wind energy development, introducing development into the uplands that lie between Wether Hill in the north and Blackcraig further south, as viewed from this LCA. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The change to key characteristics would be restricted from large areas of the LCA which are forested or that have no theoretical visibility; • The characteristic backdrop that these foothills provide to adjacent lower lying settled landscapes would not be diminished by the Development as visibility is restricted within the lower valley landscapes; • Much of the Craigdarroch Water valley is well wooded and views towards the Site are restricted as a result. Whilst not as extensive as neighbouring LCAs, large areas of commercial forest are found in this LCA limiting visibility towards the Development; • Successive layers of forest covered hills within the neighbouring Foothills with Forest (18a) Stroan unit LCA, intervene and would contribute to screening of the Development from within this LCA. Further limiting the change to key characteristics; • The Development would be experienced within a wider context of existing wind turbine development. From the northern parts of this LCA the existing Wether Hill turbines are strong features on the uplands to the north-west. From the central parts of this LCA (in the Loch Urr area), the existing Blackcraig wind turbines are already strong features on the upland ridge to the west. The proposed turbines would therefore introduce elements that are not uncharacteristic; and • When the Development is viewed from the LCA, the proposed turbines would appear set back into a larger area of upland which is surrounded by larger more defined edge hills that often create a leading ridge that obscures the lower parts of turbines reinforcing their position within
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a separated larger scale upland setting to the north-west. Taking all of this into account, the experience of the key characteristics of the LCA would only be affected to a small extent and the magnitude of change is assessed as Medium - Low. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development for this LCA is considered to be not significant. Whilst of a Medium- High sensitivity, it is considered that when changes are potentially experienced within this LCA, the magnitude is moderated by the level of screening created by intervening forest and woodland, the characteristic upland backdrop that these foothills provide is maintained, the large scale upland context of the receiving landscape which is clearly appreciated from this LCA and other existing development appearing as strong features in neighbouring landscapes. Cumulative Assessment (See CZTVs on Figures 6.20j-6.20ab)
Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Sandy Knowe, South Kyle and Benbrack wind farms have no theoretical visibility within this LCA. The theoretical visibility of the Sanquhar Six, Windy Rig, Knockman Hill and Mochrum Fell schemes is limited in extent and in scattered patches within this LCA, mainly occurring across the forest covered Dalmacallan Hill or further south where visibility of the Development only occurs within a few isolated patches. When considering the introduction of the Development to this scenario, the level of change is considered to remain broadly the same when compared to the assessment against the operational baseline. The introduction of these consented schemes only very slightly intensifies the developed nature of the landscape and reinforces the pattern of development already experienced from this LCA. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore assessed as Medium-Low resulting in a not significant effect in the consented cumulative scenario. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Pencloe Forest, Enoch Hill and Windy Standard III wind farms have no theoretical visibility within this LCA. The theoretical visibility of the Lorg, Glenshimmeroch, Longburn, Shepherds Rig, Twenty Shilling (resub) and Ulzieside schemes is limited in extent and in scattered patches within this LCA, mainly occurring across the forest covered Dalmacallan Hill or further south where visibility of the Development only occurs within a few isolated patches. The CZTVs of the Cornharrow, Margree and Wether Hill Extension schemes show a relatively similar extent of theoretical visibility as the Development within this LCA. Whilst it is recognised that the application scenario could bring substantial levels of further development to the landscape north of the Development, the potential proliferation that this might cause would not be as readily experienced from this LCA as it would be in other LCAs further to the north. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the level of change is considered to remain broadly the same when compared to the assessment against the operational baseline / consented scenario. This is largely as a result of the bulk of application schemes forming only a minor presence beyond the large scale upland of the Site. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore assessed as Medium-Low resulting in a not significant effect in the application cumulative scenario.
Foothills (18), Keir unit (v) Baseline Conditions
Baseline description
The Development is located to the west of this LCA. This unit of the Foothills typology lies between the Dalwhat and Shinnel valleys. Key characteristics are described within SNH Dumfries and Galloway Landscape Assessment, Review No 94 as follows: • ‘Generally undulating land between 170 and 250 m, with rounded peaks. Higher in the west, up to over 350m with craggier peaks; • Foothills dissected by incised valleys;
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• Semi-improved pasture enclosed in medium – large fields by stone walls. Grazed by sheep and cattle. Some rough pastures and heath on higher ground; • Trees in sheltered pockets with some copses on top of hills; • Many scattered farmsteads and small settlements; • Network of minor roads; • Numerous archaeological sites particularly iron Age defensive and Roman monuments.’ The DGWLCS also describes this character type as: ‘The Keir Hills and the narrow bands of foothills lying between the Scar, Shinnel and Dalwhat glens have an often irregular landform with well- defined peaks. They provide the backdrop to these glens but also to the Cairn valley and middle Nithsdale, where their open rugged slopes are scenically juxtaposed with these more intricately patterned and settled landscapes. The low relief and complex landform of these foothills are key factors increasing sensitivity to larger turbines. The proximity of these foothills to well-settled glens, valleys and dales also increases visual sensitivity from surrounding settlement, roads and footpaths within the hills themselves.’ There are no operational wind farms located within this LCA. Value Susceptibility Sensitivity
This LCA is not subject to This LCA is part of a medium-large scale The combination of any national landscape landscape. This LCA reads as part of a larger the value of the designations. Most of this area of the same typology that includes the landscape and its LCA lies within the Dalmacallan unit. The elevated nature of susceptibility to the Thornhill Uplands RSA and this band of Foothills allows views to the Development leads to the Maxwelton GDL lies in west across the intervening Dalwhat valley. an overall sensitivity the southern part. The The susceptibility of this LCA to the of Medium - High. value of this LCA is Development is Medium - High. considered to be Medium- High. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Magnitude of Change
The ZTV shows that theoretical visibility is found along the elevated south-west facing ridge between Glenkelly Hill and Bardennoch Hill in the northern part of this LCA with further patches found on the Keir Hills in the south part of this LCA. Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Change to the experience of the landscape character of the LCA resulting from addition of large scale wind turbines to the west; and • The Development would increase the influence of wind energy development, introducing development into the uplands to the south of Wether Hill, as viewed from this LCA. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The change to key characteristics would be limited to west facing slopes and ridgelines, other areas would have no theoretical visibility; • The characteristic backdrop that these foothills provide to adjacent lower lying settled landscapes would not be diminished by the Development as visibility is restricted within adjacent lower valley landscapes; • Successive layers of forest covered hills within the neighbouring Foothills with Forest (18a) Stroan unit LCA and Southern Uplands with Forest (19a) Ken unit LCA, intervene and would contribute to screening of the Development from within this LCA. Further limiting the change to key characteristics; • The Development would be experienced within a wider context of existing wind turbine development and from the northern parts of this LCA the existing Wether Hill turbines are strong features on the uplands to the west. The proposed turbines would therefore introduce elements that are not uncharacteristic; and • When the Development is viewed from the LCA, the proposed turbines would appear set back into a larger area of upland which is surrounded by larger more defined edge hills that often create a leading ridge that obscures the lower parts of turbines reinforcing their position within a separated larger scale upland setting to the west. Taking all of this into account, the experience of the key characteristics of the LCA would only be
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affected to a small extent and the magnitude of change is assessed as Medium-Low.
Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development for this LCA is considered to be not significant. Whilst the experience of key characteristics would be affected to an extent, the characteristic upland backdrop that these foothills provide is maintained, the large scale upland context of the receiving landscape which is clearly appreciated from this LCA and other existing development appearing as strong features in neighbouring landscapes. Cumulative Assessment (See CZTVs on Figures 6.20j-6.20ab)
Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
South Kyle and Benbrack wind farms have no theoretical visibility within this LCA. The theoretical visibility of the Sandy Knowe, Sanquhar Six, Windy Rig, Knockman Hill and Mochrum Fell schemes is limited in extent and in scattered patches within this LCA. The introduction of these consented schemes only very slightly increases the experience of development when compared to existing schemes. When considering the introduction of the Development to this scenario therefore, the level of change is considered to remain broadly the same when compared to the assessment against the operational baseline. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore assessed as Medium-Low resulting in a not significant effect in the consented cumulative scenario. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Pencloe Forest, Enoch Hill and Windy Standard III wind farms have no theoretical visibility within this LCA. The theoretical visibility of the Lorg, Glenshimmeroch, Longburn, Shepherds Rig, Twenty Shilling (resub) and Ulzieside schemes is limited in extent and in scattered patches within this LCA, mainly occurring across the forest covered Dalmacallan Hill or further south where visibility of the Development only occurs within a few isolated patches. The CZTVs of the Cornharrow, Margree and Wether Hill Extension schemes show a relatively similar extent of theoretical visibility as the Development within this LCA. Whilst it is recognised that the application scenario could bring substantial levels of further development to the landscape north of the Development, the potential proliferation that this might cause would not be as readily experienced from this LCA as it would be in other LCAs further to the north. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the level of change is considered to remain broadly the same when compared to the assessment against the operational baseline / consented scenario. This is largely as a result of the bulk of application schemes forming only a minor presence beyond the large scale upland of the Site. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore assessed as Medium-Low resulting in a not significant effect in the application cumulative scenario.
Foothills with Forest (18a), Rhinns of Kells unit (v) Baseline Conditions
Baseline description
The Development is located to east of this LCA. The key characteristics of which are described within SNH Dumfries and Galloway Landscape Assessment, Review No 94 as follows: • ‘Dark green blanket of forest covering undulating foothills; • Various stages of forest rotation evident in the landscape – young plantation, clear fell and deep ploughing; • Tall mature conifers at roadside; • Semi improved pasture with walled enclosures on open ground; and • Some evidence of archaeological remains.’ The DGWLCS also describes this character type as: ‘The broad rolling hills of this landscape lie between 200 and 380m and merge with the upper slopes of the high Rhinns of Kells ridge. They have a medium to large scale although scale is reduced within the many incised valleys which cut through often steep slopes. Hill tops are generally rounded and slopes fairly broad and gentle but
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with occasional craggy hill tops and steep slopes (some of these masked by forestry) reflecting the more dramatic granite geology and ruggedness of the adjacent Rhinns of Kells. The extensive forest cover of this area limits the degree of openness and limits views from this landscape. Grass moorland covers lower hill slopes and small woodlands and shelterbelts are prominent features within the lower reaches of the Polharrow Burn. Occasional small lochs sit within the folds of hills while the impounded Clatteringshaws Loch is a key landmark feature in the south-western part of this character area.’ There are no operational wind farms located within this LCA. The under construction Torrs Hill is located within a forested area in the north of this LCA. Of the operational wind farms to the north and east, Wether Hill and Blackcraig are most notably visible from this LCA and share a similar ZTV extent to The Development. Value Susceptibility Sensitivity
This LCA is covered by the Wind farm development is an existing The combination of the eastern side of the characteristic experienced from this LCA value of the landscape Galloway Hills RSA in views east, towards the Development. and its susceptibility to landscape designation. The It is susceptible to further wind farm the Development leads to Galloway Forest Park development on this upland skyline to the an overall sensitivity of extends across part of this east but would not be uncharacteristic in Medium - High. character type. The value the area as a whole. On balance, the of this LCA is considered to susceptibility of this LCA to the be Medium-High. Development is Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Magnitude of Change
The ZTV shows that theoretical visibility is found as a band of visibility across elevated ground on the east facing slopes of the Rhinns of Kells foothills and Glenkens. The area is covered in extensive commercial forestry and views in reality of the Development would be limited to more open areas that occur in the southern half of the LCA (particularly on the slopes of Dunveoch Hill and the Rig of Drumbuie). Successive layers of forest covered hills within this LCA and in neighbouring LCAs, that intervene to the east, would also contribute to screening of the Development from within this LCA. Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • change to the experience of the landscape character of the LCA resulting from addition of large scale wind turbines to the east; and • when visibility is possible, the Development would appear to increase the influence of wind energy development in views east. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • the change to key characteristics would be restricted from large areas of the LCA which are forested or that have no theoretical visibility; • successive layers of forest covered hills within this LCA and in neighbouring LCAs, that intervene to the east, would also contribute to screening of the Development from within this LCA. Further limiting the change to key characteristics; • when visible, the Development would be experienced within a wider context of existing wind turbine development; • from the southern elevated parts of this LCA, where potential views towards the Development are more likely, the existing Blackcraig wind turbines are already strong features in the on the upland ridge to the east. The proposed turbines would therefore introduce elements that are not uncharacteristic, albeit as an intensification of wind turbines in this part of the view; and • when the Development is viewed from the LCA, the proposed turbines would appear set back from the upland ridgeline to the east of the valley landscape that intervenes. In doing so, the Development would clearly appear to lie within the core of an upland setting that belongs to an area of upland that is separated from the upland within this LCA. Taking all of this into account, the experience of the key characteristics of the LCA would only be affected to a small extent and the magnitude of change is assessed as Low. Significance of Effect
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The effect of the Development for this LCA is considered to be not significant. It is considered that when changes are potentially experienced within this LCA, the effect on some of the key characteristics would be noticeable. However, these changes are restricted to only a few occurrences due to the level of tree cover in the elevated areas where visibility theoretically occurs. There would be no effect on the character of extensive wooded areas or in parts of the LCA that face north. Cumulative Assessment (See CZTVs on Figures 6.20j-6.20ab)
Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Sandy Knowe wind farm has no theoretical visibility within this LCA. The theoretical visibility of the Sanquhar Six, Windy Rig, Benbrack and South Kyle schemes is patchy, mainly across north facing slopes and within the areas that are forested in the northern half of this LCA. The CZTV of the consented Knockman Wind Farm shows a relatively similar extent of theoretical visibility as the Development within this LCA. The CZTV for Mochrum Fell shows theoretical visibility is similar to the Development on the most elevated ridges in the south of the LCA. However, whilst the Developments theoretical visibility is predominantly found on east facing slopes, the Mochrum schemes theoretical visibility is found on south facing slopes. The introduction of these consented schemes only very slightly increases the experience of development when compared to existing schemes. When considering the introduction of the Development to this scenario therefore, the level of change is considered to remain broadly the same when compared to the assessment against the operational baseline. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore assessed as Low resulting in a not significant effect in the consented cumulative scenario. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The CZTVs of the Cornharrow, Glenshmmeroch, Margree, Longburn, Shepherds Rig and Wether Hill Extension schemes show a relatively similar extent of theoretical visibility as the Development within this LCA. Longburn, Cornharrow, Shepherds Rig and the Wether Hill Extension will appear to coalesce from many locations in this LCA, extending across a large part of the upland horizon to the east. Glenshimmeroch and Margree would appear as differently scaled turbine developments across the upland plateau to the east adding further turbine development within the context of the existing Blackcraig turbines and the consented Knockman Hill. Pencloe Forest, Enoch Hill, Windy Standard III, Twenty Shilling (resub) and Ulzieside would have minimal cumulative interaction with the Development. Theoretically visible to the north of this LCA from smaller more elevated patches than for the Development, they would be seen as distant elements within a similarly distant existing wind farm context. the Development would contribute to the overall proliferation of turbines experienced to the east of this LCA within this application scenario. However, when introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the presence of so much further wind development in the receiving landscape to the north and east of this LCA moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. The magnitude of cumulative change is therefore predicted to be Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
Southern Uplands (19), Carsphairn unit (i) Baseline Conditions
Baseline description
The Development is located to the south of the this LCA. The key characteristics of which are described within SNH Dumfries and Galloway Landscape Assessment, Review No 94 as follows: • ‘Large, smooth dome / conical shaped hills, predominantly grass covered; • Open and exposed character except within incised valleys; • Distinctive dark brown / purple colour of heather on some of the higher areas; • Stone dykes occasionally define the lower limit;
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• The legacy of lead and other mining activity.’ The DGWLCS also describes this character type as: ‘These uplands have a generally consistent and homogenous character within Dumfries and Galloway, forming high hills with an often dramatic sculptural landform. While the expansive scale of these uplands could relate to larger typologies, their distinctive landform, where hills are pronounced and often form steep, rugged edges to adjacent dales and upland glens, is a key constraint to development. The sparsely settled nature and simple land cover pattern reduces sensitivity although, conversely, these uplands are particularly valuable because of their openness and absence of built development and large-scale forestry.’ The operational Windy Standard and Extension wind farms are located within this LCA. Afton, Hare Hill and Extension, Sanquhar and Whiteside Hill are conspicuous from this LCA in views north-east. Wether Hill and Blackcraig can be seen to the south-east. Value Susceptibility Sensitivity
This LCA is almost Wind farm development is an existing characteristic The combination entirely covered by experienced from this LCA in views south, towards the of the value of the the eastern side of Development and in views east and north to other landscape and its the Galloway Hills closer wind developments, with Windy Standard at its susceptibility to RSA landscape northern edges. Views from the elevated parts of this the Development designation. The LCA are panoramic and on clear days can extend across leads to an overall value of this LCA is the Galloway landscape to the Solway coastline in the sensitivity of considered to be distance. The LCA is susceptible to further wind farm Medium - High. Medium-High. development on the upland skyline to the south but wind turbine development would not be uncharacteristic in the area as a whole. On balance, the susceptibility of this unit of Southern Uplands LCA to the Development is Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Magnitude of Change
The ZTV shows that theoretical visibility within this LCA is limited to the south-east facing slopes and summit of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn and connected smaller hills and ridgelines including Beninner, Willieanna, Knockwhirn, Moorbrook Hill, Green Hill and Windy Standard. The closest areas of Theoretical visibility are found at over 7.5km from the Development however more elevated areas of theoretical visibility including the hill summits listed above are found at distances of 9-13km. Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • change to the experience of the landscape character of the LCA resulting from addition of large scale wind turbines to the south-east; and • The Development would appear to increase the influence of wind energy development in views south-east. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • the change to key characteristics would be restricted from large areas of the LCA that have no theoretical visibility; • The Development would be experienced within a context of existing wind turbine development and would be seen within the same part of the panorama as Wether Hill and Blackcraig; • The upland of the Development site area is large in scale and its suitability as a receiving landscape for large scale wind farm development can be clearly appreciated from this LCA; and • the existing turbines to the east and north of the LCA are already strong features in the immediate landscape context (particularly Windy Standard and Afton which are experienced in close proximity). The Development would therefore introduce elements that are not uncharacteristic. Taking all of this into account, the experience of the key characteristics of the LCA would only be affected to a small extent and the magnitude of change is assessed as Medium - Low. Significance of Effect
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The effect of the Development for this LCA is considered to be not significant. It is considered that when changes are potentially experienced within this LCA, the effect on key characteristics would be minimal, the suitability of the large scale upland of the Development site can be appreciated from this elevated LCA and existing wind farms in the view (both to the south-east and immediately north-east) moderate the changes experienced. Cumulative Assessment (See CZTVs on Figures 6.20j-6.20z)
Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Sanquhar six and Sandy Knowe wind farms only have very small pockets of theoretical visibility on higher ground to the east. The CZTV of the consented Knockman Hill and Mochrum Fell wind farms show a relatively similar extent of theoretical visibility as the Development within this LCA albeit that these will be experienced as distant schemes in the uplands to the south. As a result, these consented schemes will have little cumulative interaction with the Development from this LCA. Windy Rig will be close to this LCA and will be experienced as a close proximity development appearing to extend the existing Windy Standard and Extension further to the south than currently experienced. South Kyle and Benbrack will introduce further close proximity wind energy development to the north-west. These schemes will increase the number of turbines experienced from within this LCA particularly to the east and north west where close proximity wind farms will encircle the hilltop from east to west when in combination with existing turbines. This encirclement will also affect the views of the distinctive profile of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn as seen from the surrounding landscape. There is little direct cumulative interaction with these consented schemes and the Development however, and the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline would still broadly apply to this scenario. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Medium-Low resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The CZTVs show that Ulzieside, Pencloe Forest and Twenty Shilling (resub) wind farms only have very small pockets of theoretical visibility on higher ground to the east. The CZTVs of the Cornharrow, Glenshmmeroch, Margree, Longburn, Shepherds Rig and Wether Hill Extension schemes show a relatively similar extent of theoretical visibility as the Development within this LCA. Windy Standard III and Enoch Hill would introduce further close proximity wind energy development in close proximity to this LCA to the north. Should Longburn, Lorg, Cornharrow, Wether Hill Extension, Longburn and Shepherds Rig be consented then wind farm development would extend 180 degrees from the south-east to the north-west with many turbines in close proximity to it. The application scenario would in itself increase the effect experienced within this LCA, however, the further introduction of the Development turbines would introduce less change to the view in this scenario than the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline. As a result, the magnitude of cumulative change is predicted to be Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
Galloway Hills RSA Baseline Conditions
Baseline description
The Key characteristics of the designated area can be summarised from the Council LDP Regional Scenic Areas SG 2014 as follows: • ‘This area centres on the Rugged Granite Uplands and Coastal Granite Uplands of central Galloway, extending from the Ayrshire boundary south to where the hills meet the sea. • This is the largest Regional Scenic Area, a reflection both of the scale of the landscape of the Galloway Hills and the interesting juxtaposition of contrasting upland, valley and coastal landscapes. • The relationship between the hills and the adjacent lowlands gives rise to sweeping and dramatic views of the hills, in particular from the western side of Wigtown Bay and certain
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sections of the perimeter valleys. • The overall scale of the designated area results in some parts, particularly those areas included because of their contribution to the wider view, being of less internal scenic interest than others. Examples include certain of the forested foothills of the Merrick and the Rhinns of Kells. • The uplands vary in character from the massive craggy peaks of the Rugged Granite Uplands with their heather covered slopes and granite outcrops to the smoother, rounder, lower summits of the Foothills, and their extensive forested counterparts. • The designated area was extended to include the dramatic sculptural peaks of the Cairnsmore of Carsphairn Southern Uplands Landscape Unit to the east, as well as the forested eastern slopes of the Rhinns of Kells. • Much of the central area is uninhabited and is accessible only via forestry roads or on foot, other than via the scenic A712 ‘Queensway’, and Rusko and Coarse of Slakes roads. • There are several villages plus the small towns of Gatehouse of Fleet and Newton Stewart in the peripheral valleys, and a range of tourist facilities including camping and caravan sites. • The area sees continued interest in forestry such that land-use balance is a potential issue, and is subject to interest from wind farm developers.’ There are no operational wind farms located within this RSA. The under construction Torrs Hill is located within a forested area in the north of this RSA. Of the operational wind farms to the east, Wether Hill and Blackcraig are most notably visible from this RSA and share a similar ZTV extent to the Development. Of the operational wind farms to the north, the operational Windy Standard and Extension wind farms are located close to the Cairnsmore of Carsphairn area of the RSA with Hare Hill and Extension, Sanquhar and Whiteside Hill also conspicuous from this area in views north-east. The consented Benbrack and Windy Rig are located at the edges of the northern part of this RSA with a few turbines of each scheme to be sited within the RSA itself. Value Susceptibility Sensitivity
It is considered Although the Development is not located within the The combination of that the value of RSA, it is susceptible to wind farm development from the value of the this area of RSA elevated and sloping ground that follows the east facing RSA and its principally derives ridgeline of the Glenkens that lies in the eastern part of susceptibility to the from the setting this RSA. The existing wind farm context influences the Development leads of distinctive hills experience of this RSA. This cumulative baseline to an overall within central reduces susceptibility to change as wind turbines are sensitivity of Galloway. Value is not an uncharacteristic feature in views east (and Medium - High. considered to be towards the Development site and this same cumulative Medium - High. baseline increases susceptibility due to the potential for cumulative effects. On balance, it is considered that the susceptibility to change of this RSA is Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Magnitude of Change
The ZTV shows that theoretical visibility is found across this RSA, predominantly to the north west of the designated area. It includes theoretical visibility on the south-east facing slopes and summit of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn and connected smaller hills and ridgelines and a band of visibility across elevated ground on the east facing slopes of the Rhinns of Kells foothills and Glenkens. The area is covered in extensive commercial forestry and in reality, views of the Development would be limited to more open areas. Successive layers of forest covered hills within this RSA and in the wider landscape that intervene to the east, would also contribute to screening of the Development from within this RSA. There are further patches of theoretical visibility in the southern half of the designated, however these are limited by the hills around Black Craig of Dee, to the south of Clatteringshaws Loch and the A712. Much of these areas of theoretical visibility further south are also often limited by large areas of Galloway forest. Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Change to the experience of the landscape character of the RSA resulting from addition of large scale wind turbines; • Change to the experience of adjacent lower elevated uplands to the east as seen across the
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transitional foothills and ‘perimeter valley’12 landscapes associated with the Glenkens; and • When visibility is possible, the Development would appear to increase the influence of wind energy development in views. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The change to key characteristics would be restricted from large areas of the RSA which are forested or that have no theoretical visibility; • Successive layers of forest covered hills within this LCA and in the wider landscape that intervene to the east, would also contribute to screening of the Development. Further limiting the change to key characteristics; • When visible, the Development would be experienced within a context of existing wind turbine development and would be seen within the same part of the panorama as Wether Hill and Blackcraig. From the elevated parts of this RSA to the west of the Development, the existing Blackcraig wind turbines are already strong features in the on the upland ridge to the east; • The existing turbines to the east and north of the RSA are already strong features to the east of the eastern edges of the RSA and in the immediate context of the Cairnsmore of Carsphairn area of RSA (particularly Windy Standard and Afton which are experienced in close proximity). The Development would therefore introduce elements that are not uncharacteristic; • the Development would be at long distance from some of the higher valued uplands within the RSA such as the Cairnsmore of Carsphairn and Rhins of Kells. The Development would also not be visible from Merrick and its surrounding foothills; • When the Development is viewed from the RSA, the proposed turbines would appear set back into a core area of upland which occupies a low lying position in the landscape; and • The upland of the Site is large in scale and its suitability as a receiving landscape for large scale wind farm development can be clearly appreciated from elevated parts of the RSA. Taking all of this into account, the experience of the key characteristics of the RSA would only be affected to a small extent and the magnitude of change is assessed as Medium - Low. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development for this RSA is assessed as not significant. It is considered that when changes are potentially experienced within this RSA, the effect on key characteristics would be minimal, the suitability of the large scale upland of the Site can be appreciated from the elevated parts of the RSA and existing wind farms in the surrounding landscape moderate the changes experienced from those parts of the RSA that are most closely associated with existing wind farm development. Cumulative Assessment (See CZTVs on Figures 6.20j-6.20ab)
Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Sandy Knowe wind farm has no theoretical visibility within this RSA. The theoretical visibility of the Sanquhar Six, Windy Rig, Benbrack and South Kyle schemes is patchy, mainly across north facing slopes and within the areas that are forested in northern parts of this RSA. The CZTV of the consented Knockman Hill and Mochrum Fell wind farms show a relatively similar extent of theoretical visibility as the Development within this LCA. However, whilst the Development’s theoretical visibility is predominantly found on east facing slopes, the Mochrum schemes theoretical visibility is found on south facing slopes. The introduction of these consented schemes will only very slightly increase the experience of development when compared to existing schemes. When considering the introduction of the Development to this scenario therefore, the level of change is considered to remain broadly the same when compared to the assessment against the operational baseline. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore assessed as Medium - Low resulting in a not significant effect in the consented cumulative scenario. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The CZTVs of the Cornharrow, Glenshimmeroch, Margree, Longburn, Shepherds Rig and Wether Hill Extension schemes show a relatively similar extent of theoretical visibility as the Development within
12 ‘perimeter valley’ is a term used in the Scenic Areas SG 2014 in describing the key characteristics of the Galloway Hills RSA
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this RSA. Longburn, Cornharrow, Shepherds Rig and the Wether Hill Extension will appear to coalesce from many locations in this RSA, extending across a large part of the upland horizon to the east. Glenshimmeroch and Margree would appear as differently scaled turbine developments across the upland plateau to the east adding further turbine development within the context of the existing Blackcraig turbines and the consented Knockman Hill. Pencloe Forest, Enoch Hill, Windy Standard III, Twenty Shilling (resub) and Ulzieside would have minimal cumulative interaction with the Development. Theoretically visible to the north of this RSA from smaller more elevated patches than for the Development, they would be seen as distant elements within a similarly distant existing wind farm context. The Development would contribute to the overall proliferation of turbines experienced to the east of this RSA within this application scenario. However, when introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the presence of so much further wind development in the receiving landscape to the north and east of this RSA moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. The magnitude of cumulative change is therefore predicted to be Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
Thornhill Uplands RSA Baseline Conditions
Baseline description
The key characteristics of the designated area can be summarised from The Council LDP Regional Scenic Areas SG 2014 as follows: • The designated area centres around the Middle and Upper Dale of the Nith from Mennock south to Auldgirth, and the series of glaciated Upland Glens of the Mennock, Dalveen, Scar, Shinnel, Dalwhat and Castlefairn which form its tributaries, carving their way southwards through the hills of the Southern Uplands. • The area encompasses varied and contrasting upland and valley scenery ranging from the exposed, remote summits of the Lowther Hills, through the wooded gorge of the Nith above Drumlanrig to the pastoral character of the wide, enclosed upper Cairn and Mid Nithsdale valleys. • Overall, though there are strong contrasts in relief, the topography is smoother and rounder than the Galloway Uplands to the west and the area is more highly populated and has a more managed feel. • The hills of the Southern Uplands form large, smooth steep sided domes with complex spurs and ridges, dissected by numerous steeply sided clefts and several long, deep, U shaped Upland Glens. • The uplands are patterned with a mosaic of rough grassland, bracken and rushes, combined with heather moorland on the higher areas. The lower slopes of the glens are enclosed by stone dykes, and some valley floor pastures have been improved. • The improved pastures of the valley sides are patterned with drystone dykes, and interspersed by farm and streamside woodlands. • There is relatively little tree cover though the forestry plantations to the west have encroached on the heads and sides of certain valleys. • Roads to the heads of the glens give access to isolated farms. Further south the valleys become wider and less steeply sided and start coalescing to form Intimate Pastoral Valleys with scattered farms, hamlets and villages. • The intervening Foothills and Upland Fringe form open, sculptural ridges, though conifer plantations on the uplands outwith the designated area sometimes lap over the southern horizons. • The main valley of the Nith has a varied character of strong contrasts. In the north it forms a steep wooded gorge, before opening out to the policy woodlands of Drumlanrig. • The broad valley centred around Thornhill has a lush feel near the town with hedgerows rather than dykes, woodland and a little arable land. Further afield the landscape becomes more open, with pastures enclosed by stone dykes, and some plantation forestry, leading upwards to the remote, exposed landscape of the enclosing Southern Uplands. • The main valleys are accessible from Dumfries, and the Middle Dale and Intimate Pastoral Valleys and are subject to pressure for residential development, as well as being popular
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for informal recreation. The flanks of the valleys see continued demand for forestry, and the flanks and summits have seen interest from wind farm developers. There are no operational wind farms located within this RSA although the existing Wether Hill wind farm is located close to western boundary. Whiteside Hill and Sanquhar are also located relatively close to the northern edges. Viewpoints within this RSA include Viewpoint 8 – Craigdarroch; Viewpoint 12 – Moniaive, Dunreggan Brae; Viewpoint 17 – A702 Layby, Cairn Water; and Viewpoint 16 – Auchengibbert Hill. Value Susceptibility Sensitivity
It is considered Although the Development is not located within the RSA, it The combination that the value of is susceptible to wind farm development from elevated of the value of this area of RSA ground on the west facing slopes of the Southern Upland the RSA and its principally derives and further to the east on the western face of the Lowther susceptibility to from the setting Hills. The existing wind farm context influences the the of varied and experience of this RSA. This cumulative baseline reduces Development contrasting hills susceptibility to change as wind turbines are not an leads to an within the context uncharacteristic feature in views west / south west (and overall of the Southern towards the Development site) and this same cumulative sensitivity of Uplands. Value is baseline increases susceptibility due to the potential for Medium - High. considered to be cumulative effects. On balance, it is considered that the Medium - High. susceptibility to change of this RSA is Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
The ZTV shows that theoretical visibility across this RSA is restricted to bands of visibility across a series of north-south orientated hills and ridges. The bands of theoretical visibility that are closer to the Development are across the Foothills landscape typology (Dalmacallan and Keir units) as separated by the Craigdarroch, Dalwhat, Cairn and Shinnel Water valleys. The Keir Hills limits visibility to the east (until the higher elevated Lowther Hills). This is a large area of designated landscape and whilst there would be distant visibility from the elevated Lowther Hills it is considered that effects to the key characteristics of this distant area of the RSA would not be significant at over 20 km from the Development. Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Change to the experience of the landscape character of the RSA resulting from addition of large scale wind turbines to the west; and • the Development would increase the influence of wind energy development, introducing development into the uplands to the south of Wether Hill, as viewed from this RSA. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The change to key characteristics would be limited to west facing slopes and ridgelines, other areas would have no theoretical visibility; • The Foothills within this RSA provide a characteristic backdrop to adjacent lower lying settled and valley landscapes. This characteristic would not be diminished by the Development as visibility is restricted within adjacent lower valley landscapes; • Successive layers of forest covered hills within the neighbouring Foothills with Forest (18a) Stroan unit LCA and Southern Uplands with Forest (19a) Ken unit LCA, intervene and would contribute to screening of the Development from within this RSA. Further limiting the change to key characteristics; • the Development would be experienced within a wider context of existing wind turbine development and from the northern parts of this RSA the existing Wether Hill turbines are strong features on the uplands to the west. The proposed turbines would therefore introduce elements that are not uncharacteristic; and • tWhen he Development is viewed from the RSA, the proposed turbines would appear set back into a larger area of upland which is surrounded by larger more defined edge hills that often create a leading ridge that obscures the lower parts of turbines reinforcing their position within a separated larger scale upland setting to the west. Taking all of this into account, the experience of the key characteristics of the RSA would only be affected to a small extent and the magnitude of change is assessed as Medium-Low. Significance of Effect
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The effect of the Development on this RSA is considered to be not significant. Whilst the experience of key characteristics would be affected to an extent, the characteristic upland backdrop that the underlying foothills character type provides is maintained, the large scale upland context of the receiving landscape is clearly appreciated from this LCA and other existing development appears as strong features in neighbouring landscapes. Cumulative Assessment (See CZTVs on Figures 6.20j-6.20ab)
Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
South Kyle and Benbrack wind farms have some distant theoretical visibility on the Lowther Hills but no theoretical visibility across the western parts of the RSA. The theoretical visibility of the Windy Rig, Knockman Hill and Mochrum Fell schemes is limited in extent and in scattered patches within this LCA. The CZTVs show that theoretical visibility of Sanquhar Six and Sandy Knowe is focussed on the northern parts of the RSA with minimal cumulative influence further south where theoretical visibility of the Development is found. The introduction of these consented schemes only very slightly increases the experience of development when compared to existing schemes. When considering the introduction of the Development to this scenario therefore, the level of change is considered to remain broadly the same when compared to the assessment against the operational baseline. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore assessed as Medium-Low resulting in a not significant effect in the consented cumulative scenario. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Pencloe Forest, Enoch Hill and Windy Standard III wind farms have some distant theoretical visibility on the Lowther Hills but no theoretical visibility across the western parts of the RSA. The theoretical visibility of the Lorg, Glenshimmeroch, Longburn, Shepherds Rig, and Ulzieside schemes is limited in extent and in scattered patches within this LCA, mainly occurring across the forest covered Dalmacallan Hill or further south where visibility of the Development only occurs within a few isolated patches. The CZTV of the Twenty Shilling (resub) scheme shows that theoretical visibility is much more extensive across the RSA, almost entirely covering the Nithsdale valley and neighbouring hills. The CZTVs of the Cornharrow, Margree and Wether Hill Extension schemes show a relatively similar extent of theoretical visibility as the Development within this RSA. Whilst it is recognised that the application scenario would bring substantial levels of further development to the landscape north of the Development, the potential proliferation that this might cause would not be as readily experienced from the RSA as it would be in other areas further to the north and west. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the level of change is considered to remain broadly the same when compared to the assessment against the operational baseline / consented scenario. This is largely as a result of the bulk of application schemes forming only a minor presence beyond the large scale upland of the Site.
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6.10 Assessment of Effects on Views
6.10.1 Introduction Effects on views are the changes to views experienced by people that result from the introduction of the Development. As described in the baseline overview, the assessment of effects on views includes effects on people at representative viewpoints and on principal visual receptors (i.e. groups of people in settlements, motorists on roads or users of recreational routes). The following scope assessment identifies which of these views and visual receptors may experience significant effects and therefore which require to be assessed in full. A detailed baseline description is provided separately within the assessment section for each viewpoint and visual receptor identified as requiring more detailed assessment.
6.10.2 Preliminary Assessment Viewpoints Viewpoint locations are shown in conjunction with the blade tip ZTV on Figures 6.9 (A3 size) and 6.10 (A1 size) and at a detailed scale in the visualisations in Figures 6.24 – 6.44. Table 6.7 identifies which viewpoints require more detailed assessment in the LVIA because they have the potential to undergo significant effects (including cumulative effects), and which viewpoint do not require further detailed assessment (highlighted grey). Viewpoints requiring more detailed assessment are assessed in full in the following section 6.11.5 ‘Detailed Assessment of Effects on Views’. Table 6.7 - Preliminary Assessment of Viewpoints Theoretically Nearest visible proposed turbines (No) Ref Viewpoint Name Status / Comment turbine (km) Hubs Blades
B729 junction with minor road 1 0.5 3 5 to Fingland
Included in the detailed 2 Minor Road, Auchenshinnoch 1.1 9 14 assessment due to the level of visibility of the Development. 3 B729, Guttery Glen 2.5 2 5
4 SUW, Culmark Hill 2.9 13 14
Limited potential for significant effects but included in the 5 Lochinvar shore. 3.2 2 12 detailed viewpoint assessment due to potential cumulative effects. Included in the detailed assessment. The level of visibility of the Development from this viewpoint is limited 6 SUW near Barlaes 4.4 1 13 due to intervening woodland, however, the SUW is a key route through the area and this viewpoint is representative of potential sequential effects.
7 Stroanfreggan Fort 4.7 8 13 Included in the detailed assessment due to the level of 8 Craigdarroch 5.2 2 4 visibility of the Development.
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9 Dunbeg, Dundeugh Forest 6.3 12 14
Fork in minor road near Loch 10 6.3 8 10 Urr
11 SUW, Benbrack 6.6 13 14
12 Moniaive, Dunreggan Brae 7.9 3 8
13 A713 near Polquhanity 8.9 12 14
14 SUW, Waterside Hill 9.0 10 14
15 A762 north of New Galloway 10.3 2 11
16 Auchengibbert Hill 11.2 7 14
A702, Cairn Water (near 17 11.2 3 4 Maxwelton) No potential for significant effects due to limited turbine 18 Carsphairn, A713 Bridge 11.2 2 7 visibility from this location. Not included in the detailed assessment.
19 Cairnsmore of Carsphairn 12.0 14 14 Included in the detailed 20 Corserine, Polmaddy Cairn 16.7 14 14 assessment due to the level of visibility of the Development.
21 Turners Monument 17.5 12 12
6.10.3 Preliminary Assessment Principal Visual Receptors The principal visual receptors in the study area are shown on Figures 6.6 - 6.8 and with the Development blade tip ZTV on Figure 6.16. Tables 6.8 – 6.10 identify which of the identified principal visual receptors have the potential to undergo significant effects (including cumulative effects), and which of them do not require further detailed assessment. Principal visual receptors requiring more detailed assessment are assessed in full in the following section titled ‘Detailed Assessment of Effects on Views’. The ZTVs show very limited theoretical visibility from within South Ayrshire, East Ayrshire and South Lanarkshire with no theoretical visibility from any settlements within the study area that overlaps with these local authority areas. The settlements considered within the study area in Table 6.8 are therefore all within Dumfries and Galloway, as identified in the Dumfries and Galloway Council ‘Settlement Hierarchy Technical Paper’ 2014. Table 6.8 - Preliminary Assessment of Settlements Status - Potential for significant effects and included in detailed assessment due to level of influence and visibility of the Development. Moniaive The ZTV shows patches of theoretical visibility at the edges of Moniaive. Trees within or in the immediately surrounding landscape context of the settlement (along roads, following the Craigdarroch Water or Dalwhat Water, small woods and surrounding recreational grounds) restrict the level of visibility and views to the west along the Craigdarroch Water valley.
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Elevated properties on higher ground to the east of the settlement do have potential views towards the Development however and for this reason Moniaive has been included in the detailed assessment. Status - Considered further in preliminary assessment but found to have no potential for significant effects and not included in detailed assessment.
Settlement Comment
Carsphairn Whilst the ZTV shows theoretical visibility at the edges of these settlements, Mossdale a combination of riparian and roadside vegetation at the settlement edges and forestry plantations on intervening ridgelines restrict visibility in the New Galloway direction of the Development.
Status - No potential for significant effects and not included in detailed assessment due to limited and/or distant visibility of the Development.
Large Settlements Towns Villages
Thornhill - Amisfield Corsock Dalbeattie Collin Gelston Kircudbright Torthorwald Laurieston Balmaclellan Rhonehouse Bridge of Dee
Status - Not included in detailed assessment: no visibility of the Development.
Large Settlements Towns Villages
Dumfries Closeburn St. John’s Town Ae Borgue Kirkconnel/Kelloholm Dunscore of Dalry Auldgirth Colvend Lochmaben Glencaple Gatehouse of Bankend Crocketford Fleet Sanquhar Holywood Beattock Hardgate/Haugh Palnackie Castle Douglas Johnstonebridge Beeswing of Urr Springholm Newton Stewart New Abbey Carronbridge Kippford Twynholm Penpont Kirkton Kirkgunzeon Creetown Auchencairn Lochfoot Kirkpatrick Durham Crossmichael Shawhead Parton Templand Ringford Terregles Rockcliffe Tynron
Wanlockhead
Bargrennan Carsluith
Table 6.9 - Preliminary Assessment of Transportation Routes Status - Potential for significant effects and included in detailed assessment due to level of influence and visibility of the Development. ‘A’ Roads ‘B’ Roads Rail
A713 B729 - A702
Status - No potential for significant effects and not included in detailed assessment due to limited and/or distant visibility of the Development.
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‘A’ Roads ‘B’ Roads Rail
A712 A711 B7000 B793 Dumfries to Glasgow railway A762 A745 B794 B724 A75 A701 B795 B731 A780 A76 B727 B796 A709 B736
Status - Not included in detailed assessment: no visibility of the Development.
‘A’ Roads ‘B’ Roads Rail
A714 B7075 B7076 Ayr to Dalmellington railway A710 B726 B719 A755 B725 B7040 A70 B732 B797 A74(M) B7020 B740
Table 6.10 - Preliminary Assessment of Recreational Routes Status - Potential for significant effects and included in detailed assessment due to level of influence and visibility of the Development. Southern Upland Way Striding Arches Status - No potential for significant effects and not included in detailed assessment due to limited and/or distant visibility of the Development. NCN 17 NCN 7
Status - Not included in detailed assessment: no visibility of the Development.
NCN 74 Annandale Way River Ayr Way
6.10.4 Summary of Preliminary Assessment on Views The preliminary assessment has identified the viewpoints and principal visual receptors that require to be assessed in full as a result of the potential effects of the Development, these are listed as follows: • Viewpoint 1 – B729 junction with minor road to Fingland • Viewpoint 2 – Minor Road, Auchenshinnoch • Viewpoint 3 – B729, Guttery Glen • Viewpoint 4 – SUW, Culmark Hill • Viewpoint 5 – Lochinvar Shore • Viewpoint 6 – SUW near Barlaes • Viewpoint 7 – Stroanfreggan Fort • Viewpoint 8 – Craigdarroch • Viewpoint 9 – Dunbeg, Dundeugh Forest • Viewpoint 10 – Fork in minor road near Loch Urr • Viewpoint 11 – Southern Upland Way, Benbrack • Viewpoint 12 – Moniaive, Dunreggan Brae • Viewpoint 13 – A713 near Polquhanity • Viewpoint 14 – SUW, Waterside Hill • Viewpoint 15 – A762 north of New Galloway • Viewpoint 16 – Auchengibbert Hill • Viewpoint 17 – A702, Cairn Water (near Maxwelton)
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• Viewpoint 19 – Cairnsmore of Carsphairn • Viewpoint 20 – Corserine, Polmaddy Cairn • Viewpoint 21 – Turners Monument • Moniaive (Assessed at Viewpoint 12); • A702 (Assessed at Viewpoint 17); • A713 (Assessed at Viewpoints 13 and 18); • Striding Arches (Assessed at Viewpoint 11); • Sequential route assessment of the B729; and • Sequential route assessment of the Southern Upland Way.
6.10.5 Detailed Assessment of Viewpoints
6.10.5.1 Viewpoint 1 - B729 junction with minor road to Fingland
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on the B729 looking south towards the Site. The view encapsulates a long stretch of the B729 in both directions from east to west with a drystone wall aligned with the west bound carriageway. The view towards the Site features gently undulating moorland topography which gradually rises to a highpoint on Bennieloan, immediately south of the viewpoint. Commercial forestry broadly forms the backdrop to Bennieloan. Whilst in close geographic proximity to this viewpoint location (approximately 300 m to the south), the Site and the commercial forestry within it, is not visible due to the closely intervening landform of Bennieloan. The minor road to Fingland is clearly visible winding up the lower slopes of Bennieloan. Electricity pylons and poles are a feature of the view south following the ridgeline of hills before disappearing over the southern horizon. Harestanes / Forest of Ae wind farms are theoretically visible but screened behind roadside trees and commercial forestry. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Road User This viewpoint is not located This viewpoint is located on a Medium - within or close to any national, minor road with direct views Low regional or local scenic towards the proposed turbines designations or recognised scenic when travelling eastbound. views and the value is considered Susceptibility is considered to be to be Low. Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change • The proposed turbines would be visible at short distance, approximately 0.5 km to the nearest turbine south of the viewpoint; • Four of the proposed turbines would be visible from this location including two turbines with hubs and top of tower visible two turbines with only blade tips visible; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 84 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would introduce wind energy development to the view south; • Change in the view resulting from addition of large scale wind turbines at close proximity to the viewpoint; • The proposed turbines would sit high on the southern skyline above the undulated hill form of Bennieloan; and • The close proximity and position above nearby elevated ground increases the perception of turbine scale.
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Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The large scale of the upland landscape in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape, provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to views of the Development; • Only four of the turbines will be visible, with the remainder screened by the rising landform in the foreground or forestry on the skyline; • Whilst the turbines would be experienced at close proximity, two would be visible as blade tips only; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium-High. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on road users at this viewpoint is considered to be Significant. Whilst there is no particular sensitivity attached to the view and two turbines would be seen as blade only, the scale of the two most visible turbines at close proximity and their elevated position on the skyline is considered to result in a significant effects on the view experienced by road users at this location. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application none none Shepherds Rig Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
There are no consented cumulative schemes visible from this location resulting in no cumulative change and no cumulative effect.
Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The Shepherds Rig turbines would appear beyond the lower lying land of the B729 road corridor to the north-west. When considering the addition of the Development to the application situation, the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline would still broadly apply to this scenario. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Medium-High resulting in a Significant cumulative effect.
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6.10.5.2 Viewpoint 2 - Minor Road, Auchenshinnoch
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint represents views from the minor road that connects to the B729 and that passes the north of the Site. More specifically the location is close to a cattle grid to the west of the Site on a straight section of road and not far from the Auchinshinnoch access track further to the west. The moorland character of the landscape dominates the immediate visual context of this location. There are also large areas of commercial forestry on Glenshimmeroch Hill, which are seen beyond the lower lying moorlands to the south. The Lochlee and Lochwhinnie hills intervene in the view towards the Site restricting views of the Site itself and whilst much of the commercial forestry on the Site area is not apparent small sections are visible on the horizon between undulations or as isolated closer stands of forest that remain following felling operations. The Rhinns of Kells and Cairnsmore of Carsphairn can be seen above the moorland slopes of Culmark Hill to the north-west which intervenes (low cloud obscures these hills in baseline photos). The open and exposed character of this landscape is only partly interrupted by the property at Fingland to the east. The Fingland property, situated at the base of Fingland Hill, is characterized by a more managed agricultural landscape setting, with field boundaries surrounding the property defined by drystone walls, and clusters of trees at field edges. The existing Blackcraig wind farm is visible to the south, Wether Hill wind farm is visible to the east above Fingland and the under construction Torrs Hill is located to the west. The RVAS (Technical Appendix A6.2) assesses the potential effect on the Auchenshinnoch and Fingland properties. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Road user This viewpoint is not located This viewpoint is located on a Medium - within or close to any national, minor road with perpendicular and Low regional or local scenic direct facing views towards the designations or recognised proposed turbines when travelling scenic views and the value is eastbound. Susceptibility is considered to be Low. considered to be Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at short distance, approximately 1.1 km to the nearest turbine south east of the viewpoint; • All 14 of the proposed turbines would be visible from this location. For five turbines almost all of the tower would be visible apart from the base; four turbines would be visible as hubs and top of towers; and five would be visible as blade only; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 73 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would appear to increase the influence of wind energy development in the view, extending wind energy development from the existing Blackcraig wind farm influenced skyline in views south to views south east of closer wind energy development to the viewpoint than currently experienced; • Change in the view resulting from addition of large scale wind turbines at close proximity to the viewpoint; • The proposed turbines would sit high on the southern skyline above the undulating hill forms of Lochlee Hill and Lochwhinnie Hill; • The closer proximity of the northernmost turbines in the layout and their position on more elevated landform increases the perception of turbine scale contrasting with other lower elevated turbines in the layout in this view; and • Potential cumulative effects with the existing Blackcraig wind turbines which are more distant
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and of contrasting smaller scale. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The Development would introduce further development into a view which already contains large scale wind turbine development; • The large scale of the upland landscape in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape, provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to views of the Development; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be High. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on road users at this viewpoint is considered to be Significant. Whilst there is no particular sensitivity attached to the view, the scale of change is such that a significant visual effect would occur.
Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Blackcraig none Margree Wether Hill Glenshimmeroch Torrs Hill Wether Hill Extension Shepherds Rig Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
There are no consented cumulative schemes visible from this location resulting in no cumulative change and no cumulative effect.
Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The Margree turbines would sit to the south east of this location, between the existing Blackcraig scheme and the Development. The Glenshimmeroch turbines would sit to the south and would appear similar in scale to the Development turbines. The Glenshimmeroch turbines are visible to base from this location and the forestry removal required to facilitate turbine construction would also be visible from this location. Due to differences in turbine scale and perspective, the Margree turbines would appear smaller than the Development and the consented Glenshimmeroch turbines but larger than the Blackcraig turbines. The contrasting scales of turbines in the view is therefore clearly understood and the perception of scale and distance is not distorted in the view. Three blades of the Shepherds Rig scheme would appear above the intermediate horizon created by Culmark Hill. The Wether Hill Extension sits to the north within close context to the existing Wether Hill turbines which is considered to be a minor addition to the cumulative situation from this location. The application scenario would increase the visual effect experienced at this location due to its increase in scale and number of visible turbines within the Glenshimmeroch and Margree schemes. Introducing the Development to this cumulative situation would further intensify the influence of wind development on this section of road by extending the influence of wind development further east along the horizon. The scale similarities between the Development and Glenshimmeroch Wind Farm would moderate the effect slightly. This change would intensify the change predicted for the assessment against baseline characteristics and the cumulative magnitude of change is predicted to be High for this scenario, resulting in a Significant cumulative effect.
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6.10.5.3 Viewpoint 3 - B729, Guttery Glen
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on the B729 where the road begins descending through the narrow valley created by Carroch Hill and Blackmark Hill. This section of road forms the transition between the more elevated glen created by the Carroch Lane watercourse and the lower elevated Stroanfreggan Burn and Water of Ken valleys which sit either side of the forest covered Manquhill Hill. Cairnsmore of Carsphairn is a focus in the view north and with little focus created by the smaller hills to the south this framed view provides notable scenic quality to the road when travelling northbound. Towards the Site the moorland horizon has a gently undulated appearance with the hills of Bennan and Fingland Hill combining to create a long ridgeline in views south. The upland landscape in the view is large in scale which is predominantly moorland covered with some commercial forestry riparian trees / woods and patches of grazed / rough grassland. There is no settlement in the view and the road has a remote feel at this location. The existing Windy Standard wind farm is theoretically visible but is obscured by intervening woods and commercial plantations. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Road user This viewpoint is not located This viewpoint is located on a minor Medium - within or close to any national, road with direct views towards the Low regional or local scenic proposed turbines when travelling designations or recognised eastbound. Susceptibility is scenic views and the value is considered to be Medium. considered to be Low. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 2.5 km to the nearest turbine south east of the viewpoint; • Five of the proposed turbines would be visible from this location. Two turbines would appear with hubs close to the horizon, two would only have turbine blades visible and one would have only the very top of blade visible; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 16 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Addition of large scale wind turbines in views south east; and • The view south east does not currently have any visible wind energy development. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The large scale of the upland landscape in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape, provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to views of the Development; • The principal view to the north and towards Cairnsmore of Carsphairn would be unaffected by the Development; • The Development layout would appear entirely behind the subtly undulated slopes of Fingland Hill avoiding encroachment with the more recognisable landform of Auchenstroan Craig which aligns with the road direction when travelling east towards the Site; • The visible proposed turbines would occupy a minor horizontal extent when compared to the scale of the upland context that intervenes; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium - Low.
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Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on road users at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant.
Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Torrs Hill Windy Rig Longburn Windy Standard Shepherds Rig Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
The consented Windy Rig is theoretically visible to the north of this viewpoint, however, nearby intervening woods and commercial plantations intervene to obscure this part of the view.
Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The Longburn turbines would sit to the north on the eastern slopes of Stroanfreggan Craig with Shepherds Rig extending the spread of turbines further west. The woods and commercial plantations that screen views of Windy Standard would appear in front of turbine bases but these schemes would be visible above the treeline. The Longburn and Shepherds Rig turbines would sit directly in front of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn, interrupting this dramatic upland skyline, and Shepherds Rig would extend across the Glenkens and Water of Deugh valley. The application scenario would increase the visual effect experienced at this location due to the location and scale of the Shepherds Rig and Longburn turbines in the view which in itself would lead to notable visual effects that disrupt the principal view to the upland skyline formed around Cairnsmore of Carsphairn from this section of road. When considering the Development within this cumulative situation the additional turbine visibility to the south would have a minimal cumulative influence when considered with the more notable visual presence of the Shepherds Rig and Longburn Wind Farms. For this reason, the cumulative magnitude of change is considered to be Medium - Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.5.4 Viewpoint 4 - SUW, Culmark Hill
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on Culmark Hill, which affords 360 degree long distance views of the surrounding landscape. Whilst it is not located within any landscape designations, it is on the route of the Southern Upland Way. In views to the south east and towards the Site, the foreground landform has successive undulations of moorland that intersect with the pyramidal profile of Glenshimmeroch Hill (contrasting due to its forest covered slopes). The Site is more distant and appears to sit between the lower slopes of Glenshimmeroch Hill to the south and Bennan to the north. Properties at Auchinshinnoch and Fingland can be seen from this location. The upland landscape in the view is large in scale and includes the foreground landscape. Typical of the Foothills with Forest LCA, the hills visible in the mid-ground are smooth and rounded in character with few pronounced peaks. In contrast to this, Cairnsmore of Carsphairn creates is a notably distinct presence within the larger hills of the southern uplands seen to the north from this location. Views west to the Rhinns of Kells from this location provides an opportunity to views these hills as a long connected string of peaks. If visibility allows, the Striding Arch on Benbrack can be seen to the north east, although the other arches are too distant. Several existing wind farms are theoretically visible from this view which include: Wether Hill, Windy Standard and Extension, Afton, Sanquhar, Blackcraig, Dersalloch and the under construction Torrs
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Hill.
Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Recreational This viewpoint is not Walkers at this viewpoint have Medium - Walkers located within any national, relatively close proximity elevated High regional or local scenic views towards the site. Existing wind designations, however, the turbine developments visible from this viewpoint represents views location moderate susceptibility as from the Southern Upland wind farm development is not an Way. Value is therefore unfamiliar characteristic of the view. considered to be Medium- On balance susceptibility is High. considered to be Medium - High. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 2.9 km to the nearest turbine south east of the viewpoint; • all 14 of the proposed turbines would be visible from this location with most appearing with varying amount of tower visibility depending on forestry and local landform screening of turbine bases. The easternmost turbines are set further back from this location and would sit behind existing forestry screening more of the turbine towers with 1 turbine appearing as blade only; • turbine tracks would be visible from this location where they cross recently felled / replanted areas of commercial forest on the site; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 35 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Large scale change in the view resulting from addition of large scale wind turbines within relatively close proximity from the viewpoint; • A small amount of key holed forestry felling would be visible for 1-2 of the turbine locations; • The Development would appear to increase the influence of wind energy development in the view east, between the existing wind farms of Wether Hill and Blackcraig; • The Development is located closer to the viewpoint than the existing wind farm influenced skyline; and • Potential cumulative effects would occur with the existing wind turbines in the view. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The large scale of the upland landscape and simple upland landcover of open moorland and forestry in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape, provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to views of the Development; • The proposed turbines would appear on an upland that is to some degree contained by surrounding hill slopes of Glenshimmeroch Hill to the south and Bennan to the north; • The tracks and substation would be screened behind retained forestry and localised landforms of the site; • Views along the route of the Southern Upland Way to the north east and south west would be unaffected by the Development; and • Views towards Cairnsmore of Carsphairn and the Striding Arch on Benbrack would be unaffected by the Development. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium - High. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on recreational walkers at this viewpoint is considered to be Significant. The viewpoint is sensitive due to its location on the Southern Upland Way and the scale of change is such that a significant visual effect would occur.
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Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Wether Hill Windy Rig Margree Windy Standard and Extension Sanquhar Six Glenshimmeroch Afton Knockman Hill Wether Hill Extension Sanquhar High Barcaple Windy Standard III Blackcraig Longburn Dersalloch Shepherds Rig Torrs Hill Lorg Cornharrow Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Knockman Hill, High Barcaple and Sanquhar Six will not be discernible from this location once built as only the very tops of a few blades are theoretically visible. Windy Rig will add to the existing cumulative situation to the north. When considering the addition of the Development to the consented situation, the cumulative interaction of the Development is minimal and the cumulative magnitude of change is therefore Negligible resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The Margree turbines would sit to the south east of this location, between the existing Blackcraig scheme and the proposed Glenshimmeroch turbines. The Wether Hill Extension and Cornharrow would sit around the existing Wether Hill turbines to the north east. The Longburn turbines would sit to the north with the turbine bases obscured by other parts of Culmark Hill. Shepherds Rig would sit in front of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn from this location. Lorg would appear beyond Longburn in the distance. Whilst one blade tip of Windy Standard III is theoretically visible amongst the existing Windy Standard scheme it would not be discernible within the context of these existing turbines. The application scenario would increase the visual effect experienced at this location due to its increase in scale and number of visible turbines within the surrounding landscape, in particular to the north and east where an almost continuous string of wind farm development would be seen in the middle distance. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation they would further intensify the influence of wind development by extending the influence of wind development to the east connected to Margree and Glenshimmeroch but maintaining a gap between the existing Wether Hill and its proposed extension. The application scenario would lead to notable increases in cumulative influence due to the scale of change that these applications would collectively bring to this location should they all be built. The addition of the Development to this situation would result in further cumulative change and although in this scenario the presence of further wind development in the receiving landscape could moderate the cumulative effect, on balance the cumulative magnitude of change is considered to be Medium resulting in a Significant cumulative effect in this scenario.
6.10.5.5 Viewpoint 5 – Lochinvar Shore
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is found on the western shore of Lochinvar to the southwest of the Development. It represents road users passing the loch where passing places are used as stopping places to enjoy the views across the loch. Lochinvar Lodge is located further to the south and whilst slightly elevated from the loch shore itself, views across the loch towards the Site are more restricted in the direction of the Development by the sloping and knolly landforms and trees on the opposite bank than they are from the viewpoint location to the north of the loch. The loch is the main feature of views in this area although there is no particular direction of view that these views focus upon. Towards the Site (north-east) the trees on the opposite banks of the
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loch are deciduous close to the loch becoming commercial forestry further back and creating a dense and often dark horizon that contains and focusses the viewer’s attention back to the loch itself. To the south-east trees and forestry are patchy and the Blackcraig wind farm sits high on the moorland horizon with varying turbine extents visible owing to the changing topography. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Road users This viewpoint is not located This viewpoint is located on a minor Medium within or close to any road with oblique views towards the national, regional or local proposed turbines. The passing / scenic designations or stopping places at the Lochside with recognised scenic views and views across the loch towards the the value is considered to be Development. Susceptibility is Medium-Low. considered to be Medium-High. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 3.2 km to the nearest turbine east of the viewpoint; • 12 turbine blades are theoretically visible, however, only three blade tips are visible above the existing forestry treeline with a further three barely discernible as only the very tops of blade tips are visible; and • The visible proposed turbines would occupy 16 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Addition of wind turbines in views east in the backdrop setting of Lochinvar; and • The potential for cumulative effects with the existing Blackcraig wind farm. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The small amount of the Development visible due to screening afforded by the intervening landform and forestry; • The moorland and forest covered landscape in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape, provides a simple pattern of surrounding upland landscape context to views of the Development; and • Turbine towers, hubs, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Low. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on road users at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. Should the forestry on the intervening horizon to the east is felled within the lifespan of the Development increases to the magnitude of change would result but not to a level that would give rise to any further significant effects. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Blackcraig Knockman Hill Margree Glenshimmeroch Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Knockman Hill will add further development in views south and within the visual context of the existing Blackcraig wind farm from this viewpoint. When considering the Development within this cumulative situation the additional tvisibility to the east would have a minimal cumulative influence. The cumulative magnitude of change is considered to be Negligible for this scenario resulting in a
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Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The Margree turbines would sit to the east of this location with the Glenshimmeroch turbines to the north east. Together they would combine to occupy almost all of the upland landform on the opposite side of the loch. A small amount of the Development will be visible due to landform and forestry screening, and the Development turbine blades would sit behind the Glenshimmeroch turbines. The application scenario would increase the visual effect experienced at this location due to its increase in scale and number of visible turbines within the surrounding landscape. The application scenario would lead to notable increases in cumulative influence due to the scale of change that these applications would collectively bring to this location should they all be built. However, when introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation they would have minimal cumulative influence due to the Development’s limited visual presence in this view. For this reason, the cumulative magnitude of change is considered to be Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.5.6 Viewpoint 6 – SUW near Barlaes
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on the Southern Upland Way on a ridgeline between Barlaes Farm and the Corseglass Bridge that leads north to Lochinvar and is representative of walkers who will be using this route. The principal view direction is north along the Southern Upland Way route and towards the Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. The surrounding landscape is dominated by moorland and commercial forestry with occasional patches of grazing land (mostly associated with Barlaes Farm). It is a straight and indistinct section of route although glimpses of landmarks such as Culmark Hill and Cairnsmore of Carsphairn to the north provide interest and focus for walkers. The Glenkens provide a scenic backdrop to the extensive plateau of moorland within the immediate context to the west. Towards the Site commercial forestry occupies the horizon with a larger closer stand of forestry immediately south. From this location, Windy Standard and Extension are visible in the distance and although Blackcraig is theoretically visible, it is screened by intervening forestry. Once constructed Torrs Hill will appear to the north-west against the Glenkens backdrop. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Recreational This viewpoint is not Walkers at this viewpoint have elevated High - Walkers located within any and panoramic views. Existing wind Medium national, regional or local turbine developments visible from this scenic designations, location moderate susceptibility as wind however, the viewpoint farm development is not an unfamiliar represents views from characteristic of the view. On balance the Southern Upland susceptibility is considered to be Way. Value is considered Medium - High. to be Medium-High. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 4.4 km to the nearest turbine east of the viewpoint; • 12 turbine blades are theoretically visible, however, only five blade tips are visible above the existing forestry treeline with a further three barely discernible as only the very tops of blade tips are visible; and • The visible proposed turbines would occupy 11 degrees of the view.
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Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Addition of wind turbines in views east; and • The potential for cumulative effects with the existing Blackcraig wind farm. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The small amount of the Development visible due to screening afforded by intervening landform and forestry; • The large scale of the upland landscape within the surrounding landscape, And simple pattern of moorland and forestry upland in views towards the Development provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to views of the Development; • Principal view to the north along the SUW and towards more scenic upland landscapes in the view around Cairnsmore of Carsphairn is unaffected by the Development; and • Turbine towers, hubs, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline and forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Low. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on recreational walkers at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. Should the forestry on the intervening horizon to the east is felled within the lifespan of the Development increases to the magnitude of change would result but not to a level that would give rise to any further significant effects. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Windy Standard & Extension Windy Rig Margree Blackcraig Sanquhar Six Glenshimmeroch Torrs Hill Knockman Hill Longburn Afton Shepherds Rig Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Knockman Hill is located in the same part of the view as Blackcraig and like Blackcraig is also screened by intervening forestry. Sanquhar Six is showing as theoretically visible on wireframes as a result of the very top of one turbines theoretical visibility. In reality this would not be discernible. Windy Rig will be visible within the context of the existing Windy Standard wind farm. When considering the Development within this cumulative situation the additional tvisibility to the north would have minimal cumulative influence. The cumulative magnitude of change is considered to be Negligible for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The Margree turbines would sit to the east of this location with the Glenshimmeroch turbines to the north east. Several of the Margree turbines would be screened by intervening forestry. The visible turbine blades of the Development would sit behind the Glenshimmeroch turbines. The Longburn wind farm would be visible beyond the western slopes of Craigencorr Hill. Shepherds Rig would be seen in front of the distinctive profile of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. The application scenario would increase the visual effect experienced at this location due to its increase in scale and number of visible turbines within the surrounding landscape. The application scenario would lead to notable increases in cumulative influence due to the scale of change that these applications would collectively bring to this location should they all be built. However, when introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation they would have minimal cumulative influence due to its limited visual presence in this view. For this reason, the cumulative magnitude of change is considered to be Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
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6.10.5.7 Viewpoint 7 - Stroanfreggan Fort
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint lies on the rocky outcrop of Stroanfreggan Craig north of the small property cluster of Stroanpatrick, on the western slopes of Manquhill Hill. Stroanfreggan Fort is located around 600 m to the south west at approximately 70 m lower elevation and it was considered that the higher location on the rocky outcrop represented a worst case view for this viewpoint. The Southern Upland Way passes close to this location (if a little less elevated) and the viewpoint is therefore also representative of walkers experience on this nearby section. The overall location has a strong sense of containment provided by larger surrounding hills Cairnsmore of Carsphairn and Beninner to the north west, Benbrack to the north east and Wether Hill to the east. The views west open out across Dundeugh to the Glenkens, offering a more distant and scenic aspect to the panorama as a contrast to the containment provided in other directions by closer upland land masses. Whilst this location allows viewers to experience this multi-faceted panorama from an elevated position there is no distinctive focus within the panorama, although the route of the SUW does provide a sense of destination to Manquhill Hill and Benbrack. Within closer context the Water of Ken to the north and Stroanfreggan Burn to the south can be seen wrapping around the lower slopes of Manquhill Hill to the east. The properties at Stroanpatrick are visible to the south. The view south towards the Site is part of a horizon that is less distinct and is composed of successive layers of moorland and forestry that combine to create a gradually sloped ridge that appears to connect to the more distinct Wether Hill. Theoretically visible existing wind farms include Blackcraig, Wether Hill, Windy Standard and Extension, Afton and the under construction Torrs Hill.
Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Recreational This viewpoint is not Walkers at this viewpoint have elevated High - Walker located within any and panoramic views. Existing wind Medium national, regional or local turbine developments visible from this scenic designations, location moderate susceptibility as wind however, the viewpoint farm development is not an unfamiliar represents views from characteristic of the view. On balance the Southern Upland susceptibility is considered to be Way. Value is considered Medium - High. to be Medium-High. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 4.7 km to the nearest turbine south east of the viewpoint; • 13 turbines visible, five as blade tips, four with hub / top of tower visibility and four turbines with majority of towers visible; • Three of the turbines are closely stacked in this view; and • The visible proposed turbines would occupy 34 degrees of the view.
Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would introduce wind energy development to the view south east; • Change in the view resulting from the addition of large scale wind turbines at closer proximity
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to the viewpoint than the existing Blackcraig wind farm, also visible to the south east; • Potential cumulative effects with existing wind farms at Blackcraig and Wether Hill; • The potential increased presence of turbines along the ridgeline to the south east and reducing of the space between existing wind farms; • The turbines would appear spread across the horizon leading to a wide angle of view occupied in comparison to existing wind farms; and • The level of stacking and gaps between turbines in the layout increases magnitude in this view. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The gentle undulation of the upland hills to the south east are not distinct in shape, particularly when compared to other nearby hills such as Wether Hill, Benbrack and Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. The gentle undulation appears more like the leading ridge of an upland plateau beyond which the Development would appear largely behind; • The upland landscape towards the Site but also within the nearby context of the viewpoint is large in scale and largely composed of large areas of forestry separated by moorland slopes; • Scenic views across Dundeugh to the Glenkens and north towards Cairnsmore of Carsphairn would be unaffected by the Development; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on recreational walkers at this viewpoint is considered to be Significant. The viewpoint is sensitive due to its location near the Southern Upland Way and although the scale of change is found to be at a moderate level, it is considered that on balance that a significant visual effect would occur. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Blackcraig Knockman Hill Margree Wether Hill Windy Rig Glenshimmeroch Windy Standard and Extension Longburn Afton Shepherds Rig Torrs Hill Lorg Cornharrow Wether Hill Extension Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Theoretically visible, Knockman Hill will be screened behind forestry from this location. Windy Rig will add to the existing cumulative situation to the north. When considering the addition of the Development to the consented situation, the cumulative interaction of the Development is minimal and the cumulative magnitude of change is therefore Negligible resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Lorg would sit beyond the northern slopes of Benbrack in the distance to the east with Cornharrow and Wether Hill Extension appearing in front of and extending east of the existing Wether Hill wind farm. Margree and Glenshimmeroch would appear directly in front of the existing Blackcraig wind farm, with the Glenshimmeroch turbines sitting higher than Margree on the southern skyline increasing the extent of development in the view further west. The Longburn and Shepherds Rig wind farm would appear very close to the east draped across Manquhill Hill, fundamentally changing the landscape context of this viewpoint location should these both be consented. Shepherds Rig would appear in front of the distinctive profile of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. The application scenario would in itself increase the visual effect experienced at this location due to its increase in scale and number of visible turbines within the surrounding landscape and also the
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close proximity of the Shepherds Rig and Longburn schemes. These increases are notable and lead to a cumulative influence not currently apparent whereby the wind turbines in the view are found to coalesce across large sections of the view at close proximity. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation they would contribute to extending development further east along the southern horizon. The presence of so much further wind development in the receiving landscape closer to the east has the potential to moderate the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. However, on balance the cumulative magnitude of change is considered to be Medium resulting in a Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.5.8 Viewpoint 8 - Craigdarroch
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located east of the Site on the B729 between Craigdarroch and the access road to Calside. The Craigdarroch Water runs close to this section of road which is identifiable from the viewpoint by the band of riparian vegetation which edges the adjacent field in the foreground. The view east towards the Site is along the ‘U’ shaped Craigdarroch Water valley. The foreground field is bounded by mature trees (riparian, roadside or estate trees) which is contained by the commercial forestry and moorland on the upland slopes that surround the valley. The foothills landscape type has an overall upland appearance, however, landscape elements on the floor of the Craigdarroch valley are smaller scale than the commercial forestry and moorland of surrounding hills. The viewpoint location was selected due to the unobstructed view east along the valley and although other similar views across fields to the Craigdarroch Water are available from the B729, none of these offer clear views to the intervening ridgeline of hills at the head of the ‘U’ shaped section of the Craigdarroch Water valley to the west. There are properties in the Craigdarroch valley but these do not share the unobstructed views that the viewpoint has and are therefore not represented by the open views from the section of road on which the viewpoint is located. There are currently no wind farms in views from this location. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Road user This This viewpoint is located on a minor road with direct Medium viewpoint views towards the proposed turbines when travelling is within westbound. The national speed limit applies although the the bends in the road and blind summits near this Thornhill viewpoint slow road speeds to between 30-50 mph. Uplands The slightly slower speed of road users on this section RSA and of road combined with direct facing views towards the value is Site suggests increased susceptibility to views of the considered surrounding landscape, however, due to bends in the to be road and blind summits attention would remain Medium- focussed on the road. On balance, it is considered that High. susceptibility for road users at this viewpoint is Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • the proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 5.2 km to the nearest turbine west of the viewpoint; • Four of the proposed turbines are theoretically visible. In reality one of these would be entirely obscured by forestry on the horizon which would also limit the visibility of two others. The resulting actual visibility would be two turbines with hub and top of tower visibility and one visible as blade tip; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 7 degrees of the view.
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Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The viewpoint is located in an upland valley and valley sides are created by hills that gently undulate, combining to surround the valley; • Addition of wind turbines in views west which would appear at the head of the Craigdarroch Water valley; • The potential for large scale turbines to appear contrasting in scale with the smaller scale landscape elements within Craigdarroch valley; and • There is no wind energy development in the current view. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The surrounding hills and valley sides are largely moorland or forest covered uplands which provide an upland setting to the Development which would lie beyond; • The upland character of the foothills landscape type would not be diminished by the Development in this view; • The Development would appear set well back from the edges of Neis Hill which forms the western horizon; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium - Low. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on road users at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. Whilst the Development would introduce new features to the view on this road the level of visibility would not be at a level that is considered to cause a significant effect on road users at this location.
Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Consented Application Construction none none none Cumulative Assessment (Consented / Application sites)
There are no consented or application cumulative schemes visible from this location resulting in no cumulative change and no cumulative effect.
6.10.5.9 Viewpoint 9 - Dunbeg, Dundeugh Forest
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
The viewpoint is located on a mound (named Dunbeg) on the eastern side of Dundeugh Hill which is free of forestry and offers visitors and walkers clear views to the east and north. Views towards Cairnsmore of Carsphairn to the north and along the Deugh Water towards the Carsphairn settlement represent the principal view direction from this hill. The Craig of Knockgray, north of Carsphairn, is a distinct focus for views from this location. To the north the forest cover appears consolidated into one large block around Marscalloch Hill. The Craig of Knockgray, north of Carsphairn, is a distinct focus for views in this direction. Views to the south and west are obscured by forestry. Beyond the southern lower slopes of Marscalloch Hill, views to the east include views of Manquhill Hill and the rocky outcrops of Stroanfreggan Craig as well as the isolated properties at Stroanpatrick. Settlement is scattered along the valley floor around Kendoon Loch and Deugh
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Water, beyond these valleys the landscape is more open with limited vegetation cover along with a few additional isolated properties. Existing wind farms include Windy Standard, Whiteside Hill and Dersalloch in distant views to the north and north east. Blackcraig and Torrs Hill wind farms are theoretically visible but are screened by forestry. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Recreational This viewpoint Walkers at this viewpoint have elevated and Medium-High Walker is at the edges panoramic views to the north and east and their of the attention is likely to be on the view of surrounding Galloway Hills hills. However, existing wind turbine RSA and value developments visible from this location moderate is considered susceptibility as wind farm development is not an to be Medium- unfamiliar characteristic of the view. On balance High. susceptibility is considered to be Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 6.3 km to the nearest turbine south east of the viewpoint; • 14 of the proposed turbines are theoretically visible. In reality three are entirely obscured by nearby forestry trees; • Of the remaining 11 turbines, three turbines would be visible as almost full towers beyond a dip in the intervening upland ridgeline. three turbines would be visible including hub and half of towers, two as hubs / top of tower close to the horizon and three with blades only visible; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 18 degrees of the view.
Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would introduce wind energy development to the view south east; • Change in the view resulting from the addition of large scale wind turbines at closer proximity to the viewpoint than the existing Wether Hill wind farm, visible to the east; • Potential effects occurring in the context of the existing wind farm at Wether Hill, resulting in wind farm development either side of the Carroch Lane (formed between Bennan and Carroch Hill) of differing scales and landform context; and • The turbines would occupy a wider part of the horizon than the existing Wether Hill turbines. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The gentle undulation of the upland hills to the south east are not distinct in shape, particularly when compared to other nearby hills such as Wether Hill, Benbrack and Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. The gentle undulation appears more like the leading ridge of an upland plateau beyond which the Development would appear behind; • The upland landscape towards the Site but also within the nearby context of the viewpoint is large in scale and largely composed of large areas of forestry separated by moorland slopes; • Scenic views of the upland landscape around Cairnsmore of Carsphairn to the north and north west would be unaffected by the Development; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium.
Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on walkers at this viewpoint is considered to be Significant. The Development would introduce new features to the view south east extending wind farm development further along the upland ridge and at closer proximity to the viewpoint.
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Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Wether Hill Knockman Glenshimmeroch Blackcraig Benbrack Margree Windy Standard Windy Rig Cornharrow Whiteside Hill Wether Hill Extension Dersalloch Longburn Torrs Hill Shepherds Rig Lorg Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Benbrack will be visible between Cairnsmore of Carsphairn and Craig of Knockgray. Windy Rig will appear close to the lower slopes of Beninner, within the context of existing Windy Standard blade tips, with only turbine tower / hub visible. Knockman will be screened behind forestry. When considering the addition of the Development to the consented situation, the cumulative interaction of the Development is minimal and the cumulative magnitude of change is therefore Negligible resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
The Margree and Glenshimmeroch turbines would be obscured by intervening forestry trees from this location. The Wether Hill Extension and Cornharrow would sit around the existing Wether Hill turbines to the north east with Wether Hill appearing behind and Cornharrow in front from this viewpoint. The Longburn turbines would sit to the east within the context of Stroanfreggan Craig and Stroanpatrick properties. The Shepherds Rig turbines would appear tall behind Marscalloch Hill, sitting to either side of its conical summit and above the more distant skyline of southern upland hills to the north east. The Longburn and Shepherds Rig wind farms would appear much closer than other existing, consented or planned schemes in the area. Lorg would appear behind the northern end of Longburn appearing to sit in front of the existing Whiteside Hill turbines. The application scenario would in itself increase the visual effect experienced at this location due to its increase in scale and number of visible turbines within the surrounding landscape. These increases are notable and lead to a cumulative influence not currently apparent whereby the wind turbines in the view are found to coalesce across large sections of the view at close proximity. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation they would contribute to extending development further south along the horizon, extending windfarm development into the Foothills landscape (18a) from the Southern Uplands with Forest (19a). Whilst the presence of so much further wind development in the receiving landscape closer to the east does moderate the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have, on balance the cumulative magnitude of change is considered to be Medium - High resulting in a Significant cumulative effect in this scenario.
6.10.5.10 Viewpoint 10 - Fork in minor road near Loch Urr
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located south east of the Site at the fork in the minor road that leads to Loch Urr. The location is elevated with views north across the valley of the Castlefairn Water and A702 road corridor towards the more elevated uplands within which the Site is located. The landscape in the view is largely made up of moorland hills and ridges that surround and enclose, limiting any distant views. Shelterbelt planting, grazing land and small stands of trees on lower slopes of the Castlefairn valley and towards Loch Urr break up the moorland in the view. Commercial forestry is also evident but from this location is limited to thin strips of forest edge visible close to the horizon. Whilst views are generally open in character, some existing
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infrastructure is visible from this location with phone and electricity poles running across the view to the north and within the Castlefairn Water valley and a coms mast on the opposite hill slopes across the valley. The summit of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn can be seen in the distance to the north west although the distinct shape of the hill as seen from other locations is not evident in this view due to the other hills and upland that intervenes. Blackcraig existing wind farm is visible in close proximity to the west along with the blade tips of Wether Hill above forestry to the north west. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Road user This viewpoint is This viewpoint is located on a minor road Medium - Low not located within junction, the minor road section that leads to or close to any Loch Urr aligns with the view direction national, regional or towards the Site and road users would local scenic therefore have direct facing views at this designations or junction on approach from the east. Existing recognised scenic turbines of Blackcraig moderate susceptibility views and the value as wind farm development is not an is considered to be unfamiliar characteristic of the view. Low. Susceptibility is considered to be Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 6.3 km to the nearest turbine north west of the viewpoint; • Ten of the proposed turbines are theoretically visible. 8 turbines would be visible with varied amounts of tower visibility and two with hubs close or just behind the horizon so that only the blades would be visible above the intervening moorland slope; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 18 degrees of the view.
Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Addition of wind turbines in views north west; • The Development turbines would appear in front of the Cairnsmore of Carsphairn summit; and • The potential for cumulative effects with the existing Blackcraig wind farm. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The large scale of the upland landscape in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape, provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to views of the Development; • The Development would introduce further development into a view which already contains large scale wind turbine development; and • Turbine towers, hubs, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on road users at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. Receptors at this viewpoint are not particularly sensitive and whilst the Development would introduce further wind turbines to the view north west the level of visibility would not be at a level that is considered to cause a significant effect at this location. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
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Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Blackcraig none Margree Wether Hill Shepherds Rig Twenty Shilling (Under Construction) Twenty Shilling (Resub) Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
There are no consented cumulative schemes visible from this location resulting in no cumulative change and no cumulative effect.
Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Margree will add three blade tips to the west. Shepherds Rig would be visible to the north-west as one very small blade tip. To the north, Twenty Shilling (resub) would only very slightly increase the presence that the Twenty Shilling (Under Construction) scheme has in previous scenarios. When considering the addition of the Development to the application situation, the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline would still broadly apply to this scenario. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Medium resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.5.11 Viewpoint 11 – SUW Benbrack
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on Benbrack, a rounded hilltop to the north of the Development. The view from Benbrack is panoramic and of particular scenic interest is the view south-west across the lower upland area occupied by Manquhill Hill, Dundeugh and the Ken Water towards the Glenkens and west to Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. Commercial forestry and moorland are the dominant upland land- cover seen from this location; this is only punctuated by a few small areas of grazing land associated with the scattered properties on lower elevated land in views to the west and south- west. The Southern Upland Way crosses this hill and as the views to the west open up from this elevated hilltop the location marks a transitional point on the route between the remote feel of the uplands to the south of Carsphairn Forest and the lower elevated section to St John’s Town of Dalry. The viewpoint is also located close to one of the Striding Arches and art work by Andy Goldsworthy that relates to emigrating Scots over the last 200 years. The objects are located on three hills (Benbrack, Bail Hill and Colt Hill) sited around Cairnhead and the valley of Dalwhat Water. As can be understood from the artists’ interpretation of this work, the arches themselves are not as important as the space and connecting sightlines between them are. ‘Crucial to Goldsworthy’s selection of sites was his stipulation that no matter which arch you find yourself at, you should always be able to see the other two: the three arches are linked together by sightlines. “What I am working is the space, the line, the stuff that is intangible, the atmosphere of the work, the feel of it, the bits in between. That for me is the work.”’13 The existing wind farms in the view occur in clusters of development across much of the panorama from the north west to the north east (Windy Standard and Extension, Afton, Hare Hill and Extension, Sanquhar, Whiteside Hill) and to the south towards the Site (Wether Hill, Blackcraig).
Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Hill Walkers This viewpoint is not Walkers at this viewpoint have Medium - located within any national, elevated views of the site. Existing High regional or local scenic wind turbine developments visible designations, however, the from this location moderate
13 http://www.stridingarches.com/striding.html
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viewpoint represents views susceptibility as wind farm from the Southern Upland development is not an unfamiliar Way and is located near characteristic of the view. On balance one of the Striding Arches. susceptibility is considered to be Value is therefore Medium. considered to be Medium- High. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 6.6 km to the nearest turbine south of the viewpoint; • 14 of the proposed turbines would be visible. 9 turbines would be visible with varied amounts of tower visibility and 4 with hubs / top of tower close to the horizon and 1 with blade only visibility. Two turbines would sit directly behind existing Wether Hill turbines; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 24 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The potential for effects to occur in the context of the existing Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farms; • The Development would appear to extend the influence of wind energy development in the view south, further to the south west than currently experienced; and • The Development will appear to be located on landform at lower elevations than the existing Wether Hill wind farm, but may be perceived as a direct extension to Wether Hill at this viewing angle. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The large scale of the upland landscape in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to the Development; • The Development does not interrupt the sightlines of the Striding Arches from this view and would not bring development closer to the periphery view of these sightlines than the existing turbines at Wether Hill already occupy; • The Development would have an association with the wind farm influenced landscape in the upland part of this view and would be visible within this similar landscape context; • The proposed wind turbines would appear as a relatively evenly spread grouping which from this location appears similar in its spacing to the existing Wether Hill turbines due to differences in distance; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the intervening landform / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development at this viewpoint is considered to be Significant. Whilst clear views are maintained to more sensitive parts of the panorama to the west, significant effects are found, largely due to the cumulative effect of the Development with the existing Wether Hill wind farm, where the Development would appear to extend the influence of wind energy development further to the south west, at lower elevations and with larger turbines than currently experienced. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Wether Hill Sanquhar Six Cornharrow Blackcraig Windy Rig Margree Windy Standard and Extension Knockman Hill Wether Hill Extension
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Afton Mochrum Fell Glenshimmeroch Hare Hill and Extension Longburn Sanquhar Shepherds Rig Whiteside Hill Windy Standard III Twenty Shilling (under construction) Pencloe Forest Lorg Ulzieside Twenty Shilling (resub) Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Sanquhar Six appears directly in front of the existing Hare Hill and Extension and Sanquhar schemes from this view and other than being part of a successive view of distant development, has no cumulative interaction with the Development and other cumulative schemes in views to the south. Knockman Hill and Mochrum Fell will add further distant clusters of turbines to the north and south of Blackcraig. Knockman Hill would appear to sit on its own whilst Mochrum Fell will sit directly behind the Blackcraig ridgeline. When considering the addition of the Development to the consented situation, the cumulative interaction of the Development is minimal and the cumulative magnitude of change is therefore Negligible resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Wether Hill Extension and Cornharrow would sit to the east and in the foreground of the existing Wether Hill wind farm in this view, with Cornharrow bringing development off the ridgeline and onto the forested slopes that can be seen immediately below the existing turbines and the foreground southern slopes of Benbrack itself. Margree and Glenshimmeroch would appear to extend the influence of the existing Blackcraig wind farm further west, almost connecting to Longburn and Shepherds Rig which would sit in front of the Rhinns of Kells in the view west. Twenty Shilling (resub) would only very slightly increase the presence that the Twenty Shilling (Under Construction) scheme has in previous scenarios. Windy Standard III, Pencloe Forest and Ulzieside would form part of the established backdrop of turbines to the north and north-west. Lorg would bring wind energy development much closer than existing and along with Cornharrow, Longburn and Shepherds Rig would detract from the existing panoramic qualities of views experienced at this location. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the presence of so much further wind development in the receiving landscape moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. The Development would appear in the backdrop to the Cornharrow wind farms and whilst contributing to the overall density of turbines in the wider array of application turbines in the view south-west (including the application schemes of Cornharrow, Margree and Glenshimmeroch), would not in itself further extend the horizontal spread of this wide cluster. The application scenario would in itself increase the visual effect experienced, however, the further introduction of the Development turbines would introduce far less change to the view in this scenario than the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline. As a result, the magnitude of cumulative change is predicted to be Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.5.12 Viewpoint 12 - Moniaive, Dunreggan Brae
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located to the north-east of the Moniaive settlement on an elevated minor road (Dunreggan Brae). Trees within or in the immediately surrounding landscape context of Moniaive (along roads, following the Craigdarroch Water or Dalwhat Water, small woods and surrounding recreational grounds) restrict the level of visibility within the settlement and views to the west along the Craigdarroch Water valley are often restricted from publicly accessible locations. This viewpoint was therefore selected due to the elevated and unobstructed views in the direction of
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the Site that are seen in combination with views of the Moniaive settlement and its surrounding context. Whilst outside the settlement boundary this publicly accessible location is considered to represent the worst case view from those properties in the settlement which have elevated and unobstructed views towards the Site as well as views from Dunreggan Brae. The distinctly undulated skyline from the south to the west includes the upland valleys of the Castlefairn Water, Craigdarroch Water and Dalwhat Water intersecting at the head of the Cairn Water valley close to Moniaive. The Site is located between Craigdarroch Hill and Big Morton Hill at the head of the Craigdarroch valley. The principal view from this location is considered to be in alignment with the road itself towards Moniaive and south towards Castlefairn Valley (a view which contains the Blackcraig windfarm). Power lines and phone lines cross the landscape, and the view, connecting to the settlement. The existing wind farm of Wether Hill is visible to the north east along the Dalwhat Water valley and Blackcraig wind farm is visible to the south along the Castlefairn Water valley. Both of these wind farms appear behind simple, distant upland strips of landscape framed by closer valley side slopes which although separated, appear as a contiguous upland behind the foreground foothills. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Residents This viewpoint Viewpoint represents worst case view experienced High of Moniaive is within the by residents of the elevated properties in Moniaive Thornhill and affords a vantage over the distinctive landscape Uplands RSA of upland glens of the Dalwhat and Craigdarroch. and value is Susceptibility is considered to be High. considered to Road users be Medium- This viewpoint is located on a minor road with direct Medium High. views towards the proposed turbines when travelling westbound. The steep nature of the road on approach to Moniaive means that the attention of road users is likely to remain focussed on the road. Susceptibility for road users at this viewpoint is Medium-Low. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 7.9 km to the nearest turbine west of the viewpoint; • Eight of the proposed turbines would be visible;; • Of these, three turbines would be visible as hubs / top of tower, two with blades only visible and three with only the very top of blades visible above the horizon; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 6 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would introduce wind energy development to the view west along Craigdarroch valley; • Lower parts of the Moniaive settlement appear in the same part of the panorama as the Development (albeit as a closer and lower elevated feature); • The location of the Development on the skyline at the head of the Craigdarroch water valley which is framed by edges of the adjacent uplands; • Potential cumulative effects with the existing Wether Hill turbines (visible across the Dalwhat Water valley) and Blackcraig turbines (visible across the Castlefairn Water valley); and • The introduction of wind turbine development in the backdrop to the Craigdarroch Water valley could lead to a sense of repetition of wind farm elements, implying more frequent wind farm proliferation behind the larger hills that divide these valley views. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The lower slopes of hills that form the Craigdarroch Water valley protrude into the valley to create successive topographical layers that indicate distance; • These successive layers also become rougher in landcover texture and pattern becoming more
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upland in character with greater distance; • The scale of the Development turbines would appear small in comparison to the large landform mass of hills that frame the valleys in this view; • The Development turbines would relate to the simple upland landcover of open moorland and forestry in the distant view. This upland is framed by the closer steeply undulated foothills landscape found on the hills of Craigdarroch and Big Morton Hill which have a more textured pattern of large irregular fields of rough pasture with some commercial forestry; • The Development has an association with the location of existing wind farms as it would also appear behind a simple, distant upland strip of landscape framed by closer valley side slopes. • The Development would be viewed to the west and would not entirely detract from the principal view to the south; • whilst the view along Craigdarroch valley and potential view of the development is similar at the viewpoint and within the settlement, Wether Hill, Blackcraig and the Development are not experienced together in the same way as they are at the viewpoint. The sense of repetition in the upland backdrop is not therefore experienced in the settlement; • The distant landscape where the Site is located (and the existing wind farms of Wether Hill and Blackcraig) is upland in nature and has a simple landform profile; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on road user receptors at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. Whilst residential / settlement receptors are found to have High sensitivity to the Development a moderate level of change is predicted, and the effect is considered Not Significant. Whilst the view along Craigdarroch valley and potential view of the development is similar at the viewpoint and within the settlement, Wether Hill, Blackcraig and the Development are not experienced together in the same way as they are at the viewpoint. The sense of repetition in the upland backdrop is not therefore experienced in the settlement. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Wether Hill none Cornharrow Blackcraig Wether Hill Extension Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
There are no consented cumulative schemes visible from this location resulting in no cumulative change and no cumulative effect.
Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Wether Hill Extension would extend the spread of existing Wether Hill turbines to the north in this view. Cornharrow would add further development to this context but as blade tips. When considering the addition of the Development to the application situation, the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline would still broadly apply to this scenario. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Medium resulting in a Significant cumulative effect.
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6.10.5.13 Viewpoint 13 - A713 near Polquhanity
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on a straight section of the A713 where an area of felled forest has created a less obstructed view to the east and towards the site. The A713 is a main route between Dumfries and Galloway and Ayrshire crossing into East Ayrshire to the north of Carsphairn. Traffic on this section (between St John’s of Dalry and Carsphairn) is particularly fast due to the relatively straight alignment of the road. The forestry along this section of road, whilst clear felled at the viewpoint, generally obscures views to the east. Views west are across moorland with further patches of forestry and multiple overhead power lines following and crossing the road. Overall, this section of the A713 is quite unremarkable in terms of its scenic interest particularly when compared to other sections of the route further north, towards Carsphairn or to the south towards St John’s of Dalry. Towards the Site and beyond the immediate forestry, the view includes the distinct domed profile of Dundeugh and the larger more gently profiled upland in the background (where the Site is located). Existing wind farms of Wether Hill and the under construction Torrs Hill are obscured from view. Blackcraig is visible as blade tips on the horizon appearing either side of Dundeugh Hill from this location.
Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Road users This viewpoint Views in the direction of the Site (to the east) from Medium is at the edges this location are oblique and only available of the incidentally through the gaps in forestry plantations Galloway Hills when travelling southbound. The national speed RSA and value limit applies and road speeds are likely to be is considered between 50-60 mph on this relatively straight to be Medium- section of ‘A’ road. Susceptibility is considered to be High. Medium-Low. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 8.9 km to the nearest turbine east of the viewpoint; • 14 of the proposed turbines are theoretically visible. In reality six are entirely obscured by forestry; • Of the remaining eight turbines, five turbines would be visible as hubs / top of tower close to the horizon, two with blades only visible and one with only the very top of blade visible above the treeline; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 14 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would introduce wind energy development to the view east; • The Development will be viewed in the context of Dundeugh Hill which has a distinctive profile; and • There is little wind energy development in the current view. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • Views to the east are dominated by forestry, some parts of existing plantations close to the road have recently been felled leaving large areas of forest brash. The characteristics of the forestry landscape in this location is not scenic and distant views are generally contained; • Remaining forestry screens parts of theoretically visible turbines from view, reducing the effect experienced; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry.
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The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium - Low. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on views experienced by road users at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. Whilst the Development would introduce new features to the incidental views to the east, the magnitude of change would not be at a level that is considered to cause a significant effect at this location. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Wether Hill Knockman Longburn Blackcraig Benbrack Shepherds Rig Torrs Hill Cornharrow Wether Hill Extension Glenshimmeroch Margree Lorg Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Benbrack wind farm will be screened by roadside commercial plantation trees to the north west. Only the very top of one Knockman turbine will be visible and will be barely discernible amongst the existing small tips of the Blackcraig wind turbines. When considering the addition of the Development to the consented situation, the cumulative interaction of the Development is minimal and the cumulative magnitude of change is therefore Negligible resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Longburn, Shepherds Rig, Cornharrow, Wether Hill Extension and Lorg would be obscured from view by roadside forestry plantation trees that intervene. The Margree turbines would be visible as several blade tips above the forest covered to the east. Glenshimmeroch would sit up much higher than Margree on the horizon to the east when viewed from this location occupying a similar extent of the view. When considering the Development in this cumulative situation, it would further extend turbine development along the horizon to the north, forming a northern extension to the Glenshimmeroch/Margree grouping, increasing the visual presence that turbines would have on the view. Cumulative magnitude of change is considered to be Medium resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.5.14 Viewpoint 14 - SUW, Waterside Hill
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint represents walkers on the Southern Upland Way and visitors to the easily accessible Waterside Hill summit. The viewpoint is located close to the cairn with the Southern Upland Way on slightly lower ground to the south. The view to the east from this location is scenic across the attractive Water of Ken valley. Infrastructure can be seen throughout the valley landscape including overhead power lines, electricity poles and road infrastructure. These infrastructure elements do not however detract from the overall pleasant rural scene across the Ken valley from this location which includes views of Earlstoun Loch, the winding Water of Ken and riparian corridor, and the attractive agricultural landscape of the Flooded Valley (8), Ken Valley character area in views to the south. Settlement is scattered throughout the valley and is concentrated within the well wooded St John’s Town of Dalry
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settlement. Further to the east, beyond the Ken valley, the upland moorland and forest covered hills combine to form a gently undulated upland ridgeline which also features the existing turbines of the Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farms. To the west the corridors of the Coom Burn and Garroch Burn are not visible and the larger hills of the Rhinns of Kells dominate views on this direction. The distinctive shape of the Cairnsmore of Carsphairn profile is notable in views to the north. The existing wind farms in the view punctuate the distant skyline to the north and east of the panorama, these include Windy Standard and Extension, Afton, Sanquhar, Wether Hill and Blackcraig where the turbines are situated more prominently to the east on top of the most elevated part of the upland strip in the eastern part of the panorama. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Recreational This viewpoint is not located Walkers at this viewpoint have Medium - Walkers within any national, regional elevated views of the site. Existing High or local scenic designations, wind turbine developments visible however, the viewpoint from this location moderate represents views from the susceptibility as wind farm Southern Upland Way. Value development is not an unfamiliar is therefore considered to be characteristic of the view. On Medium- High. balance susceptibility is considered to be Medium. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 9 km to the nearest turbine east of the viewpoint; • 14 of the proposed turbines would be visible. five turbines would be visible with varied amounts of tower visibility and four with hubs / top of tower close to the horizon and five with blade only visibility; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 7 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The potential for cumulative effects with the existing Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farms; • The Development would appear to extend the influence of wind energy development in the view east, introducing further development to the south of Wether Hill; • Several of the Development turbines would appear stacked in this view; • The Development appears larger in scale than existing wind turbines in the view due to closer proximity. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The large scale of the upland landscape in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to the Development; • The upland landscape context beyond which the Development would be viewed is distant and the leading upland ridgeline is simple in form with subtle undulation; • The Development would have a clear association with the wind farm influenced landscape in the upland part of this view and would be visible within the similar landscape context of Wether Hill; • Whilst stacking would occur for several of the Development turbines, there are no outliers and the arrangement appears balanced across the horizon; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the intervening landform / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium - Low. Significance of Effect
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The effect of the Development at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. Wind energy development is not unfamiliar within the panoramic views from this location, the Development would appear to extend the spread of existing development in one part of this panorama although the effect is reduced by distance and moderate level of change that the Development would cause. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Windy Standard and Extension Windy Rig Glenshimmeroch Afton Benbrack Margree Sanquhar South Kyle Cornharrow Wether Hill Knockman Hill Wether Hill Extension Blackcraig Mochrum Fell Longburn Shepherds Rig Lorg Windy Standard III Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
To the north, Windy Rig will appear within close context to the existing Windy Standard and Afton schemes and the slopes of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn with Benbrack and South Kyle appearing to the west of this cluster. To the east, Knockman Hill will appear within the context of Blackcraig and Mochrum Fell will appear on its own further to the south. The addition of these consented schemes will increase the influence of existing development by further punctuating distant parts of the horizon with wind turbines. Much of this further development will however occur within the same broad sections of skyline as existing development occupies. Whilst these schemes increase the number of turbines on the horizon, the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline would still broadly apply to this scenario. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Medium - Low resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Glenshimmeroch, Cornharrow and Wether Hill Extension would all be located in the same part of the view as the existing Wether Hill wind farm as viewed from this location. Margree would extend this cluster further to the south and Longburn and Lorg, in the foreground of the existing Sanquhar would extend wind development further to the north of Wether Hill as viewed from this location. Shepherds Rig would appear in the foreground of the existing Afton and Windy Standard and consented Windy Rig schemes, bringing development off the upland ridge of the Southern Upland hills. Should all of these wind farms be built, an almost continuous series of turbines would occupy the backdrop of uplands and foothills in the view north east. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the presence of so much further wind development in the receiving landscape to the north east moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. The Development would contribute to the overall density of turbines in the wider array of application turbines but would not in itself further extend the horizontal spread of this wide cluster. The application scenario would contribute to an intensification of the visual effect experienced, however, it is largely subsumed behind Glenshimmeroch and would therefore not extend the influence of wind energy development to other parts of the skyline. The introduction of the Development turbines in the application stage scenario, would introduce less change to the view in this scenario than the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline. As a result, the magnitude of cumulative change is predicted to be Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
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6.10.5.15 Viewpoint 15 - A762 north of New Galloway
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on the A762 on a section of the road that has occasional glimpses through roadside vegetation to the west. Views are scenic due to the road’s position on the steeply sloping southern banks of the Water of Ken allowing elevated views across the valley landscape below. Beyond the valley landscape in views east, the landscape is transitional in character with the nearest and lower hills characterised by irregularly shaped fields of pasture, small woods, field boundary trees and rough grazing and the more distant hills (that most often form the skyline) characterised by moorland and forestry blocks. Electricity pylons traverse the lower hills and valley floor and individual properties are scattered across these lower slopes. Further to the north Cairnsmore of Carsphairn can be seen in the distance beyond the rocky profile of Mulloch Hill. The Rhinns of Kells range of hills are obscured by roadside vegetation although views north along the Ken Water valley towards St John’s Town of Dalry form a focus when travelling northbound. The existing Windy Standard and Extension are barely visible to the north as small blade tip within the context of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. Benbrack wind farm sits high on the horizon to the east. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Road users This viewpoint Views in the direction of the Site (to the east) from Medium is within the this location are elevated, oblique and only available Galloway Hills through the gaps in roadside and riparian trees. The RSA and value national speed limit applies, driver’s attention is is considered likely to be on the road direction due to the bend in to be Medium- the road and road speeds are likely to be between High. 40-50 mph. Susceptibility is considered to be Medium-Low. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 10.3 km to the nearest turbine north of the viewpoint; • 11 of the turbines are theoretically visible, of these, nine are only visible as small blade tips and would be difficult to discern for receptors at this location; • The remaining two would be visible as hubs and top of towers; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 9 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • Whilst the Blackcraig wind farm is visible to the east, the Development would introduce turbines to a part of the eastern skyline that is currently undeveloped; and • Potential for the Development to be seen in the backdrop to and in combination with smaller landscape elements in the transitional landscape in the foreground view. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • Whilst the larger scale of the upland landscape to the east is not immediately apparent in the view, the simple plateau like nature of the moorland and forest covered horizon provides an impression of its large scale context, within which the Development would be located; • Only two of the turbines have hubs and towers above the horizon, with the remaining only visible as small blade tips; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the intervening landform / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Low. Significance of Effect
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The effect of the Development at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. Whilst the Development would introduce new features to the view east, the magnitude of change would not be at a level that is considered to cause a significant effect at this location.
Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Windy Standard and Extension Benbrack Windy Standard III Blackcraig South Kyle Margree Torrs Hill Windy Rig Glenshimmeroch Knockman Hill Wether Hill Extension Lorg Shepherds Rig Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
South Kyle, Benbrack and Windy Rig will be barely visible to the north as small blade tips within the context of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. Knockman Hill will sit up on the horizon to the east as a distinct cluster of turbines on top of Knockman Hill. The Development, whilst partly obscured, would suggest a larger mass of turbines beyond the leading ridgeline. On balance, the magnitude of cumulative change is predicted to be Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Windy Standard III and Shepherds Rig would appear in the context of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn to the north. The theoretically visible blade tips of Lorg and the Wether Hill Extension would be screened by the forest covered horizon that intervenes. The Glenshimmeroch turbines would sit above the skyline partially screened by the intervening forest covered horizon and part obscured by Corseglass Hill. Margree would be partly obscured by Knockman Hill although four turbines would sit clearly above the skyline between Knockman and Corseglass Hills. The presence of these application schemes moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the Development is largely subsumed behind Glenshimmeroch and Margree, and would therefore not extend the influence of wind energy development to other parts of the skyline, such that the magnitude of cumulative change is assessed to be Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.5.16 Viewpoint 16 - Auchengibbert Hill
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on Auchengibbert Hill which lies to the north-east of the Site. It is part of a ridgeline of hills which are found between the Shinnel Water and Scaur Water, immediately to the north of Tynron and close to the neighbouring (and lower elevated) Tynron Doon. The northern views (panning from the west to east) are largely composed of moorland covered hills with large patches of commercial forestry on hill slopes. The valleys of Shinnel and Scaur Water have the character of an upland glen in this northern half of the panorama with irregular field patterns, drystone walls and deciduous tree clumps spreading across the valley floors and lower slopes as seen to either side of Auchengibbert, Bennan (different hill to the Bennan close to Site), Corfardine and Torbraehead which fill the foreground view with their dome shaped hill forms. Views to the west towards the Site are across the Shinnel Water valley. The Site is beyond the forest covered upland ridgeline to the west created by Stroanshalloch and Big Morton Hill. Auchenstroan Craig sits up on this ridgeline in this direction and the Rhinns of Kells can be seen beyond creating a distant horizon. The southern half of the panorama is more varied in character with scenic views across the lower
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Shinnel, the Castlefairn and Dalwhat, Cairn Water and Nithsdale valley landscapes. On clear days views to the Solway coast, as framed by intervening hills, can also be seen. Existing wind farms in the view include Wether Hill, Blackcraig (to the west), Windy Standard, Afton, Sanquhar and Whiteside Hill (to the north). With Twenty Shilling and Torrs Hill under construction. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Hill Walkers This viewpoint is within the Walkers at this viewpoint have Medium-High Thornhill Uplands RSA and panoramic views and are likely to be value is considered to be focused on the surrounding Medium-High. landscape. Susceptibility is considered to be Medium-High. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 11.2 km to the nearest turbine north of the viewpoint; • 14 of the turbines are theoretically visible, of these, two are entirely screened by forestry on the intervening horizon; • Of the remaining 12 turbines four would only be visible as small blade tips, two would be visible as hubs close to the horizon and the other six would be visible as hubs and top of towers; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 7 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would introduce turbines to the existing undeveloped space on the western skyline between the existing Blackcraig and Wether Hill wind farms; • The Development would appear in front of the Rhinns of Kells range of distant hills; and • The Development would appear larger in scale than existing wind turbines in the view. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The large scale of the upland landscape in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to the Development; • The arrangement of the Development turbines appears as an evenly spaced layout from this location; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the intervening landform / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. The Development would appear to introduce development to the gap on the western skyline between the existing Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farms, however, wind energy development is not unfamiliar within the panorama from this location and the effect is experienced at distance moderating the level of change. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Wether Hill Knockman Hill Margree Blackcraig Mochrum Fell Glenshimmeroch Windy Standard Benbrack Cornharrow Afton South Kyle Wether Hill Extension Sanquhar Windy Rig Lorg
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Whiteside Hill Ulzieside Twenty Shilling (Under Construction) Twenty Shilling (resub) Torrs Hill (Under Construction) Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Knockman Hill and Mochrum Fell will appear to the south-west to either side of but separated from Blackcraig wind farm. For Benbrack, South Kyle and Windy Rig, whilst blade tips are theoretically visible, they would be difficult to discern from this location. When considering the addition of thethe Development to the consented situation, the cumulative interaction of the Development is minimal and the cumulative magnitude of change is therefore Negligible resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Margree and Glenshimmeroch would appear to the west beyond the forest covered upland ridgeline to the west created by Stroanshalloch and Big Morton Hill. Twenty Shilling (resub) would only very slightly increase the presence that the Twenty Shilling (Under Construction) scheme has in previous scenarios. Cornharrow is only visible as a series of blade tips beyond the intervening landforms of Wether Hill and Martour Hill, appearing to extend the existing Wether Hill scheme to the north. Wether Hill Extension sits in front of Wether Hill in this view and also extends the existing horizontal spread of turbines to the north in this view as a group of turbines that appear wider spaced when compared to existing. Lorg would be barely discernible as tips amongst existing tips of the existing Windy Standard. The presence of these application schemes potentially moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. When introducing the Development to this cumulative situation, the Development would in itself further intensify the effect of the introduction of application schemes of Margree and Glenshimmeroch. However, the level of change is broadly similar to that predicted for the Development against the existing baseline and as a result, the magnitude of cumulative change is predicted to be Medium for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.5.17 Viewpoint 17 - A702, Cairn Water (near Maxwelton)
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on the A702 where the road turns west into the Cairn Water valley. There is a parking place at this location providing an opportunity to enjoy the view. Whilst the settlement of Moniaive is obscured by intervening woodlands at Crawfordton from this view, this section of the A702 a key approach to Moniaive. The view across the Cairn Water valley is elevated and is composed of a varied set of landscape elements and pattern which combine to create an attractive rural valley setting contained by the Kier and Dalmacan Foothills to the north and south. The landscape in the foreground of the view, within the valley, contains some small-scale elements such as individual properties, hedge and drystone wall field boundaries, field boundary trees and small woodlands. The principal focus of the view is along the valley and towards the uplands and head of the Cairn Water valley to the west. The upland landscape seen on this distant horizon is broken by the large hill form of Big Morton Hill which creates a focus for this view west. Neis Hill and Auchenstroan Craig are the other two hills visible along the Craigdarroch Water valley. The view to the east along the valley is partly enclosed by nearby localised landform and large sheds at Shancastle. Wether Hill is visible from this location although is muted in baseline photography due to light conditions of the site visit. A small single turbine is also visible on the slopes of Poundland Hill. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Road users This viewpoint Views in the direction of the Site from this location Medium - is within the are direct facing and when travelling westbound. High Thornhill The national speed limit applies and road speeds Uplands RSA are likely to be between 50-60 mph. This section of
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and value is road is also where views of the Cairn Water valley considered to first become available when travelling westbound be Medium- and a stopping place is provided to enjoy the view. High. Susceptibility is considered to be Medium-High.
Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 11.2 km to the nearest turbine west of the viewpoint; and • Four of the 14 proposed turbines would be visible. One turbine would be visible as hub / top half of tower; two turbines would be visible as hubs / top of tower close to the horizon and one with only the blade tip visible above the intervening landform. The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 2 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would introduce further wind energy development to the view west, considered to be the principal focus of the view; and • The proposed turbines appear to sit above and behind the southern slopes of the Craigdarroch Water valley in this view which is currently unaffected by existing turbines at Wether Hill. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • Proposed turbines would relate to the simple upland landcover of open moorland and forestry in the distant view; • The majority of turbines in the Development are screened by intervening landform and forestry, such that only three turbines are visible to an extent that they influence the view; • The Development would appear in an upland context in the background view; • The scale of the visible turbines would not diminish the scale of Big Morton Hill which intervenes, or the scale of more distant hills (Neis and Auchenstroan Craig) which share the same context; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be screened behind the skyline / forestry. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Low. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on road users at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. Whilst the Development would introduce new features to the view west, the magnitude of change arising to the view would not be at a level that is considered to cause a significant effect at this location. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Wether Hill none Wether Hill Extension Cornharrow Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
There are no consented cumulative schemes visible from this location resulting in no cumulative change and no cumulative effect.
Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
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Wether Hill Extension would add further turbines to the same part of the view as the existing Wether Hill turbines. Cornharrow would add further development to this context but as blade tips. When considering the addition of the Development to the application situation, the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline would still broadly apply to this scenario. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Low resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.5.18 Viewpoint 19 - Cairnsmore of Carsphairn
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on the Cairnsmore of Carsphairn which has a rounded peak with rocky outcrops and a very distinct and easily recognisable hill profile within the surrounding landscape. The view is panoramic and there are focal features in multiple directions to other hilltops in the area such as Benbrack to the east or the Rhinns of Kells and Merrick to the west, on a clear day the Solway Firth can be seen to the south and Ailsa Craig and Arran can be seen to the west. The elevated position affords long distance views over the landscape of rolling hills to the east, south and west and across the lowlands of coastal Ayrshire to the north. To the south and towards the Site the pattern of landscape in the view is dominated by a patchwork of moorland and forestry. From this location the gentle undulations of the upland landform of the Site are quite difficult to discern. The more prominent and higher hills of Benbrack, Wether Hill and Auchenstroan Craig are more recognisable landforms than the smaller hills of Fingland, Lochlee and Bennan within the immediate context of the Site. The Windy Standard and Extension wind farm turbines appear as large scale features in close proximity to the east stretching across upland ridgelines to the north which together occupy a large proportion of the view. Afton adds to the density of wind turbines in the eastern view. Other existing wind farms are found at regular intervals along the distant horizon with the closest and most notable sites including Hare Hill, Sanquhar, Whiteside Hill to the east and Wether Hill and Blackcraig to the south. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Hill Walkers This viewpoint is Walkers at this viewpoint have elevated views of Medium - within the the Site. It is a notable landmark hill in the area, High Galloway Hills recognisable in surrounding views and popular RSA and value is with walkers in the area. considered to be Existing wind turbine developments visible from Medium-High. this location moderate susceptibility as wind farm development is not an unfamiliar characteristic of the view. On balance susceptibility is considered to be Medium - High. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 12 km to the nearest turbine south of the viewpoint; • The access tracks and substation are theoretically visible from this location but would be screened behind existing forestry; • 14 of the proposed turbines would be visible with varied amounts of tower visibility; • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 15 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would introduce further wind energy development in the view south, appearing to extend the influence of wind farm development in the mid distance (12 km) by
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extending across the upland to the foothill to the south of Wether Hill; • The large rotor size for the proposed 149.9 m tip turbines has led to a wider separation in the layout which is evident from this viewpoint and would be in contrast to the smaller spacing of Wether Hill; • The Development would appear lower elevated than the existing Wether Hill wind farm; • Whilst relatively evenly spread, the Development turbines would appear split into rows of 2-3 turbines, creating gaps in the layout as viewed from this location; • The Development would occupy approximately twice the amount of horizontal extent than the existing Wether Hill; • The potential for cumulative effects with the existing Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farms; and • The lower towers/bases, substations and access tracks would be seen from this location (albeit as elements difficult to discern) screened behind the intervening landform / forestry. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The Development would relate to the simple landcover and mosaic of areas of open moorland and forestry in the view to the south which occurs in a part of the panorama which has few focal points; • The Development would be of minor horizontal and vertical scale when compared to the scale of the surrounding upland context within which it would be located; • The wind farm influenced landscape context from this location is clearly evident including Wether Hill and Blackcraig in views towards the site but more so in close views of the wind turbines of Windy Standard immediately east and north; • The Development turbines would be slightly further away from the viewpoint than the existing Wether Hill turbines are, as a result of the larger scale of turbines however, the Development turbines would appear similar in scale from this view; and • The Development takes on the appearance of a string of larger turbines further to the west of Wether Hill but within the same upland context. Albeit with Wether Hill on an upland ridge whereas the Development would appear set back into the broader upland plateau.
The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development on walkers at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. The Development would introduce further wind farm development to the view south, forming an additional wind farm group in the upland between the existing Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farms, increasing the incidence of wind farm development in that part of the panorama. However, the level of change is moderated by the position of the Development in an area of upland landscape, with simple landcover and large scale upland plateau characteristics and the Development doesn’t conflict with any focal points of interest in the overall panorama. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Wether Hill Sanquhar Six Cornharrow Blackcraig Sandy Knowe Margree Windy Standard and Extension Windy Rig Wether Hill Extension Afton Benbrack Glenshimmeroch Hare Hill and Extension South Kyle Longburn Sanquhar Knockman Hill Shepherds Rig Whiteside Hill Mochrum Fell Windy Standard III Twenty Shilling (under construction) Enoch Hill Pencloe Forest Lorg Ulzieside Twenty Shilling (resub)
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Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Knockman Hill and Mochrum Fell will add further distant clusters of turbines to the west of Blackcraig in this view. Sanquhar Six and Sandy Knowe will appear within the same context as Sanquhar adding a small extension in this view. Windy Rig will be close to this viewpoint extending the larger close proximity development of the existing Windy Standard and Extension further to the south than currently experienced. South Kyle and Benbrack will introduce further this close proximity wind energy development in views to the north-west. These schemes will increase the number of turbines in the view, particularly to the east and north west where close proximity wind farms will encircle the hilltop from east to west when in combination with existing turbines in the view. There is little direct cumulative interaction with these consented schemes and the Development however, and when considering the addition of the Development to the consented situation, the cumulative magnitude of change is therefore Negligible resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Wether Hill Extension and Cornharrow would sit to the east and in the foreground of the existing Wether Hill wind farm in this view, with Cornharrow bringing development off the ridgeline and onto the forested slopes that can be seen immediately below the existing turbines. Twenty Shilling (resub) would only very slightly increase the presence that the Twenty Shilling (Under Construction) scheme has in previous scenarios. Margree and Glenshimmeroch would sit in front of the existing Blackcraig wind farm. Ulzieside would form part of the established backdrop of turbines to the north east. Windy Standard III, Enoch Hill and Pencloe Forest would intensify the existing / consented close proximity wind farm spread to the north of the viewpoint. Lorg would sit in the gap between Wether Hill and the established pattern of wind energy development that will encircle Cairnsmore of Carsphairn once the consented schemes are constructed. Longburn and Shepherds Rig would be located just beyond the intervening ridge of the Beninner summit. Should Longburn, Cornharrow, Wether Hill Extension and Shepherds Rig be consented then the encirclement of this hilltop would extend 180 degrees from the south-east to the north-west. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the presence of so much further wind development in the receiving landscape moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. The Development would appear in the backdrop to the Longburn and Shepherds Rig wind farms; but would form an extension to the Glenshimmeroch and Margree grouping, increasing the proximity of wind farm groups in the foothills and southern uplands. The Development would intensify the overall density of turbines in the wider array of application turbines in the view south-east, rather than form a new wind farm influence in an undeveloped part of the view. The application scenario would in itself increase the visual effect experienced, however, the further introduction of the Development turbines would introduce less change to the view in this scenario than the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline. As a result, the magnitude of cumulative change is predicted to be Medium - Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.5.19 Viewpoint 20 - Corserine, Polmaddy Cairn
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located on Corserine, west of the Site, near Polmaddy Cairn and represents walkers passing the Cairn en route to the summit. The summit itself is set further back into the Rhinns of Kells hill mass and a clearer view of the Ken Valley and Glenkens below Corserine is available from the selected viewpoint location. The view east is of a wide panorama and offers a good elevated vantage point which overlooks the lower elevated landscape to the east. This eastern panorama has an overall upland appearance with the patchy forestry and moorland landcover dominating much of the landscape pattern in the view. The varied texture and pattern of fields and riparian trees can be seen following the Ken valley although this is not as distinct in views as from closer vantage points such as Waterside Hill. The horizon is made up of distant uplands and even in good visibility is difficult to discern against the skyline. The upland moorland and forest covered hills of the Site are inconspicuous and only
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identifiable amongst the wider upland area by comparison with more notable features such as the rocky Auchenstroan Craig, the forest covered Glenshimmeroch Hill and the existing Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farm turbines. The distinctive shape of the Cairnsmore of Carsphairn profile is also notable in views to the north along with the Windy Standard wind farm which can be seen behind it. The existing wind farms in the view punctuate the distant skyline to the north and east of the panorama, these include Windy Standard and Extension, Afton, Sanquhar, Hare Hill and Extension, Whiteside Hill, Wether Hill and Blackcraig (where the turbines are situated more prominently to the east on top of the most elevated part of the upland strip in the eastern part of the panorama). The under construction Torrs Hill lies to the north east. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Hill Walkers This viewpoint Walkers at this viewpoint have elevated views of Medium - is within the the site. It is a recognisable hill top in surrounding High Galloway Hills views and popular with walkers in the area. RSA and value Existing wind turbine developments visible from is considered this location moderate susceptibility as wind farm to be Medium- development is not an unfamiliar characteristic of High. the view. On balance susceptibility is considered to be Medium - High. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 16.7 km to the nearest turbine east of the viewpoint; • Visibility of all 14 of the proposed turbines would include almost all of the towers with only three of the tower bases behind intervening landform; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 7 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would appear to extend the influence of wind energy development in the view east, introducing further development into the foothills which currently form an undeveloped area of lower ground between the existing Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farms; • The Development turbines appear closer to the viewpoint than existing wind farms; and • The Development appears larger in scale than existing wind turbines in the view. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The large scale of the upland landscape in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to the Development; • The upland landscape context beyond which the Development would be viewed is distant and the simple moorland and forestry landcover is extensive to the east appearing draped across a subtly undulating upland landscape; • The Development would have a clear association with the wind farm influenced landscape in the upland part of this view; and • The arrangement of the Development turbines appears as an evenly spaced layout from this location. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium - Low. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. Wind energy development is not unfamiliar within the panoramic views from this location, the Development would appear to increase the influence of wind farm development through the introduction of further wind farm between Blackcraig and Wether Hill, however this additional influence is contained to one part of this panorama, and the effect is reduced by distance and the medium-low magnitude of change that the Development would cause.
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Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Windy Standard and Extension Windy Rig Pencloe Forest Afton Sanquhar Six Enoch Hill Hare Hill and Extension Benbrack Windy Standard III Sanquhar South Kyle Ulzieside Whiteside Hill Knockman Hill Lorg Wether Hill Mochrum Fell Longburn Blackcraig Cornharrow Twenty Shilling (Under Shepherds Rig Construction) Wether Hill Extension Glenshimmeroch Margree Twenty Shilling (resub) Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
To the north, South Kyle and Benbrack will increase the spread of wind energy development to the north from the existing Windy Standard turbines. Sanquhar Six and Windy Rig will introduce development within close visual context of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn from this location. To the east, Knockman Hill will appear within the context of Blackcraig and Mochrum Fell will appear on its own further to the south. The addition of these consented schemes will increase the influence of existing development by further punctuating distant parts of the horizon with wind turbines. Much of this further development will however occur within the same broad sections of skyline as existing development occupies. Whilst these schemes increase the number of turbines on the horizon, the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline would still broadly apply to this scenario. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Medium - Low resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Pencloe Forest, Enoch Hill and Windy Standard III would further intensify the spread of wind energy development to the north from the existing Windy Standard turbines and Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. Ulzieside and Lorg would increase the density of turbine development currently perceived for Whiteside Hill bringing development closer in that part of the panorama. Twenty Shilling (resub) would only very slightly increase the presence that the Twenty Shilling (Under Construction) scheme has in previous scenarios. Longburn, Cornharrow, Shepherds Rig and the Wether Hill Extension will appear to coalesce from this location extending across a large part of the upland basin created by the upper Ken Water and Stroanshalloch Burn. Glenshimmeroch and Margree would appear as differently scaled turbine developments that connect with each other across the upland plateau to the east and due to line of sight almost appear to connect to Blackcraig further to the south. When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the presence of so much further wind development in the receiving landscape to the north and east moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. the Development would in itself further extend the horizontal spread of the Glenshimmeroch and Margree cluster. A gap would be maintained between the larger array of turbines further north in this scenario (as extended around Wether Hill), however the Development would contribute to reducing the space between the Margree/Glenshimmeroch wind farm grouping with those to the north at Wether Hill/Extension/Cornharrow/Longburn/Shepherds Rig, and to the overall proliferation of turbines in the wider array within this application scenario. On balance the magnitude of cumulative change is predicted to be Medium for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
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6.10.5.20 Viewpoint 21 - Turners Monument
Baseline Conditions
Viewpoint description
This viewpoint is located south east of the Site on Bennan Hill next to Turner’s Monument which is a notable structure within the surrounding landscape. The monument marks the burial location of Johnnie Turner, who is reported to have dug his own grave at the top of the hill prior to his death and ordered his tombstone inscribed with his own words. Extensive scenic views are visible from this location in all directions. The hilltop’s position in the landscape means that views across the landscape of Dumfries and Galloway are uniquely varied including: clear views across Drumlin Pastures to the Solway coast to the south; views towards the Machars and Galloway Hills to the west graduating into the closer Rhinns of Kells to the north-west; elevated views across the forested uplands around Loch Urr and the Benbrack wind farm; Cairnsmore of Carsphairn and the Southern Upland to the north (including distant views of Wether Hill wind farm); and views across Nithsdale and the forest of Ae to the north east with the Lowther Hills and Eskdalemuir Hills within the Scottish Borders as a distant backdrop to the north-east. The Site is nestled between Blackcraig Hill and Big Morton Hill and beyond the ridge created by the intervening Stroan, Ewe and Pointfoot Hills. Cairnsmore of Carsphairn forms the backdrop to the view in this direction. Existing wind farms in the view include Wether Hill, Blackcraig, Windy Standard and Extension, Afton, Hare Hill, Sanquhar and Whiteside Hill. With Twenty Shilling and Torrs Hill under construction. All of these schemes appear in the northern part of the panorama. Receptor Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Type Hill Walkers This viewpoint is not Walkers at this viewpoint have elevated Medium located within any views of the site. It is a recognisable hill national, regional or top in the area on account of the notable local scenic monument. designations although Existing wind turbine developments to the is close to the north moderate susceptibility as wind farm Terregles Ridge RSA. development is not an unfamiliar Value is considered to characteristic of the view towards the be Medium - Low. Development site. On balance susceptibility is considered to be Medium - High. Assessment (including operational and under construction cumulative sites)
Description of change: • The proposed turbines would be visible at approximately 17.5 km to the nearest turbine north of the viewpoint; • Visibility of 12 of the 14 proposed turbines would include hub and varied tower visibility of five turbines; and seven visible as hubs and top part of tower; and • The proposed turbines theoretically occupy 9 degrees of the view. Magnitude of Change
Factors that increase the magnitude of change are: • The Development would appear to extend the influence of wind energy development in the view north by introducing further development into the gap between the existing Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farms. The more distant Windy Standard turbines also appear to combine with distant Wether Hill turbines (and the Development) in this view; and • The Development turbines would appear in the foreground of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn and whilst not breaking the skyline would detract from the view of this recognisable hill from this location. Factors that decrease the magnitude of change are: • The large scale of the upland landscape in views towards the Development and within the surrounding landscape provides a large scale surrounding landscape context to the Development;
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• The upland landscape context beyond which the Development would be viewed is distant and the simple moorland and forestry landcover is extensive to the north; • The Development would have a clear association with the existing wind farm influenced landscape in the uplands further to the north of this viewpoint; • The simple landform and landcover surrounding the Loch Urr area emphasises the distance between the viewpoint and the existing wind farm developments (and so the Development also); and • the arrangement of the Development turbines appears as an evenly spaced layout from this location. The magnitude of change for the Development is considered to be Medium - Low. Significance of Effect
The effect of the Development at this viewpoint is considered to be Not Significant. The Development would appear to extend the spread of existing development in one part of this panorama, perceived as an extension to Blackcraig Wind Farm, filling the gap across the view of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. However, wind energy development is not unfamiliar within the view north from this location and the effect is experienced at distance moderating the level of change. Cumulative Assessment
Cumulative Baseline (theoretically visible cumulative schemes)
Operational or Under Construction Consented Application Wether Hill Sanquhar Six Cornharrow Blackcraig Windy Rig Margree Windy Standard and Extension Mochrum Fell Wether Hill Extension Afton Glenshimmeroch Hare Hill Longburn Sanquhar Shepherds Rig Whiteside Hill Windy Standard III Twenty Shilling (under construction) Enoch Hill Torrs Hill (under construction) Pencloe Forest Lorg Ulzieside Twenty Shilling (resub) Cumulative Assessment (Consented sites)
Windy Rig will appear within the context of existing Windy Standard turbines, appearing taller above the northern horizon. Sanquhar Six will extend the existing Whiteside Hill turbines further to the west in this view. Mochrum Fell will appear on its own in views west. Whilst these schemes increase the number of turbines on the horizon, the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline would still broadly apply to this scenario. The cumulative magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Medium - Low resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
Cumulative Assessment (Application sites)
Glenshimmeroch and Margree would appear behind the existing Blackcraig wind farm and would appear to occupy a narrow horizontal extent from this location. Longburn and Shepherds Rig would appear to sit low down against the backdrop of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. Windy Standard III whilst theoretically visible as very small tips would be barely discernible. Twenty Shilling (resub) would only very slightly increase the presence that the Twenty Shilling (Under Construction) scheme has in previous scenarios. Cornharrow would extend Wether Hill to the west as a series of blades beyond intervening Wether Hill slopes. Wether Hill extension would appear as closer turbines extending to the east of Wether Hill. Lorg, Pencloe Forest, Enoch Hill and Ulzieside would be difficult to discern beyond the distant horizon.
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When introducing the Development turbines to this cumulative situation, the Development would in itself further intensify the application schemes of Shepherds Rig and Longburn and would contribute to the overall proliferation of turbines in the view north within this application scenario. The presence of so much further wind development in the receiving landscape to the north however moderates the additional cumulative influence that the Development would have. On balance the magnitude of cumulative change is predicted to be Medium - Low for this scenario resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect.
6.10.6 Sequential Assessment
6.10.6.1 B729
Baseline The B729 is a minor road that connects Moniaive with Carsphairn and passes close to the north of Site. The ZTVs (Figures 6.21 & 6.23a) show the theoretical visibility of this route. Whilst the character of the landscape experienced by road users can be summarised as having a broadly upland feel, the changes in character and visual experience along this route can be defined by the following sections: • The settled valley landscape in the context of Moniaive; • The upland glen landscape found in the Craigdarroch Water valley when crossing the Foothills, (18) Dalmacallan LCA; • The upland landscape of the Southern Uplands with Forest (19a), Stroan unit between Auchenstroan and Stroanpatrick; and • The lower elevated section between Stroanpatrick and Carsphairn. The character experienced in views from the B729 also varies depending on the amount of roadside trees, forestry or localised landforms and hillsides that intervene on particular sections of route. Large sections of the Craigdarroch Water valley have trees either within the valley or against the road alignment that restrict views in the direction of the site. Sections of the road to the south of Carsphairn are within mature forest and views of the surrounding landscape are not possible. Some sections of the road between Auchenstroan and Stroanpatrick have restricted views due to localised landforms or hillslopes that are close to the road. Figure 7.23b, cumulative sequential analysis of this route, shows the theoretical visibility of cumulative wind farms considered in this assessment along the B729. This Figure shows that the operational Afton, Blackcraig, Wether Hill and Windy Standard Wind Farms are all theoretically visible to varying degree. The sections of the route that show Afton and Windy Standard theoretical visibility are found near Guttery Glen and to the west of Stroanpatrick on slightly more elevated parts of the road. These are short sections of route and views of these schemes are within the context of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn which creates a primary focus in these fleeting views. On the section to the west of Stroanpatrick views towards Cairnsmore of Carsphairn become restricted by intervening trees when travelling west on approach to Smittons Bridge. Blackcraig wind farm is theoretically visible when travelling south-west bound on the section of B729 between Carsphairn and the B700 junction but in reality is screened by intervening forestry. Figure 6.23b shows that Wether Hill is theoretically visible on sections along this route between the B700 junction and just west of Craigdarroch.
Sensitivity This route is not nationally designated for its scenic importance and does not form part of the network of National Tourist Routes across Scotland. The route does however connect the Thornhill Uplands RSA in the east with the Galloway Hill RSA in the west
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and connects two key settlements in the area. The value attached to views from this sequential route is considered to be Medium. The national speed limit applies to the majority of the B729 with some speed restrictions occurring through settled parts. For the majority of road users, therefore, views of the surrounding landscape are experienced whilst travelling at speeds of between 40 and 60 mph. The road has some long straight sections broken by sweeping curves. The presence of existing wind farms reduces susceptibility although the combination of speed and movement influences the ability to focus on details of the surrounding landscape and when considering susceptibility, potential views towards the Development would be experienced as an impression rather than a focused observation. Regular road users would be more susceptible to change as they would experience the same view more often and therefore become more familiar with it. The overall susceptibility of this route is considered to be Medium. The combination of Medium susceptibility to change and Medium value results in a Medium sensitivity for this route.
Magnitude of Change The magnitude of change would vary depending on the direction of travel and the level of roadside screening that limits the potential for effects to occur. Figures 6.23a&b show that theoretical visibility is found on more sections of the route than existing wind farms. The baseline assessment describes the level of screening and intervening landscape elements that restrict views, which limits visibility of operational wind farms. Eastbound: Between Carsphairn and Smittons Bridge, intervening roadside trees and forestry screen views of the Development. Between Smittons Bridge and Stroanpatrick visibility of the Development would occur as a series of 5-6 turbine blades beyond the upland horizon to the south, reducing in turbine number and amount visible on the approach to Stroanpatrick such that visibility would drop to 2-3 turbine blade tips where the Southern Upland Way crosses the road. There is no visibility of the Development west of Stroanpatrick until the bend in the road that begins to climb through Guttery Glen. The magnitude of change for this section is assessed as Low. Visibility of the Development would vary through this section depending on the level of intervening localised landforms, small groups of roadside / riparian trees or forestry edge. Viewpoint 3 is located on a section of this part of the route which has unobstructed views to the south-east from a bend in the road that provides a good vantage point in which to view Cairnsmore of Carsphairn to the north but also allows good line of sight along the Carroch Lane valley and B729 road corridor. The visual assessment of this viewpoint predicts a not significant effect on road users. From this section of road, the Development layout would appear entirely behind the subtly undulated slopes of Fingland Hill avoiding encroachment with the more recognisable landform of Auchenstroan Craig which aligns with the road direction when travelling east towards the site. 5-6 turbines would be visible, the level of visibility would vary but is typically 2-3 hubs visible close to the horizon with the remainder as blade tips. The visible turbines would occupy a minor horizontal extent when compared to the scale of the upland context that intervenes. Taking all of this into account the magnitude of change is assessed as Medium-Low for this section. Between Guttery Glen and the Carroch access road visibility is restricted by the north facing slopes of Fingland Hill such that the Development would appear as a series of 1- 4 turbine blades above the ridgeline to the south, dropping out of view entirely when passing the Carroch access. Wether Hill is clearly visible to the north-east from much of this section. The magnitude of change for this section is assessed as Low. Between the Carroch access and the junction with the minor road to Fingland the road turns to the south-east just before the turn off to Yellow Craig. On this section, views
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past the northern slopes of Fingland Hill would allow views towards the north part of the Development which would be in direct alignment with the direction of travel along this road. Viewpoint 1 is located on this section of road where the Development turbines are close to the road and the visual assessment of this viewpoint predicts a High magnitude of change. The number of turbines visible and proximity to the Development would vary, the magnitude of change is considered to be High along this short section. When travelling eastbound beyond the minor road junction to Fingland, the Development would be to the rear of road users and therefore would no longer be readily apparent. Westbound: From Moniaive to Craigdarroch the Development would appear intermittently when roadside screening allows. The Development would appear set well back from the edges of Neis Hill which forms the western horizon. The amount of visible turbines would vary along this section but would typically be 2-3 turbines with hubs close to the horizon. Sections where visibility is less obstructed occur between Ewanston and Dungalston and the short section west of Calside access road (Viewpoint 8). Visibility is obstructed by roadside trees when passing Craigdarroch. The section of road between Shillingland and the junction with the minor road to Fingland has very limited theoretical visibility, typically restricted to 1-2 blade tips. In reality these would be consistently obscured by successive layers of intervening roadside trees or forestry on the horizon. The magnitude of change for this section of route when travelling westbound is considered to be Medium – Low. When travelling westbound beyond the minor road junction to Fingland, the Development would be to the rear of road users and therefore would no longer be readily apparent. In summary, for the majority of the B729 the magnitude of change is of a relatively low level. The scenic views to the north from the section that of route passes through Guttery Glen, would be unaffected by the Development when travelling westbound. Whilst theoretical visibility is shown to extend across much of this route, in reality, actual visibility is limited to several short sections where visibility of the Development is often restricted by intervening localised topography, roadside trees or forestry blocks. The longest and most continuous stretch of unobstructed visibility is between Guttery Glen and the junction with the minor road to Fingland, when travelling eastbound. For part of this section, immediately to the north of the Development, the magnitude of change is considered to be at a high level. However, this level of effect is isolated to this short section of road, it is therefore of short duration and is only affected when travelling eastbound. Taking all of this into account, the sequential magnitude of change is considered to be Medium.
Significance of Effect Whilst the visual effect of the Development on the B729 is considered to be significant for the short section of route immediately to the north of the Site, the sequential magnitude of change is not considered to be of a level that would result in a significant sequential effect for this route. This is due to the limited amount of extent of actual visibility beyond or through the substantial level of roadside trees and forestry that intervene in views, the short duration of the significantly affected and close proximity section of route and the level of additional influence that the Development would introduce to the sequential experience of the route within the context of the existing wind farm developments.
Cumulative Assessment Consented Scenario
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The Knockman Hill wind farm whilst theoretically visible from east of Carsphairn on the B729, will be screened by intervening trees and forestry. Windy Rig will appear within the context of existing Windy Standard turbines, when visible to the south of Smittons Bridge and from parts of Guttery Glen. Benbrack will appear in views to the north for a short section of B729 near Furmiston Bridge. Whilst these schemes increase the number of turbines on the horizon, the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline would still broadly apply to this scenario. The cumulative sequential magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Medium resulting in a Not Significant cumulative effect. Application Scenario Figure 6.23b shows that theoretical visibility occurs for the Cornharrow, Glenshimmerroch, Longburn, Lorg, Margree, Shepherds Rig and Wether Hill Extension wind farm applications. Eastbound: On the section of road to the south of Carsphairn, Shepherds Rig turbines would appear as large scale elements in the view east with Glenshimmerroch and Margree in the distance to the south-east in direct alignment with the road direction. Between Smittons Bridge and Guttery Glen the Longburn and Shepherds Rig wind farm applications would appear much closer than other existing, consented or planned schemes in the area. Lorg would appear behind the northern end of Longburn appearing to sit in front of the existing Whiteside Hill turbines and Wether Hill extension and Cornharrow would sit around the existing Wether Hill turbines. Westbound: Cornharrow and Wether Hill Extension would add to the existing Wether Hill wind farm in views from the section of road between Shillingland and the junction with the minor road to Fingland, however, visibility of these applications is limited from this stretch of road. Whilst the Development turbines would not be readily apparent travelling westbound through Guttery Glen, the presence of Longburn and Shepherds Rig wind farms to the north would add cumulatively to the sequential experience. The application scenario would increase the sequential effect experienced at this location due to the location and scale of the Longburn and Shepherds Rig turbines in views from the section of road between Guttery Glen and Smittons Bridge. This addition in itself would lead to notable visual and sequential effects across this section. When considering the Development within this cumulative situation the additional turbine visibility to the south would have a minimal cumulative influence when considered with the more notable visual presence of the Longburn and Shepherds Rig Wind Farm. However, when considered in sequence, the Development would contribute to the repetition of large scale wind farm development located at close proximity to the B729 as viewed between Smitton Bridge and the junction with the minor road to Fingland. On balance the cumulative sequential magnitude of change is considered to be Medium – High resulting in a significant effect for this scenario.
6.10.6.2 Southern Upland Way (SUW)
Baseline The SUW is a long distance recreational route that runs between Portpatrick on the Rhins peninsula on the south west coast of Scotland to Cockburnspath on the east coast of Scotland. The track is well known for walking and cycling and is approximately 344 km in length. The section of this long route that crosses the study area lies approximately between Ochiltree Hill to the west of the Development and Moffat to the east (See Figure 6.6). Although the broader orientation of the route is west to east, the closest part of the
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route is orientated south to north passing the Development at approximately 2.7 km to the west at its closest point. The blade tip ZTV on Figure 6.16 (which also shows the SUW as one of the principal visual receptors) shows that there is no theoretical visibility of the Development to the west of Shield Rig on this route and other than a few distant patches of visibility on the Lowther Hills to the north east, there is no theoretical visibility beyond Black Hill to the north of the Development. For this reason, the section of SUW considered in this sequential assessment lies between Shield Rig and Black Hill. The view from the SUW varies due to differing landscape context and surrounding characteristics. The part of the SUW considered in this assessment can be split into clearly defined sections as follows: • From Shield Rig across the southern Glenkens to St John’s Town of Dalry in the Water of Ken valley; • Turning north from St John’s Town of Dalry across open moorland and forestry edge landscape to Butterhole Bridge on the minor road that runs between the B7000 and B729; • From Butterhole Bridge to Stroanpatrick, crossing the open moorland of the rounded summit of Culmark Hill; • From Stroanpatrick to Benbrack, crossing the forest covered slopes and open summits of Manquhill Hill. This section of route has a scenic relationship with the Rhinns of Kells to the west and Cairnsmore of Carsphairn to the north; and • Elevated moorland hill tops and ridgelines from Benbrack to Black Hill. Whilst these sections are defined as travelling west to east along the route, it is acknowledged that walkers would experience views in multiple directions and would not be limited to their direction of travel. Figure 7.23b, cumulative sequential analysis of this route, shows the theoretical visibility of cumulative wind farms considered in this assessment along the SUW. This Figure shows that the operational Afton, Blackcraig, Hare Hill and Extension, Sanquhar, Wether Hill, Whiteside Hill and Windy Standard & Extension wind farms are all theoretically visible to varying degree. Torrs Hill and Twenty Shilling will also be visible once constructed. The theoretical visibility of Hare Hill Extension, Sanquhar, Whiteside Hill and Twenty Shilling is quite limited in extent from this route and these schemes have minimal effect on the experience of the route. Windy Standard & Extension and Afton are visible from several sections of the route within the context of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. Blackcraig wind farm is visible from much of the assessed section of SUW and is particularly noticeable o the sections between Shield Rig and Culmark Hill. Wether Hill wind farm is also visible from much of the assessed section of SUW and is particularly noticeable between Culmark Hill and Benbrack.
Sensitivity The SUW is not located within any national scenic designations. The western part of the route, between Shield Rig and St John’s Town of Dalry lies within the Galloway Hills RSA. The SUW is also considered to have high value due to its local importance as a key connecting recreational route across the Galloway Hills more generally and its connection with other upland landscapes across southern Scotland. Recreational walkers are likely to be focussed on their surroundings thereby increasing susceptibility, however, existing wind turbine developments visible from this route (particularly Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farms) moderate susceptibility as wind farm development is not an unfamiliar characteristic of the view. On balance, the susceptibility of this route is considered to be Medium. The combination of Medium
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susceptibility to change and High value results in a Medium - High sensitivity for this route.
Magnitude of Change Between Shield Rig and St John’s Town of Dalry theoretical visibility is limited to elevated ground which occurs on the north facing slopes of Shield Rig, lower forested slopes of Snab Hill and the summit of Waterside Hill. Views towards the Development from Shield Rig are unobstructed and although distant at over 14 km to the nearest turbine of the Development, this location is the first opportunity to view the existing wind farms of Wether Hill and Blackcraig and the Development would appear between them on the same ridge. Viewpoint 14 is located on Waterside Hill and whilst closer to the Development than Shield Rig, less of the Development is visible due to the upland ridgeline and forested horizon that intervenes. The effect of the Development for both of these locations would be experienced within the context of existing wind farm development and the effect is infrequent on this section of route. The sequential magnitude of change for this section of route is therefore considered to be Low. In the section between St John’s Town of Dalry and Butterhole Bridge, theoretical visibility is patchy and limited in number of turbines theoretically visible and the amount of the turbines visible, often limiting the view to blade tips. In reality the visibility of the Development is further restricted by intervening forestry. Viewpoint 6 lies on an elevated section of this route near Barlaes and at only 4.4 km to the nearest turbine of the Development this location is considered a worst case view on this section of route. Viewpoint 6 was assessed as having a Low magnitude of change. Taking all of this into account, the sequential magnitude of change for this section is considered to be Low. In the section from Butterhole Bridge to Stroanpatrick, the Development would be viewed from the south facing slopes and rounded summit of Culmark Hill. Viewpoint 4 is located on the summit of Culmark Hill and at approximately 2.9 km to the nearest turbine elevated views at relatively close proximity to the Development. The viewpoint assessment for Culmark Hill assessed a Medium – High magnitude of change for this location which is also applicable to other parts of the route that crosses Culmark Hill. In the section from Stroanpatrick to Benbrack, the Development would be seen within the context of Wether Hill wind farm. Wether Hill wind farm is closer to this section of the route than the Development would be and sits high on the Wether Hill ridge. Whilst wind energy development is not unfamiliar within the panoramic views from this section of the route, the Development would appear to extend the spread of development in the southern part of this panorama whilst maintaining clear views to other more sensitive parts to the west and north. The viewpoint assessments for Viewpoint 7 – Stroanfreggan Fort and Viewpoint 11 – SUW Benbrack, are located at either end of this section of route and the visual magnitude of change for both of these is considered to be medium. Whilst small parts of the route in this section pass through commercial forestry on the slopes of Manquhill Hill, the Development would be seen almost continuously along this section of the route, intensifying the developed nature of the view south and extending wind farm development along the southern horizon at a similar proximity to Wether Hill. Taking all of this into account, the sequential magnitude of change for this section is considered to be Medium - High. The ZTV shows very limited levels of theoretical visibility from the section of SUW across elevated moorland hill tops and ridgelines between Benbrack and Black Hill and the magnitude of change of the Development on this short section is therefore considered to be negligible. In summary, the Development would appear to fill the gap between Wether Hill and Blackcraig when viewed at distance to the west. The Development is located at a similar distance to the east of the route (2.7 km) as Wether Hill wind farm is located to
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the south of the route (2.6km). However, the Development has larger turbines than existing developments and introduces development to a different part of the skyline when viewed from the closest section of the route near Culmark Hill leading to Medium – High magnitude of change. The continuous view of the Development from the section of route across Manquhill Hill also results in a Medium – High magnitude of change. Taking all of this into account, the sequential magnitude of change is considered to be Medium – High.
Significance of Effect The sequential effect of the Development on the SUW is considered to be significant. This is due to the extent of additional effect and the level of additional influence that the Development would introduce to the sequential experience of the route within the context of the existing wind farm developments.
Cumulative Assessment Consented Scenario Benbrack, South Kyle and Windy Rig consented schemes will be viewed from parts of this route within the context of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn to the north. Knockman Hill will be viewed in close proximity to the existing Blackcraig wind farm. Mochrum Fell and Sanquhar Six consented schemes will only occasionally be viewed as distant elements. Whilst these schemes increase the number of turbines on the horizon, the scale of change predicted for the Development against the existing baseline would still broadly apply to this scenario. The cumulative sequential magnitude of change is therefore considered to be Medium – High resulting in a significant sequential cumulative effect for this scenario. Application Scenario Figure 6.22b shows that theoretical visibility occurs for the Cornharrow, Enoch Hill, Glenshimmerroch, Longburn, Lorg, Margree, Pencloe Forest, Shepherds Rig, Twenty Shilling, Ulzieside, Wether Hill Extension and Windy Standard III wind farm applications. The application scenario would result in a proliferation of turbine development in the landscape to the north of the Site, largely created by the introduction of Longburn, Shepherds Rig, Cornharrow and Wether Hill Extension. The SUW passes directly through the landscape in which these schemes would be located and walkers would walk directly through the Longburn site within 150 m of turbines. When considering the Development within this cumulative situation the additional turbine visibility of the Development would add to the sequence of wind farm development in views to the south and would extend the wider experience of a wind farm developed landscape to the south when seen in combination with Margree and Glenshimmeroch. When considered in sequence therefore, the Development would contribute to the repetition of large scale wind farm development located at relatively close proximity to the SUW. The cumulative sequential magnitude of change is considered to be Medium – High resulting in a significant effect for this scenario.
6.11 Summary of Effects and Statement of Significance
6.11.1 Summary of Effects The LVIA has assessed the potential for significant landscape and visual effects over a 40 km study area. The Development is located on an upland landscape and the scale and characteristics of the upland landscape are considered suitable for wind farm development.
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The areas of forestry required to be removed in the construction and operation of the Development would be very limited in relation to the total area of these landscape elements on the Site and elsewhere within the Foothills with Forest (18a), Stroan unit. The extent of removal would not therefore constitute a redefinition of forestry as a component element of the Site or the wider landscape and the physical landscape effects of the Development on these landscape elements are considered to be not significant. The LVIA has identified significant effects for localised parts of the landscape character areas that cover the Site and its immediate surroundings. Significant effects within the Foothills and Forest (18a), Stroan unit would extend to the Blackcraig ridge to the south (approximately 5-6 km south of the nearest turbine), to the hills immediately west of the Development (approximately 2-3 km west of the nearest turbine) and would be contained by the higher ground at Stroanshalloch to the east (approximately 2-3 km east of the nearest turbine). Significant effects within the Southern Uplands with Forest (19a), Ken unit would extend north to the Carroch Hill ridge (approximately 2-3 km north of the nearest turbine. Such significant effects would arise largely due to the close proximity and clear visibility of the Development but also take account of the interaction with the visibility and potential cumulative effects with other existing wind farms within this area, in particular Wether Hill and Blackcraig wind farms. Significant effects are also found for both of these character areas when the Development is introduced into the cumulative application scenario. As described in section 6.6.2 of Technical Appendix A6.1 the cumulative assessment set out in the LVIA assesses only the additional landscape and visual effects of the Development in the context of different baseline scenarios that make assumptions about existing and proposed wind farms. It does not present an assessment of the combined effects of all of the relevant wind farms on the landscape and/ or visual receptors. Notwithstanding this, it is the authors’ professional opinion that the Development in itself would not alter the current perception of a 'landscape with wind farms' characteristic within the immediate landscape and visual context of the site. However, should all of the developments in the cumulative application scenario be consented and built then the resulting level of change would result in the redefining of the northern half of the upland landscapes of Foothills with Forest (18a), Stroan unit and southern part of the Southern Uplands with Forest (19a), Ken unit as 'wind farm landscape character types'. The Development would contribute to this change in that eventuality and would appear to bridge the gap between the cluster of wind farms to the north of the Development (Wether Hill, Wether Hill Extension, Cornharrow, Longburn and Shepherds Rig) with the cluster of wind farms to the south of the Development (Glenshimmeroch, Margree, Knockman Hill and Blackcraig). At greater distances, the effect on landscape character would not be significant due to the level of screening from intervening landform such as upland ridgelines and interconnecting hills that contain views of the Site from the surrounding landscape and screening by other landscape elements such as shelterbelt and woodland planting within surrounding valleys and large blocks of commercial forestry within the upland itself but also on the valley sides. Whilst the Galloway Hills RSA and Thornhill Uplands RSAs would be indirectly affected by the introduction of the Development, these effects are not considered significant. All other landscape designations in the study area were also found to be not significant, including areas of RSA, SLA, NSA and GDL. There would also be no significant effects on the Galloway Forest Park, Merrick Wild Land Area or Dark Sky Park. The assessment of effects on views is informed by a series of 21 viewpoints that were selected, in agreement with SNH and the Council, to represent visibility from a range of
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receptors throughout the study area. The visual assessment has found significant effects at six locations, as follows: • For the operational/under construction scenario, there was found to be a significant effect for six viewpoints. These comprise: Viewpoint 1 - B729 junction with minor road to Fingland; Viewpoint 2 – Minor road, Auchenshinnoch; Viewpoint 4 – SUW, Culmark Hill; Viewpoint 7 – Stroanfreggan Fort; Viewpoint 9 – Dunbeg, Dundeugh Forest; and Viewpoint 11 – SUW, Benbrack. • For the consented cumulative scenario, none of the viewpoints were assessed as having significant effects; • For the application cumulative scenario, there was found to be a significant effect for four viewpoints. These comprise: Viewpoint 2 – Minor road, Auchenshinnoch; Viewpoint 4 – SUW, Culmark Hill; Viewpoint 7 – Stroanfreggan Fort; and Viewpoint 9 – Dunbeg, Dundeugh Forest. In addition to the viewpoints, potential effects for a large number of settlements and routes through the area were assessed. Of the settlements assessed, none were assessed as having significant visual effects. Of the routes assessed, the B729 would have significant cumulative sequential effects within the application cumulative scenario. The Southern Upland Way long distance route would have significant sequential effects on a localised section of the route to the west and north of the Development. Significant sequential cumulative effects were also found for both the consented and application cumulative scenarios for this localised section of the route. The RVAS (Technical Appendix A6.2) identifies no residential properties within 1 km, five within 2 km and a further 11 within 3 km. Of the 16 residential properties considered within the RVAS, seven are considered to have no effect either due to no theoretical visibility of the Development or because visibility is obscured by intervening landscape elements. Of the nine properties that have views of the Development five are found to have significant effects, these are: Auchenshinnoch, Fingland, Craiglearan, Craiglearan Cottage and Minnygryle. Significant cumulative effects have also been found in the application scenarios for the Auchenshinnoch and Fingland properties. Significant visual effects including viewpoints and visual receptors as a result of the Development but also including cumulative scenarios for consented and application schemes, would occur within approximately 7 km and are largely found to occur to the north and west of the Site.
6.11.2 Statement of significance The assessment has identified that the significant landscape and visual effects of the Development would be contained within a relatively limited area around the Site when compared with other wind farm developments of this scale. Significant landscape character effects are assessed to occur within a maximum of 5-6 km from the nearest turbine of the Development. Significant visual effects have been identified as occurring out to 7 km. In landscape and visual terms, it is considered that there is scope for wind farm development within the large scale upland landscape of the Foothills and Forest (18a), Stroan unit which lies in central Dumfries and Galloway. Whilst the wider landscape context is also upland in nature, the Development is located within an upland area which is not often viewed from the surrounding landscape and which is defined by the hills and ridges that contain it. The Development appears set back from the edges of this upland area and significant landscape effects are contained within it. For these reasons it is considered that the Development meets the landscape and visual considerations set out in part 1 of the DGWED supplementary guidance.
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It is considered therefore that the landscape is capable of accommodating the Development, and that significant effects on the existing landscape character or visual amenity are relatively contained.
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Table 6.11 – Summary of Effects Operational / Under Construction Consented Scenario Application Scenario Scenario Receptor Receptor Sensitivity Cumulative Significance of Cumulative Significance of Magnitude of Significance of Magnitude of Cumulative Magnitude of Cumulative Change Effect Change Effect Change Effect
Physical Landscape Effects
Forestry Medium - Low Low Not Significant No Change No Effect No Change No Effect
Landscape Character Effects
High (north) Significant Foothills with Forest (18a), Stroan unit Medium Medium – Low Negligible Not Significant Medium - High Significant Not Significant (south) High – Medium Significant Southern Uplands with Forest (19a), Ken (south) Medium Negligible Not Significant Medium - High Significant unit Medium – Low Not Significant (north)
Foothills (18), Dalmacallan unit Medium – High Medium - Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant
Foothills (18), Keir unit Medium - High Medium - Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant
Landscape Designations
Galloway Hills RSA Medium - High Medium - Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant Low Not Significant
Thornhill Uplands RSA Medium - High Medium - Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant
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Visual Effects
Viewpoint 1 – B729 junction with minor Medium - Low High Significant No Change No Effect No Change No Effect road to Fingland
Viewpoint 2 – Minor Road, Medium - Low High Significant No Change No Effect High Significant Auchenshinnoch
Viewpoint 3 – B729, Guttery Glen Medium - Low Medium - Low Not Significant No Change No Effect Medium - Low Not Significant
Viewpoint 4 – SUW, Culmark Hill Medium - High Medium - High Significant Negligible Not Significant Medium Significant
Viewpoint 5 - Lochinvar Medium Low Not Significant Negligible Not Significant Low Not Significant
Viewpoint 6 – SUW near Barlaes Medium - High Low Not Significant Negligible Not Significant Low Not Significant
Viewpoint 7 – Stroanfreggan Fort Medium - High Medium Significant Negligible Not Significant Medium Significant
Viewpoint 8 – Craigdarroch Medium - Low Medium Not Significant No Change No Effect No Change No Effect
Viewpoint 9 – Dunbeg, Dundeugh Forest Medium - High Medium Significant Negligible Not Significant Medium - High Significant
Viewpoint 10 – Fork in minor road near Medium - Low Medium Not Significant No Change No Effect Medium Not Significant Loch Urr
Viewpoint 11 – Southern Upland Way, Medium - High Medium Significant Negligible Not Significant Low Not Significant Benbrack
Settlement – Medium Not Significant No Change No Effect Medium Not Significant Viewpoint 12 – Moniaive, Dunreggan High Brae Road User - Medium - Low Not Significant No Change No Effect Medium - Low Not Significant Medium
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Viewpoint 13 – A713 near Polquhanity Medium Low Not Significant Negligible Not Significant Medium Not Significant
Viewpoint 14 – SUW, Waterside Hill Medium - High Medium - Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant Low Not Significant
Viewpoint 15 – A762 north of New Medium Low Not Significant Low Not Significant Low Not Significant Galloway
Viewpoint 16 – Auchengibbert Hill Medium - High Medium Not Significant Negligible Not Significant Medium Not Significant
Viewpoint 17 – A702, Cairn Water (near Medium - High Low Not Significant No Change No Effect Low Not Significant Maxwelton)
Viewpoint 19 – Cairnsmore of Carsphairn Medium - High Medium Not Significant Negligible Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant
Viewpoint 20 – Corserine, Polmaddy Medium - High Medium - Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant Medium Not Significant Cairn
Viewpoint 21 – Turners Monument Medium Medium – Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant Medium - Low Not Significant
Sequential Assessment
B729 Sequential Medium Medium Not Significant Medium Not Significant Medium - High Significant
Southern Upland Way Sequential Medium - High Medium - High Significant Medium - High Significant Medium - High Significant
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6.13 References • The Landscape Institute with the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (2013). Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Third Edition (GLVIA3). Routledge; • Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) (March 2012) Assessing the Cumulative Impact of Onshore Wind Energy Developments; • Scottish Natural Heritage (2017) Siting and Designing Wind Farms in the Landscape Version 3; • Carys Swanwick Department of Landscape University of Sheffield and Land Use Consultants for The Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage (2002). Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland; • Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage (2004) Topic Paper 6: Techniques and Criteria for Judging Capacity and Sensitivity; • Landscape Institute (2011). Advice Note 01/11, Photography and photomontage in landscape and visual impact assessment; • Scottish Natural Heritage (2017). Visual Representation of Wind Farms, Version 2.2; • Assessing the Impacts on Wild Land - Interim Guidance Note (SNH, February 2007 with note added October 2014); • Map of Wild Land Areas 2014 (SNH, June 2014). • Dumfries and Galloway Landscape Assessment, SNH Review No 94, 1998; • Ayrshire Landscape Assessment, SNH Review No 111, 1998; • Glasgow and Clyde Valley Landscape Assessment, SNH Review No 116, 1999. • Dumfries & Galloway Landscape Wind Capacity Study (DGWLCS) (Carol Anderson, Alison Grant Landscape Architects, June 2017); • South Ayrshire Landscape Wind Capacity Study, 2013; • East Ayrshire Landscape Wind Capacity Study, 2013; • South Lanarkshire Landscape Capacity Study for Wind Energy, 2015. • The Electricity Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017; • National Planning Framework (NPF3), Scottish Government in June 2014. https://www.gov.scot/publications/national-planning-framework-3/ • Scottish Planning Policy (SPP), Scottish Government, 2014. https://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-planning-policy/ • Dumfries & Galloway Local Development Plan (LDP), Dumfries and Galloway Council 2014 https://www.dumgal.gov.uk/ldp • Dumfries and Galloway Council, LDP Supplementary Guidance - Part 1 Wind Energy Development: Development Management Consideration, Adopted 6th March 2015; • Dumfries and Galloway Council, LDP Technical Paper - Wind Energy Interim Spatial Framework Maps, Sept 2014; • Dumfries and Galloway Council, LDP Technical Paper – Settlement Hierarchy, 2014; • Dumfries & Galloway Draft Local Development Plan 2 (LDP2), Dumfries and Galloway Council, 2018; and • Dumfries and Galloway Council, LDP Draft Supplementary Guidance - Wind Energy Development: Development Management Consideration, 2018
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