A5 Western Transport Corridor Volume 3 – Appendices
APPENDIX 7A SCOPING REPORT
© Mouchel 2015 .7A-1
A5 Western Transport Corridor
Environmental Scoping Report
September 2014
Produced for
Transport NI
Prepared by
Project Office: Mouchel Shorefield House 30 Kinnegar Drive Holywood County Down Northern Ireland BT18 9JQ
T 028 9042 4117 F 028 9042 7039 W mouchel.com
Document Control Sheet
Project Title A5 Western Transport Corridor
Report Title Environmental Scoping Report
718736-3000-R-020 Revision V3
Status Final
Control Date September 2014
Record of Issue
Issue Status Author Date Check Date Authorised Date
V1 Draft S Walton 14/03/13 S Ireland 17/03/13 P Reid 20/03/13
V2 Draft C Middleton 20/06/14 S Ireland 23/06/14 P Reid 23/07/14
V3 Final S Ireland 15/08/14 P Reid 28/08/14 P Edwards 23/09/14
Distribution
Organisation Contact Copies
David Millar 1 (e) Transport Northern Ireland Willie Kerr 1 (e)
Northern Ireland Environment Agency Claire Hempsey 1 (e)
Loughs Agency John McCartney 1 (e)
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Lynne Peoples 1 (e)
Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Jim Hayes 1 (e)
National Parks and Wildlife Service William Cornacan 1 (e)
A5 Western Transport Corridor Scoping Report 718736-3000-R-020
Contents
1 Introduction ...... 2
1.1 Background ...... 2
2 The Proposed Scheme ...... 4
2.1 Alignment ...... 4
3 The proposed studies, surveys and assessments ...... 15
3.1 Air quality ...... 15
3.2 Cultural heritage ...... 19
3.3 Landscape effects ...... 7
3.4 Ecology and nature conservation ...... 11
3.5 Geology and soils ...... 29
3.6 Noise and vibration ...... 31
3.7 Effects on all travellers ...... 38
3.8 Community and private assets ...... 42
3.9 Road drainage and water environment ...... 46
3.10 Cumulative effects ...... 61
4 Indicative structure for the Environmental Statement ...... 62
4.1 The structure...... 62
4.2 Volume 1 ...... 62
4.3 Volume 2 ...... 63
4.4 Volume 3 ...... 63
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1 Introduction
1.1 Background
1.1.1 Transport Northern Ireland (TNI) is proposing to upgrade the existing A5 Western Transport Corridor (A5WTC). Subject to consent, the proposal will involve the construction of a new 85km dual carriageway running between New Buildings and the border with the Republic of Ireland (ROI) south of Aughnacloy.
1.1.2 The proposed scheme constitutes Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) development as defined by The Roads (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1999 as amended by The Roads (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007. TNI as promoters of the proposed scheme will, therefore, be preparing and publishing an Environmental Statement (ES) describing the studies and assessments undertaken relative to the significant effects the proposed scheme will be likely to have on the environment in accordance with the requirements of the Regulations.
1.1.3 An ES for a proposed upgrading, the A5 Western Transport Corridor, Environmental Statement, November 2010 (A5WTC ES 2010) has previously been published, consulted on and considered at public inquiry. The environmental information provided in the A5WTC ES 2010 was found to be robust in scope and content such that, it enabled the Minister, as the competent authority, to make an informed decision regarding development consent based on the significant environmental effects likely to result from the construction and future use of the proposed scheme.
1.1.4 Time has elapsed since the completion of baseline studies and surveys which informed the previous assessments reported in the 2010 ES. It has also been confirmed the proposed scheme will no longer be constructed in its entirety within a three-year period as originally anticipated. The expectation now, is that it will be constructed in three phases comprising:
• Construction of junctions 1-3 (New Buildings – Strabane North) and junctions 13-15 (Omagh South – Ballygawley).
• Construction of junctions 3-13 (Strabane North – Omagh South).
• Construction of junction 15 (Ballygawley) to the border.
1.1.5 It has accordingly been concluded that any likely significant environmental effects which may result from the construction and future use of the currently proposed scheme should be re-assessed.
1.1.6 This scoping report identifies the studies and assessments which it is intended should form the focus of the ES for the currently proposed scheme. The report is being
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issued to statutory consultees with a request for comments relating to the scope of the intended studies and assessments, and any recommendations they may have relative to works they consider appropriate in relation to the currently proposed scheme. All responses received will be considered as the ES is prepared.
1.1.7 Preliminary discussions have been held with Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), Loughs Agency (LA), Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), and Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) regarding the scope of the ES. There is no presumption in this document that those discussions constitute an agreement on the part of those organisations to the studies and assessments identified in the report in advance of receipt of their formal responses to the consultation request.
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2 The Proposed Scheme
2.1 Alignment
2.1.1 The proposed A5WTC comprises an 85km long dual carriageway, running largely through an agricultural landscape between New Buildings and the border with the Republic of Ireland (ROI), immediately south of Aughnacloy. The alignment and principal components of the proposed scheme and their environmental context are described below, and shown in Figure 1 – Regional context, and Figures 2.1-2.7 – Route alignment and environmental context, which are appended to this report.
New Buildings to south of Strabane
2.1.2 The proposed scheme commences on the northern fringe of New Buildings where a new roundabout (junction J1), located adjacent to the existing A5, connects the proposed scheme and the existing A5. An initial 1.2km section of 2+1 single carriageway would run in a south-westerly direction from the roundabout west of the settlement and close to the eastern bank of the River Foyle through a part of the valley which is designated as being of high scenic value. There would be a transition from wide single carriageway to dual carriageway at a second roundabout (junction J2) where an eastern spur off the roundabout would provide for access between the existing A5 and the proposed A5WTC, approximately 0.5km southwest of the settlement.
2.1.3 Continuing south-west from J2, the proposed dual carriageway would pass through a short section of deep cutting and then between Magheramason and the River Foyle in the vicinity of the northern limit of the River Foyle and Tributaries Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI). It would cross Dunnalong Road immediately south of the village, the local road being realigned on embankment to the south of its existing alignment to enable it to be bridged over the dual carriageway. The alignment would continue in a south-westerly direction becoming more distant from the SAC and ASSI as the river follows a marked meander to the west. It would cross Meenagh Road which would be raised on embankment on- line to maintain access along the local road, and then follow a gentle curve to the south as it rises on high embankment to enable the proposed dual carriageway to be bridged over the existing the A5 Victoria Road, north of its junction with Cloghboy Road.
2.1.4 South of the new bridge, the alignment would encroach onto the lower western-facing slopes of Sollus Hill and would involve substantial cutting and regrading of the slopes as they rise to the east of the settlement of Bready.
2.1.5 The proposed dual carriageway would emerge from the cutting and follow an alignment at-grade, east of and roughly parallel with the A5. The two roads would be visually separated by a low, elongated rise in the local landform. It would cross Donagheady Road which would be re-aligned from its existing junction with the A5 Victoria Road to
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the south of its existing alignment over an approximate 500m length east of Victoria Road. The re-aligned section would be raised on high embankment to provide required clearance for a new bridge over the proposed dual carriageway.
2.1.6 The proposed dual carriageway would then follow a gentle curve to the south-west, passing between Willow Farm and housing on the A5 Victoria Road. It would cross Willow Road in shallow cutting and rise on high embankment to enable it to be bridged over the A5 Victoria Road. Continued access from Victoria Road along Willow Road would be provided for by the introduction of a new section of single carriageway road running adjacent to the eastern boundary of the proposed dual carriageway and tying into the existing A5 Victoria Road at a new T-junction south of the proposed bridge over the existing road.
2.1.7 The dual carriageway would then descend from the bridge to cross Ash Avenue on low embankment before rising again onto high embankment and crossing Drumenny Road via a new bridge. This section of the proposed scheme would require the closure of Ash Avenue where the dual carriageway crosses the local road, and also result in the loss of land currently used by local sports teams, north of Drumenny Road. Continued access for property along Ash Avenue from the existing A5 would be available off the A5 along Drummeny Road and along a new section of local road which would run adjacent to the dual carriageway boundary from Drumenny Road, west of the proposed bridge over the local road, and Ash Avenue. The new road would continue on high embankment between Drumenny Road and Burn Dennet. A new open span bridge would carry the road over the watercourse with the span allowing for agricultural access along both river banks.
2.1.8 Beyond the watercourse, the alignment would curve from south to south-east to avoid encroachment into McKean’s Moss ASSI. It would initially descend from the Burn Dennet crossing and then rise on high embankment to cross over Ballydonaghy Road and Moss Road. Existing access along Ballydonaghy Road would be closed. Access along Moss Road would be maintained on-line beneath the dual carriageway which would also cater for continued access to Ballydonaghy Road by way of a new section of link road between Moss Road and Ballydonaghy Road, some 250m east of the dual carriageway. As the proposed scheme travels east of McKean’s Moss, it would be in deep cutting immediately below the existing A5 before emerging onto low embankment to access a new bridge over the Glenmornan River. The proposed open span bridge would be of sufficient width to accommodate agricultural access beneath the dual carriageway on both sides of the watercourse.
2.1.9 South of the river, the dual carriageway would remain on high embankment as it crosses Greenlaw Road and Park Road. Greenlaw Road would be closed at the crossing. An underbridge would provide for continued access on-line along Park Road with access to Greenlaw Road being provided by way of a new section of single carriageway road between Park Road and Greenlaw Road, running adjacent to the boundary at the foot of the embankment and west of the proposed scheme. Continuing
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south, the dual carriageway would enter a cutting as it approaches the location of an extended all movements grade-separated junction (J3), southwest of Ballymagorry.
2.1.10 J3 would comprise an extended arrangement with a new roundabout on the line of the existing A5 linked to Park Road, west of the dual carriageway via a new 500m section of single carriageway road and a second roundabout on the line of the new link, some 150m east of Park Road. Southbound access from the local road network and the proposed A5WTC would be available via a south facing slip road off the new roundabout on the existing A5. Northbound exit from the A5WTC onto the local road network and onto the A5WTC from the local road network would be available from the second new roundabout west of the dual carriageway, as would southbound exit from the proposed A5WTC onto the local road network. The tie-in with Park Road for the link road would comprise a simple T-Junction and widening of the local road for some 200m north of the junction and to the south as far as Spruce Road to establish appropriate sightlines. Spruce Road would be closed each side of the landtake for the proposed scheme, access to property west of the landtake being made available from the existing A5 via the new link road and south along Park Road.
2.1.11 Continuing south, the dual carriageway would emerge from the cutting at J3 and transfer onto embankment as it curves to the southwest on an alignment between the A5 Victoria Road and the disused Strabane Canal. It would pass to the rear of housing on Victoria Road before crossing the line of the disused canal and following an alignment adjacent to the existing A5 rising on an increasingly high embankment before crossing over the A38 Lifford Road and Mourne River.
2.1.12 A complex junction arrangement (J4, J5 and J6) would provide for access and exit onto and off the new dual carriageway, and for continued access along Park Road and the A38. To the north of the river, J4 and J5 would comprise the existing roundabout at the northern end of the existing Mourne Bridge, and two new roundabouts. Southbound access off the A5WTC would be via a new slip road directly onto the existing roundabout. Northbound access from Strabane would be available via the existing roundabout and the A38 to a new roundabout on the line of the A38 beneath the new structure for the proposed new river crossing and a section of single carriageway road to a second new roundabout located to the west of the dual carriageway which would give access to a slip road merging with the northbound carriageway of the dual carriageway. Northbound access from Lifford would be via the A38 to the roundabout beneath the dual carriageway and then via the new link road and roundabout providing for access to the A5WTC and Park Road.
2.1.13 Northbound access to Strabane and soutbound access from Strabane onto the A5WTC would be available via J6 where two new slip roads would link the dual carriageway to the local road network via the existing roundabout located at the junction of the A5 Great Northern Link and Bradley Way. The dual carriageway would then follow a south-westerly alignment on 4-6m high embankment along a narrow corridor between the western edge of Strabane and the River Finn and close to the rear of property on Urney Road and Glenfinn Park.
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2.1.14 A new junction (J7), comprising a large diameter roundabout would be located close to the river bank some 200m south of Glenfinn Park. Continued access along the A5WTC would be available via a southerly-orientated exit from the roundabout. A north-westerly orientated spur on the roundabout would also provide for future access to a proposed new bridge over the River Finn which would cater for a link between the A5WTC and a proposed upgrading of the N14 / N15 in Donegal. The new bridge and works associated with the N14 / N15 do not form part of the A5WTC proposal. Urney Road would be locally realigned through the junction via a bridge beneath the dual carriageway as it exits the roundabout to the south. New T- junctions off the realigned road would maintain access to Carrick Avenue.
2.1.15 As the dual carriageway runs south from J7, it would be in deep cutting, passing beneath Strahans Road and adjacent to a flooded disused quarry. It would emerge from the cutting close to the rear boundary of property on Knockroe Road, and cross Bog Lane Road and Knockroe Road close to existing levels before returning to deep cutting as it passes beneath Orchard Road. Bog Lane Road and Knockroe Road would be closed at the crossing points. Orchard Road would be locally raised on embankment and bridged over the dual carriageway maintaining access along the local road and providing for continued access between sections of Bog Lane Road and Knockroe Road either side of the dual carriageway. Access to the northern sections of Knockroe Road would be maintained by the introduction of a 300m length of single carriageway road from a T-junction on Orchard Road at the western end of the proposed crossing.
2.1.16 The cutting enclosing the dual carriageway would reduce in depth as it follows a marked curve south and emerges from the cutting to pass through a proposed junction (J8) on low embankment, north of Sion Mills. Access onto and exit from the A5WTC would be via a T- junction with each of the two carriageways feeding onto a link road which would tie into the existing A5 by way of a new roundabout on the line of the existing road. A bridge over the dual carriageway would provide for access along the link road to the existing A5 from the T junction with the northbound carriageway off the dual carriageway.
2.1.17 As the dual carriageway continues south of J8, it would cross Peacock Road and enter a short, deep, asymmetric cutting with the deeper of the cutting slopes being east of the carriageways. It would emerge briefly from the cutting and then enter a second, deep asymmetric cutting with the principal cutting slope on the west side of the carriageways as it runs between the settlements of Sion Mills and Glebe. Peacock Road would be closed with access to fields and property either side of the dual carriageway being via the existing T-junction between the local road and the existing A5 and from the A5 along Primrose Park to its existing junction with Peacock Road. A new bridge over the cutting between the two settlements would cater for continued access along Primrose Park.
2.1.18 South of Sion Mills and Glebe, the dual carriageway would continue in shallow, sidelong cutting along the east facing valley slopes of the Mourne River crossing
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Bellspark Manor and High Road where it would curve to the south-east as it approaches and crosses Seein Road in shallow cutting. Seein Road would be re- aligned to the north to the rear of property fronting onto the local road to enable the local road to be raised on embankment and bridged over the dual carriageway.
2.1.19 The proposed scheme would then move onto a series of high embankments as it descends and crosses two small tributary valleys of the Mourne River, It would be bridged over Concess Road and Fyfin Road. A junction (J9) would be introduced on Fyfin Road providing for access to Victoria Bridge and the existing A5 to the east and Castlederg to the west. Access onto and exit from the A5WTC would be via T- junctions with each of the two carriageways and short link roads with T-junctions onto the local road.
South of Strabane to south of Omagh
2.1.20 South of J9, the proposed scheme would enter a deep cutting as it rises out of the tributary valley and curves to the south along the eastern slopes of the Mourne valley via a sequence of shallow cuttings and low embankments. Stone Road would be bridged over the deep cutting. Urbalreagh Road would be closed where it is crossed by the cutting, continued access being provided for via the new bridge on Stone Road and a short section of new single carriageway road linking the two local roads.
2.1.21 The dual carriageway would then descend the wide slopes of the Derg valley that frame the landscape at the confluence of the River Derg and Mourne River. It would be in shallow cutting as it crosses Derg Road which would be realigned for some 500m from its junction with Old Bridge Road and raised on embankment to the north of its current alignment to enable it to be bridged over the dual carriageway. A low open- span bridge would carry the dual carriageway over the River Derg. South of the river, the dual carriageway would be in deep cutting beneath the B164 Deerpark Road which would be raised on low embankment on its existing alignment to provide the required clearance between the dual carriageway and local road.
2.1.22 The dual carriageway would then follow a gentle curve to the southeast close to existing ground levels, crossing Milltown Road which would be stopped up. It would be raised on embankment to enable it be bridged over Magheracoltan Road and continue to a new junction (J10) providing for access to Newtownstewart west of Wood Hills and the existing junction between Drumlegagh Road North and the B84 Baronscourt Road. Some 500m of the B84 Baronscourt Road would be realigned to the north of its existing alignment west of its existing junction with Drumlegagh Road North. It would be raised on embankment to enable it be bridged over the dual carriageway. Access onto and exit from the proposed scheme would be via T-junctions with each of the two carriageways and short sections of single carriageway road tying into a new roundabout on the realigned Baronscourt Road east of the dual carriageway and into the realigned B-road via a T-junction west of the dual carriageway. Access along Drumlegagh Road North towards Newtownstewart would be catered for by way of a T-
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junction on the new section of link road providing access to the northbound carriageway of the proposed scheme. Golf Course Road would be stopped up.
2.1.23 South of J10, the dual carriageway would climb towards Oldcastle Road passing close to and south of Harry Avery’s Castle in a short, deep cutting. A new bridge over the cutting would maintain access along Oldcastle Road. The dual carriageway would then follow a defined descent through a number of cuttings crossing Glen Road, Gortgranagh Road, Castletown Road and Grange Road as it curves to the south to follow an alignment along the lower eastern slopes of the Strule Valley below Bessy Bell. Glen Road and Gortgranagh Road would be stopped up where the dual carriageway crosses them. Continued access for both roads would be provided via a new bridge on a realigned section of Gortgranagh Road and short sections of single carriageway each side of the dual carriageway between Glenn Road and the realigned Gortgranagh Road. Where the dual carriageway crosses Castletown Road and Grange Road, Castletown Road would be realigned to the west of the existing road and bridged over the cutting housing the dual carriageway. A short section of new single carriageway road would provide for access to Grange Road off the realigned road east of the dual carriageway.
2.1.24 There would be a number of embankments followed by asymmetric and sidelong cuttings as the dual carriageway follows an alignment reflecting that of the existing A5 close to the valley floor and passing uphill of the Mellon Country House Hotel. Access along West Road would be maintained via an underbridge beneath the dual carriageway. McCormacks Road would be realigned to enable a bridge to be located over one of the cuttings. Gordon’s Lane would be realigned to improve the gradient on the narrow road and accommodate an underbridge to maintain access between Castletown Road and the existing A5.
2.1.25 Approximately 500m south of the hotel, the alignment would take a marked curve to the southwest crossing beneath Killynure Road and over Castletown Road. It would then return to a southerly alignment as it passes west of Mountjoy. A section of Killynure Road would be realigned south of its existing alignment to accommodate a new bridge carrying the road over the deep cutting.
2.1.26 Where the dual carriageway crosses Dunteige Road some 400m west of Mountjoy, it would be in deep cutting. The local road would be raised on low embankment and bridged over the cutting on its existing line. Continuing south, the proposed scheme would cross Lisnagirr Road on low embankment. The local road would be stopped up at each side of the dual carriageway.
2.1.27 The alignment would return to existing levels as it crosses Rash Road. Rash Road would be realigned over a 300m length and raised on embankment to enable it be bridged over the proposed dual carriageway. Access north along Tully Road would be maintained by the introduction of a new section of single carriageway road east of the proposed dual carriageway with a new T-junction onto Rash Road where a disused
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railway line crosses the local road. Access south from Rash Road along Tully Road would be discontinued.
2.1.28 South of Rash Road, the alignment would enter a relatively deep cutting as it follows an alignment currently occupied by the disused railway line between the Tully Bog SAC and ASSI, and the A5 Beltany Road. At its nearest, the proposed dual carriageway would be some 200m east of the SAC / ASSI.
2.1.29 It would emerge from the cutting and return to grade as it passes through a proposed all-movements grade-separated junction (J11) north of Omagh. The junction would comprise a dumbbell of roundabouts and linking bridge raised on embankments. Slip roads off each roundabout and new sections of link road would tie Drumlegagh Road South into the western roundabout and the A5 Beltany Road into the eastern roundabout. Continued access to property along the southernmost section of Drumlegagh Road South would be maintained via a T-junction off the new section of link road running west from the junction and new section of single carriageway road linking Todds Road and the southern end of Drumlegagh Road South. Todds Road would be stopped up each side of the dual carriageway.
2.1.30 As the proposed scheme runs south from J11, it would curve to the south-west rising onto embankment to enable it to be carried on a low bridge over the Fairy Water some 400m west of its confluence with the River Strule.
2.1.31 South of the river, the proposed scheme would follow an alignment broadly reflecting that of the western edge of Omagh. It would be in the Green Belt for much of this length and vary in distance between 0.5km and 1.5km from the settlement boundary. It would initially be at-grade or on low embankment as it crosses the low-lying floodplain of the Fairy Water and would cross Mellon Park Drive and Gillygooly Road. The northern section of Mellon Park Drive would be stopped up. Continued access would be provided by way of the eastern arm of the drive and a new section of its southern arm which would be re-aligned to the north. Continued access along Gillygooly Road would be catered for by way of a new 800m-long section of road aligned to the south of the existing road. The re-aligned road would be raised on embankment and bridged over the proposed dual carriageway. A new T-junction off the realigned road east of the proposed dual carriageway would maintain access along Mullaghmena Road.
2.1.32 The proposed dual carriageway would then follow a southerly alignment through a local woodland block before entering deep cutting as it crosses beneath Aghnamoyle Road. Aghnamoyle Road would be raised on low embankment on-line and bridged over the cutting. A short section of new single carriageway road would provide a link between Aghnamoyle Road and Botera Road to maintain access along Botera Road which would be stopped up east of the proposed dual carriageway.
2.1.33 There would be a series of short, asymmetric cuttings as the proposed scheme travels through an area of low densely aggregated drumlins west of Omagh. A new bridge located on the existing line of Tamlaght Road would carry the local road over one of the
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cuttings. Further south, Brookmount Road would be locally lowered on-line and the proposed dual carriageway would be elevated on embankment and bridged over the local road.
2.1.34 An all movements grade-separated junction (J12) would be introduced on the line of the A32 Clanabogan Road providing for access to and from the western part of Omagh and for access onto the proposed dual carriageway from areas to the west including Dromore and Enniskillen. The junction would comprise an elongated gyratory with on and off slip roads and a pair of bridges carrying the dual carriageway over the gyratory below.
2.1.35 South of J12 the alignment would emerge from the Green Belt and cross the Drumragh River. It would curve to the southeast negotiating a sequence of embankments and short, deep cuttings through the drumlins that frame the south-western parts of Omagh towards a new junction (J13) south of Omagh. Loughmuck Road would be re-aligned to the north to enable it to be continued beneath the dual carriageway where the south- east facing slip roads at J12 merge with the main carriageway. Access along Beagh Road and Ballynahatty Road would be continued, both roads being locally re-aligned and raised on embankment to enable them to be bridged over the proposed dual carriageway. Emerging from the deep cutting beneath Ballynahatty Road the dual carriageway would be on low embankment as it crosses the narrow Drumragh River Valley and floodplain. The channel of the watercourse would be culverted through the embankment.
2.1.36 The proposed dual carriageway would cross Blackfort Road and Drumragh Road south of the junction of the two roads. Access along the roads would be maintained via a bridge over the dual carriageway along Blackfort Road which would be re-aligned from its junction with Drumragh Road and a short section of new single carriageway road which would link the two local roads south of the proposed dual carriageway.
2.1.37 As the proposed dual carriageway approaches J13, it would enter a cutting through the junction to the north of the Doogary Bog. The proposed junction would be an all movements grade-separated junction with dumbbell roundabouts. A re-aligned section of the B83 Seskinore Road would .provide for access between the existing A5 Doogary Road and the A5WTC and for continued access south along the B83 Seskinore Road. The link between the existing and proposed A5 would be via a new roundabout on the existing road.
South of Omagh to south of Aughnacloy
2.1.38 South of J13, the alignment would curve to the south along the eastern margin of the Doogary Bog immediately west of the existing A5 Doogary Road and close to existing ground levels. The alignment would cross Tattykeel Road on the eastern margins of Doogary Bog requiring the closure of the local road to the north of the proposed dual carriageway and the introduction of a short section of new single carriageway road which would be bridged over the proposed dual carriageway to maintain access
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between the A5 Doogary Road and Tattykeel Road. The proposed dual carriageway would cross Tattykeel Road for a second time, the local road being stopped up at both sides of the proposed scheme.
2.1.39 Continuing southeast towards Moylagh, the dual carriageway would diverge from the existing A5 as it passes through a series of deep cuttings and on long, low embankments to maintain an appropriate vertical profile through the dispersed low drumlins that typify the farmland landscape south of Omagh. Drumconnelly Road would be stopped up where the dual carriageway crosses the local road. A new section of single carriageway road would be introduced to the south of the existing road and would be bridged over the proposed dual carriageway to maintain access between the local road and the A5 Doogary Road. The dual carriageway would be bridged over Tullyrush Road. Rarone Road would be realigned slightly to the north of its existing alignment and bridged over the dual carriageway. Drumconnelly Road would then be stopped up where the dual carriageway crosses the local road for a second time.
2.1.40 A grade-separated junction (J14) would be provided adjacent to the western edge of Moylagh. Northbound and southbound access on and off the dual carriageway would be catered for by way of two short sections of link road onto a re-aligned section of the B46 Moylagh Road south of its existing alignment. The new section of B-road would be aligned beneath the dual carriageway which would be on high embankment. A new roundabout to the west of the dual carriageway would cater for continued access between the B-road and Augher Point Road. There would be a long, deep cutting through a large distinctive drumlin south of Moylagh.
2.1.41 The dual carriageway would then generally run close to existing ground levels, on low embankment or in shallow cutting as it gently curves towards the south in the direction of Newtownsaville. It would cross Killadroy Road and Greenmount Road adjacent to the existing crossing of the two roads. It would be raised on embankment to enable Greenmount Road to be continued beneath the dual carriageway. The local road would be locally realigned and lowered into cutting to provide the required clearance. Killadroy Road would be stopped up on the west side of the dual carriageway and a new section of single carriageway road would link the local road east of the dual carriageway with the re-aligned Greenmount Road. Some 500m south of the local roads the dual carriageway would cross the Routing Burn via an open span structure over the incised valley which houses the watercourse. Routing Burn Road, to the south of the watercourse, would be stopped up on both sides of the dual carriageway.
2.1.42 As the proposed scheme runs east of Newtownsaville, it would be raised on embankment to provide clearance for continued access along Springhill Road. Works would be required on the local road to maintain the existing access between Springhill Road and Rockmore Road. South of Newtownsaville, it would be in sidelong cutting and on low embankment as it runs between Newtownsaville Road and Tullanafoile Road. Cormore Road would be stopped up on both sides of the dual carriageway.
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2.1.43 The alignment would curve and rise to the south-east as it is bridged over Tullanafoile Road and Tullycorker Road. There would be a deep cutting on the west-facing slopes of Tycanny Hill as it runs between Newtwonsaville Road and Tycanny Road before it begins to descend the prominent scarp slope of the Brogher Ridge. Existing access along the southern end of Tycanny Road to its junction with Newtownsaville Road would be stopped up and a new section of single carriageway road would link Tycanny Road east of the proposed dual carriageway with Rarogan Road. Access along Rarogan Road would be maintained beneath the dual carriageway via a 200m long re- alignment of the local road to a new T-junction on Newtownsaville Road.
2.1.44 There would be a sequence of high, sidelong cuttings as the dual carriageway descends the ridge and diverges east from Newtownsaville Road. It would emerge from the last of these cuttings west of and below Errigal Kerrogue Churchyard and pass through an area of moraines that mark the transition from the ridge to the Clogher Valley. It would cross Glenhoy Road, the local road being re-aligned to the north of its existing alignment to enable the local road to be raised on embankment and bridged over the dual carriageway.
2.1.45 Continuing on its eastern alignment the dual carriageway would follow a sequence of cuttings and embankments through the moraines. Ballynasaggart Road would be raised on embankment on line and bridged over the dual carriageway south of the settlement.
2.1.46 The dual carriageway would enter a cutting as it approaches and crosses the A4, Annaghilla Road. A new roundabout (J15) would provide for access along and movement between the A4 and A5WTC. The section of the A4 which runs north-east to the existing A4 / A5 roundabout southwest of Ballygawley would be upgraded to dual carriageway, requiring the modification of existing cutting slopes and crossings of Ballygawley Water.
2.1.47 As the dual carriageway exits south from J15 it would pass through a short, deep cutting, emerging onto an approach embankment and open span bridge over the Ballygawley Water. South of the bridge there would be a sidelong cutting where the dual carriageway passes north of housing on Tullywinny Road. As it approaches Tullywinny Road it would be on embankment. The local road would be continued on- line beneath the dual carriageway.
2.1.48 The dual carriageway would cross the rolling farmland which extends across a landscape of irregular low drumlins and moraines to the south via a number of cuttings and embankments. Lisginny Road would be re-aligned on embankment to the north of the existing road and bridged over the dual carriageway which would be close to existing ground levels. Old Chapel Road would be re-aligned on embankment to the west of the existing road and bridged over the dual carriageway. On the approach to the A5 Tullyvar Road and a proposed new junction (J16) there would be a deep sidelong cutting along the northern margin of the proposed dual carriageway. Movement between the existing road and proposed dual carriageway would be limited
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to westbound access and eastbound exit via a pair of west facing slip roads with dumbbell roundabouts and a new bridge.
2.1.49 The proposed scheme would then follow a broad sweep around the eastern side of Aughnacloy terminating where it merges with the A5 south of the settlement. There would be a number of deep cuttings and high embankments as the proposed dual carriageway curves east to south and crosses the B35, Carnteel Road and Rehaghy Road. The B35 would be re-aligned on embankment and bridged over the dual carriageway to the south of the existing B-road. The dual carriageway would be bridged over the existing Rehaghy Road. A new roundabout (J17) would be provided where the dual carriageway would end at the A28 Caledon Road southeast of Aughnacloy.
2.1.50 The final section of the proposed scheme would comprise a 1.2km length of single carriageway road linking J17 and the merge with the A5 south of the town and west of the River Blackwater. Access would be available onto the single carriageway at Douglas Road via stepped T-junctions.
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3 The proposed studies, surveys and assessments
3.1 Air quality
3.1.1 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported a number of studies, site surveys and assessments focused on impacts on local air quality, regional air quality and construction impacts on air quality.
3.1.2 They are studies, surveys and assessments which will need to be revisited in light of the time which has elapsed since the completion of the A5WTC ES 2010, changes to the anticipated construction period and changes in predicted traffic flows.
3.1.3 The ES for the proposed scheme will accordingly include the findings of the following updated or new studies and assessments:
• nuisance associated with construction related dust;
• impacts on local air quality associated with construction traffic;
• local air quality relative to public exposure receptors associated with parts of the road network where changes in traffic volumes and performance will be affected by the introduction of the proposed scheme into the network;
• local air quality relative to identified sites designated by virtue of their nature conservation value; and
• changes in greenhouse gas emissions (regional emissions) attributable to the introduction of the proposed scheme into the local road network.
3.1.4 The approach to the assessments will be informed by the guidance provided in Section 3, Part 1 of Volume 11 of the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) – HA207/07 Air Quality
Construction-related dust
3.1.5 The assessment of construction-related dust will be focused on sensitive receptors located within 200m of the working areas required for construction of the proposed scheme. It will involve:
• identification of the numbers of sensitive receptors located within 0-25m, 25- 50m, 50-100m and 100-200m of the proposed working areas;
• identification of key construction activities which could involve generation of potentially significant volumes of dust;
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• identification of locations along the proposed construction corridor where such activities would occur in relation to receptors;
• collection and evaluation of meteorological data;
• evaluation of the anticipated duration of such activities in relation to sensitive locations;
• description of the potential for nuisance; and
• identification of appropriate mitigation measures to reduce potential nuisance.
3.1.6 Mitigation measures will be informed by reference to DMRB and IAQM ‘Guidance on the assessment of dust from demolition and construction’ (2014).
Emissions associated with construction traffic
3.1.7 The assessment for construction- traffic-related emissions (nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and
PM10) will focus on sections of existing roads and haul routes which would be extensively used by construction vehicles and on areas of concentrated construction activity such as site compounds and storage areas which are located within defined centres of population.
3.1.8 This assessment will be based on the identification of the principal access routes to the working areas, the prediction of the numbers of construction-related traffic delivering material to and transporting materials off-site provided by the contractor advisors to RS.
Local air quality and public exposure receptors
3.1.9 The assessment will involve an evaluation of the changes in concentrations of specific pollutants likely to be experienced by public exposure receptors associated with parts of the road network where it is predicted that changes detailed in the DMRB would occur (affected roads).
3.1.10 The specific pollutants considered will comprise NO2 and PM10, these being the two principal indicators of the effects of traffic related pollutants on local air quality.
3.1.11 Public exposure receptors considered will include:
• people living within 200m of affected roads as defined in the DMRB; and
• locations within 200m of affected roads where more vulnerable members of the public congregate (hospitals, schools, care homes etc).
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3.1.12 Affected roads as defined in the DMRB which will determine the extent of the study area for the assessment will comprise sections of roads which are proposed or predicted to be subject to:
• a change in alignment of 5m or more; or
• a change in daily traffic flows of 1,000 annual average daily traffic (AADT) or more; or
• a change in heavy duty vehicle (HDV) flows of 200 AADT or more; or
• a change in daily average speed by 10km/hr or more; or
• a change in peak hour speed of 20km/hr or more.
3.1.13 The prediction of changes in the concentrations of NO2 and PM10 for the identified public exposure receptors will involve the use of Advanced Dispersion Modelling System (ADMS) Roads, a dispersion modelling programme specifically developed for the assessment of proposed major road projects. A project specific model will be established to represent the affected roads. Meteorological data for the purposes of modelling will be obtained from the 2013 Castlederg data set.
3.1.14 A programme of additional diffusion tube monitoring will be undertaken to establish
data for existing concentrations of NO2 which will correlate to the timeframe for the traffic surveys being undertaken during late 2013 and early 2014 to inform the traffic forecasts for the proposed scheme. Existing concentrations and trends for the specified pollutants as well as the location of Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) relative to the proposed scheme will also be investigated. Information obtained from the existing and project specific monitoring data sources will be used for the purposes of model verification. Verification will be undertaken in accordance with the guidance provided in Local Air Quality Management Technical Guidance 09 using the data
obtained for NO2. Verification factors determined for NO2 will be applied to PM10.
3.1.15 The significance of impacts will be described in terms of increases or reductions in the concentrations of the two pollutants relative to air quality objectives for annual mean
concentrations for both, the one-hourly mean for NO2, and the daily mean for PM10 as detailed in the Air Quality Standards Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010 (S.R. 2010 No.188) and informed by the guidance provided in Interim Advice Note 174/13, “Updated advice for evaluating the significant local air quality effects of users of DMRB Volume 11, Section 3, Part 1 ‘Air Quality (HA207/07)”.
3.1.16 The following tasks will be undertaken as part of the assessment:
• Baseline information relating to the local air quality will be collected which will include: five years’ of local air quality monitoring data collected by relevant Local Authorities; site specific monitoring (at 88 locations) over a six-month
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period to plug any gaps in Local Authority monitoring data; published air quality pollutant background levels and location, and the extent and status of AQMAs associated with the study area; and a review of the information presented within the 2010 ES previously prepared for the proposed scheme;
• identification of public exposure receptors based on the parameters described in 3.1.11 and 3.1.12 above;
• predicted concentrations of NO2 and PM10 will be calculated for the specified assessment scenarios by complex dispersion modelling using ADMS Roads; and
• evaluation of the results of the modelling exercise against Air Quality Standards (AQS) and IAN 174/13 to determine the significance of changes in concentrations of the pollutants.
3.1.17 The assessment scenarios for calculating concentrations at identified receptors will comprise:
• Do-Minimum (DM) in the anticipated opening year for Phase 1;
• Do-Something (DS) in the anticipated opening year for Phase 1;
• DM in the anticipated opening year for Phase 2;
• DS in the anticipated opening year for Phase 2;
• DM in the opening year for the fully completed scheme assuming that none of the proposed scheme is operational; and
• DS in the opening year for the fully completed scheme once it is operational;
3.1.18 Comparison will be made between the DM and DS scenarios in the opening year for the fully completed scheme to evaluate the impact of the proposed scheme as a whole. The DM scenario will be based on traffic data reflecting forecast growth from the baseline survey years of 2013-2014 taking into account forecast traffic growth up until the opening year for the fully completed scheme and assuming that none of the proposed scheme is operational.
3.1.19 Comparison will also be made between the DM and DS scenarios in the opening years for each phase to provide an understanding of impacts potentially associated with the proposed prolonged construction period.
3.1.20 The DM scenario for the opening year of phases 1 and 2 will be based on traffic data reflecting forecast growth in the network between the baseline survey years of 2013- 2014 and the relevant opening years for each phase.
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Local air quality and designated sites
3.1.21 As indicated in the DMRB HA207/10 guidance (paragraph 3.13), the assessment will be focused on:
• European or nationally designated sites which are susceptible to air pollutants; and
• sites which are located either within 200m of the proposed scheme or affected road links in the existing network.
3.1.22 Nitrogen deposition (N-deposition) rates will be derived for the DM and DS scenarios
for each phase of the proposed scheme by calculating the road NO2 dry deposition rate
using verified annual mean NO2 concentrations and adding this to the existing 5 x 5 km square average N-deposition rate obtained from UK Air Pollution Information System (APIS).
3.1.23 Subject to the outcome of the traffic forecasts based on the 2013 / 2014 baseline surveys, it is anticipated two sites will be investigated, McKean’s Moss ASSI and Tully Bog SAC and ASSI.
Regional emissions
3.1.24 The study area will comprise sections of road which it is predicted will be subject to:
• a change of more than 10% in AADT; or
• a change of more than 10% to the number of Heavy Duty Vehicles (HDVs); or
• a change in daily average speed of more than 20km/hr.
3.1.25 The assessment will involve calculation of the contribution the proposed scheme is likely to make to the total annual emissions of hydrocarbons (HCs), nitrogen oxides
(NOX), PM10 and carbon dioxide (CO2) in the DM and DS scenarios for the opening year and design year for the fully completed scheme
3.2 Cultural heritage
3.2.1 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported studies, site surveys and assessments focused on archaeological and built heritage resources and historic landscapes.
3.2.2 Subsequent site-based investigations undertaken during 2012 and 2013 along the line of the proposed scheme have also established the presence of a number of previously unknown assets of cultural heritage value which will be subject to impact should the proposed scheme be implemented.
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3.2.3 The ES for the currently proposed scheme will accordingly include the findings of the following updated assessments:
• archaeological assets and their setting;
• built heritage assets and their setting; and
• historic landscapes.
3.2.4 The conduct and presentation of the assessments will be informed by the guidance provided in relation to detailed assessments for all three aspects in Section 3, Part 2 of Volume 11 of the DMRB – HA208/07 Cultural Heritage.
3.2.5 In light of the information gained from the studies and investigations undertaken to inform the A5WTC ES 2010 and the site investigations undertaken during 2012 and 2013, the study area to be adopted for the assessments will generally extend 600m each side of the proposed scheme boundary. Consideration will, however, also be given to impacts on the settings of archaeological and built heritage assets beyond the 600m buffer where there is a visual relationship between the asset and the proposed scheme as the setting is an important factor in the understanding and value of the asset.
3.2.6 Each of the assessments will involve:
• establishment of the baseline environment and the cultural heritage value of the assets identified;
• identification and description of the form and magnitude of potential impacts on the assets;
• identification of mitigation which may take the form of further surveys and investigations, and / or design measures such as screen planting to reduce potential impacts on assets or their setting;
• identification of impact ratings for each asset taking into account mitigation; and
• description of any likely significant effects in light of the predicted impacts on individual assets or groups of assets.
3.2.7 Consultation will be undertaken with the archaeological inspectors at the NIEA, and Built Heritage (Historic Monuments Unit) relative to current baseline data, and the value of assets, identified impacts and proposed mitigation measures.
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Archaeological assets
Establishment of the baseline
3.2.8 The following data sources will be referred to:
• Monuments and Building Record (MBR) held by NIEA;
• National Monuments Service Monument Database (ROI);
• specialist aerial photograph collections at NIEA;
• literary resources at the Belfast Central Library and Queen’s University Library;
• historic maps at the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (NI);
• aerial photographs and modern Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland (OSNI) maps of the study area;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor, Environmental Statement, Mouchel, November 2010;
• intrusive archaeological investigations undertaken during 2012-2013 (Ref: A5 WTC Phase 1 Archaeological Evaluation Report, Cotswold Rubicon, July 2013); and
• geophysical survey undertaken during 2012 (Ref: A5 WTC Geophysical Survey, Archaeological Services Durham University, January 2012).
3.2.9 It is not intended that any further site surveys beyond the geophysical and intrusive works completed to date, will be undertaken. Further site visits will however be undertaken as appropriate, as part of the verification of the baseline environment and evaluation of the impacts for individual assets or groups of assets.
3.2.10 Individual assets and / or groups of assets identified within the baseline environment will be attributed a value with reference to the guidance provided in Table 5.1, Annex 5 of HA208/07, as replicated in Table 1 below.
Table 1: Factors for assessing the value of archaeological assets
Very high • World Heritage Sites (including nominated sites). • Assets of acknowledged international importance. • Assets that can contribute significantly to international research objectives.
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High • Scheduled Monuments (including proposed sites). • Undesignated assets of schedulable quality and importance. • Assets that can contribute significantly to acknowledged national research objectives. Medium • Designated or undesignated assets that can contribute significantly to regional research objectives. Low • Designated and undesignated assets of local importance. • Assets compromised by poor preservation and / or poor survival of contextual associations. • Assets of limited value but with potential to contribute to local research objectives. Negligible • Assets with very little or no surviving archaeological interest. Unknown • The importance of the resource has not been ascertained.
Identification of impacts
3.2.11 The identification of impacts will involve a combination of quantification and description of the form and scale of change which individual assets and / or groups of assets will be subject to as a result of the introduction of the proposed scheme and its associated traffic into the baseline environment. A resultant magnitude of impact will be attributed to each asset / group of assets informed by the guidance provided in Table 5.3 of Annex 5 of HA208/07 as replicated in Table 2 below.
Table 2: Factors for assessing the magnitude of impact
Major • Change to most or all key archaeological materials, such that the resource is totally altered. • Comprehensive changes to setting. Moderate • Changes to many key archaeological materials, such that the resource is clearly modified. • Considerable changes to setting that affect the character of the asset. Minor • Changes to key archaeological materials, such that the asset is slightly altered. • Slight changes to setting. Negligible • Very minor change to archaeological materials or setting. No change • No change
3.2.12 Subject to the form and value of the asset, and the likely nature and magnitude of the impact, proposals for mitigation will be investigated and selected following consultation with NIEA.
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Evaluation of effects and description of significant effects
3.2.13 The evaluation of effects taking into account proposed mitigation will be initially identified in accordance with the guidance provided in the matrix detailed in Table 5.4, Annex 5 of HA208/07 as replicated in Table 3 below. The ratings will be subject to final review by the heritage assessment team. Should it be concluded the rating should vary from that indicted in the matrix, the new rating will be identified along with the reasons for the modification.
Table 3: Evaluation of effects
Very high Moderate / Large or Neutral Slight Very large Large Very large High Moderate / Moderate / Large / Neutral Slight Slight Large Very large Value / Medium Neutral / Moderate / Neutral Slight Moderate Sensitivity Slight large Low Neutral / Neutral / Slight / Neutral Slight Slight Slight moderate Negligible Neutral / Neutral / Neutral Neutral Slight Slight Slight No change Negligible Minor Moderate Major
Magnitude of impact
3.2.14 Once the ratings have been finalised for all identified assets, they will be reviewed to determine if the effect(s) relative to any single asset or group of assets constitutes a significant effect in terms of the EIA Regulations.
Built heritage
Establishment of the baseline
3.2.15 The following data sources will be referred to:
• MBR held by NIEA;
• National Monuments Service Monument Database (ROI);
• literary resources at the Belfast Central Library and Queen’s University Library;
• historic maps at the Public Record Office of NI; and
• A5 Western Transport Corridor, Environmental Statement, Mouchel, November 2010.
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3.2.16 Individual assets and / or groups of assets identified within the baseline environment will be attributed a value with reference to the guidance provided in Table 6.1, Annex 6 of HA208/07 as replicated in Table 4 below.
3.2.17 Table 4: Factors for assessing the value of built heritage assets
Very high • World Heritage Sites (including nominated sites). • Buildings of acknowledged international importance. High • Scheduled Monuments with standing remains (including proposed sites). • Grade A and B+ listed buildings. • Other listed buildings that can be shown to have exceptional qualities in their fabric or historical associations not adequately reflected in the listing grade. • Conservation areas containing very important buildings. • Undesignated structures of clear national importance. Medium • Grade B listed buildings. • Historic (unlisted) buildings that can be shown to have exceptional qualities in their fabric or historical associations. • Conservation Areas containing buildings that contributes significantly to its historic character. • Historic Townscape or built-up areas with important historic integrity in their buildings, or built settings (e.g. including street furniture and other structures). Low • ‘Locally Listed’ buildings. • Historic (unlisted) buildings of modest quality in their fabric or historical association. • Historic Townscape or built-up areas of limited historic integrity in their buildings, or built settings (e.g. including street furniture and other structures). Negligible • Buildings of no architectural or historical note; buildings of an intrusive character. Unknown • Buildings with some hidden (i.e. inaccessible) potential for historic significance.
Identification of impacts
3.2.18 The identification of impacts will involve a combination of quantification and description of the form and scale of change which individual assets and / or groups of assets will be subject to as a result of the introduction of the proposed scheme and its associated traffic into the baseline environment. A resultant magnitude of impact will be attributed to each asset / group of assets informed by the guidance provided in Table 6.3 of Annex 6 of HA208/07 as replicated in Table 5 overleaf.
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Table 5: Factors for assessing the magnitude of impact
Major • Change to key historic building elements, such that the resource is totally altered. • Comprehensive changes to the setting. Moderate • Change to many key historic building elements, such that the resource is significantly modified. • Changes to the setting of an historic building, such that it is significantly modified. Minor • Change to key historic building elements, such that the asset is slightly different. • Change to setting of an historic building, such that it is noticeably changed. Negligible • Slight changes to historic buildings elements or setting that hardly affect it. No change • No change to fabric or setting of the asset.
3.2.19 Subject to the form and value of the asset, and the likely nature and magnitude of the impact, proposals for mitigation will be investigated and selected following consultation with NIEA.
Evaluation of effects and description of significant effects
3.2.20 The evaluation of effects taking into account proposed mitigation, will be initially identified in accordance with the guidance provided in the matrix detailed in Table 5.4, 6.4 and 7.4, Annex 5, 6 and 7 of HA208/07 as replicated in Table 9.3. The ratings will be subject to final review by the heritage assessment team. Should it be concluded the rating should vary from that indicated in the matrix; the new rating will be identified along with the reasons for the modification.
3.2.21 Once the ratings have been finalised for all identified assets, they will be reviewed to determine if the effect(s) relative to any single asset or group of assets constitutes a significant effect.
Historic landscapes
Establishment of the baseline
3.2.22 In relation to historic landscapes, the assessment will focus on areas associated with the proposed scheme corridor where social and economic activity will have served to shape landscapes in which there is a discernable awareness of their evolution. The study area for this assessment will be a corridor 1.5km either side of the proposed scheme alignment, deemed to be a wide enough area to enable decisions to be made with confidence about the effect of the proposed scheme on the historic landscape.
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3.2.23 The following data sources will be referred to:
• historic maps at the Public Record Office of NI;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor, Environmental Statement, Mouchel, November 2010;
3.2.24 Historic landscapes identified within the baseline environment will be attributed a value with reference to the guidance provided in Table 7.1, Annex 7 of HA208/07 as replicated in Table 6 below.
Table 6: Factors for assessing the value of historic landscapes
Very high • World Heritage Sites inscribed for their historic landscape qualities. • Historic landscapes of international value, whether designated or not. • Extremely well preserved historic landscapes with exceptional coherence, time-depth, or other critical factor(s). High • Designated historic landscapes of outstanding interest. • Undesignated landscapes of outstanding interest. • Undesignated landscapes of high quality and importance, and of demonstrable national value. • Well preserved historic landscapes, exhibiting considerable coherence, time-depth or other critical factor(s). Medium • Designated special historic landscapes. • Undesignated historic landscapes that would justify special historic landscape designation, landscapes of regional value. • Averagely well-preserved historic landscapes with reasonable coherence, time-depth or other critical factor(s). Low • Robust undesignated historic landscapes. • Historic landscapes with importance to local interest groups. • Historic landscapes whose value is limited by poor preservation and/or poor survival of contextual associations. Negligible • Landscapes with little or no significant historical interest.
Identification of impacts
3.2.25 The identification of impacts will involve a combination of quantification and description of the form and scale of change which historic landscapes will be subject to as a result of the introduction of the proposed scheme and its associated traffic into the baseline environment. A resultant magnitude of impact will be attributed to each asset / group of assets informed by the guidance provided in Table 7.3 of Annex 7 of HA208/07 as replicated in Table 7 overleaf.
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Table 7: Factors for assessing the magnitude of impact
Major • Change to most or all key historic landscape elements, parcels or components; extreme visual effects; gross change of noise or change to sound quality; fundamental changes to use or access; resulting in total change to historic landscape character unit. Moderate • Changes to many key historic landscape elements, parcels or components, visual change to many key aspects of the historic landscape, noticeable differences in noise or sound quality, considerable changes to use or access; resulting in moderate changes to historic landscape character. Minor • Changes to few key historic landscape elements, parcels or components, slight visual changes to few key aspects of historic landscape, limited changes to noise levels or sound quality; slight changes to use or access: resulting in limited changes to historic landscape character. Negligible • Very minor changes to key historic landscape elements, parcels or components, virtually unchanged visual effects, very slight changes in noise levels or sound quality; very slight changes to use or access; resulting in a very small change to historic landscape character. No change • No change to elements, parcels or components; no visual or audible changes; no changes arising from in amenity or community factors.
3.2.26 Subject to the form and value of the asset, and likely nature and magnitude of the impact, proposals for mitigation will be investigated and selected following consultation with NIEA.
Evaluation of effects and description of significant effects
3.2.27 The evaluation of effects, taking into account proposed mitigation, will be initially identified in accordance with the guidance provided in the matrix detailed in Table 5.4, 6,4 and 7.4, Annex 5, 6 and 7 of HA208/07 as replicated in Table 3. The ratings will be subject to final review by the heritage assessment team. Should it be concluded the rating should vary from that indicted in the matrix; the new rating will be identified along with the reasons for the modification.
3.2.28 Once the ratings have been finalised for all identified assets, they will be reviewed to determine if the effect(s) relative to any single asset or group of assets constitutes a significant effect.
3.3 Landscape effects
3.3.1 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported the findings of studies, site surveys and assessments focused on landscape character and visual impacts.
3.3.2 They are studies, surveys and assessments which will need to be revisited in light of the time which has elapsed since the completion of the A5WTC ES 2010, localised
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modifications to the design proposals which are currently under review and changes to the anticipated construction period.
3.3.3 The ES for the proposed scheme will accordingly include the findings of updated studies and some new studies and assessments for landscape character and visual effects.
Both assessments will be informed by the guidance provided in the Highways Agency’s Interim Advice Note (IAN) 135/10, and the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (Third Edition), published by the Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) (2013).
Landscape character
3.3.4 The landscape of the proposed scheme corridor remains largely unaltered in composition and character from that which was subject to assessment in the A5WTC ES 2010.
3.3.5 The currently proposed scheme also does not vary in any marked way in horizontal and vertical alignment from that assessed and reported in the A5WTC ES 2010. The relationship between the currently proposed scheme and the landscape of the area is not likely; therefore, to have changed in any marked way.
3.3.6 The assessment reported in the ES for the currently proposed scheme will, therefore, be substantially based on the baseline description detailed in the A5WTC ES 2010 subject to further site review and consultation with the Northern and Western regional offices of the Planning and Local Government Group (PLGG) and NIEA to ensure that any marked changes in components and composition or changes that are anticipated are reflected in the current assessment.
3.3.7 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the site review and further consultations reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
3.3.8 Updated assessments will be undertaken to represent the predicted impacts during the winter in the anticipated year of opening for each of the three phases and during the summer fifteen years following completion of each of the three phases. This will enable the impact of the fully completed scheme to be described and the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation to be described on a like for like basis.
Visual effects
3.3.9 In common with landscape character, the visual context of the area within which the proposed scheme is located remains largely unaltered such that the predicted
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relationship of visual receptors considered in the A5WTC to the proposed scheme also remains largely unaltered.
3.3.10 The assessment reported in the ES for the currently proposed scheme will, therefore, be substantially based on the baseline description detailed in the A5WTC ES 2010.
Zone of Visual influence (ZVI)
3.3.11 The Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) identified and adopted for the assessments reported in the A5WTC ES 2010 will be used as the basis for the assessments to be undertaken and reported in the ES for the currently proposed scheme. A review of the ZVI will be undertaken during the visual impact site surveys for the currently proposed scheme to determine if there should be any local modifications to the ZVI where variations in horizontal or vertical alignment to those originally assessed are proposed. Should local modifications, which are notable in nature to either emerge as details for the currently proposed scheme are finalised, that part of the ZVI will be revisited and modified if appropriate and a review of any new receptors which may warrant inclusion in the assessments will be undertaken.
Receptors
3.3.12 Receptors included in the assessments reported in the A5WTC ES 2010 will be reviewed and the findings will either be confirmed or modified in light of the currently proposed scheme. A further search will also be undertaken using address point data and site survey to establish the presence of any additional receptors for inclusion in the assessment for the currently proposed scheme.
Evaluation of effects
3.3.13 The evaluation of visual effects for the identified receptors will involve consideration of the sensitivity of the receptor and the magnitude of impact on their view. Winter and summer surveys will be undertaken for all receptors, and the data relating to the following will be recorded:
• receptor type and number (houses, footpaths, open space etc.);
• form and quality of the existing view;
• distance between receptor and the proposed scheme;
• angle of view towards the proposed scheme;
• elevation of receptor in relation to the proposed scheme (view up / view down / level view);
• extent of the existing view predicted to be influenced by the proposed scheme;
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• location of the proposed scheme in the view (foreground / mid ground / background); and
• preliminary prediction of orders of impact during construction, in the opening years, and in the design year.
Sensitivity of receptors
3.3.14 Receptors will be attributed one of three sensitivity ratings as indicated below:
• High – residential receptors, schools and nurseries, retirement and sheltered accommodation and amenity areas and footpaths where the view is an important aspect of use;
• Medium – retail areas, offices and sports facilities; and
• Low – factories.
Magnitude of impact
3.3.15 Magnitude will be graded as follows:
• Major magnitude – the proposed scheme would appear as a significant new component in the view and result in a total loss of or major alteration to the existing balance of components in the view.
• Moderate magnitude – the proposed scheme would appear as a distinctly noticeable new component in the view and result in a partial loss of or alteration to the existing balance of components in the view.
• Minor magnitude – the proposed scheme would appear as a noticeable new component in the view and result in a minor loss of or alteration to the existing balance of components in the view.
• Negligible – only a very small part of the proposed scheme would be discernible, or it is at such a distance that it would form a barely noticeable feature or element of the view.
• No change – no part of the proposed scheme, or work or activity associated with it, is discernable.
Significance of visual effects
3.3.16 The evaluation of the significance of effect will be informed by the ratings indicated in Table 8 overleaf.
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Table 8: Significance of effects
High Slight or Moderate Large or Neutral Slight moderate or large very large Landscape Moderate Neutral or Moderate sensitivity Neutral Slight Moderate to change slight or large Low Neutral or Neutral or Slight or Neutral Slight slight slight moderate No change Negligible Low Moderate Major
Magnitude of impact
3.3.17 Updated assessments will be undertaken to represent the predicted impacts during construction, in the winter in the anticipated year of opening for each of the three phases and during the summer fifteen years following completion of each of the three phases. This will enable the impact of the fully completed scheme to be described and the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation to be described on a like for like basis.
3.4 Ecology and nature conservation
3.4.1 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported studies, site surveys and assessments focused on:
• sites designated for their nature conservation and biodiversity value;
• habitats of nature conservation value; and
• species of fauna of nature conservation value.
3.4.2 The currently proposed scheme does not vary in any marked way in horizontal and vertical alignment from that assessed and reported in the A5WTC ES 2010. The relationship between the currently proposed scheme and designated sites, habitats and species of fauna is not likely, therefore, to have changed in any marked way. However, time has elapsed since the completion of the studies and surveys which informed the assessments reported in the A5WTC ES 2010. There may have been changes to sites and habitats as a result of land management, farming practice or development of sites and changes relative to the presence and use of habitats by species of fauna previously identified. The ES for the currently proposed scheme will, therefore, be informed by further studies and site surveys where appropriate to ensure that any marked changes that may have occurred inform the assessments
3.4.3 The conduct and presentation of the studies, surveys and assessments will be informed by the guidance provided in:
• Section 3 Part 4 of Volume 11 of the DMRB – Ecology and Nature Conservation as updated by IAN 130/10 (Ecology and Nature Conservation: Criteria for Impact Assessment); and
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• Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management's Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom 2006 (CIEEM, 2006).
3.4.4 The identification of the studies and assessments considered to be appropriate has been informed by the information provided in the A5WTC ES 2010, other information submitted and considered during the A5WTC public inquiries held in 2011 and further discussions held with NIEA and LA during 2013 and 2014.
Designated sites
3.4.5 Designated sites for assessment have been selected following consultation with NEIA and examining potential impact pathways linking the scheme to the sites.
3.4.6 Designated sites identified, assessed and reported in the A5WTC ES 2010 comprised:
• Lough Foyle Special Protection Area (SPA);
• Lough Swilly SPA (which includes the former Inch Lough and Levels SPA);
• Lough Foyle Ramsar Site;
• The River Foyle and Tributaries SAC / ASSI;
• The River Finn SAC;
• Owenkillew River SAC / ASSI;
• Tully Bog SAC / ASSI;
• Strabane Glenn ASSI;
• McKean’s Moss ASSI;
• McKean’s Moss Part II ASSI; and
• Grange Wood ASSI.
3.4.7 Additional sites identified through consultation and in discussion with other parties include:
• Baronscourt ASSI;
• Lough Neagh & Lough Begg ASSI;
• Lough Neagh & Lough Begg SPA; and
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• Lough Neagh & Lough Begg Ramsar Site.
3.4.8 Other non-statutory designated sites which will be considered comprise:
• Strabane Nature Reserve; and
• Ancient/Long-Established Woodland.
3.4.9 It is intended the ES for the currently proposed scheme should address impacts relative to the originally identified sites subject to a further review to identify any designated sites introduced since the publication of the A5WTC ES 2010 with NIEA and regional / local nature conservation bodies and agencies.
3.4.10 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the investigation regarding new designations will be reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Habitats and flora
3.4.11 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments undertaken for habitats and flora along the proposed scheme corridor. Site surveys comprised a Phase 1 (Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC), 2010) habitat survey, National Vegetation Classification (NVC) surveys, aquatic macrophyte surveys along watercourses and bryophyte surveys for three woodland sites associated with riparian corridors and three bog sites.
3.4.12 The following surveys have also been undertaken during 2012, 2013 and 2014:
• aquatic habitat surveys for watercourses forming parts of River Foyle and Tributaries SAC, River Finn SAC, and Owenkillew River SAC which have provided additional information relating to macrophytes;
• bryophyte re-surveys at locations of known populations of conservation concern.
3.4.13 Further surveys will be undertaken as follows:
• a Phase 1 (JNCC, 2010) habitats survey for those habitats previously identified as being of greater than local nature conservation value, (March 2014);
• drive by surveys, walk over surveys or vantage point surveys as appropriate , for habitats of local or lower value to establish if there are indications of change relative to them subsequent to the publication of the A5WTC ES 2010 (March 2014);
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• further NVC surveys for the sites and areas detailed in the A5WTC ES 2010 (April, May, June and July 2014);
• additional aquatic macrophyte surveys for all watercourses which are classified under the Water Framework Directive (WFD) and which will be located in close proximity to or crossed by the proposed scheme (during late June and late July 2014);
• additional bryophyte surveys for the six sites originally identified (between April and July 2014) ; and
• species rich hedgerow and veteran tree surveys (between April and July 2014).
3.4.14 The NVC surveys followed the methods outlined in British Plant Communities (Rodwell et al. 1991a, 1991b, 1992, 1995 and 2000). NVC surveys in April and May were focused on woodland vegetation and surveys in June and July were focused on other vegetative communities.
3.4.15 The extent of areas of homogeneous vegetation was mapped and sample quadrats (relevés) will be located within these areas to record the abundance and frequency of vascular plants, bryophytes and lichens within each compartment. The field data will then be analysed and each compartment was assigned, where possible, to a particular plant community.
3.4.16 Within each quadrat, a quantitative measure of the relative abundance of every vascular plant, bryophyte and lichen species was undertaken using the 10 point Domin scale. Cover was assessed by eye as a vertical projection on to the ground of all live, above-ground parts of the plants within the quadrant.
3.4.17 Frequency will be used in conjunction with abundance when determining the community type, either using dichotomous keys within British Plant Communities or the MATCH computer program (MATCH (v.2.16) from the Unit of Vegetation Science, Lancaster University).
Aquatic macrophytes
3.4.18 Aquatic macrophyte surveys were undertaken on all watercourses which are crossed by the proposed scheme. The field survey area will be predominantly confined to selected water course reaches within a 500m survey sites selected to include the crossing point of the proposed road and as much of the length of river within the vested land as possible. In areas where this was not possible sections of the river downstream of the scheme were favoured for survey. Aquatic macrophytes were identified and percentage cover for each species estimated within the survey reach.
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Bryophytes
3.4.19 Surveys for bryophytes were undertaken by a systematic walkover, examining all suitable substrates, including features such as walls, fences and trees. Fieldwork was undertaken by experienced bryophyte surveyors. The relative abundance of each species within the different habitat types at each site was recorded and classified using a DAFOR scale (D = Dominant; A = Abundant, F = Frequent, O = Occasional, R = Rare).
Species rich hedgerow and veteran trees
3.4.20 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments undertaken for species rich hedgerows and veteran trees.
3.4.21 Hedgerow coppicing and removal of some trees was undertaken for parts of the proposed scheme corridor between Newbuildings and J8, and J13 and J15 during 2012. In these areas the baseline survey information gathered for the A5WTC ES 2010 will be relied on.
3.4.22 Further surveys were undertaken for the proposed scheme corridor between J8 and J13, and J15 and south of Aughnacloy between April and July 2014 the focus being on those hedgerows originally identified in the A5WTC ES 2010. The surveys were based on the methods outlined in the Hedgerow Survey Handbook 2nd Ed. (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), 2007). They involved the recording of plant species, species diversity and the dominance of each species, and measurements of size and shape as important determinants of value. The location and species of veteran trees was recorded.
3.4.23 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010, and gathered from the 2012, 2013 and 2014 surveys relating to habitats and flora, including hedgerows and veteran trees, will be reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme. This series of paragraphs need to be revised to reflect the correct tense for surveys which have been completed
Fauna
Otter
3.4.24 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments for otter Lutra lutra. These were focused on locations where preliminary studies had identified habitat which potentially signalled presence of or use by the species including proposed crossings of watercourses.
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3.4.25 Further surveys have been undertaken during 2012 and 2013 along all watercourses which will be crossed by the proposed scheme to establish the current status of evidence of the presence of or use by the species.
3.4.26 The 2012 and 2013 surveys involved recording of evidence along both banks of each watercourse by experienced otter surveyors following procedures detailed in the Otter Surveys – NIEA Specific Requirements (NIEA, 2013). In common with the surveys along watercourses reported in the A5WTC ES 2010, surveys were conducted 250m upstream and downstream from proposed scheme crossing points.
3.4.27 Searches were undertaken for potential holts, runs leading away from the water, couches, slides and otter spraints. Transects were also walked where practical, parallel to the waterways, to detect any potential otter runs which leading to den sites. Any potential runs were followed and searched for evidence of use by otter in the form of footprints and spraints.
3.4.28 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the 2012 / 2013 surveys will be reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Badgers
3.4.29 The aim of the study is to determine the value of the survey area (land directly under the footprint of the scheme and in a 50m buffer around it) for badgers, in order to inform an assessment of the likely ecological effects upon this species. The study set out to: • Undertake field surveys to record evidence of badgers within the study area, to identify and categorise badger setts as main, annexe, subsidiary or outlier setts and note the level of usage of each; and
• Map the locations of evidence of badgers.
3.4.30 The desk study undertaken for the original A5WTC ES 2010 revealed no records from the CEDaR and the Northern Ireland Badger Group. This data search was not updated due to the detailed field surveys undertaken by Mouchel between June 2009 and February 2013. Records from these surveys were consulted to identify the locations of any known badger setts and activity to inform the current surveys. 3.4.31 Field surveys were completed between the 3rd and 25th March 2014. Habitats within the survey area were surveyed for badgers where access was permitted. The survey area included all land within the scheme boundary and adjacent habitats within a 50m buffer where access permitted. 3.4.32 The surveys followed standard guidance in Harris et al. (1989) and in accordance with best practice guidance contained in the Badgers and Development (NIEA, 2011).
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3.4.33 Surveys included a systematic search for setts and other signs of badger activity within the survey area, such as spoil, latrines or dung pits, bedding material, paths, footprints, hairs and feeding signs (holes in ground and scrapes in soil). Sett locations were recorded on maps along with a classification of the type of sett (Main, Annexe, Subsidiary and Outlier) and whether it is used (evidence of activity, such as fresh excavations and moulted hairs, are indicative of current use of a sett). 3.4.34 Eight setts were selected for the badger bait marking survey as these setts were assessed as either potential main setts or unclassified setts. The badger bait marking survey included a general survey for any signs of badger activity such as sett entrances, mammal paths, snuffle holes, badger guard hairs, fresh bedding and feeding signs. This element of the survey followed best practice guidance contained in the Badgers and Development (NIEA, 2011) guidance document. 3.4.35 The badger bait marking survey generally followed the methodology laid out by Delahay et al (2000). This standard methodology prescribes a 1km search area around a development site, and literature searches have shown this can be readily be reduced to a 500m buffer. However, given the linear nature of the road scheme and the length of the scheme a buffer of 250m around each main sett has been selected. Surveys excluded residential properties. 3.4.36 Over a three week period, from the 9th September 2013 to 27th September 2013, each sett was subject to the following survey methodology: • Bait mixture, comprising peanuts, golden syrup and coloured pellets, was placed outside the sett entrances in the late afternoon under large stones (to protect from rain, and to prevent other wildlife eating it), using different coloured pellets at each sett;
• Bait mixture was placed for a minimum of ten days. Specific baiting locations around the sett entrances changed daily. Bait mixture was replaced during this 10 day period if it was found to have been consumed;
• A 250m radius around each sett was checked for latrines. Latrines were surveyed for the presence of pellets every two to three days during the three week period;
• The content of dung pits found was thoroughly searched for the presence of coloured pellets by removing the dung to a depth of 20cm and spreading it across a suitable flat surface;
• GPS coordinates of latrine sites were recorded, as was any evidence of coloured pellets within dung pits; and,
• A general survey for any signs of badger activity such as new sett entrances, mammal paths, snuffle holes, badger guard hairs, fresh bedding and feeding signs.
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Bats
3.4.37 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments for species of bat throughout the entire length of the originally proposed scheme.
3.4.38 Further surveys have been undertaken during 2012 and 2013 for the sections of the proposed scheme between Newbuildings and proposed J8, and J13 and J15. These surveys were focused on hedgerows that were being cut back, trees that were being removed at that time and buildings identified as having roost potential.
3.4.39 Additional site surveys are also planned for the full length of the proposed scheme between April and September 2014. These will involve walked transects, driven transects and static surveys with automated detectors carried out in accordance with methods outlined in the Bat Conservation Trust’s (BCT) Bat Surveys – Good Practice Guidelines (Hundt, 2012). Any potential roosts identified will be subject to further survey.
3.4.40 Walking transects commencing 15 minutes before sunset, and lasting between 2-3 hours will be conducted where there is habitat likely to be used by bats for foraging and commuting1. Automated bat detectors linked to Global Positioning System (GPS) units will be used to accurately record the location of calls made by passing bats. These data will be augmented by surveyor observations and recordings using BatBox Duet / Petterson D240x bat detectors. Each walked transect site will be visited monthly between April and September with at least one of the monthly transects comprising a dusk and pre-dawn survey.
3.4.41 Driven transects using vehicle mounted automated bat detectors will be used to survey the wider landscape beyond the boundaries and immediate vicinity of the proposed scheme. Two Anabat SD1 automated detectors will be mounted to the vehicle: the first will be mounted on the roof of the car on the hedgerow side of the vehicle at a 45 degree angle to the direction of travel, and the second will be linked to a microphone mounted on the top of the vehicle which will use the car roof as a reflector. Driven transects are undertaken following the current BCT guidelines.
3.4.42 Features of potential value to bats (e.g. hedgerows, watercourses and woodlands) will be subject to static surveys using automated detectors placed in-situ for five consecutive nights each month between April and September. The sites will be chosen to provide coverage of the proposed scheme.
3.4.43 Data recorded during all surveys will be analysed by suitably experienced ecologists using appropriate software.
1 As identified by suitably experienced ecologists from Phase 1 survey mapping, aerial photography and site visits.
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3.4.44 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the 2012, 2013 and 2014 surveys will be reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Red squirrel
3.4.45 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments undertaken to establish the presence of red squirrel Sciurus vulgaris in woodland within the potential zone of influence of the proposed scheme corridor. Seven locations were identified where there was evidence of presence, ranging in distance from 0.5-5km from the proposed alignment.
3.4.46 It is accordingly intended the ES for the currently proposed scheme will include studies and assessments for the species. These will involve:
• further survey of the sites identified and assessed in the A5WTC ES 2010;
• a review of records of red squirrel sightings provided by the Centre for Environmental Data and Recording (CEDaR), North West Red Squirrel Group and red squirrel habitat preferences as described in ‘UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Mammals: Interim Guidance for Survey Methodologies, Impact Assessment and Mitigation’ (The Mammal Society, 2013); and
• a review of habitat types 2km either side of the proposed scheme to establish if any additional locations should be included for further survey.
3.4.47 Walked transect surveys will be undertaken at the identified sites in April 2014 and will be repeated in July 2014. The method will be based on the survey methodology published by NIEA. The surveys will involve:
• Starting at dawn, walking transect lines of 500-1000m, stopping at intervals of approximately 100m for 2-5 minutes, taking about 5 minutes to walk the intervening 100m, visually searching the surrounding woodland for squirrels and squirrel evidence. If a positive sighting of a red squirrel is made the survey will be stopped;
• Where there are positive signs of squirrels (dreys and feeding remains) but no sightings, the site will be re-surveyed using camera trapping. This will involve the installation of a raised feeding platform at a chosen location (based on feeding evidence) which will be bated with maize and hazel nut mixture; and
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• At each of these chosen locations three camera traps will be set up in order to maximise the chances of photographing red squirrels. Cameras will be left in place for a minimum of five days2.
3.4.48 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the 2014 surveys will be reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Pine marten
3.4.49 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments undertaken to establish the presence of pine marten, Martes martes in woodland within the potential zone of influence of the proposed scheme. Fifteen locations were identified where there was evidence of presence, ranging in distance from 0.5-3km from the proposed alignment.
3.4.50 It is accordingly intended the ES for the currently proposed scheme will include studies and assessments for the species. These will involve:
• further survey of the sites identified and assessed in the A5WTC ES 2010;
• a review of records of pine marten sightings provided by CEDaR; and
• a review of habitat types 3km either side of the proposed scheme to establish if any additional locations should be included for further survey.
3.4.51 Walked transect surveys will be undertaken at the identified sites in June and July 2014. The method will be based on the survey methodology utilised by O’Mahony et al (2005) and The Mammal Society guidelines (2013). Camera trapping and hair-tube baiting will take place in July and August 2014. The surveys will involve:
• Walking transect lines of a minimum distance of 5km per survey site, along woodland rides, mammal tracks and other linear features, where surveyors will search for scat, footprints, potential den sites and direct sightings of pine marten;
• Where signs are found a GPS position and photograph will be taken. All potential scats found will be collected in plastic pots, clearly labelled with a reference number and sent for DNA analysis to confirm the species; and
2 Mouchel are collaborating with the NIEA Red Squirrel Survey being coordinated with Dr Neil Reid, sharing methods and equipment to provide greater coverage for the National Survey.
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• In sites where scats have been found during transects, c. 5 hair tubes will be erected and baited for a minimum period of 10 days at each site.
3.4.52 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the 2014 surveys will be reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Irish hare
3.4.53 Studies and assessments for Irish hare, Lepus timidus hibernicus were reported in the A5WTC ES 2010. They were focused on habitats which potentially signalled presence of or use by the species, where sightings were recorded during other site surveys, in data obtained from CEDaR, and locations reported by landowners.
3.4.54 It is accordingly intended the ES for the currently proposed scheme will include studies and assessments for the species. These will involve:
• a review of habitats within 2km either side of the proposed scheme to establish the extent of habitat suited to the species with reference to Quercus (2009) and the A5 WTC ES 2010 ;
• a review of CEDaR data relative to the species; and
• recording of any sightings during the other site surveys being undertaken to inform the assessments for ecological resources.
3.4.55 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the reviews undertaken in 2014 and records of sightings obtained post production of the A5WTC ES 2010 will be reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Deer
3.4.56 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments undertaken to establish the presence of Red deer, Cervus elaphus, Fallow deer, Dama dama, and Sika deer, Cervus nippon in the vicinity of the proposed scheme.
3.4.57 It is accordingly intended the ES for the currently proposed scheme will include the findings of studies, surveys and assessments for the species. These will include a review of current data with CEDaR and further surveys undertaken within a 100m study area either side of the proposed scheme during May and June 2014. Any signs of deer, footprints, and hair, dung or shed antlers will be recorded and their locations marked with GPS equipment.
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3.4.58 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the 2014 surveys will be reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be re-assessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Whooper swan and greylag goose
3.4.59 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments undertaken for whooper swan Cygnus cygnus and greylag goose Anser anser in the River Foyle floodplain and nearby fields north of the Burn Dennet and west of the proposed scheme alignment. The area is used during the winter for foraging by large flocks of both species associated with three Nature 2000 sites; Lough Foyle, Lough Swilly and Lough Neagh SPAs. The assessments recognised that construction and future use of the proposed scheme may result in impact by virtue of disturbance of the two species during the wintering period and have an effect on the three Natura 2000 sites.
3.4.60 Further reviews of data held by CEDaR, the RSPB, and the Irish Whooper Swan Study Group were undertaken during late summer / early autumn 2013. Further bi-weekly site surveys commenced in October 3013 and completed by mid-March 2014 have been undertaken to establish information in the form of counts for both species for the current wintering period. The location of flocks foraging in fields in the floodplain, and counts of birds in each flock, have been determined by vantage point surveys from high ground to the east and by walkover surveys along public rights of way through the floodplain.
3.4.61 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the current surveys will be reviewed and the impacts previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Breeding birds
3.4.62 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments undertaken for breeding birds. It was established there are no sites associated with the proposed scheme corridor which are designated in light of the breeding bird assemblages. Data obtained from the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), The Ulster Wildlife Trust (UWT), Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group (NIRSG), and RSPB, and project specific transect surveys established one location along the corridor where species and assemblages are considered to be of county value and six of district value, all others being of local or lower value. Barn owl Tyto alba surveys will be undertaken following best practice at any appropriate feature in the landscape identified through the Phase 1 habitat survey, or noted during other survey works.
3.4.63 It is accordingly intended studies and assessments relative to breeding birds which will be reported in the ES for the currently proposed scheme will involve:
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• review of the data included in the A5WTC ES 2010;
• further reference to data held by BTO, UWT, NIRSG, RSPB and Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) with particular focus on data recorded subsequent to receipt of the data which informed the A5WTC ES 2010;
• further review of the data received from the consultees above and the updated 2013 / 2014 Phase 1 habitat surveys to establish if any further locations should be added to the site survey locations reported in the A5WTC ES 2010; and
• further survey at each of the transects reported in the A5 WTC ES 2010 and any additional locations identified by the review of the data received from the consultees above and the updated 2013 / 2014 Phase 1 habitat surveys. The surveys will be undertaken in April and June 2014 and will broadly follow that used by the BTO in their nationwide Breeding Bird Survey. A transect will be walked through each site with a record being made of important habitats and the presence and numbers of bird species.
3.4.64 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the 2014 surveys will be reviewed and the impacts previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Wintering birds
3.4.65 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies and assessments undertaken for wintering birds. It was established there are no sites associated with the proposed scheme corridor which are designated in light of their use by wintering birds. Data obtained from BTO, UWT, NIRSG, RSPB and site specific surveys established seven locations along the corridor where wintering birds are considered to be of district value, one being a wetland habitat (the flooded Strahans Quarry) and six farmland habitats.
3.4.66 Further surveys have been undertaken at each of the sites reported in the A5WTC ES 2010 between October 2013 and the beginning of March 2014. The surveys for the farmland habitats were based on a method similar to that used by the BTO in their Farmland Bird Survey carried out between 1999 and 2003. They involved surveyors walking transects through and around the sites to identify species of birds present, their numbers and behaviour (e.g. foraging). The survey at Strahans Quarry was conducted from a vantage point at the south of the quarry in a similar manner to that undertaken in the BTO Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) counts.
3.4.67 It is accordingly intended studies and assessments for wintering birds which will be reported in the ES for the currently proposed scheme will involve review of the data included in the A5WTC ES 2010; that gathered from the 2013 / 2014 surveys; and any further responses from the consultees identified above. The impacts and proposed
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mitigation previously identified will then be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Fish
3.4.68 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies and assessments undertaken for fish based on River Habitat Surveys for some 47 sites, 16 of which were also subject to Fisheries Habitat Surveys. Further studies have also been undertaken during 2012 and 2013.
3.4.69 Desk based studies, including reference to studies and investigations undertaken as part of the assessments reported in the A5WTC ES 2010, and subsequent site-based investigations undertaken during 2012 and 2013 along the line of the proposed scheme, will be undertaken to determine the historic presence of fish fauna species and any important fisheries habitat within the study area alongside consultation with the NIEA, LA and DCAL Inland Fisheries team.
3.4.70 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010, gathered from the 2012 and 2013 surveys, and any further data provided by obtained from NIEA, LA and DCAL will be reviewed and the impacts previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Reptiles
3.4.71 Studies and assessments reported in the A5WTC ES 2010 noted an absence of common lizard, the only native reptile in Northern Ireland, from sites surveyed on the basis of habitat potential. It is accordingly not intended that any further surveys should be undertaken subject to further reference to data held by CEDaR with particular focus on data recorded subsequent to receipt of the data which informed the A5WTC ES 2010. Should no further evidence be obtained, then the information derived from the previous studies will be relied on for the purposes of the ES for the currently proposed scheme.
3.4.72 Subject to the proposed desk-based review of current data, the information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 will be relied to inform the findings of the assessment reported in the ES for the currently proposed scheme.
Smooth Newt
3.4.73 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments undertaken to establish the presence of smooth newt, Lissotriton vulgaris associated with the proposed scheme corridor. Newt field surveys were undertaken on all ponds within 250m of the road corridor3, under suitable climatic conditions between mid-
3 Fifty-two ponds were identified and surveyed.
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March and mid-June 2014. The surveys are being conducted with reference to the requirements outlined by NIEA (2014). Each survey site is being visited on at least four separate occasions and if smooth newts are recorded during any of these visits, then a further two census visits will be completed. The surveys involve:
• Searching both live and dead submerged pond vegetation for newt embryos during daylight hours – this method will be used for presence and absence only, and once presence is determined this method will not have to be repeated in that specific water body;
• Searching any suitable and accessible refuge (e.g. logs, rocks, boards and debris) within a 250m radius of the water body – this method will be used for presence and absence only, and once presence is determined this method will not have to be repeated in that specific water body;
• Dip netting the margins of a water body – this method will be used for presence and absence only, and once presence is determined this method will not have to be repeated in that specific water body; and
• Searching for newts at night with a torch – this method can be used to undertake presence and absence surveys and population estimates. Once positive records of newts are recorded in a pond or the surrounding area then this is the only method that needs to be continued until all six visits have been concluded.
3.4.74 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the 2014 surveys will be reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Aquatic invertebrates
3.4.75 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments undertaken to establish the presence of white clawed crayfish, Austropotomobius
pallipes and freshwater pearl mussel, Margaritifera margaritifera. The studies and surveys indicated there is limited presence of white clawed crayfish, the only location being along reaches of the River Blackwater and provided no evidence for the presence of freshwater pearl mussel. In the case of white clawed crayfish, the currently proposed scheme does not cross the watercourse whilst proximity to the watercourse is limited to the point at which the proposed single carriageway south of Aughnacloy merges with the existing A5.
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3.4.76 In light of the established presence of white clawed crayfish in this limited location and the absence of freshwater pearl mussel throughout the proposed scheme corridor, it is not intended any further surveys should be undertaken subject to further reference to data held by CEDaR.
3.4.77 It is accordingly intended, that subject to the data review studies and assessments reported in the ES for the currently proposed scheme for these two species of aquatic invertebrate will be based on the data included in the A5WTC ES 2010.
Terrestrial invertebrates
3.4.78 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported desk-based studies, site surveys and assessments for terrestrial invertebrates. The findings of the studies and surveys demonstrated the assemblages of terrestrial invertebrate species associated with the various habitats along the proposed scheme corridor are typical of the habitats surveyed, there being a very small number of notable species recorded, and no species recorded which are afforded legal protection.
3.4.79 It is accordingly not intended any further site surveys should be undertaken, and that the assessment will be based upon updated desk study records and data collected for the A5WTC ES 2010.
Impact assessment
3.4.80 The evaluation of impacts will involve establishment of the biodiversity value for the designated sites, habitats and species and identification of impacts and appropriate mitigation during construction and future use of the proposed scheme.
Biodiversity value
3.4.81 The identification of value will be based on consideration of:
• rarity at various geographical scales;
• threat status and vulnerability at various geographical scales;
• diversity and/or it's synergistic associations;
• population size; and
• location in relation to its known geographical distribution and range at various geographical scales.
3.4.82 The institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM) (2006) provides further information on how the relative value and importance of a receptor can be determined and states that its biodiversity value should be measured against published
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selection criteria where available. Reference will be made to UK and Local BAPs, national or county Red Data Books, and to conservation status (such as nationally notable/scarce, etc.). Distinction will be made between the biodiversity value of a receptor and its legal status.
3.4.83 Table 9 below describes criteria which will inform the identified biodiversity value for the resources included in the assessments. They are criteria which accord with IEEM (2006) guidance, and follow the Ratcliffe criteria (1977).
Table 9: Criteria for determination of biodiversity value of an ecological receptor
Value Criteria International Habitats An internationally designated site or candidate site, i.e. SAC or candidate SAC (cSAC), or an area that would meet the published selection criteria for designation. A viable area of habitat that is essential to maintain the viability of a population or habitat in the wider area. Species Any regularly occurring population of internationally important species, threatened or rare in the UK, i.e. a UK Red Data Book species, UK BAP or of uncertain conservation status or of global conservation status. A regularly occurring, nationally significant population/number of an internationally important species. National Habitats A nationally designated site, i.e. ASSI or National Nature Reserve (NNR), or a discrete area that would meet the published selection criteria for national designation (e.g. ASSI selection criteria). A viable area of key habitat important in maintaining the viability of a population or habitat in the wider area. Species A regularly occurring, regionally or county significant population/number of an internationally / nationally important species. Any regularly occurring population of a nationally important species that is of threatened or rare conservation status in the region or county. A species identified as of critical importance in the UK BAP. Regional Habitats Sites that exceed the County-level designation but fall short of national designation criteria. Viable areas of habitat that is considered to be important in maintaining the viability of a population or habitat in the wider area. Species Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of a species listed as being nationally scarce which occurs in 16-100 10km squares in the UK BAP. A regularly occurring, locally significant population/number of a regionally important species. Sites maintaining populations of internationally/nationally important species that are not threatened or rare in the region or county.
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County Habitats Sites recognised by local authorities, e.g. Sites of Local Nature Conservation Interest (SLNCIs) or Local Nature Reserves (LNRs). A small area of habitat that is considered to be important in maintaining wider viability of a population or habitat. Species Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of a species listed in a Local BAP because of county rarity or localisation. A regularly occurring locally significant population of a County important species. Sites supporting populations of regionally important species that are not threatened or rare in the region or county and not integral to maintaining those populations. District Habitats Areas of habitat that enrich the local resource for species and are important to maintaining local viability of a population. Species Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of a species listed in a Local BAP due to district rarity or localisation. A regularly occurring, locally significant population of a District important species. Sites / features scarce in the District or which appreciably enrich the District habitat resource. Local Habitats Areas of habitat that enrich the local habitat resource or have been identified for designation at this level, i.e. Local Authority Nature Reserve (LANR). Sites that retain other elements of semi-natural vegetation that, due to their size, quality or distribution, are not considered for above classifications. Species Populations / assemblages of species that appreciably enrich the biodiversity resource within the local context. Site supporting populations of county / district important species that are not threatened or rare in the region or county and are not integral to maintaining those populations. Immediate Habitats and species of limited ecological importance due to their size, vicinity of the composition or other factors. proposed scheme only
Evaluation and description of impacts
3.4.84 The evaluation and description of impacts will involve consideration of:
• Magnitude, i.e. the size of an impact in quantitative terms where possible;
• Extent, i.e. the area over which an impact may occur;
• Duration, i.e. the time for which an impact is expected to last;
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• Reversibility, i.e. a permanent impact is one that is irreversible within a reasonable timescale or for which there is no reasonable chance of action being taken to reverse it; a temporary impact is one from which short-term recovery is possible;
• Timing and frequency, i.e. whether impacts occur during critical seasons or life- stages; and
• Direct, indirect and cumulative impacts.
3.4.85 In accordance with IEEM (2006), confidence levels for the identified impacts and their consequent effects will be defined as follows:
• Certain / near-certain: probability estimated at 95% chance or higher.
• Probable: probability estimated above 50% but below 95%.
• Unlikely: probability estimated above 5% but less than 50%.
• Extremely unlikely: probability estimated at less than 5%.
3.4.86 Identification of likely significant effects will be based on the IEEM definition of a significant impact, as an impact (positive or negative) on the integrity of a defined site or ecosystem and / or the conservation status of habitats or species within a given geographic scale.
3.5 Geology and soils
3.5.1 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported a number of studies, focused on sites of geological interest, contaminated land, and background greenfield conditions to determine whether or not soils would be suitable for re-use within the works.
3.5.2 They are studies, surveys and assessments which will need to be revisited in light of the time which has elapsed since the completion of the A5WTC ES 2010.
3.5.3 The ES for the proposed scheme will accordingly include the findings of the following updated or new studies and assessments:
• impacts on statutory and non-statutory sites designated for their geological value;
• risks associated with contaminated land in the vicinity of the proposed scheme; and
• an assessment of background greenfield conditions to determine whether or not soils would be suitable for re-use within the works.
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3.5.4 The assessments will be primarily informed by the guidance in Section 3, Part 11 of Volume 11 of the DMRB – Geology and Soils.
3.5.5 Further studies will involve a review of current data to verify the status of sites which have been previously considered and any new sites that may have emerged. Reference will be made to the following data sources:
• current and historical, geological and hydrogeological mapping;
• aerial photography;
• datasets held by the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland and the Geological Survey of Ireland;
• datasets held by NIEA;
• datasets held by the Northern Ireland Executive and Local Authorities;
• datasets held by the Public Records Office;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor, Environmental Statement, Mouchel, November 2010;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 1 Preliminary Sources Study, Mouchel, June 2009;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 2 Preliminary Sources Study, Mouchel, June 2009;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 3 Preliminary Sources Study, Mouchel, June 2009;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 1 Factual Report on Ground Investigation, Phases 1-4, Glover Site Investigation Ltd, 2010;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 2 Factual Report on Ground Investigation, Phases 1-4, Soil Mechanics Ltd, 2010;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 3 Factual Report on Ground Investigation, Phases 1-4, Soil Mechanics Ltd, 2010;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 1 Ground Investigation Report, Phases 1-4, Volumes 1-13, Mouchel, June 2012;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 2 Ground Investigation Report, Phases 1-4, Volumes 1-10, Mouchel, June 2012;
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• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 3 Ground Investigation Report, Phases 1-4, Volumes 1-11, Mouchel, June 2012;
• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 1 Ground Investigation Report Supplement, Phase 5, Arup Atkins, November 2013; and
• A5 Western Transport Corridor Section 3 Ground Investigation Report Supplement, Phase 5, Volumes 1-13, URS Halcrow, January 2014.
3.5.6 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and gathered from the 2014 desk- based data studies will be reviewed and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
3.5.7 Any material proposed for re-use within the scheme will be subject to chemical testing to determine it suitability prior to re-use. Any materials to be imported to the scheme will also be subject to chemical testing to ensure materials imported are suitable to use in such a scheme.
3.6 Noise and vibration
3.6.1 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported a number of studies, site surveys and assessments focused on impacts associated with noise and vibration during construction and traffic- related noise and vibration during use of the road.
3.6.2 They are studies, surveys and assessments which will need to be revisited in light of the time which has elapsed since the completion of the A5WTC ES 2010, changes to the anticipated construction period and changes in predicted traffic flows.
3.6.3 The ES for the proposed scheme will accordingly include the findings of the following updated or new studies and assessments:
• construction-related noise and vibration associated with working areas and compounds;
• construction-related noise and vibration associated with delivery and removal of materials, and movement of machinery and plant to and from the working areas and compounds;
• traffic-related noise and vibration associated with use of the proposed scheme and wider road network once it is open to use; and
• noise nuisance associated with use of the proposed scheme and wider road network once it is open to use.
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3.6.4 The conduct and presentation of the studies and assessments will be informed by the guidance provided in the Section 3 Part 7 of Volume 11 of the DMRB – HD213/11 Noise and Vibration and will involve:
3.6.5 Receptors considered will comprise occupiers and users of residential dwellings, schools, churches, hospitals, community facilities, children’s nurseries and care homes.
3.6.6 A programme of day and night time monitoring surveys will be undertaken to establish an understanding of the existing noise environment and inform the conduct of the assessment relating to construction and operational noise. The surveys will be undertaken in accordance with the guidance provided in British Standard (BS) 7445:2003 ‘Description and Measurement of Environmental Noise’.
3.6.7 Consultations will be undertaken with officers of the Environmental Health departments at Derry City Council, Strabane District Council, Omagh District Council, and Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough council in relation to:
• protocols and methodologies pertinent to the assessment;
• the identification of any reported instances of noise nuisance within the assessment study area; and
• noise policies currently adopted by the authorities.
Construction-related noise associated with working areas and compounds
3.6.8 The study area for the assessment relating to working areas and compounds will extend 600m from the boundary of the working areas and compounds. The studies and assessment will involve:
• identification and quantification of noise sensitive receptors located within the study area. Numbers of receptors will be quantified for distances up to 50m, between 50-100m, between 100-300m and between 300-600m from the boundary of the working areas and compounds;
• identification and description of areas where the nature of the construction activities would be likely to involve higher orders of noise, such as construction compounds and major structures (hot spots); liaisons with the engineering design team and the contractor advisors to RS to agree combinations of operating construction plant to represent principal noise generating activities at hot spots and representative locations for sections of the working areas beyond the hotspots;
• liaison with the engineering design team and the contractor advisors to RS to agree the anticipated frequency and duration of the principal noise generating activities;
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• calculation of predicted construction-related noise based on the agreed combinations of operating construction plant, and production of noise contour plans where appropriate for the hot spots and other representative locations;
• prediction of individual noise levels for sensitive dwellings within 50m of working areas and compounds;
• a preliminary evaluation of indicative construction-related noise limits in the vicinity of the hot spots and representative locations based on the application of the ABC and/or +5dB(A) methods in BS 5228 ‘Code of Practice for Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites’ (the method which provides the most protection to sensitive receptors will be applied); and
• identification of mitigation as appropriate taking into account likely noise levels, duration and frequency, and the indicative noise limits derived from the application of BS 5228.
Construction-related noise associated with access routes
3.6.9 The study area for the assessment will comprise a 600m buffer either side of sections of roads which it is anticipated will be used by the contractors for the delivery and removal of materials, and machinery and plant to and from the working areas and compounds during construction.
3.6.10 The assessment will involve identification of anticipated routes and quantification of likely construction-related vehicle movements, and duration and frequency for each of the routes based on information provided by the engineering design team and the contractor advisors to RS.
3.6.11 The increase in local noise due to construction traffic movements using site access roads will be calculated using the “haul road” method detailed in section F2.5 of Annex
F of BS 5228 to predict a worst case 1 hour LAeq. The assessment will involve:
• calculation of pre-construction traffic noise levels on the identified roads using 2013-2014 base traffic flow data;
• calculation of the traffic noise levels during construction using the 2013-2014 base traffic flow data and the construction phase Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) forecasts; and
• comparison of the predicted levels prior to and during construction to establish anticipated changes in traffic related noise.
3.6.12 Noise contour plans will be produced to illustrate the extent of the identified change in levels. Predicted individual noise levels for sensitive dwellings within 50m of the identified access routes will also be reported.
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3.6.13 Many of the access routes are small country roads which do not appear within the baseline traffic flow data. Where this occurs, expected noise levels due to HGV
movements alone will be calculated, and compared with monitored LAeq values where available.
Traffic-related noise during use - daytime
3.6.14 The study area for the assessment will be established in accordance with the guidance provided in the DMRB guidance as described below:
i. Identify the start and end points of the physical works associated with the road project.
ii. Identify the existing routes that are being bypassed or improved, and any proposed new routes, between the start and end points.
iii. Define a boundary 1km from the carriageway edge of the routes identified in (ii) above.
iv. Define a boundary 600m from the carriageway edge around each of the routes identified in (ii) above and also 600m from any other affected routes within the boundary defined in (iii) above. The total area within these 600m boundaries is termed the ‘calculation area’. An affected route is where there is the possibility
of a change of 1dB LA10,18h or more in the short-term (year of opening) or 3 dB
LA10,18h or more in the long-term (within 15 years after opening).
v. Identify any affected routes beyond the boundary defined in (iii) above.
vi. Define a boundary 50m from the carriageway edge of the routes identified in (v) above.
3.6.15 Affected routes will be identified by way of a review of the predicted DM and DS traffic forecasts for the proposed scheme for the short-term and long-term. An increase in flow of 25% or reduction of 20% in annual average weekly traffic (AAWT) 18-Hour
(06:00 to 24:00 hours) is indicative of a 1dB LA10,18h increase or reduction in levels in the
short-term. An increase of 100% or reduction of 50% is indicative of a 3dB LA10,18h increase or reduction in levels in the long-term.
3.6.16 The location and number of receptors within the assessment study area will be identified using NI Pointer data and Geographical Information System (GIS) ESRI ArcGIS 9.3 software.
3.6.17 Calculation of the predicted traffic-related noise levels within the study area will involve the use of NoiseMap Server Edition, a 3-D computer modelling software package which accurately follows the methodology contained within The Calculation of Road Traffic Noise (CRTN), published in 1988 and the advice contained in ANNEX 4,
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HD213/11 – Revision 1, Section 3, Part 7, Volume11 DMRB.. Input data for the model which will be constructed using the software will include:
• affected road links;
• OSNI base mapping in DXF format;
• OS Landform Profile contours in DWG format;
• receptor locations in the form of Address Layer 2 Pointer data, giving building type information, in shape file format;
• AAWT for affected roads, broken down into flows for the following categories: Light vehicles including cars, car-based vans and LGVs with an unladen weight of 3.5 tonnes or less, and HGVs with an unladen weight of greater than 3.5 tonnes;
• the annual average speed of vehicles using each link;
• road type and road surface material4;
• groundcover; and
• the distance from relevant receptors to each section of road included in the study area.
3.6.18 The assessment scenarios for calculating traffic-related noise levels will comprise:
• DM in the anticipated opening year for Phase 1;
• DS in the anticipated opening year for Phase 1;
• DM in the anticipated opening year for Phase 2;
• DS in the anticipated opening year for Phase 2;
• DM in the opening year for the fully completed scheme;
• DS in the opening year for the fully completed scheme;
• DM in the future assessment year for the fully completed scheme; and
4 Road surfacing is assumed as Hot Rolled Asphalt (HRA) where no Low Noise Surfacing (LNS) is installed, with a CRTN correction of 0. Where LNS has been applied, a correction of -3.5dB has been applied. All existing roads are assumed to be HRA surfaced.
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• DS in the future assessment year for the fully completed scheme.
3.6.19 Comparison will be made between the DM and DS scenario in the opening year for the completed scheme to evaluate the short-term impact of the proposed scheme in its fully completed form. TheDM scenario will be based on traffic data reflecting forecast growth from the baseline survey years of 2013-2014 without any allowance for the effect that the phased opening of the proposed scheme is anticipated to have on flows.
3.6.20 Comparison will be made between the DM scenario in the opening year for the fully completed scheme and the DS scenario in the future assessment year for the completed scheme to evaluate the long-term impact of the proposed scheme in its fully completed form. The DM scenario will be based on traffic data reflecting forecast growth from the baseline survey years of 2013 / 2014 without any allowance for the effect that the phased opening of the proposed scheme is anticipated to have on flows.
3.6.21 Comparison will also be made between the DM and DS scenarios in the opening years for each phase to provide an understanding of impacts potentially associated with the proposed prolonged construction period.
3.6.22 The DM scenario for the opening year of phases 1 and 2 will be based on traffic data reflecting forecast growth in the network between the baseline survey years of 2013- 2014 and the relevant opening years for each phase.
3.6.23 Subject to the findings of the comparisons, consideration will be given to the inclusion of mitigation measures such as low noise surfacing and / or environmental barriers in the form of noise fences and earth bunds.
3.6.24 The magnitude of impact for short-term and long-term changes, allowing for mitigation, will be those defined in the DMRB guidance as scheduled in Table 10 below.
Table 10: Magnitude of impacts
Noise level change Noise level change (LA10,18h dB) – for short (LA10,18h dB) – for long Magnitude of impact term noise impacts term noise impacts
0 0 No change 0.1-0.9 0.1-2.9 Negligible 1.0-2.9 3.0-4.9 Minor 3.0-4.9 5.0-9.9 Moderate 5.0+ 10.0+ Major Traffic-related noise during use – night time
3.6.25 In accordance with the guidance in the DMRB guidance, the assessment for traffic- related noise during night time will be focused on long-term impacts provided it is
predicted that Lnight,outside levels will be greater than 55dB in any scenario. The
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assessment will accordingly be focused where it is anticipated that there is likely to be
a change of 3dB Lnight,outside by virtue of the proposed scheme resulting in a doubling or halving of volumes of traffic using sections of road within the parts of the road network likely to be affected.
Traffic-related noise during use – nuisance
3.6.26 The study area for the assessment of noise related-nuisance will be that used for the assessment of increase and reductions in traffic-related noise during operation. The nuisance assessment will be conducted in terms of the percentage of the population as
a whole that is bothered “very much” or "quite a lot" by virtue of a specific traffic-related noise level. The correlation between specific levels and the percentage population bothered for the purposes of the assessment has been developed from research studies / questionnaire surveys (a summary of which is provided in Section 3, Part 7 of Volume 11 of the DMRB) which have been focused on reported nuisance where traffic- related noise has remained steady over a relatively long period of time and also where.
Construction-related vibration
3.6.27 The assessment will involve:
• identification of areas where piling, ground stabilisation, demolition, blasting or extended periods of breaking out of hard ground may be required;
• description of sensitive receptors and their proximity to the identified areas; and
• description of the approach to mitigation for the identified locations of potential risk.
Traffic-related vibration during use
3.6.28 DMRB notes a correlation between the percentage of people bothered by vibration
nuisance and the LA10,18hr statistical noise parameter experienced due to traffic noise. The correlation indicates that for a given level of noise exposure the percentage of people bothered “very much” or “quite a lot” by vibration is 10% lower than the
corresponding figure for noise nuisance. Where noise levels are below 58dB LA10,18hr, it can be assumed that the percentage of people bothered by vibration tends towards zero.
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3.6.29 The assessment of the operational airborne vibration undertaken has been informed by the guidelines provided in the DMRB and is limited to a corridor 40m wide5 on either side of the carriageway boundary.
3.7 Effects on all travellers
3.7.1 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported a number of studies, site surveys and assessments focused on impacts associated with increased and reduced severance for users of local roads, long distance footpaths, national cycle routes, local footpaths and scenic driving routes.
3.7.2 They are studies, surveys and assessments which will need to be revisited in light of the time which has elapsed since the completion of the A5WTC ES 2010.
3.7.3 The ES for the currently proposed scheme will accordingly include the findings of the following updated studies, surveys and assessments:
• impacts on users of long distance footpaths, local footpaths, local roads, national cycle routes and scenic driving routes;
• evaluation of driver stress relative to the existing A5 and the proposed A5WTC; and
• drivers’ experience in terms of the view from the road which would be available for users of the Proposed Scheme.
3.7.4 The assessments for severance and impacts on amenity for users of Public Rights of Way (ProW), local roads, local footpaths, long distance cycleways and scenic driving routes will be informed by the guidance provided in Chapter 6 of Section 3 Part 8 of Volume 11 of the DMRB – Pedestrians, Cyclists, Equestrians and Community Effects. The assessments for driver stress and views from the road will be informed by the guidance provided in Chapter 4 of Section 3 Part 9 of Volume 11 of the DMRB – Vehicle Travellers.
Impacts on users of footpaths, local roads, national cycle routes and scenic driving routes
3.7.5 The assessments will include all roads which are scheduled for stopping up as part of the proposed scheme. Public Rights of Way (ProW) long distance footpaths, bridleways, long distance cycle routes and scenic driving routes identified as being affected by the currently proposed scheme comprise:
5 The study area is limited to 40m as a result of the limitations of the empirical methodology of the studies into airborne vibration informing the DMRB methodology.
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• The Ulster Way;
• a footpath between Bessy Bell and the Strule River which is coincident with Ulster Way;
• a circular riverside walk with access off Lifford Road to existing jetties on the eastern bank of the River Foyle;
• a walk from the junction of Urney Road and Finn View in Strabane along Finn View and the crest of the flood defences following the eastern and southern banks of the Rivers Finn and Mourne;
• National Cycle Routes (NCRs) 92, 93 and 95;
• Sperrins Cycle Route 6;
• Central Sperrins Scenic Driving Route; and
• South Sperrins Scenic Driving Route.
3.7.6 The studies and assessments for the ES for the currently proposed scheme will involve a review of:
• the findings of the assessments reported in the A5WTC ES 2010;
• further consultation with Derry City Council, Strabane District Council, Omagh District Council and Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council to identify any new data relative to them and any information relating to new or proposed facilities that may have become available since the publication of the A5WTC ES 2010.
• a review of side road assessments and completed as part of the development of the transportation model for the proposed scheme.
3.7.7 The updated assessments will involve:
• review and update of the location of the principal communal facilities in the vicinity of the existing A5 corridor and the proposed scheme, with reference to the A5WTC ES 2010;
• review and update of PRoW, local roads, local footpaths, long distance cycleways and scenic driving routes potentially affected by the proposed scheme, with reference to the A5WTC ES 2010, and consultation with planning authorities and bodies representing NMUs;
• estimation of changes in distance travelled and travel time for diverted routes;
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• evaluation of the level of new severance based on combinations of criteria related to vehicle flows on new sections of road, the form of crossing provided and increases in journey length as detailed in Chapter 6 of Section 3, Part 8 of Volume 11 of the DMRB and replicated in Table 11 below;
• evaluation of the level of relief from severance based on consideration of the percentage reduction in traffic flows on existing roads as detailed in Chapter 7 of Section 3, Part 8 of Volume 11 of the DMRB; and replicated in Table 12 below; and
• description of changes in amenity associated with the identified routes.
Table 11: New severance impact ratings
Severance Criteria
Slight • pedestrian at-grade crossing of a new road carrying below 8,000 vehicles per day (AADT); • or a new bridge would need to be climbed or a subway traversed; • or journeys would be increased by 250m. Moderate • two or more of the hindrances set out under ‘slight’ applying to single trips; • or pedestrian at-grade crossing of a new road carrying 8,000-16,000 vehicles per day (AADT) in the opening year; or • journeys would be increased by 250-500m. Severe • pedestrian at-grade crossing of a new road carrying over 16,000 vehicles per day (AADT) in the opening year; • or journeys would be increased by over 500m; • or three or more of the hindrances set out under ‘slight’ or two or more set out under ‘moderate’.
Table 12: Relief from existing severance impact ratings
Level of relief from severance
Percentage reduction in existing traffic levels Slight Moderate Substantial
Built-up area c. 30% 30-60% 60%+ Rural area 60-75% 75-90% 90%+
3.7.8 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 will be reviewed and the impacts previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
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Driver stress
3.7.9 Evaluation of driver stress for sections of the existing A5 and the proposed scheme will be based on consideration of the following factors:
• traffic flows;
• journey speed;
• frustration - the inability to drive at a speed consistent with the driver’s wishes in relation to the general standard of the road;
• fear - the potential for accidents due to the presence of other vehicles, poor road standards and the possibility of pedestrians stepping into the road; and
• uncertainty - primarily due to signing that is inadequate for the driver’s purpose.
3.7.10 In relation to traffic flows and journey speed, Tables 2 and 3 of Chapter 4 of Section 3, Part 9 of Volume 11 of the DMRB provide indicative driver stress levels based on the average hourly flow per lane and average journey speed for dual carriageways and single carriageways respectively. Tables 13 and 14 below detail the guidance provided in the tables in the DMRB. The existing road is a single carriageway, whilst, with the exception of short lengths at each end, the proposed scheme will be a dual carriageway.
Table 13: Levels of stress for dual carriageway roads
Average hourly flow per lane (flow units Average journey speed (km/hr) / 1 hour) Under 60 60 – 80 Over 80
Under 600 High* Moderate Low 600-800 High Moderate Moderate Over 800 High High High Table 14: Levels of stress for single carriageway roads
Average hourly flow per lane (flow units / Average journey speed (km/hr) 1 hour) Under 50 50 – 70 Over 70
Under 600 High* Moderate Low 600-800 High Moderate Moderate Over 800 High High High
*Moderate in urban areas
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3.8 Community and private assets
3.8.1 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported a number of studies, site surveys and assessments focused on impacts associated with impacts on private property and associated land, property and land used by communities, land where development has been consented, agricultural land quality and farms.
3.8.2 They are studies, surveys and assessments which will need to be revisited in light of the time which has elapsed since the completion of the A5WTC ES 2010.
3.8.3 The ES for the currently proposed scheme will accordingly include the findings of the following updated studies, surveys and assessments:
• an assessment of impacts on private property and associated land;
• an assessment of impacts on property and land used by the community;
• an assessment of impacts on development land – that being land where development consent has been approved but implementation is incomplete or has not been progressed;
• an assessment of impacts on agricultural land relative to land quality; and
• an assessment of impacts on individual farms.
3.8.4 The conduct and presentation of the assessments will be informed by the guidance provided in Section 3, Part 6 of Volume 11 of the DMRB – Land Use.
Non-agricultural land use and planning applications
3.8.5 The assessments will involve quantification and description of properties in private and public ownership which will be subject to demolition and of land associated with land uses other than agricultural use which will be taken to facilitate implementation of the proposed scheme.
3.8.6 They will also involve consideration of the extent to which the proposed scheme will affect future implementation of planning applications which have been approved but where implementation of the consent on the approved site has not been progressed. Application sites identified will be screened in light of the scale and nature of the proposed development to determine those sites which are to be considered. The results of the screening exercise will be reported in an Appendix to the Community and Private Assets chapter of the ES.
3.8.7 Establishment of the baseline environment will involve reference to the following data sources:
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• A5 Western Transport Corridor, Environmental Statement, Mouchel, November 2010;
• Land Registry records from Land and Property Services;
• The Derry Area Plan 2011;
• Dungannon and South Tyrone Area Plan 2010;
• Omagh Area Plan 1987-2002;
• Strabane Area Plan 1986-2001; and
• information relating to approved and current planning applications via the Northern and Western regional offices of the PLGG.
3.8.8 Reference will be made to records of landowner meetings, consultations with officers of the Omagh and Londonderry regional offices of the Planning Service, and with Strabane District Council undertaken during the preparation of the A5WTC ES 2010.
3.8.9 Site surveys will be undertaken to confirm any changes in land use and the status of approved planning applications where implementation is being progressed but remains incomplete.
3.8.10 Further consultation will be undertaken with the Northern and Western regional offices of the PLGG to confirm the status of planned changes in land use and the status of approved planning applications which have not proceeded to implementation.
3.8.11 The identification of impacts will involve an overlaying of the permanent and temporary land take required for the construction of the proposed scheme to inform:
• the quantification of land which will be lost relative to existing land use and the function of the land that will be taken relative to the existing use;
• the description and quantification of impacts associated with the fragmentation / severance of the land use sites identified; and
• the description of impacts related to the proximity of the proposed scheme to an existing land use where amenity value of the environmental context is integral to the use.
3.8.12 Consultations will then be undertaken with landowners and / or parties responsible for operating existing land uses and currently consented planning applications. The consultations will be focused on establishing a clear understanding of the likely impacts relative to the magnitude of loss of property and land take, severance and fragmentation, likely changes in functional effectiveness, employment implications and
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impacts on user experience. The consultations will involve consideration of potential mitigation measures.
3.8.13 Predicted impacts post mitigation will then be categorised using the ratings defined in Table 15.
Table 15: Impact ratings and assessment criteria for non-agricultural land use
Impact Criteria rating
Negligible • a barely discernable impact on use or amenity value. Slight • landtake peripheral to existing or intended use; Adverse • activity that temporarily compromises or precludes use; and • loss of amenity that does not compromise use or intended use. Moderate • landtake that compromises but does not preclude existing or intended Adverse use; • activity that compromises or precludes use for a protracted period; and • loss of amenity that compromises but does not preclude use or intended use. Substantial • landtake that precludes existing or intended use; Adverse • activity that permanently compromises or precludes use; and • loss of amenity that precludes use or intended use.
Agricultural land quality
3.8.14 The assessment of impacts relative to agricultural land quality will involve a review of land classification data provided by the DARD. The extent of land which will be taken relative to each grade in the classification will be quantified.
3.8.15 The impact will be described relative to the loss of grades 1, 2 and 3a representing land of higher quality. The total of the higher quality land which will be taken will be compared to the total extent to higher quality land in Northern Ireland and the combined totals in Derry / Londonderry and Tyrone to represent the regional context. The information will then be considered by the land use assessment team to determine if the loss at either level is considered to constitute a significant environmental effect relative to the EIA Directive and Regulations.
Impact on farms
3.8.16 The assessment relating to individual farms will involve the following tasks:
• identification of farms which will be affected by the loss, severance or fragmentation of agricultural land by virtue of the implementation of the proposed scheme;
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• collection of data relevant to the status of the identified farms with reference to the total area of land farmed and nature of the farming activities undertaken;
• identification of predicted land take, fragmentation and severance;
• site-based meetings with landowners, with the exception of landowners where there will be no severance and the land take is small and along field boundaries;
• a review of design and mitigation measures taking into account preliminary impacts associated with land take / severance and further information gathered during site based meetings; and
• finalisation of impact ratings for all agricultural holdings.
3.8.17 Impact ratings for the farms included in the assessment will be based on the criteria described in Table 16.
Table 16: Impact ratings
Rating Description
Minor • An inconsequential land take or minimal loss of agricultural production, adverse relative to overall scale of the farm. • Insignificant severance or disruption to the present farm management routine, and infrastructure. • Insignificant impact on present farm output. • Little or no impact on overall operational viability of the farm. Moderate • Small to moderate land take relative to overall scale of the farm. Adverse • Small to moderate severance or disruption to the present farm management routine, and infrastructure. • Small to moderate impact on present farm output, arising from additional inputs associated with farming retained lands. • Moderate impact on overall operational viability of the farm. Substantial • A substantial Land take relative to overall scale of the farm. Adverse • Substantial severance or disruption of the present day to day management routine, and infrastructure • Significant impact on overall farm viability. • Significantly impact on farm output, arising from additional inputs associated with farming retained lands.
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3.9 Road drainage and water environment
3.9.1 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported a number of studies, site surveys and assessments focused on impacts on surface water, groundwater and floodplains.
3.9.2 They are studies, surveys and assessment which will need to be revisited in light of the time which has elapsed since the completion of the 2010 ES, intended modifications to the drainage proposals, changes to the anticipated construction period and changes in predicted traffic flows.
3.9.3 The ES for the proposed scheme will accordingly include updated or new studies and assessments relative to the three aspects of the water environment.
3.9.4 The conduct and presentation of the assessments will be informed by the guidance provided in Section 3, Part 10 of Volume 11 of the DMRB – HD 45/09 Road Drainage and the Water Environment.
3.9.5 A catchment-based approach has been employed for the RDWE ES Chapter, taking account of locations adjacent to and downstream of the scheme which could be impacted by this development.
3.9.6 The criteria adopted for the assessments will comprise consideration of the importance of the surface water potentially affected as defined in Table 4.3 in HD45/09 and replicated in Table 18 and the magnitude of impact as defined in Table 4.4 in HD/09 and replicated in Table 19. The significance of the effect will be based on consideration of the two criteria as indicated in Table 4.5 of HD45/09 and replicated in Table 20.
Surface water
Construction related pollution
3.9.7 The A5WTC ES 2010 reported assessments undertaken relative to pollution of surface water which may arise as a result of the release of sediments and suspended solids and accidental spillage of pollutants such as oil, fuel and concrete during construction.
3.9.8 The ES for the currently proposed scheme will include assessments addressing these issues and will involve:
• a review of the currently proposed scheme to identify any changes relative to working areas and surface waters ;
• a review of the proposed construction activities, working methods and programming with the contractor advisors for RS.
3.9.9 The information included in the A5WTC ES 2010 and obtained through the reviews will be evaluated and the impacts and proposed mitigation previously identified will be
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reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information and currently proposed scheme.
Pollution of surface water associated with routine runoff
3.9.10 Road-related runoff can contain pollutants, such as hydrocarbons (fuel and lubricants), fuel additives, metal from corrosion of vehicles, de-icer and gritting material which when washed off the road during rainfall events can pollute watercourses and water bodies which discharged to at outfalls.
3.9.11 The A5WTC reported the findings of studies and assessments undertaken relative to run-off where the drainage proposals for the proposed scheme involve discharges to watercourses. The ES for the currently proposed scheme will report the findings of new assessments for proposed discharges. These will be informed by updated traffic information for the currently proposed scheme and modified drainage proposals which are currently being developed.
3.9.12 Each discharge will be subject to:
• A Highways Agency Water Risk Assessment Tool (HAWRAT) assessment – HAWRAT is a Microsoft Excel application designed to assess the short-term risks related to the intermittent nature of road runoff. It assesses the acute and chronic pollution impacts on aquatic ecology associated with soluble and sediment bound pollutants respectively. The assessment follows a phased approach, estimating pollutant concentrations in raw road runoff, in-river after dilution and dispersion but without active mitigation, and finally with active mitigation.
• An Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) assessment – EQS are the maximum permissible annual average concentrations of potentially hazardous chemicals, as defined under the WFD. The long-term risks over the period of one year are assessed through comparison of the annual average concentration of pollutants discharged with the published EQS for those pollutants.
• A sediment assessment – the sediment assessment comprises two elements, firstly a calculation of the total suspended solids (TSS) concentration discharged from each road drainage outfall at the ‘end of pipe’ and secondly the annual average concentration of TSS in the receiving watercourses as a result of the road drainage discharges.
3.9.13 Flow data for the receiving watercourses will be collated from the National River Flow Archive (NRFA), where the watercourses are gauged. Flow data for the smaller watercourses which are not gauged will be derived from LowFlows software. Water quality data for the relevant watercourses will be collated from recent monitoring data collected by NIEA and LA. This will be supplemented by monitoring data collected by
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Mouchel in 2013 and 2014. The WFD status will be collated from NIEA data available online. Information presented within the A5WTC ES 2010 will also be reviewed.
Hawrat assessments
3.9.14 The input data for the HAWRAT assessments will comprise:
• AADT volumes for each road drainage network, as provided by the A5WTC drainage design team, which will be derived from updated traffic models;
• use of rainfall datasets for the Carmoney rainfall site (8km north east of Londonderry/Derry) as embedded in the program;
• size of impermeable and permeable road areas drained in each road drainage network, as provided by the A5WTC drainage design team;
• Q95, the flow exceeded 95% of the time and baseflow index for each receiving watercourse, to be derived from the LowFlows software;
• water hardness for each receiving watercourse, to be derived from the baseline water quality monitoring data;
• data on whether the outfall locations are within 1km of a protected site, to be established from the baseline data collected;
• data on whether there are structures within 100m downstream of the outfall locations which could reduce flow velocity e.g. weirs, culvert or ponds, to be established from baseline data and site survey; and
• receiving watercourse dimensions (river width, bed width, side slope and long slope) and Manning’s n (channel roughness coefficient) for each receiving watercourse, to be derived from site survey data.
EQS assessments
3.9.15 The EQS assessment will also use the above information to estimate the annual average concentrations of copper and zinc discharged from each outfall. These figures are then compared with the published EQS limits for these parameters.
TSS assessments
3.9.16 The first part of the sediment assessment will involve the calculation of the ‘end of pipe’ concentration of TSS at each outfall. Calculation parameters include the expected average raw TSS load from the road as derived from Highways Agency (HA) research, and the estimated treatment efficiency of any treatment systems included within each
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road drainage network. The results will be evaluated against a 50mg/l TSS discharge limit, as agreed with the NIEA.
3.9.17 The second part of the sediment assessment will involve calculation of the median concentration of TSS in the receiving watercourses as a result of the road drainage discharges. This will take into account the baseline TSS concentration in the watercourses, as established from baseline water quality monitoring, and the expected TSS concentration in routine road runoff, based on average figures derived from HA research. Annual average runoff/flows for both the receiving watercourses and the road drainage networks will be estimated using the Standard Annual Average Rainfall (SAAR) as obtained from the Flood Estimation Handbook (FEH) and estimated catchment areas. The calculation of annual average river flow will also take into account potential evapotranspiration. The results for each outfall will be evaluated against an annual average sediment limit of 25mg/l TSS as per the previous Freshwater Fish Directive (FFD), now considered subsumed into the Water Framework Directive.. A limit of 10mg/l TSS will be applied for watercourses identified as having Atlantic Salmon spawning and/or nursery ground potential, in line with the JNCC Common Standards Monitoring Guidance, and as agreed with LA.
3.9.18 Should any of the assessments indicate outfalls will fail to meet the acceptance criteria, appropriate mitigation measures will be identified. The effectiveness of these measures at reducing the various pollutants will be determined based on updated DMRB guidance, due to be published in the near future and currently available in draft format. The relevant assessments will be re-run with these treatment efficiencies applied to confirm that adequate mitigation is proposed.
3.9.19 The above assessments will be carried out for each proposed road drainage outfall. Combined6 assessments will also be carried out where multiple road drainage outfalls discharge to a single reach of a watercourse. Combined assessment is required for the soluble metal elements of HAWRAT where multiple outfalls are located within 1km of each other on a single reach of a watercourse i.e. where there is no significant change in the river flow between the outfall locations (such as would occur where a tributary joins the main watercourse). Combined assessment of the sediment elements of HAWRAT is required where the outfalls lie within 100m of each other on a single reach.
3.9.20 The proposed phasing of construction is likely to result in temporary variations in the traffic flows in discrete areas. It is possible these temporary flows may be greater than the final permanent flows, with a corresponding temporary increase in pollutant build- up rates in the affected road drainage networks. To ensure that the proposed scheme adequately treats the potential for temporary increases in traffic flows, the traffic data for each of the construction phases and the final design year will be compared and the highest flows for each network shall be used in the routine run off assessments.
6 DMRB uses the term Cumulative Assessment, however, to avoid confusion with assessments of Cumulative Effects with other schemes.
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3.9.21 The significance of the predicted operational construction pollution impacts will be evaluated using the criteria and ratings detailed in Tables 18, 19 and 20.
Pollution associated with operational accidental spillage
3.9.22 The DMRB document HA 45/09 specifies mandatory procedures for the assessment of pollution impacts from accidental spillage, known as Method D. The assessment takes the form of a risk assessment, where the risk is expressed as the annual probability of a serious pollution incident occurring. This risk is the product of two probabilities:
• The probability that an accident will occur, resulting in a serious spillage of a polluting substance on the carriageway; and
• The probability that, if such a spillage did occur, the polluting substance would reach the receiving watercourse and cause a serious pollution incident
3.9.23 The probability of a serious spillage occurring is dependent on a variety of factors: traffic volumes, percentage of heavy goods vehicles in the traffic volumes, whether the road is motorway, rural or urban trunk road, the road type categories within the road drainage network under assessment i.e. ‘no junction’, ‘slip road’, ‘cross road’ or ‘roundabout’, and the length of each road type within the network. The traffic data will be derived from updated traffic models, while the road type categories and length will be determined using the project GIS.
3.9.24 The probability of a serious spillage causing a serious pollution incident is dependent on the receiving waterbody type, i.e. surface water or groundwater, and the response time of the emergency services, i.e. less than 20 minutes, less than one hour or greater than one hour. The response times for each network will be determined based on the proximity of the nearest fire station and the travel time between, as determined from the traffic model.
3.9.25 Typically, an annual probability of 1% (i.e. a 1 in 100 chance of a serious pollution incident occurring in any one year) is considered an acceptable risk. However where a road drainage outfall discharges within 1km of a sensitive receptor, such as a protected conservation site, a higher level of protection is required such that the risk has an annual probability of 0.5% (i.e. a 1 in 200 chance of occurring in any one year).
3.9.26 The pollution risk will initially be assessed assuming there are no measures in place to mitigate the risk. Where the initial calculations indicate that the risk exceeds the annual probability threshold, potential pollution control measures will be considered and probabilities re-calculated taking into account proposed mitigation with appropriate risk reduction factors, as specified in HD 45/09 Method A’s 3 step process.
3.9.27 As with the routine runoff assessment, the construction phasing may result in temporary increases in traffic flows, % HGVs and travel times for discrete networks.
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The traffic data will be analysed and data selected that represents the worst case for the accidental spillage calculations.
3.9.28 The significance of the predicted operational pollution impacts will be evaluated using the criteria and ratings detailed in Tables 18, 19 and 20.
Changes in the geomorphological regime
3.9.29 Changes in the geomorphological regime, such as erosion, deposition and channel migration as a result of proposed watercourse diversions, culverts or bridges and outfall structures. A reduction in morphological diversity can subsequently impact on water quality and biodiversity.
3.9.30 The qualitative geomorphological assessment reported in the A5WTC ES 2010 will be reviewed and revised as necessary. The assessment will be carried out using data collated through desk studies and field surveys for the A5WTC ES 2010. Aerial photography and historic mapping have been studied for evidence of historic channel instability in the relevant river reaches. Field investigations have taken a river reconnaissance or fluvial audit approach, which identify channel morphology, bed and bank material, degree of vegetation, areas of erosion and deposition, historic channel change and land use.
3.9.31 From this baseline assessment a qualitative estimation will be made of how active the river is and the likely effect the development proposals (such as culverts, bridges, outfalls and watercourse realignments) may have on the existing geomorphology of the relevant watercourses.
3.9.32 The significance of the predicted construction impacts will be evaluated using the criteria and ratings detailed in Tables 18, 19 and 20.
Changes to the WFD status of water bodies
3.9.33 The WFD Assessment will be informed by the guidance provided in the NIEA document ‘Carrying out a Water Framework Directive Assessment on EIA Developments’ and through consultation with the NIEA Water Management Unit (WMU).
3.9.34 The potential impact on individual WFD water bodies and their component watercourse reaches, from the various components of the scheme that may interact with the waterbodies i.e. culverts, bridges, watercourse diversions and road drainage discharges, will be assessed in light of the following WFD objectives:
• To prevent deterioration in the ecological status of the water body;
• To prevent the introduction of impediments to the attainment of Good WFD status of the water body;
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• To ensure that the attainment of the WFD objectives for the water body are not compromised; and
• To ensure the achievement of the WFD objectives in other water bodies within the same catchment are not permanently excluded or compromised.
3.9.35 The NIEA guidance advocates assessing the impact for each individual scheme component on the WFD status of the relevant waterbody separately; with a summary datasheet, detailing the assessment, produced for each individual scheme component. However, given the scale of the A5WTC scheme, the number of individual scheme components, and the likely repetition of baseline watercourse data where multiple scheme components are located within a single watercourse reach (as is often the case there may be a culvert, diversion and one or more outfalls at a single location), it is proposed that an alternative watercourse specific approach is used. This approach would involve taking an individual watercourse reach, identifying all the scheme components that will interact with that reach and assessing the overall impact that these will have on the reach. This approach is considered to better illustrate the combined impacts on the watercourse and overall WFD waterbody.
3.9.36 The assessment will involve identifying each watercourse reach the scheme will interact with and collating baseline data on their hydromorphological regime, water quality and WFD ecological status. The sources for this data will be as described for the routine runoff pollution assessment.
3.9.37 All scheme components impacting an individual watercourse reach will be identified and details provided e.g. for each culvert the culvert dimensions, gradient and type (such as box or pipe).
3.9.38 The impact on the watercourse reach from the scheme components will then be assessed against the relevant WFD classification elements e.g. fish, invertebrates, chemistry, hydromorphology, etc. The results of the various assessments described above will feed into this process. Where a scheme component is found to be not compliant with the WFD objectives, appropriate and design mitigation measures shall be employed to ensure the objectives are met.
3.9.39 The significance of the predicted construction pollution impacts will be evaluated using the criteria and ratings detailed in Tables 18, 19 and 20.
Groundwater
Construction related pollution
3.9.40 Assessment of the potential for pollution of groundwater / aquifers will involve a review of locations where cuttings or deep foundations are proposed which would be close to or potentially penetrate the water table, locations where there are permeable drift
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deposits; and the proposed mitigation measures targeted at avoiding or minimising the risk of construction pollution.
3.9.41 The significance of the predicted construction pollution impacts will be evaluated using the criteria and ratings detailed in Tables 18, 19 and 20 below.
Pollution of groundwater associated with routine runoff
3.9.42 A groundwater routine runoff assessment is required where drainage proposals include either full or partial discharge to groundwaters via soakaways, infiltration basins or other sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) features with an infiltration component. Subject to finalisation of the detailed drainage proposals it is anticipated that such an assessment will be required for some 26 outfalls for which wetlands have been proposed.
3.9.43 The assessment comprises a risk assessment procedure informed by the source- pathway-receptor model, which is detailed in Method C of the DMRB document HD 45/09. A number of parameters are considered in turn and assigned a risk category as reproduced in Table 17 below.
Table 17: Groundwater routine runoff assessment parameters
Low Risk Medium Risk High Risk Parameter (1) (2) (3) Weighting
Traffic 50,000 to 15 < 50,000 AADT > 100,000 AADT density <100,000 AADT Ann. Ave. 740 – 1060 mm Source 15 Rainfall and < 740mm rainfall > 1060 mm rainfall rainfall intensity Continuous Single point, or linear shallow Single point, deep Soakaway 15 (e.g. ditch, soakaway (e.g. serving high road geometry grassed lagoon) serving area (>5,000m2) channel) low road area Depth to water Unsaturated table >15m and Depth to water Depth to water 20 zone unproductive table 5-15m table <5m strata Pathway Unconsolidated Heavily Consolidated or non-fractured consolidated deposits (i.e. consolidated sedimentary mixed fracture 20 Flow type deposits (i.e. deposits, igneous and dominantly and metamorphic intergranular intergranular rocks (dominated flow) flow) by fracture porosity)
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Low Risk Medium Risk High Risk Parameter (1) (2) (3) Weighting
Effective Fine sand and Very coarse sand 7.5 Coarse sand grain size below and above >15% clay 1-5% clay 7.5 Lithology <1% clay minerals minerals minerals
3.9.44 The parameter characteristics at each groundwater discharge location will be determined from the results of the traffic modelling, rainfall data from the Flood Estimation Handbook (FEH), geological and hydrogeological data available from the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland (GSNI), ground investigation data and the results of groundwater abstraction surveys and monitoring.
3.9.45 The risk of adverse impact at each of the proposed discharges will be determined by multiplying the risk factor attributed to each parameter by the weighting factor and adding the resultant scores to establish a total for the discharge. This has then been evaluated against the following risk ratings, as per the DMRB assessment procedure:
• Overall risk score < 150 – low risk of impact.
• Overall risk score 150-250 – medium risk of impact.
• Overall risk score > 250 – high risk of impact.
3.9.46 The significance of the predicted impacts of routine runoff to groundwater will be evaluated using the criteria and ratings detailed in Tables 18, 19 and 20. Mitigation will be proposed where a significant impact has been identified.
Pollution of groundwater related to accidental spillage
3.9.47 The groundwater accidental spillage assessment will be identical to that described above for surface water accidental spillage.
Groundwater drawdown related to deep cuttings
3.9.48 The groundwater drawdown assessment will comprise an assessment of the impact of road cuttings on groundwater flows and levels on the aquifers and abstractions in the vicinity of each of the cuttings.
3.9.49 To determine the likely impact of de-watering of cuttings on groundwater flows and levels the drawdown distance / area of influence will be calculated for each cutting. There is no published formula for the distance of influence from linear features such as
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cuttings, therefore the empirical formula of Sichardt for calculating the radius of influence of groundwater abstractions will be used:
L = C(H-h)√K
where, L = distance / radius of influence, K = permeability, H-h = groundwater table drawdown i.e. penetration of the cutting beneath the water table and C = 2000, where C is a constant.
3.9.50 The permeability of the aquifer and existing groundwater levels will be estimated from available ground investigation data and the results of groundwater abstraction surveys and monitoring. To account for the uncertainties of the method described in 3.9.48-49 above, groundwater dependant receptors that are just outside the radius of influence will be included in the monitoring along with those identified as being likely to be impacted or possibly affected.
3.9.51 A qualitative assessment will then be made of the magnitude of the impact on the groundwater aquifer and nearby groundwater dependent receptors, such as private water supply boreholes and wetlands, identified through desk study and site survey. The proposed mitigation previously identified will be reassessed and either confirmed or modified in light of the current information. The significance of the predicted construction pollution impacts will be evaluated using the criteria and ratings detailed in Tables 18, 19 and 20.
Change in groundwater infiltration
3.9.52 The change in groundwater infiltration due to the impermeable surface of the carriageway will be assessed by considering the likely loss of rainfall infiltration and comparing this to the overall volume of abstractions for public and private water supplies in the vicinity of the proposed scheme. A qualitative assessment will then be made of the impact on the abstractions.
3.9.53 The significance of the predicted construction pollution impacts will be evaluated using the criteria and ratings detailed in Tables 18, 19 and 20.
Flood risk
3.9.54 A Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) will be carried out using methods informed by HD 45/09, Method E – Hydrological Assessment of Design Floods and Method F – Hydraulic Assessment. The FRA studies will be undertaken in accordance with PPS15: Planning and Flood Risk.
3.9.55 The objectives will be to:
• assess the risk to the development from all potential sources of flooding;
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• assess the risk of increasing flooding elsewhere as a consequence of the development; and
• determine appropriate mitigation measures to limit the impact of flooding on the development and off-site flooding due to increased runoff. The use of sustainable drainage techniques and the use of floodplain connectors shall be discussed in the ES submission.
3.9.56 The results of the FRA will be reported separately in a standalone document, however the findings will be summarised in the ES.
Impact assessment criteria
3.9.57 The criteria relating to the importance of surface water, groundwater and floodplains is that described in Table 18 below.
Table 18: Importance criteria
Importance Criteria
• Large or medium watercourses with pristine / near pristine water quality. • High WFD Overall Status Watercourses. • Watercourse supporting major/critical public water supplies. • Designated Salmonid fisheries. • Sites protected under EU or UK wildlife legislation (SAC, SPA, Ramsar, ASSI sites). • Water dependent ecosystems of international/national biodiversity value. • Watercourses supporting a wide range of significant species and habitats sensitive to changes in suspended sediment concentrations Very High and turbidity such as salmon or freshwater pearl mussels. • Watercourses with diverse morphological features such as pools and riffles. • Dynamic watercourses showing evidence of channel migration and other morphological changes such as bar evolution. • Watercourses or floodplains, with direct flood risk to adjacent populated areas and/or presence of critical infrastructure such as schools and hospitals etc, which are highly sensitive to increased flood risk by the possible increase in water levels. • Watercourses or floodplains that provide critical flood alleviation benefits. • Principal groundwater aquifer supporting public water supply. • Good WFD Overall Status Groundwaters.
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• Medium or small watercourses with minor degradation of water quality as a result of anthropogenic factors. • Good WFD Overall Status Watercourses. • Watercourses supporting minor/non-critical public drinking water supplies. • Designated Cyprinid fisheries with imperative and guideline limit passes. • Water dependent ecosystems of regional / county biodiversity value. • Watercourses supporting some species and habitats sensitive to changes in suspended sediment concentrations and turbidity. High • Watercourses with some morphological features such as pools and riffles. • Watercourses showing some evidence of historic channel migration and other morphological changes. • Watercourses or floodplains, with a possibility of direct flood risk to less populated areas without critical infrastructure, which are sensitive to increased flood risk by the possible increase in water levels. • Watercourses or floodplains that provide significant flood alleviation benefits. • Principal groundwater aquifer supporting private water supply or secondary groundwater aquifer supporting public/private water supply. • Good WFD Overall Status Groundwaters. • Small watercourses with degradation of water quality as a result of anthropogenic factors. • Moderate WFD Overall Status Watercourses. • Watercourses supporting private drinking water supplies or for agricultural / industrial use. • Designated Cyprinid fisheries with imperative limit passes but guideline limit failures. • Water dependent ecosystems of county/district biodiversity value. • Watercourses supporting limited species and habitats sensitive to changes in suspended sediment concentrations and turbidity. Medium • Watercourses with limited morphological diversity. • Watercourses showing limited evidence of historic channel migration and other morphological changes. • Watercourses or floodplains, with a possibility of direct flood risk to high value agricultural areas, which are moderately sensitive to increased flood risk by the possible increase in water levels. • Watercourses or floodplains that provide some flood alleviation benefits. • Principal / secondary A groundwater aquifer not currently supporting a drinking water supply. • Poor WFD Overall Status Groundwaters.
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• Small heavily modified watercourses or drains with poor water quality as a result of anthropogenic factors. • Poor / bad WFD Overall Status Watercourses. • Watercourses not supporting water abstractions. • Water dependent ecosystems of local/less than local biodiversity value. • Watercourses which do not support any significant species and habitats sensitive to changes in suspended sediment concentrations and turbidity. • Low Watercourses with no morphological diversity. • Watercourses showing no evidence of active fluvial processes and unlikely to be affected by modification to boundary conditions. • Watercourses or floodplains passing through low value agricultural areas, which are less sensitive to increased flood risk by the possible increase in water levels. • Watercourses or floodplains that provide limited flood alleviation benefits. • Secondary B aquifers / unproductive strata / no aquifers. • Poor WFD Overall Status Groundwaters.
3.9.58 The criteria relating to the magnitude of impacts on surface water, groundwater and floodplains is that described in Table 19 overleaf.
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Table 19: Magnitude criteria
Magnitude Criteria
• High risk of pollution during construction, significant temporary or long- term change in water quality, resulting in a permanent change in WFD status. • Failure of both soluble and sediment bound pollutants in HAWRAT and EQS compliance failure. • Failure to meet both the ‘end of pipe’ and annual average sediment limits. • Risk of pollution from accidental spillage during operation > 2% annually. Major • Major change in geomorphological conditions ie major changes in Adverse sediment patterns due to deposition or erosion, major reduction in morphological diversity, or major interruption to fluvial processes such as channel planform evolution, all with significant consequences for ecological quality. • Major groundwater flow changes with significant consequences on nearby groundwater dependent habitats/abstractions. • Increase in the peak flood level of >100mm for the 1% annual probability (1 in 100 year) flood. • Significant increase in extent of flood risk areas as defined on the Rivers Agency (RA) strategic flood maps. • Moderate risk of pollution during construction, moderate temporary change in water quality, resulting in a temporary change of WFD status. • Failure of both soluble and sediment bound pollutants in HAWRAT but compliance with EQS limits. • Failure to meet the ‘end of pipe’ sediment limits but compliance with the annual average sediment limits. • Risk of pollution from accidental spillage during operation > 1% annually. Moderate • Moderate change in geomorphological conditions ie moderate changes Adverse in sediment patterns due to deposition or erosion, moderate changes in morphological diversity, or moderate interruption to fluvial processes such as channel planform evolution, all with moderate consequences for ecological quality. • Moderate groundwater flow changes with minor consequences on nearby groundwater dependent habitats/abstractions. • Increase in the peak flood level of >50mm for the 1% annual probability (1 in 100 year) flood. • Moderate increase in extent 3 flood risk areas as defined on the RA strategic flood maps.
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• Minor risk of pollution during construction, relatively minor temporary changes in water quality such that ecology is temporarily affected. Equivalent to a temporary minor, but measurable, change within WFD status class. • Failure of either soluble and sediment bound pollutants in HAWRAT but compliance with EQS limits. • Failure to meet the annual average sediment limits but compliance with the ‘end of pipe’ sediment limits. • Risk of pollution from accidental spillage during operation > 0.5% annually. Minor • Minor change in geomorphological conditions ie minor changes in Adverse sediment transport, minor changes in morphological diversity, or minor interruption to fluvial processes such as channel planform evolution, all with minimal impact on ecological quality. Any changes are likely to be highly localised. • Minor groundwater flow changes with minimal impact on nearby groundwater dependent habitats / abstractions. • Increase in the peak flood level of >10mm for the 1% annual probability (1 in 100 year) flood. • Minor increase in extent of flood risk areas as defined on the RA strategic flood maps, magnitude of change similar to the errors associated with the estimate of the extent. • Negligible risk of pollution during construction, very slight temporary change in water quality with no discernible effect on watercourse ecology. • All elements of HAWRAT and EQS assessments passed. • Both ‘end of pipe’ and annual average sediment limits met. • Risk of pollution from accidental spillage during operation <0.5% annually. • Negligible change in geomorphological conditions ie No discernible Negligible changes in sediment patterns, negligible changes in morphological diversity, no change to fluvial processes, all with no discernible impact on ecological quality. Any changes are likely to be highly localised. • Negligible groundwater flow changes with no discernible impact on nearby groundwater dependent habitats/abstractions. • Increase in the peak flood level of <10mm for the 1% annual probability (1 in 100 year) flood. • No discernible increase in extent of flood risk areas, as defined on the RA strategic flood maps, the magnitude of change being much less than errors associated with the estimate of the extent.
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3.9.59 Impact significance ratings which wil be adopted are indicted in Table 20 below.
Table 20: Impact significance matrix
Importance of Magnitude of impact waterbody Major Moderate Minor Negligible
Very high Very large Large / Very Moderate / Neutral large Large High Large / Very Moderate / Slight / Neutral large Large Moderate Medium Large Moderate Slight Neutral Low Slight / Slight Neutral Neutral Moderate
3.10 Cumulative effects
3.10.1 The ES for the currently proposed scheme will include assessments focused on cumulative effects. These will relate to a combination of impacts on a particular receptor associated with the proposed scheme, or a combination of impacts associated with the proposed scheme and other development which has received development consent but which has not been implemented.
3.10.2 Subject to responses to the scoping report, the following developments have been identified as ones which it would be appropriate to include in the cumulative assessments:
• N15/N15 Lifford Link Road;
• Hazardous Substances Consent A/2011/0686/HSC Carkeel Industrial Park;
• An 11kv powerline spur crossing the River Strule near Bunderg Road (J/2013/0048/F);
• Erection of a 250kw Wind Turbine north of Bunderg Road (J/2013/0269/F);
• A footbridge linking Meeting House Street and the Melvin recreational grounds in Strabane (J/2008/0612/F); and
• The 3 Rivers Development at Strabane.
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4 Indicative structure for the Environmental Statement
4.1 The structure
4.1.1 The Environmental Statement will be presented in three volumes:
Volume 1: Environmental Statement
Volume 2: Figures
Volume 3: Appendices
4.1.2 A Non-Technical Summary, as required by Article 67 of the Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993 will be included in the front of Volume 1 and will also be available as a separate brochure.
4.2 Volume 1
4.2.1 It is intended Volume 1 will comprise:
Chapter 1 – Introduction
4.2.2 This chapter will include a brief introduction to the proposed scheme, the scheme objectives, the statutory context for the EIA and the ES, and the required content of the ES.
Chapter 2 – The need for the scheme
4.2.3 This chapter will include an overview of the policy context together with the aspects associated with the existing A5 (including safety, accidents, access and traffic flows) which the proposed scheme will address.
Chapter 3 – Consultation
4.2.4 This chapter will include an overview of the consultations (including public exhibitions, liaisons and discussions) held throughout the scheme development and the EIA process with statutory consultees, landowners and other stakeholders.
Chapter 4 – Alternatives
4.2.5 This chapter will describe the alternatives considered during identification of the preferred corridor and consideration of route options and outline the factors leading to the choice of the currently proposed scheme.
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Chapter 5 – The existing environment
4.2.6 This chapter will provide an overview of the existing environment in which the proposed scheme will be located.
Chapter 6 – The proposed scheme
4.2.7 This chapter will describe the key design components, construction activities, anticipated programme and operational characteristics associated with the proposed scheme.
Chapter 7 – Scoping and introduction to the assessments
4.2.8 This chapter will explain the scope of the studies and assessments reported in the ES.
Chapters 8 – 17 – The studies and assessments
4.2.9 These chapters will report the findings of the studies, surveys and assessments which have been undertaken and describe any significant effects which have been identified including cumulative impacts and effects.
Chapter 18 – Schedule of environmental commitments
4.2.10 This chapter will schedule the design and mitigation measures proposed in relation to the various environmental impacts identified.
4.3 Volume 2
4.3.1 Volume 2 will contain figures, referred to in Volume 1, in support or explanation of the description of the existing environment and the proposed scheme and the evaluation and assessment of the predicted impacts.
4.4 Volume 3
4.4.1 Volume 3 will contain appendices, referred to in Volume 1 and will include relevant detailed reports of the assessments and supporting detail and documentation relevant to the individual assessments.
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