Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera Frs Interim Works

BALLYVOURNEY AND BALLYMAKEERA FRS INTERIM WORKS

Ecological Impact Assessment

CP19008RP001

Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera FRS Interim Works - Ecological Impact Assessment F02

3rd December 2019

rpsgroup.com

ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Document status

Review Version Purpose of document Authored by Reviewed by Approved by date Green Leaf Ecology Ecological Impact Michelle Bennett Michelle F02 and Michael 03/12/19 Assessment Bennett Houston, RPS Mark Magee

Approval for issue

Michelle Bennett 3 December 2019

© Copyright RPS Group Limited. All rights reserved. The report has been prepared for the exclusive use of our client and unless otherwise agreed in writing by RPS Group Limited no other party may use, make use of or rely on the contents of this report. The report has been compiled using the resources agreed with the client and in accordance with the scope of work agreed with the client. No liability is accepted by RPS Group Limited for any use of this report, other than the purpose for which it was prepared. RPS Group Limited accepts no responsibility for any documents or information supplied to RPS Group Limited by others and no legal liability arising from the use by others of opinions or data contained in this report. It is expressly stated that no independent verification of any documents or information supplied by others has been made. RPS Group Limited has used reasonable skill, care and diligence in compiling this report and no warranty is provided as to the report’s accuracy. No part of this report may be copied or reproduced, by any means, without the written permission of RPS Group Limited.

Prepared by: Prepared for:

RPS Cork County Council

Coastal Management & Flood Projects Dept., Innishmore, Ballincollig County Hall, Carrigrohane Road Co. Cork P31 KR68 Cork

T +353 21 466 5900 T +353 21 4276891

E [email protected] E [email protected]

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Contents 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Background ...... 1 1.2 Description of the Project ...... 1 2 METHODOLOGY ...... 3 2.1 Relevant Planning Policy and Legislation ...... 3 2.2 Desk Study ...... 4 2.3 Field Survey ...... 4 2.3.1 Kerry Slug ...... 5 2.3.2 Otter Survey ...... 6 2.3.3 Bat Survey ...... 6 2.4 Aquatic Ecology ...... 8 2.4.1 Habitat Assessment ...... 9 2.4.2 Biological Water Quality ...... 10 2.4.3 Macroinvertebrate Biodiversity Assessment ...... 10 2.4.4 Aquatic Plant Biodiversity Assessment ...... 10 2.4.5 Freshwater Pearl Mussel ...... 10 2.5 Impact Assessment Criteria ...... 10 2.6 Survey Constraints ...... 11 3 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT ...... 12 3.1 Site Summary and Context ...... 12 3.2 Designated Sites ...... 12 3.3 Terrestrial Ecology ...... 20 3.3.1 Habitats ...... 20 3.3.2 Species ...... 23 3.4 Aquatic Ecology ...... 28 3.4.1 Habitat Assessment ...... 28 3.4.2 Biological Water Quality ...... 29 3.4.3 Freshwater Pearl Mussel ...... 29 3.5 Summary of Ecological Evaluation ...... 30 4 POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ...... 32 4.1 Construction Phase ...... 32 4.1.1 Designated Sites ...... 32 4.1.2 Habitats ...... 33 4.1.3 Fauna ...... 33 4.2 Operational Phase ...... 36 4.2.1 Designated Sites ...... 36 4.2.2 Habitats ...... 36 4.2.3 Fauna ...... 37 4.3 Decommissioning Phase ...... 37 4.3.1 Designated Sites ...... 37 4.3.2 Habitats ...... 37

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4.3.3 Fauna ...... 38 5 MITIGATION ...... 40 5.1 Construction Phase ...... 40 5.1.1 Pollution Prevention Measures ...... 40 5.1.2 Invasive Species ...... 42 5.1.3 Works Management ...... 43 5.2 Operational Phase ...... 44 5.3 Decommissioning Phase ...... 44 5.3.1 Pollution Prevention Measures ...... 44 5.4 Residual Impacts ...... 45 6 CONCLUSION ...... 46 7 REFERENCES ...... 47

Tables Table 2-1: Suitability of Habitats for Bats ...... 7 Table 2-2: Aquatic Habitat Valuation Scale ...... 9 Table 3-1: International and National Designated Sites within 15km of the Proposed Interim Works Area ...... 13 Table 3-2: Terrestrial Habitats Present within the Proposed Interim Works Area ...... 23 Table 3-3: Summary of Q-Ratings ...... 29 Table 3-4: Ecological Features within the Proposed Site and Its Receiving Environment ...... 30 Table 5-1: Table of Construction Phase Mitigation Measures...... 40 Table 5-2: Table of Decommissioning Phase Mitigation Measures ...... 44

Figures Figure 1-1: Map of the Proposed Interim Works at Ballymakeera ...... 2 Figure 3-1: European Sites within 15km of the Proposed Interim Works, Ballymakeera ...... 18 Figure 3-2: Nationally Designated Sites within 15km of the Proposed Interim Works, Ballymakeera ...... 19 Figure 3-3: Interim Works Area: Habitat Map ...... 22 Figure 3-4: Photographs of Giant Knotweed at the Village Bend, March 2019...... 25 Figure 3-5: Interim Works Area: Invasive Alien Species ...... 26

Appendices Appendix A Baile Mhic Íre Interim Works Report Appendix B Geographical Reference for Ecological Assessment Appendix C NBDC Protected and Invasive Species Records from OS Grid Square W27D Appendix D Aquatic Ecology Survey Results - Sullane River Habitat Assessment

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1 INTRODUCTION

Greenleaf Ecology was commissioned by RPS on behalf of Cork County Council (CCC) to undertake an Ecological Assessment of interim flood defence works to be carried out at Ballymakeera, County Cork. The contracting authority for the works is CCC. The interim works have been designed by the Office of Public Works (OPW), who are the lead agency for flood risk management in the Republic of Ireland. The purpose of this ecological assessment is to: gather data on existing ecological conditions in the interim flood defence works project area; evaluate the ecological features present; scope for notable species or habitats and identify potential ecological constraints to the proposed project.

1.1 Background As part of the Lee Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management Study (CFRAMS), Ballymakeera and Ballyvourney were highlighted as an area where a flood relief scheme was required due to flood events generally arising from flooding of the Sullane River. Interim works are now proposed to be carried out pending the finalisation and approval of, and implementation of, a permanent solution. The objective of these works is to provide interim defences to defend against a 20-year event, that are practical, safe and do not increase flood risk. The interim hard defences will consist of 1,000kg (10KN) sand bags and / or impermeable liners and other works are also proposed as discussed later within this report. The specific locations of the proposed defences and detail on the flood levels to be protected against are included in the OPW Ballymakeera Proposed Interim Works Report as included in Appendix A. Due to the objective of the interim works to provide temporary flood defences prior to the implementation of the Main Flood Relief Scheme (FRS), alternatives to the proposed works (as described in Section 1.2) were not considered.

1.2 Description of the Project The following interim works are proposed (as detailed in Appendix A):  Interim hard defences are anticipated to consist of 1000Kg (I0KN) sand bags and impermeable liners. The location of the interim hard defences is illustrated by the maroon line in Figure 1.1. No instream works will be required to install the sandbags. The precise line of the defences will be agreed with CCC during a site walkover in advance of the commencement of works. While proposals are for an interim period, the materials proposed to be used have a design life of 20 years.  Land-raising at field access points at three locations, to allow access to/from the existing gateways whilst also mitigating against the 20-year flood levels. The proposed land raising areas are illustrated with green lines in Figure 1.1.  The fitting of two non-return valves on the outlets of two existing pipe outfalls. Also, a sump would likely need to be constructed on the dry side of each piped outlet and a pump is to be available in times of need. The pipes requiring non-return valves and a sump are illustrated with a red line in Figure 1.1.  Monitoring of the condition of the interim defences will be by way of quarterly inspections. Furthermore, in the event of a flood warning from the national weather services, a site inspection will also be carried out beforehand if required.  The interim defences will be removed as the construction of the main scheme progresses.

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The following information has also been provided by CCC with respect to the Contractor’s obligations:  Proposals are in place for landowner and stakeholder liaison prior to and during the carrying out of the works by means of an appointed Liaison Officer. Stakeholders identified include the National Parks and Wildlife Services (NPWS) and Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). The proposed site compound for the works will be agreed with CCC and with local landowners.  The Contractor’s Ecologist will prepare an Invasive Species Management Plan for the works. It is not envisaged that material will need to be removed from site. Any hedgerows or trees required to be removed will be removed in accordance with the provisions of the Wildlife Act.  A detailed method statement will be agreed with CCC on the measures to be taken by the Contractor to avoid sediment or soil loss and hydrocarbon / polluting substance release and these measures will be designed to ensure the protection of the water quality of the Sullane River and its associated salmonid and freshwater pearl mussel habitat. The area hatched in green in Figure 1-1 shows the area to be protected from flooding during the 20-year flood event and the OPW’s Report (Appendix A) also identifies individual buildings to be protected. The design team has advised that there will be no practicable alteration to the behaviour of the Sullane River as a result of the proposed works. Figure 1-1: Map of the Proposed Interim Works at Ballymakeera

These works will be advance works of the OPW Main FRS where the preferred option may include a combination of embankments, walls, gabion / rock armour protection, bridge underpinning and localised dredging, channel widening and creation of a compound channel, road raising, culvert upsizing and works to the pipe network.

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2 METHODOLOGY

2.1 Relevant Planning Policy and Legislation This report has been prepared with regards to the following legislation, policy documents and guidelines as relevant:  CIEEM (2015) Guidelines for Ecological Report Writing;  CIEEM (2018) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland: Terrestrial, Freshwater, Coastal and Marine. Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, Winchester;  DoEHLG (2010) Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland Guidance for Planning Authorities. Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government;  European Communities (2000) Managing Natura 2000 Sites: the provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg, European Commission;  EC (2002) Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting Natura 2000 Sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg. European Commission;  EC (2007) Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the 'Habitats Directive' 92/43/EEC – Clarification of the concepts of: alternative solutions, imperative reasons of overriding public interest, compensatory measures, overall coherence, opinion of the commission. European Commission;  EC (2013) Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats. Version EUR 28. European Commission;  EPA (2002) Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements. Environmental Protection Agency;  EPA (2003), Advice Notes on current practice in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements. Environmental Protection Agency;  Fossitt, J., 2000. A Guide to Habitats in Ireland. The Heritage Council, Kilkenny;  HA (2001) DMRB Volume 10 Section 4 Part 4 - Ha 81/99 - Nature Conservation Advice In Relation To Otters. The Highways Agency;  National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) (2013) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland;  NPWS (2014) Guidance to Manage the Risk to Marine Mammals from Man-Made Sound Sources in Irish Waters. Department of Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht.  NRA (2008) Environmental Impact Assessment of National Road Schemes – A Practical Guide Rev. 1. National Roads Authority;  NRA (2009) Guidelines for the Assessment of Ecological Impacts of National Road Schemes Rev. 2. National Roads Authority;  NRA (2008) NRA Guidelines on Ecological Surveying Techniques for Protected Flora and Fauna on National Road Schemes). National Roads Authority;  NRA Environmental Assessment and Construction Guidelines (both adopted and draft versions). Studies were also carried out in accordance with the following legislation:-  Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (Habitats Directive) and Directive 2009/147/EC (codified version of Directive (79/409/EEC as amended (Birds Directive)) – transposed into Irish law as European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011;  European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations, 1989 to 2006;

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 European Communities (Environmental Liability) Regulations, 2008 (S.I. No. 547 of 2008);  European Communities (Quality of Salmonid Waters) Regulations, 1988 (S.I. No. 84 of 1988);  Flora Protection Order, 2015;  Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended);  Roads Acts 1993 to 2007(as amended);  Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC); and  Wildlife Act 1976, as amended.

2.2 Desk Study The sources of published material that were consulted as part of the desk study for the purposes of the ecological appraisal are as follows:-  Review of the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) natural heritage database for designated areas of ecological interest and sites of nature conservation importance within and adjacent to the study area;  Review of Ordnance Survey maps and ortho-photography;  Review of the National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) database for records of rare and protected species within a 2km radius of the proposed development site, including: – Annex I habitats, Annex II species and their habitats, and Annex IV species and their breeding sites and resting places (wherever they occur) as identified in the EU Habitats Directive; – The presence of species of flora and fauna as identified and strictly protected under the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations, 2011; and – Species of fauna and flora which are protected under the Wildlife Acts, 1976-2000 ‘Protected species and natural habitats’ as defined in the Environmental Liability Directive (2004/35/EC) and European Communities (Environmental Liability) Regulations, 2008;  Review of the Cork County Development Plan 2015-2021;  1:50,000 Ordnance Survey (OS) Map; Discovery Series;  Environmental Protection Agency mapping (http://gis.epa.ie/Envision);  RPS (2012) Baile Bhuirne and Baile Mhic Íre Flood Risk Assessment Study: SEA Review Study and Constraints;  McCarthy Hyder Consultants (2009) N22 Baile Bhuirne- Macroom (Baile Bhuirne to Coolcour) Environmental Impact Statement Volume 2: Main Text; and  ESB (2015) Grousemount Wind Farm, Co. Kerry. Environmental Impact Statement- Volume 1 of 3. The results of ecology surveys for the OPW Main Scheme, undertaken by Conservation Services and one of the authors of this report, were reviewed to inform the baseline for the interim works area.

2.3 Field Survey Walkover surveys of the Main Scheme area (which includes the interim works area) were carried out by ecologist Ms Karen Banks between May 2017 and July 2018. Areas highlighted during the desktop assessment were investigated further, and a habitat survey was carried out. Habitats on site were classified in accordance with the Heritage Council publication ‘A Guide to Habitats in Ireland’ (Fossitt, 2000). The classification is a standard scheme for identifying, describing and classifying wildlife habitats in Ireland. The classification is hierarchical and operates at three levels, using codes to differentiate habitats based on the plant species present. Species recorded in this report are given both their Latin and common names, following the nomenclature as given in the ‘New flora of the British Isles’ (Stace, 2010).

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Survey for invasive species was conducted during the habitat and botanical surveys were undertaken in June and July 2017. These surveys included the identification and mapping of Invasive Alien Species (IAS). Further targeted IAS surveys of the proposed interim works area were undertaken in March 2018 in order to identify and map the extent of IAS in advance of works. These surveys were conducted in accordance with the NRA publication “Guidelines for the Management of Noxious Weeds and Non- Native Invasive Plant Species on National Roads”. The site walkover conducted in May 2017 included an assessment of the presence, or likely presence, of protected species. The survey was conducted in accordance with the standard protected species survey guidelines contained in the National Roads Authority publication ‘Ecological Surveying Techniques for Protected Flora and Fauna during the Planning of National Road Schemes’ (2008). The surveys were conducted for areas of habitat that might support protected mammals in addition to recording any field signs, such as well-used pathways, droppings, places of shelter and features or areas likely to be of particular value as foraging resources. Any badger setts present were recorded during the site walkover, along with potential pine marten den sites. In addition, the suitability of the habitat for pygmy shrew, hedgehog, hares, Irish stoat, pine marten amphibians and invertebrates were recorded. Following the results of the site walkover targeted mammal surveys were undertaken as detailed in the following sections. A walkover survey of the proposed interim works area was undertaken on 25th March 2019 in order to verify and update the above detailed surveys. 2.3.1 Kerry Slug A hand search survey of the Main Scheme area was carried out by Mott MacDonald Ecologists Erin Johnston and Rita Mansfield between 19th and 21st November 2018. The survey had regard to the following publications:  Ecological Surveying Techniques for protected Flora and Fauna during the Planning of National Road Schemes – NRA 2009  Revised Distribution and Habitat Associations for the Protected Slug Geomalacus (Gastropoda, Arionidae) in Ireland – McDonnell et al. 2013. Weather conditions during the survey period were suitable for Kerry Slug survey: conditions were wet in the days preceding the survey and dry and humid during the survey period, with no rainfall having occurred within 24hours in advance of the survey date. Temperatures ranged from 8°C to 13°C. Where Kerry slugs were found, they were photographed, and their location recorded. Equipment used included Samsung Galaxy tablet with ArcGIS online with pre-loaded base maps. Where suitable habitat was confirmed to be present, a transect was walked and micro-habitats searched for Kerry slugs. It should be noted that a number of areas were identified as suitable habitat at desktop assessment stage but were later determined to be unsuitable through field survey. This hand search was carried out from ground level and under license from the NPWS (License number: C138-2017). Where no Kerry slugs were found via hand searching, a metric trap survey was carried out within suitable Kerry slug habitat which might be affected by the scheme (with the exception of areas where Kerry slug has historically been confirmed as present). Metric trapping was carried out between 19th November and 3rd December 2018 in accordance with the following publications:  Gormally & MacDonnell (2011) A live trapping method for the protected European slug, Geomalacus maculosus Allman 1843 (Arionidae). Which has since been further refined in terms of seasonality, temperature conditions, and habitats which are appropriate for trapping by Johnston et al. (2017) Monitoring the EU protected Geomalacus maculosus (Kerry Slug): what are the factors affecting catch returns in open and forested habitats.  McDonnell et al. (2013) Revised Distribution and Habitat Associations for the Protected Slug Geomalacus (Gastropoda, Arionidae) in Ireland.

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 Johnston et al. (2016) Monitoring the EU protected Geomalacus maculosus (Kerry Slug): what are the factors affecting catch returns in open and forested habitats? Ecological Research. 2.3.2 Otter Survey Otter surveys of the Main Scheme area were conducted on 21st and 22nd December 2017 and 22nd and 23rd February 2018 along the Sullane River and its tributaries. A further survey of the proposed interim works area was conducted on 25th March 2019. The river banks were searched for field signs including:  Sleeping and resting places including holts, couches and natal dens;  Breeding sites;  Spraints;  Pathways/ trails;  Slides;  Hairs;  Footprints; and  Food remains. Natal dens tend to be well hidden and therefore can be hard to locate. Survey for natal dens was undertaken by searching for field signs including:  A heavily used path or paths from the water into dense cover or an enclosed structure;  Bedding within the structure which may consist of grass, ferns or reeds (bedding may also be present in other types of resting places);  A latrine containing a large number of spraints at the den or within 2m of it (however, it is important to note that there are often no droppings at a natal den as the female will excrete in the water to ensure that there are no signs of occupation near the natal den);  A cub play area which may be a well-worn area around a tree or on a bank; and  Different sized otter prints. 2.3.3 Bat Survey Bat survey was undertaken at the Main Scheme area in accordance with the following guidelines:-  Bat Conservation Ireland, (2010). Guidance notes for Planners, Engineers, Architects, and Developers;  Collins, J. (ed.) (2016). Bat Surveys for Professional ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines (3rd ed.). The Bat Conservation Trust, London; and  Kelleher, C. & Marnell, F. (2006). Bat Mitigation Guidelines for Ireland.

2.3.3.1 Preliminary Roost Assessment The trees at the interim works area were surveyed in conjunction with the site walkover for potential roost sites and signs of bats. A detailed inspection of the exterior of trees was undertaken to look for features that bats could use for roosting (Potential Roost Features, or PRFs) from ground level. The aim of the survey was to determine the actual or potential presence of bats and the need for further survey and/or mitigation. A detailed inspection of each tree within the site, and to approximately 10m either side of the proposed area of works was undertaken. The inspection was carried out in daylight hours from ground level, and information was compiled about the tree, PRFs and evidence of bats. All trees, or groups of trees, surveyed were numbered and marked on a map and a description of each PRF observed was recorded.

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PRFs that may be used by bats include:  Rot holes;  Hazard beams;  Other horizontal or vertical cracks or splits (e.g. frost cracks) in stems or branches;  Lifting bark;  Knotholes arising from naturally shed branches or branches previously pruned back to the branch collar;  Man-made holes (e.g. flush cuts) or cavities created by branches tearing out from parent stems;  Cankers in which cavities have developed;  Other hollows or cavities;  Double leaders forming compression forks with included bark and potential cavities;  Gaps between overlapping stems or branches;  Partially detached ivy with stem diameters in excess of 50mm; and  Bat or bird boxes. Signs of a bat roost (excluding the actual presence of bats), include:  Bat droppings in, around or below a PRF;  Odour emanating from a PRF;  Audible squeaking at dusk or in warm weather; and  Staining below the PRF. It should be noted that bats or bat droppings are the only conclusive evidence of a roost and many roosts have no external signs. Therefore, this survey and evaluation was relatively basic as only those PRFs at ground level could be inspected closely to ascertain their true potential to support roosting bats. Trees were categorised according to the highest suitability PRF present. The criteria for categorisation of suitability for bats is described further in Table 2.1. Table 2-1: Suitability of Habitats for Bats

Description Suitability Commuting and Foraging Habitats Roosting Habitats Negligible Negligible habitat features on site likely Negligible habitat features on site likely to be used by roosting bats. to be used by commuting or foraging bats. Low A structure with one or more potential Habitat that could be used by small roost sites that could be used by numbers of commuting bats such as individual bats opportunistically. gappy hedgerow or un-vegetated However, these potential roost sites do stream, but isolated, i.e., not very well not provide enough space, shelter, connected to the surrounding landscape protection, appropriate conditions and/or by other habitat. suitable surrounding habitat to be used Suitable, but isolated habitat that could on a regular basis or by larger numbers be used by small numbers of foraging of bats (i.e., unlikely to be suitable for bats such as a lone tree (not in a maternity or hibernation). parkland situation) or a patch of scrub. A tree of sufficient size and age to contain PRFs but with none seen from the ground or features seen with only very limited roosting potential.

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Description Suitability Commuting and Foraging Habitats Roosting Habitats Moderate A structure or tree with one or more Continuous habitat connected to the potential roost sites that could be used wider landscape that could be used by by bats due to their size, shelter, bats for commuting such as lines of protection, conditions and surrounding trees and scrub or linked back gardens. habitat but unlikely to support a roost of Habitat that is connected to the wider high conservation status (with respect to landscape that could be used by bats for roost type only- the assessments in this foraging such as trees, scrub, grassland table are made irrespective of species or water. conservation status, which is established after presence is confirmed). High A structure or tree with one or more Continuous, high quality habitat that is potential roost sites that are obviously well connected to the wider landscape suitable for use by larger numbers of that is likely to be used regularly by bats on a more regular basis and commuting bats such as river valleys, potentially for longer periods of time due streams, hedgerows, lines of trees and to their size, shelter, protection, woodland edge. conditions and surrounding habitat. High quality habitat that is well connected to the wider landscape that is likely to be used regularly by foraging bats such as broadleaved woodland, tree-lined watercourses and grazed parkland. Site is close to and connected to known roosts.

2.3.3.2 Activity Survey Bat surveys for the Main Scheme were conducted by an experienced and licenced bat ecologist (Karen Banks) in accordance with Collins, J. (ed.) (2016) Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines (3rd edn), the Bat Conservation Trust; and Kelleher, C. & Marnell, F. (2006) Bat Mitigation Guidelines for Ireland. Six dusk bat activity surveys were conducted across the Main Scheme area between May and September 2017 using an Anabat Walkabout detector, which records bat echolocation calls directly on to an internal SD memory card. An Anabat Express static bat detector was left in different locations across the study area for six nights to supplement the activity transect survey.

2.3.3.3 Bird Survey Four Kingfisher surveys of the Main Scheme area were undertaken between April and July 2017 in accordance with Ecological Surveying Techniques for protected Flora and Fauna during the Planning of National Road Schemes – NRA 2009.

2.4 Aquatic Ecology Aquatic Ecology surveys for the Main Scheme were undertaken by Mr Bill Quirke, Conservation Services, in 2018.

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2.4.1 Habitat Assessment Assessment consists of walking and/or wading the entire channel length. The assessed channel is demarcated into habitat sections based on: 1. Stream width and depth; 2. Substrate type, i.e. relative dominance of large rocks, cobble, gravel, sand, mud, etc.; 3. Flow type, i.e. relative dominance of riffle, glide and pool; 4. Flow diversity, substrate diversity and channel sinuosity; 5. Dominant bank-side vegetation; 6. In-stream vegetation; 7. Degree of shade by bank-side vegetation. As indicated in Table 2.2, based on these criteria, on a scale of None/ Poor/ Fair/ Good/ Very Good/ Excellent, the value of each stream/river section is assessed for:  Salmonid spawning;  Salmonid nursery area for juvenile salmonids;  Adult salmonids;  Freshwater Pearl Mussels;  Lamprey spawning;  Lamprey nursery.

Table 2-2: Aquatic Habitat Valuation Scale

Scale Assessment None The ecologist carrying out the assessment regards it as impossible that the stream could support the species in the relevant life stage Poor Unlikely but possible that the stream could support the species in the relevant life stage Fair Species life stage likely to be present at low density Good Species life stage likely to be present at moderate density Very Good Species life stage likely to be present at high density Excellent Conditions ideal for the species life stage

Intermediate categories are also used, e.g., fair-good, thereby providing a ten-point scale. Locations for identification of habitat sections are recorded as Irish Grid References using a GPS. Geotagged photographs are taken to illustrate the habitat quality. As required by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI), in each habitat section sections of river bank subject to river erosion are identified, delimited and mapped. Within each habitat section, surface siltation on substrates in shallow riffle areas are described using EPA’s categories for degree of siltation as described in the EPA Standard Operating Procedure for River Biological Monitoring Field Sampling Survey Version 1.6 (EPA 2017), and where relevant photographed. Interstitial sediment is assessed using the qualitative silt plume method, as used by EPA and described in Section 2.9 of the North South 2 Project Monitoring Methods Report Freshwater Pearl Mussel Sub-basin Plans (Anon 2009). Locations for identification of habitat sections are recorded as Irish Grid References using a GPS and freshwater habitat sections will be mapped and photographed.

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2.4.2 Biological Water Quality Invertebrates are sampled using the standard kick sampling and rock washing method employed by EPA (ISO 7828:1985). After field sampling the sample is thoroughly sieved and live sorted for 30 minutes under laboratory conditions (ISO 5667-3:1994). Invertebrates are preserved in 70% alcohol, examined microscopically and identified to the taxonomic level required to calculate Q-ratings by the EPA methodology (McGarrigle et al 2002). The preserved samples are archived for future examination or verification. Based on the relative abundance of indicator species, a biotic index (Q-rating) is determined in accordance with the biological assessment procedure used by the Environmental Protection Agency (McGarrigle et al 2002 & S.I. No. 258 of 1998) and more detailed unpublished methodology (McGarrigle, Clabby, Lucey & Bradley pers. comm.) 2.4.3 Macroinvertebrate Biodiversity Assessment Macroinvertebrates are sampled at c. 8 locations along the section of river using the standard EPA kick sampling method. All habitat types present in the section are sampled to ensure accurate representation of the invertebrate biodiversity in the section. At each site the samples are combined into a composite sample which is live sorted for 1 hour under laboratory conditions. Macroinvertebrates are preserved and identified to the lowest practicable taxonomic level. Abundance ratings and ecological notes for each invertebrate taxon are presented. The invertebrate community in each sample is rated on the basis of water quality indicators, biodiversity, and presence of rare or unusual species. 2.4.4 Aquatic Plant Biodiversity Assessment At each of the biodiversity assessment sites, submerged, emergent and floating vegetation are surveyed using the MTR method as described in the EPA Standard Operating Procedure for River Biological Monitoring Field Sampling Survey Version 1.6 (EPA 2017). 2.4.5 Freshwater Pearl Mussel The Sullane River is known to accommodate Freshwater Pearl mussel populations and the evidence is well documented. Freshwater Pearl Mussel (FPM) surveys were conducted in 2013 and 2014 by RPS for the purpose of the overall flood relief scheme and separate condition surveys were conducted in 2007 and 2016 by Moorkens and Associates on behalf of the NPWS. Therefore, an additional field survey for the interim scheme was deemed unnecessary and this assessment will be based on previous studies of the area. The surveys followed the standard survey methodology as published by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (Anon., 2004) and updated methodologies developed by Dr. Evelyn Moorkens.

2.5 Impact Assessment Criteria The information gathered from desk study and survey has been used to make an ecological impact assessment (EcIA) of the proposed development upon the identified ecological features. The EcIA has been undertaken following the methodology set out in CIEEM (2018). EcIA is based upon a source-pathway- receptor model, where the source is defined as the individual elements of the proposed development that have the potential to affect identified ecological features. The pathway is defined as the means or route by which a source can affect the ecological features. An ecological feature is defined as the species, habitat or ecologically functioning unit of natural heritage importance. Each element can exist independently however an effect is created where there is a linkage between the source, pathway and feature. A significant effect is defined in CIEEM (2016) as: “an effect that either supports or undermines biodiversity conservation objectives for ‘important ecological features’…. or for biodiversity in general”.

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Further, BS 42020:2013 states that if an effect is sufficiently important to be given weight in the planning balance or to warrant the imposition of a planning condition, e.g. to provide or guarantee necessary mitigation measures, it is likely to be “significant” in that context at the level under consideration. The converse is also true: insignificant effects would not warrant a refusal of permission or the imposition of conditions. The geographical reference used for ecological valuation follows NRA (2009) Guidelines for the Assessment of Ecological Impacts of National Road Schemes Rev. 2., as detailed in Appendix B.

2.6 Survey Constraints Access to the rear of some of the properties to be protected by hard defences was not gained, therefore it was not possible to undertake a close examination of trees at this location for bat potential. However, a survey of this area was undertaken using close focus binoculars from adjacent fields and also from the other side of the river bank.

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3 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

3.1 Site Summary and Context The site for the proposed interim works is located at Ballymakeera, a village located approximately 13.6km north-west of Macroom, Co. Cork. The National Soils Map indicates that the site comprises made ground and alluvial soils1 underlain by Bird Hill Formation bedrock; purple siltstone and fine sandstone. The Sullane River runs to the south of Ballymakeera and the N22.

3.2 Designated Sites A review of European designated sites within a 15km radius of the proposed development was undertaken (www.npws.ie). Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) are sites of international importance due to the presence of Annex I habitats and / or Annex II species listed under the EU Habitats Directive. Special Protection Areas (SPAs) are designated for birds based on the presence of internationally significant populations of listed bird species. A review of nationally designated sites was also undertaken. Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) are sites deemed to be of national ecological importance and are afforded protection under the Wildlife (Amendment Act) 2000. The proposed Natural Heritage Area (pNHA) have not been statutorily proposed or designated, however do have some protection under Agri Environmental Options Scheme (AEOS), Coillte, County Development Plans and Licensing Authorities. There are seven European Sites within 15km of the proposed site. The proposed site is located c. 0.12km from St Gobnait’s Wood SAC and c. 0.7km from Mullaghanish to Musheramore Mountains SPA. A review of nationally designated sites indicates that there is one Natural Heritage Area and nine proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs) within 15km of the proposed works area. A list of designated sites recorded within 15km of the proposed works is presented in Table 3.1. European Sites and proposed Natural Heritage Areas are illustrated in Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2 respectively.

1 Teagasc subsoils mapping available at https://gis.epa.ie/geonetwork/srv/eng/catalog.search#/metadata/5f1999f0-37e4-4c14-acf8- 3b42bfdae894

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Table 3-1: International and National Designated Sites within 15km of the Proposed Interim Works Area

2 Distance measured “as the crow flies”

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Do Any Potential Source-Pathway- Distance from Receptor Links Exist Between the the Site Name and Code Qualifying Interests/ Conservation Interest Proposed Development and the Development Designated Site and Any Likely Site (km)2 Significant Effects The Gearagh SPA (Site Special Conservation Interests 10.4km No, due to the distance and absence of Code: 004109) Wigeon (Anas penelope) [A050] hydrological or habitat connectivity. Teal (Anas crecca) [A052] Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) [A053] Coot (Fulica atra) [A125] Mullaghanish to Special Conservation Interests 740m No, due to the absence of hydrological or Musheramore Mountains Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus) [A082] habitat connectivity and lack of suitability SPA (Site Code: 004162) of habitat in the proposed works area for the SCI of this SPA. Sillahertane Bog NHA Peatlands 9.3km No, due to the distance and absence of (Site Code: 001882) hydrological or habitat connectivity. Lough Allua pNHA (Site Lough Allua is an expanded section of the river Lee where it 10.4km No, due to the distance and absence of Code: 001065) meets an obstruction of rock and glacial debris above hydrological or habitat connectivity. Inchigeelagh in Co. Cork. The floor of the valley is flat- bottomed so that the lakeshore is complex with numerous bays, peninsulas and narrows. In addition, the fluctuation in water level seems unusually great so that a considerable area of surrounding land is flooded in winter. The Lough Allua area has significant heritage value because of its diversity of habitats and the presence of several unusual plants, including a protected species. Prohus Wood pNHA (Site Prohus Wood which is situated 7km west of Macroom consists 6.2km This site is located adjacent to the Code: 001248) predominantly of young trees, partly coppiced growing on rocky Sullane River c. 8km downstream of the ground which slopes to the east. This site is a very young wood proposed works area. Theoretically, derived from widespread clearance about forty years ago there is a remote indirect connectivity (1986). The site has not developed much habitat diversity but is between the proposed site and this developing quite naturally and is of local importance. pNHA. Roughty River pNHA This site is located in a valley approximately 4km north-east of 14.1km No, due to the distance and absence of (Site Code: 001376) Kilgarvan in Co. Kerry. A hawkweed, Hieracium scullyi, occurs hydrological or habitat connectivity. here at its only known site in the world.

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Do Any Potential Source-Pathway- Distance from Receptor Links Exist Between the the Site Name and Code Qualifying Interests/ Conservation Interest Proposed Development and the Development Designated Site and Any Likely Site (km)2 Significant Effects Boylegrove Wood pNHA Boylegrove Wood is a small deciduous woodland located c. 12.4km No, due to the distance and absence of (Site Code: 001854) 2km north of the village of Kilmichael and 6km south-west of hydrological or habitat connectivity. Macroom Town, west County Cork. To the south of the wood between the woodland and the river is heathland with many rock outcrops which is used for rough grazing. The rest of the surrounding land consists of large agricultural fields. The wood is part of an old estate attached to Boylegrove House. Ballagh Bog pNHA (Site Ballagh Bog is located 9km south-east of the village of 14.8km No, due to the distance and absence of Code: 001886) Kilgarvan on the east side of Carran Mountain, at an altitude of hydrological or habitat connectivity. 375-450m. The site, which comprises a high-level river plain and surrounding mountain slopes, is underlain by Old Red Sandstone. Although not re-surveyed, a recent report described the site as comprising a series of small, slightly raised valley bogs situated in the bends of a mountain stream, merging with mountain slopes dominated by Purple Moor-grass (Molinia caerulea).

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Figure 3-1: European Sites within 15km of the Proposed Interim Works, Ballymakeera

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Figure 3-2: Nationally Designated Sites within 15km of the Proposed Interim Works, Ballymakeera

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3.3 Terrestrial Ecology 3.3.1 Habitats

3.3.1.1 Stone Walls (BL1) Mortared stone walls are present adjacent to the N22 to the west of the site.

3.3.1.2 Buildings and Artificial Surfaces (BL3) The interim works area is located in the immediate proximity of Ballymakeera, therefore built land is present in the form of features such as roads, domestic dwellings and businesses.

3.3.1.3 Agriculturally Improved Grassland (GA1) Improved agricultural grassland is predominantly present adjacent to the Sullane River, with smaller parcels present to the north of the proposed interim works area. Species present within the sward are typical of improved grassland such as Perennial Rye-grass (Lolium perenne), Yorkshire Fog (Holcus lanatus), Creeping Bent (Agrostis stolonifera), Soft Rush (Juncus effusus); and herbs including Dandelion (Taraxacum agg.), Creeping Buttercup (Ranunculus repens), Ribwort Plantain (Plantago lanceolata), Broad-leaved Dock (Rumex obtusifolius), White Clover (Trifolium repens) and Red Clover (T. pratense).

3.3.1.4 Amenity Grassland Amenity grassland within the study area includes public areas and domestic gardens.

3.3.1.5 Dry Meadows and Grassy Verges (GS2) Neutral grassland (GS1) in the Flats at Ballymakeera support grass species in the sward including Cock’s-foot (Dactylis glomerata), Yorkshire Fog, Creeping Bent, Sweet Vernal-grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum) and Rough Meadow-grass (Poa trivialis). Herbs present include Common Mouse-ear (Cerastium fontanum), Autumn Hawkbit (Leontodon autumnalis), Selfheal (Prunella vulgaris), Daisy (Bellis perennis), Yarrow (Achillea millefolium), Red Clover, Ribwort Plantain, Meadow Buttercup (Ranunculus acris), Common Knapweed (Centaurea nigra), Common bird’s-foot-trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) and Hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium). Species poor variants of this habitat are also present in parcels of land that have not been grazed in recent years and are becoming encroached by scrub, including Bramble (Rubus fruticosus) and Willow (Salix spp.).

3.3.1.6 Mixed Conifer Woodland (WD3) A narrow belt of predominantly Spruce (Picea spp.) bounding a domestic property.

3.3.1.7 Immature Woodland (WS2) An area to the east of the proposed interim works area that is dominated by young Willow (Salix spp), with abundant Bramble (Rubus fruticosus).

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3.3.1.8 Hedgerows (WL1) and Treelines (WL2) Species present in the treelines and hedgerows bounding fields are predominantly comprised of broadleaved species including Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Elm (Ulmus spp), Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Holly (Ilex aquifolium) and Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna); with Rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum), Cypress (Cupressus spp.) and Pine (Pinus spp.) species also present occasionally. Garden species of hedging and Cypress are typically planted around domestic gardens in the study area. Treelines and hedgerows are of local importance, higher value. The habitats recorded within the site are illustrated in Figure 3.3 and summarised in Table 3.2.

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Figure 3-3: Interim Works Area: Habitat Map

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Table 3-2: Terrestrial Habitats Present within the Proposed Interim Works Area

Conservation Habitat Rationale Evaluation3 Stone walls (BL1) Negligible The walls are mortared and are of little value to wildlife. Buildings and artificial surfaces Negligible The built land present in the study area is of (BL3) little value to wildlife. Agriculturally improved Local importance (lower This habitat is not of botanical importance, grassland (GA1) value) however it does provide potential habitat for mammals and avifauna. Amenity grassland (GA2) Local importance (lower This habitat is not of botanical importance, value) however it does provide potential habitat for invertebrates and shelter and foraging opportunities for avifauna. Dry meadows and grassy Local importance (lower While the parcels of this habitat within the verges (GS2) value) proposed site are relatively species poor, these areas do provide potential habitat for mammals and avifauna. Mixed conifer woodland (WD3) Local importance (lower The species within this small belt of value) woodland are not of conservation importance, however they do provide potential habitat for avifauna. Immature woodland (WS2) Local importance This area is relatively dense and undisturbed (higher value) and as such provides potential habitat for mammals and avifauna within the village. Hedgerows (WL1) Local importance This habitat provides potential habitat for (higher value) avifauna and commuting and foraging areas for bats. Treelines (WL2) Local importance This habitat provides potential habitat for (higher value) avifauna and commuting and foraging areas for bats.

3.3.2 Species This section describes the species that have been recorded historically within the OS 2km grid square that the proposed site is located (W27D), relevant results from surveys undertaken for the Main Scheme and the potential for the proposed site to support protected species. Species records extracted from the NBDC database are included in Appendix C.

3.3.2.1 Amphibians and Reptiles There are no historical records of amphibians or reptiles from OS 2KM grid square W27D. There is limited potential for amphibians to shelter in areas of longer grass within the proposed interim works area. However, there is no suitable breeding habitat on site and no evidence of amphibians or reptiles were observed during the site surveys.

3 In accordance with NRA (2009) Guidelines for the Assessment of Ecological Impacts of National Road Schemes Rev. 2. National Roads Authority

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3.3.2.2 Avifauna As detailed in Section 3.2, the proposed interim works area is located 0.7km from the Mullaghanish to Musheramore Mountains SPA, designated for Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus). Annex I bird species that have been recorded within OS grid square W27D include Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), there is also a general record (10km grid square W27 location) of Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus). Riparian bird species recorded within the Main Scheme area between April and July 2017 are as follows:  Kingfisher;  Dipper; and  Grey Wagtail. A potential Kingfisher nesting site was recorded in the banks of the Sullane River in the east of the Main Scheme area, c. 0.5km from the proposed interim works area. A Kingfisher was observed perching and feeding and there was a worn hole in the embankment at this location. From the observed Kingfisher behaviour it is concluded that this species is ‘probably breeding’ at this location. Kingfisher was also observed in flight at the confluence of the Bohill River and the Sullane River. No evidence of Kingfisher was observed within the proposed interim works area. Dipper was observed foraging in several locations along the Sullane River and Bohill River and a Dipper nest was recorded at Bohill Bridge in 2018. Dipper was observed foraging adjacent to Ballyvourney Bridge, outside of the proposed interim works area, during surveys undertaken in 2018. Grey Wagtail was observed foraging adjacent to Ballymakeera Bridge. However, no bird nests were recorded within the bridge structure. Grey Wagtail was also recorded adjacent to Ballyvourney Bridge, outside of the proposed interim works area, during surveys undertaken on 25th March 2019. Bird species observed within the proposed interim works area were limited to typical garden species, including rook (Corvus frugilegus), blackbird (Turdus merula), robin (Erithacus rubecula), great tit (Parus major) and blue tit (P. caeruleus).

3.3.2.3 Flora The NBDC database does not hold any records of rare or protected species of plants within OS grid square W27D. No rare or protected species of plants were recorded within the site during the site surveys undertaken for the Main Scheme in 2017 and 2018 or the ecological survey undertaken for the interim works in March 2019.

3.3.2.4 Invasive Species The NBDC database holds a record of Giant Knotweed, recorded at the ‘village bend’ in Ballymakeera in 2014. An invasive species survey was undertaken as part of the habitat survey for the Main Scheme on 28th June 2017 and 20th to 22nd June 2018. The following invasive species were recorded within the Main Scheme area:  Giant Knotweed (Fallopia sachalinensis);  Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica);  Himalayan Knotweed (Persicaria wallichii);  Rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum); and  Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus).

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Of the above species, Giant Knotweed, Himalayan Knotweed and Cherry Laurel have been recorded within the interim works area and its environs. With reference to the proposed works (as illustrated in Figure 1.1), Cherry Laurel and Giant Knotweed located at the ‘village bend’ are likely to be within 7m of the proposed works area. The growth of these species at this location is restricted to the existing rock armour and stone river bank and does not extend to the built land and amenity grassland present adjacent to the bank (Figure 3.4). The location of invasive species recorded is illustrated in Figure 3.5. Figure 3-4: Photographs of Giant Knotweed at the Village Bend, March 2019

Dead stems of Giant Knotweed visible at base of Rock armour at the river bank at the village bend stone river bank with a few dead stems from last year’s Giant Knotweed growth

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Figure 3-5: Interim Works Area: Invasive Alien Species

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3.3.2.5 Invertebrates The NBDC hold records of Kerry Slug from Cascade Wood, recorded in 2008 c. 0.7km north of the proposed interim works area. Kerry Slug was also recorded in Cascade Woods during ecology surveys for the Main Scheme (2018). The survey and assessment undertaken for the Main Scheme indicates that the interim works area is unsuitable to support Kerry Slug. One area near Cluain Réidh was initially identified during the desktop study as potentially suitable for Kerry Slug, however, field survey identified that this area was in fact unsuitable due to low lichen growth and scrub encroachment. The Kerry Slug survey and assessment did not find any evidence of Kerry Slug within the proposed interim works area.

3.3.2.6 Bats Potential Bat Roosts A line of semi-mature broadleaved trees was recorded along the bank of the Sullane River within the proposed interim works area, predominantly comprising Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus). It was not possible to access the rear of some of the properties to undertake a close inspection of these trees. However, inspection from adjacent fields using close focus binoculars indicates that there is moderate suitability for bats in cut wounds and knot holes in at least one Ash. Local Bat Records As bats are highly mobile species, this section includes a description of the bat species recorded within OS grid square W27D and the Main Scheme area. The NBDC database holds records of seven species of bat from OS 2km grid square W27D, namely Daubenton’s (Myotis daubentonii), Natterer’s (M. nattereri), Leisler’s (Nyctalus leisleri), pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus sensu lato), soprano pipistrelle (P. pygmaeus), brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auratus) and lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros). Nine species of bat were recorded during surveys undertaken in 2018 in the Main Scheme area, namely soprano pipistrelle, common pipistrelle, Nathusius’ pipistrelle (P. nathusii), Leisler’s bat, brown long-eared bat, Daubenton’s bat, Natterer’s bat, whiskered / Brandt’s bat (M. mysticanus/ M. brandtii) and lesser horseshoe bat. Soprano pipistrelle and common pipistrelle were recorded foraging throughout the study area, with a particularly high level of foraging activity along the Sullane River. Nathusius’ pipistrelle was also recorded on two occasions adjacent to the Sullane River. Leisler’s bat was recorded commuting and foraging throughout the study area, with a relatively high level of activity recorded along the Sullane River and also along the main road through Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera. High levels of Myotis4 species were recorded along the Sullane River and the Bohill River. Species of Myotis recorded included Daubenton’s bat, Natterer’s bat, whiskered/ Brandt’s bat; there were also recordings of the Myotis genus that were unidentifiable to species level. Notably, a Natterer’s bat roost was recorded at a disused storage building adjacent to the Bohill River, outside of the interim works area. Brown long-eared bat was recorded foraging adjacent to the Bohill River and also in Cappagh West, outside of the interim works area. Lesser Horseshoe bat was recorded foraging along scrub and treelines in Cappagh West, outside of the interim works area. The rich bat fauna recorded during the course of the surveys undertaken within the Main Scheme area reflect the importance of the riparian corridors and semi-natural woodland habitats present for bats. In

4 Myotis is genus of bats within which five species are resident in Ireland

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3.3.2.7 Otter The NBDC database holds records of otter from Ballyvourney Town Bridge and Ballymakeera Bridge, recorded in 2017. A number of otter activity signs and holts were recorded during the ecology surveys for the Main Scheme in the vicinity of the Sullane River and Bohill River. The activity signs recorded include prints, paths, spraint and hair caught on barbed wire. Both active and inactive holts were recorded in the FRS area. Otter activity was recorded adjacent to Bohill River and along the Sullane River throughout the Main Scheme area, with the majority of otter activity recorded within St. Gobnait’s wood. Evidence of foraging activity was recorded c.0.03km from the interim works area. However, No evidence of otter holts was recorded within the interim works area during the ecology surveys undertaken for the FRS in 2017 and 2018 or the ecological walkover for the interim works in 2019 (the nearest holt is c. 0.23km distant).

3.3.2.8 Other Mammals The NBDC hold records of Badger from OS grid square W27D. An active badger sett and evidence of badger activity, including a latrine and badger prints were recorded approximately 0.22km to the north-west of the proposed interim works area within St. Gobnait’s wood in May 2017. However, no badger setts or signs of badger activity were recorded within the proposed interim works area.

3.4 Aquatic Ecology 3.4.1 Habitat Assessment This section of the report provides a summary of the aquatic habitat assessment results at the Sullane River from the river section located south of St. Gobnait’s Wood to the river section in the vicinity of the brewery, c. 0.15km downstream of the proposed works area. The detailed aquatic habitat assessment survey results, including a map of the area surveyed is included in Appendix D. In summary, the Sullane River at Ballymakeera (location as described above and detailed in Appendix D) supports a good diversity of habitats, with areas of riffle, glide and pool over a substrate that includes cobble, large rocks, gravel and sand. The Sullane River supports suitable salmonid spawning, nursery and adult habitat. The habitats provide no, or some poor quality, Lamprey nursery habitat but some areas of the river do provide fair-good Lamprey spawning habitat. This stretch of the Sullane River (and downstream) supports poor-fair habitat for Freshwater Pearl Mussel. Exploitation of Margaritifera margaritifera (pearl-fishing) is an on-going risk therefore reporting of their exact location is considered highly sensitive and therefore not detailed in this report. It can be confirmed however that suitable habitat and pearl mussel populations do exist in the vicinity of and downstream of the proposed interim works (Requests for copy of field results may be sent to Dr. Áine O Connor, NPWS), see Section 3.4.3 for further details on FPM. Aquatic plants recorded along this stretch of the Sullane River include unbranched filamentous algae, Ranunculus penicillatus var. penicilatus, Oenanthe crocata and Fontinalis species of mosses. Plant species recorded are detailed in Appendix D.

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3.4.2 Biological Water Quality The Q-assessment of the Sullane River, undertaken in July 2018 indicates that the invertebrates recorded in the Sullane River merit a Q-rating of Q4-5 indicating unpolluted conditions and High ecological quality between testing site M1, which is upstream of Ballyvourney Town Bridge at Gortnatubrid and site M3 at Ballyvourney Bridge. The invertebrates recorded at the village bend (Site M4) merit a Q-rating of Q4 indicating unpolluted conditions and Good ecological quality. High numbers of Group E Chironomus indicate localized pollution within the section. The invertebrates recorded at Ballymakeera Bridge (Site M5) site merit a Q-rating of Q4-5 indicating a return to unpolluted conditions and High ecological quality. The Q-sampling results are summarised in Table 3.3. Macroinvertebrate survey results are included in Appendix D. Table 3-3: Summary of Q-Ratings

Site Code Q-Rating WFD Ecological Quality Quality Status M1 4-5 High Unpolluted M2 4-5 High Unpolluted M3 4-5 High Unpolluted M4 4 Good Unpolluted M5 4-5 High Unpolluted

3.4.3 Freshwater Pearl Mussel The freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) is listed on Annex II and Annex V of the EU Habitats Directive and is protected under the Irish Wildlife Acts (1976 and 2000). The freshwater pearl mussel is considered to be critically endangered in Ireland (Byrne et al., 2009) and Europe (Moorkens, 2011). The conservation status of the species was bad, when reported under Article 17 of the Habitats Directive in 2007 and again in 2013 (Moorkens et al., 2007, NPWS, 2013). Monitoring of Margaritifera in Ireland was first initiated in 2004 and baseline and repeat monitoring has been ongoing ever since. The main drivers behind monitoring of the freshwater pearl mussel are Article 11 of the Habitats Directive and the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Freshwater Pearl Mussel) Regulations, S.I. No. 296 of 2009. Article 11 stipulates that “Member States shall undertake surveillance of the conservation status of the natural habitats and species referred to in Article 2”. S.I. No. 296 of 2009 specifically requires monitoring of the 27 no. SAC populations listed on the First Schedule, at least once every six years. The distribution of mussels in the Sullane system was surveyed in 2007 by Dr. Evelyn Moorkens (Moorkens, 2007) and a focused Study on two sections of the river were surveyed again in 2016 (Moorkens, 2017). From Moorkens studies it is evident that the location of the proposed interim flood defences is adjacent to the stretch of the River which supports one of the better habitats for FPM along the Sullane River, however it was noted that conditions in stable habitat were poor in 2007 and 2016. This is consistent with surveys undertaken by RPS in 2013/2014 as part of the aquatic surveys for the main Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera Flood Relief Scheme (FRS) where FPM habitat and live mussels were recorded along the reach of the Sullane River where the interim works are proposed. Due to existing pressures in the catchment there has been a noticeable decline in the quality of FPM habitat and indeed a decline in the number of live mussels along the surveyed reaches for the FRS but also within the condition assessments prepared by Moorkens and Associates on behalf of the NPWS. Therefore, it is imperative to ensure any works do not contribute to the further depression of the mussel habitat quality.

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3.5 Summary of Ecological Evaluation Table 3.4 summarises all identified ecological features. Ecological features have been identified as being at risk of potentially significant impacts via a source-pathway-receptor link. Ecological features are valued as being of local ecological importance (higher value) or above as per the criteria set out in Appendix B. Table 3-4: Ecological Features within the Proposed Site and Its Receiving Environment

Ecological Habitat/ Species Ecological Value5 Feature European Site International Yes Natural Heritage Area National Yes Stone walls (BL1) Negligible No Buildings and artificial surfaces Negligible No (BL3) Agriculturally improved Local importance (lower value) No grassland (GA1) Amenity grassland (GA2) Local importance (lower value) No Dry meadows and grassy Local importance (lower value) No verges (GS2) Mixed conifer woodland (WD3) Local importance (lower value) No Immature woodland (WS2) Local importance (higher value) Yes Hedgerows (WL1) Local importance (higher value) Yes Treelines (WL2) Local importance (higher value) Yes Lowland depositing rivers (FW2) County Importance Yes Amphibians & Reptiles No evidence of amphibians and reptiles was No recorded within the site. Kerry Slug Habitats within the site are not suitable to support No Kerry Slug and no evidence of this species was recorded. Avifauna Avifauna as they occur within the proposed site are Yes considered to be of local importance (higher value) Roosting bats There is a high diversity of bat species within the Yes site and its environs and there is potential for a small number/ individual species of bat to roost within trees within the site. Bats, as they occur at the site, are considered to be of Local Importance (higher value) Otter Otter forage along the Sullane River, however there Yes is no evidence of otter holts within the proposed site. Otters are considered to be of Local Importance (higher value) as they occur at the site. Badger No evidence of badger was observed within the site No and there is limited suitable habitat for badger setts within the proposed site.

5 In accordance with NRA (2009) Guidelines for the Assessment of Ecological Impacts of National Road Schemes Rev. 2. National Roads Authority

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Ecological Habitat/ Species Ecological Value5 Feature Salmonids The Sullane River supports suitable spawning, Yes nursery, and adult habitat for salmonids. Salmonids are considered to be of County Importance as they occur at the site and its environs due to the presence of good- very good habitat for this species, which is considered to be of ’unfavourable inadequate’ status6. Lamprey The Sullane River supports fair-good spawning Yes habitat for lamprey. This species is considered to be of Local Importance (higher value) as they occur at the site and its environs. Freshwater Pearl Mussel The Sullane River supports populations of Yes Freshwater Pearl Mussel (albeit with already depleted habitat conditions) that are considered to be of European Importance.

6 NPWS (2013) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Species Assessments Volume 3. Version 1.0. Unpublished Report, National Parks & Wildlife Services. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland.

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4 POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

This section will identify in detail the potential impact of the proposed interim works on habitats and species of conservation value (i.e., ecological features) that have been identified as present, or that have the potential to be present, at the proposed site and its environs.

4.1 Construction Phase The ecological features that, in the absence of mitigation, may potentially be impacted by the construction phase of the proposed development and the significance of these impacts are set out in the following sections. 4.1.1 Designated Sites As indicated in Table 3.1, there are seven European Sites within 15km of the proposed site. The proposed site is located c. 0.12km from St Gobnait’s Wood SAC and c. 0.7km from Mullaghanish to Musheramore Mountains SPA. A review of nationally designated sites indicates that there is one Natural Heritage Area (NHA) and nine proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs) within 15km of the proposed development area.

4.1.1.1 European Sites A screening for Appropriate Assessment has been completed for the proposed interim works considering impacts to European Sites (SACs and SPAs) within 15km. The AA screening was informed by ecological site surveys (as detailed in Section 2 and Section 3 of this report) and desktop study. From the findings of the Screening exercise, it was concluded that the proposed interim flood defence works:  Aare not directly connected with or necessary to the management of any European Site; and  Will not give rise to significant effects on the qualifying interests of The Gearagh SAC, Mullaghanish Bog SAC, Blackwater River (Cork / Waterford) SAC, Killarney National Park, Macgillycuddy's Reeks And Caragh River Catchment SAC, The Gearagh SPA and Mullaghanish to Musheramore Mountains SPA. In relation to St. Gobnait’s Wood SAC, the proposed works are located approximately 115m from this SAC. However, from the findings of the Screening exercise, it was concluded that the proposed interim flood defence works, individually or in combination with other Plans or projects, will not have a significant effect on St. Gobnait’s Wood SAC due to the following reasons:  The lack of hydrological or habitat connectivity; and  The nature of the works (temporary, low scale works). The screening for Appropriate Assessment report found that a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment is not required.

4.1.1.2 Nationally Designated Sites As detailed in Table 3.1, the only NHA or pNHA with potential connectivity to the proposed works is Prohus Wood pNHA, which is located adjacent to the Sullane River c. 8km downstream of the proposed works area. Theoretically, there is a remote indirect connectivity between the proposed site and this pNHA. However, this pNHA is located on rocky sloping ground to the west of the Sullane River. Further, the ecological interest of this site is woodland and does not include any aquatic habitats or species. In consideration of the above factors, and the nature of the works, no significant adverse impacts as a result of the proposed interim works are anticipated.

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4.1.2 Habitats

4.1.2.1 Immature Woodland No works are proposed within the area of immature woodland, therefore there will be no significant impacts on this habitat.

4.1.2.2 Hedgerows There is potential that small sections of garden hedges to the rear of the properties backing on to the Sullane River will need to be removed to enable the installation of hard defences (i.e. sandbags). The hedges at this location are planted with non-native garden species. As such, and in consideration of the small-scale nature of the works, it is not anticipated that the proposed works will have a significant adverse impact on hedgerow habitat of conservation interest.

4.1.2.3 Treelines There is potential that the installation of hard defences (i.e. sandbags) will necessitate the removal, or cutting back, of trees within the treeline located adjacent to the Sullane River. This would be a significant adverse impact at the local level. This impact would be temporary and reversible.

4.1.2.4 Lowland Depositing Rivers Potential impacts on this habitat during the construction phase are assessed in Section 4.1.3.4 and Section 4.1.3.5 below. 4.1.3 Fauna

4.1.3.1 Avifauna Breeding birds are protected under the Wildlife Acts 1976- 2012. It is an offence to disturb birds while on their nest, or to wilfully take, remove, destroy, injure or mutilate their eggs or nests. The proposed development may require the removal of sections of hedgerows and the removal of trees or branches that may potentially support breeding birds. If the hedgerow or tree works are not timed appropriately, nests containing eggs or young chicks could be destroyed. This would result in a negative impact on birds, which would be significant at a local level. In the absence of mitigation this impact would be a permanent and irreversible. Indirect effects on birds associated with the proposed development may include potential disturbance during the construction works, which would be a significant at a local level. In the absence of mitigation this impact would be a temporary and reversible.

4.1.3.2 Roosting Bats Loss of Roosting Habitat The removal of trees, or branches of trees, to install the sandbags adjacent to the Sullane River may result in the loss of potential or actual roosting sites for bats. There is potential that the semi-mature broadleaved trees within the treeline adjacent to the river may be used occasionally as roosting or resting places by individual/ small numbers of bats. Therefore, there is potential for adverse impacts to individual/ small numbers of bats as a result of the removal of mature broadleaf trees during the construction phase. In the absence of mitigation, it is considered that the loss of potential or actual roosting sites would have a direct, significant negative impact on bats at the local level. In the absence of mitigation this impact would be permanent and irreversible.

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Lighting Potential tree roosts are located to the rear of the properties backing on to the Sullane River. When bats emerge from roosts they tend not to echolocate but rely on eyesight to fly from the roost to adjoining treelines or hedgerows. Various studies have shown that bats’ eyesight works best in dim light conditions; where there is too much luminance bats’ vision can be reduced resulting in disorientation. Too much luminance at bat roosts may cause bats to desert a roost. Light falling on a roost exit point can delay bats from emerging and miss peak levels of insect activity at dusk: any delays of emergence can reduce feeding periods. Studies have also found that lighting can cause avoidance of an area for commuting bats and can prevent or reduce foraging for Myotis species and brown-long-eared bats7. In the absence of mitigation, disturbance of bats due to lighting used during the construction phase would have an indirect, significant negative impact at the local level. The impact would be temporary and would persist for the duration of construction. The loss of hedgerows or other linear features during construction can impact on foraging and commuting bats and reduce available foraging areas. However, in view of the small scale of the proposed works and the abundance of hedgerow and treeline habitat in adjacent areas and the wider landscape, the proposed works are not anticipated to have a significant adverse impact on foraging or commuting bats.

4.1.3.3 Otter No evidence of otter was recorded within the proposed site. No holts were recorded in the vicinity of the site. As such, no fragmentation or loss of otter habitat is anticipated to arise from the proposed development. Survey evidence indicates that otter forage along the Sullane River. There is potential for temporary visual and noise disturbance to foraging otters in the vicinity of the site during construction. However, otters are generally nocturnal, with a peak of activity occurring around dawn and dusk, therefore the main activity period for otter is outside standard construction working hours. In view of the this, and in consideration of the abundance of available foraging habitat along the Sullane River and Bohill River, disturbance impacts would not be expected to have a significant adverse effect on otters. As detailed in Section 4.1.3.4, there is potential for a reduction in water quality to have an adverse effect on aquatic organisms and in turn a reduction in prey species available for otter that forage along the Sullane River. However, any reduction in water quality is likely to be short-term and localised. The high mobility and large foraging ranges of otter means that they are likely to be able to accommodate such localised changes in prey distribution and abundance.

4.1.3.4 Salmon and Lamprey Suspended sediment due to runoff of soil from construction areas can have severe negative impacts on invertebrate and plant life and on all life stages of salmonid fish, as follows:  Suspended sediment can settle on spawning areas, infill the intragravel voids and smother the eggs and alevins (newly hatched fish) in the gravel.  Bed Load (coarse material transported along the bottom of the stream) and settled sediments can infill pools and riffles, reducing the availability and quality of rearing habitat for fish.  Suspended sediment can reduce water clarity and visibility in the stream, impairing the ability of fish to find food items.  Settled sediments can smother and displace aquatic organisms such as macroinvertebrates, reducing the amount of food items available to fish.  Increased levels of sediment can displace fish out of prime habitat into less suitable areas. (Chilibeck et al 1992).

7 Stone E.L. (2013) Bats and Lighting: Overview of current evidence and mitigation.

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 Suspended solids can abrade or clog the gills of salmonid fish. It takes a high concentration of solid wastes to clog a fish gill and cause asphyxiation, but only a little to cause abrasions and thus permit the possibility of infections. (Solbe 1988) Land raising works will be restricted to field gateways that are buffered from the Sullane River by grassland c. 0.07km distant at its closest point. There are no active or inactive field drains in the immediate vicinity of the works. There are no instream works required as part of the proposals. Pollution by suspended solids will be a potential issue where works are carried out adjacent to the Sullane River. There is potential for siltation and sedimentation of salmon and lamprey habitat should sandbags burst. If hydrocarbons (fuels and oils) were to be transported in runoff to the Sullane River via construction machinery working in proximity to the river bank, there is potential for localised toxic effects on aquatic organisms in the river. The extent of the downstream impact would depend on the amount of substance released and instream concentration. Degradation of salmon and lamprey habitat as a result of sediments and other polluting substances entering the Sullane River would have a direct impact that would be significant at a local level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary and reversible. The Contractor is to provide and agree a method statement to address the avoidance of sediment or soil loss and release of hydrocarbons and polluting substances during the works with CCC.

4.1.3.5 Freshwater Pearl Mussel Populations of the freshwater pearl mussel can be damaged in a number of ways. Direct damage to the mussel and its habitat can occur through removal of river boulders and gravels, or through building bridges, weirs or bank reinforcements within the mussel habitat. However, actions in areas outside the immediate habitat of the mussel may also be damaging. This damage may result from a range of activities but occurs in four main ways.  Changes in River Flow: Activities such as land drainage, major landuse changes, water abstraction, physical changes to the river and its tributaries by dredging or straightening can all affect the quantity of water in the river, and the speed and direction of river flow.  Addition of Chemicals and Nutrients: A range of substances cause harm to mussels when they enter the river. Industrial pollutants (including fuel and chemicals), nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen), and pesticides (particularly sheep dip) are of serious concern in FPM catchments.  Inputs of Sediment: Land drainage, construction works, tillage and animal poaching are among the many activities that can result in the movement of fine sediment from the land to water. Over time this eroded sediment makes its way through ditches and streams into the river and onto pearl mussel populations.  Biotic factors: Where any of the issues above negatively affect the salmonid host of the FPM, damage to mussel populations will also result due to failure of FPM larvae to find host fish. Any reduction in numbers and distribution extent (range) of FPM results in damage to the resilience of FPM through genetic loss. Due to the nature of the proposed interim project it is anticipated that the potential for inputs of sediment from the construction works, will be the primary impact with the potential to have a significant impact on the remaining extant FPM populations in the Sullane River. The movement of machinery causing ground disturbance within the floodplain and the localised raising of land at three separate locations with the stripping of soil has the potential to provide a source of sediment that could find a pathway to the river. If the integrity of the sandbags is compromised through rupture then this could also represent a source of sediment.

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In addition, the impacts on salmon and lamprey noted above, a fuel or oil spill could pose detriment to FPM populations. Bhattacharyya et al., (2003) highlight that spills of oil can reduce the capacity of a water body to exchange oxygen as well as result in oil coating the gills of aquatic species causing lesions on respiratory surfaces. This can result in significant oxygen-supply difficulties for aquatic organisms affecting their respiration. Benthic invertebrates can be adversely affected if fractions of hydrocarbons settle and accumulate in sediments. This can result in the mortality of populations and prevent future colonisation (Bhattacharyya et al., 2003). The primary route of hydrocarbon uptake is via the gills; therefore the dissolved fraction is often the greatest concern as it is the most readily available (Thomas & Rice, 1981 cited by Ramachandran et al., 2004). The introduction of any pollutants to the River that may alter the pH can affect various other water quality variables, which may have adverse impacts upon aquatic ecology (Franklin et al., 2000) acidification also has the potential to be detrimental to FPM in the long term through gradual dissolution of their calcareous shell. Degradation of FPM habitat as a result of sediments and other polluting substances entering the Sullane River would have a direct impact that would be significant at a National Level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary but could have a significant impact in terms of FPM populations. Mitigation to prevent detrimental impacts are proposed in section 5.

4.1.3.6 Invasive Species The invasive species Giant Knotweed, Himalayan Knotweed and Cherry Laurel have been recorded in the vicinity of the proposed works. The presence of IAS has the potential to lead to an offence under European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (SI No. 477 of 2011). Regulation 49 of the 2011 Regulations prohibits (unless under licence) the breeding, release, or allowing or causing the dispersal from confinement of any animal listed in the Third Schedule of the Regulations; or the planting, allowing or causing dispersal, and spreading of any plant listed in the Third Schedule. Giant Knotweed is listed in the Third Schedule of these regulations. It is an offence to plant or encourage the spread of Third Schedule listed invasive species by moving contaminated soil from one place to another, or incorrectly handling and transporting contaminated material or plant cuttings. Persons must therefore take all reasonable steps and exercise due diligence to avoid committing an offence under the 2011 Regulations. Giant Knotweed is located within 7m of the proposed works at the village bend. As such, there is potential for construction of the proposed interim works to cause the spread of invasive plant species. The Contractor’s ecologist is to prepare an IAS Management Plan for the works.

4.2 Operational Phase

The ecological features that, in the absence of mitigation, may potentially be impacted by the operational phase of the proposed development and the significance of these impacts are set out in the following sections. 4.2.1 Designated Sites No significant adverse impacts on designated sites are anticipated during the operational phase. 4.2.2 Habitats

4.2.2.1 Terrestrial Habitats No significant adverse impacts on terrestrial habitats are anticipated during the operational phase.

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4.2.2.2 Lowland Depositing Rivers There will be no practicable alteration to the natural behaviour of the Sullane River as a result of the proposed works. Potential impacts on aquatic species are considered in Section 4.2.3.4 and Section 4.2.3.5. 4.2.3 Fauna

4.2.3.1 Avifauna No significant adverse impacts on avifauna are anticipated during the operational phase.

4.2.3.2 Bats No significant adverse impacts on bats are anticipated during the operational phase.

4.2.3.3 Otter No significant adverse impacts on otter are anticipated during the operational phase.

4.2.3.4 Salmon and Lamprey There is potential for siltation and sedimentation of salmon and lamprey habitat should sandbags burst. Degradation of salmon and lamprey habitat as a result of sediments entering the Sullane River would have a direct impact that would be significant at a local level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary and reversible.

4.2.3.5 Freshwater Pearl Mussel There is potential for siltation and sedimentation of FPM habitat should sandbags burst. Impacts noted in section 4.1.3.5 in relation to sedimentation are applicable to this case. Degradation of FPM habitat as a result of sediments and other polluting substances entering the Sullane River would have a direct impact that would be significant at a National Level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary but potentially permanent and irreversible in terms of FPM populations. Mitigation to prevent detrimental impacts are proposed in Section 5.

4.3 Decommissioning Phase The ecological features that, in the absence of mitigation, may potentially be impacted by the decommissioning phase of the proposed development and the significance of these impacts are set out in the following sections.

4.3.1 Designated Sites No significant adverse impacts on designated sites are anticipated during the decommissioning phase. 4.3.2 Habitats

4.3.2.1 Immature Woodland No works are proposed within the area of immature woodland, therefore there will be no significant impacts on this habitat.

4.3.2.2 Hedgerows No significant adverse impacts on hedgerows are anticipated during the decommissioning phase.

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4.3.2.3 Treelines There is potential that trees will need trimming to facilitate the removal of hard defences (i.e. sandbags) adjacent to the Sullane River. However, in view of the likely small scale of the potential branch trimming works, no significant adverse impacts on this habitat are anticipated to arise.

4.3.2.4 Lowland depositing rivers Potential impacts on this habitat are assessed in Section 4.3.3.4 and Section 4.3.3.5 below. 4.3.3 Fauna

4.3.3.1 Avifauna As described in Section 4.1.3.1, if tree works are not timed appropriately, nests containing eggs or young chicks could be destroyed. This would result in a negative impact on birds, which would be significant at a local level. In the absence of mitigation this impact would be a permanent and irreversible. Indirect effects on birds associated with the proposed development may include potential disturbance during the decommissioning works, which would be a significant at a local level. In the absence of mitigation this impact would be a temporary and reversible.

4.3.3.2 Bats Loss of Roosting Habitat The potential removal of tree branches to enable the removal of sandbags adjacent to the Sullane River may result in the loss of potential or actual roosting sites for bats. There is potential that the semi-mature broadleaved trees within the treeline adjacent to the river may be used occasionally as roosting or resting places by individual/ small numbers of bats. Therefore, there is potential for adverse impacts to individual/ small numbers of bats as a result of the removal of mature broadleaf tree branches during the decommissioning phase. In the absence of mitigation, it is considered that the loss of potential or actual roosting sites would have a direct, significant negative impact on bats at the local level. In the absence of mitigation this impact would be permanent and irreversible. Lighting Potential tree roosts are located to the rear of the properties backing on to the Sullane River. As detailed in Section 4.1.3.2, lighting can result in adverse impacts on roosting, foraging and commuting bats. In the absence of mitigation, disturbance of bats due to lighting used during the decommissioning phase would have an indirect, significant negative impact at the local level. The impact would be temporary and would persist for the duration of decommissioning.

4.3.3.3 Otter No significant adverse impacts on otter are anticipated during the decommissioning phase.

4.3.3.4 Salmon and Lamprey The potential impacts on salmon and lamprey are of a similar nature to those described for the construction phase in Section 4.1.3.4. Degradation of salmon and lamprey habitat as a result of sediments and other polluting substances such as hydrocarbons entering the Sullane River would have a direct impact that would be significant at a local level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary and reversible.

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4.3.3.5 Freshwater Pearl Mussel There is potential for siltation and sedimentation of FPM habitat through the movement of machinery in the floodplain resulting in ground disturbance or should sandbags burst during removal. Also impacts from potential oil and fuel spills from required plant and machinery are applicable to the decommissioning stage. Impacts noted in section 4.1.3.5 are similar to potential impacts of this stage. Degradation of FPM habitat as a result of sediments and other polluting substances entering the Sullane River would have a direct impact that would be significant at National Level. In consideration of the nature of the works (temporary, small scale works), it is expected that impacts would be temporary but potentially irreversible. Mitigation to prevent detrimental impacts are proposed in Section 5.

4.3.3.6 Invasive Species Giant Knotweed is located within 7m of the proposed works at the village bend. As such, there is potential for decommissioning of the proposed interim works to cause the spread of invasive plant species.

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5 MITIGATION

As with any development, all measures necessary should be taken to ensure comprehensive protection of local ecological features, in the first place by complete impact avoidance and as a secondary approach through mitigation by reduction and remedy. A comprehensive construction method statement must be prepared by the contractor and reviewed and approved by the relevant statutory authorities e.g. Cork County Council, as necessary before any works take place. This will be informed by the specific mitigation measures detailed in Table 5.1 and the guidance documents and best practice measures listed below:  H. Masters-Williams et al (2001) Control of water pollution from construction sites. Guidance for consultants and contractors (C532). CIRIA.  Murnane et al (2002) Control of Water Pollution from Construction Sites- Guide to Good Practice. SP156.  IFI (2016) Guidelines on Protection of Fisheries during Construction Works in and Adjacent to Waters. Inland Fisheries Ireland, Dublin.

5.1 Construction Phase

5.1.1 Pollution Prevention Measures Table 5-1: Table of Construction Phase Mitigation Measures

Objective(s) Measure Details of Mitigation Treelines and General Removal/ trimming of trees shall be avoided where feasible and hedgerows Avoidance will be restricted to the minimum required to facilitate the proposed works. 8 As stated in the Works Requirements , where feasible, no scrub clearance or other removal of vegetation on site will Timing of works occur during the bird breeding season from 1st March to 31st August. Avifauna Timing of works Where feasible, no scrub clearance or other removal of vegetation on site will occur during the bird breeding season from 1st March to 31st August. Pre-construction bird surveys are recommended prior to works commencing where works during the breeding season are unavoidable. If any active nests are discovered then work in the immediate vicinity of the nest should cease and an appropriate buffer zone should be established which should be left in place until it has been confirmed that the young have fledged. Bats Safe Felling In order to protect potential roost sites, any existing mature Procedures trees adjacent to the proposed construction areas which will not be removed shall be protected from root damage in accordance with BS 5837:2012 Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction (British Standards Institution, 2012) as part of the construction contract.9

8 Cork County Council (2018) Baile Mhic Íre (Ballymakeera) Interim Flood Mitigation Works: Volume A- Works Requirements.

10http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Invasives_taggedlist_High Impact_2013RA.pdf

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Objective(s) Measure Details of Mitigation All trees proposed for felling/ trimming shall be checked for Potential Roost Features (PRFs) by an experienced bat ecologist as part of a pre-construction survey. Resulting from the pre-construction PRF survey, all trees with medium to high roost potential shall be examined in detail by an experienced bat ecologist immediately prior to work commencing by any appointed contractor or subcontractor on any part of the construction phase of the proposed project including vegetation clearance or topsoil stripping. Following this examination, should any tree be identified as a bat roost then a derogation licence application will be made to the NPWS to exclude the bats and fell the tree. The roost must not be altered or affected in any way prior to works being undertaken as stipulated within the derogation licence. Felling must be carried out under the supervision of a bat specialist named on the licence. Where practicable, mature trees to be cleared shall be felled in the period from late August to late October, or early November, in order to avoid the disturbance of any roosting bats as per Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) guidelines. During this period bats are still capable of flight having not entered hibernation and undertaking works in this period may reduce the risks of tree-felling if proper measures are undertaken. Once felled, trees that have potential bat roost features shall be left intact on-site for 24 hours prior to disposal to allow any bats to escape overnight. Bats Appropriate use Where construction lighting is required, lighting will be directed of lighting away from all hedgerow and linear habitats to be retained. Directional lighting (i.e. lighting which only shines on the proposed project and not nearby countryside) will be used to prevent overspill. This will be achieved by the design of the luminaire and by using accessories such as hoods, cowls, louvres and shields to direct the light to the intended area only. Control of Best practice Works will be supervised by an Ecological Clerk of Works who sediment loss during will advise on appropriate measures required to prevent the construction (silt release of sediment and other deleterious substances entering control watercourses. measures) Works are to be carried out from the land side. In stream tracking is not permissible. No tree roots will be pulled from the river bank. Control of Best practice Sand-bags must be clean and of good integrity, preferably fully sediment loss during sealed (i.e., composed of high-grade polythene, not webbing or construction (silt hessian). control Sand-bags must be filled with very clean, coarse grade sand measures) with no fines at all. They shall be carefully handled and placed to prevent bursting. No other additional material (like clay or soil etc.) should be introduced to seal gaps. For the limited areas where land raising is required the topsoil will be stripped and used to form a core bund around the ramp which will be surrounded by clean stone and if necessary be covered using a suitable liner to prevent the generation of sediment laden run-off from the area. The land raising works will be restricted to field gateways that are buffered from the Sullane River by grassland c. 0.07 km distant at its closest point. There are no active or inactive field

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Objective(s) Measure Details of Mitigation drains in the immediate vicinity of these works therefore the grassland will provide an effective functional buffer zone to protect the riparian zone and the Sullane River from the limited sources of sediment. Ground disturbance is the vicinity of the works will be limited by the careful management of vehicular movements. Where soils are wet low ground pressure construction vehicles will be used during the placement of the temporary works Avoid Best practice Temporary parking and refuelling areas will be within a hydrocarbon during designated area within the construction compound. Where loss to water construction possible, these areas, including the compound, will be 50m (hydrocarbons) away from watercourses, and in any event at a minimum of 10m from same. No storage of hydrocarbons or any polluting chemicals will occur within 50m of watercourses, or in any event at a minimum of 10m from same. Any diesel or fuel oils stored on site will be bunded to 110% of the capacity of the storage tank. Re-fuelling of plant will not occur within 50m of the watercourses and only in bunded refuelling areas. Design and installation of fuel tanks to be in accordance with best practice guidelines BPGCS005, oil storage guidelines. Drip trays and spill kits will be kept available on site. Freshwater Sediment In addition to mitigation already considered in the scheme Pearl Mussel trapping design and noted above in terms of reducing sediment loading to water course and lowering pollution risk, during construction and site establishment operations, silt fencing should be installed on the landward side of the development to break any pathway between exposed soils and the river. This silt fencing should be installed by hand (where appropriate) to prevent any disturbed soils reaching the aquatic zone. Also it should be noted that no plant shall enter a Pearl Mussel designated river and no persons shall enter the River without an FPM survey License at any time.

5.1.2 Invasive Species It is likely that Third Schedule IAS are located within 7m of the proposed works at their closest point, at the village bend (Figure 3.5). RPS contacted the landowner for the Giant Knotweed stand and Cherry Laurel located at the village bend, who confirmed that management of the Giant Knotweed commenced in 2016. The treatment of this stand of Giant Knotweed was undertaken by the landowner and comprised a twice- yearly treatment with the herbicide Roundup. The majority of growth has been stopped in this location with just small areas of regrowth apparent during the surveys undertaken in 2019. Further, while the Giant Knotweed and Cherry Laurel at the village bend is likely located within 7m of the proposed hard defence works, as noted in Section 3.3.2.4, the growth of these species at this location is restricted to the existing rock armour and stone river bank and does not extend to the built land and amenity grassland present adjacent to the bank. In view of the above, avoidance of invasive non-native species is the most appropriate measure to avoid spread of these species.

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The proposed interim works will be supervised by a suitably qualified ecologist. The proposed defences shall be sited to avoid all High Impact10 and Third Schedule11 invasive non-native species. Great care will be taken at all times to ensure that plant material (i.e. fragments of stems, leaves and roots) is not spread while carrying out the proposed interim flood defence work. The infested area shall be fenced-off and appropriate signage erected by a suitably qualified ecologist/ IAS management specialist (a specimen sign is presented in the Environment Agency 2013 publication – “The Knotweed Code of Practice. Managing Japanese Knotweed on Development sites V3”). The contractor will prepare a specific Invasive Alien Species Management Plan (IASMP) for the Interim Works area which will contain the intended construction methodology for avoiding and minimising the spread of viable reproductive material of Giant Knotweed and other species (i.e. leaves, stems and roots) and will follow best practice guidance documents.

5.1.3 Works Management Effective supervision during the works is an essential mitigation measure to prevent impact to the aquatic environment. It allows control and mitigation of all activity and assessment of any changes in baseline conditions that may result. An Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) will be appointed by the client to monitor the activities of the contractor. Visual monitoring and clear record keeping, including a photographic record, in a manner that is accessible to the client’s Ecological Clerk of Works must be an intrinsic part of construction and site establishment activities by the contractor. The aim of this monitoring is to demonstrate that the mitigation measures undertaken, including weather triggers to stop and start work operations, have prevented any negative effect on the aquatic environment. Monitoring needs to take place for a timescale that reflects the risk period to the sensitive receiving environment. This includes site preparation, the full construction and site establishment period and during operational phases if a risk to the receiving environment is possible, i.e. inspections of sandbags as per Section 5.2 below. Monitoring records will include details of weather forecasts upon which decisions to proceed with operations are based. Where weather is unsuitable or conditions within the floodplain represent a significant increased risk to the aquatic zone, construction works will be suspended until conditions improve. Forecasts should be from a reliable and relevant forecasting service, checked twice daily. Written and photographic records of actual weather conditions experienced on-site in relation to stop / start triggers will also be recorded. Records (including photographic record) of regular checks on integrity of mitigation measures in place will be documented. This includes the integrity of any measures or structures designed to prevent/capture sediment movement, and any machine routes within the sensitive aquatic zone and stockpiling areas to ensure there is no pathway for sediment transport to the aquatic zone. Such checks should be repeated constantly throughout each day of operations and for any post operational risk periods. Turbidity must be recorded in drains and streams upstream and downstream of the works area. A hand-held meter will allow assessment of all active water pathways, but significant nodes in the drainage system (identified in the initial drainage audit or during operations), should be monitored continuously using telemetered in-situ recorders with appropriately triggered alarms.

10http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Invasives_taggedlist_High Impact_2013RA.pdf

11 http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2011/si/477/made/en/print

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5.2 Operational Phase

The appointed contractor will conduct quarterly inspections of sandbags. In the event of a flood warning from Met Éireann, the contractor will carry out a site inspection beforehand if required to ensure that all sandbags are of good integrity. In the event of wear and tear, sandbags will be replaced as required. Sand-bags must be carefully handled when replaced to prevent bursting.

5.3 Decommissioning Phase 5.3.1 Pollution Prevention Measures Table 5-2: Table of Decommissioning Phase Mitigation Measures

Objective(s) Measure Details of Mitigation Treelines General Removal/ trimming of trees shall be avoided where feasible and Avoidance will be restricted to the minimum required to facilitate the proposed works. 12 Timing of works As stated in the Works Requirements , where feasible, no scrub clearance or other removal of vegetation on site will occur during the bird breeding season from 1st March to 31st August. Avifauna Timing of works Where feasible, no scrub clearance or other removal of vegetation on site will occur during the bird breeding season from 1st March to 31st August. Pre-construction bird surveys are recommended prior to works commencing where works during the breeding season are unavoidable. If any active nests are discovered then work in the immediate vicinity of the nest should cease and an appropriate buffer zone should be established which should be left in place until it has been confirmed that the young have fledged. Bats Safe Felling Trimming of trees shall be avoided where feasible and will be Procedures restricted to the minimum required to facilitate the decommissioning works. All trees proposed for trimming shall be checked for Potential Roost Features (PRFs) by an experienced bat ecologist as part of a pre-decommissioning works survey. Resulting from the pre-decommissioning works PRF survey, all trees with medium to high roost potential shall be examined in detail by an experienced bat ecologist immediately prior to work commencing by any appointed contractor or subcontractor on any part of the decommissioning phase of the proposed project including vegetation clearance or topsoil stripping. Following this examination, should any tree be identified as a bat roost then a derogation licence application will be made to the NPWS to exclude the bats and trim the tree. The roost must not be altered or affected in any way prior to works being undertaken as stipulated within the derogation licence. Works to the tree must be carried out under the supervision of a bat specialist named on the licence.

12 Cork County Council (2018) Baile Mhic Íre (Ballymakeera) Interim Flood Mitigation Works: Volume A- Works Requirements.

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Objective(s) Measure Details of Mitigation Bats Appropriate use Where lighting is required, lighting will be directed away from all of lighting hedgerow and linear habitats to be retained. Directional lighting (i.e., lighting which only shines on the proposed project and not nearby countryside) will be used to prevent overspill. This will be achieved by the design of the luminaire and by using accessories such as hoods, cowls, louvres and shields to direct the light to the intended area only. Control of Best practice Works will be supervised by the Ecological Clerk of Works who sediment loss during will advise on appropriate measures required to prevent the construction (silt release of sediment and other deleterious substances entering control watercourses. measures) Works are to be carried out from the river bank. In stream tracking is not permissible No tree roots will be pulled from the river bank. Control of Best practice Sand-bags must be carefully handled when removed to prevent sediment loss during bursting. construction (silt Ground disturbance is the vicinity of the works will be limited by control the careful management of vehicular movements. Where soils measures) are wet low ground pressure construction vehicles should be used during the placement of the temporary works Avoid Best practice Temporary parking and refuelling areas will be within a hydrocarbon during designated area within the construction compound. Where loss to water construction possible, these areas, including the compound, will be 50m away (hydrocarbons) from watercourses, and in any event at a minimum of 10m from same. No storage of hydrocarbons or any polluting chemicals will occur within 50m of watercourses. Any diesel or fuel oils stored on site will be bunded to 110% of the capacity of the storage tank. Re- fuelling of plant will not occur within 50m of the watercourses and only in bunded refuelling areas. Design and installation of fuel tanks to be in accordance with best practice guidelines BPGCS005, oil storage guidelines. Drip trays and spill kits will be kept available on site. Freshwater Sediment In addition to mitigation already considered in the scheme design Pearl Mussel trapping and noted above in terms of reducing sediment loading to water course and lowering pollution risk, during construction and site establishment operations, silt fencing should be installed on the landward side of the development to break any pathway between exposed soils and the river. This silt fencing should be installed by hand (where appropriate) to prevent any disturbed soils reaching the aquatic zone. Also it should be noted that no plant shall enter a Pearl Mussel designated river and no persons shall enter the River without an FPM survey License at any time.

5.4 Residual Impacts

Provided that the mitigation measures provided in Section 5.1 of this report are effectively implemented, there will be no significant residual impacts on flora and fauna at the proposed interim works site.

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6 CONCLUSION

Provided that the mitigation measures provided in Section 5 of this report are effectively implemented, it is not anticipated that there will be any significant negative ecological impacts as a result of the proposed Interim Works for the Flood Relief Scheme at Ballymakeera, Co. Cork.

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7 REFERENCES

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Bruce-White, C. & Shardlow, M. (2011) A Review of the Impact of Artificial Light on Invertebrates. Buglife, The Invertebrate Conservation Trust.

Buddensiek, V., Engel, H., Fleischauer-Rossing, S. and Wachtler, K. (1993). Studies on the chemistry of interstitial water taken from defined horizons in the fine sediments of bivalve habitats in several northern German lowland waters. II: Microhabitats of Margaritifera margaritifera L., Unio crassus(Philipson) and Unio tumidus Philipsson. Arch. Hydrobiol. 127, pp.151-166.

Buddensiek, V. (1995). The culture of juvenile freshwater pearl mussels Margaritifera margaritifera L. in cages: a contribution to conservation programmes and the knowledge of habitat requirements. Biol. Conserv. 74; pp. 33-40.

Byrne, A., Moorkens, E.A., Anderson, R., Killeen, I.J. and Regan, E.C. (2009) Ireland Red List No. 2 – Non- Marine Molluscs. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland. http://www.npws.ie/publications/redlists/

Chilibeck, B., G. Chislett, and G. Norris (1992) Land development guidelines for the protection of aquatic habitat. Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Canada. Habitat management division. Ministry of Environment Lands and Parks. Integrated Management Branch.

CIEEM (2018) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland: Terrestrial, Freshwater, Coastal and Marine. The Chartered Institute for Ecology and Environmental Management.

Colhoun, K. and Cummins, S. (2013). Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland (2014-2019). Irish Birds 9: 523-544

Collins, J. (ed.) (2016) Bat Surveys for Professional Ecologists: Good Practice Guidelines (3rd edn). The Bat Conservation Trust, London.

Crowe, O., Coombes, R.H., O’Sullivan, O., Tierney, T.D., Walsh, A.J. and O’Halloran, J. (2014). Countryside Bird Survey Report 1998-2013. BirdWatch Ireland, Wicklow.

Environmental Protection Agency online environmental information portal (https://gis.epa.ie/EPAMaps/).

EPA (2002) Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements. Prepared by CAAS (Environmental Services), Environmental Protection Agency, Wexford.

European Commission. (2000) Managing Natura 2000 sites: The provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC.

Fossitt, J.A. (2000) A Guide to Habitats in Ireland. The Heritage Council, Kilkenny.

Geological Survey of Ireland (2011). GIS datasets Public Viewer. Online at http://spatial.dcenr.gov.ie/imf/imf.jsp?site=GSI_Simple

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Kelleher, C. & Marnell, F. (2006). Bat Mitigation Guidelines for Ireland.

Levasseur, M., Bergeron, N.E., Lapointe, M.F., & Bérubé, F. (2006). Effects of silt and very fine sand dynamics in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) redds on embryo hatching success. Can. J. Fish. Aquat.Sci. 63; pp. 1450-1459.

Lynas, P., Newton, S.F. and Robinson, J.A. (2007). The status of birds in Ireland: an analysis of conservation concern. Irish Birds 8: 149- 166.

Matthews, F. et al (2015) Barriers and Benefits: Implications of Artificial Night Lighting for the Distribution of Common Bats in Britain and Ireland. Phil. Trans. R. Soc. B 370 20140124.

McGarrigle, M.L., Bowman, J.J., Clabby, K.J., Cunningham, P., MacCárthaigh, M., Keegam, M., Cantrell, B., Lehance, M., Cleneghan, C. and Toner, P.F. (2002) Water Quality in Ireland 1998 2000. Environmental Protection Agency, Wexford, Ireland.

Moorkens, E. (2011) Margaritifera margaritifera. In: IUCN 2013. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2013.2. .

Moorkens, E. (2017) Survey and Condition Assessment of the population of the freshwater mussel Margaritifera margaritifera in the Sullane River, County Cork. Unpublished Report to the National Parks and Wildlife Service, DAHRRGA, Dublin.

Moorkens, E.A., Killeen, I.J. and Ross, E. (2007) Margaritifera (the freshwater pearl mussel) conservation assessment. July 2007. In: The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland; Backing Documents, Article 17 Forms, Maps; Volume 1. Unpublished report to the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. pp 100-148. http://www.npws.ie/publications/euconservationstatus/

Moorkens, E.A., (2007) Margaritifera Margaritifera Survey of the Sullane, Foherish and Laney Rivers with Regard to Proposed N22 Upgrade, Macroom to Ballyvourney, County Cork. National Roads Authority (2006): Best Practice Guidelines for the Conservation of Bats in the Planning of National Road Schemes. National Roads Authority, Dublin.

National Roads Authority (2006): Guidelines for the Treatments of Bats Prior to the Construction of National Road Schemes. National Roads Authority, Dublin.

NPWS (2013) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Species Assessments Volume 3, Version 1.0. Unpublished Report, National Parks and Wildlife Services, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland. 65-86. http://www.npws.ie/publications/article17assessments/

NRA (2009) Guidelines for the Assessment of Ecological Impacts of National Road Schemes Rev. 2. National Roads Authority.

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Ramachandran, S.D. Hodson, P.V. Khan, C.W. Lee, K. (2004) Oil dispersant increases PAH uptake by fish exposed to crude oil. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 59; pp 300–308.

Smith, G. F., O’Donoghue, P., O’Hora, K., Delaney, E., 2011. Best Practice Guidance for Habitat Survey and Mapping. The Heritage Council, Kilkenny.

Thomas, R. E. and Rice, S. D. (1981) Excretion of aromatic hydrocarbons and their metabolites by freshwater and seawater Dolly Varden char. Biological Monitoring of Marine Pollutants pp. 425-448. Academic Press, New York.

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Appendix A

Baile Mhic Íre Interim Works Report

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1.0 Baile Mhic Ire Interim Measures

Plan View: Baile Mhic Ire Interim Measures (Find attached better resolution plan views)

Ref. Pts A B C D E F G H I J K Flood Level 120.16 119.7 118.85 118.6 118.35 118.12 118.12 117.8 117.77 117.45 117.38 (m) OD Ground Level * 119.83 119.1 118.4 117.7 117.4 117.13 117.3 117.3 117 116.68 116.85 (m) OD Defence Height 0.33 0.6 0.45 0.9 0.95 0.99 0.82 0.5 0.77^ 0.77^ 0.53^ (m)

Table 1: Flood Levels, Ground Levels and Interim Works Defence Heights Information Flood Levels (highlighted above) are the 20-year modelled event levels plus, a 0.3m freeboard. Note. Ground Levels* (highlighted above) are attained from a specific site survey and Lidar survey, these may vary when on-site. ^ refers to defence levels that may need to be altered to allow for a safe flood event breach (refer below ' Design for Breaching'). Justification for the Interim Works Defence Levels Objective: To provide interim defences that are practical, structurally safe and do not increase flood risk. It is considered the interim hard defences may consist of 1000Kg (10KN) sand bags and impermeable liners. Using this information for the interim design, defending against a 20-year event is considered most suitable, for the following reason: The maximum height (allowing for a factor of safety) for the interim hard defence measures is considered as 1m (i.e. 5KN in-line hydrostatic flow pressure). For health and safety reasons, there may be a need for adding an additional non-load bearing high to the above defences heights, to attain 1.2m. Flood Mechanism for the 20-year event Based on local information and from the events hydraulically modelled levels, floodwaters first spill from the village bend and out-of-bank up and downstream of this location, then soon after from the gates at Point B, D and then from the gate at Point A (ree attached plan views).

What the above Baile Mhic Ire Interim Measures Plan View illustrates The interim defence line, its location was selected in order to minimally effect landowners, both residential and agricultural. The Maroon line is the proposed interim hard defence line, to prevent floodwaters reaching properties from their gardens, flowing through gates and seeping though walls. Note. It is possible some units (garages) at the back of some properties may effect this line. This must be confirmed on-site and the line altered, though still accounting for the 20-year flood levels. The Green line indicates land-raising, to allow access to/from the existing gateway whilst also mitigating against the 20-year flood levels, this respective line may vary for best access (again determined on-site), regardless the 20-year flood level must be maintained. Property areas defended can be seen within the Green hatch polygon, also, the Green diamonds (properties with floor level less that the 20-year event) and Maroon diamonds (properties with floor levels above the 20-year event though are within a mitigated flood cell). The Red Diamonds show properties outside the interim defences line with floor levels below the 20-year event (refer to below paragraph, 'Properties outside of 20-year Interim mitigation measures'). The Pink polygon highlights individual property protection (refer below, for information on property No. 83, 'Properties outside of 20-year Interim mitigation measures'). Navy Diamonds indicate properties outside of schemes defended study area. Reference points are identified A to K. Defence line ties into high ground at K. Piped Outfalls There are two identified pipe outfalls (identified in red), Out 1 and 2, both would need a non-return valve placed on their outlets. Also, a sump would likely need to be constructed on the dry side of each piped outlet and pump be available in times of need. A site inspection is needed to confirm these requirements. Though at this stage, it appears possibly only at Out 2 may require a sump and pump as this outfall appears to be taking surface water from the road to the river, again a local site inspection is needed to confirm. A local site inspection is also needed to determine if other pipes outfalls enter the river and back-up onto the mitigated areas, if so, these must have non return valves fitted and possibly sump and pump system installed also.

Interim Hard Defence Design The above paragraph under 'Justification for Interim Works - Defence Levels' outlines what defence type (1000Kg sand bags and impermeable liners) may be used in the defences. The Local Authority must ensure whatever defence material and construction process that is used, along the defence line, it must be suitably designed to take the respective hydrostatic pressure from the river at the above flood levels. Also, special consideration must be taken into account by the Local Authority for the design of the interim defences around the village bend, from point I to K, as secondary lateral forces will need to be included, due to the rivers barrelling velocities into the defence line.

Design for Breaching It is also recommended that a 'low point' is created in the defence line, to allow for breaching during an exceedance event. This should allow for the safest possible transfer of floodwaters into the study areas flood cells. It is suggested this should occur at a point in the defence line that has the most confidence to when out of bank flooding first occurs and at a point for safest transfer of exceedance flow. This should be confirmed through on-site discussion and assessing of the local topography. Though from previous information, it would appear this local point may be around the village bend. If so, it is recommended a 0.3m reduction in the above flood level around point 'I'. This would also look to allow the floodwaters to flow down along the N22 toward the COOP, where during an event of this nature the floodwaters will likely have also approached the same location from an independent floodwater flow route (i.e. from the river adjacent to the COOP).

Degree of Confidence - In the modelled flood levels: It must be noted that there is always uncertainty in hydraulically modelling flood profiles, for this study while it is calibrated on best available data, there is still uncertainty. This is also why it is very important to have a breaching mode that most safely accommodates for an exceedence event breaching the defence line. - Underground Seepage: Without SI results, there is uncertainty regarding seepage rates and the true benefit of interim hard defences, as it is likely these would not accommodate for (underground) seepage flow. While the duration of large events through Baile Mhic Ire is traditionally not for long periods, uncertainly currently exists regarding seepage rates.

- Interim Works Standard of Construction Considering the interim defence line is considered to be constructed with 1000Kg sand bangs, and it is assumed also with impermeable liners. Defending the flood cells inside the interim defence line against the 20-year event flood risk is hugely dependant on the practicability, standard and quality of the interim defence line construction. The Design Section takes no responsibility for this area of work. - Topography On-site inspection/measurement is needed to determine the above tabled Defence Heights, between the reference points, where 1m should not be exceeded.

Potential benefit The number properties the 20-year event interim measures potentially benefits are; 14 (fourteen) properties and another 14 (fourteen) with floor levels within 0.2m. And 1 (one), property 83**, defended from local defences (refer below).

Conclusion A review of the above proposed interim works needs to be undertook by the distribution list. Largely to ensure constructing such interim measures will not in any way increase the existing risk caused from all sources of flooding. Perhaps defending to a lower event return period may be deemed more practical in terms of ensuring flood risk is not increased. Again the interim defence lines construction practicability, standard and quality is an overriding consideration when considering the possible effects on increasing the existing flood risk.

Properties outside the Interim Defence Measures, and their respective Flood Depth to the 20-year event. Property No. 83** Residential: 0.124m, recommend local defences to 116.138m OD i.e. grouting and local door flood gates (to average height 0.424m). 93 Business Park: 0.13m, not to mitigation against, as ground levels for a possible interim defence line would require defences greater than 1m. 99 Dairygold – Storage Yard: 0.112m, not to mitigation against, as ground levels for a possible interim defence line would require defences greater than 1m. 100 County Council Treatment Plant/Yard: 0.675m, outside of studies defended area. 102 Old Storage Yard: 0.484m, outside of studies defended area.

20-year event Property Flood Depths without mitigation from the Interim Measures. (Positive 'depths' are property flood depths)

Depth of Flooding (20-Year Event) Map Reference (m) Property Type

6 0.418

7 0.164 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 11

8 0.146 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 12 11 -0.199 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 15 26 -0.081 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 10 27 -0.121 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 9 28 -0.106 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 8 29 -0.095 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 7 30 -0.142 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 6 31 -0.093 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 5 32 0.533 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 4 33 0.596 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 3 6

34 0.578 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 2 35 0.606 St. Gobnait's Terrace - 1 36 0.495 39 -0.070 40 -0.074 43 -0.114 The Abbey Hotel 46 -0.184 Tranquilla 50 0.236 Ionad Cultúrtha 57 0.075 58 -0.002 1 59 0.025 2 60 -0.165 3 62 -0.191 5 66 0.397 Esso Garage 67 0.373 68 0.331

83** 0.124** Residential**

93 0.130 Business Park

99 0.112 Dairygold – Storage Yard County Council Treatment 100 0.675 Plant

102 0.484 Old Storage Yard

7 ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Appendix B

Geographical Reference for Ecological Assessment

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GEOGRAPHICAL REFERENCE FOR ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

Ecological Valuation International Importance: ‘European Site’ including Special Area of Conservation (SAC), Site of Community Importance (SCI), Special Protection Area (SPA) or proposed Special Area of Conservation. Proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA). Site that fulfils the criteria for designation as a ‘European Site’ (see Annex III of the Habitats Directive, as amended). Features essential to maintaining the coherence of the Natura 2000 Network. Site containing ‘best examples’ of the habitat types listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive. Resident or regularly occurring populations (assessed to be important at the national level) of the following: Species of bird, listed in Annex I and/or referred to in Article 4(2) of the Birds Directive; and/or Species of animal and plants listed in Annex II and/or IV of the Habitats Directive. Ramsar Site (Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially Waterfowl Habitat 1971). World Heritage Site (Convention for the Protection of World Cultural & Natural Heritage, 1972). Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO Man & the Biosphere Programme). Site hosting significant species populations under the Bonn Convention (Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, 1979). Site hosting significant populations under the Berne Convention (Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, 1979). Biogenetic Reserve under the Council of Europe. European Diploma Site under the Council of Europe. Salmonid water designated pursuant to the European Communities (Quality of Salmonid Waters) Regulations, 1988, (S.I. No. 293 of 1988). National Importance: Site designated or proposed as a Natural Heritage Area (NHA). Statutory Nature Reserve. Refuge for Fauna and Flora protected under the Wildlife Acts. National Park. Undesignated site fulfilling the criteria for designation as a Natural Heritage Area (NHA); Statutory Nature Reserve; Refuge for Fauna and Flora protected under the Wildlife Act; and/or a National Park. Resident or regularly occurring populations (assessed to be important at the national level) of the following: Species protected under the Wildlife Acts; and/or Species listed on the relevant Red Data list. Site containing ‘viable areas’ of the habitat types listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive. County Importance: Area of Special Amenity. Area subject to a Tree Preservation Order. Area of High Amenity, or equivalent, designated under the County Development Plan.

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Ecological Valuation Resident or regularly occurring populations (assessed to be important at the County level) of the following: Species of bird, listed in Annex I and/or referred to in Article 4(2) of the Birds Directive; Species of animal and plants listed in Annex II and/or IV of the Habitats Directive; Species protected under the Wildlife Acts; and/or Species listed on the relevant Red Data list. Site containing area or areas of the habitat types listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive that do not fulfil the criteria for valuation as of International or National importance. County important populations of species or viable areas of semi-natural habitats or natural heritage features identified in the National or Local BAP, if this has been prepared. Sites containing semi-natural habitat types with high biodiversity in a county context and a high degree of naturalness, or populations of species that are uncommon within the county. Sites containing habitats and species that are rare or are undergoing a decline in quality or extent at a national level. Local Importance (higher value): Locally important populations of Priority species or habitats or natural heritage features identified in the Local BAP, if this has been prepared; Resident or regularly occurring populations (assessed to be important at the Local level) of the following: Species of bird, listed in Annex I and/or referred to in Article 4(2) of the Birds Directive; Species of animal and plants listed in Annex II and/or IV of the Habitats Directive; Species protected under the Wildlife Acts; and/or Species listed on the relevant Red Data list. Sites containing semi-natural habitat types with high biodiversity in a local context and a high degree of naturalness, or populations of species that are uncommon in the locality; Sites or features containing common or lower value habitats, including naturalised species that are nevertheless essential in maintaining links and ecological corridors between features of higher ecological value. Local Importance (lower value): Sites containing small areas of semi-natural habitat that are of some local importance for wildlife; Sites or features containing non-native species that are of some importance in maintaining habitat links.

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Appendix C

NBDC Protected and Invasive Species Records from OS Grid Square W27D

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NBDC PROTECTED AND INVASIVE SPECIES RECORDS FROM OS GRID SQUARE W27D

Scientific Date Last Common Name Protection Name Recorded Alcedo atthis Common 31/12/2011 Wildlife Acts; EU Birds Directive Annex I Bird Kingfisher Species; Amber List Apus apus Common Swift 31/12/2011 Wildlife Acts; Amber List Falco Peregrine Falcon 31/12/2011 Wildlife Acts; EU Birds Directive Annex I Bird peregrinus Species Falco Common Kestrel 31/07/1991 Wildlife Acts; Amber List tinnunculus Gallinago Common Snipe 31/12/2011 Wildlife Acts; Amber List gallinago Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow 31/12/2011 Wildlife Acts; Amber List Larus Herring Gull 31/12/2011 Wildlife Acts; Red List argentatus Passer House Sparrow 31/12/2011 Wildlife Acts; Amber List domesticus Phalacrocorax Great Cormorant 31/12/2011 Wildlife Acts; Amber List carbo Sturnus Common Starling 31/12/2011 Wildlife Acts; Amber List vulgaris Fallopia Giant Knotweed 31/05/2014 High Impact Invasive Species, Invasive sachalinensis Species >> Regulation S.I. 477 (Ireland) Geomalacus Kerry Slug 01/10/2008 EU Habitats Directive Annex II & Annex IV; (Geomalacus Wildlife Acts maculosus) Lutra lutra Otter 09/05/2017 Annex II & Annex IV; Wildlife Acts Meles meles Eurasian Badger 31/12/2012 Wildlife Acts Mustela vison American Mink 09/05/2017 High Impact Invasive Species, Invasive Species >> Regulation S.I. 477 (Ireland) Myotis Daubenton's Bat 01/08/2005 EU Habitats Directive Annex IV; Wildlife Acts daubentonii Myotis nattereri Natterer's Bat 01/08/2005 EU Habitats Directive Annex IV; Wildlife Acts Nyctalus leisleri Lesser Noctule 10/02/2008 EU Habitats Directive Annex IV; Wildlife Acts Pipistrellus Pipistrelle 01/08/2005 EU Habitats Directive Annex IV; Wildlife Acts pipistrellus sensu lato Pipistrellus Soprano 10/02/2008 EU Habitats Directive Annex IV; Wildlife Acts pygmaeus Pipistrelle Plecotus Brown Long-eared 12/06/2012 EU Habitats Directive Annex IV; Wildlife Acts auritus Bat Rhinolophus Lesser Horseshoe 11/07/2011 EU Habitats Directive Annex II & Annex IV; hipposideros Bat Wildlife Acts

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Appendix D

Aquatic Ecology Survey Results Sullane River Habitat Assessment

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S2 S1 S4 S5

S10

S11

S12

S13

S14 FIG 2: LOCATION OF HABITAT SECTIONS S15-S36 Locations shown are approximate; for exact locations, see Grid References in text

S15

S16

S17

S18

S20 S19 S21

S22

S24 S25 S23 S26

S27

S28 S29

S30

S31

S32

S34 S33

S35

S36 ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AQUATIC ECOLOGY SURVEY RESULTS SULLANE RIVER HABITAT ASSESSMENT

Section S11, 3/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120107 077200 d/s 120111 077119 General Description Shallow riffle over large rocks, cobble & gravel Length (m) 80 Depth (cm) 8 - 15 Width (m) 15 - 20 % Shade 25 Flow Diversity Fair - Good Substrate Diversity Fair - Good Flow Riffle 90%; Glide 10% Substrate Cobble, Large Rocks, Gravel, Sand Surface Siltation Slight Interstitial Silt Moderate (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Filamentous Algae/ Silt Slime Bankside Vegetation Ash, Willow, Sycamore Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Fair Lamprey Nursery None – Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Very Good Lamprey Spawning Poor – Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Poor - Fair Freshwater Pearl None - Poor Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S12, 3/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120111 077119 d/s 120111 077047 General Description Glide on heavily silted gravel & cobble. Bank of gravel at mouth of tributary stream Length (m) 70 Depth (cm) 20 - 50 Width (m) 20 - 25 % Shade 25 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair - Good Flow Glide 100% Substrate Cobble Gravel, Large Rock Surface Siltation Heavy Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Algae/ Silt slime 80% Bankside Vegetation Ash, Sycamore, Willow, Holly Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Good Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Fair Lamprey Spawning Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair Freshwater Pearl Fair Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S13, 3/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s d/s 120111 077047 d/s 120126 077011 General Description Good mixture of riffle and shallow glide over cobble, large rocks, gravel & sand Length (m) 40 Depth (cm) 8 - 15 Width (m) 20 - 25 % Shade 35 Flow Diversity Good Substrate Diversity Very Good Flow Riffle 50%, Glide 50% Substrate Cobble, Large Rocks, Gravel, Sand Surface Siltation Slight Interstitial Silt Moderate (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Algae/Silt Slime 15% Bankside Vegetation Willow, Ash, Sycamore, Alder Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Fair Lamprey Nursery None - Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Very Good Lamprey Spawning Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair Freshwater Pearl Poor Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S14, 3/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s d/s 120126 077011 d/s 120208 076949 General Description Glide on large rocks, cobble, gravel and sand. Heavily silted. Length (m) 110 Depth (cm) 10 – 100 Width (m) 20 - 25 % Shade 55 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair - Good Flow Glide 100% Substrate Large Rocks, Cobble, Gravel, Sand Surface Siltation Heavy Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Algae/Silt Slime 80% Bankside Vegetation Ash, Holly, Willow, Sycamore Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Good Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Fair Lamprey Spawning Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair Freshwater Pearl Fair Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S15, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120208 076949 d/s 120248 076944 General Description Bridge with smooth apron and 0.7m drop into large deep pool. (Likely to constitute a major obstacle to upstream fish movement in low flow) Length (m) 35 Depth (cm) 14 - >200 Width (m) 20 - 30 % Shade 5% Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair - Good Flow Pool 80%, Glide 20% Substrate Large Rocks, Cobble, Gravel, Sand Surface Siltation Heavy Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Algae/ Silt Slime 95% Bankside Vegetation Willow, Conifer, Ash Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Very Good Lamprey Nursery None Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Poor Lamprey Spawning Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair Freshwater Pearl Poor Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S16, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120248 076944 d/s 120279 076907 General Description Riffle & shallow glide over large rock, cobble, gravel & sand. Length (m) 50 Depth (cm) 5 - 15 Width (m) 14 - 18 % Shade 10 Flow Diversity Good Substrate Diversity Good Flow Riffle 75%, Glide 25% Substrate Cobble, Large Rocks, Gravel, Sand Surface Siltation Moderate Interstitial Silt Moderate (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Algae 80%. Bryophytes 5%, Ranunculus sp. <1% Bankside Vegetation Ash, Sycamore, Willow, Alder, Oenanthe sp. Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Fair Lamprey Nursery None Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Very Good Lamprey Spawning Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair Freshwater Pearl Poor Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S17, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120279 076907 d/s 120307 076879

General Description Shallow glide on predominantly cobble substrate. Length (m) 40 Depth (cm) 15 - 30 Width (m) 20 % Shade 5 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair Flow Glide 100% Substrate Cobble, Gravel, Large Rocks Surface Siltation Heavy Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion Boulder protection on right hand bank and concreted bank for c.1/3 of left hand bank Instream Vegetation Algae/Silt Slime 90% Bankside Vegetation Willow, Hawthorn, Ash, Alder Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Fair Lamprey Nursery None Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Fair Lamprey Spawning Poor - Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Poor - Fair Freshwater Pearl Poor - Fair Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S18, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120307 076879 d/s 120385 076847 General Description Mixture of riffle & glide on cobble, large rocks, gravel & sand. Length (m) 85 Depth (cm) 5 - 15 Width (m) 12 - 18 % Shade 15 Flow Diversity Good Substrate Diversity Good Flow Riffle 60%, Glide 40% Substrate Cobble, Large Rocks, Gravel, Sand Surface Siltation Slight - Moderate Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Algae 90%, Ranunculus sp. <1%, Oenanthe sp. <1% Bankside Vegetation Willow, Alder & Sycamore on right hand bank. Mostly invasive knotweeds on left hand bank Invasive Species Knotweed heavy infestation on left hand bank. Salmonid Adult Fair Lamprey Nursery None Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Very Good Lamprey Spawning Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair Freshwater Pearl None - Poor Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S19, 6/8/2019

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120385 076847 d/s 120475 076848 General Description Glide and deep pool on mixture of bedrock, large rocks, cobble, gravel and sand. Heavily silted. Some exposed gravel on left hand side at upstream end of section. Length (m) 90 Depth (cm) 20 - >200 Width (m) 20 - 25 % Shade 25 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair Flow Glide/Pool 100% Substrate Bedrock, Large Rocks, Cobble, Gravel, Sand. Surface Siltation Heavy Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Algae/ Silt Slime 75%, Ranunculus sp. <5% Bankside Vegetation Willow, Sycamore Invasive Species Knotweed on left hand bank Salmonid Adult Good Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Poor Lamprey Spawning Poor - Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair - Good Freshwater Pearl Fair Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S20, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120475 076848 d/s 120517 76815 General Description Shallow glide and riffle over predominantly cobble and large rock substrate with low concentrates of gravel & sand Length (m) 50 Depth (cm) 10 - 20 Width (m) 15 - 20 % Shade 30 Flow Diversity Good Substrate Diversity Fair - Good Flow Glide 70%, Riffle 30% Substrate Cobble, Large Rocks , Gravel, Sand Surface Siltation Moderate Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion Boulder protection of right hand bank Instream Vegetation Algae 80%, Ranunculus sp. <1% Bankside Vegetation Sycamore, Alder Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Fair - Good Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Fair - Good Lamprey Spawning Poor - Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Poor - Fair Freshwater Pearl Poor Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S21, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120517 76815 d/s 120566 076772 General Description Heavily shaded glide over cobble, gravel, sand. Willows extending over large proportion of the channel width Length (m) 65 Depth (cm) 30 - >100 Width (m) c.20 % Shade 80 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair Flow Glide 100% Substrate Cobble, Large Rocks, Gravel, Sand, Silt Surface Siltation Heavy Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Algae 20%, Callitriche sp. <1% Bankside Vegetation Willow, Sycamore Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Good Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Poor Lamprey Spawning None Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning None - Poor Freshwater Pearl Fair Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S22, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120566 076772 d/s 120622 076753 General Description Pool with depth to greater than 150m. Substrate of large rocks and cobble with some gravel and sand. Length (m) 60 Depth (cm) 40 - >150 Width (m) 20 - 30 % Shade 15 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair Flow Pool 100% Substrate Large Rock, Cobble with some Gravel & Sand Surface Siltation Moderate Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Algae 75%, Ranunculus sp.10%, Equisetum sp. <1% Bankside Vegetation Alder, Ash, Willow Invasive Species Knotweed on left hand bank Salmonid Adult Good Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Poor Lamprey Spawning Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Poor Freshwater Pearl Poor – Fair Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S23, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120622 076753 d/s 120651 076770 General Description Oblique bedrock reef across river with cobble deposits at downstream left hand end. Reef heavily overgrown with bryophytes and Oenanthe sp. Left hand bank stone constructed. Length (m) 35 Depth (cm) 10 -30 Width (m) c.25 % Shade 10 Flow Diversity Good Substrate Diversity Good Flow Riffle 70%, Glide 30% Substrate Bedrock, Cobble with some Gravel & Sand Surface Siltation Slight Interstitial Silt Moderate (silt plume) Bank Erosion Bank protection on left hand side Instream Vegetation Bryophytes 30%, Oenanthe sp. 30%, Ranunculus sp. 30%, Algae 10% Bankside Vegetation Willow, Sycamore Invasive Species Knotweed on left hand bank Salmonid Adult Poor Lamprey Nursery None Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Fair - Good Lamprey Spawning Fair - Good Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair - Good Freshwater Pearl None Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S24, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120651 076770 d/s 120698 076743 General Description Pool to >1.5m in depth. Cobble & gravel deposit on downstream right hand side of section (from 120683 076761 to 120694 076755) with submerged gravel on left had side of exposed deposit. Length (m) 60 Depth (cm) 30 - >150 Width (m) 20 - 30 % Shade 10 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair Flow Pool 100% Substrate Cobble, Gravel, Large Rocks Surface Siltation Moderate Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion Stone protection on left hand bank Instream Vegetation Algae 70% Bankside Vegetation Ash, Willow, Sycamore Invasive Species Knotweed on left hand bank Salmonid Adult Very Good Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Poor Lamprey Spawning Fair - Good Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair - Good Freshwater Pearl Poor – Fair Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S25, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120698 076743 d/s 120721 076736 General Description Bedrock reef across river with cobble and large rocks deposited in cavities and crevices. Length (m) 25 Depth (cm) 5-20 Width (m) 25 % Shade 10 Flow Diversity Very Good Substrate Diversity Very Good Flow Riffle 40%, Cascade 40%, Glide 20% Substrate Bedrock with some Cobble & Large Rock Surface Siltation Slight Interstitial Silt Insignificant (silt plume) Bank Erosion None Instream Vegetation Bryophytes 15%, Algae 40% Bankside Vegetation Willow, Sycamore, Ash Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Fair Lamprey Nursery None Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Fair Lamprey Spawning Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Poor Freshwater Pearl None Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S26, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120721 076736 d/s 120752 076703 General Description Glide on gravel, cobble & sand. Gravel deposit c.10m long by c.5m wide in centre right hand side of the channel immediately downstream of the bedrock reef. Exposed area of large rock and cobble with some gravel and sand on the left hand side of the section. Length (m) 45 Depth (cm) 20 - 50 Width (m) 15 % Shade 30 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair Flow Glide 100% Substrate Gravel, Cobble, Sand Surface Siltation Moderate Interstitial Silt Moderate (silt plume) Bank Erosion Some erosion on right hand bank. Instream Vegetation Algae/ Silt Slime 80% Bankside Vegetation Willow Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Fair Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Fair Lamprey Spawning Good Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Good Freshwater Pearl Fair Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S27, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120752 076703 d/s 120809 076667 General Description Glide over cobble & large rocks with some gravel & sand. Length (m) 70 Depth (cm) 25 - 100 Width (m) 25 % Shade 35 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair Flow Glide 100% Substrate Cobble, Large Rocks, Gravel, Sand Surface Siltation Heavy Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion Slight on right hand side Instream Vegetation Algae/ Silt slime 80% Bankside Vegetation Willow, Sycamore, Alder, Hazel, Ash. Rank grass on left hand side adjacent to houses. Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Good Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Poor – Fair Lamprey Spawning Poor - Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Poor - Fair Freshwater Pearl Fair Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S28, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120809 076667 d/s 120899 076620 General Description Shallow glide on silty cobble with some gravel & sand Length (m) 100 Depth (cm) 10 - 20 Width (m) 25 % Shade 25 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair - Good Flow Glide 100% Substrate Cobble (predominant) Gravel, Sand Surface Siltation Moderate Interstitial Silt Heavy (silt plume) Bank Erosion Slight on right hand bank Instream Vegetation Algae/ Silt Slime 80% Bankside Vegetation Alder, Ash, Sycamore, Willow Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Fair - Good Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Fair - Good Lamprey Spawning Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair Freshwater Pearl Poor Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S29, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120899 076620 d/s 120938 076595 General Description Riffle on cobble with some gravel Length (m) 45 Depth (cm) 5-15 Width (m) 10-15 % Shade 20 Flow Diversity Good Substrate Diversity Good Flow Riffle 80%, Glide 20% Substrate Cobble (predominant), Gravel, Sand Surface Siltation Moderate Interstitial Silt Moderate (silt plume) Bank Erosion Slight on left hand side

Instream Vegetation Algae 10% Bankside Vegetation Ash, Sycamore, Alder, Willow Invasive Species None Salmonid Adult Poor – Fair Lamprey Nursery None Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Very Good Lamprey Spawning Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair Freshwater Pearl None Habitat Mussel Habitat

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Section S30, 6/8/2018

Location (Irish Grid) u/s 120938 076595 d/s 121009 076521 General Description Shallow glide on large rocks, cobble and some gravel & sand. Some deeper parts on bedrock. Significant length of bank reinforced with scrapped cars Length (m) 105 Depth (cm) 25 - >150 Width (m) 20 - 25 % Shade 45 Flow Diversity Fair Substrate Diversity Fair Flow Glide 100% Substrate Large Rocks & Cobble (predominant) Gravel, Sand, Bedrock Surface Siltation Moderate Interstitial Silt Moderate (silt plume) Bank Erosion Some on left hand side. Instream Vegetation Algae 30% Bankside Vegetation Alder, Ash, Willow, Holly Invasive Species Small number of Rhododendron on right hand bank Salmonid Adult Fair - Good Lamprey Nursery Poor Habitat Habitat Salmonid Nursery Fair - Good Lamprey Spawning Fair Habitat Habitat Salmonid Spawning Fair Freshwater Pearl Fair Habitat Mussel Habitat

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MACROINVERTEBRATE SURVEY RESULTS

(See over for Figure 44: Biodiversity Assessment Sites)

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M5 ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Macroinvertebrate Diversity in the Sullane River, July 2018

M2 M3 M4 M5 Group Ecology and Distribution in Freshwater Oligochaeta (Segmented worms) Eiseniella tetraedra 1 1 - Common in a variety of habitats; often in fast-flowing rivers Enchytraeidae 1 - Found in detritus and mud Lumbriculus variegatus 2 - Common in a variety of habitats, particularly among vegetation Hirudinea (Leeches) Erpobdellidae (small) 1 1 2 Glossiphonia complanata 1 D Common in many habitats Helobdella stagnalis 1 D Common in many habitats Trocheta pseudodina 1 1 D Widely distributed in Ireland. Recorded in a variety of streams and rivers, and occasionally on lake shores. Amphibious leeches often found in the soil. Gastropoda (Snails and limpets) Lymnaea peregra 3 2 D Probably the commonest water snail in Europe, occurring in a wide variety of habitats Potamopyrgus antipodarum 5 7 C Common, often very abundant in many habitats Hydracarina (Water mites) 3 3 2 5 C Common in many habitats Amphipoda (Freshwater shrimps) Gammarus duebeni 3 1 11 C Common in Ireland in a wide range of habitats Ephemeroptera (Mayflies) Baetis rhodani 10 C Common and abundant in small streams; extending into rivers Baetis muticus 3 B Common, typical of small stony streams. Ecdyonurus sp. (damaged) 1 1 A Leptophlebiidae (small/damaged) 1 A Serratella ignita 3 27 4 24 C Common, occurring mostly in running waters amongst vegetation Plecoptera (Stoneflies) Leuctra sp. (small/damaged) 1 9 3 7 B Leuctra fusca 2 9 1 5 B Common and widespread, occurring mostly in stony streams

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M2 M3 M4 M5 Group Ecology and Distribution in Freshwater Perla bipunctata 20 63 20 45 A Common and abundant. Found in rivers and streams with unstable stony substrata Protonemura sp. (early instar) 1 1 A Specimens were too small to be identified with certainty. Protonemura meyeri, which is common and abundant in Ireland, is found in swiftly flowing water, especially where aquatic mosses occur. Siphonoperla torrentium 1 A Very common and abundant. Found in all types of water with stony substrates Hemiptera (Water Bugs) Corixinae (nymphs) 1 C Gerridae (nymphs) 1 3 C Trichoptera (Caddis flies) Glossosoma boltoni 1 2 B Widespread and common in Ireland. Usually found on stony substrates in large rivers and streams Halesus radiatus 1 B Common in streams, rivers and lake shores. Hydropsyche pellucidula 1 C Widely distributed and abundant in large streams and rivers. Hydropsyche siltalai 3 10 2 C Common, usually found in fast-running waters. Hydroptila sp. 2 C Common in still or slow-flowing waters Mystacides longicornis 1 1 B Widespread and common in large ponds, lakes, canals and very slowly flowing large rivers; muddy sand substrata and among vegetation Philopotamus montanus 1 C Common in the rapids of small fast-flowing streams. Polycentropus flavomaculatus 27 26 47 30 C Common in the lower reaches of rivers; also in small rivers and streams that are sufficiently productive; also common on stony lake shores and can often be found in lake outflows. Rhyacophila dorsalis 22 28 13 51 C Common in fast-running waters Rhyacophila munda 3 1 2 C Found under stones in running waters. Localised distribution. Sericostoma personatum 3 1 5 B Common on stony substrates. Wormaldia subnigra 1 C Typically in the rapids of headwaters and tributaries. Pediciidae (Hairy-eyed crane flies) 2 C Common in streams, pools and shallow trickles. Tipulidae (Crane flies) 2 1 2 C Common in a variety of habitats. Ceratopogonidae (Biting midges) 2 - Common in a variety of habitats.

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M2 M3 M4 M5 Group Ecology and Distribution in Freshwater Simuliidae (Black-flies) C Common and often abundant in all types of flowing waters. Simulium sp. 22 109 11 39 C Common and often abundant in all types of flowing waters. Chironomidae (Non- biting midges) Ablabesmyia sp. 8 7 10 5 C Found in a wide variety of still and flowing water habitats Brillia sp. 4 2 5 7 C Found in a wide variety of still and flowing water habitats Chironomus sp. 63 E Common, preferring muddy substrata of standing or slow-flowing waters. Often abundant in organically polluted waters. Cricotopus sp. 2 C Common in all types of freshwater, and also in brackish water; frequently associated with aquatic plants. Cricotopus/Orthocladius sp. 2 15 10 C Common in all types of freshwater, frequently associated with aquatic plants. (Orthocladius larvae cannot be distinguished from some Cricotopus larvae with certainty.) Macropelopia sp. 28 12 13 26 C Found in fine sediments in cool waters. Microtendipes sp. 15 7 10 17 C Found in sediments and submerged mosses. Micropsectra sp. 1 15 2 C Found in a wide variety of still and flowing water habitats Paratanytarsus sp. 1 13 12 C Found in a wide variety of still and flowing water habitats Pentaneurini 9 9 14 C Common in a variety of habitats. Phaenopsectra sp. 1 2 7 C Found in small standing waters and flowing waters. Polypedilum sp. 1 16 65 22 C Common in a variety of habitats. Potthastia longimana 2 C Found in still or flowing water, usually associated with sandy substrates. Potthastia gaedii 2 26 23 12 C Found in flowing water, usually associated with sandy substrates. Procladius sp. C Common in muddy substrata of standing or slow- flowing waters. Prodiamesa sp. 2 5 2 C Common in a variety of habitats. Psectrocladius sp. 2 C Common in a variety of habitats. Rheocricotopus sp. 1 2 10 C Found in streams and rivers. Stictochironomus sp. 2 C Found in lakes, streams and slow-flowing rivers Tvetenia sp. 1 15 22 C Common in flowing water. Coleoptera (Beetles) Elmis aenea 2 4 C Common in running water in riffles.

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M2 M3 M4 M5 Group Ecology and Distribution in Freshwater Esolus parallelipipedus 1 C Common in running water, found in mud at the water's edge. Gyrinidae (larvae) 2 C Two common genera occur in still and running water. Haliplus lineatocollis 2 C A widespread species and usually the commonest haliplid in Britain and Ireland. Helophorus sp. 1 1 C Several common species, usually amongst vegetation. Hydraena sp. 1 C Several common species occur in a variety of habitats. Hydroporinae (larvae) 1 6 C Several common genera occur in a variety of habitats. Laccobius minutus 1 C Frequent over much of Ireland. Habitat is ponds and drains with some vegetation and exposed substratum. Limnius volckmari 1 2 C Common in running water and upland lakes. Nebrioporus depressus 1 C Common in lakes and rivers. Oreodytes sanmarkii 1 2 1 2 C Common in shallow streams, usually on gravel beds. Irish distribution mainly associated with coastal mountain systems. Oreodytes septentrionalis 1 1 C Found in fast rivers over unstable gravel beds and occurs in large, steep- edged lakes. Irish distribution similar to O. sanmarkii, slightly less frequent overall but more common in the south-west. Stictotarsus duodecimpustulatus 3 C Typical of rivers, canals and rocky shores in lakes and reservoirs. Widely distributed in Ireland and Britain. Number of Taxa 37 34 38 40

Group A Very pollution sensitive Group B Moderately pollution sensitive Group C Moderately pollution tolerant Group D Very Pollution tolerant Group E Most pollution tolerant - Not assigned to a group

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INSTREAM PLANTS RECORDED, 2018 Instream Plants, Biodiversity Assessment Site M2

M2A M2B M2C M2D M2E M2F M2G u/s Grid Reference 119425 119576 119568 119590 119632 119650 119673 77546 77584 77583 77576 77562 77574 77563 d/s Grid Reference 119576 119568 119590 119632 119650 119673 119675 77584 77583 77576 77562 77574 77563 77536

Description Glide Short riffle u/s Natural rock Pool/Glide Riffle Glide Riffle bridge weir and pool Instream plants (% Cover) Total Plant cover including 30 50 50 60 60 60 50 filamentous algae Unbranched filamentous algae 30 50 50 60 60 60 50 Chiloscyphus polyanthos <0.1 5 Fontinalis antipyretica <1 Fontinalis squamosa <1 40 2 5 <1 5 Hygrohypnum sp. Leptodictyum riparium 2 Platyhypnidium (Rhynchostegium) <1 <1 2 riparioides Equisetum fluviatile Callitriche stagnalis agg. Lemna minor Nasturtium officinale Oenanthe crocata <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 Petasites hybridus Ranunculus penicillatus var. <1 2 <1 1 penicillatus

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Instream Plants, Biodiversity Assessment Site M3

M3A M3B M3C M3D u/s Grid Reference 120123 120118 120123 120223 77112 77066 77007 76953 d/s Grid Reference 120118 120123 120223 120406 77066 77007 76953 76853 Description Glide/ Pool Riffle Glide Riffle Instream plants (% Cover) Total Plant cover including filamentous algae 50 40 30 80 Unbranched filamentous algae 50 40 30 80 Chiloscyphus polyanthos Fontinalis antipyretica <1 <1 Fontinalis squamosa <1 Hygrohypnum sp. <1 Leptodictyum riparium Platyhypnidium (Rhynchostegium) riparioides (Long-beaked Water Feather-Moss) <1 Equisetum fluviatile Callitriche stagnalis agg. Lemna minor Nasturtium officinale Oenanthe crocata <1 <1 <1 <1 Petasites hybridus <0.1 Ranunculus penicillatus var. penicillatus <1 <1 <1

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Instream Plants, Biodiversity Assessment Site M4

M4A M4B M4C M4D u/s Grid Reference 120573 120625 120650 120713 76765 76750 76750 76724 d/s Grid Reference 120625 120650 120713 120779 76750 76750 76724 76666 Description Pool Riffle over Riffle over Glide bedrock bedrock Instream plants (% Cover) Total Plant cover including filamentous algae 90 100 60 60 Unbranched filamentous algae 90 90 60 60 Chiloscyphus polyanthos Fontinalis antipyretica 75 Fontinalis squamosa 30 Hygrohypnum sp. Leptodictyum riparium <1 Platyhypnidium (Rhynchostegium) riparioides 10 (Long-beaked Water Feather-Moss) Equisetum fluviatile <1 Callitriche stagnalis agg. 2 Lemna minor Nasturtium officinale Oenanthe crocata 10 <1 <1 Petasites hybridus Ranunculus penicillatus var. penicillatus 30 5

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Instream Plants, Biodiversity Assessment Site M5

M5A M5B M5C M5D M5E M5F M5G M5H M5I

u/s Grid Reference 121022 121129 121196 121212 121225 121243 121320 121355 121355 76519 76420 76353 76340 76282 76252 76203 76214 76214 d/s Grid Reference 121129 121196 121212 121225 121243 121320 121355 121355 121425 76420 76353 76340 76282 76252 76203 76214 76214 76150 Description Shallow glide Glide Shallow Glide/ Riffle Glide/ pool Riffle Deep pool/glide Fast flow with riffle over (near Pool on gravel (Note: visibility over cobble/ gravel bridge) cobble limited due to depth) bedrock Instream plants (% Cover) Total Plant cover 80 80 80 80 60 90 80 60 90 including filamentous algae Unbranched 80 80 80 80 60 90 80 60 60 filamentous algae Chiloscyphus <1 <1 2 polyanthos Fontinalis antipyretica <1 30 <1 <1 10 Fontinalis squamosa <1 30 <1 <10 <5 90 Hygrohypnum sp. <1 <1 <1 Leptodictyum riparium <1 Platyhypnidium <0.1 <0.1 (Rhynchostegium) riparioides (Long-beaked Water Feather-Moss) Equisetum fluviatile

Callitriche stagnalis <0.1 <0.1 agg. Lemna minor <1 0.1 <0.1

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M5A M5B M5C M5D M5E M5F M5G M5H M5I

Nasturtium officinale <0.1 Oenanthe crocata <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 Petasites hybridus Ranunculus <2 2 20 <5 <0.1 <1 penicillatus var. penicillatus

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Notes on Ecology and Distribution

Ecology and Distribution in Freshwater Unbranched filamentous algae Chiloscyphus polyanthos Common on rocks and stones in springs and streams. Fontinalis antipyretica Common growing on submerged substrates in most types of river. Fontinalis squamosal Mostly submerged in torrent or fast water that is base- and nutrient-poor. Hygrohypnum sp. Common in clean fast flowing rivers Leptodictyum riparium Common on stones and submerged logs; pollution tolerant. Platyhypnidium (Rhynchostegium) riparioides Submerged or semi-submerged on stones or tree roots, by lowland streams and rivers, but also in upland streams where substrate is not too acidic. Equisetum fluviatile Common and widespread in a wide range of water bodies as an emergent in still and slow-flowing water and as a marginal. Callitriche stagnalis agg. Common in shallow water and on damp ground. Lemna minor Very common in still mesotrophic to eutrophic water. Nasturtium officinale Very frequent in most districts. Oenanthe crocata Common in shallow water and bankside. Petasites hybridus Common at edge of rivers and canals, often on shallow bars and emergent in shallow water. Ranunculus penicillatus var. penicillatus Common in rivers in Ireland.

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