Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement New 132kVEnvironmental electricityWarrington switching Appraisal substation of Alternative West - Marsh 132kV Sites Lane, for a ReinforcementCuerdley,New 132kV Warrington Switching Substation and Diversion of Two ExistingEnvironmental 132kV Lines Appraisal at Marsh of Alternative Lane, Penketh, Sites New 132kV electricity switching substation and diversion of 3 existing 132kV overhead lines Warrington Marsh Lane, Penketh, Warrington Consultation Feedback Report October 2011
October 2011
April 2012
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 1 2 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement Contents 01 Introduction 02 Identification & Appraisal of New Substation Sites - option 1 - option 2 - option 3 03 Evaluation of Potential Substation Sites & Overhead Line Diversions
FIGURES Figure 1: Site Location Figure 2: Siting Area and Wider Context Figure 3: Considerations for Substation Siting Figure 4: Substation Siting Option 1 Figure 5: Substation Siting Option 2 Figure 6: Substation Siting Option 3 Figure A1: Viewpoint Locations Figure A2: Ecology Figure A3: Local Habitat Map Figure A4: Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Figure A5: Designated Cultural Heritage Sites Figure A6: Recreation
PHOTOGRAPHS Photograph 1: L4 Tower Photograph 2:Viewpoint 1 Photograph 3: Viewpoint 2 Photograph 4: Viewpoint 3 Photograph 5: Viewpoint 4
APPENDICES Appendix A: Environmental Considerations
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 3 KEY:
Substation Siting Area
FIGURE 1 SITE LOCATION
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Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112
4 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement 1.0 Introduction
APPRAISAL OBJECTIVES 1.1. As explained in the Systems Options Appraisal, Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) has determined that its preferred option for reinforcing the 132kV network is to build a new 132kV switching substation as close as possible to the Fiddlers Ferry National Grid substation and the Planning Report identifies land to the east of the power statio (Figure 1: Site Location). The area identified for this proposed substation is located in the area of green belt, which separates Fiddler’s Ferry power station from the western edge of Warrington. The Planning Report explains why SPEN considers that there are very special circumstances for developing a substation in the green belt. These include Scottish and Southern Energy’s (SSE’s) ongoing proposals to develop a rail freight yard, and their objections to green belt designation on their immediately to the east of the power station. 1.2. Based on there being a justifiable planning case for development in the green belt, this report seeks to identify suitable site options and assess the relative environmental merit of each with a view to determining, which option should be taken forward. 1.3. This report has been prepared by Gillespies LLP, which advises SPEN on environmental planning matters in relation to electricity distribution. Gillespies’ approach is guided by the Electricity Act 1989, which places an obligation on SPEN, on behalf of the network licence holder SP Manweb, under Section 38 of the Electricity Act, to take account of the following factors: “to have regard to the desirability of preserving natural beauty, of conserving flora, fauna and geological or physiographical features of special interest and of protecting sites, buildings and objects of architectural, historic or archaeological interest.”
“do what it reasonably can to mitigate any effect which the proposals would have on the natural beauty of the countryside or on any such flora, fauna, features, sites, buildings or objects.”
1.4. In addition to these environmental commitments, SPEN is guided by its requirements under Section 16 of the Electricity Act 1989 to provide an economically acceptable connection offer. Essentially this means that the substation should be reasonably close to the existing 132kV overhead line in order to minimise extensions and modification to this line. 1.5. This appraisal seeks to identify the extent to which each option is likely to support or compromise these objectives.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 5 KEY: Key
Substation Siting Area
SSE's Rail Freight Yard Potential Development Area
Resource Centre Nature SubstationReserve Siting Area
National Grid 400kV Overhead Line
SPEN Existing 132kV Overhead Lines SPEN Existing 11kV Overhead Lines
Resource Centre Widnes Road (A562) Nature Reserve
Fiddlers Ferry Golf Course
Marsh End Farm Properties
Marsh Lane Fiddlers Ferry Power Station Woodland & Scrub
Freight Railway
SSE Rail Freight Yard Potential Development Area
FIGURE 2 St Helens Canal SUBSTATION SITING AREA AND WIDER CONTEXT NTS
Power Station Lagoons
Figure x: Search Area for Alternative
ReproducedSubstation from the Sites Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112 Scale: 1:10,000 6 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement APPRAISAL METHODOLOGY 1.6. The area identified for the proposed substation lies to the east of the Fiddlers Ferry power station close to SPEN’s existing overhead line. It comprises open fields owned by SSE, which form part of Warrington’s designated green belt. SSE has a proposal to develop a new freight rail yard on the western and southern part of these fields, leaving the remaining area open for consideration by SPEN as the area within which their substation could be sited. SPEN refers to this as the Substation Siting Area (see Figure 1). 1.7. The siting area (Figure 2: Substation Siting Area and Wider Context) is situated between Fiddler’s Ferry power station to the west, SSE’s Resource Centre Nature Reserve and Widnes Road to the north, Marsh Lane and Fiddler’s Ferry Golf Course to the east and a freight railway and the Sankey Canal (alternatively known as the St Helen’s Canal) to the south. As shown in Figure 2, the area of fields within which the substation could be located is constrained by SSE’s proposals to develop a rail freight yard. The siting area is approximately 520m x 450m (20ha), all of which falls within designated green belt. The area required for the substation is approximately 140m x 85m (approximately 2.9ha). A collection of five residential properties around Marsh End Farm lies just outside its boundary to the east. To the north-west is the information centre attached to the Resource Centre Nature Reserve, which is managed by SSE as a public educational resource. The reserve includes four ponds (containing a breeding population of great crested newts), a ditch system, woodland, scrub and grassland, all connected by a series of boardwalks and grass paths. 1.8. Appendix A sets out the principal environmental considerations in siting the proposed 132kV substation and reconfigured sections of overhead lines. The information is assembled under the following headings, with each section accompanied by a series of maps: n Landscape and Views n Ecology n Cultural Heritage n Recreation
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 7 Widnes Road (A562)
Key KEY:
Substation Siting Area
Existing 132kV Overhead Lines
Mineral Railway
Marsh Lane Access
Trans Pennine Trail
Trees and woodland
Nature Reserve
Marsh Lane Properties
Golf Course
SSE Proposed Development Boundary with indicative locations of railway sidings
FIGURE 3 CONSIDERATIONS FOR SUBSTATION SITING NTS
Figure x: Constraints to Substation Siting
Scale 1:5,000
Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112
8 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement 2.0 Identification & Appraisal of New Substation Sites
1.0 Identification and Appraisal of New Substation Sites 2.4. These are shown in Figure 3: Considerations for Substation Siting. In summary the following were identified: 2.1. The process of selecting potential substation sites is an iterative one. Constraints and opportunities for siting are identified and key considerations are set out in Appendix 1 n Proximity of 5 residential properties at Marsh End Farm and it is these that influence the selection and elimination of possible locations. In line n Proximity of Fiddlers Ferry Golf Course 1 with accepted practice, the process follows guidance set out in the Holford Rules and n Trans Pennine Trail running along the southern edge of the site 2 3 accompanying NGC and Shetl clarification notes. These provide guidance for the siting n Potential access from Marsh Lane of substations as follows: n Existing trees and woodland n Respect areas of high amenity value and take advantage of natural features n Resource Centre Nature Reserve such as woodland to better assimilate the substation into the local landscape n Potential habitats for protected species and minimise impact on surrounding areas. n The freight railway n Take advantage of landform with the appropriate use of site layout and levels n The Sankey Canal and the various national and regional trails that run to avoid intrusion into surrounding areas. alongside it n Use space effectively to limit the area required for development, minimising n Location of the existing 132kV overhead lines the effects on existing land use and rights of way.
2.2. Essentially, the overriding aim is to balance technical and economic issues with the 2.5. The siting area comprises mainly arable fields and rough grassland which is gently rolling need to limit, as far as possible any effects upon the local environment, in particular the and, apart from a few mature trees, generally open. Whilst the openness of the landscape sensitive components. means that a substation could potentially be visible across a wide area, in reality, the power station, trees, hedgerows and local landform around the site would locally screen 2.3. Constraints identified within and around the siting area include: or provide a backdrop. The likely visibility of different parts of the siting area was therefore thoroughly examined through field survey to help identify potential locations for the Technical and Economic proposed substation. n Existing infrastructure 2.6. The outcome of this field appraisal resulted in three potential locations being identified, n Suitable vehicular access for construction and maintenance which are shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6: Substation Siting Option 1 , 2 and 3. Option 1 n Planning- SSE’s proposed rail freight yard. is located in the north-eastern corner near Marsh End Farm and south of the Resource Centre Nature Reserve. This option lies closest to the Marsh End Farm properties but Environment and People additional planting to supplement the existing roadside vegetation could help screen n Landscape and visual amenity views from these properties. Option 2 is located to the south-western corner of the n Ecological and ornithological resources (including woodland, trees and search area along the western boundary and immediately adjacent to SSE’s proposed hedgerows) development land. This option is located closest to the power station, which forms a n Cultural heritage strong backdrop when viewed from the north and east. Existing vegetation which is located at the boundary between the arable field and the freight railway to the south also n Recreation (in relation to visual amenity) provides screening when viewed from the south. Option 3 is located in the south-eastern corner, immediately adjacent to Marsh Lane, which runs along the western edge of the 1 The Holford Rules, 1959, Lord Holford golf course and just north of the block of broadleaf plantation woodland located in the 2 National Grid Supplementary Notes, 1992 3 SHETL: Spproach to the Routeing of High Voltage Steel Lattice Tower Transmission Lines in Scotland, 2004 south-eastern corner of the site. This option occupies a low lying depression which gives some screening.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 9 KEY:
Site boundary
Substation location option
Proposed OHL
Existing OHL to be retained
Existing OHL to be removed
FIGURE 4 SUBSTATION SITING OPTION 1
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Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112
10 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement 2.7. Having identified the options, each was then appraised through both desk and field LANDSCAPE survey, to understand the extent to which it is likely to support or compromise SPEN’s 2.11. Option 1 is located in the north-east corner of the arable fields. It is enclosed to the north environmental objectives. The results of this appraisal are set out in the following text. by a chainlink fence, with broadleaved woodland of the Resource Centre Nature Reserve beyond. To the east, it is enclosed by a rough grassland bank and a ditch bordered by Option 1 mature and semi-mature trees, beyond which lies Marsh Lane and the golf course. A linear bank containing an ash tree and mixed shrubs juts out into the field from the eastern OVERVIEW boundary. To the south and west lie open arable fields. 2.8. Option 1 is located in the north-east corner of the siting area, immediately to the west of Marsh End Farm, a collection of several residential converted barns and farm buildings. 2.12. The power station and converging pattern of overhead lines dominate views and contrast The two existing 132kV overhead lines are located some 300m to the west, running in a with the more rural quality and openness of the farmland. An existing low voltage north - south direction and again some 500m to the south where they run east - west. A overhead line on wood poles follows the eastern edge of the field but is not overly low voltage 11kV line runs along the eastern boundary. An access gate from Marsh Lane noticeable. The nearby cluster of red brick residential properties at Marsh End Farm is is located on the eastern boundary of the field. clearly visible to the east.
ADJACENT FEATURES SETTLEMENT &VIEWS 2.13. Distant views to the site from the west are blocked by the power station. Views from the n Marsh Lane north are screened by woodland within the Resource Centre Nature Reserve. Views from n Marsh End Farm properties the south are more open and the rising hillsides on the south side of the Mersey have n Fiddlers Ferry Resource Centre Nature Reserve distant views of the site. n Fiddlers Ferry Power station 2.14. Two residential properties at Marsh End Farm, particularly the western elevation of property number 1 have foreground views (some 70m) towards the site. More distant EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE views from beyond these properties are contained by the rising ground, which defines the Overhead Line Connections edge of the golf course. 2.9. As shown in Figure 4 Substation Siting Option 1, this option results in: ECOLOGY n New length of 132kV overhead line running east - west to the south and 2.15. This option locates the substation in a small area of remnant rough grassland, which has broadly parallel to the Resource Centre Nature Reserve. an ash tree and various shrubs present. The key loss in ecological terms would be the n New length of 132kV overhead line running parallel to the railway before mature ash tree, although it is considered of low potential for bat roosts. The arable field turning north and running alongside Marsh Lane. is of little conservation value and should present few issues. The substation would be n New length of 132kV overhead line running north from the existing line within 250m of ponds supporting breeding populations of great crested newts, which use alongside Marsh Lane. the surrounding landscape as terrestial habitat. The key issue in this respect would be the n The removal of 1 section of the existing north - south running 132kV overhead overall wider impact of development and the loss of potentially good habitat, including line, and a section of the east - west running 132kV overhead lines. field boundaries, woodland and ditches. This location would therefore trigger the need for a great crested newt licence and subsequent mitigation proposals. Access 2.16. In terms of the overhead line, this option again would have little ecological impact where 2.10. Good vehicular access opportunities for construction and maintenance are provided by the towers are located within the arable fields. The following four locations would need the close proximity of this option to the public highway section of Marsh Lane. careful consideration:
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 11 n Towers located within the plantation woodland would result in some loss 2.19. Some existing screening is provided by the power station to the west, woodland to the of trees. However, these tree are of even age and relatively young (c.25+ north, and earthworks associated with the golf course to the east. To the south, screening years old) and considered of low potential for species such as bats. In overall is also provided by the plantation woodland and vegetation along the freight railway to terms the loss would again be of local value and low impact. Planting further the south and by the earthworks of the power station’s lagoons. Beyond these lies the trees would easily offset this loss, particularly if the planting is linked to the higher ground to the south of the Mersey and the Manchester Ship Canal and it is here woodland area. that there is the potential for indirect impacts. Of the three options under consideration, n Towers located close to the tree and ditch line of the eastern boundary would Option 1 places both the substation and the relocated steel towers in a more northerly lie within the arable field and therefore have little direct ecological impact. and elevated position than the other options, increasing the possibility of an indirect There may be some effect on the nearby field boundary trees, which may have visual impact on the setting of designated sites to the south. to be pruned to facilitate safety clearances. An assessment would be required RECREATION for these mature trees. Although the trees in this location are considered of 2.20. Option 1 lies close to the Resource Centre Nature Reserve and would require a length typically low value for protected groups such as bat species, there may be of new overhead line across its southern-western corner running parallel to its southern other issues and any works would be in accordance with BS 5837 Guide for boundary although this is equally applicable to Option 3. Trees in Relation to Construction (2005). n Where towers are located near to the western end of the ditch running 2.21. There would be potential views from the western edge of the golf course, although these across the fields, measures would be taken to ensure that construction works would be increasingly screened over time as vegetation on the planted bund matures. do not impact on the ditch. The Environment Agency Pollution Prevention PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS Guidelines PPG05 'Works in, near or liable to affect watercourses' would be 2.22. As with Options 2 and 3, this site lies within green belt and any application for a new followed. development will need to demonstrate ‘exceptional’ circumstances as discussed in the n Towers within the Resource Centre Nature Reserve would be located accompanying planning report (Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement: Planning within an area of damp grassland and may have hibernacula, on or local to, Statement). With respect to other policies within Warrington Borough Council’s UDP their footprint. This may affect protected species, including great crested identified previously, this option raises no conflict. The site also lies within the area newts. The habitat itself (grassland) is of moderate value and would not be designated as a Major Wildlife Corridor (Policy GRN 20). considered as BAP priority habitat. However, the loss of any habitat in this area (as a Nature Reserve) would be considered negative and some mitigation MITIGATION OPPORTUNITIES may be required. 2.23. Subject to the appropriate permissions, supplementary off site planting along Marsh Lane could provide further screening for the Marsh End farm properties. This would enhance CULTURAL HERITAGE the overall nature conservation of the Mersey Valley. However due to proximity to Marsh 2.17. Reference is made to Figure A4: Archaeology and Cultural Heritage, within the Appendix End Farm properties, it is unlikely that planting will completely screen views. which shows that a cottage dating back to the mid nineteenth century once stood on the OPPORTUNITIES site proposed for Option 1. The siting of the substation could have a direct impact on the n Good access from Marsh Lane (subject to agreement). part of this cottage site by damaging or destroying any below-ground remains. This is considered a site of only local significance and would not merit preservation in situ, but n Natural screening provided by woodland to the north. an appropriate level of archaeological recording might be required. n Level land suitable for construction. n Opportunity to enhance value of wildlife corridor through landscaping. 2.18. Listed buildings and Scheduled Monuments located within 5km are shown in Figure 11: Designated Cultural Heritage Sites.
12 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement CONSTRAINTS EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE n In Green belt. Overhead Line Connections n Proximity to Resource Centre Nature Reserve. 2.25. As shown in Figure 17 Substation Siting Option 2, this option results in: n Proximity of and visibility from Marsh End Farm residential properties. n New length of 132kV overhead line running roughly north - west to south - n Requires a parallel length of overhead line along Marsh Lane. east, broadly paralleling the eastern access road within the power station site n Potential visual issues arising from new section of overhead line running n New length of 132kV overhead line running roughly north - south from the across and close to Resource Centre Nature Reserve and Marsh End Farm substation, before turning east as it approaches the railway line. properties. n New length of 132kV overhead line running roughly north - south from the n Most elevated option – increases likelihood of indirect visual impact on substation, before turning west as it approaches the railway line. designated cultural heritage sites to south of Sankey Canal. n The removal of 1 section of the existing north - south running 132kV overhead n Potential impacts on great crested newt habitats - licence and mitigation will line, and a section of the east - west running 132kV overhead lines. be required. n Consultation on bird issues and potentially further surveys required due to Access proximity of Mersey Estuary SPA. 2.26. Subject to SSE’s agreement, access to this site could be provided along the existing metalled track running along the edge of the power station n Further reptile surveys due to position of tower within Resource Centre Nature Reserve. LANDSCAPE n Potential for loss of mature ash tree. 2.27. Option 2 is located in the sloping arable fields close to the power station. SSE’s proposed n Potential impact on archaeological finds from cottage site. development land (currently arable fields) forms its immediate boundary to the south and west. Beyond this to the south, an earth bund covered in rough grass and shrubs separates the fields from the freight railway. These provide some screening from the south, Option 2 although the proposed SSE development may impact upon this vegetation. This option OVERVIEW lies the closest to the power station, which dominates views to the west and contrasts 2.24. Option 2 is located in the south-western corner of the siting area on the western edge with the more rural quality and openness of the farmland and surrounding areas. The of the arable fields and close to the end of a ditch and mature trees. SSE’s proposed existing 132kV overhead line, which runs north – south across the area is a prominent development land lies to the south and west. This option lies closest to the power station feature, as is the adjacent power station. and an existing metalled track running north-south along the outer edge of the Fiddlers SETTLEMENT & VIEWS Ferry power station forms the western boundary. The existing north - south overhead 2.28. This siting area is not directly overlooked by any residential properties. The cluster of line is located 110m to the west and the line, which runs east - west, is located 220m to properties at Marsh End Farm, lie approximately 320m to the north and would have open the south. views across fields towards the substation in the middle distance. From the west, views ADJACENT FEATURES of the site are blocked by the power station, whilst views from the south are contained by existing vegetation. Views from the north are screened by vegetation within the Resource n Fiddlers Ferry power station development land. Centre Nature Reserve and by the remnant field boundary trees along the ditch lines. n Fiddlers Ferry power station, with an area of stone, tarmac and bare earth. Views from the east are filtered by the existing scattered trees located within the fields n Fiddlers Ferry power station metalled access track. and will be further screened in time as new planting along the golf course bund matures. n Drainage ditches with occasional mature trees. Furthermore, when viewed from the east, the substation is backdropped against the power station and its mass will therefore largely be lost against the larger, more dominant form of the cooling towers. Due to the proximity of the Trans Pennine Trail to the south, occasional views may be afforded into the site from this Trail, but these would be largely screened by intervening vegetation and by the proposed SSE development.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 13 KEY:
Site boundary
Substation location option
Overhead line routing option
Proposed OHL
Existing OHL to be retained
Existing OHL to be removed
FIGURE 5 SUBSTATION SITING OPTION 02
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Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112
14 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement ECOLOGY the overall nature conservation of the Mersey Valley. The openness of the site would also 2.29. The substation would be located within the central arable field in the south-west corner allow for planting around the site and along the access road, subject to SSE’s permission. of the siting area. The land is of little conservation value in terms of general habitat and should present few ecological issues. However, the substation is positioned approximately OPPORTUNITIES 100m from the western edge of the ditch that divides the northern and central arable n Natural screening provided by vegetation to the south. fields. To ensure the works would have no adverse effects on this ditch, the Environment n Level land suitable for construction. Agency (EA) Pollution Prevention Guidelines PPG05 ‘Works in, near or liable to affect n Closest site to the power station. watercourses’ should be followed. It should be ensured that construction works do not n Keeps relocated overhead lines away from Marsh Lane Farm properties. affect this area. n Maintains openness of the green belt. 2.30. The proposed substation would be approximately 270m away from any ponds or habitat n Unlikely to directly disturb/impact on resident great crested newt population highly likely to be used by great crested newts, which is unlikely to give rise to any habitat. Unlikely to directly disturb/impact on resident reptile population/ significant effects. In addition there is an existing access road to the site. habitat. 2.31. In terms of the towers, this option would potentially have little impact as they are located within arable fields and on areas of tarmac, stone and bare ground which is being colonised CONSTRAINTS by short turf and ruderal plant species. n Potential access issues - access via power station with strict controls. n Potential visibility from disused Sankey Canal, designated as a recreational CULTURAL HERITAGE corridor and part of the Greenway Network (Ref UDP, Policy LUT15) and 2.32. There are no known sites which are likely to be affected by Option 2. Indirect visual incorporating the Trans Pennine Trail. effects on the setting of sites with statutory protection, which include listed buildings n and Scheduled Monuments in the wider area, are anticipated to be less than Option 1, Close to existing ditch, although this shouldn’t be affected if the EA’s PPG05 because of the backdrop of the imposing power station. guidelines are followed during construction. n Middle distance views from Marsh End Farm properties. Consultation on bird RECREATION issues and potentially further surveys required due to proximity of Mersey 2.33. As with Option 3, there would be potential views from the western edge of the golf Estuary SPA. course, although these would be increasingly screened over time as vegetation on the planted bund matures. Option 3 2.34. There is also potential for this option to be viewed from the Trans Pennine Trail to the OVERVIEW south although existing vegetation and the proposed SSE development is likely to provide 2.37. Option 3 is located in the south-eastern corner of the siting area, adjacent to Marsh Lane, significant screening. which runs along its eastern edge. It occupies a gentle hollow in the landform of the arable fields. The site adjoins the area of broadleaf plantation woodland, which is bounded by PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS a mature hedgerow and has been planted on a former landfill site. Its eastern edge is 2.35. As with Options 1 and 3, this site lies within green belt and any application for a new bounded by a bank covered with overgrown ruderal vegetation and mature trees, which development will need to demonstrate ‘exceptional’ circumstances. With respect to sits alongside a drainage ditch, beyond which is Marsh Lane. Further drainage ditches other policies within Warrington Borough Council’s UDP identified previously, this option and associated vegetation lie to the north and south. The existing 132kV overhead line raises no conflict. The site also lies within the area designated as a Major Wildlife Corridor is located some 450m to the west where it runs in a north - south direction. The second (Policy GRN 20). 132kV overhead line is located some 80m to the south where it runs in an east - west direction. A low voltage 11kV overhead line on single wood poles runs along the eastern MITIGATION OPPORTUNITIES edge of the site. 2.36. Subject to the appropriate permissions, supplementary off site planting along Marsh Lane could provide further screening for the Marsh End farm properties. This would enhance
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 15 KEY:
Site boundary
Substation location option
Overhead line routing option
Proposed OHL
Existing OHL to be retained
Existing OHL to be removed
FIGURE 6 SUBSTATION SITING OPTION 03
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Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112
16 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement ADJACENT FEATURES SETTLEMENT & VIEWS n Marsh Lane 2.41. The site is not directly overlooked by any properties. Views to the site from the south are n Fiddlers Ferry Golf Course contained by woodland, whilst views from the east are largely contained by the boundary n Block of broadleaf plantation woodland vegetation. In time, views will be further screened by the new planting along the golf n Drainage ditches with scattered trees course bund. Views from the west are blocked by the power station, and from the north by woodland within the Resource Centre Nature Reserve. The cluster of properties at Marsh End Farm, lie approximately 320m to the north and would have views across the EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE open fields towards the substation in the middle distance. Overhead Line Connections 2.38. Option 3 places the sub-station in the south-east corner of the central arable field. As ECOLOGY shown in Figure 18 this results in: 2.42. The sub-station would be located within an arable field of little conservation value. There should few issues in ecological terms in this location. n New length of 132kV overhead line running roughly north - west to south - 2.43. The substation would be within 250m of ponds supporting breeding populations of great east broadly paralleling the Resource Centre Nature Reserve and Marsh Lane. crested newts, which use the surrounding landscape as terrestrial habitat. The key issue in n New length of 132 kV overhead line running parallel to the railway before this respect would be the overall wider impact of development and the loss of potentially turning north into the substation. good habitat, including field boundaries, woodland and ditches. This location would n New length of 132kV line running north from existing. therefore trigger the need for a great crested newt licence and subsequent mitigation n The removal of 1 section of the existing north - south running 132kV overhead proposals. line, and a section of the east - west running 132kV overhead line. 2.44. In terms of the towers, this option would have little impact ecologically where the towers ACCESS are located within the arable fields. However, there are again (as in Option 1) some 2.39. This option is located adjacent to the private section of Marsh Lane, which could locations, which may give rise to ecological effects. potentially provide good access, subject to agreement with the relevant landowners. 2.45. Towers located within the plantation woodland to the south-east, would result in the LANDSCAPE loss of some trees and shrubs. As discussed in Option 1, these trees are of even age (20 2.40. The site comprises part of a large, low lying, gently sloping arable field, which is enclosed - 40 years) and the understory tends to be bramble, nettles and/or hawthorn scrub. In to the south by a block of mixed deciduous woodland and mature hedgerow. To the east, terms of habitat type, this loss would again be of local value and low impact (although is an overgrown bank, which sits alongside a deep drainage ditch containing marginal there may be other impacts on protected species use of the area). Planting around the vegetation with some mature trees on its banks. The southern section of Marsh Lane substation would help offset this loss. Extending the plantation woodland northwards runs north - south along the eastern edge of the site and provides access to the freight or westwards would be the most beneficial in ecological terms and could enhance the railway. To the east of Marsh Lane, the landform rises up, forming a bund along the edge overall nature conservation of the Mersey Valley. of Fiddlers Ferry Golf Course. This has recently been planted with young trees and shrubs, which will eventually form a screen. Drainage ditches running east - west separate the 2.46. Towers located close to the tree and ditch line of the eastern boundary would lie within field from the arable fields to the north and south. Although located at some distance the arable field and therefore have little direct ecological impact. There may be some from the power station, it remains dominated by the presence of the cooling towers and effect on the nearby field boundary trees, which may have to be pruned to facilitate associated structures, which provide a contrast with the more rural quality and openness safety clearances. An assessment would be required for these mature trees. Although the of the surrounding farmland. trees are of mostly low value for protected groups such as bat species, there may be other issues and any works should be in accordance with BS5837 Guide for Trees in Relation to Construction (2005).
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 17 2.47. Towers within the Resource Centre Nature Reserve would be located within an area of damp grassland and may have hibernacula on or local to their footprint. This may affect protected species, including the great crested newts, which are known to be present. The habitat itself (grassland) is of moderate value and would not be considered as BAP priority habitat. However, the loss of any habitat in this area (as a Nature Reserve) would be considered negative and some mitigation may be required. CULTURAL HERITAGE 2.48. In Option 3, the siting of the substation and the repositioning of the towers to the south may intrude into the historic alluvial deposits within this area. Such deposits can contain evidence for changes to the river’s course and, through the preservation of organic remains, for changes in the local environment. They may also contain evidence for human activity along the river in prehistory and later. Option 3 therefore provides an opportunity for recording the build-up of deposits and for recovery and analysis of any significant material that they might contain. 2.49. Compared with Options 1 and 2, the potential indirect visual impact of the proposed substation on the setting of designated sites in the wider area is limited by its situation in a slight hollow and by the screening opportunities afforded by the existing vegetation. However, there may be some indirect impact arising from a relocated tower near Marsh Lane.
RECREATION 2.50. As with Option 1, a new length of overhead line would be required running parallel to the southern boundary of the Resource Centre Nature Reserve. 2.51. Views from the western edge of the golf course would be increasingly screened over time as vegetation on the planted bund matures.
PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 2.52. As with Options 1 and 2, this site lies within green belt (Policy GRN 1) and any application for a new development will need to demonstrate ‘exceptional’ circumstances. The site also lies within the area designated as a Major Wildlife Corridor (Policy GRN 20). With respect to other policies within Warrington Borough Council’s UDP identified previously, this option raises no conflict, although it lies closer to areas covered by the following policies than Option 1 or 2:
n Policy LUT15 The Greenway Network n Policy REP4 Protection of the Flood Plain n Policy GRN17 Sites of Local Importance for Nature Conservation
18 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement MITIGATION OPPORTUNITIES 2.53. There are good opportunities for supplementary planting around the proposed substation, including along the eastern boundary and extension of the woodland block lying to the south. Subject to the appropriate permissions, supplementary off site planting along Marsh Lane could provide further screening for the Marsh End farm properties. This would enhance the overall nature conservation of the Mersey Valley.
OPPORTUNITIES n Access from Marsh Lane subject to agreement. n Low lying with natural topographic and vegetated screening. n Proximity to existing 132kV overhead line to the south. n Opportunity for archaeological investigations of the alluvial record. n Level land suitable for construction.
CONSTRAINTS n Requires a parallel length of overhead line along the Marsh Lane boundary n Views from golf course (until vegetation on bund matures). n Middle distance views from Marsh End Farm properties. n Potential visual issues from new section of overhead line running close to Resource Centre n Potential impacts on great crested newt habitats - licence and mitigation will be required. n Consultation on bird issues and potentially further surveys required due to proximity of Mersey Estuary SPA. n Further reptile surveys due to position of tower within Resource Centre Nature Reserve.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 19 3.0 Evaluation of potential substation Sites and Overhead Line Diversion 3.8 Option 2 lies closest to the power station on the brow of a gently sloping arable field. Whilst it occupies an open situation, it has the potential to assimilate visually with the 3.1 Having explored the potential of the three sites in terms of their suitability for locating imposing mass and presence of the power station buildings when viewed from a distance. a new substation, the next stage it to evaluate them and identify an emerging preferred Whilst the substation would be visible from the Marsh End properties, at some 325m, option emerging. It is noted that all the sites lie within designated green belt and therefore they are a similar distance to Option 3 (280m) and further than Option 1. Similarly, there will be a need to demonstrate the ‘exceptional circumstances’ associated with the whilst the substation would be visible from the western edge of the golf course, the view proposed development. Both sites also lie within an area identified as a Major Wildlife is again middle distance and likely to be screened over time as planting on the golf course Corridor in Warrington BC’s UDP (Policy GRN 20). Option 3 lies adjacent to an area bund matures. There are opportunities for mitigation planting around the proposed identified in Warrington BC’s UDP as Protection of Floodplain (Policy REP4). substation although this may be limited in view of the proximity to the power station 3.2 A summary of the issues discussed below is provided in Table 1. and consequential objections from the landowner, SSE. There are further opportunities to supplement existing vegetation along Marsh Lane. Such measures would also enhance EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE the overall nature conservation of the Mersey Valley. Overhead Line Connections 3.9 Option 3 occupies a low lying position bordered by existing plantation woodland, 3.3 All three options require diversion of exisiting overhead lines. Option 1 reqires the most providing screening in views from the south. This includes most views from the Trans diversion whilst Options 2 and 3 are comparable. Pennine Trail and elevated residential areas south of the River Mersey. A new substation 3.4 Option2 therefore requires the shortest length of new overhead line and the least number would potentially be visible from the western edge of the golf course, but this situation of both new and dismantled towers. In addition, the tower positions identified for Option would improve over time as the new planting along the golf course bund matures. A 2 are all located in the arable field on in existing rough grass/hard standing and are substation would be visible from the Marsh End Farm properties as there are open views therefore less likely to give rise to environmental effects. across the arable fields. However these views are middle distance (280m) and the low lying position of this option with the woodland providing a backdrop serves to lessen the ACCESS effect. There are good opportunities for mitigation both by planting along Marsh Lane 3.5 All three options are accessible. and around the proposed substation which provides the added opportunity of enlarging the existing woodland plantation to the south. Such measures would enhance the overall LANDSCAPE nature conservation of the Mersey Valley 3.6 All three options would potentially extend the urbanising influence of the power station further east into the green belt. This effect is high for Option 1 which is furthest away ECOLOGY from the power station. Option 2 lies on the edge of the green belt adjoining the railway. 3.10 For Option 1, the potential location of the new towers raises ecological issues with respect to tower positions. It is also the option, which lies closest to the Resource Centre Nature VISUAL AMENITY Reserve where ponds supporting great crested newts are found. 3.7 Option 1 raises more potential visual issues due to its proximity to the nearby Marsh End Farm properties, slightly elevated open situation and requirement for two parallel 3.11 Option 2 raises few potential ecological issues. overhead lines running alongside Marsh Lane. This option also requires the longest length 3.12 Option 3 raises similar ecological issues with respect to tower positions as Option 1, of new overhead line to be constructed, increasing the likelihood of visual impacts arising although due to the shorter length of new line, these are likely to be fewer in number. It from the steel towers and conductors. is the option which lies closest to the golf course where ponds supporting great crested newts are found.
20 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement CULTURAL HERITAGE SUMMARY 3.13 Option 1 may directly impact on the site of a former cottage, which is of local significance. 3.1 Option 1 is discounted as being less preferable than both options 2 and 3. It is also the option which would have the greatest potential effect on cultural heritage 3.2 In comparing options 2 and 3, Option 2 is preferred in that it requires a shorter length sites in the wider area. of overhead line reconfiguration and that it also lies further away from Marsh Lane Farm 3.14 Option 2 is unlikely to directly affect any sites. Whilst its open, slightly elevated situation properties (325m in comparison to 280m for option 2). Its situation adjacent to the could have indirect impacts on sites in the wider area, these are likely to be minimal given power station makes it the option least likely to affect the openness of the green belt and the current effect of the power station on the setting of the designated cultural heritage yet it is this proximity which also makes it the option likely to give rise to the greatest sites. objection from SSE. 3.15 Option 3 offers opportunities to record and analyse alluvial deposits from the former 3.3 Whilst Option 2 was initially preferred as a result of its proximity to the power station, course of the River Mersey. Due to its location in a slight hollow and screening afforded the potential effects of Option 3 are reduced by both its low lying situation and the by existing vegetation it is unlikely to give rise to significant visual effects on the setting screening effect of the plantation woodland to the south which also provides a backdrop of designated cultural heritage sites in the wider area. when viewed from the Marsh Lane properties to the north. In terms of planning issues, the distance from the power station and the reduced likelihood of therefore interfering PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS with its future operational issues make option 3 the preferred site. Finally, the mitigation 3.16 SSE have stated within their Annual Report 2011 that they are currently exploring long opportunities for option 3 are greater than for option 2 in view of its proximity to the term development options for the Fiddlers Ferry power station. This potential future plantation woodland to the south which can be enlarged, going some way to compensate development has been reiterated in correspondence and in meetings with SSE. Option 2, for any potential impact on ecological issues. being closest to the power station, is likely attract greater difficulties in terms of planning issues than Options 1 and 3. This issue is discussed in greater detail in SPEN’s Planning 3.4 In summary therefore, option 3 is preferred. Report.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 21 TABLE 1: Overhead Line Landscape Settlement / Recreation Ecology Cultural Heritage Access Planning Considerations Mitigation Opportunities Connections Views
Option 1 Requires diversion Although siting Views dominated Foreground views of Proposed substation Proposed substation Good, direct Location of substation Opportunities to extend of overhead line. of the substation by the power substation and overhead may result in loss of would impact directly access off unlikely to affect SSE’’s woodland but proximity to in this location station. line from Resource mature ash tree. upon archaeological public highway. aspirations for future Marsh End Farm properties Towers located would extend Centre Nature Reserve. remains of mid development of Fiddler’s and Resource Centre close to Marsh End Foreground views Construction the industrial nineteenth century Ferry. Nature Reserve means that Farm properties, of the site and mitigation measures character further cottage. it is unlikely all views could Marsh Lane, overhead line from required to prevent Location of towers east into the arable Potential views from be screened. Resource Centre nearby Marsh End pollution of nearby The slightly elevated would require careful landscape, given parts of Fiddlers Ferry Nature Reserve Farm properties drainage ditches. location would consideration at detailed the dominating Golf Course, although and Golf Course. filtered by potentially give rise design stage to avoid influence of the these views will be Site lies close to Potential to supplement intervening trees. to indirect visual compromising SSE’’s Requires two power station, this increasingly screened Resource Centre existing vegetation along impacts on the future development. parallel overhead effect would be Potential distant over time as vegetation Nature Reserve and Marsh Lane to screen views setting of designated lines along Marsh marginal. views of the planted on the bund ponds supporting of overhead lines from sites, particularly Lane. substation from matures great crested newt Marsh End Farm properties south of the River elevated residential populations. and Marsh Lane. Mersey. areas south of the Potential issues River Mersey. where proposed towers are located in woodland areas or close to ditches.
Option 2 Requires diversion Industrial character Views dominated Potential filtered views Little potential The slightly elevated Potentially Location of towers Potential to create linear of overhead line. deriving from by the power from the nearby Sankey ecological impact location would good but would require careful boundary screening around proximity to the station. Canal towpath / Trans arising from potentially give rise requires SSE’s consideration at detailed site. Towers located power station and Pennine Trail. proposed substation to indirect visual agreement design stage to avoid closest to Fiddlers Located on the Potential to supplement existing overhead but construction impacts on the to use their compromising SSE’’s Ferry power brow of gently Middle distance views existing vegetation along lines. mitigation measures setting of designated existing proposed development. station, mid sloping fields. of site from Resource Marsh Lane to screen views required to prevent sites, particularly metalled access distance away Potential middle Centre Nature Reserve. Proximity to Fiddlers of overhead lines from pollution of ditch south of the River track. from Marsh End distant views Ferry power station is Marsh End Farm properties Potential filtered views that divides north Mersey although Farm properties, from Marsh Lane likely to affect SSE’s and Marsh Lane. from parts of Fiddlers and central arable proximity to the Resource Centre properties, but aspirations for future Ferry Golf Course, fields. power station is likely and Nature partly screened development of Fiddler’s although these views will to reduce this effect. Reserve and by intervening Little potential Ferry. be increasingly screened furthest away vegetation. impact from over time as vegetation from the golf proposed tower Power station planted on the bund course. locations. forms the backdrop matures. when viewed from the east, dominating the view.
22 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement TABLE 2: Overhead Line Landscape Settlement / Recreation Ecology Cultural Heritage Access Planning Considerations Mitigation Opportunities Connections Views
Option 3 Requires diversion Although siting Views dominated Foreground views of Site lies close to Provides an Good, direct Location of substation Good opportunities to of overhead line. of the substation by the power overhead line from golf course ponds opportunity for access off unlikely to affect SSE’s extend existing woodland in this location station. Resource Centre Nature supporting great recording and public highway aspirations for future block lying to the south. Towers located would extend Reserve. crested newt analysing build up of development of Fiddler’s close to Marsh End Middle distance the industrial population. alluvial deposits. Ferry. Farm properties, views of the site Middle distance views character further Potential to supplement Marsh Lane, from Marsh Lane of site from Resource Construction Low-lying situation Location of towers east into the arable existing vegetation along Resource Centre properties but Centre Nature Reserve. mitigation measures potentially gives rise would require careful landscape, given Marsh Lane to screen views Nature Reserve partly screened required to prevent to fewer indirect consideration at detailed the dominating Potential filtered views of substation and overhead and Golf Course. by intervening pollution of nearby visual effects on design stage to avoid influence of the from the nearby Sankey lines from Marsh End Farm vegetation. Low drainage ditches. designated sites, compromising SSE’s power station, this Canal towpath / Trans properties and Marsh Lane. lying position particularly south of future development. effect would be Pennine Trail. Potential issues with woodland the River Mersey. marginal. where proposed plantation to Potential views from towers are located south providing a western side of Fiddlers in woodland areas or backdrop further Ferry Golf Course, close to ditches reduces potential although these views will effect on views. be increasingly screened over time as vegetation Potential distant planted on the bund views of the matures. substation from elevated residential areas south of the River Mersey screened by intervening vegetation and low-lying situation.
NB – Highlighted cells denote least constrained option. If no highlighting then little to choose between options
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 23 KEY:
FIGURE A1 VIEWPOINT LOCATIONS
NTS
Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112
24 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement Appendix A: Environmental Considerations
A1.0 Landscape
DESIGNATED LANDSCAPES A1.1. There are no designated landscapes in the area.
LANDSCAPE CHARACTER A1.2. Natural England has mapped the landscape character of England and categorised it into broad areas. The site falls within the area known as Mersey Valley. Warrington Borough Council is also in the process of finalising a more detailed landscape character assessment. The findings will be published in a report entitled, Landscape Assessment of Warrington Borough Council (anticipated to be late 2011).
PHOTOGRAPH 1 - LOOKING SOUTH-WEST
PHOTOGRAPH 2 - LOOKING SOUTH-WEST
PHOTOGRAPH 3 - LOOKING NORTH-WEST PHOTOGRAPH 4 - LOOKING NORTH-WEST
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 25 A1.3. The Mersey Valley Landscape Character Area is located south of the Lancashire Coal Measures and Amounderness Plain and north of the Shropshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire Plain Landscape Character Areas. It is a distinct river valley landscape, formed by the River Mersey, its estuary and tributaries. Encompassing a range of landscape types from salt marshes and remnants of semi-natural mosslands in the west, to localised areas of basin peats towards Manchester in the east, the broad river valley landscape is linear, large scale and open with predominantly flat farmland supporting substantial bands of mixed agriculture. Trees and woodland are scarce and are mainly associated with settlements, whilst field patterns are regular and large-scale, often defined by degraded hedgerows. A1.4. The banks of the Mersey have attracted large-scale, highly visible industrial development, particularly at the river crossings near Runcorn, Widnes and Warrington. These are supported by a dense infrastructure network of roads, railways, canals and overhead lines. A1.5. Photographs 1 - 4 show some typical views of the area.
LANDSCAPE SENSITIVITY A1.6. Landscape sensitivity to a specific type of change is defined1 as: A1.7. “The extent to which a landscape can accept change of a particular type and scale without unacceptable adverse effects upon its character. It reflects particular combinations of geology, landform, soils, vegetation, land use and human settlement…..Landscapes which are highly sensitive are at risk of having their key characteristics fundamentally altered, leading to a different landscape character.” A1.8. The sensitivity of the landscape to the proposed development is considered low. High voltage overhead lines on steel tower supports are already present in the area and these, combined with the visual dominating presence of the power station, mean that the new substation and diverted section of overhead line should be easily assimilated into the surrounding landscape and raise few conflicts with landscape character.
1 An approach to assessing landscape sensitivity is set out in the ‘Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland, Topic Paper 6: Techniques for Judging Capacity and Sensitivity’, published by the Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage in 2004’.
26 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement VISUAL AMENITY Large Penketh and Doe Green – residential south-western edge of Warrington. Settlement Settlements Residential eastern edge of Widnes. A1.9. The nearest built up area is Penketh and Doe Green, which lies on the south-western Manor Park – residential edge of north-east Runcorn. edge of Warrington around Warrington Road (the A562). The edge of this settlement lies Small Cuerdley Cross – on Widnes Road (A562) north of Fiddlers Ferry power station. within 1km of the siting area. Settlements Rose Tree Farm – on opposite side of Widnes Road (A562) to entrance to Fiddlers Ferry & Individual power station. A1.10. Beyond the power station to the north-west, the built up eastern edge of Widnes lies Properties Cluster of properties around Marsh End Farm. within 1-2km of the siting area. Cluster of properties forming Cross Lane Farm cottages to the entrance of the Fiddlers A1.11. To the south of the River Mersey and Manchester Ship Canal are the villages of Moore and Ferry Golf Course. the Manor Park area of Runcorn. Both of these settlements lie more than 2km from the Laburnum Cottage off Mowcroft Lane to the north. siting area. Fowl Farm to the north-west at the junction of Mowcroft Lane and Back Lane. Collection of properties at Cuerdley Cross to the north-west of the siting area along A1.12. In addition, there are some small hamlets, including Cuerdley Cross, some large farm Widnes Road (A562). complexes and scattered farms and houses. The nearest properties are the group of The properties forming the western boundary of Doe Green to the north-east of the siting buildings around Marsh End Farm on the opposite side of Marsh Lane. area and located along Cuerdley Road. Collection of buildings forming Top’d Oak, 1km to the north of the siting area on Views Farnworth Road. A1.13. Potential visual receptors, that is people who may have a view of the development, are Brook Farm located 1km to the north on Farnworth Road. identified in the table opposite. : POTENTIAL VISUAL RECEPTORS Recreational Fiddlers Ferry Golf Course. Facilities The Trans Pennine Trail, Sankey Canal Trail, Sustrans Cycleway Route 62 and the Mersey Way, all located along the Sankey Canal towpath to the south. The Cheshire Ring Canal Walk, the Mersey Trail and the Delamere Trail. Fiddlers Ferry Sailing Club 1km to the east. Viewpoints Transient views experienced when travelling along the east-west orientated Widnes Road (A562) immediately to the north of the siting area. Transient views experienced travelling along the A56, which located some 3km to the south of the siting area. Transient views experienced travelling along the M56, which runs in an elevated position some 5km to the south of the siting area. The viewpoint located at 105m AOD at High Warren to the south-east of the siting area. Historic and Norton Priory, Gardens and Cottages. Cultural Walton Hall and Gardens. Features Halton Castle. The Sankey Canal which is subject to a restoration campaign by the Sankey Canal Restoration Society.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 27 KEY: Key
Substation Siting Aea Green Belt Site of Importance Nature Conservation (SINC) SSSI Region Greenway network
Major Wildlife Corridor Local Importance for Nature Conservation Ramsar Special Protection Area (SPA)
FIGURE A2 ECOLOGY
NTS
Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112 Figure x: Planning Context
Scale28 1:10,000 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement A2.0 Ecology A2.1. SPEN commissioned an ecological survey and report from Peak Ecology Ltd entitled, ‘Fiddlers Ferry power station’ in January 2011. This report was for the existing area of arable fields, including the area identified for SSE’s proposed rail freight yard.
DESIGNATED SITES A2.2. The siting area and its surroundings do not form part of a designated nature conservation site. As shown in Figure A2: Habitat Map, there are no statutorily protected sites within the immediate vicinity. The Mersey Estuary, which is designated as a RAMSAR site, a Special Protection Area (SPA), an Important Bird Area and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), lies some 4.5km to the west.
HABITATS A2.3. As illustrated in Figure A3, much of the siting area is arable fields, bounded by rough grassland/scrub and with a tree line, potential old hedgerow line and a number of ditches. There is an area of broadleaved woodland in the Resource Centre Nature Reserve. Larger areas of scrub and rough grassland, together with an area of even aged plantation woodland lie to the south of the fields. To the west, beyond the metalled access track is an area of open vegetation with stone and bare earth present, which is being colonised by ruderal plants. Next to this is a raised area of similar vegetation, including an area of tarmac. There are no significant issues in terms of the general vegetation.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 29 KEY: SUBSTATION SITING AREA
FIGURE A3 LOCAL HABITAT MAP NTS
Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112
30 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement PROTECTED AND NOTABLE SPECIES A2.4. Great crested newts are known to be present in the Resource Centre Nature Reserve and in the golf course ponds. The mature and semi-mature trees are potential habitat for protected species of bats and birds.
Issues Raised A2.5. Breeding birds: To minimise any potential impact or disturbance to protected breeding birds, any vegetation clearance would have to be undertaken outside the bird breeding season. In addition, consultation will be required due to the location of the proposed development to the Mersey Estuary SPA, some 4.5km to the west. This may lead to the need for further bird surveys. Furthermore, barn owls may utilise a large bird box present in the Resource Centre Nature Reserve and further survey and mitigation may be required for this species. A2.6. Bats: Because mature trees are considered to offer some potential to roosting bats, removal or pruning of mature trees would require further surveys to determine if bats are using them. The linear nature of the tree and shrub vegetation means the area may be used as a commuting route and as such, these features should be retained. If this is not possible, then the structure and function of the commuting route for bats should be maintained by the provision of new planting. A2.7. Water Vole: A ditch running across the arable field has small mammal burrows present and there are records of water vole locally, although no direct evidence for water vole has been found. A precautionary approach is recommended to produce a method statement to ensure no impact, firstly on the ditch and therefore on this species. A2.8. Amphibians: No ponds are likely to be directly affected, although there is good terrestrial habitat. There are four ponds in the Resource Centre Nature Reserve and 10+ ponds on the golf course. In addition, there are ditches that retain water within and around the siting area, known records for great crested newts and no significant barriers for movement by amphibians. A2.9. Great crested newt surveys have been undertaken (May 2011). A2.10. Reptiles: The proposed development could affect reptiles, which have been recorded on the railway embankment south of the siting area. Mitigation is likely to be required, including the transfer of reptiles from the development footprint to designated safe areas. A method statement would be written and the work would need to be carried out prior to any development.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 31 KEY:
Substation siting area
FIGURE A4 ARCHAEOLOGY AND CULTURAL HERITAGE NTS
Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112
32 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement A3.0 Cultural Heritage A3.4. The north-south routeway, together with Marsh Lane to the east, provided access to Cuerdley Marsh. This was a substantial flat area of land within a bend of the River Mersey. A3.1. SPEN commissioned an initial Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Report from Dr Peter By the mid nineteenth century the Marsh was bounded to the north by the Sankey Canal Arrowsmith. A general summary of the siting area and its immediate environs is provided but it had once extended into the siting area’s southern edge. The tithe award shows that in the following text and illustrated in Figure A4 Designated Cultural Heritage Sites. the Marsh was used as pasture shared by the manor’s tenant farmers. It is now occupied A3.2. The area lies on the north side of the River Mersey but its historic relationship with the by the lagoons of the power station but was formerly bounded by an embankment river was severed by a series of developments to the south, including construction of the to protect against flooding. The Marsh also contained an inner earthwork known as Sankey Canal in 1830-3, the railway in the early 1850s and most recently the power station Cromwell’s Bank. Aerial photographs show that the land, which it protected, was divided lagoons. In the distant past the Mersey extended into the siting area, as evidenced by into numerous strips of ridge and furrow, suggesting that it had once been part of the past alluvial deposits. These have been plotted along the southern edge of the farmland, manor’s common fields. particularly in the south-east corner where they underlie some existing woodland. A3.5. In the mid nineteenth century, the farmland contained three cottages, one by the Such deposits can contain evidence for changes to the river’s course and, through the Warrington to Widnes Road, another alongside the north-south routeway, and the third preservation of organic remains, for changes in the local environment. They may also at the junction of that routeway and a branch leading to Marsh Lane. contain evidence for human activity along the river in prehistory and later. The rest of the farmland is largely covered with boulder clay, which would have been less conducive A3.6. By the late nineteenth century the landscape was changing. The field boundaries in the to early human activity than other, lighter and better drained, soils. No prehistoric sites west had been removed together with the north-south routeway. Field boundaries in the or finds are known within the immediate area, nor is there any evidence known from east were progressively removed between that period and the mid twentieth century. the Roman period. The closest early site lies to the east, where aerial photography has A3.7. There are no archaeological or cultural heritage sites with statutory protection. None of identified a possible late prehistoric or native Romano-British farmstead, visible as a the few surviving hedgerows, which lie within or bordering the farmland, meets any of the cropmark. historical and archaeological criteria for Important Hedgerows. A3.3. From the medieval period onwards, the area lay within the township and manor of Cuerdley. A manor house is documented in Cuerdley in 1282 and may have stood in the same location as the later Cuerdley Hall, now the site of the power station. Maps show that, until the mid to late nineteenth century, the area was divided into a patchwork of fields (Figure 12: Archaeology and Cultural Heritage). These were separated by a routeway running north-south from the Warrington to Widnes road. The Cuerdley tithe award of 1842 shows that the fields in the area to the west of this routeway formed part of the farmland of Cuerdley Hall. The land to the east may once have been part of the common farmland of the manor, before being enclosed. The north of this area contained long narrow fields, which may have originated as the strips within a medieval open field. Several fields in the southern part had the name ‘Town Field’, which is also suggestive of former common land.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 33 KEY:
FIGURE A5 DESIGNATED CULTURAL HERITAGE SITES NTS
Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112
34 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement DESIGNATED SITES Scheduled Monuments A3.8. Several Scheduled Monuments lie within 5km of the siting area. These are set out in the table Listed Buildings below: A3.9. There are approximately 100 listed buildings within 5km of the siting area. None is within Monument Monument Location Description 1km, and 5 are within 2km. Norton Priory and Halton Castle, located approximately 4 Name No & Grid and 5km respectively to the south of the siting area, are both Grade I listed properties. A Reference further 17 properties are Grade II*. The 5 listed buildings within 2km comprise a Penketh Heavy Anti- 33855 SJ54148805 Includes the standing, earthwork and buried remains of Hall, L Shaped Barn at Penketh Hall, Brookside Farmhouse, Milestone on Warrington aircraft gunsite much of a World War II Heavy Anti-aircraft (HAA) gunsite. Road, and Milestone on Liverpool Road. All are Grade II listed. 380m east of 2km to The site includes the functional core of the gunsite with a A4.10. Registered Parks and Gardens South Lane north-west of command post, radar platform, four gun emplacements, a Farm siting area generator building and ancillary buildings situated 380m A3.11. There are no Registered Historic Parks and Gardens within 5km of the siting area. The east of South Lane Farm. closest is Victoria Park in Widnes, which is located some 4km to the south-west. Cranshaw Hall 13480 SJ51768873 Includes an island partially occupied by the 19th century rebuilding moated site 4km to of Cranshaw Hall and farm buildings of approximately the same north-west of date. In the centre of the buildings is a cobbled yard that is an siting area. original feature containing a sandstone-lined well. The remainder of the island comprises lawns, ornamental shrubbery gardens and an access drive. The surrounding moat has been infilled. Barrow Old 13434 SJ56178958 Comprises a moated site, the island of which was formerly Hall moated 3km to occupied by Barrow Old Hall. Barrow Old Hall is one of six site, Great south-east of moated sites in the medieval township of Bold. Sankey siting area. Old Bold Hall 13429 SJ54179034 Comprises a moated site, the island of which is now partially moated site, occupied by a 20th century farmhouse and garden but which Bold 4km to north was formerly occupied by Old Bold Hall. The moat is dry and has of siting area. been partially in-filled but the site retains an early 18th century bridge and flanking gate piers, which are Listed Grade II.
Augustinian 27608 SJ54928301 Includes the remains of an Augustinian abbey with the ruins of Abbey known the abbey church, cloister, chapter house, dormitory, refectory, as Norton 4km to south kitchens, Abbot’s lodgings, latrines, drains, guest house, Priory of siting area. an early church building, a bell pit, a tile kiln, the monastic cemetery and an extensive surrounding water feature designed to create a moated site for the complex of buildings. Halton Castle: 27611 SJ53778205 Includes the ruined castle remains at Halton. The castle a ruined shell stands on a prominent hill of red sandstone and overlooks the keep castle on 5km to estuary of the River Mersey to the north and east and the low the site of an south-west marshlands at the foot of the hill on the western and eastern earlier motte of the siting sides. It is in a strategic position overlooking the Runcorn and bailey area. Gap. Halton is one of a series of castles built on the sandstone ridges of Cheshire including Beeston Castle to the south. KEY:
Substation Siting Area
^ Angling
Canal Angling
n Golf Courses
! Historic Buildings
! Other Visitor Attractions
National & Regional Trails
National Cycle Route
Trans Pennine Trail
Parks and Gardens
Local Nature Reserve
Open Access Land
FIGURE A6 RECREATION NTS
Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office,© Crown copyright Licence No. EL273112
36 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement A4.0 Recreation A4.1. Whilst the area is not particularly well known for tourism or leisure, there are some formal and informal facilities, which must be considered.
FORMAL FACILITIES A4.2. Figure 13: Recreation shows the recreational and visitor facilities and resources in the wider area as identified from OS data and on-line searches.
HISTORIC BUILDINGS A4.3. Historic buildings as tourist destinations of note and being located within 5km of the site are: A4.4. Norton Priory: Sited approximately 3km to the south of the siting area and founded in 1134, the Grade I listed Norton Priory is a 16-hectare site with 12th-century priory remains, museum and an 18th-century walled garden. Features include summerhouses, woodland walk and sculpture trail and a rock garden, all of which are open to the public. The gardens are described within the next section. A4.5. Halton Castle: Located in the village of Halton, some 5km to the south of the siting area, the Grade I listed Halton Castle is one of only two surviving Norman Castles in Cheshire. It is owned by the Duchy of Lancaster. In 2002 Norton Priory took on its management on behalf of Halton Borough Council and opened it to the public. A4.6. Walton Hall: Located approximately 5km to the south-east, Walton Hall is a Grade II listed building owned and administered by Warrington Borough Council. Built in 1836– 38 to a design by Edmund Sharpe, the two and a half storey house is built in brown brick with stone dressings and slate roofs. The hall is available for hire for weddings and other events. The gardens are also open to the public and are described within the next section.
PARKS & GARDENS A4.7. Parks and gardens within 5km of the site, which could potentially be affected by views of the substation: A4.8. Norton Priory Walled Garden: Forming part of the Norton Priory grounds, the 2.5 acre walled garden was built between 1757 and 1770 for the Brooke family, the owners of Norton Priory. The garden holds the National Collection of Tree Quince (Cydonia Oblonga). The garden is open to the public.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 37 A4.9. Walton Hall Gardens: Located approximately 5km to the south-east, Walton Hall Gardens Rights of Way occupies 30 acres of parkland, which were originally part of a much larger country estate. A4.15. Several national and regional long distance trails pass immediately to the south of the Purchased by Warrington Borough Council in 1945, the park is open to the public and siting area along the Sankey Canal towpath. These are: includes a golf course, gardens and a network of way-marked paths, which lead out to A4.16. Trans Pennine Trail: The Transpennine Trail extends 345km across the north of England from local beauty spots such as Hill Cliffe, Appleton Reservoir and the Bridgewater Canal. The Southport in the west to Hornsea in the east. It follows the Sankey Canal between Widnes park also offers a number of facilities including picnic areas, a play area, a children’s zoo, a and St Helens. heritage centre, and an ornamental gardens. A4.17. Mersey Way: Closely following the north bank of the river and estuary of the Mersey from A4.10. Victoria Park, Widnes: Located north of Widnes town centre and some 4km to the west, Rixton, east of Warrington, to Garston in Liverpool, the Mersey Way links Paddington Victoria Park offers a range of recreational facilities including play area, interactive water Meadows and the Pickering Pasture and Speke & Garston Coastal Nature Reserves. The feature, cafes, boating lake, skating facilities and pets corner. route includes the stretch of St Helens Canal towpath between Warrington and Widnes, A4.11. Victoria Promenade, Widnes: Victoria Promenade is situated on the banks of the River where it is concurrent with the Trans Pennine Trail as described above. Mersey on the north side of the Runcorn Gap in the West Bank area of Widnes. The A4.18. National Cycle Route: Sustrans Cycle Trail 62 runs between Southport and Selby Promenade is a heritage site that reflects an industrial legacy from early transportation following the Sankey Canal towpath. links to the birth of the chemical industry, which is depicted in public art pieces at the formal entrance to the community garden. The Promenade also provides a children’s play A4.19. Sankey Canal Trail: The Sankey Canal Restoration Trust are developing the Sankey Canal area and a community pavilion. Trail, which follows the towpath of the canal, providing a connection from Widnes to St Helens and connecting with the Sankey Valley Park. A4.12. The Sankey Valley Park: Following the Sankey Canal, the Sankey Valley Park forms a corridor of woodlands, grasslands and water features, linking St Helens with Warrington A4.20. Cheshire Ring Canal Walk: This route follows the towpaths along six historic canals through to Widnes by footpath and cycleway and provides a direct link to the Trans of various ages and character along a circular route. The canals are the Macclesfield, Pennine Trail, National Cycle Trail and Mersey Trail, which runs east-west along the Rochdale, Trent & Mersey, Macclesfield and the Bridgewater Canal, this last canal being southern boundary of the siting area. Whilst serving as a green link and forming part of located at its closest point some 3km to the south of the siting area as it runs from the Borough’s greenway network, the park contains features which make it a destination Runcorn to Leigh. space in itself such as play features, a maze, lawned areas, orienteering and angling A4.21. The Mersey Valley Trail: Commencing from Runcorn Hill to the south-west and facilities. continuing in an easterly direction until it meets the Cheshire Ring Canal Walk, this trail OUTDOOR RECREATION also climbs up to Appleton and therefore enjoys views across the valley towards the siting A4.13. The Mersey Valley provides many recreational opportunities. Activities include horse area. riding, walking, cycling, coarse fishing, wildlife and bird watching, boating and sailing. A4.22. Delamere Way: A route following rights of way and lanes from Frodsham to Warrington A4.14. The area also benefits from many local nature reserves and wildlife sites, including Moor via Delamere Forest Park. Located some 5km to the south of the siting area, this trail also Nature Reserve, Oxmoor Wood Local Nature Reserve, Wigg Island Community Park and enjoys elevated views across the Mersey Valley towards Fiddlers Ferry and the adjoining Dorchester Park Local Nature Reserve. Also of interest is Spike Island and its visitor centre, farmland. managed by Warrington Borough Council’s Parks and Countryside Service.
38 Warrington West 132kV Reinforcement Golf Courses A4.23. Golf courses in the area include Mersey Valley Golf Club to the north, Widnes Golf Club to the west, Walton Hall Golf Course to the south and the more recently constructed Fiddlers Ferry Golf Course located immediately to the east. Fiddlers Ferry Golf Course covers 120 acres and includes a number of ponds.
Open Access Land A4.24. There are small parcels of Open Access Land designated under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. The closest of these is the 0.5km² area of land to the east of the River Mersey between Norton Marsh and Moss Side.
Angling A4.25. Coarse fishing is popular at a number of locations, the closest being a 3km stretch of the Sankey Canal, from the south-western boundary of the site and running west to Widnes. There is also fishing on the Bridgewater Canal and Stanner’s Pool to the north-east.
Sailing Club A4.26. Fiddlers Ferry Sailing Club is located approximately 1km to the east is the. Sited in a marina off Fiddlers Ferry Reach, the sailing club offers dinghy, yacht and motor boat cruisers together with races and summer regattas.
Camping and Caravanning A4.27. Searches for camping and caravan sites have been made using OS maps, on-line searches and during site survey. No sites have been identified within 5km.
New 132kV electricity switching substation - Marsh Lane, Cuerdley, Warrington: Environmental Appraisal of Alternative Sites 39