PROPOSED EXTENSION TO ALREWAS QUARRY 2014 Volume I Environmental Statement
AGGREGATES AND ASPHALT
LAFARGE TARMAC
PLANNING APPLICATION FOR A SOUTHERN EXTENSION TO ALREWAS QUARRY WITH RESTORATION TO AGRICULTURE, AMENITY AND NATURE CONSERVATION BY IMPORTATION OF RESTORATION MATERIALS
AT
ALREWAS QUARRY STAFFORDSHIRE
ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT
PREPARED BY: DAVID L WALKER LIMITED
MARCH 2014
Lafarge Tarmac Alrewas Quarry Environmental Statement Proposed Southern Extension
CONTENTS
Preface
Section 1 Introduction 1.1 Aims of the Environmental Statement 1.2 Screening and Scoping 1.3 Assessment Requirements 1.4 The Applicant Company and Project Team 1.5 Key Facts
Section 2 Site Location and Context 2.1 General 2.2 Geology 2.3 Landscape 2.4 Ecology 2.5 Hydrology and Hydrogeology 2.6 Soils and Agriculture 2.7 Traffic 2.8 Noise and Amenity 2.9 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage 2.10 Rights of Way and Utilities
Section 3 Working Scheme 3.1 General 3.2 Proposed Working Phases 3.3 Soils Handling, Management and Replacement 3.4 Importation of Restoration Materials 3.5 Dust Suppression 3.6 Other Issues 3.7 Employment
Section 4 Design Statement and Restoration Concept 4.1 Objectives and Restoration Concept 4.2 Restoration Features 4.3 Aftercare
Section 5 Environmental Considerations 5.1 Introduction 5.2 Landscape and Visual Impact 5.3 Soils and Agricultural Land Quality 5.4 Ecology 5.5 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage 5.6 Hydrology and Hydrogeology 5.7 Noise 5.8 Traffic 5.9 Air Quality 5.10 Alternatives 5.11 Cumulative Impact and Interaction Effects
Section 6 Summary and Conclusions
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Lafarge Tarmac Alrewas Quarry Environmental Statement Proposed Southern Extension
LIST OF PLANS
A301/PL14/01 Location Plan
A301/PL14/02 Site Plan
A301/PL14/03 Working Plan
A301/PL14/04 Concept Restoration Masterplan – Northern Area
A301/PL14/05 Proposed Restoration Masterplan – Southern Area
A301/PL14/06 Concept Restoration Plan Cross Sections
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LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix 1 Scoping Request March 2013
Appendix 2 Scoping Opinion dated 14 May 2013
Appendix 3 Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (Bright & Associates dated March 2014)
Appendix 4 Soils and Agricultural Land Classification (LRA dated March 2014)
Appendix 5 Hydrological and Hydrogeological Impact Assessment (MJCA dated March 2014)
Appendix 6 Cultural Heritage Assessment (Phoenix Consulting dated March 2014)
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Appendix 7 (i) Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey (Pleydell Smithyman dated March 2014)
(ii) Wintering Bird Survey 2011 (Middlemarch Environmental)
(iii) Breeding Bird Survey 2011 (Middlemarch Environmental)
(iv) Badger Survey 2011 (Middlemarch Environmental)
(v) Initial Bat Survey 2011 (Middlemarch Environmental)
(vi) Foraging Bat Survey 2011 (Middlemarch Environmental)
(vii) Great Crested Newt Survey 2011 (Middlemarch Environmental)
Appendix 8 Noise Impact Assessment (Vibrock dated March 2014)
Appendix 9 Transport Assessment (DTA dated March 2014)
Appendix 10 Good Practice Air Quality Management/Mitigation
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Lafarge Tarmac Alrewas Quarry Environmental Statement Proposed Southern Extension
PREFACE
(i) Lafarge Tarmac is the operator of Alrewas Quarry which has extracted and processed high quality and gravel for over 30 years.
(ii) Existing reserves of sand and gravel are nearly exhausted and Lafarge Tarmac has identified the presence of sand and gravel across an approximate 107 hectare area to the south of the existing processing plant site and have submitted a planning application seeking to work this as an extension to the existing quarry. It is proposed to recover a 4.8 million tonne mineral resource and process using the existing consented facilities which will be retained for the duration of the proposals.
(iii) It is proposed that the extension area will be restored to a combination of water-based nature conservation and agriculture through the use of on-site materials and the importation of restoration materials. The northern section of the proposed extension area will be restored to provide complementary land use for the NMA which could include expansion and overflow car parking, an arena area serving functions and activities, and formal gardens and water features.
(iv) As part of this application, Lafarge Tarmac is also seeking to establish complementary reed bed habitat at the former mineral workings north of the plant site, which have now been restored to a large lake. It is proposed that this will be achieved through the disposal of silt derived from the processing of the mineral from the extension area via the plant through the installation of pipework. The remainder of the application site will be restored to agricultural use.
(v) Owing to the nature of the proposals and size of the application area, it is considered that the proposals constitute EIA development as defined under the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011 (“the EIA Regulations”).
(vi) Copies of this Environmental Statement are available for inspection at the offices of Staffordshire County Council as well as Lichfield District Council and at the application site. Further copies may be purchased at a cost of £150 from:
David L Walker Limited Albion House 89 Station Road Eckington Sheffield S21 4FW
(vii) The Environmental Statement is additionally accompanied by a Planning Statement and a Non-Technical Summary, the purpose of the latter document being to ensure that the findings of the studies undertaken can more readily be disseminated to the general public
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and that the conclusions are easily understood by non-experts as well as decision makers. It is therefore essential that the Non Technical Summary reflects in an accurate and balanced way the key information contained in the main documentation, describing all conclusions, and the facts and judgements on which they are based.
(viii) The Planning Statement provides a full review of Development Plan policies (both adopted and emerging) and sets out a justified need argument for the extension to the existing quarry.
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SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Aims of the Environmental Statement
1.1.1 The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations integrate the EIA procedures into this existing framework of local authority control and these procedures provide a more systematic method of assessing the environmental implications of developments that are likely to have significant effects. Where the EIA procedure reveals that a project will have an adverse impact on the environment, it does not follow that planning permission must be refused. It remains the task of the local planning authority to judge each planning application on its merits within the context of the development plan, taking account of all material considerations, including potential environmental impacts.
1.1.2 For developers, EIA can help to identify the likely effects of a particular project at an early stage. This can produce improvements in the planning and design of the development; in decision-making by both parties; and in consultation and responses thereto, particularly if combined with early consultations with the local planning authority and other interested bodies during the preparatory stages. In addition, developers may find EIA a useful tool for considering alternative approaches to a development. This can result in a final proposal that is more environmentally acceptable, and can form the basis of a more robust application for planning permission. The presentation of environmental information in a more systematic way may also simplify the local planning authority’s task of appraising the application and drawing up appropriate planning conditions, enabling swifter decisions to be reached.
1.1.3 The main objectives of this Environmental Statement (ES) are:
(a) to identify and describe the existing environmental status of the site and its surrounding environs; (b) to describe the proposed developments including the working method and restoration provisions, having full consideration of the size, scale and duration of various elements of the scheme; (c) to identify any significant environmental effects of the development and, in the case of any effect which may be perceived to be harmful, the measures which are proposed in order to ameliorate it; (d) in respect of enhancement, the long term benefits derived from the mineral extraction operations will be considered; and (e) finally, a summary and conclusions are provided.
1.1.4 The application comprises this ES and a Planning Statement (PS). In accordance with the provisions of the (EIA) Regulations, a Non- Technical Summary (NTS) is additionally provided.
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1.1.5 This ES details:
. Background Details to the Proposals; . Existing Conditions; . Proposed Development; . Potential Environmental Impacts; and . Summary and Conclusions.
The document is concluded with a summary section.
1.1.6 Reviews of Development Plan policy and the need argument, together with alternatives reviewed, are provided in the PS.
1.2 Screening and Scoping
1.2.1 The application area at Alrewas South extends to approximately 180 hectares of which circa 107 hectares is the proposed extension. The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011 set out in Schedule 1 descriptions of development for which an Environmental Impact Assessment is mandatory.
1.2.2 Paragraph 19 of Schedule 1 of the EIA Regulations identifies quarries and opencast mining where the surface of the site exceeds 25 hectares, as being EIA development for which an Environmental Impact Assessment is mandatory.
1.2.3 Accordingly, a formal scoping request was submitted to the Mineral Planning Authority in March 2013. The Scoping Opinion relates to a larger area than envisaged within this planning application, but is nonetheless considered to be fully relevant in accordance with the EIA Regulations.
1.2.4 The scoping request (a copy of which is reproduced at Appendix 1) included a description of the proposal, a plan identifying the land to which the planning application was to relate and further information that enabled Staffordshire County Council in its role as the Mineral Planning Authority (“MPA”) to issue a formal scoping opinion.
1.2.5 This opinion was issued on 14 May 2013 (copy of which is reproduced at Appendix 2) and took account of consultations with the following bodies:
Staffordshire County Council, Environment and Countryside Unit, Transport Development Control and Noise Engineer; Lichfield District Council, Environmental Health and Planning; Environment Agency; Natural England; English Heritage; Network Rail; NERL Safeguarding; and Highways Agency.
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1.2.6 The opinion confirmed the full scope of environmental assessment to be detailed within this ES. This should include consideration of utility assets within the site, carbon management and climate change, along with a full consideration of potential impacts on the National Memorial Arboretum (“NMA”).
1.3 Assessment Requirements
General
1.3.1 This ES will identify the existing baseline setting, the potential impacts of extending the mineral extraction operations, inclusive of the retention of the plant site and ancillary facilities, the proposed silt operation to provide complementary reedbed within the restored northern lake area, and any mitigation and/or management measures to overcome or reduce the potential impact.
1.3.2 Lafarge Tarmac has developed a good understanding of the impacts associated with operations at Alrewas Quarry. Based on this and the MPA’s planning application requirements the following technical areas have been considered:
(i) landscape and visual; (ii) soils and ALC; (iii) ecology; (iv) archaeology; (v) hydrology and hydrogeology; (vi) noise; (vii) transport; and (viii) air quality including dust.
(i) Landscape and Visual
1.3.3 An independent landscape consultant has been commissioned to undertake a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment of the proposed development (during working and post restoration). The assessment will take account of government advice and the current guidance on assessment methodology. (Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment - 2002.) Although new, updated guidelines have now been issued in April 2013, the requirements of the Landscape Institute are for projects that have been significantly progressed under the 2002 Guidance, then this is still to be used.
1.3.4 The brief for the assessment required the consultant to evaluate and characterise the landscape in the context of existing landscape character assessment. Visually sensitive receivers within the zone of visibility of the site have been identified in order to assess the extent and nature of views.
1.3.5 The landscape impacts have been assessed in relation to the site itself; the impact of the proposed development on the identified landscape resources of the site and its character. Secondly, the
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effects of the scheme on local landscape character, within the area surrounding the site, will be assessed. Viewpoints have been used to indicate the degree of visual impact during site operations and following restoration. The extent of site visibility from public vantage points will be graded (no view, glimpse, partial view, open view) and the character of the view described.
1.3.6 The information gained from the landscape and visual assessment has contributed to influencing any amendments to the scheme design and the baseline data will be used to visually assess each stage of site operations. All screening mounds will continue to be located, orientated, shaped and grassed to minimise potential visual impacts. The restoration proposals will be reviewed to ensure that objectives to enhance the landscape and nature conservation interest of the area in the longer term wherever possible can be achieved.
(ii) Soils & ALC
1.3.7 An independent soils consultant has carried out a detailed soils survey on the site to determine soils and agricultural land quality. The baseline information comprises:
physical characteristics, including climate; existing land use; existing soil resources (topsoil, subsoil and soil making material); description of soil unit types; and assessment of Agricultural Land Classification (ALC).
1.3.8 As part of the working proposals, a soil handling strategy has been proposed in line with the strategy for soils in the existing quarry and soils will be stripped according to soil type and ALC grade. The soil handling strategy will be designed to reinstate soils in accordance with current guidance published by Natural England.
1.3.9 The likely impacts of the proposals on land quality, soil resources and agricultural usage and holdings has been considered, with mitigation measures being implemented into the proposals to offset or minimise any impact. The ES considers the rationalisation of the soil resources, so that the highest quality soils are reinstated for agricultural use to the same classification.
(iii) Ecology
1.3.10 An independent consultant has already undertaken an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey in support of the proposals. The on-site elements were undertaken in accordance with JNCC and IEA guidance (refer Section 2.0 of the report reproduced at Appendix 7). Whilst no statutory designated sites of ecological importance were identified across the application site and within the immediate surrounding area, the potential presence of protected and notable faunal species was identified.
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1.3.11 Further survey work has been undertaken in respect of the following:
breeding birds; wintering birds; great crested newts; bats (Initial Bat Survey and Foraging Bat Survey); and badgers.
The methodologies and specification for each survey are in full accordance with current guidance (refer to Section 2 of Appendices 7(ii)-7(viii) inclusive).
1.3.12 Following analysis of the aforementioned survey results, the application site has been designed to minimise impact on those habitats of greatest value. The proposed restoration scheme will seek to enhance the existing habitats and improve upon species diversity wherever possible.
1.3.13 The ES sets out the impact of the proposals on ecological interests as identified in the various ecological reports, including:
an assessment of likely impacts on various habitats identified in the ecological surveys directly/indirectly disturbed and discussion of the significance of such impacts; description of the mitigation measures introduced in the site design to reduce ecological impact; details of the ecological enhancement measures being introduced during the operation of management techniques to be employed; and description of how the restoration phases will result in longer term ecological enhancement through the creation of appropriate new habitats and the introduction of a more species-diverse environment to maximise biodiversity benefits.
(iv) Archaeology
1.3.14 A desk top assessment has been undertaken in support of the proposals and refers to the Sites and Monuments Record to identify known archaeological locations. In addition, old journals, maps (including OS and Title maps) and aerial photos have been reviewed to establish the site context.
1.3.15 Detailed assessment work in the form of geophysical surveys and trial trenching has been undertaken in accordance with national planning policy and the guidelines and recommendations issued by the Institute for Archaeologists and English Heritage.
1.3.16 A fully detailed assessment has been provided which identifies the potential for archaeological remains within the proposed extension and, where necessary, the appropriate method of recording such features. This will build upon the extensive information already obtained by the applicant in the surrounding area.
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(v) Hydrology and Hydrogeology
1.3.17 An assessment of baseline conditions for both hydrology and hydrogeology of the application site and surrounding area has been undertaken and includes a detailed review of:
the geology; condition of waterbodies on or in the vicinity of the application site; analysis of water quality in watercourses receiving site discharges; information regarding existing users, local abstraction and discharge consents; extent of any catchment to be affected; and assessment of aquifers in the locality.
1.3.18 This information has been used to build a conceptual model and the assessment describes the impact of the proposed operations on the local surface water network as well as groundwater, including an assessment of the impacts on the water quality and catchment balance during operations and any proposed mitigation measures designed to combat these effects, ie overall drainage management regime.
1.3.19 The assessment also includes:
effects on local drainage channels; description of restored landform and impacts on drainage; description of mitigation measures included in the scheme to reduce impacts on the local water environment; and description of proposed monitoring of ground water levels.
1.3.20 The application site is partly within the indicative flood plain and any water encountered during the mineral extraction operations will be discharged in a controlled manner. Consistent with the provisions of the National Planning Policy Framework (“NPPF”), and standing advice issued by the Environment Agency, a flood risk assessment has been undertaken.
(vi) Noise
1.3.21 A noise impact assessment has been commissioned to identify potential noise sensitive locations around the application site, measure existing background noise levels at selected locations, predict noise levels from site operations, compare predicted levels with measured levels and guidance limits and finally propose mitigation measures to reduce any potential noise impact.
1.3.22 To assess the existing noise climate around the application site, noise sensitive locations will be identified. At these locations, background monitoring will be carried out in free-field conditions, with a microphone being positioned at least 3.5m from any reflecting
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surface, and 1.5m above ground level. This type of monitoring is in accordance with recommendations made in the technical guidance appended to the NPPF.
1.3.23 Based upon detailed working information supplied, noise predictions will be undertaken for the proposed site operations at suitable points/noise sensitive locations, taking into account proposed mitigation measures where appropriate.
1.3.24 A comparison of predicted levels with background levels has been made, and an assessment of conformity with NPPF guidelines will be undertaken. This has assessed with the determination of significance of impacts, in terms of people affected, magnitude of impact and duration, and may lead to the implementation of additional mitigation measures (refer to Section 5.7 of this ES).
(vii) Transport
1.3.25 A Transport Assessment has been undertaken to review the transport implications arising from the proposed extension to existing operations at the quarry.
1.3.26 The transport assessment considers the impacts on existing surroundings of the application site and the adjacent highway network, as well as impacts on existing and future traffic flows during peak hours of operation. Assessment is undertaken within the guidelines of the Institute of Environmental Assessment Guidance Note 1.
(viii) Air Quality, including Dust
1.3.27 Owing to the nature of the operations it will be necessary to undertake an Air Quality Assessment that encompasses the following:
operational effects, including fugitive dust emissions and odour; traffic effects, including cumulative impact of increased traffic flow (if any); and construction effects, including the impacts that site construction will have on air quality in association with pre-determined sensitive receptors.
1.3.28 In addition to assessment and consistent with the existing operations, it is also proposed to employ dust management measures on site as part of operations consistent with Best Practice Standards recommended in Process Guidance Notes (PGNs).
Other Issues to be Included
1.3.29 The ES provides definitive descriptions of the workings of the proposed extension, and the proposed restoration and aftercare measures for the extension area.
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1.3.30 The ES also makes reference to the geological conditions and the potential impact on the public rights of way network in the vicinity of the application site.
1.3.31 In respect of public rights of way that are affected by the proposed development, applications for temporary diversions/stopping up orders would be made to the MPA as appropriate. As part of his process, alternative rights of way would be provided.
1.3.32 After addressing all the environmental assessment criteria identified above, and the various potential interaction effects, the Environmental Statement makes reference to the Development Plan with the provision of a Planning Statement, which will itself include details on the need for the development and the potential socio-economic impacts.
1.3.33 The ES examines the proposals in relation to current government advice documents that deal with the relevant issues identified through the Environmental Assessment process.
1.3.34 It is not considered that a full assessment of alternatives is necessary in this instance as minerals can only be worked where they occur and as this process is being fully examined in the emerging Minerals and Waste Development Framework being prepared by the MPA.
1.3.35 Finally, the County Council’s planning application validation criteria has been reviewed in full in order to identify the requirement for supplementary assessments.
1.3.36 No impact methodologies are set out for traffic and consideration of the presence of utilities and footpaths as no quantitative assessments are considered to be required. These are considered as part of the Working Scheme at Section 3 of this ES.
1.4 The Applicant Company and Project Team
1.4.1 Lafarge Tarmac is the UK’s leading sustainable building materials group. Its innovative products, solutions and services not only deliver the infrastructure needed to grow the UK economy today but also enable a more sustainable built environment for the country’s long term future.
1.4.2 Founded in 2013 as a joint venture between industry leaders Lafarge UK and Tarmac, the company benefits from over 150 years of experience and combined assets. Through its nationwide network of sites, it provides customers with aggregates & asphalt, cement & lime, readymix concrete, road contracting and recycling services, and employs approximately 5,500 people.
1.4.3 Lafarge Tarmac has contributed to some of the UK’s biggest construction projects, including Wembley Stadium, Heathrow Terminal 5, The Shard and London 2012. It also provides environmental
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stewardship for thousands of acres of the UK’s countryside and has built up a wide ranging conservation portfolio based on award-winning restoration of quarry workings. Strong partnerships have been forged with wildlife trusts and other leading conservation bodies in the UK.
1.4.4 Safety is at the core its operations, beginning with a commitment to provide a safe environment for employees and extending to contractors and communities around its sites.
1.4.5 Lafarge Tarmac operates independently, but is owned by Lafarge SA and Anglo American, who are equal shareholders.
Environmental Management System
1.4.6 The applicant continually seeks to improve its Environmental Management Systems (EMS) to ensure the effective control and management of the impacts of its operations to reduce negative impacts on the natural environment to a minimum. The primary aims of the Company’s EMS include:
continuous improvement in environmental performance by setting targets; planning new quarries and restoration which minimise environmental effects through detailed assessment and design; investigating and promptly dealing with complaints from local community and regulating authorities; requiring all employees and contractors to work with due consideration for the environment by providing awareness training as required.
1.4.7 As part of the applicant's environmental awareness, the site is operated to achieve ISO 14001 accreditation, and is subject to periodic audit to ensure high environmental standards are maintained. This auditing comprises two internal and one external audit.
1.4.8 The applicant prides itself not only on carrying out its operations in an efficient way, but also in an environmentally acceptable manner, and in the latter regard particular emphasis is placed on onsite environmental controls. The applicant is fully aware of its role as both member of the local community and as a major supplier of important raw materials. In the latter regard the applicant achieves this only where it can be satisfied that any adverse effects to the environment and amenity of an area are kept to a minimum.
1.4.9 In order to achieve and maintain an acceptable balance between the environment and the economic provision of minerals, the following fundamental principles have to be assured:
(i) a caring and participating attitude towards the local community; (ii) technical ability to work to the highest standard;
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(iii) financial status of the applicant; and (iv) disciplined site management supported by professionally trained and qualified technical staff.
1.4.10 These principles are not listed in any priority as they are considered to be of equal importance and inter-dependent on one another for overall achievement. The applicant company considers environmental protection is a key factor of long-term competitiveness.
Carbon Emissions and Climate Change
1.4.11 The Applicant Company is progressing a number of sustainable development priorities in line with the Lafarge Group’s sustainability ambitions 2012, of which fighting climate change is one.
1.4.12 In the UK, Lafarge has been focusing on ways in which to reduce the Group’s carbon emissions across all areas of business. In the UK the Group has reduced its carbon emissions by 30% (based on 1990 levels), with the target of a 20% reduction by 2010. Lafarge Tarmac was also recently awarded the Carbon Trust Standard after measuring and reducing carbon emissions by more than 24%.
1.4.13 The Group has also progressed a number of other sustainability goals and initiatives, which complement the move towards a reduction in carbon emissions and ultimately a reduction in the impact upon climate change. The Group sources sustainably constructed building solutions, e.g. waste-derived materials, optimisation of the thermal mass of concrete and renewable energy technologies. The Group aims to have all sites environmentally audited by 2012 and all quarries will be screened accordingly to criteria validated by WWF International.
Public Consultation
1.4.14 In November 2012 a number of public exhibition events were held within Alrewas and the local area.
1.4.15 The purpose of the public exhibition events was not only to inform local residents, members of the public and key stakeholders about the proposals and provide an idea of what they are about, but also to provide an opportunity within which views from the public could be received to assist in refining the proposals.
Project Team
1.4.16 This ES has been prepared by David L Walker Limited, with contributions from the in-house staff of the applicant. In addition, specialist input has been provided as follows:
Ecology – Middlemarch Environmental & Pleydell Smithyman; Noise – Vibrock; Landscape and Restoration Scheme– Bright Associates;
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Archaeology – Phoenix Archaeology; Hydrology and Hydrogeology – MJCA; and Transport – David Tucker Associates.
1.5 Key Facts
1.5.1 Application Area 237.8 ha
The Extension Area (including the Proposed Mineral Extraction Area) 107 ha
Mineral Reserve 4.8 million tonnes (of which circa 0.6 million tonnes is already approved)
Total Importation Requirement 2.7 million m3 (of which circa 0.375 million m3 is already approved)
Working Hours - Mineral Extraction Mon-Fri 0700-1800 hrs Sat 0700-1300 hrs
Period of Mineral Extraction assuming 400,000 tonnes production per annum 12 years
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SECTION 2 SITE LOCATION AND CONTEXT
2.1 General
2.1.1 Alrewas Quarry is located approximately 8 km north-east of Lichfield and 0.5 km east of the village of Alrewas (refer Plan A301/PL14/01).
2.1.2 Operations at the site are long established, located both north and south of the A513 and Old Croxall Road. The area to the north of the Old Croxall Road includes the operational plant site area and silt lagoons which are included within the red line boundary of this application. The current operational area of the site known as the Whitemoor Haye extension is located to the south of the A513 and east of Barley Green Lane (refer to Plan A301/PL14/02).
2.1.3 Operations in the Whitemoor Haye area and plant site are regulated via a planning permission granted in March 1997 (reference L.950534) for the winning and working of sand and gravel at the quarry, with restoration to a mix of water-based recreation, agriculture, amenity woodland, floodplain forestry and nature conservation after uses.
2.1.4 The other areas of the application area include the three resource blocks at the proposed extension Lafarge Tarmac has identified the presence of sand and gravel resources across an approximate 107 ha southern extension (“the extension area”). In addition, the elements of the Whitemoor Haye area of the site that remain to be restored have been included within the application area (extending to approximately 57.7 hectares).
2.1.5 The operations at Alrewas Quarry are well established and comprise the extraction of in-situ high quality sand and gravel deposits. Current land uses on site comprise the following elements:
restored mineral workings; areas undergoing mineral extraction; areas in the process of final restoration; areas within which sand and gravel remain to be extracted; ancillary and administrative facilities, including mineral processing plant and site access; and mobile plant compound, stocking area and offices.
The location of these land uses across the existing site is illustrated on Plan A301/PL14/02.
2.1.6 Access to the processing plant is via Old Croxall Road from the A513 which in turn affords access to the A38 (refer to Plan A301/PL14/01). It is proposed that this access point is retained as part of the proposed extension however; a new access off Barley Green Lane will be constructed to enable importation of restoration materials (refer Section 3).
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2.1.7 The proposed extension area, which covers approximately 107 hectares, is located south of the processing plant and Croxall Road, with the majority of the extension area being situated south of the A513 and west of the areas of the site currently being subject to sand and gravel extraction and restoration operations (refer Plan A301/PL14/02). Incorporating the Whitemoor Haye area, the silt disposal planning proposals, the plant site area and ancillary facilities and the proposed extension area, the application site extends across approximately 237.8 hectares.
2.1.8 The proposed extension area is in a primarily rural setting and comprises open fields delineated by drainage ditches and a series of roads. Hedgerows and occasional trees are also present. Other landuses within the proposed extension include the microlight school and existing infrastructure associated with the current workings at Alrewas.
2.1.9 The proposed extension is relatively remote from residential premises; however there are two farmsteads in close proximity, together with a few other sensitive landuses as follows:
the National Memorial Arboretum; the Whitemoor Haye Lakes Activity Centre; Whitemoor Haye House; Roddige House and Farmstead; Dunstall Farmhouse; Fradley Road Crematorium; and Roadside Cottages.
The locations of these receptors relative to the prposed extension are shown on Plan A301/PL14/02.
2.2 Geology
2.2.1 The published geological information covering the application site shows that current workings and the proposed extension area are located in an area of superficial deposits of Pleistocene to recent age, which form part of a continuous spread occupying the valley of the River Tame, stretching from Alrewas southwards towards Tamworth and beyond.
2.2.2 The superficial deposits are underlain by Keuper Marl of Triassic age. This formation, which is composed of red marls with occasional sandy bands, reaches a thickness of approximately 180 metres in this area.
2.2.3 A detailed drilling survey has been undertaken and the investigation has proved the presence of an almost continuous spread of terrace sand and gravels underlying the whole of the current site, which is consistent with the deposit currently being worked. Mineral deposit thickness in the boreholes ranged between 0.4 metres and 7.0 metres, averaging just over 3 metres.
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2.2.4 Grading analysis of the borehole samples indicated that the stone content of the deposit is 70% and the silt content 2.4%, giving a sand fraction of 27.6%. Some 36% of the deposit is gravel coarser than 20 mm.
2.2.5 A working scheme has been designed to yield an estimated 4.8 million tonnes of sand and gravel across three distinct working areas (refer to Section 3.1 of this ES)
2.3 Landscape
Introduction
2.3.1 A comprehensive Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) is produced at Appendix 3 of this ES. Section 3 of the report provides a description of the landscape setting of the proposed extension referred to as “the site” for this subsection.
2.3.2 Figure 1 within the LVIA illustrates the location of the principal features and elements within the landscape setting. These generally follow the standard OS map nomenclature. The combination of some or all of these contributes to the character and appearance of the landscape.
General Description of the Site
2.3.3 The site itself covers an area of approximately 170ha, with elevations ranging between c.52m AOD in the northern part of the application site and c.56m AOD in the most southern part.
2.3.4 The northern part of the Site is separated from the village of Alrewas by the existing transport infrastructure which includes the route of the A38 (Lichfield to Burton upon Trent dual carriageway section) and Ryknild Street which progress parallel to each other at this point. The A38 cuts through the central part of the study area generally south- west to north-east. The main part of the application site runs in a south-west direction adjacent to the route of the Lichfield to Burton upon Trent railway line, which includes several level crossings close to the Site boundary.
2.3.5 The boundary of the proposed extension area generally consist of mature hedgerows and hedgerow trees, and may be summarised as follows:
To the north by Croxall Road which connects to the southern environs of Alrewas;
To the east by Barley Green Lane which runs along the whole of the eastern boundary;
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The most southern boundary continues through an agricultural field and is then defined by a track - Fine Lane; and
To the west by the mainline railway line.
2.3.6 The area of the application to the north of Old Croxhall Road comprises the consented and operational plant site with ancillary facilities including lagoons. 2.3.7 The northern part of the extension area comprises two large irregular shaped fields together with a several open water pools. A track traverses in a south-west direction and joins with an underpass which leads to the main part of the proposed extension. In addition a footpath (54a) extends from the A513 road in a north-west direction towards the Lichfield to Burton upon Trent railway line. 2.3.8 This part of the extension area (bounded by Croxall Road) is also adjacent to the NMA, and is located within the boundary of The National Forest. 2.3.9 The main part of the proposed extension area (which extends further south-westwards), consists primarily of agricultural land with a range of medium to large irregular shaped fields. Field boundaries within this part of the Site generally consist of hedgerows and hedgerow trees. 2.3.10 There are several small copses of woodland notably at the junction of Barley Green Lane and Ridget Lane, featuring as a shelterbelt near the Microlight School and adjacent to the western boundary c.280m south of Roddige Lane. 2.3.11 The extension area includes the routes of several lanes, which in turn connect to the wider road network, these include:
Ridget Lane links Barley Green Lane and the A513. In part it runs parallel to the route of the conveyor; and
Fine Lane and Roddige Lane cross the Site in an east- west direction. These connect to each other via an unnamed minor lane which runs generally north-south.
2.3.12 A conveyor is in situ along the existing track network which links via the aforementioned underpass (A513) from Barley Green Lane, along the main eastern boundary of the Site and Croxall Road to the north.
2.3.13 In addition to lanes and tracks, the proposed extension is bisected by a number of PRoW (Public Rights of Way) and bridleways. These are summarised in the table below, and shown on figure 1 of the LVIA.
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Table 1 - Footpaths within and immediately adjacent to the Site
FOOTPATHS LOCATION WITHIN THE SITE
Footpath 54(a) leads through the northern part of the Site in a north-westerly direction from the Footpaths A513 to the Site boundary with the Lichfield to 54(a) and Burton upon Trent railway line. This footpath in 0.253 turn links via an underpass (A513) with Footpath 0.253 and Ridget Lane.
Footpath Connects Barley Green Lane along the eastern 54(b) boundary of the Site to the A513.
Towards the centre of the Site is a network of footpaths which link together close to Roddige Lane. Footpath 9 uses part of an existing track Footpaths 9, connects Roddige Lane with the junction of the 10 and 11 A38 and A513. Footpath 10 runs south-west to north-east and links the A38 and Ridget Lane. Footpath 11 then joins with Barley Green Lane at Whitemoor Haye. These footpaths link along the western boundary of the Site. Footpath 13 then continues towards the A38 in a westerly direction (via an underpass), Footpaths whilst Footpath 12(b) heads north towards 12(b) and 13 Roddige Lane. The footpaths connect to the lane which runs through the central part of the Site and in turn link Roddige Lane and Fine Lane. Two further footpaths connect with the lane which progresses through the central part of the Site Footpaths 55 and links Roddige Lane and Fine Lane. Footpath and 56 55 joins the lane with Barley Green Lane. Whilst Footpath 56 links to Fine Lane.
2.3.14 Within the main part of the Site there are a number of individual properties or farmsteads including Roddige and Roddige Cottage. Also located in close proximity are Whitemoor Haye Cottages and the receptors to the west of the railway.
2.3.15 In addition to residential properties, there is a commercial airfield currently in use. In the central part of the proposed extension is Roddige Airfield, from which ‘The Microlight School’ operate flights using grass runways. The airfield is also used for general aviation. Vehicle access to the Airfield and aircraft hangers is via Roddige Lane. Settlement and Infrastructure 2.3.16 The village of Alrewas is situated north-west of the application site. This constitutes the main settlement within the study area. The village
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is bounded by two primary ’A’ class roads which lead through the study area – the A38 (together with Ryknild Street in places) and the A513.
2.3.17 Elsewhere, and notably on lower ground south-east of the A38, the settlement pattern is more dispersed, and consists of hamlets and individual properties (often farmsteads). Within close proximity to the application site (c.500m) are the following:
The Homestead, c.330m (north); Properties in the south-eastern part of Alrewas, (north-east); Mythholme Cottage c.478m (north-east); and Properties at Whitemoor Haye c.45m (east);
2.3.18 Other larger settlements within the study area include Fradley on the western side of the 500m distance marker and Elford c.1.5km south- east (Figure 1 within the LVIA).
2.3.19 The most notable landscape feature in the area is the NMA which is the UK Centre of Remembrance and includes the Armed Forces Memorial and Basra Memorial Wall. The NMA is open year round (except Christmas Day). The site covers an area of 60ha, and includes the Millennium Chapel of Peace and Forgiveness, a visitor centre and education centre.
2.3.20 A range of events are held throughout the year, with the grounds of the Arboretum offering a variety of walks and trails. The NMA in turn forms part of The National Forest.
2.3.21 A range of walks lead through areas of The National Forest including the Mythaholme & the NMA Walk. This is a circular route which leads via Croxall Road to the A38. It then follows a south-westerly route along the A38 before passing through the centre of Alrewas.
2.3.22 The central part of the study area features a number of transport routes, featuring the road, railway and canal networks.
2.3.23 The A38 (Lichfield to Burton upon Trent section) leads in a south- west to north-east direction through the study area. The A513 (Tamworth to Strafford Road) which runs in a general west to east direction forms a junction with the A38 adjacent to the site. Individual properties and commercial enterprises are located adjacent to the A38. Fradley Business Park is a large distribution hub (c.650m west of the site). Whilst a Premier Inn Hotel is located c.330m west of the Site. Fradley Pumping Station is situated adjacent to the south- western boundary of the site.
2.3.24 The road network is denser to the north and west of the application site but infrequent across the lower floodplain area of the River Tame. Apart from the two ‘A’ class roads, the road network consists of minor roads and lanes connecting villages, hamlets and individual farmsteads.
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2.3.25 In terms of other forms of transport infrastructure, the Lichfield to Burton upon Trent railway line progresses through the central part of the study area, and passes adjacent to the western boundary of the Site. A separate line (Birmingham to Derby) joins at Cat Holme Junction 1.5km north-east of the application site.
Public Rights of Way
2.3.26 Public Rights of Way within (or immediately adjacent to) the Site are listed separately in Table 1 above.
2.3.27 Away from the application site, footpaths are limited and where they occur, are generally concentrated as follows: a number of footpaths criss-cross a segment of land between the A38 and railway line immediately west of the application site; further west notably around the villages of Fradley and Alrewas; and within the boundaries of the NMA.
2.3.28 There is one long distance footpath within the study area - ‘The Way for the Millennium’ which crosses parts of Staffordshire and is located c.950m north of the application site at its closest point. 2.3.29 The National Cycle Route (NR54) leads from Lichfield to Derby, and progresses through the centre of Alrewas, c.330m north of the application site as the route enters the northern environs of the village. 2.3.30 There are several Areas of Open Access, (as indicated on standard OS map nomenclature) which include the following: The NMA; Woodland at Wychnor Bridges and Potters Meadow to the north, c.1.1km and 1.5km respectively; and Woodland near Hurst Farm (c.1.2km south of the site).
Landuse
2.3.31 The dominant landuse on the floodplain is primarily pastoral with arable farming on the higher levels, interspersed with transport links including the A38. 2.3.32 Settlement is generally sparse with the main villages located on higher ground to the west of the A38, for example at Alrewas and Fradley. 2.3.33 There is previous (and current) quarry working at Whitemoor Haye which is located close to the eastern boundary of the application site and at Elford (south-east of the application site). With reference to the latter, previous quarry workings have now been restored for a variety of purposes. Croxall Lakes is a wildlife site and includes restored
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wetlands and areas for angling. Whilst the NMA has been established on a restored area of Alrewas Quarry. 2.3.34 Brookhay Wood and Wetleyhay Wood are located to the south of the site. Tracts of woodland appear along the course of the rivers, notably the River Tame at Ladywalk (c.1.5km east) and at Croxall Lakes c.450m north-east of the application site. Woodland blocks are also located along the Trent & Mersey Canal. 2.3.35 The NMA also features young woodland planting within its 60ha site. Larger plantations are situated primarily on higher ground to the north- east and north-west beyond c.1.1km. Landform 2.3.36 The course of the floodplain of the River Trent and its tributaries (River Tame and River Mease) form the central part of the study area. Along the course of the River Tame are areas of open water, (with associated restored wetlands) following sand and gravel operations. The landform is generally flat and low lying with levels ranging from c.52mAOD to c.55mAOD. 2.3.37 The presence of the floodplain together with large areas of restored wetland and open water, for example at Croxall Lakes, constitute a strong feature. The central floodplain is low lying c.49mAOD. 2.3.38 To the north-east of the application site (beyond c.1.5km) the landform becomes more undulating, for example c.80mAOD east of Catton Wood. The landform is lowland in character but has a more rolling appearance with minor ridges and shallow valleys. This landform pattern continues in an arc south-east of the application 2.3.39 South of the application site (beyond c.500m) the landform again becomes more gently undulating (c.62mAOD at Brookhay). Settlement is sparse and consists of isolated farmsteads. Arable farming predominates, and there is a lack of tree cover. South-west of the application site this landform pattern persists, although at slightly higher levels c.79mAOD near Curborough House (c.2.6km). Landscape Quality 2.3.40 The basis of assessment with regards landscape quality generally ranges from Low to High and Very High in more exceptional situations. A High quality landscape would constitute a nationally designated area such as a National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Low quality landscape are those generally associated with previous (derelict) or current industrial uses or other land where the natural components are removed and where little or no other characteristic of landscape merit exists. 2.3.41 The application site is not located within a nationally or regionally designated area. It primarily consists of medium-large irregular shaped fields, with hedgerow and hedgerow tree boundaries. The site includes a number of footpaths, tracks and lanes. The site also features two airfields which are used for commercial purposes. Overall, it is of a Medium quality.
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2.3.42 In terms of the immediate vicinity of the site, the transport network provides an urban presence in the form of the A38 and railway network. There are also commercial premises along the route of the A38. 2.3.43 There is evidence of reclaimed land from previous quarry workings in the form of Croxall Lakes, and the site of the NMA north-east of the proposed extension, whilst adjacent to the existing Alrewas mineral workings.
2.3.44 The National Forest spans a wide area to the north-west to the north- east of the study area. 2.3.45 The application site is located within landscape character type ‘Riparian Alluvial Lowlands’ as defined in ‘Planning for Landscape Change: An Introduction and User’s Guide to Supplementary Planning Guidance to the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Structure Plan 1996-2011’. 2.3.46 The document notes that the area to the south of the A38 (including the application site) is included within ‘Landscape Regeneration’ which is identified as of ‘Very Low’ quality. The application site and surrounding area does not fall within an ‘area of highest landscape sensitivity’ or a ‘landscape at risk of rapid loss of character and quality’, as defined in the report (Map 1: Appendix 2). 2.3.47 Overall the landscape can be classed as being of Medium quality. Landscape Value 2.3.48 There are no recognisable landscape designations attached to the application site or any area adjacent to it. The National Forest is a non-statutory designation. 2.3.49 The following factors are relevant when considering landscape value: the site contains few landscape elements that are considered nationally rare or of great importance; there are Public Rights of Way associated with the site; and the site features hedgerows, mature hedgerow trees and small field ponds which are considered part of the visual character. 2.3.50 The area and adjacent character are of Moderate (Medium) value. However, it is also recognised that the NMA site is of greater value, though adjacent to (not part of) the application site. There is a clear High value attached to this facility in terms of landscape value and is a national visitor attraction. 2.3.51 The combining facets of a landscape set one area apart from those of a differing area adjacent to it and make its character unique to the people who both live in or visit the area. Recognition of this character variation requires an understanding of these influences that give different areas a unique 'sense of place'.
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Landscape Character and Designations
2.3.52 The application site lies within Trent Valley Washlands NCA No.69. This is the primary NCA within the study area and incorporates a broad area between the River Tame and the route of the A38. It extends north-west of the site and encompasses the Trent Valley. In summary the key characteristics include: flat broad valleys, contained by gentle side slopes, with wide rivers slowly flowing between alluvial terraces; constant presence of urban development, mostly on valley sides, in places sprawling across the valley and transport corridors following the valley route; contrasts of secluded pastoral areas, with good hedgerow structure, and open arable with low hedges; strong influence of riparian vegetation, where rivers are defined by lines of willow pollards and poplars; and open character punctuated by massive cooling towers of power stations and strongly influenced by pylons, sand and gravel extraction, and roads. Further details on the NCA are presented on Page 28 of the LVIA reproduced at Appendix 3. Regional/Country Level Character Assessment 2.3.53 At a regional/county level there are three landscape character assessments within the study area which include the application site and wider study area. Planning for Landscape Change: Supplementary Planning Guidance to the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Structure Plan 1996-2011. 2.3.54 Staffordshire County Council published ‘Planning for Landscape Change: An Introduction and User’s Guide to Supplementary Planning Guidance to the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Structure Plan 1996-2011’. 2.3.55 The report was adopted in May 2001 as Supplementary Planning Guidance to the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Structure Plan 1996-2011. It remains relevant under saved policy NC2 of the Staffordshire Structure Plan. 2.3.56 The County is divided into Regional Character Areas (RCAs), based on those defined by the Countryside Agency (now assimilated into Natural England). These are further categorised into Landscape Character Types (LCTs) and then Landscape Character Sub-types. The Site lies within the Riparian Alluvial Lowlands LCT (sub type Farmland). 2.3.57 This LCT is described as a ‘landscape of levels and lowland river valleys … large nucleated villages are typical, and dominant land uses
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are cropping with some stock rearing in large hedged fields of a regular pattern, with few woodlands’. Visual character includes: A riverine landscape characterised by flat topography and visual links with landform and land uses of surrounding areas: landscape is characterised by trees associated with waterside planting… hedgerow pattern varies from predominantly irregular to small areas with straight hedgerows and a regular pattern; landscape is predominantly medium scale with some areas of smaller scale where increased tree cover prevents views and other areas, mainly linked to the introduction of arable farming, where the scale is increased; habitation tends to occur adjacent to the floodplain. Where roads cross these areas they are generally small winding lanes, with fast through routes running along the edges. Canals feature strongly and contribute to local character; and an increasing feature of this landscape is the occurrence of active and reclaimed sand and gravel extraction sites, with visually intrusive processing plants, stockpiles and open excavations. Further details on the LCT are presented on Page 30 of the LVIA reproduced at Appendix 3. The National Forest Landscape Character Assessment 2.3.58 The National Forest Landscape Character Assessment was published by The National Forest Company in 2004. 2.3.59 Part of the application site is located within the Trent Floodplain Farmland LCT, key characteristics of floodplain farmland include: characterised by the broad, flat floodplain of the River Trent; the floodplain has a diverse, soft-edged mosaic of mature woodlands, new woodland planting, wetlands and open grassland; small riverine woods are a feature in places, plus scrub fringed pools reclaimed from mineral working; there is an in-tact pattern of medium sized pastures with some arable fields. Hedgelines are strong, though sometimes gappy and overgrown; the valley is quite well wooded with many small woods and scattered hedgerow trees. Wooded bluffs and terraces alongside the floodplain create a strong sense of enclosure in some parts of the valley; and overall there is a rural character, although road and rail routes, urban development and sand and gravel extraction are
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intrusive in some parts of the wide floodplain between Burton and Alrewas. In contrast the narrower floodplain west of Alrewas is relatively unspoilt. Further details on the LCT are presented on Page 32 of the LVIA reproduced at Appendix 3. The Landscape Character of Derbyshire 2.3.60 A small part of the study area, c.1.8km north-east of the application site falls within the administrative boundary of Derbyshire County Council. 2.3.61 Derbyshire County Council published The Landscape Character of Derbyshire in 2000. The assessment identified Landscape Character Types (LCTs). Two LCTs fall within the study area - Village Estate Farmlands, which is located within the Mease/Sence Lowlands NCA No.72 and a linear tract of land identified as the Lowland Village Farmlands, which falls within the Trent Valley Washlands NCA No.69. 2.3.62 Section 4 of the report reproduced at Appendix 3 confirms the presence of landscape designations in the vicinity of the site and the policy context of such designated areas.
2.4 Ecology
2.4.1 An Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey has been completed in support of the proposals and can be found reproduced at Appendix 7(i) of this ES.
2.4.2 The ecological desk study identified one statutory nature conservation site within a 2 km radius of the surveyed area boundary. This site is the River Mease Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) which is located approximately 800 m from the survey area at its closest point.
2.4.3 A number of non-statutory sites were identified within a 2 km site radius, the two closest of which being the Brookhay Wood and A513 Road Verges Sites of Biological Importance (SBI). The A513 SBI is located either side of the A513, and therefore immediately south of Phases 1 and 5, and immediately north of Phase 2.
2.4.4 The desk study highlighted the presence of a variety of protected notable species within the 2 km search radius including amphibians, badger, bats, birds, otter and water vole. The field survey identified habitat considered likely to support many of these faunal groups.
2.4.5 The on site survey identified 10 different habitat types across the application site, as follows:
arable land (cultivated and disturbed); bare ground/hardstanding; buildings;
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ditches; hedgerows and trees; improved grassland; standing water (ponds); species poor semi-improved grassland; reed swamp; and scrub.
2.4.6 Descriptions of each habitat are set out on Section 3 of the Phase 1 Report reproduced at Appendix 7. The descriptions set out therein are supported by the identification of four target notes.
2.4.7 The Phase 1 Report also made general observations on the presence or absence of faunal species with specific reference to protected species under national and European legislation. Consideration was given to the following species group:
Badger; Bats; Water Vole*; Otter*; Doormice*; Other Mammals*; Great Crested Newts; Reptiles*; Birds; and White Clawed Crayfish*.
2.4.8 All of the species groups defined with * above have been assessed as being unlikely to be present within the proposed extension area. The remainder have been subject to a comprehensive body of survey work since 2011. Details of the inspections undertaken during 2014 are set out in Section 3 of the report reproduced at Appendix 7.
2.4.9 Details of the protected species survey work is set out in Section 5.4 of this ES. These make reference to a detailed survey set reproduces as part of this ES as follows:-
Wintering Bird Survey – Appendix 7(ii); Breeding Bird Survey – Appendix 7(iii); Badger Survey – Appendix 7(iv); Initial Bat Survey – Appendix 7(v); Foraging Bat Survey – Appendix 7(vi); and Great Crested Newt Survey - Appendix 7(vii).
2.4.10 As many of these surveys are relatively old (being undertaken during 2011), Lafarge Tarmac are in the process of undertaking further updated surveys with wintering bird surveys currently underway, and reptile and amphibian surveys due to be engaged shortly.
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2.5 Hydrology and Hydrogeology
2.5.1 A proportion of the application site is located within the floodplain of the River Tame, specifically within flood zones 2 and 3 which formed one of the key controls on the overall design of the approved restoration scheme for the current quarry area. The location of the application site, relative to the River Tame, also means that the groundwater levels remain elevated (for the main part) year-round.
2.5.2 This hydrological setting means that a full HRA has been prepared in support of this application and is reproduced at Appendix 5 of this ES.
Hydrology
2.5.3 The application site is situated within the catchment of the River Tame, which is major tributary of the River Trent, and flows north along the eastern boundary of the existing working area, but it varies in distance from the proposed extension area between circa 450 m and 1.2 km. The river receives base flow from the Sherwood Sandstone in the Lichfield area, discharges from sewage works and run-off from the urban and rural catchment.
2.5.4 The principal hydrological features in the vicinity of the extension area are shown on Figure 3 of the HRA reproduced at Appendix 5 of this ES (including the Coventry Canal and the Trent and Mersey Canal).
2.5.5 Minor tributaries of the River Tame comprising drainage ditches cross the application area. The drainage ditches generally follow field boundaries. In the north of the application area to the north of the A513 road drains flow east or north east to join the River Tame in the vicinity of the NMA. A large drainage ditch adjacent to Barley Green Lane runs parallel to the eastern boundary of the proposed mineral extraction area. The drainage ditch flows towards the north to the junction of Barley Green Lane with Ridget Lane then follows Ridget Lane to the west north west a short distance before turning to the north east and towards the A513. The ditch is culverted beneath Ridget Lane and the A513.
2.5.6 A drain flows adjacent to the A513 which accepts flows from a catchment to the west of the A38 road to the west of the proposed extraction area. It is understood that from the confluence of the drains associated with Barley Green Lane and the A513 water flows into another ditch flowing generally eastwards which has a confluence with the River Tame approximately 540m to the east of the northern part of the proposed mineral extraction area. A small ditch flows from a lagoon at the plant site to join a ditch to the north of the plant site which crosses under the railway and flows to the south east to a confluence with the River Tame on the eastern boundary of the NMA.
2.5.7 Drains or ditches are located in the centre and south of the application area which run either side of Barley Green Lane and Roddige Lane. As of March 2011 there was standing water in the ditches along
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Barley Green Lane, and Roddige Lane. Where present water was flowing very slowly or was stagnant typically at approximately 1m to 1.5m below ground level.
2.5.8 There is a system of well established subsurface field drains in parts of the proposed extraction area. The water level in the subsurface field drains is controlled partly by active pumping from sumps. A proportion of the pumped water is used for irrigation. Open drains follow field boundaries and the subsurface drainage system are linked in places. Because of the presence of the subsurface field drains it is considered that a proportion of incident rainfall is intercepted and conveyed by the surface drainage system rather than following natural drainage paths.
2.5.9 With reference to Figure 3 of the report reproduced at Appendix 5, three small ponds are located in the north, centre and west and a small reservoir is located in the south of the proposed extraction area. Three small ponds are located to the south west and west to the west of the railway in the general vicinity of the proposed extraction area. Two reservoirs are located to the east of the buildings at Sittles between the buildings and the current extraction area. Two large water bodies are located in areas of former mineral extraction to the east of the central part of the proposed mineral extraction area and adjacent to the River Tame. A ditch associated with the agricultural drainage system runs from a point to the north east of the southern lake and to the south of the northern lake to a confluence with the River Tame at NGR SK 18255 13274.
2.5.10 Several lakes are located in the vicinity of the confluence of the River Tame and the River Trent to the north and north east of the proposed extension area. A small lake is located approximately 200m to the north of the plant site to the west of the sewage works. The plant site includes a pond on the eastern boundary. Lakes are located to the east of the River Tame to the south east of the current Whitemoor Haye extraction area and at Croxall Lakes Nature Reserve to the east of the NMA.
2.5.11 The current classification under the Water Framework Directive for the River Tame and River Trent in the vicinity of the application area for ecological quality is ‘Poor’. Chemical quality under the Water Framework Directive is assessed by compliance with the environmental standards for chemicals that are listed in the Environmental Quality Standards Directive 2008/105/EC which include a number of priority substances. Chemical status is recorded as ‘Good’ or ‘Fail’. The current chemical quality classification for the River Tame and River Trent adjacent to and upstream of the application area is ‘Fail’. Downstream of their confluence the current ecological quality classification for the River Trent is ‘Good’.
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Abstraction
2.5.12 Based on information provided by the Environment Agency there are 21 licensed surface water abstractions within 2km of the proposed extraction area. However none are located on or in close proximity to the proposed extension. The location of the surface water abstractions are shown on Figure 4 of the report reproduced at Appendix 5. Details of the surface water abstractions are presented in Table 1 of the same.
Flooding
2.5.13 With reference to Figure 5 of the report reproduced at Appendix 5 the eastern part of the northern and central sections of the proposed extraction area are located in Flood Zone 3 which is defined in the Technical Guidance to the NPPF as land having a greater than 1 in 100 year annual probability of flooding from rivers. Parts of the north, centre and east of the proposed extraction area is located in Flood Zone 2 which is defined in the Technical Guidance to the NPPF as land having between a 1 in 100 year and 1 in 1000 year annual probability of flooding from rivers. The remainder and majority of the proposed extension area is located in Flood Zone 1 which is defined in Technical Guidance to the NPPF as land having a less than 1 in 1000 annual probability of river flooding.
2.5.14 Part of the application area has been subject to flooding historically. Based on information including a plan provided by the Environment Agency copies of which are presented at Appendix D of the report reproduced at Appendix 5, during a flood event in 1992 parts of the north and east of the application area were inundated. The area subject to flooding includes the eastern part of the NMA, the lagoon at the plant site and an adjacent area to the north and east and an elongate area adjacent to Barley Green Lane to the south of the A513 road.
2.5.14 Information on modelled flood levels in the River Tame has been obtained from the Environment Agency. The information is from the 2009 River Tame Strategy Model and comprises modelled flood levels for model nodes located along the River Tame to the east of the application area for flood events with a range of return periods including modelled flood levels which take into account flood defence infrastructure and the predicted effects of climate change. A copy of the information obtained from the Environment Agency is presented at Appendix D of Appendix 5. Based on the information provided the modelled flood level for the defended 1 in 100 year event plus climate change for model nodes on the River Tame in the vicinity of crossing of the A513 over the river is between approximately 52.28mAOD and 52.55mAOD.
2.5.15 Although it is reported in the Lichfield District Council Level 1 Strategic Flood Risk Assessment that based on consultation with the Environment Agency there are no other known problems with flooding
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from groundwater in Lichfield District it is likely that fluvial flooding events would coincide with occasions when groundwater levels generally are high.
Discharge Consents
2.5.16 As part of the existing quarry operations water is pumped from the void as necessary to the River Tame. It is understood that the discharge is the subject of an Environmental Permit, formerly a Consent to Discharge, reference T/22/35137/T. The Environmental Permit allows the discharge of water to the River Tame between NGR SK 1737 1145 and NGR SK 1876 1396.
2.5.17 Based on information obtained from the Environment Agency two other Environmental Permits formerly Consents to Discharge are associated with Alrewas Quarry. The discharges are located in the north of the application area. One permit to discharge is to the River Trent and comprises overflow from a lake as material is deposited in it and the other permit is for a discharge of pumped quarry water to the River Tame in the vicinity of the current silt discharge lagoon. There are seven further Environmental Permits formerly Consents to Discharge in the vicinity of the application area including two discharges from Fradley Pumping Station to minor tributaries of the River Tame upstream of the application area.
Hydrogeology
2.5.18 The application site is located within the First Terrace River Gravels and alluvium of the River Tame Valley. The superficial deposits overlie the Mercia Mudstone Group (Keuper Marl), which overlies the Sherwood Sandstone (refer Figure 2 of Appendix 2).
2.5.19 The superficial Quaternary River Terrace Deposits, Glaciofluvial Sheet Deposits and Alluvium are designated as Secondary A Aquifers by the Environment Agency. The Mercia Mudstone Group is designated as a Secondary B Aquifer by the Environment Agency. The Sherwood Sandstone Group present at depth is designated a Principal Aquifer. It is unlikely that groundwater in the superficial deposits and more permeable horizons of the Mercia Mudstone Group underlying the superficial deposits is in hydraulic continuity with groundwater at depth in the Sherwood Sandstone.
2.5.20 The hydrogeology of the extension area is derived from information provided by Lafarge Tarmac, the Environment Agency and the logs of the groundwater monitoring boreholes, BGS boreholes and mineral exploration boreholes together with groundwater level monitoring data for the period September 1997 to September 2012 provided by Lafarge Tarmac and the results of a groundwater quality monitoring exercise carried out in the vicinity of the proposed extraction area in March 2006.
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2.5.21 The sand and gravel in the superficial deposits has a high inter- granular permeability. The Mercia Mudstone Group generally has a low permeability which will limit the vertical movement of groundwater and forms an aquitard above which groundwater in the superficial deposits generally is supported. It is likely that where present sandstone bands in the Mercia Mudstone Group have an intermediate to high secondary permeability due to the presence of fissures and may be water bearing.
2.5.22 The sand and gravel deposits at the extension area which comprise part of the superficial deposits are water bearing. At the extension area water levels at between 0.5mbgl and 5mbgl generally were recorded on the drilling records of groundwater monitoring boreholes and mineral exploration boreholes and in borehole records obtained from the BGS.
2.5.23 Groundwater level monitoring data provided by Lafarge Tarmac are available generally on a monthly basis for a number of groundwater monitoring boreholes for the period September 1997 to September 2012. Based on the groundwater level monitoring records groundwater levels at and in the vicinity of the application area range between approximately 0.5mbgl and 4.5mbgl. Relative to Ordnance Datum groundwater levels generally are higher in the west and south and are lower in the north and east of the proposed extraction area. The groundwater level monitoring data are presented at Appendix F of Appendix 5. With reference to Appendix 5, the locations of groundwater monitoring boreholes for which groundwater level monitoring data are available are shown on Figure 6. Figure 7 shows groundwater levels at the site relative to Ordnance Datum and Figures 8 and 9 show the depth to groundwater to the north and south generally of the A513 road respectively.
2.5.24 Seasonal variation in groundwater levels generally is in the order of 0.5m to 1.5m. Although generally consistent over the monitoring period long term variability in groundwater levels is observed in some boreholes.
2.5.25 Based on topography and the groundwater levels recorded in the superficial deposits in September 2012 the general direction of groundwater flow in the centre and north of the application area generally is to the east towards the River Tame. In the north of the application area there may be a component of flow locally to the north east or north towards the River Trent. It is likely that in the south of the proposed extraction area there is a component of flow locally to the south east towards and in the direction of flow of the Mare Brook. It is likely that groundwater present in more permeable horizons such as sand and gravel in the superficial deposits is in hydraulic continuity with and provides baseflow to the River Trent to the north, the River Tame to the east and the Mare Brook to the south. Locally groundwater levels and the direction of groundwater flow may be influenced by dewatering at the existing quarrying and landfilling
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operations at Whitemoor Haye and by the agricultural drainage system.
2.5.26 It is likely that there is hydraulic continuity between the River Trent and the River Tame and groundwater in the superficial deposits at and in the vicinity of the application area. Locally the degree of hydraulic continuity may be limited by the presence of low permeability horizons comprising the Alluvium over which the River Trent and River Tame flow.
2.5.27 The water bearing strata in the Mercia Mudstone Group may be in hydraulic continuity with the superficial deposits within and outside the boundary of the proposed extraction area where channel features bring the superficial deposits into contact with the inter-bedded mudstones, siltstones and sandstones in the Mercia Mudstone Group. Where the water bearing units are overlain by low permeability deposits the groundwater will be confined. Hydraulic continuity between the superficial deposits and the more permeable units in the underlying bedrock may be enhanced by the presence of fissures or fractures. Recharge of more permeable units in the Mercia Mudstone Group may be limited by the low recharge through the low permeability mudstones and by the generally small outcrop area of such units.
Source Protection Zones
2.5.28 The proposed extraction area is not located within a groundwater Source Protection Zone. A small area designated in groundwater Source Protection Zone (SPZ) 1 (inner zone) is located adjacent to the south west corner of the proposed application area. The SPZ is associated with Fradley Pumping Station from where groundwater is abstracted from the Sherwood Sandstone Group at depth.
Abstraction
2.5.29 Nine groundwater abstractions are located within 2km of the proposed extraction area of which six are licensed abstractions and three are private groundwater abstractions. Two of the licensed groundwater abstractions are from the Triassic Sherwood Sandstone Formation, three of the licensed groundwater abstractions are from the sand and gravel deposits and the source of one of the licensed groundwater abstractions and the private groundwater abstractions is not known. One licensed groundwater abstraction from the sand and gravel is located within the boundary of the proposed extraction area which is used for spray irrigation.
2.5.30 One of the licensed groundwater abstractions from the sand and gravel deposits is associated with the mineral extraction and infilling at the Whitemoor Haye site. The abstracted water is used for mineral washing, dust suppression and as process water.
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2.5.31 Full details of the hydrogeological regime are discussed in section 4 of the report reproduced at Appendix 5 of this ES.
2.6 Soils and Agricultural Land Quality
2.6.1 The proposed extension has been subject to a detailed soils survey covering an area of approximately 127.6 hectares. The land is mainly flat at around 50-54 m AOD.
2.6.2 The size of the proposed extension resulted in the need for a comprehensive Soils and Agricultural Land Classification Survey which can be found reproduced at Appendix 4 of this ES.
Agricultural Use
2.6.3 At the time of the survey in April 2011 the land was under three ownerships, two of the owners also farming the land. The rest was farmed by three tenants.
Published Information
2.6.4 The 1:50,000 BGS geological information shows most of the area as underlain by sandy and gravelly river terrace deposits of Quaternary age, with smaller areas of Pleistocene glacial deposits of sand and gravel.
2.6.5 The national soil map at 1:250,000 scale shows that the most of the land has soils of the Wigton Moor Association comprising permeable fine and coarse loamy soils variably affected by groundwater. On higher ground to the east similar textured but drier soils of the Wick association are mapped.
2.6.6 The Defra Soil Strategy points out that soils deliver a range of vital functions for human activities including food and fibre production support for ecosystems and habitats, and environmental services that play a vital role in the global carbon cycle, stabilising and degrading contaminants and providing clean water. One of the strategy’s objectives is to ensure that soil functions (soil ecosystem services) are fully valued in the planning process.
2.6.7 A detailed soil resource and agricultural quality survey was carried out in March and April 2011. It was based on observations at the intersects of a 100 m grid, giving a sampling density of one observation per hectare. During the survey soils were examined by a combination of pits and augerings to a maximum depth of 1.2 m.
2.6.8 The survey showed a pattern of stony mainly stony light textured soils reflecting the complexity of the depositional riverine environment. In many soils gravelly or very stony layers occur within 1 m of the surface, and in some parts they are found directly below the topsoils. Heavy clay loam or clay subsoils occur in some parts, particularly in
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minor valleys. The soils resources are shown plotted on Map 1 of Appendix 4.
Light Loamy Soils
2.6.9 These soils occur over most of the area. The topsoils are sandy loam, less often sandy clay loam and usually thickened by deep ploughing. Depths up to 40 cm are common. They are usually slightly stony with rounded quartzites. The lower layers are variable but usually pass down through stony loamy medium sand or medium sand layers to sand and gravel layers at 50-100 cm depth. Not all have gravel within auger depth. They show a variable degree of mottling depending upon the groundwater influence as it rises in the gravel. Some soils are brown to more than 50 cm depth, while others show grey colours and ochreous mottling to the base of the topsoil.
2.6.10 An example profile from an exposure at SK 17629 13541 is described below:
0-29 cm Dark brown (10YR 3/3) medium sandy loam with common small and medium rounded quartzite stones; weakly developed coarse subangular blocky breaking to moderately developed medium and fine subangular blocky structure ; many fine pores and earthworm channels; a few fine fibrous roots; sharp smooth boundary to:
29-49 cm Strong brown (7.5YR 5/8) medium sandy loam to loamy medium sand, with common brown (7.5YR 5/3), grey (7.5YR/6/1) and yellowish red (5YR 5/8) mottles: common small rounded quartzite stones; firm consistency with some agricultural compaction; weakly developed coarse angular blocky structure; a few coarse pores, very few fibrous roots: narrow wavy boundary to:
49-100 cm Greyish brown (10YR 5/2) and brown (10YR 5/3) medium sand and gravel (50% stones); structureless, single grain; tile drain at 100 cm depth.
2.6.11 These soils are permeable and but occasionally affected by groundwater (wetness class II-III), and are versatile in the range of food and fibre production they can support especially with irrigation for sensitive crops. They have a good capacity to absorb excess winter rainfall and provide moist to dry, neutral habitats for plant communities.
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Sandy Soils
2.6.12 These soils are most common in the northern part of the proposed extension area. They have similar morphology to the light loams described above, but topsoils are loamy medium sand and the subsoils are medium sand. They are usually stonier than the loamy soils, and gravel may occur directly below the topsoil in some localities.
2.6.13 The sandy soils tend to be dry in summer and more or less wetter in winter depending on landscape position and the influence of the local groundwater table. On higher ground they are used by rabbits for burrows. 2.6.14 An example profile from a pit at SK 17983 14589 is described below:
0-38 cm Very dark greyish brown (10YR 3/2) loamy medium sand: 3% small and very small rounded quartzite stones; weakly developed coarse angular blocky breaking to weakly developed fine subangular blocky structure; friable; common coarse pores and earthworm channels; many fine and medium fleshy roots; sharp smooth boundary to:
38-76 cm Yellowish brown (10YR 5/4 and 10YR 5/6) medium sand with a few strong brown (7.5YR 5/8) mottles; 5% small rounded quartzite stones; structureless, single grain; a few coarse pores; common fine fleshy roots; merging to:
76-110 cm Brown (10YR 5/2 and 5/3) medium sand with 7- 10 % small and medium rounded quartzite stones; structureless, single grain; a few fine fibrous roots.
2.6.15 These soils are permeable and only have a good capacity to absorb excess winter rainfall (wetness class I or II), although many are influenced by high groundwater. They provide dry, neutral habitats for plant communities.
Other Soils
2.6.16 There are small patches with heavy clay loam subsoils which are slowly permeable and cause wetness in the upper soil layers. The heavy layers may be thin over sand and gravel. The topsoils are sandy loam or sandy clay loam.
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Agricultural Land Quality
2.6.17 To assist in assessing land quality, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF) developed a method for classifying agricultural land by grade according to the extent to which physical or chemical characteristics impose long-term limitations on agricultural use for food production. The MAFF Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) system classifies land into five grades numbered 1 to 5, with grade 3 divided into two sub-grades (3a and 3b). The system was devised and introduced in the 1960s and revised in 1988. 2.6.18 The agricultural climate is an important factor in assessing the agricultural quality of land and has been calculated using the Climatological Data for Agricultural Land Classification. The relevant site data for an average elevation of 53 m is given below. Average annual rainfall: 652 mm January-June accumulated temperature >0°C 1413 day° Field capacity period 145days (when the soils are fully replete with water) mid Nov-mid April Summer moisture deficits for: wheat: 105 mm potatoes: 96 mm
2.6.19 The results from the previous investigations were used in conjunction with the agroclimatic data above to classify the site using the revised guidelines for agricultural land classification issued in 1988 by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. Survey Results
2.6.20 The agricultural quality in the survey area is determined mainly by the ability of the soils to provide adequate moisture for crop growth. This is mainly a function of soil texture. In some parts wetness caused in winter by high groundwater or slow drainage over slowly permeable subsoils is also important. Land of grades 2, 3 and 4 agricultural quality exists on the proposed extension site. The comprehensive Agricultural Land Quality report is reproduced at Appendix 4 of this ES.
Grade 2
2.6.21 There are only 1.4 hectares of grade 2 land. The principal constraint to production is droughtiness resulting from the limited moisture retention capacity of the light-textured stony subsoils, or lack of rooting depth over gravel layers.
Sub-grade 3a
2.6.22 There are 72.5 ha of sub grade 3a land. The soils are moderately droughty for most crops in the summer, and irrigation is used for crops such as potatoes.
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Sub-grade 3b
2.6.23 This sub-grade accounts for circa 45.6 ha. The principal limitation is doughtiness caused by lack of moisture reserves in the sandy stony subsoils. Some soils have very stony topsoils and this can hamper cultivation.
2.6.24 There are small patches of soils with slowly permeable subsoils where the land quality is limited by winter wetness. High groundwater may also be a limitation in some low lying areas; this could be ameliorated by attention to the drains. The land has rushes growing, indicative of wet boggy ground.
Grade 4
2.6.25 An area of land in the north of the proposed extension site is boggy with giant reed mace and Juncus species. Wetness limits this land to grade 4 quality.
Other land
2.6.26 This comprises the roads which run through the site, and the land taken up by the conveyors. Also included are a number of lagoons which have been created on the site, and an area of woodland.
Grade areas
2.6.27 The boundaries between the different grades of land are shown on Map 2 of the soils report reproduced at Appendix 4 of this ES and the areas occupied by each are shown below.
Table 2: Areas within the survey area occupied by the different land grades Grade/sub- Area (ha) % of agricultural % of the grade land survey area
Grade 2 1.4 1 1
Sub-grade 3a 72.5 60 57
Sub-grade 3b 45.6 38 36
Grade 4 0.5 <1 <1
Other land 7.6 - 6
Total 127.6 100 100
2.7 Traffic
2.7.1 The application site comprises a high capacity mineral working which generates large numbers of HGV movements. Consistent with the
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recommendations of the Scoping Opinion and in accordance with the Local Validation Checklist, a Transport Assessment has been undertaken in support of the application which can be found reproduced at Appendix 9 of this ES.
Local Highway Network
2.7.2 Alrewas quarry is located on land to the east of the A38 and to the north and south of the A513 as shown on Plan A301/PL14/01. The village of Alrewas is located adjacent to the A38 to the west of the site.
2.7.3 There is presently one main access to the quarry plant site to the north of Croxall Road at a simple priority junction. To the east of the site access Croxall Road loops south, connecting to a four arm roundabout junction with the A513 and Barley Green Lane. Croxall Road is a rural single carriageway road around 7m in width, unlit and subject to the mandatory national speed limit. Approximately 180m to the south east of the site access the road additionally serves access to the NMA. To the north west of the application site Croxall Road serves two industrial units beyond a level crossing.
2.7.4 A further access to the section of quarry south of the A513 is located on Barley Green Lane. In the vicinity of the access the road is around 7m in width, unlit and subject to the mandatory national speed limit.
2.7.5 The A513 is a rural single carriageway road around 7.5m in width, generally unlit and subject to the mandatory national speed limit. Approximately 1km west of Croxall Road the A513 connects to the A38 via a grade separated junction with two roundabout junctions located either side of the A38 carriageway connected by an overbridge. The eastern roundabout is a four armed junction with an entrance and exit slip road from the A38 southbound to the north and south respectively. The western roundabout is a three armed roundabout. To the west the A513 continues to the south of Alrewas. The northern arm is formed by an exit slip road from the A38 northbound and an entrance slip road to Rykneld Street, a one way street, which runs parallel to the A38 to the north.
2.7.6 To the south of the entrance slips junction to Rykneld Street the road extends as a service slip road from the A38. Approximately 850m to the north the road provides access to the A38 northbound. The road is well lit and subject to a 30mph speed limit.
2.7.7 The A38 is a trunk road of high standard dual carriageway in the vicinity of Alrewas. To the south of Alrewas the A38 bypasses Lichfield and Sutton Coldfield via junctions with the A5148, the A5 and the A453 respectively. The A5 provides a link from the A38 to the M42 at junction 10 to the east and the M6 at junction 12 to the west. Additionally access to the M6 toll is provided at the roundabout junction with the A5. The A38 continues in to the centre of Birmingham with a section becoming the A38 (M) Aston Expressway.
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2.7.8 To the north of Alrewas the A38 continues towards Derby, bypassing Burton upon Trent and connects to Junction 4 of the A50. The A50 provides a link to the M1 at junction 24a to the east and to the west continues to Stoke on Trent.
Existing Traffic Generation
2.7.9 At present the site is extracting minerals at the rate of around 400,000 tonnes per annum. On average this typically removed in 18 tonne loads, which equates to 22,222 loads per year. Based on a typical 275 day working year, this equates to around 81 loads, or 162 movements per day. Historically the quarry has extracted minerals at a rate in excess of 600,000 tonnes per annum. All traffic movements for mineral extraction are via the access to the quarry plant site on Croxall Road.
2.7.10 Additionally importation of approximately 200,000 cubic metres of inert restoration materials per annum occurs on site. On average this is typically transported in loads of 10 cubic metres. Based on a typical 275 day working year, this equates to around 73 loads, or 146 movements per day. All associated traffic movements for inert fill importation take place via the access on Barley Green Lane.
2.7.11 A recent traffic survey identified movements equating to around 220 HGV movements from the site (110 in, 100 out); however, some of these are linked into the approved ancillary uses on site such as the bagging plant, recycling and ready mixed concrete plant.
2.7.12 It is a fundamental nature of the quarrying business that processing and sale of material is linked directly to demand from the local market. The above flows will therefore vary on a day by day and week by week basis.
Highway Safety (to be updated)
2.7.13 Personal Injury Accident (PIA) data for the previous 3 years (01/11/2010 – 31/10/2013) has been provided by Staffordshire County Council. This is the latest three year period currently available. This data is reproduced at Appendix A of Appendix 9 of this ES.
2.7.14 It can be seen from the assessment that there have been no accidents on Croxall Road and therefore no accidents in the vicinity of the existing quarry access or at the roundabout junction with Croxall Road, Barley Green Lane and the A513.
2.7.15 A total of 7 accidents occurred at the A513/A38 southbound mini- roundabout junction. All of the 7 accidents were of ‘slight’ severity. None of the accidents occurring involved HGVs, which is the predominant vehicle type generated by the site.
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2.7.16 On the basis of the above it is concluded that there are no existing recorded highway safety issues to be addressed as a result of the development proposals.
2.8 Noise and Amenity
2.8.1 The site is located in a rural setting with surrounding land uses primarily comprising agricultural based applications and the existing mineral working. A noise assessment has been commissioned in support of the application.
2.8.2 A copy of the assessment (undertaken by Vibrock) is reproduced at Appendix 8 of this ES. The aims of the assessment were to:
identify potential noise sensitive locations around the site; agree the noise sensitive locations with the Environmental Health Department; predict noise levels of the phase site operations; compare predicted levels with measured levels and guidance limits; and propose mitigation methods to reduce any potential noise impact where appropriate.
Background Noise
2.8.3 Monitoring was carried out on 14 February 2011 and 19 March 2012 at six different locations. The background noise climate was identified by undertaking two separate hour noise surveys to provide a true reading on background level and a number of individual fifteen minute events. The results obtained in 2011 and 2012 are considered to be indicative of the acoustic environment in 2014. The results of the noise monitoring are shown in the following table:
Table 3: Summary of Background Noise Levels. Noise Monitoring Background Noise Level Location dB L90 (Average)
1. The NMA 49.8-51.1 dB(A)
2. Whitemoor Lakes Activity 49.8-51.1 dB(A) Centre
3. Whitemoor Haye House 47.1-48.7 dB(A)
4. Roddige House 49.2-51.7 dB(A)
5. Dunstall Farmhouse 56.0-57.1 dB(A)
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6. Roadside Cottage 39.1-41.6 dB(A)
2.8.4 Noise measurements were taken using precision integrating sound level monitoring equipment which was fully compliant with BS 6698. Weather conditions were noted on both occasions as warm overcast with light westerly winds. The sound meters were calibrated prior to each survey.
2.8.5 The surveys undertaken were confirmed as being influenced by a range of external sources, including:
road traffic; aviation; freight and passenger trains; vehicle movements; and agricultural activity.
2.8.6 It is considered that it is the vehicle movements along the A38 and A513 which will have formed the most influence on these readings.
2.8.7 The same receptors as identified in Table 3 above also apply to air quality. However, under the latter, other potential receptors include nearby recreational assets, the local farming regime and any nearby ecological assets. The potential sources of emissions remain as soils stripping, materials handling and haulage and wind blow across extraction faces and stripped areas.
2.9 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage
2.9.1 The site and proposed extension are located in a sensitive archaeological setting as demonstrated by the range of finds from previous extraction areas at the site. Following the production of a Desk Based Assessment (refer to section 5 of the report reproduced at Appendix 6), the Curatorial Authority also confirmed the need for further tiers of investigation.
2.9.2 The results of the Desk Based Assessment are set out below, whereas the findings of the Geophysical Survey and Archaeological Evaluation are summarised in Section 5.5 below.
The Archaeology and Historic Landscape of the Application Area
2.9.3 The ‘regional’ archaeological context around the application site is provided below. It provides a comprehensive review of known archaeology and historic landscape development around the application site in order to put the area in its archaeological and historical context.
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Information from the Historic Environment Record (HER)
2.9.4 The HER, upon which knowledge of the ‘known’ archaeology of an area is based, contains records that have been identified in the following ways: as earthworks or other standing monuments, as cropmarks on aerial photographs, as chance finds of artefacts on the ground surface and as discoveries made during ground disturbance, usually associated with gardening, ploughing or construction work. The collection of data for the HER is therefore random and unsystematic.
2.9.5 Much buried archaeology does not reveal itself in the ways mentioned above. Therefore the HER is by its nature provisional and cannot be taken as a definitive list of surviving archaeological remains.
The Proposed Extension Area
2.9.6 The earliest evidence for historical activity in and around the site is represented by finds and cropmarks associated with a possible ritual or agricultural landscape dating from the Bronze Age (c. 2,000-1,000 BC). The cropmarks have largely been identified from aerial photographs taken in the 1970s. Limited geophysical survey and trial trench excavations took place across parts of the site in the early 1990’s, although findings at this time were minimal. Further characterisation of them has taken place as part of works associated with the current application (see Section 5.5 below).
2.9.7 The cropmark complex in the northern part of the site consists of three circular features, thought to be Bronze Age barrows, and a number of linear features. Monitoring of a soil strip in advance of the construction of a conveyor route in the late 1990’s failed to identify any archaeology, and this formerly Scheduled area was subsequently de-Scheduled (Richmond 1997a). A series of linear cropmarks in the same field may be associated, but remain un-investigated.
2.9.8 Similar cropmarks have been identified south of this field and which appear as rectangular enclosures. A further possible enclosure exists further to the south; to the west of Whitemoor Haye Farm. In the central part of the extension a number of cropmarks appear to delineate tracks Additional enclosures and linears represented by cropmarks have been identified in the central and southern part of the site and it is probable that a number relate to former field boundaries of post-Medieval date. Many appear to correspond with fields shown on the Tithe map of 1840.
2.9.9 A geophysical survey was carried out over nine areas in 1992 as part of an evaluation for an earlier application. This investigated a number of the cropmarks and their surrounds (BUFAU 1992). The gradiometer survey identified few anomalies of archaeological interest and in most cases the cropmarks were not detected. A trial trenching exercise followed (ibid.; Coates 2002). Twenty-nine trenches were excavated, of which 9 lay within the boundaries of the present site.
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This trenching exercise failed to find features associated with the geophysical anomalies. Two shallow ditches were, however, identified where an enclosure had been suspected.
2.9.10 In addition to these large features, a range of smaller finds have been categorised across the proposed extension with dates ranging from Neolithic to Post-Medieval Periods.
Historic Landscape
2.9.11 This wide swath of occupation and settlement has led to the development of elements of special character. The MPA have undertaken their own historic landscape characterisation, with the extension located within three historic zones as follows:
Phases 1 and 5 - post-war amalgamated fields; Phases 2 and 4 - post 1880s reorganised piecemeal enclosure; and Phase 3 - 18th/19th Century semi-planned enclosure.
Sites of National Archaeological Importance
2.9.12 There are no SMs within the proposed development area, however eight are listed within the 2km search area, with a further two monuments lying just outside of it. Of the eight monuments within the search area, only two are within 1km of the site boundary, being SM ST 199 and ST 200.
2.9.13 There are 74 Listed Buildings in the study area, of which nine were chosen for detailed assessment. Of these, one, Roddige Farmhouse (Grade II) is within the site boundary. Of the other assessed buildings, one is of Grade I status, six are Grade II* and one is Grade II.
2.9.14 The nearest Conservation Area to the site is the village of Alrewas, which lies 320m outside of the NE boundary. The historic settlement of Elford (1.8km distance) is also a designated Conservation Area, as is the Trent and Mersey Canal (1km distance) and Fradley Junction (3km distance). There are no recorded Historic Parks and Gardens within 3km of the site. The nearest Registered site is Lichfield’s ‘Beacon Park and Minster Pool’, c. 4.5 km to SW.
2.10 Rights of Way and Utilities
2.10.1 Enquiries made of Staffordshire County Council indicate that the proposed extension area is crossed by a number of public rights of way (as shown in Table 1 above), certain of which will require either temporary or permanent diversion.
2.10.2 In regard to utilities the proposed extension area is traversed by a number of services and it is intended that these will be relocated by way of agreement separate to the planning application.
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2.11.3 Further enquiries of the statutory undertakers’ utilities have indicated that no other appliances run across or are located within the proposed application site boundary.
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SECTION 3 WORKING SCHEME
3.1 General
3.1.1 The main focus of this planning application is for a southern extension to Alrewas Quarry. The quarry currently extracts sand and gravel to supply to the local market, including an on site aggregates bagging plant and ready mixed concrete plant. It is proposed to extend the mineral workings across an approximate 107 hectare area located to the south of the existing plant site (refer Plan A301/PL14/02).
3.1.2 The 107 hectare extension is split into three distinct areas by topography and existing land features. The extraction areas have been delineated in these three areas, based on drilling investigations undertaken by the Applicant Company and applying stand-offs to the existing land uses (including residential premises and ecological assets) where necessary. In particular detailed consideration has been given to the safeguarding of residential amenity at the premises in the vicinity.
3.1.3 In order to recover these minerals it is proposed that the existing plant site and ancillary facilities, comprising weighbridge, main field conveyor, site management office and access, will be retained for the duration of the scheme and supplemented by the development of a new haul road system and field conveyor network, the routes of which are indicated on Plan A301/PL14/03.
3.1.4 A phased working and restoration scheme has been prepared to ensure that the minerals are recovered in an efficient and systematic manner enabling the continued phased working and restoration of the site in accordance with good practice.
3.1.5 The complementary restoration scheme which pays full regard to its landscape setting and ensures adherence with the environmental/planning policies set out in the development plan.
3.1.6 The proposed working scheme has been also developed with specific regard to the protection of existing environmental and cultural assets. Owing to its location in a rural environment, the proposed extraction area will not overly impinge on residential amenity. Nevertheless, where there are residential premises in proximity, a specific set of mitigation measures have been developed, including the application of appropriate stand-offs. Detailed consideration of bund design has been undertaken and this, along with the formulation and implementation of a phased working sequence, will mitigate against impacts in this regard.
3.1.7 In addition to the proposals for an extension this application also seeks to retain other ancillary operations on site. These include the established inert material recycling facility as well as the permitted ready mixed concrete plant and bagging plant, all of which are located
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within the consented area of the site north of the A513 (refer Plan A301/PL14/02).
Pre-Extraction
3.1.8 With reference to Plan A301/PL14/03, prior to the commencement of extraction operations within the proposed extension, it will be necessary to undertake a number of pre-extraction operations comprising:
establishment of temporary feed hopper to access the primary field conveyor from Phase 1 into the plant site; establishment of the consented access to accommodate the importation of inert restoration material using road-going heavy goods vehicles(prior to Phase 2); establishment of a crossing point for the haul roads subject to appropriate Highways agreements prior to entry into Phases 3 and 4; undertake the initial soils strip (subject to archaeological requirements) to enable the construction of amenity bunding adjacent to the haul road and conveyor route; and prior to entry into Phase 3, the microlight school and associated infrastructure will be removed to enable the stripping of soils.
Conveyor Infrastructure
3.1.9 The proposed field conveyor extension will comprise a circa 1800m long framework mounted conveyor. The framework will comprise a box section arrangement no higher than 0.5 m off the ground, with cross-bracing where necessary. The existing conveyor at Alrewas Quarry will be relocated to serve this purpose.
3.1.10 A number of drive units/transfer points will be included on the conveyor. These will be no greater than 1 m in height and will allow greater energy efficiency to be achieved in the conveying of the mineral. The conveyor will be fed via a feed hopper that can be moved as appropriate. The conveyor will need to pass through a culvert to go underneath Roddige Lane (refer to Plan A301/PL14/03).
Haul Road
3.1.11 In respect of the haulage of restoration materials, it will be necessary to establish a series of haul roads adjacent to the conveyor. This will also make use of a single crossing point. The crossing points will be subject to separate specifications will be agreed with the Local Highways Authority.
Silt Lagoons
3.1.12 As dug sand and gravel from the proposed extension area will be transported to the existing processing plant by a combination of dump truck and fixed field conveyor.
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3.1.13 The existing processing plant, currently used for the processing of sand and gravel from the Whitemoor Hay area at Alrewas Quarry will be used to process the mineral from the proposed extension. As part of the processing operations, silt from the as dug mineral will be removed and transported via over ground pipe work to the existing silt settlement facility at Alrewas Quarry and, when this area has received sufficient silt materials to enable final restoration, the pipe work will be diverted to the former mineral working areas “Alrewas north” for disposal into the lake area to facilitate final restoration.
3.2 Proposed Working Phases
General
3.2.1 The proposed extension area can be divided into three distinct blocks each separated from the other by a number of existing topographical features. Within these areas the mineral will be extracted on a phased basis to facilitate, where possible, progressive restoration by importation of materials. The proposed working areas are as follows:
Area 1 – Land immediately to the south of the existing processing plant and to the north of the A513 – Phase 1 and Phase 5; Area 2 – Land to the south of the A513 and to the west of Barley Green Lane and north of Roddige Lane – Phase 2 and Phase 4; and Area 3 – To the south of Roddige Lane and the north of Fine Lane, to be worked as a single phase of working (Phase 3).
3.2.2 The location and direction of working for each of the individual phases is indicated on plan A301/PL14/03 attached.
3.2.3 The extraction area within Phase 1A already has the benefit of planning consent (reference L.13/07/817 MW) but is included within this application to provide appropriate context.
3.2.4 The five phases will yield of the order of the following tonnages:
Phase 1 – 1 million tonnes of which circa 675,000 tonnes is already consented; Phase 2 – 400,000 tonnes; Phase 3 – 1.12 million tonnes; Phase 4 – 1.27 million tonnes; and Phase 5 – 1.30 million tonnes.
3.2.5 Each phase has been designed to work in the direction which best supports mobile plant movements to minimise haulage distances to feed hoppers and therefore minimise carbon emissions as far as possible.
3.2.6 Each phase will also benefit from a bespoke soils manual with bunding requirements dictated by the need to minimise impacts on
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nearby residential amenity. The manual can be provided via a suitably worded planning condition.
3.2.7 The bunds will be designed to afford maximum storage capacity, but will also be subject to design constraints to maintain soil integrity, minimise landscape impact and maximise the conveyance of flood waters. In respect of the last, a resilience-based approach has been used to the bund layouts shown on Plan A301/PL14/03, with 10m gaps included when bunds are in the floodplain. The bunds to the north of Phase 1 may benefit from a piped system to provide conveyance rather than gapping as indicated above.
3.3 Soils Handling, Management and Replacement
3.3.1 The soil report reproduced at Appendix 4 indicates that the bulk of the soil resources on site (58%) and the attendant land quality are considered of best and most versatile quality, and as such the soil resources will need to be carefully managed to maintain the integrity and quality of the material, by way of carefully planned sequential stripping and vehicle movements.
3.3.2 A “closed season” for handling soil shall be applied between the months of November and March inclusive. At all other times, soils shall only be stripped and handled when they are in a “dry and friable” condition. Broadly speaking, a soil is “dry and friable” when it breaks and shatters when disturbed rather than smears and deforms. The following tests describe methods to objectively differentiate between these two conditions.
Soil Tests
3.3.3 Soil tests are to be undertaken in the field. Representative samples shall be taken of all soils to be handled. The tests shall include visual examination of the soil and physical assessment of soil consistency.
Examination Test
If the soil is wet, films of water are visible on the surface of soil particles or aggregates (e.g. clods or peds) and/or when a clod or ped is squeezed in the hand it readily deforms into a cohesive “ball” – NO HANDLING should take place when the soil is in this condition. If the sample is moist (i.e. there is a slight dampness when squeezed in the hand) but does not significantly change colour (darken) on further wetting, and clods break up/crumble readily when squeezed in the hand rather than forming into a ball – HANDLING OK. If the sample is dry, it looks dry and changes colour (darkens) if water is added, and is brittle – HANDLING OK.
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Consistency Test
First Test – attempt to mould soil sample into a ball by hand:
Impossible because the soil is too dry and hard – HANDLING OK. Impossible because the soil is too loose and dry – HANDLING OK. Impossible because the soil is too loose and wet –NO HANDLING. Possible – GO TO NEXT TEST.
Second Test – attempt to roll ball into a 3mm diameter thread using the flat of the hand on a plate glass square or the back of a spade:
Impossible because the soil crumbles or collapses – HANDLING OK. Possible – NO HANDLING.
Weather and Ground Conditions
3.3.4 Soil handling shall cease during rain, sleet or snow. The following criteria shall be applied:
in light drizzle, soil handling may continue for up to four hours unless the soils are already too moist; in light rain, soil handling must cease after fifteen minutes; in heavy rain and intense showers, handling shall cease immediately; after rain has ceased, soil tests shall be applied to determine when handling may restart; and no soil handling shall take place when there are pools of water on the land surface.
Soils Handling Machinery
3.3.5 Soil movement operations will be undertaken typically using the following types of mobile plant:
360o hydraulic tracked excavator; articulated dump-trucks; and tracked bulldozer.
Soil Movement Methodology
3.3.6 The characteristics of the soils represent the most important factors in the potential for successful land restoration at this site. The highest quality soil resources identified within the soils assessment will be sequentially stripped and conserved (or stripped and placed directly on the restored landform) to reinstate the soil horizon to an acceptable profile. All handling of soils will take place when soils are in a dry and friable condition consistent with current good practice guidance.
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3.3.7 When stripping and replacing soils, care will be taken to ensure that machinery does not travel across unstripped and reinstated materials. The physical layout of the site, and the haulage roads within the site, has been designed to facilitate the removal and replacement of soils and overburden with the minimum of traffic on unstripped soils. Plant or vehicles will run only on the lowest possible soil horizon. In each phase of extraction, topsoils will be stripped and moved direct to the nearest storage location, unless there is an opportunity for direct placement on the restored surface. Subsoils will be stripped in successive operations and moved direct to the nearest storage location, unless there is an opportunity for direct placement on the restored surface. No plant or vehicles shall cross any area of unstripped topsoil or subsoil except where such movement is essential and unavoidable for purposes of undertaking permitted operations.
3.3.8 Soil stripping shall not commence on any phase until any standing crop or excess vegetation is removed. The soil stripping method as set out in Sheet 1 of the MAFF Good Practice Guide issued in April 2000 will be followed. The MPA will receive written notification at least 3 working days before soil stripping is due to commence. Topsoils and subsoils will be stripped by a hydraulic excavator using a flat-plate bucket (i.e. without teeth) and articulated dump trucks. A bulldozer with wide tracks may additionally be used as necessary to recover the maximum volume of soil material. All topsoil and subsoil mounds will be seeded with grass to minimise loss by erosion and infestation by weeds. The grass sward will be subject to an annual maintenance regime and any excess weed growth will be controlled by a combination of herbicides and mechanical means.
3.3.9 In respect of soil replacement, the soil will be tipped onto the graded fill surface and worked out to the designated areas using a bulldozer which will then grade to the desired profile.
3.3.10 The Applicant Company has developed what is referred to as the “Peninsular” method for soil replacement for agricultural restoration, which is generally based on the MAFF guidance. This method of topsoil placing is recommended on all sites and for all soil types to reduce the compaction of subsoils, which if compacted by earthmoving machinery, especially wheeled vehicles such as dumptrucks, are difficult, if not impossible to relieve compaction at depth.
3.3.11 Soil placing for restoration of agricultural land will be carried out by utilising a team of machines; tracked excavators, stripping soils for direct-placing or loading from store, into large 25 tonne, (or up to 40 tonne), articulated dumptrucks. The dump trucks will transport the soils to the area to be restored, where the sub-base, which may be imported infill or quarry waste, has previously been engineered to the correct levels. Soils are then pushed out to the correct level by low ground pressure tracked dozers. Where imported infill is being used, the materials will be ripped in panels prior to the upper indigenous
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subsoil being replaced. This will ensure that the lower subsoil profile is not overly compacted by the reinstatement process.
3.3.12 In respect of subsoil placement, survey pegs, indicating soil depths, will be set out on a grid and protected from disturbance by vehicles by adjacent tipped heaps of subsoil. Having ensured that the base surface is correctly graded to the designed levels, restoration soil depths can be identified by cross-pieces on the survey pegs, to indicate the level that the subsoils and topsoils should be deposited and levelled to. Deposition of subsoil can then begin, with soil either stripped and direct-placed or loaded from soil storage areas.
3.3.13 Soils will be as dry and friable as possible to help to avoid possible damage to soil structure during the restoration process. The dumptrucks, running on the basal surface should tip subsoil in rows, at the furthest boundary, so that restoration can retreat from of the area to be restored. The subsoil heaps can then be levelled to the correct depth for subsoil, as indicated by the survey peg cross-pieces, by a low ground pressure dozer, in a series of ’strips’ of up to ten or so metres in width. The tipping and levelling can continue for an appropriate time as dictated by soil supply, until an area is completed to the design level.
3.3.14 For topsoil a ramp can be constructed, if required, to enable the dumptrucks to reverse onto the subsoil surface level. Loads of topsoil will be stripped or loaded from store, as before, and transported to the restored subsoil area. The first loads will be tipped at the edge of the subsoil strip and pushed out by a dozer to a suitable thickness, 500- 600mm or so, greater than the design topsoil depth. This topsoil will act as a ’cushion’ to absorb the pressure from dumptruck wheels, and prevent compaction to the lower levels of the placed subsoil. When a suitable volume of soil has been pushed out in a ‘road’ or ’peninsular’ the dumptrucks may drive onto the subsoil level, still on the topsoil ’cushion’ and turn to reverse as required. If a small area only is available to topsoil, reversing only may be more appropriate.
3.3.15 The topsoil deposition will continue on the ’peninsular’ spine until the perimeter of the area to restore is reached. Topsoil can then be pushed off to either side by the dozer to the design depth, (usually 300mm), as indicated by the survey profiles, with additional topsoil transported and tipped as required to enable any given area to be completed to the correct depth.
3.3.16 The process will work back along the ’peninsular’ out of the area. If the area is a considerable width, several spines can be built and worked in series or continuously, but always working out of the restored area, with the dumptrucks only running on the ‘peninsular‘, and the dozer pushing the topsoil out to cover the subsoil with the correct depth of topsoil .
3.3.17 The upper and lower subsoils will be placed and spread to the minimum depths (600 mm and 800 mm respectively) to be specified
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as to avoid undue compaction of the previously reinstated level. The topsoils will be placed and spread to the minimum depths specified over the loosened subsoils in such a manner as to avoid compacting reinstated soils. The Mineral Planning Authority will be notified following completion of the above preparations and given an opportunity to inspect the prepared surface, prior to the commencement of any further cultivation operations.
3.3.18 Lafarge’s restoration manager will advise on the reinstatement of target soil profiles on the agricultural areas to reinstate the existing higher land quality grades and this detail will inform part of an Annual Soils Management Audit. Section 3.2 of this Statement considers the aftercare provisions of the reinstated agricultural land and it is anticipated that annual meetings would be held with the MPA to review the ongoing aftercare provisions of the site.
Notification
3.3.19 The Planning Authority will receive written notification at least 5 working days before soiling operations (of any nature) are due to commence.
3.4 Importation of Restoration Materials
3.4.1 Restoration operations at the application site will require imported inert restoration material (IIRM) to progressively restore the site in conjunction with materials from the site itself. Details of the site restoration scheme are presented at Section 4 of this Environmental Statement. It is estimated that the amount of IIRM required is approximately 2.7 million m3.
3.4.2 IIRM will be imported into the application site under the provisions of an Environmental Permit that will be applied for on the successful determination of this planning application. The permit application will contain details of procedures for the acceptance of the IIRM and how the application site will be operated.
3.4.3 Inert restoration materials will comprise either construction or demolition materials (or similar) that will be imported into the proposed extension area by means of a new purpose built access off Barley Green Road.
3.4.4 In addition, wherever possible these materials will be supplemented by non saleable materials from other assets within the applicant’s portfolio or other materials imported by rail.
3.4.5 It should be noted that there is also approximately 0.6 mt of voidspace left within the Whitemoor Haye area of the site (included within the application site) which will take around three years to complete.
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3.5 Dust Suppression
3.5.1 In line with the governmental advice now articulated in the technical guidance appended to the NPPF, dust suppression measures in the form of a Dust Action Plan will be implemented to minimise any potential adverse amenity impact. Additionally all soil mounds will be graded and seeded to eliminate the raising of dust through wind scour. The effectiveness of the above proposals and other mitigation measures are discussed further in Section 5.9 of this document.
Dust Action Plan
3.5.2 The current operations are subject to a Dust Management Plan and it is proposed to extend these effective provisions over the entire operational area of the proposed extension.
3.6 Other Issues
Hours of Operation
3.6.1 It is proposed to operate the site in accordance with existing operational conditions between 0700 hours to 1800 hours Monday to Friday and 0700 hours to 1300 hours on Saturday with no working on Sundays or Public/Bank Holidays. Operations outside of these hours will be restricted to pumping and emergency repairs.
3.6.2 No soil stripping or amenity bund construction will take place within 200 metres of any occupied residential property before 0800 hours Monday to Saturday, and no such activity will take place on Sundays or Public/Bank Holidays.
Lighting
3.6.3 A majority of the site operations will be carried out during daylight hours. However, during the winter months there will be a requirement to have some artificial lighting around the feed hopper area and at access crossing points for health, safety and security requirements. Such lighting will be downward facing to minimise any potential adverse impact upon local communities.
Fuel Storage
3.6.4 Oil and lubricants will only be stored within the site within an impervious bund or enclosure and the discharge of such material to any settlement pond, ditch, stream, watercourse or other culvert shall not be permitted. Bulk fuel storage facilities will be bunded to contain spillages and leaks (i.e. bund volume to be at least 110% of the capacity of the largest storage tank). All storage will be in accordance with the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England and Wales) Regulations 2001.
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Archaeology
3.6.5 Prior to any phase of working being undertaken any additional appropriate archaeological investigation required by an imposed planning condition will be undertaken in accordance with an agreed specification and programme with the curatorial authority.
Community Liaison
3.6.6 To ensure local communities are fully informed of activities on the site, a Liaison Group will be established for Alrewas Quarry, which can include representatives of local Parish Councils, as well as officers and members of the County and District Councils and the NMA. Meetings should be held on a regular basis to provide an opportunity for any queries or concerns to be brought forward and for information about future activities on the site to be given to those concerned. This approach is consistent with central government advice in respect of promoting good community relations.
Public Rights of Way
3.6.7 There are a number of public rights of way (footpaths) that will be directly affected by the proposed extension to Alrewas Quarry albeit for temporary periods of relatively short duration.
3.6.8 Where land is not immediately required for mineral extraction and associated operations (infrastructure provision, soil stripping etc) the footpaths will remain on their definitive route and be available for use.
3.6.9 Prior to working in a particular phase, an application for temporary diversion and, in the case of Ridgett lane, a stopping up order, will be made to Staffordshire County Council. As part of this process, alternative rights of way will be provided, generally around the perimeter of each phase of working. These diverted rights of way will be constructed to the required standards of the County Council and will be in place before the existing routes are temporarily closed.
3.6.10 When mineral extraction and restoration operations are completed within each phase, the footpaths will be re-instated and/or supplemented by new specifically dedicated routes.
3.6.11 The overall changes to the Public Rights of Way Network has been designed to provide interesting and circular routes of varying distances throughout the area.
Utilities
3.6.12 As identified as part of the scoping opinion, it is understood that utility assets cross the application site. These will be subject to separate discussions under the provisions of extant agreements outside of the planning application process.
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3.7 Employment
3.7.1 Should the proposals gain a satisfactory planning permission, ten jobs will be maintained as a direct result of the scheme, comprising:
1 x Site Manager; 2 x Weighbridge Clerks; 7 x Site Operatives.
3.7.2 In addition the following part-time job will be secured:
2 x laboratory technicians.
3.7.3 The site also has an on-site bagging operation, ready mixed concrete plant and recycling facility that employ four operatives.
3.7.4 In addition to the direct employment at the quarry, there would be indirect local employment prospects sustained by the money spent in connection with the project, including hauliers, sub-contractors, suppliers of plant and construction materials.
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SECTION 4 DESIGN STATEMENT AND RESTORATION SCHEME
4.1 Objectives and Restoration Concept
4.1.1 The application site can be easily split into three distinct areas for the purposes of the restoration concept. The ‘northern area’ includes all of the application site north of the A513 including the silt lagoons located north of the plant site which will be restored to create large- scale nature conservation benefits (refer Section 4.2); the remainder of the proposed extension being referred to as the ‘southern area’. The restoration concepts are shown on Plans A301/PL14/04 and 05. In addition, there are the areas of Whitemoor Haye which remain to be restored in accordance with consented detail.
4.1.2 The opportunity exists to implement a restoration scheme that will make large contributions to local biodiversity objectives as well as landscape management and recreation. The connectivity with the existing NMA is fundamental to the overall design and in this regard the scheme has benefitted from specific design input from the Royal British Legion and other key stakeholders in the NMA.
4.1.3 The site is located within the National Forest which benefits from its own biodiversity and landscape objectives. Priority habitats within the Trent Valley Washlands which form part of the National Forest include plantation woodland, neutral grassland, arable field margins, standing water and linear waters. The restoration scheme envisaged on the attached plans includes sustainable contributions to the above priority habitats both in the northern and southern areas of the site.
Northern Area
4.1.4 The restoration of the Northern Area of Alrewas Quarry is intended to provide significant landscape enhancement by means of dedicating a substantial area to the NMA to the south-west and north-west of the existing NMA area. A conceptual section through this complex landform is provided on Plan A301/PL14/06. The scheme in this area is still conceptual and subject to further consultation with key stakeholders to inform the final design.
4.1.5 The design process for the masterplan will provide a natural expansion to the principal landuse requirements of the NMA being the car parking facilities and the memorial gardens/spaces themselves.
4.1.6 The proposed car park is orientated ‘centrally’ to the current NMA buildings and will provide adequate road frontage to ‘signal’ the presence of the car park and allow adequate visual links. This will also retain the visual supremacy of the NMA and main visitor centre to the north. This car park facility will be capable of fitting circa 400 cars and 30 coaches
4.1.7 The parkland area (to be located south-west of the proposed car park) is designed to demonstrate the potential of combining areas of water
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with formal edging and controlled shape combined with formal paths, grassland and woodland/ornamental tree planting to create a striking and unique design.
4.1.8 The water areas would have a formal shape and edge and constructed to create a formal landscape with a surfaced walkway around and up to the water’s edge. The thin ‘canalised’ shape to the lakes leads to the circular opening and opportunity to develop ‘themed areas’ within the parkland, ie the south of the A513.
4.1.9 The boundary of the Northern Area coincides with the boundary of the National Forest and for which the NMA is an important visitor attraction that follows the core principles of the National Forest such as planting and public access, thus the NMA and area of the National Forest are complementary and important site factors.
4.1.10 A footpath link will create a linear path from the south (utilising the existing underpass used by the mineral conveyor) and then extending northward to link to other existing footpaths long the River Tame. The adjacent railway line provides a potential additional after use of rail linked activities and thus a corridor is identified alongside the current railway for potential future rail associated uses. The rail land uses extend north of the Croxall Road within the current plant site area.
4.1.11 Other footpaths will be provided within the parland area on a permissive basis to provide smaller circulatory walks within the restored landform, providing further connectivity with the NMA.
4.1.12 Habitat diversity will be encouraged through the large areas of woodland planting, establishment of smaller wetland areas by formation of drainage and lower lying areas beyond the main public realm, management and control of grassland communities, replacement and strengthening of hedgerows. As part of the overall theme to encourage habitat diversity, silt will be used from the processing of sand and gravel to create larger areas of semi aquatic vegetation on the southern shoreline of the North Lake (refer Plan A1/PL14/04).
Southern Area
4.1.13 To the south of the A513, the restoration masterplan proposes a return of the site to agriculture by the importation of materials and replacement of conserved soils in such a fashion so as to maximise the areas of best and most versatile farmland. Agricultural reservoirs have been included in the design to support the reinstated arable operations. The scheme shown illustrated on Plan A1/PL14/05 is proposed and although open to consultation, is well defined in its design.
4.1.14 The landform will be in keeping with the existing restoration concept for Whitemoor Haye with restoration contours being carefully profiled to recreate a lowland/floodplain landscape.
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4.1.15 In addition, nature conservation objectives will be addressed by the management and enhancement of established hedgerows together with the provision of areas of low maintenance conservation grassland specifically as a habitat for protected species. Furthermore there will be small woodland copses which will provide a further tier of biodiversity and landscape benefit.
4.1.16 In terms of recreational objectives, a number of public rights of way will be supplemented by additional routes to provide a range of interesting and circular routes and connectivity to the northern area of the restored site.
Whitemoor Haye
4.1.17 There is an area covering approximately 57.7 hectares (refer to Plan A30/PL14/05) which remains to be restored within the current area of the site. This will be restored to a combination of agricultural, open water and nature conservation landuses in accordance with consented detail.
4.2 Restoration Design
Introduction
4.2.1 The Restoration Design illustrated as a masterplan scheme on Plans A301/PL14/04 and 05 incorporates the whole application site.
4.2.2 The Restoration Boundary therefore includes three areas of landholding that have differing specific design rationale considerations because of the various landholdings, potential afteruses, aspirations of future development.
4.2.3 The areas are: . Plant site and northern lagoons. . NMA (NMA) and associated recreational area. . Agricultural landuses (south of the A513). 4.2.4 However, an overarching design philosophy linking all areas is to develop a restoration strategy that leads to overall landscape enhancement in terms of visual amenity, landscape character, biodiversity and natural environments. The scheme was predicated on the basis that change could lead to positive effects given the context of the landscape setting. 4.2.5 Part of the design process involved a public exhibition (November 2012) to which a number of members of public attended as well as Councillors and other stakeholder groups gave useful feedback and comment. In principal the scheme, as presented, gained favourable support and thus it represents the broad strategy as to how the final landuses will develop. The following brief text describes and summaries the key aspects and features of each of the three areas.
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The plant site and northern lagoons 4.2.6 This area incorporates an existing lake, current silt lagoons and the core area of the processing site that are currently operational. Subject to approval, it is the strategy of the masterplan to seek restoration of the plant site and northern lagoons following the completion and processing of mineral reserves from the proposed southern extension. 4.2.7 The existing office/administrative buildings will be retained, whilst all other processing machinery will be removed to prepare for a restoration strategy that will include substantial areas of woodland planting, a potential extension to the NMA, overflow car parking and a footpath link to definitive footpath routes in the northern area of the Restoration Site. 4.2.8 There is also a potential rail sidings use adjacent to the existing rail corridor. In the most northern area of the Restoration Site the existing lake which will be used (during the processing stages) as a silt lagoon operation, will be developed for natural habitat types rather than active recreational uses and regeneration of semi aquatic as well as aquatic habitats will be encouraged and as such offer benefits for nature conservation. Limited access along footpath routes will prevent wider disturbance. The NMA and Associated Recreational Area 4.2.9 This is the area situated between the A513 and Croxall Road which forms the northern boundary fronting the existing NMA gardens. The design philosophy is to develop a landscape structure for the NMA to then ‘adopt’ and take over the management of the gardens. The structure includes minor remodelling of the current landform, extensive woodland structure planting and the formation of open water in a formal ‘canalised’ pattern that will form the key structure and layout for the NMA use. The scale and spatial qualities of this are intended to be of an open and tranquil nature rather than small scale memorial designs. 4.2.10 To the west of the NMA area is a space which will extend to the rail way line where land is proposed for rail siding and associated uses. However the core area will be for public recreational uses, and a feature design to mark the boundary of the National Forest boundary is also incorporated as a substantial earth sculpture feature in the south-western sector of this area. 4.2.11 Interconnecting footpaths will create a link from the existing footpaths south of the A513, using the existing underpass for the mineral conveyor as an eventual public route and extending northwards to link with other definitive footpath routes. Agricultural Landuses South of the A513 4.2.12 This is the area of the Site in a number of differing landownerships and is presently almost entirely set to agricultural uses. The restoration design proposes returning the landform through placement of inert material to achieve levels that are the same or very comparable with the current situation. Any variation will be minor and
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made to achieve good ground water drainage properties and no net change to any floodplain storage. 4.2.13 Hedgerows and small woodland areas will be established throughout the Site area offering a substantial improvement upon the current situation as it will re-establish (previously lost) hedgerows that offer valuable wildlife refuge and linear routes. 4.2.14 In addition, several areas of open water will be created for farm irrigation uses as well as wildlife habitats. Habitat Establishment
Agricultural Restoration
4.2.15 A significant focus of the land contouring in the southern area in particular will be to reinstate productive agricultural land that can accommodate and make use of the best and most versatile resources on site. Having regard to the existence of best and most versatile land (i.e. ALC grades 1, 2 and 3a) on the site, it is the intention to reinstate a majority of the site to high quality agricultural land. Section 3.4 of this ES details the manner in which the soils will be managed to ensure that optimum use is made of them in accordance with current good practice guidance published by MAFF (now DEFRA) in 2000. No best and most versatile land will be permanently lost as a result of this proposal; furthermore it aims to create alternative habitats that will make a contribution to local and national bio-diversity objectives.
4.2.16 Land will be restored using approved methods for soils handling. Prior to the first crop being sown the soils will be analysed for major nutrients and suitable fertilisers and lime applied for the cropping proposed, as recommended by a FACTS qualified advisor. The land will be cultivated to produce a tilth suitable for the sowing of a short term grass mixture or (other suitable) winter cereal or oilseed crop. These works should be carried out whilst soils are dry and friable, with cultivations taking place after the end of July to avoid possible disturbance to ground nesting birds. During the aftercare period, temporary drainage works shall be carried out as necessary to prevent soil erosion, flooding, silting up or erosion of drainage channels within or outside the site boundary.
4.2.17 During the aftercare period (second year following soils reinstatement,) if required, an under drainage scheme will be designed and submitted to the MPA for approval. Once approved, the scheme will be installed using suitably experienced contractors and the land will then be cultivated (to produce a tilth suitable to be seeded with a further winter cereal or oilseed crop or short term grass ley as may be appropriate. Soils will be sampled and analysed annually with the results being used to determine the amounts and types of any nutrients that are deemed necessary to fulfil the long term aims of the soils rehabilitation. Soil nutrient analysis will be undertaken in Years 1, 3 & 5 of the aftercare period, and appropriate applications of fertiliser made for the planned cropping.
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Hedgerows
4.2.18 Within this predominantly arable landscape, diversity of the restored landscape will be achieved by the re-establishing of hedgerows of varied species. The working proposals do not remove any lengths of hedgerow that have been identified as being of ecological significance.
4.2.19 The restoration scheme seeks to re-establish new hedgerows with a greater length of higher woody species and a substantially greater number of hedgerow trees. During the working and aftercare period, the retained hedgerows will be managed sensitively to enhance their value for wildlife. The frequency of cutting will be reduced and hedges will be sided-up only, rather than topped, in order to ensure production of berries and nuts for birds and to provide denser cover for nesting.
4.2.20 The tall grass/herb community at the base of the new hedge may become important for a range of wildlife. Amphibia would be able to move around the site, foraging in the invertebrate-rich sward. These areas will also be of interest to bats. Small mammals will use the conjunction of shrubby hedge plants and tall grass to both feed and breed, which in turn may encourage owls and raptors to visit the land. The retention of such cover throughout the spring and summer may also encourage visits by ground-nesting birds to the area.
Wetland and Open Water
4.2.21 It is envisaged that small areas of open water and wetland will be created as part of the proposals in order to aid in land drainage. The open water area will be created by using the restored contours. The eastern and southern banks of such area will encompass small areas of wetland/reedbed planting.
4.2.22 Reedbeds are a nationally scarce habitat and their dependent species have a similar status, supporting characteristic communities of uncommon birds and invertebrates. Reedbeds of any size benefits wildlife. Reedbeds support plants and animals that are specially adapted to and reliant on the habitat, and are often associated with other wetland features such as open water, ditches, wet grassland and wet woodland. Reedbeds are wetland habitats dominated by stands of Common reed, and are classified as National Vegetation Classification (NVC) community S4.
4.2.23 Reedbeds are important habitats for birds in the UK, supporting six nationally rare Red Data Book species and providing roosting and feeding areas for migratory species and winter roost sites for raptors. In addition, at least 700 species of invertebrates are associated with UK reedbeds, and 40 of these depend on reed for their existence.
4.2.24 The applicant has followed the general advice contained within the RSPB publication “Habitat Creation Handbook for the Minerals
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Industry” (2003) in respect of establishment techniques specifically Section 4.4 of the RSPB publication. It is envisaged that Reed (Phragmites Communis) will be introduced as transplant material obtained from local suitable donor sites. Transplanted material will be introduced as clumps dug from a suitable source and tipped into the shallows to allow natural recolonisation.
4.2.25 The base of the excavated mineral deposits will be lined with interburden materials and this will be engineered to establish the required profile. Such deeper areas of water will mainly ensue an unfrozen layer in winter months and a refuge for any species therein could additionally assist in being a receptor site for silt carried into the reedbeds from flood events and therefore assist in maintaining the critical minimum summer water level depths.
4.2.26 The area of open water will have the following characteristics:
- the edges of the waterbody will be clear of overhanging vegetation and benefit from embayments and spurs to create differing condition; - in areas of shallow water aquatic and emergent plants to act as refuges and provide egg laying sites. - some areas will be left with no vegetation to encourage feeding by over wintering waders, although it is acknowledged that the size of the waterbody may restrict such opportunities; - areas of rough grassland surrounding the lake with reedbed; and - provision of nearby shelter and hibernation sites in the form of stone and log piles.
4.2.27 The lake areas will provide suitable conditions for potential colonisation by insects, invertebrates, amphibians and species such as water vole. The increased wetland and marginal habitat should also increase feeding opportunities for birds and mammal species. Advice will be sought from local wildlife groups to maximise the benefit from these features.
4.3 Aftercare
4.3.1 The existing consented operations to the north and east already have the benefit of an aftercare scheme, which extends over a period of five years following completion of restoration, in the given phase of extraction.
4.3.2 It is proposed to extend the provisions of that scheme over the application area to ensure continuity in management techniques employed at the site. The aftercare scheme for the extension area will also be five years.
4.3.3 In the long term, the NMA and associated recreation area will benefit from further ongoing management and maintenance by the NMA. The long term use is a key consideration in creating a sustainable
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restoration concept for use by a nationally important organisation such as the Royal British Legion and also the local populace in the vicinity of the site.
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SECTION 5 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
5.1 Introduction
5.1.1 Impact prediction for the scheme involves the analysis of potential impacts from the proposed operations on the environment and the determination of likely effects. The magnitude of physical extent of predicted impacts should be presented in quantifiable terms wherever possible. Consideration is also given to the long term benefits that mineral extraction proposals can create.
5.1.2 It is considered that the basic stages of impact prediction are:
identifying the activities in the development process likely to generate impacts, both positive and negative; identifying resources and receptors likely to be affected by those impacts; establishing the chain of events or pathways linking cause with effect; predicting the likely nature, extent and magnitude of any anticipated changes or effects; evaluating the consequences of any impacts identified; and, establishing which potential impacts (positive or negative) should be regarded as significant.
5.1.3 An integral part of the design process is to ensure that potentially adverse effects are avoided or minimised to an acceptable level by working to high environmental standards. The Applicant Company seeks to additionally ensure that, as far as practicable, the development entails a beneficial element by way of long term environmental improvements created through the restoration. The site design and restoration provisions are aimed at balancing protection of the local environment with the need to extract and utilise the sand resource consistent with sustainable development objectives.
5.1.4 The ‘receptors’ of environmental impacts arising from the ongoing mineral extraction are those elements of the environment that will be affected in some way by the development. For the purpose of the Environmental Assessment, these elements have been sub-divided into a combination of environmental elements and actual site activities and are as follows:
landscape and visual impact; soils and agricultural land quality; ecology; archaeology and cultural heritage; hydrology and hydrogeology; noise; traffic; air quality; and
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cumulative impact and interaction effects.
5.1.5 Each topic area is considered in terms of impact and is supported where necessary by mitigation measures in accordance with the EIA regulations and the requirements of the scoping opinion.
5.1.6 The assessments concentrate mainly on assessing the impact associated with the proposed extension, as the existing operations within the plant site (including RMX, recycling and bagging plant) are already proven to be acceptable in these locations and benefit from appropriate planning controls. Furthermore, it is assumed that the area of the application site within Whitemoor Haye will be worked and restored in accordance with consented details, and therefore requires no further assessment.
5.2 Landscape and Visual Impact
5.2.1 The proposed extension to the mineral extraction operations at Alrewas will invariably result in an element of some visual impact (negative and positive) due to the scale and nature of operations and subsequent restoration proposals. The working and restoration scheme follows landscape design objectives introduced to minimise any perceived visual impact during the operational phase and to potentially improve the landscape value of the area in the long-term upon restoration.
5.2.2 The significance of the visual effects is largely related to the potential for the development to affect the views experienced by people from areas they frequent, including residential property and areas of public access. The significance of any visual intrusion will also be determined by the nature of the existing view, distance of the viewpoints, duration of the effect and perception or sensitivity of the viewer or receptor.
5.2.3 A preliminary desk study was undertaken to establish the physical components of the local landscape and to identify the boundaries of the study area. Published maps were utilised to identify the significant local features relating to topography, field shape, drainage pattern and woodland cover, existing settlement pattern, transport corridors and important historic features. Finally, ZVS and ZTV studies were undertaken to derive the maximum extent of potential impact associated with the proposals. The LVIA WAS undertaken using the appropriate methodology issued by the landscape institute at that time. Fieldwork was undertaken in May 2011 and verified as continuing to be relevant in early 2014.
Sources of Potential Impact
5.2.4 Sources of potential landscape and visual impacts relating to the proposed working and restoration scheme include:
. Mobile plant movements (soil stripping/soil bund formation);
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. Lagoons/extraction areas (sand faces and the quarry floor), soil bunds themselves throughout the duration of the operation; . Mobile plant and other vehicle movements within the Site during mineral extraction operations; . Conveyor route crossing the agricultural areas and crossing public roads/footpaths; . Change of land use; . Mobile plant and other vehicle movements while progressive soil bund removal and soil replacement operations are being undertaken (though these would likely be intermittent works taking place over a relatively short duration of a number of weeks); and . Terminal restoration works including demolition and removal of the plant structures, offices, other buildings and roads.
Mitigation
5.2.5 The design and assessment process of the proposed mineral extraction has been an iterative process. This has enabled mitigation to be incorporated within the overall Working Scheme.
5.2.6 Mitigation proposals include:
. Progressive (phased) stripping of soil and working of the mineral reserve thereby limiting the overall area removed from agricultural use at any one time; . Use of soil storage for screening bunds, limiting the overall height to achieve screening but not visually dominant or excessively high near to viewpoint locations; . Importation of scalping material as an inert restoration materials to create formation levels; and . Phased restoration strategy and replacement of top and sub soils to achieve full agricultural afteruse (where planned).
5.2.7 The process of soil stripping and placement of soil material around the edge of the proposed extraction areas has been devised to prevent direct views of the working area as well as retain the soil resource for restoration purposes. Top soil will be stored up to 3metres in height and sub soil up to 5metres in height. Soil bunds would be grass seeded at the earliest opportunity to help soften their appearance in the landscape. A summary of the bund construction is presented in Table 12 on Page 50 of the LVIA (Refer Appendix 3).
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Visual Impact Assessment
Introduction
5.2.8 Areas where views of the application site may be gained were defined by initial desk study followed by fieldwork observation and verification.
5.2.9 The Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) of the site is determined by the flat nature of the topography, existing woodland and other natural features that screen views. In addition there are man- made influences such as embankments and the built environment.
5.2.10 The context of the existing visibility of the site is very limited and for the most part visibility is within a close range (c.500metres of the Site boundary).
5.2.11 Ten representative viewpoints were established that form the basis of the LVIA.
5.2.12 The ten locations are adjacent to, or very close to, the site boundary and will receive a wider and more direct panoramic view of the site.
5.2.13 As part of the LVIA process, consideration has also been given to existing views near to viewpoint locations. Table 4 - Summary of Representative Viewpoints DIRECTION OF VIEW AND VIEWPOINT LOCATION GENERAL NATURE DISTANCE NO. DESCRIPTION OF RANGE OF VIEW FROM THE SITE** Next to roundabout on The view from Adjacent to Site A513, adjacent Viewpoint 1 is 1 boundary facing to Whitemoor primarily towards west Lakes Activity Phase 2 Centre Barley Green The view from Adjacent to Site Lane near Viewpoint 2 is 2 boundary facing Whitemoor primarily towards west Haye Phases 1 and 2 The view from Barley Green Viewpoint 3 is Adjacent to Site Lane near primarily towards 3 boundary facing Microlight Phase 4A and phase north-west School 4B workings
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The view from Near to southern Stockton Lane Viewpoint 4 is boundary of the 4 near Roadside primarily towards site boundary Cottage Phase 3A, Phase 3B facing west and Phase 3C The view from Viewpoint 5 is Near railway primarily towards the 128m west of 5 crossing on Phase 3A workings site Fine Lane although Phase 3c may be seen to the east The view from Near railway Viewpoint 6 is crossing off 244m west of primarily towards the 6 footpath 12(b) site Phase 3A workings and 13 although Phase 4C may be seen beyond The view from Roddige Lane Viewpoint 7 is Adjacent to the 7 near Roddige primarily towards site Farm Phase 3B and Phase 4B A513 Road The view from Bridge over Adjacent to the Viewpoint 8 is 8 A38 near site primarily towards the Alrewas Phase 2 workings The view from A513 Road Viewpoint 9 is Bridge over 12m from Site primarily towards 9 Railway boundary facing Phase 5 workings Looking North- north-east although Phase 1A east may be seen to the east The view from Viewpoint 10 is Adjacent to Site Near Access to mainly towards Phase 10 boundary facing The NMA 1 workings although west Phase 5 may be seen to the west **Direction and distances are taken from the nearest boundary of the application site. 5.2.14 Descriptive text is provided within the LVIA for each viewpoint together with a prediction of how each view would alter as a result of the proposed working and restoration scheme (refer to Section 6.7 of the LVIA reproduced at Appendix 3). 5.2.15 A summary of visual effects is presented in Section 6.10 of the LVIA which predicts long term positive effects on the local environment.
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Effects Upon Landscape Character
5.2.16 The landscape characterisation of the area is summarised in section 2.3 above and considered in detail at Section 5 of the LVIA reproduced at Appendix 3. The Sensitivity of the landscape is set at Medium. Clearly it exhibits many beneficial features that are component parts to the wider character area, but also displays adverse characteristics such airfield uses, existing sand and gravel working to the east of the Site, hedgerows that have been grubbed up and old or weak hedgerow trees. Landscape Character Assessment 5.2.17 The assessment methodology considers the effects on a Site basis rather than phase or viewpoint location basis. The stages of impact source are: . Removal/storage of soils and commencement of extraction; . Infilling with inert waste; . Restoration to agriculture; and . Restoration to NMA design.
5.2.18 Impacts can be direct (i.e. effects upon the characteristics of the Site) and indirect which relate to the wider character area, influenced by the variation or change of landuse as a result of the mineral extraction.
Removal of soils and commencement of extraction
5.2.19 The Working Scheme takes place within the current field pattern which has developed historically through enclosure and subsequent land ownership as well as the road pattern. This is an important consideration as the restoration scheme will ultimately secure field areas presently lost.
5.2.20 In the short term the Working Scheme will remove the present agricultural uses which will be replaced with one of a disturbed sequential area that will exhibit mineral extraction operations. Whilst not uncommon in this area, in themselves they are an adverse landuse compared to the current landscape character. 5.2.21 The actual loss of existing trees and boundary vegetation is relatively limited. This will constitute a temporary effect upon landscape character. 5.2.22 The magnitude of the direct character effects will be Large (temporary). The significance of which will be a Moderate to Major (adverse and temporary) impact. This will continue for the duration of the extractive and infilling processes. 5.2.23 In the wider landscape character context the indirect effects will be less substantive and limited to the close range area around the Site itself.
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5.2.24 The phased sequence of working will limit the overall scale and context of potential character changes and in many instances the visibility of the extractive and infilling operations will be screened by the soil bunds placed around the edge of the working areas. Whilst this restricts visual amenity and also alters the character of the landscape, the magnitude of effect and particularly the nature of that effect are mitigated by the inclusion of the grassed embankments and as noted, the phased sequence. 5.2.25 The magnitude will between a Large and Medium level of effect and as such the resultant significance will be Moderate to Minor- Moderate. Again these effects are of a temporary nature generally lasting between two and five years in any one particular area. Infilling with inert restoration materials
5.2.26 This process will continue the period of time that the land is removed from agricultural use, although the phased sequence of working and restoration will limit this time period to a matter of only a few years.
5.2.27 The previous soil stripping will have removed the agricultural landuses and this stage simply continues the previously identified level of magnitude. Restoration
5.2.28 For the majority of the application site area the Restoration Masterplan will assist in returning productive agricultural uses to the Site together with the most northern field parcels being dedicated to an extension of the parkland style landscapes associated the NMA as a memorial garden. The details for these proposals are set out in Section 7 of the report reproduced at Appendix 3. 5.2.29 The restoration of the areas south of the A513 will introduce characteristics that will replace those lost during the extraction and infilling processes, including a landform that will be very similar to the existing levels with no substantive alteration or variation from the flat low lying character. It will also incorporate enhanced features such as replacing hedgerows which have been grubbed out in previous years as a result of more intensive agricultural uses. The restoration scheme incorporates proposed woodland areas and wetland/pond features that will enhance existing landscape character, and providing benefits from a nature conservation and biodiversity perspective. 5.2.30 The area north of the A513 effectively forms a separate character area physically bounded by the road network and by the adjacent existing NMA. Whilst the alteration from agricultural landscape is effectively a Large scale change the nature and type of change is complimentary to the current area. It will offer beneficial visual elements that will enhance the characteristics such as structure woodland planting and offers the potential for visitor attraction purposes. These are not anticipated to lead to an adverse effect.
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5.2.31 For the southern area, this will be returned to the current uses of agriculture, and in this respect the residual effects have no change. However the restoration scheme does seek to establish positive features and landscape elements and in this way it will have a Medium to Small magnitude and a Minor to Moderate positive impact. 5.2.32 Indirect effects will be slightly lower in terms of the magnitude and significance. Nevertheless improvement to the characteristics of the Site will result in a Minor (positive effect). This will be generally enhanced over and above the current situation. 5.2.33 Sections 5.3 and 5.4 of the LVIA consider the potential for impact on the Riparian Alluvial Lowlands LC7 and other adjoining character types. In all instances the sensitivity of the surrounding environs is assessed as Low or Medium and therefore only Minor to Negligible effects are assessed. 5.2.34 The scale and design of the proposed extension means that whilst visible from some locations, the unobtrusive context of the site together with its location are mitigating influences on the overall effect. Section 5.5 of the report confirms that such changes are easily absorbed into the surrounding landscape and will allow the overall landscape character to prevail. 5.2.35 With respect to designated assets in the locality, the site is not situated within an area that is afforded any national or regional level of landscape protection. Local Policy is in place to protect recreational activities in the area and the National Forest. Section 5.6 of the LVIA provides appropriate consideration in this regard. Conclusions 5.2.36 The proposed working scheme has short term adverse effects resulting from the removal of agricultural land to enable the extraction of the mineral resource. 5.2.37 However the comprehensive proposals for restoration will create beneficial residual effects that will improve the current situation. Therefore the proposed development can be seen (in balance) as having a positive character effect. 5.3 Soils and Agricultural Land Quality 5.3.1 A detailed summary of the soils types and Agricultural Land classifications is set out in section 2.6 of this ES. This confirms the presence of high quality soils within the proposed extension.
5.3.2 Government policy as outlined in the Defra Soil Strategy for England and Mineral Planning Guidance No 7 Reclamation of Mineral Workings is to protect valuable soil resources from loss or damage during land disturbance and ensure that stripped soils are used to either for land reinstatement after quarrying or other beneficial use off- site.
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5.3.3 There are three soil resource units, two topsoils and one subsoil, which are described below. The distribution of these units is illustrated on Map 1 of Appendix 3.
Soil Handling and Restoration
5.3.4 Full details of all soils handling measures are set out in section 3.3 above.
Conclusions
5.3.5 A study and survey of 127.6 ha of agricultural land to the south of Alrewas in Staffordshire has shown that:
The land has a mixture of stony light loamy and sandy soils on flattish land, more or less affected by groundwater. Doughtiness is the principal limitation to agricultural land quality and most of the land is of Grade 3 quality. Almost two thirds of the agricultural land is of “best and most versatile” quality, mainly sub-grade 3a but with a small area of grade 2. The rest is of moderate quality in sub- grade 3b. Two topsoil resources have been identified, one light loamy and one sandy. The subsoil resource is mainly sandy and stony and very variable in thickness.
5.4 Ecology
5.4.1 Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey
5.4.1.1 Based on the Phase 1 habitats survey work both during 2011 and 2014, and summarised in section 2.4 above further survey work has been undertaken for the following protected species that could potentially be present on site:
Amphibians
5.4.1.2 It was recommended that a great crested newt survey be undertaken of all waterbodies, on and within a 500 m radius of the proposed development site to provide up to date information on the status of this species.
Badgers
5.4.1.3
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Bat Roosts
5.4.1.4 To ensure compliance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), an initial bat survey was recommended to be undertaken on mature trees and buildings which may be impacted by the proposed development works.
Breeding Birds and Wintering Birds
5.4.1.5 Due to the importance of the survey area for birds, as highlighted by the abundance of desk study material, it was recommended that a breeding and Wintering bird surveys be conducted to determine the use of the site by such species.
Foraging Bats
5.4.1.6 To ensure compliance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), if any boundary features are going to be significantly affected by the proposals, a foraging bat survey was recommended to be undertaken to determine bat use of the site.
5.4.1.7 In terms of designated sites, the desk-top study set out in Section 3 of the report reproduced at Appendix 7(i) confirms the presence of the A513 ditches, SBI and the River Mease SAC and SSSI. The A513 SBI is directly adjacent to two of the extraction phases; however, the use of a 10m standoff as per Planning Consent L/13/07/817 MW will ensure that the integrity of these assets is maintained.
5.4.1.8 In relation to the River Mease SAC, and in the context of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010, there is no direct hydrological continuity, as the River Tame forms the edge of the drainage and recharge catchment relative to the proposed extension. no impacts will therefore be generated on this asset, and no further assessment work is considered to be necessary.
5.4.2 Breeding Birds and Wintering Birds
5.4.2.1 Consistent with the phase 1 recommendations Wintering bird surveys have been undertake since 2011. Full copies of the surveys in this regard can be found reproduced at appendices 7(ii) and 7(iii) of this ES.
Wintering Birds (refer to appendix 7(ii))
Fieldwork Methodology
5.4.2.2 The objective of the field survey is to identify important species or habitats that are present on the site and in what numbers, both in terms of number of species and quantities of those species present, and the areas that they favour. Particular attention was paid to the presence of birds of Conservation Concern (species that are listed as either red or amber by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds)
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and those species listed as Priority Species on the National and Local Biodiversity Action Plans.
5.4.2.3 Monthly counts of passage and wintering birds were carried out in November and December 2010 and January and February 2011.
5.4.2.4 The passage and wintering bird survey was undertaken using a walkover survey in line with the method described by Hilden (1986, 1987) highlighted in ‘Bird Census Techniques’ (Bibby et al, 1992). (refer to section 2 of the report reproduced at appendix 7(ii) for details of methodology)
Results
5.4.2.5 During the winter bird surveys, a total of 72 species was recorded using Alrewas Quarry and its environs.
Of these 72 species:
12 species are listed as Priority Species in the National Biodiversity Action Plan (bullfinch, common curlew, dunnock, grey partridge, house sparrow, lapwing, reed bunting, sky lark, song thrush, starling, tree sparrow and yellowhammer).
10 species are listed as Priority Species in the Staffordshire Biodiversity Action Plan (bullfinch,common snipe, grey partridge, house sparrow, lapwing, linnet, reed bunting, sky lark, tree sparrow and yellowhammer).
15 species identified on site are Red Listed by The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (dunlin, fieldfare, grey partridge, house sparrow, lapwing, linnet, pochard, redwing, reed bunting, scaup, skylark, song thrush, starling, tree sparrow and yellowhammer).
25 species are Amber Listed by The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds bewick’s swan, black-headed gull, bullfinch, common curlew, common gull, common snipe, dunnock, gadwall, green sandpiper, green woodpecker, kestrel, kingfisher, little egret, little grebe, mallard, meadow pipit, oystercatcher, redshank, reed bunting, shelduck, shoveler, stock dove, teal, tufted duck and wigeon).
5.4.2.6 The total species list and number of each bird species recorded at the Alrewas site during the winter bird surveys is presented in Table 3.1 of the report reproduced at Appendix 7(ii) which also presents the conservation status of the bird recorded, i.e. whether they are locally or nationally important.
5.4.2.7 Observations made at the Alrewas Quarry surveyed areas identified two key habitats for birds, namely open water areas within the
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northern and eastern study areas, and the arable farmland within the western side of the site.
5.4.2.8 The species assemblage recorded on site was considered typical of the main habitats available and characterised by those species associated with open water and arable farmland. The surveyed areas are considered to support a winter bird assemblage of nature conservation value at a county, and in some instances, regional level.
5.4.2.9 It is concluded that expansion of the gravel extraction activities into the proposed western extension area is unlikely to have a significantly detrimental impact to those species associated with farmland providing that boundary features are retained where possible.
Breeding Birds (refer to appendix 7(iii))
Fieldwork Methodology
5.4.2.10 The breeding bird survey was conducted in line with specifications detailed by the British Trust for Ornithology (Gilbert, 1998), although the methodology was tailored to site conditions. The methodology is a ‘scaled down’ version of the Common Bird Census (CBC) approach defined in Gilbert, with five site visits deemed appropriate. Sections 1 and 2 of the report provide the legislative context and methodologies for the survey work undertaken.
5.4.2.11 All of the breeding bird species recorded within the boundaries of the proposed extension of Alrewas quarry site during the breeding bird surveys are presented in Table 16 of the report reproduced at appendix 7(iii), which also presents the status of the bird recorded, i.e. whether they are nationally or locally important.
Results
5.4.2.12 Of the 47 species of bird noted using the site during the survey visits, it was thought that 37 species were confirmed to have bred on site with the remaining 10 probably or possibly having done so.
5.4.2.13 An additional 12 species were recorded during the surveys but were not breeding within the confines of the study area, and comprised either passage migrants or birds believed to breeding in surrounding areas and flying over, or temporarily, using the site for foraging purposes.
Discussion and Evaluation
5.4.2.14 The study area was dominated by agricultural farmland with the majority under arable crops (primarily wheat, barley and oilseed rape but also some areas of potatoes and beans). Field sizes tended to be very large and bound by field drainage ditches and highly maintained
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hedgerows. Very little woodland was present with one or two small broad-leaved copses along field margins and at hedgerow junctions. Scrub habitat was similarly limited with areas also restricted to boundary junctions. Scattered trees were a feature of the survey area with frequent lines of semi-mature and mature specimens recorded along some of the boundaries. Areas of open water were restricted to four small areas scattered across the site with the largest estimated to be approximately 0.25 hectares. Given the dominance of intensive arable farmland, the majority of species recorded were birds that can be considered to be farmland bird species.
5.4.2.15 In terms of evaluating the proposed extension area of the for its breeding bird significance the following criteria were taken into account:
The occurrence of significant concentrations of a bird species particularly if these comprise a significant proportion (1% or more) of the national breeding population. The species richness of the bird assemblage of the site i.e. how many different types of species does the site support. Species listed on National and Local Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) and species determined to be of red or amber listed status by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and therefore of ‘conservation concern’.
5.4.2.16 No nationally significant concentrations of breeding bird species were identified during the course of the field visits. However, the survey area supported several pairs of declining farmland bird species, namely corn bunting, grey partridge, linnet, Northern lapwing, reed bunting, sky lark, stock dove, tree sparrow, yellow wagtail and yellowhammer. Of these 10 species, the most notable were considered to be corn bunting, grey partridge, tree sparrow and yellow wagtail.
5.4.2.17 Field observations indicated the presence of at least three pairs of grey partridge. This is another fast-declining farmland bird species throughout the United Kingdom. In terms of the Staffordshire breeding population, 17 sites held birds during the breeding season in 2008 with a further 18 locations in the wider West Midland’s region.
5.4.2.18 In a similar vein to corn bunting and grey partridge, the four pairs of yellow wagtail recorded within the study area are notable in a county context (14 Staffordshire breeding locations recorded in 2008 with a total of 21-23 pairs).
5.4.2.19 Tree sparrows were noted breeding at six locations within the current study area, although the precise number of pairs could not be determined as this is a semi-colonial nesting species utilising both buildings and suitable trees (containing cavities) for breeding. A flock estimated to be in excess of 30 birds (including fledged juveniles) was
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recorded along the access track to the west of Whitemoor Haye Farm buildings, and small flocks were commonly encountered throughout the survey area south of the A513, during the July 2011 survey visit. This species, like the previous two, is declining in Staffordshire and the relatively high numbers which the area supports is considered to be of county significance.
5.4.2.20 With regard to the remaining declining farmland bird species recorded within the study area i.e. linnet, Northern lapwing, reed bunting, sky lark, stock dove, and yellowhammer, although the site supports varying numbers of these species it is not considered to be especially important in either a county or regional context. All of these species are still reasonably widespread within Staffordshire. Additional breeding pairs of all of these birds were noted within the surrounding areas of farmland and restored/active gravel workings.
5.4.2.21 The total number of species recorded within a surveyed area provides an indication of the significance of a site. Fuller (1980) provided the following breeding diversity criteria in Table 5.
Table 5: Significance of Total Number of Species Recorded on a Site Local County Regional National 25-49 50-69 70-84 85+
5.4.2.22 Based upon criteria provided above, the 47 breeding/territory-holding species within the survey area would indicate that the study area can be considered to be of local significance (and only just short of meeting county significance numbers), supporting a good range of breeding bird species associated with farmland habitats incorporating species typical of arable crops, hedgerows, small woods and shelterbelts. The majority of these territories being centered upon the network of field boundaries, small areas of scrub and tiny woodland blocks which permeate the proposed quarry extension area and provide optimal nesting and foraging habitat.
5.4.2.23 Species associated with wetland habitats were rarely recorded with a single pair of moorhen and two pairs of little grebe together with and mallard (one brood) and tufted duck (one brood) recorded. This is not really unexpected given the lack of open water within the survey area, and that present being of insufficient quality to attract large numbers of breeding waterfowl in terms of both numbers and species. Much more suitable waterbird breeding habitat is located to the north and east of the current proposed quarry extension area.
5.4.2.24 The study area incorporated several building complexes (although it should be noted that these would appear to fall outside of the proposed extension area). These collections of structures provided nesting locations for a suite of species which are otherwise likely to have been absent as breeding birds from the surveyed site e.g. common starling, house sparrow, tree sparrow and swallow.
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5.4.2.25 Recorded raptor species comprised common buzzard, hobby, kestrel, little owl and sparrowhawk. Of these five species only two were confirmed as breeding within the study site, namely little owl and kestrel. Both species require old farm buildings or large, mature trees with suitable nesting cavities. A pair of little owl was, not unsurprisingly, located using a large oak Quercus robur to the east of the microlight gliding club, whilst kestrel were breeding within an owl box located on an isolated oak tree to the north of the large waterbody in the southern area of the study site. Common buzzards were frequently recorded over and feeding within the site with up to four birds soaring together during April and May with confirmation of breeding in July 2011 with a family party of five birds noted. It was considered that the current study area incorporates two common buzzard territories with nesting taking place outside of this zone (nesting within Brookhay Wood immediately abutting the site to the south and to the west of the railway line) but the species occupies a relatively large home range.
5.4.2.26 The proposed extension supports a rich selection of National/Local Biodiversity Action Plan Priority Species and RSPB Red and Amber Listed Species of Conservation Concern comprising:
Fourteen National BAP Species – bullfinch, common starling, corn bunting, dunnock, grey partridge, house sparrow, linnet, northern lapwing, reed bunting, sky lark, song thrush, tree sparrow, yellow wagtail and yellowhammer.
Seven Local BAP Species – bullfinch, corn bunting, house sparrow, linnet, reed bunting, tree sparrow and yellowhammer.
Eleven RSPB Red Listed Species - common starling, corn bunting, grey partridge, house sparrow, linnet, northern lapwing, sky lark, song thrush, tree sparrow, yellow wagtail and yellowhammer. Eleven RSPB Amber Listed Species - bullfinch, common whitethroat, dunnock, kestrel, little grebe, mallard, reed bunting, stock dove, swallow, tufted duck and willow warbler.
5.4.2.27 The species considered to be of most significance are those nationally listed species which can be classified as being ‘declining farmland bird species’, namely corn bunting, grey partridge, linnet, northern lapwing, reed bunting, sky lark, tree sparrow, yellow wagtail and yellowhammer.
5.4.2.28 The current farming regime within the proposed extension area supports generally high breeding numbers of these farmland species that are significant not only on a county but also a regional basis. The extension of the existing Alrewas quarry into the survey area is likely to have some impact upon breeding birds, although as details of the timeframes and phasing of operations are not known at this stage. However, where boundary features and other areas of importance
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e.g. scrubby corners and wooded copses, can be retained it is considered that impacts can be minimised and there may not be a significant reduction in both species and numbers of breeding birds. It is considered that species such as corn bunting and yellow wagtail which nest within crops will relocate to adjoining areas of similar habitat. Furthermore, quarrying activities within the study area will almost certainly provide a range of new habitats which will favour many of the species recorded during the current survey and is likely to lead to a range of new species moving in and exploiting the bare ground, ephemeral vegetation and shallow pools which form as a result of site works e.g. little ringed plover Charadrius dubius and redshank Tringa totanus.
Conclusions and Recommendations
5.4.2.29 The proposed extension area at Alrewas quarry site supports a range of breeding/territory-holding bird species considered to be of both local, county and regional significance, in particular those species associated with farmland habitats are undergoing declines throughout the United Kingdom e.g. corn bunting, grey partridge, linnet, Northern lapwing, reed bunting, sky lark, stock dove, tree sparrow, yellow wagtail and yellowhammer.
5.4.2.30 In terms of important habitats within the surveyed area the most significant are the boundary features which support a diverse range of breeding species. In addition, the arable cropped areas support notable farmland species, namely corn bunting, Northern lapwing, sky lark and yellow wagtail.
5.4.2.31 Specific recommendations are considered to be inappropriate at this stage but any works that require removal of vegetation to facilitate access and quarrying activities should be timed so as to avoid the bird nesting season (the bird nesting season is generally accepted to be March-September inclusive). If this is not possible then areas of vegetation to be removed should be checked by a suitably qualified ecologist 24 hours in advance of works to establish whether it is safe to do so.
5.4.3 Protected/Notable Species
Great Crested Newts (refer appendix 7(vii)
5.4.3.1 A comprehensive Great Crested newt Survey was completed in 2011 including the full breadth of survey techniques. A copy of the report completed by Middlemarch Environmental is reproduces at appendix 7(vii) of this ES. Sections 1 and 2 of the report provide the legislative context and methodologies for the survey work undertaken.
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Site Introduction
5.4.3.2 Reference to Ordnance Survey mapped data indicates the potential presence of up to 19 waterbodies within a 500m radius of the proposed extension area, five of which occur within the site boundary. The ponds and proposed development area are shown on Middlemarch Environmental Ltd Drawing C109380-04-01 (refer appendix 7(vii).
Survey Constraints
5.4.3.3 Some limitations in pond surveying techniques were experienced with regard to surveyed ponds P8, P11 and P12. Access to pond edges was both unsafe and not feasible in places due to the steepness of the banks and the presence of dense impenetrable scrub.
Desk Study
5.4.3.4 A desk study was undertaken to determine records of great crested newt within a 2 km radius of the site. This involved contacting appropriate statutory and non-statutory organisations which hold ecological data relating to the survey area. Middlemarch Environmental Ltd then assimilated and reviewed the desk study data provided by these organisations. The consultees for the Desk Study were: . Staffordshire Ecological Record; and . National Biodiversity Network Gateway website.
5.4.3.5 The study confirmed the identification of eight records (refer table 3.1 of appendix 7(vii)). An assessment of the National Biological Network (NBN) dataset was completed to determine any records of great crested newts from within the 10 km square in which the site exists. This search identified nine records of great crested newt, the most recent of which was from 2005.
Habitat Suitability Index
5.4.3.6 All ponds within a 500 m radius of the study area were assessed utilising the modified great crested newt Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) (Oldham et al, 2000). The HSI is a numerical index between 0 and 1, wherein a score of 1 represents optimal habitat for great crested newts. The HSI score is used to define the suitability of the pond on a categorical scale (Table 6). It should be noted, however, that the system is not precise enough to allow the conclusion that a pond with a high score will definitely support great crested newts whilst those with a low score will not
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Table 6: Great Crested Newt HSI Scoring
HSI Score Pond Suitability
<0.5 Poor 0.5 – 0.59 Below Average 0.6 – 0.69 Average 0.7 – 0.79 Good >0.8 Excellent
5.4.3.7 The HSI is given by assigning a quantitative figure to each of 10 variables, e.g. pond area, water quality, level of shading. The tenth root of the product of these variables is then calculated, giving a figure for habitat suitability. Section 4 of the report reproduced at appendix 7(vii) provides full details of the nineteen water bodies surveyed in the vicinity of the proposed extension.
5.4.3.8 The results of the HSI index for all ponds surveyed are detailed in Table 7.
Table 7A: Pond Habitat Suitability Index Results (2011) HSI Score Pond Suitability for GCN Pond Reference < 0.5 Poor P2, P3, P6, P7, P10, P13, P16, P17, P14, P18, P19 0.5 – 0.59 Below average P1, P4, P5, P8, P9, P11
0.6 – 0.69 Average P15
0.7 – 0.79 Good -
> 0.8 Excellent P12
HSI Summary
5.4.3.9 Of the 19 waterbodies within the survey area 16 were not subject to full great crested newt surveys due to a variety of factors. Waterbodies P6, P9 and P19 were dry (or became devoid of water subsequent to the first survey visit) and therefore unsuitable for further investigation for great crested newts.
5.4.3.10 A further HSI survey was undertaken in February 2014 as part of the updated Phase 1 Habitat Survey [refer Appendix 7(i)]. Of the original 19 waterbodies surveyed by Middlemarch, 11 were surveyed by Pleydell Smithyman, within only 5 ponds within the proposed extension area. The findings from these surveys are summarised in Table 7B below:
Table 7B: Pond Habitat Suitability Index Results (2014) HSI Score Pond Suitability Pond Reference < 0.5 Poor P4, P8 0.5 – 0.59 Below average P1, P2, P3, P10
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0.6 – 0.69 Average P9, P11
0.7 – 0.79 Good P7
> 0.8 Excellent P5, P6
Great Crested Newt Presence/Absence Survey
5.4.3.11 Surveys for the presence of great crested newts require a minimum of 4 visits per year, with at least 2 visits between mid-April and mid-May to record peak numbers of GCN (English Nature, 2001).
5.4.3.12 Several survey methodologies are to be utilised during these visits. The standard survey methodologies include:
Torchlight survey; Bottle trapping; Egg searching; and Refuge searching.
5.4.3.13 The torchlight survey is a standard amphibian recording technique employing a high power torch to illuminate the ponds and allow the surveyor to record any GCN seen. This technique was undertaken during the survey visits, when males will be displaying and courting females. Full details of the methodology are set out in section 2.3 of the report reproduced at Appendix 7(vii).
5.4.3.14 The great crested newt surveys were undertaken between 10th May 2011 and June 6th 2011 by the following staff at Middlemarch Environmental:
• Tim Hextell, Principal Technical Ecologist, Natural England GCN Licence holder; • Tom Docker, Ecological Project Manager, Natural England GCN Licence holder; and, • Fiona Wallis, Ecological Consultant.
5.4.3.15 Table 8 lists the results obtained from the great crested newt surveys. The locations of the survey points are shown illustrated at Appendix 3 of Appendix 7(viii).
5.4.3.16 Of the 19 waterbodies identified within the study area, three were subject to full surveys. The surveyed ponds were Ponds P8, P11 and P12. These had an HSI score of below average, excellent and average respectively. The remaining ponds were not surveyed due to them being dry or because of their large size and the presence of fish and wildfowl. Great crested newt HSI calculations indicated that the non-surveyed waterbodies (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6, P7, P9, P10, P13, P14, P15, P16, P17, P18 and P19) were of below average or poor suitability to support great crested newts.
Table 8: GCN Survey Results
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POND P8 POND P11 POND P12
Survey Visit 1 – [10-05-11 / 11- 05-11]
Torch Survey 2 ♂ SN, 1 ♀ SN 0 50+ SN, 1 ♂ GCN Bottle Trapping 0 0 10 ♂ SN, 6 ♀ SN Refugia Search 0 0 0 Egg Search 0 0 0 Peak GCN 0 1 GCN Count 1 Survey Visit 2 – [15-05-11 / 16- 05-11]
Torch Survey 1 ♂ SN, 1 ♀ SN 0 35+ SN
Bottle Trapping 0 0 4 ♂SN, 1♀GCN Refugia Search 0 0 0 Egg Search 0 0 0 Peak GCN 0 1 GCN Count 2 Survey Visit 3 – [17-05-11 / 18- 05-11]
Torch Survey 3 ♂ SN, 2 ♀ SN 0 35+ SN Bottle Trapping 0 0 4 ♂SN 2♂ GCN 1♀GCN Refugia Search 0 0 0 Egg Search 0 0 0 Peak GCN 0 0 3 GCN Count 3 Survey Visit 4 – [19-05-11 / 20- 05-11]
Torch Survey 0 0 10 ♂SN, 8 ♀ SN 2♂ GCN 2♀GCN Bottle Trapping 0 0 5 ♂SN, 8 ♀ SN 1♂ GCN 1♀GCN Refugia Search 0 0 0 Egg Search 0 0 0 Peak GCN 0 0 2 GCN Count 4 Survey Visit 5 – [29-05-11 / 30- 05-11]
Torch Survey - 0 13 ♂SN, 10 ♀ SN 3♂ GCN 2♀GCN Bottle Trapping - 0 6 ♂SN, 2 ♀ SN
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2♂ GCN 2♀GCN Refugia Search - 0 0 Egg Search - 0 0 Peak GCN - 0 4 GCN Count 5 Survey Visit 6 – [05-06-11 / 06- 06-11]
Torch Survey - 1♂ GCN 23 SN 5♂ GCN 5♀GCN Bottle Trapping - 0 1♂ GCN 2♀GCN Refugia Search - 0 0 Egg Search - 0 0 Peak GCN - 1 GCN 10 GCN Count 6 Key: GCN – Great crested newt Triturus cristatus ♂ - male ♀ - female SN – Smooth newt Lissotriton vulgaris juv. – juvenile/subadult Notes: ‘Peak GCN Count’ is the peak count of GCN recorded during a single visit using a single survey technique.
Population Size/Class Assessment
5.4.3.17 In water bodies where great crested newts were found a further two surveys were undertaken. This was in order to provide a population class estimate, as the determination of population class size in accordance with the ‘Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines’ (English Nature, 2001) recommends that a minimum of 6 survey visits to each pond are made.
5.4.3.18 The peak population count for a single night is used to inform the calculation of population size class. Where ponds are within 250 m of each other the peak is summed across these ponds for the same night and a size class assigned using the following criteria:
Small Population – where peak count is up to 10;
Medium Population – where peak count is 11 to 100; and,
Large Population – where peak count exceeds 100.
5.4.3.19 The population size class assessment is used to determine the level of mitigation required, should great crested newts be found.
Population Size Class Assessment
5.4.3.20 The population size class assessment is determined by taking the maximum count for all those ponds within 250 m during a single survey visit by a single technique (English Nature, 2001). Where a number of ponds are recorded within a 250 m radius of each other these are considered to hold a single great crested newt population
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and the peak count for each survey visit for these ponds is then summed to generate the peak count for the population.
5.4.3.21 The results from the assessment are presented in Table 9 below.
Table 9: Great Crested Newt Population Size Class Assessment for Surveyed Ponds Population Ponds Reference Maximum GCN Population Size Reference Count (using a single survey technique)
GCN Pond P11 and 6 ♂ GCN, Medium Population P12 5 ♀ GCN A (05/06/11)
5.4.3.22 In accordance with English Nature Guidelines (2001) the above populations can be classified as being of a medium size. The recommendation was therefore to continue to monitor the population. This will be undertaken via further survey visits during 2014.
Bats - Appendix 7(v)
5.4.3.23 In line with the specifications detailed by English Nature (2001), a daytime assessment of the buildings and structures within the proposed Alrewas Quarry extension area was conducted. A visual assessment was undertaken of all structures in order to identify features which may provide potential roosting sites for bat species, or signs such as bat droppings which may be indicative of the presence of bats. Full details of the legislative context and methodology are set out in sections 1 and 2 of the report reproduced at Appendix 7 (v) of this ES.
Initial Bat Survey
5.4.3.24 The initial bat survey was undertaken on 19th and 28th July 2011 by Tim Hextell (Principal Technical Ecological Consultant) & Fiona Wallis (Ecological Project Officer) of Middlemarch Environmental.
5.4.3.25 The proposed extension area incorporated several small buildings and structures which are described in further detail below. Several other buildings and structures occurred on the periphery of, or just outside, the survey area. These features were not subject to detailed surveys. The findings of the survey with photographs are detailed in the report reproduced at Appendix 7 (v) of this ES.
Electrical Sub-station Building
5.4.3.26 A small square structure set amidst young trees and scrub towards the north-western corner of the site adjacent to the A513. This building possessed breeze block walls which were observed to be in
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excellent condition and offered no potential access or roosting locations for bats. This building was again identified in the updated Phase 1 Habitat Survey [refer appendix 7(i)].
Microlight School Buildings
5.4.3.27 A series of relatively flimsy temporary structures used for the storage of powered microlight aircraft together with a small adjacent building that served as a clubhouse and control building.
5.4.3.28 The hangar structures were composed of corrugated metal sheeting and heavy duty plastic/polythene materials stretched over an internal steel supporting framework. Gaps were present at numerous points around each of the hangars which could potentially provide access into interior areas. An external inspection of the hangars revealed no evidence of bat presence/usage e.g. bat droppings attached to external walls below potential access points.
5.4.3.29 It was not possible to investigate internal areas of the hangars but it was considered that the nature of these buildings and their construction rendered them unsuitable for use by roosting bats.
5.4.3.30 To the north-east of the hangars was a small rectangular single-storey structure used as a clubhouse by the microlight club. This building was constructed from a mixture of corrugated metal sheeting and wooden panelling and was inset with metal-framed glazed windows (all intact). A flat corrugated metal sheeting roof was present which was close-fitting and in good condition. The external inspection of the building revealed no obvious access points or areas that could be used by roosting bats, and no evidence of their presence i.e. droppings attached to walls and window panes.
Conclusions
5.4.3.31 The small electrical sub-station building towards the north-western end of the proposed quarry extension area possessed no features considered suitable for use by roosting bats, and no field evidence was detected to suggest that bats had been using this structure.
5.4.3.32 The series of small buildings/structures associated with the microlight flying club were considered to offer no bat roosting potential and no field evidence of their presence/usage was located during the initial inspection.
5.4.3.33 No current bat roosts were identified within any of the surveyed trees within the study area, however a number of trees were present that possessed a range of features considered highly suitable for use as bat roosts. Trees (or groups of trees) considered having very low or low roosting potential are: 12, 17, 18, 20, 22, 23, 32, 49 and 85. Trees (or groups of trees) considered having low to moderate roosting potential are: 2, 6, 20, 33, 57, 58, 61, 63 and 65. Trees (or groups of
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trees) considered having high or very high potential are: 7, 42, 46, 66, 70 and 82 (refer Appendix 1 of Appendix 7(v) for tree locations).
5.4.3.34 The survey area is considered to offer exceptionally rich foraging habitat and commuting corridors for a range of bat species.
Bat Recommendations
5.4.3.35 The following general recommendations provide general guidance with regard to any demolition or tree/linear feature removal.
R1 If any of the surveyed trees identified as possessing moderate to very high bat roost potential are scheduled for removal to facilitate site works (or are likely to be impacted by other activities e.g. vibration) then they should be subject to additional survey works to determine if any bats are roosting within them.
R2 Should any bats be located at any point during the course of site works within the proposed Alrewas quarry extension then all works should cease immediately and expert advice sought.
R3 It is recommended, where feasible, that areas considered to offer commuting and foraging potential e.g. hedgerows, patches of scrub and small copses, be retained.
Foraging Bat Survey – Appendix 7(vi)
5.4.3.36 Further surveys were undertaken using the National Bat Monitoring Programme Methodology. The aim of the bat monitoring was to understand how important features of the site are and their use as bat foraging and commuting patters and how these will be affected by the proposed development. Full details of the survey are reproduced at Appendix 7(vi).
5.4.3.37 The foraging bat survey was undertaken on 12/12/27 and 28 August 2011 appropriately qualified ecologists from Middlemarch Environmental.
5.4.3.38 A total of three bat species were identified during the surveys. A total of 211 bat passes were recorded during the surveys. These were identified as follows:
• Common pipistrelle (158 passes) in both transects; • Soprano pipistrelle (42 pass) in both transects; and, • Noctule (11 pass) in transect in both transects.
5.4.3.39 The most bat passes were recorded in Transect 2 with 128 bat passes from 3 species (common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle and noctule). Fewer passes were recorded within Transect 1 with 73 passes again from 3 species (common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle and noctule).
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Recommendations
5.4.3.40 Where feasible, the existing vegetation should be retained around the perimeters of the proposed quarry extension area which are being used as commuting routes and foraging areas by bats and it is recommended that as many internal boundaries and foraging areas are retained as possible. If this is not possible then it is recommended that, where feasible, appropriate landscaping is undertaken to compensate for loss of foraging/commuting features.
5.4.3.41 Because bats are highly mobile creatures that will seek out and use new roosting locations from season to season it is recommended that updated assessments of local features for evidence of bat roosts be undertaken. These will be undertaken during the next survey season.
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5.5 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage
5.5.1 The proposed extension area has been subject to comprehensive field evaluation comprising of geophysical survey and trial trenching. The results have provided an enhanced understanding of the site. Reference is also made here to the recent archaeological watching brief across the NMA temporary car park, which lies within the current application boundary.
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5.5.2 The results of all of the surveys and desk based work have been consolidated into a single document reproduced at Appendix 6 of this ES.
Geophysical Survey (refer Appendix 1b of Appendix 6)
5.5.3 Parts of the site were evaluated by detailed magnetometer survey supplemented by a magnetic susceptibility scan.
5.5.4 Findings from the survey were limited mainly to linear markings of variable quality, some of which could be identified with former boundaries. One clearly defined feature of possible archaeological interest was a square enclosure next to a former track or boundary in field 6 (located within Phase 2 of the extraction scheme). These features closely resemble cropmarks recorded nearby. Various individual magnetic anomalies which could represent silted pits were also identified, but they were sparse and widely dispersed, with no identifiable clusters which might suggest the presence of a group of archaeological features. The survey detected a number of (probably insubstantial) traces of former hedge lines, but few other findings. The evidence overall suggested that few dense concentrations of archaeological features are likely to be present.
Trial Trenching (refer Appendix 1c of Appendix 6)
5.5.5 Following both the earlier (1992) and later (2012) geophysical surveys the site was subject to targeted trial trench evaluation. All works were conducted in full accordance with the requirements and conditions of the archaeological adviser to the MPA. A total of 32 trenches were excavated (9 in 1992 and 23 in 2012), the majority being positioned in areas where the geophysical surveys suggested the presence of below ground features. Trenches were also positioned in areas where the HER had plotted cropmarks of potential archaeological origin. Other trenches were positioned in blank areas to act as a control.
5.5.6 The trenches excavated as part of the 1992 evaluation failed to identify the features plotted from the aerial photographic assessment. Indeed, aside from an undated ditch, very little of archaeological interest was identified. The 2012 programme of trial trenching was more successful in its aims.
5.5.7 This second stage of trial trenching involved the excavation of 23 trenches, excavated across eight fields. Whilst features were identified in most of the trenches, the majority were either undated or clearly related to former field boundaries of post-Medieval date. One trench, however, contained stratified prehistoric archaeology (Trench 11) and another quite dense Medieval archaeology, suggestive of a rural farmstead (Trench 27). It was considered that many of the undated features (present in 11 trenches) could represent archaeology of any period. There was a noticeable lack of features dated to the Roman period, which was unusual considering the
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proximity of the Roman Ryknild Street and the bordering Roman archaeology to the east.
NMA Car Park Investigations (refer Appendix 1d of Appendix 6)
5.5.8 The NMA received planning permission for the construction of a temporary car park within a part of the northern-most field of the application area (Phase 1 of the proposed working scheme). Prior to development, an archaeological watching brief was required across the footprint of the site. Archaeological monitoring of the works identified two probable field boundary ditches, one which contained a fragment of a rotary quern, considered to be of Iron Age or Roman date. Aside from several post-Medieval furrows, no other archaeology was identified.
The Wider Landscape
5.5.9 The proposed extension lies in a landscape that contains a number of significant prehistoric monuments dating from Neolithic times. These include Neolithic ritual sites, Bronze Age burials, Iron Age farmsteads and pit alignments. Archaeology of most periods has been excavated on the bordering existing quarry site, which lies to the immediate east. This includes extensive remains of Bronze Age and Iron Age date. The earliest archaeological evidence on the quarry is, however, of Lower Palaeolithic date (c. 40,000-25,000 BC), being represented by the remains of several Woolly Rhinoceros.
5.5.10 The nearest Roman (AD 43-410) centre Letocetum (Wall) was occupied during the Claudian period and appears to have been a military centre with major road links to Wroxeter and Derby. Outside of the settlements, farming communities developed, which have been investigated to the west of Alrewas, at Barton Quarry, Fisherwick, Tucklesholme Farm and on the existing quarry. The high incidence of such settlement is perhaps not surprising when one considers that the present-day A38 follows the line of the Roman Ryknild Street.
5.5.11 The understanding of the post-Roman Anglo-Saxon period (AD 410- 1066) is far from clear. Tamworth is known to have developed into the capital of Mercia in the 7th century and Lichfield, the successor of Wall, may have developed in to the centre for the early Bishopric of Diuma. Although it is generally thought that the area did not become densely settled until the 8th century, an extensive 7th century settlement has been identified at Catholme.
5.5.12 Alrewas is the nearest settlement to the site. As it is mentioned in the Domesday Survey of 1086 it is assumed to have Saxon Origins. It developed, however during the Medieval period (AD 1066–1539) when it was in the ownership of the King in the Offlow Hundred. The proposed extension area is likely to have been outlying agricultural fields of the village and more likely to be used as pasture.
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Cultural Heritage Impacts
5.5.13 The cultural heritage and historic landscape characterisation is detailed in Section 5 of the report reproduced at Appendix 6 and summarised in Section 2.5 above. The potential impacts across a range of heritage assets is fully examined via the following tables set out in the report reproduced at appendix 6:
Table 4 – scheduled monuments within 2.5km of the site; Table 5 – listed buildings assessed within a 3km boundary of the site; and Table 6 – conservation areas assessed within 3km of the site boundary.
5.5.14 The findings of these assessments are detailed in the tables presented in 7 and 8 of the report, and summarised in the text below.
Prediction/Assessment of Impacts
5.5.15 Sources of impacts upon archaeology and other cultural heritage features are likely to arise from excavations and soil stripping as a result of the following:
- Establishment of quarry infrastructure; - Creation of haulage and access routes across the quarry workings; - Soil stripping across quarry phases prior to extraction; - Creation of soil storage and landscape screening bunds.
5.5.16 Within the development area these construction/establishment actions can create direct impacts upon archaeology and other cultural heritage features that may be present on the site.
Assessment of Indirect Impacts of construction/establishment
5.5.17 Sources of impacts upon cultural heritage assets outside of the development boundary, i.e. indirect impacts, have the potential to arise as a result of the following:
- the development and erection of quarry infrastructure; - the creation of soil storage areas; - the establishment of the phases for subsequent quarrying.
5.5.18 These construction/establishment actions can create indirect impacts upon archaeology and other cultural heritage features outside of the development site. Indirect effects can occur as a result of significant adverse changes to the setting of a site. The issue of setting primarily refers to sites that are visible, as it is predominantly visible remains that have tangible settings. Issues of setting are less relevant when discussing buried archaeological sites that are not identifiable on the surface.
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Lafarge Tarmac Alrewas Quarry Environmental Statement Proposed Southern Extension
Assessment of Operational/Decommissioning Impacts
5.5.19 In the case of a quarry development, direct impacts on archaeology and other cultural heritage assets within the boundaries of the development arise from disturbance relating to excavations and soil stripping. Given that these operations are most likely to be experienced during the construction/establishment phase (site establishment, soil and overburden stripping) there are no anticipated additional impacts on such receptors during the operational (actual extraction following soil stripping) or decommissioning/restoration phases. Whilst there is likely to be disturbance to some degree during the decommissioning/restoration phase (i.e. removing infrastructure from the Site and creation of new landforms), it is not anticipated to extend beyond those areas disturbed during the construction period. Decommissioning/restoration impacts of a direct character are therefore identified as negligible.
5.5.20 Indirect effects can occur as a result of significant adverse changes to the setting of a site. It is assessed that operational and decommissioning cultural heritage impacts will have no greater significance than those identified at the construction/establishment stage. The establishment of the proposed development has been assessed to have a moderate indirect effect on the Grade II Listed Roddige Farmhouse. Therefore, the predicted impact has been assessed as being of moderate significance. It should be made clear that the identified impact will only be temporary in character, as the quarry development is a ‘temporary development’, which will be restored in the medium term. Following approved site restoration any effect to the setting of the farmhouse will be restored.
Cumulative Impacts
5.5.21 Aside from the existing Whitemoor Hay area or Alrewas Quarry to which this application represents an extension, there are two other quarries (operational, consented or at application stage) within the wider cumulative assessment study area. These are Barton Quarry (operated by Hanson Aggregates) and Newbold Quarry (operated by Aggregate Industries UK Ltd). There are, however, no identified cumulative impacts on archaeological or other cultural heritage assets during the construction, operational or decommissioning phases of the proposed quarry.
Residual Effects
5.5.22 Residual effects are those that remain after the mitigation measures detailed above are taken into account and are those that remain where the mitigation measures are not able to deal with the relevant effect. There are no anticipated residual effects for the construction or after completion phases of the development following implementation of the mitigation measures detailed.
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Lafarge Tarmac Alrewas Quarry Environmental Statement Proposed Southern Extension
Summary
5.5.23 A wide range of sources were consulted for this assessment, including the local Historic Environment Record, published articles and books and manuscript documents. In addition the site has been comprehensively evaluated by geophysical survey and trial trenching The data gathered has provided the information required with which to appropriately assess the impact of the development proposals of the archaeological and historic landscape.
5.5.24 With reference to Appendix 1C of Appendix 6, the assessment of direct impacts on archaeology and cultural heritage assets within the proposed development boundary shows that significant impacts in EIA terms comprise a high magnitude of change to the small amount of identified Prehistoric archaeological evidence in trial trench 11, being a low sensitivity receptor, and the uninvestigated, but believed Prehistoric archaeological evidence as detailed by cropmark evidence in Field 1, also a low sensitivity receptor. Whilst the predicted impact to both these areas is of moderate significance, it can be appropriately mitigated by the implementation of an approved scheme of archaeological works prior to development. This will preserve the archaeological interest of these parts of the site ‘by record’.
5.5.25 There are no other identified direct significant effects on the archaeological and heritage resource as a result of the proposed quarry extension. There will be an impact to other (later) archaeology identified within the confines of the Site and potentially to other unidentified and undated archaeological remains. However, the assessed sensitivity of these receptors (being low), together with the proposed mitigation as detailed in Section 6 of Appendix 6, has identified all impacts as being of minor magnitude which does not equate to a significant impact in EIA terms.
5.5.26 The assessment of indirect impacts on all cultural heritage assets within the study area shows that significant impacts in EIA terms comprise a ‘medium’ magnitude of change to the Grade II Listed Roddige farmhouse, being a Medium sensitivity receptor. Whilst the predicted impact is of moderate significance, in that the secondary setting of the building extends to the site, there are no clear functional or significant historic associations with this wider landscape. The wider rural landscape beyond the building’s associated outbuildings and yards comprise a ‘backdrop’ rather than an integral part of the setting of the building. The creation of soil storage bunds, which will be grassed over and placed along the northern edge, will afford an increased protection to the secondary setting of the building whilst quarry operations take place. Quarry operations within the vicinity will be temporary in nature, lasting c. 5 years prior to approved restoration taking place. Following site restoration the secondary setting of Roddige Farmhouse will be appropriately restored.
5.5.27 There are no other identified significant indirect effects on the archaeological and heritage resource as a result of the proposed
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Lafarge Tarmac Alrewas Quarry Environmental Statement Proposed Southern Extension
quarry extension. The extension is not located within the primary setting of any surrounding cultural heritage asset. There will be changes to long distance and obscured views in some circumstances, but none of these changes are relevant to planned views or vistas from cultural heritage assets and those changes are not assessed as compromising the understanding or historic importance of any feature.
5.6 Hydrology and Hydrogeology
5.6.1 The potential impacts associated with the proposed extension have been subject to detailed consideration via the report reproduced at Appendix 5.
Dewatering Impacts
5.6.2 During the mineral extraction operations the proposed extraction area will be dewatered to facilitate dry working. Dewatering will continue during the placement of the restoration materials after the mineral extraction in each phase ceases. Dewatering will lower the level of the groundwater in the superficial sand and gravel deposits in the immediate vicinity of the proposed extraction area which has the potential to affect flows or levels in water features dependent on groundwater, reduce yields in abstractions, cause settlement of the ground and change the groundwater flow regime.
5.6.3 While the magnitude of drawdown of the groundwater level hence the magnitude of the impact on any potential receptor as a result of dewatering will diminish rapidly with distance from the quarry the effects of the lowering of the water table may extend beyond the boundary of the application area. As it is understood that the mineral will be worked and phases restored progressively the area of open excavations in which dewatering will be necessary will be kept to a minimum which will minimise both the quantity of groundwater inflow to the void and the potential radius of influence of dewatering.
5.6.4 Based on simple assumptions regarding the properties of the aquifer and operational aspects of the development a range of possible values for the radius of influence has been calculated between approximately 50m and approximately 2200m. The actual radius of influence of dewatering may vary significantly spatially due to local factors. Based on a review of the available groundwater level monitoring data in relation to dewatering operations at the Whitemoor Haye extraction area which are similar to the operations proposed it is considered that the most likely radius of influence may be towards the middle of the range of values calculated.
5.6.5 For dewatering the current quarry operations the annual licensed abstraction volume apportioned pro rata on a monthly basis is approximately 104,000m3. As the proposed extraction will replace the Whitemoor Haye extraction it is assumed in principle that dewatering of a quantity of water consistent with the current licensed abstraction volume would be permissible.
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Lafarge Tarmac Alrewas Quarry Environmental Statement Proposed Southern Extension
5.6.6 The drainage system in the proposed extraction area is highly modified comprising an actively pumped agricultural drainage system incorporating a subsurface drainage network which interacts with open drains crossing the application area. Where existing drains are in continuity with groundwater there is potential for flows in the drains to be affected by the dewatering activities. As it is considered that there are no significant groundwater dependant features of ecological importance in the proposed extraction areas there will be no significant detrimental environmental effects resulting from reduced flows in drains during dewatering.
5.6.7 Proposed mineral extraction Phases 1, 2 and 4A are located in proximity to the northern activity lake associated with Whitemoor Haye Activity Centre. The northern activity lake may act as a groundwater recharge boundary locally along the eastern edge of Phases 2 and 4A. Disruption of the agricultural drainage system and the groundwater flow regime may reduce the quantity of water entering the lake. It is proposed that water levels in the northern activity lake are monitored during the operation of Phases 1, 2 and 4A. In the event that there is a significant effect on water levels in the northern activity lake attributable to mineral extraction in Phases 1, 2 and 4A a proportion of clean water abstracted from the aquifer during dewatering could be used to increase the quantity of water in the lake thereby stabilising the water level.
5.6.8 Parts of the Alrewas Quarry and Whitemoor Haye areas of the existing site have been restored by landfilling with inert waste and to lakes. The inert landfills are located to the north east and east of the proposed extraction area as described in section 5 of the report reproduced at Appendix 5. An area of Whitemoor Haye that has been restored to a lake is located adjacent to the eastern boundary of the site between the two inert landfilling areas. It is likely that the inert landfills, restored lakes and the thinning of the mineral towards the river will limit the distance at which drawdown of groundwater will occur beyond the eastern boundary of the proposed extension area. On this basis it is considered likely that dewatering will not have a significant impact on river levels or flow in the River Tame. Furthermore dewatered groundwater will be discharged to the River Tame to mitigate any potential effect on flow due to dewatering. No adverse effects from dewatering have been noted including in the river during previous extraction which is located closer to the river.
5.6.9 The surface water abstraction closest to the proposed extraction area is licensed to abstract from the River Tame to the east of the site. As it is likely that dewatering will not affect significantly flow to the River Tame it is likely that the surface water abstraction will not be affected by the proposed dewatering.
5.6.10 There is one groundwater abstraction from the superficial deposits that is located within the proposed extraction area. It is assumed that
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the abstraction will continue in use until the point that it is affected by the mineral extraction operations.
5.6.11 A groundwater abstraction from the superficial deposits operated by Lafarge Tarmac for mineral washing is associated with the current extraction operations.
5.6.12 As it is unlikely that groundwater in the superficial deposits is in hydraulic continuity with groundwater in the Sherwood Sandstone Group abstractions which derive water from the Sherwood Sandstone Group including public water supply abstractions at Fradley Pumping Station will be unaffected by dewatering of the superficial deposits.
Settlement
5.6.13 Dewatering an aquifer can result in settlement of ground beneath buildings and structures in proximity to the area of mineral extraction. There are several buildings and structures located at or in the vicinity of the extension area including farm buildings and cottages, a Lafarge office building, the NMA and the railway line that runs along the western boundary of the proposed extension area. It is understood that the operational standoffs from buildings and other structures will be 50m from Whitemoor Haye Farm located to the east of the extension area and 100m elsewhere. The standoff from the railway line will be 30m. As it is understood that it is proposed that all underground services will be removed and diverted round the proposed extraction area it is considered not necessary to assess the potential for settlement of underground service infrastructure such as buried pipelines.
5.6.14 The removal of fine particles from the superficial deposits round extraction areas during dewatering has the potential to induce settlement. Based on the understanding that the mineral deposit has a low fines content generally and as dewatering will be carried out from a sump in the base of the mineral extraction so that groundwater will flow into the void under gravity it is considered that the potential for dewatering induced settlement as a result of the removal of fines from the aquifer is low.
5.6.15 Based on the information reviewed a simple assessment of the potential for settlement of structures near the proposed extraction area has been carried out. At the proposed extraction area the superficial deposits comprise predominantly sands, gravels or sands and gravels which at the site have a low fines content generally. As sands and gravels typically are permeable changes in effective stress occur rapidly and the associated settlement normally is insignificant. This is consistent with CIRIA 515 in which it is stated that experience shows that most sands and gravels and heavily over consolidated clays such as Glacial Till are sufficiently stiff to accommodate the increases in effective stress likely to result from dewatering without significant settlement. Comments in respect of the likelihood of significant settlement at individual receptors are presented below.
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5.6.16 The proposed operational standoff from buildings at Whitemoor Haye will be 50m. Based on the information reviewed the buildings are founded on soils comprising less than 1m of overburden material over gravels up to approximately 3.7m thick. The records of water level monitoring in nearby boreholes there is potential for drawdown in the gravels of approximately 2m. Based on a simple assessment of the potential for settlement of the ground conditions at this location it is considered that the potential for total settlement or differential settlement to cause damage of structural significance is low to negligible.
5.6.17 The proposed operational standoff from buildings at Roddige will be 100m. The buildings appear to be founded on soils comprising predominantly sands and gravels. There is evidence of a laterally discontinuous layer of clay approximately 0.9m thick which may be located partially below the lowest recorded resting groundwater levels in that part of the application area. There is potential for groundwater to drain from the laterally discontinuous layer of clay during dewatering of the proposed extraction area which could give rise to settlement of the ground in this location. Based on a simple assessment of the potential for settlement at this location it is considered that the potential for total settlement or differential settlement to cause damage of structural significance arising from consolidation in the sand and gravel strata is low to negligible.
5.6.18 Buildings at the NMA are founded on former landfill areas at least 80m from the nearest proposed working phase. Based on the available information the wastes deposited in the landfill areas comprise predominantly bulk excavation materials including clay together with uncontaminated brick and concrete rubble and small quantities of pulverised fuel ash. Based on the period of time that has elapsed since the materials were deposited, the position of the buildings a significant distance from the edge of the waste mass, the likely low permeability nature of the materials deposited and the temporary nature of the proposed dewatering it is considered that the potential for significant dewatering induced drawdown hence settlement of the ground under buildings at the NMA will be low to negligible.
5.6.19 The Lafarge office building is located approximately 65m north of Phase 5. The superficial deposits in the part of Phase 5 closest to the structure comprise generally sand and/or gravel up to 11.3m thick. Based on the nature of the soils in Phase 5 and the distance of the structure from the area of potential dewatering it is considered that the potential for significant dewatering induced settlement under the Lafarge office will be low to negligible.
5.6.20 The proposed operational standoff from the railway adjacent to the western boundary of the application area is 30m. The geology in the proposed extraction area adjacent to the railway varies significantly. In the north the superficial deposits are up to approximately 13.4m thick
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and comprise predominantly sandy material. The superficial deposits thin to the south and the proportion of cohesive material increases. As based on the limited available groundwater level monitoring data in proximity to the railway groundwater levels have at times been up to approximately 3.6m below ground level, the saturated thickness of the superficial deposits which could undergo consolidation in response to dewatering will be less than if the lowest groundwater levels recorded were closer to ground level.
5.6.21 Based on the information reviewed and a simple qualitative assessment it is considered that the risk of significant structural damage to the railway as result of dewatering generally is low however it will be necessary to confirm at the detailed design stage that the risk is not significant.
5.6.22 There is potential for basal heave in the proposed excavation areas as there is evidence that there is groundwater confined within the more permeable units in the Mercia Mudstone Group and that the recorded piezometric levels in these units are above the proposed base of the excavation. This is a matter of operational relevance and will be addressed as necessary during the development. It is proposed that a precautionary approach is adopted with regard to the potential for basal heave and further geotechnical and hydrogeological information will be gathered as necessary in advance of and during excavation of each phase to facilitate an assessment of basal heave in that phase.
5.6.23 The mineral extraction areas will be restored by infilling with overburden materials, reject material from the quarrying operations and strictly inert restoration material. It is likely that the restoration materials used generally will have a lower permeability than the sands and gravels comprising the mineral deposit. It is likely that the groundwater flow regime would change as a result and that groundwater will flow preferentially in conduits where in situ aquifer material remains such as in association with underground services, roads and phases boundaries. Based on the presence of significant conduits of in situ aquifer material, the generally high hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer material and the presence of large water bodies in hydraulic continuity with groundwater between the proposed extraction area and the River Tame and River Trent it is considered unlikely that the changes to the groundwater flow regime will have a significant effect on flow in the River Tame or River Trent. Significant effects on flow in the River Tame or River Trent as a result of previous quarrying in the vicinity of the application has not been reported.
5.6.24 It is considered likely that settled silt which will be used to restore an existing pond in the north west of the application area to create semi aquatic, woodland and grassland habitat on the margin of an existing lake in the north of the application area could affect the groundwater flow regime in the vicinity of the pond. As a proportion of the lake only will be filled with settled silt and conduits of in-situ aquifer material and areas of open water would remain which would facilitate flow of
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groundwater round the areas proposed for silt deposition it is considered that the loss of aquifer or the changes in the groundwater flown regime will not be significant.
5.6.25 Following infilling with inert restoration materials groundwater control will cease in each phase. It is anticipated that following cessation of dewatering groundwater levels will recover to approximately their original levels. The recovered levels may be affected by the configuration of the post restoration drainage system including subsurface agricultural drainage. An assessment of the potential effects of the proposed restoration on runoff characteristics is provided below.
Modification of the Surface Water Drainage System
5.6.26 During mineral extraction watercourses along field boundaries external to mineral extraction phases generally will be retained. Watercourses which run through proposed mineral extraction phases will be removed and or diverted as necessary. It is likely that the volume of water transferred by the surface water management system will reduce during the operational period as a proportion of surface water will drain to the mineral extraction void or dewatering in the void will derogate flows in drains in continuity with groundwater in the superficial deposits. Following restoration the pre-extraction drainage system at the application area will be reinstated and an appropriate system of agricultural drainage will be established in order to facilitate the use of land to the south of the A513 for agriculture. Additional ponds will be created during restoration which will be linked to the surface water management system.
5.6.27 It is proposed that the plant site lagoon will be extended to the west. There are areas of former landfill to the east, south east and south of the current plant site lagoon. Although the proposed footprint of the extension to the plant site lagoon does not correspond generally with areas of former landfill the boundary of filling may be uncertain hence works carried out to enlarge the lagoon will be undertaken carefully and with reference to the available plans of the areas of landfilling so as to avoid any disturbance of previously deposited waste materials.
5.6.28 Between Croxall Road and the A513 the proposed extraction areas will be restored to a large formal water body with areas of car parking, habitat and amenity space.
Water Quality
5.6.29 There is a potential risk to water quality from suspended solids in runoff from areas of disturbed ground. Rainfall incident to disturbed ground such as areas stripped of topsoil and overburden together with bunds constructed for the purpose of visual or acoustic screening will produce runoff. Until vegetation is established on the bunds there is a possibility that runoff will be high in suspended solids. If site observations show that there is a risk of uncontrolled discharge of
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water high in suspended solids settlement areas will be provided. Water will be retained in the settlement areas and will infiltrate the underlying superficial deposits thus water with a high suspended solid content will not be discharged to the surface water system. In areas stripped of soils and overburden it is likely that runoff will drain into the void created during mineral extraction.
5.6.30 Dewatering in each operational area will be by gravity flow to a sump along channels in the base of the workings. As the gradient of the channels will be low flow velocities will be low and fine material will settle out in the channels and further settlement of suspended particles will take place in the sump before clean water is pumped from the void. On this basis it is considered that there will be no significant effect on water quality in the River Tame from suspended solids. Consistent with the current methods of dry working at the Whitemoor Haye extraction area to the east of the proposed extraction area clean water will be discharged to the River Tame and will be the subject of constraints on quantity and quality consistent with an Environmental Permit.
5.6.31 Settled silt will be used to restore an existing pond in the north west of the application area. As flow velocities in the lake will be low suspended solids will settle from the water column in the lake. It is anticipated that excess water displaced by placing materials in the pond will drain to the adjacent River Tame consistent with an Environmental Permit As reeds or other aquatic and marginal vegetation becomes established the potential for remobilisation of silt for example during flood events will be minimised. As the materials deposited will comprise silt from mineral processing operations carried out on material excavated at Alrewas Quarry only it is considered that the risk of deterioration in the chemical quality of the water in the lake is negligible as there will be no source of contaminants.
5.6.32 As following the restoration of the site there will be a period of time during which vegetation is established on restored areas there may be a temporary increase in suspended solids present in runoff. Perimeter ditches will be constructed as necessary to intercept runoff prior to it entering the surface water management system. There will be an opportunity for settlement of suspended solids in the ditches before the discharge of water to adjacent watercourses. Not all rainfall incident to restored areas will run off. Rainfall which infiltrates the ground and rainfall which enters the subsurface agricultural drainage system in areas restored to agriculture is unlikely to contain a significant load of suspended sediments as percolation through materials in the ground will provide filtration.
5.6.33 During mineral extraction precautions will be taken to limit the potential for deterioration of the quality of groundwater and surface water. To minimise the risk of contamination of groundwater by oil and diesel from plant all refuelling and servicing will be carried out on an impermeable surface with a sealed drainage system. Refuelling will be undertaken in accordance with the company environmental
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procedures to minimise risk of spillage. Fuel will be stored in appropriately bunded tanks in accordance with the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001 and with reference to Pollution Prevention Guidelines: The safe operation of refuelling facilities: PPG7 July 2011.
5.6.34 Water discharged from the proposed extraction area to the surface water system during dewatering activities will be monitored periodically in accordance with permitting requirements. Regular groundwater quality monitoring will be carried out round the extraction areas. Adverse trends in the quality of the abstracted water will be identified and assessed and the causes of adverse trends identified. In the event that the quality of groundwater abstracted from the extraction areas is unsatisfactory mitigation measures will be implemented as necessary.
5.6.35 As the restoration materials that will be placed at the extension area will comprise inert materials only the risk to groundwater and surface water will be insignificant. It is considered that owing to the inert nature of the materials placed leachate generated by groundwater and rainfall infiltrating the extension area following restoration will contain no hazardous substances and that no significant concentrations of non-hazardous pollutants will be present.
Flood Risk Assessment
5.6.36 The potential impacts of the proposed development during the working of the mineral, infilling with overburden and following restoration on surface water flow and flood risk are assessed in the flood risk assessment (FRA) in accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), the NPPF Technical Guidance and the Level 1 Lichfield District Council Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA).
5.6.37 Documents reviewed during the preparation of the FRA include the Staffordshire Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment (PFRA), the Phase 1 and Phase 1 addendum Southern Staffordshire Surface Water Management Plan, a 2007 strategic flood risk scoping study for the Staffordshire County Council Minerals and Waste Development Framework, the River Tame Flood Risk Management Strategy and the River Trent Catchment Flood Management Plan summary report.
5.6.38 Based on the River Tame Flood Risk Management Strategy the Environment Agency propose to continue maintaining defences and structures in the River Tame in the vicinity of the application area to the existing standard of protection and to undertake channel maintenance to facilitate conveyance of flood water.
Flood Risk Sequential Test and Exception Test
5.6.39 The proposed development comprises primarily sand and gravel working which based on the flood risk vulnerability classification
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presented in Table 2 of the Technical Guidance to the NPPF comprises ‘water compatible development’. Notwithstanding the designation as water compatible development there are ancillary activities associated with mineral extraction such as noise and amenity bunds which could affect flood risk. The potential effects on flood risk of ancillary activities are assessed later in the FRA. Based on Table 3 of the Technical Guidance a development use classified as ‘water compatible’ is appropriate in Flood Zones 1, 2 or 3.
5.6.40 The mineral extraction area will be restored by infilling with overburden materials, reject material from the quarrying operations and strictly inert restoration material comprising imported material including fines imported by rail. If any of the restoration materials comprise waste it may be necessary to obtain an Environmental Permit for waste recovery or disposal. Based on the flood risk vulnerability classification presented in Table 2 of the Technical Guidance it is likely that waste-related activities not comprising landfill would be classified as ‘less vulnerable’ development and landfill areas as ‘more vulnerable’ development. Based on Table 3 of the Technical Guidance less vulnerable developments are appropriate in Flood Zones 1, 2 or 3a and more vulnerable developments are appropriate in Flood Zones 1 or 2 or in Flood Zone 3a subject to the Exception Test.
5.6.41 Consistent with the sequential approach set out in the NPPF insofar as it is practicable to do so within the detailed design of operations any areas of waste recovery or disposal which it is necessary to establish will be located outside the floodplain. In the event that it is necessary for operational reasons for any areas of inert landfill to encroach locally within Flood Zone 3a it would be necessary to pass the Exception Test.
5.6.42 The proposed development provides wider sustainability benefits to the community. As the proposed development will have no adverse effect on flood risk at or in the vicinity of the site there is no need to offset wider sustainability benefits to the community against flood risk. The FRA demonstrates that the development will be safe for its lifetime taking account of the vulnerability of its users without increasing flood risk elsewhere and has potential for reducing flood risk overall. It is considered that as the proposed development is consistent with the requirements of the flood risk Sequential Test and the Exception Test where applicable the development is located appropriately with respect to minimising flood risk.
Potential effects on Flood Risk during the Site Operations
5.6.43 The operations at the site will be susceptible to flooding from the River Tame and potentially from the drainage system at the application area. In the event of flooding which has the potential to affect safe operation of the mineral extraction or restoration operations activities will cease until such time as flood water has receded and operations can recommence safely.
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5.6.44 Discharges of clean water which has accumulated in the base of extraction areas to the wider surface water system have the potential to increase flood risk in the vicinity of the site. During the operational period discharges of clean water to the River Tame will be suspended when the River Tame is flowing bankfull.
5.6.45 In the event of flooding associated with the River Tame any excess groundwater and surface water will be allowed to accumulate in the base of the extraction areas thereby reducing the flow in the river at this time. It is considered that there will be an increase in flood storage hence a net positive effect on flood risk at and in the vicinity of the application area during the operational period.
5.6.46 Noise and visual screening bunds will be located around areas of active mineral working to reduce noise at and to screen visually nearby receptors. Soil and overburden storage bunds generally will be stored outside the floodplain Temporary bunds during soil stripping and restoration will be used progressively and will be situated insofar as is practicable away from the floodplain. These will be transient features generally which are unlikely to affect flood flows or reduce floodplain storage.
5.6.47 The design of bunds in floodplain areas will accommodate the dual requirements of screening and flood conveyance. Gaps or other suitable flood flow conduits will be provided in the bunds so as to limit any potential effect on the flow of flood water. As bunds will be located generally adjacent to active working areas there will be ample additional storage generally for flood waters during the operational period compared with the pre extraction situation. Where possible bunds will be oriented parallel to the most likely direction of flow. The floodplain is wide and it is anticipated that flood water could flow freely round minor obstructions with minimal interference. It is considered that any adverse effects on flood flows or storage associated with bunds in the floodplain will be negligible.
5.6.48 It will be necessary to ensure safe access and egress from the application area in the event of flooding at Croxall Road. It is considered likely that prior warning will be available regarding any significant flood event which could inhibit access to operational areas including proposed areas designated for filling with inert restoration materials. If such an event is forecast or if it is apparent from observations at or in the vicinity of the site that a flood event with the potential to affect access or egress may occur measures will be taken to suspend operations and to evacuate the site. In the event that flooding of Croxall Road or Barley Green Lane prevents egress there are other potential egress routes such as railway crossings along the western boundary of the application area which facilitate access to the road network.
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Potential Effects on Flood Risk Following Restoration
5.6.49 Following restoration rainfall incident to the application area will drain to ground in areas restored to agriculture or open space. It is likely that rainfall incident to the restored landform which does not infiltrate the ground will flow to the areas restored to lakes, will drain to ground in areas of undisturbed aquifer or will enter the managed agricultural drainage system which will be re-established in areas that are restored to agriculture. Watercourses and field drainage affected by mineral extraction phases will be reinstated in order to facilitate control of water levels following restoration.
5.6.50 The agricultural drainage system to the south of the A513 and the water features in the formal gardens area to the north of the A513 will be subject to regular maintenance and active management as necessary. Detailed proposals will be submitted for the design of the surface water management system prior to restoration. The scheme will complement the agricultural drainage system proposed in respect of the restoration of the Whitemoor Haye extraction area. The broad principles of the surface water management system are referred to in this section.
5.6.51 To the south of the A513 several new ponds will be created two of which will have a substantial capacity. While it is not proposed that the new ponds will be located in the floodplain it is proposed that the new ponds created will link with the surface water management system and will increase the potential storage for runoff during storm events. It is considered that as the efficiency of the agricultural drainage system following restoration will be similar to or better than that the pre extraction situation there will be no adverse effects on flood risk as a result of the reinstatement of the agricultural drainage system.
5.6.52 It is proposed that the proposed extraction area between Croxall Road and the A513 will be restored to a large formal water body for use by visitors to the NMA. It is proposed that complementary landscaping and open space features will be created such as landscape sculptures, embankments and wooded areas, an open air arena and car parking areas.
5.6.53 It is understood that the NMA operates a daily visual river level risk assessment and restricts access to visitors when river levels are high. It is considered likely that prior warning will be available regarding any significant flood event. If such an event is forecast or if it is apparent from observations that a flood event with the potential to affect access or egress may occur measures will be taken to restrict access to visitors and to evacuate the site as appropriate. In the event that flooding of Croxall Road prevents egress there is another potential egress route across the railway along the western boundary of the application area which facilitates access to the wider road network.
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5.6.54 The existing plant site lagoon will be enlarged to the west and re- graded to facilitate amenity use. Based on the Environment Agency Flood Map the existing plant site lagoon is included in the floodplain extent but land to the west of the current lagoon is excluded. It is likely that enlarging the plant site lagoon will provide a small additional volume for flood storage.
5.6.55 As ground levels in the proposed formal water garden areas to the north of the A513 will be similar to or slightly lower than existing ground levels generally potentially there will be an increase in flood storage compared with the pre extraction situation. An embankment will be created to the north of the A513 in the south of the area designated for formal gardens. The embankment encroaches slightly into Flood Zone 3 but it is considered that it will not interfere significantly with the proposed drainage system. As the embankment is located on the edge of the floodplain generally it is unlikely to be in proximity to an important flood flow route. As it is likely that additional flood storage will be created in the adjacent area of formal gardens and water gardens by effectively creating additional floodplain linked storage in the area of the proposed formal water garden there will be no overall loss of flood storage and it is anticipated that there will be no significant adverse effect on flood flows.
5.6.56 It is proposed that temporary vehicle parking areas will comprise generally permeable surfacing to facilitate infiltration of incident rainfall consistent with the principles of sustainable drainage. In permanent vehicle parking areas surfacing will facilitate infiltration or be configured such that appropriate water management or attenuation areas are provided within the detailed design consistent with sustainable drainage principles. The proposed vehicle parking areas will be designed so that runoff rates do not increase following development compared with the greenfield runoff rate.
5.6.57 It is considered that the runoff characteristics of restored areas generally will be consistent with the current runoff characteristics. During storm events excess rainfall which cannot infiltrate the materials placed in the restored areas will be transferred laterally in the ground and will infiltrate the undisturbed aquifer material or will enter the reinstated drainage system comprising a network of open drains and a subsurface pumped drainage system. The control on groundwater levels in restored areas south of the A513 will be exerted by the active agricultural drainage system which has an outfall to the northern activity lake. Consistent with land drainage proposals prepared on behalf of the applicant for the restoration of the Whitemoor Haye extraction area a water control headwall and flap valve is specified at the outlet of the northern activity lake to the River Tame.
5.6.58 Consistent with current practice the drainage system in restored areas will be subject to regular maintenance so as to secure its efficient operation and the effective management of water to facilitate agricultural activities. As it is considered that there will be no
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significant adverse impact on surface water runoff rates as a result of the proposals there will be no adverse impact on water levels in watercourses downstream of the site hence no increase in flood risk.
Conclusions
5.6.59 The potential hydrogeological and hydrological impacts of the proposed mineral extraction and restoration have been assessed. The assessments include a flood risk assessment in accordance with the NPPF.
5.6.60 Measures will be implemented during the operational period to minimise any potential impact on groundwater and surface water quality as a result of the operations at the application area. Provision will be made for the removal of suspended sediment prior the proposed discharge of abstracted water to the surface water management system.
5.6.61 Based on the information reviewed preliminary assessments are provided on the potential for dewatering induced settlement and derogation of flows in surface watercourses and groundwater abstractions and basal heave in extraction areas. The assessments conclude that there is no reason in principle why any of these potential impacts cannot be ameliorated by adopting suitable management and mitigation measures.
5.6.62 The potential for adverse changes to groundwater flow and groundwater quality at and in the vicinity of the application area as a result of the proposals has been assessed. It is considered unlikely that changes in groundwater flow and groundwater quality resulting from the proposed development will be significant.
5.6.63 Based on the FRA the mineral extraction and restoration activities and the proposed restoration of the application area to water-based nature conservation, amenity and agricultural after use will not result in an increase in flood risk at or in the vicinity of the site. Sustainable drainage principles will be incorporated in the design of the surface water management system during operations and following restoration so as to provide for the sustainable management of surface water.
5.7 Noise
General
5.7.1 Relevant current planning advice on the control of noise generation and impact was issued by the Government in 2012 and comprises the technical guidance attached to the NPPF which provides advice on how both planning controls and good environmental practice can be used to keep noise emissions to environmentally acceptable levels. The presence of fixed and mobile plant and equipment on sites can lead to an increase in local neighbourhood noise levels. This is based
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largely on preceding guidance in the form of MPS2. The degree of increase at any given point varies considerably during the life of the site depending upon the nature of the operation being undertaken, the proximity of the operations to noise sensitive properties and the mitigating measures instigated.
Noise Level Predictions
5.7.2 "Noise" has been defined as sound which is undesired by the recipient. The effects of noise on the neighbourhood are varied and complicated, including such things as interference with speech communication, disturbance of work, leisure or sleep. A further complicating factor is that in any one neighbourhood some individuals will be more sensitive to noise than others.
5.7.3 A measure that is in general use and is recommended internationally for the description of environmental noise is the equivalent continuous noise level or LAeq parameter.
5.7.4 In general, the level of noise in the local environs that arises from a development site will depend on a number of factors. The more significant of these are:-
(a) The sound power levels (SWL's) of the plant or equipment used on site.
(b) The periods of operation of the plant on site.
(c) The distance between the noise source and the receiving position.
(d) The presence or absence of screening effects due to barriers, or ground absorption.
(e) Any reflection effects due to the façades of buildings etc.
Prediction Methodology
5.7.5 The prediction method used in this study is based on that outlined in British Standard (BS) 5228: 2009 "Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and open sites". The standard considers screening from barriers and recognises that an attenuation of 10 dB(A) can be conservative as in section F.2.2.2.1, where it states "High topographical features and designated and positioned noise barriers could provide greater attenuation". Examples of the former are overburden mounds and excavation high walls, i.e. a quarry face, whilst baffle banks and acoustic fences are examples of the latter.
5.7.6 In order to accurately estimate the barrier attenuation for this study, the method used in the Calculation of Road Traffic Noise (CRTN) has been employed. This document describes a method for estimating
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barrier attenuation from thin rigid barriers. Thus, for the purposes of this exercise, barrier attenuations have been based on methods within this document to a maximum of 10 dB(A).
Plant Complement
5.7.7 A list of plant sound power levels (SWL's) from which the noise predictions were made are set out in the noise impact assessment reproduced at Appendix 8. The plant complement is based on information provided by Lafarge Tarmac. The sound power levels used are either from manufacturer's data or from Vibrock's extensive in-house database of sound power levels measured over the years.
Noise Prediction Assumptions
5.7.8 The noise prediction exercises are based on a number of assumptions concerning the working of the site. These assumptions are presented as follows.
5.7.9 All predictions have been calculated with the combinations of all plant working at the closest point to the prediction location. They are therefore "worst possible case scenarios" which may be of relatively short duration. However, they indicate the maximum LAeq noise level to which a particular property or group of properties may be exposed during at least some part of the working of the site. By definition, the worst case situation will occur only intermittently over the entire life of the site, thus longer term noise levels perceived outside the site boundary would normally be significantly less.
5.7.10 Calculation of noise levels at the closest residential properties and other noise sensitive locations to the proposed extension to Alrewas Quarry has been made considering mineral extraction at closest distance to each location.
5.7.11 For the purposes of this prediction exercise, the above described worst case situations have been considered at all times. Thus operations are assumed to be undertaken at their realistic minimum distances and minimum depths. In this exercise only the major operations have been considered as they are likely to have the most impact on the local environs.
5.7.12 Given that all prediction methods are estimates and that, in practice, measured levels are invariably lower due to the effects of interactions between such things as meteorological conditions and air absorption, these predicted levels are a reasonable representation of the worst case predictions assuming ideal meteorological conditions for sound propagation.
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Discussion of Results
Introduction
5.7.13 In order to predict the potential acoustic impact associated with the proposed operations, noise monitoring was undertaken at six locations relative to the site boundary, namely:
Location 1 – the NMA; Location 2 – Whitemoor Lakes Activity Centre; Location 2 – Whitemoor Haye House; Location 4 – Roddige House; Location 5 – Dunstall Farmhouse; and Location 6 – Roadside Cottage.
The locations of each monitoring point are shown on Plan A1/PL13/03, with the results of the monitoring and predicted noise levels set out as follows. An additional receptor has been included; this is Location 7 – the Fradley Road Crematorium. Table 10, shown on Page 120 of this Environmental Statement, provides a summary of the findings detailed below.
Location 1 – The NMA (NMA)
Existing Ambient Noise Level
5.7.14 Sound level measurements have not been undertaken at this location, but the noise climate at the NMA is considered to be similar to that at The Whitemoor Lakes Activity Centre, the measurements of which are considered as follows. Full details of the monitoring dataset are set out at Table 1.1 of Appendix 8.
5.7.15 The weekday daytime background noise level, LA90 was 51 dB(A) LA90 1h, with single fifteen minute measurements between 50 dB(A) and 51 dB(A) LA90 15 min. The corresponding equivalent continuous sound level LAeq was 55 dB(A) LAeq 1h over the same measurement period, with single fifteen minute results in the range 54 dB(A) to 56 dB(A) LAeq 15 min.
5.7.16 The noise climate at this location is influenced by road traffic on the A38 and the A513, aircraft, and passenger and freight movements.
Predicted Operational Noise Levels
5.7.17 The NMA will be screened from future mineral extraction at Alrewas Quarry by a 3m high bund on the northern site boundary (Phase 1) which will provide both visual and acoustic screening. Mineral processing will be undertaken on the present site using the existing processing plant, with saleable products despatched by road lorry using the current site access.
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5.7.18 Mineral extraction at the closest approach to the NMA will occur in Phase 1 when a one hour LAeq of 52 dB is calculated.
5.7.19 Mineral extraction at the greatest distance in the extension to this location will occur at distances greater than 2km away when a one hour LAeq of 39 dB is calculated.
5.7.20 Such levels compare favourably with the criterion of not more than 10 dB above current background level given in NPPF.
Location 2 –Whitemoor Lakes Activity Centre
Existing Ambient Noise Levels
5.7.21 The weekday daytime background noise level (LA90) at this location ranged from 50 dB to 51 dB LA90 (15 mins) while the value for the one hour measurement periods was 51 dB LA90 (1h). Sound level measurements have not been undertaken at this location, but the noise climate at the NMA is considered to be similar to that at The Whitemoor Lakes Activity Centre, the measurements of which are considered as follows. Full details of the monitoring dataset are set out at Table 1.1 of Appendix 8.
5.7.22 The corresponding LAeqs for the same fifteen minute periods varied from 54 dB to 56 dB LAeq (15 mins) while the LAeq for the one hour periods was 55 dB LAeq (1h).
5.7.23 Noise sources audible at Whitemoor Lakes Activity Centre include road traffic, passenger and freight trains, birdcalls, and aircraft.
Predicted Operational Noise Levels
5.7.24 Mineral extraction in the proposed extension will be screened from Whitemoor Lakes Activity Centre by a 3m high bund along the eastern site boundary (Phase 2) which will provide both visual and acoustic screening.
5.7.25 Mineral extraction at closest approach to Whitemoor Lakes Activity Centre will occur during Phase 2 when a one hour LAeq of 51 dB is calculated
5.7.26 Mineral extraction at the greatest distance to this property will occur at distances greater than 2km, when a one hour LAeq of 39 dB is calculated.
5.7.27 Such levels satisfy the criterion from NPPF of no greater than 10 dB above current background noise level.
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Location 3 – Whitemoor Haye House
Existing Ambient Noise Level
5.7.28 The weekday daytime background noise level, LA90 was 47 dB(A) and 48 dB(A) LA90 1h, with single fifteen minute measurements between 47 dB(A) and 48 dB(A) LA90 15 min. The corresponding equivalent continuous sound level LAeq was 50 dB(A) and 52 dB(A) LAeq 1h over the same measurement period, with single fifteen minute results in the range 49 dB(A) to 53 dB(A) LAeq 15 min. Full details of the monitoring are set out in Table 1.2 of the report reproduced at Appendix 8.
5.7.29 The noise climate at this location is influenced by road traffic, and aircraft. Roadvehicles entering and exiting the quarry are sometimes audible at this location.
Predicted Operational Noise Levels
5.7.30 Whitemoor Haye House is to the north of the current extraction area at Alrewas Quarry and mineral extraction in the extension will be at similar distances to this property as previous extraction. A horseshoe shaped soil bund will be constructed to provide visual and acoustic screening.
5.7.31 Closest approach of mineral extraction will occur during phase 5A, but will be no closer than 100m. At that time a one hour LAeq of 52 dB is calculated.
5.7.32 Mineral extraction at the greatest distance to this property will be during phase 3B, when a one hour LAeq of 38 dB is calculated.
5.7.33 Such levels compare favourably with the criterion of not more than 10 dB above current background level given in NPPF.
Location 4 – Roddige House
Existing Ambient Noise Level
5.7.34 The weekday daytime background noise level, LA90 was 50 dB(A) and 51 dB(A) LA90 1h, with single fifteen minute measurements between 49 dB(A) and 52 dB(A) LA90 15 min. The corresponding equivalent continuous sound level LAeq was 53 dB(A) and 54 dB(A) LAeq 1h over the same measurement period, with single fifteen minute results in the range 53 dB(A) to 56 dB(A) LAeq 15 min. Full details of the monitoring are set out in Table 1.3 of the report reproduced at Appendix 8.
5.7.35 The noise climate at this location is influenced by road and rail traffic and aircraft.
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Predicted Operational Noise Levels
5.7.36 Future mineral extraction at Alrewas Quarry will be at restricted to a 100m standoff from Roddige House and Cottage, and a horseshoe shaped soil bund will be constructed to provide effective screening.
5.7.37 Mineral extraction at closest approach to these two properties will occur during Phase 5B when a one hour LAeq of 50 dB(A) is calculated.
5.7.38 Mineral extraction at the greatest distance to these properties will be during Phase 3B when a one hour LAeq,1h of 41dB(A) is calculated.
5.7.39 Such levels are no greater than the measured background noise levels at this location and compare favourably with the criterion of not more than 10 dB above current background level given in NPPF.
Location 5 – Dunstall Farmhouse
Existing Ambient Noise Level
5.7.40 Referring to Table 1.4 the weekday daytime background noise level, LA90 was 56 dB(A) and 57 dB(A) LA90 1h, with single fifteen minute measurements between 56 dB(A) and 57 dB(A) LA90 15 min. The corresponding equivalent continuous sound level LAeq was 60 dB(A) LAeq 1h over the same measurement period, with single fifteen minute results in the range 59 dB(A) to 61 dB(A) LAeq 15 min.
5.7.41 The noise climate at this location is mainly influenced by A38 road traffic, with trains and aircraft sometimes audible.
Predicted Operational Noise Levels
5.7.42 Future mineral extraction at Alrewas Quarry will be at closer distance to Dunstall farmhouse than previous extraction, but the bund on the western quarry boundary will provide both visual and acoustic screening.
5.7.43 Mineral extraction at closest approach to Dunstall will occur during phase 3A when a one hour LAeq of 49 dB(A) is calculated. Mineral extraction will then proceed northwards into phases 4, and 5 when the extraction will be at the greatest distance to this property. A one hour LAeq,1h of 32 dB(A) is calculated at that time.
5.7.44 Such levels are below the existing background noise levels measured at this location and are well within the criterion of not more than 10 dB above current background level given in NPPF.
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Location 6 – Roadside Cottage
Existing Ambient Noise Level
5.7.45 Referring to Table 1.5 the weekday daytime background noise level, LA90 was 41 dB(A) LA90 1h, with single fifteen minute measurements between 39 dB(A) and 42 dB(A) LA90 15 min. The corresponding equivalent continuous sound level LAeq was 45 dB(A) and 51 dB(A) LAeq 1h over the same measurement period, with single fifteen minute results in the range 45 dB(A) to 55 dB(A) LAeq 15 min.
5.7.46 The noise climate at this location is influenced by road and rail traffic, with farm vehicles and activity and aircraft sometimes audible.
Predicted Operational Noise Levels
5.7.47 Initial quarry activity in the proposed extension to Alrewas Quarry will be at the greatest distance to Roadside Cottage, at over 2km. At that time a one hour LAeq of 48 dB is calculated at this property.
5.7.48 Mineral extraction will advance southwards at reducing distances to Roadside Cottage, until closest approach occurs during phase 3A when a one hour LAeq of 34 dB(A) is calculated.
5.7.49 Such levels compare favourably with the criterion of not more than 10 dB above current background level given in NPPF.
Location 7 – Fradley Lane Crematorium
Existing Ambient Noise Level
5.7.50 Sound level measurements have not been undertaken at this location, but the noise climate at the crematorium is considered to be similar to that at Dunstall farmhouse, the measurements of which are considered as follows.
5.7.51 Referring to Table 1.4 the weekday daytime background noise level, LA90 was 56 dB(A) and 57 dB(A) LA90 1h, with single fifteen minute measurements between 56 dB(A) and 57 dB(A) LA90 15 min. The corresponding equivalent continuous sound level LAeq was 60 dB(A) LAeq 1h over the same measurement period, with single fifteen minute results in the range 59 dB(A) to 61 dB(A) LAeq 15 min.
5.7.52 The noise climate at this location is mainly influenced by A38 road traffic, with trains and aircraft sometimes audible.
Predicted Operational Noise Levels
5.7.53 Mineral extraction at closest approach to Fradley Lane Crematorium will occur during phase 3A when a one hour LAeq of 44 dB(A) is calculated.
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5.7.54 Mineral extraction will then proceed northwards into phases 4, and 5 when the extraction will be at the greatest distance to this property. A one hour LAeq,1h of 35 dB(A) is calculated at that time.
5.7.55 Such levels are below the existing background noise levels at this location and are well within the criterion of not more than 10 dB above current background level given in NPPF.
Table 10: Predicted Noise Levels at Alrewas Quarry Location Existing Noise Levels dB Predicted Noise Level dB LAeq 1h
LAeq 1h LA90 1h At closest At greatest approach distance
National 55 50 - 51 52 39 Memorial Arboretum
Whitemoor 55 50 - 51 51 39 Lakes Activity Centre
Whitemoor 50 - 52 48 52 38 Haye House Roddige 53 - 54 50 – 51 50 41 House Dunstall 59 - 60 57 49 32 Farmhouse Roadside 44 - 45 38 – 39 48 34 Cottage Fradley 59 - 60 57 44 35 Road Crematorium
Conclusions and Recommendations
5.7.56 Vibrock consider that the recommended NPPF criterion of no greater than 10 dB(A) above existing background level during the working week should be applicable to the proposal. This is considered by the Government to be a generally acceptable level for noise from mineral extraction sites.
5.7.57 A series of noise predictions, based upon BS 5228, have been made to seven of the closest residential and noise sensitive locations to Alrewas Quarry and have been assessed against criteria in NPPF.
5.7.58 It should be noted that all of the predicted noise levels refer to worst case scenarios, when operations are undertaken at their closest distances to the noise sensitive properties, and therefore have the greatest influence on the noise climate at these locations. These worst case operations may last intermittently for only a few weeks throughout the entire working life of the proposed extension.
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Quarrying operations elsewhere within the proposed boundary would produce lesser noise impact.
5.7.59 From the results summarised above it is apparent that, without exception, predicted worst case noise levels from future operations at Alrewas Quarry do not exceed the background noise level by more than 10 dB(A), as required by The National Planning Policy Framework.
5.8 Traffic
5.8.1 Consistent with the requirements of the Scoping Opinion, a detailed Transport Assessment is reproduced at Appendix 5 of this ES. The existing context of the road network, safety and capacity data as well as existing movements are summarised in Section 2.7 above.
Future Traffic Generation
5.8.2 This planning application anticipates mineral extraction of approximately 500,000 tonnes per annum which is within levels of historic outputs. This would equate to a total of 101 loads per day (202 movements). Importation of inert restoration materials will remain at existing levels and staff numbers will not change.
5.8.3 These flows are average daily flows and to allow for day to day variations, a 50% increase in traffic movements has been assumed. This equates to mineral extraction movements per day of 303 and inert fill importation movements of 220 per day.
Traffic Impact
5.8.4 The existing operation of the quarry has been ongoing for some considerable period of the time, and has been managed by Lafarge since 1987 with historic outputs up to 600,000 tonnes per annum.
5.8.5 The existing operation has demonstrably not lead to any identifiable highway safety impact. As the traffic from the site is expected to be comparable with historic and permitted levels there is not expected to be any detrimental impact to highway safety or capacity. There will, as set out above, be no increase in traffic from existing permitted levels.
5.8.6 The combined effect of the existing importation and proposed increase in mineral extraction is that, on an average day, the site could generate up to 247 loads per day. This equates to 523 movements over the day or around 45 movements per hour.
5.8.7 The majority of movements are expected to be westbound on the A513 junction and as a worse case therefore around 14 inbound and 14 outbound movements can be expected per hour through the junction during peak periods.
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5.8.8 In the context of the A38/A513 junctions this level of traffic is modest. The actual level of increase is well below the modelling accuracy of an Arcady assessment and as such no such analysis is deemed appropriate.
5.8.9 In terms of the environmental aspect the increases are minimal and are in accordance with advice outlines in Section 3.15 of the Institute of Environmental Assessment Guidance Note No1 “Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic” which states that:
“To assist the assessor it is suggested that two broad rules of thumb could be used as a screening process to delimit the scale and extent of the assessment. The rules are described and justified in the following paragraphs:
Rule 1 include highway links where traffic flows will increase by more than 30% (or the number or heavy goods vehicles will increase by more than 30%)
Rule 2 include any other specifically sensitive areas where traffic flows have increased by 10% or more.”
5.8.9 Generally therefore, the site will therefore fall below the threshold for requiring any further assessments of the environmental impacts of traffic and the development will have no demonstrable impact on severance, driver delay, pedestrian delay, amenity, fear and intimidation. At peak times, the level of HGV traffic at the Croxall Road site access will be around 15% over the day. However, there no specifically sensitive receptors on this route and the impact in traffic terms will be immaterial.
5.8.10 The expansion of the quarry area will not result in local roads to the south west of the existing site being utilised by operational vehicles. The existing conveyor belt which transports mineral reserves from the southern section of the quarry to the plant site on Croxall Road will be extended and re-routed to transport the minerals from the new areas.
5.8.11 It can be concluded that the development will have no material impact on the local road network.
Access Arrangements
5.8.12 It is proposed that the existing quarry access be retained. Visibility at the junction is good and it operates efficiently. In addition, the newly consented access into Phase 1 will be retained once operational.
5.8.13 No detailed condition survey of Croxall Road has been undertaken although from on-site inspection there are no particular maintenance issues to be addressed. Road markings are in good condition and no significant pavement defects were noted. On this basis it is clear that
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the adjacent highway network is of sufficient geometric standard and constructional integrity to accommodate existing and ongoing operations at the quarry.
5.8.14 Changes will be made to the location of the landfill importation operation will be necessary and these will be relocated to the west of Barley Green Lane. A new access will be required as shown on Drawing 11017-02 (refer Appendix 9). This access design is to the standard set out in the DMRB.
Summary
5.8.15 Currently there are no adverse issues arising from the site operation, it is therefore concluded that no off-site improvements are necessary as a result of the current proposals.
5.8.16 The level of additional traffic generated by the increase in annual output will be modest. In summary therefore the proposals will not result in any detrimental impact on the safety or operation of the adjacent highway network.
5.9 Dust
5.9.1 The principal potential sources of dust have been identified as site haulage, road transport and wind blow against the extraction faces and across stripped surfaces. Dust may also be raised during soils handling and by wind blow across freshly constructed soils mounds. The other potential dust sources are assessed as of low significance.
Risk Estimation
5.9.2 The risk of adverse impacts due to dust is estimated by combining the magnitude of the impact and the probability of that impact occurring. In estimating the risk of adverse impact due to dust, reference is made to the following matrix.
Table 11: Estimation of Risk Magnitude of the Consequences Probabil Severe Moderate Mild Negligible ity High high high medium / low near zero Medium high medium low near zero Low high / medium medium / low low near zero Negligible high / medium medium / low low near zero / low
5.9.3 The magnitude of the potential impact is assessed as a function of the distance between the dust source and the receptor and the degree of screening afforded by intervening hedges, trees and woodland, as shown in the following table.
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Table 12: Magnitude of Dust Impact – large open sites Source – Receptor Distance Screening 0 – 50m 50 – 100m 100 – >250m 250m None or severe severe moderate mild ineffective (large or frequent gaps) Partially severe moderate mild negligible screened (some gaps) Fully screened moderate mild negligible negligible (high thick hedges or mature woodland)
5.9.4 The probability that dust will be carried towards a given receptor is based upon the frequency of winds blowing towards that receptor, as shown in the following table.
Assessment of Impact
5.9.5 Based on the risk matrices identified above it is the estimated risks of fugitive and wind blown dust in the absence of mitigation at the identified receptors are summarised in Table 13 below.
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Table 13: Estimated Risks (in the Absence of Mitigation) Receptor Principal Estimated risks source(s) Fugitive dust Wind blown dust Pumping Station Phase 1 low low Cottages Sittles Fm / Phase 1 medium / low low Roadside Cottage Dunstall Phase 1 low low Crown Inn Farm Phase 2 low low Roddige Crossing Phase 2 high high / medium Phase 3 high high / medium / low Roddige Farm Phase 2 medium / low low Phase 3 high high / medium Access road low low Whitemoor Haye Phase 3 high high / medium Access road low low Watersports Centre Phase 4 high high / medium Phase 5 high high / medium / low Alrewas, adjacent Phase 5 medium low to A38 National Arboretum Phase 5 high medium Plant area high high / medium Croxall Road Phase 5 low low Cottages Plant area near zero near zero House in haulage Plant area near zero near zero yard
5.9.6 The assessment indicates that the estimated risks of adverse impacts without mitigation due to fugitive dust are high for certain parts of the development at:
Roddige Crossing; Roddige Farm; Whitemoor Haye; the watersports centre; and the National Arboretum.
5.9.7 There are also significant estimated risks of wind blown dust at the same receptors. However, these are the maximum estimated risks which will reduce considerably when the workings are more remote from any sensitive boundaries around the individual phases.
5.9.8 Footpaths and other areas of public access, including the designated cycle route, are generally less sensitive than residential properties to the effects of airborne dust and significant adverse impacts are unlikely to be experienced unless visible dust crosses the footpaths and designated cycle route in the vicinity of the site.
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Mitigation
5.9.9 To minimise the potential impacts, the proposed quarry extension will be operated in accordance with the following scheme of dust suppression measures and the guidance in PGNs 3/1 (04), 3/8 (04) and 3/16 (04). The dust suppression measures, which are based on best practice, will be incorporated into the applicant’s EMS for the site. The essence of the published guidance is that dust emissions can be controlled by effective site management.
5.9.10 The Quarry Manager will refer to the dust suppression scheme to determine his response to potential or actual dust emissions, taking into account current and forecast weather conditions.
5.9.11 Visual inspections of the site will be carried out by the Quarry Manager at the start of operations and as necessary throughout the working day, particularly during dry windy weather, to ensure that all potential or actual dust sources are identified and treated promptly.
5.9.12 As an over-riding requirement, if any operations are identified as causing or likely to cause visible dust emissions across the site boundaries, including those around individual phases, those operations will be modified, reduced or suspended until effective remedial action can be taken or the conditions giving rise to the emissions have moderated.
5.9.13 General matters and the management of the site can affect the likelihood of significant dust emissions. These include:
use of clean water for dust suppression, to avoid re- circulating fine material; high standards of house-keeping to minimise track-out and wind blown dust; a preventative maintenance programme, including readily available spares, to ensure the efficient operation of dust suppression equipment; and effective staff training in respect of the causes and prevention of dust.
5.9.14 Full details on the range of mitigation measures will be subject to a detailed dust management plan (refer Section 3.3 above), and are set out in Appendix 10 of this Environmental Statement.
Residual Effects
5.9.15 The standard good working practices and mitigation measures (refer Appendix 10) are generally accepted by the Government and the surface minerals industry as providing effective control against the impact of airborne dust.
5.9.16 The adoption of the proposed measures will result in a reduction by at least one level in the magnitude of the impacts at each receptor. On
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this basis, “severe” impacts will become “moderate”, “moderate” impacts will become “mild” and “mild” impacts will become “negligible”, resulting in reduced estimated risks as shown in the following table.
5.9.17 The individual phases are large and the high estimated risks relate principally to when the workings are in close proximity to the identified receptors. When operations are carried out in the vicinity of these receptors, and conditions are such that adverse impacts due to dust may occur, provision will be made to work more remotely from the potentially affected areas.
5.9.18 To provide further protection from the potential impacts of dust emissions from the site, a dust management and monitoring plan (DMMP) will be drawn up. This will confirm the principal sources of dust and the potential impacts at the identified receptors. A scheme of dust control measures will be specified.
5.9.19 Dust monitoring will be carried out when potential dust raising operations approach to within 250m of any of the identified receptors. If the dust deposition or soiling rates exceed the potential nuisance levels, or if any substantiated complaints are received, additional dust control measures will be instituted.
Summary
5.9.20 The Air Quality Report has quantified the baseline conditions, and identified potential sources of emissions and potential receptors.
5.9.21 Assessment has been undertaken initially without mitigation, which confirmed potential areas of concern for which bespoke mitigation measures have been developed.
5.9.22 Medium residual risks will remain at some nearby receptors, however a dust monitoring action plan can be implemented in accordance with the NPPF via a suitable worded planning condition.
5.10 Alternatives
5.10.1 Schedule 4 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011 sets out details that should be included in an ES. These provisions are reinforced via Circular 02/99 which states that it is important that they should be prepared on a realistic basis and without unnecessary elaboration. Other guidance in the Circular confirms that the EIA directive and the Regulations do not expressly require the developer to study alternatives but if alternatives or alternative sites have been considered, then these should be discussed within the Environmental Statement.
5.10.2 In this particular instance no alternative sites for mineral extraction have been considered as the application is to work a mineral; minerals can only be worked where they are found; therefore there
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are no alternative sites where the mineral can be worked. Clearly as part of the Minerals Local Plan and emerging Minerals and Waste Development Framework, other mineral sites were considered and the Inspector and County Council considered that subject to various criteria being met, the site is question was generally acceptable.
5.10.3 The workings of a particular mineral deposit are different from built development where, for example, it is proposed to add to a town’s existing development, a major area of new housing, industry, a hospital site or other developments requiring large acreage, it is very probably the case that “alternatives” might be found at various locations around the town.
5.10.4 In any event the proposals envisage the recovery of a valuable mineral resource in a well located and sustainable site from an area of land that is soon to be allocated as a Preferred Site for mineral extraction under emerging planning policy.
5.10.5 As part of the development of the proposals, the applicant has considered a range of restoration alternatives with the final scheme being agreed with the landowner and key stakeholders. These have included various configurations in terms of landform and restored habitats, with the ultimate decision being to integrate as much nature conservation habitats as possible whilst ensuring the long term agricultural output of the land.
5.11 Cumulative Impact and Interaction Effects
5.11.1 The proposed development is an extension to the existing mineral workings at Alrewas Quarry. These consented operations are part of the baseline for the proposed extension and are therefore not required to be covered under the assessment of cumulative impact.
5.11.2 Nevertheless, the proposals envisage the retention and continued use of the existing plant site and ancillary facilities, including the silt lagoons to the north.
Interaction Effects
5.11.3 Owing to the size and nature of the proposals, the scope for interaction effects between the various technical disciplines is quite considerable. In this case the main sources of potential interaction effects have been identified as follows:
(i) restoration concepts impact on landscape, ecology and soils; (ii) the appropriate citing of the crossing points in relation to landscape and ecological impacts; and (iii) the appropriate citing of amenity bunding to minimise the scope for impact in relation to noise, dust and landscape.
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5.11.4 In each of the above cases, many options have been considered to secure an appropriate balance between the various technical disciplines to minimise the scope of interaction effects.
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SECTION 6 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
6.1 The proposals involve the recovery of circa 4.8 million tonnes of all allocated sand and gravel and a restoration scheme which envisages the sustainable use of best and most versatile soil to re-establish agricultural land with complementary biodiversity assets. The quarry will continue to be worked in a phased manner, and operated to high environmental standards to ensure that there is no material harm to local amenity or local nature conservation interests.
6.2 In accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment regulations, and advice contained within Circular 02/99, assessments have been undertaken in order to identify potential effects (both positive and negative), and to consider the significance of any such effects.
6.3 In respect of Landscape and Visual Amenity the proposed extension is not located within a sensitive landscape setting. Whilst there will be transient impacts during the working phase, in the long term there will be a benefit, with the implementation of the restoration concept that will create positive recreational benefits.
6.4 In respect of Soils and Agricultural Land Quality, there are best and most versatile soil resources on site. However with careful handling and management these will be reinstated in full to provide a productive arable unit in the south of the proposed extension.
6.5 With regard to Ecology, the proposed extension mainly comprises arable land with little ecological value. There are notable and protected species both on site and in the wider area, and therefore Lafarge Tarmac is continuing to implement a comprehensive monitoring regime. The works on site will be implemented to minimise the impact on these species, in accordance with legislative requirements.
6.6 Opportunity will be sought in the restoration concept to recreate any habitats lost in the mineral extraction scheme to create a net benefit with direct contributions to local BAP objectives.
6.7 In respect of Hydrology and Hydrogeology, part of the site is located in the floodplain. However the proposals are an acceptable form of development in such a context. The existing site benefits from well developed monitoring and management systems for both surface and groundwater which would be extended across the proposed extension. No impacts are envisaged on the wider drainage system of the River Tame.
6.8 With regard to Archaeology, the site is located in a sensitive setting, with on–site investigations indicating some potential features of archaeological merit. Therefore, any extraction scheme would be undertaken in accordance with an agreed Written Scheme of
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Investigation. In terms of cultural heritage, whilst there are listed buildings in proximity, the primary setting of such assets will not be affected, and therefore he impacts will be minimal.
6.9 With regard to Noise, the proposed extension is located in close proximity to residential receptors, the National Memorial Arboretum and the Whitemoor Lakes Activity Centre, both of which have been considered as sensitive receptors. The scheme includes the provision of amenity bunds that will ensure that the deposit can be recovered within the assessment framework identified within the NPPF.
6.10 With regard to Dust, the standard operational procedures already used on site will be extended to cover the proposed extension, ensuring minimal impact on surrounding amenity.
6.11 In respect of Traffic, the existing operations are well-established and benefit from almost direct access to the primary road network. There are no planed increased in HGV movements over the duration of the proposals, and as such the proposals will not increase levels of impact over and above that which already exists.
Overall Conclusion
6.12 The proposals represent a sustainable and logical extension to the mineral workings at Alrewas Quarry. The context of the site is such that the mineral resource proposed in this application (and identified as a preferred allocation by the MPA) could be recovered with minimal impact on surrounding environment.
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