Technical Appendix

Northamptonshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan (Update) Draft Plan document for consultation - Technical Annex December 2015

Contents The site assessment process 1 Desktop assessment ...... 2 Detailed assessment of specific constraints/issues ...... 3 Assessments contained within this document ...... 3 Stage 1 – Screening assessment 4 Sand and gravel extraction ...... 4 Strixton-Bozeat ...... 4 Passenham Extension South ...... 7 River Meadows / Land at Ashton ...... 10 Welford ...... 13 Industrial area locations for waste management uses ...... 16 Corby - Earlstrees (includes extensions to east) ...... 16 Corby – North Eastern Industrial Areas (includes extensions to south) ...... 19 Sites for integrated waste management facilities ...... 21 Northampton - East ...... 21 Corby – South East ...... 24 Stage 2 – Desktop Assessment 27 Mineral extraction 27 Sand and gravel extraction ...... 27 M1: Milton Malsor ...... 27 M2: Strixton - Bozeat ...... 34 M3: Heyford ...... 40 M4: Earls Barton West Extension ...... 48 M5: Passenham Extension South ...... 57 M6: Passenham Extension East ...... 65 M7: Elton Extension ...... 74 Crushed rock and building stone extraction ...... 81 M9: Pury End Quarry Extension...... 81 M10: Harlestone Quarry Extension ...... 88 Building and roofing stone extraction ...... 95 M11: Collyweston Village ...... 95 Waste Management Facilities 101 Industrial area locations for waste management uses ...... 101 WL16: Corby - Earlstrees ...... 101 WL18: Corby – North Eastern Industrial Areas ...... 107 Site for integrated waste management facilities ...... 113 WS1: Northampton - East ...... 113 WS2: Corby – South East ...... 121 Sites not taken forward to the Draft Plan 128

The site assessment process

A summary of the site assessment process is detailed below. Stage 1 will involve an initial screening the sites against the adopted Local Plan vision, objectives and the spatial strategies as well as key industry specific and major land use constraints for the purpose of identifying any red-flags that may significantly affect site suitability. The key policy considerations will act as the first ‘sieve’ – sites that are not in general conformity with these may not be subject to further assessment (as they would be unlikely to support delivery of the plan). Consultation responses from the Issues and Options stage (including the sites), development of the key policy considerations and the SA (and HRA where required) will be taken into consideration alongside results of the site assessments in determining which sites will be taken forward through the plan-making process. Only those sites taken forward will be subject to Stage 2 of the site assessment process. The results of the screening assessment are indicated by levels of compliance with the screening criterion, a key to the levels of compliance is outlined below. It should be noted that a screening result of a majority or all green flags does not mean that the site will automatically progress through the plan making process as an allocation, either in whole or in part. Sites taken forward will be subject to Stage 2 of the assessment process in order to determine which would be appropriate to accommodate the proposed development. Please note that all of the identified sites have been put forward for consideration by a landowner and/or the minerals industry and at the present time have no other planning status. Key to level of compliance:

Green flag - Fully compliant / no constraints identified

Yellow flag - Generally in compliance

Red flag - Not compliant / constraints identified Stage 2 will involve a desktop assessment of the sites against environmental, social and economic criterion (based on the SA objectives) in order to provide an overview of the features and constraints present that may affect site suitability (Stage 2a) and so inform identification of the preferred site for inclusion in the Draft Plan document. This stage may also involve identification of site-specific avoidance and / or mitigation measures that may be required to reduce potentially adverse impacts to an acceptable level, as well as identification of potential cumulative impacts. Detailed investigation of specific constraints / issues will be undertaken where considered necessary (Stage 2b) alongside the preparation of the Final Plan document. The full site assessment methodology is available on the Councils website.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 1 Desktop assessment Stage 2 will involve a desktop assessment of the sites against environmental, social and economic criterion in order to provide an overview of the features and constraints present that may affect site suitability and so inform identification of the preferred site for inclusion in the Draft Plan document. It should be noted that the assessment criteria will be further refined in line with development of the SA framework. This stage may also involve identification of site-specific avoidance and / or mitigation measures that may be required to reduce potentially adverse impacts to an acceptable level, as well as identification of potential cumulative impacts. Detailed investigation of specific constraints / issues that have been previously identified will be undertaken where considered necessary (Stage 2b) alongside the preparation of the Final Plan document. No weightings will be applied to the criterion as this implies that different indicators are directly comparable, allowing for ‘scores’ to be allocated and added together resulting in a sum total that would determine the best option. The constraints and issues presented by individual sites are complex in nature and require consideration on a site-by-site basis. Consultation responses from the Draft Plan stage (including the sites), development of the key policy considerations and the SA (and HRA where required) will be taken into consideration alongside results of the site assessments in determining which sites will be taken forward through the plan-making process to the Final Plan stage. Reasons for rejection of sites (from further consideration in the plan-making process) will be documented. Scale of impact Scale Definition Negligible So small or unimportant that it may safely be neglected or disregarded. Beneficial impact resulting in slight increase in quality or character enhancement. Slight adverse impact highly likely to be ameliorated by mitigation measures with Minor remaining residual impacts being negligible (or within acceptable limits). Identified constraints are acceptable. Beneficial impact resulting in an increase in quality or character enhancement. Moderate Adverse impact resulting in harm. It is possible that implementation of avoidance and/or mitigation measures will reduce impacts to an acceptable level. Identified constraints are significant. Beneficial impact resulting in extensive and significant increase in quality or character enhancement. Major Adverse impact resulting in significant harm. The implementation of avoidance and/or mitigation measures is unlikely to reduce impacts to an acceptable level. Identified constraints are unlikely to be overcome.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 2 Impact risk rating

Scale of impact Level of impact Negligible Minor Moderate Major Negligible Moderate High

National Very high Adverse County or Negligible Moderate Low High sub-regional

Negligible Low Low Moderate Local

Negligible Low Moderate Local Low Beneficial County or Negligible Low Moderate High sub-regional

Negligible Moderate High National Very high

Note: Non-designated heritage assets of archaeological interest that are demonstrably of equivalent significance to scheduled monuments, should be considered at the ‘national’ level for the purpose of the impact risk rating (NPPF para 139).

Detailed assessment of specific constraints/issues Following consultation on the preferred sites (set out in the Draft Plan), detailed investigation of specific constraints / issues will be undertaken where considered necessary (Stage 2b) alongside the preparation of the Final Plan document. The need for further assessment will be determined by the previous assessment stages and consultation responses and will be identified in an Annex accompanying the Draft Plan.

Assessments contained within this document The Stage 1 assessments in this document only relate to those put forward at the issues and options stage (River Meadows / Land at Ashton and Welford), sites allocated through the adopted Minerals and Waste Local Plan (MWLP) where it was undetermined if they should remain as allocations (and that such issues have since been clarified), or sites allocated through the adopted MWLP that have been subject to a key change since the issues and options consultation (Passenham Extension South). Other Stage 1 assessments for sites allocated in the Draft Plan can be found in the Issues and Options Technical Appendix. The Stage 2 assessments include all of the sites for mineral extraction included in the Draft Plan except for M8 (Wakerley) as this is awaiting the issue of its planning permission, along with the two remaining waste allocations and those industrial area designations where there an extension is proposed to the designated area identified in the adopted MWLP.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 3 Stage 1 – Screening assessment

Sand and gravel extraction Strixton-Bozeat Address: Parish of Strixton Area (hectares): 14.8 Proposed use: Sand and gravel extraction 1.5 Mt

Site summary:

 Compliant with the adopted MWLP spatial strategy. An existing allocation in the adopted MWLP.  Landowner support received for the site.  There are several listed buildings in the local area.  Large great crested newt population and badger setts recorded immediately to the south of the site.

Level of Key policy considerations compliance The plans vision and Does the site support the plans vision and objectives objectives? Yes, supports delivery of sand and gravel to support growth. The plans spatial Is the site in general conformity with the relevant strategy spatial strategy? Yes, located within the areas of focus.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 4 Deliverability Is the site currently owned by the operator or is there an agreement in place / being negotiated? Landowner support remains – industry support has been identified to bring the site forward. Minerals - Is the reserve quality / yield sufficient to suggest extraction would be economically viable during the plan period? Yes. Mineral deposit estimated at 1.5 Mt of sand with some gravel, this is supported by borehole surveys. Adjoining an existing sand and gravel quarry (Bozeat). Consideration of Is the site in general conformity with other adopted other land use plans local plans (including allocations)? Yes – the site is in general conformity with other adopted local plans. Industry specific considerations - Minerals Mineral type What is the type of mineral proposed to be worked i.e. primary aggregate (sand and gravel, limestone) or secondary and recycled aggregates? Sand and gravel (glacial). Contribution What are the estimated total yield / saleable towards adequate aggregate, annual extraction rate and estimated supply of operational life? aggregates BGS mineral resource mapping indicates presence of glacial sand and gravels. Mineral deposit estimated at 1.5 million tonnes of sand with some gravel, supported by borehole surveys. Adjoining an existing sand and gravel quarry (Bozeat). What is the intended timeframe for working the site (i.e. short term 0-5 years, medium term 5-10 years or long term 10+ years)? Medium to long term. Quality of reserve What are the reserve quality / characteristics? Limited information available on quality of reserve – glacial sand with some gravel.

Geological Local / site specific bore hole / drilling surveys evidence to Reserve / overburden ratio support the reserve Site specific borehole information supports presence of viable resource. Indicative resource identified through BGS mineral information mapping / reports BGS mineral resource mapping indicates the presence of glacial sand and gravels on part of the site. Intended end use Given the quality of the reserve what is the intended and market area end use? Intended end use unknown however the site adjoins the existing Bozeat quarry the end use of materials are likely to be similar. Where is the site located – would the aggregate be likely to be used within the county or exported? The site is located to the south west of Northampton and south of Wellingborough and so is well placed to serve growth areas within the county. Major land use constraints National and Does the site include, or is located within or directly international adjacent to, a designation for national or designations international interests / features? No. There are several listed buildings in the local area and a SSSI, Scheduled Monument and Conservation

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 5 Area, Registered Parks and Garden and SPA further afield. Protected species Have any protected species been identified on-site? Large great crested newt population and badger setts recorded immediately to the south. Significant potential constraint to the removal of hedgerows or to development. A badger sett recorded on the boundaries of the site. There are small assemblages of arable and grassland birds recorded in the area.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 6 Passenham Extension South Address: Land to the south-west and south-east of Passenham Golf Course Area (hectares): 17.2 – reduced area from allocation MA7 Proposed use: Sand and gravel extraction 0.2 Mt

Site summary:

 Compliant with the adopted MWLP spatial strategy.  Reduced area of allocated site MA7 (larger portion has been granted planning permission). Site investigations support river terrace sand and gravel deposits with an estimated yield of 0.2 Mt. Brought forward by industry/landowner as an extension to an existing operation and will utilise existing plant site.  Deanshanger and Passenham Conservation Areas, which feature several listed buildings, are located in the wider area.  The existing quarry supports protected common amphibians, foraging bats and breeding farmland and wetland birds, which would be some constraint to working methods and hedgerow clearance.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 7 Deliverability Is the site currently owned by the operator or is there an agreement in place / being negotiated? Yes, brought forward by industry (also freehold owner of land). The northern portion of MA7 was taken forward by industry and granted planning permission in July 2011. The southern part of the allocations is no longer supported by the prospective operator as they state it does not contain viable resources and it has therefore been excluded. This is the remaining section of the previous MA7 allocation. Minerals - Is the reserve quality / yield sufficient to suggest extraction would be economically viable during the plan period? Estimated yield 0.2Mt sand and gravel. Proposed to be operated as an extension – utilising existing plant. Extension to existing operations - viability has been demonstrated. Consideration of Is the site in general conformity with other adopted other land use plans local plans (including allocations)? Yes – the site is in general conformity with other adopted local plans. Industry specific considerations - Minerals Mineral type What is the type of mineral proposed to be worked i.e. primary aggregate (sand and gravel, limestone) or secondary and recycled aggregates? Sand and gravel. Contribution What are the estimated total yield / saleable towards adequate aggregate, annual extraction rate and estimated supply of operational life? aggregates The resource yield is estimated at circa 0.2 Mt tonnes of sand and gravel to be worked at an approximate rate of 0.1 Mtpa. The estimated operational life is 3-4 years. What is the intended timeframe for working the site (i.e. short term 0-5 years, medium term 5-10 years or long term 10+ years)? The site has active industry interest and would be an extension of existing operations (Passenham Quarry) - the time frame for the working of the site is likely to be in the medium - long term. Quality of reserve What are the reserve quality / characteristics? Ouse valley river terrace deposits are known to be of a high quality. Deposit suitable for use as construction aggregates and concrete - high quality end uses. Geological Local / site specific bore hole / drilling surveys evidence to Reserve / overburden ratio support the reserve Site-specific evidence has been submitted to support the site. Indicative resource identified through BGS mineral information mapping / reports BGS mineral resource mapping indicates the presence of sub-alluvial river terrace sand and gravel deposits. Intended end use Given the quality of the reserve what is the intended and market area end use? The river terrace deposits within Northamptonshire are generally of good quality, the intended end use would likely be for cement and related construction materials. Where is the site located – would the aggregate be likely to be used within Northamptonshire or exported?

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 8 The site is located on the county boundary and adjacent to Milton Keynes. It is 1.3 km from the Western Expansion Area in Milton Keynes. The mineral could support development within the county however given the distance to other growth areas outside the county (basically Milton Keynes) it is likely that the minerals could be exported to there. Major land use constraints National and Does the site include, or is located within or directly international adjacent to, a designation for national or designations international interests / features? No. Deanshanger and Passenham Conservation Areas that feature several listed buildings are located in the wider area (0.65 to 1 km away). Protected species Have any protected species been identified on-site? There are historic records for great crested newt in the pond within 750m to the north and multiple records on the eastern side of the River Great Ouse. According to 2014 surveys undertaken by the Mineral Operator for the 2014 extension, the existing quarry supports protected common amphibians, foraging bats and breeding farmland and wetland birds, which would be some constraint to working methods and hedgerow clearance. A Phase 1 Habitat survey and detailed species survey were submitted in support of planning application for Passenham Southern Extension, which provided an indication of the biodiversity likely to be supported on the Passenham South site. Passenham quarry supports, foraging and commuting Nocutule, Pipistrelle and Soprano Pipistrelle bats. Foraging and commuting Pipistrelle and Soprano Pipistrelle recorded on the eastern extention. Smooth newt, frog and toads recorded. Heavy stocking with fish may influence the potential for great crested newts in the ponds around the existing quarry, LWS and Golf course. Otters recorded on the River Great Ouse.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 9 River Meadows / Land at Ashton Address: Land at Ashton, North of Oundle Area (hectares): 40 Proposed use: Sand and gravel extraction 1 Mt

Site summary:

 Not in compliance with the adopted MWLP spatial strategy.  BGS records indicate presence of river terrace (sub-alluvial) sand and gravel deposits, unknown quality, brought forward by landowner - no operator identified.  Adjacent to a Scheduled Monument (Ashton Roman small town northeast Oundle) and Listed Buildings (southeast corner – Milestone, south boundary – North Bridge). South boundary in close proximity to Listed Building Oundle Railway Station. Cotterstock, Ashton Wold / Ashton Green and Oundle Conservation Areas and associated Scheduled Monument and listed buildings are located within the local area (450-700m). There are also several listed buildings scattered in the local area.  Records indicate presence of a number of species of principal importance, including wading birds, bats and water voles. Level of Key policy considerations compliance The plans vision Does the site support the plans vision and and objectives objectives? Proposal supports the delivery of minerals however not from the preferred areas.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 10 The plans spatial Is the site in general conformity with the relevant strategy spatial strategy? No, not located within the areas of focus.

Deliverability Is the site currently owned by the operator or is there an agreement in place / being negotiated? Brought forward by the landowners however potential operator has not been identified. Minerals - Is the reserve quality / yield sufficient to suggest extraction would be economically viable during the plan period? Proposal is for extraction of sand and gravel with an estimated yield of 1 Mt at a rate of 0.1 Mtpa (over a 10 year period). Consideration of Is the site in general conformity with other adopted other land use local plans (including allocations)? plans Yes - the site is in general conformity with other adopted local plans. Site is located within the Nene Valley Nature Improvement Area identified in the North Northants Joint Core Strategy (Policy 4). This will not prevent development but care will need to be taken during planning and restoration. Industry specific considerations - Minerals Mineral type What is the type of mineral proposed to be worked i.e. primary aggregate (sand and gravel, limestone) or secondary and recycled aggregates? Sand and gravel. Contribution What are the estimated total yield / saleable towards adequate aggregate, annual extraction rate and estimated supply of operational life? aggregates The resource yield is estimated at circa 1 Mt of sand and gravel to be worked at an approximate rate of 0.1 Mtpa. The estimated operational life is 10 years. What is the intended timeframe for working the site (i.e. short term 0-5 years, medium term 5-10 years or long term 10+ years)? No information has been supplied regarding the intended timeframe however with no operator yet identified the timeframe for working the site is likely to be in the medium to long term. Quality of reserve What are the reserve quality / characteristics? BGS data indicates that the Nene river terrace deposits within Northamptonshire are typically of high quality.

Geological Local / site specific bore hole / drilling surveys evidence to Reserve / overburden ratio support the reserve No site-specific evidence has been submitted. Indicative resource identified through BGS mineral information mapping / reports Indicative mineral resources identified on site include river terrace (sub-alluvial) sand and gravel deposits. Intended end use Given the quality of the reserve what is the intended and market area end use? The river terrace deposits within Northamptonshire are typically of good quality, the intended end use would likely be for concrete and related construction materials. Where is the site located – would the aggregate be likely to be used within Northamptonshire or

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 11 exported? Located in the north of the county hence it is likely the site would serve both Northamptonshire and adjoining authorities. Major land use constraints National and Does the site include, or is located within or directly international adjacent to, a designation for national or designations international interests / features? Yes. Site surrounded on the western and northern boundary by the Scheduled Monument Ashton Roman small town north east of Oundle and Listed Building(at southeast corner – Milestone and south boundary – North Bridge). South boundary in close proximity to Listed Building Oundle Railway Station. Cotterstock, Ashton Wold / Ashton Green and Oundle Conservation Areas and associated Scheduled Monument and listed buildings are located within the local area (450-700m). Several listed buildings are also scattered within the local area. Protected species Have any protected species been identified on-site? Oundle Snipe Meadow and adjacent pasture on the opposite side of the River Nene is an important site for protecting breeding Snipe and Redshank. Lapwing are also recorded at the surrounding Oundle North Meadows. Other wading birds and Barn Owl, Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler, Reed Bunting and a wide range of dragonflies and damselflies are recorded on the County Wildlife Site. Pasture adjacent to the River Nene on the eastern banks may have potential to support similar species. There are records for Pipestrelle, Brown long-eared and Barbestrelle bat roosts in Ashton or Ashton Wolds to the south-east. Water vole as well as Pipistrelle and Daubentons bats are recorded on River Nene at the site.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 12 Welford Address: Land north east of Welford Area (hectares): Approximately 46 Proposed use: Sand and gravel extraction estimated 2 Mt

Site summary:

 Site is not within the areas of focus for sand and gravel.  Site has been brought forward by the landowner but currently no operator has been identified.  The site is just to the south of Bosworth Mill Meadow Site of Special Scientific Interest.  Otters recorded on the Grand Union canal near Welford both to the north and south.  Deposit identified as being suitable for use as construction aggregates and concrete, hence suitable for high quality end use.

Level of Key policy considerations compliance The plans vision Does the site support the plans vision and and objectives objectives? Proposal supports the delivery of sand and gravel to support growth. The plans spatial Is the site in general conformity with the relevant strategy spatial strategy? No the site is not within the areas of focus for sand and gravel extraction. Deliverability Is the site currently owned by the operator or is there an agreement in place / being negotiated? The site has been brought forward by the landowner, no operator has yet been identified but industry interest

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 13 was indicated previously (MWDF call for sites process). Minerals - Is the reserve quality / yield sufficient to suggest extraction would be economically viable during the plan period? Estimated yield 2Mt sand and gravel. Consideration of Is the site in general conformity with other adopted other land use local plans (including allocations)? plans Yes – the site is in general conformity with other adopted local plans. Industry specific considerations - Minerals Mineral type What is the type of mineral proposed to be worked i.e. primary aggregate (sand and gravel, limestone) or secondary and recycled aggregates? Sand and gravel Contribution What are the estimated total yield / saleable towards adequate aggregate, annual extraction rate and estimated supply of operational life? aggregates The resource yield is estimated at circa 2 Mt of sand and gravel. No current information has been supplied on the annual extraction rate or estimated operational life. Information submitted on the site (although with a slightly different site boundary), as part of an earlier plan review process, indicates an annual extraction rate of 200,000 tpa and estimated operational life of 12 years. What is the intended timeframe for working the site (i.e. short term 0-5 years, medium term 5-10 years or long term 10+ years)? No information has been supplied regarding the intended timeframe. Quality of reserve What are the reserve quality / characteristics? Deposit identified as being suitable for use as construction aggregates and concrete, hence suitable for high quality end use. Geological Local / site specific bore hole / drilling surveys evidence to Reserve / overburden ratio support the reserve Geological evidence supports reserve. Indicative resource identified through BGS mineral information mapping / reports BGS mineral resource mapping indicates presence of glacial sand and gravel. Intended end use Given the quality of the reserve what is the intended and market area end use? Deposit identified as being suitable for use as construction aggregates and concrete, hence suitable for high quality end use. Where is the site located – would the aggregate be likely to be used within Northamptonshire or exported? Located in the west of the county close to Leicestershire boundary hence it is likely the site would support development both in Northamptonshire and neighbouring authorities (accessed via A14). Major land use constraints National and Does the site include, or is located within or directly international adjacent to, a designation for national or designations international interests / features? The site is just to the south of Bosworth Mill Meadow Site of Special Scientific Interest. Potential Wildlife Sites immediately to the north-east on the River and on the

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 14 edge of the Grand Union Canal to west. The Grand Union Canal to the west is designated as a Local Wildlife Site. Sybolds Spinney LWS lies 600m to the southwest of the site. Protected species Have any protected species been identified on-site? Otters recorded on the Grand Union canal near Welford both to the north and south. There are no rare of protected species records on the site as it is unlikely to have been surveyed. A more detailed assessment should be undertaken.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 15 Industrial area locations for waste management uses Corby - Earlstrees (includes extensions to east) Area (hectares): 172.5 Proposed use: Industrial area designation where waste management uses would be acceptable “in principle”.

Site summary:

 Compliant with the adopted MWLP spatial strategy (located within the central spine).  The site comprises the existing WL16 allocation in the adopted MWLP and has been expanded to include associated industrial areas including existing allocation WS9 Corby – Gretton Brook Road. The proposed allocation is for a general industrial area within which waste management use would be acceptable in principle. The industrial area has several permissions for waste use.  Lloyds Estate Conservation Area is located 150m south and Rockingham Castle Registered Parks and Garden (and associated Scheduled Monument, Conservation Area and several listed buildings) are located to the west (500m).  Records indicate presence of several protected species in woodland on the boundaries of WL16. Level of Key policy considerations compliance The plans vision and Does the site support the plans vision and objectives objectives? Yes, the industrial area supports the delivery of the waste management capacity requirements. The plans spatial Is the site in general conformity with the relevant strategy spatial strategy? Yes the industrial area is located within the central spine. Deliverability Is the site currently owned by the operator or is NA

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 16 there an agreement in place / being negotiated? NA – The proposed allocation is a general industrial area within which waste management use would be acceptable in principle. Consideration of Is the site in general conformity with other adopted other land use plans local plans (including allocations)? Yes – the industrial area is in general conformity with other adopted local plans. Industry specific considerations - Waste Waste type / stream What is the waste type(s) / stream(s)? Mixed waste types - municipal, C&I and CD&E waste.

Contribution towards Would the facility facilitate delivery of capacity a sustainable waste requirements during the plan period? management Yes, the plan identifies indicative capacity gaps that network and capacity could be delivered through development of facilities requirements within the industrial area. What is the intended timeframe for developing the site (i.e. short term 0-5 years, medium term 5-10 years or long term 10+ years)? Throughout the plan period. Reduction in reliance Does the proposal contribute towards a reduction in on landfilling reliance on landfilling? Yes, the development of a waste management facility would increase the operational capacity and reduce waste sent to landfill. Has the end fate / market for residual waste / by- products been identified? Unknown at this stage as the proposed allocation is a general industrial area within which waste management use would be acceptable in principle. Intended catchment Have possible origins or a broad catchment area been identified? Unknown at this stage as the proposed allocation is a general industrial area within which waste management use would be acceptable in principle. Spatial context Has consideration been given to co-location of facilities together and with complementary activities, balancing waste movements (proximity to urban areas), servicing of growth areas? Waste management uses are broadly compatible with general industrial use. The industrial area has several sites within it that have permission for waste use. The industrial area is well positioned in relation to existing urban areas and growth areas. Major land use constraints National and Does the site include, or is located within or directly international adjacent, a designated for national or international designations interests / features? No. Located within an industrial area. Lloyds Estate Conservation Area is located 150m south. Rockingham Castle Registered Parks and Garden (and associated Scheduled Monument, Conservation Area and several listed buildings) are located to the west (500m), Corby Old Village Conservation Area and associated listed buildings are located over 1km south.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 17 Protected species Have any protected species been identified on-site (and confirmed / recorded in existing official databases)? Records indicate presence of several protected species in woodland on the boundaries of WL16. Constraints limited mainly to ponds, water bodies, wetlands, gullets and rough grassland habitats to edges of the site and air quality impacts.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 18 Corby – North Eastern Industrial Areas (includes extensions to south) Area (hectares): 25.9 Proposed use: Industrial area designation where waste management uses would be acceptable “in principle”.

Site summary:

 Compliant with the adopted MWLP spatial strategy (located within the central spine).  The site comprises the existing WL18 and WS3 allocations in the adopted MWLP and has been expanded to include associated industrial areas. The proposed allocation is for a general industrial area within which waste management use would be acceptable in principle. The industrial area has several permissions for waste use.  Corby Old Village, Weldon and Lloyds Estate Conservation Areas, including associated listed buildings and Scheduled Monument (Little Weldon Roman Villa) and Priors Hall RIGS in local area (50-600m).  Badger setts, reptiles, amphibians and great crested newt recorded all around perimeters of WL18. Level of Key policy considerations compliance The plans vision and Does the site support the plans vision and objectives objectives? Yes, the industrial area supports the delivery of the waste management capacity requirements. The plans spatial Is the site in general conformity with the relevant strategy spatial strategy? Yes the industrial area is located within the central spine. Deliverability Is the site currently owned by the operator or is there an agreement in place / being negotiated? NA – The proposed allocation is a general industrial NA area within which waste management use would be acceptable in principle.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 19 Consideration of Is the site in general conformity with other adopted other land use plans local plans (including allocations)? Yes – the industrial area is in general conformity with other adopted local plans. Industry specific considerations - Waste Waste type / stream What is the waste type(s) / stream(s)? Mixed waste types - municipal, C&I and CD&E waste.

Contribution towards Would the facility facilitate delivery of capacity a sustainable waste requirements during the plan period? management Yes, the plan identifies indicative capacity gaps that network and capacity could be delivered through development of facilities requirements within the industrial area. What is the intended timeframe for developing the site (i.e. short term 0-5 years, medium term 5-10 years or long term 10+ years)? Throughout the plan period. Reduction in reliance Does the proposal contribute towards a reduction in on landfilling reliance on landfilling? Yes, the development of a waste management facility would increase the operational capacity and reduce waste sent to landfill. Has the end fate / market for residual waste / by- products been identified? Unknown at this stage as the proposed allocation is a general industrial area within which waste management use would be acceptable in principle. Intended catchment Have possible origins or a broad catchment area been identified? Unknown at this stage as the proposed allocation is a general industrial area within which waste management use would be acceptable in principle. Spatial context Has consideration been given to co-location of facilities together and with complementary activities, balancing waste movements (proximity to urban areas), servicing of growth areas? Waste management uses are broadly compatible with general industrial use. The industrial area has several sites within it that have permission for waste use. The industrial area is well positioned in relation to existing urban areas and growth areas. Major land use constraints National and Does the site include, or is located within or directly international adjacent, a designated for national or international designations interests / features? No. Corby Old Village, Weldon and Loyds Estate Conservation Areas, including associated listed buildings and Scheduled Monument (Little Weldon Roman Villa) and Priors Hall RIGS in local area (50- 600m). Protected species Have any protected species been identified on-site? Badger setts, reptiles, amphibians and Great crested newt recorded all around perimeters of WL18. Watervole recorded in Willowbrook on northern boundary. Amphibians may be a constraint to development in PWS at the allocation WS3: Corby - Central East, which is to be included in the extension to the designated industrial area.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 20 Sites for integrated waste management facilities Northampton - East Address: East of Billing sewage treatment works Area (hectares): 18.5 Proposed use: Integrated waste management facility (a mix of one or more advanced and preliminary treatment facilities)

Site summary:

 Compliant with the adopted MWLP spatial strategy (located within the central spine).  Brought forward by industry/landowner. Site is an existing allocation for an integrated waste management facility in the adopted MWLP. Landowner support received.  Great Billing and Ecton Conservation Areas and associated listed buildings are located within the wider area (>800m).  Low numbers of foraging bats and invertebrates, reptile and bird interest recorded on the site. Level of Key policy considerations compliance The plans vision and Does the site support the plans vision and objectives objectives? Yes, the site supports the delivery of the waste management capacity requirements. The plans spatial Is the site in general conformity with the relevant strategy spatial strategy? Yes the site is located within the central spine.

Deliverability Is the site currently owned by the operator or is there an agreement in place / being negotiated? The north-west section of the site has permission for

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 21 waste use however general support (landowner) for the whole site remains. Consideration of Is the site in general conformity with other adopted other land use plans local plans (including allocations)? Yes – the site is in general conformity with other adopted local plans. Industry specific considerations - Waste Waste type / stream What is the waste type(s) / stream(s)? Mixed waste types - municipal and C&I waste.

Contribution towards Would the facility facilitate delivery of capacity a sustainable waste requirements during the plan period? management Yes, the plan identifies indicative capacity gaps, in network and capacity particular for advanced treatment, which could be requirements delivered through this site. What is the intended timeframe for developing the site (i.e. short term 0-5 years, medium term 5-10 years or long term 10+ years)? Medium to long term. Reduction in reliance Does the proposal contribute towards a reduction in on landfilling reliance on landfilling? Yes, the development of a waste management facility would increase the operational capacity and reduce waste sent to landfill. Has the end fate / market for residual waste / by- products been identified? No information has been provided however residuals from advanced treatment processes may be re- used/recycled, further processed or disposed of to landfill. Intended catchment Have possible origins or a broad catchment area been identified? No information has been provided however the allocation would be for an integrated waste management facility – it is expected that such a facility would have a sub-regional to regional catchment. Spatial context Has consideration been given to co-location of facilities together and with complementary activities, balancing waste movements (proximity to urban areas), servicing of growth areas? No information has been provided however the allocation would be for an integrated waste management facility that would comprise one or more advanced and preliminary facilities. Located adjacent the great billing sewage treatment works. The site is well positioned in relation to existing urban areas and growth areas. Major land use constraints National and Does the site include, or is located within or directly international adjacent, a designated for national or international designations interests / features? No. The site is located between two sections of the Upper Nene Valley Gravel SPA (over 2 km away). Great Billing and Ecton Conservation Areas and associated listed buildings are located within the wider area (>800m).

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 22 Protected species Have any protected species been identified on-site? Record of a badger sett within 500m and records for otter. Specialist species surveys have been undertaken on behalf of Anglian Water. Low numbers of foraging bats and invertebrates, reptile and bird interest recorded on the site. Wintering bird habitat provided by the site is of negligible significance in the context of the SPA. Possible potential for water vole.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 23 Corby – South East Address: Land to south of Stamford Road Area (hectares): 25.9 Proposed use: Integrated waste management facility (a mix of one or more advanced and preliminary treatment facilities)

Site summary:

 Compliant with the adopted MWLP spatial strategy (located within the central spine).  Brought forward by industry/landowner. Site is an existing allocation for an integrated waste management facility in the adopted MWLP and has permission for an existing waste use. Landowner support received.  Corby Old Village and Weldon Conservation Areas, including associated listed buildings and Scheduled Monument in local area.  Brown hare (BAP Priority Species) are potentially breeding on the site. Seven species of bird recorded of conservation importance. Level of Key policy considerations compliance The plans vision and Does the site support the plans vision and objectives objectives? Yes, the site supports the delivery of the waste management capacity requirements. The plans spatial Is the site in general conformity with the relevant strategy spatial strategy? Yes the site is located within the central spine.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 24 Deliverability Is the site currently owned by the operator or is there an agreement in place / being negotiated? General support (landowner) for the site remains.

Consideration of Is the site in general conformity with other adopted other land use plans local plans (including allocations)? Yes – the site is in general conformity with other adopted local plans. Industry specific considerations - Waste Waste type / stream What is the waste type(s) / stream(s)? Mixed waste types - municipal, C&I and CD&E (inerts/soils) waste.

Contribution towards Would the facility facilitate delivery of capacity a sustainable waste requirements during the plan period? management Yes, the plan identifies indicative capacity gaps, in network and capacity particular for advanced treatment, which could be requirements delivered through this site. What is the intended timeframe for developing the site (i.e. short term 0-5 years, medium term 5-10 years or long term 10+ years)? Short, medium and long term. Reduction in reliance Does the proposal contribute towards a reduction in on landfilling reliance on landfilling? Yes, the development of a waste management facility would increase the operational capacity and reduce waste sent to landfill. Has the end fate / market for residual waste / by- products been identified? No information has been provided however residuals from advanced treatment processes may be re- used/recycled, further processed or disposed of to landfill. Intended catchment Have possible origins or a broad catchment area been identified? No information has been provided however the allocation would be for an integrated waste management facility – it is expected that such a facility would have a sub-regional to regional catchment. Spatial context Has consideration been given to co-location of facilities together and with complementary activities, balancing waste movements (proximity to urban areas), servicing of growth areas? No information has been provided however the allocation would be for an integrated waste management facility that would comprise one or more advanced and preliminary facilities. Site has permission for waste use (Weldon landfill site – landfill not operational, HWRC and transfer operational). The site is well positioned in relation to existing urban areas and growth areas. Major land use constraints National and Does the site include, or is located within or directly international adjacent, a designated for national or international designations interests / features? No. Corby Old Village and Weldon Conservation Areas, including associated listed buildings and Scheduled Monument (Little Weldon Roman Villa) (>400m) in local area.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 25 Protected species Have any protected species been identified on-site? Brown hare (BAP Priority Species) are potentially breeding on the site. Seven species of bird recorded of conservation importance. Site supports a low population of Common lizards, Smooth newts and European Protected great crested newts. Lapwing recorded on or adjacent to the site. Skylark, Meadow Pipit, Whitethroat and Linnet are recorded on the site. Brown long-eared, Noctule and Pipistrelle bat roots recorded 200-500m to the north. Small heath butterfly is a Species of Principal Importance. Invertebrate surveys have recorded two key assemblages of particular note; the W2 ‘mineral marsh & open water’ assemblage and the F1 ‘unshaded early successional mosaic’ assemblage. A Dormouse survey is currently being undertaken on a potential application site around the southern part of WS2.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 26 Stage 2 – Desktop Assessment Mineral extraction

Sand and gravel extraction M1: Milton Malsor Location: North of Collingtree Road, Parish of Milton Malsor Area (hectares): 14 Proposed use: Soft sand extraction 1.18 Mt

Site summary Opportunities:  Supports provision of aggregates - soft sand.  Supported by geological evidence including evidence of high quality end uses.  Limited impact on natural, historic environment and recreational opportunities.  Restoration provides opportunity to increase nature conservation and recreational opportunities associated with the site. Constraints:  Potential adverse impacts and nuisance affecting residential amenity (noise and dust), particularly eastern edge of Milton Malsor.  Cumulative impact (noise) from M1, railway and proposal on residential amenity of surrounding dwellings.  Transport routing and access arrangements may result in transport conflicts and impact on infrastructure (upgrading required).

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 27  Potential dewatering impact on adjacent rail and motorway embankments, however it is thought that these effects can be mitigated. Overall assessment outcome  Suitable to be taken forward as proposed allocation. Assessment Impact Detailed Site characteristics/features, potential criterion and link risk assessment impacts and mitigation measures to SA objectives rating required? Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the relevant Spatial strategy spatial strategy? Yes – within the areas of focus. NA

Air quality (including Emissions from the proposed sand and gravel dust) operation are primarily expected to be dust SA2, SA3 (particulate matter) including quantities of PM10, or gases such as NO2 and CO2 associated with transportation emissions. Sources of emissions include soil stripping, overburden handling, mineral extraction, loading, tipping, material haulage (including dust from haul roads) and wind blow. The site is adjacent to one dwelling, around 20m other dwellings and 30m from the M1 motorway to the east, and 15m from the railway to the west. The vegetation along the railway and motorway could help provide a barrier to dust and Moderate PM10 however, careful dust management and adverse No methods of working would be required to ensure the site is capable of being operated so as not to cause a nuisance and does not exceed NAQS standards. There is an AQMA for NO2 designated along the southbound carriageway of the M1 and land adjacent to the southbound carriageway (up to 60m from the central reservation) – therefore consideration will need to be given to the impact upon this from the development. The impact from vibration as a result of haulage will need to be determined once the details of access and haul route is put forward. Protection of water Ground waters quality, resources There is potential for groundwater flooding of and groundwater excavated areas. SA2, SA4 The site is close to the M1, another major road and a railway line, therefore drainage/flooding and boundary issues in relation to the roads will need to be carried out. A hydro geological survey would be required to assess potential for settlement of surrounding railway and motorway Minor embankments, however, these issues should be No able to be addressed and mitigated. adverse Water quality and quantity Dewatering is likely to be required, the extent of which is yet to be determined. The groundwater is not expected to be especially vulnerable to contamination. Infiltrating water should be free of contaminants. Previous land use should be checked to determine whether the ground is contaminated. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 28 flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. A hydro geological survey would be required to accompany the planning application. Flood risk The entire site is located within flood zone 1 with SA4 a low risk of fluvial flooding to the site. There is a risk of surface water flooding to the site. There are reports of highway (including M1) and Sequential / Minor property flooding within 500 metres of the site. exception adverse Sequential / exception testing (NPPF technical test required guidance) will be required. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil Located on Grade 3 (good to moderate quality) quality agricultural land that will be temporarily removed SA2, SA7, SA8 from production during the operational life of the quarry. Careful restoration will be required if land is to be returned to its previous use and condition. The site covers 14 ha and is mainly used for Minor arable crops. The quarrying of soft sand is No adverse unlikely to result in soil contamination. Standard planning conditions require soil handing to be undertaken according to government guidance, which ensures that soils are not unduly detrimentally affected. Landform will be altered as a result of quarrying. Noise and vibration The close proximity of the site and nearest noise SA2 sensitive receptors to the M1 and railway line means that the nearest receptors experience elevated background noise levels. It is considered that careful mitigation measures would be required to ensure the site would be unlikely to Minor – breach the upper 55 dB(A) (1hr, LAeq) limit for moderate No normal site operations. The routeing agreement is adverse to be as per development requirements set out in the adopted MWLP which prevents HGV’s accessing local roads, therefore vibration would unlikely to be an issue preventing the grant of planning permission. Nature The site falls within the Bugbrooke, conservation, Rothersthorpe and Collingtree Biodiversity biodiversity and Character Area. Woodland cover is not a geodiversity prominent feature. However, there are some SA2 isolated coverts. Occasional neutral hay meadows and small ponds are also retained. A large proportion of the land is under arable cultivation, often surrounded by discontinuous wildlife-poor hedgerows that are a barrier to Minor species dispersal. Overall the survival of semi- No adverse natural habitats is low. The two Local Wildlife Sites Grand Union Canal and Collingtree Golf Course are both man-made habitats 900m to the east. There are no other wildlife sites within 1km. Predominantly arable (low biodiversity) with well- treed field boundaries and an area of pasture in the east with potential for biodiversity. Mitigation: Biodiversity should be enhanced by

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 29 the restoration, creation, buffering and linkage of broadleaved woodland, lowland neutral grassland, hedgerows or open standing water to create larger sustainable areas of characteristic habitats and features retained. Historic The site lies within north-south aligned strip environment and between Milton Malsor and Collingtree and heritage assets extending to the south with a mature fieldscape, SA5 in which layout of late C18 enclosure of Milton Malsor and Collingtree survives (although with some loss of internal boundaries). Surrounding site, some localised survival of relict ‘Ridge & Furrow’ earthworks relating to previous Open Field agricultural systems associated with Milton Malsor (SMR 5441/0/3, ~/04) Wootton (SMR 5441/0/9), and Collingtree (SMR 2144/0/2). The site also contains extensive cropmarks identified from aerial photography (1986), which are likely to represent possible prehistoric-Saxon settlement, MNN6192. The archaeological investigations undertaken in 2013 in relation to the Northampton South SUE Minor – indicted that the Roman activity to the north east moderate No of the site appeared to stop before the adverse M1.Potential impact on setting of Milton Malsor historic settlement core and historic buildings (Conservation Area, Listed Buildings) 300m west of site, although intervening railway line may reduce possible impact on Roman settlement remains previously recorded in sand quarry to east of site (SMR 4638/0/1), extensive remains recorded in west part of site from aerial photography (SMR 4638) may demonstrate survival of additional evidence. The line of London and North Western Railway line (SMR 5222/1) survives as western boundary of site. Further assessment, in particular archaeological evaluation, will be required to accompany the planning application in order to determine the impact upon the significance of heritage assets. Landscape The site falls within the Bugbrooke and Daventry character and visual Landscape Character Area: Undulating Hills and impact Valleys. Well-settled landscape with some large SA17 villages. Undulating hills and valleys limit extensive views. Pasture predominates, well- treed field boundaries and copses emphasise landform. Crossing the landscape is a network of minor roads along with a number of more major Minor roads. No adverse Site: Predominantly arable fields adjacent to M1 and Northampton rail link causing severance of site to neighbouring villages Milton Malsor and Collingtree. Shallow gradient across site. Potential views to edge of Northampton. Many urbanising elements. A Right of Way crosses site. Mitigation: Enhance field boundaries and small copses. Built environment Site is located between the settlements of Milton Moderate No and townscape Malsor (100m west) and Collingtree (330m east) adverse

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 30 SA17 but is separated from these by a railway line and the M1. Maple Farm (which accommodates small office units) and some individual properties are adjacent/ in proximity to the site. Potential for visual impacts, particularly for nearby property. The M1 and railway line offer some screening to the villages. Opportunities for Progressive restoration is likely to involve a beneficial combination of infilling with inert waste and restoration and after reprofiling to lower levels. There could be a use change in the landform as a result of restoration. SA9 After use would most likely be a return to Negligible No agriculture. Restoration should enable enhancement of the landscape, recreational opportunities or nature conservation. Opportunities exist to retain pasture/re-create arable, field margins and protect boundaries. Climate change and The majority of carbon emissions that directly opportunities for relate to the minerals industry come from vehicle sustainable movements. Despite the proximity to the railway, development the site is located away from alternative transport SA6, SA10, SA16 hubs and therefore the transportation of minerals Minor No from the site will be road based. Routing is to be adverse as per the development requirements set out in the adopted plan. There could be potential for transportation into the wider market from the aggregate rail depot located in Northamptonshire. Proximity to The site is located between the settlements of sensitive receptors Milton Malsor (100m) and Collingtree (330m) but SA13 is separated from these by a railway line and M1. There are other sensitive receptors in the area including Maple Farm (which accommodates small office units) and individual properties in close proximity to the site - increasing the potential for noise, dust and visual impacts associated with mineral extraction (e.g. plant machinery operation and HGV movements). The Minor – settlement of Collingtree is also located in the moderate No local area. adverse Standard planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures (such as screening and strategic layout) could potentially reduce these impacts to acceptable levels. Access should avoid the village centres of Milton Malsor and Collingtree with materials transported over the rail bridge north of the site and then via haul road to Towcester Road (former A43). Compatibility of The site is located between a railway line and the surrounding land- M1 with the settlements of Milton Malsor and uses Collingtree to the west and east. Land use to the SA13, SA20 north-to-north east and south is largely rural / agricultural although there are some individual Minor properties in the local area. A pathway intersects No the north of the site. Milton Malsor Village Park is adverse adjacent the site - separated by the railway line. Maple Farm accommodates small office units. There is no land-use of a high sensitivity (relating to minerals development) located directly adjacent to the site boundary. It is likely that

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 31 appropriate controls and mitigation measures could be implemented to reduce any potential land use conflicts. Impact on general Site has isolated residential properties in close amenity or proximity to the site potentially increase impacts. character of the Site is bounded on one side by a railway and on area the other by a motorway severing the site from SA13, SA17 further residential properties. Broader landscape Minor amenity may be disrupted due to a potential No adverse increase in ambient noise (operations, vehicles) and visual impacts, however screening and site layout may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to increased traffic movements within the area. Impact on Footpath KX10 crosses the site east – west. This recreational path will need to be temporarily diverted as part opportunities and of the operations. Restoration provides Minor open spaces opportunity to increase recreational opportunities. No adverse (including rights of way) SA15 Economic and Site is deliverable with active industry backing employment and an economically viable resource supported opportunities by borehole surveys. The resource yield is SA1, SA7, SA10, estimated at circa 1.2 Mt of soft sand. The SA11, SA12, SA14, deposit complies with BS1200 Type S or G SA20 Building Sands from natural sources (less than 5mm), hence is suitable for high quality end-use. The economic benefit of an operation at Milton Malsor is the availability of soft sand resources to support development in Northamptonshire Moderate including the Northampton South Sustainable No Urban Extension (SUE) in proximity to the site. beneficial The close proximity to the M1offers easy access to core road transport routes around Northamptonshire to support development elsewhere in the county. An operation of this type is anticipated to generate between 3-6 full time positions, including a manager/supervisor, foreman and plant operators. Additional contract positions may be required during the life of the operation. Availability of and Predominately related to transport infrastructure impact on network, such as improvements to the bridge infrastructure over the railway and dewatering having a SA18, SA19 potential to impact adjacent rail and motorway embankments. Although on-site measures are likely to be able to mitigate this. There is understood to be no national grid Minor- infrastructure over the site and no aerodrome moderate No safeguarding issues, however, further adverse consultation and assessment will need to be made on utilities infrastructure. Subject to other operator agreement the nearest processing plants are at Passenham Quarry, Wolverton and Earls Barton. However, given the distances the site is likely to require its own processing plant. Site access and A routing agreement is to be as per development Minor No

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 32 impact on transport requirements set out in the adopted MWLP, adverse network / which prevents HGV’s accessing local roads. infrastructure Access should avoid the village centres of Milton SA13, SA18 Malsor and Collingtree with materials transported over the rail bridge north of the site and then via the haul road to Towcester Road (former A43). The site lies between the A43 to the west and M1 to the east. There is potential for impacts on the A43 related to increase traffic movement within the area. The development will extend east as far as the M1 - assessment will be required of potential geological, drainage/flooding and boundary issues in relation to the M1, in addition there could be potential traffic impacts on junctions on the A43 and A45, which will require investigation in a transport impact assessment to accompany the planning application. Capacity for The application of standard conditions and onsite avoidance and / or mitigation measures (e.g. screening/bunding, mitigation measures dust suppression, hours of operation, traffic SA2, SA13 routing agreements) is likely to reduce potential Minor No impacts to acceptable levels. Loss of agricultural beneficial land and the impact on the landscape can be reduced through the progressive phasing and restoration of the development. Potential for There is potential for cumulative impacts resulting cumulative impacts from interaction of the railway line, operation of SA2, SA13 the quarry and M1 (e.g. noise and dust) however Minor No the implementation of site management and adverse mitigation measures could significantly reduce the potential for cumulative effects.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 33 M2: Strixton - Bozeat Location: Parish of Strixton Area (hectares): 14.8 Proposed use: Glacial sand and gravel extraction 1.5Mt

Site summary Opportunities:  Contribution towards aggregate apportionment. Existing operations in local area supports geological evidence.  The site is located away from residential areas and villages, hence there is a reduced potential for adverse affects and environmental nuisance (residual affects may occur at times), mitigation measures likely to be effective.  Restoration would assist in blending into landscape and increase opportunities for extending local environmental and landscape features, as well as increasing potential for beneficial after use. Constraints:  The site is located away from residential areas hence adverse impacts are reduced however there is potential for residual environmental nuisance (fugitive dust and noise / vibration associated with HGV movements) as well as an increase in perceived safety risk from increased / ongoing HGV’s movements.  There is likely to be temporary disturbance to landscape character, general amenity of the area (e.g. from RoW) and recreational opportunities. Overall assessment outcome:  Suitable to be taken forward as a proposed allocation.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 34 Assessment Detailed Site characteristics/features, potential Impact criterion and link assessment impacts and mitigation measures risk rating to SA objectives required? Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the Spatial strategy relevant spatial strategy? NA Yes, located within the areas of focus.

Protection of Ground waters water quality, There is potential for groundwater flooding to resources and occur at the surface of unexcavated areas. groundwater Minor and major aquifer identified on site. SA2, SA4 Dewatering may be involved in operations. A flood risk assessment and hydro geological survey are likely to be required as part of the development control process. Minor Water quality and quantity No adverse There are areas of the site with a very significant potential for one or more geohazards associated with infiltration. A site investigation should consider whether the potential for or the consequences of infiltration are significant. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The site is located within Flood Zone 1, with a SA4 low risk of fluvial flooding. There is a risk of surface water flooding to the site. Minor Sequential / Flooding of highway and property has been adverse exception test reported within 1km of the site. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil The site is located on Grade 2 (very good quality quality) land; considered to be the ‘best and SA2, SA7, SA8 most versatile land’. The site covers 14.8 ha Minor and is currently used for arable crops. This land adverse No would be temporarily lost during the operational life of the quarry. Careful restoration would be able to return the land to this grade.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 35 The quarrying of sand and gravel is unlikely to result in soil contamination. Standard planning conditions require soil handing to be undertaken according to government guidance, which ensures that soils are not unduly detrimentally affected. Landform will be altered as a result of quarrying. Extraction of sand and gravel is unlikely to cause instability during operations or result in unstable landforms from restoration. Dewatering has the potential to effect surrounding lands through settlement however the extent to which this is likely would need to be assessed through a hydro geological survey. It is believed that these issues can be addressed and mitigated. Noise and The site is located in close proximity to and vibration capable of being accessed directly from the SA2 A509 which bypasses many of the nearest residential properties. The nearest properties are located around 680m away and many of these receptors are likely to have background noise levels elevated by existing traffic on the Negligible A509. It is considered that subject to the – minor appropriate standard mitigation measures the No site is capable of being operated to ensure adverse noise levels would be within the guidelines stated in the NPPG. The nature of the proposed on-site of operations, and the adequacy and route of the public highway to access the site means that vibration levels are likely to be within the necessary guidance and standards. Nature The site falls within the Great Houghton to conservation, Irchester Biodiversity Character Area: Largely biodiversity and unwooded area. Occasional neutral hay geodiversity meadows and small ponds are retained. A SA2 large proportion of the land is under arable cultivation, often surrounded by discontinuous wildlife-poor hedgerows that are a barrier to species dispersal. Overall the survival of semi- natural habitats is low. Site: Existing quarry. There are two Potential Wildlife Sites on the existing quarry 700m to the south of the extension including Tin Pits. A Minor - further strip of woodland lies directly north of moderate the site and a small treed watercourse abuts No the southern boundary and supports protected adverse mammals. Both act as important corridors in an area with poor retention of habitats. Areas of grassland, scrub land pond habitat have been retained at Bozeat Quarry to the south to provide mitigation and compensation for amphibians Mitigation: Ponds, scrub, hedgerow and woodland habitats should be retained and buffered (to protect badger and GCN). Restoration, re-creation, buffering and linkage of broadleaved woodland, lowland neutral grassland, hedgerows, and open standing

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 36 water to create sustainable areas of characteristic habitats. Historic No extensive archaeological discoveries are environment and currently recorded within site. However it is heritage assets surrounded by a number of possible sites SA5 indicated by cropmarks and as a result of fieldwalking. An extensive area lay to the southwest containing a Romano British settlement with Iron Age and Saxon activity. This and the number of cropmark sites would Moderate suggest that the site lies within a multi period No landscape. adverse Possible impact on long-distance views of/from historic buildings at Greenfield Lodge (Grade II, Listed Building, 800m east of site). Further assessment/evaluation (to accompany planning application) is required to provide information on the extent, significance and therefore impact of the proposals on potential undesignated archaeological assets. Landscape Site falls within the Bozeat Claylands character and Landscape Character Area: Undulating visual impact Claylands. Undulating agricultural landscape, SA17 predominately large-scale arable fields on elevated land. Quiet rural landscape with wide views at times. Limited settlement and isolated farmsteads. Small linear woodlands, well-treed Minor - streams and hedgerow trees are the main tree moderate cover. Predominantly minor roads. No Site: Extension to existing quarry site. Set on adverse higher ground close to A509 with limited views into the site. Large arable fields with limited field structure. Several Rights of Way in vicinity. There would be a change in the landform as a result of restoration Mitigation: Field boundaries, small linear woodlands and copses. Built environment Site located away from settlements and and townscape individual dwellings – minimising visual Minor SA17 impacts. Strixton and Bozeat are 680m and No adverse over 800m away respectively. There are several individual properties in the wider area. Opportunities for Progressive restoration is likely to involve a beneficial combination of infilling with inert waste and restoration and reprofiling to lower levels. After use would most after use likely be a return to agriculture. SA9 There would be a change in the landform as a result of restoration. Restoration should enable opportunities for biodiversity and enhancement Minor of landscape character and nature beneficial No conservation. Lost field boundaries and small linear woodlands need to be restored to mitigate impacts on great crested newts and amphibians and compensation habitats are likely to be required. Opportunities to restore broader landform with adjacent site. Climate change The majority of carbon emissions that directly Minor and opportunities relate to the minerals industry come from No adverse for sustainable vehicle movements. Despite the site being

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 37 development located fairly close to the river the site is SA6, SA10, SA16 located away from alternative transport hubs and therefore the transportation of minerals from the site will be road based. Agreed routes will need to be established prior to permission being granted. There could be potential for transportation into the wider market by rail from aggregate depots in Northampton or Wellingborough. Proximity to The site is located away from sensitive sensitive receptors with the settlements of Strixton and receptors Bozeat being 680m and over 800m away. SA13 There are several individual properties in the wider area however the site is separated from Minor No these. A RoW runs along part of the north-west beneficial boundary of the site. The proximity of sensitive receptors to the site greatly reduces the potential for adverse impacts associated with mineral extraction. Compatibility of The surrounding land use is predominantly surrounding land- rural / agricultural. A RoW runs along part of uses the north-west boundary of the site. The A509 Minor SA13, SA20 runs north-south 200m to the east of the site. No beneficial There is no land-use of a high sensitivity (relating to minerals development) neighbouring the site. Impact on general Site is located away from residential receptors amenity or so impacts are likely to be limited. Broader character of the landscape amenity impacts may be disrupted area due to potential increase in ambient noise Minor SA13, SA17 (operations, vehicles) and visual impacts, adverse No however screening and site layout may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to increased HGV movements within the area. Impact on The site does not have any formal designations recreational for recreation or open space areas. Potential Negligible opportunities and amenity impacts on nearby RoW including – minor open spaces Byway TF15, which runs along part of the No (including rights north-west boundary of the site. adverse of way) SA15 Economic and Site is deliverable with active industry backing employment and an economically viable resource supported opportunities by borehole surveys. SA1, SA7, SA10, The resource yield, estimated at 1.5 Mt, would SA11, SA12, ensure a continuing supply of sand and gravel Moderate No SA14, SA20 to serve growth areas in the county. An beneficial operation of this type is anticipated to generate between 2-4 full time positions, including a manager/supervisor, foreman, plant operators. Potential for additional contract positions. Availability of and Subject to use of the existing access it is impact on unlikely that there would be any impact upon infrastructure highway infrastructure. There is understood to SA18, SA19 be no national grid infrastructure over the site, Minor No however further consultation and assessment adverse will need to be made on utilities infrastructure. The site is located within an aerodrome exclusion zone for bird strike, so consideration

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 38 would need to given whether the final proposal would be compatible (i.e. the creation of temporary or permanent water bodies). The nearest processing plant is at Earls Barton Quarry which could be transported via Hardwater Crossing conveyor belt (which could be used subject to operator agreement) or the public highway. Site access and Potential to use access that is currently in use impact on for the existing quarry. The level of HGV Minor transport network movements is expected to be maintained rather No adverse / infrastructure than increased. It is not expected that any SA13, SA18 infrastructure improvements are required. Capacity for Assuming application of standard planning avoidance and / conditions and mitigation measures, potentially or mitigation adverse amenity impacts resulting from quarry measures operations are believed to be able to be SA2, SA13 successfully mitigated. There is also land within Minor the proposal site but unintended to be No extracted which could be used to provide beneficial mitigation from adverse impacts. Loss of agricultural land and the impact on the landscape can be reduced through the progressive phasing and restoration of the development. Potential for There is low potential for adverse cumulative cumulative impacts. There is an existing quarry at Church impacts Farm, Bozeat which acts as a satellite site to SA2, SA13 Earls Barton Quarry (materials are transported to the Earls Barton site for processing) however Negligible No it is unlikely that the two sites would be operational at the same time – phasing of permissions / operations should be considered if this were to occur.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 39 M3: Heyford Location: Land south of Junction 16 of the M1 Area (hectares): 38 Proposed use: River sand and gravel extraction 1.38 Mt

Site summary Opportunities:  Supports provision of aggregates – river sand and gravel.  Strategic location reduces transport distance to potential market base (growth area).  Potential to mitigate potentially adverse impacts/environmental nuisance affecting surrounding villages and other sensitive receptors (Upper and Nether Heyford). Constraints:  Cumulative impact of proposed developments in local area on SSSI and surrounding communities.  Proximity to SSSI, River Nene and other sensitive receptors may result in environmental nuisance and amenity impacts.  Disruption of landscape character and historic landscape context.  Potential impacts on flood risk and dewatering requires detailed assessment. Overall assessment outcome:  Suitable to be taken forward as proposed allocation.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 40

Assessment Detailed Site characteristics/features, potential Impact risk criterion and link assessment impacts and mitigation measures rating to SA objectives required? Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the relevant Spatial strategy spatial strategy? NA Yes – within the areas of focus.

Air quality Emissions from the proposed sand and gravel (including dust) operation are primarily expected to be dust SA2, SA3 (particulate matter) including quantities of PM10, or gases such as NO2 and CO2 associated with transportation emissions. Sources of emissions include soil stripping, overburden handling, mineral extraction, loading, tipping, material haulage (including dust from haul roads) and wind blow. The site is around 400m from dwellings, 100m from industrial premises at Bugbrooke Mills, around 100m from a sports ground and adjacent to parts of the M1 motorway and A45. There are also proposals approved for a new A45 to the north of the Moderate current route. No adverse The distances to and nature of the nearest receptors is such that careful dust management and methods of working would ensure the site is capable of being operated so as not to cause a nuisance to nearby properties and does not exceed NAQS standards in its own right. However, consideration will be need to given to the cumulative air quality impact of the development with the M1 and the construction and operation of the new A45. There are however, currently no AQMAs designated in close proximity to the application site, however one exists on the southbound M1 around 4.5km south east of the site designed for NO2. Protection of water Ground waters quality, resources There is a potential for groundwater flooding to and groundwater occur at the surface. SA2, SA4 The site lies adjacent to M1 junction 16 and the A45. Assessments will be required of potential geological, drainage/flooding and boundary issues in relation to the M1 and A45. The M1 in this area is a flood hot spot area. Water quality and quantity Previous surveys state that the ground water level is approximately 1m below existing surface Minor levels. Dewatering will be required, the extent of No adverse which is yet to be determined. The site is likely to be in hydraulic continuity with the River Nene hence dewatering may impact on surrounding water table (and local water features and domestic / licensed groundwater sources), land and important habitat. There is a very significant potential for one or more geohazards associated with infiltration. The site investigation should consider whether the potential for or the consequences of infiltration are significant.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 41 Infiltrating water should be free of contaminants. A hydro geological survey would be required to accompany the planning application. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The site is located within Flood Zone 2 and SA4 Flood Zone 3. There is a risk of surface water flooding to the site. There have been reports of flooding to highway and property within 600m of the site. Protective bunding and relocation of floodwater from the River Nene will need to be carefully Minor Sequential / planned. There is potential for instability of the adverse exception test riverbanks during excavation. A flood risk assessment and hydro geological survey would be required to accompany the planning application. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil The site is located on Grade 3 (good to quality moderate quality) agricultural land. This land SA2, SA7, SA8 would be temporarily lost during the operational life of the quarry however restoration to the previous land use and condition is possible. The site covers 38 ha and is currently used for a mix of grazing and arable crops. The quarrying of sand and gravel is unlikely to result in soil contamination. Standard planning conditions require soil handing to be undertaken Minor according to government guidance ensures that No adverse soils are not unduly detrimentally affected. Landform will be altered as a result of quarrying. Dewatering has the potential to effect surrounding lands through settlement however the extent to which this is likely would need to be assessed through a hydro geological survey. This is of particular concern regarding surrounding important habitat areas (Bugbrook Meadow SSSI). It is believed that these issues can be addressed and mitigated. Noise and vibration The close proximity of the site and nearest noise SA2 sensitive receptors to the M1 and A45 means that the nearest residential receptors experience elevated background noise levels. Bugbrooke Meadows SSSI abuts the site immediately to the south. It is considered that appropriate mitigation measures would ensure that site operations would not breach the upper 55 dB(A) (1hr, LAeq) Low - limit for normal site operations at the nearest moderate No residential properties. However, the operator adverse would need to provide a noise assessment to demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of the development with existing roads, would not increase noise at some of the properties that currently are subject to background noise levels of around 55 dB(A) (1hr, LAeq). Given the access to the main road network the impact from

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 42 vibration is unlikely to represent a concern, particularly when the new A45 is built. Nature The site falls within the Upper Nene Biodiversity conservation, Character Area: Habitats associated with the biodiversity and River Nene and the Grand Union Canal feature geodiversity prominently with some areas of unimproved SA2 semi-natural wet grassland and marsh. Some low-lying meadows alongside the River Nene have escaped drainage and improvement, they tend to flood in winter and often remain wet well in to the growing season hence support a range of damp grassland communities that are remarkably diverse and species-rich. Retention of semi-natural habitats within the floodplain is relatively high but fragmented. Site: Predominantly pasture with some arable fields. Mature hedgerows with some wet ditches. Abuts the A45, M1 and recently approved A45 Flore bypass, which cause some interruption of wildlife corridors. The River Nene runs along the southern boundary. Directly south of the river lies Bugbrooke Meadows Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and further adjacent Moderate Yes Potential Wildlife Sites. The River Nene, pasture, adverse mature field boundaries, ditches and proximity to the SSSI and habitat enhancement proposed as part of the A45 Bypass development/mitigation all contribute positively to the site’s local biodiversity. Mitigation: New development, change and land management should be controlled to conserve rivers and streams and their associated habitats and protected wildlife including amphibians. Although the retention of semi-natural habitats is relatively high, some distribution of some habitats is fragmented. Seek to increase the extent of wet and marshy grassland and associated springs and flushes, and neutral grassland by restoration, creation, buffering and linkage to create large sustainable areas of characteristic habitats. Habitat linkages should be enhanced by the conservation, restoration and buffering of rivers, streams and ditches to create or enhance functioning wildlife corridors. Historic Extensive areas of mature landscape survive in environment and Upper Heyford and Flore parishes, and field heritage assets boundary pattern within site has its origins in the SA5 C18 enclosure layout. Localised loss of boundaries and dilution of early character in fields immediately south of site. Potential impact on long-distance views of/from historic settlement core of Upper Heyford Minor No (Conservation Area, Listed buildings) 700m SW adverse of site. The site has been subject to previous archaeological investigation. Archaeological evaluation was undertaken in 2000 in connection with previous extraction proposals The evaluation revealed sparse archaeological features, principally comprising the eastern

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 43 continuation of a pit alignment that extends into the extreme edge of the application site only. The only dating evidence from the pits was a sherd of abraded possible Late Bronze Age pottery. Other similar complexes in the Northamptonshire area date to the early Iron Age, and the Upper Heyford example is likely of similar date. The evaluation suggested that the remainder of the site contained only sparse archaeological features. Archaeological mitigation will be required. To the south of the site and east of Nether Heyford village at Whitehall Farm lays a significant non-designated Roman villa, HER MNN8589. A training excavation has been undertaken by the University of Northampton within the villa site. The presence of a villa within the general vicinity of the site indicates the potential for further Roman activity within the area. Further assessment (to accompany planning application) is required to assess the impact on the setting of the designated assets in the vicinity of the site. Landscape Site falls within The Nene – Weedon Bec to character and Duston Mill Landscape Character Area: Broad visual impact River Valley Floodplain. The River Nene is the SA17 main feature within the wide valley floodplain. Large arable fields characterise the area, together with pastoral land. Compact settlements along valley slopes. Wide panoramic views across valley limited only by scattered areas of vegetation. Dense footpath network. Visible, unspoilt river valley landscape. Site: Abuts M1 junction and lies adjacent to Moderate Bugbrooke Meadows Site of Special Scientific Yes adverse Interest (SSSI). Partly effected by urbanising elements such as the M1 and nearby industrial buildings of Bugbrooke Mills. There would be a potential loss of field structure, hedgerow trees and floodplain landscape. Mitigation: Enhance field structure including hedgerow and riverside trees. Small-scale linear woodlands and copses. Site falls within the proposed GI corridor: The Nene (Northampton – Newnham) in which investment to develop green assets is encouraged. Built environment Potential for visual impacts on settlements of and townscape Upper (230m) and Nether Heyford (300m), SA17 located north-west and south-west of the site and Upper Heyford Lodge, located 460m north, Minor - separated by the M1. moderate No Some visual impacts possible on Bugbrooke adverse Mills in close proximity to the site (100m south- east). Woodland borders part of the Mills however reducing impacts. Opportunities for Progressive restoration likely to involve a beneficial combination of infilling with inert waste and Minor No restoration and reprofiling to lower levels. The use of inert beneficial after use waste, water table levels and proximity to the

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 44 SA9 River Nene may cause concern regarding pollution potential and hence more detailed surveys are required to determine potential impacts and restoration options. After use would most likely return to agriculture coupled with recreational opportunities and nature conservation to link existing wildlife corridors and enhance the local landscape character. A restoration scheme should look to restore an open floodplain landscape (increasing flood protection measures) and include pasture/wet grassland. Climate change The majority of carbon emissions that directly and opportunities relate to the minerals industry come from vehicle for sustainable movements. Despite the close proximity to the development river the site is located away from alternative SA6, SA10, SA16 transport hubs and therefore the transportation of minerals from the site will be road based. Agreed routes will need to be established prior Minor to a permission being granted. There could be No adverse potential for transportation into the wider market by rail from the aggregate depot located in Northampton. Restoration may present opportunity to provide a flood alleviation scheme if required as well as creating habitats for species that have been affected by increased rates of development. Proximity to The site abuts the A45 and M1 (north) with the sensitive receptors settlements of Upper (230m) and Nether SA13 Heyford (300m) to the west and north-west. The River Nene runs along the part of the southern boundary. Bugbrooke Meadows SSSI is directly south. Bugbrooke Mills (operated by Heygates) is located to the south-east (100m). There are other sensitive receptors in the area including Upper Heyford Lodge to the north separated by junction 16 of the M1. A petrol Moderate station and truck stop is located to the north-east Yes adverse along Weedon Rd off the M1. The proximity of sensitive receptors increases the potential for noise, dust and visual impacts associated with mineral extraction (e.g. plant machinery operation and HGV movements). Standard planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures (such as screening and strategic layout) could potentially reduce these impacts to acceptable levels. Compatibility of The surrounding land use is largely rural / surrounding land- agricultural with settlements of Upper and uses Nether Heyford to the west and north-west and SA13, SA20 industry (flour mill) to the south-east. Nature conservation land use (SSSI) is also located to Moderate the south. A track runs along the north and Yes adverse eastern boundary of the site. The sites implementation is linked to the construction of the Flore-Weedon bypass – altering land uses in the local area. The flour mill (food processing) is classified as

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 45 having a high level of sensitivity (relating to minerals development). It is likely that appropriate controls and mitigation measures (including strategic site layout, phasing and set- backs) could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts. Impact on general Site has some isolated properties in closer amenity or proximity to the site, which may increase character of the potential impacts. Broader landscape amenity area may be disrupted due to a potential increase in Minor SA13, SA17 ambient noise (operations, vehicles) and visual No adverse impacts, however screening and site layout may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to increased HGV movements within the area. Impact on The site does not have any formal designations recreational for recreation or open space areas. Potential opportunities and amenity impacts on nearby RoW. Negligible - open spaces Site falls within the proposed GI corridor: The minor No (including rights of Nene (Northampton – Newnham). Restoration adverse way) provides opportunity to create recreational SA15 opportunities, linking to existing GI. Economic and Site is deliverable with active industry interest employment and an economically viable resource (supported opportunities by site-specific geological evidence) of 1.38Mt of SA1, SA7, SA10, river terrace and glacial sand and gravel. Nene SA11, SA12, valley river valley deposits are typically of good SA14, SA20 quality and more suited to high quality end uses. The economic benefit of an operation at Heyford Moderate No is the availability of sand and gravel resources to beneficial support development in Northamptonshire. An operation of this type is anticipated to generate between 4-5 full time positions, including a manager/supervisor, foreman, plant operators. Potential for additional contract positions during the life of the operation. Availability of and Predominately related to transport infrastructure impact on network as a result of the construction of the infrastructure A45 and proximity to the junction of the M1. SA18, SA19 Consideration would need to be given to dewatering having a potential to impact adjacent highways, although on-site measures are likely to be able to mitigate this. There is understood to be no national grid Minor- infrastructure over the site and no aerodrome moderate No safeguarding issues, however, further adverse consultation and assessment will need to be made on utilities infrastructure. Subject to other operator agreement the nearest processing plants are at Passenham Quarry, Wolverton and Earls Barton. However, given the distances the site is likely to require its own processing plant. Site access and A number of properties are located close by impact on transport which could potentially lead to cumulative network / impacts. Minor infrastructure The site has good links with the A45, M1 and No adverse SA13, SA18 A5. The site lies adjacent to M1 J16 and the A45. Potential geological, drainage/flooding and

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 46 boundary issues in relation to the M1 and A45 may need assessment, in addition provision of any new access on the A45 close to M1 J16 will need to be investigated as part of a transport assessment to accompany the planning application. The site’s implementation is linked to the construction of the Flore-Weedon bypass, which is progressing; planning permission for the bypass is currently being sought. It is provisionally planned for construction works to commence during 2015/6 with a two-year completion date. Capacity for Given application of standard planning avoidance and / or conditions and mitigation measures, potentially mitigation adverse impacts should be able to be minimised measures to acceptable levels for surrounding villages. SA2, SA13 However the extent to which this would be Negligible - successful for the SSSI, River Nene and the minor No structure/dwelling in the sites south east is beneficial unclear. The impact of the development upon the loss of agricultural land could be minimised through phasing and appropriate soil management and restoration conditions. Potential for The site’s implementation would be considerably cumulative impacts enhanced by the construction of the Daventry SA2, SA13 Development Link (Flore – Weedon – Upper Heyford bypass) and which would provide a direct access to this site from a new roundabout. Planning permission for this bypass was granted in June 2015 and construction is planned to Minor- commence within a year with a two year moderate No completion date. There is potential for adverse cumulative impacts from interaction between the operation of the quarry and by-pass construction regarding noise, dust and dewatering affecting the SSSI and dust affecting the flour mill however the implementation of site management and mitigation measures could significantly reduce the potential for cumulative effects.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 47 M4: Earls Barton West Extension Location: Land to the east of Northampton Water Recycling Centre Area (hectares): 135 Proposed use: Sand and gravel extraction 2.6 Mt

Site summary Opportunities  Site investigations support river terrace sand and gravel deposits with an estimated yield of 2.6 Mt, likely use in concrete products. Extension to existing operations.  Surrounding land use is broadly compatible, however the presence of the SPA increases potential impacts (potential impacts on SPA assessed through HRA process).  Restoration may improve connectivity of habitat area and restore flood plains. In addition there is potential for remediation of land associated with the former sewage treatment works (spreading of sewage sludge on the northern site). Constraints:  Cumulative impact of adjacent existing operations and surrounding proposals on landscape character and amenity.  Proximity of sensitive receptors to the southern site may result in environmental nuisance impacts.  Potential flood risk effects require detailed assessment.  Possible disturbance to historic environment requires further evaluation. Overall assessment outcome

 Suitable to be taken forward as proposed allocation.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 48

proposals. Moderate Impacts on The southern section of the site is located adverse SPA adjacent to a caravan park and residential area. assessed Notwithstanding the close proximity to the through HRA residential receptors, subject to suitable mitigation measures, good site operational management and standard planning conditions, the site operations could be controlled to ensure that the impacts of that development would comply with the NPPG and NAQS. The development would be likely to generate a significant number of vehicle movements, which would generate emissions. The proximity to and access onto the A45, would mean that increases in emissions would be limited in that context, however there is an AQMA on the A45 London Road in south Northampton and an AQMA was revoked around the junction with the A43, therefore vehicle movement limits would need to be considered in this context. Protection of water Ground waters quality, resources There is potential for groundwater flooding to and groundwater occur at the surface. SA2, SA4 Water quality and quantity A main river is located on site (River Nene). No Dewatering will be required, the extent of which is yet to be determined. The site is likely to be in Minor Impacts on hydraulic continuity with the River Nene hence adverse SPA dewatering may impact on surrounding water assessed table, land and important habitat (SSSI/SPA). through HRA There are areas where very significant constraints are indicated. Made ground is present at the surface. Infiltration may increase the possibility of remobilising pollutants.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 49 Infiltrating water should be free of contaminants. Only consider infiltration if the potential for contaminant leaching are considered not to be significant. A hydro geological survey would be required to accompany the planning application. Ground contamination from previous land use may also require further investigation accompanying planning application. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The site is located within flood zone 2 and flood SA4 zone 3.There is a high surface water flood risk to the site. Flooding of property and highway has been reported within 500 metres of the site. Protective bunding and relocation of floodwater from the River Nene will need to be carefully planned. There is a potential for instability of the Minor Sequential / riverbanks during excavation. A flood risk adverse exception test assessment and hydro geological survey would be required to accompany the planning application. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil Majority of site located on Grade 3 (good to quality moderate quality) agricultural land with smaller SA2, SA7, SA8 areas to the north located on Grade 2 (very good quality) land; considered to be the ‘best and most versatile land’. The site covers 135 ha and is at present largely used for arable crops. The proposal would result in areas of agricultural land being temporarily removed form production. Careful restoration could return the land to previous use and condition. The quarrying of Minor No sand and gravel is unlikely to result in soil adverse contamination. Standard planning conditions could require soil handing to be undertaken according to government guidance, which ensures that soils are not unduly detrimentally affected. Infilling would need to be controlled to avoid contamination. Extraction of sand and gravel from the site is unlikely to cause instability during operations or result in unstable landforms from restoration. Noise and The site is located in close proximity to, and vibration capable of being accessed directly from, the A45 SA2 without travelling through residential areas. Therefore it is considered that the transportation of minerals would not cause any discernible No adverse impact to nearby receptors by virtue of

noise or vibration. Minor – Impact on The nearest noise sensitive properties are moderate SPA around 250m to the south of the proposal site. It adverse assessed is considered that subject to the appropriate through HRA standard mitigation measures the site is capable of being operated to ensure noise levels at these receptors would be within the guidelines stated in the NPPG. The Nene Way is directly to the south affecting

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 50 wildlife, SSSI/SPA and public walkways. Noise may cause disturbance to the PROW network, important species, and could possibly result in a cumulative impact with surrounding and proposed land uses. Nature The site falls within the Middle Nene conservation, Biodiversity Character Area: Other than the biodiversity and rivers and backwaters, the retention of semi- geodiversity natural habitats in areas associated with the SA2 floodplain is variable. In the farmed landscape retention of semi-natural habitats is very low; occasional areas of wet / marshy grassland and plantation woodlands. Where sand and gravel working has been extensive, areas of semi- natural habitat exist. These habitats typically have a broad fringe of reedbed and swamp, wet woodland and drier, developing floodplain woodlands. Many are internationally important for overwintering migratory birds and are designated as the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits Special Protection Area (SPA). Site: Largely arable with very little pasture. Adjacent to the River Nene and A45, the latter Yes causing some constraint on wildlife corridors. Ecton East Gravel Pit, Ecton West Gravel Pit, Impacts on Major Ecton Backwater, Billing East Lagoons LWSs SPA adverse abut the site. A further six LWSs lie within assessed 600m. Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits SPA lies through HRA 1400m to the east. Further extraction in the area could potentially damage wildlife areas and/or disrupt habitat linkage. Mitigation: Although the retention of semi- natural habitats in gravel extraction areas is high, elsewhere it is low. Therefore, new development (including future sand and gravel extraction), change and land management should seek to increase the extent of wet and marshy grassland, drier floodplain woodland and hedgerows by restoration, creation, buffering and linkage to create large sustainable areas of characteristic habitats. Habitat should be enhanced by the conservation, restoration and buffering of the rivers and backwater, associated tributary streams and drainage ditches to create functioning wildlife corridors. Historic The site lies in valley floor, in an area with little environment and survival of mature fieldscapes due to extensive heritage assets loss of former hedges & boundaries. Localised SA5 survival of pre C20 pattern in SE part of southern area. Potential impact on long- distance views of/from historic settlement cores Moderate of Ecton, Cogenhoe, Whiston villages adverse No (Conservation Areas, Listed Buildings).

In northern area, extensive alluvial cover limits prediction of archaeological impact, although possible presence of prehistoric burial site (SMR 5865) recorded.; archaeological discoveries during previous quarrying to south of this area (Neolithic, Bronze Age, & Iron Age

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 51 settlement remains - SMR 2046, 2056 etc) highlight high potential for additional remains within northern area. In southern area, development may affect setting of, views to/from historic settlement in Cogenhoe (200m west; Conservation Area, Listed Buildings). The surrounding area contains important archaeological monuments identified as earthworks or buried features: probable Bronze Age burial mounds (SMR 5285), earthwork remains of medieval fishponds (SMR 2133); also later, evidence for 19th century tramways or mineral railway branch (SMR 8406/0/5) and broadly contemporary brickworks (SMR 6354). Alluvial cover limits prediction of archaeological impact. Further assessment (to accompany the planning application) will be required to determine the impact upon the significance of heritage assets and to assess the impact on the setting of the designated assets in the vicinity of the site. Landscape Site falls within The Nene – Billing Wharf to character and Woodford Mill Landscape Character Area: Broad visual impact River Valley Floodplain. Previous extraction and SA17 restoration to wetland dominates area - the River Nene is a less significant element in the landscape. Surrounding the lakes is a landscape characterised by pastoral and arable fields, although water elements dominate the majority of views. Whilst woodland cover is sparse a number of broadleaved copses surround lakes. They limit some views of the valley floor however it is often very visible from more elevated land. Site: Large site located between two sections of Moderate the SPA and adjacent to existing mineral Yes adverse workings. Predominately large-scale arable fields with small areas of woodland, scrub, wetland and ditches. A visible site on the valley floor, which includes several Rights of Way around perimeter one of which crosses area. Although a sensitive area, Northampton, sewage works and busy A45 impact on landscape character. Mitigation: Small linear woodlands, field boundaries and riverside trees. Site falls within the proposed Green Infrastructure corridor Nene Valley (Northampton – Wansford) in which investment to develop green assets is encouraged. Built environment Settlements of Ecton, Earls Barton, Cogenhoe, and townscape Ecton Brook and Great Billing are located in the SA17 local area (400 – 950m away) but are all Minor - separated from the site by main transport routes, moderate No the sewage works, River Nene / water bodies and adverse agricultural land. These features of separation reduce visual impacts however some may still occur due to the size and location of the site.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 52 Opportunities for Progressive restoration likely to involve a beneficial combination of infilling with inert waste and restoration and reprofiling to lower levels. After use would most after use likely be a return to agricultural land use coupled SA9 with nature conservation and habitat extension. There would be a change in the landform as a Moderate No result of restoration. Restoration should enable beneficial recreational opportunities and enhancement of landscape and biodiversity character. A restoration scheme should restore pasture / wet grassland and open floodplain landscape thereby increasing flood protection measures. Climate change The majority of carbon emissions that directly and opportunities relate to the minerals industry come from vehicle for sustainable movements. Despite the proximity to the river, development the site is located away from alternative SA6, SA10, SA16 transport hubs and therefore the transportation of minerals from the site will be road based. Agreed routes will need to be established prior Minor to a permission being granted. There could be No adverse potential for transportation into the wider market by rail from the aggregate depot located in Northamptonshire. Restoration may present opportunity to provide a flood alleviation scheme if required as well as creating habitats from species that have been affected by increased rates of development. Proximity to The site is located adjacent a sewage treatment sensitive receptors works (west) with the A45 running along part of SA13 the northern boundary and the River Nene (and associated water bodies created from previous mineral extraction - also used for recreational purposes) along the southern boundary, the eastern boundary is neighboured by fields allocated through the adopted MWLP as a site for an integrated waste management facility. The settlements of Ecton, Earls Barton, Cogenhoe, Ecton Brook and Great Billing are located in the local area (400 – 950m away) but are all separated from the site by main transport routes, the sewage works, River Nene / water bodies and agricultural land. Recreational users of nearby waterbodies associated with the River Minor Nene would not likely be subject to increased No adverse levels of disturbance/potentially adverse impacts as the allocation is an extension of an existing site – the sites would be phased and materials from this site may be transported to the existing processing plant. The site is visible from surrounding area and although the separation of the site from sensitive receptors reduces the potential for adverse impacts associated with mineral extraction impacts on scenic amenity may still occur due to its size and location. Standard planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures (such as screening, strategic layout, phasing of operations) could potentially reduce these impacts to acceptable levels.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 53 The proximity to the SPA as a sensitive receptor is considered through the nature conservation section and HRA process. Compatibility of The surrounding land use comprises surrounding land- industry/sewage works, main transport routes, uses rural and nature conservation/recreation. There SA13, SA20 are two RoWs – one running along the northern boundary and one that crosses the site north- south. There are no land uses classified as having a Minor No high level of sensitivity (relating to minerals adverse development) neighbouring the site. It is likely that appropriate controls and mitigation measures (including strategic site layout, phasing, temporary re-routing of RoWs) could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts. Impact on general The site is located away from residential amenity or receptors and is located in proximity to an character of the existing sewage treatment works so potential area impacts will be reduced. Broader landscape SA13, SA17 amenity may be disrupted due to a potential Minor No increase in ambient noise (operations, vehicles) adverse and visual impacts, however screening and site layout may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to increased traffic movement within the area. Impact on Two RoW– one running along the northern recreational boundary and one that crosses the site north- opportunities and south. Both are Byways ~Open to all Traffic. open spaces Temporary re-routing may be necessary. Minor No (including rights of Site falls within the proposed Green adverse way) Infrastructure corridor Nene Valley SA15 (Northampton – Wansford). Opportunity through restoration to develop green assets. Economic and Site is deliverable with active industry backing employment and an economically viable resource supported opportunities by borehole surveys - Nene river valley deposits SA1, SA7, SA10, are typically of very good quality. SA11, SA12, The resource yield, estimated at 3 Mt, would SA14, SA20 ensure a continuing supply of sand and gravel to Moderate serve growth areas in the county. Site is located No beneficial close to Northampton and several SUE’s. Efficiencies can be achieved due to the site adjoining an existing working deposit. Extension to existing operations, hence likely retention of existing jobs. Potential for additional contract positions. Availability of and Given the size of the site and proximity to the impact on strategic road network consideration would need infrastructure to be given the impact of operations such as SA18, SA19 dewatering. The site is located close to the Billing STW, although in practice the Minor - development proposed is unlikely to have an moderate No adverse impact that couldn’t be mitigated. adverse There is understood to be intermediate/high pressure transmission routes through or in close proximity to the site that may require diversion or an exclusion zone. Further consultation and assessment will need to be made on local

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 54 utilities infrastructure. The site is located within an aerodrome exclusion zone for bird strike, so consideration would need to given whether the final proposal would be compatible (i.e. the creation of temporary or permanent water bodies). The nearest processing plant is at Earls Barton Quarry which could be transported via Hardwater Crossing or the public highway, which could be used subject to operator agreement. However, given the size of the site it is likely to merit its own processing plant. Site access and A high number of additional HGVs movements is impact on expected to be generated by development of the transport network / proposed site. Only minor improvements to local infrastructure infrastructure are considered necessary should SA13, SA18 development occur on the proposed site. With routing agreements it is anticipated there should be no impacts on local villages. Access will be either from Grendon Road/Station Road to the Minor east or Crow Lane to the west. No adverse The site is adjacent to the A45 with the River Nene running to the South of the development. Potential geological, drainage/flooding and boundary issues in relation to the A45 will require assessment, in addition traffic impacts (A45) will need to be considered in a transport assessment to accompany the planning application. Capacity for Although the surrounding land use is largely avoidance and / or compatible there are residential dwellings and a mitigation caravan park located to the southern site. measures Planning conditions, mitigation measures and SA2, SA13 good site management may be effective to reduce impacts, although there may be a requirement to reduce the operational area within the site allocation area. Loss of agricultural land and the impact on the Minor landscape can be reduced through the No beneficial progressive phasing and restoration of the development. Potential impacts on the SPA are assessed through the HRA process. There is potential to restore the site to neutral grassland or wet sites for SPA and Wild Birds. The opportunities for recreation could be significantly constrained by the proximity to the SPA and potential for cumulative impacts. Potential for There is potential for adverse cumulative cumulative impacts impacts resulting from interaction between SA2, SA13 transport routes, sewage works, allocated waste site and existing extractive operations in the Minor - area. The implementation of site management moderate No and mitigation measures could significantly adverse reduce the potential for cumulative effects. Given the sites location between two sections of the SPA there is potential for adverse

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 55 cumulative impacts resulting from interaction between operations at the site and other existing land uses – this has been addressed through the HRA process and would require a project level HRA to accompany any planning Minor - application. moderate There is also potential for beneficial cumulative beneficial impacts associated with the restoration of the site due to its association with existing mineral sites in the local area and location within the River Nene and SPAs

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 56

M5: Passenham Extension South Location: Land to the south east and south west of Passenham Golf Course Area (hectares): 17.2 – reduced area from allocation MA7 Proposed use: Sand and gravel extraction 0.2 Mt

Site summary Opportunities:  Adjacent existing quarry (natural extension), hence opportunities to utilise plant and other infrastructure.  Conserve and enhance existing broadleaved woodlands, grasslands, hedgerows as well as open standing water, river, streams and their associated their associated communities. Increase extent of habitats by restoration, creation and buffering wildlife corridors. Constraints:  Potential impact on Grand Union Canal and associated nature conservation and landscape character. In addition there is likely to be impacts / nuisance effects on recreational opportunities associated with the canal, gold course and RoW’s.  Cumulative impact of proposal, surrounding sites (existing and proposed) and ongoing extraction operations in the local area. Overall assessment outcome:  Suitable to be taken forward as proposed allocation.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 57 Assessment Detailed Site characteristics/features, potential Impact criterion and link assessment impacts and mitigation measures risk rating to SA objectives required? Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the relevant Spatial strategy spatial strategy? NA Yes, located within the areas of focus.

Air quality Emissions from the proposed sand and gravel (including dust) operation are primarily expected to be dust SA2, SA3 (particulate matter) including quantities of PM10, NO2 and CO2 associated with transportation emissions. Sources of emissions include soil stripping, overburden handling, mineral extraction, loading and tipping, material haulage (particularly dust from haul roads) and wind blow. The site is around 20m from the nearest dwelling and also in close proximity to a country club and Minor - hotel business. The distance to receptors is likely moderate No to necessitate screening; a possible set-back and adverse other appropriate on-site mitigation measures to ensure the site is capable of being operated so as not to cause a nuisance to nearby receptors. If material were to be processed at the approved plant site, vehicles would directly access the A422, which would minimise any impact associated with vehicular emissions. There are no AQMAs designated within the vicinity of the proposal site. Protection of water Ground waters quality, resources There is potential for groundwater flooding to and groundwater occur at the surface. SA2, SA4 The site overlays a minor aquifer Water quality and quantity Drains intersect the site. The River Great Ouse runs along the main sites western boundary. Operations will require dewatering hence a hydro geological survey would be required to assess potential for settlement an impact on local water features and domestic / licensed groundwater sources however these issues should be able to be addressed and mitigated. Minor No Cumulative impact of surrounding sites and other adverse proposals needs to be taken into consideration regarding dewatering effects. There is a very significant potential for one or more geohazards associated with infiltration as made ground is present at the surface. Infiltration may increase the possibility of remobilising pollutants. Infiltrating water should be free of contaminants. Check the previous land use and determine whether the ground is contaminated. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The larger site to the west is in Flood Zone 1 with SA4 low risk of fluvial flooding. The smallest site is located in an indicative flood plain, historic flood Minor Sequential / area and identified Flood Zone 3 area. adverse exception test There is a risk of surface water flooding to the site.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 58 Flooding has been reported within one km of the site. Protective bunding and relocation of floodwater from the River Great Ouse will need to be carefully planned. There is a potential for instability of the riverbanks during excavation. A flood risk assessment and hydro geological survey would be required to accompany the planning application. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil Located on Grade 3 (good to moderate quality) quality agricultural land. The site covers 17.2 ha and is SA2, SA7, SA8 currently used for a mix of grazing and arable crops. This land would be temporarily lost during the operational life of the quarry however restoration to previous land use and condition is possible. Quarrying is unlikely to result in soil contamination. Standard planning conditions require soil handing to be undertaken according to government guidance, which ensures that soils are not unduly detrimentally affected. Quarrying Minor is unlikely to cause instability during operations No adverse or result in unstable landforms from restoration. Dewatering has the potential to effect surrounding lands through settlement however the extent to which this is likely would need to be assessed through a hydro geological survey. Dewatering is a common operational practice for which there are effective mitigation measures hence it is thought that potential effects would be able to be mitigated to an acceptable level. Cumulative impact of adjacent and surrounding proposals needs to be taken into consideration regarding dewatering effects. Noise and vibration The location of the nearest receptors (residential SA2 and a hotel and country club) to the A422 means these receptors are likely to be experience elevated background noise levels from road traffic. However, given the close proximity of the proposal site to the receptors careful consideration will need to be given to mitigation to ensure that the proposal site can comply with the noise limits specified in the NPPG (e.g. Minor – bunding and a set-back from the north of the moderate No proposal site). As a proposed further extension of adverse currently permitted operations within Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes, care will need to be taken from the cumulative impact of overlapping operations between the existing and proposed sites. If material is to be processed at the approved plant site within Northamptonshire, vehicles would directly access the A422 therefore transportation noise or vibration is unlikely to be an issue. Nature The site falls within two Biodiversity Character Moderate conservation, Areas the Lower Tove Valley Slopes and Yes adverse biodiversity and Whittlewood and Hazelborough Forest: Unlike

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 59 geodiversity other Limestone Slope areas unimproved semi- SA2 natural habitats are retained on both the limestones and the clays. Wildlife Sites are still few and far between and are principally man- made, such as disused railways, quarries and canals. Land use is primarily arable with a smaller extent of agriculturally improved grassland. Woodland cover is low. Minor floodplain comprises a range of semi- natural habitats. Biodiversity rich rivers and streams, and their associated reedbeds and swamps, some open standing water and wet woodland associated with water bodies. The occurrence of wet and marshy grassland, springs and flushes and drier plantation woodland is much more limited. Limited sand and gravel extraction. There are a variety of wetland habitats, including wet grassland, drains, ponds and a section of canal. Protected species survey work has now confirmed no newts on or in proximity to the site. Site: Mixed arable and pasture fields with field boundaries. The site surrounds Deanshanger Gravel Pits LWS which form a series of mature lakes and associated scrub and grasslands. The lakes are also incorporated into a small golf course. Development of neighbouring areas may cause disturbance to this locally valuable site. Deanshanger Old Canal LWS lies 130m to the north across the A422. The east side of the Ouse Valley is designated as a Biodiversity Opportunity Area in the Milton Keynes Local Plan. Mitigation: Conserve and enhance existing broadleaved woodlands, grasslands, hedgerows as well as open standing water, river, streams and their associated their associated communities. Increase extent of habitats by restoration, creation and buffering wildlife corridors. Historic The eastern site contains evidence of ridge and environment and furrow earthworks remnants of medieval heritage assets cultivation. The surrounding area contains SA5 evidence of prehistoric funerary activity and MNN164346 and MNN328, which has been quarried. The western site is adjacent to a possible prehistoric settlement MNN354. Fieldscape along eastern edge of site retains historic pattern (combination of 19th Century parliamentary and non-parliamentary enclosure Minor origins). Archaeological cropmarks. The No adverse presence of extensive alluvium limits prediction of archaeological impact Potential impact on long-distance views of/from Passenham Manor & the Grade I listed Church (Listed Buildings), 600m northeast of site. Further assessment (to accompany the planning application) is required to provide information on the extent, significance and therefore impact of the proposals on potential archaeological assets, as well as the impact on the setting of the

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 60 designated assets in the vicinity of the site. Landscape Site boundary falls within both the River Tove character and Floodplain (River Valley Floodplain) and The visual impact Tove Catchment (Undulating Claylands) SA17 Landscape Character Areas. Flat open floodplain landscape, the course of the river often inconspicuous marked only by scattered trees. Wide views. Various field sizes and where pasture predominates they are lined by gappy, low hedgerows. Woodland cover is sparse. Settlement is limited to isolated farms and dwellings. Roads vary from busy ‘A’ roads to country lanes. Site: Adjacent to the River Great Ouse, a golf course/country club and Deanshanger Gravel Moderate Yes Pits Local Wildlife Site - a result of previous adverse quarrying. Set within the River Great Ouse floodplain amongst arable and pasture fields. Very simple and visible landscape. Rights of Way run across the site. Site falls within the proposed Local Green Infrastructure corridor (Buckingham - Milton Keynes) in which investment to develop green assets is encouraged. Mitigation: Retain, conserve and enhance existing hedgerows with trees and blocks of woodland. The development could be screening with spoil and soil bunds would partially mitigate the temporary impact on visual amenity. Built environment There are several individual properties in close and townscape proximity to the site and scattered throughout the SA17 local area. A hotel and country club are adjacent the site. The proximity of these properties increases the potential for visual impacts. Moderate The settlement of Deanshanger is 650m to the Yes adverse north, separated by the A422. The settlements of Passenham, Lower Weald and Beachampton are located over 1km away to the north-east, east and south. Views from these villages are not directly available - limiting the visual impact. Opportunities for Progressive restoration is likely to involve a beneficial combination of infilling with inert waste and restoration and reprofiling to lower levels. After use would most after use likely be a return to agriculture with opportunities SA9 for wet grassland on the south-eastern extension. There would be a change in the landform as a Minor No result of restoration. Restoration should enable beneficial enhancement of the landscape, recreational opportunities and/or nature conservation. A restoration scheme should retain hedgerows and restore the floodplain grassland landscape, pasture, Climate change The majority of carbon emissions that directly and opportunities relate to the minerals industry come from vehicle for sustainable movements. Despite the proximity to the river the development site is located away from alternative transport Minor No SA6, SA10, SA16 hubs and therefore the transportation of minerals adverse from the site will be road based. Agreed routes will need to be established prior to a permission being granted. Restoration may present the

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 61 opportunity to provide a flood alleviation scheme if require as well as creating habitats for species that have been affected by increased rates of development. Proximity to The site is split into two sections and is located sensitive receptors adjacent to a country club/golf course (north), SA13 there are several individual properties in close proximity and scattered throughout the local area. The settlement of Deanshanger is 650m to the north, separated by the A422. The settlements of Passenham, Lower Weald and Beachampton are located over 1km away to the north-east, east and south. Deanshanger Gravel Pits and Deanshanger Old Canal LWS are also within close proximity to the site (40 – 250 m). Moderate Yes Mineral from the site would be transported to the adverse existing plant at Passenham for processing. Although the proximity of sensitive receptors increases the potential for noise, dust and visual impacts associated with mineral extraction (e.g. plant machinery operation and HGV movements) standard planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures (such as screening and strategic layout) could potentially reduce these impacts to acceptable levels. Compatibility of The surrounding land use is mixed being largely surrounding land- rural / agricultural, recreational and nature uses conservation with individual properties scattered SA13, SA20 though the local area and the settlements of Deanshanger (650m to the north, separated by the A422) and Passenham, Lower Weald and Beachampton (over 1km away). The Grand Union Canal – Buckingham Arm (disused) runs to the west and the River Great Ouse runs to the east (along the eastern boundary of the east Minor No section of the site). Two RoWs intersects the adverse west section of the site. There are no land uses classified as having a high level of sensitivity (relating to minerals development) neighbouring the site. It is likely that appropriate controls and mitigation measures (including strategic site layout, phasing and set-backs) could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts with surrounding uses of a medium to low sensitivity. Impact on general Site has some isolated properties in proximity to amenity or the site, so potential for impacts may be character of the increased. Broader landscape amenity may be area disrupted due to a potential increase in ambient Minor SA13, SA17 noise (operations, vehicles) and visual impacts, No adverse however screening and site layout may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to increased traffic movements within the area. Impact on Potential disruption / impact on recreational uses recreational surrounding the site such as the country club/golf Minor opportunities and course and canal. Two RoWs (bridleway RH3 No adverse open spaces and footpath RH2) are within the site that would (including rights of require diversion.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 62 way) SA15 Economic and Site is deliverable with active industry backing employment and an economically viable resource (supported opportunities by site-specific geological evidence) of 0.2 Mt of SA1, SA7, SA10, sand and gravel. SA11, SA12, SA14, The site presents the opportunity for an increase SA20 in the availability sand and gravel resources for use in Northamptonshire. Given the proximity to Moderate Milton Keynes the site will likely serve No beneficial development here also. Efficiencies can be achieved due to the site adjoining an existing working deposit – utilising the existing plant site. Extension to existing operations, hence retention of existing jobs. Additional contract positions may be required during the life of the operation. Availability of and Subject to use of the existing access and plant impact on site there is unlikely to be any significant upon infrastructure highway infrastructure. There is not understood SA18, SA19 to be any National Grid infrastructure within or in close proximity to the site. A field drain may require diversion. Further consultation and assessment will need to be made on local utilities Negligible No infrastructure. The site is located within an aerodrome exclusion zone for bird strike, so consideration would need to given whether the final proposal would be compatible (i.e. the creation of temporary or permanent water bodies). Site access and Site is adjacent to an operational quarry so impact on transport vehicles movements are likely to be maintained network / rather than increased. Access will be via the infrastructure A422 roundabout, which provides good links to SA13, SA18 the surrounding road network. Local villages of Deanshanger and Passenham would be avoided. Negligible No The site is relatively close to the A5 Old Stratford junction and therefore potential traffic impacts on this junction will need to be considered in a transport assessment to accompany the planning application. Capacity for The development is likely to require some form of avoidance and / or set-back and screening to be able to comply with mitigation the appropriate limits within the NPPG for noise measures and to avoid nuisance dust. This may also help to SA2, SA13 reduce the landscape impact of the proposal and the impact upon the nearby LWS. Loss of agricultural land and the impact on the landscape Moderate can be reduced through the progressive phasing No beneficial and restoration of the development. Processing mineral at the approved processing plant area can mitigate vehicle mileage. Other standard industry mitigation measures that could reduce potentially adverse impacts to acceptable levels include soil movement and handling, restoration and aftercare practice.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 63 Potential for The site would act as an extension to the existing cumulative impacts operations at Passenham with mineral Minor SA2, SA13 transported to the existing plant for processing. adverse There is potential for adverse impacts given the existing operations and commitments in the local area, including within the Milton Keynes authority No area. Phasing of permissions / operations will be necessary to avoid cumulative impacts. Low – There is also potential for beneficial cumulative moderate impacts associated with restoration to nature beneficial conservation and increasing habitat connectivity and landscape links.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 64 M6: Passenham Extension East Location: Land to the east A422 Area (hectares): 8.8 Proposed use: Sand and gravel extraction 0.15 Mt

Site summary Opportunities:  Site is located within areas of focus, so is in conformity with the spatial strategy  Site is deliverable with active industry backing and an economically viable resource (supported by site-specific geological evidence) of 0.15 Mt of sand and gravel.  The site would act as an extension to the existing operations at Passenham with mineral transported to the existing plant for processing. Constraints:  The site is closer to Passenham village than the currently permitted quarry workings – however, with mitigation measures given the distance between the nearest properties and the proposal site, it is considered that the site is capable of being operated within the appropriate noise limits stated within the NPPG.  Works on previous phases of quarry extraction on the eastern bank of the Great Ouse have recorded extensive areas of archaeological remains.  Potential for impacts on flood risk and stability of the riverbank and channel will require detailed assessment. Overall assessment outcome:  Suitable to be taken forward as a proposed allocation.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 65 Assessment Detailed criterion and Site characteristics/features, potential Impact risk assessment link to SA impacts and mitigation measures rating required? objectives Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the Spatial strategy relevant spatial strategy? NA Yes, located within the areas of focus.

Air quality Emissions from the proposed sand and gravel (including dust) operation are primarily expected to be dust SA2, SA3 (particulate matter) including quantities of PM10, NO2 and CO2associated with transportation emissions. Sources of emissions include soil stripping, overburden handling, mineral extraction, loading and tipping, material haulage (particularly dust from haul roads) and wind blow. The site is around 110m from the nearest dwellings within Passenham village, than the currently permitted workings. The distance to receptors Minor adverse No and the presence of a mature tree belt means that it is considered that subject to appropriate mitigation measures the site is capable of being operated to ensure dust does not cause a significant impact and PM10 would be within NAQS standards. If material were to be processed at the approved plant site, vehicles would directly access the A422, which would minimise any impact associated with vehicular emissions. There are no AQMAs designated within the vicinity of the proposal site. Protection of Ground waters water quality, There is a limited potential for groundwater resources and flooding to occur. groundwater Water quality and quantity SA2, SA4 Adjacent River Ouse – there is potential for environmental risks regarding water quality – requires assessment to accompany planning application. There is a very significant potential for one or more geohazards Moderate associated with infiltration. A site investigation No adverse should consider whether the potential for or the consequences of infiltration are significant. Assessment submitted with planning application will need to check previous land use and potential for the presence of contaminated ground. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The site is situated on an island within two SA4 branches of the River Great Ouse and is within the functional floodplain (flood zone 3b) with a very high risk of fluvial flooding. Sequential / There is a high risk of surface water flooding Moderate exception test to the site. adverse

Protective bunding and relocation of floodwater from the River Great Ouse will need to be carefully planned. There is a potential for instability of the riverbanks during

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 66 excavation. Proximity to the watercourse requires detailed assessment (accompanying planning application) regarding maintenance of stability of the riverbank and channel. Construction of any structure on this site which would impede floodplain flows is unlikely to be permitted however the site is an extension to existing operations hence ancillary activities are able to be located elsewhere. The Environment Agency has a gauging site at Passenham sluice. Any application would need to demonstrate that the gauged site and levels would not be affected. Flooding of highway and property has been reported within one km of the site. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil Located on Grade 3 (good to moderate quality quality) agricultural land. The site covers 8.8 SA2, SA7, SA8 ha and is currently used for grazing. This land would be temporarily lost during the operational life of the quarry however restoration to previous land use and condition is possible. Quarrying is unlikely to result in soil contamination. Standard planning conditions require soil handing to be undertaken according to government guidance, which ensures that soils are not unduly detrimentally Minor – affected. moderate No Given the proximity to watercourses there is adverse potential for riverbank and channel instability which requires detailed assessment accompanying the planning application. Dewatering has the potential to effect surrounding lands through settlement however the extent to which this is likely would need to be assessed through a hydro geological survey. Dewatering is a common operational practice for which there are effective mitigation measures hence it is thought that potential effects would be able to be mitigated to an acceptable level. Noise and The nearest residential properties are 110m to vibration the east in Passenham, with other properties SA2 within around 300m in Calverton. Material could be processed at a currently consented location to the north of the site. The site is closer to Passenham village than the currently permitted quarry workings – however, with Moderate mitigation measures given the distance No adverse between the nearest properties and the proposal site, it is considered that the site is capable of being operated within the appropriate noise limits stated within the NPPG. Noise levels could adversely impact upon the character of the Passenham Conservation Area, however, the significance

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 67 of these levels would need to be considered at the planning application stage. As a proposed further extension of currently permitted operations within Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes, care will need to be taken from the cumulative impact of overlapping operations between the existing and proposed sites. If material is to be processed at the approved plant site within Northamptonshire, vehicles would directly access the A422 therefore transportation noise or vibration is unlikely to be an issue. Nature The site falls within two Biodiversity Character conservation, Areas the Lower Tove Valley Slopes and biodiversity and Whittlewood and Hazelborough Forest: Unlike geodiversity other Limestone Slope areas unimproved SA2 semi-natural habitats are retained on both the limestones and the clays. Wildlife Sites are still few and far between and are principally man-made, such as disused railways, quarries and canals. Land use is primarily arable with a smaller extent of agriculturally improved grassland. Woodland cover is low. Minor floodplain comprises a range of semi- natural habitats. Biodiversity rich rivers and streams, and their associated reedbeds and swamps, some open standing water and wet woodland associated with water bodies. The occurrence of wet and marshy grassland, springs and flushes and drier plantation woodland is much more limited. Limited sand and gravel extraction. There are a variety of wetland habitats, including wet grassland, drains, ponds and a section of canal. Protected species survey work has now confirmed no newts on or in proximity to the Minor adverse No site. Site: Mixed arable and pasture fields with field boundaries. The site surrounds Deanshanger Gravel Pits LWS, which form a series of mature lakes and associated scrub and grasslands. The lakes are also incorporated into a small golf course. Development of neighbouring areas may cause disturbance to this locally valuable site. Deanshanger Old Canal LWS lies to the north across the A422. The River Ouse Valley is designated as a Biodiversity Opportunity Area in the Milton Keynes Local Plan. Passenham quarry and surrounding land supports protected species including amphibians, foraging and commuting bats and breeding farmland and wetland birds. Otters are recorded on the River Great Ouse. Mitigation: Conserve and enhance existing broadleaved woodlands, grasslands, hedgerows as well as open standing water, river, streams and their associated their associated communities. Increase extent of habitats by restoration, creation, and buffering

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 68 wildlife corridors. Historic Works on previous phases of quarry environment and extraction on the eastern bank of the Great heritage assets Ouse have recorded extensive areas of SA5 archaeological remains including Bronze Age barrows, prehistoric enclosures, an Iron Age pit alignment, Roman mortuary structures and burials, Roman remains associated with the rural landscape including a granary and trackways and an Iron Age and Roman settlement. The evaluation undertaken by MOLA in 2015 to the south of the site was negative however in light of the activity identified in the surrounding area the archaeological potential of the site should not be discounted. The northern part of the site contains two areas of known archaeological activity, a probable prehistoric burial site and an area of undated but extensive activity south of the River Great Ouse. The archaeological Major adverse Yes potential of the rest of the site is unknown but it is covered in alluvium and as such potential archaeological activity could be masked. The site is directly to the south of Passenham conservation area and a number of listed buildings including the Grade 1 listed Church of St Guthlac (from where there may be a designed view), the Manor House, including walls and gates and the Dovecote to the south of the Manor all Grade II listed. The impact on the setting of these buildings needs to be considered and any assessment should include this information. Further assessment (to accompany the planning application) is required to provide information on the extent, significance and therefore impact of the proposals on potential undesignated archaeological assets. The extent of the area permitted may subsequently need to be reduced. Landscape Site falls within River Tove Floodplain character and Landscape Character Area (River Valley visual impact Floodplain). Flat open floodplain landscape, SA17 the course of the river often inconspicuous marked only by scattered trees. Wide views. Various field sizes and where pasture predominates they are lined by gappy, low hedgerows. Woodland cover is sparse. Settlement is limited to isolated farms and Moderate dwellings. Roads vary from busy ‘A’ roads to Yes adverse country lanes. Site: Pasture land surrounded by River Great Ouse. Adjacent to existing mineral workings. Views north to Passenham and views south obscured to an extent by woodland and existing mineral workings respectively. Some views from higher ground in Deanshanger and surrounding areas are likely. Site is on the county boundary so the site falls

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 69 within the proposed Local Green Infrastructure corridor (Buckingham - Milton Keynes) in which investment to develop green assets is encouraged. Mitigation: There is no/little opportunity to provide additional screening for mineral development. Final restoration to existing or similar ground levels wet or neutral grassland, flood meadow pasture or arable. Retention of a buffer to the River Great Ouse. Built environment The settlement of Passenham is located in and townscape close proximity to the site (110m north). SA17 Woodland along the banks of the River Great Ouse, between the site and Passenham, reduce the visual impacts. Elsewhere there is limited potential impact on Moderate Yes townscape. The settlement of Deanshanger is adverse 700m to the west (separated by the A422 and existing minerals site) and Calverton is over 800m to the east (separated by an existing quarry and Calverton Road). The Hotel and country club are 650m south-west. Opportunities for Restoration to existing or similar ground levels beneficial wet or neural grassland, flood meadow Negligible – restoration and pasture or arable. Retention of a buffer to the minor No after use River Great Ouse. beneficial SA9 Climate change The majority of carbon emissions that directly and opportunities relate to the minerals industry come from for sustainable vehicle movements. Despite the proximity to development the river, the site is located away from SA6, SA10, SA16 alternative transport hubs and therefore the transportation of minerals from the site will be road based. Agreed routes will need to be Minor adverse No established prior to a permission being granted. Restoration may present opportunity to provide a flood alleviation scheme if require as well as creating habitats for species that have been affected by increased rates of development. Proximity to The site is surrounded by waterways with the sensitive River Great Ouse meandering along the receptors south, west and north – a branch of the Ouse SA13 forks from the south to the east. The settlement of Passenham is located to the north (110m), separated by the River Great Ouse. The east, south and west of the site is surrounded by rural/agricultural land and the currently permitted mineral extraction site of Passenham Quarry (adjacent to the west) Moderate Yes There are several individual scattered adverse throughout the local area (200 to 700m). The settlement of Deanshanger is 700m to the west (separated by the A422 and existing minerals site) and Calverton is over 800m to the east. Deanshanger Gravel Pits LWS are 240m south-west. The site is in close proximity to the Passenham Conservation Area and associated listed buildings. The golf course is

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 70 550m south-west. Mineral from the site would be transported to the existing plant at Passenham for processing. Although the proximity of sensitive receptors increases the potential for noise, dust and visual impacts associated with mineral extraction (e.g. plant machinery operation and HGV movements) standard planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures (such as screening, strategic layout, phasing of operations and inclusion of setbacks) could potentially reduce these impacts to acceptable levels. Compatibility of The surrounding land use is mixed being surrounding land- largely rural / agricultural, minerals uses development, residential (Passenham), nature SA13, SA20 conservation and recreation with individual properties scattered though the local area. The site is also surrounded by the River Great Ouse. No RoWs have been identified within/adjacent the site. There are no land uses classified as having a Minor adverse No high level of sensitivity (relating to minerals development) neighbouring the site. It is likely that appropriate controls and mitigation measures (including screening, strategic site layout, phasing of operations and set-backs) could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts with surrounding uses of a medium to low sensitivity. Impact on general There is potential for impacts on the nearby amenity or residents of Passenham as extraction could character of the be close to receptors. Broader landscape area amenity may be disrupted due to a potential SA13, SA17 increase in ambient noise (operations, Moderate Yes vehicles) and visual impacts, however adverse screening and site layout may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to increased traffic movements within the area. Impact on The site does not have any formal recreational designations for recreation or open space opportunities and areas. Potential visual amenity impacts of Negligible – open spaces RoW users in the wider area. No minor adverse (including rights of way) SA15 Economic and Site is deliverable with active industry backing employment and an economically viable resource opportunities (supported by site-specific geological SA1, SA7, SA10, evidence) of 0.15 Mt of sand and gravel. SA11, SA12, The site presents the opportunity for an SA14, SA20 increase in the availability sand and gravel Moderate No resources for use in Northamptonshire. Given beneficial the proximity to Milton Keynes the site will likely serve markets here also. Efficiencies can be achieved due to the site adjoining an existing working deposit – utilising the existing plant site.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 71 Extension to existing operations, hence retention of existing jobs. Additional contract positions may be required during the life of the operation. Availability of and Subject to use of the existing access and plant impact on site there is unlikely to be any significant upon infrastructure highway infrastructure. There is not SA18, SA19 understood to be any National Grid infrastructure within or in close proximity to the site. Further consultation and assessment will need to be made on local utilities Negligible No infrastructure. The site is located within an aerodrome exclusion zone for bird strike, so consideration would need to given whether the final proposal would be compatible (i.e. the creation of temporary or permanent water bodies). Site access and Site is adjacent to an operational quarry so impact on vehicles movements are likely to be transport network maintained rather than increased. Access will / infrastructure be via the A422 roundabout, which provides SA13, SA18 good links to the surrounding road network. Site is relatively close to the A5 Old Stratford junction and therefore potential traffic impacts on this junction will need to be considered in a transport assessment to accompany planning Minor adverse No application. Local villages of Deanshanger and Passenham would be avoided. Access would need to be gained via at least one river crossing - more information is required regarding site access – however the existing operation within Milton Keynes has a bailey bridge, a similar arrangement could be achieved for this site. Capacity for In principle screening of the development avoidance and / could be undertaken, but would be dependant or mitigation upon the impact of any landforms or other measures screening on the conveyance in the flood SA2, SA13 zone of the River Great Ouse. This may impact upon the ability to screen the development to reduce dust, noise, landscape impact, impact upon the setting of heritage assets. Potential for earthen bunding may be limited due to flood risk (bunding may impede floodplain flows). The mature tree belt east of the site provides for screening of properties in Minor Passenham, which would generally have its No beneficial greatest effect at the dryer times of the year. Loss of agricultural land and the impact on the landscape can be reduced through the progressive phasing and restoration of the development. Processing mineral at the approved processing plant area, rather than exporting it from the site for processing can mitigate vehicle mileage. Setbacks are likely to be necessary to reduce potential impacts. Other standard industry mitigation measures that could reduce potentially adverse impacts to acceptable

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 72 levels include construction management and practice (e.g. dust and noise management), soil movement and handling, restoration and aftercare practice. Potential for The site would act as an extension to the cumulative existing operations at Passenham with impacts mineral transported to the existing plant for Minor– SA2, SA13 processing. There is potential for adverse moderate impacts given the existing operations and adverse commitments in the local area, including within the Milton Keynes authority area. No Phasing of permissions / operations will be necessary to avoid cumulative impacts. There is also potential for beneficial Low – cumulative impacts associated with moderate restoration to nature conservation and beneficial increasing habitat connectivity and landscape links.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 73 M7: Elton Extension Location: Land west of Elton Reservoir, Eaglethorpe Area (hectares): 19 Proposed use: Sand and gravel extraction 0.85 Mt

Site summary: Opportunities:  Site is deliverable with active industry support and an economically viable resource (supported by site-specific geological evidence). Extension to existing operations – potential to utilise existing plant. Constraints:  Site is not located within the area of focus. Not in conformity with the spatial strategy but is located adjacent to an existing operation, which is in general compliance with the Local Plan.  Site is located on an island with a navigable channel to the north; may create access issues.  No known archaeology sites within the area. However there are records of possible Bronze Age funerary activity across the tributary of the River Nene on the north-western side. Overall assessment outcome:  Site is suitable to be taken forward as a proposed allocation.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 74 Assessment Detailed Site characteristics/features, potential Impact risk criterion and link assessment impacts and mitigation measures rating to SA objectives required? Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the Spatial strategy relevant spatial strategy? No, not located within the areas of focus No however the site is an extension of an existing operation, which is in general compliance with the Local Plan. Air quality Emissions from the proposed sand and gravel (including dust) operation are primarily expected to be dust SA2, SA3 (particulate matter) including quantities of PM10, or gases such as NO2 and CO2 associated with transportation emissions. Sources of emissions include soil stripping, overburden handling, mineral extraction, loading, tipping, material haulage (including dust from haul roads) and wind blow. The extraction site is around 150m from the nearest residential properties to the south-east. Subject to the to appropriate Minor No standard mitigation measures the site is adverse capable of being operated to ensure dust does not cause a significant impact and PM10 would be within NAQS standards. The proposal is to use the existing plant site that has been operated effectively over a number of years without complaint. Given the close proximity to the main road network (the A605) emissions from haulage and transportation are likely to be acceptable. There are currently no AQMAs in the vicinity of the proposal site. Protection of Ground waters water quality, There is potential for groundwater flooding to resources and occur at surface of unexcavated areas. groundwater Water quality and quantity SA2, SA4 Adjacent to River Nene - may present environmental risks to water quality that will require detailed assessment to accompany planning application. There is a very significant potential for one or more geohazards Minor No associated with infiltration. The site adverse investigation should consider whether the potential for or the consequences of infiltration are significant. Infiltrating water should be free of contaminants. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The whole site is within an indicative and SA4 historic flood plain and Flood Zone 3. The site has low risk of surface water flooding. Flooding has been reported within 500 metres Minor Sequential / of the site. adverse exception test Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil Majority of site located on Grade 3 (good to Minor quality moderate quality) agricultural land with a small No adverse SA2, SA7, SA8 area to the north located on Grade 2 (very good

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 75 quality) land; considered to be the ‘best and most versatile land’. The site covers 19 ha and is currently used for a mix of grazing and woodland. This land would be temporarily lost during the operational life of the quarry however restoration to the previous land use and condition is possible. The quarrying of sand and gravel is unlikely to result in soil contamination. Standard planning conditions could require soil handing to be undertaken according to government guidance, which ensures that soils are not unduly detrimentally affected. Quarrying is unlikely to cause instability during operations or result in unstable landforms from restoration. However given proximity to watercourses stability of riverbanks may require detailed assessment to accompany the planning application. Dewatering has the potential to effect surrounding lands through settlement however the extent to which this is likely would need to be assessed through a hydro geological survey. Dewatering is a common operational practice for which there are effective mitigation measures hence it is thought that potential effects would be able to be mitigated to an acceptable level. Noise and The site is located in close proximity to and vibration capable of being accessed directly from the SA2 A605 which bypasses many of the nearest residential properties. The nearest properties are located around 150m to the south east of the application area, and many of these receptors are likely to have background noise levels elevated by the mill pool and existing traffic on the A605. It is considered that subject Minor No to the appropriate standard mitigation measures adverse the site is capable of being operated to ensure noise levels would be within the guidelines stated in the NPPG. The nature of the proposed on-site of operations, the use of an existing plant site area and the adequacy and route of the public highway to access the site means that vibration levels are likely to be within the necessary guidance and standards. Nature Lower Nene Biodiversity Character Area. Wide conservation, valley floors are subject to periodic winter biodiversity and flooding. There are large areas of arable geodiversity cropping and grassland is predominantly SA2 agriculturally improved with a variety of wet and marshy grasslands occur. Woodland is not a major feature of the floodplains and though Moderate woodland is typical there are very limited areas Yes adverse of wet woodland and carr that have developed in some locations. The site is in the Nene Valley Nature Improvement Area and has potential to enhance the floodplain grazing and wet woodland habitats. Existing marsh fen communities around the reservoir development are designated as

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 76 Eaglethorpe New Lake LWS. Floodplain grazing marsh designated as Elton Estate Mill Fields PWS to the south. Further PWS 300m to the west. The site is floodplain grazing marsh in a Higher Level Stewardship Scheme and may have potential wetland and farmland birds. The eastern part of the site is restored /planted as an immature woodland plantation. Development, change and land management should seek to retain existing wildlife habitats and increase amount of restoration to biodiversity habitats, in particular floodplain grassland to create large sustainable areas of habitat for wild birds. Historic No known archaeology sites within the area. environment and However there are records of possible Bronze heritage assets Age funerary activity across the tributary of the SA5 River Nene on the north-western side. To the south of the site a number of cropmarks have been identified Field walking to the south found Saxon pottery suggesting the possibility of Saxon activity in the vicinity A cluster of designated assets lie on either side of the Warmington bypass these include Moderate Warmington Mill listed Grade II, Yes adverse Eaglethorpe Farm and associated granary and attached barn all listed Grade II. To the east lies the southern extent of the registered park and gardens of Elton Hall Listed grade II. Further assessment (to accompany planning application) is required to provide information on the extent, significance and therefore impact of the proposals on potential undesignated archaeological assets, and the impact on the setting of the designated assets in the vicinity of the site. Landscape Site falls within two Landscape Character Areas character and in the Broad River Valley Floodplain: The Nene visual impact – Warmington to Wansford and The Nene – SA17 Cotterstock to Warmington. Predominance of medium - large fields of improved pasture. Open character. Bordering main river channel is riparian vegetation of rushes, reeds and willow trees. Limited settlement. Quiet floodplain landscape. Panoramic views along the river only limited by intervening vegetation. Site: Pasture and woodland surrounded by the Moderate Yes River Nene. Adjacent to Eaglethorpe New Lake adverse LWS – marshy grassland and fen a result of previous quarrying. Extension to existing quarry site. A Right of Way crosses the site. Views from higher ground possible. Mitigation: creation of wet grassland. Site falls within the crossover point between two proposed GI corridors: The Nene Valley (Northampton – Wansford) and Elton Park – Peterborough South (Peterborough Green Wheel Link) in which investment to develop

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 77 green assets is encouraged. Built environment The settlement of Eaglethorpe/Warmington is and townscape located 230m south-east, separated from the SA17 site by the river/waterways and main transport route A605. Elton Boat Club is 150m south. Elton Hall and Lady Margaret cottages are Minor located 1.4km and 980m (north-east), No adverse separated from the site by an existing mineral extraction operation (400m east) and a strip of woodland (320m east). These separation features reduce the visual impacts associated with the site. Opportunities for Presents the opportunity for biodiversity- beneficial focussed restoration - to lower levels and Minor restoration and creation of wet grassland or floodplain grazing No beneficial after use land. SA9 Climate change The majority of carbon emissions that directly and opportunities relate to the minerals industry come from for sustainable vehicle movements. Despite the close proximity development to the river the site is located away from SA6, SA10, SA16 alternative transport hubs and therefore transportation of minerals from the site will be Minor No road based. Agreed routes will need to be adverse established prior to a permission being granted. Restoration may present opportunity to provide a flood alleviation scheme if required as well as creating habitats for species that have been affected by increased rates of development. Proximity to The site is surrounded by the River Nene and sensitive set within agricultural fields / rural area. A receptors sewage works is located 360m to the south. SA13 Elton Boat Club is located 150m south-east. The settlement of Eaglethorpe/Warmington is located 230m south-east, separated from the site by the river/waterways and main transport route A605. A RoW (the Nene Way) intersects the site north-south. Warmington Mill listed building is 130m south and there are several listed buildings and scheduled monuments in the wider area. Elton Hall Registered Parks and Gardens access is located 330m east. An existing mineral extraction operation is located Minor – 400m east, separated by fields and the RPG moderate No access. adverse The site would act as an extension to an existing mineral extraction operation (400m east), mineral could be transported to the existing plan site for processing. The transport of minerals to the existing plant site coupled with separation of the site from residential areas by the A605 and general agricultural setting reduces potential for adverse impacts associated with mineral extraction. Standard planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures could reduce these impacts to acceptable levels. Compatibility of The surrounding land use is largely Minor No surrounding land- rural/agricultural with the settlement of adverse

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 78 uses Eaglethorpe/Warmington 230m south-east, SA13, SA20 separated by the river/waterways and main transport route A605. A RoW, the Nene Way, intersects the site north-south. A Sewage Works is located360m to the south. There are no land uses classified as having a high level of sensitivity (relating to minerals development) neighbouring the site. The transportation of mineral off-site for processing reduces the potential for land use conflict. It is likely that appropriate controls and mitigation measures could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts. Land-use conflict with existing / allocated uses Potential adverse impacts on human health, residential amenity and quality of life Impact on general There is likely to be limited impacts as the site amenity or is located away from residential receptors. character of the Broader landscape amenity may be disrupted area due to potential increase in ambient noise Minor No SA13, SA17 (operations, vehicles) and visual impact, adverse however screening and site layout may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to HGV movements within the area. Impact on Footpath PD3, the Nene Way, intersects the recreational site north-south and will need to be temporarily opportunities and re-routed during operations. Amenity of other Minor open spaces RoW users in proximity may be affected. No adverse (including rights of Site falls within the crossover point between two way) proposed GI corridors - opportunity to develop SA15 green assets through restoration. Economic and Site is deliverable with active industry support employment and an economically viable resource (supported opportunities by site-specific geological evidence) of 0.85 Mt SA1, SA7, SA10, of sand and gravel. Efficiencies can be SA11, SA12, achieved due to the site adjoining an existing SA14, SA20 working deposit. Moderate The reserves would ensure a continuing source No of sand and gravel is available for development beneficial in Northamptonshire and adjoining authorities. The site would act as an extension to existing operations, hence retention of existing jobs. Additional positions may be required during the life of the operation. Availability of and Subject to use of the existing access and plant impact on site there is unlikely to be any significant upon infrastructure highway infrastructure. There is not understood SA18, SA19 to be any National Grid infrastructure within or in close proximity to the site. Further consultation and assessment will need to be made on local utilities infrastructure. The site is Minor No located within an aerodrome exclusion for bird adverse strike, and a safeguarding zone, so consideration would need to given whether the final proposal would be compatible (i.e. the creation of temporary or permanent water bodies), however there has been extraction on the site adjacent to this proposed site. Site access and The channel to the north of the site is a Minor

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 79 impact on navigation channel that may constrain the adverse transport network available accessibility options. The proposal is / infrastructure to work the site as an extension to the Elton SA13, SA18 reservoir with the minerals being carried by conveyor to the exiting process plant (east). The current processing plant has direct access onto the A605. Routing agreements will be put in place to make sure vehicles avoid nearby villages. Capacity for Assuming application of standard planning avoidance and / conditions and mitigation measures, potentially or mitigation adverse amenity impacts resulting from quarry measures operations are believed to be able to be Minor No SA2, SA13 successfully mitigated. The loss of agricultural beneficial land and the impact on the landscape can be reduced through the progressive phasing of the development. Potential for There is potential for cumulative adverse cumulative impacts resulting from interactions with the impacts existing mineral extraction operations so Minor SA2, SA13 phasing of extraction would be required to avoid adverse environmental nuisance impacts. There may also be adverse impacts regarding flood risk however the requirement for a site specific flood No risk assessment and associated mitigation measures would reduce this. Minor This interaction also presents opportunities for beneficial beneficial cumulative impacts regarding restoration (e.g. nature conservation and landscape outcomes) and flood risk.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 80 Crushed rock and building stone extraction M9: Pury End Quarry Extension Location: Pury End, Towcester, Northamptonshire, NN12 7NX Area (hectares): 16.5 ha (8.2 ha for Phase 1 extraction) Proposed use: Building stone and crushed rock (limestone) extraction 0.85 Mt

Site summary Opportunities:  Although the spatial strategy does not address building stone the existing policy recognises that additional sites will be required, including the potential for extension of existing sites.  Potential for creation of neutral grassland meadow of limestone grassland.  The site would ensure a continuing supply of Blisworth limestone, which has historically been used throughout towns and villages in Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes. Constraints:  Potential or impacts on setting of listed buildings in Pury End / Paulerspury. No known archaeological site within the area. It does however sit within a landscape rich in multi period activity ranging from the prehistoric through to the medieval period. Overall assessment outcome:  Suitable to be taken forward as a proposed allocation.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 81 Assessment Detailed Site characteristics/features, potential Impact criterion and link assessment impacts and mitigation measures risk rating to SA objectives required? Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the relevant Spatial strategy spatial strategy? Yes, although the spatial strategy does not NA address building stone the development criterion recognises that additional sites will be required, including extension of existing sites. Air quality Emissions from the proposed development (including dust) operation are primarily expected to be dust SA2, SA3 (particulate matter), which would include quantities of PM10 and PM2.5. Sources of emissions include soil stripping, overburden handling, mineral extraction, loading and tipping, crushing, stone breaking and cropping, material haulage and wind blow. The proposed operation would be likely to generate visible dust emissions however with the nearest privately owned residential property around 300m away. There are however, two rural business parks in closer proximity however the closest of these is understood to be primarily a B2/Sui Generis use. Minor No Therefore subject to appropriate mitigation adverse measures any unacceptable adverse impact is unlikely. The anticipated low baseline levels of PM10 and PM2.5 and nature of the proposed operation means that NAQS levels are unlikely to be exceeded. If the site were to use the existing access onto the Westy Road then it is unlikely there would be any adverse impact from vehicle emissions to residential properties. There are no AQMAs within the vicinity of the application site that are likely to be adversely affected by the proposal. One AQMA does exist in the centre of Towcester, and some vehicles with travel this way until the Towcester relief road is opened. Protection of water Ground waters quality, resources There is limited potential for groundwater and groundwater flooding to occur. SA2, SA4 Water quality and quantity The groundwater may be vulnerable to contamination. Infiltrating water should be free of Minor No contaminants. Consideration should be given to adverse the risks associated with the transport of contaminants to the groundwater. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The whole site is in Flood Zone 1 with a low risk SA4 of fluvial flooding. There is a risk of surface water flooding to the site. There has been flooding reported within 500 Minor Sequential / metres of the site, the A5 in this area is a known adverse exception test flood hotspot. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil Located on Grade 3 (good to moderate quality) Minor No quality agricultural land. The site covers 16.5 ha and is adverse

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 82 SA2, SA7, SA8 currently used for hay crops. The agricultural land would be temporarily lost during the operational life of the quarry however with careful restoration it is possible to return the land to its previous use and condition. The quarrying of limestone is unlikely to result in soil contamination. Standard planning conditions require soil handing to be undertaken according to government guidance, which ensures that soils are not unduly detrimentally affected. Quarrying is unlikely to cause instability during operations or result in unstable landforms from restoration. Dewatering has the potential to effect surrounding lands through settlement however the extent to which this is likely would need to be assessed through a hydro geological survey. Dewatering is a common operational practice for which there are effective mitigation measures hence it is thought that potential effects would be able to be mitigated to an acceptable level. Noise and vibration The site is within a rural setting and although is SA2 located in proximity to the A5, it only provides a minimal amount of ambient noise. The nearest residential receptors around 300m to the south are in a relatively quiet location. The proposal site is no closer than the existing quarrying Minor No operation, which has been demonstrated to adverse operate within NPPG limits, subject to the application of appropriate mitigation measures. If the site is accessed via the existing site access there is unlikely to be any significant impact from noise and vibration to residential properties. Nature Whittlewood and Hazelborough Forest conservation, Biodiversity Character Area. It is separated from biodiversity and the Yardley Chase Biodiversity Character Area geodiversity by the River Tove valley. The woodlands are of SA2 ancient origin, with Whittlewood Forest comprising a cluster of ancient semi-natural woodlands including Buckingham Thick Copse National Nature Reserve, whilst Hazelborough Forest comprises more extensive coniferous and broadleaved plantations. There is poor survival of unimproved semi-natural mesotrophic grassland, although Bucknell Wood Meadow SSSI represents a good example. Whilst most of the area is underlain by Boulder Clay drift, there are Minor No also small areas of free-draining glacial gravels adverse that give rise to more acidic conditions. The site also borders the Lower Tove Valley Slopes Biodiversity Character Area. The Lower Tove Valley Slopes are not typical of other Limestones Slopes as the areas of unimproved semi-natural habitat are retained on both the limestones and the clays. There are few Wildlife Sites and these are principally man-made sites, such as disused railways, quarries and canals. Land use is primarily arable with a smaller extent of agriculturally improved grassland. Woodland cover is low. Calcareous grasslands are typical of the quarried

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 83 limestones. Tiffield Quarry is a de-notified SSSI. The few remaining areas of calcareous grassland have a high proportion and diversity of herb species. Brook Cottage Meadow LWS is 360m to the east and the only designated site within 1km. Historic No known archaeological site within the area. It environment and does however sit within a landscape rich in multi heritage assets period activity ranging from the prehistoric SA5 through to the medieval period. The Watling Street, Roman Road is to the north. To the east a possible Iron Age Romano British settlement and funerary activity. A possible Saxon burial site also lies within this area. Preliminary work in advance of the Towcester Vale development to the north has identified possible Roman activity and during recent evaluation to the north an extensive Iron Age settlement has been identified. To the north in Heathencote village two listed Moderate Yes buildings Elm Farmhouse and the Old Smithy adverse Listed Grade II. To the north-west the southern edge of Eason Neston registered park and garden II*. To the south in Pury End Kirby farmhouse Listed grade II and the Church of St James the Great Listed II*. Setting of listed buildings to the south in Pury End and Paulerspury may be affected. Further assessment (to accompany planning application) is required to provide information on the extent, significance and therefore impact of the proposals on potential archaeological assets, and impact on the setting of the designated assets in the vicinity of the site. Landscape Site falls within The Tove Catchment Landscape character and Character Area: Undulating Claylands. Small visual impact streams characterise the landscape which have SA17 eroded broad, gentle, sloped valleys resulting in the distinctive undulating landform. Arable and pasture farmland. Woodland not a prominent feature however a number of woodland blocks are present. Well settled with numerous villages, Minor No farms and individual dwellings. Road networks adverse are extensive including several ‘A’ roads. Site: Arable, adjacent to existing mineral workings. The site is elevated which reduces impact on views from lower areas. Views from adjacent Right of Way. Mitigation: retain and enhance existing features and undulating landscape. Built environment Settlement of Paulerspury is 800m south-east of and townscape the site and Heathencote is 560m north SA17 (separated from the site by the A5). Kirby Farm house and the settlement of Pury End are located to the south (300 and 360m) (separated Minor No from the site by the existing mineral site). The adverse site is adjacent to a small industrial park (east) and there are scattered individual dwellings in the area. The proposed extraction of building stone from

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 84 the site supports the supply of local stone - promoting local character in new development. Opportunities for Restoration to agriculture and arable land is beneficial likely. Potential for creation of neutral grassland Minor restoration and meadow of limestone grassland. No beneficial after use SA9 Climate change The majority of carbon emissions that directly and opportunities relate to the minerals industry come from vehicle for sustainable movements. The site is located away from development transport hubs and therefore the transportation of Minor No SA6, SA10, SA16 minerals from the site will be road based. Agreed adverse routes will need to be established prior to permission being granted but likely to be the same as current operational site. Proximity to The site is surrounded by agricultural land with sensitive receptors an existing mineral extraction operation adjacent SA13 to the south and a Concept Park bordering the eastern boundary that accommodates a range of industrial businesses including groundworks, air- conditioning and vehicle servicing workshop/office. Kirby Farm house and the settlement of Pury End are located to the south (300 and 360m) (separated from the site by the existing mineral site). There are several scattered individual properties south and east towards Pury End and Paulerspury, as well as north towards Heathencote; however these are over 500m Minor No away and some are separated from the site by adverse the A5 and other transport routes. Easton Neston Registered Parks & Gardens is located 920m to the north. There are LWSs in the local area (>350m). A RoW runs along the eastern boundary. The site would act as an extension to the existing mineral extraction site. The site is largely separated from sensitive receptors. The proximity to the concept park may require mitigation measures such as set-backs and dust suppression Standard planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures could reduce impacts to acceptable levels. Compatibility of The surrounding land use is largely rural / surrounding land- agricultural with settlements of Pury End and uses Paulerspury located to the south and south-east SA13, SA20 (360 and 800m). The site is adjacent to an existing mineral extraction site (south) and industrial uses (east). A business park (business offices / commerce) and reclamation yard is Minor located along the A5 to the east. A RoW runs No adverse along the eastern boundary. There are no land uses of a high level of sensitivity (relating to minerals development) neighbouring the site. It is likely that appropriate controls and mitigation measures could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 85 Impact on general There are some isolated properties in proximity amenity or to the site, so potential for impacts may be character of the increased. Broader landscape amenity may be area disrupted due to a potential increase in ambient Minor SA13, SA17 noise (operations, vehicles) and visual impacts, No adverse however screening and site layout may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to increased traffic movements within the area. Impact on The site does not have any formal designations recreational for recreation or open space areas. Potential opportunities and amenity impacts for users of footpath RU14 that Minor open spaces runs along the eastern boundary and other RoW No adverse (including rights of in the surrounding area. way) SA15 Economic and Site is deliverable with active industry support employment and an economically viable resource. The opportunities resource yield is estimated at 0.85 Mt and is SA1, SA7, SA10, supported by trial pit investigations. The cost of SA11, SA12, SA14, extracting building stone can be offset against SA20 sales of aggregate. Efficiencies can be achieved due to the site adjoining an existing working deposit. Moderate No The site would ensure a continuing supply of beneficial Blisworth limestone that has historically been used throughout towns and villages in Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes. As an extension to existing operations there is likely to be retention of existing jobs. Additional positions may be required during the life of the operation. Availability of and Subject to use of the existing access and impact on processing buildings there is unlikely to be any infrastructure significant upon highway infrastructure. There is SA18, SA19 not understood to be any National Grid infrastructure within or in close proximity to the Negligible site. Further consultation and assessment will – minor No need to be made on local utilities infrastructure. adverse Although the site is located within an airfield exclusion zone for bird strike, it is likely that the development would be compatible (adjacent to an existing site). Site access and Site is an extension to an existing site, so it is impact on transport expected that HGV movements will be network / maintained rather than increased. No vehicles infrastructure should travel via Pury End. The site has good SA13, SA18 access to the A5 but vehicles should avoid travelling through Whittlebury where possible. This site lies between the A43 to the west and A5 Negligible No to the east, with a closer proximity to the A5. The A5 and A43 would be used as key routes to this site. Potential geological and drainage/flooding issues in relation to the A5 will require assessment and associated traffic impacts would need to be considered in a transport assessment (to accompany planning application). Capacity for Phasing of the development would reduce the Moderate avoidance and / or impact on agricultural land, however given the No beneficial mitigation size of the site this would only be a limited

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 86 measures impact. The site could require some form of SA2, SA13 perimeter bunding to reduce noise levels and reduce the landscape impact of the development. Other standard industry mitigation measures that would reduce potentially adverse impacts to acceptable levels include construction management and practice (e.g. dust and noise management), soil movement and handling, restoration and aftercare practice. Potential for There is potential for cumulative adverse impacts cumulative impacts resulting from interaction with the existing Minor SA2, SA13 mineral extraction operations. Phasing of adverse extraction would be required to avoid environmental nuisance impacts. No This interaction also presents opportunities for Minor beneficial cumulative impacts regarding beneficial restoration (e.g. nature conservation and landscape outcomes).

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 87 M10: Harlestone Quarry Extension Location: Harlestone Road, Lower Harlestone Area (hectares): 4.5 Proposed use: Crushed rock and building stone extraction 0.85 Mt (0.0425 Mt building stone)

Site summary

Opportunities:

 Adjacent to existing quarry (natural extension), hence opportunities to utilise plant and other infrastructure.  Limited potential for adverse impacts on surrounding environment and sensitive receptors. Constraints:

 Potential impact on archaeological assets and setting of listed buildings. Overall assessment outcome: Suitable to be taken forward as proposed allocation. Assessment Detailed criterion and Site characteristics/features, potential Impact risk assessment link to SA impacts and mitigation measures rating required? objectives Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the Spatial strategy relevant spatial strategy? Yes, although the spatial strategy does not address building stone the development No criterion recognises that additional sites will be required, including extension of existing sites.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 88 Air quality Emissions from the proposed operation are (including dust) primarily expected to be dust (particulate SA2, SA3 matter), which would include quantities of PM10 and PM2.5. Sources of emissions include soil stripping, overburden handling, mineral extraction, loading and tipping, stone breaking and cropping, material haulage and wind blow. The proposed operation would be likely to generate visible dust emissions however with the nearest privately owned residential property around 150m away and suitable Minor adverse No mitigation, any adverse dust impact would be unlikely. The anticipated low baseline levels of PM10 and PM2.5 and distance to residential properties means that NAQS levels are unlikely to be exceeded. If the site were to use the existing access onto the Harlestone Road, then it is unlikely there would be any adverse impact from vehicle emissions to residential properties. There are no AQMAs within the vicinity of the application site which are likely to be adversely affected by the proposal. Protection of Ground waters water quality, There is limited potential for groundwater resources and flooding to occur. groundwater Water quality SA2, SA4 There is little potential for geohazards associated with infiltration. The groundwater may be vulnerable to Minor adverse No contamination. Infiltrating water should be free of contaminants. Previous land use should be checked to determine whether the ground is contaminated. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The entire site is located within flood zone 1 SA4 with a low risk of fluvial flooding to the site. There is a risk of surface water flooding to the site. There have been reports of flooding on the Sequential / highway within 500 m of the site. Minor adverse exception test Assessment of flood risk to the highway may be required. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil Located on Grade 3 (good to moderate quality) quality agricultural land. The site covers 4.5 ha and is SA2, SA7, SA8 currently used for arable crops. This land would be temporarily lost during the operational life of the quarry however restoration to previous land use and condition is possible. Minor adverse No Quarrying is unlikely to result in soil contamination. Standard planning conditions require soil handing to be undertaken according to government guidance which ensures that soils are not unduly detrimentally affected. Quarrying is unlikely to cause

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 89 instability during operations or result in unstable landforms from restoration. Dewatering has the potential to effect surrounding lands through settlement however the extent to which this is likely would need to be assessed through a hydro geological survey. Dewatering is a common operational practice for which there are effective mitigation measures hence it is thought that potential effects would be able to be mitigated to an acceptable level. Noise and The site is within a rural setting although is vibration located in proximity to the A428 Harlestone SA2 Road it only provides a limited amount of ambient noise. The nearest residential receptor is around 150m to the north and is in a relatively quiet location. The proposal site is no closer than the existing quarrying operation Minor adverse No which has been demonstrated to operate within NPPG limits, subject to the application of appropriate mitigation measures. If the site is accessed via the existing site access from the Harlestone Road there is unlikely to be any significant impact from noise and vibration to residential properties. Nature Harlestone Old Quarry Regionally Important conservation, Geological Site lies immediately to the north. biodiversity and Harlestone and Brampton Heaths Biodiversity geodiversity Character Area comprises the only substantial SA2 area of extensive Ericaceous heath in the county. Land use is a mixture of arable fields, golf courses and plantations. None of the woodlands are of ancient origin. Harlestone Firs is a large area of wooded heath land, known also as Dallington Heath and Harlestone Heath. It forms the most outstanding example of Ericaceous heath in Northamptonshire. Part of Harlestone Firs was formerly designated as SSSI but was subsequently de-notified because the dense Negligible- No planting shaded out the heath land vegetation. minor adverse The re-emergence of species unrecorded for over 100 years, suggests that a rich seed bank survives under the plantation areas. Harlestone Firs lies on free-draining Northampton Sand is therefore unusually acidic for the county as a whole. Round Oak Plantation to the south and the woodland comprising a series of plantations to the north are Potential Wildlife Sites. The site is arable. Mitigation: Potential to restore to acid grassland and/or heath. Sites of importance for geodiversity that are created as part of quarrying might be retained. Historic The site lies between two quarried areas. The environment and initial assessment was undertaken in 2003 and Moderate heritage assets included fieldwalking and partial geophysical Yes adverse SA5 survey. The results of the area to the east have been published Harlestone Quarry 2007-

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 90 2014, MOLA. This identified areas of Bronze and Iron Age activity which included a Bronze Age enclosure a pit alignment and a medieval boundary ditch. The site contains the remains of ploughed out ridge and furrow. This may mask earlier archaeological activity. The site was subject to a partial geophysical survey in 2003. The site contains a number of cropmarks one of which is thought to represent a prehistoric trackway. May affect the setting of Listed Buildings to the north of Harlestone Road. Further assessment (to accompany the planning application) is required to provide information on the extent, significance and therefore impact of the proposals on potential archaeological assets and setting of the designated assets in the vicinity of the site. Landscape Site falls within Harlestone Heath and the character and Bramptons Landscape Character Area: Rolling visual impact Ironstone Valley Slopes. Ironstone hills and SA17 valley slopes that define a narrow tributary stream of the Brampton Valley. Nucleated settlements and isolated farmsteads. Wide views over a rolling, arable landscape are characteristic of the area. Hedgerow trees and small woodlands in a simple rural landscape. Coniferous woodland of Harlestone Heath. Site: Arable, adjacent to existing mineral workings and restored landfill site - previously Minor adverse No a quarry. In proximity to Harlestone Firs LWS. Well screened by woodland and mineral workings. Potential views to Upper Harlestone. A Right of Way crosses site. Midshires Way and Cycle Tour 5 run east west to the north of the site. Mitigation: Habitat creation, links to LWS and heathland habitats. Site falls within the proposed Local Green Infrastructure corridor Northampton – Daventry. Opportunity through restoration to develop green assets. Built environment The site is surrounded by agricultural land and townscape (west), plantation/woodland (north), an existing SA17 mineral extraction operation (east) and rural land / disused quarry to the south. There is a garden centre to the south-east (280m) and individual properties scattered mainly to the north/north-west towards Upper Harlestone/Harlestone/Lower Harlestone however these are separated from the site by Minor adverse No plantation/woodland, the existing mineral site and Harlestone Road – the closest being 130m away. The settlements of Upper Harlestone/Harlestone/Lower Harlestone are located 400-550m to the north/north-west. Due to the elements of separation the potential for impact on built environment/townscape is limited. Supports the supply of local building stone,

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 91 promoting local character in new development. Opportunities for There are opportunities for mitigation and beneficial habitat creation through restoration of the site restoration and to heathland and/or acid grassland, to provide after use habitat links with Harlestone Firs LWS and SA9 surviving remnant heath or seed bank within Minor No surrounding plantation woodland. Restoration beneficial to acid grassland or heath would be generally of more biodiversity benefit that further woodland planting that is approved for the current Harlestone Quarry. Climate change The majority of carbon emissions that directly and opportunities relate to the minerals industry come from for sustainable vehicle movements. The site is located away development from alternative transport hubs and therefore SA6, SA10, the transportation of minerals from the site will SA16 be road based. Agreed routes will need to be Minor adverse No established prior to a permission being granted. There could be potential for transportation into the wider market by rail from the aggregate depot located in Northampton. Proximity to The site is surrounded by agricultural land sensitive (west), plantation/woodland (north), an existing receptors mineral extraction operation (east) and rural SA13 land / disused quarry to the south. There is a garden centre to the south-east (280m) and individual properties scattered mainly to the north/north-west towards Upper Harlestone/Harlestone/Lower Harlestone however these are separated from the site by plantation/woodland, the existing mineral site and Harlestone Road – the closest being 130m away. The settlements of Upper Harlestone/Harlestone/Lower Harlestone (and Minor adverse No associated Conservation Area and listed building) are located 400-550m to the north/north-west. Harlestone Firs LWS is located 280m east. A RoW runs along the western boundary. The site would act as an extension to the existing mineral extraction site. The site is largely separated from sensitive receptors. Standard planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures could reduce impacts to acceptable levels. Compatibility of The surrounding land use is largely surrounding land- rural/agricultural, woodland plantation and uses existing and disused quarries. The settlements SA13, SA20 of Upper Harlestone/Harlestone/Lower Harlestone are located 400-550m to the north/north-west. A RoW runs along the western boundary. Minor adverse No There are no land uses of a high level of sensitivity (relating to minerals development) neighbouring the site. It is likely that appropriate controls and mitigation measures could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 92 Impact on Site has some isolated residential properties in general amenity proximity to the site, so risk of impacts may be or character of increased. Broader landscape amenity may be the area disrupted due to a potential increase in SA13, SA17 ambient noise (operations, vehicles) and visual Minor adverse No impacts, however screening and site layout may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to increase traffic movements within the area. Impact on Footpath CU27 crosses the site close to the recreational boundary in a north-west – south-east opportunities and direction. Temporary re-routing will be open spaces necessary. Potential amenity impacts on Minor adverse No (including rights nearby RoW. of way) SA15 Economic and Site is deliverable with active industry support employment and an economically viable resource opportunities (supported by geological evidence) of 0.85 Mt SA1, SA7, SA10, of crushed rock and building stone. SA11, SA12, Previous workings in the area demonstrate SA14, SA20 viability. The economic benefit of an operation at Harlestone is the availability of additional limestone resources to support growth in Moderate No Northamptonshire. The site is particularly well beneficial placed to serve development in Northampton’s northern Sustainable Urban Extensions. Efficiencies can be achieved due to the site adjoining an existing working deposit. Extension to existing operations, hence retention of existing jobs. Additional contract positions may be required during the life of the operation. Availability of and Subject to use of the existing access and plant impact on site there is unlikely to be any significant upon infrastructure highway infrastructure. National Grid has SA18, SA19 advised that the site is close to or crossed by an Intermediate/High Pressure supply line (HP 1209 Mears Ashby / Harpole) for which an Negligible No adequate stand-off would be required. Further consultation and assessment will need to be made on local utilities infrastructure. Although the site is located within an airfield exclusion zone for bird strike, it is likely that the development would be compatible. Site access and Site is adjacent to an operational quarry so impact on vehicle movements are likely to be maintained transport network rather than increased. Access would be via Negligible No / infrastructure existing access route and routing agreements SA13, SA18 would be used. Capacity for Phasing of the development would reduce the avoidance and / impact on agricultural land, however given the or mitigation size of the site this would only be a limited measures impact. The site would be likely to require Moderate SA2, SA13 some form of perimeter bunding to ensure No beneficial noise would be at acceptable levels, which would also reduce the landscape impact of the development. Other standard industry mitigation measures that would reduce

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 93 potentially adverse impacts to acceptable levels include construction management and practice (e.g. dust and noise management), soil movement and handling, restoration and aftercare practice. Potential for There is potential for cumulative adverse cumulative impacts resulting from interaction with the impacts existing mineral extraction operations. Phasing Low adverse SA2, SA13 of extraction would be required to avoid environmental nuisance impacts. No This interaction also presents opportunities for beneficial cumulative impacts regarding Low beneficial restoration (e.g. nature conservation and landscape outcomes).

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 94

Building and roofing stone extraction M11: Collyweston Village Location: Parish of Collyweston, East Northamptonshire Area (hectares): 8.5 Proposed use: Collyweston roofing slate extraction (unknown yield)

Site summary: Opportunities:  Increase the availability of slate for the renovation and maintenance of historic buildings.  Although the spatial strategy does not address building stone the development criterion recognises that additional sites will be required.  Restoration or habitat enhancement for diverse limestone grasslands and arable reversion could provide benefits for biodiversity including bats and provide corridors enforce links to local bat hibernacula. Constraints:  Potential for cumulative impacts is limited however interaction with the Collyweston Slate builders yard may present adverse impacts for bats and biodiversity. Overall assessment outcome:  Suitable to be taken forward as a proposed allocation.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 95 Assessment Detailed Site characteristics/features, potential Impact risk criterion and link assessment impacts and mitigation measures rating to SA objectives required? Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the Spatial strategy relevant spatial strategy? Yes, although the spatial strategy does not NA address building stone the development criterion recognises that additional sites will be required, including extension of existing sites. Air quality Collyweston Slate is generally formed within the (including dust) lower 1m of the limestone deposit and requires SA2, SA3 underground mining. The extraction operations would therefore be undertaken below ground with the use of electric plant and machinery. As such the physical extraction operations would not be likely to generate any dust or transportation emissions. Manual splitting and dressing of the Logs and slates could be Negligible – undertaken with minimal dust emissions, but minor No mechanical splitting may generate some dust adverse and particulate matter that could be controlled by being undertaken off-site, within a building, or by use of water spray. Given the quantities of mineral involved the number of HGVs is likely to be small, with smaller vehicles likely to be used to transport much of the material from the site – as a consequence transportation emissions are likely to be low-level and well within NAQS standards. Protection of Ground waters water quality, There is limited potential for groundwater resources and flooding to occur. groundwater Water quality and quantity SA2, SA4 The groundwater may be vulnerable to contamination. There is little potential for geohazards associated with infiltration. Minor No Infiltrating water should be free of adverse contaminants. Any infiltration planned should consider the risks associated with the transport of contaminants to the groundwater. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The entire site is located within flood zone 1 SA4 with a low risk of fluvial flooding to the site. There is a low risk of surface water flooding to the site. There have been reports of flooding of highway Minor Sequential / and surrounding areas within 500 metres. adverse exception test Reports made in 2012, 1998, 1993, 1987, 1960 and 1947. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil Site identified as Grade 3 (good to moderate quality quality) agricultural land. Underground mining SA2, SA7, SA8 will not result in a loss of this land. Dewatering Minor No has the potential to effect surrounding lands adverse through settlement however the extent to which this is likely would need to be assessed through

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 96 a hydro geological survey. Dewatering is a common operational practice for which there are effective mitigation measures hence it is thought that potential effects would be able to be mitigated to an acceptable level. Noise and There are residential properties bordering and vibration in close proximity to the site. Notwithstanding SA2 the rural location the nearest residential properties are likely to suffer some elevated background noise levels from the nearby A43. Due to the requirement to extract by underground mining and the use of electric plant and machinery, the physical extraction operations would not be likely to generate any significant noise or vibration emissions. Manual splitting of the logs could be undertaken with low noise emissions. However, the dressing of Minor slates or mechanical splitting and dressing is No adverse likely to generate some noise that would need to be controlled by being undertaken off-site or within a building. Although the access road would be in close proximity to residential properties, the number and type of vehicle movements and the existing background noise from the A43 would mean that noise and vibration from transportation would be low-level. Subject to suitable mitigation measures it is considered that the development could be undertaken within the appropriate noise limits stated within the NPPG. Nature Easton-on-the-Hill & Collyweston Cropped conservation, Limestone Plateau Biodiversity Character Area biodiversity and contains four designated wildlife sites including geodiversity two SSSIs, which are outstanding examples of SA2 upright brome tor grass calcareous grassland. Collyweston Quarries is a former medieval limestone quarry; Collyweston Slate Mine is a geological SSSI. Adjacent to the Collyweston Quarries SSSI and Local Wildlife Site (LWS) the largest example of this type of vegetation in the County. Collyweston Slate mine 400m to the south. Minor Racecourse Farm Fields SSSI in unfavourable No beneficial recovering condition is 1,400m to the east and there are a range of grassland and woodland PWSs within 1km. Existing slate mines in the area support bat hiberncula and sites for roosting swarming bats. Restoration or habitat enhancement for diverse limestone grasslands and arable reversion could provide benefits for biodiversity including bats and provide corridors enforce links to local bat hibernacula. Creation of additional bat swarming sites and roosting habitats and hibernacula could be considered. Historic The site lies within the area of the former environment and Rockingham Forest. A number of surveys were Minor heritage assets undertaken within the forest as a whole as part No adverse SA5 of the Rockingham Forest Project 2002-3. The site has a number of small discrete

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 97 quarries within it. Aerial photography within the site and the area to the west has identified a number of cropmarks. The Jurassic Way an important prehistoric routeway connecting north-east and south west parts of the UK runs through the site. Easton on the Hill lies to the east of the site with a conservation area and a number of listed buildings. Further assessment (to accompany planning application) is required to provide information on the extent, significance and therefore impact of the proposals on potential undesignated archaeological assets. Consideration of the impact on the setting of the Easton on the Hill conservation area may also be required. Landscape Site is within the Collyweston Limestone character and Plateau Landscape Character Area: Limestone visual impact Plateau. Rural, elevated plateau landscape with SA17 a predominance of arable fields. Limestone walls and low hedges define some boundaries. Woodland is limited on plateau. Sparsely Minor No settled. Consists also of airfield - flat open adverse expansive landscape. Site: Arable land adjacent to Collyweston Quarries LWS and SSSI – a result of previous quarrying. Underground mining will have no/limited visual impact. Built environment Site located between the settlements of and townscape Collyweston and Easton on the Hill (550m). SA17 The site is adjacent/in close proximity to several individual properties to the south and east. Negligible - Extraction area is not visible as the mineral minor No workings will be underground; as such there is adverse limited potential for impact on townscape. Supports the supply of local roofing slate - promotes local character in new development. Opportunities for Restoration options, after-use of sites beneficial Restoration or habitat enhancement for diverse restoration and limestone grasslands and arable reversion after use could provide benefits for biodiversity including Minor No SA9 bats and provide corridors enforce links to local beneficial bat hibernacula. Creation of additional bat swarming sites and roosting habitats and hibernacula could be considered. Climate change The majority of carbon emissions that directly and opportunities relate to the minerals industry come from for sustainable vehicle movements. The site is located away Minor development from alternative transport hubs and therefore No adverse SA6, SA10, SA16 the transportation of minerals from the site will be road based. Agreed routes will need to be established prior to a permission being granted. Proximity to The site is located between the settlements of sensitive Collyweston and Easton on the Hill (550m). The receptors site is within an area known as Slate Drift (north SA13 west of A43/north east of Collyweston main Minor No village) that forms a peripheral area of adverse Collyweston but is not within the village settlement boundary. The site is adjacent/in close proximity to several individual properties

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 98 to the south and east within the Slate Drift area. A listed building (disused lime kiln) is located 50m south and the Collyweston Quarries SSSI and LWS are located adjacent the site to the north-east. Collyweston Slate Mine SSSI is located 400m south, separated by the A43. Although the close proximity of sensitive receptors increases the potential for adverse impacts associated with mineral extraction the small scale of operations and nature of the proposed works (underground mining) will act to greatly reduce severity of impacts. However the potential impacts on bat hibernacula and swarming sites must also be taken into consideration. In addition standard and site/development specific planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures could potentially reduce these impacts to acceptable levels. Compatibility of The surrounding land use is largely rural / surrounding land- agricultural and nature conservation to the west uses and north with residential and business SA13, SA20 properties of the Slate Drift area to the east and south. No RoWs have been identified within the site however one runs through the adjacent Minor Collyweston Quarries SSSI and LWS. No adverse There are no land uses of a high level of sensitivity (relating to minerals development) neighbouring the site. It is likely that appropriate controls and mitigation measures could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts. Impact on general There is likely to be limited impact on nearby amenity or residents, as most of the workings will take character of the place underground. Broader landscape amenity area may be disrupted due to a potential increase in SA13, SA17 ambient noise (operations, vehicles) and visual Minor impact, however screening and careful placing No adverse of the mine entrance may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to increased HGV movements within the area, but this would be a small-scale operation so impacts would be limited. Impact on The site does not have any formal designations recreational for recreation or open space areas. Potential opportunities and amenity impacts on nearby RoW – including Negligible - open spaces footpath MP3 that runs through the adjacent minor No (including rights of Collyweston Quarries SSSI and LWS. adverse way) SA15 Economic and Deliverability of the site is uncertain, as no employment potential operator has yet been identified. Site opportunities has an estimated resource yield of 0.05 Mt of SA1, SA7, SA10, roofing slate (however no site specific SA11, SA12, geological evidence has been supplied). The Minor No SA14, SA20 site is small scale hence likely to serve local beneficial requirements. The reserves will ensure a continuing source of building stone/roofing slate is available for local builders and merchants. Promotes local character in new development.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 99 An operation of this scale is anticipated to generate between 2-4 full time jobs. One of the jobs is anticipated to be a managerial/supervisory position for the overall site operations. The remaining positions will be for plant operators and site foreman. Additional contract positions may be required during the life of the operation. Availability of and Given the nature of the proposal there is impact on unlikely to be any significant upon highway infrastructure infrastructure. There is not understood to be SA18, SA19 any National Grid infrastructure within or in close proximity to the site. Further consultation and assessment will need to be made on local utilities infrastructure. Although the site is Negligible No located within an airfield exclusion zone for bird strike, it is likely that the development would be compatible. There is permitted Collyweston Slate dressing business in close proximity to the site which with agreement, may purchase or provide a processing location for the material. Site access and It is anticipated that development of the site will impact on result in a low level of additional vehicle transport network movements due to the scale of operations. The Minor / infrastructure operations are unlikely to require the use of No adverse SA13, SA18 HGV’s. Minor highway improvements maybe required to allow access to the site to meet a suitable standard. Capacity for Assuming the development takes place by avoidance and / means of underground mining, the application Minor - or mitigation of standard planning conditions and mitigation moderate No measures measures, potentially adverse amenity impacts beneficial SA2, SA13 resulting from quarry operations are believed to be able to be successfully mitigated. Potential for Potential for cumulative impacts is limited cumulative however interaction with the Collyweston Slate Minor impacts builders yard may present adverse impacts for adverse SA2, SA13 bats and biodiversity. This interaction also presents an opportunity for No positive cumulative impacts regarding Minor restoration and after-use of the sites. Such beneficial impacts will need to be carefully managed and monitored.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 100 Waste Management Facilities

Industrial area locations for waste management uses WL16: Corby - Earlstrees Area (hectares): 172.5 Proposed use: General industrial area location within which waste management uses would be acceptable in principle.

Site summary Opportunities:  Site is located within the central spine so supports the spatial strategy.  The surrounding land use is largely industrial, plantation/rural with residential areas to the south/south-west of the main section in close proximity.  Development of a waste site has the potential to retain or create jobs. Constraints:  The site is well separated from sensitive receptors to the west, north and east however the adjacent residential area south/south-west of the main section of the site increases the potential for visual impacts on the built environment/townscape. Overall assessment outcome:  Suitable to be taken forward as a proposed designation.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 101 Assessment Detailed criterion and Site characteristics/features, potential Impact assessment link to SA impacts and mitigation measures risk rating required? objectives Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the Spatial strategy relevant spatial strategy? N/A Yes, located within the central spine.

Air quality The area is industrial in character and is (including dust) occupied by a number of B2, B8 and Sui SA2, SA3 generis uses. Impacts on air emissions could result from increases in HGV movements and increases in dust and compound emissions from the site operation. This would contribute to cumulative impacts with existing activities and associated transportation emissions in the area. Such matters would need to be considered at the application stage. Minor No Odour impacts associated with waste treatment adverse processes i.e. minor periodic odour risk associated with operation, and further potential risk with poor management practices. However, good operational practices, mitigation measures and appropriate planning conditions could mitigate this impact for most types of facility. There are no AQMAs within the vicinity of the proposed allocation area. Protection of Ground waters water quality, There is very limited potential for groundwater resources and flooding to occur. groundwater Water quality and quantity SA2, SA4 Made ground is present at the surface. Infiltration may increase the possibility of remobilising pollutants. Minor There is a very significant potential for one or No adverse more geohazards associated with infiltration. A site investigation should consider whether the potential for or the consequences of infiltration are significant. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk There are flood zone 2 and flood zone 3 areas SA4 within the site boundary. There is a risk of surface water flooding to the site. Minor Sequential / There has been flooding reported within 500 adverse exception test metres of the site. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil The area is located on non-agricultural land quality currently being used for industrial development SA2, SA7, SA8 or brownfield land associated with past Minor industrial development. Soil contamination risk No adverse associated with waste treatment activities - potential for residual soil contamination risk associated with poor management practices. Noise and Most of the potential development opportunities Minor No

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 102 vibration within the area would be a significant distance adverse SA2 and/or screened from sensitive receptors. The nature, location and types of land uses within the allocation area mean there is a significant element of ambient noise from the area. The size of the allocation area, the nature of the uses and the location of sensitive receptors means that in practice a development would be unlikely to significantly adversely impact upon sensitive receptors, unless it were on selected parts of the south and western boundary of the area. The area benefits from purpose built roads to handle HGV traffic that disperses at certain points of the main network through Corby. Consequently it is unlikely that any adverse would result from noise or vibration. Nature Adjacent land and wildlife sites are within the conservation, Corby Quarries Biodiversity Character Area. biodiversity and Corby Old Quarry Gullet LWS is 400m to the geodiversity east. Brookfield Plantation LWS and Corby Old SA2 Quarry Ponds LWS at Priors Hall are within 1km. There are numerous PWSs on or adjacent to the associated with mineral workings. Willowbrook is designated for Negligible No biodiversity and nature conservation in the Local Plan Proposals Map. Water bodies and woodland sites around the site support significant populations of amphibians including Great crested newts and adjacent woodland support further protected species such as reptiles, bats, water vole and badgers. Historic Located within an industrial area. Lloyds Estate environment and Conservation Area is located 150m south. heritage assets Rockingham Castle Scheduled Monument is SA5 located to the west. The monument consists of the motte and bailey castle, with a moat and warrens, and of the earthworks of the shrunken medieval village. There is also the Registered Parks and Garden associated Scheduled Minor No Monument. The Conservation Area and several adverse listed buildings) are located to the west (500m), Corby Old Village Conservation Area and associated listed buildings are located over 1km to the south. Assessment (to accompany the planning application) may be required in relation to the impact on the setting of the designated assets. Landscape The area is located within Rockingham Forest character and National Character Area and is identified as an visual impact urban area. The proposed area is located SA17 within the industrial area of Earlstrees Industrial Estate. It comprises large production units, Minor warehouses and works. The area does not No adverse have a strong visual connection to the landscape and is relatively isolated from sensitive residential receptors. Woodland is found to the north, residential to the south and industrial areas to the east.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 103 The overall capacity of the area to accommodate development of preliminary waste facilities in terms of landscape is high to medium. With the implementation of mitigation it is high. The existing landscape is already affected by the number and character of industrial units. Thus, it is anticipated that no landscape character impacts will emerge and, if needed, all negative impacts can be managed through appropriate mitigation techniques. Overall development is unlikely to have a significant impact on the visual amenity and local landscape character. The area is located within an existing industrial area and hence there is some degradation of landscape values, however it is predominately well screened from surrounding sensitive receptors. Built environment Brookfield Plantation/rural land use is to the and townscape north/north-west of the site. Rockingham Motor SA17 Speedway, power station, industrial areas, warehouse and depot/transport and logistics businesses are to the east. Residential areas within Corby are located adjacent the site to the Minor - south/south-west of the main section of the site. moderate No A cemetery, hotel and plantation/rural land use adverse is located to the west. The site is well separated from sensitive receptors to the west, north and east however the adjacent residential area south/south-west of the main section of the site increases the potential for visual impacts on the built environment/townscape. Opportunities for Negligible opportunity for restoration and beneficial beneficial uses due to permanent waste and restoration and industrial land use. Negligible No after use SA9 Climate change Any potential sites within the area of search and opportunities could increase diversion of waste from landfill, for sustainable supports the waste hierarchy and may development contribute towards county self-sufficiency. More SA6, SA10, SA16 information would be required to evaluate the Minor

potential contribution towards sustainable adverse waste management and reduction in landfilling. Transport is expected to be mostly by road despite the close proximity to the railway as alternative transport options are not viable. Proximity to The site comprises three sections – all of which sensitive are existing industrial developments. Brookfield receptors Plantation/rural land use is to the north. SA13 Rockingham Motor Speedway, power station, industrial areas, warehouse and depot/transport and logistics businesses are to Minor - the east. Residential areas are located adjacent moderate No the site to the south/south-west of the main adverse section. A cemetery, hotel and plantation/rural land use is located to the west. Rockingham Castle Registered Parks and Garden (including associated conservation area, scheduled monument and listed

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 104 buildings) is located 520m west. Lloyds estate conservation area is located 200m south. There are several LWSs (plantation areas) to the north. A RoW runs along the western boundary of the eastern section of the site. There are several existing waste uses within the industrial area and in the wider local area, as well as other waste allocations. The site is well separated from sensitive receptors to the west, north and east however the adjacent residential to the south/south-west of the main section increases the potential for adverse impacts associated with waste management use (noise, transport, dust and odour). Standard planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures could reduce potential impacts to acceptable levels. Compatibility of The surrounding land use is largely industrial, surrounding land- plantation/rural with residential areas to the uses south/south-west of the main section in close SA13, SA20 proximity. The proposed use is generally compatible with surrounding land uses with the exception of the areas in close proximity to residential areas Minor – where conflict may arise if sites are poorly moderate No designed/managed. It is likely that appropriate adverse controls and mitigation measures could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts. Proposals for sites in close proximity to residential areas will need to given careful consideration to avoiding and/or mitigating potential adverse impacts to acceptable levels. Litter, vermin and There is limited potential for vermin and birds to birds (waste only) be an issue for most waste management SA13 facilities due to the enclosed nature of operations. Site management and control measures including rapid turnaround, enclosed operations including loading, covering HGV loads and good housekeeping should reduce Minor potential. No adverse Potential for litter will be reduced with enclosed/covered operations and loading docks, litter screening, high turnover and good housekeeping. Sites coming forward would be located within an industrial area so nearby receptors would normally be other industrial premises. Impact on general Sites within this area would be located within amenity or an existing industrial estate. Dependent on the character of the nature of operations workings may be enclosed area reducing potential for impacts on surrounding Minor No SA13, SA17 properties. Site layout and screening could adverse further reduce any potential impacts. Potential for impacts related to increased HGV movements within the area. Impact on Existing industrial use means that impacts will Minor recreational be reduced - the site does not have any formal No adverse opportunities and designations for recreation or open space

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 105 open spaces areas. A RoW (footpath UB21) runs along the (including rights western boundary of the eastern section of the of way) site - may require diversion or screening. SA15 Economic and Development of a waste site has the potential employment to retain or create jobs. The exact number of opportunities jobs created will be dependant of the scale of Moderate No SA1, SA7, SA10, the operations. The development of a waste beneficial SA11, SA12, management facility would benefit the county SA14, SA20 by reducing waste sent to landfill. Availability of and There is an overhead powerline crossing the impact on northern part of the industrial estate connecting infrastructure to a power station located adjacent to Gretton SA18, SA19 Brook Road and Phoenix Parkway. There is also the potential for further underground Minor No pipelines and powerlines as the area is within adverse an existing, operating industrial estate. Confirmation of location and capacity of these will need to be sought from respective utilities companies. Site access and Current traffic flows are high with a high impact on percentage of HGV’s, which is due to industrial transport network areas located in this part of Corby. Any / infrastructure proposed development may generate additional SA13, SA18 traffic movements. Current access to the area is very good with good road links and no weight Minor No restrictions. adverse The existing access to the industrial estate should be maintained in its current form, although minor infrastructure improvements could aid the flow of traffic. Access to the area avoids the built up residential area. Capacity for Given the nature, character and location of the avoidance and / allocation area, many types of proposals could or mitigation be appropriately mitigated by good site Negligible No measures practices and the use of standard planning SA2, SA13 conditions to ensure potential impacts would be to an acceptable level. Potential for The area is an existing industrial area cumulative considered to be of low environmental quality – impacts the potential for cumulative impacts within the SA2, SA13 site is considered to be low. There is potential for cumulative adverse impacts resulting from Minor - interactions between sites and existing uses moderate No acting on sensitive receptors within close adverse proximity. Proposals for sites in close proximity to residential areas will need to given careful consideration to avoiding and/or mitigating potential adverse impacts to acceptable levels.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 106 WL18: Corby – North Eastern Industrial Areas Area (hectares): 360.2 Proposed use: General industrial area location within which waste management uses would be acceptable in principle.

Site summary Opportunities:  Potential significant contribution towards future waste management facility capacity (dependant on scale and throughput).  Waste management facilities have limited potential for adverse impacts due to the location being an existing industrial area. Constraints:  Potential to contribute to cumulative impacts with existing activities and associated transportation emissions in the area. Such matters would need to be considered at the application stage. Overall assessment outcome:  Suitable to be taken forward as a proposed designation. Assessment Detailed Site characteristics/features, potential Impact risk criterion and link assessment impacts and mitigation measures rating to SA objectives required? Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the relevant Spatial strategy spatial strategy? Yes, located within the central spine. NA Area comprises existing Willowbrook and Weldon North Industrial Estates (predominantly large works and warehousing units). Air quality The area is industrial in character and is Minor (including dust) occupied by a number of B2, B8 and Sui generis No adverse SA2, SA3 uses, with other waste uses consented in the

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 107 vicinity. Impacts on air emissions could result from increases in HGV movements and increases in dust and compound emissions from the area operation. This would contribute to cumulative impacts with existing activities and associated transportation emissions in the area. Such matters would need to be considered at the application stage. Odour impacts associated with waste treatment processes i.e. minor periodic odour risk associated with operation, and further potential risk with poor management practices. However, good operational practices, mitigation measures and appropriate planning conditions could mitigate this impact for most types of facility. Protection of water Ground waters quality, resources Central part of the area is located within a major and groundwater aquifer. SA2, SA4 There is limited potential for groundwater flooding to occur Water quality and quantity Minor Very significant constraints are indicated, made No adverse ground is present at the surface. Infiltration may increase the possibility of remobilising pollutants. Infiltrating water should be free of contaminants. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The proposed area is within flood zones 2 and 3. SA4 There are water courses running through or near to the area. There is a high risk of surface water flooding to the area. Minor Sequential / There has been flooding of highways and adverse exception test property reported within 500 metres of this area. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil The area is located on non-agricultural land quality currently being used for industrial development. SA2, SA7, SA8 Soil contamination risk associated with waste Minor No treatment activities - potential for residual soil adverse contamination risk associated with poor management practices. Noise and Most of the potential development opportunities vibration within the area would be a significant distance SA2 and/or screened from sensitive receptors. The nature, location and types of land uses within the allocation area mean there is a significant element of ambient noise from the area. The size of the allocation area, the nature of the uses and the location of sensitive receptors Minor No means that in practice a development would be adverse unlikely to significantly adversely impact upon sensitive receptors, unless it were on selected parts of the south and western boundary of the area. The area benefits from purpose built roads to handle HGV traffic which disperse at certain points of the main network through Corby.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 108 Consequently it is unlikely that any adverse would result from noise or vibration. Nature Brookfield Plantation LWS is within 50m of the conservation, area. West Cutting and Gretton Brook Plantation biodiversity and LWS. There are PWSs adjacent to the area geodiversity include Old Ironstone Gullet and Willowbrook. SA2 Adjacent land and wildlife sites are within the Corby Quarries Biodiversity Character Area. The Cow Pasture is 420m to the north-east. Willowbrook area of woodland adjoining the Minor northern boundary is designated for biodiversity No adverse and nature conservation in the Corby Local Plan Proposals Map. Water bodies and woodland sites around the area support significant populations of amphibians including Great crested newts and adjacent woodland support further protected species such as reptiles, bats, water vole and badgers. Historic The area is 460m from, Weldon Roman villa, a environment and Scheduled Monument and 600m from the heritage assets Weldon Conservation Area. SA5 Deene Park, Grade II, Registered Park and Garden are 2.1km east. No nationally significant sites exist within the Negligible – area. The majority of the area has been quarried minor Yes and therefore has limited archaeological adverse potential. Weldon Conservation Area lies to the south east of the area of search. Care should be taken that any new development does not impact upon its setting, particularly given the lack of natural or built up screening between these two areas. Landscape The area is located within Rockingham Forest character and National Character Area and is identified as an visual impact urban area. The proposed area is located within SA17 the industrial areas of Weldon North and Willowbrook Industrial Estates. It comprises large production units, warehouses and works. The area does not have a strong visual connection to the landscape and is relatively isolated from sensitive residential receptors. Woodland and open space used for recreational uses such as speedway are found to the north, open rural space to the east and industrial areas to the south. Minor The overall capacity of the area to accommodate No adverse development of preliminary waste facilities in terms of landscape is high to medium. With the implementation of mitigation it is high. The existing landscape is already affected by the number and character of industrial units. Thus, it is anticipated that no landscape character impacts will emerge and, if needed, all negative impacts can be managed through appropriate mitigation techniques. Overall development is unlikely to have a significant impact on the visual amenity and local landscape character. The area is located within an existing industrial area and hence there is some degradation of

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 109 landscape values, however it is predominately well screened from surrounding sensitive receptors. Built environment The area comprises an existing industrial area and townscape located between the settlements of Corby (west) SA17 and Weldon (east). There are several other industrial areas in the area, as well as a rifle range, retail park and several depots/transport and logistics businesses. Rockingham Speedway is located 470m to the north, separated by parkland and a car park. Minor No Residential areas are located 450m west adverse (separated by retail park/industrial estate and railway line), 30m west and 160m east. In general the area is well separated from sensitive receptors however there is potential for visual impacts on landscape/townscape where pockets of residential areas are in close proximity. Opportunities for Limited opportunities for restoration. SUDS, beneficial attenuation ponds and access corridors may be Negligible – restoration and enhanced for biodiversity and wildlife corridors minor No after use and habitat links protected and improved. beneficial SA9 Climate change Any potential sites within the area of search and opportunities could increase diversion of waste from landfill, for sustainable support the waste hierarchy and may contribute development towards county self-sufficiency. More information SA6, SA10, SA16 would be required to evaluate the potential Minor No contribution towards sustainable waste manage adverse and reduction in reliance on landfilling. Transport is expected to be mostly by road despite the close proximity to the railway as alternative transport options are not viable. Proximity to The area comprises an existing industrial area sensitive receptors located between the settlements of Corby (west) SA13 and Weldon (east). There are several other industrial areas in the area, as well as a rifle range, retail park and several depots/transport and logistics businesses. Rockingham Speedway is located 470m to the north, separated by parkland and a carpark. Residential areas are located 450m west (separated by retail park/industrial estate and railway line), 30m west (including associated Corby Old Village conservation area and listed Minor – buildings), 160m east (including associated moderate No Weldon conservation area 230m, scheduled adverse monument 520m and listed buildings), Priors Hall 150m west. Corby business academy is located to the north- west. There are several existing waste uses within the industrial area and in the wider local area, as well as other waste allocations. There are no RoWs within the industrial area. In general the area is well separated from sensitive receptors however there are pockets of residential areas in close proximity, increasing the potential for adverse impacts associated with

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 110 waste management use (noise, transport, dust and odour). Standard planning conditions, good site management and on-site mitigation measures could reduce potential impacts to acceptable levels. Compatibility of The surrounding land use is largely industrial, surrounding land- commerce/retail with pockets of residential areas uses in close proximity. SA13, SA20 The proposed use is generally compatible with surrounding land uses with the exception of the areas in close proximity to residential areas Minor – where conflict may arise if sites are poorly moderate No designed/managed. It is likely that appropriate adverse controls and mitigation measures could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts. Proposals for sites in close proximity to residential areas will need to given careful consideration to avoiding and/or mitigating potential adverse impacts to acceptable levels. Litter, vermin and There is limited potential for vermin and birds to birds (waste only) be an issue for most waste management SA13 facilities due to the enclosed nature of operations. Potential attraction of birds and vermin are associated with processes such as composting and waste transfer. Site management and control measures including Minor rapid turnaround, enclosed operations including No adverse loading and covering HGV loads and good housekeeping should reduce potential. Potential for litter will be reduced with enclosed/covered operations and loading docks, litter screening, high turnover and good housekeeping. Area is within an industrial area so nearby receptors would be other industrial areas. Impact on general Sites within this area would be located within an amenity or existing industrial estate. Dependent on the character of the nature of operations workings may be enclosed Negligible – area reducing potential for impacts on surrounding minor No SA13, SA17 properties. Site layout and screening could adverse further reduce any potential impacts. Potential for impacts related to increased HGV movements within the area. Impact on Existing industrial use means that impacts will recreational be reduced - the area does not have any formal opportunities and designations for recreation or open space areas. Negligible – open spaces Footpath HF23 runs along part of the east minor No (including rights of border of the area. May require diversion or adverse way) screening. SA15 Economic and Given that the area is predominantly made up of employment industrial uses, the economic potential of the opportunities area is unlikely to be inhibited. Development of a SA1, SA7, SA10, waste site within the industrial area has the SA11, SA12, potential to retain or create jobs. The exact Moderate No SA14, SA20 number of jobs created will be dependant of the beneficial scale of operations. The development of a waste management facility would benefit the county by reducing waste sent to landfill. Availability of and There are rail facilities located within the Minor No

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 111 impact on allocation area. As the area is an existing adverse infrastructure industrial estate there is potential for SA18, SA19 underground pipelines and powerlines. Details of the location and capacity of these should be obtained from the utility companies. Site access and Current traffic flows are high with a high impact on percentage of HGV’s, which is due to industrial transport network / areas located in this part of Corby. Any infrastructure proposed development may generate some SA13, SA18 additional traffic movements. Current access to the area is very good with links to the A427, Minor No A6116 and A6086 with no weight restrictions. adverse The existing access to the industrial estate should be maintained in its current form, although minor infrastructure improvements could aid the flow of traffic. Access to the area avoids the built up residential area. Capacity for Given the nature, character and location of the avoidance and / or allocation area, many types of proposal could be mitigation appropriately mitigated by good site practices Negligible No measures and the use of standard planning conditions to SA2, SA13 ensure potential impacts would be to an acceptable level. Potential for The area is an existing industrial area cumulative impacts considered to be of low environmental quality – SA2, SA13 the potential for cumulative impacts within the area is considered to be low. There is potential for cumulative adverse impacts resulting from interactions between the site, allocations for Minor - waste use and existing uses acting on sensitive moderate No receptors within close proximity, in particular the adverse Corby Old Village and Weldon Conservation Areas. Proposals for sites in close proximity to residential areas will need to given careful consideration to avoiding and/or mitigating potential adverse impacts to acceptable levels.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 112

Site for integrated waste management facilities WS1: Northampton - East Location: Northampton Area (hectares): 18.5 Proposed use: Integrated waste management site featuring one or more advanced and preliminary treatment facilities – mixed waste (municipal and C&I waste)

Site summary Opportunities:  Potential significant contribution towards sustainable waste management and sub-regional capacity.  The site is located on the eastern edge of Northampton hence it is likely that the facility will serve growth areas within the County.  The development is unlikely to detract from the amenity of the area given sensitive design and screening.  Surrounding land use is broadly complementary (particularly in relation to sewage treatment plant) with reduced potential for residential amenity impacts. Constraints:  Potential air quality issues relating to health and environmental concerns for nearby sensitive receptors.  Potential for cumulative impact of existing industrial development and proposed minerals and waste developments on local area.  Disturbance of landscape character associated with remaining floodplain.  Potential for environmental nuisance and disturbance of recreational opportunities associated with the waterway and habitat areas. Overall assessment outcome:  Suitable to be taken forward as proposed allocation.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 113 Assessment Detailed Site characteristics/features, potential Impact criterion and link assessment impacts and mitigation measures risk rating to SA objectives required? Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the relevant Spatial strategy spatial strategy? NA Yes, located within the central spine.

Air quality Dependant on the type of facility air emissions (including dust) could include the release of bio aerosols, biogas SA2, SA3 emissions, organic compounds and particulate matter (such as PM10). Although dust and ash is unlikely to be a significant issue. Enclosed operations (loading, unloading, storage) and following standard waste handling and storage procedures reduces potential for such emissions. The principle emission components from technologies such as thermal, pyrolysis, gasification and other Energy from Waste processes include carbon dioxide, acid gases, heavy metals, particulates, dioxins and furans. Vehicle emissions such as CO2 and NO2 from haulage. Proposals must satisfy criteria set out in the EC Waste Incineration Directive 2000 and require air pollution control systems and use of flue gas cleaners. Development proposals require a detailed assessment of air emissions addressing Minor No. air quality objectives, air dispersion modelling, adverse exposure to emissions (particularly dioxins and furans) and effects on health and natural environment. This is of particular importance given the proximity to the Upper Nene Valley Gravel pits SSSI / SPA. (2.4 SSSI/pSPA. (2.4 km west and 3.4 km east). However there are various other industrial and commercial land uses (e.g. sewage treatment works) located between the site and SSSI/SPA. Odours are unlikely to be an issue with higher- level waste management technologies however the presence of putrescible (MSW and C&I) wastes can potentially lead to generation of odours. Enclosed operations and loading docks, air filter / pressure systems, high waste turnover and good site management and housekeeping should prevent serious odour problems. The adjacent sewage treatment works are likely to be main source of localised odours. Ground waters Protection of water The whole site has potential for groundwater quality, resources flooding to occur at the surface of unexcavated and groundwater areas. SA2, SA4 Water quality and quantity A main river is located on site (River Nene). Minor Dewatering will be required, the extent of which No adverse is yet to be determined. Site is likely to be in hydraulic continuity with the River Nene hence dewatering may impact on surrounding water table, land and important habitat (SSSI/SPA). The groundwater may be vulnerable to contamination. Infiltrating water should be free of

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 114 contaminants. Check the previous land use to determine whether the ground is contaminated. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The site is within Flood Zone 2 or 3 with a high SA4 risk of flooding. Surface water flood risk is also high. There are reports of highway flooding; the A45 in this area is a known flood hotspot. Protective bunding and relocation of floodwater from the River Nene will need to be carefully planned. There is a potential for instability of the Minor Sequential/ riverbanks during excavation. adverse exception test A flood risk assessment and hydro geological survey would be required to accompany the planning application. Sequential / exception testing (NPPF technical guidance) will be required. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil Majority of site located on Grade 3 (good to quality moderate quality) agricultural land with a smaller SA2, SA7, SA8 area to the north located on Grade 2 (very good quality) land; considered to be the ‘best and most versatile land’. The site covers 8.5 ha and is currently used for grazing. The site is adjacent to a Sewage Treatment Works and a field used for sludge disposal. The site itself has been previously used for sludge disposal and has slight metal contamination. There may be potential for restoration/ removal of contaminated soils. Soil contamination is unlikely to be an issue for Minor No technologies such as thermal, pyrolysis, adverse gasification and other Energy from Waste processes given the nature of operations. Other process such as mixed waste processing or anaerobic digestions have limited potential for leachate contamination of land or soils. Effectively mitigated by controlled surface drainage, bunding and treatment. Enclosed operations significantly reduce environmental nuisance and / or pollution risk. Potential adverse affects could be contained within the area. Agricultural activities in the surrounding area would not be adversely affected Noise and vibration The site is located in close proximity to and SA2 capable of being accessed directly from the A45 without travelling through residential areas. Therefore it is considered that the transportation of waste materials and products would not cause Minor any discernible adverse impact to nearby No adverse receptors by virtue of noise or vibration. The operation of the site is likely to emit noise levels (e.g. though the operation of plant and machinery and any mechanical processes). The site is located 200 m from a school (separated by

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 115 the A45), adjacent to a traveller’s park, sewage treatment works and filling stations. Except for the traveller’s park, the site is located away from residential areas. Mitigation measures such as buffering/ screening, strategic site layout, plant design, hours of operations conditions, sensitive routing agreements and maintaining good site management should be effective containing noise on-site. It should be containable to a level where it does not increase noise significantly given the existing background noise sources in the vicinity. Nature The site falls within the Middle Nene Biodiversity conservation, Character Area: In the farmed landscape biodiversity and retention of semi-natural habitats is very low with geodiversity occasional areas of wet and marshy grassland SA2 and plantation woodlands. However, the middle Nene floodplain where sand and gravel working has been extensive, large areas of semi natural habitats exist. These open water habitats typically have a broad fringe of reedbeds and swamps, wet woodland and drier, developing floodplain woodlands. These areas are internationally important for over-wintering No migratory birds and are a designated as the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits SPA. Impact on the Moderate Site: Wildlife corridors are disrupted due to SPA adverse location; between the A45 and wastewater assessed treatment plant. Currently under arable cultivation through HRA and has relatively low potential for biodiversity. process Development may have an impact upon the SPA located 600m south of the site. Mitigation: Increase wet and marshy grassland by restoration, creation, buffering and linkage to create large sustainable areas of characteristic habitats or wet woodland, drier floodplain woodland and hedgerows. Linkages should be enhanced by conservation, restoration and buffering of rivers and backwater, associated tributary streams and drainage ditches to create functioning wildlife corridors. Historic Site lies within a landscape rich in archaeological environment and activity both early prehistoric and Romano heritage assets British. To the north of the site across the A45 is SA5 a Romano British settlement and areas of prehistoric activity. The area to the west but which is now developed contained cropmark evidence of an enclosure and ditches most likely representing settlement. Extensive alluvial cover limits prediction of Minor No archaeological impact but identification of adverse archaeological features in adjacent areas from aerial photography indicates potential for presence of additional buried archaeological remains. Further assessment (to accompany the planning application) - particularly archaeological evaluation - is required to provide information on the extent, significance and therefore impact of

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 116 the proposals on potential undesignated archaeological assets and the impact on the setting of the designated assets in the vicinity of the site. Landscape Site is adjacent to the Northampton urban area character and and in the Nene – Billing Wharf to Woodford Mill visual impact Landscape Character Area (LCA): Broad River SA17 Valley Floodplain. Within this LCA previous extraction and restoration to wetland dominates area - the River Nene is a less significant element in the landscape. Broadleaved copses surround lakes and limit some views of the valley floor however it is often very visible from more elevated land. Pastoral and arable fields surround lakes and valley sides. Site: Arable fields adjacent to sewage works. The Moderate site is unaffected by previous quarrying but does Yes adverse not retain elements of a floodplain landscape. Contains ditches and field boundaries. Visible site from elevated areas, nearby Rights and Way and A45. Although a sensitive area, Northampton, sewage works and busy A45 impact on landscape character. Mitigation: Where ‘permanent’ facilities cease operations restoration to include field boundaries. Site falls within the proposed GI corridor Nene Valley (Northampton – Wansford) in which investment to develop green assets is encouraged. Built environment The site is adjacent to an existing Sewage and townscape Treatment Works (west) and a site allocated for SA17 minerals extraction (east). Further east is a mineral extraction site (520m) but where significant working is yet to commence. The settlements of Ecton, Ecton Brook, Great Billing and Cogenhoe are located in the local area (200 Minor - – 900m away) but are all separated from the site moderate No by main transport routes, the sewage works, adverse River Nene / water bodies and agricultural land. A traveller’s site is located on Lower Ecton Lane 160m west. The site is visible from the surrounding area however the elements of separation reduce the impacts on the landscape/townscape. Opportunities for Proposed facilities are permanent hence beneficial restoration is not applicable. restoration and Where ‘permanent’ facilities cease operations after use standard planning conditions require that prior to SA9 cessation of works a restoration scheme must be submitted and approved to ensure that the land is left in an acceptable condition which permits its future use (i.e. fit for purpose in context of Negligible No potential future and current surrounding land use); this includes remediation of contamination soils where applicable. Where required an appropriate restoration scheme should enhance the identity of the river. Restore to pasture / wet grassland and open floodplain landscape. Climate change The proposal seeks to increase diversion of Minor No

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 117 and opportunities waste from landfill, supports the waste hierarchy adverse for sustainable and may contribute towards county self- development sufficiency. More information is required to SA6, SA10, SA16 evaluate the potential contribution towards sustainable waste management and reduction in reliance on landfilling. The close proximity to Northampton means the site would be used within a growth area. Transport is expected to be mostly by road as alternative transport options are not viable. Proximity to The site is adjacent an existing Sewage sensitive receptors Treatment Works to the west with fields that form SA13 part of a large minerals allocation (sand and gravel extraction – extension to nearby operations Earls Barton Spinney) to the east and water bodies associated with previous mineral extraction (also used for recreational purposes) to the south. Lower Ecton Lane runs along the northern boundary, with the A45 60m north. An industrial area is located to the west of the sewage works south of the A45. There are several existing waste uses in the local area. A branch of the River Nene and the main waterway run 350m and 600m south. The site is between two sections of the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits SPA (2.3km west and 3.3km east). The settlements of Ecton, Ecton Brook, Great Billing and Cogenhoe are located in the local area (200 – 900m away) but are all separated Minor No from the site by main transport routes, the adverse sewage works, River Nene / water bodies and agricultural land. Ecton Brook Primary School is 200m north-west of the site, separated by the A45. A traveller’s site is located on Lower Ecton Lane 160m west. There are no RoWs identified on or adjacent the site. The site is visible from surrounding area and although the separation of the site from sensitive receptors reduces the potential for adverse impacts associated with waste management use impacts on scenic amenity may still occur. Standard planning conditions, site layout and design, good site management and on-site mitigation measures could potentially reduce these impacts to acceptable levels. The proximity to the SPA as a sensitive receptor is considered through the nature conservation section and HRA process. Compatibility of The surrounding land use comprises sewage surrounding land- treatment works, allocated/existing mineral uses extraction, main transport routes, nature SA13, SA20 conservation/recreation and existing waste uses with settlements further afield in the local area. The proposed use is for an integrated waste Minor No management facility – such a facility would have adverse enclosed operations. Residential areas and the Ecton Brook school could be considered as incompatible with waste management however given the size of the site, that operations would be enclosed and existing land uses in the local

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 118 area it is likely that appropriate controls and mitigation measures could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts. Litter, vermin and Site is located adjacent to a sewage works but is birds (waste only) generally located away from sensitive receptors. SA13 Vermin and birds are not usually a problem for more advanced forms of waste management; however presence of putrescible wastes may attract minor amounts. Site management and control measures including enclosed operations, high turnover and good site management and Minor No housekeeping should effectively reduce adverse attraction. Litter is not likely to be a problem at these facilities; however where waste has to be transferred across the site (uncovered) there is potential for litter. Enclosed operations and storage, litter screening and good housekeeping should prove effective at preventing litter. Impact on general Site is located away from residential receptors amenity or so potential for impacts will be reduced. Broader character of the landscape amenity may be disrupted due to a area potential increase in ambient noise (operations, SA13, SA17 vehicles) and visual impacts, however screening and site layout may reduce significance. There is Minor potential for impacts related to increased traffic No adverse movements within the area. Limited potential for environmental nuisance, however the adjacent travellers site may at times experience noise and odour nuisance. This is unlikely to be greater than that from the STW - however it may cause cumulative impacts. Impact on The site does not have any formal designations recreational for recreation or open space areas. A track runs opportunities and along the eastern and southern site boundary Negligible open spaces and also across the site. May require diversion or – minor No (including rights of screening. adverse way) SA15 Economic and The development of the site will lead to the employment creation of new employment. The exact number opportunities of jobs created will be dependant of the scale of Moderate No SA1, SA7, SA10, the operations. The development of a waste beneficial SA11, SA12, SA14, management facility would benefit the county by SA20 reducing waste sent to landfill. Availability of and The size of the site and proximity to the strategic impact on road network means that consideration would infrastructure need to be given the impact of the operations. SA18, SA19 The site is located close to the Billing STW, although in practice the development proposed is unlikely to have an adverse impact that couldn’t be mitigated. Minor There is understood to be intermediate/high No adverse pressure transmission routes through or in close proximity to the site that may require diversion or an exclusion zone. Further consultation and assessment will need to be made on local utilities infrastructure. The site is located within an aerodrome exclusion zone for bird strike, so consideration would need to given whether the

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 119 final proposal would be compatible in this regard. Site access and A high number of additional HGV movements is impact on transport expected to be generated by development of the network / proposed site. Improvements to local infrastructure infrastructure are considered necessary should Minor No SA13, SA18 development occur on the proposed site. With adverse routing agreements it is anticipated there should be no impacts on local villages. Access will from Crow Lane to the west. Capacity for The cumulative affects from proposed avoidance and / or development at this site and the adjacent Great mitigation Billing Wastewater Treatment Works and Earls measures Barton quarry extension have the potential to SA2, SA13 significantly increase the impacts on the surrounding area, and therefore will merit careful Minor consideration at the application stage. Potential No beneficial impacts should be able to be mitigated given strategic site layout, plant design, mitigation measures and conditions. Furthermore EC criteria and pollution prevention control regulations will apply. Air quality impacts on the SPA need further investigation. Potential for There is potential for cumulative adverse impacts cumulative impacts resulting from interactions between the site, SA2, SA13 allocation for mineral extraction and existing uses. The proposed use is for an integrated waste management facility – such a facility would have enclosed operations, which will act to reduce potential for adverse impacts. Minor – The implementation of site management and moderate No mitigation measures could significantly reduce adverse the potential for cumulative effects. Given the sites location between two sections of the SPA there is potential for adverse cumulative impacts resulting from interaction between operations at the site and other existing land uses – this has been addressed through the HRA process.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 120 WS2: Corby – South East Location: Weldon, Corby Area (hectares): 25.9 Proposed use: Integrated waste management site featuring one or more advanced and preliminary treatment facilities – mixed waste (municipal and C&I waste)

Site summary

Opportunities:  Potential significant contribution towards future waste management facility capacity (dependent on scale and throughput) for MSW and C&I waste.  Limited potential for adverse impacts due to location, surrounding land use and high potential to control/mitigate impacts such as odour, litter, vermin/birds, air and water pollution. Constraints:  Noise (and potentially vibration) from increased HGV movements, routing agreements and improvements may reduce potential impacts on transport network including conflict.  Waste management facilities cumulative impact on air, water, noise and odour will require careful site management to avoid adverse impacts (limited potential) and nuisance. Overall assessment outcome:  Suitable to be taken forward as proposed allocation. Assessment Detailed Site characteristics/features, potential Impact risk criterion and link assessment impacts and mitigation measures rating to SA objectives required? Adopted MWLP - Is the site in general conformity with the relevant Spatial strategy spatial strategy? NA Yes, located within the central spine.

Air quality Soil remediation: Minor No (including dust) Has the potential to release dust and bio- adverse

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 121 SA2, SA3 aerosols, however effective mitigation could include measures such as a 250m buffer between operations and sensitive receptors, damping down and enclosure operation. This is likely to ensure emissions are kept to acceptable levels. Air emissions from waste management facilities are primarily associated with vehicle emissions from haulage, organic compounds and bio- aerosols (where green or putrescible waste is processed) and dust. Undertaking operations in controlled conditions and an enclosed area, good housekeeping (including high turn-around of waste in storage), sensitive working and strategic design are effective control and mitigation measures that should ensure emissions would be kept to acceptable levels. Where thermal treatment occurs air emissions include carbon dioxide, acid gases, heavy metals, particulates and dioxins / dibenzofurans. Licensing and regulation (EC Waste Incineration Directive 2000) ensures effective pollution prevention control and mitigation measures are implemented to maintain operations within air emission standards. Limited potential for dust and ash release - mitigation measures such as covering ash, damping down and the enclosure of operations should ensure emissions within acceptable levels. Odours: Odour associated with a proposed waste management facility are unlikely to be a significant issue, however regard must be had to the cumulative impact with the two existing landfill sites. Control and mitigation measures such as enclosed operations and storage, air filters (where necessary), good housekeeping and rapid turn-over will greatly reduce odour impacts. Poor site management and storage may increase potential for localised odour impacts. Protection of water Ground waters quality, resources There is potential for groundwater flooding in and groundwater unexcavated areas. SA2, SA4 The site overlays a major aquifer and is located between Willow Brook and Harpers Brook. A flood risk assessment and hydro geological survey would be required as part of the development control process Water quality and quantity Minor Yes There are very significant constraints indicated. adverse Made ground is present at the surface. Infiltration may increase the possibility of remobilising pollutants. Check the previous land use to determine whether the ground is contaminated. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Flood risk The whole site is in a Flood Zone 1 area with a Minor No

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 122 SA4 low risk of fluvial flooding to the site. adverse There is a low risk of surface water flooding to the site. The area flooded in 1982 due to channel exceedance and surface water run off. Sequential / exception testing (NPPF technical guidance) will be required. Suitable mitigation measures for all sources of flood risk should be put in place following approval of all relevant consents. Land and soil The site covers 25.9 ha and is partly used for quality agriculture (hay crops) and forms part of a SA2, SA7, SA8 restored landfill site and recycling centre. The area that is agricultural land is classified as Grade 3 (good to moderate quality). Potential for bio-aerosols and odours to impact on immediately adjacent agricultural land. Strategic layout and screening may reduce impacts. Soil remediation: Remediation of soils from inert materials is likely to be used on-site as capping material for restoration of existing landfill site. Will serve to improve and protect land and soil quality. Storage and processing of contaminated soils (hydrocarbons, heavy metals etc) will need Minor to be carried out on sealed surfaces to avoid No adverse transfer of pollutants to soil. Unlikely to be an issue given the nature of operations. Depending on the sitting of specific waste management facilities land stability could potentially be an issue of concern where facilities and structures are built on restored landfill sites. This is due to landfill waste compacting under its own weight over time and reducing in volume resulting in significant settlement of the landform. This has the potential to impact on other factors such as protection of water resources. Geological surveys are required to assess stability of landforms. More information is required to evaluate the stability of landforms. Noise and The proposal would result in an increase in vibration HGV traffic, in addition plant and other SA2 operational equipment and a general increase in traffic to HWRC would all result in an increase in noise levels. However, there is only limited potential for vibration from HGV movements through Weldon village due to good access to primary road network to the west. Careful management would be required to co-ordinate Minor the proposals traffic movement with those of the No adverse adjacent landfill sites (e.g. Weldon) to avoid increasing traffic and associated noise impacts on surrounding area. Sensitive routing, enclosed operations, strategic site layout / design and screening / buffering may significantly reduce off site noise impacts to acceptable levels. Woodlands are located to the south and east (400 - 650m), a small isolated woodland is

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 123 located immediately north east of the site. An industrial operation is adjacent to the site (north) along Stamford Road and a transport depot, a retail premises and two dwellings that appear to be associated with those commercial uses. No other sensitive receptors in close proximity. Nature The site falls within the Corby Quarries conservation, Biodiversity Character Area: Comprises of some biodiversity and large areas of woodland. However, the geodiversity woodlands are primarily 20th Century SA2 plantations on quarried sites. Occasional calcareous and neutral grasslands have developed in disused railway cuttings and on plantation rides respectively. Small heavily shaded ponds are also a feature. The vast majority of wildlife sites are of recent origin and many are not typical of a farmland landscape. Although the occurrence of plantation woodland wildlife sites is relatively high, the retention of semi-natural habitats is low. Site: Previous quarry and existing landfill close to southern boundary of Corby. Surrounded by large-scale arable fields and previously quarried Minor No / restored areas. Site contains two water bodies adverse and scrub and wetland areas. Six Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) and two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) are found within 700m of the site, a further six LWSs of various sizes and two large SSSIs including Ancient Woodland lie within 2000m. The site is identified as a Potential Wildlife Site. Mitigation: Development, change and land management should seek to retain existing and increase amount of restoration to biodiversity habitats, in particular increasing the extent of calcareous grasslands, neutral grassland, retention hedgerows and open standing water by restoration, creation, buffering and linkage to create large sustainable areas of characteristic habitats. Historic The site is recorded as previously quarried and environment and retains no historical significance. Surrounding Negligible No heritage assets landscape has seen significant loss of historic SA5 boundaries. Landscape Site falls within the Kirby and Gretton Plateau character and Landscape Character Area: Ironstone Quarried visual impact Plateau. Elevated shallow sloping plateau SA17 dissected by small watercourses. Parts of the landscape show evidence of disturbance from previous quarrying. Predominantly arable, intermittent broadleaved and plantation woodlands on perimeter to Corby, retains quiet, Minor No rural nature. adverse Site: Part restored landfill site and part arable farmland. Contains some willow carr, hedgerow, scrub and perimeter landform. Views south across the plateau are obscured by large woodland blocks. Some views from Weldon and higher ground to the north-east are likely. Mitigation: The facility proposed is permanent

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 124 hence restoration is not applicable. If the ‘permanent’ facility ceases operation mitigation could include enhancement of existing features and plateau landscape. Plant hedgerows and small linear woodlands. Built environment To the north and north-west of the site are and townscape industrial areas, separated by Stamford Road SA17 and the A43. The settlement of Weldon is located 540m north (separated from the site by an industrial area) and 370m north-east. Stanion is over 1km south of the site separated by an area of plantation woodland. A hotel is Minor located 560m south-west, separated by the No adverse A43. The northern section of the site is Weldon Landfill, which continues to the south from the south-east corner. The site is well separated from sensitive receptors limiting the potential for impact on landscape/townscape. Opportunities for The facility proposed is permanent hence beneficial restoration would not be applicable. restoration and However any temporary facilities on site would Minor after use need to undergo appropriate restoration. Yes adverse SA9 Where required an appropriate restoration scheme should restore to grazing pasture, willow carr, ponds and rough grassland. Climate change The proposal seeks to increase diversion of and opportunities waste from landfill, supports the waste hierarchy for sustainable and may contribute towards county self- development sufficiency. More information is required to Minor SA6, SA10, SA16 evaluate the potential contribution towards No adverse sustainable waste management and reduction in reliance on landfilling. Transport is expected to be mostly by road as alternative transport options are not viable. Proximity to The majority of the site forms part of Weldon sensitive receptors landfill and associated waste uses (recycling SA13 centre), the Weldon landfill site continues to the south from the south-east corner of the site. To the north and north-west are industrial areas – predominantly warehousing and transport / logistics (separated by Stamford Road and the A43). The remaining land surrounding the site is rural/agricultural. The settlement of Weldon (and associated Conservation Area, listed buildings and scheduled monument) is located 370m north, Minor No separated from the site by the industrial areas. adverse A hotel is located 560m south-west, separated by the A43. There are several existing waste uses in the local area. The large industrial area to the north and west of Weldon is designated as an industrial area within which waste management use is acceptable in principle through the adopted MWLP (WL18). The Cowthick Quarries SSSIs were located east and south-east (100 – 600m) within the

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 125 permitted Weldon Landfill site, The site has been identified as a Potential Wildlife Site and there are also several LWSs in the local area (>500m). The site supports European Protected Great crested newts and other species and habitats of principle importance. There are no RoWs identified on/adjacent the site. The site is well separated from sensitive receptors. Standard planning conditions, site layout and design, good site management and on-site mitigation measures could reduce potential impacts to acceptable levels. Compatibility of The surrounding land use comprises waste use, surrounding land- industrial and rural/agricultural with settlements uses further afield in the local area. The proposed SA13, SA20 use is generally compatible with surrounding land uses. The proposed use is for an integrated waste Negligible No management facility – such a facility would have enclosed operations. Residential areas and other sensitive receptors are separated from the site. It is likely that appropriate controls and mitigation measures could be implemented to reduce potential land use conflicts. Litter, vermin and Site is located adjacent to an industrial area but birds (waste only) is generally located away from sensitive SA13 receptors. Limited potential for vermin and birds to be an issue for most waste management facilities due to the enclosed nature of operations. Site management and control measures including rapid turnaround, enclosed operations. Site management and control measures including rapid turnaround, enclosed operations including loading, covering HGV Minor No loads and good housekeeping should reduce adverse potential. There is limited potential for litter to be an issue for most waste management facilities due to the nature of operations (enclosed). Site management and control measures (rapid turnaround, enclosed operations including loading, covering HGV loads, litter screening and good housekeeping) should reduce potential. Impact on general Site is located away from residential receptors amenity or so potential for impacts will be reduced. Broader character of the landscape amenity may be disrupted due to a area potential increase in ambient noise (operations, Minor

SA13, SA17 vehicles) and visual impacts, however screening adverse and site layout may reduce significance. There is potential for impacts related to increased traffic movements within the area. Impact on No recreation or open space opportunities recreational identified on site. There are no RoWs identified opportunities and on/adjacent to the site. open spaces Negligible No (including rights of way) SA15

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 126 Economic and The development of the site will lead to the employment creation of new employment. The exact number opportunities of jobs created will be dependant of the scale of Moderate No SA1, SA7, SA10, the operations. The development of a waste beneficial SA11, SA12, management facility would benefit the county by SA14, SA20 reducing waste sent to landfill. Availability of and Subject to use of the existing access there is impact on unlikely to be any significant upon highway infrastructure infrastructure. There is not understood to be any SA18, SA19 National Grid infrastructure within or in close proximity to the site. There is some existing electricity and gas infrastructure associated with Minor the former landfill operations on the allocation No adverse site. Further consultation and assessment will need to be made on local utilities infrastructure. The site is located within an airfield exclusion zone for bird strike therefore any development proposals would need to be assessed in this regard. Site access and Traffic levels on the A43 are already high and impact on the site is expected to generate a medium level transport network / of additional traffic movements. Once access is infrastructure confirmed these will need to conform to national Minor No SA13, SA18 standards. Routing agreements will be put in adverse place to avoid Weldon village. Improvements to the local infrastructure could be required to improve the flow of traffic. Capacity for The location and nature of the site and the avoidance and / or surrounding land uses would generally mean mitigation that amenity impacts would be limited. However measures the site does offer scope for the integration of SA2, SA13 mitigation measures within the design and Minor No operation of a facility to ensure that nearby beneficial receptors are not adversely impacted. PPC regulations and EU Directives require measures and standards to reduce impacts to acceptable levels. Potential for There is potential for cumulative adverse cumulative impacts resulting from interactions between the impacts site, allocations for waste use and existing uses. SA2, SA13 The proposed use is for an integrated waste management facility – such a facility would have enclosed operations, which will act to reduce Minor No potential for adverse impacts and would also be adverse subject to environmental permitting and pollution control regimes. The implementation of site management and mitigation measures could significantly reduce the potential for cumulative effects.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 127 Sites not taken forward to the Draft Plan

Land at Ashton Site is not in compliance with the adopted Minerals and Waste Local Plan (MWLP) Spatial Strategy as the site is not within an area of focus for extraction. There are also concerns over the quality of the sand and gravel deposits and no operator has been identified.

Welford Site is not in compliance with the adopted MWLP Spatial Strategy as the site is not within an area of focus for extraction. The site has been brought forward by the landowner but currently no operator has been identified.

Denford Site is not in compliance with the adopted MWLP Spatial Strategy as the site is not within an area of focus for extraction. There are also concerns over the quality of the sand and gravel deposits and no operator has been identified.

Ryehill Site was not taken forward as an allocations as it is not as appropriate for inclusion as the other sites already allocated or that are proposed to be allocated.

MWLP Update Draft Plan – Technical Appendix (December 2015) 128