Appendix Ii Non Technical Summary

APPENDIX II NON TECHNICAL SUMMARY

ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT

OF THE

BIRR TOWN AND ENVIRONS DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2010-2016

STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

for: Offaly County Council & Birr Town Council Áras an Chontae Birr Civic Offices Charleville Road Wilmer Road Tullamore Birr County Offaly County Offaly

CAAS 2nd Floor, The Courtyard 25 Great Strand Street Dublin 1

FEBRUARY 2010

Includes Ordnance Survey Ireland data reproduced under OSi Licence Number 2009/10 CCMA/ Offaly County Council. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Ordnance Survey Ireland and Government of Ireland copyright. © Ordnance Survey Ireland Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary

Table of Contents

Section 1 Introduction and Terms of Reference...... 1

Section 2 The Birr Town and Environs Development Plan...... 2

2.1 Structure and Content...... 2 2.2 The Overall Goals of the Plan...... 2 2.3 Land Use Zoning...... 3

Section 3 Existing Environment ...... 4

3.1 Introduction ...... 4 3.2 Biodiversity and Flora and Fauna...... 4 3.3 Soil...... 6 3.4 Population and Human Health...... 6 3.5 Water, Waste Water and Drinking Water ...... 7 3.6 Air and Climatic Factors...... 13 3.7 Cultural Heritage ...... 14 3.8 Landscape ...... 17

Section 4 Alternative Plan Scenarios ...... 18

4.1 Introduction ...... 18 4.2 Similarities and Differences between the Scenarios...... 18 4.3 Evaluation of the similar features of each Alternative Scenario...... 22 4.4 Evaluation of the differences presented by each of the Scenarios...... 24 4.5 Conclusion ...... 24 4.6 The Adopted Plan ...... 25

Section 5 Mitigation and Monitoring Measures ...... 30

5.1 Mitigation...... 30 5.2 Mitigation Measure Topics ...... 30 5.3 Monitoring ...... 30

CAAS for Offaly County Council and Birr Town Council i Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary

Section 1 Introduction and Terms of Reference

This is the Non-Technical Summary of the Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). The purpose of the report is to provide a clear understanding of the likely environmental consequences of decisions regarding the future accommodation of growth in certain areas of Birr and its Environs.

What is an SEA? SEA is a systematic process of predicting and evaluating the likely environmental effects of implementing a proposed plan, or other strategic action, in order to ensure that these effects are appropriately addressed at the earliest appropriate stage of decision-making on a par with economic and social considerations.

Why is it needed? The SEA was carried out in order to comply with the provisions of the SEA Regulations and in order to improve planning and environmental management within Birr Town and Environs. This report should be read in conjunction with the Development Plan.

How does it work? All of the main environmental issues in Birr Town and Environs were assembled and presented to the team who were preparing the new Plan. This helped them to devise a plan that protects whatever is sensitive in the environment. It also helped the identification of environmental problems/issues in the Plan area - so that these won’t get any worse - and ideally the plan tries to improve these.

To decide how best to make a plan that protects the environment as much as possible the Planners examined alternative versions of the Plan. This helped to highlight the type of plans that are least likely to harm the environment.

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Section 2 The Birr Town and Environs Development Plan

2.1 Structure and Content

The Development Plan consists of a written statement and maps which give a graphic representation of the proposals of the Plan, indicating land use zoning objectives for the Plan area.

The Written Statement of the Plan is divided into 15 chapters and sets out the vision, aims, goals and strategy for Birr over the plan period in addition to the Councils’ policies and objectives under the following headings:

Chapter 1: Introduction and Vision Chapter 2: Survey and Analysis Chapter 3: Overall Strategy Chapter 4: Town Centre, Retail and Renewal Chapter 5: Public Amenities & Open Space Chapter 6: Local Area Based Strategies Chapter 7: Crinkle Village Settlement Plan Chapter 8: Transport, Accessibility and Movement Chapter 9: Economy, Employment, Enterprise and Tourism Chapter 10: Infrastructure and Environment Chapter 11: Community, Social, Cultural and Sports Development Chapter 12: Built Heritage Chapter 13: Natural Heritage Chapter 14: Development Standards Chapter 15: Zoning Matrix and Land-Use Zoning Map

2.2 The Overall Goals of the Plan

The overall goals of the Plan, which shape the policies and objectives of the Plan, are as follows:

1. To use the provisions and targets of the Midlands Regional Planning Guidelines (MRPGs) in the making, implementation and review of this Plan and in particular the MRPGs population target for Birr, to channel appropriate levels and types of development into Birr and Environs.

2. To implement a balanced and sequential approach to development in the making, implementation and review of this Plan in order to make best use of services, to use development opportunities to enhance the town and to ensure the compact and orderly growth of Birr.

3. To facilitate an appropriate balance between residential development and other uses in all parts of Birr and Crinkle and to set a positive framework for the development of, in particular, employment, educational and open space uses, together with community facilities and commercial services.

4. To encourage clustering of development of differing types and the integrated development of larger undeveloped areas identified within this plan.

5. The positively reaffirm the role of Birr’s Town Centre and to implement positive measures for the continued vibrancy of the centre using its attractive built form as positive factor while acknowledging the strong level of protection of buildings and structures necessary.

6. To maintain and improve Birr’s attractiveness as a place to live in and visit by implementing where possible the recommendations of the Birr Public Realm Plan 2009 where they apply to both the

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Town Centre and the outer areas, by encouraging environmental and access improvements as part of new development and by protecting the environs from inappropriate development.

7. To continue to protect and enhance the built and natural environment of Birr and its environs and to use, where possible, a positive approach towards development where it can be proven to enhance, preserve, re-use or increase the accessibility (where appropriate) of such features.

8. To enhance Birr as a place to work by setting a positive and flexible framework for the consolidation of existing and creation of new employment.

9. To preserve the separate identity of Crinkle village and encourage a moderate level of residential development together with the expansion of its commercial function for local needs.

10. To preserve, enhance, identify and secure new road, pedestrian, cycleway and green corridor linkages between and amongst residential areas, the River Camcor linear parkland, the Town Centre and existing and planned roads. The Area Based Strategies identify such opportunities.

2.3 Land Use Zoning

The Land Use Zoning map from the Development Plan is shown on Figure 4.4.

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Section 3 Existing Environment

3.1 Introduction

The environmental baseline of Birr Town and Environs is described in this section. This baseline together with the Strategic Environmental Objectives, which are outlined in Section 4 of the Environmental Report, was used in order to identify, describe and evaluate the likely significant environmental effects of implementing the Development Plan and in order to determine appropriate monitoring measures.

The Plan area consists of lands within the Birr Town boundary as well as areas of the Environs to the south and south east of the Town and an area to the north of the Town.

Birr comprises an undulating landscape with an outwash of esker deposits. The historic core of the Town Centre is sensitively built into the receiving landscape beside Birr Castle and Demesne and nearby water bodies including the lake at Birr Castle and Demesne, the Camcor River and the Little Brosna River.

The western boundary of the Plan area is guided by the Little Brosna River. Part of the eastern boundary follows the Camcor River. Crinkle Village lies to the south of the Town. Crinkle is located some 2.2km from the centre of Birr along Barrack Street, Military Road and School Street. It is estimated that some 670 people are located within the village with 170 located in the central core.

Land uses within the Plan area include residential and smaller amounts of commercial and industrial. The remainder of the Plan area generally consists of agricultural lands.

3.2 Biodiversity and Flora and Fauna

3.2.1 Overview

Green space, which makes up a large part of the Plan area, consists of habitats and corridors for movement for a wide range of wildlife including various bird species, invertebrates such as bees and butterflies and mammals such as hedgehogs, mice, rats and foxes.

Green space within the Plan area is comprised of agricultural land, the Camcor Linear Park, the Town squares, a number of sports fields and various open spaces in residential areas. In addition, the extensive lands at Birr Castle Demesne and Garden are a significant amenity for the Town.

The Little Brosna River and the Camcor River run adjacent to the area interacting with both the natural and built heritage to give a unique and distinct character and providing habitats for flora and fauna.

Broad leaved, coniferous and mixed forests and agricultural pastures provide habitats for a number of species.

Land cover differences between the CORINE1 1990 data and the data for the year 2000 (see Figure 3.1) are illustrated on Figure 3.2. This figure illustrates that seven areas of land have changed from Pasture to Discontinuous Urban Fabric.

1 CORINE Land Cover (CLC) is a map of the European environmental landscape based on interpretation of satellite images. Land cover is the observed physical cover, as seen from the ground or through remote sensing, including for example natural or planted vegetation, water and human constructions which cover the earth's surface. Because of the scale of the CORINE data and the method by which it was collected there are likely to be a number of inaccuracies at the local level. It is noted, however, that the land cover shown on the maps is generally accurate. The European Environment Agency, in conjunction with the European Space Agency, the European Commission and member countries is currently updating the CORINE land cover database.

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Figure 3.1 CORINE Land Cover Map (2000) Figure 3.2 CORINE Land Cover Differences

Within and surrounding the Plan area, the ecological networks are made up of components including the Little Brosna River and the Camcor River and their tributaries and banks, the various woodlands and hedgerows within and surrounding the Plan area and lands used for agriculture. Existing public parks in Birr follow the meandering course of local rivers and streams running through the Town. These components provide habitats for flora and fauna and facilitate linkages to the surrounding countryside for flora and fauna.

3.2.2 Designations

There are two proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs) within the Plan boundary. There are a number of designated sites in the vicinity. These sites are partially mapped on Figure 3.3.

3.2.3 Important Issues to Consider

Land cover differences between the CORINE 1990 data and the data for the year 2000 indicate a loss of agricultural land to urban development.

With regard to terrestrial flora and fauna, all greenfield development in the area will cause an impact - the replacement of natural and semi natural habitats with artificial surfaces results in loss of flora and fauna and therefore adversely impacts upon this environmental component. Development along or adjacent to the banks of rivers could result in a reduction in ecological connectivity within and between these and other habitats.

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Figure 3.3 Designations near Plan area Figure 3.4 Eskers in the Plan area

3.3 Soil

Soil is the top layer of the earth’s crust. It is formed by mineral particles, organic matter, water, air and living organisms. Soil can be considered as a non-renewable natural resource because it develops over very long timescales. It performs many vital functions including: food and other biomass production, storage, filtration and transformation of many substances including water, carbon, and nitrogen. Soil has a role as a habitat and gene pool, serves as a platform for human activities, landscape and heritage and acts as a provider of raw materials. Such functions of soil are worthy of protection because of their socio- economic as well as environmental importance.2 The majority of the Plan area is covered by grey brown podzols with areas of basin peat surrounding parts of the Plan area.

County Offaly contains the best collection of Mushroom Stones in Ireland. These important geological features were shaped by the movement of water in postglacial lakes. There is a mushroom stone present within the Plan area at Rock Lane, Crinkle. It is known locally as “The Nuns Stone”. Eskers were created from sands and gravels laid down in rivers of meltwater that covered much of Ireland at the end of the Ice Age. Eskers support their own unique flora and fauna and they are one of the most distinctive features of the midlands. There are three eskers within Birr which are protected under the Plan. These eskers are mapped on Figure 3.4. There is one mine and one quarry within the Plan area with five mines lying outside the Plan area.

3.4 Population and Human Health

3.4.1 Population

Birr is the third largest town in County Offaly with a population 5,053 persons in 2006.

2 Teagasc, GSI, Forest Service & EPA (2006) Soils and Subsoils Class Dublin: DEHLG

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3.4.2 Human Health

Human health has the potential to be impacted upon by environmental vectors (i.e. environmental components such as air, water or soil through which contaminants or pollutants, which have the potential to cause harm, can be transported so that they come into contact with human beings) including water, soil and air. Hazards or nuisances to human health can arise as a result of exposure to these vectors arising from incompatible adjacent land uses for example. These factors have been considered with regard to the description of: the baseline of each environmental component; and the identification and evaluation of the likely significant environmental effects of implementing the plan and the alternatives.

3.4.3 Important Issues to Consider

Greenfield development involves the building upon and thereby sealing off of soil thus representing an environmental problem.

The esker to the north of the Town has been badly damaged.

Soil has the potential to be polluted and contaminated as a result of pollution from development which is not serviced by appropriate waste water infrastructure and from agricultural sources.

Soil erosion due mainly to surface erosion resulting from construction works and agricultural / forestry operations has major potential to impact on water quality and fishery resources.

In addition to water quality and fishery impacts, these can impact on infrastructure and can have health and safety implication.

3.5 Water, Waste Water and Drinking Water

3.5.1 Introduction

Human activities, if not properly managed, can cause deterioration in water quality. Pressures exerted by human activities include the following:

• sewage and other effluents discharged to waters from point sources, e.g. pipes from treatment plants; • discharges arising from diffuse or dispersed activities on land; • abstractions from waters; and, • structural alterations to water bodies.

3.5.2 The Water Framework Directive

The Water Framework Directive (WFD) requires that all member states implement the necessary measures to prevent deterioration of the status of all waters - surface, ground, estuarine and coastal - and protect, enhance and restore all waters with the aim of achieving good status by 2015. All public bodies, including Offaly County Council, are required to: coordinate their policies and operations so as to maintain the good status of water bodies which are currently unpolluted; and improve polluted water bodies to good status by 2015.

For the purpose of implementing the WFD, Ireland has been divided into eight river basin districts or areas of land that are drained by a large river or number of rivers and the adjacent estuarine/coastal areas. Birr and its Environs is located within the Shannon International River Basin District (ShIRBD).

For the purposes of assessment, reporting and management, water in the RBDs has been divided into groundwater, rivers, lakes, estuarine waters and coastal waters which are in turn divided into specific, clearly defined water bodies. Each water body has been assessed, on the basis of human activity, whether it is at risk or not at risk of failing to achieve the WFD’s objectives by 2015.

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In order to facilitate this assessment, a four-class risk classification scheme was applied using the following terminology:

• Not at Significant Risk • Probably Not at Significant Risk • Probably at Significant Risk (these are likely to need improvement in order to achieve the required status) • At Significant Risk (these will need improvement to achieve the required status)

In addition to the these assessments, the WFD requires that Registers of Protected Areas (RPAs) are compiled for a number water bodies or part of water bodies which must have extra controls on their quality by virtue of how their waters are used by people and by wildlife.

Local Authorities located in the ShIRBD, including Birr Town Council and Offaly County Council have prepared a draft River Basin Management Plan which will be adopted subject to the outcome of public consultations in June 2009 and implemented thereafter in order to help protect and improve all waters in the ShIRBD. The Management Plan will provide objectives for river basins in order to implement the requirements of the WFD. The first river basin management plans will be adopted by local authorities, after public consultation, this year and reviewed every six years thereafter.

3.5.3 Water Quality

The most recent water quality data3 identifies the Camcor River as being of Moderate Status (Q3-4)4. The water quality status of the Little Brosna River changes from Poor (Q3) to Moderate (Q3-4) after its confluence with the Camcor River. These ratings are mapped on Figure 3.5.

3.5.4 Risk Assessments

3.5.4.1 River Catchments Figure 3.6 shows the current risk assessment for the Camcor River, the Little Brosna River and the Fionaun (Rock) River. In terms of achieving the WFD’s objectives by 2015, the Little Brosna River and its tributary, the Fionaun (Rock) River are currently classified as being (1a) at significant risk of failing to achieve the WFD’s objectives by 2015. The Fionaun (Rock) River which is a tributary of the Little Brosna River is classified as (1a) at significant risk of failing to achieve the WFD’s objectives by 2015. The Camcor River is classified as (1b) probably at significant risk. Reasons for these classifications include diffuse source pressures such as agricultural sources and un-sewered areas and point source pressures including Local Authority licensed discharges.

3.5.4.2 Ground Waters Figure 3.7 maps the current risk assessment for groundwater in the Birr Town and Environs area. Groundwater underlying the majority of the Plan area is classified as being (1b) probably at significant risk of not achieving good status. Reasons for this include abstraction pressures and diffuse pressures including mobile chemicals and mobile nutrients. The groundwater bodies underlying the remainder of Birr Town and Environs are classified as being (2a) expected to achieve good status by 2015.

3.5.5 WFD Register of Protected Areas

In addition to the assessments mentioned above, the WFD requires that Registers of Protected Areas (RPAs) are compiled for a number water bodies or part of water bodies which must have extra controls on their quality by virtue of how their waters are used by people and by wildlife.

3 EPA (2006) Water Quality in Ireland 2005 Wexford: EPA 4 The Biotic Index Values, or Q values, are assigned to rivers in accordance with biological monitoring of surface waters - low Q ratings, as low as Q1, are indicative of low biodiversity and polluted waters, and high Q ratings, as high as Q5, are indicative of high biodiversity and unpolluted waters. Good status as defined by the Water Framework Directive equates to approximately Q4 in the national scheme of biological classification of rivers as set out by the EPA.

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The WFD requires that these RPAs contain: areas from which waters are taken for public or private water supply schemes; designated shellfish production areas; bathing waters; areas which are affected by high levels of substances most commonly found in fertilizers, animal and human wastes - these areas are considered nutrient sensitive; areas designated for the protection of habitats or species e.g. salmonid areas; Special Areas of Conservation (SACs); and, Special Protection Areas (SPAs).

In Ireland, waters intended for human consumption are protected under the Drinking Water Regulations (S.I. 439/2000). Part of the Camcor River has been listed on the RPA for Drinking Water. Groundwater underlying the Plan area is listed on the RPA for Drinking Water (Ground Water).

Outside the Plan boundary, Dovegrove Callows SPA to the north west of the Town has been listed on the RPA for Water Dependent Habitats and Species. This Register includes habitats that are dependent on water: this includes areas already listed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service as Special Protection Areas for the protection of birds, as per the EU Birds Directive (79/409/EEC). The waters in the vicinity of the Plan area which are listed on the RPA are mapped on Figure 3.8.

3.5.6 Ground Water Vulnerability

The Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) rates aquifers according to their vulnerability to pollution. Aquifer vulnerability refers to the ease with which pollutants of various kinds can enter underground water.

Figure 3.9 shows that the Plan area is generally rated as being of a High vulnerability. Some patches are rated as Extreme, with areas of Extreme (rock near surface or Karst) identified within these regions. There are areas of Moderate vulnerability within and surrounding the Plan area.

3.5.7 Ground Water Productivity

The GSI rates aquifers based on the hydrogeological characteristics and on the value of the groundwater resource. Ireland’s entire land surface is divided into nine aquifer categories. The Plan area is divided into two main classifications as seen on Figure 3.10. The southern and eastern parts of the plan area are underlain by a locally important aquifer (the bedrock of which is moderately productive only in local zones); this aquifer is capable of yielding enough water to boreholes or springs to supply villages, small towns or factories. The northern, western and central part of the Plan area is underlain by a regionally important aquifer.

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Figure 3.5 Surface Water Quality Figure 3.6 WFD Risk Ass. – Rivers

Figure 3.7 WFD Risk Ass. – Groundwater Figure 3.8 WFD Register of Protected Areas

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Figure 3.9 Groundwater Vulnerability Figure 3.10 Groundwater Productivity

Figure 3.11 Location of WWTP Figure 3.12 Flood events in the Plan area

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3.5.8 Waste Water

Waste water arising from Birr Urban District, Crinkle and other parts of the Environs is collected by the waste water collection network and pumped to the Town’s waste water treatment plant at Townpark where it undergoes secondary treatment. The outfall from the plant is discharged in to the Little Brosna River.

Waste water infrastructure in Birr has no stormwater storage facilities, the collection network requires rehabilitation and pumping stations require upgrading.

Certain areas of the Environs are not within the catchment of the waste water treatment network and consequently development in these areas use septic tanks to treat waste water arising.

The waste water treatment plant and its outfall point, the sewage network and pumping stations within the Plan area are mapped on Figure 3.11.

Birr Waste Water Treatment Plant is 12,000 population equivalent (PE) 5. Current demand is below this at 7,700PE.

Under the Wastewater Investment Programme it is proposed to upgrade the plant in order to increase capacity and to treat waste water to a higher level of secondary treatment including chemical treatment to improve water quality. The proposed works include expanding the plant to 15,000PE, the provision of a stormwater holding facility and increasing the sludge holding and treatment facilities.

3.5.9 Drinking Water

Water supply to the Plan area is sourced from the Camcor River with abstraction points at Kinnity and Springfield Bridge. The treatment plant and reservoir is located in the townland of Seefin. This supply serves Birr Urban District, Crinkle Village, Birr and Crinkle Environs and Ballindara Group Scheme. Current demand at the plant stands at 2,100m3/day while existing treatment capacity is 2,270m3/day. Within Birr some sites are currently served by a private well.

In order to increase treatment capacity and in order to facilitate the movement of the drinking water treatment process away from adjacent residential areas a new drinking water treatment plant and reservoir is planned for the Town. This will provide for an increase in the current drinking water treatment capacity from 2,270m3/day to 5,258m3/day.

A Preliminary Report has been submitted to the DEHLG for approval. It is hoped that the upgrade works will be carried out by 2012. However, site works are yet to be acquired and an Abstraction Order is required which may lead to delays.

3.5.10 Important Issues to Consider

The above descriptions identify a number of sensitivities with regard to the status of water bodies within the Birr Town and Environs Plan area. By virtue of how they are used by people and by wildlife, part of the Camcor River and the groundwater underlying the Plan area are all listed on the Register of Protected Areas under the Water Framework Directive. Dovegrove Callows SPA is also listed on the RPA and while it is noted that this is outside the Plan area, it has been identified in order to ensure that areas which could be impacted as a result of implementing the Plan are identified and assessed.

The Little Brosna River and the Fionaun (Rock) River to the south of the Town are at significant risk of failing to achieve the WFD’s objectives of good status by 2015 while the Camcor River is probably at risk of failing to achieve good status.

5 Population equivalent (in waste-water monitoring and treatment) refers to the amount of oxygen-demanding substances whose oxygen consumption during biodegradation equals the average oxygen demand of the waste water produced by one person.

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The majority of the ground waters underlying the Plan area are probably at significant risk of failing to achieve the WFD’s objectives by 2015.

The pressures which have been identified by the ShIRBD in the characterisation of the water bodies within and surrounding the Plan area include:

• Diffuse source pressures including agricultural sources and unsewered areas;

• Point source pressures of combined sewer and treatment plant overflows and water treatment plants;

• Pressures presented by water abstraction; and,

• Morphological pressures of channelisation and intensive landuse.

Waste water infrastructure in Birr has no stormwater storage facilities, the collection network requires rehabilitation and pumping stations require upgrading.

Certain areas of the Environs are not within the catchment of the waste water treatment network and consequently development in these areas use septic tanks to treat waste water arising.

Consequently the Councils’ ability to meet their commitments under the Water Framework Directive could be compromised. The Little Brosna River, to which treated waste water is discharged, is at significant risk of failing to achieve the WFD’s objectives of good status by 2015. The upgrading of the waste water treatment plant at Townspark will help to solve this problem.

Between April 2005 and July 2008 non-compliance with the following parameters within the Birr Public Water Supply was recorded:

• Aluminium; • Pesticides; • Coliform bacteria; • Turbidity; • Iron; and • Enterococci species.

The EPA identified6 the Birr public water supply on a remedial action list as one of 339 public water supplies - representing 36% of public drinking water supplies - that require detailed profiling to ensure that the supply is providing clean and wholesome drinking water.

3.6 Air and Climatic Factors

3.6.1 Air Quality

For the purposes of air quality monitoring in Ireland by the EPA, four zones are defined in the Air Quality Standards Regulations 2002 (SI No. 271 of 2002). The main areas defined in each zone are:

• Zone A: Dublin Conurbation.

• Zone B: Cork Conurbation.

• Zone C: Other cities and large towns comprising Galway, Limerick, Waterford, Clonmel, Kilkenny, Sligo, Drogheda, Wexford, Athlone, Ennis, Bray, Naas, Carlow, Tralee and Dundalk.

6 EPA (2007) The Provision and Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland: A Report for the Years 2006-2007 Wexford: Environmental Protection Agency

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• Zone D: Rural Ireland, i.e. the remainder of the State - small towns and rural areas of the country - excluding Zones A, B and C.

Birr falls into zone D. Current air quality in Zone D is “good”. The index is calculated based on the latest available measurements of PM10, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and ozone in Zone D.

3.6.2 Greenhouse Gases

Ireland’s current emissions are exceeding targets agreed in the peer review of Ireland’s 2006 submission to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. It is unlikely that Ireland will meet these targets and it is likely therefore that financial penalties will be incurred.

3.6.3 Flooding

Areas that have flooded in the past - accessible from the OPW’s National Flood Hazard Mapping website have been recorded at the Caravan Park on the N52 and at Cappaneale. Offaly County Council notes, however, that due to maintenance of drains at these locations, flooding has not occurred here in the last ten years. These are mapped on Figure 3.12.

Previous Ordnance Survey maps recognised lands to the west of Birr Town as being liable to flooding from the Little Brosna River.

Benefitting land is outlined in a dataset which was drawn up by the OPW identifying land which may benefit from the implementation of Arterial (Major) Drainage Schemes under the terms of the Arterial Drainage Act 1945 and indicates lands which may be subject to flooding or poor drainage. The OPW have identified a number of Drainage Districts surrounding the Plan area which are benefitting lands.

In September 2008 the DEHLG published for public consultation new draft Planning Guidelines on the Planning System and Flood Risk Management which are aimed at ensuring a more consistent, rigorous and systematic approach to fully incorporate flood risk assessment and management into the planning system. A final version of these Guidelines was issued in November 2009. The draft Guidelines were considered when drawing up the mitigation measures relating to flooding which have been integrated into the Plan.

3.7 Cultural Heritage

Birr Town was designated as a “Georgian Heritage Town” by Fáilte Ireland in 1994. The heritage of Birr Town and Environs is a unique resource which is fundamental to the cultural identity of the area, the quality of life of its citizens and its related tourism industry. Historic buildings can define localities and communities within the area and can become a focus of community identity and pride. An historic church or park, for example, can help define a neighbourhood and create a sense of local cohesion. Birr is an early monastic town from the 12th century when St. Brendan of Birr founded a monastery there. In the 13th century, like many other towns, Birr became a Norman town.

3.7.1 Archaeological Heritage

Archaeology is the study of past societies through the material remains left by those societies and the evidence of their environment. Archaeological heritage consists of such material remains (whether in the form of sites and monuments or artefacts in the sense of moveable objects) and environmental evidence. As archaeological heritage can be used to gain knowledge and understanding of the past it is of great cultural and scientific importance. Archaeological sites and monuments vary greatly in form and date; examples include earthworks of different types and periods, (e.g. early historic ringforts and prehistoric burial mounds), megalithic tombs from the Prehistoric period, medieval buildings, urban archaeological deposits and underwater features such as wrecks.

The term ‘monument’ includes all man-made structures of whatever form or date except buildings habitually used for ecclesiastical purposes. A recorded monument is a monument included in the list and

CAAS for Offaly County Council and Birr Town Council 14 Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary marked on the map which comprises the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) set out county by county under Section 12 of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1994 by the Archaeological Survey of Ireland.

Figure 3.13 maps the location of entries to the Record of Monuments and Places within and surrounding the Plan area. Sites and monuments in the area include, inter alia, a number of castles, enclosures, churches, bridges, an ecclesiastical settlement, a ritual site, a Sheela-na-Gig and a prison.

3.7.2 Architectural Heritage

The term architectural heritage is defined in the Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and Historic Monuments Act 1999 as meaning all: structures and buildings together with their settings and attendant grounds, fixtures and fittings; groups of structures and buildings; and, sites which are of technical, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social, or technical interest.

The physical form of the individual structures in the countryside and in the towns and villages of Birr and its Environs has evolved through many periods. The built heritage which has developed has attained a character that contributes to varied, locally distinctive areas in the County.

Figure 3.14 maps the location of entries to the Record of Protected Structures within Birr Town only as any protected structures in the Environs, which is part of the County functional area, are contained within the County Development Plan 2009-2015.

Figure 3.15 maps the location of entries to the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage within and surrounding the Plan area.

3.7.3 Important Issues to Consider

Archaeology can be previously unknown but can be damaged through development causing ground disturbance. Development which involves material alteration or additions to protected structures can detract from the special character of the structure and its setting, and have the potential to result in the loss of features of architectural or historic interest and the historic form and structural integrity of the structure are retained. Development on sites adjoining protected monuments, places or structures can also impact upon the setting of these cultural heritage items.

The cumulative accommodation of large scale development in Birr Town and Environs has the potential to cumulatively impact upon cultural heritage of the Plan area.

CAAS for Offaly County Council and Birr Town Council 15 Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary

Figure 3.13 Record of Monuments and Places Figure 3.14 Record of Protected Structures

Figure 3.15 NIAH Figure 3.15 Landscape Sensitivity

CAAS for Offaly County Council and Birr Town Council 16 Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary

3.8 Landscape

Landscapes are areas which are perceived by people and are made up of a number of layers: landform, which results from geological and geomorphological history; land cover, which includes vegetation, water, human settlements, and; human values which are a result of historical, cultural, religious and other understandings and interactions with landform and land cover.

The landscape at Birr comprises an undulating landscape with an outwash of esker deposits.

The historic core of the Town Centre is sensitively built into the receiving landscape, beside the Castle and Demesne and nearby water bodies including the lake at Birr Castle, the Camcor River and the Little Brosna River.

The Little Brosna River, which rises in County Tipperary near Moneygall, forms the western boundary of the Plan area. The Camcor River, the primary tributary of the Little Brosna River, rises on the western slopes of the Slieve Bloom Mountains and flows to the west until it enters the lake at Birr Castle which joins with the Little Brosna River and flows onto to its confluence with the Shannon.

The urban fringe of the Town provides alternative landscapes including Crinkle Village and rural areas mainly in use for agriculture.

The highly scenic Slieve Bloom Mountains are located to the south east of Birr.

3.8.1 Landscape Sensitivity

In accordance with the DoEHLG’s Landscape and Landscape Assessment Guidelines (2000), Offaly County Council have prepared a Landscape Classification for the County which classifies the different landscapes of the County in relation to their different characteristics and values and their degree of sensitivity to various kinds of development.

This Landscape Classification identifies ten distinct landscape types which have similar character- contributing elements such as slope, vegetation and landuse.

Each of these ten landscape types have been attributed one of three sensitivity classes;

• Low Sensitivity (Class 1); • Moderate Sensitivity (Class 2); and, • High Sensitivity (Class 3).

The landscape sensitivity classes relate to the ability of certain landscapes to accommodate change or intervention without suffering unacceptable effects to character and values.

Figure 3.16 shows the spatial distribution of Landscape Sensitivity Classes across the Plan area.

3.8.2 Important Issues to Consider

A problem with regard to the environmental component of landscape is the cumulative visual impact which occurs as a result of developments such as one off houses. Such developments, which individually often do not have significant adverse impacts, have the potential to cumulatively and adversely significantly impact upon sensitive landscapes.

The degradation of eskers, particularly the one to the north of the Town has been identified as an issue.

CAAS for Offaly County Council and Birr Town Council 17 Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary

Section 4 Alternative Plan Scenarios

4.1 Introduction

One of the critical roles of the SEA is to facilitate an evaluation of the likely environmental consequences of a range of alternative strategies for accommodating future development in Birr and its Environs. The environmental consequences of 4 scenarios for the Plan were examined. Each of the scenarios is shown on Figures 4.1 to 4.3. These figures identify the differences between each of the scenarios.

Scenario 1 presents an alternative Development Plan which is the same as the 2004-2010 Plan. Scenario 2, Scenario 3 and Scenario 4 present three alternative Development Plans which differ from each other and from the 2004-2010 Plan.

4.2 Similarities and Differences between the Scenarios

Each of the scenarios provide for Commercial, Educational/ Institutional/ Civic, Residential and Mixed use zonings in similar amounts and locations within Birr Town and in many parts of the Environs. Each of the scenarios provide Birr Castle and Demesne with the same Birr Castle zoning.

There are however a number of significant differences between each of the scenarios. These differences can be described under the following 3 headings:

• Extending the 2004-2010 Plan zoning envelope to accommodate new uses

Scenarios 2, 3 and 4 all provide for an extension to the 2004-2010 Plan zoning envelope.

To the north of the 2004-2010 Plan zoning envelope the three scenarios provide for a significant quantum of new Industrial zoning which is buffered by Open Space zoning (see location ‘A’ on Figure 4.1).

Towards the south of the 2004-2010 Plan zoning envelope, Scenarios 2, 3 and 4 all provide for an extension to the Industrial zoning provided by Scenario 1 (see location ‘B’ on Figure 4.1).

To the south east of the existing Plan zoning envelope, Scenario 2 provides for the zoning of an adjoining field as Open Space zoning while Scenarios 3 and 4 provide the same zoning for this field together with the zoning of two additional fields as Residential (see location ‘C’ on Figure 4.1).

• Removing Open Space zoning to leave no land use zoning

• Removing Residential zoning to leave no land use zoning or Replacing Residential zoning with Open Space zoning

Scenarios 3 and 4 remove significant areas of Residential zoned lands across Birr’s Environs. At location ‘E’ on Figure 4.3 the zoning of such lands becomes Open Space while at locations ‘G’ and ‘F’ the lands become white lands, with no zoning objective provide.

CAAS for Offaly County Council and Birr Town Council 18 Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary

Figure 4.1 Differences between the Scenarios; extending the 2004 Plan zoning envelope

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Figure 4.2 Differences between the Scenarios; the removal of Open Space zoning to leave no land use zoning

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Figure 4.3 Differences between the Scenarios; Residential zoning replaced by Open Space zoning and removal of Residential zoning to leave no land use zoning

CAAS for Offaly County Council and Birr Town Council 21 Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary

4.3 Evaluation of the similar features of each Alternative Scenario

• Introduction

• Greenfield and Brownfield Development

All alternatives provide for greenfield development as it is not possible for brownfield development to cater for the population required to be provided for by the Plan. Greenfield development would be likely to present conflicts with a number of environmental components.

• Biodiversity and Flora and Fauna, Soil and Landscape

By providing for the development of greenfield lands which would result in the replacement of semi natural habitats with artificial surfaces all scenarios would significantly and adversely affect non- designated biodiversity and flora and fauna and would result in the sealing off of soil resources.

Impacts upon the ecological connectivity which is provided by the agricultural land surrounding the Town could be mitigated by offsetting any losses in ecological corridors.

Greenfield development would also result in the changing of the landscape where it occurs.

• Waste Water

Waste water arising from the parts of the Plan area which are connected to the waste water collection network are subject to secondary treatment at the waste water treatment plant at Townspark. This plant has sufficient capacity to deal with the current demand and has an amount of spare capacity. The Town’s waste water treatment infrastructure has no stormwater storage facilities, the collection network requires rehabilitation and pumping stations require upgrading. The outfall from the waste water treatment plant at Townspark is into the Little Brosna River. Waste water arising from parts of Birr Environs which are not connected to the network is treated by septic tanks.

Should new development be permitted which exceeds available capacity in the waste water treatment infrastructure or which cannot be connected to the waste water collection network then it is likely that waste water would not be treated in compliance with the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (Council Directive 91/271/EEC of 21 May 1991 concerning urban waste-water treatment) (amended by Directive 98/15/EEC).

• Groundwater, Surface Water and Human Health

Increased demand upon the waste water treatment plant could compromise the ability of the Councils to meet their commitments under the Water Framework Directive, specifically that to achieve good status for all waters by 2015. In this regard it is noted that the Little Brosna River is currently classified as being (1a) at significant risk of failing to achieve the WFD’s objectives by 2015.

Should new development be permitted which cannot be connected to the waste water collection network then conflicts could arise between this development and the protection of both ground and surface water quality. In this regard it is noted that both groundwater underlying the majority of the Plan area together with the Camcor River are classified as being (1b) probably at significant risk of failing to achieve the WFD’s objectives by 2015. Also, the Little Brosna River and its tributaries are classified as being (1a) at significant risk of failing to achieve the WFD’s objectives by 2015.

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In addition to having adverse effects upon water quality, new development could - if unmitigated - adversely affect both human health and biodiversity and flora and fauna such as Dovegrove Callows SPA to the north west of the Town which has been listed on the RPA for Water Dependent Habitats and Species. It is essential that mitigation measures detailed under Section 9 of the Environmental Report are integrated into the Plan in order to help prevent such adverse effects.

Groundwater beneath Birr Town and Environs is listed on the Water Framework Directive Register of Protected Areas for Drinking Water (Ground Water). In addition, the Plan area is underlain by Regionally Important and Locally Important Aquifers. Changes in the characteristics of run-off and groundwater recharge associated with the replacement of semi natural surfaces with artificial surfaces could - if unmitigated - impact upon the ability of the Councils to achieve their requirements under the Water Framework Directive.

• Flooding

All alternatives would be required to be accompanied by mitigation measures to avoid significantly increasing the risk of flooding. This is especially relevant in locations where flooding has occurred in the past – near the N52 and R439 roads in the north of the town – and in the flood plains of the town’s rivers and streams.

• Cultural Heritage and Landscape

By providing for infill and brownfield development in the vicinity of Protected Structures and other structures of architectural interest within Birr Town Centre, potential conflicts could arise between new development and the protection of these structures. This conflict could also arise in the Environs area where the curtilage (the parcel of ground immediately associated with the structure or in use for the purposes of the structure) of a number of Structures could limit development.

There is potential for new development to adversely affect Birr’s archaeological heritage. There are currently 8 Zones of Archaeological Potential identified within Birr Town and Environs however many other sites may remain beneath the surface. In order to prevent unnecessary impacts on archaeological heritage it will be necessary to list and map the extent of all monuments in the area and carry out pre-development archaeological testing surveying, monitoring and recording.

Each of the scenarios contributes to protection of the archaeological heritage and landscape of Birr Castle and Demesne through the application of a zoning objective which limits development on these lands.

Each of the alternatives has the potential to impact upon the Town’s eskers. Although parts of these eskers have been damaged by human activity in the past they are, nonetheless, of significant scientific and landscape value.

• Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Traffic

The implementation of each of the scenarios would provide for significant increases in the population of the Birr Town and Environs area. With the availability of appropriate levels of public transport services, local services and economic activity this scenario could stabilise current car dependency or help to reduce the likely dependency on private transport in the wider area which would otherwise occur as a result of alternative greenfield development outside of the Plan area.

As a result, existing car generated traffic and transport related greenhouse gas emissions could be stabilised and future increases in car generated traffic and transport related greenhouse gas emissions which would be caused by accommodating new populations in alternative rural areas could be minimised.

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4.4 Evaluation of the differences presented by each of the Scenarios

There are a number of significant differences between each of the scenarios which would result in different environmental effects.

• Extending the 2004-2010 Plan zoning envelope to accommodate new uses

Scenarios 2, 3 and 4 all provide for an extension to the 2004-2010 Plan zoning envelope. New Industrial zoning which is provided to the north of the Town by Scenarios 2, 3 and 4 (see location ‘A’ on Figure 4.1) would be likely to significantly adversely effect the landscape at these lands, which is classified as being Moderately sensitive. Indirect effects upon the landscape surrounding these lands would be reduced through the zoning of lands adjacent to the Industrial zoned lands as Open Space and the implementation of appropriate landscaping measures. The extension of the Industrial zoning provided by Scenario 1 towards the south of the Plan area (see location ‘B’ on Figure 4.1) by Scenarios 2, 3 and 4 could - if unmitigated - adversely affect the landscape and parts of an esker. The zoning by Scenarios 3 and 4 of two fields to south east of the existing Plan zoning envelope as Residential (see location ‘C’ on Figure 4.1) is relatively minor in extent and would not be likely to result in significant strategic adverse impacts, providing appropriate waste water treatment accompanies development arising from this zoning.

• Removing Open Space zoning to leave no land use zoning

Scenarios 3 and 4 remove the Open Space zoning which is used by the 2004-2010 Plan in order to provide the Camcor River with a buffer to adjoining residential development (see location ‘D’ on Figure 4.2). However as well as removing the Open Space zoned buffer, both of these scenarios remove the adjoining Residential zoning. Consequently, and providing that mitigation measures are followed, it is unlikely that this feature of Scenarios 3 and 4 would be likely to significantly adversely impact upon the protection of the River.

• Removing Residential zoning to leave no land use zoning or Replacing Residential zoning with Open Space zoning

Scenarios 3 and 4 remove significant parcels of Residential zoned lands across Birr’s Environs. At location ‘E’ on Figure 4.3 the zoning of such lands becomes Open Space while at locations ‘G’ and ‘F’ the lands become white lands, with no zoning objective. These changes, which occur to the greatest extent within Scenario 4, mean that these lands would not accommodate new populations and built development. Consequently, Scenario 4 would be likely to reduce potential effects of residential development which could occur as a result of both the footprint of development on these lands - such as upon the environmental components of biodiversity and flora and fauna, soil, cultural heritage and landscape - and as a result of the waste water generated from such development. There would be a smaller population provided for under Scenario 4 thereby reducing the potential for water bodies to be polluted.

4.5 Conclusion

Having regard to the evaluation presented in the environmental report which is summarised above, the alternative scenario which could have been adopted as part of the Plan with the least amount and extent of potential environmental effects would be a variation of Scenario 4. This variation would consist of Scenario 4 without the extensions to the 2004-2010 Plan area identified at locations A, B and C on Figure 4.1. The effects of these extensions could be mitigated; however, residual environmental effects on non- designated ecology and the landscape would be likely to remain.

CAAS for Offaly County Council and Birr Town Council 24 Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary

Scenario 4 significantly reduces land zoned as residential in the 2004-2010 Plan and provides for the greatest extent of Open Space zoning. With the integration of appropriate mitigation measures (including those identified in Section 9 of the Environmental Report) potential adverse environmental effects which could arise as a result of implementing this scenario would be likely to be avoided, reduced or offset.

4.6 The Adopted Plan

Scenario 4 was chosen to be developed for the Draft Development Plan by the plan-making team having regard to both environmental and planning - including social and economic - effects. After consideration of the pre-Draft Plan by the Elected Members, a number of changes were made to the land use zoning map which had been developed from Scenario 4. In addition, a number of further amendments were made to the map by the Elected Members after the Draft Plan and subsequently Proposed Amendments to the Draft Plan were placed on public display. The land use zoning map which is included in the adopted Development Plan is shown on Figure 4.4. There are 11 main differences between this zoning map and Scenario 4 which are identified on Figure 4.5 and are as follows:

Main Difference 1 (Scenario 4: Primarily zoned as Industrial (also area of Open Space/Sports/ Recreation/Amenity); Adopted Plan: Not zoned):

Lands in the north of the Plan area primarily zoned as Industrial in Scenario 4 are not zoned by the Plan; they are ‘white lands’. New built development would be less likely to occur on these white lands than it would on the same lands if they were provided with an Industrial zoning, making impacts upon the ecology of the site’s mixed forest, the landscape and the remains of an esker less likely than would be the case under Scenario 4.

Main Difference 2 (Scenario 4: Not zoned; Adopted Plan: Zoned as Residential):

The Plan includes additional lands zoned as Residential in the north east of the Plan area. If these lands were built upon, then measures contained in the Plan – included those identified in Section 9 of the Environmental Report - would be required to be complied with in order to mitigate impacts upon flood risk, ecological connectivity, water resources and the landscape. Residual impacts upon non-designated biodiversity and flora and fauna and upon the landscape would result from new developments which replace semi-natural habitats with artificial surfaces.

Main Difference 3 (Scenario 4: Zoned as Open Space/Sports/ Recreation/Amenity (also area of White Lands); Adopted Plan: Zoned as Residential):

Lands in the south east of the Plan area which are primarily zoned as Open Space/Sports/Recreation/Amenity in Scenario 4 are zoned Residential by the Plan. New built development would be more likely to occur on lands zoned Residential than it would on the same lands if they were zoned Open Space/Sports/Recreation/Amenity. If these lands were built upon, then measures contained in the Plan – included those identified in Section 9 of the Environmental Report - would be required to be complied with in order to mitigate impacts upon flood risk, ecological connectivity, water resources, archaeological heritage and the landscape. Residual impacts upon non-designated biodiversity and flora and fauna and upon the landscape would result from new developments which replace semi-natural habitats with artificial surfaces.

Main Difference 4 (Scenario 4: Zoned as Industrial; Adopted Plan: Zoned as Residential (also areas of Open Space/Sports/ Recreation/Amenity and Business/Employment):

Lands in the south west of the Plan area zoned as Industrial in Scenario 4 are zoned as Residential in the Plan. This change would not be likely to result in different environmental effects to those which were identified for Scenario 4.

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Main Difference 5 (Scenario 4: Zoned as Residential (also area of Open Space/Sports/ Recreation/Amenity); Adopted Plan: Not zoned):

Lands in the east of the Plan area which are zoned as Residential in Scenario 4 are not zoned by the Plan; they are ‘white lands’. New built development would be less likely to occur on these white lands than it would on the same lands if they were provided with an Residential zoning and therefore, under the Plan, impacts upon the ecology of the site’s mixed forest, the landscape and the remains of an esker would be less likely than would be the case under Scenario 4.

Main Difference 6 (Scenario 4: Zoned as Open Space/Sports /Recreation/Amenity; Adopted Plan: Not zoned):

Scenario 4 zones greenfield lands adjacent to the Rock River as Open Space/Sports/Recreation/Amenity however the Plan does not zone these lands; conflicts between development at these lands and environmental components including biodiversity and flora and fauna would be likely to be mitigated by measures which have been integrated into the Plan including those identified in Section 9 of the Environmental Report.

Main Difference 7 (Scenario 4: Zoned as Open Space/Sports /Recreation/Amenity; Adopted Plan: Zoned as Residential):

Scenario 4 zones lands in the west of the Plan area which provide a buffer between the adjacent Industrial zoning and ‘white lands’ as Open Space/Sports/Recreation/Amenity however the Plan zones these lands as Residential; conflicts between development at these lands and environmental components including biodiversity and flora and fauna, sustainable transport and water services provision would be likely to be mitigated by measures which have been integrated into the Plan including those identified in Section 9 of the Environmental Report.

Main Difference 8 (Scenario 4: Not zoned; Adopted Plan: Zoned as Public/Community/ Educational):

Scenario 4 does not zone greenfield lands in the north of the Plan area however the Plan zones these lands as Public/Community/Educational; conflicts between development at these lands and environmental components including biodiversity and flora and fauna, sustainable transport and water services provision would be likely to be mitigated by measures which have been integrated into the Plan including those identified in Section 9 of the Environmental Report.

Main Difference 9 (Scenario 4: Primarily Zoned as Residential; Adopted Plan: Zoned as Town Centre/Mixed Use):

Scenario 4 provides primarily for Residential zoning along Emmet Street while the adopted Plan provides for primarily Town Centre/Mixed Use zoning, along Emmet Street. Emmet Street is at the north of a zone of archaeological potential which is listed on the Record of Monuments and Places and the street also includes a number of entries to the Record of Protected Structures - compliance with the archaeological and architectural protection measures which have been integrated into the Plan will be essential in order to mitigate potential effects of development. The increased extent of Town Centre/Mixed Use zoning could also conflict with the adequate provision of water services and the protection of water resources and human health. Potential conflicts arising from these amendments would be likely to be mitigated by measures which have been integrated into the Plan, including those which are identified in Section 9 of the Environmental Report.

Main Difference 10 (Scenario 4: Primarily Zoned as Industrial; Adopted Plan: Zoned as Business/Employment):

Scenario 4 provides primarily for a significant area of Industrial zoning in the north of the Plan area while the adopted Plan provides for Business/Employment zoning at this area. This change is not considered likely to present any additional potential strategic environmental effects to those which have been identified earlier in this Section.

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Main Difference 11 (Scenario 4: Zoned with various objectives; Adopted Plan: Zoned as Open Space/Sports/ Recreation/Amenity):

The Plan provides for additional protection of ecological connectivity along the Camcor River by way of Open Space/Sports/ Recreation/Amenity zoning which is not provided for by Scenario 4 (this difference is not identified on Figure 4.5).

CAAS for Offaly County Council and Birr Town Council 27 Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary

Figure 4.4 Land Use Zoning Map from the Adopted Plan

CAAS for Offaly County Council and Birr Town Council 28 Environmental Report of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 SEA Appendix II Non Technical Summary

Figure 4.5 Main Differences between the Land Use Zoning Map from the Adopted Plan and Scenario 4

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Section 5 Mitigation and Monitoring Measures

5.1 Mitigation

5.1.1 Introduction

Mitigation measures are measures envisaged to prevent, reduce and, as fully as possible, offset any significant adverse impacts on the environment of implementing the Development Plan. Mitigation involves ameliorating significant negative effects. Where there are significant negative effects, consideration is given in the first instance to preventing such effects or, where this is not possible for stated reasons, to lessening or offsetting those effects. Mitigation measures can be roughly divided into those that: avoid effects; reduce the magnitude or extent, probability and/or severity of effects; repair effects after they have occurred, and; compensate for effects, balancing out negative impacts with other positive ones. The mitigation measures may be incorporated into the briefing of design teams as well as the subsequent design, specification and development management of the landuses to be accommodated within the Plan area.

5.2 Mitigation Measure Topics

Mitigation measures were integrated into the Plan for the following topics:

• Biodiversity and Flora and Fauna • Water Protection • Waste Water • Drinking Water • Flooding • Quarries • Cultural Heritage • Landscape • Eskers • Air and Climatic Factors • Waste Management • Greenhouse Gas Emissions

5.3 Monitoring

The SEA Directive requires that the significant environmental effects of the implementation of plans and programmes are monitored. The Environmental Report contains the measures for monitoring the likely significant effects of implementing the Development Plan.

Monitoring enables, at an early stage, the identification of unforeseen adverse effects and the undertaking of appropriate remedial action. In addition to this, monitoring can also play an important role in assessing whether the Development Plan is achieving its environmental objectives and targets - measures which the Development Plan can help work towards - whether these need to be re-examined and whether the proposed mitigation measures are being implemented.

The Environmental Report identifies indicators - which allow quantitative measures of trends and progress in the environment over time. Measurements for indicators generally come from existing monitoring sources. A preliminary monitoring evaluation report on the effects of implementing the Development Plan will be prepared within two years of the making of the plan. The Councils are responsible for collating existing relevant monitored data, the preparation of a monitoring report, the publication of this report and, if necessary, the carrying out of corrective action.

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