Neart na Gaoithe Proposed Offshore Wind Farm: Onshore Grid Connection Works Environmental Impact Assessment Scoping Report

Transcription

1 Neart na Gaoithe Proposed Offshore Wind Farm: Onshore Grid Connection Works Environmental Impact Assessment Scoping Report January 2012

2 Table of Contents 1 Introduction Background Information Mainstream Renewable Power Limited The Consultant This Scoping Report Legislative Framework The Need for Offshore Wind in Scotland National Planning Policy East Lothian Planning Policy Project Description Introduction Description of Proposed Cable Route Corridor Description of Proposed Cable and Substation Works Construction Process Operation and Maintenance Decommissioning Terrestrial and Intertidal Ecology Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects on Ecology Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Ornithology Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects on Birds Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Cultural Heritage Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects on Cultural Heritage Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Landscape and Visual Amenity Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects on Landscape and Visual Amenity Page i

3 7.5 Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Ground Conditions and Geology Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects on Ground Conditions and Geology Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Water Resources, Hydrology and Flood Risk Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects on Water Resources, Hydrology and Flood Risk Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Soils, Agriculture and Land Use Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects on Soils, Agriculture and Land Use Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Traffic and Transport Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects on Traffic and Transport Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Air Quality Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects on Air Quality Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Noise and Vibration Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects on Noise and Vibration Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Socio-Economic Effects including Recreation and Tourism Introduction Page ii

4 14.2 Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Socioeconomic Effects including Recreation and Tourism Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Electric and Magnetic Fields Introduction Method of Assessment Existing Conditions Potential Effects from Electric and Magnetic Fields Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Consultation Proposals Cumulative Impacts Cumulative Impacts Arising with Other Schemes Impacts Arising from the Onshore Construction Works Impacts of the Onshore Construction Works in Combination with Offshore Construction Table of Tables Table 4.1 Ecology survey buffers Table 7.1 Assessment Viewpoints Table of Figures Figure 3.1: Onshore Works Proposed Route Corridor Figure 4.1: Nature Conservation Designations Figure 6.1: Cultural Heritage Designations Figure 7.1: Landscape Designations and Landscape Character Types Figure 7.2: Proposed Viewpoints Appendices Appendix 1: List of Consultees Appendix 2: Proposed Contents of the Environmental Statement Acronyms AA Appropriate Assessment AGLV Area of Great Landscape Value AIL Abnormal Indivisible Loads AQMA Air Quality Management Area BAP Biodiversity Action Plan BOCC Birds of Conservation Concern BPM Best Practicable Means CAR Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations CIRIA Construction Industry Research and Information Association CO 2 Carbon Dioxide DoE Department of Environment DMRB Design Manual for Roads and Bridges ELCAS East Lothian Council Archaeology Service EIA Environmental Impact Assessment Page iii

5 EMF Electric and Magnetic Field ES Environmental Statement FEH Flood Estimation Handbook GCN Great Crested Newt GCR Geological Conservation Review GDL Garden and Designed Landscape GLA Greater London Authority GW Gigawatts HGV Heavy Goods Vehicle HPA Health Protection Agency ICNIRP International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection IEEM Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management IEMA Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment JNCC Joint Nature Conservation Committee km Kilometre kv Kilovolts LVIA Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment MLWS Mean Low Water Springs MW Megawatts NRBP National Radiological Protection Board NRP Natural Research Projects Ltd NVC National Vegetation Classification OFGEM Office of Gas & Electricity Markets OFTO Ofgem s Offshore Transmission Owner PM Particulate Matter RAP Renewables Action Plan RIGS Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological Sites RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds SAC Scottish Agricultural College SDP Strategic Development Plan SEPA Scottish Environment Protection Agency SM Scheduled Monument SNH Scottish Natural Heritage SPA Special Protection Area SPP Scottish Planning Policy SRDP Scottish Rural Development Programme SRPBA Scottish Rural Property and Business Association SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest SUDs Sustainable Drainage Systems SWT Scottish Wildlife Trust PAN Planning Advice Note ZTV Zone of Theoretical Visibility Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report Page iv

6 Executive Summary Mainstream Renewable Power Ltd proposes to develop an offshore wind farm in the Firth of Forth, 15.5 km directly east of Fife Ness. The offshore wind farm, to be called Neart na Gaoithe, will comprise between 64 and 125 turbines and have a capacity of 450 megawatts (MW). The renewable power generated will be exported to the electricity transmission network and contribute to meeting the Scottish Government s target to generate the equivalent of 100% of Scotland's gross electricity consumption from renewable sources by A grid connection for the Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm has been secured at Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm in East Lothian. A landing point for the cable is proposed at Thorntonloch. In brief, the onshore grid connection works (hereinafter referred to as the onshore works ) will consist of two transmission pits, cables buried in a trench for approximately 12 km and a new substation. This Scoping Report is the initial document which describes the Onshore Works proposal. A separate Scoping Report for the offshore element was produced in November Mainstream will submit an application to East Lothian Council for planning permission under the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997, as amended, to construct and maintain the onshore works. This application will be accompanied by an Environmental Statement in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2011 (the 2011 EIA Regulations ). This Scoping Report forms Mainstream s written request to East Lothian Council for a Scoping Opinion as to which environmental effects are to be considered in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) (Regulation 14 of the 2011 EIA Regulations). It provides a plan indicating the proposed location of the onshore works and a brief description of the nature and purpose of the development. It also discusses the possible effects of the development on the environment as well as details of the proposed approach to assessing these effects. The purpose of this Request for a Scoping Opinion is to help focus the EIA on the key environmental issues of relevance to the onshore works, as well as to invite consultees to comment and raise any relevant issues for consideration during the EIA process. The consultees to be approached are presented in each topic area chapter and a full list is provided at the end of this document. In addition, this Scoping Report will be made available for comment from any member of the public. Page v

7 1 Introduction 1.1 Background Information Global climate change is widely recognised as one of the greatest environmental, social and political challenges facing the world today. One of the principal causes of climate change is a rise in the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), to which fossil-fuelled electricity generation is a major contributor. Successive UK and Scottish governments have made progressively more determined efforts to curb CO 2 emissions through attempts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels; most notably for electricity generation. In May 2011, the Scottish Government set a revised target to generate the equivalent of 100 per cent of Scotland's gross annual electricity consumption from renewable energy sources by To help achieve renewable energy targets, in May 2008, The Crown Estate invited developers to bid for potential offshore wind farm sites within Scottish territorial waters (out to 12 nautical miles). Following the bid, The Crown Estate offered exclusivity agreements for ten sites around Scotland, with the potential to generate over 6 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind power. Mainstream Renewable Power Ltd (hereinafter referred to as Mainstream ) was awarded one of these exclusivity agreements. The proposed offshore wind farm project is called Neart na Gaoithe 1 and is located in the Firth of Forth, 15.5 km directly east of Fife Ness. The proposed wind farm covers an area of approximately 105 km 2 ; comprises between 64 and 125 turbines and has a target capacity of up to 450 megawatts (MW). Further information on the Neart na Gaoithe development can be found here: Following discussions with the Scottish Government, Mainstream is applying to Marine Scotland for consent under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 for the offshore wind farm and is applying to East Lothian Council for planning permission under Section 57 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997, as amended, for the onshore grid connection. This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Scoping Report relates to the onshore grid connection component (hereinafter referred to as the onshore works ). 1.2 Mainstream Renewable Power Limited Mainstream is a world leading renewable energy company actively developing over 12,000MW of wind and solar projects across eight countries on four continents. Mainstream has assembled a world class board and management team and currently employs 130 specialists worldwide. In Europe, the company is advancing three offshore projects Neart na Gaoithe in Scotland, the Hornsea Round 3 Zone in England and Horizont in Germany with a combined capacity of up to 7.5GW. Mainstream is also developing over 6.5GW in onshore wind and solar activities across North America, South America and Africa. 1 Neart na Gaoithe is a Scottish Gaelic phrase meaning might of the wind. Page 1

8 1.3 The Consultant Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report LUC has been appointed as the EIA Project Managers for the onshore works. LUC is registered to the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) s EIA Quality Mark, having made a commitment to excellence in the EIA activities delivered. IEMA reviews each registrant s compliance with the EIA Quality Mark Commitments on an ongoing basis to ensure registrants maintain high standards both now and in the future. In addition to project management of the EIA, and co-ordination of the preparation of the Environmental Statement (ES), LUC will provide expertise in relation to planning, landscape and visual amenity, ecology and socioeconomic assessment, supported by specialist sub-consultants teams who will provide expertise in the topic areas listed below: Natural Research Projects Limited (NRP): Ornithology; CFA Archaeology: Cultural Heritage; Kaya Consulting: Ground Conditions and Geology, Water Resources, Hydrology and Flood Risk; The Scottish Agricultural College: Soils, Agriculture and Land Use; Arup: Traffic and Transport, Air Quality, Noise and Vibration; Pager Power: Electric and Magnetic Fields; and The Centre for Research and Environmental Health, University of Aberystwyth: Health Impact Assessment. EMU Ltd specialises in consultancy, research and survey in the marine sector and has been appointed to undertake the EIA for the offshore works. LUC is working closely with EMU to ensure a coordinated approach to the assessment of both onshore and offshore components. Part of EMU s work has involved surveys of the intertidal area at the cable landing point which will feed into the assessment of the onshore works. As discussed in Section 3 below, the planning application ( red line ) boundary for the onshore works will start from the low water mark (Mean Low Water Springs). Below this level, any works form part of the Offshore Works. However, interactions between the onshore and offshore elements, including the potential for significant effects, will be considered as part of the cumulative assessment for the onshore works. Facilitating Change (UK) Ltd. is a facilitation company that works with clients in both the public and private sector. The organisation specialises in the design, delivery, reporting and project management of public and stakeholder engagement for major developments. Mainstream aims to involve the relevant public and stakeholder groups throughout the planning process and Facilitating Change plays a key role in this. Xero Energy Ltd offers expert advice in the field of electricity grid connection and integration of generation from renewable devices. Xero Energy offers services over a broad spectrum of technical, commercial and policy issues, ranging from electrical design and grid connection of projects through to guidance and advice on regulatory affairs, connection negotiations, regional and national policy. Xero Energy s work has included all aspects of engineering consultancy and survey work for the onshore grid connection and Page 2

9 infrastructure works for the project as well as commercial support for the project s grid connection agreements. 1.4 This Scoping Report Aims of the Report Mainstream regards effective planning and the robust scoping of the EIA as a critical step to securing consent with the support of all stakeholders. Regulation 14 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2011, hereafter referred to as the 2011 EIA Regulations, provides for obtaining a Scoping Opinion from the determining authority, East Lothian Council, as to the information to be provided in the ES. Mainstream is now requesting such an Opinion for the onshore works of the proposed Neart na Gaoithe development. A separate Scoping Report for the offshore element of the proposed scheme was produced in November 2009 and comments received on that document continue to inform the design and environmental studies as the proposed offshore wind farm is further developed. This Scoping Report is the initial document which describes the onshore works proposal and is being submitted by LUC on behalf of Mainstream. It identifies the potential environmental effects and outlines the proposed approach to the assessment, including reference to key legislation and standards, as well as key organisations and groups who will be consulted. The purpose of scoping is to help focus the EIA on the key environmental issues of relevance to the proposed development. On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the assessment team, experience from other similar projects, policy, guidance and standards of relevance, each topic-based section within this report outlines: Potentially significant effects associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works where detailed consideration within the ES is proposed; and Potential effects considered likely to be insignificant, adopting a precautionary approach, which can be scoped out and given only brief treatment in the ES unless further investigation or consultation suggests otherwise. Mainstream values the feedback received during the scoping process and welcomes advice from stakeholders on: Additional data sets or impact assessment tools that may be beneficial to the EIA process; How to better understand potential effects on the environment, local communities and industries and mitigation options available; and How to best engage all stakeholders in the EIA process. The consultees to be approached are presented in each topic area chapter and a full list is provided in Appendix I. Page 3

10 1.4.2 Getting Involved Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report There are a number of ways in which stakeholders can get involved in the scoping process and be kept informed of developments: Register at to: Download the Scoping Reports for both the onshore and offshore elements of the proposed wind farm, plus additional documentation as it becomes available; Receive alerts via on project updates and upcoming events; and Submit queries to the project team. Mainstream is organising consultation events throughout the development process and will be posting details on this website. Stakeholders can be informed of events by once registered. us at: info@neartnagaoithe.com Write to us: Environmental Developer Mainstream Renewable Power Abbey Business Centre The Beacon 176 St. Vincent Street Glasgow G2 5SG 2 Legislative Framework 2.1 The Need for Offshore Wind in Scotland On 26 November 2008, three statutes received Royal Assent that, together, provide a framework for UK climate and energy policy: the Climate Change Act and the Energy Act The Climate Change Act 2008 sets a target to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases in the UK by 80% of 1990 levels by Within Scotland, the Climate Change (Scotland) Act received assent on 4 August The Scottish Government issued the Renewables Action Plan 5 (RAP) in June 2009, which provides a rolling update, identifying what is required in the renewables sector to achieve Government objectives. This document is part of the framework for success 6 towards realising the renewables challenge. The RAP refers to imperative action required to address climate change (demonstrated by Scotland s world leading carbon reduction targets of 42% for 2020 and an 80% reduction target for 2050) and mentions that this 2 OPSI (2008) Climate Change Act Available at: 3 OPSI (2008) The Energy Act OPSI (2009) The Climate Change (Scotland) Act Page 4

11 imperative is driving development across a range of policy interests. It makes reference to the Scottish Government s commitment to achieve a headline target of 20% of Scottish energy use coming from renewable sources by 2020 (this target has now been superseded as discussed below). Specific targets include 50% of electricity demand from renewable sources by 2020, and the RAP sets out the framework for action in the specific area of renewable energy. Key objectives include: To establish Scotland as a UK and EU leader in the field; To ensure maximum returns for the Scottish domestic economy; and To meet targets for energy from renewables, and for emissions reductions, to 2020 and beyond. Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) (February 2010) 7 also emphasises the importance of tackling climate change and, in particular, addresses the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and continue to develop renewable energy resources. Since publication of the RAP, the Scottish Government has set higher targets, to encourage the renewable energy industry to respond. In September 2010, the Government raised the 2020 target for electricity to be generated from renewable sources to 80%. In May 2011, the Scottish Government raised the target even further, to generate the equivalent of 100% of Scotland's gross annual electricity consumption from renewable sources by Following announcement of the new renewables targets, the Scottish Government published the 2020 Routemap for Renewable Energy in Scotland in July This is an update and extension to the RAP. Meeting such ambitious targets will require a range of renewable energy technologies, including offshore wind farms such as Neart na Gaoithe. 2.2 National Planning Policy Scottish Planning Policy SPP is the statement of the Scottish Government s policy on nationally important land use planning matters and replaces individual, topic based policy guidance, including SPP 6 'Renewable Energy' which has now been revoked. The policy states that whilst hydroelectric and onshore wind power are currently the main sources of renewable power, other sources are soon to play an important role in meeting national targets, including offshore wind. Paragraph 192 of the policy states it is essential that development plans take into account the infrastructure and grid connection needs of the off-shore renewable energy generation industry. Development plans should identify appropriate locations for facilities linked to the manufacture, installation, operation and maintenance of off-shore wind farms and wave and tidal devices. This statement reinforces the support for renewable energy developments and associated installations that are necessary to meet Government targets. 7 Page 5

12 2.2.2 National Planning Framework for Scotland 2 Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report The National Planning Framework for Scotland (NPF) 2 was published in June 2009 and is a strategy for Scotland s long term spatial development. The Framework highlights the need for key improvements to the electricity transmission system to facilitate the development of Scotland's renewable energy resources. The document outlines the need for, and consideration of, upgrading, reinforcing, replacing and rebuilding a number of existing routes, whilst recognising the necessity for new connections and route modifications, taking account of opportunities for unlocking the potential of additional renewable energy resources. The Scottish Government is committed to realising the power generating potential of all renewable sources of energy to establish Scotland as a leader within the renewable energy market, with regard to the development of technologies and export of energy. To achieve this objective, it is essential to expand the mix of renewable energy technologies and tap into the energy available from wave and tidal power, biomass and offshore wind. The national planning framework aims to develop Scotland s renewable energy potential whilst safeguarding the environment and communities. 2.3 East Lothian Planning Policy The onshore works are located wholly within the local authority boundary of East Lothian. The Development Plans for East Lothian comprises the Edinburgh and Lothians Structure Plan 2015, approved in 2004 and the East Lothian Local Plan which was adopted in The Edinburgh and Lothians Structure Plan The Edinburgh and Lothians Structure Plan was produced by the City of Edinburgh Council, East Lothian Council, Midlothian Council and West Lothian Council. It provides a broad framework for the Local Plans which contain more site-specific policies. Although this plan still forms part of the adopted development plan, it is noted that it will soon be replaced by the Strategic Development Plan (SDP) for South East Scotland The East Lothian Local Plan The East Lothian Local Plan provides specific policies which reflect the aims and objectives set out by the Structure Plan. Whilst the Plan does not make specific reference to the onshore works required for offshore wind developments, it does provide policy support for onshore renewable energy developments (wind farms) provided that these do not have unacceptable environmental impacts (Policy NRG3: Wind Turbines). The Plan also contains a number of environmental protection policies (e.g. in relation to landscape quality and both cultural and natural heritage) and these will be taken into account in determining the significance of likely environmental effects associated with the onshore works East Lothian Planning Guidance In December 2010, East Lothian Council published Planning Guidance for the Location and Design of Wind Turbines in the Lowland Areas of East Lothian. Again, whilst specifically related to onshore wind turbine developments, the guidance also makes reference to supporting ancillary infrastructure. The guidance states that the colour of wind farm related infrastructure should relate to the colours of their landscape Page 6

13 setting. The guidance also refers to the impact of any overhead lines from the turbines to control cabinets and to grid connections and states that such power lines should be placed underground where possible. 3 Project Description 3.1 Introduction A connection to the electricity grid for Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm has been secured adjacent to an existing substation at the Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm. The offshore wind farm will export electricity to the grid via two marine cables, which will make landfall at Thorntonloch beach. The onshore works will include: Two transition pits close to the beach where the offshore and onshore cables will be jointed together; Six individual cables (laid in two groups of three) buried in within trench(es) for a distance of approximately 12 km from the landfall at Thorntonloch to Crystal Rig II; and A new electrical substation adjacent to the existing Crystal Rig II substation. The planning application to East Lothian Council will include a plan with an application ( red line ) boundary of the proposed onshore works. In line with Ofgem s Offshore Transmission Owner (OFTO) regime, all work carried out in assessing and designing the onshore infrastructure for the offshore works will need to be carried out with the intention of eventually transferring to the successful OFTO bidder. 3.2 Description of Proposed Cable Route Corridor The proposed route corridor within which the underground cable will be located is shown in Figure 3.1. The corridor originates at Thorntonloch beach, approximately 8 km south-east of Dunbar. The corridor then travels westwards before continuing in a south-westerly direction, to its end point at Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm. Much of the cable route will be installed in open field. For these sections all construction works will lie within a 20 m wide area along the proposed route. An additional 10 m width will be included to allow for route micro-siting, giving a total width of 30 m for the red line boundary. The vast majority of the route, the actual construction corridor will have a maximum width of 20 m. Construction access points will be indicated at appropriate intervals along the route, at which points the 30 m application boundary may widen slightly. Areas for locating construction compounds will also be identified. For the sections of the route installed in open field, a temporary haul road will be established adjacent to the cable trench and will be contained within the 20 m construction corridor. Further investigation and survey work both onshore and offshore is currently informing the design of the route to ensure identified local constraints and environmental sensitivities are taken into consideration. Page 7

14 3.3 Description of Proposed Cable and Substation Works Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report The grid connection will comprise two groups of three underground cables (two cable circuits ), laid in trenches, running from the landfall point to a new substation located at the point of connection to the existing electricity grid. The onshore cables will connect to the offshore cables close to the landfall point at Thorntonloch, which will comprise a sunken concrete pit, housing the interface point ( transition pit ). For the majority of the route, the construction corridor for the cable trench will be approximately 20 m wide. This will accommodate a trench approximately 2 m in width, with 5 m required for heavy vehicle access along the side of the trench and a further 5 m required for the laydown of equipment and spoil from the trenching. To avoid the side of the trench collapsing under load, up to 2 m is allowed from the edge of the trench and a final 3 m wide small vehicle/pedestrian access track will be provided on the far side of the trench. A further 3 m will be required to establish temporary fencing and to allow space for vehicle turning and car parking. The cable will be laid in sections and will connect via jointing bays every m along the route. The jointing bays will be located underground. Each jointing bay will have either a manhole access, or an above ground pill box. Along the proposed cable route, there are several significant crossings proposed to avoid existing infrastructure. These include 400 kilovolt (kv) power cables feeding Torness Nuclear Power Station, the A1(T), the East Coast Main Line railway and two further 132 kv power transmission circuits. Methods of crossing will depend on the specific circumstances but will include directional drilling, auger boring, hand digging or culverting of watercourses. In the case of crossing major power cables, this will be carried out by hand digging. The onshore substation will be constructed within the immediate vicinity of the existing Crystal Rig II substation. The equipment used for this substation will be air insulated switchgear, similar to the electrical plant that is already installed and will require an outdoor compound measuring approximately 200 m 170 m in size. To allow flexibility in the scheme design, this Scoping stage considers an indicative cable route corridor area (hereinafter referred to as the route corridor ). This enables constraints to be identified and avoided wherever possible across a range of environmental disciplines. 3.4 Construction Process Cable landing The options available for landing the cable at Thorntonloch beach are dependent on ground conditions. The preferred option is for a directional drill from close to the location of the transition pit to below the low water mark. This would enable the cable to be buried without disturbing the surface of the intertidal area, including the beach. Forthcoming geotechnical investigations will confirm feasibility of this approach. Alternatively, it may be necessary to trench the beach either with excavators or a plough and then backfill after burial. Site visits and geological survey work undertaken to date indicate that, due to sediment cover, it may be necessary to install protective ducts for the cables out to a suitable distance subsea Transition pits Two transition pits (one for each cable circuit) will be located behind the beach in agricultural fields at Thorntonloch and will be positioned underground. The transition pits will be approximately 4 m x 11.5 m Page 8

15 and 2 m deep. Transition pits will be constructed from reinforced concrete. A security fence will be constructed to enclose and secure the transition pits during construction. The marine cables will be pulled into the transition pit with a mechanical mobile winch. The cables will be connected to a fixed point in the transition pits and a joint then made at this point to connect the subsea cables to the land cables. The site will be restored to its original condition following installation Installation of onshore cable The majority of the cable route will be trenched via open cut trenches. Some sections of the route may require trenching through the public road, although these sections are restricted to short crossings. It is anticipated that temporary road diversions will be required to facilitate construction works through public roads. After installation of the cable, the trench will be backfilled and the land utilised for temporary access will be restored as close as possible to its original conditions. Excavated sections at road crossings will also be resurfaced. Where major obstacles such as sensitive watercourses or woodlands are to be avoided, directional drilling methods will be used. With this process, between three and seven ducts are bored under the crossing in an arc shape across the obstacle. The drilling operation begins by drilling a pilot hole using the guided drill, the bore is then reamed to the appropriate diameter before ducts are installed within the bores. This process uses drilling muds (Bentonite) at each stage of the process. Finally, the cables are pulled through the ducts. The size of the drilling rig required for this process will be determined by the length of the drill and size of bores required. The cable will cross under the East Coast Mainline railway and the A1, through directional drilling methods or auger boring. Selection of the preferred construction method will be agreed in consultation with Network Rail and Transport Scotland Substation works To facilitate substation construction, a temporary construction compound will be established by removing the top ground layer and covering it with crushed stones. Once the substation site and external access track are established, initial ground works will be progressed including removing the top layer of earth before levelling the ground, establishing a copper earthing mat and foundations (typically concrete and steel or concrete piles), compacting, surfacing and establishing drainage systems. Cable routes and internal access road works will then be established, followed by the construction of the necessary control buildings then installation of external components, internal components and finally cable installation. After testing and commissioning, reinstatement works will be carried out. The control building and external equipment will be similar in nature to the infrastructure that already exists at the Crystal Rig II substation. 3.5 Operation and Maintenance Building over cables, earth mounding and excavating on the cable easement strip is restricted. Planting trees and other deep rooted vegetation over the cables or within 3 m of the cable trench is also restricted, to prevent encroachment by vegetation. The cable route will be micro-sited to avoid as far as possible tree Page 9

16 roots and exploit existing gaps in hedges. Annual checks, by foot, will be required along the route during operation. Cable failures are rare, but should repairs be required the cable, vehicular access will be required along the cable route. 3.6 Decommissioning Onshore cable It is likely that cable removal would result in disturbance to the local environment similar to installation therefore, it is intended that the onshore cables be left in-situ as is industry standard. Contingency plans will be developed to ensure that appropriate actions are taken should any of the residual cables become exposed. As is it not anticipated that the cable will be removed, the impact of decommissioning will not be considered in the EIA process Substation The operational life of a substation is typically 50 years, whereas the operational life of an offshore wind farm is typically less than 30 years. At the end of the life of the operational wind farm, the substation is likely to be retendered for continued use therefore the potential effects of decommissioning will not be considered through the EIA. 4 Terrestrial and Intertidal Ecology 4.1 Introduction This chapter sets out the proposed approach to the assessment of potential effects of the onshore works, including the intertidal area to Mean Low Water Springs (MLWS), on flora and fauna, during construction, operation and maintenance. Potential effects on birds are considered separately in Section 5. The ecological assessment will be undertaken by LUC with input from additional specialists as required. 4.2 Method of Assessment The intertidal and terrestrial ecological assessments will be carried out in line with relevant legislation and standards, as well as having regard to the following guidance: Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM) (2006) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom (version 7); Institute of Environmental Assessment (1995) Guidelines for Baseline Ecological Assessment; Scottish Executive (2001) Interim Guidance on European Protected Species, Development Sites and the Planning System (2001); Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) procedural guidelines for intertidal mapping. Davies J, Baxter J, Bradley M, Connor D, Khan J, Murray E, Sanderson W, Turnbull C & Vincent M. (2001). Marine Monitoring Handbook. Joint Nature Conservation Committee; and Page 10

17 The Marine Habitats Classification System. Connor DW, Allen JH, Golding N, Howell KL, Lieberknecht LM, Northern KO & Reker JB. (2004). The Marine Habitat Classification for Britain and Ireland, Version Joint Nature Conservation Committee. LUC is in the process of undertaking a desk study for the onshore works. The following field surveys have also been completed: In May 2011, a habitat suitability index (HSI) 8 was completed for great crested newt (GCN) of ponds within the route corridor. Further presence/absence surveys were completed of selected ponds 9. No GCN were recorded as being present; In June 2011, extended Phase 1 Habitat survey 10 was carried out. Targeted National Vegetation Classification (NVC) survey was subsequently carried out in July and August 2011 for habitats of particular biodiversity importance or interest, including Annex 1 Habitats and those listed on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP); A daytime bat roost assessment including overarching landscape connectivity and detailed assessment of structures and trees within the route corridor was undertaken in early July These surveys, together with consultation with Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), were used to determine the scope of emergence/re-entry surveys undertaken during September 2011 at specific locations within the corridor where there may be potential tree loss/disturbance; Otter is known to utilise Thornton Burn and Dry Burn and is anticipated to be active throughout much of the watercourse network in the local area. Inspection of riparian habitats for field signs including holts, shelters and lay-ups, spraints and feeding remains was undertaken between June and August 2011 when otter activity is highest, during periods of normal water flow. The density of shelters will be used to estimate otter density (Kruuk et al., ); In parallel, surveys for water vole were carried out in accordance with current guidance 12, searching for field signs including tunnels, footprints, latrines and feeding remains of water vole, and footprints, in parallel with a general assessment of habitat suitability for this species; Badger surveys were carried out during June and July 2011, and included searching for setts, latrines, hairs, tracks and trails (Harris et al., ). Survey effort was concentrated along linear habitat features, such as hedges, woodland edges and rides, where badger activity is likely to be focused; and 8 Oldham R.S., Keeble J., Swan M.J.S. and Jeffcote M. (2000) Evaluating the Suitability of Habitat for the Great Crested Newt Triturus cristatus. Herpetological Journal 10 (4), English Nature (2001) Great Crested Newt Mitigation Guidelines. English Nature, Peterborough 10 JNCC (2010) Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat Survey: A technique for environmental audit. Joint Nature Conservation Committee. 11 Kruuk, H., Moorhouse, A., Conroy, J.W.H., Durbin, L., Frears, S An estimate of numbers and habitat preference of otters Lutra lutra in Shetland, UK. Biological Conservation 49: pp For example, Strachan, R. and Moorhouse, T Water Vole Conservation Handbook, Second Edition. 13 Harris, S., Cresswell, P. & Jefferies, D Surveying for Badgers. Occasional Publication of the Mammal Society No. 9. Mammal Society, Bristol. Page 11

18 In August 2009 intertidal habitat mapping and species surveys were undertaken. Biotope maps and classifications were developed and the relative importance of notable biotopes was presented. Table 4.1 details the buffers that have been applied for each survey to the centre line of the route corridor. Table 4.1 Ecology survey buffers Survey Ecology: Phase 1 Habitat survey NVC survey Bat Survey Survey buffer distance 200m wide route corridor +100m buffer 200m wide route corridor 200m wide route corridor Otter survey 200m wide route corridor +200m Water vole survey 200m wide route corridor +50m Badger survey 200m wide route corridor +50m GCN HSI and presence/absence survey Provisional route alignment +500m Intertidal biotope mapping survey Point cable landfall site with 250m wide swath survey either side 4.3 Existing Conditions Designated Sites Sites designated for nature conservation in the local area are shown in Figure 4.1. No statutory designations intercept the route corridor. Five Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) are located beyond the route corridor within 5 km of the indicative cable route (listed in order of proximity): Woodhall Dean SSSI, designated for its upland oak woodland, is within the boundary of the route corridor in the western extent near Woodhall and Weatherly. This is also the site of Woodhall Dean Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT) Reserve; The eastern stretch of the route corridor near Skateraw encroaches on Barns Nest Coast SSSI. The site covers an area of 271ha and is designated for both its geology and coastal habitats, including shingle and sandy shores, sand dunes, rock stacks and a large area of mineral enriched grassland (Magic Maps, 2009; Registers of Scotland, 2009; Rammer Cleugh SSSI is approximately 1 km west of the route corridor and covers an area of 482ha. It is designated for the botanical features of its ancient woodland, and as a geomorphological site for its assemblage of glacial meltwater channels and kame terraces; Lammermuir Deans SSSI comprises two parts and is located approximately 1 km south of the route corridor. Its gorges contain deciduous woodland which is uncommon in the context of the surrounding heath and grassland. The site is also home to rare valley fen marsh habitats and mineral-rich grasslands. This site is also designated as East Lammermuir Deans SWT Reserve; and Page 12

19 Pease Bay Coast SSSI is approximately 1 km south-east of the route corridor, on the Berwickshire Coast. The cliffs at this stretch of coastline expose a succession of Upper Devonian and Lower Carboniferous strata that are of national and international importance. The presence of paramaritime cliff-slope grassland communities are of national importance and the saltmarsh area at Reed Point is of value at the local level. In addition to the SWT Reserves at Woodhall Dean and Lammermuir Deans, there are two other SWT Reserves within 5 km of the route corridor. Thornton Glen extends into the survey corridor at the western extent close to Thornton. Pease Dean SWT Reserve is approximately 3.5 km to the south-east of the corridor at the southern end of Thorntonloch beach. Ancient woodlands occur throughout the route corridor, running along, and across and through the central section between High Wood and Thurston. There are areas of semi-natural ancient woodland that correlate with the ancient woodland north of High Wood and at the stretch of woodland within the corridor west of Thurston Manor Phase 1 Habitat Survey A Phase 1 Habitat Survey of the indicative cable route was undertaken in June At the eastern extent of the route, coastal grasslands with associated streams and fragments of woodland habitat were recorded, although the majority of the corridor passes through predominantly arable land. The roadside verges of the A1(T) form relatively diverse grasslands in comparison to the surrounding farmland. Woodland habitats occur throughout the route corridor, including some of ancient woodland character. Hedgerows are frequent but typically defunct and species-poor. Several ponds were recorded, and those at Woodhall Farm for example, are located within a mosaic of willow carr and swamp vegetation. West of Frimley How (and the access road to Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm), the habitats become more upland in character. The higher, open plateau support improved or species-poor grassland subject to grazing and lime-application which has reduced the acidic character. A more varied habitat mosaic occurs along the network of burn valleys. Upstream of Woodhall Farm, for example, marshy grassland was recorded, with patches of gorse and tree lines of hornbeam. At the western extent, the steep sided valleys support marshy grassland at their base, with juniper scrub and dry heath across the shallow soils of the valley sides, acid grassland across the upper slopes and the comparatively impoverished pasture at the plateau. At the western extent around the substation at Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm, pockets of blanket bog, wet modified bog and marshy grassland dominated by sedges were also recorded Intertidal Survey For the intertidal area below mean high water spring (MHWS) and intertidal habitat, a species and biotope mapping survey was undertaken in August A total of 3 sub-biotopes, 6 biotopes, 1 biotope complex and a habitat complex were identified at Thorntonloch; 42 individual species were noted. The shore community was consistent with that of a high energy sandy beach with numerous areas of cobbles and boulder outcrops. Extensive areas of bedrock also appeared to the north of the interest area and a freshwater stream flowed across the centre of the beach. Soft sediment areas ranged from fine to medium grained sand, with a very low final gravel proportion, on the lower to mid shore respectively. It was recommended that further survey work, including to Phase II level, would need to be undertaken to confirm the biodiversity of these areas and to fully assess their conservation interest. Page 13

20 4.4 Potential Effects on Ecology Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report Taking account of the findings of the work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential effects associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works include: Potential direct ecological effects associated with the construction and operation of the cable landfall may comprise habitat disturbance (physical and abrasion), sediment re-suspension resulting in possible near shore community smothering, noise and vibration and Electric and Magnetic Field (EMF) considerations; Indirect effects on sites designated for their nature conservation interest and potential direct effects on designated ancient and semi-natural ancient woodland; Direct temporary or permanent loss of habitats with high nature conservation value for trench excavation and any required felling, construction of the substation and transmission pit (habitat loss calculations will be undertaken and presented in the ES); Temporary and permanent habitat fragmentation and isolation; Disturbance to species with high nature conservation value as a result of construction and any required tree felling; Indirect temporary or permanent loss of/damage to habitats and species through secondary changes to local hydrological conditions as a result of any required felling and construction; Increased levels of silt-laden run-off from construction activity compromising habitats within local catchments; and Effects on bats as a consequence of any required felling and fragmentation of flight lines and feeding paths. On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the ecology team and experience from other similar projects, it is considered likely that the following effects can be scoped out: Direct effects on statutory sites for nature conservation (excluding consideration of ancient woodlands); and Effects on habitats, and on all protected species, as a consequence of operation and maintenance of the underground cable. 4.5 Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Mainstream is committed to implementing accepted good practice during construction, operation and maintenance of the onshore works. Where potentially significant effects on ecology are identified, measures to prevent, reduce and where possible offset these adverse effects will be proposed. Measures likely to be utilised include: Adherence to Pollution Prevention Guidance (see Chapter 9); Page 14

21 Implementation of water quality protection measures (see Chapter 9); The micro-siting of development components away from sensitive receptors; Careful timing of construction activities and other measures such as ramping of trenches to avoid effects on protected species; and Reinstatement of habitats to pre-construction conditions where possible. Mainstream is committed to implementing all the mitigation measures identified in the ecological assessment. Where appropriate, the measures will be monitored for effectiveness. 4.6 Consultation Proposals The consultees below will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council may also contact a number of these consultees regarding the scope of the EIA: East Lothian Council Biodiversity Officer; SNH; SWT; Midlothian Wildlife Information Centre; and The Association of Salmon and Fishery Boards. 5 Ornithology 5.1 Introduction The approach to the evaluation of bird interest on the site and surrounding area, and to the assessment of potential effects on birds is set out below. The assessment of effects of the onshore works on ornithology is being undertaken by Natural Research Projects Limited (NRP). 5.2 Method of Assessment The assessment of effects on birds will be carried out in line with relevant legislation and standards. The SNH guidance on bird surveys for terrestrial wind farms does not consider the survey needs for cable routes. Nevertheless, there are well established standard methods for surveys of breeding birds and coastal birds and these are being employed. Page 15

22 Aims Breeding bird surveys were undertaken in The surveys aimed to characterise the breeding bird communities present in the survey area. Specific aims included the following: To determine which breeding species of conservation importance, if any, could be adversely affected by the onshore works; To determine the location of breeding territories of sensitive species; To determine the use of inter-tidal habitats by non-breeding or passage waders, wildfowl and seabirds; and To identify any habitat features of particular importance to birds (e.g. roost sites and lek sites). Particular attention is given to finding species that are listed on: Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended); Annex 1 of the European Habitat Regulations (i.e. the Birds Directive); Birds of Conservation Concern (BOCC) III red list; and UK Biodiversity Action Plan species list. The nesting sites of species that are not listed on any of the above lists but that are known to be sensitive to disturbance were also searched for including buzzard, sparrowhawk and kestrel. Historical records of birds of high conservation value compiled by Scottish Ornithologist Club in Scottish Bird reports will also be examined. Survey methods The bird survey methods employed in each habitat are broadly similar; all essentially entailing walking over the area of interest several times during the course of the breeding season and mapping the locations of birds detected. The exact methods vary slightly between habitats to take account of differences in species detectability and survey aims. Birds are mapped onto 1:25,000 scale OS maps. Coastal habitats were surveyed by simple observational methods following the British Trust for Ornithology method for Non-Estuarine Shorebird Surveys and standard methods for counting breeding seabirds. Monthly visits were made from April to July Visits were made at in the low-tide period to check for birds feeding in inter-tidal areas and also in the high tide-period to check for roost sites. The Common Bird Census method was used to map the territories of birds breeding in lowland farmland, with visits in late April, mid May and mid June Surveys were only conducted in relatively calm fine conditions (wind force <F3) to facilitate detection of singing birds. The Moorland Bird Survey method has been used to map the territories of birds breeding in moorland and rough pasture habitats. A surveyor walked across the area of interest approaching to within 100m of all parts of the cable route corridor that appear to be suitable for high conservation value species such as merlin and black grouse have also been examined. Page 16

23 The areas of woodland potentially affected are very small and are adjacent to moorland and farmland habitat. These have been examined for nesting raptors and other species of high conservation interest. Survey Areas For all habitats, the primary aim of the surveys was to establish the distribution and abundance of breeding birds along the route corridor (Fig xx). The route corridor is essentially the proposed cable route buffered to 500m. For coastal habitats the surveys also aimed to determine the use of inter-tidal ground at the east end of the route corridor by foraging shorebirds and wildfowl, and whether there are any regular wader or tern roosting sites. Passerines species (song birds) are generally more tolerant of disturbance and the survey area comprises a 400m wide strip along the centre line of the route corridor. For non-passerine species (waders, gulls, game birds, raptors and seabirds), which tend to have higher sensitivity to disturbance, the survey area has extended to the whole route corridor, i.e. 500m either side if the centre line. 5.3 Existing Conditions Bird habitats There are no areas of particularly high ornithological interest within the onshore works boundary shown on Figure 3.1. The route corridor comprises four distinct habitats. Bird species Rocky and sandy coastal habitats, including inter-tidal areas, at the landfall site (approx. 5% of the area). The coast at Thorntonloch is subject to high levels of human recreational disturbance, e.g. holiday makers from the adjacent caravan park; Intensive agricultural farmland below about 150m altitude (approx. 55% of the area). This is dominated by intensive wheat production, but there are also small areas of grass ley, potatoes and barley. The fields are generally large and most have either hedges or dry stone wall boundaries; Moorland and rough grazing pasture between 150m and 300m altitude (approx. 37% of the area). This includes the Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm; and Woodland. Small broad-leaved and conifer plantations are present in several places along the cable route corridor or in close proximity. All these are apparently of relatively recent origin (<100 years). In addition, there is an area of semi-natural ancient woodland at Woodhall Dean that meets the cable route corridor, at approximately mid-way along the route. The habitats within the route corridor have the potential to support species that are either sensitive to disturbance and/or of high conservation interest (e.g. those species on the lists specified above). Selected species and species-groups for each habitat are listed below. The species listed include those that are sensitive to disturbance or are of high conservation interest, and those species that are particularly common. Page 17

24 Rocky and sandy coast. Wintering and passage waders, gulls and wildfowl including oystercatcher, curlew, ringed plover, herring gull (BOCC red-list), eider and red-breasted merganser. Seabird species such as gannet and shag occur on the sea, especially in the breeding season. No regular high tide wader or tern roost sites are known about. Surveys in 2011 found no breeding waders or seabirds along the coastal part of the site. Lowland farmland. Yellowhammer (BOCC red-list) and whitethroat, breed in small numbers in hedgerows and house sparrow (BOCC red-list) and swallow breed in small numbers in farm buildings. A quail (a species listed on Annex 1 of European Habitat Regulations) was heard calling from a wheat field in June and July 2011 and this uncommon migratory game-bird species may therefore be breeding locally. The lowland fields also provide feeding habitat for buzzard, peregrine (Annex 1), herring gull (BOCC red-list), wood pigeon, rooks and swallows. Survey work in 2011 found no breeding waders on the lowland farmland. Woodland. The woodlands provide breeding habitat for a wide range of common woodland passerines including chaffinch, chiffchaff, willow warbler, great tit, blue tit and blackbird. Tree sparrow (BOCC red-list) and song thrush (BOCC red-list) are also recorded in small numbers. Buzzard are likely to breed in some of the larger nearby woodlands but no active nest sites were found within the route corridor. Moorland and rough grazing. Small numbers of curlew and lapwing breed, especially in the vicinity of Crystal Rig II wind farm. Kestrel use these habitats for hunting. Meadow pipit, skylark (BOCC redlist), wheatear and reed bunting breed in small numbers. The extensive areas of gorse scrub along parts of the route corridor support breeding dunnock (BOCC red-list), linnet (BOCC red-list) and yellowhammer (BOCC red-list). Although the moorland habitat is potentially suitable for both red grouse and black grouse (BOCC red-list), neither species has been detected in surveys. Designated sites The closest Special Protection Area (SPA) is the Firth of Forth SPA, with the southern boundary of this large coastal SPA located approximately 5.3 km north-west of the route corridor at its nearest point. The qualifying interests of this SPA include wintering and/or passage populations of European importance of Annex 1 species including red-throated diver, Slavonian grebe, golden plover and bar-tailed godwit, and regularly supports wintering populations European and international importance of the migratory species including pink-footed goose, shelduck, redshank and turnstone. It also supports a wintering waterfowl assemblage of European importance. The St Abb s Head to Fast Castle SPA is approximately 6.8 km south-east of the route corridor at its nearest point, situated along the Berwickshire coastline and extending 1 km into the marine environment. The site supports large colonies of breeding seabirds in excess of 20,000 individuals including nationally important populations of the razorbill, common guillemot, black-legged kittiwake, herring gull and European shag. 5.4 Potential Effects on Birds Taking account of the findings of the desk-based and survey work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential effects on birds associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works include: Page 18

25 Small scale permanent loss of habitat, resulting from construction of infrastructure at either end of the cable route; Small scale, short term habitat change, resulting from disturbance of the ground during cable burial operations; and Short-term disturbance of birds from construction activities in the vicinity of the onshore works. On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the ornithology team and experience from other similar projects, it is considered likely that the following effects can be scoped out: A permanent reduction in breeding or wintering bird populations due to the operational stage of the onshore works; Direct and indirect effects on designated sites of ornithological interest; and Collision risks to flying birds. 5.5 Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Mainstream is committed to implementing accepted good practice during construction, operation and maintenance of the onshore works. Where potentially significant effects on birds are identified, measures to avoid, reduce and where possible offset these adverse effects will be proposed. Possible measures that may be used include: Restricting certain construction activities to times of the year when sensitive species are not breeding; and Avoiding habitats of value to breeding birds that could be destroyed or permanently damaged by construction activity e.g. blanket bog. 5.6 Consultation Proposals The consultees below will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council may also contact a number of these consultees regarding the scope of the EIA: SNH; The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB); and The Lothian and Borders Raptor Study Group. SNH has already been consulted by in April 2011 prior to the start of breeding bird surveys regarding the proposed breeding bird survey methods. Page 19

26 6 Cultural Heritage 6.1 Introduction Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report The cultural heritage of an area comprises archaeological sites, historic buildings and other historic environment features, gardens and designed landscapes, historic battlefields and other sites, features or places in the landscape that have the capacity to provide information about past human activity, or which have cultural relevance due to associations with folklore or historic events. Sites of cultural heritage interest can also be informed by their setting within the wider landscape. The proposed approach to the assessment of effects on cultural heritage is outlined below. The assessment will be undertaken by CFA Archaeology Ltd. 6.2 Method of Assessment The assessment of effects on cultural heritage will be carried out in line with relevant heritage protection legislation, as well as the following standards and guidance: Historic Scotland (2009) Scottish Historic Environment Policy: Scotland s Historic Environment; Historic Scotland (2010) Managing Change in the Historic Environment Guidance Notes - Setting; The Scottish Government (2010) Scottish Planning Policy; The Institute for Archaeologists (2009) Standard and Guidance for Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment; and The Institute for Archaeologists (2010) Code of Conduct. A detailed desk-based assessment and reconnaissance field survey will be undertaken as part of the EIA to identify cultural heritage assets, designated or undesignated. Desk-based assessment will focus upon a study corridor extending 250m either side of the centreline proposed cable route. Reconnaissance field survey will examine a narrower corridor extending 100m either side of the centreline of the cable route. Where access allows, onsite field work will be undertaken to determine accurate locations for previously recorded sites and features and to record their baseline condition; to identify the presence of any previously undiscovered sites or features in proximity to the onshore works; and to assess potential effects on the settings of cultural heritage assets. The proposed substation infrastructure is the only major permanent above ground element of the onshore works. The effects of the proposals on the setting of significant receptors present will only be assessed in relation to this, and not in relation to the underground cable works. A study area with a radius of at least 3 km, centred upon the proposed substation infrastructure, will be applied to identify any designated features for which their setting may be affected. 6.3 Existing Conditions Based on an initial desk-based study, there are over 50 recorded cultural heritage features and sites present within the route corridor, with a broad range spanning prehistoric settlement and burial remains through to World War II military structures. The prehistoric remains include later prehistoric houses, settlements, fortification and boundary features, the majority detected as cropmarks and with no surviving Page 20

27 above-ground traces, burial structures including two cists, and artefact findspots. The other recorded sites are almost wholly of medieval or later date, and include country houses and estate features, a village, farms and related buildings and land use features, quarries, a battle site and a mill race. The World War II remains include the sites of a military camp and anti-tank blocks. Several designated cultural heritage assets are present within the route corridor (shown on Figure 6.1). There are eight Scheduled Monuments (SM), the largest being is Dryburn Bridge enclosure (SM 4038) and Skateraw Ring Ditches and Cropmarks (SM 4040) both located to the west of Skateraw. The Innerwick Conservation Area lies partly within the route corridor where there is also a cluster of Listed Buildings present. Listed Buildings within the route corridor include Thurston Home Farm (HB 7711, Category A) and the North Lodge (HB 7715, Category B), East Lodge (HB 7710, Category C(S)) and Thurston Dovecot (HB 7709, Category C (S)), Thurston Mains steading (HB 7714, Category B) and Thurston Mains farmhouse and walled garden (HB 7713, Category C (S)) and a trough at Thurston (HB 7712, Category B), a Category B listed Group of buildings associated with Temple Mains Farm (HB 7720), a farmhouse at Skateraw (HB 7706, Category B), and cottages at Thorntonloch (HB 7708, Category B). The site of the 1650 Battle of Dunbar is recorded in the Inventory of Historic Battlefields and extends into the route corridor by approximately 380, on the north-west side of the Dry Burn near Thurston. The Dunglass Garden and Designed Landscape is approximately 320 m to the south-east and Broxmouth Park GDL is the next closest, approximately 2.2 km to the north-west of the route corridor at the closest point. 6.4 Potential Effects on Cultural Heritage Taking account of the findings of the work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential effects associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works include: Physical damage to non-designated or currently undiscovered sites or remains of archaeological or historical interest (partial or total removal including severance of linear features); and Indirect effects on the setting of features of cultural heritage value during construction, operation and maintenance activities. On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the cultural heritage team and experience from other similar projects, it is considered likely that the following effects can be scoped out: Disturbance from vibration, dewatering or changes in hydrology resulting in indirect effects on cultural heritage features and sites; and Temporary effects on the setting of nearby cultural heritage features during construction. 6.5 Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Mainstream is committed to implementing accepted good practice during the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the onshore works. Page 21

28 Where potentially significant effects on cultural heritage are identified, measures to prevent, reduce and where possible offset these adverse effects will be proposed. Measures likely to be utilised include: The micro-siting of the cable away from sensitive locations; The fencing-off or marking-out of cultural heritage sites or features in proximity to working areas; An archaeological watching brief, if required, during construction activities in, or in proximity to, areas of particular concern; Archaeological recording in advance of construction activities where avoidance of sites or features is not feasible; and Implementation of a working protocol should unrecorded archaeological features be discovered. 6.6 Consultation Proposals The consultees below will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council may also contact a number of these consultees regarding the scope of the EIA: Historic Scotland; East Lothian Council Archaeology Service (ELCAS) and Conservation Officers; and Local archaeological and heritage interest groups, where recommended by ELCAS. 7 Landscape and Visual Amenity 7.1 Introduction This chapter sets out the approach to the assessment of potential effects of the onshore works on landscape and visual amenity, during both construction and operation. The Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) will be undertaken by LUC. 7.2 Method of Assessment Approach The LVIA will be undertaken following the approach set out in Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment: Second Edition (Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, 2002). Other guidance documents to be referred to include: Landscape Institute (2011) Use of Photography and Photomontage in Landscape and Visual Assessment. Landscape Institute Advice Note 01/11; SNH and the Countryside Agency (2002) Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland; and Page 22

29 Swanwick, C. and Land Use Consultants (nd) TOPIC PAPER 6: Techniques and Criteria for Judging Capacity and Sensitivity Countryside Agency / SNH. The principal objectives of the LVIA are to: Describe, classify and evaluate the existing landscape resources likely to be affected by the onshore development, during the construction and operational phases; Identify visual receptors with views of the development; and To assess the significance of the effects on landscape resources and visual amenity, taking into account the measures proposed to mitigate any of the effects identified Evaluation of Effects: Sensitivity Landscape Resource The landscape resource will be identified in terms of landscape elements within the study area (e.g. hedgerows, trees etc.) and landscape character. These aspects of the landscape resource will be evaluated in terms of their sensitivity to the development of the onshore works. Sensitivity will be evaluated using professional judgement informed by the above guidance and drawing upon the sensitivities assigned within the relevant landscape character assessments (see Existing Conditions, below). The sensitivity of landscape elements and character along the route corridor may reflect factors such as quality, value, contribution to landscape character, and the degree to which the particular element or characteristic can be replaced or substituted. Sensitivity is specific to the type of development proposed and sensitive landscape elements could comprise those in good condition which make a strong positive contribution to the local landscape character, such as mature trees and well kept hedgerows. Sensitive landscape character may be a result of high levels of integrity or scenic quality in a landscape, which could be adversely affected by development of the type proposed Visual Receptors Representative viewpoints will form the basis for the assessment of potential effects on views from the local area. Based on examination of the existing landscape, and the nature of the development proposed, it is considered unlikely that the proposed substation, or line of the buried cable, will be immediately visible from more than 5 km away. Therefore, viewpoints have been selected within 5 km of the route corridor. The viewpoints have been selected to include: Locations which represent residential properties, popular views, places where people congregate to visit, places used for recreational activities, or centres of population; Locations which overlook all aspects of the proposed development; Both shorter and longer range views to the development; and Locations representative of both static views, e.g. residential properties, and sequential views, e.g. roads and footpaths. Page 23

30 The sensitivity of visual receptors will be defined as part of the baseline analysis and will be considered on the basis of: The type of viewers present at the location, and their interest in the view (for example, residents will have a proprietary interest in a view from their house); The activities undertaken by viewers at the location (for example, walkers on core paths or public rights of way are likely to be focused on the landscape); The number of viewers likely to experience views from that particular viewpoint; The position of the development in the view, for example as part of an open panorama, or as a focal feature; and The nature of the existing view, including its composition, elements and scenic qualities Evaluation of Effects: Magnitude Landscape Resource The magnitude of change to landscape elements and landscape character will be assessed in relation to: The degree of change to individual landscape features/elements; The extent to which the development has an effect on the integrity of a range of characteristics of the landscape (including perceptual characteristics); and The extent to which the scale, appearance, etc. of the development is compatible with the character of the landscape Visual Receptors Analysis of visual effects will be informed by analysis of a zone of theoretical visibility (ZTV) map, and assessment of views from the viewpoints. The ZTV will be generated to a distance of 5 km from the proposed development. As the ZTV is based on bare ground topography, which does not include the screening effects of buildings and vegetation, the actual visibility will be checked in the field. Photomontages will be used to consider and illustrate changes to existing views. Photomontages will involve overlaying computer-generated perspectives of the development over photographs of the existing situation, to illustrate how the views will change. Where possible, the photography will be carried out in good weather conditions offering clear visibility. With regard to the magnitude of change, the assessments will consider the level of change in the view and the degree of contrast or integration of the onshore works with existing features. This will take account of the extent and appearance of the features of the onshore works that are visible, and their compatibility with the scene into which they are being introduced. Page 24

31 7.2.4 Evaluation of Effects: Significance Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report The significance of an effect depends on both the magnitude of change and the sensitivity of the resource/ receptor. A higher level of significance is generally attached to high magnitude effects on highly sensitive resources/ receptors. Some methodologies for assessing significance score magnitude against sensitivity to arrive at a judgement of significance. However, for this assessment, a professional judgement will be made, considering both magnitude and sensitivity. 7.3 Existing Conditions Landscape Resources The route corridor crosses through low-lying coastal landscape at the landfall, to rolling farmland, to moorland at the edge of the Lammermuir Hills. The landscape of the study area is described and classified in The Lothians Landscape Character Assessment, and The Borders Landscape Assessment, both of which were prepared by ASH Consulting Group and published by SNH in The character areas through which the route corridor passes are illustrated in Figure 7.1. Landscape designations are also illustrated in Figure 7.1, including two sites listed on the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes. The landfall site is close to an Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV), which covers the foreshore and a narrow strip of dunes at Thornly. This AGLV runs from Torness to the East Lothian boundary. The route corridor enters a second AGLV west of Falsely Hill. This AGLV covers a large area of the Lammermuir Hills and their fringes. Immediately south of the western extent of the route corridor is the Scottish Borders boundary. The area to the south is also included within an AGLV by Scottish Borders Council Visual Amenity The onshore works, and particularly the associated construction activities, will be visible across a limited area of East Lothian and the Scottish Borders. Examination of the substation site indicates that it is in a location well screened by surrounding landforms, and is unlikely to be visible from residential properties. The ZTV will inform the selection of visual receptors to be assessed. Following preliminary visits to the area, a draft list of assessment viewpoints has been drawn up. These viewpoints will be subject to consultation with the bodies listed below, and will be further verified on site. The draft list of assessment viewpoints is presented in Table 7.1 and shown on Figure 7.2. Table 7.1 Assessment Viewpoints No. Location X Y Notes 1 John Muir Way at Thorntonloch 2 Railway bridge, north of Thornton Mill 3 Innerwick, north edge of the village Long-distance coastal footpath, at southern end of caravan park Minor road over railway, overlooking the route as it passes along the A Small village close to the cable route, overlooking the route as it passes between the A1 and Thurston Manor Page 25

32 No. Location X Y Notes 4 Thurston Manor, site entrance 5 Ogle Lodge, north of Thurston Mains Caravan park located adjacent to the cable route Point in close proximity to the cable route, near to the entrance of Ogle Lodge 6 Blackcastle Hill Hill-top location to the south of the route, on a Core Path 7 Tripslaw Hill Elevated point on minor road, overlooking the central part of the route 8 Tay Burn Point on footpath close to substation site 9 Bransly Hill, ruin on west side of hill Hill-slope location close to the substation site 10 Watch Law Hill-top location close to the substation site, on a Right of Way 7.4 Potential Effects on Landscape and Visual Amenity Effects on Landscape Resources The erection of a new substation, and associated construction activities, at the proposed location will lead to the loss of an area of moorland vegetation, and the introduction of a new industrial structure in an area already influenced by the presence of the existing substation. The construction of the underground cable will involve large-scale excavation works along the route. Longer term effects may include the loss of existing land cover, including hedgerows and trees Effects on Visual Amenity The introduction of the substation into an upland location will give rise to changes in views of the site. The new substation will be seen in the context of the existing large-scale substation on site, and as such is unlikely to be regarded as a major new change in the view. The long term visual effects of the buried cable are unlikely to be significant. However, the temporary construction activities of excavation and vegetation removal likely to be required will be much more visible from the surrounding area. The assessment of effects on visual amenity will consider views from residential properties at Innerwick, as well as a number of isolated properties along the route, and the caravan park at Thurston Manor. The assessment will also consider effects on recreational users of Core Paths and rights of way in the study area. 7.5 Potential Mitigation and Monitoring To date, the mitigation of potential landscape and visual effects has been approached through the careful selection of the route corridor. Landscape and visual considerations will continue to play a key role in the detailed design of the route, including, as far as is practicable: Identifying locations which require less removal of vegetation, e.g. gaps in hedges and shelterbelts; Page 26

33 Steering the route away from highly visible locations, or locations overlooked by a sensitive viewpoint; and Encouraging the protection of certain landscape features. The potential for mitigating the landscape and visual effects of the substation through detail design will also be explored. This may involve recommendations on materials, colours and other details which will assist in marrying the structure into the landscape. The potential for mitigation via screening such as earth mounds and tree or scrub planting will also be considered. 7.6 Consultation Proposals The consultees below will be approached for information to inform the EIA. These consultees may also be contacted by East Lothian Council regarding the scope of the EIA: SNH; and Scottish Borders Council. Some initial consultation has already been undertaken with East Lothian Council, Scottish Borders Council and SNH regarding the proposed viewpoints. Further consultation on viewpoints will be undertaken as required, once details of the proposed landfall section are confirmed. 8 Ground Conditions and Geology 8.1 Introduction The proposed approach to the evaluation of the ground conditions and geology along the route corridor and in the surrounding area, and to the assessment of potential effects on ground conditions and geology is set out below. The assessment of effects of the onshore works on ground conditions and geology is being undertaken by Kaya Consulting Ltd. 8.2 Method of Assessment The baseline assessment comprises a desk-based review of relevant geological information supported by a walkover survey of the site of the onshore works. The baseline studies included: Examination of the Edinburgh-based archives of the British Geological Survey (BGS) for data relating to the geological conditions of the underground cable route, substation and associated works. Information sources will include 1:50,000, 1:63,360, 1:10,000 and 1:10,560 scale geological maps, together with the regional sheet and special memoirs, and other relevant geological information; A review of any Geological Conservation Review (GCR), earth science SSSI, and Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological Sites (RIGS) that might impact on the cable route; and Page 27

34 An assessment of other relevant sources including site investigation reports, e.g. those generated during the construction of the nearby Torness Power Station, the A1(T) upgrade, and information available from Lafarge in respect of the company s Dunbar cementstone quarry. The potential effect of heating from the cable on ground conditions and geology will be considered as part of this assessment. 8.3 Existing Conditions There are no statutory or non-statutory designated sites with an earth science interest within the route corridor. The coastal Barns Ness SSSI is designated for earth science features related to British Carboniferous stratigraphy lies to the north-west of the Torness Power Station. This is also designated as a RIGS site. The Rammer Cleugh SSSI lies to the west of the route corridor between Woodhall and Weatherly. The site is designated for Quaternary features, both erosional and depositional, as a consequence of the action of glacial meltwaters. The route corridor traverses similar features that are contiguous with the SSSI, but are not designated conservation sites. Rocks of Lower Carboniferous age underlie the cable corridor between Thornly and Thurston. However, as these rocks forming this part of the Carboniferous stratigraphical sequence are non-coal bearing, potential effects on subsurface coal deposits and their former or potential extraction will not require consideration. This part of the geological sequence is, however, characterised by the occurrence of significant deposits of ferroan dolomite (cementstone) that have a history of extraction, and are continuing to be extracted for the production of cement products. These deposits underlie a small area of the cable corridor north-west of Innerwick beneath the A1(T). Therefore, any potential future extraction is thought unlikely due to effective sterilisation of the deposit by A1(T). The route corridor crosses the NW-SE trending Innerwick Fault that separates younger (330 million years old (Ma)) Carboniferous rocks from older Lower Devonian (410 Ma) and Ordovician (460 Ma) age rocks. The fault is not active, and there is no record of either modern or historical seismic activity in this or the surrounding areas. Therefore, seismic hazard is unlikely to be of concern. There is no evidence of ground instability either in the form of landslips in superficial deposits or areas of potential natural collapse features within the bedrock (e.g. solution holes). There is no history of surface mineral workings, other than those noted above, or sub-surface, within or adjacent to the route corridor. Landfill or other waste disposal facilities do not occur within the area of the onshore works. Therefore, effects in the form of seepage as a consequence of disturbance of the containment geology are not of concern. 8.4 Potential Effects on Ground Conditions and Geology Taking account of the findings of the work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential effects associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works include: Effects of localised heating from the cable on ground conditions; Soil erosion, including associated loss of carbon storage; Page 28

35 Erosion and washing out of back filled material over time, with particular reference to sand-rich deposits; Pollution/contamination of soils (e.g. from chemical spills and soil erosion); and Physical damage to soil (e.g. compaction during stringing) further having an effect on the soil s ability to perform its functions. On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the geology team and experience from other similar projects, it is considered likely that the following effects can be scoped out: Direct and indirect effects on statutory and non-statutory sites designated for their geological interest through partial/full removal, defacement or obscuring of rock outcrops/landforms, changes to relict or active river landforms, or sediment input; Effects on subsurface coal deposits, landfill or other waste disposal facilities; and Ground instability and seismic activity. 8.5 Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Mainstream is committed to implementing accepted good practice during the construction, operation, and maintenance of the onshore works. Where potentially significant effects on the geological make-up of the ground are identified, measures to prevent/reduce and, wherever possible, to offset these adverse effects will be proposed. Measures likely to be utilised include: Construction of the onshore works will be undertaken in accordance with established good practice which will include measures such as rigorous procedures for the storage of fuels and other potentially contaminative materials, appropriate procedures for stockpiling materials etc; and An Environmental Management Plan will be produced, which establishes responsibilities for site activities and requires the production of construction method statements. 8.6 Consultation Proposals The consultees below will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council may also contact a number of these consultees regarding the scope of the EIA: The British Geological Survey; Scottish Water; SNH; and The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). Page 29

36 9 Water Resources, Hydrology and Flood Risk 9.1 Introduction Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report This chapter sets out the proposed approach to the assessment of potential effects of the onshore works on water resources, hydrology and flood risk during both construction and operation. Potential effects on peat are also considered. The assessment will be undertaken by Kaya Consulting Ltd. 9.2 Method of Assessment The assessment of effects on water resources, hydrology and flood risk will be carried out in line with relevant legislation and standards, as well as the following guidance: SEPA s Pollution Prevention Guidelines; SEPA Regulatory Position Statement Developments on Peat (2010); PAN 51 Planning, Environmental Protection and Regulation (Scottish Government, revised 2006); PAN 69 Planning and Buildings Standards Advice on Flooding (2004); Technical Flood Risk Guidance for Stakeholders (SEPA, April 2010); Additional SEPA guidance (e.g. CAR Practical Guide); and Forestry Commission (2003) Forests and Water Guidelines, Fourth Edition. A desk-based study will be undertaken and will focus on water courses included on 1:25,000 scale Ordnance Survey maps. Maps on 1:10,000 scale will also be reviewed to identify any smaller watercourses of interest. A site walkover survey will also be carried out within the study area which is defined as any catchments intercepted by the route corridor. The study area will cover the main catchments crossed by the route. The effects assessment will consider potential effects at points where the development crosses streams and open channels; however, the assessment will also consider potential downstream effects in catchments and watercourses lying downstream of the route. The assessment will extend downstream of the crossing points to a distance beyond which effects of the development are considered negligible. The baseline studies will include: An overview of the hydrological and meteorological setting of the site (based on standard methods and readily available SEPA and/or Met Office data); An overview of the surface water hydrology of water courses and surface water runoff in the study area (based on standard methods, including the Flood Estimation Handbook (FEH) and flow data available from SEPA); An overview of ground water (based on British Geological Survey Maps of bedrock, drift and aquifers); Page 30

37 An overview of public water sources (based on information held by East Lothian Council and Scottish Water); An overview of surface water quality (based on SEPA stream water quality classifications and relevant stream water quality data if available from SEPA); and An overview of other surface water resource uses along the cable route corridor (e.g. private water supplies). The impact of the onshore works on surface water hydrology, including impacts on surface water runoff rates, flood flows, flow pathways, interference to groundwater flow rates, impacts on yields for drinking water sources and impacts on suspended sediment concentrations in watercourses, will be assessed. A stand-alone flood risk assessment will be undertaken for key infrastructure, focusing on the transition pits and construction compound at the landfall, and also considering flood risk at the proposed substation at Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm. An assessment will be provided for the jointing pit and associated infrastructure due to its proximity to the coastline. An assessment will be provided for the substation to assess risks from surface runoff from upstream of the site and to assess any effects on downstream streamflows due to the development. The route corridor does not pass through extensive forested areas and given the nature of the onshore works, with impacts focused mainly during the construction phase, it is not considered that detailed runoff or flood calculations for catchments along the route corridor are required. However, stream crossing points will be considered, especially related to the risk of flooding or erosion. In addition, an assessment will be undertaken of whether construction or operation of the onshore works will cause an increase in runoff and impact surface or shallow subsurface flow pathways. An assessment of flood risk at crossings will be based on SEPA Indicative Flood Maps, site observations and simple hydraulic calculations (if required). 9.3 Existing Conditions The route corridor extends from the coast to Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm in the Lammermuir Hills. The catchments crossed by the corridor are predominantly rural with limited development. The A1(T) and main East Coast rail line are the main features crossing water courses in the area. Near the coast, the main land use is farmland, with open moorland close to Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm. East Lothian is one of the driest areas in Scotland with annual rainfall of around 600mm at Dunbar, rising to above 1000mm in the Lammermuir Hills. Due to the low population density and lack of major towns or villages adjacent to any of the streams or water courses crossed by the corridor, there is thought to be a low flood risk within the study area, although there may be localised risks for some properties. As the route corridor follows existing roads for much of its length and will likely cross streams at, or close, to existing crossings, the impact of the onshore works on water courses will be less than similar developments in entirely greenfield sites. Near to the coast, the route corridor follows the path of the A1(T) from where it reaches land close to Innerwick. Along this stretch, the A1(T) crosses Thornton Burn as well as some smaller streams and field drains. Page 31

38 For the most part, when it leaves the A1(T), the route corridor lies within the catchment of Dry Burn. It runs broadly in parallel with the river from the A1(T) to Weatherley. As Dry Burn meets Woodhall Dean Nature Reserve, it splits into several smaller burns including Woodhall Burn, Cross Burn, Boonslie Burn and Weatherly Burn. The route corridor crosses Weatherly Burn and Boonslie Burn to the west of High Wood forest, and also encompasses a number of small burns, which are minor tributaries to Dry Burn. The proposed area for the substation sits in the headwaters of Mossy Burn which feeds into Bothwell Water. There is evidence of blanket peat close to this site. There are no major water bodies within the vicinity of the route corridor, however, there is one small water body within the corridor, north of Thurston Manor that correlates to Dry Burn and two more west of Woodhall Farm. Another larger pond, associated with a quarry near Dryburn Bridge, also creeps into the route corridor boundary. There are several small scale ponds nearby. The corridor passes close to wetland/marsh areas in higher ground. 9.4 Potential Effects on Water Resources, Hydrology and Flood Risk Taking account of the findings of the work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential effects associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works include: Pollution of surface water, including public/private drinking water supplies caused by releases of sediment to watercourses from excavated/stockpiled material during construction or as a result of stream crossings or works near streams. This will include consideration of peat storage/removal if peat is identified at the substation site; Pollution of surface water and groundwater, including drinking water supplies, through operation of machinery (e.g. spillage of fuels, oils etc.) during site preparation and construction of the onshore works; Potential blockages of existing culverts and bridges from land/bank erosion during woodland clearance and construction of the onshore works; Modifications to natural drainage patterns, changes to runoff rates and volumes and a consequent increase in flood risk during construction and operation of the onshore works; Modifications to natural drainage patterns, changes to runoff rates and volumes and a consequent impact on wetlands, marshes or peat during construction and operation of the onshore works; and Reductions in natural flows arising from any temporary or permanent abstractions. Where the construction of watercourse crossings is required, the following effects may result if not properly controlled: Damage to river banks or changes in channel form due to the operation of machinery during construction and operation of the onshore works; Localised flooding and bank erosion caused by impediments to flow, particularly in conditions of high discharge; and Page 32

39 Pollution of public/private drinking water supplies from high levels of suspended solids and turbidity in watercourses as a result of construction activities. On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the hydrology team and experience from other similar projects, it is considered likely that the following effects can be scoped out: Pollution of surface water and groundwater as a result of maintenance activities associated with the operation of the onshore works (e.g. spillage of fuels, oils, etc.); and Operational effects including modifications to natural drainage patterns, effects on flow in natural watercourses and flush zones and modification of stream channel morphology. 9.5 Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Mainstream is committed to implementing accepted good practice during construction, operation and maintenance of the onshore works. Where potentially significant effects on hydrology are identified, measures to prevent, reduce and where possible offset these adverse effects will be proposed. The following will be considered as a minimum in the proposed Environmental Management Plan: Any required felling in accordance with Forestry Commission guidance; Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 (CAR) authorisation for any engineering work in or near water courses. Management plans required to obtain CAR authorisation will include measures to limit pollution during construction activities; The treatment of water from excavations, including the means of minimising the generation of large volumes of dirty water requiring treatment; Concrete management including measures to minimise polluted runoff around the fresh concrete and treatment of concrete wash out; Spoil/soil/overburden storage; Fuel delivery in the site and oil storage; Locations of wheel washes, including sources of water, and means of disposal of contaminated water; Additional details of measures for pollution avoidance, minimisation and contingency measures; Details of any water crossings; and Proposed drainage measures, including the use of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDs) for substation works etc as appropriate and in accordance with CIRIA SUDs Manual (C697). Page 33

40 9.6 Consultation Proposals Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report The consultees below will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council may also contact these consultees regarding the scope of the EIA: SEPA; and Scottish Water. 10 Soils, Agriculture and Land Use 10.1 Introduction This chapter sets out the proposed approach to the assessment of potential effects of the onshore works on soils, agriculture and land use during both construction and operation. The assessment will be undertaken by the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC). This chapter considers soil quality in relation to land capability for agriculture or forestry. Soil issues in relation to ground conditions and geology are considered in Chapter Method of Assessment National planning policy on agriculture is set out in the Scottish Government s Scottish Planning Policy (SPP). This re-affirms previous commitments to the protection of the best and most versatile agricultural land for productive agricultural uses. The policy also draws stronger linkages between land use, agriculture, sustainability, renewable energy and climate change. A number of recent strategies published by the Scottish Government and other agencies also highlight the importance of agriculture, soils and forestry in helping to achieve the Government s priorities for sustainable economic growth. Those which deal specifically or extensively with such land uses, and which would be taken account of in the assessment, include the following: Forward Strategy for Scottish Agriculture (2006); The Scottish Soil Framework (2009); The Scottish Forestry Strategy (2006); Land Use Strategy for Scotland (2011); and The Scottish Outdoor Access Code. The protection of soils, prevention of diffuse pollution and controls over application of nutrients to soils are all issues which cut across the work of other agencies such as SNH and SEPA. Relevant guidance from these bodies, for example relating to Nitrate Vulnerable Zones and Controlled Activities Regulations would also be taken into account in the assessment of impacts on land use and soils. Development and incentives to promote rural economic activity including those related to agriculture are also underpinned by the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP) Page 34

41 The assessment will focus on potential effects on land uses, agricultural activity and soils directly affected by the proposed onshore works and will include the following: Identification of data on Land Capability for Agriculture, from published sources; A review of other desk top sources on soil quality, extent etc (e.g. Soils Maps); and Field surveys and interviews with agricultural land interests to collect baseline information on farm type, agricultural activity and sporting interests Existing Conditions Key land uses along the route corridor include agriculture and forestry. The route corridor contains a wide range of farming enterprises. Near the coast, the land is used to grow vegetables and potatoes as well as cereals and oilseeds. As the route corridor progresses inland, and uphill, the land is capable of a more limited range of crops and the proportion of grass increases, stocked with cattle and sheep. Beyond Elmscleuch, the agriculture is based on permanent pasture and rough grazing used for extensive livestock systems. The land capability for agriculture varies. Close to the coast, the lower lying land is generally prime agricultural land with plots of land in Classes 1, 2 and 3.1 i14. Westwards from the Innerwick and Thurston Manor areas, the land is predominantly in Classes 3.1 and 3.2. South and west of Woodhall Farm, the rising topography has soils generally in Class 4 which changes to Class 5 on the moorland areas on Dunbar Common. Areas of woodland and shelter belts are typically located on areas of limited soils, falling in Class 6, particularly in the western part of the route corridor. The largest area of forestry is High Wood, situated within the route corridor near Weatherly. Other areas of trees follow a linear form and are concentrated within the mid-section of the route corridor, between High Wood and Thurston. On the most part, these stretches of trees connect to the network that lines the banks of Dry Burn which flows within part of the route corridor to the north. These tree corridors are already intercepted by the existing road Potential Effects on Soils, Agriculture and Land Use Taking account of the findings of the work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential effects associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works include: Direct loss of agricultural land, by agricultural land classification; Direct loss of woodland, by type and activity; 14 Land Capability for Agriculture is classified in Scotland in seven classes ranging from Class 1 which is capable of producing a very wide range of crops to Class 7 which is land of very limited agricultural value. Land in classes 1,2 and 3.1 is capable of supporting arable agriculture and only 6.7% of Scotland s agricultural land falls in this category. It is often referred to as prime agricultural land and Scottish Planning Policy defines this as a finite national resource on which development should not be permitted unless it is to meet an established need, for example for major infrastructure development. Page 35

42 Indirect effects on soil quality including changes in land capability (for agriculture or forestry); Environmental effects such as diffuse pollution from mobilisation of soils and changes in agricultural/land drainage and/or effects on agri-environmental schemes; Changes in agricultural and woodland activity; Changes in sporting uses and viability; and Changes in access Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Mainstream is committed to implementing accepted good practice during construction, operation and maintenance of the onshore works thereby ensuring that many potential effects on soils, agriculture and land use can be avoided or reduced. Generic mitigation and also site-specific measures will be identified including; A soil protection strategy (topsoil and subsoil); Land drainage management; Avoidance of transmission of soil pests and diseases; Maintenance of water supplies; and Temporary and permanent access/accommodation works. Reference will also be made to the mitigation measures in relation to pollution prevention and soil erosion provided in Chapter 8: Ground Conditions and Geology Consultation Proposals The consultees below will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council may also contact a number of these consultees regarding the scope of the EIA: The National Farmers Union Scotland; The Scottish Rural Property and Business Association (SRPBA); Forestry Commission Scotland/Forest Enterprise; and Commercial agricultural and forestry enterprises identified. 11 Traffic and Transport 11.1 Introduction This assessment will identify the preferred route(s) for access along the route corridor and will consider the potential effects of traffic generated during construction and operation of the onshore works, including Page 36

43 identification of possible measures to minimise any disruption to the local and strategic road network. The traffic and transport assessment will be undertaken by Arup Method of Assessment The study area for the traffic and transport assessment will be the public road network in the vicinity of the onshore works, which will be used during construction. Traffic count data will be sourced from Transport Scotland and East Lothian Council to inform the assessment if available. The assessment of effects on traffic and transport will be carried out in line with the following guidance: Institute of Environmental Assessment (now the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment) (1993) Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic; Institution of Highways and Transportation (1994) Guidelines for Traffic Impact Assessment; Scottish Executive (now Scottish Government) (2005) Transport Assessment & Implementation: A Guide; Scottish Executive (now Scottish Government) (2005) PAN 75: Planning for Transport. Highways Agency/Scottish Government (2010) The Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, Volume 11, Environmental Assessment; and Highways Agency/Scottish Government (2005) The Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, Volume 15, Economic Assessment of Road Schemes in Scotland Existing Conditions The main road in the area is the A1(T) which runs along the east coast and provides the main link to other major routes within East Lothian and beyond, including the A1087 which travels nearer to the coast into Dunbar. The majority of the road network within the vicinity of the onshore works comprises minor, unnamed roads which provide links for the small settlements and individual properties to the wider network. The route corridor follows the route of the A1(T) from the coast before reaching Thurston where it diverts south-east to broadly follow the path of an existing, unnamed road. At Woodhall Farm, the corridor continues in the same direction, following the path of a marked farm track until it reaches its end point at the substation at Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm. The East Coast Main Line railway runs close to the A1 and it is proposed that the onshore cable will cross underneath the railway Potential Effects on Traffic and Transport Taking account of the findings of the work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential effects associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works include: Effects of construction traffic on existing traffic flows and the public road network (which will be quantified through comparison of existing traffic flows and vehicle composition with the forecast construction phase onshore works traffic generation). Page 37

44 Access to agricultural and other uses along the route will be addressed in Chapter 10: Soils, Agriculture and Land Use. On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the traffic and transport team and experience from other similar projects, it is considered likely that the following effects can be scoped out: The effect of operational and maintenance vehicles on existing traffic flows and the local road network Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Mainstream is committed to implementing accepted good practice during construction, operation and maintenance of the onshore works thereby ensuring that many potential effects on traffic and transport can be avoided or reduced. Where potentially significant effects on traffic and transport are identified, measures to prevent, reduce and where possible offset these adverse effects will be proposed. Measures likely to be utilised include: Instructing abnormal loads, Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), and site personnel as appropriate, to use only the approved access routes to the site; Ensuring appropriate diversions are in place during construction if necessary to allow for continued access to homes and businesses including the transport of heavy goods and emergency vehicles to Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm; Scheduling works outwith hours of peak activity on local roads when possible; Development of a travel plan to encourage sustainable transport during the construction phase (e.g. multi occupancy of site staff vehicles, use of minibuses etc.); Use of appropriate boring/drilling techniques to avoid impacts on rail and road infrastructure; and Timing of construction works to avoid disturbance to rail operations and road traffic 11.6 Consultation Proposals Transport Scotland and Network Rail will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council may also contact Transport Scotland/Network Rail regarding the scope of the EIA. 12 Air Quality 12.1 Introduction This assessment will consider the potential effects on local air quality as a result of the construction and operation of the Onshore Works. The air quality assessment will be undertaken by Arup. Page 38

45 12.2 Method of Assessment Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report The assessment of potential effects on local air quality resulting from the onshore works will be based on a desk study approach. The assessment will be carried out in line with the following relevant legislation, policies and guidance: The Air Quality (Scotland) Regulations 2000 and Air Quality (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2002; Planning Advice Note 50 (PAN50) - Controlling the Environmental Effects of Surface Mineral Workings (1996); Annex B: The Control of Dust at Surface Mineral Workings (1998); Planning Advice Note 51 (PAN 51) Planning, Environmental Protection and Regulation (revised 2006); and The Greater London Authority (GLA) and London Councils (2006). The Control of Dust and Emissions from Construction and Demolition. Best Practice Guidance. Data sources that will be employed in this assessment include: East Lothian Council Review and Assessment of Air Quality documents; The UK Air Information Resource website ( and The Air Quality in Scotland website ( The assessment of construction effects will involve a review of the proposed construction works, identification of the locations of human receptors relative to the works (including a review of sensitive locations), and consideration of the duration of the works and construction traffic data. The Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) screening criteria will be used to identify whether a quantitative assessment of pollutant emissions from construction vehicles will be required to assess potentially adverse effects at nearby sensitive receptors. The assessment will follow the risk-based approach detailed in the GLA Best Practice Guidance for the assessment of potential dust nuisance and will inform the appropriate level of mitigation required during construction Existing Conditions The proposed onshore works are located in the south-eastern part of East Lothian. There are currently no Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) within East Lothian. Whilst there is concern that nitrogen dioxide concentrations and concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM 10 ) in Musselburgh exceed the relevant air quality objectives, background pollutant maps indicate that annual mean background concentrations for both nitrogen dioxide and PM 10 are well below the relevant air quality objectives in the vicinity of the proposed route corridor. There are no air quality monitoring locations in the vicinity of the proposed route corridor. Page 39

46 12.4 Potential Effects on Air Quality Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report Taking account of the findings of the work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential effects associated with the construction of the onshore works therefore include: the generation of dust and exhaust emissions from any construction activities, and their possible effects on local receptors (i.e. residential properties, schools, offices) and the environment in the vicinity of access roads and/or the construction area. On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the air quality team and experience from other similar projects, it is considered likely that operational effects of the onshore works, including any associated maintenance works, can be scoped out. It is anticipated that the number of vehicles associated with the operation of the onshore works will be very small and therefore potential emissions and related potential detrimental effects on sensitive receptors would be negligible. It is not expected that any dust would be generated following completion of construction works Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Mainstream is committed to implementing accepted good practice during construction, operation and maintenance of the onshore works. Mitigation measures outlined in PAN50 Controlling the Environmental Effects of Surface Mineral Workings (Scottish Executive, 1996) as well as those listed in the GLA Best Practice guidance (2006) will be reviewed and included in the mitigation requirements as appropriate Consultation Proposals East Lothian Council will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council will also consult internally regarding the scope of the EIA. 13 Noise and Vibration 13.1 Introduction This chapter sets out the proposed approach to the assessment of potential noise and vibration effects associated with the onshore works during construction and operation. The noise and vibration assessment will be undertaken by Arup Method of Assessment The assessment of effects on noise and vibration will be carried out in line with relevant legislation, standards and guidance as follows: The Control of Pollution Act 1974; The Environmental Protection Act 1990; British Standard (BS) 5228: Parts 1 and 2: Code of Practice for Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites, 2009; Page 40

47 Department of Environment (DoE) Advisory Leaflet 72 (1976); Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report BS 4142: Method for Rating Industrial Noise affecting Mixed Residential and Industrial Areas, 1997; BS 6472: Parts 1 and 2: Guide to Evaluation of Human Exposure to Vibration in Buildings, 2008; BS 7385: Parts 1and 2: Evaluation and Measurement for Vibration in Buildings, 1990 and 1993; and PAN Planning and Noise, The study area for the noise assessment will comprise noise sensitive receptors considered to be representative of residential dwellings that may experience noise effects from construction or operation of the onshore works. A number of these noise sensitive receptors will be chosen as representative. A baseline noise survey will be undertaken around the cable route/substation site to inform the assessment. With respect to vibration, a review will be undertaken of the proposed construction equipment and of any existing vibration sources. If there are existing sources that could contribute to, or already exceed vibration thresholds, baseline vibration measurements would be undertaken. The proposed background noise monitoring locations and survey periods were discussed and agreed upon with East Lothian Council Existing Conditions Based on the initial desktop review and subsequent site visit, it is considered that the existing noise climate is dominated by road traffic on the A1(T) with regular contribution from trains on the East Coast Mainline route Potential Effects on Noise and Vibration Taking account of the findings of the work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential noise and vibration effects associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works include: Effects of construction noise on receptors in the area surrounding the site, taking account of the construction works programme and construction traffic routes to, from, and on, site; and Effects of vibration during construction on receptors in the area surrounding the site. On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the noise team and experience from other similar projects, it is considered likely that the following effects can be scoped out: Operational effects of the onshore works, including any associated maintenance works Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Mainstream is committed to implementing accepted good practice during construction, operation and maintenance of the onshore works thereby ensuring that many potential effects on noise and vibration can be avoided or reduced. Page 41

48 Where potentially significant effects on noise and vibration are identified, measures to prevent and reduce these adverse effects will be proposed and evaluated as part of the assessment. With regards to construction noise and vibration, it should be identified that Best Practicable Means (BPM) in accordance with BS5228 will be employed, which includes measures such as: Employ quietest construction methods and plant where available and practicable; Using enclosures or screening where required; Use and siting of equipment site equipment away from noise sensitive receptors, shutting down plant when not in use, orientating equipment so that noise is directed away from noise sensitive receptors; and Regular and effective maintenance of equipment Consultation Proposals East Lothian Council will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council will also consult internally regarding the scope of the EIA. 14 Socio-Economic Effects including Recreation and Tourism 14.1 Introduction The proposed approach for the assessment of potential socioeconomic effects is set out below. This will include a consideration of employment generation and any indirect economic effects arising from the onshore works, and of recreational and local tourism activity. The assessment will also include consideration of pedestrians, cyclists, equestrians and other recreational users who use the area within the route corridor and whom may be directly affected during the construction or operation phases. Crossreference will be made to the landscape and visual amenity, traffic, air quality, noise and other users assessments as appropriate. The assessment of social and economic effects will be undertaken by LUC. Direct impacts in relation to the agricultural and other users along the route corridor will be considered in Chapter 10: Soils, Agriculture and Land Use Method of Assessment The assessment of social and economic effects will be carried out in line with relevant legislation and standards, as well as the following guidance: PAN 73 (2005) Rural Diversification; and The Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Page 42

49 A range of baseline data sources will be consulted to establish baseline conditions. Data will include information on: Population, e.g. ONS data; Key employment sectors, e.g. from the Annual Business Inquiry; Employment and economic activity, e.g. from the Annual Population Survey; Tourism and leisure activity from sources such as web searches, a review of Ordnance Survey (OS) maps, Visitor Attraction Monitor data and data from VisitScotland; and East Lothian s Core Paths Plan (adopted in December 2010), GIS map data and any other information available on identified Rights of Way, Long Distance Footpaths and National Cycle Routes. Baseline conditions defined for other topics, e.g. landscape and visual amenity, as well as the offshore socio-economic conditions, will also be cross-referenced as appropriate. Consultation will also be undertaken with Community Councils and local groups and any relevant feedback will be used to gain an understanding of the local community Existing Conditions The settlement of Innerwick, which is within the route corridor, is a small settlement mainly comprising residential dwellings. In addition, within the route corridor and the surrounding area, there are a number of clusters of buildings and scattered individual properties. The next closest settlement is Dunbar, approximately 4 km away to the north-east. There are four Rights of Way that travel within the route corridor. The main one is that which runs from Wetherly to Boonslie, west of High Wood. This Right of Way originates within the corridor close to Woodhall. It connects to another path within the route corridor at the western tip which provides a link to the wider network, providing links to other paths within the Council boundaries and beyond. The other shorter paths are located near Innerwick and Skateraw. According to the maps that support East Lothian s Core Path Plan (2010), there are several core paths that fall within the route corridor at the eastern extent. There is also a stretch of path within the corridor near Thurston Manor which has been marked as suggested links on quiet roads, but has not been designated as a core path as yet. The John Muir Way is a coastal path that originates in Musselburgh (close to Edinburgh) and travels south to the East Lothian border near Cocksburnpath. It is 12miles long in total and travels within the route corridor at the eastern extent along the coast at Thorntonloch. The closest Long Distance Footpath is the Southern Upland Way, which is approximately 2.3 km south-east of the eastern extent of the corridor. Page 43

50 14.4 Potential Socioeconomic Effects including Recreation and Tourism Potential effects associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works include: Positive effects on the local economy through job creation and expenditure: direct, indirect (supply chain effect) and induced effects (e.g. re-circulating income in local area); Direct effects on recreational amenity during construction of the Onshore Works; Direct effects on Rights of Way, Core Paths, other paths and other recreational sites within the route corridor during construction; Effects of noise, dust, and traffic movements and visibility of the works on recreational amenity during construction; and Indirect effects on tourism in the wider study area during construction and operation due to visual impacts. On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the specialist team and experience from other similar projects, it is considered likely that the following effects can be scoped out at this stage: Potential effects on Rights of Way, Core Paths and other paths within the route corridor during operation Potential Mitigation and Monitoring Mainstream is committed to implementing accepted good practice during construction, operation and maintenance of the onshore works. Where potentially significant social and economic effects are identified, measures to prevent, reduce, and where possible offset, these adverse effects will be proposed. Measures likely to be implemented include: Adoption of an agreed Construction Code to minimise temporary disturbance to residential properties, recreational users, and existing land uses; and Provision of diversions/alternative routes where users are unable to access Rights of Way or other recreational sites during construction Consultation Proposals The consultees below will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council may also contact a number of these consultees regarding the scope of the EIA: VisitScotland; Neighbouring local authorities; Local business, recreational and community groups; Page 44

51 The Scottish Rights of Way and Access Society; and The British Horse Society. 15 Electric and Magnetic Fields 15.1 Introduction The proposed approach for the assessment of potential effects in relation to Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF) is set out below. The assessment will be undertaken by Pager Power. Electric fields depend on the operating voltage of the equipment. Magnetic fields depend on the electrical currents flowing and are not significantly limited by most common materials. Typically, ground-level magnetic fields from underground cables fall much more rapidly with distance than those from a corresponding overhead line, but can be higher at small distances from the cable. Potential impacts on health will be considered in relation to electric and magnetic fields and will be undertaken by the Centre for Research into Environment and Health, University of Aberystwyth Method of Assessment The assessment of EMF will be carried out in line with relevant standards and guidance. Whilst there are no statutory limits on exposure to EMF in the UK, the Health Protection Agency (HPA), the statutory organisation responsible for advising Government, previously the National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB), recommends guidelines for exposure. The HPA has advised the Government that the UK should follow guidelines published by the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP, 1998). The assessment will be completed where cables run in close proximity to sensitive receptors (e.g. dwellings, schools and hospitals) within 10m. It is considered that significant effects are most likely to occur within 10m of sensitive receptors. For each such location, the following will be undertaken: Calculation of power frequency electric fields; Calculation of power frequency magnetic fields (average); and Calculation of power frequency magnetic fields (peak). Predicted fields at identified sensitive receptors will be appraised against the reference levels of the ICNIRP for public exposure (100 μt for magnetic fields and 5 kv/m for electric fields). Whilst these are not in themselves limits on exposure, if measured fields were to exceed these levels, then further investigation would be required to determine compliance with the basic restriction on induced currents in the body and recommended limits. EMF associated with the proposed new substation will also be assessed as required. Page 45

52 15.3 Existing Conditions Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report There are a number of existing sources of EMF in the vicinity of the route corridor. These include: The local electricity distribution system; Wiring and appliances in homes and other buildings; Torness Power Station; The 25kV AC Overhead Line on the East Coast Main Line; Overhead transmission lines; Aikengall buried 33 kv cable; and Crystal Rig II onshore wind farm substation. Receptors along the route corridor include residential receptors, holiday homes/caravans and schools. There are no hospitals within the route corridor Potential Effects from Electric and Magnetic Fields Taking account of the findings of the work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential effects associated with the construction and/or operation of the onshore works include: The effects of electric and magnetic fields on sensitive receptors in the vicinity of the route corridor Potential Mitigation and Monitoring All electrical infrastructure produces electric and magnetic fields. Both diminish rapidly with distance from their source. Therefore, a key consideration will be the distance from nearby dwellings and any other sensitive users Consultation Proposals The consultees below will be approached for information to inform the EIA. East Lothian Council may also contact these consultees regarding the scope of the EIA: The HPA; and The Electricity Networks Association. Page 46

53 16 Cumulative Impacts Onshore Works - EIA Scoping Report The proposed approach for the assessment of potential cumulative impacts is set out below. There are three possible types of cumulative impacts which may require consideration in the EIA of the onshore works across all topic areas Cumulative Impacts Arising with Other Schemes At present, there are no other schemes known within the route corridor that are at the planning stage and scheduled to be constructed at the same time as the onshore works. There are, however, two schemes nearby that will be given consideration in light of the potential for cumulative impacts. These include Aikengall II wind farm and Crystal Rig III wind farm. These are both proposed extensions to existing wind farms and have been submitted to East Lothian Council Impacts Arising from the Onshore Construction Works Cumulative impacts will be assessed across all topic areas in relation to the potential for onshore construction works to cumulatively lead to significant impacts on a single receptor Impacts of the Onshore Construction Works in Combination with Offshore Construction The potential for cumulative impacts arising from the onshore construction works in combination with offshore construction works will be assessed. These impacts are most likely to arise when offshore works below the low water mark take place alongside onshore works at the landing point (up to the mean low water springs). The potential for this type of cumulative impact will be considered for all EIA topics. Page 47

54 Appendix 1: List of Consultees East Lothian Council Biodiversity Officer; Scottish Natural Heritage; The Scottish Wildlife Trust; Midlothian Wildlife Information Centre; The Association of Salmon and Fishery Boards; The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds; The Lothian and Borders Raptor Study Group; Historic Scotland; East Lothian Council Archaeology Service (ELCAS) and Conservation Officers; Local archaeological and heritage interest groups, where recommended by ELCAS; Scottish Borders Council; The British Geological Society; Scottish Water; Scottish Environment Protection Agency; The National Farmers Union Scotland; The Scottish Rural Property and Business Association; Forestry Commission Scotland/Forest Enterprise; Commercial agricultural and forestry enterprises identified; Transport Scotland; Network Rail; VisitScotland; Neighbouring local authorities; Local business, recreational and community groups;

55 The Scottish Rights of Way and Access Society; The British Horse Society; The Health Protection Agency; and The Electricity Networks Association.

56 Appendix 2: Proposed Contents of the Environmental Statement Preface Non Technical Summary 1. Introduction Background Information Mainstream Renewable Power Limited and Neart na Gaoithe Wind Ltd Responsibilities of the ES Structure of the ES 2. Approach to the EIA Introduction The EIA Process Scope of the ES 3. Legislative Framework Introduction The Need for Offshore Wind in Scotland National Planning Policy East Lothian Planning Policy 4. Project Description Introduction Selection of Proposed Landfall and Cable Route Description of Proposed Cable Route Description of Proposed Cable and Substation Works Construction Process Operation and Maintenance Technical Chapters (Terrestrial Ecology; Ornithology; Cultural Heritage; Landscape and Visual Amenity; Ground Conditions and Geology; Water Resources, Hydrology and Flood Risk; Soils, Agriculture and Land Use; Traffic and Transport; Air Quality; Noise and Vibration; Social and Economic Effects including Recreation and Tourism; Electric and Magnetic Fields.) Introduction Assessment Methodology Planning Context Existing Conditions Modifications to Cable Route Proposed Good Practice Measures Assessment of Construction Effects Assessment of Operational Effects Mitigation and Future Monitoring Residual Effects Summary and Conclusions 18. Summary of Key Effects

57 Document Release and Authorisation Record Date: Client Name: Client Contact(s): 04/01/2012 Mainstream Renewable Power Ltd Zoe Crutchfield QA Name Signature Date Project Manager Juliette Young, LUC 21 st December 2011 Report written by Juliette Young, LUC Kristina Helmore, LUC 21 st December 2011 Report checked by Juliette Young, LUC 21 st December 2011 Report authorised by Nick James, LUC 21 st December 2011 Report checked by Ewan Walker, Mainstream Renewable Power Ltd 29 th December 2011 Report authorised by David Sweenie Mainstream Renewable Power Ltd 4 th January 2012