Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Update Report

Transcription

1 Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Update Report Prepared by LUC for RES UK & Ireland Ltd May 2015

2 Project Title: Keirs Hill Wind Farm Client: RES UK & Ireland Ltd. Version Date Version Details Prepared by Checked by Approved by 1 21 May May 2015 Client draft LUC PDM SCO Final LUC PDM SCO Keirs Hill CLVIA update.docx Last saved: 29/05/ :03

3 Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Update Report Prepared by LUC for RES UK & Ireland Ltd May 2015 Planning & EIA Design Landscape Planning Landscape Management Ecology Mapping & Visualisation LUC EDINBURGH 28 Stafford Street Edinburgh EH3 7BD T +44 (0) edinburgh@landuse.co.uk Offices also in: London Bristol Glasgow FS EMS Land Use Consultants Ltd Registered in England Registered number: Registered Office: 43 Chalton Street London NW1 1JD LUC uses 100% recycled paper

4 Contents 1 Introduction 1 The need for an updated assessment 1 Identification of schemes to be included in the CLVIA 1 Methodology 2 Cumulative visualisations 2 2 Assessment of Cumulative Effects on Landscape 3 Landscape baseline 3 Cumulative effects on landscape 3 Cumulative effects on designated landscapes 6 3 Assessment of Cumulative Effects on Views 8 Visual Baseline 8 Viewpoint Assessment 8 Effects on settlements 16 Effects on routes 19 4 Conclusion 22 Approach and Consideration of Combined or Total Cumulative Effects 22 Updated baseline 22 Effects on landscape character 22 Effects on landscape s 22 Effects on views and visual amenity 22 Updated Figures Figure 7.5 Wind farms within 35km of Keirs Hill Figure 7.6 Wind farms included in the cumulative assessment, within 20km Figure 7.7 Cumulative Zone of Visibility Figure 7.8 Cumulative Zone of Visibility Figure 7.9 Cumulative Zone of Visibility Figure 7.10 Cumulative ZTV of Keirs Hill and Dersalloch Figure 7.11 Cumulative ZTV of Keirs Hill and Linfairn Figure 7.11b Cumulative ZTV of Keirs Hill and Glenmount Figure 7.11c Sequential ZTV along the A713 Tourist Route Updated Visualisations Figure 7.12 Viewpoint 1 B741 at Gass Figure 7.13 Viewpoint 2 Auchenroy Hill Figure 7.14 Viewpoint 3 Waterside Heritage Centre Figure 7.15 Viewpoint 4 Patna Figure 7.16 Viewpoint 5 Lethanhill Tables Table 1.1: Wind Farms and Turbines: Consented 1 Table 1.2: Wind Farms and Turbines: Applications 2 Figure 7.17 Viewpoint 6 Colonel Hunter Blair s Monument, Craigengower Figure 7.18 Viewpoint 7 Dalmellington Figure 7.19 Viewpoint 8 Minor road west of Straiton Figure 7.20 Viewpoint 9 B7045 near Kirkmichael Figure 7.21 Viewpoint 10 Maybole Figure 7.22 Viewpoint 11 B741 at Ruglen Figure 7.23 Viewpoint 12 Cornish Hill Figure 7.24 Viewpoint 14 Cairnsmore of Carsphairn Figure 7.25 Viewpoint 15 Merrick Summit Figure 7.26 Viewpoint 16 Viewpoint at Troon harbour Figure 7.27 Viewpoint 17 Blairquhan Estate

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6 1 Introduction The need for an updated assessment 1.1 This updated cumulative landscape and visual impact assessment (CLVIA) has been undertaken to take account of the changes in the cumulative baseline situation around the proposed Keirs Hill Wind Farm site, since the assessment undertaken in 2013 which was set out in Chapter 7 of the Environmental Statement (ES). 1.2 The aim of this updated CLVIA is to understand the likely landscape and visual effects of the proposed development when it is seen alongside other existing and proposed wind energy developments in the area Cumulative developments considered as part of the baseline for scenario 2 include all operational and consented schemes, listed in Table 1.1. At the point of writing this assessment the Dersalloch Wind Farm is in the early stages of construction with the planned s not forming part of the baseline. This scheme has therefore been included in scenario 2 of this assessment A CZTV has been generated for scenario 2, shown in Updated Figure 7.8. This CZTV indicates that consented wind farms are generally located in proximity to operational schemes, and the overall pattern of is similar to scenario 1. The development of Keirs Hill in this scenario will introduce into fewer areas where they do not presently feature, though this will still include parts of the Doon Valley. Table 1.1: Wind Farms and Turbines: Consented Wind Farm / Turbine Status (May 2015) Status 2013 Blade Tip Height (m) Number of Turbines Distance (km) As in the original CLVIA, this assessment considers two scenarios: the cumulative effect of the addition of the Proposed Development into the landscape and views, assuming all other existing and consented schemes are present (); and Dersalloch Under Construction (very early stage) Application the cumulative effect of the addition of the Proposed Development into the landscape and views, assuming all other existing, consented schemes and schemes that are proposed but not consented are present (). 1.4 in the ES refers to the assessment of effects considering the wind farms which are operational and which form part of the landscape and visual baseline. Since no nearby schemes have become operational since 2013, this scenario has not been updated. 1.5 The approach to this CLVIA is based on Scottish Natural Heritage guidance on Assessing the Cumulative Impact of Onshore Wind Energy Developments (March 2012). 1.6 It identifies cumulative landscape effects and cumulative visual effects (including combined, successive and sequential effects as defined in the ES). 1.7 s have been used to examine combined and successive and routes have been used to examine sequential effects. The same s and routes have been used as assessed in the ES. Identification of schemes to be included in the CLVIA Knockshinnoch Consented Scoping Chapelton Farm, Turnberry Windy Standard - Phase 2 Consented Scoping Under Construction Consented Hadyard Hill Operational Operational Windy Standard - Phase 1 Operational Operational Afton Consented Application Knockman Hill Consented Application Blackcraig Hill Consented Consented The parameters for updated cumulative assessment were an approximate 20km study area, and omission of any s less than 50m to tip or single development. 1.9 All wind farms within 35km of Keirs Hill are mapped in the Updated Figure The study area and list of schemes to form the focus of the CLVIA was agreed with East Ayrshire Council, South Ayrshire Council, Dumfries and Galloway Council and SNH in May The wind farms considered in the updated CLVIA are shown in Updated Figure 7.6, and described in the following sections. The updated CLVIA considers the status of all schemes as they were at the time of writing the assessment, i.e. early May Distance between the centre location of Keirs Hill to centre location of the wind farm. Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 1 May 2015

7 1.13 Cumulative developments considered as part of the baseline for scenario 3 include undetermined applications or applications at appeal, listed in Table 1.2, as well as those in scenario 2 (Table 1.1) A CZTV has been generated for, shown in Updated Figure 7.9. Table 1.2: Wind Farms and Turbines: Applications Wind Farm / Turbine Status (May 2015) Status 2013 Blade Tip Height (m) Number of Turbines Distance (km) 2 Linfairn Application Application Glenmount Application Scoping Polquhairn Application Pre-scoping Benbrack Application Scoping South Kyle Application Application Hadyard Hill Extension Application Pre-scoping Kirk Hill Application Pre-scoping Ashmark Hill Appeal/Public Inquiry Applicaton Pencloe Application Pre-scoping Burnhead Wind Farm, which was a live application at the time of the LVIA, has since been refused on appeal and so is not considered in this updated assessment. Dalmorton Wind Farm, assessed as a scoping stage proposal in 2013, is now referred to as Knockskae but remains at scoping stage. This scheme has been considered where relevant but not illustrated due to lack of updated layout It was additionally suggested by East Ayrshire Council that the Dersalloch grid connection be considered in the updated cumulative assessment. This grid connection will run from Dersalloch Wind Farm eastward across the Doon Valley to a substation within forestry at Meikle Hill. This grid connection will be achieved via an overhead line carried on wooden poles. The small scale of the wood poles, as opposed to a steel tower overhead line, means that they will have very different, and much more localised, landscape and visual effects in comparison to the proposed wind farm. There is not considered to be any potential for significant cumulative landscape and visual impacts, and the wood pole grid connection has not been considered further in this assessment. Methodology 1.17 The same methodology for assessing magnitude of change and significance has been used as set out in Chapter 7 of the ES. Judgements of sensitivity made in relation to landscapes and views have not been revisited The method for creating cumulative zones of theoretical (CZTVs) is the same as set out in Appendix 7.2 of the ES. Cumulative visualisations 1.19 Cumulative ZTV maps have been produced for Scenarios 2 and 3 as noted above. In addition, the following pairs of CZTVs have been generated, showing ZTVs for: Keirs Hill and Dersalloch (Updated Figure 7.10); Keirs Hill and Linfairn (Updated Figure 7.11); and Additional Wind Farms included in the sequential assessment of the A713 tourist route. Keirs Hill and Glenmount (New Figure 7.11b). High Cumnock Appeal/Public Inquiry Application A cumulative ZTV map has been produced of the sequential assessment showing the of scenario 3 wind farm developments that are within 15km of the A713 tourist route from Ayr to St John s Town of Dalry (New Figure 7.11c). Quantans Hill Application Application Longburn Application Pre-scoping Margree Application Application Cumulative photomontages and wireframes have been prepared for the following s. These are presented in accordance with the most recent SNH visualisation guidance, but using the original photography from 2013: Viewpoint 1: B741 at Gass; Viewpoint 2: Auchenroy Hill; Viewpoint 5: Lethanhill; Viewpoint 6: Hunter Blair Monument Craigengower; Viewpoint 8: Minor road west of Straiton; Viewpoint 15: Merrick; and Viewpoint 17: Blairquhan Updated cumulative wireframes are presented for all other s. Visualisations are presented in Updated Figures 7.12 to Distance between the centre location of Keirs Hill to centre location of the wind farm. Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2 May 2015

8 2 Assessment of Cumulative Effects on Landscape Landscape baseline E: Coastal Valley with Policies from this LCT. Assuming the proposed schemes become operational, the addition of Keirs Hill will not substantially alter the pattern of development seen from this LCT or affect its coastal focus. The magnitude of effect is judged to be imperceptible. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on the Coastal Valley with Policies LCT is judged to be negligible and not significant. 2.1 The baseline landscape is described in Chapter 7 of the ES. The features, character and sensitivity of the landscape of the study area are not considered to have fundamentally changed and remain as set out in the ES. In the vicinity of the site, areas of mature commercial forest which are ready for harvesting continue to be progressively felled. In addition, Dersalloch Wind Farm is now in the very early stages of construction, although no s have been erected. The Dunstonhill opencast coal mine remains in the condition it was in when Scottish Coal ceased operations in 2013, though proposals for restoration have been brought forward. Cumulative effects on landscape 2.2 This section describes effects with reference to the landscape character types defined in the landscape character assessments for Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway, published by SNH. D: Coastal Headlands Medium Minor and not significant, as in LVIA Magnitude of effect: Once the Dersalloch Wind Farm is constructed, then it is likely that the addition of the proposed development will cause both wind farms to be read as a large single group occupying a small proportion of views from this LCT. Keirs Hill will be seen as being compatible in scale and layout with Dersalloch at this distance, and will not affect the coastal focus of this LCT. The magnitude of the effect is judged to be low. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on the Coastal Headlands LCT is judged to be minor and not significant. G: Ayrshire Lowlands Medium Minor and not significant, as in LVIA Magnitude of effect: Once the consented Dersalloch Wind Farm is constructed, it will be seen behind the proposed Keirs Hill development from the majority of available views from within this LCT. Both wind farms are likely be read as a large single group, with Keirs Hill seen as compatible in scale and layout with Dersalloch. The addition of Keirs Hill is unlikely to substantially increase the proportion of the view occupied by wind farms. Due to their closer proximity to the areas of this LCT, the two consented Knockshinnoch s are likely to be more prominent in views. The magnitude of the effect resulting from the addition of the proposed development is judged to be low. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on this LCT is judged to be minor and not significant. Magnitude of effect: Should the proposed developments at Linfairn and Glenmount become operational, then both will be seen behind Keirs Hill and Dersalloch from areas of this LCT. Due to the distance and angle of views, all four wind farms are likely to be read as a large group occupying a limited proportion of the view. The addition of Keirs Hill to this cluster is unlikely to alter the pattern of wind development and will result in a low magnitude of effect on the local area of the LCT. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on this LCT is judged to be locally minor and not significant, where the s will be visible, and negligible elsewhere. Magnitude of effect: Should the developments at Linfairn and Glenmount become operational, then it is likely that the addition of Keirs Hill will cause these wind farms along with Dersalloch to be read as a single group, occupying a small proportion of the view. At this distance Keirs Hill will be seen as compatible in scale and layout to these schemes, and will not affect the coastal focus of this LCT. The magnitude of the effect is judged to be low. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on the Coastal Headlands LCT is judged to be minor and not significant. E: Coastal Valley with Policies High. Negligible and not significant, as in LVIA Magnitude of effect: Once the Dersalloch Wind Farm is constructed it is likely to be visible along with the Keirs Hill development in glimpsed views from areas of this LCT. Both wind farms are likely to read as a large single group occupying a small proportion of the view. At this distance, Keirs Hill will be seen as compatible in scale and layout with Dersalloch, and will not affect the coastal focus of this LCT. The magnitude of effect is judged to be imperceptible. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on the Coastal Valley with Policies LCT is judged to be negligible and not significant. Magnitude of effect: It is likely that a number of the cumulative developments in the vicinity of Keirs Hill will be visible in glimpsed views I: Lowland River Valley Medium Minor and not significant, as in LVIA Magnitude of effect: Once the consented Dersalloch Wind Farm is constructed, it will be seen directly behind and slightly to the west the proposed development from the majority of available views within areas of this LCT. Both wind farms are likely be read as a single large group, with Keirs Hill seen as compatible in scale and layout with Dersalloch. The addition of Keirs Hill is unlikely to substantially increase the proportion of the view occupied by wind farms. Due to their closer proximity to areas of this LCT, the consented Knockshinnoch s are likely to be more prominent in views than the proposed development. The magnitude of the effect resulting for the addition of the proposed development is judged to be low. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on this LCT is judged to be minor and not significant. Magnitude of effect: Should the proposed developments at Linfairn and Glenmount become operational, then it is likely that Keirs Hill will be viewed directly in front of these, with all three wind farms along with Dersalloch being read as a large group, occupying a limited proportion of the view. At this distance Keirs Hill will be seen as compatible in scale and layout with these schemes. The addition of Keirs Hill to this cluster of wind farm development will result in a low magnitude of effect on the local area of LCT. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on this LCT is Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 3 May 2015

9 I: Lowland River Valley judged to be locally minor and not significant, where the s will be visible and negligible elsewhere. Q: Foothills Medium J: Upland River Valleys Medium Moderate and not significant, as in LVIA Magnitude of effect: Once the consented development at Dersalloch becomes operational, it will be seen directly behind and to the west the proposed development from the majority of available views within areas of this LCT. Both wind farms are likely be read as a large single group occupying a greater proportion of the view, with Keirs Hill seen as compatible in scale and layout to Dersalloch. The magnitude of the effect resulting from the addition of the proposed development is judged to be low. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on this LCT is judged to be moderate and significant. This will affect the less sensitive area of the valley between Patna and Waterside. Around Dalmellington and further south, the s will be more distant and less visible, and the level of effect will decrease accordingly. The majority of the LCT will not experience a significant cumulative effect on landscape character. Major and significant for the localised area south of Gass, reducing to minor or negligible (not significant) in the great majority of the LCT. Magnitude of effect: Once operational the Dersalloch Wind Farm will occupy the area of this LCT south of Gass. The addition of the proposed development will have an imperceptible magnitude of effect on this area in scenario 2, due to the assumed presence of other s in the same area. Effect: The level of effect of the proposed development in scenario 2, is judged to be minor or negligible (not significant) in the Foothills LCT. Magnitude of effect: The presence of Linfairn and Glenmount in the surrounding landscape is likely to affect this small area of Foothills LCT. The addition of Keirs Hill will have an imperceptible magnitude of effect on this area in scenario 3, due to the assumed presence of other farms, including Dersalloch, in the same area. Effect: The level of effect of the proposed development in scenario 3, is judged to be minor or negligible (not significant) in this LCT. Magnitude of effect: Should Polquhairn become operational, it will be located on the opposite side of the valley to Keirs Hill, though at greater distance from the valley landscape. Glenmount will be seen to the south of the Upland River Valley landscape. The additional magnitude of effect arising from Keirs Hill will be medium. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on the local area of the LCT is judged to be moderate and significant. This will affect the less sensitive section of the valley around Waterside. Further south, around Dalmellington and beyond, where there will be more limited views of Keirs Hill, the level of effect will be reduced. Q(b): Foothills with Forest (host landscape) Medium Major and significant for the area around the application site, extending north to the forested edge at Chapel Hill and Cloncaird Moor, and west to the edge of Sclenteuch Moor. Magnitude of effect: Once operational, the Dersalloch Wind Farm will directly affect the character of the southern part of this LCT. Keirs Hill is likely to appear separate, but visually compatible with Dersalloch and will extend the influence of wind energy development to the north. L: Middle Dale High Minor and not significant, as in LVIA Magnitude of effect: It is likely that once operational, the Dersalloch Wind Farm will be visible on skylines to the east of the LCT, with Keirs Hill appearing separate, but visually compatible with Dersalloch. The addition of the proposed development is judged to result in a low magnitude of effect within the western part of the LCT, reducing with distance. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on areas of this LCT is judged to be locally minor and not significant, where the s will be visible, and negligible elsewhere. Effect: The effects in on this LCT are considered to be the same as for scenario 1. Magnitude of effect: Should both the Linfairn and Glenmount applications become operational, and scoping-stage Knockskae, they will affect the character of the southern part of the local area of this LCT. Keirs Hill Wind Farm will extend the influence of wind energy development to the north. The magnitude of effect for this local area south of Patna will remain high due to its relative scale and the proportion of the area affected. The addition of Keirs Hill will result in wind farms affecting a greater part of the local area, but this continues to represent a small part of the LCT as a whole. Effect: The effects in on this LCT are considered to be the same as for scenario 1. Magnitude of effect: It is likely that developments at Linfairn and Glenmount, will be visible on skylines south and east within areas of this LCT. Keirs Hill is likely to be less visible in this area than Linfairn and, potentially, Knockskae. The addition of the proposed development is judged to result in a low magnitude of effect within the western part of the LCT, reducing with distance. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 is judged to be minor and not significant, in the area within 7km - 9km of the proposed development, reducing to negligible (not significant) further west. T(b): Southern Uplands with Forest Low Minor and not significant, as in LVIA Magnitude of effect: Once the Dersalloch Wind Farm becomes operational it will be seen directly to the south of the proposed Keirs Hill Wind Farm from this LCT. Due to a clear separation distance between the two wind farms, Keirs Hill is likely to appear separate, but visually compatible with Dersalloch. The magnitude of the effect resulting for the addition of the proposed development is judged to be medium. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on this LCT is judged to be the same as for scenario 1. Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 4 May 2015

10 T(b): Southern Uplands with Forest Magnitude of effect: The proposed South Kyle and Pencloe wind Farm will be located within this LCT to the east of Dalmellington. Both these wind farms will be seen in successive views seen in the opposite direction to Keirs Hill. The addition of Keirs Hill outside the LCT will therefore have limited effect in addition to these direct effects. The magnitude of effect in scenario 3 will be the same as in scenario 2. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on the Southern Uplands with Forest LCT is judged to be the same as for scenario 2. 19/19a: Southern Uplands Medium Minor and not significant, as in LVIA Magnitude of effect: Once Dersalloch becomes operational, it will appear in close proximity to the proposed development in views from the Carsphairn area of this LCT, with both over 10km from this landscape. The magnitude of the effect resulting from the addition of the proposed development is judged to be low. U: Rugged Granitic Upland High Minor and not significant, as in LVIA Magnitude of effect: Once Dersalloch is constructed, Keirs Hill will appear directly behind this wind farm in views north. The proposed development will not be perceived as a new element, being compatible in scale and layout with Dersalloch. The proposed development is unlikely to increase the proportion of the view occupied by wind energy development. The magnitude of effect in scenario 2 is judged to be imperceptible. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on this LCT is judged to be negligible and not significant. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on this LCT is judged to be the same as for scenario 1. Magnitude of effect: The proposed Benbrack Wind Farm will be located within the northern half of the area of LCT to the west of Loch Doon. The proposed South Kyle Wind Farm will be located in the neighbouring 19a Southern Uplands with Forest LCT to the north-east. If these proposed schemes become operational then they will significantly increase the impact of wind energy development on this area of LCT. The additional effect of Keirs Hill, over 10km away, will be minimal in comparison to these direct effects. The magnitude of the effect r is judged to be imperceptible. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on the Southern Uplands LCT is judged to be negligible and not significant. Magnitude of effect: Should the Glenmount and Linfairn Wind Farms become operational, both will be seen in combined views with the proposed development, appearing in closer proximity. The proposed development, behind Dersalloch, is unlikely to increase the proportion of the view occupied by wind energy development. The magnitude of effect in scenario 3will be the same as in scenario 2. 21: Rugged Granite Uplands High Minor and not significant, as in LVIA Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on the area of this LCT with theoretical is judged to be the same as for scenario 2. 9: Upper Dale High Minor and not significant, as in LVIA Magnitude of effect: Once the consented Dersalloch Wind Farm becomes operational, it will be seen directly in front and to the southeast of Keirs Hill from the majority of available views from within the Carsphairn area of the LCT. Keirs Hill will be seen as compatible in scale and layout with Dersalloch, however with separation distance, both will appear as discrete schemes. The addition of Keirs Hill will slightly increase the angle of view occupied by wind energy development from the LCT by extending the number of s seen to the north. The magnitude of effect in scenario 2 will be the same as in scenario 1 Magnitude of effect: Once the consented development at Dersalloch becomes operational, the proposed Keirs Hill development will appear directly behind this wind farm and will not be perceived as a new element in the view. The magnitude of effect in scenario 2 is judged to be imperceptible. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on this LCT is judged to be negligible and not significant. Magnitude of effect: Other proposed wind farms will be visible from within this LCT, though with Keirs Hill only seen in distant views behind Dersalloch, the magnitude of effect in scenario 2 is judged to be imperceptible. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on this LCT is judged to be the same as for scenario 2. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 2 on this LCT is judged to be the same as for scenario 1. Magnitude of effect: There are number wind farms that are at the application stage within the surroundings of this LCT, including the Benbrack, Glenmount and South Kyle to the north, and Quantans Hill, and Longburn to the east. If these proposed schemes become operational then they will be seen in combined and sequential views with the proposed development, though much closer than the relatively distant Keirs Hill. The magnitude of effect in scenario 3 will be the same as in scenario 1. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on the Upper Dale LCT is judged to be the same as for scenario 1. Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 5 May 2015

11 Cumulative effects on designated landscapes 2.3 This section describes the operational cumulative effects resulting from the proposed wind farm on designated areas in the Study Area, which are limited to the Doon Valley Sensitive Landscape Character Area (SLCA) and the South Ayrshire Scenic Area. This section also considers the Merrick Wild Land Area. Wild Land Areas were established in 2014 to replace the earlier Search Areas for Wild Land. The new Wild Land Area is similar in its extent and boundaries to the Search Area. The 2013 LVIA assessed effects on the wild land character of this Search Area, including consideration of cumulative impact, and found that these will be negligible. No changes to the baseline have been identified which would alter this conclusion. Indeed, the greater certainty now attached to Dersalloch suggests that Keirs Hill will most likely be seen behind this scheme, thus having minimal from within the Merrick Wild Land Area. The effects on the Merrick Wild Land Area are not therefore considered further. Effects on locally designated landscapes Description and special qualities Doon Valley SLCA The Doon Valley SLCA includes parts of the following LCTs: I Lowland River Valley; J Upland River Valley; Q Foothills; Q(b) Foothills with Forest; T(b) Southern Uplands with Forest; and U Rugged Granitic Upland. The SLCA is designated to protect and enhance the overall scenic quality of the landscape. The scenic quality of the Doon Valley SLCA is considered to be the contrast and transition between smaller scale intimate river valleys, rounded foothills covered by moorland and forestry, and the dramatic, complex topography and remoteness of the rugged upland. This scenic quality is experienced both in passing through the landscape and in inter between LCTs, in views. Doon Valley SLCA Effect: The effect of the development in scenario 1 on the Doon Valley SLCA is judged to be locally moderate and significant. This will affect the less sensitive area of the valley between Patna and Waterside. Around Dalmellington and further south, the s will be more distant and less visible, and the level of effect will decrease accordingly. Much of the designated landscape will not have of the proposed development. The purpose of the, which is assumed to be the protection of the scenic quality of Loch Doon and the integrity of the valley landscape, will not be significantly affected. Magnitude of effect: There are no consented wind farms in the Doon Valley SLCA. Once operational, Dersalloch Wind Farm will be close to and visible from the SLCA. Keirs Hill Wind Farm will be more visible than Dersalloch. The Knockshinnoch s will be visible from the northern end of the SLCA, though as an entirely separate scheme. The addition of Keirs Hill is likely to result in additional cumulative effects on the designated area; however the magnitude and level of effect in scenario 2 will remain the same as scenario 1. It should also be noted that much of the SLCA will experience no effect, particularly the less man-modified area south of Dalmellington. Magnitude of effect: the proposed Glenmount Wind Farm will be within the SLCA, and South Kyle and Benbrack will be visible from within the designated area. Should these proposed wind farms become operational, it is likely that Keirs Hill will increase views of s from this designated landscape. However, the Keirs Hill s are likely to be most visible from the more man-modified area around Waterside and Patna. Locally, the magnitude of effect in scenario 3 will remain medium, due to the direct and indirect impact of the s. However much of the SLCA will experience no effect. Effect: The level of effect of the development in scenario 3 on the Doon Valley SLCA is judged to be locally moderate and significant, in the man-modified area around Waterside. There will be no additional effect on the integrity of the designated area. There are no existing wind farms located within the SLCA; however other wind farms may be visible from within it. Overall, the sensitivity of this designated landscape is judged to be medium because its scenic qualities are vulnerable to some extent to change from this type of development, and the is of local importance. The more scenic area of the SLCA is considered to be the landscape around Loch Doon and the valley extending north to Dalmellington. By contrast, the Doon Valley north of Dalmellington is a simpler landscape, with extensive evidence of human activity. Description and special qualities South Ayrshire Scenic Area The South Ayrshire Scenic Area includes parts of the following LCTs: D Coastal Headlands; L Middle Dale; Q Foothills; Q(b) Foothills with Forest; and U Rugged Granitic Upland. Magnitude of effect: A small part of Doon Valley SLCA will be directly affected by the proposed development, since 3 s and the access track will be located on an area of moorland at the fringe of the SLCA. Between Dalmellington and Patna, the s will affect a large proportion of views, and will be positioned on the edge of the valley. The magnitude of effect is considered to be medium. With increasing distance, the magnitude of effect will reduce, to be imperceptible to around Loch Doon. Windy Standard II may be visible from within the SLA with Windy Standard visible in views east. The Scenic Area is designated to protect and enhance the overall scenic quality of the landscape. The designated area is very extensive, covering the whole of southern South Ayrshire, and extending beyond the 35km study area. The scenic quality of the South Ayrshire Scenic Area is considered to be the interrelationship between the coastline, the rounded foothills of moorland and forest, and the dramatic, complex topography and remoteness of the rugged upland. This scenic quality is experienced in views both when passing through the landscape and in views Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 6 May 2015

12 South Ayrshire Scenic Area allowing inter between LCTs. Hadyard Hill Wind Farm, comprising 52 s, located within the Foothills and Foothills with Forest LCT, is within the designated landscape, as is a small part of Mark Hill Wind Farm, further south. Other operational wind farms outside the Scenic Area, such as Arecleoch and Windy Standard I, may also be visible from some areas. Overall, the sensitivity of this very large designated landscape is judged to be medium because its scenic qualities are vulnerable to some extent to change from this type of development, and the is of local importance. Magnitude of effect: The wider South Ayrshire Scenic Area includes Hadyard Hill Wind Farm, around 15km from the proposed development. The proposed development will affect the landscape of the hills to the south of the application site, and to a lesser extent the Girvan Water valley to the west. The former area may experience a high magnitude of change, although this will quickly reduce with distance, and the vast majority of the scenic area will not experience any change. Effect: The effect of the development in scenario 1 on the South Ayrshire Scenic Area is judged to be negligible and not significant. There may be very localised significant effects on small areas at the edge of the designated landscape, but this will not affect the integrity of this extensive. Magnitude of effect: Once constructed, Dersalloch Wind Farm will be located entirely within the Scenic Area. There are no consented wind farms in the upland area of South Carrick. The addition of views of Keirs Hill to the direct effects of Dersalloch in scenario 2 will not result in greater than imperceptible effects on the integrity of the, and effects will be negligible and not significant. Magnitude of effect: The proposed Linfairn Wind Farm and Hadyard Hill Extension will be entirely within the Scenic Area. Should these become operational, in addition to Dersalloch, the additional indirect effect of Keirs Hill will be imperceptible. Effects in scenario 3 will be as for scenario 2. Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 7 May 2015

13 3 Assessment of Cumulative Effects on Views Viewpoint 1 B741 at Gass Grid Reference , Visual Baseline 3.1 The visual baseline in the 2013 LVIA is described in terms of views from representative s, views from settlements and views from key routes. The same s, settlements and routes have been used in this updated cumulative assessment. Viewpoint Assessment 3.2 Cumulative effects on views experienced from the sixteen s across the Study Area are assessed below. In each case, the text relating to location, and sensitivity is repeated from the LVIA. The assessment for has not been updated, and only the final assessment is stated. For Scenarios 2 and 3, an updated assessment has been made based on the cumulative baseline set out in this report. 3.3 Visualisations for each have been provided in Updated Figures 7.12 to LCT Q Foothills Landscape Direction of view North and north-east Distance to nearest and Hubs: 17 South Ayrshire Scenic Area 0.8km Figure Number 7.12 The is located on a single-track B-road which crosses the moorland between Straiton and Dalmellington. It is located on the high point of the road (285m), around 600m east of Gass. The view from the road takes in grassy moorland in the foreground, with single-species coniferous forestry to the north, creating an enclosed view in this direction. To the north-east and east there are views beyond the forestry to Benquhat Hill and Benbeoch on the east side of the Doon Valley. To the west there are views to low hills west of Straiton: in the distance the tip of Ailsa Craig can be seen. Hadyard Hill Wind Farm lies in this direction (14km), but is largely screened by intervening landform. To the south the land rises up steeply to Black Hill and Turgeny, restricting views. Viewers at this location will be road users on the B741. The B741 is relatively well used for a road of its type, and the majority of road users will pass by this point without stopping. There are no indicators that this is an especially valued view. Road users are therefore considered to be of low sensitivity. Major and significant, as set out in the LVIA. Once built the Dersalloch Wind Farm will be located immediately to the south of this, with the s seen on the skyline above the grassy moorland in the foreground of view. The s will be seen across approximately 100 degrees of the view to the south. The addition of the proposed Keirs Hill development to this baseline will have the effect of introducing extensive views of s to the north in addition to close range, albeit partially screened, views of s to the south. The magnitude of effect in scenario 2 will be high, and the level of effect will be major and significant. A number of the s in the northern section of proposed South Kyle Wind Farm will be seen in longer distance views across the Doon Valley to the east. However, the intervening landform of Black Hill is likely to screen views of the s located in the southern area of this wind farm. The blade tips and hubs of a number of s located in the proposed Ashmark Hill and Pencloe Wind Farms are likely to be seen through South Kyle and will not increase the angle of view affected by wind farms to the east. The proposed Kirk Hill Wind Farm will be seen on the skyline in long-distance views to the west. As a consequence of the relatively large distance between this and the scenario 3 developments, and the relatively small increase in the angle of view occupied by these wind farms, it is likely that the effect in scenario 3 will be the same as in scenario 2. Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 8 May 2015

14 Viewpoint 2 Auchenroy Hill Grid Reference , Viewpoint 3 Waterside Heritage Centre Grid Reference , LCT Q(b) Foothills with Forest Landscape Doon Valley SLCA LCT J Upper River Valleys Landscape Doon Valley SLCA Direction of view North-east Distance to nearest 1.7km Direction of view South-west Distance to nearest 1.8 km Hubs: 17 Figure Number 7.13 Hubs: 11 Figure Number 7.14 and Auchenroy Hill (367m) is 4km west of Dalmellington, at the edge of the Doon Valley. The summit of the rounded hill comprises open moorland, and is accessible via paths from the minor road to the east. The summit is marked by a trig point and offers panoramic views across the surrounding area. To the north-east, the overlooks the upper part of the site, as part of the wider forested plateau. Beyond the forestry are the Carrick Hills, with Arran visible in the Firth of Clyde. Patna is visible in the Doon Valley, although much of the valley floor is hidden by White Hill to the north. Looking north-east and east, there are views across the Doon Valley to Benquhat and Benbeoch with Dalmellington in the middle-ground. To the south-east, views extend across Bellsbank to Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. Views into the upper Doon Valley and Loch Doon are obscured by the southern summit of Auchenroy Hill. To the south there are views to Big Hill of Glenmount, and Merrick in the distance. Eastward, the view is across the moorland and forestry of Dersalloch Hill, to the rocky hills west of the Girvan Water. Ailsa Craig can be seen in the distance. To the east, Harehill I wind farm can be seen on the skyline, 21km distant, and tips of Windy Standard I are glimpsed at 16km. Similarly, only the tips of Hadyard can be seen at 19km to the west. Viewers at this location are walkers, who visit to access the hills and appreciate the views. The walking route up to the hill top is a Core Path. The summit is within the Doon Valley SLCA and is at the edge of the inventorylisted Craigengillan designed landscape (see Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage). The sensitivity of viewers at this location is considered to be high. and The is located on a railway bridge which gives access to the former iron works at Waterside, now used as a heritage centre. The centre is open periodically during summer and offers steam train rides along the Doon Valley. From the bridge, the view south-west is restricted by the rising side of the Doon Valley, with forestry visible on the skyline. There is a high bing or waste tip in the foreground. To the north-west there are views along the Doon Valley to Patna and the forested moor behind. The railway line to the northwest is fringed by native woodland. To the north and north-east is the former ironworks, dominated by two chimneys, with Green Hill behind. To the southwest there are views up the Doon Valley to Bellsbank and Glenmuck Craig. Viewers at this location are the visitors to the heritage centre, who come to view the historic buildings and railway locomotives. The cultural heritage assessment (Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage) notes that the historic setting of the ironworks is largely inward-looking. However, visitors to the heritage centre will view the complex within the wider visual context of the Doon Valley as they arrive and depart, and as they move around the site. The Doon Valley landscape will be viewed during steam train rides, for example. The is also representative of views experienced by some residents of Waterside village (see Appendix 7.1). Visitors and residents are considered to be of high sensitivity. Major and significant, as set out in the LVIA. Major and significant, as set out in the LVIA. The proposed Dersalloch wind farm will be seen immediately to the west, with the s viewed in an irregular group across the moorland to the south of Turgeny. The closest will be 1.5 km away, and the Dersalloch s will be visibly at a greater altitude than those at Keirs Hill, reducing the apparent difference in height. There are theoretical views of consented s at Windy Standard II and Afton, seen in the context of Windy Standard I in the east. To the south-east, Blackcraig Hill and Knockman Hill wind farms will be visible on the distant skyline. The addition of the proposed development will extend views of s to the north, with close-range views of s seen across 90 degrees of the view. The magnitude of the cumulative effect will be high, and the level of effect is judged to be major and significant. Once constructed, the blade tip of one of the Dersalloch s will be theoretically visible behind Keirs Hill and is likely to be read as the same scheme. No other consented schemes will be viewed from this location. The effect of adding Keirs Hill to this baseline will be similar to scenario 1. The South Kyle and Benbrack Wind Farms will be theoretically visible in views to the east; however in practice both are likely to be screened by the local landform and the ironworks. The effect of adding Keirs Hill to this baseline will be similar to scenario 1. In addition to schemes, the proposed Kirk Hill wind farm will be seen to the west, just north of Dersalloch in the view. Behind the Dersalloch s, Linfairn wind farm and Hadyard Hill extension will be visible. Further south, the Glenmount wind farm will be seen on lower ground below the skyline, around 5km from the. Turning to the east, s at South Kyle and Benbrack will occupy a broad angle of the skyline, more visible and closer than those of Windy Standard behind. Quantans Hill and Margree wind farms will be glimpsed in the context of Blackcraig Hill and Knockman Hill. The introduction of Keirs Hill in this scenario will result in the addition of a large wind farm to the north, resulting in clear views of s in most directions, excepting the north-east view. The magnitude of the cumulative effect will be high, and the level of effect is judged to be major and significant. Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 9 May 2015

15 Viewpoint 4 Patna Grid Reference , Viewpoint 5 Lethanhill Schoolhouse Grid Reference , LCT J Upper River Valleys Landscape Doon Valley SLCA LCT J Upper River Valleys Landscape Doon Valley SLCA Direction of view South Distance to nearest 1.8km Direction of view South-west Distance to nearest 2.5 km Hubs: 13 Figure Number 7.15 Hubs: 17 Figure Number 7.16 and The is sited on the A713 as it passes through Patna. It is located on the west side of the road, overlooking the more southerly of two bridges which give access to the village. The view overlooks rough grazing in the foreground, on the floodplain, with the River Doon out of sight. Beyond the river the ground rises up, occupied by amenity grassland and scattered trees. The post-war houses of Patna are ranged across the middle-distance, with forested hills rising up behind. The village extends around to the north-west, still backed by forested hills, to the north and east. Longer views are restricted by housing, some of which faces on to the A713. The view south-east looks along the road up the Doon Valley. The south-west valley sides are visible, but longer views are restricted by trees along the valley floor. This is representative of views available to many residents of Patna, particularly those whose houses lie along the A713 and face south-west, and is representative of views available to residents as they move around the village. Other viewers at this location are road users travelling south on the A713, who may or may not stop in Patna, but will include those travelling on the signposted Galloway Tourist Route. Residents are considered to be of high sensitivity, while road users are of medium sensitivity. Major and significant, as set out in the LVIA. and This is on the north-east valley side of the Doon Valley, to the east of Patna. A track leads up the hillside from the golf course to the site of Lethanhill village, a former mining community, now only marked by a war memorial adjacent to an operational surface coal mine. The track gives access to the mine, but is also used by local recreational walkers, and a single property, the Schoolhouse, is located nearby. The view overlooks the Doon Valley and Patna which is mainly sited on the western valley side. The river and settlement of Waterside are out of sight below the brow of the slope. The view takes in the pasture on the south-west side of the valley, divided by wooded gullies, with the open and forested moorland of the site beyond. The forestry extends around to the north to form the backdrop to Patna, though with recently cleared sections close to the settlement. Further south, Auchenroy Hill and Turgeny can be seen containing the middle-distance. Beyond this the distant summits of Merrick to the south, the Rhinns of Kells to the south-west, and Mochrum Hill to the west, can be glimpsed. Views north and east are obscured by rising ground. No existing wind farms are visible. Viewers at this location will be residents of the single property, as well as recreational walkers accessing the hillside, who are mainly likely to be local residents. Although not a highly scenic or well-visited location, the is within a locally-designated landscape, and viewers at this location are considered to be of high sensitivity. Once constructed, the tips of one of the Dersalloch s will be theoretically visible behind the proposed development and are likely to be read as the same scheme. No other consented schemes will be viewed from this. The effect of adding Keirs Hill to this baseline will be similar to scenario 1 Benbrack Wind Farm and the blade tip of one of the South Kyle s are theoretically visible in views to the south-east; however, in practice both are glimpsed views that are likely to be screened by the local landform. The introduction of Keirs Hill into this baseline will result in a similar effect to scenario 1. Major and significant, as set out in the LVIA. Dersalloch Wind Farm will be visible on the skyline 5 km to the south, above Turgeny Hill and in front of the distant Merrick summit. Although Dersalloch is on higher ground, the closer Keirs Hill s will appear larger in this view. The addition of Keirs Hill to this baseline is judged to be a high magnitude of effect, and the level of effect will be major and significant. Linfairn wind farm will be barely visible in this view, and the only proposed wind farm visible will be Hadyard Hill Extension, seen on the skyline behind the northernmost Keirs Hill s. It is possible that Knockskae will be seen between Hadyard Hill and Keirs Hill. The addition of Keirs Hill in front of both Dersalloch and Hadyard Hill Extension is judged to be a high magnitude of effect, and the level of effect will be major and significant. Keirs Hill Wind Farm Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 10 May 2015