Offaly County Council. Tullamore Town Council. SEA Screening Report

Transcription

1 Offaly County Council Tullamore Town Council SEA Screening Report Proposed Variation No. 2 of the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan : A. Include a Core Strategy B. Landscape Buffer March 2013

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3 CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND LOCATION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION PRE-SCREENING CHECK PURPOSE OF THE VARIATION AIMS SCREENING CHECK BASELINE INFORMATION Demographic Data Water Existing Public Water Supply Scheme Proposed Upgrades to Public Water Supply Scheme Waste Water Flooding Areas of High Sensitivity and Areas of High Amenity Esker Riada Charleville Wood csac The Grand Canal Corridor Health & Safety - Seveso Sites CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING THE LIKELY SIGNIFICANCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROPOSED VARIATION CHARACTERISTICS OF THE EFFECTS AND OF THE AREA LIKELY TO BE AFFECTED, HAVING REGARD, IN PARTICULAR, TO: STATUTORY CONSULTATION DETERMINATION IN TERMS OF ARTICLE 13K Appendix 1:... Letter from EPA 2

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5 1.0 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND Offaly County Council and Tullamore Town Council are jointly preparing a variation to the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan The purpose of this variation is to incorporate the Core Strategy, as required by the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010, and to make amendments to the open space zoning category and the zoning map to account for the landscape buffer. The Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan was adopted in May 2010 and Variation No. 2 will be carried out in accordance with Section 13 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. Tullamore is designated as a linked Gateway Town, with Athlone and Mullingar in the Midlands region. In the census of 2011, Tullamore Town and Environs had a stated population of 14,361 people. The Planning Authority for the town itself is Tullamore Town Council while Offaly County Council is the planning authority for the environs area. Article 13(K) of the Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 (as amended by S.I. No. 200 or S.I. No. 201 of 2011) requires that where a planning authority proposes to make a variation of a development plan, it shall first consider whether or not the proposed variation would be likely to have significant effects on the environment. The criteria against which this is to be assessed are set out in Schedule 2A of the Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 (as amended by S.I. No. 200 or S.I. No. 201 of 2011). This report outlines this screening process and considerations, the process will conclude with a determination as to whether the proposed variation requires a Strategic Environmental Assessment. It is important to note whilst completing this SEA Screening Statement cognisance was taken at all times of all environmental policies and objectives contained in the adopted Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan for which an SEA was prepared in 2010 in order to determine whether the policies or objectives of the Town and Environs Development Plan would be likely to have significant effects on the environment. 1.1 LOCATION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION Tullamore is located in the Midlands of Ireland and is County Offaly s primary urban centre. Map 1.1 shown overleaf is the core strategy map and indicates Tullamore s main transportation infrastructure and linkages in the overall context of the town centre area and masterplan areas, as well as retail, industrial, commercial and recreational areas. The Tullamore River and Grand Canal flow through the town in an east-west direction. The Eiscir Riada (Esker system) traverses north of the town also in an east-west direction. Charleville Castle and Demesne lies to the south west of town. Access to the town is provided by the N52 (Dundalk Nenagh) and the N80 to the south east and the R420 to the west. The network links into the M6 Dublin-Galway Motorway which is just north of the town. Accessibility is further enhanced by the train services which operate from Tullamore station connecting the town to Dublin and also to the west. Tullamore displays a traditional form in its layout and streetscapes and has a substantial legacy of eighteenth and nineteenth century town centre buildings in a network of streets and squares. There are notable mill and brewery buildings which refer to the town s historical role as a brewing and distillery centre. Suburban residential areas built over different periods since the nineteen forties extend from the town centre, along the radial routes. As can be seen in Table 1.1 the Town area experienced moderate growth while the Environs area experienced significant growth in population since the census in

6 Map 1.1 Core Strategy 5

7 Table 1.1 Population Change in Tullamore Town and Environs CSO Percentage Change Tullamore Town 10,900 11,356 8 Environs 2,027 3, Tullamore Town and Environs 12,927 14, Since 2006, there has been an 8% increase in population in Tullamore Urban (Town) DED and a 48% increase in Tullamore Rural (Environs) DED, giving an overall increase for the Town and Environs population of 10%. 1.2 PRE-SCREENING CHECK Article 13(K) of the Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 (as amended by S.I. No. 200 or S.I. No. 201 of 2011) requires that where a planning authority proposes to make a variation of a development plan it shall first consider whether or not the proposed variation would be likely to have significant effects on the environment. The Council is cognisant that the size of the plan area or the likely population envisaged alone should not be the sole determinant of whether the plans would be likely to have significant effects on the environment, and that the decision to require an SEA, or not, will be influenced by the nature and extent of development likely to be proposed or permitted and the plan s location, for example close to or covered by nature designation, other designation, sensitive areas etc. This screening process will take into account all of the relevant criteria set out in Schedule 2A of the Planning and Development Regulations (Strategic Environmental Assessment) PURPOSE OF THE VARIATION The current Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan was adopted in May 2010 and includes a written statement and zoning map. The inclusion of the Core Strategy in the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan is a requirement resultant from the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act The Core Strategy for County Offaly has already been incorporated into the Offaly County Development Plan in Variation No. 1 of that plan and this Core Strategy will be consistent with that plan. Variation No. 2 (Part A - Core Strategy) supplements and supersedes, where relevant, the content of certain sections of the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan in particular Chapter 4 ( Overall Strategy ). The Core Strategy, will allow for possible development of the Masterplan Areas within the lifetime of this plan, should a viable and comprehensive proposal come forward. This Core Strategy includes all of the key requirements of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act The purpose of a Core Strategy is to articulate a medium to longer term quantitatively based strategy for the spatial development of the area of the planning authority, and

8 in doing so, to demonstrate that the development plan and its objectives are consistent with national and regional development objectives set out in the National Spatial Strategy and Regional Planning Guidelines (RPGs) AIMS The Core Strategy will have the following principal aims: Aims of Core Strategy 1. To strengthen the role of the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan in implementing the objectives of higher order plans, where appropriate. 2. To ensure that the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan is consistent with national and regional planning strategies, guidelines and policies including national and regional population targets. 3. To develop an evidence based settlement strategy that provides a framework within which sustainable infrastructure, amenities, economic investment and development can be provided in a manner that maximises the use of resources in the Town and Environs, for current and future generations. 4. To ensure compliance with the requirements of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended. 5. To provide for the growth of Tullamore Town and Environs towards a long term target population and develop the town in its role as a Linked Gateway Town as set out in the settlement strategy in the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines. The continuing support for appropriately scaled development within and adjoining the town centre, in a sequential manner, will remain a priority while recognising the role that new infrastructure and public transportation links will play in future. 6. To ensure a high level of environmental protection in the implementation of the policies and objectives of the plan through the observance of all legal requirements with regard to Strategic Environmental Assessment, Habitats Directive Assessment, Water Framework Directive and Floods Directive, as appropriate. 7. To ensure that the quantity and location of land zoned for development in the Development Plan will accommodate the level of development anticipated over the plan period and supports the priorities for growth indicated in the settlement hierarchy. 8. To ensure that future development will integrate with the existing and planned transport and services infrastructure such as road, rail and water services infrastructure in order to utilise them in the most efficient way possible (as per priority investments outlined at national and regional level). 9. To ensure that development over the lifetime of this plan is monitored and managed so as to achieve the overall objectives of this strategy. 1 Source: DoEHLG Circular and Guidance Notes on Core Strategies, November

9 A strong written statement will be put in place and there will be a renewed emphasis on monitoring and management of development in the town as a result of this variation. The aims of the Core Strategy are largely consistent with those of the existing plan and with those of the Offaly County Development Plan since its Core Strategy was adopted. Part B The purpose of Part B of the variation is to clearly define the Landscape Buffer in the TTEDP area and also examine its application across the plan area. Part B reduces the amount of Open Space Buffer along the N52 bypass in the Southern Environs Masterplan area and also amends the zoning objective with the plan to include the following text; Open Space shall also be taken to include the use of land as Landscape Buffer where the distinctive purpose is to protect between conflicting landuses and where the land is required to be developed in a specific manner to mitigate against potential negative impacts from identified conflicts. 2.0 SCREENING CHECK The key to deciding if SEA will apply will be whether the plan would be likely to have significant effects on the environment, having regard to size of the area, the nature and extent of the development likely to be accommodated by the plan, and the plan s location i.e. close to or within statutory designations etc. Screening of Variation No. 2 of the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan and will be carried out having regard to available baseline information and based on the criteria in Schedule 2A to the Planning and Development (SEA) Regulations BASELINE INFORMATION This is described briefly below having regard to the extent to which the relevant categories are applicable to the proposed plan area. Please see attached the Considerations Map , which outline the locations of Designated Sites, Benefiting Land, Flood Zones, Protected Structures, SMRs, and Areas of High Amenity. Table 2.1 outlines each relevant category of designated site. Table 2.1 Designated Sites Special Area of Conservation (SAC) Special Protection Area (SPA) Natural Heritage Area (NHA) Charleville Wood SAC (Site Code: ) is located within the plan boundary. The Clara Bog SAC (Site Code: ) is circa 7 km north west of the plan boundary. There are no SPAs within the plan boundary. The Slieve Blooms Mountains (SPA ) lies circa 15 kms south of Tullamore. There are 4 proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pnhas) within the plan boundary area, these are: Ballyduff Wood ; Ballyduff Esker ; Grand Canal and Charleville Wood There are two NHAs to the south and south west of the town of Tullamore, Hawkswood Bog NHA Screggan Bog NHA , circa 5kms and 7kms distance respectively. 8

10 Record of Protected Structures (RPS) Record of Monuments and Places (SMR) The RPS contains 206 structures within the administrative area of Tullamore Town Council and a further 18 structures within the Environs Area (i.e. that part of the plan within Offaly County Council s functional area. Charleville Castle and the Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre are just two notable examples. There are currently 12 zones of Archaeological potential (SMRs) located within the town and environs boundary. Notably the zone of urban archaeological potential within the town centre. It is an objective (TTEO 12-07) of the Town and Environs Development Plan to secure the protection or preservation of SMRs, and hence this variation is not considered to have any negative effect on this aspect of the town s heritage. 9

11 Map 2.1: Location of Designated Sites 10

12 Map 2.2: Spatial distribution of entries to the RPS across the Plan 11

13 Map 2.3: Structures listed within the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage 12

14 2.2 Demographic Data The results of Census 2011 found that the total population in Tullamore Town and Environs was 14,361 at that time. In accordance with the provisions of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010, this Core Strategy Variation will provide for the orderly and sequential development of the town which will be consistent with the population, housing and housing land requirements set out in the MRPG s for Offaly. Within the recently adopted MRPG s, the following figures have been allocated to the Gateway town of Tullamore for the period : 1. Target population growth: 7, Projected number of units: 3, Hectares of housing land required: 129 This allocation of 7280 population must be shared across all of the County s zoned settlements, in accordance with the County settlement hierarchy. This translates to reduced population targets for each of the zoned settlements. Tullamore is a Linked Gateway Town 2 in the County settlement hierarchy included in the Core Strategy adopted as part of Variation No. 1 of the County Development Plan. The allocation of population, housing units and housing land set out in the MRPGs and allowed for in Variation No.1 of the County Development Plan is less than what the current Tullamore Town and Environs plan has provided for, the purpose of this variation is to address this incongruity. The over-provision of undeveloped lands for residential development within the current Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan is now being addressed to ensure consistency with the allocations set out in the RPG s. Table 2.2 Tullamore Town and Environs Core Strategy Table Settlement Tullamore Town and Environs Population 2006 Population Increase Application of 336ha allocation (MRPGs) Total Area of Residentially Zoned Lands available to 2015 ha 12,927 7, Water Existing Public Water Supply Scheme The sources of drinking water for the Tullamore Water Supply Scheme are the Clodiagh and Gorragh rivers at Clonaslee, 5 boreholes in Clonaslee, 2 borewells at Arden and Sillogue well in Durrow. There is currently spare capacity available. The supply network however does not cover the full Development Plan area. The network serves Tullamore urban district, the area north of Collins Lane, east of the Barony River, Clonminch, Ballydaly Group Water Scheme, Rahan (area east of Tully) and Clonaslee village (County Laois). 2 Linked Gateway Towns in Midlands Region, Athlone Tullamore and Mullingar. 13

15 2.3.2 Proposed Upgrades to Public Water Supply Scheme Tullamore Public Water Supply Scheme was included in the Water Services Investment Programme (WSIP) for improvement/upgrade works. It is proposed to upgrade the water treatment plant at Clonaslee, provide additional storage at Clonminch and Ardan and provide key trunk and distribution mains. 2.4 Waste Water The new Tullamore Waste Water Treatment Plant, located at Kilcruttin, immediately west of the Dublin-Galway/Mayo railway line and between the Tullamore River and the Grand Canal which is operational and opened officially on June 7 th 2012, is a significant infrastructural investment, which has increased the capacity of the town to a 45,000 p.e. The treated effluent from the expanded Tullamore WWTP will be split between the Tullamore and Clodiagh Rivers. The treated effluent from up to 30,000 p.e. will be discharged to the Tullamore River. Treated effluent in excess of this value up to 15,000 p.e. would be conveyed to the Clodiagh River via a new outfall pipe extending for some 3km from the site of the WWTP. Calculations provided in the EIS prepared for the expansion of the works demonstrates that the quantities and quality of treated effluent proposed can be readily assimilated by the Tullamore and Clodiagh Rivers. Hence, this upgrade will have a predictive positive impact in terms of the receiving aquatic environment within and outside Tullamore Town and Environs. As part of this upgrade works, a new storm water holding tank is provided to store wastewater for periods when flows arriving at the plant exceed the installed hydraulic capacity. The stored wastewater will subsequently be returned to the main stream of the WWTP for treatment thereby reducing pollution of the Tullamore River. Some parts of the Tullamore environs are still served by septic tanks. The public wastewater system is not as extensive as the public water supply scheme. The Councils require that all single dwellings treat their effluent by installing a wastewater effluent treatment system. Such systems, where permitted, shall comply with national and Environmental Protection Agency standards i.e. Wastewater Treatment Manuals, Treatment Systems for Single Houses or as may be varied during the period of this Plan. 2.5 Flooding The Office of Public Works in conjunction with Offaly County Council and Tullamore Town Council completed the Flood Risk Assessment and Management Study (FRAM) in 2008 for Tullamore. The study identified areas that are at risk of flooding, provided a series of recommendations and listed appropriate mitigation measures. Any planning application for development on lands that are identified as being prone to flood would be required to satisfy the Councils that it has full regard to the FRAM study and that the proposed uses are appropriate for their location and the consequent risk of flooding. Areas identified as being liable to flooding are mapped in Map 2.4. There are some developed areas in Tullamore Town and Environs, particularly to the east of town which are located in the natural flood plains of the Tullamore River. These include parts of the Cloncollig Industrial Estate and Whitehall Residential area on the Daingean Road. However it is important to note that in line with current Plan and specifically Policy TTEP the Council will ensure that development proposed on this land is not itself subject to an inappropriate 14

16 risk of flooding, and/or that it does not increase flood risk or flood damage at other locations. Flood alleviation measures have taken place in the Whitehall area since the last major flooding event in 2009, by the OPW. 2.6 Areas of High Sensitivity and Areas of High Amenity There are three landscape types within Tullamore which are classified in the Development Plan as being highly sensitive and/or Areas of High Amenity: the Esker Riada; Charleville Wood csac; and, the Grand Canal Corridor. These are mapped in Map 2.5. There are no areas of high sensitivity within the lands zoned as Business/Employment lands. Areas of high sensitivity within the Town and Environs Plan are outlined below: Esker Riada The Esker Riada traverses the northwestern corner of County Offaly in a more or less continuous line from Shannonbridge to Clonmacnoise and onto Clara, Durrow and Rahugh in County Westmeath. Eskers were built up from sand and gravel under the ice cap about ten thousand years ago and also have archaeological significance, as they formed the early highways in Ireland. In addition to being a unique landscape component, eskers are of significant geomorphological, scientific, historical, recreational and amenity value Charleville Wood csac This landscape is sensitive to new development, which could damage the historical character and the social importance of the area. All planning applications for development, refurbishment, restoration works etc. within close proximity to this area should be developed in a sensitive and sympathetic manner The Grand Canal Corridor The Offaly section of the Grand Canal comprises some 64 kilometres from Edenderry to Shannon Harbour. It passes through the towns of Daingean and Tullamore. The disused Kilbeggan branch line is now used as a walking route. The canal traverses large tracts of boglands and is bordered by hedgerows dating back 200 years and little fringes of wild vegetation along the bank. The Grand Canal is a focus for a wide range of uses, especially for recreation and tourism purposes. The visual quality of the surrounding areas is intrinsic to maintain the attractiveness of the Grand Canal corridor. Hence, the corridor is especially sensitive to large development structures, insensitively designed sporadic housing and large scale land uses such as extractive industries. As the landscape around the Grand Canal Corridor is both flat and undulating, height restriction should apply to developments in the flatter areas to avoid long distant visual intrusion. 2.7 Health & Safety - Seveso Sites There is one designated Seveso site located within the Plan area. (See map 2.6 for location). This site is under the operation of Isotron and is located at the Srah Industrial Estate. The company deals in the sterilisation of medical equipment. The Council continues to work in co-operation with the HSA when dealing with applications relating to Seveso sites and land use plans in vicinity of such sites (i.e. consultation zones). 15

17 Map 2.4: Flood Zones in Tullamore 16

18 Figure 2.5: Areas of High Sensitivity and Areas of High Amenity 17

19 Map 2.6: Seveso Site Locations and Consultation Zone 18

20 3.0 CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING THE LIKELY SIGNIFICANCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 3.1 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROPOSED VARIATION 1. The degree to which the plan sets a framework for projects and other activities, either with regard to the location, nature, size and operating conditions or by allocating resources, Variation No. 2 Part A proposes no significant changes to the zoning land use plan which acts as a strategic land use framework for the sustainable development of Tullamore Town and its immediate environs. However the amendments to the text under the variation have implications on the quantum of residentially zoned land which may be developed within the Masterplan areas, in particular reducing the amount of Phase 1 Residential lands that can be developed from 50% down to 25%. As can be seen from the Aims outlined in Section 1.3, the focus of the Core Strategy will be to provide for the growth of Tullamore Town and Environs towards a long term target population and develop the town in its role as a Linked Gateway Town. Having regard to the population targets outlined in the MRPGs and in the Core Strategy in the Offaly County Development Plan the undeveloped land available for residential development within the lifetime of this plan will be significantly reduced by this variation. Consequently, as the primary aim of the plan is one of consolidation rather than expansion, the impacts on the environment are unlikely to be significant where large-scale individual projects are proposed within the plan boundary they will be the subject of E.I.A as required in Schedules 5 and 7 of the Planning and Development Regulations Part B (Landscape Buffer variation) defines Landscape Buffer in the plan and reduces the level of landscape buffer in a specific location (along the N52 bypass) on the southern boundary, of the Southern Master plan area and alters the zoning plan in this location. The net effect is the removal of circa 5 ha. of Open Space zoning, which is given over to Business/Employment. Having regard to the scale of this reduction and in the context of the Open Space provision which remains, the impact will be negligible. It is considered that the proposed variation will have environmental implications but these are not likely to be significant in terms of the criteria set out in Schedule 2A of S.I. No. 436/ The degree to which the plan influences other plans, including those in a hierarchy, While the Tullamore and Environs Development Plan is not subsidiary to the Offaly County Development Plan , regard will be had to the Core Strategy adopted as part of variation No.1 of that plan and of the population targets set out in the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines The Town and Environs Development Plan and this variation, by its nature will focus on Tullamore Town and Environs only and the activities therein and will have negligible influence on other plans. The Proposed Variation will have due regard to the specific needs and attributes of Tullamore Town and Environs, while conforming with the relevant environmental provisions of the various plans, legislation and guidance documents, which will inform the making of any given Plan. Examples of these documents include, but are not limited to: 19

21 National Development Plan; National Spatial Strategy; Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC; Making Ireland Sustainable; National Biodiversity Plan; Midland Regional Planning Guidelines; Development Management Guidelines -June 2007; Development Plans Guidelines - June 2007; Landscape and Landscape Assessment and Appendices 2000; Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive and Guidelines; Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines 2005; Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for Apartments - Guidelines for Planning Authorities 2007; Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas 2008 & companion document Urban Design Manual A Best Practice Guide 2008; The Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines 2009; Offaly County Development Plan The relevance of the plan for the integration of environmental considerations in particular with a view to promoting sustainable development The variation is to the existing Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan which contains policies and objectives that support the protection and enhancement of the built and natural environment and have been the subject of SEA and AA assessment at the time of adoption. The main impact of the variation itself is to reduce the quantity of land available for residential development over the lifetime of this plan. The application of the sequential approach, as well as considerations of environmental constraints and flooding, will allow for new development in proximity to the existing town centre and creating a viable and vibrant urban environment, thereby promoting Tullamore as an attractive place to live, work and visit. It is considered that the renewed focus on sequential development will promote sustainable transport through methods such as the provision for additional vehicular, cycling and pedestrian routeways and providing for alternatives to car based transport thus aiming to reduce carbon inefficient transport. The Landscape Buffer (Part B) Variation will not have a negative impact on the promotion of sustainable development. It is noteworthy that whilst the area of open space is being reduced, existing policies and objectives relating to sustainable development are robust enough to negate any potential negative impacts on the environment. 4. Environmental problems relevant to the proposed Variation The proposed variation (Part A) is to reduce the overall quantity of housing land available for development within the lifetime of this plan in accordance with the figures as outlined in the MRPGs and the Core Strategy of the Offaly County Development Plan. The existing plan contains many policies and objectives that will mitigate against adverse impacts on the environment as a result of any new development in the plan area. All new development that will require planning permission will be assessed against these policies and objectives and any potential negative impacts of the 20

22 development on the environment will be mitigated or avoided through adherence to the plan. The variation (Part A & B) does not have any environmental problems related to it in particular. 5. The relevance of the plan for the implementation of European Union legislation on the environment (e.g. plans linked to waste-management or water protection) The proposed variation to include the Core Strategy is to comply with the requirements of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act The Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive, as well the principles of sustainable development and any other relevant legislation and are considered throughout. Part B of this Variation which assesses the Landscape Buffer for the TTEDP Area and reduces slightly the provision of landscape buffer on the southern boundary of the plan will not impact on the implementation of European Union legislation. Issues relating to European Union Legislation on the environment are provided for in the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan This Proposed Variation is consistent with the policies and objectives of this Development Plan which itself was the subject of an SEA and AA in Hence, the Proposed Variation and any development which arise from it, will therefore be guided and informed by the relevant European legislation on the environment including; waste management and water protection policies and objectives as set out in the Shannon River Basin District (SRBD) Plan. The Proposed Variation complies with the requirements of Article 6 of the Habitats Directive. An Appropriate Assessment Screening Report is currently being prepared and this document will be available during the statutory consultation period of the Proposed Variation and SEA Determination Statement. 3.2 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE EFFECTS AND OF THE AREA LIKELY TO BE AFFECTED, HAVING REGARD, IN PARTICULAR, TO: 1. the probability, duration, frequency and reversibility of the effects, The development of zoned lands in the plan area will result in minor impacts on wider environmental resources, locally to the site and more widely over the construction phase and when development is operational. Any long term effects that are likely to occur are unlikely to be readily reversed. Potential impacts will relate to noise, traffic, surface water drainage, water supply, wastewater and built and natural heritage. Policies to mitigate the impact of these effects are included in the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan. As the outcome of Part A of the variation is to reduce the quantity of land available for housing development within the lifetime of this plan, it is considered that the long-term effects of this variation will be positive. Part B of the variation reduces the amount of Open Space buffer by circa 5 ha. which is given over to Business/Employment zoning, however this will have minimal effect on the overall open space buffer provision. 2. the cumulative nature of the effects 21

23 Arising from Part A of the variation; development, including traffic, increase in public services and a slight increase in population will have a cumulative impact on natural heritage and cultural heritage assets. However, policies to protect archaeological sites, monuments and protected structures are already included in the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan. Considering that the outcome of the Core Strategy variation will be a reduced quantity of land available for residential development, it is considered that this variation will reduce the overall cumulative impact on the receiving environment. Part B of the variation will have a minor impact on the receiving environment. 3. the transboundary nature of the effects, In terms of negative transboundary environmental effects/impacts it is considered that with the proper implementation of the environmental protection policies and objectives contained in the adopted Development Plan and the completion of appropriate environmental assessments and planning process for any proposed development arising from this Proposed Variation, no negative transboundary environmental effects are predicted. As the wastewater treatment plant discharges to the Tullamore River there may be downstream impacts however these will be assessed through the application for a discharge licence and future plans regarding the capacity of the receiving waters will be guided and assessed by the provisions of the Shannon River Basin Management Plan. 4. the risks to human health or the environment (e.g. due to accidents), There is one designated Seveso site in Tullamore Town and Environs (as of January 2013), located at Srah Industrial Estate (Isotron) in the north of the Town. As noted in the County Development Plan, should new Seveso sites be identified in County Offaly, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), as the designated authority for Seveso sites, will notify the Council. The Council will continue to work in cooperation with the HSA when dealing with applications relating to Seveso sites and land use plans in vicinity of such sites. It is not anticipated that the implementation of the variation will result in any risks to human health in particular. 5. The magnitude and spatial extent of the effects (geographical area and size of the population likely to be affected). The population of the Tullamore Town and Environs as defined in the Census in 2011 was 14,361. This amounts to a 10% increase in its population since 2006 (12,927). The Midlands Regional Guidelines forecast a population growth to 20,207 during the lifetime of this plan, and this Core Strategy Variation, (Part A), has been devised on the basis of these projections. The spatial extent and magnitude of the vast majority of the effects of the variation will be limited to the subject lands themselves. The policies and objectives contained within the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan already seek to avoid, mitigate and limit these effects through such methods as the promotion of more sustainable transport and compliance with the Water Framework Directive. Part B of the Variation reduces the amount of Open Space Buffer along the N52 Tullamore Bypass by 5 ha. approx. which is now included as Business/Employment zoning. 6. the value and vulnerability of the area likely to be affected due to: 22

24 (a) special natural characteristics or cultural heritage, There are no significant effects envisaged. The Council s overall policies on SMRs, pnhas and protected structures are already included in the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan and are not affected by the proposed variation. (b) exceeded environmental quality standards or limit values, Development proposals will be assessed, as is normal planning practice, as regards their acceptability and as such will not be permitted unless adequate treatment can be assured. (c) intensive land-use, It is considered that no negative effects will occur because policies contained within the plan facilitate the promotion of consolidation and small scale, moderate growth within and adjoining the existing footprint of the town. 7. the effects on areas or landscapes which have a recognised national, European Union or international protection status. The majority of the plan area is located within a low sensitivity landscape area as designated by the landscape characterisation section of the County Development Plan and there are no major impacts anticipated here. There is High Sensitivity landscape designation along the esker to the southwest of the town centre, the proposed variation will actually reduce the potential impact on this area as lands are being designated as phased lands in these locations. 4.0 STATUTORY CONSULTATION An important and significant element to the SEA screening process is consultation with the Environmental Authorities. In line with S.I. No. 201/2011 Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) (Amendment) Regulations 2011, the specified environmental authorities which will be consulted in relation to the Proposed Variation are; Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); Department of Environment, Community and Local Government (DoECLG); Department of Agriculture, Marine and Food (DoAMF); Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (DCENR); Department of Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht Affairs (DoAHG), and Adjoining Planning Authorities. 5.0 DETERMINATION IN TERMS OF ARTICLE 13K The Proposed Variation will be implemented in accordance with the principles of sustainable development and with the commitment to the enhancement and protection of the natural and manmade environment, as set out in the current Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan , which was subject to a full SEA and AA Screening in On the basis of the above assessment and consideration of the criteria as set out in Schedule 2A of the Regulations, it was considered that Proposed Variation No. 2 is unlikely to give rise to significant 23

25 environmental effects, once the environmental policies and objectives within the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan are adhered to and implemented; and therefore does not require an SEA. A final determination however is not be made until the specified environmental authorities are consulted. 24

26 Appendix 1: Letter from EPA on consultation as Environmental Authority. 25

27 Ms Alma Walsh Forward Planning Department Offaly County Council Áras an Chontae Charleville Road Tullamore Co. Offaly 18 th February 2011 Our Ref: Re. Proposed Variation No. 2 to the Tullamore Town & Environs Development Plan Dear Ms Walsh, The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) acknowledges your notice, dated 23 rd and 31 st January 2013, regarding the above and notes their contents. SEA Determination Your position with regard to the need for Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the Proposed Variation No. 2 to the Tullamore Town & Environs Development Plan , hereafter referred to as the Variation, is noted. You are referred to the Agency s previous submission in relation to proposed Variation No. 1 of the Tullamore Town & Environs Development Plan, which should be also taken into account at this time; in particular in relation to the protection/retention of linear open spaces along strategic corridors. It is noted that 129 ha of residential lands have been proposed for the Plan area; however it is unclear how much phased development is proposed during the lifetime of the Plan. Clarification should also be given in relation to the nature / location and extent of lands proposed to be developed. The timing of phased development should be described i.e. whether all Phase 1 lands are to be developed before applications for Phase 2 lands will be considered. In additional there would be merits in highlighting the lands proposed to be phased within the lifetime of the Plan on a land use zoning map. Future Amendments/Variations to the Plan It is a matter for Offaly County Council and Tullamore Town Council to determine whether or not any future proposed Amendments/Variations would be likely to have significant effects on the environment. This assessment should take account of the SEA Regulations Schedule 2A Criteria (S.I. No. 436 of 2004) and should be subject to the same method of assessment as undertaken in the environmental assessment of the Draft Plan. Infrastructure Planning In proposing the Variation, and any related amendments, variations etc. of the Plan and in implementing the Variation, adequate and appropriate infrastructure should be in place, or required to be put in place, to service any development proposed and authorised during the lifetime of the particular Varied Plan. Obligations with respect to National Plans and Policies and EU Environmental Legislation It is a matter for Offaly County Council and Tullamore Town Council to ensure that, when undertaking and fulfilling their statutory responsibilities; they are at all times compliant with the requirements of national and EU environmental legislation. Updated SEA Regulations / Circular Your attention is brought to the new SEA Regulations, which should be referenced and integrated into the Plan and SEA process. Amending SEA Regulations were signed into Irish law on the 3 rd May 2011, amending the original SEA Regulations: EPA Screening Comments Var. No. 2 to Tullamore T&E DP

28 Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) (Amendment) Regulations 2011, (S.I. No. 201 of 2011), amending the Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 (S.I. No. 436 of 2004). You are also referred to the recent DoECLG Circular (PSSP 6/2011) issued on the 26 th July 2011 to each County/City Manager, Director of Services and Town Clerk in relation to Further Transposition of the EU Directive 2001/42/EC on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) which should also be referred to and integrated into the Variation. Environmental Authorities You are reminded of the requirement, where appropriate under the SEA Regulations, and as amended by S.I. No. 201 of 2011, to give notice to the following: The Environmental Protection Agency The Minister for the Environment, Community & Local Government Minister for Agriculture, Marine and Food, and the Minister for Communications Energy and Natural Resources, where it appears to the planning authority that the plan or programme, or modification of the plan or programme, might have significant effects on fisheries or the marine environment where it appears to the competent authority that the plan or programme, or amendment to a plan or programme, might have significant effects in relation to the architectural heritage or to nature conservation, the Minister for Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht Affairs, and any adjoining planning authority whose area is continuous to the area of a planning authority which prepared a draft plan, proposed variation or local area plan. You are further reminded that a copy of your decision regarding the determination should be made available for public inspection at your offices, local authority website and should also be notified to any Environmental Authorities already consulted. Should you have any queries or require further information in relation to the above please contact the undersigned. I would be grateful if an acknowledgement of receipt of this submission could be sent electronically to the following address: sea@epa.ie. Yours sincerely, Cian O Mahony Scientific Officer SEA Section Office of Environmental Assessment Environmental Protection Agency Regional Inspectorate Inniscarra, County Cork EPA Screening Comments Var. No. 2 to Tullamore T&E DP