Large-Scale Onshore Wind

Transcription

1 Large-Scale Onshore Wind Arcus provides planning, environmental and engineering consultancy services to the large-scale onshore wind energy sector. These services include: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Environmental Statements (ES) Planning and Consenting Project Management and Delivery Feasibility and Site Finding Screening and Scoping Stakeholder Engagement Environmental Surveys Access, Transport and Traffic Site Design Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Visualisation Public Exhibitions Post-Submission Support Appeals and Public Inquiry Drafting and Discharge of Conditions Engineering Clerk of Works Monitoring Financial Appraisal and Due Diligence Arcus has an excellent track record in the large-scale onshore wind sector. We have submitted applications for projects whose combined onshore wind capacity is in excess of 1.7GW, with a consent rate of over 85% (as of September 2014). Arcus involvement extends through all phases of the development process, from site-finding and feasibility through planning and EIA to construction and operational monitoring.

2 Selected Projects Beinneun Wind Farm, Highland, Scotland Arcus was appointed by Ridgewind to provide EIA consultancy support and technical services for the Beinneun project, an 85MW onshore wind farm near Invergarry in the Highlands, Scotland. The wind farm application was submitted at the end of 2011 and consented by Scottish Ministers in October Arcus provided a wide range of site surveys as part of the project as well as managing the EIA process and Section 36 application to the Scottish Government. The site design process required the balancing of complex topography, specific landscape and visual sensitivities with the need to avoid areas of environmental importance. As part of our high-quality ES approach, Arcus held extensive consultation with The Highland Council and consultees. The quality of the ES and the consultation won praise from SNH, who welcomed the early dialogue. Kilgallioch Wind Farm, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland Arcus managed the EIA process and Section 36 application, and an Addendum to this, for ScottishPower Renewables. This project was consented by the Scottish Government in February 2013 with 96 wind turbines and a capacity of up to 288MW. Arcus supported the client through the EIA and planning process, including undertaking environmental surveys and liaising with technical consultees, public consultation, design work, assessment and recommending mitigation and providing planning advice. The site had extensive peat coverage and plantation forestry, and a watercourse designated as an SAC for Atlantic Salmon running through the site, making the design and mitigation process more complicated. Our understanding and experience of these issues allowed us to provide appropriate advice during the conceptual design stage and propose effective mitigation solutions that were accepted by key consultees. Wingates Wind Farm, Northumberland, England Arcus was appointed by Novera Energy (now Infinis) to provide EIA consultancy support and technical services for Wingates Wind Farm, a 15MW onshore wind farm near Rothbury in Northumberland. Issues addressed through the EIA process included newly planted woodland at the site and previous mining use. Arcus undertook the EIA coordination and planning work, together with many of the technical tasks. Arcus contributed to material for public exhibitions and advised on project strategy regarding consultation and consent. Wingates Wind Farm received consent in May 2011.

3 Offshore Renewables Arcus provides planning and environmental consultancy services to the offshore and marine renewable energy sector. These services include: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Consent Management DCO and Examination Support Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) Stakeholder Engagement Work Package Management Ornithology Survey and Assessment Drafting of Conditions Post-Submission Support Conditions Discharge Management Complete EIA and Planning Services for Associated Onshore Connections Arcus has an impressive track record of delivering complex offshore wind and other marine renewable schemes. We assemble bespoke teams based on the specific dynamics of each project, providing expert EIA strategists, specialist regulatory advisors and experienced project managers. Our personnel are also frequently integrated into our clients development teams as secondees.

4 Selected Projects Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm, Scottish Territorial Waters (Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm Ltd) Arcus was appointed by Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm Ltd (BOWL) to provide EIA management support to the Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm Project. The 750MW project was consented in March Arcus provided EIA coordination and strategic EIA and HRA advice for the project, including various staff secondments into the development team. A number of complex environmental issues were overcome in the consenting phase of this project, including sensitive HRA considerations regarding marine mammals and ornithology. Arcus is currently working on the discharge of the consent conditions for the offshore project, and is leading the EIA and detailed planning application process for the onshore grid connection works. Methil Offshore Turbine Test Site (Scottish Enterprise) Arcus originally prepared an application on behalf of 2-B Energy for a turbine test site at Methil, Firth of Forth. Consent for the project was granted by Marine Scotland. Since this approval, the development has been taken over by Scottish Enterprise, with whom we are working on an application at the same location to test a new design of offshore turbine that provides up to 7MW in output and is 200m in height. Arcus completed the marine licence applications for a meteorological mast, dredging application, and the turbine, as well as undertaking the EIA requirements for the onshore and offshore elements of the projects. Firth of Forth Round 3 (Seagreen) Arcus was appointed by Seagreen to provide a peer review of the Environmental Statement (ES) produced for the Firth of Forth Round 3 wind farm. The development consists of two stages with a combined output of up to 1.1GW. Arcus provided strategic EIA advice and review so as to finalise the document ready for submission. The focus was on the quality checks and comments which were felt to provide a material improvement to the Environmental Statement. Arcus provided a team of senior, experienced EIA project managers for this review role, drafted the socio-economic chapter for the project and revised some of the methodologies alongside Seagreen and the technical teams to deliver a robust ES for submission. Arcus continues to provide support to the Seagreen project in relation to the onshore grid connection infrastructure. Forthwind Offshore Development Arcus is currently managing the Section 36 and Marine Licence EIA and consenting process for this offshore development in the Firth of Forth. The project will utilise a novel turbine technology which is aimed at driving down the cost and some of the anticipated environmental effects of offshore wind.

5 Environmental Impact Assessment Arcus provides Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) services including: Lead EIA Coordination Screening and Scoping Constraints Identification Stakeholder Engagement Public Exhibitions Design Input Environmental Surveys and Assessments Geotechnical and Engineering Feasibility Studies Environmental Statements Monitoring Arcus can also provide specific technical services for EIAs including: Noise and Vibration Cultural Heritage and Archaeology Ecology and Ornithology Engineering Support Access, Transport and Traffic Hydrology and Hydrogeology Planning and Consenting Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) Visualisations and Report Illustrations Climate Change Air Quality We have extensive experience in coordinating and managing the EIA process for complex and diverse projects. Our EIA expertise means that our advice and services stand up to the most rigorous legal examination. Our Environmental Statements regularly undergo legal review, allowing us to continually evolve our knowledge base and skill set and to deliver a level of service that is integral to achieving project success. We have provided expert witness services to defend our work at public inquiry for many of our technical disciplines.

6 Selected Project Examples Glen Noe Hydro Scheme Arcus is currently undertaking the EIA and preparing the planning application for Glen Noe Hydro Scheme, a 2MW proposal located near Taynuilt in Argyll & Bute. Appointed by RWE Innogy UK (RWE), Arcus has been involved in the project since mid-2013, and has undertaken the majority of the EIA inhouse, including the following: Hydrology and hydro-geomorphology Landscape and visual impact Ecology and ornithology Noise Cultural heritage Traffic and transport EIA project management There are a number of sensitivities associated with the site, including golden eagles, wild land and bryophytes. The site is also located in close proximity to the existing Cruachan pump-storage hydroelectric station, which has been a fundamental cumulative consideration within the environmental assessments, particularly hydrology. Arcus has extensively consulted with Argyll & Bute Council and Scottish Natural Heritage to ensure that the final design of the Glen Noe Hydro Scheme is appropriate for the site and will therefore comply with planning policy and address consultee concerns. In addition to completing the EIA and planning application, Arcus is providing supporting information to RWE which will be submitted as part of the application to obtain a CAR licence from SEPA. Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm Ltd, Scottish Territorial Waters Arcus has been working with Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm Ltd (BOWL) since 2011, when we were appointed to provide EIA consultancy support to the Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm Project. The project is a 1GW offshore development located in the Moray Firth and was the first application for an offshore wind farm in Scottish territorial waters. We have provided EIA coordination and strategic EIA advice for the BOWL development project and have placed a member of our staff in the client s consent team. Arcus collated and provided expert advice within a complex EIA, resulting in a high quality Environmental Statement.

7 Engineering Arcus provides civil engineering services including: Engineering Feasibility Studies Abnormal Load Route Assessments Road, Access and Infrastructure Detailed Deisgn Project Management Balance of Plant and Turbine Contract Preparation Construction Supervision CDM Compliance Risk Management Construction Method Statements Peat Assessments and Peat Management Plans The Arcus Engineering Team has expertise in infrastructure design associated with hydroelectric schemes, wind farm developments, commercial developments and major road and rail projects. We can assist in all stages of development; from feasibility studies and design through to project management and delivery.

8 Selected Projects Methil Offshore Turbine Test Site Arcus provided services to Scottish Enterprise and Samsung Heavy Industries for the installation of an offshore turbine test facility at Methil, Fife. Arcus has been responsible for securing the landside and offshore consents, and has been appointed to provide post-consent services to discharge conditions and progress construction. Arcus Engineering Team has been providing advice to the client and contractor, preparing construction method statements and liaising with Statutory Authorities to allow the works to progress. Wheatrig Wind Turbines Arcus acted as Owners Engineer for this two turbine development in Ayshire which included turbine due diligence and procurement, preparation on construction contracts for Balance of Plant and supervision of the construction works. Gaoth and Humbleburn Wind Turbines Arcus provided Owner s Engineer services which included overseeing ground investigations works, discharging planning conditions, construction contract preparation and construction supervision. One of the sites comprised construction of turbine foundations on a previous opencast mine underlain by underground coal mine workings. Therefore solutions included procurement of mine grouting and piled foundation solutions. Beinneun Wind Farm Arcus was commissioned to develop the design for this 25 turbine wind farm to allow planning conditions to be discharged. This included the design of all site infrastructure in 3D using AutoCAD Infrastructure Suite based on LIDAR survey data, extensive peat probing to develop a 3D peat surface model and the preparation of a Construction Environmental Management Plan and a Peat and Excavated Materials Management Plan. Developing design models in this way allowed excavated volumes to be accurately calculated and management schedules could be produced defining stockpile requirements and reinstatement options.

9 Arcus in-house Engineering Team has extensive experience in the assessment, design and delivery of transportation infrastructure for projects ranging in scale from single turbine projects to major developments and road schemes of national significance. As a result we are able to offer the following services: Traffic surveys Road infrastructure condition inspections Traffic assessments and EIA Abnormal load route assessment Topographical surveys Detailed design of road improvement works Access junction design Transport management plans Development infrastructure design Transportation and Access Arcus has invested in the latest CAD software to support the assessment and design of infrastructure in 2D and 3D which ensures studies are robust, and designs support the EIA and construction process.

10 Selected Projects Doraville Wind Farm, Northern Ireland Arcus provided all access and transportation assessment services for this major development which included over 15 traffic survey points, and an abnormal load route assessment for 50 metre blade machines within a rural and constrained environment. As part of the service an extensive topographical survey was undertaken to allow the swept path analysis to consider points of constraint in 3D and determine where both horizontal and vertical alterations to existing roads infrastructure are required. Gaoth and Humbleburn Wind Turbines Arcus, as Owner s Engineer, was required to develop the abnormal load route assessment undertaken at planning stage, and prepare a Transport Management Plans for agreement with the local authorities. Works included off site road improvements and development of method statements to accommodate the movement of delivery vehicles on tracks which exceeded the normal envelope of acceptable gradients Dumfries and Galloway Wind Farm sites Abnormal load route assessment and transport EIA for a cluster of 3 wind farm developments. Two of the sites would have the candidate turbine determined by the constraints on the existing road network. As a result, Arcus was required to establish accurately the points of constraint through topographical survey, and analyse in detail the vehicle permutations that could be used in delivery of plant and equipment. Beinneun Wind Farm Detailed design of access junctions from the Trunk Road Network, and design in 3D of internal tracks and crane pads for 25 turbine development. Design was based on the worst case candidate turbine, and was developed to a level of detail to discharge planning conditions including final micrositing.

11 Ecology Arcus provides a range of ecological and ornithological services and works closely with clients to deliver development-focused solutions. Our ecologists are members of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, hold relevant survey licences, and are able to provide a range of specialist services. Site Surveys and Services Preliminary Ecological Appraisals Habitat and Vegetation Surveys (e.g. Phase 1, NVC) Protected Species Surveys (e.g. bats, great crested newt, water vole) Ornithology Surveys (Terrestrial, Coastal, Marine) Pre- and Post-Construction Monitoring Surveys Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) Reports and Plans Habitat Management Plans Protected Species Mitigation and Licensing Invasive Species Management Plans Code for Sustainable Homes and BREEAM Assessments Planning Applications Expert Services Ecological and Environmental Impact Assessment (EcIA and EIA) Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA) Public Inquiry and Expert Witness Stakeholder Engagement Ecological Research Peer Review Our ecologists engage with other in-house disciplines, such as our Planning and Hydrology teams, and with clients and stakeholders to develop approaches that are tailored to individual projects. Our approach balances the competing demands on a project to provide solutions that are ecologically meaningful, legally compliant, and commercially viable.

12 Selected projects Coal Clough Wind Farm, Lancashire Arcus provided a full life-cycle of services for this major wind farm and associated bypass road, including baseline surveys, EIA/planning support, discharge of planning conditions, Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW), and Natural England-licenced Great Crested Newt mitigation. Housing Developments, York Arcus has carried out Extended Phase 1 habitat surveys to support planning applications for several housing developments around York. Our ecologists were also able to use their survey data and experience to help clients maximise Code for Sustainable Homes credits. Beinneun Wind Farm, Highlands Arcus carried out detailed ecological and ornithological surveys and advised on the design of this largescale wind farm to avoid highly sensitive habitats, an approach that was commended by Scottish Natural Heritage. Exploratory Boreholes, Northern England Arcus has provided ecological support for major borehole appraisals throughout northern England including habitat and protected species surveys, as well as Habitat Regulations Appraisals, to support planning applications and protected species mitigation prior to development. Emberton Solar Park, Milton Keynes Arcus provided an Extended Phase 1 habitat survey and Arboricultural Impact Assessment in support of a planning application for a large-scale solar park. Our services also included the development of a Biodiversity and Landscape Management Plan, in consultation with the LPA, covering the construction and operation of the development. Beatrice Grid Connection, Moray Arcus undertook habitat and protected species surveys and prepared the Ecological Impact Assessment of the Environmental Statement for the 20km onshore grid connection of the Beatrice offshore wind farm.

13 Hydrology and Hydrogeology The Arcus Hydrology and Hydrogeology Team provides a range of hydrological services, including: Environmental Impact Assessment Flood Risk Assessments Private water supply risk assessments Watercourse crossing and drainage design Site constraints analysis Construction Environmental Management Plans Regulatory compliance and permitting Discharge of planning conditions Due diligence assessments Field Surveys Site walkovers Infiltration testing Dipwell and ground water monitoring Surface water quality monitoring Peat depth surveys Arcus has extensive experience of working in upland peat and lowland free-draining environments, including sites with sensitive receptors. We are able to provide informed hydrology-related advice and guidance based on our field experience and previous consultation with consultees such as the Environment Agency, Scottish Environment Protection Agency and Marine Scotland.

14 Selected Projects Kilgallioch Wind Farm, Section 36 application for 132 turbines Arcus provided the following services: site survey, site constraints analysis, site drainage design, EIA Chapter, watercourse crossing design, private water supply assessment and consultee management. Development of three wind turbines in Oxfordshire Arcus provided the following services: site survey, site drainage design, Environmental Statement (ES) Chapter, Flood Risk Assessment, infiltration testing and discharge of planning conditions. Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm - Onshore Grid Infrastructure Arcus provided the following services: site constraints analysis, ES Chapter, private water supply assessment, watercourse inventory management and consultee management. Beinn Mhor Wind Farm, Isle of Lewis, Discharge of Hydrology Conditions, Section 36 Planning Consent Arcus carried out consultation with statutory consultees regarding the discharge of conditions, including a Scheme of Watercourse Buffers, a water quality management plan, a private water supply risk assessment and mitigation measures to protect the water environment.

15 Noise Assessment Arcus provides a range of noise and vibration assessment services including: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Baseline Noise Surveys Noise Modelling and Assessment Cumulative Noise Assessments Post-Submission Support Public Inquiry and Expert Witness Drafting and Discharge of Conditions Due Diligence Assessments Noise Compliance Testing Investigation of Noise Complaints Noise and Vibration Monitoring Noise at Work Assessments Sound Insulation Testing The Arcus Noise Team has conducted noise and vibration assessments for over 100 developments which included measuring operational noise levels from wind turbines, modelling and assessment of transport noise, monitoring noise and vibration during construction and mineral extraction works, and the assessment of industrial noise.

16 Hornsea Offshore Wind Farm Arcus provided an airborne noise assessment in relation to the construction and operation of Hornsea Round 3 Project One, taking into account the location of international water boundaries and offshore receptors; including gas platforms, fishing vessels and commercial shipping routes. Section 36 Application and Public Inquiry for Harburnhead Wind Farm, West Lothian Arcus provided operational and construction noise assessment for the EIA for this 22-turbine Wind Farm. Following objection to the Development by West Lothian Council, a Public Inquiry was held in July 2013 to consider the application. Arcus provided expert witness support on noise. This included negotiation with representatives of West Lothian Council s Environmental Health Department and the developers of two other nearby wind farm applications to agree the portioning of noise limits. Consent was granted in July Eight-Turbine Wind Farm, Northern Ireland Arcus provided an operational noise assessment for the Environmental Impact Assessment which included considerable post-application support specifically with regard to negotiation of planning conditions. A due diligence review, concerning noise, was also carried out in relation to the acquisition of a neighbouring wind farm. Operational Noise Monitoring was carried out to verify compliance of both developments with their respective planning conditions. Section 36 Application for Kilgallioch Wind Farm, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland Arcus provided operational and construction noise assessments for a 96 turbine wind farm. Principal responsibilities including detailed consultation with the Local Authority, a comprehensive baseline noise survey and a cumulative noise assessment in order to demonstrate compliance with appropriate noise limits. Consent for the Development was granted in February 2013.

17 Cultural Heritage and Archaeology Arcus provides a range of historic environment services including: Environmental Impact Assessment Feasibility and Scoping Assessments Archaeological Desk-Based Assessments Heritage Statements Historic Building Appraisal and Recording Environmental Statement Chapters Archaeological Constraint Mapping Advice on Site Selection and Layout Design Stakeholder Engagement Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI) Archaeological Clerk of Works Mitigation Management Drafting and Agreement of Planning Conditions Design and Management of Fieldwork to Discharge Conditions Expert Witness and Public Inquiry Work The Arcus cultural heritage team ensures that all archaeological work is carried out in compliance with relevant legislation and policy and in accordance with standards and best practice guidance of the Institute for Archaeologists. Our expertise and experience in managing heritage risk and our ability to balance development requirements with cultural heritage considerations allow us to deliver project applications with a strong likelihood of receiving consent.

18 Selected Projects EIA and post-consent discharge of conditions including large-scale archaeological survey Kilgallioch (Arecleoch Phase 2) Arcus undertook the cultural heritage EIA and produced the ES Chapter for this consented Section 36 application. This complex and large upland site raised issues with potential direct impacts on a well preserved, multi-period archaeological landscape, as well as specific indirect issues on the settings of sensitive designated heritage assets, including a property in care and other scheduled monuments. Arcus cultural heritage team was appointed to agree a Written Scheme of Investigation to discharge the archaeological planning conditions, and is currently overseeing the implementation of the archaeological works programme detailed in that WSI. Large - scale archaeological investigation to discharge planning condition Wind Farm in East Riding In order to discharge an archaeological condition attached to a consented 16 turbine wind farm in the East Riding of Yorkshire, the Arcus Cultural Heritage Team prepared and managed a scheme of investigation that included consultation and a programme of topsoil strip, map and sample. By closely monitoring the fieldwork, Arcus was able to determine early in the process that there was limited archaeological potential across the site and, in collaboration with the local authority, determined that continuation of the archaeological fieldwork programme was not warranted. As a result, the condition was discharged earlier than expected, enabling the wind farm to progress more quickly into the construction stage. Arcus has been engaged to apply the same successful approach on a recently consented extension to this site. Feasibility through EIA to consent and post-consent work Harburnhead Wind Farm Arcus cultural heritage team was involved in all stages of the planning process for this consented Section 36 large-scale wind farm. This included input to scoping, undertaking the EIA and chapter-writing for the ES. The site raised some potentially difficult issues relating to indirect effects on the settings of a Scheduled Monument, a Garden and Designed Landscape on the Inventory, and a number of listed buildings. Cultural heritage issues were one of the issues raised by the Local Planning Authority as part of their objection to the scheme, triggering a public inquiry. Arcus cultural heritage team leader provided expert witness at the planning inquiry, and the site was subsequently consented.

19 Geomatics and Visualisation Arcus has developed a strong Geomatics team encompassing skills in all elements of Geographical Information Mapping Systems, including GIS and data management, cartography, topographical surveying and visualisations in support of the business extensive experience in development planning, impact assessment and construction. Combining these skills within a single team allows us to offer a comprehensive data information collection, analysis and modelling service to clients across development and asset management sectors. Capabilities include: Topographical surveying using RTK GPS/Total Station Elevation Plan and Internal Building Survey Laser Scanning and LiDAR surveying 2D and 3D Visualisations in AutoCAD 3D Studio Max and Design Suite Photography and Visualisations Web Mapping using ArcGIS and Flash 3D Animation using Autodesk Maya Database Management Systems and BIM GIS models and tool development Photo rectification/photogrammetry Other 2D graphics using Photoshop, Illustrator, Coral Suite and InDesign

20 Selected Projects Auchrobert Wind Farm, South Lanarkshire, Scotland: Landscape and Visual impact assessment Arcus produced intricate landscape maps, wireframes, photomontages and visibility calculations to help with the assessment and visual communication of how this 12-turbine site would affect the surrounding landscape in an already highly developed area. Following Scottish Natural Heritage guidance, this documentation was used to analyse the visual impact of the wind farm as a single entity and as part of all installed, approved and proposed wind farms within 60km of the proposed site. Consented Section 36 Wind Farm, North - West, Scotland: Hydrological Assessment The Arcus GIS and Visualisation Team created a model that assessed watercourse sensitivity based on slope and calculated appropriate distances regarding a complex watercourse system.

21 Feasibility and Site Finding Arcus provides feasibility and site finding services for a range of development types including: Onshore renewables Offshore renewables Residential property We use a variety of parameters to guide developers to the best sites or to help assess existing sites, using the following services: Resource Availability Planning Policy Analysis Environmental Constraints and Sensitivity Mapping Preliminary Environmental Assessment Consideration of Residential and Community Issues Transport and Access Feasibility Studies Site Design Geotechnical and Engineering Considerations Custom Site Finding Applications Portfolio Evaluations Combining Geographical Information System (GIS) models and our experience of development requirements, we have developed a number of innovative site-finding applications based on specific client requirements and risk strategies. Once suitable sites for development are identified, we use our project expertise to provide advice and guidance to further refine sites to focus on, and provide a strategy for progressing sites.

22 Landscape Architecture and Planning Arcus provides a range of landscape architectural services including: Landscape & Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) Site Appraisal and Feasibility Planting Plans and Mitigation Plans Discharge of Conditions Preparation of Appeals and Rebuttals Expert Witness Services at Hearings and Inquiries Photography and 3D Visualisations Consultee Engagement and Public Exhibitions The Arcus Landscape Team has experience in both private and public sectors and has been involved in regeneration strategies, housing capacity and constraints studies, green infrastructure plans and LVIA of a wide range of different types of development. The Landscape Team works closely with the Arcus Geomatics and Visualisation Team to provide photography, visualisations, photomontages and other graphics that meet the requirements of good practice guidance and provide the necessary information to stakeholders.

23 Selected Projects Smart Systems Phase 3 - Wind Turbine and Manufacturing Plant Arcus has provided landscape services, including expert witness, to Smart Systems Architectural Aluminium in relation to a proposed extension to an existing manufacturing plant and installation of two Enercon E48 wind turbines. Arcus undertook consultation with the planning authority, authored the LVIA and prepared photomontages of the proposed manufacturing plant and wind turbines. Arcus provided expert witness services on landscape matters at the planning hearing in Weston-super- Mare. The Development was approved by the Planning Inspector. Seagreen Phase 1 Onshore Transmission Works Arcus is providing landscape services to SSE and Fluor for the Onshore Transmission Works associated with the Firth of Forth Round 3 offshore wind farm development programme. Arcus has been responsible for reviewing and authoring the LVIA Chapter. Arcus prepared a woodland planting scheme designed to mitigate landscape and visual effects of the proposed substation. The planting scheme was modelled in 3d at years 1, 5, 10 and 15. Ground Mounted Solar PV Array Arcus has developed a method based on GLVIA3 for the assessment of landscape and visual effects of ground mounted solar PV array development, which is accepted by planning authorities. The method has been used by Arcus on the following developments: Bilsborrow Solar PV Array, MWp, Lancashire Emberton Solar PV Array, 9 MWp, Milton Keynes (consented) Royston Solar PV Array, 14 MWp, South Cambridgeshire (consented) Castle Kennedy PV Array, 15 MWp, Dumfries and Galloway Photomontages were prepared for three of these developments at the request of the planning authority. Each site included a residential visual amenity assessment and an outline mitigation planting plan. Glen Noe Hydroelectric Scheme Arcus was appointed by RWE Innogy to provide EIA and planning services to support the application for a c. 2 MW run of river hydroelectric scheme in Argyll and Bute. Arcus has authored the LVIA chapter which included a detailed assessment of the potential effects on Wild Land Areas. Arcus provided input to the design of the scheme and prepared a landscape management plan to be adopted during construction and operation of the development. Arcus prepared photomontages of the powerhouse and intake structures.

24 Mergers, Acquisitions & Due Diligence Arcus mergers and acquisitions services provide technical and scientific advice to assist in determining environmental compliance and the costs of liabilities. Our mergers, acquisitions and due diligence services include: Environmental Site Assessments Environmental Compliance Assessments Site Investigations and Contaminated Land Characterisation Project Risk and Feasibility Reviews Planning Permission Risk Assessments Vendor Due Diligence Technical Due Diligence for Acquisition, Refinancing and Divestment Portfolio Management and Exit Strategic Planning Building Materials Sampling Liability Assessments Generation of Liability Costs including CAPEX and OPEX for Business Planning The Arcus Team is focused on undertaking environmental site and impact assessment to assist in identifying and managing risk and exposures that may have unexpected or long-term cost or may prevent the operation of an industrial facility. Arcus understands the importance of mitigating risk and we provide impartial advice that allows the cost of environmental upgrades, improvements and regulatory requirements to be incorporated into business planning.

25 Selected Projects Refinancing Coal-Bed Methane Business Technical due diligence for the refinancing of a coal bed methane operating business in the UK. The work involved assessing gas resource and reserves, an assessment of the technical viability of gas abstraction in one licensed area and a financial assessment of a 10 year CAPEX plan for drilling, gas treatment and pipeline connections. Compliance Management of Landfill Gas to Energy Businesses Major UK Waste Management Companies - Management of the technical and environmental compliance of several landfill gas to energy businesses. The work involved three aspects of diligence: resource, technical and environmental with each portion being delivered by separate teams. Environmental and Planning Risk in Acquisition of Wind Farms Arcus reviewed a portfolio of approximately 20 onshore wind sites for potential divestiture. The sites were at various stages of development ranging from early feasibility through to operational sites with associated conditions. The review focused on environmental and planning aspects of the sites with specific input into ongoing technical elements. Due Diligence Coordination of Hydropower Generator Sale Provided management and coordination services during a due diligence programme for the sale of a hydropower generator. The work involved environmental compliance and habitat assessment and review of dam stability issues associated with the power generating assets. The work also involved telephone interviews with appropriate environmental regulators together with providing summary cost schedules. Site Assessments for Chemical Producer Provided management and coordination services during a due diligence programme for the sale of a hydropower generator. The work involved environmental compliance and habitat assessment and review of dam stability issues associated with the power generating assets. The work also involved telephone interviews with appropriate environmental regulators together with providing summary cost schedules. Feasibility of Energy from Waste Developments Assessment of the feasibility of developing a number of energy from waste facilities. The work involved a review of planning constraints, identifying the availability of commercial waste contracts and assessment of the environmental liabilities associated with the proposed developments. Due Diligence Coordination for Manufacturing Site Divestment Due diligence of a 90-site packaging manufacturing company. The work involved review of reports, costing of regulatory, best practice and soil/groundwater liabilities and liaising with the other advisors with respect to the complex divestment programme.

26 Sustainability Arcus provides a range of sustainability assessment services including: Inputs to BREEAM Assessment Inputs to Code for Sustainable Homes Assessments Mandatory Performance Requirements Information (CSH) Drainage Impact Assessments Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) Strategies Surface Water Run-off (Sur 1 and Sur 2) Flood Risk Assessments Drainage Detailed Design Rainwater Recycling Remediation of Brownfield Sites Materials Management Plans Waste Minimisation Landscape and Habitat Management Plans Incorporating the principles of sustainability is a core part of Arcus planning, design and Environmental Impact Assessment work. We provide a range of sustainability services to the housing and commercial building sector and have a strong track record in helping our clients gain credits under the Code for Sustainable Homes. Our team has in-house expertise in ecology, management of waste materials, drainage and flood risk and can provide all the information that a BREEAM Assessor would require to award credits to your sustainable development. In addition, Arcus staff understand the need to maximise the reuse of materials on site and have proven ability to undertake innovative development schemes involving reuse of soils, materials management planning and remediation of organic and non-organic contaminants.

27 Selected Projects Swainsea Lane, Affordable Mixed Residential Development, Pickering, North Yorkshire. Arcus helped the developer maximise ecology-related CSH credits and safeguard groundwater for several affordable housing developments near Pickering. Sustainable Homes Development, Ruislip, London. Arcus assisted the developer in gaining Sur 1 and Sur 2 credits as part of Mandatory Performance Requirements under Category 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes. Arcus provided surface water runoff calculations using Micro Drainage software and provided a Flood Risk Assessment, which included assessing flooding from fluvial, groundwater, surface water (pluvial) and sewer sources. Urban Splash, Commercial and Residential Development, Manchester. Arcus team member provided bioremediation, cement solidification and soil recycling advice to the developer to ensure that no soil was exported from site. Overton Farm, Falkirk. Appointed as Project Manager under an NEC3 contract to deliver 12M infrastructure contract to serve a new housing development in Falkirk comprising major earthworks, drainage, SUDS, roadworks and bridge construction for 1000 units. People for Places, Social Housing Development, Blackburn. Arcus staff were involved in preparing and implementing Materials Management Plans (under the CL:AIRE Code of Practice) for four separate housing development projects. Emberton Solar Array, Milton Keynes. Arcus developed a landscape and habitat management plan to provide long-term, sustainable natural heritage benefits to complement a major solar PV development.