Scottish Government

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--?

Project would be progressed rapidly in response to urgency of current problem - resulting in short to long-term effects, some of which may be permanent. Potential for cumulative and synergistic effects when viewed alongside other proposed national developments on the Firth of Forth.

There is potential for significant adverse ecological effects, although the FRCS Environmental Report notes that there will be no direct impacts on Natura sites. There are nevertheless particular implications with regard to Natura sites on the Firth of Forth, including the Firth of Forth SPA (construction disturbance) and the River Teith SAC as demonstrated in the scheme FRCSSEA. Disturbance of protected species, morphological changes and loss of feeding habitat are all concerns. Potential implications of road connections for St. Margaret's Marsh SSSI and other valuable habitats and ecological networks including for some protected species (otters). Appropriate assessment has been undertaken to identify mitigation measures.

Promotes human health

-/+

Temporary short-term disbenefits, ultimately being replaced by longer term benefits.

The replacement crossing is ultimately seeking to reduce road congestion and improve quality of life for people commuting to and from Edinburgh, and the wider population of east central Scotland. Potential for short-term health impacts arising from major construction project, as a result of noise, construction traffic and vibration. Long term effects may arise from the increase in traffic overall, although these would be less significant if the bridge operates as a replacement crossing. The bridge would include cycle and pedestrian crossings, thereby potentially stimulating further opportunities for physical activity.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

-/+

Ranging from short to long term. Direct and indirect effects. Negative, but not expected to be significant overall as a result of construction effects being largely temporary.

As above - there would be potential disbenefits during construction phase being replaced in longer term with more positive benefits for local communities. Possible community severance also noted in the SEA for the scheme. Some communities may have further to travel to access the new crossing, and as a result effects may be negative for specific members of the population. The bridge would include cycle and pedestrian crossings, thereby maintaining accessibility.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

-/++

Benefits extending into medium term as construction is completed.

The crossing would primarily accommodate road transport, and would therefore be at odds with the objective of reducing road-borne commuting. It would, however, meet a demonstrated need to maintain transport infrastructure of national significance - providing wider infrastructure benefits in terms of connectivity on the east coast.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+/--?

Potential for longer term disbenefits in relation to transport sector emissions, with positive effects arising for local air quality issues as a result of reduced congestion.

The project-specific SEA concludes that the scheme might produce minor benefits in terms of emissions from the transport sector (due to reduced congestion), although these might be undermined by overall energy use generated by the project throughout its life cycle, and by potential longer term increases in traffic volumes and travel distance, and this is relevant to the NPF in light of its 2030 timescale. The bridge option makes provision for an increase in capacity (6 lanes), and so long term effects in terms of transport emissions may be significant and adverse. ³ Inclusion of a dedicated public transport lane and other transport management measures could mitigate potential increases in traffic emissions to a limited extent. Secondary adverse air quality effects may arise for some routes that link the bridge with the centre of Edinburgh, and these could be significant when considered in combination with wider development proposals for West Edinburgh and when the existing air quality issues (an AQMA designation) are taken into account. ⁴

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Long term exacerbation of flood risk compounded by climate change. Synergistic in relation to biodiversity.

The SEA of the scheme predicts generally minor adverse impacts on the water environment arising from associated traffic impacts. Potentially adverse cumulative effects on flood risk and in terms of diffuse pollution as a result of soil sealing / increased areas of hardstanding - further flood risk assessment of the scheme, taking into account its downstream effects, would be required. The extent to which climate change and possible long-term coastal erosion have been built into the project -specific assessment is unclear. The bridge will have impacts during construction, as a result of short term morphological change for the Firth of Forth, and due to the cumulative effects arising from construction of road connections.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

--

Particular issues arising in the short term during construction. Impacts on water quality could also have repercussions for biodiversity (see above).

Potentially significant adverse effects for soil (and also geology) predicted with the SEA for the project, as a result primarily of soil sealing but also due to the associated potential for diffuse pollution. Loss of agricultural land, including areas which are of prime quality, were noted in the SEA of the crossing options.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

--

Potential loss of prime quality agricultural land (see above). Likely to produce disbenefits in relation to the waste hierarchy, given resource requirements and potential construction methods. Recycling opportunities could be increased through climate change driven mitigation - e.g. use of recycled materials in construction. The SEA of the options states that large amounts of waste would be generated, but there may be an opportunity to reuse materials in the construction of new roads infrastructure.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

--

Loss of / damage to historic resources and impacts on the setting of sites would be permanent.

There is potential for significant adverse effects on archaeology and nationally important sites. It is important to recognise the protected status of the existing bridges - any development of this scale and in this location will affect their setting. The bridge option is predicted to have direct impacts on a Scheduled Monument, as well as affecting the setting of numerous other sites and listed buildings, the Hopetoun GDL and three further non-inventory GDLs. Effects on the Queensferry Conservation Area and marine archaeology were also noted in the SEA of the options.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

--

Significant short-term effects during construction, with longer term and permanent impacts from the bridge.

Existing bridges are noted in landscape characterisation as iconic nationally recognised views, reflecting landscape sensitivity to further development. The bridge could affect views into and out of landscapes which are designated for local protection including Dalmeny and Hopetoun House Inventory listed Garden and Designed Landscape. The SEA of the bridge option predicts moderate adverse effects on the setting of the Hopetoun House GDL, as well as loss of an area of ancient woodland to the east of St. Margaret's Hope. The development would increase the overall prominence of transport structure in the landscape, resulting in major adverse permanent effects. A high quality design response is required to mitigate adverse landscape and visual impacts.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-

Largely secondary effects given the relative lack of protected habitats in the vicinity of the development. Potential for some direct loss of habitats.

Loss of semi-natural habitats is possible in the long term as greenfield land is being safeguarded for future development. Potential secondary effects arising from increased air transport emissions, water quality reduction and impact on soils. Addressing flooding issues my offer opportunities to enhance habitats. Effects may arise for the Firth of Forth SPA and the River Teith SAC which should be explored further within an AA.

Promotes human health

-

Secondary effects of a minor scale.

Potential issues arising where the development will lead to expansion of the airport capacity, increasing frequency of flights and potentially increasing associated environmental health issues including noise and air pollution. Most of the communities around the airport are amongst those at lowest risk of health deprivation at present, reducing the likelihood of significant environmental justice or health issues to arise. ⁶

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++/-

Cumulative effects are likely when the full extent of development components are considered together.

Potential for both positive and negative effects on quality of life for different parts of the community. Significant positive economic effects, with potential secondary effects for quality of life. No significant effects are expected in relation to people who are currently suffering from deprivation, although an increase in economic prosperity could lead to long-term benefits for the Central Belt as a whole. Mitigation of development proposals to avoid further erosion of green belt and its contribution to the setting and quality of environment of West Edinburgh.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+/-

Medium to long-term disbenefits arising from erosion of the green belt.

Aims to achieve planned development which will relieve pressure for growth on other parts of the city and link economic development with transport accessibility. Further consideration of the potential need to take into account changing environmental capacity arising from climate change (particularly flood risk) would be beneficial to ensure development can be achieved without catchment wide impacts (see water below).

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-- ⁷

Effects will depend on actual construction of additional runway / future expanded capacity which may not arise until the medium to long term. Secondary effects arising from increased emissions on other environmental resources.

Airport expansion is at odds with the objective of achieving a reduction in transport sector emissions. Government policy focuses at present on reducing emissions through fiscal measures and improvements in transport technology across modes ⁸. Disbenefits would be reduced, albeit very slightly, by improved access to the airport by public transport and the aspiration to reduce congestion through transport infrastructure upgrades and locating the economic growth area close to airport - it is important to note that the National Development designation focuses on this aspect of the development. The WEPFSEA predicted that air quality would improve in West Edinburgh, but that an AQMA in the West of the City would not benefit from the development proposals.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

--

Need to take a long-term perspective on current and prospective flood risk, informed by climate change predictions and their implications for catchment-level flood risk. Cumulative effects of development components on floodplain functionality.

WEPFSEA raised concerns about development in relation to Gogar Burn. Alteration of River Almond and effects on functionality of River Almond Floodplain are potentially significant issues for the local water environment. Continuation of catchment wide integrated planning will continue to be required to manage this in a sustainable way, and there is also a need to view potential longer term capacity in light of climate change. Potential for any associated infrastructure upgrades or increase in areas of hardstanding to lead to further diffuse pollution.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-

Depends on the pace of growth envisaged - negative effects may not arise until the medium to longer term.

Soil sealing will inevitably take place where previously undeveloped land is developed. This will have implications for flood risk as noted above.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

-

The development would largely take place on green field land, and would therefore be at odds with objectives relating to reuse of brownfield land, vacant and derelict land remediation.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

The WEPFSEA noted some potential effects on cultural heritage resources, including a SAM and listed building, and proposed mitigation to avoid direct effects on them as a result. However, the wider cultural value of the landscape within which Edinburgh is set would be vulnerable to the development, and loss of green field land would have implications for known and unknown archaeological resources.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

--

This part of the Edinburgh Greenbelt is already partly defined by major transport infrastructure, but also makes an important contribution to the city's overall setting. Further loss of greenfield land could lead to erosion of some important aspects of landscape character.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Negative effects would be long term as designation primarily safeguards land for future development. Possible direct implications for Natura protected site.

Potential effects from further expansion on the nearby Black Cart SPA and in particular Whooper Swans are already well documented, but would require further consideration as specific locational and operational details began to emerge. Innovative mitigation measures to manage protected birds and their habitats might need to be extended further to accommodate future development. Loss of further greenfield land would be negative for biodiversity more generally.

Promotes human health

-

Secondary effects of a minor scale.

Potential issues arising where development will lead to expansion of airport capacity, increasing frequency of flights and potentially exacerbating associated environmental health issues, including noise and air pollution. There are existing problems with health inequalities being experienced by some communities in the vicinity of the airport, although this varies at the local level. ⁹

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++/-

Development seeks to make a significant positive contribution to economic development, thereby contributing to quality of life. Potential for negative effects as a result of loss of greenbelt and general environmental impacts, including noise and disturbance.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

-

Negative effects would be long term as designation primarily safeguards land for future development.

Loss of green belt land would detract from benefits of the designation. Surface transport infrastructure improvements would provide a relatively sustainable solution, reducing potential for traffic congestion and implications for air quality.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-- ¹⁰

Airport expansion is at odds with objectives that seek to achieve a reduction in transport sector emissions. Government policy focuses on reducing emissions through fiscal measures and improvements in transport technology across modes. ¹¹ Disbenefits would be reduced to a limited extent by improvements in access to airport by public transport ( GARL) and the aspiration to reduce congestion through other transport infrastructure upgrades.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Negative effects would be long term as designation primarily safeguards land for future development

Potential for flooding issues also requires further consideration at the more detailed stage of development.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-

Negative effects would be long term as designation primarily safeguards land for future development. Secondary effects on other environmental resources.

Development will result in loss of soils, soil sealing, and possibly loss of agricultural land, which would in combination reduce the functionality of soil in the area, potentially resulting in secondary effects on other resources such as biodiversity, archaeology and water.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

-

Development would largely take place on greenfield land.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

Negative effects would be long term as designation primarily safeguards land for future development.

Potential for loss or damage to archaeological resources. This would require further investigation at a more detailed stage in the development process.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-

Negative effects would be long term as designation primarily safeguards land for future development

Loss of green belt land would have implications for a landscape that has already been significantly altered by strategic transport infrastructure. This part of the green belt is identified as a sensitive wedge within the overall green network of Glasgow and Clyde Valley. ¹²

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Secondary effects arising from air quality impacts

The Airport masterplan states that the impact of developments programmed to 2015 on biodiversity will be minimal. BAA Aberdeen continue to work with SNH, Aberdeenshire Council and Aberdeen City Council to manage the expansion of the airport in an environmentally sound way. The nearest protected sites to the airport are Corby, Lilly and Bishops Loch SSSIs - all located around 4 miles from the airport. BAA states that the masterplan will have no effects on these sites, although it also acknowledges that further examination of ecological effects will required in the longer term ¹³. The EIA supporting the planning application for the 200m northern extension to the main runway confirms only minimal impacts on designated site surrounding the airport. BAA Aberdeen has been developing a Biodiversity Action Plan in collaboration with Glasgow and Edinburgh Airports. This should provide measures for biodiversity safeguarding and enhancement. ¹⁴ Negative effects on air quality could have secondary effects on biodiversity.

Promotes human health

-

Potential for secondary negative effects on physical and mental health arising from increased noise and vibration.

Potential issues arising where the development will lead to expansion of the airport capacity, increasing frequency of flights and potentially increasing associated environmental health issues including noise and air pollution, as anticipated by some stakeholders in their response to the proposed master plan for the expansion of the airport. ¹⁵

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++/-?

Development seeks to make a significant positive contribution to economic development, thereby contributing to quality of life. Significant positive economic effects, with potential secondary effects for quality of life. No significant benefits are anticipated for people who are currently suffering from deprivation, although an increase in economic prosperity could lead to long-term benefits for the Aberdeenshire and wider remote rural communities

The Aberdeen City Council Local Transport Strategy Draft Environmental Report ¹⁶ notes that expansion of the airport will have negative effects including increased noise and vibration. Mitigation in the form of joint working to reduce and manage this as far as possible is proposed to reduce these effects. This will be explored further within the Aberdeen and Aberdeen City and Shire Structure Plan SEA. ¹⁷ The scoping report for this identifies relevant data, including 118 registered complaints in the period 1999-2004, of which only 10% related to the activity of fixed wing aircraft, and the majority overall came from Dyce and Bucksburn residents. Potential for both positive and negative effects on quality of life for different parts of the community.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

0

The airport site appears not to be at risk of flooding, currently or in the longer term. The national development status would include infrastructure improvements, and the master planning has provided a planned approach which ensures the airport has been considered in relation to wider settlement patterns. However, the likely increase in emissions generated by increased use of the airport result in adverse effects, as compared to the potential for positive effects from increased accessibility via less polluting forms of transport (e.g. long distance rail links).

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

--

Secondary effects from air quality on wider environmental receptors.

Airport expansion is at odds with the objective of achieving a reduction in transport sector emissions with expansion having the potential to generate significant negative effects. Government policy focuses at present on reducing emissions through fiscal measures and improvements in transport technology across modes. ¹⁸ The proposed increase in passenger numbers will lead to significant adverse effects in terms of emissions targets. The air industry continues to consider options to reduce these effects through measures such as carbon trading.

Possibly more minor negative effects on local air quality will arise from expansion of the airport, ¹⁹ although it is not expected that these would be significant as they would not compromise air quality standards for NO₂ or PM ₁₀ in the period up to 2015 and beyond ²⁰ and are unlikely to have implications for the nearby AQMA covering part of Aberdeen City Centre. The master plan also states that an air quality strategy has been developed for the airport which sets out objectives to reduce the impacts of the airport on air quality.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0

Any negative effects on the water environment could have secondary implications for the soil environment

Potential increased pressure on surface and groundwater bodies - this is subjected to continuous monitoring in collaboration with SEPA. The Scotland RBMPSWMI Report characterisation shows that water bodies immediately adjacent to the airport are currently 'at risk'. ²¹ The airport's surface water drains into the Mains of Dyce, the Farburn and the River Don. BAA has invested in surface water containment and treatment facilities, allowing surface water to be captured and treated before discharge. The master plan notes that the extent of hardstanding means that water runs off relatively quickly into watercourses, and as a result they are committed to managing the volume of run off for example through the use of SUDs.

Regular water quality monitoring is undertaken of local watercourses to ensure that activities such as vehicle and aircraft washing, de-icing, maintenance, construction, refuelling, waste and cargo handling and fire training are effectively managed. BAA work closely with SEPA to protect the water environment in the environs of the airport. It is not anticipated that the expansion to 2015 would raise significant issues for the water environment, but it is accepted that longer term plans will require further assessment.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-

Secondary implications of changes to soil for the water environment.

Soil sealing will inevitably take place where previously undeveloped land is developed. The development to 2015 could result in development of an additional 11 hectares of land beyond the current airport boundary and some of this is likely to be currently undeveloped. Airport developments include a relatively high level of hardstanding with implications for soil sealing.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The masterplan notes that waste management is undertaken, increasing the proportion of waste generated by the airport which is recycled from 14% in 2000-01 to 29% by 2005-06, and it is expected that this will be increased in the future. Potential benefits for development of peripheral rural areas, given that the airport provides key air links to and from some marginal rural areas.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

Secondary effects arising from increased noise and vibration.

Potential for increased air travel could have repercussions for the historic built environment, as a result of increased vibration and possible air pollution. ²² The master plan notes that the proposed enhancements could have effects on known archaeological remains in the vicinity of the airport. As a result, the runway extension will be accompanied by a watching brief during construction, should remains be discovered.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

Potential secondary effects arising from associated ground transport infrastructure improvements.

The Aberdeen LCA²³ shows that the airport is located within Dyce Plain. Changes in this area are likely to be highly visible given its topography, and the airport already forms a key feature in its own right. However, the assessment suggests that additional development could be easily accommodated with minimal environmental effects. It also recommends the use of roadside tree planting to screen historic sites from industrial development.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

0/+?

Potential minor positive effects over the long term if commitments to enhancement are achieved. Further potential for damage or disturbance likely to be avoided through monitoring proposals.

The airport area itself has little biodiversity value as it is largely developed, and this was confirmed in an ecological survey carried out for the development of the golf driving range in 2007. The draft master plan proposes enhancement of the Pow Burn to improve its role as a wildlife corridor - the burn is used by otters as an access route to and from the sea. Nearby sites of value include Troon Golf Links and Foreshore Site SSSI, The Pow Burn & Prestwick Golf Course (an Ornithological Site), the Pow Mill Burn Wildlife Site, The Pow Burn Wildlife Corridor and the Glasgow to Stranraer railway link. No effects on these sites are expected although ongoing seasonal assessment is proposed to ensure long term development of the airport has no adverse effects. Bird hazards are also considered. The operator proposes regular liaison with environmental bodies in the future. The planning consent for the development of a former driving range into a car parking area included conditions that require creation of a wildlife corridor along the Pow Burn - further enhancements are likely to be feasible as part of the broader redevelopment of the airport as a whole. ²⁵

Promotes human health

0/-?

Cumulative effects arising over the long term as activity grows in line with increased capacity. Potential for cumulative effects when taken in combination with other land uses in the vicinity of the airport, including major road and rail infrastructure.

Health impacts may arise from changes to air quality,. Whilst the unpublished draft master plan expects emissions to decrease when considered as a proportion of travel activity, overall the growth of the airport will result in an increase in emissions overall. The health effects of this are not, however, expected to be significant, given that there are no problems at present and monitoring and mitigation are being built into the master plan proposals. Noise can also lead to mental health issues - noise monitoring is undertaken and the operator has in place a range of tools to avoid any acceptable effects on neighbouring communities. To date, no significant noise issues appear to have arisen from the operation of the airport, even although there is no curfew on night time flights. The operator is also working with planning authorities to ensure that effects are not exacerbated by inappropriate use of neighbouring land.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

-/+

Temporary effects during construction, with possible long term issues arising from operation

There are potential benefits for quality of life arising from increased employment and economic activity in the area. However, also possible adverse effects on amenity as a result of noise and air quality issues explained above.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Long term flooding issues may arise - further assessment is required. Possible short term impacts during construction.

Improved surface transport infrastructure serving the airport should also benefit communities around the airport, potentially increasing accessibility of new development areas. Negative effects may arise for the local population during construction. Some parts of the airport are known to be at risk of flooding, but this is not currently expected to be a major barrier to development. A full Flood Risk Assessment would be required as the more detailed proposals are developed. This should take into account long term capacity for growth, including in light of climate change impacts (e.g. increased storm frequency and seasonal precipitation).

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

--

Long term cumulative effects.

Airport expansion is at odds with the objective of achieving a reduction in transport sector emissions. Government policy focuses at present on reducing emissions through fiscal measures and improvements in transport technology across modes. ²⁶ The proposed increase in passenger numbers will lead to significant adverse effects in terms of emissions targets. The air industry continues to consider options to reduce these effects through measures such as carbon trading. The master plan also notes the contribution of surface transport to emissions. There are, however, no localised air quality issues arising for the development at present. ²⁷ The operator is aiming to maximise the energy efficiency of the airport's operations.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

Effects could be effectively mitigated but attention to long term cumulative impacts will be required.

Ongoing monitoring of discharges and run off is being undertaken and reported regularly to SEPA. Mitigation is in place to avoid contamination arising from operations and accidents. The Pow Burn is potentially vulnerable to the growth in the airport, already being affected by diffuse pollution from surface water run off. The watercourse has already been culverted to run under part of the airport. Work is being undertaken to minimise use of water by the operational side of the airport, although demand will grow as the airport expands. Flooding issues are also noted above.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-

Potential for secondary effects arising from disturbance of contaminated land will be mitigated

It is expected that the development can be accommodated within the existing airport boundary, and that additional land take will be minimal. The draft master plan suggests that the development could take place on previously contaminated land but no secondary effects are expected for environmental receptors. Best practice will be used in rehabilitation of the land and contamination from runoff will be investigated and monitored. Measures such as topsoil storage and reuse will be used during construction. However, it is important to note that airport developments by their very nature involve significant levels of soil sealing as a result of the area of hardstanding required for components such as runways.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Although expansion and construction could generate additional waste, the airport is working to increased levels of waste recycling. Levels of reuse of brownfield land are unclear at this stage, but potentially beneficial as noted above. The expansion of the airport is likely to provide further benefits to rural communities in Ayrshire through improved accessibility by air and surface transport connections.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Possible cumulative effects arising from long term development on the setting of a range of historic sites in the vicinity of the airport

The draft master plan emphasises the value of the airport as a historic and cultural resource in its own right, and the importance of wider Ayrshire. The Pow Burn Bridge is recorded within the National Monuments Record of Scotland and is a listed building and the Airport Terminal building is also recorded by the National Monuments Record of Scotland. ²⁸ The draft master plan makes provision to protect these resources. Numerous other sites of interest are recorded in PASTMAP in the vicinity of the airport. Mitigation will be required to minimise adverse effects on their and other unknown historic and archaeological resources - this should be determined at the project level.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-/+

Scope for cumulative long term negative effects, as well as positive effects arising from landscape mitigation and enhancement

A landscape assessment was carried out in 2007 for the redevelopment of the Golf Driving Range as an airport car park. The airport lies within the Ayrshire Basin which comprises an extensive semiâ€circle of lowland focused on the country of Ayr. The character is defined by being heavily populated with a dense network of settlements and roads. The predicted significance of visual impacts of the potential development of the golf range was considered to be minimal and proposals were accompanied by measures for landscape enhancement. It is anticipated that similarly limited landscape effects would arise from the longer term plans for the airport, given the existing character of the landscape within which it is set, although cumulative effects over the long term should be taken into account given the scale of development proposed as compared with the golf range redevelopment. Opportunities to improve the landscape and for mitigation such as screening should be explored at the more detailed design level.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--

Permanent negative effects, with cumulative effects on numerous sites. Possible secondary effects arising from changes to the water environment

There are numerous sensitive biodiversity sites along the route, with sites clustered around the road particularly south of Aviemore to Blair Atholl, where the road is only partly dualled at present. The A9 crosses the River Tay SAC and the edge of the Tullach Hills and Ben Vrackie SSSIs, and further sites close to the route include two SACs, one further SPA, a Ramsar site and several SSSIs. ²⁹ The improvements could also impact upon an NNR. Whilst these effects remain uncertain given that the precise route and location of improvements has not been fully defined, significant effects can be reasonably expected, given the value and sensitivity of these sites to this type of development. Whilst it may be possible to construct and site the road in such away that damage and disturbance is minimised for these sites, there will be a particular need to ensure that any further linear transport infrastructure does not create further fragmentation of strategic habitat networks. Further assessment of effects, particularly on Natura Sites, will be required.

Promotes human health

-/+

Potentially long term positive effects, although more negative effects may arise in the short term during the construction period.

The proposals for dualling the A9 are based on a need to improve safety. There were 19 fatal accidents on single carriageway sections between 2003 and 2007, as compared to only 5 on dual carriageway sections. No current air quality issues exist along the route at present. There are, however, some receptors along the route that would be sensitive to an increase in noise.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++/-

As above

It is anticipated that dualling would improve the prospects of rural communities along the route, as well as Perth and Inverness. However, possible temporary adverse effects may also arise at a local level for some communities during construction.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+/-?

As noted above, it is suggested that these improvements would benefit communities along the route. However road improvements could stimulate development which is dependent on car access, as compared to a more sustainable focus on public transport accessibility. The development would make best use of existing infrastructure, thereby providing a more sustainable alternative than other options such as new route construction.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-

Significant negative effects on carbon dioxide emissions, with more neutral effects on other aspects of air pollution

Studies have repeatedly shown that road capacity improvements are likely to result in increased vehicle numbers using routes, thereby increasing transport energy consumption. The decrease in journey time that the route improvements would facilitate would contribute to an increase in CO ₂ emissions, but other air quality issues including PM ₁₀ and NO₂ emissions have been shown to be less problematic as a result of currently low emission levels and the lack of significant change in levels which is expected to arise from the improvements.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0/-?

Potential for cumulative adverse effects, depending on scale of development and use of mitigation (e.g. SUDs).

The Scotland RBD Significant Water Management Issues Report ³⁰ shows that no waterbodies along the course of the proposed route are currently at risk as a result of diffuse pollution from urban development. Enhanced transport infrastructure could increase water pollution arising from run off. There may be a need for engineered change to watercourses or bodies in the vicinity of the route. The A9 crosses a number of rivers which may be affected by the dualling, although these effects will be dependent on the application of existing consenting regimes including Controlled Activities Regulations. There are also flooding issues arising in areas such as Kingussie and the River Spey, which have the potential to be resolved through sustainable and innovative route planning. Given the lack of water quality issues at present, it is not anticipated that the proposals would generate any significant adverse environmental effects, although considerable uncertainty remains, requiring more detailed assessment and mitigation.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-

Primary and secondary effects.

The development is likely to result in loss of previously undeveloped land of varying agricultural including some Class 2 areas between Pitlochry and Perth and organic quality. Given that the road runs through areas of peatland, loss of these resources will require mitigation to avoid release of carbon and minimise the loss of high quality agricultural land as far as possible.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Secondary effects arising from improved accessibility.

There should be scope to maximise the efficiency of the project through the use of recycled materials and sustainable waste management. No significant positive or negative effects are anticipated in relation to use of brownfield land. As noted previously, rural development should be positively supported by the project as a result of improved accessibility and the contribution of the project to quality of life overall.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

Potential for permanent loss of resources and long term changes to the setting of historic sites.

There are several Gardens and Designed Landscapes located close to the route. Many known and unknown archaeological remains and listed buildings (including Category A buildings close to the route) could be directly or indirectly affected by the development. ³¹ Mitigation through a watching brief, preservation, and if necessary excavation and recording of resources could minimise adverse effects. Appropriate siting, design and landscaping would be required to avoid significant adverse effects on the setting of historic sites and landscapes.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

--?

Potential for significant negative cumulative effects

As this project would be focusing on the existing route, effects have the potential to be limited to minor. However, further encroachment of sensitive landscape areas around transport infrastructure is likely to arise. The route passes through the Cairngorms National Park and National Scenic Areas, and further NSAs at Loch Tummel and the River Tay at Dunkeld and AGLVs could also be affected, and as a result there is potential for adverse effects to be significant. However, SNH note that the influence of humans on the landscape is already evident within existing transport corridors including the A9. ³² Appropriate design, siting and landscaping would be required to minimise the effects of the development on sensitive landscapes.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--?

Cumulative adverse effects arising along the length of the route. Potential secondary effects on biodiversity arising at some sections where surface and groundwater that support important ecology are adversely affected. Secondary effects from impacts on soil resources.

The Route Action Plan study suggests that ecological effects could be moderate or major from the sections from Tarbet to Pulpit Rock, from there to Inverarnan, at Loch Tulla and from the Corran Ferry to Fort William. Further severance of habitat networks could occur from strengthening the linear infrastructure and reducing scope for species migration over the long term. At the detailed design stage appropriate measures should be taken to reduce loss or damage to habitats and avoid the effects of increased habitat fragmentation on key species. Several designated sites are located close to the route or extend across it, increasing the likelihood of significant negative effects on biodiversity. This includes several SACs (Rannoch Moor, Glen Coe, Onich to North Ballachullish Woods and Glen Falloch Pinewood) and numerous further SSSIs. ³³ Further assessment of the detailed proposals is therefore required.

Promotes human health

++

Long term primary and secondary positive effects particularly in terms of health improvement.

The proposals include a range of measures that would improve the safety of the route for vehicle users, cyclists and pedestrians. This might take the form of additional speed cameras and targeted physical improvements. Improved pedestrian and cycle facilities could also contribute to increasing levels of physical activity by local people and visitors, thereby reducing short journeys by car and improving physical and mental health and wellbeing. No negative effects from significantly reduced air quality are expected.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+/-

Long term benefits arising from strategic investment. Potential secondary short and long term effects

A study by HITRANS³⁴ showed that the improvements could generate economic benefits for rural communities along the course of the route. Benefits for tourism are also expected. Accessibility would be enhanced, reducing factors that contribute to rural deprivation (e.g. lack of access to services). No significant noise or vibration impacts from the enhancements are expected, with a moderate positive impact predicted from the Loch Tulla climbing lane. Secondary negative effects may arise from effects during construction (delays, construction noise etc) during the short term, and from longer term effects such as landscape deterioration.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Possible longer term issues arising from climate change and its effects on soil stability, flooding etc.

Road improvements will not necessarily help to deliver more sustainable patterns of development such as growth being linked to sustainable transport modes. However, within a rural setting, the road improvements are likely to be the most feasible means of delivering appropriate infrastructure to accommodate long term growth. Long term capacity for climate change adaptation should be built into the road improvements to ensure the longevity of investment.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

0?

Road enhancement is known to generate additional traffic movements. Given the lack of alternatives to improving the route and the implicit need for road access within rural areas due to reduced public transport options, it is not anticipated that its enhancement would generate significant adverse effects in the form of transport emissions. The introduction of average speed measures could improve speed efficiency on the route, thereby reducing CO ₂ emissions. Improved cycling facilities may encourage a favourable modal shift in some cases, amongst some visitors and in relation to shorter local journeys.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

Secondary effects arising from changes to the soil environment (see below).

The Route Action Plan Study shows that minor and neutral effects on water quality are anticipated from development of most parts of the route, with moderate adverse effects predicted from the improvements to the Loch Tulla Climbing Lane and the section from Corran Ferry to Fort William. There is potential for effects on Loch Lomond, Loch Tulla, the River Tay, Loch Lubnaig, and the River Teith. These water courses are covered by a range of national and international designations. Any changes to the route would be subjected to appropriate consenting and regulatory regimes including the CAR. Further assessment and mitigation would be required at the design stage.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-?

Negative effects on soil may be permanent (e.g. increased soil sealing.

The RAPS shows that moderate adverse effects on soils and geology are expected from the Pulpit Rock to Inverarnan and Corran Ferry to Fort William sections of the route. However, actual effects will depend on the nature and location of interventions which are progressed. It is anticipated that effects could be mitigated to an extent at the detailed design stage, and good practice during construction could also limit their significance.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development has the potential to make a positive contribution to rural development by improving safety and accessibility for local people and visitors. Use of recycled materials and appropriate waste management should be used during construction. There are currently no positive or negative effects expected in relation to the re-use of brownfield land.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

--?

Secondary effects on the setting of sites arising from landscape change, soil disturbance and changes to the water environment

Only neutral effects on cultural heritage are predicted in the RAPS. However, PASTMAP shows that there are numerous recorded sites along the length of the route and there are likely to also be significant unknown archaeological resources. The route may also affect the setting of several historic buildings and gardens and designed landscapes. The cultural heritage value of landscapes such as Glencoe are also of international and national significance, providing a major contribution to heritage and tourism.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

--?

Short term (construction activities) to long term (impact of enhanced road infrastructure). Effects likely to be cumulative, as experienced by road users sequentially.

The route is largely covered by two National Scenic Areas - Loch Lomond NSA and Ben Nevis and Glen Coe NSA, making it potentially sensitive to further infrastructure development. The RAP suggests that there will be negative effects on landscape, particularly in the sections from Tarbet to South of Pulpit Roach Pulpit Rock to Inverarnan, Loch Tulla and to a lesser extent between Corran Ferry and Fort William. Mitigation through appropriate design, landscape enhancement, screening etc. may reduce these effects but they are nevertheless expected at this stage to be potentially be significant given the importance of the receiving environment.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--?

Potentially significant cumulative adverse effects should be limited by integration of development and greenspace planning.

The Moray Firth SAC, Loch Flemington SPA and Inner Moray Firth SPA and Ramsar Site are located in close proximity to the area, as well as several SSSIs, and as a result any losses, damage or disturbance has the potential to be significant. The SEA of the masterplan for the area predicted that greenfield sites would be lost to development, with associated impacts on biodiversity and habitat network connectivity. There will be a need for enhancement and measures to provide habitat linkages across linear infrastructure to limit these potentially adverse effects. Green space and network enhancement and integration into settlement wide planning could increase biodiversity value in some areas over the long term, to some extent compensating for the negative effects of the development proposals.

Promotes human health

+

Potential negative secondary effects arising from construction should be mitigated. Cumulative adverse effects have the potential to occur over the long term, but should be avoided through a plan led approach to the development.

Large scale development, in migration and changing community identity could have negative effects on the mental health of existing communities if not appropriately managed and phased - mitigation will be required to avoid adverse effects, including participative community planning and positive engagement in the process. New health facilities are included within the masterplan. Provision of improved cycling and walking infrastructure may also encourage physical activity. Possible transport interventions could help to address the particularly high accident rates on the A96.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++/-

Long term positive effects, with potential for short term disbenefits if not appropriately planned and mitigated.

There is potential for negative effects in the short to medium term during construction, but it is expected that these can be effectively mitigated. The integrated development and infrastructure should help to deliver significant amounts of land for housing development, and there will be provision for affordable housing. Employment and investment will be generated, thereby contributing to quality of life. The masterplan aims to stimulate long term community coherence by promoting neighbourhoods and through consultation and phasing of development. Improved education opportunities through provision of new facilities for various levels of learning. Transport improvements may lead to improved community linkages and access to services between Inverness and Nairn. However issues such as noise increases arising from potentially higher vehicle speeds as a result of transport improvements, and the effects during construction could adversely impact on residential amenity and the wellbeing of existing communities in the short to medium term.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Long term benefits.

This is positively planned future development, which aims to achieve growth within a framework for environmental protection and enhancement, maximising opportunities for sustainability as far as possible. The development framework proposes green infrastructure as well as improvements to water and drainage networks and transport capacity and connectivity.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-?

Long term negative effect from an overall increase in travel distance. Mitigation will be undertaken to limit this as far as possible.

Energy consumption and green house gas emissions will increase overall. No specific measures for renewables or energy efficiency are included within the masterplan - this requires further work at the project level. Although it is likely that the development will lead to an overall increase in distance travelled by road, proposals should help to limit the overall increase in travel by integrating growth with improvements to rail, walking and cycling. Possible transport improvements including upgrading of the A96 could lead to negative effects by generating increased levels of transport and therefore higher CO ₂ emissions. However, other options for improved capacity could reduce congestion in some key areas, thereby reducing the overall increase in emissions and dispersing them over a wider area.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Secondary effects arising from increased transport movements, soil sealing etc.

The proposals could lead to diffuse pollution and put pressure on water infrastructure, although proactive capacity enhancement that is phased alongside development proposals should ensure the latter is positively managed. Development proposed within the masterplan has been directed away from the flood plain and mitigation measures include recommended methodologies for SUDS. The expansion will, however, lead to an increase in demand for water and sewage capacity overall and could result in increased risk of flooding in the longer term, depending on the influence of climate change. Transport interventions would be subjected to appropriate regulatory regimes including the CAR, but the sensitivity of the area to flooding and the high quality of on and offshore water bodies in the vicinity of the site demands a careful approach to mitigation if significant adverse effects are to be avoided.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-

Minor negative effects - permanent loss arising from soil sealing.

The development proposals will involve some development on previously undeveloped land, but this has been minimised as far as possible within the masterplan. Rural development has been minimised in favour of development of the urban fringes of Nairn and Inverness.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Secondary effects from brownfield development could arise for biodiversity, water and soil -the use of appropriate remediation and development methods should mitigate these

A proportion of the development will be accommodated on brownfield land, making better use of derelict land. The masterplan does not make specific provision for improved waste management or minimisation facilities, although this is a guiding principle for new developments across the Council area as a whole. However, several aspects of the development will lead to increased use of resources and further work will therefore be required to deliver sustainable waste management at a local level.

Rural development benefits are likely to arise from the development overall. In the long term, an increased population should contribute to improved levels of local service provision, providing that additional facilities are progressed as planned and a proactive approach to infrastructure provision is maintained.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

Potential form permanent loss of or damage to resources and their settings.

There are numerous protected sites in the area, including Scheduled Monuments and other nationally recorded sites, and listed buildings. Whilst the masterplan has aimed to take historic features into account, the scale of development will unavoidably lead to a major change in the character and setting of known historic sites and buildings. In addition, the development could result in the loss of or damage to unknown archaeological remains in the vicinity of the development area. Planned mitigation should limit adverse effects to a less than significant level.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-/+?

Potentially significant short term impacts, particularly during construction, shifting to potentially positive effects in the longer term as development becomes established and enhancement comes to fruition.

Significant landscape change is likely to take place but can be mitigated through appropriate siting and design, maintenance of key features, views and character, avoidance of coalescence etc. Landscape enhancements are planned as an integral part of the development. The master planning process has focused on working within landscape capacity. The development will nevertheless result in notable landscape and visual effects.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Possible cumulative effects of the combined projects on the Borders wide ecological network.

Depending on the nature and location of the improvements, the project may have adverse effects on biodiversity, as a result of loss or damage to habitats, disturbance of protected species, and fragmentation of wider ecological networks. The A68 and A7 improvements may have effects on the River Tweed SAC, depending on their nature and location. Several of the species and features for which the SAC is designated are currently in unfavourable condition. Increasing the footprint of the development and reinforcing its linear strength may adversely affect the habitat networks at a broad scale. Mitigation may be required at the project level to avoid or minimise adverse effects at the local and broader scale.

Promotes human health

+/-

Longer term positive effects, short term negative effects arising from construction.

The projects may have minor temporary adverse effects on health, depending on their location and proximity to settlements. Positive longer term effects may be expected from improvements to safety.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+/-

Long term positive effects.

The developments are likely to lead to improved road access to and from the Scottish Borders and beyond. Improvements may also stimulate further economic investment in the area. Potential for short term adverse effects arising during construction. No longer term adverse effects are expected at present due to existing air quality and lack of significant environmental problems of relevance to this type of development in the area.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

The development should help to enhance the longer term capacity of settlements on the route for development as a result of improved accessibility. Infrastructure would be improved significantly if all three projects were to be progressed.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-

Road improvements are likely to stimulate additional road use and travel distance, thereby potentially contributing to an increase in emissions. This type of project is at odds with aspirations for climate change mitigation.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

There may be adverse effects on water bodies, depending on the location and nature of the improvements. However, these are unlikely to be significant, given that regulatory mechanisms are in place to mitigation effects, and in light of the lack of reporting that this is already a significant issue in the area. ³⁷

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-?

As the precise nature of the improvements are not currently known this cannot be fully assessed, although it is reasonable to conclude that addition land take from the development may be required, which results in soil sealing.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Cumulative positive effects, when considered in combination with the Waverley Line reopening and possible extension.

Positive effects on rural development and improving the accessibility of remoter rural areas. Unlikely to result in significant effects with regard to the use of brownfield land or sustainable waste management. The latter could be enhanced through promoting the use of recycled construction materials and project specific waste management proposals.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Potential for cumulative effects, given the length of the routes, but depending on the nature and scale of proposed improvements.

The development may result in loss of or damage to known and unknown historic sites and archaeological resources. Scope for site level mitigation required further exploration at the consent stage. There are numerous recorded sites, Scheduled Monuments and Listed Buildings located along the lengths of each of the routes. ³⁸

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

The A68 and A7 meet within the Eildon and Leaderfoot NSA, and as a result improvements may require further consideration to establish the significance of their landscape effects. Minor effects are predicted as the project would focus on improving existing routes, where an influence on landscape character has already been established. Siting at the project level should take into account potential effects on the landscape setting of the routes. The area's LCA noted the varying capacity of different landscape character areas to accommodate improvements to these routes (as then proposed), giving an insight into potential landscape sensitivity. ³⁹

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

0

Potential for minor secondary benefits arising from reduced air pollution.

Much of the development could be accommodated on disused rail infrastructure which may have some existing biodiversity value, either by supporting species or habitats or value, or as a linear connection within a wider green network. ⁴⁰ However, it is not anticipated that this project would result in negative effects on biodiversity, given the lack of significant value of the areas involved for habitats or species (no known designations on or in the immediate vicinity of the proposed development area). It will be important to ensure that the biodiversity value of railway lines and derelict land is recognised as part of the urban green network - this can be addressed at the more detailed design stage.

Promotes human health

+

Secondary effects arising from reduced transport borne pollution.

The project has the potential to contribute to a reduction in air pollution, polluted run off from road traffic etc. This in turn could have positive secondary effects on health.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Secondary effects arising from improved air quality and the role of the project in facilitating regeneration.

Benefits are expected including for parts of Glasgow and beyond with particularly significant deprivation issues. The project would assist with the delivery of the Clyde Gateway project and support the Commonwealth Games facilities, depending on the timing of delivery and interventions which are taken forward. It is not expected that there would be any demolition or major construction effects that would adversely impact on the local community.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

This project would deliver sustainable infrastructure that helps to ensure new development areas are more accessible by rail transport.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

Glasgow has three AQMAs, as a result of traffic congestion and pollution, including Glasgow City Centre and Parkhead Cross. The project could make a significant positive contribution to reducing pollution in these areas by helping to deliver a shift to more sustainable modes of transport. The global environmental agenda would also benefit from displacement of road vehicles in favour of the train i.e. climate change mitigation. It is predicted that the new stations could be used by more than 4 million passengers. More detailed calculations of emissions that would be offset by the project cannot be provided at this stage, and so further investigation would be required as options for the scheme are defined, selected and progressed.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

+/-?

The proposed line of the development would cross the Clyde, and could also impact on some of its tributaries. Rail transport in the long term is not expected to generate significant adverse effects in terms of pollution, although morphological alterations may be required to accommodate the development. A reduction in car use within the area could, however, result in decreased diffuse pollution, thereby benefiting the water environment.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+/-?

Secondary effects.

The project could help to secure the remediation and development of currently derelict and contaminated land, particularly to the south and east of the city centre. Excavations may be required as part of the construction process, although the extent and location of this type of work is not currently known.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Secondary effects.

As noted above, the project should contribute to brownfield land remediation. No significant effects on waste management or minerals are expected. There may be broader benefits for rural development as a result of the improvements to connectivity at the national scale, and the particular benefits for areas such as south west Scotland, where transport connectivity remains a challenge.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Careful design of the project will be required to ensure that the link does not have adverse effects on the setting of listed buildings, known and unknown archaeology and the wider character of central Glasgow's townscape. Railways are also historic resources in their own right. Any new or increased rail usage should be assessed to avoid further potential adverse effects such as vibration, which could have structural implications particularly for vulnerable heritage resources. Some of the proposed developments, such as the demolition and relocation of High Street Station could have implications for some of the oldest parts of the city, and could change the fabric, character and setting of some well known listed buildings.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

No significant effects on landscape are anticipated at this stage.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Potential cumulative effects arising from a series of local level changes

The improvements will require measures such as vegetation clearance, to ensure all vegetation is at least 2.75m away from the OLE. There are some locally protected nature conservation sites close to the railway, as well as several SSSIs. The railway line forms an important habitat corridor, which assists with the continuity and connectedness of green networks, linking urban areas with their surrounding rural environments. Whilst not formally protected, the importance of avoiding fragmentation of green networks in the Central Belt has been noted during the NPF consultation, particular as existing development and infrastructure have the potential to hinder species migration from south to north. Whilst the improvements would be limited to alterations and additional infrastructure provision, requirements for clearing vegetation could prove locally detrimental. However, only minor negative effects are anticipated.

Promotes human health

+

Secondary effects.

The development could contribute to an improvement in air quality and reduced pollution, as a result of the opportunity it will provide to achieve a shift from road to rail transportation. Safety is key consideration, with mitigation of the electrified line forming a key part of the proposals. This will be required to avoid negative effects from increased risk to the public of the electrified line.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

The project has the potential to make a significant contribution to quality of life for a large number of Central Belt residents, as well as the wider Scottish population.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Potential secondary benefits for rural areas.

The project aims to improve the efficiency and use of existing transport infrastructure, as opposed to constituting an entirely new development. The project is likely to have strategic level benefits for regeneration and therefore secondary benefits in terms of reuse of brownfield land. Effects on rural development are more difficult to define, given that the link focuses on connectivity of major urban areas.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

Potential secondary effects as a result of energy requirements of transport movements

The Network Rail study showed that the estimated power requirement for the core route from Queen Street to Haymarket at peak times is in the region of 10 MW. More than one feeder station will be required, but it is expected that existing power supply arrangements can meet some of the requirements, with a resulting need for one additional feeder station for the route between Winchburgh and Glasgow. This would be provided in the Greenhill area, although there are also alternative options.

Overall the development could lead to an increase in travel distance by rail as a result of improved travel times and the proposed increase in passenger seats per hour, and would therefore require the generation and transmission of significant levels of electricity. It may also displace road transport, particularly car use, which generates higher levels of emissions per passenger kilometre ⁴³, and diesel trains which are also more polluting. Further review of the energy requirements of the development, and scope for mitigation such as sourcing electricity from renewable sources as a compensatory measure, could be explored further at the project level.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0

No significant effects on water are expected, although more specific effects will require to be addressed at the detailed design level.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-?

The development may result in some excavations - for example, services crossing the line may require to be laid as underground cables to avoid problems arising from proximity to the OLE. This will require appropriate mitigation at the site level.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development aims to make best use of existing infrastructure. Whilst the project could provide benefits from the predominantly urban central belt, benefits for rural areas are likely to be more limited. No effects in relation to sustainable waste management or use of brownfield land.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Minor direct effects predicted, although these may be cumulatively significant, depending on the effectiveness of site level mitigation

Railway infrastructure and buildings can be of significant cultural heritage importance. Alterations to Glasgow Queen Street would be required to accommodate the new system, and it is proposed that this will be undertaken as unobtrusively and sympathetically as possible. Alterations to viaducts and bridges, including some that are listed, may also be required. These effects should be mitigated at the local level. The nature of the changes proposed are unlikely to undermine the integrity of important structures overall. There may also be loss of or damage to several SAMs which are located close to the railway.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

No significant effects on landscape are anticipated from a national perspective as the development would take place on existing infrastructure, which already forms a key feature of the surrounding landscapes. Minor effects arising from new structures should be mitigated at the local level.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--?

Primary and secondary effects may arise. Potentially significant cumulative effects depending on the length of line new required and route taken.

Potential for linear infrastructure and possible land take to accommodate new or improved rail to adversely affect biodiversity sites and networks through damage, disturbance and fragmentation of networks. Some of these sites may be of national or international importance. Actual effects will depend on siting and design at a more detailed stage of development, and there is scope for mitigation to be built in at this level.

Promotes human health

+/-?

Minor secondary effects.

Potential for minor secondary benefits arising from reduction of more polluting forms of transport in favour of more efficient mode. Electricity generated and localised effects of operation of the route could generate emissions, noise and vibration that in turn has a minor adverse effect on the health of some communities.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++/-

Short term negative effects should become longer term positive effects.

Whilst the link could provide community benefits overall (investment, employment, access to services, and tourism), there is potential for noise and vibration issues for some communities, particularly those who are located close to the line. Appropriate siting, design and mitigation would be required.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++/-?

Likely to support regeneration and growth within urban centres. The proposal would improve infrastructure capacity from a national / strategic perspective and would encourage a shift to more sustainable modes of transport to some extent. However, it may also encourage longer distance commuting from a strategic perspective, potentially generating negative effects.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

Minor secondary adverse effects from electricity generation and consumption, but potential for positive long term effects overall

Although there would be benefits arising from a shift from road and air transport (producing fewer emissions per mile when compared), the link could increase journey distances overall. Electricity generated to power the link would also increase emissions , and would have the potential for secondary effects on other aspects of the environment. Although a travel reduction policy may be more effective, this may not contribute positively to sustainable economic growth. As a result, and in light of the potential for displacement of short haul air travel and associated emissions, and the improvements that would arise by replacing diesel trains with electric stock and infrastructure, positive effects are predicted overall. The case for alternative options focusing on improved use of existing infrastructure has been raised by some environmental and transport experts. ⁴⁵

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

--?

Potential cumulative effects depending on the length of line required

Potential for secondary effects arising from increased travel distance and energy generation overall. Possible changes to the water environment arising from engineering requirements. The line is likely to cross and be close to numerous watercourses, and given the scale of the projects, effects may be of a significant magnitude. Mitigation to avoid or minimise impacts and application of appropriate regulatory regimes including the CAR would be required at the site level.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

--?

Potential cumulative effects depending on the length of line required

There is potential for new rail construction to result in land take including of previously undeveloped land. The development could affect important soil resources including peatland areas and prime quality agricultural land. Mitigation to avoid or minimise impacts would be required at the site level. Effects may be significant given the scale of development, but remain uncertain at this stage.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

0

Potential cumulative effects depending on the length of line required

Whilst the project could provide benefits from the predominantly urban central belt, benefits for rural areas are likely to be more limited. No effects in relation to sustainable waste management or use of brownfield land.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

--?

Potential cumulative effects depending on the length of line required

There is potential for negative effects arising where new track is constructed, including loss of known and unknown archaeological resources, impacts of historic buildings associated with established railway infrastructure, and effects on the setting of some historic sites. Mitigation to avoid or minimise impacts would be required at the site level. Effects may be significant given the scale of development, but remain uncertain at this stage.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

Potential cumulative effects depending on the length of line required

There is potential for negative effects on landscape, although this will depend on the extent to which new track is required and whether or not additional infrastructure will be located within landscapes where transport corridors are already an established component of the landscape. Mitigation such as tunnelling and appropriate routing could reduce these effects but may also have implications for other environmental resources (e.g. soil, biodiversity, archaeology and groundwater). Effects are not currently expected to be significant at this stage, but require further assessment as the project progresses.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

?

Effects on biodiversity were stated as unknown within the SEA of the RTS, and it was noted that further assessment would be required.

Promotes human health

+

The RTSSEA predicted positive effects for population and human health as a result of the development. This was expected due to improved air quality.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Secondary effects.

General improvements to the living environment of the central Aberdeen area would be achieved, with health impacts as discussed above. The development is likely to support communities in the wider Aberdeenshire area by facilitating sustainable commuting.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Cumulative effects.

The project has the potential to help deliver a long term settlement expansion strategy for Aberdeen and the shire, by helping to improve accessibility of potential development areas by rail. Cumulatively positive effects would arise from the proposed incremental approach to infrastructure enhancement.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+

The development is predicted in the RTSSEA to lead to a reducing in green house gas emissions, providing air quality benefits and being assessed as neutral in relation to climate change.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

?

Effects on water resources were stated as unknown within the SEA of the RTS, and it was noted that further assessment would be required.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

?

Effects on soils were stated as unknown within the SEA of the RTS, and it was noted that further assessment would be required.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development has the potential to contribute to wider strategies for rural development, assisting communities by providing improved access to services and employment. No effects on relation to brownfield land, minerals issues or waste management are currently expected.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

0

Effects on cultural heritage were predicted to be neutral in the RTSSEA. Potential local level effects will require further consideration and potentially mitigation at the site level.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

?

Effects on landscape were stated as unknown within the SEA of the RTS, and it was noted that further assessment would be required. Effects may be limited given that best use will be made of existing infrastructure.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Primary and secondary effects

The Moray Firth SAC and Ramsar site, several SSSIs and some areas of ancient woodland could be affected, directly or indirectly by the development. Increased frequency of use of the route may increase potential for disturbance of protected species. Strengthening of linear infrastructure also has the potential to increase fragmentation of habitat networks. As the precise specification of the project is not currently known, it is not possible to fully assess the effects of the development on biodiversity at this stage, although negative effects are generally anticipated given the value and vulnerability of the receiving environment..

Promotes human health

+

Secondary effects.

The development could, in principle, assist with a reduction in road transport in the A96 corridor, thereby positively influencing the health of communities along the route (reduced noise, improved air quality etc.)

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

The development should provide benefits for quality of life in the Inverness to Aberdeen area as a whole, by facilitating a shift to higher levels of rail use and therefore potentially reducing road congestion and safety issues. Increased access to services, especially for those living in and around Dalcross could bring significant benefits, particularly in light of existing high levels of reliance on car use in the Inverness and Nairn area.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+/++

Long term benefits of infrastructure investment.

The development is likely to complement overall proposals for sustainable growth in the area. An infrastructure led approach to key development areas, including the A96 corridor should be supported by the proposed improvements to the rail service. The development would make best use of existing infrastructure, minimising requirements for the use of additional resources.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

Net effects of emissions savings may be minor.

The development has the potential to reduce emissions from the transport sector, given that rail generates roughly two thirds of the carbon emissions of car travel, per passenger mile. However, significant benefits in this respect would be reduced as a result of the potential for the development to contribute to an a growth in commuting and increased travel distance overall. This requires further exploration and quantification at the project scale, but at present positive effects are expected overall. Local air quality is also likely to benefit from the modal shift that would be facilitated by the development.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

?

There are no existing significant water management issues in the area at present, according to the Significant Water Management Issues Report for the Scottish River Basin District. Flooding is a potential issue throughout the area surrounding the railway line. Further assessment of effects on the water environment and application of existing regulatory mechanisms including the CAR would be required at the project scale.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

?

Effects on soils cannot be fully assessed at this stage, given that the precise proposals remain unclear at this stage. Potential for effects on a geological SSSI in the area.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

No significant effects are anticipated in relation to minerals or the use of brownfield land. The development has the potential to make a generally positive contribution to rural development throughout the area by improving connectivity to key regional centres.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

A large number of designated and non designated historic sites are located along the length of the route, and there are also numerous Listed Buildings and conservation areas within towns through which the railway passes, and several Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes close to the railway. Many of these have the potential to be affected by improvements to the railway line, either direct through damage arising from construction, or indirectly as a result of changes to their setting. However, the precise nature of these effects cannot be fully evaluated at this stage in the process. Appropriate site level planning and assessment of its effects would be required to minimise potential adverse effects as far as possible.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

No significant effects are anticipated, given that the development involves primarily making best use of existing infrastructure. The projects would require relatively minor additional construction. The railway is already an established feature within its surrounding landscape.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

At present it is not anticipated that the development will involve major physical change, such as infrastructure enhancement or expansion. As a result, it is expected that the upgrading will have no significant effects on biodiversity. However, it is important to note that the rail line crosses several SACs, a Ramsar and SPA, and is close to several SSSIs and other designated sites. ⁵⁰

Promotes human health

+

Secondary effects.

Secondary positive effects on health may arise from improved air quality and overall quality of life (below). No significant effects in terms of noise are predicted from the increased service frequency.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

The project has the potential to generate positive effects on quality of life from improved access to services and employment and the potential for the project to contribute to more sustainable commuting patterns. These may be significant given current reliance on road transport in these areas.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

The development would provide an improvement to infrastructure thereby helping to improve access to facilities and employment. Best use would be made of existing infrastructure. Flooding issues may require further consideration over the longer term.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+

Long term benefits, with secondary effects (positive) arising for a wide range of other environmental receptors.

The development could help to encourage a shift from road to rail, thereby helping to reduce emissions from the transport sector. Modelling of emissions suggests that the project could lead to a minor decrease in CO ₂ emissions, as well as having positive effects for local air quality including in the Perth AQMA as a result of reductions in PM ₁₀ and NO₂.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

Potential for effects primarily during construction in the short term. Possible further long term flood risk issues arising as a result of climate change.

No significant effects are anticipated, given that the development will not involve major physical interventions or construction requirements. However, it is important to note that there are several watercourses that are close to or crossed by the line that are currently of a high quality, and potentially vulnerable to engineering works. As noted above, the line crosses through areas with potential flood risk including the centre of Inverness, the River Spey at Aviemore and Inverudie, parts of Perth and also the rail line itself at Kingussie.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

0

Potential direct effects arising primarily in the short term during construction

Construction of new tracks has the potential for adverse effects on soils. Areas that may be developed as part of the package of improvements include some of high quality for agriculture and peatland areas. No significant effects are anticipated, given that the development will not involve major physical interventions or construction requirements and in anticipation of the effective application of existing regulatory mechanisms and scheme level mitigation.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development aims to make better use of the existing rail infrastructure, thereby providing benefits in terms of the sustainable use of resources. No significant effects on the reuse of brownfield land, minerals or waste management are currently expected.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Short term effects arising from construction, with potential for longer term secondary effects.

No significant effects are anticipated, given that the development will not involve major physical interventions or construction requirements. However, the sensitivity of the area around the railway line should be taken into account, including numerous protected buildings and sites, and several Gardens and Designed Landscapes. Effects could include changes to the setting of these sites, as well as more direct effects such as damage during construction.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

--?

The development will not involve major physical interventions or construction requirements. However, the railway runs through the Cairngorms National Park, three National Scenic Areas and an AGLV, and so there will be a need to limit interventions that could have significant adverse effects. In light of these sensitivities, there is potential for significant adverse visual and landscape effects, although these require further consideration as more detailed options for the enhancements are identified.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--?

Potential for primary and secondary effects

The development has the potential to lead to loss of or damage to biological sites, including a number which are designated at the national and international level. As a result, adverse effects have the potential to be significant in this location. Effects will depend on the route which is taken, but it is useful to note that there are several protected sites in the general area, including the River Tweed SAC and SSSI. Engineering works could result in negative effects on the quality and morphology of the Tweed and its Tributaries, with repercussions for the habitats and species it supports. Effects on other sites, including several SSSIs and the Langholm to Newcastleton Hills SPA and SSSI require further consideration. Secondary positive effects may be achieved by reducing road transport, thereby limiting existing issues including diffuse pollution and disturbance that may affect other sites.

Promotes human health

0

No effects on health are currently anticipated. Measures are proposed for the section to Tweedbank, which aim to compensate for the loss of walking and cycling routes in the area, thereby minimising potentially adverse effects on health arising from reduced opportunities for physical activity. Possible effects on communities during construction, and other issues, including noise, would require further consideration at the project level (see below) which includes an assessment of potential mental health effects.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++/-

Primary and secondary positive long term effects. Possible short term negative effects arising from construction.

Significant positive effects are expected for the population of the Scottish Borders, as a result of improved accessibility for local people to services, education and employment opportunities. The development should also generate opportunities for tourism development. Temporary and therefore minor adverse effects may arise during construction, although these should be manageable through an appropriate construction statement. Possible negative effects arising from the loss or severance of the existing walking and cycling routes on the disused railway are being mitigated as far as possible. Noise effects may have local implications for some communities.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Development in the Borders as a whole is focusing on the first phase of the development of the Waverley Line, with substantial areas of new settlement being planned around the line and its access points / stations. There is also a need for investment in other types of infrastructure including water and drainage to maximise the sustainability of the project. This is already supported within the wider text that was included in the Discussion Draft NPF.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

The development would provide a further contribution to reducing emissions to that of the first phase, by encouraging a greater number of people to use public transport as opposed to the private car. Given the high levels of reliance on road transport at present, it is currently anticipated that these effects may be significant in the long term.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

--?

The development has the potential to adversely affect the water environment. Mitigation and enhancement formed an integral part of the plans for the section to Tweedbank, to manage the potential effects on the River Tweed. These would need to be extended on the basis of further assessment, given that the railway is likely to cross the Tweed and its tributaries, and that significant adverse effects may therefore arise. Application of appropriate regulatory regimes, including the CAR, is likely to ensure negative effects are avoided or minimised at the project level.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-?

The development has the potential to result in loss of valuable soil resources, including peatland and areas which have some value for agriculture. However, as much of the line already exists, and mitigation has been built into the first phase, these effects are only expected to be minimal.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

The development should make a significant positive contribution to rural development, and improve the accessibility of rural areas, including some marginal communities in the south of Scotland. No significant positive effects on minerals, brownfield land or waste management are currently expected.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

--?

The development has the potential to result in the loss of protected and unprotected or unknown archaeological sites. It will lead to changes to the setting of numerous historic sites including listed buildings, conservation areas, historic gardens and designed landscapes. These are expected to be extensive, given the possible scale of the development in the long term and as a result, there is potential for significant adverse effects which will require scheme level mitigation.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

Potential cumulative effects.

In some areas, the development will merely re-establish a traditional land use, and could therefore be viewed as reinforcing some aspects of local distinctiveness. However, some landscape alterations may lead to significant changes to the landscape where the disused line is not immediately apparent. This may be a particular issue in more remote areas, where the interface between people and the landscape is less readily apparent to the general observer. Effects may be significant, given the landscape quality of the surrounding area ⁵² and the proximity of some designated landscapes, including the Eildon Hills NSA. However disused railway lines currently form landscape features in their own right, supporting semi natural communities in some places, but in others being more visually intrusive as a result of current uses.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

0

The line would make use of existing road infrastructure, and is therefore not expected to have any effects on biodiversity.

Promotes human health

+/++

Direct and indirect effects

The extension of the tram network could deliver a modal shift from road transport, thereby improving air quality in the centre of Edinburgh in particularly where an AQMA is already in place. There may be a reduction in road traffic noise, which could also benefit health. No adverse impacts on active transport options are predicted. The development could also improve access to health services, specifically the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

Direct and indirect effects

The development should improve accessibility, particularly from areas where there is currently no rail connection. Some of the communities that would benefit from the route are currently at high risk of social deprivation, ⁵³ thereby increasing potential benefits to a significant level.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Long term positive contribution to a sustainable settlement pattern

The tram line would connect existing communities outwith Edinburgh with the city centre by a sustainable mode. It also has the potential to support some key growth areas such as the Edinburgh Biomedical Park (a further proposal for a National Development).

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+

The development is likely to produce minor positive effects in terms of reducing CO ₂ emissions generated by road transport. Local air quality issues are likely to be improved on what is a key commuter route, with a potential positive contribution to the targets associated with the central Edinburgh AQMA.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0

No effects on water are anticipated, given that the development will make use of the existing road network.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

0

As above - no significant environmental effects are anticipated.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development will make best use of existing roads, thereby minimising the use of resources. No significant effects on minerals, brownfield land or rural development are currently anticipated.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

--/+?

Effects may be largely temporary, with more significant effects arising during construction. Effects may reduce in the longer term as a result of increased familiarity. Possible secondary effects from improved air quality.

The development would be sited within an area which is designated as a World Heritage Site. ⁵⁴ Effects could arise for conservation areas, listed buildings, Gardens and Designed Landscapes, known and unknown archaeological sites and Scheduled Monuments. As a result of the dense concentration of cultural heritage interests, there is potential for any change in land use to generate significant adverse environmental effects, through direct impacts such as loss or damage of resources, or by affecting the setting of key protected sites or the wider townscape. Improved air quality within the AQMA could also provide secondary benefits for the fabric of listed buildings. ⁵⁵

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-

There is potential for adverse effects on designated landscapes and townscapes, as a result of interventions such as overhead wires and signage. Most of the effects relate primarily to the historic environment as discussed above, and it is expected that impacts on the wider landscape, including Edinburgh's green belt setting, would be more limited in light of the scale of interventions involved and the intention to make use of existing road networks to accommodate the development.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

+?

Cumulative effects

Provision of access to sensitive natural heritage areas could help to raise awareness, understanding and enjoyment of the natural heritage. However, increased visitor numbers may also increase pressure in some sensitive areas, leading to disturbance and potentially damage of species and habitats. Appropriate site level design, management and monitoring would be required in order to avoid these problems and ensure that the trail supports biodiversity objectives. ⁵⁶ There are numerous protected sites along the course of the route where special attention to natural heritage sensitivity is required - for example, RSPB Reserve at Loch of Strathbeg, Crimond, Forvie NNR, Donmouth LNR, the Firths of Tay and Forth, and Montrose Basin.

Promotes human health

+

The proposal could have the potential to generate physical and mental health benefits, particularly by facilitating increased levels of physical activity. These would be maximised if the recreational focus of the project is complemented with ensuring that the path can be utilised on a more regular basis by local communities.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

There is potential for the paths to be used by local communities. The community driven approach to the project as a whole should help to secure a sense of shared ownership of the project, thereby helping to build community cohesion and encouraging regular use by local communities.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Potential for long term problems to arise due to the coastal location of the path, in light of climate change.

The path should support sustainable settlement patterns by providing infrastructure for walking that forms a viable alternative to more polluting forms of transport. The viability of coastal pathways over the long term should be considered in light of climate change impacts. The project partly overlaps with the North Sea cycle route, although it appears to be more closely aligned with the coast.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+

The project provides an alternative form of transport, for visitors and local people, thereby potentially reducing levels of car usage and associated energy consumption.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0

No significant effects on the water environment are expected.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

0

No significant effects on soils are expected - localised effects would be manageable at the scheme design level. Provision of a pathway could help to displace pressure on vulnerable soils by focusing visitor activity away from areas of erosion or compaction.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Secondary effects on rural development arising from promotion and increased visitor use of the route.

The proposal has the potential to contribute positively to rural development, connecting sometimes peripheral communities and increasing tourism opportunities. No issues relating to minerals, waste management or the use of brownfield land are anticipated.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

+

As with biodiversity, there is potential for conflicts with cultural heritage sites to arise. Scheme level design and interpretation is being undertaken, with the cultural heritage value of the trail forming an integral part of its development. As a result, largely positive effects are expected. The trail appears to be playing a key role in raising awareness of the cultural heritage value of the North Sea Coast. Visitor information goes beyond recognition of the value of the built environment to cover culture, traditions, past working life and historical routes.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

+

The development has a role to play in raising awareness and understanding of the coastal landscape. No adverse effects are expected at a landscape scale although localised mitigation may be required in sensitive locations to ensure that new path infrastructure does not lead to significant adverse effects in landscape and visual terms.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--

Direct and indirect effects particularly arising during construction.

The improvements have the potential to result in direct impacts on a number of natural heritage sites, including the Montrose Basin. This is designated as an SPA, Ramsar Site and SSSI, and is also an LNR⁵⁷ and as a result these effects have the potential to be significant. Other key sites located close to the site include the Firth of Tay and Eden Estuary SPA and Ramsar site, and numerous SSSIs. As a result of potential effects on Natura Sites, Appropriate Assessment is likely to be required at a more detailed stage in the process.

Promotes human health

+

Primary and secondary effects.

There is potential for increased use of the rail network to deliver a modal shift away from road use, thereby possibly reducing road accident rates, particularly on the A90. Air quality benefits may provide secondary positive effects on health in some areas where this is already an issue.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

Positive effects on the population are expected as a result of improved sustainable access that would be delivered by the project.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Long term positive effects.

The development would make best use of the existing rail network. It could contribute to a more even distribution of economic growth between the Central Belt and the north east, particularly helping to realise opportunities for investment in Dundee and Aberdeen. The development specifically aims to deliver sustainable infrastructure, and its relatively low emissions could contribute to climate change mitigation. Long term stability of the line in light of the impact of climate change, including on the vulnerability of the east coast to storm surges and flooding, would require further consideration to supplement existing shoreline management. ⁵⁸

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+

Possibly significant effects reduced by potential for increased journey distance.

Minor positive effects are expected as the improved rail services would help to achieve a reduction in transport borne CO ₂ emissions by contributing to a modal shift. However, potential for significant positive effects may be limited by the possibility that the project will generate an increase in travel distance overall, for example by extending feasible commuting distance.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

The development could have negative effects on the water environment, depending on the location and nature of interventions that are taken forward. Potential effects on the Montrose Basin are of particular concern, given the need for improvements in this location, and the ecological sensitivity of the water body as noted above. It is anticipated, however, that these effects could be resolved at the design stage, and assessed in more detail. Application of exiting regulatory measures include the CAR would be required.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-?

There is potential for new construction to lead to adverse effects on soils, due to processes such as excavation and sealing. The east coast includes some of Scotland's highest quality agricultural soils, thereby potentially leading to significant effects. However, the limited extent of required land take at this stage, together with scheme level mitigation and regulator measures, suggests that effects should be more limited.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development makes best use of the existing railway line. No significant effects on minerals, waste or brownfield land development are currently expected.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

--?

Cumulatively significant adverse effects may arise, depending on the location of interventions and the extent of land take required.

The development may have an adverse effects on cultural heritage sites in the vicinity of the existing railway line. Some of these may have value as a result of their contribution to railway heritage - for example Montrose Viaduct is a Category B Listed Building. There are too many remains recorded on PASTMAP to allow for details to be recorded here but they include archaeological remains (designated and non-designated) listed buildings, gardens and designed landscapes and conservation areas. Depending on the level of land take required, effects may be direct (damage or loss of known or unknown resources), or indirect, including changes to the setting of buildings or sites. Effects may be significant given the value of railway heritage and the high number of sites of varying levels of importance which could potentially be affected by the development.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

Replacement of the bridge at Montrose could generate landscape and visual effects, although these will depend on the siting and design of the development. Effects are not, however, expected at this stage to be significant, given that the development focuses on improving the existing railway line, which is already an established landscape feature. Further assessment and mitigation would be required at the project level.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

0

It is assumed that all works would be undertaken within the existing land take of the rail network, and therefore that there would be no significant adverse impacts.

Promotes human health

+

Long term cumulative positive effects.

Electrification of the rail network would help to reduce emissions, depending on the source of electricity, thereby making a minor positive contribution to the health communities located alongside the rail network.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Improvements to the efficiency of the network and reduced journey times would play a role in improving access to services and encouraging a significant modal shift from a national perspective. Noise effects would be limited as there is little difference between the noise generated by diesel and electric trains. Some minor effects on some communities may arise during the installation phase, but it is expected that these would be mitigated at the scheme design and construction level.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Long term issues may arise as a result of climate change.

The scale of the improvements could generate significant positive effects by improving the accessibility of many development areas by rail and providing improved, more sustainable infrastructure. Robustness of the infrastructure to climate change, including possible increased extreme weather events will require further consideration over the long term.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

The development has the potential to significant reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, depending on the source of electricity. Scope to make use of renewable energy sources should be explored further to maximise these benefits. Replacement of diesel engines could significantly reduce current emissions from rail transport.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0

As it is assumed that the development will require no further land take, no significant effects on the water environment are expected.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

0

As above, neutral effects on soils are currently expected.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

The development would make best use of the existing rail network, minimising requirements for additional resources. No effects on brownfield land, waste or minerals. The development could make a significant contribution to improving access to services by rural communities, depending on where electrification takes place.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

The development could have an impact on the setting of numerous historic sites and buildings, as a result of the need to install overhead lines. Effects may reduce into the longer term as familiarity with the infrastructure grows.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

Some sensitive landscapes may be affected by the requirements for additional infrastructure. It is expected, however, that effects would not be significant as development would focus on areas where the railways are likely to already form a landscape feature.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--?

No effects on biodiversity are expected from the proposal to augment rail services with an express coach as this would make use of existing transport infrastructure. However, if the more ambitious plans for new rail infrastructure development are taken forward, requirements for new track construction and further services could have significant implications for the range of protected species and sites in the area. These are numerous, and include Dornoch Firth and Loch Fleet SPA and Ramsar Site, the Dornoch Firth and Morrich More SAC, and the Dornoch Firth SSSI as well as many other sites along the course of the proposed and existing railway line ⁶⁰ An Appropriate Assessment of the effects of the proposals on Natural sites would be required at the more detailed level of planning.

Promotes human health

+

The development could provide minor health benefits by reducing the air quality impacts of transport in the area as a result of the expected modal shift.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+/++?

Largely secondary effects from improved access to services.

The provision of an express coach service would provide benefits for rural communities, particularly those on the Black Isle and Dornoch as a result of proposals for additional stops. Community access to services and employment opportunities would therefore be improved. No noise impacts are currently predicted. More significant positive effects might be expected from the longer term upgrading option, and construction of improved infrastructure to reduce journey time by a more significant amount.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Whilst the first option of a new express coach would be unlikely to include the construction of new transport infrastructure, service improvements would increase the accessibility of some communities by sustainable modes of transport, thereby providing infrastructure benefits with minimal intervention. The more ambitious plans for new rail construction would also have the potential to contribute positively to sustainable settlement planning, providing infrastructure that meets the needs of communities into the longer term.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+

Either of the proposed options would deliver a modal shift, thereby reducing road borne CO ₂ emissions. Disturbance of significant areas of peatland could reduce these benefits substantially in the case of the proposals for extensive rail infrastructure upgrading.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0/--?

Secondary effects

No effects on water are expected from the express coach option, as it would involve the use of existing infrastructure, requiring no additional land take. More significant issues could arise for the water environment if the option to take forward more substantial physical improvements to the railway was progressed. Either approach may also result in secondary positive effects as a result of reduced levels of road use, and consequently reduced diffuse pollution.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

--?

Direct effects, with potential indirect effects arising from associated emissions

No effects on soils are currently expected from the express coach option. However, development of additional or replacement rail infrastructure could generate significant adverse effects on soils as a result of the high organic content of much of the area's soils. New tunnels and cuttings could have particular effects on the soil and geological environment.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

Either form of the development would make better use of existing transport infrastructure. No issues are expected in relation to brownfield land development, minerals or waste management. The proposed development could make a major contribution to rural development, improving the accessibility and connectivity of some of Scotland's most remote mainland communities, as well as travellers to Orkney.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

--?

Direct and indirect effects

No effects on cultural heritage are expected as a result of the option to provide an express coach service. However, the proposals for upgrading the rail line could be expected to have potentially significant effects on designated and undesignated cultural heritage resources, as a result of the additional land take required. Some features of the existing railway could be affected by the development, and are of heritage interest, e.g. listed station houses. Effects may range from direct effects (damage to or loss of resources), to indirect changes to the setting of listed buildings and gardens and designed landscapes such as Skibo Castle.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

--?

No effects on landscape are expected as a result of the introduction of express coach services. However, the second option has the potential to generate significant negative landscape and visual effects, given that it may introduce new line into relatively sensitive areas. In particular the introduction of a new bridge across the Dornoch Firth could have significant adverse effects on the Dornoch Firth National Scenic Area. The Landscape Character Assessment for the Inner Moray Firth ⁶¹ notes the particular value and sensitivity of this area to development and identifies the issues arising from any departure from transport infrastructure following the coastal edge in the interests of providing more direct routes. Landscape mitigation measures are proposed that could be explored further at the scheme design level.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

No impacts on biodiversity are expected. New infrastructure would be taking place within existing built up areas. However, the STAG appraisal suggested that an ecological survey be undertaken prior to construction progressing, in order to identify potential effects on bats and badgers, and also noted the scope for habitat network enhancement by incorporating greening works into the proposals. The Edinburgh LBAP does not identify any existing species in the immediate vicinity of the station.

Promotes human health

+

Secondary effects from improved air quality.

The development would help to achieve a modal shift towards use of public transport. This in turn could help to improve air quality in the centre of Edinburgh, which is currently designated as an Air Quality Management Area ( AQMA). The development should also facilitate walking and cycling connections, supporting increased levels of physical activity.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

Primary benefits from improved accessibility and infrastructure, with secondary effects arising from reduced transport environmental impacts.

The improved public transport connectivity should contribute to increased access to services for many members of the community. Health benefits noted above may be extended to further improvements to residential amenity in the centre of Edinburgh as a result of reduced road transport. Potential noise issues for local residents may be reduced by a concurrent decrease in noise, vibration and pollution from road borne transport. The preferred option for the interchange includes improved access for disabled people to the facilities, as well as pedestrian priority and cycling facilities. The proposals include options for improving recreational facilities and residential amenity for the Haymarket area in order to maximise the benefits for the community.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Long term benefits.

The development would help to ensure that new and existing areas of residential development are more easily and conveniently accessed by public transport. The development would constitute an improvement in sustainable transport infrastructure, which is likely to be robust in relation to long term climate change.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

Secondary health benefits as noted above.

The improved facilities would help to increase a modal shift from road to rail. This in turn could contribute to a reduction in CO ₂ emissions. Local air quality benefits are also likely to arise, with positive impacts on Edinburgh's two AQMAs expected from a reduction in PM ₁₀ levels. Given that targets are currently being exceeded, positive effects on air quality are considered to be potentially significant.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

Possible secondary effects from contaminated land remediation.

No significant impacts on the water environment are expected, although further consideration may be required as more detailed specifications are developed. In particular, possible risks arising from remediation of contaminated land require further consideration. Pollution prevention plans would be prepared prior to construction. The Water of Leith and Union Canal (both important green corridors) are both less than 1km from the site. It is proposed that SUDS would be used within the development, and work has been undertaken to identify and mitigation potential effects on sewage and drainage infrastructure.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

0

Possible secondary effects from contaminated land remediation.

No effects on soils are expected - the development would take place within the existing built environment. Possible risks arising from remediation of contaminated land require further consideration.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The interchange would help to make best use of existing infrastructure. The development may also provide an opportunity for contaminated land remediation, although this will require careful management to avoid secondary impacts on the water and soil environment. No issues for, waste management, rural development or minerals are currently expected.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

--?

Primary and secondary effects.

The development could have effects on a high value historic townscape, with implications for the city's World Heritage Site, several listed buildings, a scheduled Ancient Monument, two Conservation Areas and a garden and designed landscape. Development could alter the setting of these sites, and may directly impact upon some listed buildings or non designated resources, including the broader townscape, known and unknown archaeological remains. Some mitigation to limit adverse effects on the historic environment have already been built into the preferred option for the development, including retention of the Haymarket War Memorial and design that seeks to complement the neighbouring development proposal for the Morrison Street Goods Yard. Further assessment and a high quality design response would be required to limit potentially significant effects on cultural heritage.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0/+?

No effects on landscape are anticipated, beyond the effects on the wider townscape that are discussed above. Consultation undertaken for the proposals in 2007 identified scope for improvements to the landscaping of the scheme, which have been incorporated into a preferred option. The design is likely to incorporate high quality design and improvements to the public realm as well as provision of a new public space at the War Memorial.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

0

No adverse effects on biodiversity are expected from the re-opening of an existing railway line.

Promotes human health

+

Secondary effects

Positive effects are expected as a result of improved air quality (see below).

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+/-

The development should substantially improve access to services for new and existing communities. There may, however, be issues for the population living close to the rail line as a result of increased noise from more frequent train services.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Long term positive effects to reflect aspirations for regeneration and growth

The development would complement wider aspirations for growth, including high levels of development in Ayrshire and Inverclyde as part of the regeneration agenda. Connectivity by public transport would be improved, thereby securing sustainable infrastructure for the long term.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

Minor positive effects are expected as a result of reduced emissions of carbon dioxide that would be delivered from a modal shift from road to rail. There would also be positive effects on air quality as a result of reduced emissions of PM ₁₀ and NO₂. This would potentially benefit existing AQMAs in Glasgow and Paisley, and could therefore provide significant positive effects.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0

As the development involves reopening of an existing railway line, no adverse effects on water quality are expected.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

0

As above - no impacts on soils are currently expected.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Primary and secondary effects

The development would make use of existing infrastructure, thereby limiting requirements for additional resources. Secondary positive effects in relation to rural development may also be expected.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

0

No significant effects on cultural heritage are currently expected.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

No significant effects on landscape are currently expected, given that the development makes use of existing infrastructure.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Possible secondary effects.

The development could have impacts on protected species, although their extent and location is currently unknown, requiring further investigation. There are no designated biodiversity sites in the likely vicinity of the development at present. Localised effects may arise from the upgrading of roundabouts and associated junctions on the A90, although these are not expected at present to be significant. Effects on green networks and habitat connectivity would require further assessment.

Promotes human health

+

The development should result in reduced accident rates. Secondary effects may arise from improved air quality within the Dundee AQMA.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

-/+?

Primary and secondary effects.

The development could result in an increase in noise levels affecting a number of noise sensitive receptors, although in some places a decrease in levels may also provide minor benefits. Removing long distance traffic from the A90 would improve inner city commuting times and relieve congestion and community severance. Effects on the community from the proposed bypass will be dependent on the alignment of the road - this is not currently known, although effects may arise for quality of life of some members of the population, with community and recreation facilities being potentially affected. Effects on key areas such as Camperdown Park in the North of the City would require further assessment - these cannot be fully defined at present as a result of a lack of clear specification for the bypass.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Long term positive effects

The development would provide significant new transport infrastructure which is likely to support long term aspirations for growth in Dundee.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

--/+

Negative effects in terms of emissions, with positive effects on localised air quality.

Negative effects are expected as a result of increased CO ₂ emissions. Localised air quality issues may be positively affected, as a result of reduced traffic on the A90. This could be significant as it would positively influence the Dundee AQMA which is exceeding its stated targets.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Possible long term issues arising from flood risk requiring mitigation at the scheme design level.

A new bypass could cross several watercourses. Flooding issues would require further consideration at the scheme design level, and the application of appropriate regulatory regimes including the CAR should ensure mitigation as far as possible. Improvements to the A90 are not expected to adversely affect the water environment.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

?

Provision of new road infrastructure has the potential to adversely affect agricultural soils.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

-

The construction of a new road would result in increased consumption of resources, and does not represent the best possible option in terms of making best use of existing infrastructure.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

--/+?

Primary and secondary effects

There are numerous cultural heritage sites within the vicinity of the possible route of the bypass. The development could lead to direct loss of or damage to historic sites, and could affect the setting of some, such as Camperdown House Garden and Designed Landscape and the listed buildings within Camperdown Country Park. ⁶³ Further investigation of specific effects would require additional assessment and mitigation at the more detailed design stage. Positive secondary effects may be achieved for sites in the centre of Dundee as a result of reduced levels of long distance traffic - for example reduced vibration and air pollution having benefits for the fabric of some historic sites. ⁶⁴

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

--?

Primary and secondary long term effects arising from the possible bypass itself, and the impacts of noise on those experiencing the wider landscape.

The development has the potential to adversely affect the landscape setting of Dundee, constituting a significant change within low coastal farmland areas. No designated landscapes are expected to be affected by the development however, as several AGLVs exist, but are located some distance to the north of the City. The Tayside LCA⁶⁵ notes the abrupt nature of the transition from urban to rural at Dundee, and this suggests that additional transport infrastructure should avoid undermining this by increasing a sense of urban encroachment. The LCA also notes that the A90 already has a considerable impact on the Dislope Farmland landscape, as well as noise impacts - it is recommended that further transport infrastructure in this setting is screened on and off site as mitigation of potential effects. Further assessment and scheme level mitigation would be required.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Direct effects, particularly arising in the short term during construction

The A90 crosses and is located close to a number of nationally and internationally protected biodiversity sites, including the River South Esk SAC, River Tay SAC, and several SSSIs. ⁶⁶ The impacts of the development remains uncertain at this stage as a result of a lack of clear project specification, but would be potentially negative as a result of the potential for land take arising from realignment or widening. Further assessment would be required at the scheme level.

Promotes human health

0?

No effects on health are currently expected, although there may be benefits if the measures improve the safety of the route. Positive or negative effects on noise may also arise.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

0?

Long term positive effects

No effects on population are currently expected, although improvements to the route could produce positive long term effects as a result of improved connectivity.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

The development would ensure that best use is made of existing road infrastructure through targeted improvements. This could aid long term settlement expansion plans. Possible issues arising from long term flood risk would require further consideration at later stage in the development process. The east coast may be vulnerable to an increase in extreme weather events in the long term due to climate change - the implications of this for road use and the proposed improvements require further investigation and appropriate mitigation.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-?

Long term increase in carbon dioxide emissions.

It is not currently expected that the development would result in any substantial changes to global emissions or local air quality, given that it focuses on maintaining a road corridor with no existing local air quality or emissions objectives. Over the long term, however, there is potential for improvements to the route to generate additional traffic, leading to an increase in emissions.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

There is some potential for adverse effects on waterbodies, including those over which the A90 passes, although the extent and location of these impacts cannot be fully defined at this stage.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-?

There may be effects on soils, including prime quality agricultural land, if the development involves a significant level of additional land take. Appropriate site level mitigation would be required, following more detailed environmental assessment at a later stage in the process.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development aims to make good use of the existing A90 road, thereby limiting the need for additional construction.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Possible direct and indirect effects.

Additional land take could result in loss of or damage to known and unknown historic sites. A significant increase in road capacity could also affect the setting of the numerous resources in the vicinity of the route. PASTMAP shows numerous designated and non designated sites along the course of the route, including a medieval bridge at North Water which is a SAM located very close to the road, Battledykes Roman Camp SAM north of Forfar , several listed farm and other rural buildings, and dense clusters of sites and listed buildings around settlements such as Forfar, Finavon and Laurencekirk. ⁶⁷

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

The development could have negative impacts on landscape, depending on the scale and location of interventions that are taken forward. More specific effects cannot be fully assessed at this stage. It is important to note, however, that the road already forms a key feature within its landscape context, and so limited enhancements may be accommodated relatively easily in a way which avoids significant adverse impacts on landscape. Mitigation measures could also be identified at a more detailed level.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-

Potential for cumulative effects when viewed alongside proposals for Rosyth, and the construction of the Replacement Forth Crossing. Secondary effects potentially arising from coastal defences.

Shipping can have effects on the marine environment, including increased disturbance and pollution. Immediately surrounding area is protected as a Ramsar Site and SSSI. The proposals should also take into account potential effects on the Firth of Forth and Forth Islands SPAs and other nationally and internationally protected sites. Significant intertidal areas (which support high numbers of wintering waterfowl, waders and breeding seabirds) have already been lost as a result of land reclamation, including that undertaken at Grangemouth, and further impacts on this important habitat should be avoided or mitigated to ensure that natural processes, including coastal squeeze, are not exacerbated ⁶⁸.

Promotes human health

0

See discussion below regarding emissions and air quality - limited potential for secondary effects on health.

No significant effects are anticipated from this development, or the development proposed at Rosyth (see below).

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

0

No significant effects on existing or neighbouring communities anticipated given the level of industrial activity in the area at present and the commitment to associated infrastructure improvements. Potential to provide additional employment, offering wider quality of life benefits and potentially affecting currently disadvantaged communities. ⁶⁹

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

-/+

Potential secondary effects on biodiversity arising from design and construction of coastal defences.

The area is vulnerable to current and future coastal flooding, and so robustness of the development (including in relation to climate change) would be dependent on improved coastal defences. This could in turn have implications for sensitive coastal habitats and associated protected species.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-?

Short-term effects would be avoided provided that port enhancement is preceded or accompanied by planned infrastructure improvements.

This is already an AQMA covering Grangemouth, which is designated to ensure that levels of SO ₂ arising in the area as a result of its industrial functioning as an oil refinery do not exceed specific targets. The level of pollution in this respect appears to have remained static in recent years ⁷⁰ but this may change if levels of shipping increase significantly. ⁷¹ The proposed improvements to transport infrastructure have been designed to reduce congestion, thereby reducing the contribution of road traffic to air pollution and this would potentially provide local benefits. Although shipping is the method for transporting freight over long distances with the lowest carbon footprint, it is estimated to account for 1.8 - 3.5% of global carbon emissions, and is a particular source of SO ₂ which in turn contributes to acidification. ⁷² Although benefits are also expected from achieving a shift from road to shipping freight transport options, it is not possible to quantify net emissions at this stage and this therefore requires further investigation at a later stage of assessment. . Promoting low carbon technology to reduce emissions should be considered.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Potential for cumulative effects in combination with increased shipping activity at Rosyth.

The lowlying coastal location makes Grangemouth vulnerable to coastal flooding and this may become more significant as a result of climate change (increased storm surges etc.) Falkirk Council participates in the Forth Estuary Forum, which produced an integrated coastal management strategy, comprising options to address coastal flooding including managed realignment to the north of the River Carron ⁷³. There is potential for providing environmentally sustainable coastal management solutions to avoid possible secondary effects on biodiversity and ensure development patterns reflect and respond to climate change (see above). Increased shipping activity is also likely to result in increased risk of pollution incidents.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+

Brownfield site redevelopment, with possible remediation resulting in benefits for the soils. Predicted benefits also based on an assumption that no additional soil sealing would occur.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Much of the proposed development would take place on previously developed or reclaimed land, therefore making better use of brownfield land and making more efficient use of land within the port boundary.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

Possibly short to medium-term permanent effects as a result of infrastructure improvements.

Potential for development, particularly of improved transport infrastructure, to result in adverse effects on some scheduled ancient monuments and listed buildings as well as wider archaeological resources.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

Possible minor / neutral effects arising from associated transport infrastructure improvements. Development of the docks is unlikely to result in significant changes to existing landscape character, given the existing impact of large scale industrial development in the Grangemouth to Bo'ness Flats area ⁷⁴

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-

Dependent on the timescale of the development. Potential to result in permanent effects on protected bird species. Effects direct and secondary (see water below). May be significant when cumulative effects arising from this and other developments on the Forth are taken into account.

Increased shipping activity could lead to a range of effects, particularly disturbance of protected bird species. Pollution risk associated with shipping and wider activities required to facilitate operation of the port (i.e. dredging) could also have implications for marine habitats and species on the Firth of Forth. To the west of the site the intertidal area and coast are protected as Ramsar and SSSI sites and as part of the wider Firth of Forth SPA. To the east of the site lies St. Margaret's Marsh SSSI - potential impacts on this and the adjacent SPAs require further consideration.

Promotes human health

0

No significant effects on health are anticipated.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Possible for short term impacts arising from the construction phase of the development.

No significant effects on existing or neighbouring communities anticipated given the level of port related activity in the area at present and the commitment to associated infrastructure improvements. The development has the potential to provide additional employment, offering wider quality of life benefits and positively affecting disadvantaged communities.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

The proposal would lead to infrastructure improvements, ensuring that expansion of the port facilities have no negative implications for transport capacity. Vulnerability to coastal flooding may require further consideration to ensure that climate change is recognised as a long-term influence on development potential.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-?

Dependent on timescale in which shipping activity increases. Secondary implications of air pollution / emissions on wider environmental resources.

Although shipping is the method for transporting freight over long distances with the lowest carbon footprint, it is estimated to account for 1.8 - 3.5% of global carbon emissions, and is a particular source of SO ₂ which in turn contributes to acidification. ⁷⁵ Increased levels of shipping activity associated with the development, and associated overall increase in the freight movements to and from the port would generate more emissions. However, as the level of road freight transport that would be displaced remains uncertain, it is not possible to quantify net emissions- this requires further investigation at a later stage of assessment. Promoting low carbon technology to reduce emissions should be considered further. Prioritisation of low carbon onshore freight transfer options would also be beneficial.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Secondary effects on biodiversity

Shipping is a source of diffuse pollution to water bodies, and the RBMPSWMI identifies the Forth as an area where water quality is already adversely affected by this activity. Development is unlikely to assist with achieving good water quality status, as required under WFD. Chemical and oil pollution can be toxic and have a smothering effect, marine litter is a concern and increased sediment arising from dredging activities is also harmful for water quality and can have adverse effects on biodiversity. Regulatory measures are already in place to deal with many of these issues, although litter requires further consideration within the RBMP.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+

Brownfield site redevelopment, with possible remediation resulting in benefits for soils. Predicted benefits also based on an assumption that no additional soil sealing would occur.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Much of the proposed development would take place on previously developed or reclaimed land, therefore making use of brownfield land and more efficient use of land within the port boundary.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

Possibly short to medium-term permanent effects as a result of infrastructure improvements.

Potential for development, particularly of improved transport infrastructure, to result in adverse effects on scheduled ancient monuments and marine archaeological resources.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

Possible minor / neutral effects arising from associated transport infrastructure improvements. The area to the west of the port is currently designated as an AGLV. The LCA for the Dunfermline area notes that any potential increase in shipping on the Firth of Forth could have positive effects on the landscape character of the coastal area and the seascape of the Firth itself. ⁷⁶

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-/--

Timescale depends on speed of development and consequent increase in shipping activity. Potential to lead to permanent displacement of protected species? Primary and secondary effects. Cumulative effects: disturbance, reduced water quality.

The disused piers south of Lyness Wharf are of nature conservation interest. Scapa Flow is an important wintering location for a range of migratory bird species. The area is also rich in cetaceans, seals, otters and a wider variety of fish species. The north and western side of Hoy is an SPA as a result of its importance for many birds, and the SPA description ⁷⁸ notes that the rich water around Hoy, lying outwith the designated area is an important associated feeding ground for divers and seabirds. This part of the island is also designated as an SAC and the nearby islet of Switha is an SPA owing to its role as a wintering site for Greenland Barnacle Geese. Shipping can disturb birds, with increased activity leading to higher risk of water pollution and marine litter. The SWMI report for the Scotland RBD notes that Scapa Flow is already adversely affected by shipping activity ⁷⁹. Cetaceans can also be disorientated by this type of activity. Pollution would have wider implications for marine wildlife.

Promotes human health

0

No significant effects anticipated.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

0

No significant effects anticipated.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

0

No significant effects anticipated.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-?

Dependent on timescale in which shipping increases. Secondary implications of air pollution / emissions on wider environmental resources

Although shipping is the method for transporting freight over long distances with the lowest carbon footprint, it is estimated to account for 1.8 - 3.5% of global carbon emissions , and is a particular source of SO ₂ which in turn contributes to acidification ⁸⁰. Increased shipping activity and the overall increase in freight movements to and from the port would generate more emissions locally. However, as the level of road transport that would be displaced remains uncertain, it is not possible to quantify net emissions at this stage - this requires further investigation at a later stage of assessment. Promoting low carbon technology to reduce emissions should be considered. No onshore onward freight transport is proposed (ship to ship transfer), limiting potential for growth of emissions from road-based transport.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Secondary impacts on biodiversity.

Water quality issues potentially arising from increased shipping activity in an area where water quality is already being affected by water-based transport.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+

This is a brownfield site redevelopment, with possible remediation resulting in benefits for soils. The predicted benefits of the development for soil are also based on an assumption that no additional soil sealing would occur.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development would be on brownfield and reclaimed land - a former naval base currently operating as an industrial site.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

Potential for permanent damage to or loss of resources. Timescale dependent on pace of development. Possible secondary effects arising for tourism.

Marine heritage includes historic shipwrecks and underwater landscapes that were once dry land ⁸¹. The site includes SAMs and wreck sites, as well as further resources of cultural heritage significance. ⁸² The wider area is important for military archaeology and the Scapa Flow Visitor centre is located on the south western boundary of the site. It is anticipated at this stage that impacts on these resources could be minimised. Lyness itself is of cultural heritage importance as a result of its former role as a WWII naval base.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

Hoy is part of National Scenic Area. SNH's Natural Heritage Futures Prospectus for Orkney and North Caithness ⁸³ emphasises the importance of maintaining the distinctive character of the landscapes and seascapes, with the dramatic coastline noted as a key feature.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--

Primary and possibly significant secondary effects arising from increased shipping activity (disturbance)

The development could have effects on biodiversity during both construction and operation, although it is understood that no major dredging would be required as a result of the natural deep water channel. The coast at Hunterston is protected (Portencross Coast SSSI) as a result of its aggregations of non breeding wildfowl and waders on the mudflats. The development could result in substantial losses of important and partly designated habitats which are considered to be of at least regional ecological significance, although national significance of the habitats and species on the site has been the subject of recent scrutiny. ⁸⁴

Promotes human health

0?

No significant effects on health are anticipated. The health effects of clean coal remain unclear, but it is expected that appropriate regulatory regimes would be applied to ensure that air quality standards for this type of installation are not exceeded, thereby limiting possible secondary effects on health.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Secondary effects arising from economic opportunities

No significant effects on existing or neighbouring communities are anticipated. Potential to provide additional employment, offering wider quality of life benefits and potentially affecting currently disadvantaged communities.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Wider secondary effects at national level as a result of reduction in road borne freight in favour of transhipment

The proposal would lead to infrastructure improvements, ensuring that expansion of the port facilities have no significant negative implications for transport capacity. The Ayrshire Coast is potentially vulnerable to flooding as a result of predicted climate change in the medium to long term (having previously suffered the effects of storm surges). This will therefore require an approach to development which is robust in term of future flood risk. ⁸⁵

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-?

Although shipping is the method for transporting freight over long distances with the lowest carbon footprint, it is estimated to account for 1.8 - 3.5% of global carbon emissions , and is a particular source of SO ₂ which in turn contributes to acidification. ⁸⁶ Increased levels of shipping activity associated with the development, and associated overall increase in the freight movements to and from the port would generate more emissions. However, as the level of road transport that would be displaced remains uncertain, it is not possible to fully quantify net emissions at this stage - this requires further investigation at a later stage of assessment. Promoting low carbon technology to reduce emissions should be considered further. Prioritisation of low carbon onshore freight options is also important.

The Hunterston proposal is based on increased transhipment, (possibly 70% to 80%) thereby potentially reducing land borne transport and associated energy usage and emissions.

The power station will meet energy demand, as opposed to reducing it. Opportunities to incorporate carbon storage should limit emissions, but the actual effectiveness of clean coal technology remains uncertain and negative effects are expected overall. Effects will depend on the source of energy that is displaced by the plant. This issue is considered further in relation to Candidate Development No. 36.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Potential for secondary effects arising for biodiversity where pollution events occur

Shipping is a source of diffuse pollution to water bodies, and SEPA's analysis of significant water management issues shows that these coastal waters are already at risk as a result of the impact of sea and coastal water transport, as well as point source pollution from collection and treatment of sewage, diffuse source pollution from agriculture, and the morphological impacts from land claim. ⁸⁷ Development proposals of this nature are unlikely to assist with achieving good water quality status, as required under WFD. Chemical and oil pollution can be toxic and have a smothering effect, marine litter is a concern and increased sediment arising from dredging activities is also harmful for water quality and can have adverse effects on biodiversity. Regulatory measures are already in place to deal with many of these issues, although litter requires further consideration within the RBMP.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+

The proposal constitutes largely brownfield site redevelopment, with possible remediation resulting in benefits for soils. The predicted benefits are also based on an assumption that no additional soil sealing would occur. Secondary effects arising from minerals extraction have not been assessed at this stage, but are considered further as an example for Candidate Development No. 36.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Much of the proposed development would take place on previously developed or reclaimed land, therefore making use of brownfield land and more efficient use of land within the port boundary. The development could contribute to the development of rural (as well as urban) communities in Ayrshire. No effects on waste are currently anticipated although there could be significant materials arising from the clean coal power plant that require sustainable management or reused.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-/--

Effects on the setting of key resources.

A review of PASTMAP⁸⁸ shows that there are several remains on and in the vicinity of the port area that are recorded on the National Monuments Record of Scotland and the Scottish Sites and Monuments Record. Hunterston House and Castle, and Southannan House Fairlie are also listed buildings. To the north, Fairlie also has numerous listed buildings and listed archaeological sites. The development may only have limited direct effects on non-designated sites, but could significantly affect the setting of several protected sites in close proximity to the site.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

The Ayrshire LCA⁸⁹ shows that Hunterston is located on the raised beach coast. It suggests that large scale development should be avoided within what is essentially a small scale landscape. Measures for landscaping and design of transport routes are also recommended. The masterplan includes proposals for screening and landscaping along the site boundary. However, some aspects of the development are likely to lead to components that are relatively visible in the landscape - i.e. a flue of undetermined height.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-

Potential for secondary adverse effects arising from traffic increases due to road and port improvements.

Whilst the port facilities and immediate environs appear to have little ecological value, the development is located close to a number of sites which are designated for their natural heritage interest including Corsewall Point to Milleur point SSSI, Glen App and Galloway Moors SSSI and SPA, Auchrochar Wetlands SSSI, White Loch- Lochinch SSSI and Loch of Inch and Torrs Warren SPA and Ramsar Site, Glen App and Galloway Moors SSSI and SPA, Flow of Dergoals SSSI and SAC, and Derskelpin Moss SSSI. ⁹⁰ Road improvements and increased freight and other transport movements could have adverse effects on some of these sites, depending on the location and design of the road improvements. Mitigation should be undertaken to avoid severance of key ecological corridors and networks. Loch Ryan itself is of nature conservation importance, supporting several rare species and benthic communities, such as sponge, sea anemone, molluscs, sea-cucumbers, red seaweed and sea squirt. Many types of birds are found on the loch, which has breeding tern and nationally important concentrations of red-throated diver, great crested grebe, Slavonian grebe, black-necked grebe, scaup, eider, and red-breasted merganser. ⁹¹ Many of these species are likely to be vulnerable to disturbance arising from increased shipping and associated transport and industrial activity.

Promotes human health

-/+

Secondary effects from increased transport movements.

The development has potential for adverse effects arising from air quality impacts of increased transport movements in the vicinity of the port. However road improvements could also provide benefits by reducing accident levels on the A77 and A75.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

Positive secondary positive effects for Stranraer town centre.

The development has potential for positive effects due to increased employment opportunities and contribution to the local economy more generally. Locally significant positive effects may also arise from the relocation of port activities away from central Stranraer, as this would facilitate large scale regeneration plans within the waterfront area.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Long term benefits providing that infrastructure capacity is sufficient to sustain local growth

Road improvements may contribute positively to settlement growth and infrastructure for local communities, although benefits may be limited by an increase in traffic using these routes. Rail transport improvements may help to achieve a reduction in road traffic and improve the accessibility of remote communities in the vicinity of the port. Coastal erosion is a significant issue which has been exacerbated by land reclamation, but the Dumfries and Galloway Shoreline Management Plan takes into account the need to accommodate and protect the expanded port in plans to upgrade sea defences in this area. ⁹² Coastal vulnerability arising in the long term from climate change will also require further consideration.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

0?

Secondary effects on biodiversity, water and soil could result from increased emissions overall. Actual effects will depend on modal share of freight.

Although shipping is the method for transporting freight over long distances with the lowest carbon footprint, it is estimated to account for 1.8 - 3.5% of global carbon emissions , and is a particular source of SO ₂ which in turn contributes to acidification ⁹³. The development may lead to an increase in transport movements overall which in turn will increase carbon emissions associated with the port. Road improvements are likely to ultimately also increase road traffic use, although the effect of this increase could be partly reduced by a decline in transport congestion due to relocation of the port. It is expected that some energy savings could arise from relocation of the port (shorter crossings and reduced travel distance). The port could also help to ensure that the sea crossing becomes a viable alternative to short haul flights, thereby generating positive effects. Rail improvements could help to encourage a shift towards less polluting freight transport options.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Potential for negative effects on water to lead to secondary adverse effects on biodiversity

The Solway Tweed RBD Significant Water Management Issues Report ⁹⁴ shows that there appear to be no significant issues arising from sea and coastal water transport, despite the potential for this to be exacerbated by ferry-generated sewage, increased sedimentation and diffuse chemical pollution. However, Loch Ryan is identified as being at risk from diffuse source pollution pressures, and there are issues for water courses in the vicinity of the road links to the port and will therefore be the subject of measures for improvement as part of the forthcoming River Basin Management Plan. It is important that the increased shipping activity that will result from the proposals does not exacerbate the problem of diffuse pollution. SEPA is undertake ongoing water quality monitoring at Loch Ryan.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

?

There is insufficient information available to define potential effects on soil resources at this stage.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development is likely to have positive effects on the wider rural economy of Dumfries and Galloway and Ayrshire. No effects are currently expected in relation to the reuse of derelict land, waste management or minerals.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Numerous archaeological sites and historic buildings are clustered around Loch Ryan and at Cairnryan. ⁹⁵ The development is likely to directly affect the setting of many of these resources, and could lead to loss or damage of some known and unknown remains. Further detailed assessment at the project level would be required to identify these effects in more detail. Unknown offshore archaeological remains are unlikely to be directly affected by the development.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

The Dumfries and Galloway Landscape Character Assessment ⁹⁶ states that changes to road infrastructure could result in significant alterations to the landscape along the road corridors, as a result of the often difficult topography. It recommends that landscape becomes a more important consideration in the design of such schemes. As the development would influence the character of an 'estuarine flats' landscape type, large structures could be highly visible, requiring careful attention to siting and design at the project level.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

0

An area south of Peterhead is designated s an SPA and SAC (Buchan Ness to Collieston Coast) as a result of its interest for seabirds and its cliff formations. ⁹⁷ No direct or indirect effects on these sites are currently predicted, given that shipping activity already takes place at the port, and the protected site is located some distance from the proposed development.

Promotes human health

0

No significant effects on health are anticipated.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Secondary effects arising from economic development and employment opportunities

No significant adverse effects on existing or neighbouring communities are anticipated. There is potential to provide additional employment, offering wider quality of life benefits and potentially affecting currently disadvantaged communities.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

The proposal is likely to lead to infrastructure improvements, ensuring that expansion of the port facilities have no negative implications for transport capacity. Long term effects of climate change on this part of the coast requires further exploration.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-?

Secondary effects arising from increased emissions on other environmental receptors

Although shipping is the method for transporting freight over long distances with the lowest carbon footprint, it is estimated to account for 1.8 - 3.5% of global carbon emissions , and is a particular source of SO ₂ which in turn contributes to acidification ⁹⁸. Increased levels of shipping activity associated with the development, and associated overall increase in the freight movements to and from the port would generate more emissions locally. However, as the level of road transport that would be displaced remains uncertain. it is not possible to quantify net emissions at this stage - this requires further investigation at a later stage of assessment. Promoting low carbon technology to reduce emissions should be considered further. Prioritisation of low carbon onshore freight options is also important.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Potential for secondary effects arising for biodiversity where pollution events occur

Shipping is a source of diffuse pollution to water bodies: chemical and oil pollution can be toxic and have a smothering effect, marine litter is a concern and increased sediment arising from dredging activities is also harmful for water quality and can have adverse effects on biodiversity. Regulatory measures are already in place to deal with many of these issues, although litter requires further consideration within the RBMP. Parts of the Aberdeenshire coastal waters are identified in the RBMPSWMI Report as being at risk as a result of diffuse pollution from shipping activity.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+

Potential secondary effects arising from brownfield land remediation

This would be a largely brownfield site redevelopment, with possible remediation resulting in benefits for soils. Predicted benefits are based on an assumption that no or little additional soil sealing would occur.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

As above.

Much of the proposed development would take place on previously developed or reclaimed land, therefore making use of brownfield land and more efficient use of land within the port boundary. The development would support rural development more broadly.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

Peterhead has many listed buildings and known archaeological remains and some of the port structures themselves are recorded and protected. ⁹⁹ Major development in this location could result in loss of or damage to known and unknown resources and affect the setting of a wider range of historic sites.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

The area's LCA did not anticipate significant potential for industrial development or expansion of the port. ¹⁰⁰ However, it does emphasise the value and sensitivity of coastal areas and the need for development to avoid adversely impacting upon traditional character of built form in these areas. However, the development would essentially be expansion of facilities where use as a port is already well established, and so no significant landscape effects are anticipated.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--?

Secondary effects arising from water quality issues. Potentially significant effects given the protected status of the area.

Sullom Voe is protected as an SAC due to the value of its lagoons, reefs, shallow inlets and bays, all of which being in favourable condition at present. Nearby the Yell Sound Coast is also a SAC and SSSI, with the latter's qualifying interests being Common seal and Otter. ¹⁰¹ These areas are potentially sensitive to further activity and in particular the risk of pollution that may arise from oil transfer operations. As a result further work is required to assess and manage potential effects on their qualifying interests and overall integrity of the protected sites. This should focus on existing and future levels of risk and potential impacts of spillages on the natural heritage of the area within the EIA that would be required for the proposed development. ¹⁰² A detailed statement on Sullom Voe SAC¹⁰³ notes that oil operations in the area could have numerous adverse effects on biodiversity, through civil engineering activities, oil spillages and clean up techniques, the introduction of non-native species,

Promotes human health

0

No effects on health are anticipated

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Longer term need for diversification may reduce the significance of the terminal as a local employer

The development would maintain a key source of employment and investment in Shetland into the longer term, thereby benefiting the community. ¹⁰⁴ Whilst the industrial use of the oil terminal is established, improved facilities would provide the operation with longevity. The Structure Plan also emphasises the need to diversify sources of employment on the Islands, given that 70% of jobs are in Lerwick and at Delting (Sullom Voe). Continuing support for the terminal in the long term may provide less significant benefits as the industry itself evolves, and as alternative economic strategies for the Islands are taken forward.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+?

The development would involve expansion of an established facility. Potential effects of climate change on the long term coastal flood risk would need to be explored further in order to establish whether coastal defences in this location would be required. ¹⁰⁵ The development would essentially improve infrastructure serving the terminal. The Structure Plan ¹⁰⁶ notes that the terminal also contributes significantly to the electricity distribution supply network.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-?

Primary and secondary effects extending into the long term

The development would generate emissions from increased transportation of oil, if its objective of higher levels of international usage were met. Although shipping is the method for transporting freight over long distances with the lowest carbon footprint, it is estimated to account for 1.8 - 3.5% of global carbon emissions. It is not possible to fully quantify net emissions at this stage - this requires further investigation at a later stage of assessment. Promoting low carbon technology to reduce emissions should be considered. Increased ship to ship transfer could reduce potential land based transport emissions generated by the development but may have further implications for the marine environment and biodiversity. Further secondary effects would arise as a result of the contribution of the activities to use of fossil fuels.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

--?

Potential secondary effects on marine biodiversity

Water quality issues may arise from increased shipping activity and associated pollution risk of transfer operations. Levels of pollution have, with one exception, been very low at the terminal. ¹⁰⁷ The Significant Water Management Issues Report for the Scotland River Basin District ¹⁰⁸ shows that Sullom Voe and the wider waters around it are already at risk from diffuse source pollution from sea and coastal water transport. Further negative effects must be avoided, and measures will be required to improve water quality to ensure that the water body reaches the target of 'good' status by 2015. The development appears to be at odds with this objective.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

?

It is unclear whether the development will result in additional land take and / or risk of contamination or damage to soil resources. This will require further consideration at the detailed consent stage.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

Secondary benefits for wider rural development arising from infrastructure development that facilitates employment and economic growth.

The development seeks to ensure that the use of the existing facilities can be retained into the longer term. Effects on reuse of brownfield land and waste management are unclear. The development aims to secure the economic viability of a key part of a remote island community, thereby potentially making a major contribution to rural development and to addressing disadvantage arising from rural peripherality.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Potential for primary and secondary permanent effects

There is potential for the development to affect on and offshore known and unknown archaeological sites. Further exploration of specific impacts on cultural heritage sites would be required at the detailed consent stage. It appears that there are several Scheduled Monuments close to the existing terminal (The Kames coastal defence battery to the north of the terminal), as well as numerous remains recorded on the National Monuments Record of Scotland. ¹⁰⁹ Development should not lead to loss or damage of these resources, or adversely affect their setting.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

The inlets of Sullom Voe are noted within the LCA due to their distinctive geology as part of the Walls Fault System. ¹¹⁰ The terminal itself is highly visible by day and at night, and is therefore already a major part of the character of this part of Shetland's landscape. The LCA also notes that the landscape around the terminal has been affected by the infill of Orka Voe, blasting near Mavis Grind for aggregate, and housing developments in villages close by. It proposes restoration following consolidation or decline of the terminal over the long term, and recommends that future development should make reference to the surrounding landscape, should take into account landscape and visual significance from key viewpoints, and should be screened where appropriate by earth modelling or roadside dykes. Good practice in the laying of underground pipes should be used. Future development should be confined as far as possible to the existing area, and any extension of built up areas should take into account effects on the wider landscape. The distinctive visual and physical contrast between development areas and the surrounding landscape should be retained. All of this guidance should be considered further at the detailed consents stage. In the meantime, it is expected that the proposals would have a neutral effect on the landscape, given that the terminal is an established land use, and that there will be scope for environmental enhancement and further landscape mitigation as an integral part of the development.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Possible secondary effects arising from increased construction and shipping activity

The Firth of Tay is designated as an SPA. ¹¹¹ Increased shipping activity and expansion of the port over the long term has the potential to cause greater levels of disturbance, although it is expected that this should be manageable as expansion may only be gradual and the port may focus only on consolidation or diversification. Effects will therefore be dependent on the level of growth which follows improved accessibility over the longer term.

Promotes human health

+

Secondary effects arising from improved air quality

Minor health benefits may be derived as a result of improved air quality from associated transport improvements (see below) particularly within the centre of Dundee.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Increased rail usage may arise, but only on the existing route. A reduction in road freight in favour of rail could provide significant benefits for local residents living on key transport corridors.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Secondary effects may arise from infrastructure enhancement at a local scale

The project could play a positive role in promoting more sustainable freight transport, and could help to ensure that the role of the port within Central Dundee is sustained into the long term. Flooding issues may require long term attention in this area, taking into account the influence of climate change on coastal vulnerability and the likely repercussions of sea level risk and storm surges for areas of Dundee lying under 5m. ¹¹²

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

0?

Secondary positive effects may arise from a decrease in emissions.

The proposal for improved rail freight connections to the port, making use of the existing infrastructure may generate additional transport movements. However, the new facilities may also lead to a reduction in more polluting road transport, representing a shift as opposed to an increase in the current volume of traffic accessing the port. Overall, at this stage positive effects in terms of emissions and energy consumption are expected. The proposals have the potential to contribute to an improvement in air quality in the city centre - this could be significant as the area is currently designated as an AQMA. ¹¹³

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0

Potential primary and secondary effects over the long term, depending on the level of expansion and type of activity it facilitates

Shipping is a source of diffuse pollution to water bodies. Development unlikely to assist with achieving good water quality status, as required under WFD - the Tay Estuary appears to current have generally good water quality, with no significant water management issues having been identified in the maps produced for SEPA's Report on Significant Water Management Issues for the Scotland River Basin District. ¹¹⁴ However, shipping raises a number of issues for the water environment: chemical and oil pollution can be toxic and have a smothering effect, marine litter is a concern and increased sediment arising from dredging activities is also harmful for water quality and can have adverse effects on biodiversity. At this stage, there is no clear evidence that levels of shipping and consequently risk to water bodies will increase as a result of the proposals for the port.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

0

No effects on soils are expected at this stage.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Secondary positive effects for rural development

The port provides support to the agricultural sector as a grain handling centre, and for importing and exporting agricultural materials and product. Recent investment in grain drying systems has strengthened this role. ¹¹⁵ It also handles forest products and supports the offshore oil and gas industry. The proposed improvements to freight transport infrastructure could help to realise opportunities for further brownfield land to be productively used. Making best use of the developed coast could benefit the remaining undeveloped areas of the coastline.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-/+?

Long term positive effects, as well as more immediate negative impacts

The port area may have historic value, with industrial heritage sites, buildings and remains that may or may not already be known. The port lies outwith, but reasonably close to the City Centre Conservation Area. No significant effects on cultural heritage are expected from the proposals to date, although longer term expansion could increase the risk of this, depending on the scale and nature of development. The development could also have implications for the settings of nearby listed buildings and conservation areas, although minor positive effects on the wider historic townscape may arise if the development leads to reduced road freight movements within the city centre (thereby reducing factors such as emissions and vibration).

Respects and protects the character, diversity and qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

No effects on landscape are expected, given that the development would constitute expansion of existing port facilities.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--?

Potential for significant cumulative effects, given the likely distance of transmission involved. Secondary effects on seascapes arising from unlocking of offshore energy generation potential over the longer term

This type of development can have implications for seabed and coastal habitats and marine species. ¹¹⁸ Although effects on marine biodiversity may be of a significant magnitude given the scale of the development, they are likely to be temporary, occurring primarily during the construction phase and immediately thereafter. The cable is submerged and buried to secure maximum reliability of transmission and avoid damage by trawler, anchors etc. Over the longer term, the effects of the transmission line may prove to be neutral. It is important to recognise, however, that even temporary effects are potentially significant as there are numerous Natura sites with marine components ¹¹⁹ and the JNCC recently undertook a consultation to inform the designation of several entirely offshore SACs. ¹²⁰

Promotes human health

0

No significant adverse effects on health are anticipated at this stage. Detailed investigation of hazards such as munitions sites would be required prior to laying the cables.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

0/+?

Possible secondary benefits?

No significant effects are anticipated at this stage. The cable may have secondary positive effects on some onshore communities where it facilitates a shift to offshore renewable energy generation as an alternative to onshore development.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+/++

Long term positive effects in relation to infrastructure that facilitates climate change mitigation

The development would deliver long term international level infrastructure, effectively releasing potential for renewable energy generation which assists with climate change mitigation, The contribution may not be significant when considered from a global perspective, but would be nationally or regionally significant when taken in combination with the electricity generation and exporting that it could facilitate. The development is intrinsically aiming to provide infrastructure that assists with climate change mitigation.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

Long term secondary effects as above

The project has the potential to play a major role in unlocking natural resources for power generation, thereby substantially reducing national level emissions of carbon dioxide from the energy sector. These would be significant at the European scale. In island communities the new connection would allow for much more polluting sources of energy generation to be displaced, e.g. reliance on diesel generation in the Shetland. The project would result in efficiency gains by allowing offshore energy generation to be exported directly, albeit over long distance.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

--

Potential long term secondary effects arising from unlocking of offshore energy generation potential over the longer term. Temporary adverse effects during the installation period.

The project may have significant adverse effects on the ecological quality of the water environment including marine biodiversity (see above), although it is expected that this could be mitigated to some extent at the detailed consent level, and it is recognised that effects may arise largely on a temporary basis during construction. Issues such as increased sedimentation during installation would require more detailed consideration at the project level.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-?

Temporary adverse effects during the installation period.

Underwater geological works such as cutting and ploughing are required for the cable to be submerged. Developments may have implications for coastal and offshore processes, such as interference with sandbank mobility, sediment disturbance, erosion and altered seabed morphology. ¹²¹ No significant effects are anticipated at this stage given their temporary nature. Localised impacts from developments may arise where the grid connects onshore.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The project has the potential to deliver more efficient renewable energy generation and transmission when considered from an international level.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Secondary effects arising from unlocking of offshore energy generation potential over the longer term

The development could adversely affect unknown and unprotected offshore archaeological resources, given the rich underwater archaeology of the North Sea ¹²². ¹²³ Implications for this and for protected sites (e.g. wreck sites) should be explored in more detail as the specification for the project becomes clearer. Historic wreck sites ¹²⁴ could also be vulnerable to this type of development.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0/-?

Secondary effects on seascapes arising from unlocking of offshore energy generation potential over the longer term.

No significant effects on seascapes are anticipated overall, although there may be localised impacts on coastal landscapes and nearby protected areas where the network connects onshore. This would require appropriate design and mitigation at the project scale.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--

Potential for both temporary and permanent effects over the short, medium and long term, depending on programme of reinforcements. Potentially significant cumulative effects and further secondary effects as a result of associated renewable energy developments.

There is potential for transmission infrastructure to result in adverse ecological effects is well documented. A range of mitigation measures can be employed at the project-design and construction stages to avoid or reduce such effects. The emphasis on subsea links and coastally-focused technologies could have repercussions for marine and coastal environments, including those which are internationally protected, necessitating mitigation, particularly in the short term for temporary effects of construction / installation processes. Overhead lines can have implications for some bird species, particularly swans, geese and those with aerial display flights. Underground cabling can also result in habitat loss or damage.

Promotes human health

?

There may be potential for adverse effects on health, although there no conclusive evidence on this at present.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+/-?

There is potential for both positive and negative effects on living environments, depending on the route and method of transmission. No relationship with concentrations of social exclusion has been identified at this stage, suggesting that there is unlikely to be a disproportionately significant effect on any particularly vulnerable communities. The development may also generate economic development benefits, contributing to the development of the Scottish renewables sector as a whole.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

The reinforcements are being proposed for designation specifically because of their role in promoting a more sustainable energy economy. Overhead lines may be vulnerable to long-term climate change, particularly the increased frequency of extreme weather events - this would require appropriate design and construction over the long-term.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++/-

Short term disbenefits arising from construction processes - project aims to deliver long-term benefits. Significant cumulative effects over the long term.

The new infrastructure should play a key role in increasing opportunities for generating energy from renewable sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and reducing the carbon footprint of the energy sector. It is important that potential disbenefits, including damage to peatlands arising from construction and associated release of carbon, are appropriately mitigated to avoid detracting from the wider benefits delivered by the NPF and environmental strategies.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

--

Direct effects and secondary effects arising from associated renewable energy developments. Effects may be cumulatively significant given the scale of the development.

The development would have possible localised effects on ground water and surface water, depending on route chosen and baseline environment. Application of the Controlled Activities Regulations and advice from SEPA will be required in order to systematically mitigation adverse effects and avoid significant cumulative adverse effects. Implications for the marine environment require further consideration at the project-design stage, and during installation or construction phases. Subsea cables can lead to disturbance of contaminated sediments, munitions dumps etc. during cable trenching. Coastal areas could be particularly vulnerable in relation to onshore grid connections where marine cables connect to land cables or overhead lines. ¹²⁶

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-

Particular issues of a temporary nature arising in the short term, due to installation and construction processes. Direct and secondary effects arising from associated renewable energy developments.

There is potential for cumulatively negative effects on soil arising from construction or installation of infrastructure and associated schemes.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development aims to achieve efficiencies by putting in place appropriate infrastructure to unlock the use of natural resources.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

--

Possibility of permanent loss of resources.

There is potential for cumulatively significant adverse effects on the historic environment, ranging from general effects on cultural landscapes and the setting of historic buildings to loss or damage of archaeological remains, including protected sites. Opening up marine areas to renewable energy development could have implications for World Heritage Sites at Orkney and St. Kilda and there are potentially wider issues for marine archaeology, designated wreck sites etc ¹²⁷. Mitigation will be required through appropriate design and siting at the project level.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

--/+

Possible primary effects, but secondary benefits.

The development is likely to generate potentially significant negative effects on landscape character arising from infrastructure including substations and overhead lines. There may be particular implications for coastal landscapes and seascapes ¹²⁸ given the nature of the proposals, although this may be reduced by a decision to develop a subsea cable network. There is potential for secondary benefits for landscape where new transmission capacity reduces the possible concentration of developments in close proximity as dictated by current infrastructure.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Short term effects arising during construction, potentially extending into long term issues arising from loss of habitat.

The developments could have an impact on biodiversity as a result of construction requirements and operational processes. Proximity of the developments to the Firth of Forth (and its constituent designated sites) may increase the risk of significant adverse effects on biodiversity, although it is accepted that the developments would take place on or adjacent to existing power stations. The effects of offshore carbon sequestration on marine biodiversity remains unclear at this stage.

Promotes human health

?

Possible temporary adverse effects arising during construction. Possible secondary adverse effects of changes to air quality should be managed at the detailed design stage.

The health effects of clean coal energy remain unclear, although some environmentalists continue to express concerns about emissions. However, it is anticipated that appropriate scheme design and regulatory regimes would be used to avoid air quality targets being exceeded, and that the proposed technology could result in an improvement to the existing situation overall. There are possible safety and pollution issues associated with risk of leakage from the carbon storage elements of the proposals that require further investigation prior to the development proceeding through appropriate consenting regimes.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

-/+?

Long term effects. Secondary effects may also arise from the sourcing of coal and other processing materials.

It is expected that appropriate consenting and regulatory regimes would be put in place to manage the potential effects of the developments on the nearby communities. Positive effects for the population at a national scale could be expected from the contribution made by the project to baseload generating capacity. The developments would generate or at least maintain employment within their respective local areas. No significant effects on nearby communities are currently expected, given the established use of the sites.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Potential long term coastal management issues.

The development would make a nationally significant contribution to infrastructure provision extending the life of existing infrastructure servicing the sites in order to help achieve sustainable spatial development. Potential long term issues with coastal vulnerability arising from climate change on the coast require to be explored further at the project level. ¹²⁹

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-?

Secondary effects may also arise from the sourcing of coal and other processing materials.

The developments will be aiming to meet energy demand as opposed to managing or reducing it. It would replace baseload generating capacity, meeting a significant national need, in a way which minimises harmful emissions and builds in carbon storage. Some stakeholders have raised concerns about the effectiveness of clean coal technology in terms of emissions and waste products. ¹³⁰ Whilst the technology should ensure that emissions are reduced as far as possible, operation of the plant and associated transport requirements (required to import material such as coal and limestone for the coal washing process), may still generate significant adverse effects. Actual savings will depend on the compared emissions arising from the source of energy that will be replaced by that generated by the clean coal plant. Negative effects should be recognised as being minor when compared to some other power generation alternatives - for example it was estimated that clean coal technology could reduce carbon emissions from Longannet and Cockenzie power stations by up to 20%, with further savings arising from associated carbon capture. ¹³¹ Further calculation of the net environmental effects should be undertaken as the information becomes available. The balance between power generation and carbon sequestration at each site and the effectiveness of the latter will be the key determinant of actual effects on climate change mitigation.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Secondary effects may also arise from the source of coal and other processing materials.

There is potential for the development to lead to emissions which could result in secondary adverse effects on the water environment. Secondary effects may also arise from the sourcing of materials required to run the power plant. Direct effects may also arise as a result of construction at a local level. Actual effects will require further consideration as more detailed project proposals emerge.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-

Secondary effects

Potential for secondary effects during the sourcing of coal and other materials required to operate clean coal power stations. The effects of each development on local soil resources would require further investigation at the project level.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

-/+

Long term positive effects

The developments are likely to lead to the reuse of brownfield land. The developments would be dependent on the extraction of coal and other materials for use in power generation and associated clean coal processes. Waste arising from operation of the power plant may also be significant.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

Secondary effects may arise from the sourcing of coal and other processing materials.

The developments may result in damage to loss of or changes to the setting of cultural heritage sites and resources. However, as they would take place at the site of existing installations, effects may be limited. Secondary effects may arise from the sourcing of coal and other processing materials, which could be cumulatively significant.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

Secondary effects may also arise from the sourcing of coal and other processing materials.

As the developments will take place at sites where there are existing power stations, effects on landscape are unlikely to be significant. Actual effects and project specific mitigation (design, landscaping etc.) will require further consideration at the project level. Secondary effects arising from the sourcing of materials should also be taken into account.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--/+

Although there is potential for negative effects, this is likely to be avoided at the consent stage through decisions on individual projects and mitigation measures addressing specific site issues

The development has the potential result in adverse effects on biodiversity, depending on how it is taken forward and where development takes place. Negative effects could be significant given the numerous international and national natural heritage designations that are located in the Outer Hebrides ¹³² and the value and sensitivity of the marine environment. Effects may arise in the marine environment from the offshore cable connection, as discussed in relation to the previous national developments. Secondary effects on the onshore habitats and species may arise but cannot be fully predicted at this stage. It is assumed that mitigation would be built into the proposals, and that negative effects would be mainly confined to the installation and construction periods, temporary and therefore not significant. Over the long term a positive (albeit minor) contribution to biodiversity could be achieved for biodiversity as a result of the climate change mitigation that renewable energy has the potential to provide, as well as potential enhancement arising from site level mitigation of projects.

Promotes human health

0

No significant effects are expected from the development. Detailed investigation of hazards such as munitions sites would be required prior to laying the cables.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Secondary benefits for quality of life arising from improved investment and employment opportunities

The proposed national development is driven by aspirations of some members of the community. There are likely to be benefits which are locally significant as a result of employment, skills development and investment in the islands.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Long term positive effects. Secondary positive effects

The project primarily aims to provide infrastructure that can facilitate climate change mitigation. The development should play a role in maintaining the long term viability of a peripheral island community, thereby supporting a sustainable pattern of development at the local scale.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

Positive effects may not be realised until the longer term, depending on progress with wave energy technology

The development has the potential to make a substantial contribution to the overall emissions arising from the energy sector, and these could be nationally significant. It is estimated, for example, that the coast of the Outer Hebrides could accommodate up to 50% of the targeted level of wave energy produced nationally. These benefits may be reduced by the incorporation of oil and gas exploration and extraction within the development, although the effects of this has not been assessed at this stage given current uncertainties and timescales involved.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

Possible secondary effects arising from developments that are facilitated by the improved grid connection

There is potential for negative effects to arise from some types of renewable energy developments, and the marine environment could be affected by the installation of an subsea grid connection as discussed in relation to the previous two developed. However, these effects are likely to be mitigated on a project by project basis and remain largely uncertain at this stage.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

--?

Secondary effects

As discussed, effects on soils cannot be accurately assessed at this stage, although possible impacts on the subsea terrain and localised effects on soil of schemes arising from the improved connection (e.g. on shore wind farms) should be taken into account. The Scottish Soil Framework Consultation Document notes the importance of retaining soils of particularly high organic content as a result of their role as a carbon store, with mapping of resources identifying the importance of the Outer Hebrides and North West Scotland in this respect. ¹³³

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

Benefits could be achieved in the short to longer term.

The project has the potential to make a major positive contribution to rural development and addressing the problems faced by remote rural communities. No specific benefits in terms of brownfield land development, minerals or waste management are anticipated at this stage.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Secondary effects as described above

Given the value and sensitivity of many designated and undesignated historic sites in the Outer Hebrides, as well as offshore and coastal archaeological remains, there is potential for the projects to lead to significant adverse environmental effects. The area is rich in archaeological remains, and has a distinctive and significant cultural heritage identity that is reflected in many aspects of the built environment and landscape. ¹³⁴ However it is expected that the specific impacts of proposals could be largely resolved on a project by project basis through the application of appropriate consenting regimes.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

--?

Secondary effects, with cumulative effects arising due to existing and potential future accumulated development

The upgraded grid connection would be via a subsea cable. This would minimise the adverse effects of the proposal on landscape or seascapes. However, at this stage the location and scale of further renewables projects that would be taken forward and therefore potential effects on landscapes remain uncertain There is potential, however, for significant effects given the sensitivity and high cultural and aesthetic value of the area's landscape (i.e. a large part of the area is covered by the South Lewis, Harris and North Uist National Scenic Area). ¹³⁵ Appropriate strategic level mitigation would therefore be essential, as well as site level mitigation as identified through the application of appropriate consenting regimes. ¹³⁶

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

0

Possible secondary effects arising from increased industrial activity on the coast or subsidiary developments.

The likely site of the development appears to not be designated for its biodiversity interest at present, although it is located close to Stornoway Castle Woodlands SSSI and the coastal environment is likely to be sensitive although not formally designated. Given that industrial use is already established, no significant effects are anticipated at this stage.

Promotes human health

0

No effects on health are envisaged at this stage.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Long term benefits

The proposed development could contribute to quality of life through employment, housing and affordable housing provision. The area is virtually uninhabited and as a result no negative effects on residential amenity are expected from the construction or operational phases of the development.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Long term benefits as part of a wider strategy for the area as a whole

The development forms part of a wider development framework that seeks to achieve further beneficial developments such as housing on the site of relocated gas and oil storage tanks in central Stornoway. Improved infrastructure for energy transmission would be facilitated by the proposed development.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+

Potential for longer term disbenefits to reduce positive effects overall?

The development could make a significant contribution to climate change mitigation, although benefits may be offset by the potential negative effects of oil and gas in the long term.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

No significant effects are anticipated, although increased transport movements and alterations to the coastal environment could have impacts. The RBMPSWMI Report ¹³⁷ shows that there are no major existing water management issues in the area, and as a result its ecological quality may be highly sensitive to change. Construction activities, particularly relocation of gas and oil storage tanks, may result in temporary risks to the water environment that require appropriate site level mitigation to be identified at the project level through appropriate consenting regimes.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

0

No significant effects on soil are anticipated at this stage. Relocation of gas and oil storage tanks could have implications such as mobilisation of currently stabilised contaminants, which requires careful management at the site level.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

Primary and secondary effects

The project aims to deliver enhancements to energy infrastructure in a sustainable way, making good use of existing resources and infrastructure as far as possible. The project would contribute to wider plans that are fundamentally driven by the need to sustain a remote rural community.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-/+?

Positive and negative effects may arise in different locations.

No significant negative effects are anticipated at this stage, although there is scope for related infrastructure to result in damage or loss to some resources, such as unknown archaeological remains in the coastal area, and industrial heritage. The project could generate benefits for the historic townscape of Stornoway town centre by facilitating the relocation of functional industrial buildings and allowing for redevelopment of a more sympathetic character. The Arnish area has several important historic sites including a SAM (Arnish point gun emplacements), Arnish Lighthouse which is a Category B listed building, a listed monument and memorial cairn and numerous other sites recorded on the National Monuments Record of Scotland. ¹³⁸

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-

Potential for cumulative negative effects over the long term?

No significant effects on landscape are expected given that industrial use is already established in this area. ¹³⁹ It will be important, however, to bear in mind the likely sensitivity of the coastal landscape to large scale development in the longer term, and to follow guidance provided within the LCA referred to above, to ensure that further development is carefully sited within discrete pockets of space to retain the quality of remoteness that is associated with its landscape context. This should be explored further at the local level through appropriate siting and scheme design.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Primary effects on marine and coastal ecology with secondary effects for wider biodiversity

Installation of the cable could lead to effects on benthic ecology and marine biodiversity, albeit for a temporary period. Secondary effects could arise as a result of the development providing scope for additional on and offshore schemes to connect to the grid via Hunterston. The coast at Hunterston is protected (Portencross Coast SSSI) as a result of its aggregations of non breeding wildfowl and waders on the mudflats. Areas around Arran have been a focus for a community initiative which aims to protect marine wildlife through the establishment of a Marine Protected Area and No-Take Zone, reflecting the value and sensitivity of the marine environment in this area. ¹⁴⁰

Promotes human health

0

No significant adverse effects on health are anticipated at this stage. Detailed investigation of hazards such as munitions sites would be required prior to laying the cables.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

0

Possible secondary effects.

No significant effects are anticipated at this stage, although the development may result in secondary positive or negative effects on communities arising from renewable energy developments that are secured as a result of the improved connection.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Long term positive effects

The project aims to support the long term viability of renewable energy development in Argyll through improved infrastructure provision.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++

Secondary benefits arising from role of infrastructure in unlocking renewable energy potential

The project could play a regionally significant role in improving connectivity of the grid to areas with potential for on and offshore renewable energy developments. This is a key part of national strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

Short term issues arising from construction / installation

There is potential for adverse effects on the water environment to arise, particularly during the construction / installation phase. SEPA's analysis of significant water management issues shows that the coastal waters are already at risk as a result of the impact of sea and coastal water transport, as well as point source pollution from collection and treatment of sewage, diffuse source pollution from agriculture, and the morphological impacts from land claim. ¹⁴¹

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

0

No significant effects are anticipated, beyond potential long term secondary impacts of developments of renewable energy schemes, as facilitated by the improved connection. Effects during installation on the seabed require further consideration.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The project has the potential to deliver more efficient renewable energy generation and transmission, reducing the distance that electricity is required to travel.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Secondary effects on seascapes arising from unlocking of offshore energy generation potential over the longer term

The development could adversely affect unknown and unprotected offshore archaeological resources, including wreck sites. Implications for this and for protected sites (e.g. wreck sites) should be explored in more detail as the specification for the project becomes clearer.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0/-?

Possible longer term secondary effects on seascapes arising from unlocking of offshore energy generation potential over the longer term.

No significant effects are anticipated as a direct result of the development. Effects may arise as a result of the increased capacity of renewable energy schemes that the project will provide.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-/--?

Secondary effects may also arise off site as a result of support for renewable energy related manufacturing and development.

The yard is located on the edge of the Cromarty Firth. There are several natural heritage designations covering the area, including the Moray Firth SAC, to the immediate east of the site, Rosemarkie and Shandwick Coast SSSI, and most significant the Cromarty Firth SSSI, Ramsar Site and SPA. ¹⁴² The latter is protected as a result of its support for a wide range of bird species, and it is potentially vulnerable to increased disturbance in the vicinity. Whilst most of its qualifying species are in favourable condition, Common tern, Scaup, and Whooper swan are recorded as unfavourable at present. A more detailed assessment of the plans for the development, including an Appropriate Assessment, would be required at the more detailed level. Effects are potentially significant given the level of uncertainty about the plans and the level of designation afforded to the immediate area.

Promotes human health

0

Potential secondary adverse effects

No significant effects are currently expected from the development. Potential impacts on nearby communities require further consideration at a more detailed stage.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Aspiration for long term benefits

Designation as a national development would make a significant contribution to Scotland's sustainable economic development by encouraging investment in the area - this should provide benefits for the local community as a result of long term employment opportunities.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

The development may involve improvements to infrastructure, to facilitate proposed development. The industrial use of the port is already established, and it is likely that the master plan will build on its existing strengths and seek to established long term security of use.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-/+

Secondary benefits as a result of support for renewables industry.

Whilst continuing or expanded industrial use of the area could generate increased traffic movements and consequently emissions, there may be scope for indirect benefits from the development to arise, if plans to support the renewable energy sector (turbine / mast production and biofuels) are realised at the site. These activities may also generate secondary effects, which cannot be fully envisaged or assessed at this stage.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-/+?

Secondary effects arising from possible use or decommissioning activities

The Scotland RBDSWMI Report for the RBMP¹⁴³ notes that the Cromarty Firth is currently at risk from point source pollution from manufacturing. Further industrial development in this area would require further consideration and approval in accordance with existing consenting regimes. Decommissioning works could lead to secondary adverse effects on the water environment at the local scale, although it is expected that these would be manageable through application of the appropriate consenting regimes.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-/+?

As above

The development may include proposals for decommissioning of former uses such as oil storage, which may introduce short term risks of contamination, but should ultimately prove beneficial for the soil environment, providing that appropriate construction techniques are employed.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

Long term support for rural development

The development would ensure the long term use of an existing industrial site for economic development that is better suited to future growth industries such as the renewables sector. Making best use of brownfield land is a primary driver of the project, and therefore positive effects are predicted. The development should also make a major contribution to rural development and indirectly support rural development and the long term sustainability more peripheral rural areas.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

No significant adverse effects on the historic environment are expected at this stage, given that the industrial use of the site is already established. There are several sites recorded on the Scottish Sites and Monuments Record located on the terminal and close by, and some listed buildings. The development could directly affect some of these sites and may affect the setting of others, including the listed buildings such as Pitcalzean House (Category B) and Coach House ( CS). The Nigg Fabrication Yard is itself listed on the National Monuments Record for Scotland ¹⁴⁴ and the cultural heritage of the area as a whole is of interest.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

As above. The site is already in established industrial use, thereby forming an existing feature within the landscape which is prominent, and affects the natural edge of the enclosed firth. ¹⁴⁵

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--/+

Potential secondary effects arising from project itself, and its contribution to oil production

This technology remains largely untested, and secondary effects on the natural environment remain largely unknown. Leak into sensitive marine environment would have significant adverse effects, including on sensitive and unknown marine ecology. ¹⁴⁶ However, successful development of the technology could make a positive contribution to global environmental objectives. Potential localised effects may arise from construction of the new power plant - the development would be located adjacent to the existing power plant. This is close to a coastal site which is protected as an SPA (Buchan Ness to Collieston Coast), SAC (Buchan Ness to Collieston) SSSI (Bullers of Buchan Coast). ¹⁴⁷ As a result effects of increased traffic during construction, and any further direct or indirect effects require careful consideration at the project level.

Promotes human health

0/-?

There are possible safety and pollution issues associated with risk of leakage that require further investigation prior to the development proceeding through appropriate consenting regimes. Potential localised effects arising from construction of the new power plant.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

0

There is potential for localised effects arising from construction of the new power plant - these could affect residential amenity and would be of a temporary nature. Potential benefits for quality of life arising from employment and investment opportunities (creation of an estimated 200 jobs during construction and 100 permanent jobs at the enlarged power station as a whole). ¹⁴⁸ Effects in terms of general amenity may be limited as the new development would be located adjacent to an operational power station.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Long term positive effects

New technology offers the potential for long-term, more sustainable reuse of available infrastructure. The development would be located adjacent to an existing power station, thereby building on an accepted land use.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

?

Mixed effects, with negative effects being largely secondary. Further secondary effects would arise from the very minor contribution to climate change that the plant would make. The development would have only short to medium term effects, as it is planned to be operational for only around two decades.

The project would sequester around 90% of CO ₂ emissions from the hydrogen power plant, with 10% being released into the atmosphere. The CO ₂ which is sequestered would contribute to oil production in the Miller field, thereby generating secondary emissions. ¹⁴⁹ However, development of the technology should prove beneficial overall, particular as a result of its role in demonstrating and testing new carbon sequestration solutions. The project would not reduce energy consumption but would represent a significant opportunity for clean energy generation, producing 350 MW of low carbon electricity. ¹⁵⁰

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

+/--?

Secondary benefits from role in reducing emissions from the energy sector. However, there is potential for significant adverse effects on wider water environment if risk of leakage cannot be entirely discounted. Also potential localised effects arising from construction of the new power plant.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

0

No effects on soils are anticipated at this stage, although further mitigation may be required in relation to the specific development proposal to avoid any localised adverse effects.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Secondary benefits in relation to prolonging oil production.

The development makes good use of existing infrastructure, using what are essentially waste products in a sustainable way, although benefits are reduced to minor given that it will require the construction of a new power plant. It is estimated that the project could extend the life of the Miller oil field by around 20 years.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Potential for long term or permanent effects on the wider setting of sites in the vicinity of the development

No significant effects are currently anticipated, although construction of a new power plant could lead to localised effects that require further consideration. The power station is recorded on the National Monuments Record of Scotland and there are numerous sites in the vicinity that are recorded on the Scottish Sites and Monuments Record, as well as listed buildings to the north. ¹⁵¹

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

No significant effects are currently anticipated, although construction of a further installation adjacent to the existing power plant could lead to localised landscape effects that require further consideration. The LCA for the area ¹⁵² notes that although the existing power station has a strong presence in the landscape, it avoids issues such as clutter and ugliness as a result of its solid mass with the open coastal landscape.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Secondary effects arising from operational use of the site

The development is likely to lead to transport movements, including importing of material for energy generation, as well as on site operation activities that may lead to emissions, noise, etc. As a result, there is potential for effects on biodiversity. The nearby protected area of Loch Leven (a SPA, Ramsar Site, NNR and SSSI) ¹⁵⁵ has high levels of birds which are vulnerable to disturbance, but it is not expected that effects would be significant, given that industrial / energy use is already established on the site. Transport routes from the M90 pass close to Loch Leven and any potential increase in disturbance would require monitoring. No more direct adverse effects on biodiversity are expected.

Promotes human health

0?

Effects are more likely to relate to perceptions and mental well being. Potential secondary effects arising from air quality issues

Energy from waste can be perceived as having adverse effects on health and wellbeing. The level and nature of effects will depend on the scale and type of activities that are progressed within the overall development. A study by Defra showed that health effects of this type of development were limited - estimated to be 5 annual hospital admissions in the UK as a whole from all methods of municipal solid waste disposal. Much of the surrounding area is recorded as suffering from a relatively high level of health deprivation at present. ¹⁵⁶

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

-/+?

The development is located close to a number of small communities. Operational activities and associated transport movements could have adverse effects on quality of life, depending on levels of movements, routes used etc. Defra's research on the environmental and health effects of municipal waste disposal methods showed that gasification / pyrolysus can generate noise, odour and dust, and has implications for air quality, although these can generally be controlled through site level mitigation. The site already provides a significant level of employment in a growth industry and future expansion could facilitate further benefits, thereby delivering aspirations for economic diversification and investment in the wider area.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

The development would lead to an increase in waste management infrastructure, at a site where energy generation is already taking place. Part of the site is at risk of flooding. ¹⁵⁷

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+?

The Defra study showed that energy from waste can generate moderate emissions of nitrogen to the air, which in turn can contribute to urban air quality problems generally, acid rain and eutrophication. Moderate levels of particulate matter, arsenic and sulphur are also generally expected from this type of activity. This type of activity can generate carbon dioxide, although the Defra study notes that this would be of a lower level than other waste management options, specifically landfill. The development would lead to an increase in energy generation, and has the potential to replace more polluting sources. The technology would provide base load energy generation, complementing other forms of renewables. The reuse of the waste products would reduce greenhouse gas emissions that may be generated from other methods, such as landfill and sewage sludge spreading. The SEA of the Local plan suggested that development in this location is likely to be reliant on car access, given the limitations of public transport services. ¹⁵⁸

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0

No adverse effects on the water environment are predicted. The Defra study showed that landfill is the only method for waste disposal that can generate adverse effects on water resources.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+

Secondary benefits

There are no proven effects arising from this type of activities. Residue from an existing energy from waste plant on the site is sold on as an agricultural soil improvement product.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

The development has the potential to make a significant contribution to waste management, by developing an example of sustainable reuse of waste to provide renewable energy. Waste arising can be used for a range of purposes. The development involves the redevelopment of vacant and derelict land.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-

Secondary effects arising from changes to air quality.

Changes to air quality and transport movements have the potential to affect the fabric of historic sites and buildings. The Defra study suggested that gasification could have minor negative effects in terms of building damage.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

The development has the potential to result in adverse effects on the local landscape, although these will depend on the siting and design of facilities at the scheme level. The proposals for the site may use some existing plant, but longer term expansion would involve the addition of several further gasifiers. This type of plant is likely to be highly visible in the landscape.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

0

Potential secondary effects

The development comprises largely brownfield site development in the Methil Docks area, although it should be recognised that this type of site can also sustain important habitats and species. Work associated with one development at the adjacent Methil Docks Business Park ¹⁵⁹ has already been undertaken to protect habitats and ensure that wildlife corridors are maintained on the site, and enhancement in the form of native tree species planning, shrubs and ground cover plants was also put in place. The site is located on wider Firth of Forth and although its coastal area includes marine intertidal habitats, it is acknowledged that this is not the most biologically diverse part of the coastal area covered by the estuary as a whole. ¹⁶⁰ The Firth of Forth SPA supports internationally important populations of seabirds, and so any proposed development must not have negative effects on its integrity.

Promotes human health

+

Long term positive effects

No effects on health are anticipated as a result of the development. The development has the potential to offer significant opportunities for employment and improved quality of life in an area which is currently at high risk of health deprivation. ¹⁶¹

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

Primary and secondary medium term effects

It is expected that the development will create several hundred jobs and generate more than ï¿¿65 million of new investment for the Levenmouth area. ¹⁶² The development is facilitating the reclamation and redevelopment of an extensive disused dock area, thereby improving the general amenity of the area.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Potential long term issues arising from climate change and coastal flood risk

The development makes good use of previously developed land to provide employment opportunities within an existing settlement. Infrastructure is being provided to ensure it is adequately serviced. The dock areas are vulnerable to flooding and as a result in the longer term investment in flood prevention may be required. ¹⁶³

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+

Secondary effects

The development will support the development of the renewable energy sector in Scotland as a whole, and will therefore lead to positive secondary effects as a result of their role in reducing energy sector greenhouse gas emissions. The development may generate a substantial increase in transport movements, which in turn could increase emissions at a local scale, but it is expected that these could be outweighed by the overall contribution to global environmental issues. The site is easily accessed by bus services. ¹⁶⁴

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

?

The development is unlikely to have negative effects on the water environment given that industrial activity is already established here, although its coastal location and the process of derelict land remediation and development require a careful approach to avoid any localised problems arising. The SEPASWMI Report shows that the coastal waters in this area are at risk from diffuse source pollution from sea and coastal water transport and point source pollution from manufacturing. ¹⁶⁵

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+

The development is resulting in the reuse of brownfield land, providing benefits through remediation and also potentially reducing pressure for greenfield land development (and associated soil sealing) in the area.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

Secondary benefits for rural development, which may be cumulatively significant when viewed in combination with other initiatives in the Levenmouth area.

The development provides a new use for disused port land and buildings. Benefits may also arise for the wider Fife rural area as a result of expanded and diversified opportunities for employment. No effects in relation to minerals or waste management are expected.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Cumulative effects arising from broader scale of post industrial redevelopment in the area

The site has an important industrial heritage, with the original harbour having been commissioned in 1661 and due to its importance for the coal mining industry. Redevelopment should be undertaken in such a way that protected, known and unknown sites and remains are protected as far as possible. It is important that effects on the settings of historic sites is also recognised.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

No significant landscape effects are anticipated, given that industrial use is already established in the area. The masterplan may provide measures which lead to enhancement of the landscape, the docks and industrial use already form a key element of the area's local landscape distinctiveness - land use change may lead to loss of traditional character, regardless of the fact that this character was essentially man made and may not be positively perceived.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

Secondary benefits arising from derelict land remediation

The development forms part of a wider masterplan, which included proposals for a new nature reserve close to the peninsula. Part of the site is designated as the Bogside Flats SSSI and the Ardeer Coastal Dunes and riverside flood meadows are of value for biodiversity. Its acid dunes are a rare habitat. The project should provide opportunities for biodiversity enhancement as a result of the masterplanning process. Mitigation at the site level will be required to ensure sensitive areas are avoided, and ensure disturbance does not increase to an unacceptable level.

Promotes human health

+/-?

Secondary effects

The development will result in improved employment prospects for the local population, which currently has a high risk of poor health, particularly heart disease. Given that social deprivation and poor health are closely linked, general benefits may therefore be expected. There may be a risk to health arising from the contaminated land remediation process that will require to be mitigated at the project level.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

The masterplan for the area views the energetics development as an integral part of the redevelopment of the 5 towns area, providing employment opportunities in an area with relatively high unemployment. This would provide significant benefits for the Irvine Bay area, which lost 35% of its manufacturing jobs between 1998 and 2003, and has 40% of its industrial space currently lying empty. ¹⁶⁷ The development should provide improved access to the site and the coastline - the site was previously inaccessible.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+?

Long term effects

The development provides a long term regeneration project, with infrastructure forming an integral part of the plans. A large part of the site is at risk of fluvial flooding from the River Garnock ¹⁶⁸, and this would need to be addressed within appropriate site level planning.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-?

Secondary effects on air quality

The development is likely to result in increased transport movements, which in turn could have implications for local air quality. At present there are no known problems with air quality in the local area. Energy efficiency could be promoted as an integral part of site specific proposals to minimise the effects of the development.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

+?

The site is located close to the Garnock Estuary. In addition to flooding issues raised previously (see above), parts of this waterbody close to the site have suffered from industrial contamination in the past, but its quality is improving. ¹⁶⁹ Groundwater contamination could be addressed by the development of the site, although it will be important to undertake this in an appropriate way to avoid adverse effects arising from disturbance of contaminants.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+?

Potential short term secondary effects arising from derelict land remediation

The development will involve removal of existing ground contamination on the site (heavy metals)- this has affected soil and groundwater, although at present the contamination has beeen stabilised through on-site treatment.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

Short term secondary effects may arise for other receptors, followed by long term positive effects

The development represents a major brownfield development, which should provide benefits for the surrounding urban and rural populations. Development of the area may lead to the restoration of mineral workings on the peninsula but also has the potential to help or hinder future exploitation of these resources.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Potential permanent primary effects

The area has an important industrial heritage, including its former use in manufacturing explosives and its connection with Alfred Nobel. The Big Idea visitor centre formerly provided interpretation of the historic use of the site. It is also the site of the oldest Scottish National Racecourse. There are likely to be extensive, largely unknown archaeological resources, which could be damaged or altered by the development. There are some listed buildings in the area, including South African Pavilion which was part of the ICI works and remains coastal anti aircraft battery. ¹⁷⁰

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

Possible cumulative effects arising from wider plans for regeneration and development of the area.

The site is not highly visible with its surrounding landscape context, although a mixed use development is likely to result in changes to local landscape character. Appropriate site level mitigation will be required.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

++

Potential primary and secondary effects.

The scheme is designed to provide benefits for the natural environment - provision of SUDS, wetland creation and wider implications for improved water quality. Should help to sustain existing river and wetland habitats along the Clyde. Further scope for mitigation and enhancement should be explored through project-level EIA.

Promotes human health

+

Long term effects

The scheme would provide benefits as a result of improved water and drainage systems, and in particular due to reduced risk of flooding. Given the location of the scheme, communities with higher incidences of poor health could benefit particularly - the area includes the communities with the highest risk of health deprivation in Scotland. ¹⁷¹

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

Benefits extending into long term: environmental improvements and increased development capacity.

The scheme is designed to improve quality of life for particularly deprived communities in Glasgow. Should be designed to accommodate future flood risk arising from climate change. It would directly and indirectly benefit an estimated population of around 1 million in and around the Glasgow conurbation.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Long term effects.

The scheme will unlock opportunities for development particularly on brownfield sites, derelict and vacant land, thus contributing to sustainable settlement regeneration. Would provide significant improvements to infrastructure. Likely to take into account and contribute to wider strategic green network proposals.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

0

No significant effects are currently anticipated.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

++

Benefits should extend into long term if climate change capacity is built in.

Improved infrastructure is designed to accommodate future growth in a way which minimises risk of diffuse water pollution arising from urban development and other sources (e.g. transport infrastructure run-off) and reduces risk of groundwater pollution ¹⁷². The Clyde sub-basin has been identified as a focus of numerous activities which in combination put pressure on water resources, thus making the target of achieving good ecological status by 2010 more challenging ¹⁷³.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+

Sustainable soil management should be an integral part of SUDS schemes.

Benefits for the water environment should complement measures to maintain soil quality - vegetated SUDS areas can help to increase organic content. Would facilitate redevelopment of brownfield land, thereby realising opportunities for contaminated and derelict land remediation. SUDS should be designed to minimise potential soil borne pollution to water, following best practice guidelines. Project-level EIA should seek to optimise benefits for water environment.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Should facilitate regeneration and redevelopment of vacant and derelict land. Important for any waste generated during construction to be recycled as far as possible.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-/+

Possible permanent loss or damage to resources. Improved hydrological conditions could better safeguard archaeological resources.

Possible impacts on known and unknown archaeological resources of alterations to underground drainage systems will require site-level mitigation. Possible benefits for some archaeological resources from improved hydrology.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

+

Potential links between SUDS related landscaping and biodiversity.

Important for existing landscape features to be incorporated into SUDS schemes, and for new landscaping associated with the development to provide a wider range of biodiversity benefits to maximise synergistic effects on the natural environment as a whole.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-/+

Development will be concluded in time for 2014 Games - short to medium term effects

Potential for links between regeneration proposals and green network development need to be actively progressed to achieve benefits for biodiversity. Potential issues arising from some venues, particularly use of Cathkin Braes for mountain biking and at Barry Links where shooting events will take place - although these will be temporary, and will reviewed and addressed as more detailed plans for the games are developed. Currently disused or derelict sites which might provide habitats, form an important part of the wider green network and / or support rare plant species as a result of previous contamination.

Promotes human health

++

Bid likely to provide benefits into the long term

Potential for significant health benefits, including for communities with a high incidence of poor health related to deprivation. General environmental improvements will improve health at a community-wide scale, whilst the role of the Games in encouraging physical activity will assist with achievement of national policy targets. The area includes the communities with the highest risk of health deprivation in Scotland. ¹⁷⁵

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

Long term benefits expected. Synergistic effects together with health and wider environmental improvements making a significant contribution to quality of life for East End communities.

Facilities and infrastructure are designed to have long-term benefits for quality of life. Main focus of development includes some of the city's most deprived communities, maximising benefits in terms of social inclusion and addressing a legacy of industrial decline and dereliction. Aim of improving community cohesion is a key part of proposals, with support and involvement of local people. Substantial new employment opportunities and in-migration to support enhanced local services and facilities in the long term.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Short to long term benefits. Synergies from infrastructure benefits alongside wider regeneration and improved facilities.

Green network is an integral part of development proposals. Significant transport improvements are planned to link the games with the rest of the city, and will provide long-term benefits for existing and new residents. Adaptation to climate change impacts in long term should be built into planned infrastructure - e.g. GSDP discussed previously.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

0

It is intended that the Games proposals will have minimal effects in terms of emissions, by using energy efficiency methods in new build, and drawing on renewable sources of energy. There is a commitment to setting up an offsetting scheme to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the event itself.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

+

Temporary risk of pollution arising from brownfield remediation extending into longer term benefits.

The regeneration proposals will have water and drainage capacity built in as a result of the GSDP, thereby indirectly promoting an overall improvement in water quality. Important to ensure that derelict land remediation does not have adverse effects on the water environment, by adhering to good practice and appropriate regulation during the construction phase. Long-term reduced risk of water pollution as a result of remediation of derelict or contaminated land.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-/+

Derelict land remediation (350 ha) should address current soil contamination issues, depending on the approach used and the condition of the baseline environment. There is potential for additional soil sealing to take place, resulting in some negative effects on the soil environment.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

The facilities and infrastructure will make use of existing venues, and where additional construction is required it will largely take place on previously developed land, with minimal energy consumption and limited waste being generated as a result of the use of recycled materials etc.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

++/-

The development should improve the quality of the built environment, including townscape and the settings of listed buildings. Several of the venues are listed.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

+/-

Largely temporary negative effects

Generally positive effects on the visual amenity of the sites being redeveloped are expected, including the reinforcement of the character of the townscape. There is potential for localised adverse effects arising from temporary use of Cathkin Braes as a mountain biking venue that will require local level management.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

++

Long term commitment required to deliver benefits. Synergistic effects likely to arise in combination with wider aspects of placemaking that aim to stimulate investment in quality environments.

The project will specifically aim to improve biodiversity as one of several benefits of a strategic green network. Part of its rationale is the recognition that from a national perspective the Central Belt forms a pinch point in the national network, with linear infrastructure and developed areas acting as a barrier to species migration. This gap could become more significant in the long term as climate change progresses and species seek to migrate northwards in many cases. The project will aim to promote improved habitat links as an integral part of the multifunctional green network.

Promotes human health

++

Primary and secondary long term positive effects.

Initiatives in the Central Belt, such as the Central Scotland Forest, are already positively promoting increased levels of physical activity through health walks, the green gym etc. Secondary effects may also be derived from improvements to wider aspects of environmental quality. Effects are expected to be significant, given that there are current and long established problems with health deprivation in the Central Belt. ¹⁷⁶

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

Long term positive effects

The project has quality of life at its heart, and is likely to deliver a range of environmental improvements which substantially contribute to community wellbeing. The project should also take forward work begun by local partnerships to deliver social inclusion through participation in projects, training and employment initiatives.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Synergistic effects: potential greening of transport corridors and integration of environmental considerations into settlement expansion

The project aims to integrate environmental enhancement with settlement planning to provide a more sustainable approach to long term growth and regeneration of the Central Belt. Partnership working should ensure that possible tensions between greening initiatives and infrastructure developments can be reconciled and brought together to provide strategic synergies.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

+

The project may make a minor contribution to the need to reduce emissions from energy and transport, partly as a result of the potential it provides for adding to the overall levels of tree and vegetation cover.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

+

The project may enhance networks of wetlands, and will ensure that water bodies are not adversely affected by any proposed environmental changes.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

+

As with the water environment above, it is expected that the project will seek to safeguard and enhance soil resources as an integral component.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

Long term cumulative effects

The project aims to improve perceptions of the environmental quality of the Central Belt, thereby helping to secure more positive uses for brownfield land, including opportunities for greening or provision of quality open spaces. The network should provide benefits for rural as well as urban communities. Scope to link with sustainable waste management and minerals project restorations will be explored at the more detailed level.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

+

The project is likely to take into account and work positively with the historic environment to add value to the green network. Potential for adverse effects on known and unknown archaeological remains - although it is expected that these will be avoided or minimised through good practice.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

++

The project intends to provide significant benefits for landscapes across the Central Belt. It is likely to play a key role in restoring degraded landscapes, and its spatial focus will help to ensure that vulnerable areas including strategic transport corridors are prioritised for investment. Care will be required at the project level to ensure that environmental interventions do not adversely affect landscape quality however, by reducing local distinctiveness or sense of place.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--?

Secondary effects

Potential effects on biodiversity relate mainly to the water environment (see below). Loch Lomond is an SPA, NNR, Ramsar Site, and is also protected as part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. It supports numerous protected species of birds, forming a large, and significant habitat. The Clyde Estuary is also partly designated (Inner Clyde SPA, SSSI and Ramsar) as a result of its interest to birds and its saltmarsh habitat. ¹⁷⁷ The canal could lead to a significant rise in boating activity on Loch Lomond, which in turn may generate higher levels of disturbance and potentially damage to habitats, problems such as the introduction of alien species or disease, etc. Mitigation is likely to be identified at the scheme design level. The River Leven includes several SINCS - the River Leven Corridor, River Leven Swamp - East Bank and West Bank, The River Leven East Bank Marsh and the River Leven and its tributary burns are recognised in the Local Plan as wildlife corridors forming part of the area's green network. ¹⁷⁸

Promotes human health

+

Potential primary and secondary effects

The development is likely to stimulate investment and regeneration, thereby improving local quality of life and potentially playing a minor role in improving the health of the local population. The project is likely to include new walking and cycling routes, and therefore could help to stimulate higher levels of physical activity.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++

The development has the potential to make a contribution to the regeneration of the Vale of Leven and Strathleven areas, acting as a catalyst for growth and encouraging tourism. The construction as well as operation phase would generate employment as well as contributing more generally to environmental enhancement, which in turn benefits a largely socially deprived community. The river corridor forms an important part of the wider green network - access to the canal and riverside could improve residential amenity in the surrounding area.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

Primary and secondary long term benefits

The development would complement existing settlements and planned areas of investment, providing new boating infrastructure, which will primarily be used by leisure users and visitors to the area. The area between Loch Lomond and the Clyde along the River Leven corridor is at risk of flooding. ¹⁷⁹ The development is expected to include flood prevent measures at Dumbarton, alleviating existing and longer term coastal and fluvial flood risk.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

0

The development may result in a decrease in car borne visitors to the area, although benefits are expected to be minimal overall. No air quality issues are expected.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

Potential effects arising from increased risk associated with higher levels of navigation

The River Leven contains trout and salmon and its tributaries are important spawning grounds. There have been problems with water quality arising from diffuse source pollution from urban development and point source pollution from sewage collection and treatment and it is not expected that it will achieve good status by 2015 overall. The River and Loch Lomond are not currently at risk from issues such as invasive species, increasing their sensitivity to increased risk of this type of problem. ¹⁸⁰

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-?

Development of the new link may involve extensive excavation which in turn could affect the soil environment.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

0

No significant effects are expected, although the development has the potential to contribute to wider aspirations for the reuse of brownfield land and wider rural development (particularly within the National Park) associated with tourism activity.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-/++

Direct and secondary effects

The development has the potential to play a significant role in raising awareness and access to cultural heritage and historic sites. However, construction of the new link may result in loss of or damage to existing resources. The area is rich in industrial heritage and it is expected that there would be numerous unknown remains that may be lost as a result of the requirements for excavations. The development would have an impact on the setting of protected resources including several listed buildings. ¹⁸¹

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-/+?

The development may contribute to wider enhancement of the area, although in part it may result in changes within sensitive landscapes including at the Loch Lomond entry point and at the estuarine coast.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--/+?

Primary and secondary effects, with potential for longer term disbenefits becoming benefits in the case of landfill.

Incineration and landfill waste management methods can have particular implications for biodiversity, flora and fauna. Gasification / pyrolysis has limited implications for biodiversity. Unsegregated incineration can have more significant implications arising from accumulation of metals and dioxins and furans. Whilst landfill sites can introduce the risk of leachate escaping and generate vermin, site restoration may also generate longer term benefits for flora and fauna.

Promotes human health

-?

Landfill sites have been found in one UK study to be linked to birth defects, although this research was inconclusive on whether this was a causal relationship. A study of 61 sites in Scotland did not find any significant risk and other studies have shown that there is no evidence to suggest that proximity to landfill sites can be linked with cancer. Energy from waste can release dioxins, which have in turn been linked to some diseases including cancers. Technological advancement have reduced this to a negligible level, and as a result effects are considered negligible. Energy from waste plant can also produce particle matter and SO ₂ which can impact upon respiratory health. The DEFRA study showed that there is little evidence that these can exacerbate respiratory problems, and that in most cases only a small contribution is made to local level of pollutants. Mental health effects may arise from community concerns about locational decisions and amenity effects - early and effective community engagement and involvement in the site selection process at the Area Waste Plan level could go some way towards addressing this.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

-/--/+?

Potential for cumulative adverse effects from the short to long term.

Waste management facilities can generate noise, odour and dust. These effects range from small scale effects that can be controlled through operating techniques, to significant issues such as odour from landfill. Waste storage facilities can generate significant odour issues. These facilities can also generate benefits as a result of employment generation. Visual impacts may also have implications for residential amenity. The proximity principle should minimise the requirement for waste transportation, thereby reducing potential for this type of secondary effect.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

A national network of waste management facilities would ensure that appropriate infrastructure is in place to meet the needs of the current and future population. There would be a need to review the suitability of sites and methods in light of climate change mitigation requirements and in response to predicted impacts on capacity to accommodate development in different location.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

--?

Landfill sites can be particularly problematic, generating significant adverse effects as a result of methane emissions. Incineration can also generate CO ₂ emissions, although these are minimal when compared to landfill. Actual effects will depend on the methods used, and the balance between landfill and alternative, less polluting, methods. Transportation of waste is likely to generate adverse effects, although these would be minimised by the proposed application of the proximity principle. Air quality issues can also arise more locally from processes such as incineration which lead to NO_x and metals emissions.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

Secondary effects for wider aspects of the environment arising from water contamination

Effects on water arise from the risk of contamination. In the case of incineration, this can arise from leaching from ash, and whilst landfill can also introduce risk of contamination, this is reported to be low at existing landfill sites in the UK.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-

Potential primary and secondary effects

Non-segregated incineration can lead to a potentially significant risk of accumulation of metals and dioxins and furans, although these is not expected to generate secondary impacts on health, and is of a lower level than other forms of treatment. Landfill sites can have significant implications for soil, as there may be a need to excavate a relatively large area, but secondary effects arising from leachate on soil microbial properties remain unknown at present. ¹⁸³

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

++

Primary and secondary effects in the long term

The proposed development would secure a significant contribution to national waste management objectives. The overall planned approach to waste management facilities would play a role in continuing to reduce the amount of waste which is sent to landfill - this has reduced substantially from 11.14 million tonnes in 2000 to 7.32 million tonnes in 2005. ¹⁸⁴ Brownfield sites may provide an opportunity to accommodate some types of development in a way which reduces potentially adverse environmental effects.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Possible short term issues arising from construction, with scope for longer term and permanent losses

Waste management processes can lead to building damage as a result of acid gas emissions, although it is thought that these are likely to be minimal across the range of methods. Waste management sites may also affect the setting of protected and non-protected historic sites, and their construction could lead to the loss of or damage to known and unknown archaeological remains.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

Waste facilities have the potential to result in negative effects on landscapes, as a result of requirements for large scale excavations, associated buildings and plant. These would, however, be addressed through appropriate site selection, design and landscape remediation.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--?

Potential primary and secondary effects. Cumulative effects when viewed in combination with other proposed developments in the area

Sea defences can limit scope for inland migration from habitats as sea levels risk over the longer term. Intertidal areas are sensitive to this type of development. Given the protected status of much of the coastline (as discussed in relation to previous National Developments), there is potential for engineered coastal defences to generate significant adverse environmental effects.

Promotes human health

0

No effects on health are anticipated.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

+

The defences would help to protect properties and services from damage as a result of current and future flood risk, thereby providing benefits. The development may affect aspirations for a complete coastal walking and cycling route around the Firth of Forth, thereby reducing scope for physical activity.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Long term positive effects

Whilst the Forth Estuary Forum recommends locating development away from vulnerable shorelines, there is also a need to consider the requirements of areas where investment is already being progressed but vulnerability may grow in the long term as climate change progresses. A collaborative approach to flood defences should ensure that the estuary as a whole is robust in relation to flood risk. Mapped flood risk ¹⁸⁵ shows that there is already a particularly high risk of coastal flooding for the Lower Forth Area, potentially affecting development areas including Grangemouth where existing defences are likely to require strengthening. In the long term, both Grangemouth and Longannet are at significant increased risk of flooding. ¹⁸⁶

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

0

No effects in terms of emissions are anticipated, beyond minor issues arising from construction activities.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

0

It is expected that the defences could be constructed in such a way that negative effects on water quality are avoided.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-?

Flood defence construction may require the excavation of soil and other materials during construction. The impact of this will depend on the nature and value of the areas affected, as well as appropriate mitigation during design and construction.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

Secondary positive effects

The defences have the potential to facilitate extensive brownfield land regeneration along the length of the coast. Coastal defences would ensure that existing developments and urbanised areas can be retained, thereby reducing secondary effects that may arise from requirements for relocation and associated new construction. Key installations including Longannet and Grangemouth are at risk of long term flood risk, and would therefore benefit from this type of action.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

May lead to significant and permanent cumulative loss of resources

The Firth of Forth is rich in heritage, and the construction of defences may directly or indirectly impact on protected and non-protected historic sites. Offshore and coastal archaeology is likely to be rich, but also particularly vulnerable as much of it remains undiscovered. The Forth's integrated management strategy notes the value of the area's cultural heritage given the long term nature of settlement and variety of activities in the area, and recognises the need for a co-ordinated approach to conservation. ¹⁸⁷

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

-?

Cumulative effects may arise

There is potential for localised effects on landscape quality of the area, particularly due to changing views and experiences of those navigating the Forth. It is important to take into account the potential cumulative effects of numerous measures for the Firth as a whole, in order to fully understand and mitigation landscape effects. ¹⁸⁸

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

--/+?

Potential for adverse cumulative effects, given the scale of the development as a whole and the sensitivity of the existing coastal and estuarine areas.

The development would include an area that encompasses several designated natural heritage sites: Sands of Forvie SAC, Ythan Estuary, Sands of Forvie and Meikle Loch SPA, Forvie NNR, Foveran Links SSSI, and Sands of Forvie and Ythan Estuary SSSI. The coastal area is also protected: Buchan Ness to Collieston SAC and SPA, and Collieston to Whinnyfold Coast SSSI. ¹⁸⁹ The effects on the SPAs and SACs will require further consideration through an Appropriate Assessment. The development proposals in the master plan take into account the sensitivities of the coastal area, although some aspects of the development such as biomass planting, natural parks, golf courses and pedestrian links will require more detailed assessment to ensure that they do not inadvertently result in adverse effects on the existing natural heritage (e.g. damage or disturbance of sensitive areas), individually or cumulatively. Enhanced linear infrastructure and development of previously undeveloped land could have implications for wider biodiversity including non designated resources - it is important that fragmentation of existing and future habitat networks is avoided. A full SEA of the masterplan should explore these issues in more detail.

Promotes human health

+/-

Secondary effects

Positive secondary effects on health are expected overall as a result of the contribution that the development may make to quality of life through employment and investment. Short term minor negative effects may arise during construction - these should, however, be manageable through appropriate site construction methods and established regulatory mechanisms. The proposals include improved pedestrian links as well as road transport improvements.

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

++/-

Significant long term benefits

The development aims to build on existing skills to take established energy industry in the area forward into the future. The area is one of three strategic growth areas that has been identified for economic growth and diversification within the draft Structure Plan. The master plan aims to deliver a step change, attracting and retaining skilled workforce and investors. This should be beneficial for the population of the wider region.

At a more local however, there may be some disbenefits arising for residents of existing communities as a result of noise, dust, vibration etc. generated by construction. These would, however, be temporary and should be manageable through existing regulatory regimes. There will be increased opportunities for access and recreation, as well as wider environmental improvements, that should benefit the existing and expanded population. Significant levels of new housing provision should provide benefits for local people and those moving into the area.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

++

Significant long term benefits

The development seeks to establish a sustainable long term strategy for growth. Its spatial form is the lead consideration within the masterplan, which includes 'anchors' connectivity, hubs. The spatial planning approach seeks to provide a sustainable long term future of growth for the region as a whole, in combination with two other growth areas.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

++/-

Significant positive effects over the short to long term, including both primary and secondary benefits

The development should provide direct benefits as a result of its proposed zero carbon footprint and renewable energy strategy. It will also support the wider renewable energy and clean technology industries. Given the demonstration role of the project, significant positive effects are be expected, although it should be recognised that growth and increased levels of development and transport overall will require a higher level of energy consumption overall.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-

Potential cumulative effects, given the scale of development proposed

New construction and infrastructure developments have the potential to adversely affect water bodies throughout the area. Appropriate site level planning and mitigation will be required to avoid exacerbating existing problems such as diffuse pollution from urban development.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-

The development is likely to result in significant levels of development on greenfield land, therefore resulting in soil sealing, although the extent of this remains unclear at this stage. Some of this land is likely to be of high quality in terms of agricultural capability. Scope for focusing development on lower value greenfield land and rural or urban fringe brownfield land should be explored at the detailed design stage.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

+

The development should contribute positively to aspirations for rural as well as urban development. Sustainable waste management is likely to be built into the plans, given their zero carbon aspiration. Brownfield land should be prioritised for development ahead of greenfield land release, although it is currently unclear whether this has been built into the master plan proposals.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

The master plan is seeking to ensure the development complements the existing natural and cultural heritage of the area. However, development of previously undeveloped land may lead to loss of or damage to resources, particularly those which are unknown or not currently designated. Potential for adverse effects, although the location, nature and scale of these remains unclear at this stage. Further exploration of these issues should be undertaken at the more detailed level.

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

+

Cumulative effects on landscape arising from large scale development. Spatial planning approach should manage these as far as possible.

The development master plan explores ways in which the development can be undertaken in a sensitive way, reflecting the landscape of the area and ensuring that it forms an integral part of the quality of the development and its attraction to investors. Although large scale change will take place, it is expected that this will be planned and executed in a way which aims to strengthen the local landscape as far as possible. 'Cutting Edge Design' is also proposed as part of the master plan. Positive effects are therefore expected at this stage, although further assessment of the master plan proposals and projects will be required.

Protects or enhances biodiversity, flora or fauna

-?

The development involves the development of greenfield land, and as a result there is potential for adverse effects on undesignated biodiversity assets. In addition, there will be a need to build in green corridors to ensure that the development does not form a barrier within the wider green network. Mitigation and enhancement should be explored in more detail at the local level.

Promotes human health

++

Long term benefits

Ultimately the population are expected to benefit from the research and development that is undertaken on site. Direct healthcare is also provided on site. The surrounding communities are at particularly high risk of health deprivation - further locally accessible employment opportunities may contribute to reducing this issue over the long term. ¹⁹¹

Safeguards or enhances the living environments of people or communities

-/++

Long term benefits

The aspiration is that the project will create several thousand jobs. Potential localised adverse effects on communities arising during construction, depending on proximity of the new development areas to existing local communities.

Promotes the development of a sustainable settlement pattern and physical infrastructure

+

The development forms part of a larger area which was released to allow the sustainable expansion of the city into the longer term. Accessibility by public transport has been a consideration for the area since its inception. The development will incorporate infrastructure requirements.

Reduces energy consumption and / or CO ₂ emissions

-

The development will result in increased energy consumption overall through increased business activity and associated transport movements, although there is scope to minimise this by encouraging technological solutions for energy efficiency and promoting the use of renewable energy etc.

Reduces water pollution or enhances water quality

-?

The development has the potential to adversely affect the water environment, although it is expected that SUDS schemes close to the site will be continued and expanded as appropriate, through site level mitigation. There is also potential for adverse effects on the water environment during construction, albeit of a temporary nature.

Protects or enhances the quality of soils

-?

Possible synergies with effects on the water environment and biodiversity

The development will result in loss of soils as a result of its greenfield location. The secondary effects of soil sealing will require mitigation such as SUDS (see previous). There is potential for adverse effects on the water environment during construction, albeit of a temporary nature.

Encourages efficient use of land and resources

0

No significant effects on resources are expected at present. Appropriate construction waste management and good practice during operation could limit potential adverse effects from the development.

Safeguards or enhances where appropriate the built environment

-?

Secondary effects on the setting of key sites

The development has the potential to result in loss of unknown and undesignated archaeological remains through the proposed additional land take. There are several sites of interest recorded in the area on the National Monuments Record of Scotland, as well as a designed landscape and listed building to the south of the area. ¹⁹²

Respects and protects the character, diversity and special qualities of Scotland's landscapes.

0

Whilst the development will result in substantial change to the landscape in this sensitive urban fringe location, it is expected that its emphasis on a high quality built environment and potential detailed landscaping at a scheme level, will ensure that these effects are largely neutral.