GREEN BURN WIND FARM SCOPING REPORT · GREEN BURN WIND FARM SCOPING REPORT ... the Environmental Impact Assessment ... The EIA Scoping Report has been prepared taking into account

Green Burn Wind Farm ABO Wind UK Ltd

GREEN BURN WIND FARM

SCOPING REPORT MAY 2014


i

Contents

1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 The Need for EIA ............................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Purpose of EIA Scoping ..................................................................................................................... 1

1.3 ABO Wind UK Ltd .............................................................................................................................. 2

1.4 EIA Team ........................................................................................................................................... 2

1.5 Scoping Method ................................................................................................................................. 2

1.6 Scoping Report Structure .................................................................................................................. 3

2 Project Description ..................................................................................................................................... 3

2.1 The Proposed Site ............................................................................................................................. 3

2.2 The Proposed Scheme ...................................................................................................................... 4

3 Proposed Approach to the EIA ................................................................................................................... 6

3.1 Assessment of Significance of Environmental Effects ...................................................................... 6

3.2 Mitigation............................................................................................................................................ 6

4 Proposed EIA Method Statements ............................................................................................................. 7

4.1 Proposed Approach ........................................................................................................................... 7

4.2 Planning Policy .................................................................................................................................. 7

4.3 Landscape and Visual Amenity ......................................................................................................... 8

4.4 Ornithology....................................................................................................................................... 14

4.5 Ecology ............................................................................................................................................ 21

4.6 Noise ................................................................................................................................................ 28

4.7 Cultural Heritage .............................................................................................................................. 29

4.8 Aviation and Telecommunications ................................................................................................... 33

4.9 Geology, Hydrology and Hydrogeology ........................................................................................... 33

4.10 Transport.......................................................................................................................................... 38

4.11 Air & Climate .................................................................................................................................... 39

5 Consultation .............................................................................................................................................. 41

5.1 Scoping Consultations ..................................................................................................................... 41

5.2 Responses to Scoping ..................................................................................................................... 41

5.3 Public Consultation .......................................................................................................................... 41

Figures

Figure 1 Site Location Plan

Figure 2 ZTV for 120M Blade Tip Height


1

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 The Need for EIA

ABO Wind UK Ltd (ABO Wind) wishes to develop Green Burn Wind Farm (the development), on land

at Blackhall Farm and Shieldrum Farm approximately 11 km north of Blairgowrie and 11km north west

of Alyth, in Perth & Kinross. ABO Wind’s current plans envisage a scheme of up to 14 turbines with a

generating capacity of up to 26 megawatts (MW). The location of the development site is shown in

Figure 1.

ABO Wind acknowledges that the proposed development would constitute a ‘Major’ development

under the terms of the Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of Development) (Scotland)

Regulations 2009 and that the proposed development constitutes a Schedule 2 development under

the Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 1999 as amended (EIA Regulations).

As ABO Wind considers that the proposed development, by virtue of factors such as its size, nature or

location, is likely to have significant effects on the environment, an EIA of the proposed development

will be required. ABO Wind therefore does not propose to seek a Screening Opinion for the scheme

from Perth & Kinross Council.

In order to establish the scope of the EIA for the development, ABO Wind has committed to early

engagement with Perth & Kinross Council as part of its “Pre-Application Consultation”, holding

meetings with officers from the Council in October 2013 and again in March 2014.

ABO Wind is also aware that in accordance with the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 and associated

regulations, applicants have a statutory duty to undertake pre-application consultation with respect to

certain types of development including all major applications, applications contrary to the

Development Plan and, those requiring an Environmental Impact Assessment. On this basis, a

programme of formal Pre-Application Consultation will be undertaken and a Design and Access

Statement will be submitted to Perth and Kinross Council for determination.

With input from a team of experienced environmental consultants, preliminary site investigations, ABO

Wind has undertaken a scoping study and prepared a Scoping Report to accompany a request to

Perth & Kinross Council to adopt a Scoping Opinion as to the required approach to the EIA and the

content of the Environmental Statement (ES).

1.2 Purpose of EIA Scoping

The purpose of EIA is to identify the aspects of the environment likely to be significantly affected by

the development. EIA scoping is an early stage in the EIA process and is designed to identify the

environmental issues to be investigated during the EIA. The results of consultations and information

gathered in support of this aim must be taken into account. The European Commission’s Guidance on

EIA Scoping advises that the benefits of EIA scoping include:

It helps focus resources on the important issues for decision-making and avoids wasted effort on

issues of little relevance;

It helps ensure that the environmental information provides a balanced view and is not burdened

with irrelevant information;

It stimulates early consultation between the developer and the competent authority, with

environmental authorities, other interested parties and the public, about the project and its

environmental impacts;

It helps effective planning, management and resourcing of the environmental studies;

It should identify alternatives to the proposed project and mitigating measures which ought to be

considered by the developer;

It reduces the risk of delays caused by requests for further information after submission of the

development consent application and the environmental information; and


2

It reduces the risk of disagreement about methods of impact assessment (baseline surveys,

methods of prediction of change and evaluation criteria) after submission of the environmental

information.

The purpose of this Scoping Report is to assist the Council in adopting a Scoping Opinion as to the

scope of the EIA to be undertaken, the methods to be adopted in undertaking the EIA and the content

of the ES.

1.3 ABO Wind UK Ltd

ABO Wind is an international renewable energy company with 250 staff operating in eight countries,

including Ireland and the UK, where it has been active for eight years. Globally, it has over 400 MW

wind energy on-line and a further 1,000 MW in the pipeline. In Scotland, ABO Wind has currently one

operational, three-turbine, scheme at Lairg, Sutherland, and has several other projects in

development in The Highland Council area, in Perth & Kinross, Argyll & Bute, North Lanarkshire and

the Scottish Borders.

ABO Wind adopts a development model that encourages community investment and involvement in

the projects it develops. Potential development sites are evaluated against a set of criteria, including

potential yield, grid connection and environmental constraints. ABO Wind considers that sites in areas

already developed for wind energy can offer opportunities for new wind energy development with

reduced environmental impact.

1.4 EIA Team

The following independent environmental consultants were appointed to the Green Burn Wind Farm

project, with their respective roles in preparing this Scoping Report indicated:

Direct Ecology – Ornithology and Ecology;

SLR Consulting Ltd – Landscape and Visual Amenity; Geology, Hydrology and Hydrogeology;

Northlight Heritage – Archaeology and Cultural Heritage;

Golder Associates (UK) Ltd – Noise, and Air and Climate;

Aviatica Ltd – Aviation and Telecommunications; and

WYG Environment Planning Transport Ltd (WYG) – Transport.

ABO Wind staff will provide input in relation to Planning, Socio-economics, EIA co-ordination and ES

preparation.

1.5 Scoping Method

The EIA Scoping Report has been prepared taking into account the relevant guidance and advice, as

follows:

European Commission, Guidance on EIA Scoping, June 2001;

Institute for Environmental Management & Assessment, Guidelines for Environmental Impact

Assessment, 2004;

Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM), Guidelines for Ecological Impact

Assessment in the United Kingdom, 2006.

Scottish Executive, Planning Advice Note 1/2013: Environmental Impact Assessment, 2013;

Scottish Natural Heritage, A Handbook on Environmental Impact Assessment, 2009; and

Scottish Natural Heritage, Guidelines on the Environmental Impacts of Windfarms and Small Scale

Hydroelectric Schemes, 2002.


3

This has involved initial discussions with SNH, desk review of published information and initial field

survey in respect of ornithology, ecology, landscape and visual, archaeology and cultural heritage,

and hydrology, hydrogeology and geology, and transport issues.

1.6 Scoping Report Structure

The remainder of this Scoping Report is structured as follows:

Section 2 provides information about the development, including its construction, operational and

decommissioning phases;

Section 3 discusses the proposed approach to be adopted for undertaking the EIA;

Section 4 sets out detailed method statements for each of the environmental technical topic areas

which it is proposed to address in the EIA, as follows:

Planning Policy Overview

Landscape & Visual Amenity;

Ornithology;

Ecology;

Noise;

Cultural Heritage;

Geology, Hydrology, Hydrogeology and Geology;

Traffic;

Aviation and Telecommunications.

Socio-economics, Recreation and Tourism;

Shadow flicker; and,

Air and Climate.

Section 5 invites consultees to comment on the Scoping Report.

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 The Proposed Site

The Green Burn Wind Farm site is located within the local authority area administered by Perth &

Kinross Council, on land at Black Hall farm and Shieldrum Farm approximately 11 km north of

Blairgowrie and 11 km north-west of Alyth. The site centre is approximately at National Grid co-

ordinates NO 315871 755635; the site location is shown in Figure 1. The site extends to

approximately 266.3 ha and lies across the two summits of Hill of Kingseat (389 m Above Ordnance

Datum (AOD)) and Saebeg (381 m AOD). The site generally slopes down to the north-west and

comprises two adjacent parcels of land which are separated by the C446 road. This road connects

the A93 with the outskirts of Alyth, and passes through the development area generally in a north-

west/south-east direction.

Black Water flows in a southerly direction to the west of the site, joining the River Echt approximately

5 km south of the site. The A93 passes west of the site in a north/south direction, broadly following

the alignment of Black Water.

Part of the site to the east of Seabeg falls within the Dun Moss and Forest of Alyth Mires Special Area

of Conservation (SAC) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The qualifying interest of this

site is its raised bog. There are no statutorily designated sites of cultural heritage, geological or

landscape value within the application site. The Cairngorms National Park lies approximately 8 km to


4

the north and Craighall Rattray (Gardens and Designed Landscapes) lies approximately 7.5 km south

of the site.

Within the wider area those sites designated for their nature conservation importance within 10 km of

the site include the following:

Forest of Clunie Special protection Area (SPA)/ Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI);

River Tay and Craighill Gorge Special Area of Conservation (SAC); and

Drumore Loch and Den of Alyth Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

An initial desk based study has identified that there are cultural heritage interests (remains of farming

activity) on site, believed to be of local significance. Within the wider area further, evidence of past

farming activity is also evident and a number of designated features have been identified, including a

small number of historic buildings and Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs). Cultural heritage

resources are discussed further in Section 4.7.

The principal current land use of the site is sheep grazing. British Geological Survey mapping

indicates that the site is largely underlain by glacial till deposits. Two small areas of peat deposits are

evident towards the east of the site; the rockhead is understood to be shallow across the site.

The site is located in a ‘Broad Area of Search’ for wind energy developments as identified in Perth

and Kinross Council’s Supplementary Planning Guidance for Wind Energy Proposals in Perth and

Kinross, 2005. This Supplementary Guidance is supportive ‘in principle’ of onshore wind energy

developments in Broad Areas of Search, subject to detailed consideration against planning policy and

guidance.

2.2 The Proposed Scheme

A development of up to 14 turbines is being considered with an expected operational life of 25 years.

On completion of the operational life of the wind farm, the turbines would be decommissioned and the

site restored to a standard required by Perth & Kinross Council. Turbine size envisaged is up to a

maximum of 120 m to blade tip height. A control building would also be required.

Detailed method statements for the construction, operational and decommissioning phases of the

wind farm would be prepared for the approval of the Council. The duration of the construction and

decommissioning phases is each expected to be up to 12 months per process.

Access to the proposed wind farm would be taken from the C446 via one new access junction to the

southern section of the site. The northern section of the site would be taken via the existing access

junction to the property at the Corb, which would be upgraded. Both new and upgraded existing on-

site access tracks will be formed using rock material to be obtained from borrow pits that would be

established on site where possible. Concrete required for formation of turbine bases would be

batched off-site. A temporary construction compound would be established on-site.

The grid connection for the proposed development would be via the proposed control building.

Metering and switchgear will be contained within this building. The connection between the control

building and the wider grid will be subject to a separate consent procedure.

The precise form of development and route for the connection may not be available at the time of

planning submission for the wind farm. ABO Wind will seek to describe, as far as can be reasonably

expected, the likely significant environmental effects of the proposed connection to allow decision

makers to consider these effects in combination with the wind energy development. It is currently

anticipated that a 33kV overhead line or buried cable connection to a substation at Coupar Angus

some 18km from the site will be possible.

Cabling on site would be underground. The grid connection would not form part of the planning

application.

The site layout and design will be refined during the EIA process. Delivery of plant and construction

materials to the development would be via the C446 via Alyth. This would require access by heavy


5

goods vehicles (HGVs), light goods vehicles (LGVs) and private cars in varying profiles throughout

the construction, operational and decommissioning phases of the project. To accommodate the

delivery of abnormal indivisible loads (AILs), including the turbine components, localised

improvements to the road network may be required.


6

3 PROPOSED APPROACH TO THE EIA

The EIA will be undertaken in accordance with relevant guidance and best practice, which will be set

out as appropriate for each technical topic area. A common overall approach to the assessment of

significance of environmental effects will be adopted based on matrices assessing ‘Receptor

Importance/Sensitivity’ and ‘Magnitude of Change’. This is described in more detail below.

3.1 Assessment of Significance of Environmental Effects

The overarching principle that would be applied to the evaluation of significance of environmental

effects will be based on the definition of the sensitivity of a receptor, and the magnitude of change to

which the receptor will be subjected. Where appropriate, professional judgement will contribute to

establishing the likelihood of significant environmental effects arising from the development. The

generic approach to be adopted is as follows:

Identify those potential receptors that could be affected by these environmental effects;

Identify the importance of the receptor and its sensitivity to change, using a range of levels

comprising ‘Negligible’, ‘Low’, ‘Medium’ and ‘High’; and

Identify the magnitude of change predicted to be experienced by the receptor, using a range of

levels comprising ‘Negligible’, ‘Low’, ‘Medium’ and ‘High’; and Identify the level of significance of

the environmental effect by comparing the importance and sensitivity of the receptor with the

magnitude of predicted change, as illustrated in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1: Levels of Environmental Effects

Magnitude of Change

Receptor Sensitivity High Medium Low Negligible

High Major Major Moderate None

Medium Major Moderate Minor None

Low Moderate Minor Slight None

Negligible None None None None

In this manner, effects assessed as being ‘Major’ are considered to be a significant effect as referred

to in Schedule 3 of the EIA Regulations. Effects assessed as ‘Moderate’, ‘Minor’, ‘Slight’ or a

gradation between these, are considered not significant. Where either magnitude of change or

receptor sensitivity is assessed as ‘Negligible’, no environmental effect is predicted.

In some circumstances, where ‘Moderate’ effects are predicted, professional judgment will be applied

to ensure that the potential for significant effects arising has been thoroughly considered. This

approach will be adapted for each of the technical topics considered in an EIA to reflect differing

circumstances encountered and alternative levels of value attributed to those receptors identified.

Adapted approaches, where proposed, are discussed in the relevant method statements in Section 4

of this Scoping Report.

The assessment of effects will consider the direct, indirect, secondary and cumulative effects, the

duration of the effect (e.g. permanent or temporary and short, medium or long-term), and the

sensitivity of receptor. The legislative requirements associated with the presence of particular features

will also be considered.

3.2 Mitigation

The requirement for, and nature of, mitigation measures to address predicted adverse effects will be

discussed with relevant stakeholders as appropriate. The agreed mitigation measures will be taken

into account in the assessment of residual effects. All mitigation measures considered in the EIA will

have been agreed by ABO Wind and incorporated into the project design and delivery methods. They

therefore represent committed, not speculative, measures that can form the basis of planning


7

conditions or other environmental management plans to be the subject of further agreement with the

Planning Authority or other statutory agencies.

4 PROPOSED EIA METHOD STATEMENTS

4.1 Proposed Approach

The environmental topic areas that will be assessed in the EIA are discussed below. The proposed

scope of the technical assessments and the methodologies to be adopted are set out for each

technical topic area.

4.2 Planning Policy

4.2.1 Planning Policy Framework

The planning policy context for wind energy development will be described in the ES.

Decisions on planning applications must be made in accordance with the development plan unless

material considerations indicate otherwise, as required under the Planning Acts. The development

plan pertaining to the Green Burn Wind Farm site comprises:

a Strategic Development Plan ‘TAYplan’ jointly prepared by Perth and Kinross, Dundee, Angus

and Fife Councils that was approved in June 2012;

The Perth and Kinross Council Local Development Plan was adopted in February 2014 and covers

the whole Perth and Kinross Council area, with the exception of those areas covered by the

National Parks.

Sections 25 and 37(2) of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 (as amended) require

that planning decisions be made in accordance with the development plan unless material

considerations indicate otherwise. With respect to the Green Burn Wind Farm project, such material

considerations would include, amongst others:

The policy and targets of the Scottish Government, themselves set within the strategic framework

of UK Government policy, with respect to a range of matters, most relevant being renewable

energy and climate change;

The national planning policy framework for Scotland, set out in the National Planning Framework

for Scotland 2 (NPF2), the consolidated Scottish Planning Policy document and the various

Planning Advice Notes published by the Scottish Government;

The Supplementary Planning Guidance for Wind Energy Proposals in Perth and Kinross, which

was approved by the Perth and Kinross Council in May 2005; and

The likely significant environmental effects of the proposed project, as reported in the ES.

4.2.2 Supplementary Planning Guidance for Onshore Wind Energy Proposals

The Supplementary Planning Guidance for Wind Energy Proposals in Perth and Kinross (SPG) was

approved in May 2005 and precedes the publication of the consolidated SPP in 2010. The

Supplementary Guidance provides a spatial framework with areas mapped across the Perth and

Kinross Council administrative area where wind energy developments may be acceptable ‘Broad

Areas of Search’ contained within Diagram 1 of the SPG. The SPG indicates that the Green Burn

Wind Farm site lies within a Broad Area of Search where appropriate proposals are likely to be

supported subject to the detailed development plan and supplementary guidance considerations. At

the time of issue of this request for Scoping, it is understood that Perth and Kinross Council are in the

process of revising this SPG.

4.2.3 Policy Appraisal

All relevant policies will be summarised in tabular format and will include a ‘project response’ to each,

such as how the project design has taken account of policy requirements, with cross referencing to

the relevant sections of the ES where policy issues are discussed in more detail.


8

The policy appraisal to be undertaken does not provide an assessment of the degree to which the

proposed Green Burn Wind Farm is in accordance with planning policy and other material

considerations. This will be set out in a Planning Support Statement that will accompany the planning

application, but which would not form part of the ES.

4.3 Landscape and Visual Amenity

A Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) will be undertaken to assess the potential

landscape and visual effects of the proposed development, as well as identifying potential mitigation

measures. The assessment will also address potential cumulative landscape and visual effects.

LVIA includes a combination of objective and subjective judgements and it is therefore important that

a structured and consistent approach is used which accords with current guidance.

In summary, the LVIA will:

Be carried out in accordance with established current methodology and guidance;

Focus on valued landscape and visual resources (at national, regional and local levels); and

Present the findings supported by appropriate figures and illustrations.

4.3.1 Site Context

The proposed site lies within the Highland Summits and Plateaux Landscape Character Type (LCT)

identified in the Tayside Landscape Character Assessment (No 122 for SNH 1999).

The key landscape and visual considerations for the proposed Green Burn Wind Farm are anticipated

to be:

Its relationship to the landform of the site and adjacent area, including its appearance in the

context of the Highlands Boundary Fault Line from the lower lying and smaller scale landscape

character areas to the south

Its relationship to the existing Drumderg Wind Farm and other adjacent wind farm applications;

Its potentially visual impacts (on its own and cumulatively) on Cairngorms National Park receptors;

and

Its potentially significant visual impacts (on its own and cumulatively) on residential receptors.

It is noted that according to Diagram 1 of the Supplementary Planning Guidance for Wind Energy in

Perth and Kinross (May 2005), the proposed site is within the ‘Broad Area of Search’, where

Commercial wind energy developments are supported if they are consistent with the Council’s

detailed Policy Guidelines. It is understood that the SPG is being updated but not yet published.

4.3.2 Consultations

In order to inform the LVIA, consultation will take place with Perth and Kinross Council (PKC),

Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA), following the

issue of the Scoping Report in order to identify relevant baseline information and key issues or

concerns that these organisations may wish to raise at the early stages of the assessment.

Agreement on the number and location of viewpoints to be included in the detailed assessment, the

list of cumulative sites to be considered and the overall approach and methodology for the

assessment will be agreed with these consultees.

Additionally, public exhibitions will be held and consultation with the local community councils will be

carried out.

4.3.3 Study Area

In accordance with current best practice, the study area for the LVIA would extend to 35km from the

outer turbines. This is based on the distance of Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) as recommended


9

in the SNH Visual Representation of Windfarms Good Practice Guidance (2006) for wind turbines

over 101 m.

In accordance with SNH’s cumulative best practice guidance (Assessing the Cumulative Impact of

Onshore Wind Energy Developments, SNH March 2012), a base plan will be produced showing the

location of all operating, consented, and undetermined applications for wind farms and proposals for

wind farms subject to scoping requests in the public domain within a 60 km search area of the

proposed Green Burn turbines. For the detailed cumulative assessment the study area will

encompass 35 km radius from the outer turbines of the proposed Green Burn Wind Farm.

4.3.4 Sensitive Receptors

The assessment of landscape and visual effects will be informed by a series of viewpoints. The

viewpoints will be selected to cover points of specific importance including: recognised viewpoints,

designated landscapes, settlements, important routes and attractions, and to inform the likely extent

of significant landscape and/or visual effects arising from the proposed Green Burn Wind Farm. A

variety of landscape character types and points from different directions, distances and elevations will

also be represented in the selected views.

An initial list of candidate viewpoint locations occurring within the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV)

for a preliminary layout of the proposed turbines has been prepared and is provided in this document

for comment from consultees. The viewpoints are listed in Table 4.1, which provides information on

their location, distance from the proposed development and landscape and visual receptors which

they represent. The location of these viewpoints is shown on Figure 2.


10

Table 4.1: Candidate Viewpoints

Viewpoints Approx Grid Ref Landscape Receptor Type (LCT)

Visual Receptor Type Approx Elevation (AOD)

Approx distance from Green Burn (km)

Direction from nearest turbine

1 Mount Blair 316708 762975 TAY3 Marked as Pointed View on OS Map/Walkers

744 m 6.5 km N

2 Creag Leacach 315485 774539 TAY3/CNP Walkers 987 m 17.7 km N

3 Cat Law 331605 760731 TAY3 Recreation Route/Walkers 668 m 16.6 km NE

4 Heatheryhaugh 317874 751823 TAY5 Residential/Cateran Trail 230 m 2.9 km SE

5 Hill of Alyth 323242 750287 TAY5 Cateran Trail/Walkers 270 m 8.2 km SE

6 A94 Meigle 328172 744761 TAY10 Road users/Residential 50 m 15 km SE

7 Kinpurney Hill 332211 741766 TAY8 Tower /fort/Recreational 345 m 20 km SE

8 North-east of Blairgowrie 321328 743848 TAY5 Cateran Trail/Walkers 170 m 8.2 km S

9 A984 Old Military Road 317961 739795 TAY10 Road users 40 m 14.6 km S

10 Burrelton 319745 737017 TAY10 Residential 70 m 17.6 km S

11 Bridge of Cally A93 314180 751803 TAY1 Road users/Residential 150m 3.4km SW

12 To the south of Bridge of Cally

314668 750106 TAY1 Cateran Trail/Walkers 264 m 4.1 km SW

13 King's Seat South of Dunkeld

303257 740194 TAY3/NSA Iconic view / River Tay 404 m 19.4 km SW

14 North of Airntully 309889 735736 TAY6 Road users/Residential 100 m 19.6 km SW

15 A93 East of Persie 314064 754963 TAY1 Road users/Residential 240 m 1.3 km W

16 Pitcarmick Loch 305348 756481 TAY3 Recreation Route/Walkers 350 m 10.2 km W

17 A93 Caravan Site 313604 758469 TAY1 Road users/Recreational 240 m 2.6 km NW

18 B950/Mains of Soilzarie 312480 759319 TAY3 Road users/Residential 260 m 3.9 km NW


11

19 Ben Vrackie 295074 763218 TAY3 Iconic view, designated path/Walkers 841 m 21.2 km NW

TAY1 – Highland Glens TAY3 – Highland Summits and Plateaux TAY5 – Highland Foothills TAY6 – Lowland Hills TAY8 – Igneous Hills TAY10 – Broad Valley Lowland CNP – Craignorms National Park NSA – National Scenic Area


12

4.3.5 Survey Methods

The LVIA will be prepared in accordance with the following key guidance:

Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA), third edition, Landscape

Institute and the Institute of Environmental Assessment (2013);

Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland, Department of

Landscape University of Sheffield and Land Use Consultants (2002), on behalf of The

Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage;

Visual Representation of Windfarms Good Practice Guidance, Horner and MacLennan and

Envision, Report No: FO3 AA 308/2 (2006), on behalf of Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish

Renewables Forum and Scottish Society of Directors of Planning;

Photography and Photomontage in Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment ,Landscape

Institute, Advice Note 01/11 (2011); and

Assessing the Cumulative Impact of Onshore Wind Energy Developments, Scottish Natural

Heritage (March 2012).

The LVIA will be produced to a standard suitable for submission within an Environmental

Statement, in accordance with The Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations

1999.

4.3.6 Desktop and Field Survey

The following sources will be consulted in order to compile the baseline information:

SNH’s Landscape Character Assessments for the study area;

SNH’s Strategic Locational Guidance for Onshore Wind Farms in Respect of the Natural

Heritage (2009);

The relevant development plans’ landscape policies and guidance;

Historic Scotland’s Gardens and Designed Landscapes Inventory;

Ordnance Survey Maps;

Aerial photography; and

Consultation with PKC, SNH and CNPA.

Following approval of the final site layout for the proposed turbines and all related infrastructure

and production of draft wirelines, the study area will be visited during periods of reasonably fine

and clear weather, to verify landscape and visual receptors and related effects. The assessment

will be carried out on the basis of clear visibility.

A description of the existing landscape and visual context of the 35 km radius study area will be

prepared against which to judge the potential effects of the development. This will comprise a

written section for the ES LVIA based on desk study, initial field work to confirm receptor

locations, as well as any data confirmed during consultations.

Once the viewpoint locations are agreed with PKC, SNH and CNPA, photography will be carried

out during suitable weather conditions and in accordance with SNH guidelines.


13

4.3.7 Design Optimisation/Mitigation

A landscape design analysis process will be undertaken to identify the key landscape and visual

characteristics of the site and immediately surrounding area. These will be recorded and

mapped. Consideration will also be given to other environmental and technical constraints to

refine the wind farm composition with the aim of achieving the ‘best environmental fit’ to the

landscape of the area.

The key way in which potentially adverse effects on landscape and/or visual amenity can be

addressed is through attention to the design and layout of the proposed turbines and all related

infrastructure including on-site access tracks or borrow pits. Therefore the preliminary wind farm

layout will be subject to detailed further design during the assessment process in order to

achieve the ‘best environmental fit’.

4.3.8 Impact Assessment

The detailed LVIA will describe the predicted visibility of the proposed wind farm within the 35

km radius study area and assess the residual impacts arising from the optimised design on

landscape and visual receptors.

The sensitivity of the landscape will be assessed by combining susceptibility of the landscape to

change with landscape value. Sensitivity will be defined as high, medium, or low based on

professional interpretation of a combination of parameters. Viewpoint sensitivity will be

assessed by combining susceptibility of the visual receptor with the value of the particular view.

Sensitivity will be defined as high, medium or low based on interpretation of a combination of

parameters.

The magnitude of change arising from the proposed development for landscape and visual

receptors will be described as substantial, moderate, slight or negligible, based on the

interpretation of a combination of largely quantifiable parameters, such as size or scale,

geographical extent as well as duration and reversibility.

The additional parameters which will be used to evaluate magnitude of cumulative change are:

The number of wind farm developments visible;

Distance to each of the wind farms;

Direction in which each of the other wind farms is located relative to the viewpoint; and

Increase in the proportion of view occupied by turbines.

Simultaneous and sequential visibility will be identified, with cumulative sequential analysis

carried out for up to five key routes in the study area, likely to include the Cateran Trail

recreational walking route, the A93 and A984 (both Old Military Roads).

Effects will be assessed as major, moderate, minor or none by considering viewpoint or

landscape sensitivity and predicted magnitude of change, with major and major/moderate

effects being considered significant effects in terms of the EIA regulations.

Following completion of a second stage of field survey with draft wirelines, the detailed

assessment work will be carried out to identify the sensitivity of receptors, anticipated magnitude

of change and significance of residual landscape and visual impacts. The potential impacts of

construction and operational aspects of the development, including ancillary elements will also

be assessed.

4.3.9 Residential Visual Amenity Assessment

There is no published guidance on the method and best practice for conducting an appraisal of

impacts on residential visual amenity of dwellings in the locality of a wind farm. The report will

therefore be based on SLR’s previous experience of undertaking such studies with the

conclusions based on professional judgement, underpinned by the visual information including

wirelines, photography, aerial photos and site visits from publicly accessible locations.


14

A detailed assessment of potential visual impacts on residential properties within a 3 km study

area (measured from the nearest proposed turbines) will be undertaken as follows:

A ZTV based on DTM data will be produced for the study area and locations of all residential

properties within the ZTV will be identified and allocated a reference number;

Photography/wirelines and detailed description of existing and proposed views from outside

residential properties or groups of properties within the ZTV will be prepared. (Note: this will

not include views from within properties or photomontages); and

Where possible, objective data will be used, e.g. distance and direction of view to turbines

from residential properties, or groups of properties and percentage of available view

occupied by proposed wind farm to assess the nature of the anticipated change to residential

visual amenity.

4.4 Ornithology

4.4.1 Introduction

The aim of the ornithology assessment is to consider the likely use of the proposed Green Burn

Wind Farm site by sensitive bird species and evaluate the potential for habitat loss, disturbance,

displacement and collisions with turbines. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will look

at the potential impact of the operation of the wind farm on birds particularly through blade

strike.

All ornithological survey methods and assessment at Green Burn are based on Scottish Natural

Heritage (SNH) Guidance. SNH has produced a range of documents relating to the assessment

of bird/wind farm interactions as identified below and these will be used in the ornithological

assessment:

SNH (2010a) Survey methods for Use in Assessment of the Impacts of Onshore Wind Farms

on Bird Communities. SNH Advisory Services and National Strategy;

SNH (2005) Cumulative Effect of Wind Farms. Guidance Note, March 2005;

SNH (2006) Assessing Significance of Impacts from Onshore Windfarms on Birds Outhwith

Designated Areas. SNH, Battleby;

Band, W., Madders, M. & Whtifield, D.P. (2007). Developing Field and Analytical Methods to

Assess Avian Collision at Windfarms. In: Birds and Windfarms;

SNH (2009) Monitoring the Impact of Onshore Wind Farms on Birds. Guidance Note,

January 2009; and

SNH (2010b) Use of Avoidance Rates in the SNH Wind Farm Collision Risk Model. SNH

Avoidance Rate Information and Guidance Note.

4.4.2 Site Context

The 2.66 km² site is centred on two rounded hills at 380m, split by a minor road. To the north is

Saebeg with Hill of Kingseat to the south. Dun Moss and Alyth Forest Mires SAC/SSSI is to the

east of Saebeg. The ground gently slopes away down to Blackhall Farm in the west at 268m

and Green Burn in the east at 330 m. The Green Burn drains the site to the east and a number

of artificial drains enter the Drumturn Burn to the west, which eventually enters the Black Water.

Apart from Blackhall Farmhouse there are no buildings on the site. Shieldrum Farm and its

buildings are several hundred metres beyond the proposed Green Burn Wind Farm site

boundary and the cottage at Corb is 650 m beyond.

4.4.3 Study Area and Desk Study

In order to obtain all relevant ecological information and to help to refine the proposed scope of

the EIA the following organisations and sources of information will be consulted:

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB);


15

Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH);

Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA);

Drumderg Wind Farm Environmental Statement;

Welton of Creuchies Environmental Statement; and

Land Owners/Tenants.

Correspondence with SNH, along with other consultees where necessary, will continue from

scoping throughout the duration of the EIA in order to keep these key consultees informed.

An initial desk study for information regarding protected sites for birds and species presence

has been undertaken. The ornithology desk study area comprised a search of designated sites

and sensitive bird species as detailed in Table 4.2. The following data sources were consulted:

Sitelink (www.snh.org.uk/snhi);

SNH initial scoping response;

Land Owner;

Drumderg Wind Farm Environmental Statement; and

Welton of Creuchies Environmental Statement.

Table 4.2: Criteria for Search of Designated Sites of Ornithological Interest

Designation and Description Resolution for Search Site

Internationally designated sites (Ramsar, Special Protection Area (SPA), Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Important Bird Area (IBA))

The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat. SPAs aim to protect the habitat of rare, threatened or migratory bird species. SACs aim to protect rare, endangered or vulnerable habitats and species. An IBA is an area recognized as being globally important habitat for the conservation of bird populations.

Within 20 km

Nationally designated sites (Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), National Nature Reserve (NNR))

SSSIs are areas of land which have been notified and designated which are “of special interest by reason of any of its flora, fauna, or geological or physiographical features”. NNRs are areas of land set aside for nature, where the main purpose of management is the conservation of habitats and species of national and international significance. All NNRs are designated as at least one, and usually more, different types of protected area.

Within 2 km (more if the SSSI or NNR is partly designated for birds).

Locally designated sites (Local Nature Conservation Site (LNCS), Site of Interest for Nature Conservation (SINC), Wildlife Site (WS))

Local and district level non-statutory designations, often identified by Local Planning Authorities.

Within 2 km.

Breeding bird species Any bird species breeding within the development site and a 200 m buffer.

As per SNH Survey Guidance

Sensitive species – collision risk

As defined in SNH Guidance Within 200 m of rotor envelope

http://www.snh.org.uk/snhi


16

It is apparent that there are a number of breeding bird species present within the area. All wild

birds receive general protection to their nest and eggs under the Wildlife and Countryside Act

1981, as amended. Some species receive enhanced statutory protection due to their listing in

Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is an offence to disturb a Schedule 1

species while it is building a nest or is in, on, or near a nest containing eggs or young.

There are obligations within the Birds Directive 1979 relating both to protection of species and

maintenance of habitats. Birds on Annex 1 to the Birds Directive, regularly occurring migratory

species, and birds on Schedule 1 to the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 are recognised in

statute as requiring special conservation measures within the area that are of conservation

concern and should be assessed in detail during the EIA.


The EIA will recognise the designated sites listed in Table 4.3 as potentially sensitive receptors.

Table 4.3: Designated Sites of Ornithological Interest

Site Name Distance and direction

Main Qualifying Features

Forest of Clunie SPA and SSSI

c.8 km W

The Forest of Clunie SPA qualifies under Article 4.1 by regularly supporting breeding populations of European importance of the Annex 1 species hen harrier (average of 20 breeding females between 1994 and 1998, 4% of GB), osprey (average of 6 pairs between 1994 and 1998, 6% of GB), short-eared owl (15 pairs in 1998, 2% of GB), and merlin (12 pairs in 1998, 0.9% of GB). The hen harrier population on this site is one of the largest and densest in Britain. The osprey population on this site is one of the largest in the British SPA network. Both short-eared owl and merlin are very widely dispersed across their British distributions and the Forest of Clunie is one of very few sites to support significant numbers.

Loch of Lintrathen SPA, RAMSAR and SSSI

c.11 km ESE

The site qualifies under Article 4.2 by regularly supporting, in winter, internationally important numbers of the Icelandic population of greylag geese. In the five-winter period 1985/86 to 1989/90 an average peak of 2,100 birds was recorded, representing 2% of the total population, all of which winters in Britain. Loch of Lintrathen is also of importance for its assemblage of wintering birds typical of open water and associated wetlands. These include: whooper swan (an Annex I species), wigeon, teal, mallard, and goosander.

Loch of Kinnordy SPA, RAMSAR and SSSI

c.18 km ESE

The Loch of Kinnordy is located just west of Kirriemuir in Angus in eastern Scotland. It is a 22 ha eutrophic loch with associated wetland communities, notably basin mire, swamp and fen. The loch was formerly much larger in extent, but a series of drainage attempts, initially to facilitate marl removal, reduced its size. However, it has been increasing in extent in recent years due to the silting of the loch’s current outflow stream. The site contains a number of distinct fen communities. Carr woodlands include willow Salix spp., alder and birch communities, which are thought to be natural. The loch is a roost for important numbers of Icelandic greylag goose and pink-footed goose. The geese feed away from the SPA on surrounding agricultural land during the day

Cairngorms Massif SPA

c.15 km NW

The Cairngorms Massif SPA qualifies under Article 4.1 by regularly supporting a breeding population of European importance of the Annex 1 species golden eagle (26 active territories in 2003, representing approximately 5.8 % of the GB population).

Caenlochan SPA and SSSI

c.18 km ENE

The Caenlochan SPA qualifies under Article 4.1 by supporting a nationally important breeding population of dotterel (32 – 47 pairs, 4 – 5% of the British). The site is also important for dotterel as a gathering ground during the spring and autumn passage periods for individuals that breed elsewhere in Scotland and Europe. Caenlochan SPA further qualifies under Article 4.1 by supporting a nationally important population of golden eagle (6 pairs, 1% of the British


17

breeding populations). In addition to the qualifying interests, Caenlochan SPA is important for its unusual assemblage of breeding birds with both arctic species such as dotterel, ptarmigan and a nationally important population of snow bunting, and upland species such as golden eagle, merlin, peregrine, golden plover and dunlin, present at the same site. This combination of arctic and upland species is found at only a few other localities in Britain.

4.4.5 Cumulative Assessment

The cumulative assessment will take account of the cumulative effects of the impacts of the

proposed wind farm in combination with other wind farm developments within 20 km of the

proposed site that are either consented or at planning application stage. The key issue is likely

to be cumulative potential collision risk for bats and target bird species. Perth & Kinross Council

will be consulted to agree which other wind farm schemes should be taken into account in the

cumulative ecological assessment.

4.4.6 Survey Effort

Suitable methodology was developed for the following bird surveys which were completed

during 2011-2012.

Breeding bird survey (May, June and July 2011);

Vantage point surveys (May 2011-July 2012, see Table 4.4 below for target species);

Wintering birds survey (December 2011-March 2012);

Barn owl survey;

Black grouse survey; and

Incidental observations (birds noted on site outwith formal bird surveys).

4.4.7 Vantage Point Surveys

Table 4.4: Target and Secondary Species for Vantage Point Surveys

Target Species Secondary Species

All Divers Sparrowhawk

All Grebes Kestrel

Grey Heron Buzzard

Black Grouse Gulls

All swans, including: Whooper swan Mute swan Bewick swan

Raven

All geese, including: Pink-footed goose Greylag goose

Other Red listed birds of Conservation Concern including passerines.

All Ducks Red Grouse

All Waders


18

All Annex I and Schedule 1 raptors, including:

Peregrine Falcon Golden Eagle Merlin Barn Owl Short-eared Owl Hen Harrier Marsh harrier

Two VPs were considered sufficient to provide coverage of the proposed turbine footprint area

plus a buffer of 200-500 m. A total of 123 hours per Vantage point have been watched as

detailed below in Table 4.5 and Table 4.6.

In response to a preliminary consultation, SNH has advised that “you appear to have done an

adequate amount of survey work for birds to inform decision makers in carrying out an

assessment of the proposed impact of a wind farm at this location on breeding and wintering

bird populations.”

SNH further commented that “The site does not overlap with any Special Protection Areas for

Birds (SPA) or Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) designated for birds”.

SNH gave the following comments on nearby designations for bird species:

“Forest of Clunie SPA/SSSI Key species – Hen Harrier, Osprey, Short-eared Owl and Merlin.

Drumfork – Kingseat lies beyond the core range for all species except Osprey, where it lies at

the edge of its core range.

Loch of Lintrathen SPA, RAMSAR and SSSI Both sites are important for wintering Greylag and

Pink-footed Geese. As far as geese are concerned, information we possess indicates that the

Drumfork - Kingseat site is not used as a feeding and roosting site by either species for the last

25 years. Overflying geese are likely to be flying well above the height of even the highest

terrestrial turbines currently being installed. We would therefore not require vantage point

watches specifically for geese.

Cairngorms Massif SPA Caenlochan Ben Vrackie These sites appear to beyond the connectivity

distance for Golden Eagle which is 9 km and the core range is 3 km. Therefore the Drumfork –

Kingseat site lies beyond this distance. Other species would not appear to be of concern.”

Table 4.5: Summary of Hours Watched per month per VP

Month No. Of Hours

May 2011 6

June 2011 6

July 2011 6

August 2011 6

September 2011 6

October 2011 6

November 2011 (incl. 1st December 2011)

* 24

December 2011 (excl. 1st December 2011)

* 6

January 2012 3


19

Table 4.6: Summary of Hours Watched per season for each VP

Season Season No. of Hours

Hours per season (NOT ALL UNIQUE)

TOTAL UNIQUE

HOURS PER VP = 123

Spring migration season for waterfowl 2011 March to mid- May 6*

Breeding season for waders 2011 March to July 18**

Breeding season for raptors 2011 Mid-March to August

24**

Autumn migration season for waterfowl 2011 September to November

36

Winter season for wintering waterfowl 2011/2012 October to March 54

Spring migration season for waterfowl 2012 March to mid- May 36

Breeding season for waders 2012 March to July 48

Breeding season for raptors 2012 Mid-March to August

45

4.4.8 Collision Risk Modelling

Collision risk modelling will be undertaken for target species (e.g. raptors, waders and

waterfowl) recorded passing through the proposed turbine locations. Methods will be based on

the SNH Band model and include use of recent guidance on avoidance rates (SNH 2010b). It is

assumed (as per SNH guidance, SNH 2010a) that all flights recorded within c. 200 m of the

proposed turbine location at collision height could be at risk of collision.

4.4.9 Sensitive Receptor Values

The Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom (Chartered Institute of

Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), 2006) provide guidance on the process of

February 2012 6

March 2012 9

April 2012 18

May 2012 9

June 2012 6

July 2012 6

Total PER VANTAGE POINT 123


20

identifying the value of ecological receptors, characterising impacts upon them and assessing

whether these impacts are significant.

The guidelines recommend assigning a value to each ecological feature or resource based on

professional judgement and the distribution of the species or features being considered. In

addition, some receptors have already been assigned a nature conservation value through

designation. A value will be assigned to each ornithological receptor based on the range of

evaluation criteria outlined in the CIEEM guidance and SNH Assessment Guidance. These

include the following broad categories:

Geographic frame of reference, from an international to a local level;

Designation status (e.g. SPA, Ramsar, SSSI);

Biodiversity value (e.g. National and Local Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) species, significant

populations of species, Birds of Conservation Concern listing etc.); and

Social, community and economic value.

An ecologically significant impact is defined in the CIEEM Guidelines as: ‘an impact (negative or

positive) on the integrity of a defined site or ecosystem and/or conservation status of habitats or

species within a given geographical area’. The guideline values are presented in Table 4.7.

Table 4.7: Guideline Nature Conservation Values

Level of Value

Examples (not definitive and often dependent on professional judgement)

International Internationally designated or proposed sites (such as Ramsar Sites, Special Protected Areas, Biosphere Reserves and Special Areas of Conservation) meeting the criteria for international designation; or non-designated sites meeting the criteria for international designation. Sites supporting populations of internationally important numbers of species/assemblages.

UK Nationally designated sites (such as SSSIs, NNRs, Marine Nature Reserves, Nature Conservation Review (NCR) Grade 1 sites); or non-designated sites meeting SSSI selection criteria. Sites supporting populations of nationally important numbers, and/or supplying critical elements of their habitat requirements. Regularly occurring rare bird species (e.g. <300 breeding pairs in the UK).

Regional Sites containing viable areas of threatened habitats of importance within a regional context, e.g. central or highland Scotland. Sites comfortably exceeding council designations (such as Site of Importance for Nature Conservation [SINC]), but not meeting SSSI selection criteria. Sites containing good quality examples of priority habitats identified in the UK BAP or council LBAPs. Sites supporting viable breeding populations of nationally scarce species on account of their rarity, or supplying critical elements of their habitat requirements. Any regularly occurring population of a nationally important bird species that is threatened or rare in the region (e.g. >1% of the regional population).

County Sites meeting the criteria for council area designation (such as Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) which may include amenity and educational criteria in urban areas. Designated Local Nature Reserves. Sites containing viable areas of any priority habitat identified in the UK BAP or council LBAPs. Sites supporting viable breeding populations of species known to be council rarities (e.g. included in the LBAP), and/or supplying critical elements of their habitat requirements. Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of bird species.

District Undesignated sites, or features or species considered to appreciably enrich the resource within the context of the local area (i.e. approx. 10 km radius from the site).


21

Local Undesignated sites, features or species considered to appreciably enrich the habitat or species resource within the immediate environs. Examples include species-rich hedgerows, ponds, etc.

Negligible Low grade and widespread habitats or species. A widespread species with minimal use of an area that does not form a significant element of its habitat requirements.

Negative Invasive, alien species, e.g. those defined under the Wildlife and Natural Environments (Scotland) Act 2011 (WANE).

4.4.10 Potentially Significant Effects

Potential effects on the ornithological resource could include disturbance of habitats and

receptors during construction or operation, loss of habitat, loss of foraging areas and potential

for bird strike from operational turbines.

4.4.11 Potential Mitigation/Enhancement

Appropriate mitigation will be recommended for any significant effects at the site, and identify

whether any ornithology-specific measures are required. General construction site best practice

measures will also be proposed.

4.5 Ecology

4.5.1 Introduction

The aim of the Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) is to identify, predict and evaluate potential

impacts to ecology arising from the development of the proposed Green Burn Wind Farm. In

general, wind farm developments have a low impact on ecology in terms of land take relative to

the size of the development. However, there could be direct and indirect impacts to habitats and

species and the EcIA will assess all potential impacts. In particular potential impacts to the Alyth

Mires Special Area of Conservation (SAC) site will be considered. Impacts to birds will be

covered in the Ornithology Chapter.

4.5.2 Site Context

The 2.66 km² site is centred on two rounded hills at 380 m, split by a minor road. To the north is

Saebeg with Hill of Kingseat to the south. Dun Moss and Alyth Forest Mires SAC/SSSI is to the

east of Saebeg. The ground gently slopes away down to Blackhall Farm in the west at 268 m

and Green Burn in the east at 330 m. The Green Burn drains the site to the east and a number

of artificial drains enter the Drumturn Burn to the west, which eventually enters the Black Water.

Apart from Blackhall Farmhouse, there are no buildings on the site. Shieldrum Farm and its

buildings are several hundred metres beyond the proposed Green Burn Wind Farm site

boundary and the cottage at Corb is 650 m beyond.

4.5.3 Study Area, Initial Consultation and Desk Study

In order to obtain all relevant ecological information and to help to refine the proposed scope of

the EIA the following organisations and sources of information will be consulted:

Perth & Kinross Council;

Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH);

Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA);

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB);

SNH Sitelink (www.snh.org.uk/snhi);

Drumderg Wind Farm Environmental Statement;



22

Welton of Creuchies Environmental Statement;

Land Owners/Tenants.

In response to a preliminary consultation, SNH has advised that the overlap of the site with Dun

Moss and Forest of Alyth Mires Special Area of Conservation (SAC) is a key issue, as “A wind

farm development which overlaps or is adjacent to the SAC will require an appraisal under the

EU Habitats Directive by either the Scottish Government or Perth and Kinross Council

depending on the size of the application. I think we would in all likelihood be advising that there

is likely to be a significant effect on the European designation”. Dun Moss is also designated as

a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Correspondence with SNH, along with other consultees, will continue where necessary, from

scoping throughout the duration of the EcIA in order to keep these key consultees informed.

An initial desk study for information regarding protected species and habitats has been

undertaken. The ecology desk study area comprised a search of designated sites and protected

species as detailed in Table 4.8. The following data sources were consulted:

SNH Sitelink (www.snh.org.uk/snhi);

SNH initial scoping response;

National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Gateway (www.searchnbn.net);

Land Owner;

Drumderg Wind Farm Environmental Statement; and

Welton of Creuchies Environmental Statement.

Table 4.8: Criteria for Designated Site Search

Designation and Key Features Resolution for Site Search

Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

Aim to protect rare, endangered or vulnerable habitats and species.

Within 10 km

Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

Areas of land have been notified and designated which are “of special interest by reason of any of its flora, fauna, or geological or physiographical features”.

Up to 4 km

Local Nature Conservation Site (LNCS)

Local and district level non-statutory designations, often called Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs), Wildlife Sites (WS) or similar, often identified by Local Planning Authorities.

Within 4 km

Notable species and habitats Those species and habitats included in the UK and/or LBAP.

Within 4 km

Bat species All British bat species protected under UK and European legislation.

Within 5 km

Protected and notable habitats and species.

Species and habitats protected under UK and European legislation.

Within 4 km

Through the preliminary consultation with SNH and the results of the desk study, it is apparent

that there are a number of ecological features within the area that are of conservation concern

and should be assessed in detail during the EIA.



23


The EIA will recognise the following as potentially sensitive receptors:

Dun Moss and Forest of Alyth SAC and SSSI;

River Tay SAC;

Otter (European Protected Species);

All bats (European Protected Species); and

Groundwater Dependant Terrestrial Ecosystems.


The cumulative assessment will take account of the cumulative effects of the impacts of the

proposed wind farm in combination with other wind farm developments within 20 km of the

proposed site that are either consented or at planning application stage. The key potential issue

is likely to be cumulative potential collision risk for bats and target bird species. Perth & Kinross

Council will be consulted to agree which other wind farm schemes should be taken into account

in the cumulative ecological assessment.

4.5.6 Methodology

Fieldwork has already taken place on the site between 2011-2012.

4.5.7 Phase 1 Habitat and NVC Survey

The site and area surrounding it (to at least 40-100 m) was mapped to Phase 1 Habitat

standard. Survey of areas of particular botanical interest (habitats listed on Annex 1 of the

Habitats Directive i.e. areas of blanket bog, wet modified bog, marshy grassland and acid

grassland) were enhanced by the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) (Rodwell 1991a,

1991b, 1992, 1995) to map the communities present.

Guidance from Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) states that a number of

habitats are reliant on the network of hydrological flow across the site and for any wind farm

development consideration must be given to these during the ecological assessment. Therefore

the NVC survey also encompassed the SEPA requirement to consider direct and indirect effects

on Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystems (GWDTE).

Habitats were mapped onto a 1:10,000 Ordnance Survey base map using the standard Phase 1

classification and mapping codes. The minimum mappable unit was 40 m x 40 m. Use was

made of target notes, quadrat data and vegetation maps in order to provide descriptive

information, species lists and the location of rare or localised species and/or habitats. Mapped

habitats were subsequently digitised using a geographical information system (GIS).

4.5.8 Badger survey

A thorough search for badger evidence was undertaken within the site and surrounding area up

to a minimum of 50 m, where accessible. All evidence of badger was recorded including setts

(and their status), bedding, scratch marks, paths, prints, guard hairs, latrines, dung and signs of

foraging. The survey concentrated on habitats suitable for sett excavation including woodlands,

woodland margins and other drier parts of the site. Target notes were made of all identified

badger signs, confirmed or potential, including the location of activity, and a description, with a

10-figure grid reference taken from a hand held GPS.

4.5.9 Otter and Water Vole Survey

All watercourses and waterbodies within the site (and a 200 m buffer) within the site were

surveyed by an experienced ecologist for otter and water vole, searching for field signs in

accordance with best practice. The surveys were carried out in dry weather and not following

periods of heavy rain. The water bodies included the Drumturn Burn and Green Burn into Leapit

Burn. Areas of potentially suitable terrestrial habitat either side of the burns were also surveyed.


24

4.5.9.1 Otter

Surveys were carried out along all suitable watercourses for evidence of otter and all evidence

(i.e. spraints, sign heaps, rolling places, slides, footprints, holts, resting up sites) was recorded

using a hand held GPS and accompanying target notes. The location of activity, a description

of the type of activity and a 10-figure grid reference was recorded. Where any resting up sites

were recorded, their likely usage was assessed and recorded appropriately e.g. breeding,

temporary resting up.

4.5.9.2 Water Vole

Water vole surveys were carried out along all suitable watercourses (slow flowing and low

gradient) across the site. The surveys followed standard techniques to search for signs of water

vole including: footprints, run-ways in vegetation, burrows, droppings, lawns, nests, feeding

stations, and latrines. The location of all signs was recorded using a hand held GPS with

accompanying target notes.

4.5.10 Badger

A thorough search for badger evidence was undertaken within the site and surrounding area up

to a minimum of 50 m, where accessible. All evidence of badger was recorded including: setts

(and their status), bedding, scratch marks, paths, prints, guard hairs, latrines, dung and signs of

foraging. The survey concentrated on habitats suitable for sett excavation including woodlands,

woodland margins and other drier parts of the site. Target notes were made of all identified

badger signs, confirmed or potential, including the location of activity, and a description, with a

10-figure grid reference taken from a hand held GPS.

4.5.11 Red Squirrel Survey

An assessment was made of the site for its potential to support red squirrels. Walkover surveys

to search for evidence of squirrel feeding signs and dreys were carried out. This focused on

areas of woodland bounding the western part of the site and those patches of woodland to the

southwest boundary of the site. Trees were checked for the presence of squirrel dreys and field

signs were searched for in suitable areas of habitat (e.g. feeding remains). The location of signs

and sightings were recorded using a hand held GPS and accompanying target notes.

4.5.12 Bats

All bat species found in the UK are legally protected. Given the potential for foraging bats within

the site, bat surveys were undertaken. Bat surveys were conducted in accordance with the

principles and methods within Natural England’s Bats and onshore wind turbines (Interim

guidance) (2012) and the Bat Conservation Trust guidelines.

The site was assessed to be likely of low value to bats. An appropriate level of bat surveys were

undertaken for the development guided by an initial assessment of risk factors i.e. the bat

species present; the quality of the local bat habitat elements; and the scale, topography and

location.

Bat surveys were undertaken between May 2012 and October 2012 inclusive to cover the key

periods (June-July) when maternity roosts are most stable and during the dispersal periods

(August-September) when young bats disperse and adult bats move to swarming and mating

sites.

4.5.12.1 Day Survey

A walkover of the site was undertaken to identify potential roost sites, commuting routes and

foraging areas. A map based search was also undertaken for areas up to 500 m from the site

that could have key bat habitat features.

4.5.12.2 Bat Night Time Transect Survey

Manual transect surveys were carried out in May, August and September 2012. Two routes

were walked on each occasion with 10 timed point count stops for each. Bat passes were also

recorded en route between points. The order of the point count stops was altered (and the


25

direction of the route changed) per visit, to account for variations in bat activity throughout the

night. Noted information included species of bat, activity, flight height and direction of travel.

Survey started after sunset and was undertaken using broadband Anabat detectors. Recordings

were made onto a memory card or handheld PDA and later analysed to confirm species

identification where necessary.

4.5.12.3 Remote Monitoring

Ten Anabat locations were surveyed in May, July and September 2012 and three were

surveyed in October 2012. Locations were chosen to take into account the habitat features on

the site as well as providing good overall coverage of the draft proposed turbine locations.

Further survey effort was designed based on the results obtained. In September three new

locations and seven previous ones were surveyed and in October three locations were

surveyed. Detectors were placed in a secure Pelicase and locked to trees, telegraph poles or

fence posts and discretely left on the ground, angled to point upwards to hub height. A weather

station was put on site for the duration of the surveys and results were analysed against this

data to assess weather effects.

4.5.13 Fish

A day walkover habitat assessment has been undertaken by an experienced Fisheries

Consultant (Dr Bob Morgan, Morgan Fisheries Consultancy).

4.5.14 Other Species

Note was made of any other species of note (e.g. UK BAP species and reptiles), or habitat

suitability for these species. Any ponds and ditches were assessed for their suitability for

amphibians. No detailed night-time survey was undertaken for these species.

4.5.15 Sensitive Receptors Values

The Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom (Chartered Institute of

Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), 2006) provide guidance on the process of

identifying the value of ecological receptors, characterising impacts upon them and assessing

whether these impacts are significant.

The guidelines recommend assigning a value to each ecological feature or resource based on

professional judgement and the distribution of the species or features being considered. In

addition, some receptors have already been assigned a nature conservation value through

designation. The value is determined within a defined geographical context based on the

framework outlined in Table 4.9.

An ecologically significant impact is defined in the CIEEM Guidelines as: ‘an impact (negative or

positive) on the integrity of a defined site or ecosystem and/or conservation status of habitats or

species within a given geographical area’.

Table 4.9: Guideline Nature Conservation Values

Level of Value Examples (not definitive and often dependent on professional judgement)

International Internationally designated or proposed sites (such as Ramsar Sites, Special Protected Areas, Biosphere Reserves and Special Areas of Conservation) meeting the criteria for international designation; or non-designated sites meeting the criteria for international designation. Sites supporting populations of internationally important numbers of species/assemblages.

UK Nationally designated sites (such as SSSIs, NNRs, Marine Nature Reserves, Nature Conservation Review (NCR) Grade 1 sites); or non-designated sites meeting SSSI selection criteria. Sites supporting populations of nationally important numbers, and/or supplying critical elements of their habitat requirements. Regularly occurring rare bird species (e.g. <300 breeding pairs in the UK).


26

Regional Sites containing viable areas of threatened habitats of importance within a regional context, e.g. central or highland Scotland. Sites comfortably exceeding council designations (such as Site of Importance for Nature Conservation [SINC]), but not meeting SSSI selection criteria. Sites containing good quality examples of priority habitats identified in the UK BAP or council LBAPs. Sites supporting viable breeding populations of nationally scarce species on account of their rarity, or supplying critical elements of their habitat requirements. Any regularly occurring population of a nationally important bird species that is threatened or rare in the region (e.g. >1% of the regional population).

County Sites meeting the criteria for council area designation (such as Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) which may include amenity and educational criteria in urban areas. Designated Local Nature Reserves. Sites containing viable areas of any priority habitat identified in the UK BAP or council LBAPs. Sites supporting viable breeding populations of species known to be council rarities (e.g. included in the LBAP), and/or supplying critical elements of their habitat requirements. Any regularly occurring, locally significant population of bird species.

District Undesignated sites, or features or species considered to appreciably enrich the resource within the context of the local area (i.e. approx. 10 km radius from the site).

Local Undesignated sites, features or species considered to appreciably enrich the habitat or species resource within the immediate environs. Examples include species-rich hedgerows, ponds, etc.

Negligible Low grade and widespread habitats or species. A widespread species with minimal use of an area that does not form a significant element of its habitat requirements.

Negative Invasive, alien species, e.g. those defined within the Wildlife and Natural Environments (Scotland) Act 2011.

4.5.16 Potentially Significant Effects

Potential effects on the ecology of the area could arise from the development at the

construction, operational and decommissioning stages.

Effects during the construction could include:

Presence of people;

Vegetation, top soil and sub-soil removal resulting in habitat loss and habitat fragmentation;

Development of watercourse crossings;

Noise;

Vehicular traffic;

Ground and excavation works;

Construction of turbine foundations and access routes;

Creation of temporary construction compounds and storage areas;

Removal of site offices/compounds and final site clear away after construction; and

Routing of services and utilities.

During the operational phase, effects could include:

Vehicular traffic;

Presence of people;


27

Noise;

Vibration;

Drainage; and

Wind turbine activity.

During de-commissioning effects are predicted to be similar to those during construction.

4.5.17 Potential Mitigation/Enhancement

Mitigation measures specific to the potential impacts identified above will be recommended as

part of the EcIA and could include:

Pre-construction checks for notable and protected species such as otter, badger, water vole

and red squirrel;

Ecological clerk of works to be retained to monitor and manage ecological issues during the

development;

Buffer zones to restrict impacts upon sensitive habitats.

4.5.18 References

Chanin, P. (2003) Monitoring the Otter Lutra lutra. Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers.

Monitoring series No. 10. English Nature, Peterborough.

Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (2006) Guidelines for Ecological

Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom (version 7 July 2006).

http://www.ieem.org.uk/ecia/index.html

Hundt, L. et al (2012) Bat Surveys: Good Practice Guidelines. BCT, London.

Natural England (2009) bats and onshore wind turbines: Interim guidance. Nastural England,

Technical Information Note 051.

Rodwell, J.S. (1991a). British Plant Communities Vol 1. Woodlands & Scrub. Cambridge

University Press, Cambridge.

Rodwell, J.S. (1991b). British Plant Communities Vol 2. Mires and Heaths. Cambridge

University Press, Cambridge.

Rodwell, J.S. (1992). British Plant Communities Vol 3. Grasslands and Montane Communities.

Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

Rodwell, J.S. (1995). British Plant Communities Vol 4. Aquatic Communities, Swamps and Tall-

Herb Fens. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

Strachan, R. (1998) The Water Vole Conservation Handbook. Wildlife Research Unit,

Department for Zoology, University of Oxford.

Scottish Natural Heritage (2010) Survey Methods for Use in Assessing the Impacts of Onshore

Windfarms on Bird Communities produced by SNH in November 2005 and updated in 2010.

http://www.ieem.org.uk/ecia/index.html


28

4.6 Noise

4.6.1 Site Context

Noise issues related to wind farm developments most frequently arise in connection with the

operation of the development. Construction related noise issues are less sensitive and arise

infrequently. The main focus of this method statement is therefore operational noise. In relation

to Green Burn Wind Farm, the following points are noted:

Up to ten residential properties are located within approximately 2 km of the site boundary,

with the closest properties at Blackhall Farm and Shieldrum Farm located approximately 300

m and 450 m from the site boundary respectively. Background noise measurements are

therefore likely to be required;

Drumderg Wind Farm lies immediately to the east of the site. There are no receptors located

between the sites, however there is potential for cumulative effects on the closest receptors

to each site from both developments under certain wind directions. Cumulative effects will

require to be considered; and

Drumderg Wind Farm is operational, therefore existing background noise levels at nearby

receptors may include operational noise from the Drumderg turbines. Current guidance on

establishing background noise levels for wind farm noise studies advises that noise levels

should be recorded only in the absence of noise from other wind farms, therefore the

operation of Drumderg will limit the approach to obtaining background noise levels. The

agreed approach to establishing noise limits will be a key issue to be addressed during EIA

scoping, and in particular through consultation with the Environmental Health Dept of Perth &

Kinross Council.

Concerns related to amplitude modulation and low frequency noise may arise. There is

comprehensive published information and advice which will be referred to in addressing these

issues.

4.6.2 Scope of Work and Method

Our assessment will follow statutory guidance and best practice in assessing the noise effects

of the wind energy developments; our specific approach will be as follows:

The assessment of operational turbine noise will be undertaken in accordance with The

Assessment and Rating of Noise from Wind Farms (ETSU-R-97), Planning Advice Note

1/2011 Planning and Noise and Institute of Acoustics’ (IoA) A Good Practice Guide to the

Application of ETSU-R-97 for the Assessment and Rating of Wind Turbine Noise (May

2013). The assessment will also refer to Government advice and the findings of the Salford

University report into aerodynamic modulation of wind turbine noise. We will take account of

all of these in agreeing our scope and method of work with Perth & Kinross Council;

Predictions of noise immissions at the nearest receptors will be undertaken in accordance

with ISO 9613-2 Acoustics – Attenuation of sound during propagation outdoors - Part 2:

General method of calculation (1996), using manufacturer data for the candidate model of

turbine. The predictions will indicate the receptors at which noise levels over 35 dBLA90 are

predicted, and thus the requirement for background noise measurements. The predictions

will also consider cumulative noise effects with Drumderg Wind Farm and any other turbines

agreed with Perth & Kinross Council;

It is proposed that background noise measurements be undertaken at 4 locations:

Corb (316425, 756835);

Shieldrum Farm (314809, 755800);

Kingseat (314749, 754527); and

Smyrna (318640, 753222).


29

Background noise monitoring will be undertaken over a period of 14-21 days (depending

on weather conditions) to ensure data capture during representative conditions. Measured

data will be correlated with wind speed data measured simultaneously on the site and

regression analysis undertaken to determine typical background noise levels at each wind

speed. In accordance with ETSU-R-97, noise limits for Quiet Daytime and Night-time

periods will be derived from the measurement data for each receptor;

Following design freeze, noise predictions will be undertaken for the final layout and

candidate turbine, and predicted noise levels evaluated against derived noise limits. Noise

predictions will take account of directivity effects and attenuation due terrain or topographic

effects, where appropriate;

An assessment of cumulative noise will take account of the existing operational Drumderg

Wind Farm, two wind farms – Bamff and Tullymurdoch – for which applications are

scheduled to be examined at Public Inquiry, and Saddle Hill for which a request for a

Scoping Opinion has been received by Perth & Kinross Council; and

Construction noise effects will be considered in accordance with BS5228-1:2009 Code of

practice for noise and vibration control on construction and open sites, and traffic noise in

accordance with Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) guidance.

4.7 Cultural Heritage

4.7.1 Site Context, Study Area, Sensitive Receptors & Cumulative Assessment

The land within the proposed development area boundary is devoid of statutorily protected sites,

though there is a concentration of recorded, non-statutory sites, for the most part comprising

clusters of evidence which indicate past farming activity – remains of hut circles and/or

platforms, enclosures, field systems and field clearance cairns. Although these types of remains

can signify activity in widely differing periods, there is further evidence to suggest that at least

some (and perhaps the greater number) of these remains are of prehistoric date. One indicator

is the remains of a monument close to the centre of the proposed development site (HER no.

MPK4024), which has been identified as a kerb cairn (that is, a funerary monument) of Neolithic

/Bronze Age origin. Other factors, such as the morphology of some of the remains and their

position on higher ground (relative to later farming activity) also point to a prehistoric

provenance being more likely, though the dates of these sites have not been proved through the

recovery of datable material from excavation and ascribing dates to them must consequently

remain conjectural. There is still a very real possibility that at least some of the remains visible

are of rather later (most probably post-medieval) date, not least since other physical remains of

activity of that date, and of broadly similar physical character, also appear to be present at a

variety of locations in the general vicinity.

Potential also exists for further, associated material to exist within the proposed development

area which has not yet been identified or recognised. Any such hitherto unrecorded evidence is

as likely, if not more likely, to comprise further upstanding (if relatively slight) remains, as

opposed to buried remains, and any such survivals will most likely constitute additional detail

related to existing recorded sites, rather than completely new and discrete discoveries. There

are several reasons for this.

One is the fact that this area was the subject of a very deliberate, targeted and detailed survey

by the RCAHMS in the 1980s (the results of which were published in 1990). The area has thus

been very closely scrutinized, in modern times, by professional field archaeologists. This alone

is certainly a contributory factor in explaining the relatively high density of recorded material

compared to other areas of similar landscape character elsewhere in Scotland. A second

reason relates to the character of the land, especially in areas where bedrock appears to be

close to the surface. The relative (stress, relative) lack of arable agricultural activity in the area,

especially in the modern era, will mean there has been less opportunity for attrition of the

remains of formerly upstanding sites and features than would be witnessed in areas where

modern arable agricultural activity has been intensive. That said, there appears to be a strong


30

indication (in the form of the morphological characteristics of many of the identified sites) of

settlement in the area in the Bronze/Iron Age (broadly speaking during the last two millennia

BC), which would lead to the conclusion that there is potential for buried remains of that date to

survive in certain locations - where, for example, peat cover has subsequently formed.

Inspection of the recorded evidence in the area immediately around (within ca 1 km) of the

proposed development site boundary reveals a very similar range of evidence with one or two

additions. Further clusters of settlement and associated agricultural remains (whether of

prehistoric or post-medieval date) have been identified to north, east, and north west. In some

cases, clearly more modern farming remains (post-Medieval and early modern) lie in the same

general areas, with a higher concentration to the west on the lower lying west facing slopes

leading down to the river. These include a fermtoun (MPK 4121) and what appears to be a

rather grander tower/country house (MPK 4124) to the south-east. To the NNE, the supposed

medieval “castle” at Corb (HER no MPK 3982) seems rather more likely to represent the

remains of a former hunting lodge, though a building is depicted at Corb on Timothy Pont’s early

seventeenth century map, which attests to the physical presence at this location at that date and

suggests that a Medieval origin for building on this site is entirely feasible.

In terms of statutorily protected sites, a smattering of SAMs and listed buildings lie in the more

immediate surrounding area to the proposed development site (within 1-2 km) but examples are

not especially numerous and a number of the more closely located examples appear to lie

within forestry plantations. The nearest SAM (HS no. 4703 = HER no MPK3983) lies roughly 1

km north of the northern edge of the proposed development area and has been identified as a

further example of a prehistoric farming settlement. This, though, is the only such nationally

significant statutorily protected site within 1.5 km of the proposed development site boundaries.

Further statutorily protected sites lie at rather greater distances from the proposed development

site boundaries; within 5 km of the proposed development site boundary, these are noticeably

more populous in a 180 degree northern arc around the proposed development area, compared

to the equivalent southern arc. These will all require to be assessed in terms of their relationship

to the proposed development site and those archaeological/cultural heritage sites which lie in

and around it and in the wider landscape.

There will also be a need for assessment of the potential for cumulative indirect effects on

cultural heritage sites, most obviously in relation to the wind farm at Drumderg. Reference to

CANMORE and to the archaeological reports produced during and after the EIA for the

Drumderg WF indicate that it too sits in a well recorded, landscape with surviving remains of

both prehistoric and post-Medieval periods especially prominent.

Overall, the distribution, character and relative proximity of some statutorily protected sites to

the proposed development site boundary, especially SAMs, suggests that the statutory

consultees are likely to seek further information as part of the EIA on the potential for indirect

impacts of the proposed development, perhaps especially in terms of the potential for

cumulative indirect impacts involving Drumderg WF.

4.7.2 Consultations

As part of the EIA, consultations with the statutory consultees will be undertaken: with Historic

Scotland for cultural heritage sites of national significance; and with the Perth & Kinross

Heritage Trust, in their capacity as archaeological advisers to Perth & Kinross Council.

4.7.3 Baseline Data Collection

4.7.3.1 Overview

Baseline studies for the area proposed for development comprise a desk-based assessment

and a field survey (in the form of a walk-over survey). A desk-based assessment is also carried

out for the immediate surrounding landscape (the area within 1 km of the proposed

development boundary). Subsequent further assessment may be undertaken further afield if

demanded in scoping responses. Study of the wider landscape is undertaken to establish the

local archaeological and historical context, in order to provide a broader understanding of the


31

historical development of the area proposed for development and the potential for as-yet-

unidentified archaeological remains within that area.

4.7.3.2 Desk-based Assessment

Desk-based assessment of the area proposed for development and its immediate surrounding

landscape comprises:

Creation of a Geographic Information System (GIS). Inclusion of baseline data in the project

GIS (as detailed below) allows the accurate plotting of the location and extent of known

cultural heritage features in relation to current Ordnance Survey base maps;

Current data on Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs) and Listed Buildings is obtained

from PASTMAP (a map-enabled query system for Scottish National and Regional

Archaeological and Architectural Datasets, maintained by the Royal Commission on the

Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland;

Information on Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes (HGDLs) is searched on the

Inventory available on the HS website;

Information on Conservation Areas is searched on the relevant Local Authority Local Plans;

The National Monuments Record of Scotland (NMRS) is consulted through PASTMAP;

The local Sites and Monuments Record, maintained by Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust, is

consulted remotely;

Relevant aerial photographs are viewed at the RCAHMS in Edinburgh in order to identify any

hitherto unknown sites or features of archaeological interest.

Ordnance Survey (OS) maps of the proposed development area and Pre-Ordnance Survey

maps of the area of interest, held by the National Library of Scotland (NLS), are identified

and examined. These maps are accessible online through the NLS website. Relevant maps

generally range in date from the sixteenth to the early twentieth century;

Relevant published primary sources are consulted to expand the level of information

available from on-line descriptions of archive material;

Readily accessible primary and secondary historical sources on the area are consulted for

information on its history and past land use.

4.7.3.3 Field Survey

A walkover survey of the area proposed for development is undertaken, involving a two person

team walking in systematic transects across the proposed development area, checking known

sites and seeking to identify and record and hitherto unknown sites. The locations of any

features visited or identified have their positions recorded by GPS and any such features are

also recorded by means of written description and, where appropriate, supplemented by

measured sketches and photographs.


4.7.4.1 Setting

Baseline – Identification of cultural heritage features are to be assessed (i.e. establishment of

which features lie within the visual envelope provided by the project landscape architect).

4.7.4.2 Sensitivity of the feature

Sensitivity to effects on setting (the degree to which change can be accommodated without

detrimental effects on the relationship between the feature and its setting) will be determined

with reference to:

The cultural heritage importance of the receptor (as defined by its statutory/non-statutory

designation or established by professional judgement);


32

The sensitivity of its surrounding landscape (particular parts of that landscape may be more

sensitive to change than others); and

The sensitivity of views to, from, and including the feature (again, some views will be more

sensitive than others).

The starting point in determining sensitivity is to consider the cultural heritage importance of the

feature. Sensitivity to setting effects will then be considered in more detail by looking at the

relationship of the feature to its visual and landscape context.

For each feature, the sensitivity will be determined by discussion between the archaeologist and

the project landscape architect. The archaeologist will determine the importance of the feature

itself and will highlight any important historical visual/landscape relationships. The landscape

architect will establish the sensitivity of the landscape and of particular views to change. The

archaeologist and visual/landscape professional will then reach a common judgement on the

sensitivity of the feature.

As part of this process a joint site visit is usually required, with wirelines to the key sites and

monuments whose setting is seems likely to be affected. The landscape architect will take

photographs as appropriate for generation of photomontages.

4.7.4.3 Determining the magnitude of change

The landscape architect will determine the magnitude of change (visual and landscape). It is

perhaps most straight-forward to determine separate visual and landscape magnitudes, rather

than trying to arrive at a combined ‘setting’ magnitude.

4.7.4.4 Determining the significance of effects

The significance of effects on the setting of this monument will be addressed separately for

visual and landscape effects. The level of significance will be established as set out in Table

4.10.

Table 4.10: Significance criteria for Cultural Heritage Assessment

Sensitivity of Receptor

Not sensitive Low Medium High

Mag

nit

ud

e o

f E

ffect

High None Minor Moderate Major

Medium None Minor Moderate Moderate

Low None None Minor Minor

No change None None None None

This gives a moderate significance in visual terms and a significance of none in landscape

terms.

N.B. the matrix would serve as a guide – it will be necessary to exercise professional

judgement, and we may feel that a higher level of significance should be attached to effects on

sensitive/high-value receptors.


33

4.8 Aviation and Telecommunications

4.8.1 Aviation Impact Assessment

4.8.1.1 Identification of key receptors

The aviation baseline assessment will identify all air traffic control and air defence radars within

the study area, all airports and airfields within 30 km and all aeronautical radio navigation aids

and radio transmitter sites within 10 km of the wind turbine site. In addition, the location of

relevant military low flying system features relative to the wind turbine site will be established.

On the basis of an initial review of the site, no significant aviation issues are expected but this

would require confirmation in relation to:

Radar line of sight from the NERL Lowther Hill primary surveillance radar; and

Radar line of sight from the RAF Leuchars primary surveillance radar.

4.8.1.2 Assessment

Radar line of sight assessment will be conducted using GlobalMapper software and NASA

ASTER digital terrain data to establish whether the NERL Lowther Hill and RAF Leuchars

radars are capable of detecting turbines at the site. The expectation is that there will be no line

of sight from either radar.

The conclusions from the radar line of sight assessment will be validated through consultation

with NERL and the MoD. However NERL will not provide a pre-planning response without

payment and MoD are currently unable to respond to pre-planning consultations.

4.8.2 Telecommunications Impact Assessment

It is understood that Ofcom has already been consulted. Initial review indicates that there may

be microwave and scanning telemetry links from the Corb transmitter mast with the potential for

these to be affected.

The potential for television interference will be assessed by querying the BBC reception tool and

by map analysis of potentially affected domestic properties.

4.8.3 Cumulative Impact Assessment

Assessment of cumulative effects on telecommunications and aviation of the Green Burn Wind

Farm with other existing and proposed wind farms will be conducted using the methods outlined

above, with reference to written material on other projects as appropriate.

4.9 Geology, Hydrology and Hydrogeology

4.9.1 Site Context

British Geological Survey online mapping (www.bgs.ac.uk/data/mapViewers) shows that the

majority of the site is underlain by Glacial Till. Two areas of peat coverage are shown in the east

of the site (east of Hill of Kingseat and Saebeg). Alluvium deposits associated with the

tributaries of the Drumturn Burn are present in the northwest of the application area. Bedrock is

exposed at or near surface towards the south of the site around Hill of Kingseat.

The solid geology underlying the superficial deposits across the region comprises the

metamorphic rocks of the Cairn Gibbs Psammite Formation of the Southern Highland Group.

This unit comprises schistose psammite and gritty psammite with minor units of phyllitic to

schistose pelite.

The bedrock of the Southern Highland Group is classified by the Scottish Environment

Protection Agency (SEPA) as a low productivity aquifer comprising small amounts of

groundwater in near surface weathered zones and fractures. Little groundwater will be present

in the Glacial Till, which characteristically has a low bulk permeability. Near to watercourses it is

likely that the alluvium contains groundwater which is in local hydraulic continuity with the

streams.

http://www.bgs.ac.uk/data/mapViewers


34

The application site is shown by SEPA’s interactive mapping application

(www.gis.sepa.org.uk/rbmp) as regionally being within the Strathardle bedrock and local sand

and gravel aquifers Drinking Water Protected Zone. Groundwater status within the bedrock has

been classified with an overall status of Good with High confidence in 2008.

The site falls within the catchment of the River Tay, a Freshwater Fish (Salmonid) Protected

Water which is also a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The Black Water (to the west) and

the River Ericht (to the south) are part of the River Tay SAC. A number of small watercourses,

which form tributaries to the River Tay, rise within the application area and nearby, although it is

noted that these do not part of the River Tay SAC.

The Drumturn Burn is located to the east of the application boundary and has been classified by

SEPA in 2008 as being a watercourse with Good status with Medium confidence. A number of

tributaries to the Drumturn Burn flow within the site boundary and have their source within the

site boundary. These tributaries flow westwards into the Drumturn Burn. The Drumturn Burn

flows into the Black Water, which also has been classified by SEPA as having a Good status.

The Green Burn, an unclassified watercourse, is located along part of the eastern boundary of

the application site, flowing southwards into the Leapit Burn which in turn flows into the Burn of

Drimmie, which forms a tributary to the River Ericht.

The SEPA floodplain map (www.sepa.org.uk/flooding/flood_extent_maps) indicates that the site

is in an area at risk of flooding associated with the Drumturn Burn on the western site boundary.

The extent of flooding partially encroaches onto the application area. In addition flooding

associated with the Black Water is present to the west of the application site.

4.9.2 Consultations

As part of the consultation phase of the project we would seek to obtain environmental data and

views of the proposed development from SEPA, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Water, the

Tay Salmon District Salmon Fisheries Board and Perth and Kinross Council.

4.9.3 Study Area

The study area will include the site, and water dependent features and habitats that are in linked

with the site, and which are located within 1 km of the site boundary.


Based on the initial review of the site setting, key issues and risks that may need to be

considered by the geology, hydrogeology and hydrology assessment include:

Water Quality and Fisheries. It is evident that the watercourses at and near to site are of a

high quality and are tributaries of the high value salmon fisheries administered by the Tay

District Salmon Fisheries Board (TDSFB). It will be necessary to engage with the TDSFB to

discuss the scheme proposals;

Peat and Peat Slide Risk. Peat is recorded by BGS mapping to be present in part of the

site. The thickness and distribution of the peat should be confirmed as part of the baseline

assessment and with this information the need for a peat slide risk can be determined; and

Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystems (GWDTE). There is potential that

GWDTE may be present on site. National Vegetation Classification (NVC) surveys will be

completed in order to identify areas of potential GWDTE; these data, combined with a review

of the site hydrogeology can be used to inform the site design and constraints mapping, and

if required further investigation can be identified to prove (or otherwise) the contribution

groundwater makes to sustaining these habitats.

Review of the site location shows there are few properties within or near to the site and thus it is

considered that the presence of private water supplies is unlikely to pose a significant

development constraint. Similarly, there are few watercourses shown within the site and the

presence of watercourses or the crossings of watercourses is unlikely to form a development

constraint.

http://www.gis.sepa.org.uk/rbmp

http://www.sepa.org.uk/flooding/flood_extent_maps


35


With the incorporation of industry standard mitigation measures and use of sustainable drainage

techniques (SuDS) it is not anticipated that development of Green Burn Wind Farm would result

in any cumulative impact on the geological or water environment. This would be confirmed in

the impact assessment.

4.9.6 Survey Methods

4.9.6.1 Initial Baseline (Desk Based) Assessment and Constraints Mapping

It is anticipated that the following sources of information would be reviewed as part of the

baseline assessment:

The Drumderg Wind Farm ES

The Scoping Opinion

Collation of published geological, hydrological and hydrogeological information, including

hydrometric data for the area

Use of topographical maps and aerial photography to identify catchments, water bodies,

springs and boreholes

Collation of published historic hydrological and flooding information for the immediate area

Collation of data on public and private water abstractions (supplied by SEPA and Perth and

Kinross Council)

Using the information collated as part of the baseline assessment, constraints with respect to

wind turbine development would be identified using GIS. These might include areas considered

unsuitable for development due to peat thickness, standoff to sensitive water features, buffers to

private water supplies and preferred locations for watercourse crossings.

4.9.6.2 Baseline Assessment

A site visit and walkover survey (including water features and watercourse crossing surveys and

a private water supply survey) would be undertaken, in order to:

Verify the information collected during the desk and baseline study;

Gain further appreciation of the site, including a good overall understanding of its

hydrological regime;

Undertake a visual assessment of the main surface waters and identify private water

supplies;

Identify drainage patterns, areas vulnerable to erosion or sediment deposition, and any

pollution risks;

Visit any identified GWDTE (in consultation with the project ecologists);

Prepare a schedule of potential watercourse crossings; and

Undertake peat depth probing (if required).

4.9.6.3 Impact Assessment

As part of the impact assessment, review of potential GWDTEs and private water supplies

within 250 m of proposed turbines and borrow pits and 100 m of proposed access tracks and

cabling routes would be undertaken in accordance with SEPA wind farm planning guidance.

Potential impacts on the geological and water environment would be identified, and mitigation

measures required to address these impacts would be proposed. The impact assessment would

make reference where appropriate to published guidance from CIRIA, SEPA, SR and REUK.


36

Given the location of the site, it is considered that a basic Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) would

need to be prepared to satisfy Scottish Planning Policy. This would be incorporated into the text

of the impact assessment, and is likely to include recommendations for the control and

management of runoff from parts of the proposed built development. It is considered that it will

not be necessary to undertake any hydraulic modelling of any proposed watercourse crossings.


A qualitative risk assessment methodology will be used to assess the magnitude of the potential

effects. Two factors will be considered using this approach: the sensitivity of the receiving

environment and the potential magnitude, should that potential impact occur.

This approach provides a mechanism for identifying the areas where mitigation measures are

required, and for identifying mitigation measures appropriate to the risk presented by the

scheme. This approach also allows effort to be focused on reducing risk where the greatest

benefit may result.

Criteria for determining the significance of effects are provided in Table 4.11, Table 4.12 and

Table 4.13, below. Effects of ‘major’ and ‘moderate’ significance are considered to be

‘significant’ in terms of the EIA Regulations.

The significance of the potential effects will be defined by taking into account two main factors;

the sensitivity of the receiving environment and the potential magnitude should that effect occur.

The sensitivity of the receiving environment (i.e. the baseline quality of the receiving

environment as well as its ability to absorb the impact without perceptible change) is defined in

Table 4.11.


37

Table 4.11: Sensitivity Criteria for Receptor

Sensitivity Definition

Very High International importance. Receptor with a high quality and rarity, regional or national scale and limited potential for

substitution / replacement.

High National importance. Receptor with a high quality, local scale and limited potential for substitution /

replacement; or Receptor with a medium quality and rarity, regional or national scale and limited potential

for substitution / replacement.

Medium Regional importance. Receptor with a medium quality and rarity, local scale and limited potential for

substitution / replacement; or Receptor with a low quality and rarity, regional or national scale and limited potential for

substitution / replacement.

Low Local importance. Receptor with a low quality and rarity, local scale. Environmental equilibrium is stable and is resilient to changes that are greater than

natural fluctuations, without detriment to its present character.

The criteria that would be used to assess the magnitude of the effects are defined in Table 4.12.

Table 4.12: ‘Magnitude of Effect’ Criteria and Definitions

Magnitude Criteria Definition

Major Results in loss of attribute.

Fundamental (long term or permanent) changes to geology, hydrology, hydrogeology and water quality, such as: Permanent degradation and total loss of the peat / soil habitats. Loss of important geological structure/features. Wholesale changes to watercourse channel, route, hydrology or

hydrodynamics. Changes to site resulting in an increase in runoff with flood potential

and also significant changes to erosion and sedimentation patterns. Major changes to the water chemistry or hydro-ecology.

Moderate Results in effect on integrity of attribute or loss of part of attribute.

Material but non-fundamental and short to medium term changes to geology, hydrology, hydrogeology and water quality, such as: Loss of extensive areas of peat or soil, damage to important

geological structures/features. Some fundamental changes to watercourses, hydrology or

hydrodynamics. Changes to site resulting in an increase in runoff within system capacity.

Moderate changes to erosion and sedimentation patterns. Moderate changes to the water chemistry of surface runoff and

groundwater.

Minor Results in minor effect on attribute.

Detectable but non-material and transitory changes to geology, hydrology, hydrogeology and water quality, such as: Minor or slight changes to the watercourse, hydrology or

hydrodynamics. Changes to site resulting in slight increase in runoff well within the

drainage system capacity. Minor changes to erosion and sedimentation patterns. Minor changes to the water chemistry.

Negligible Results in an effect on attribute but of insufficient magnitude to affect the

No perceptible changes to geology, hydrology, hydrogeology and water quality, such as: No impact or alteration to existing important geological environs. No alteration or very minor changes with no impact to watercourses,

hydrology, hydrodynamics, erosion and sedimentation patterns. No alteration to groundwater recharge or flow mechanisms.


38

use/integrity. No pollution or change in water chemistry to either groundwater or surface water.

The sensitivity of the receiving environment together with the magnitude of the impact defines

the significance of the impact, as identified within Table 4.13.

Table 4.13: Significance of Impact

Magnitude Sensitivity

Very High High Medium Low

Major Major Major Moderate Minor

Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Minor

Minor Minor Minor Minor Negligible

Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible

4.10 Transport

The transport assessment will be undertaken in line with the Scottish Government’s report

Transport Assessment and Implementation: A Guide (2005). The assessment will review the

relevant transport policies, namely SPP as well as the Perth & Kinross Council Local Transport

Strategy. Perth & Kinross Council will be consulted to agree the study area and traffic flow

assumptions associated with the project.

Traffic flows associated with the proposed construction, operation and decommissioning phases

of the project will be estimated taking account of all construction activities related to borrow pits,

on-site batching, specifications, layout and design criteria, as well any forest extraction

requirements. These will be used to estimate the number of construction trips associated with

the development.

Traffic count data will be sourced from new traffic surveys undertaken by automatic traffic

counters located on the roads within the study area at the following four locations:

B954 (near its junction with the A926);

A926 (near its junction with the B954);

B952 Airlie Street in Aylth; and

Bamff Road near the site access.

The count data will be collected in vehicle classes with vehicle speeds per direction. Traffic

flows associated with committed developments within proximity of the site will be identified in

consultation with Perth & Kinross Council and included in the baseline traffic flows.

To enable the likely impacts during construction to be assessed, National Road Traffic Forecast

factors will be applied to the base year traffic flows. High-growth factors will be applied to

provide a robust assessment as they represent a higher than average traffic growth.

By determining the number of trips associated with the construction phases of the development,

the potential impact in terms of percentage increases of vehicle classes will be identified. From

these calculations and using the Institute of Environmental Assessment (IEA) guidelines, levels

of impact on the affected communities / receptors will be identified. The assessment will outline

the impact and severity of the proposed traffic on receptors and will propose mitigation

measures where necessary.

Accident data will be obtained to inform the traffic management element of the study. Indicative

access plans for the site junction will be prepared for consultation with Perth & Kinross Council.


39

Committed developments (as defined by the IHT standards) will be included where traffic

generation information can be advised by Perth & Kinross Council. In the absence of individual

data, a ‘High’ national road traffic forecast will be assumed to have accounted for any committed

schemes.

4.11 Air & Climate

4.11.1 Site Context

The assessment of impacts on air quality and climate change will consider the construction and

operational phases of the development. The operation of the wind farm will generate no direct

atmospheric emissions, however emissions will be generated during the construction phase of

the development.

The wind farm will offset emissions of gases from fossil fuel power stations which are believed

to contribute to climate change, however, emissions will be generated during the lifecycle of the

turbine, during the construction phase and potentially through the removal or modification of

carbon sinks (e.g. peat bogs or forest). In relation to Green Burn Wind Farm, the following

points are noted:

At least ten residential properties are located within approximately 2 km the site boundary,

with the closest properties approximately 300 m from the boundary. Potential exists for

adverse effects on air quality due to dust during construction activities; and

Desktop review of site hydrology/hydrogeology indicates potential for peat on site, thus

consideration of carbon emissions associated with modification to this carbon sink will

require to be considered. A small parcel of forestry is located within the site boundary,

therefore potential effects on carbon sequestration due to loss of forestry (if felled) will also

be considered.

4.11.2 Scope of Work and Method

Our method of assessment will be as follows:

The assessment of impacts on local air quality will consider emissions of combustion gases

generated from transport and plant associated with the construction of the wind farm, and

the potential for nuisance impacts on local receptors from fugitive dust emissions associated

with the construction phase of the development. The assessment will consider impacts to

receptors within 2 km from site infrastructure;

The assessment of air quality impacts will be desk-based, with baseline air quality levels

determined with reference to published data sources. The assessment of impacts on local air

quality will be undertaken as a screening assessment in line with Local Air Quality

Management Technical Guidance LAQM. TG(09) (2009);

The assessment of potential dust nuisance will be qualitative and will consider the likelihood

of adverse effects based on the likelihood of dust emissions, distance and orientation of

receptors to the site and prevailing meteorological conditions. The assessment will be desk

based and will utilise criteria set out in TG(09) guidance and Planning Advice Note PAN 50

Annex B: The Control of Dust at Surface Mineral Workings; and

A calculation of carbon payback will be undertaken in accordance with the method outlined

in the report Calculating Carbon Savings from Wind Farms on Scottish Peatlands - A New

Approach (2008) and subsequent amendments. The assessment will calculate an overall

carbon payback period for the wind farm based on:

Carbon emission savings (based on emissions from different power sources);

Loss of carbon due to production, transportation, erection, operation and dismantling of

the wind farm;

Loss of carbon from backup power generation;


40

Loss of carbon-fixing potential of peat land;

Loss and/or saving of carbon stored in peat land (by peat removal or changes in

drainage);

Loss and/or saving of carbon associated with tree felling;

Carbon saving due to improvement of habitat; and

Loss and/or saving of carbon-fixing potential as a result of forestry clearance.

The calculations will be undertaken using SEPA’s carbon calculator spreadsheet, with

suitable parameters applied to reflect site specific conditions where appropriate. Where

uncertainty exists over specific site conditions, up to 3 alternative scenarios will be

considered and the results of each presented to demonstrate the sensitivity of the payback

period to specific conditions on-site. The report will include details of all assumptions.


41

5 CONSULTATION

5.1 Scoping Consultations

An extensive consultation programme is planned for the Green Burn Wind Farm development,

involving both statutory and non-statutory stakeholders as well as members of the public.

To assist with EIA scoping, ABO Wind has already undertaken preliminary consultations with

Perth and Kinross Council and SNH. The programme of formal consultation begins with the

submission of this Scoping Report to Perth and Kinross Council.

The Statutory Consultees include Perth and Kinross Council, Scottish Environment Protection

Agency, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Water, Civil Aviation Authority, Transport Scotland

and Historic Scotland. Relevant non-statutory consultees will also be consulted throughout the

EIA process, many of which are identified in the various technical topic areas in Section 4 of this

Scoping Report.

5.2 Responses to Scoping

Consultees are invited to comment on environmental issues raised by the proposed

development, the scope of the EIA to be undertaken, the methods to be adopted in undertaking

the EIA, the content and structure of the ES, as presented in this Scoping Report. Consultees

are also invited to highlight any additional issues that they consider should be addressed within

the EIA and to identify any sources of information which may e of relevance to the EIA team.

All consultee responses would be directed, in writing to:

Lucy Forte

Project Manager

ABO Wind UK Ltd

Alba Innovation Centre

Alba Campus

Livingston

EH54 7GA

All responses will be considered and, where appropriate, the scope of the EIA will be amended

accordingly. The ES will present the outcomes of the scoping consultation process and explain

how comments were addressed in the EIA process and reported in the ES.

5.3 Public Consultation

Additional to the scoping consultation, a public consultation exercise will be undertaken during

the EIA and planning pre-application process. The public consultation will seek to inform the

local community of the proposals and to provide them with the opportunity to provide their views

on the proposed development. The outcomes of the public consultations, and how comments

were addressed in the EIA process, will be reported in the ES.


42

Page Intentionally Left Blank


FIGURES

Documents

GREEN BURN WIND FARM SCOPING REPORT · GREEN BURN WIND FARM SCOPING REPORT ... the Environmental Impact Assessment ... The EIA Scoping Report has been prepared taking into account