Loretta Joyce lireann Bosca OP Environmental …. Dosing pumps located adjacent to the storage tank operate on a

Loretta Joyce Environmental Licensing Programme

Ofice of Climate, Licensing & Resource Use

Environmental Protection Agency

PO Box 3000

Johnstown Castle Estate

Co. Wexford.

Ukce lireann Bosca OP 6000 Baile Atha Clhth 1 Eire

Irish Water PO Box 6000 Dublin 1 Ireland

r: +353 1 89 25000 F: ~ 3 5 3 t 89 25001 www.water.ie

4% Novemeber 2014

IW-ER-LTO 161

RE: Roosky Waste Water Discharge Licence Application (00408-01)

Dear LoreBta Joyce,

In response to the Regulation 18(3)(b)-l request for further information notice dated the 4th of March 2014, please find attached the Appropriate Assessment Screening Report for Roosky agglomeration as requested.

Best Regards,

Chiek Tebhnical Advisor

Stiirrthdiril Directon: R. Hynes(Chalrman). MMdicholas. J. Tferney. R Rno J Hall,B. MCKeorm, 8. Moore, M.Rae, C. Sheehy Oifig Chldraithe IRegkterd 0ffiie:Teach Cohifl, 24-26 Srlid Thalbbid, Baile k h a Cliath 1 lCoEvill House, 24-26Talboi Street. DuMin 1 Is cuideachla phn’obhaideach i Uisce fireann faoi theorainn scalreanna / Irish Water is a private company linitetl by shares Uimhir Chlhakhe in tirim/RegiEterd in Ireland No.: 530363

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Irish Water Report Appropriate Assessment Screening as part of the Roosky Waste Water Certificate of Authorisation: D0408-01

\'\ .... i I

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Contents

Introduction

Legislative Context

3

3

Methodology 5

Guidance Followed

Stages Involved in the Appropriate Assessment Process

Stage 1 : Screening I Test of Significance

Field Walkover Surveys

5

6

7

7

Consultation 7

Screening 8

Management of the Site 8

Description of the Project 8

Process Description Description of the Receiving Environment and Monitoring Results Waste Assimilative Capacity

Brief Description of the Natura 2000 Sites

Possible Effects of the Waste Water Discharge in the Natura 2000 Sites _I_- - __ -.

Direct, Indirect or Secondary Impacts Possible Cumulative Impacts with other Plans and Projects in the Area

8 I O 12

14

16

16 17

-

_-

Screening Assessment 17

likely Changes to the Natura 2000 Site(s) 19

Elements of the Project where the Impacts are Likely to b e Significant 19

Screening Conclusions and Statement

Finding of No Significant Effects Report Matrix

20

21

ii I Irish Water AA Screening - Roosky

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Introduction This report provides an Appropriate Assessment (AA) of the existing Waste Water Treatment Plant (WwTP) at Roosky, located in the North East of County Roscommon, for the purposes of the Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, 2007 (SI. No. 684 of 2007), as amended. It assesses whether the on-going operation of the plant, alone or in combination with other plans and projects, is likely to have significant effects on a Natura 2000 Site(s) in view of best scientific knowledge and the conservation objectives of the site(s). Natura 2000 Sites are those identified as sites of European Community importance designated as Special Areas of Conservation under the Habitats Directive or as Special Protection Areas under the Birds Directive.

This report follows the guidance for AA published by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ‘Note on Appropriate Assessments for the purposes of the Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, 2007 (SI. No. 684 of 2007)’ (EPA, 2009); and takes account of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government’s guidelines ‘Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland. Guidance for Planning Authorities’ (DoEHLG, 2009) and Circular La108 ‘Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes - Protection of Natural Heritage and National Monuments’ (DoEHLG, 2008).

This report was completed by RPS on behalf of Irish Water.

Legislative Context The Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora, better known as “The Habitats Directive”, provides legal protection for habitats and species of European importance. Articles 3 to 9 provide the legislative means to protect habitats and species of Community interest through the establishment and conservation of an EU-wide network of sites known as Natura 2000. These are Special Areas of Conservation (SACS) designated under the Habitats Directive and Special Protection Areas (SPAS) designated under the Conservation of Wild Birds Directive (7914091ECC) as codified by Directive 200911471EC.

Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of the Habitats Directive set out the decision-making tests for plans and projects likely to affect Natura 2000 sites (Annex 1 .I). Article 6(3) establishes the requirement for Appropriate Assessment (AA):

Any plan or prcject not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the [Natura 20001 site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subjected fo appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site’s conservation objectives. In lighf of fhe conclusions of the assessment of the implications for the site and subject to the provisions of paragraph 4, the competent national authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned and, if appropriate, after having obtained the opinion of the general public,

3 I Irish Water AA Screening - Roosky

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Article 6(4) states:

IC in spite of a negative assessment of the implications for the [Natura 20001 site and in the absence of alternative solutions, a plan or project must nevertheless be carried out for imperative reasons of overriding public interest, including those of a social or economic nature, Member States shall take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure that the overall coherence of Natura 2000 is protected. It shall inform the Commission of the compensatory measures adopted.


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Methodology Guidance Followed Both EU and national guidance exists in relation to Member States fulfilling their requirements under the EU Habitats Directive, with particular reference to Article 6(3) and 6(4) of that Directive. The methodology followed in relation to this AA Screening has had regard to the following guidance:

+

c

I

Note on Appropriate Assessments for the purposes of the Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, 2007 (S I . No. 684 of 2007). Environmental Protection Agency, (EPA, 2009).

Appropriate Assessme,nt of Plans and Projects in Ireland: Guidance for Planning Authorities. Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, (DoEHLG, 201 0).

Circular L8/08 -Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes - Protection of Natural Heritage and National Monuments. Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, (DoEHLG, 2008).

Communication from the Commission on the Precautionary Principle. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg, (EC, 2000a).

Managing Natura 2000 Sites: the provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg, (EC, 2000b).

Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Articles 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Brussels (EC, 2001 ).

Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the ‘Habitats Directive’ 92/43/EEC - Clarification of the concepts of: alternative solutions, imperative reasons of overriding public interest, compensatory measures, overall coherence, opinion of the Commission. Ofice for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg, (EC, 2007).

Nature and biodiversity cases: Ruling of the European Court of Justice. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg (EC, 2006).

Marine Natura Impact Statements in Irish Special Areas of Conservation: A working document, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Dublin (NPWS, 2012).

European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations, 201 I (SI. No.477 of 2011).

5 I frish Water AA Screening - Roosky

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e Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats. Version EUR 28. European Commission (EC, 2013).

Stages Involved in the Appropriate Assessment Process

Stage I: Screening I Test of Significance This process identifies whether the WwTP discharge is directly connected to or necessary for the management of a Natura 2000 Site(s); and identifies whether the discharge is likely to have significant impacts upon a Natura 2000 Site(s) either alone or in combination with other projects or plans.

The output from this stage is a determination for each Natura 2000 Site(s) of not significant, significant, potentially significant, or uncertain effects. The latter three determinations will cause that site to be brought fonvard to Stage 2.

Stage 2: Appropriate Assessment This stage considers the impact of the WwTP discharge on the integrity of a Natura 2000 Site@), either alone or in combination with other projects or plans. with respect to (1) the site's conservation objectives; and (2) the site's structure and function and its overall integrity. Additionally, where there are adverse impacts, an assessment of the potential mitigation of those impacts

The output from this stage is a Natura Impact Statement (NIS). This document must include sufficient information for the EPA to carry out the appropriate assessment, If the assessment is negative, i.e. adverse effects on the integrity of a site cannot be excluded, then the process must consider alternatives (Stage 3) or proceed to Stage 4.

Stage 3: Assessment of Alternatives This process examines alternative ways of achieving the objectives of the project or plan that avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the Natura 2000 Site. This assessment may be carried out concurrently with Stage 2 in order to find the most appropriate solution. If no alternatives exist or all alternatives would result in negative impacts to the integrity of the Natura 2000 Sites then the process either moves to Stage 4 or the project is abandoned.

Stage 4: Assessment Where Adverse Impacts Remain An assessment of compensatory measures where, in the light of an assessment of Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest (IROPI), it is deemed that the project or plan should proceed.


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Stage I: Screening I Test of Significance In complying with the obligations under Article 6(3) and following the appropriate guidelines, this AA Screening has been structured as a stage by stage approach as follows:

Description of the project;

Identification of Natura 2000 sites potentially affected;

- Identification and description of individual and cumulative impacts likely to result;

1 Assessment of the significance of the impacts identified above on site integrity;

e Exclusion of sites where it can be objectively concluded that there will be no significant effects: and

0 Screening conclusion.

Field Walkover Surveys Field walkover surveys were undertaken during 13m of June 2014 to identify the potential for quallfying species and habitats in the surrounding environs of the WwTP discharge.

Consultation The EPA, as the competent authority, will seek NPWS advice as may be required in reaching their decision. The NPWS can only communicate with the applicant (i.e. Irish Water) on request from the competent authority, when the formal application process to the competent authority has already commenced.


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Management of the Site The Roosky WwTP is not directly connected with or necessary to the management of any site for nature conservation.

Description of the Project Roosky is located in the North East of County Roscommon. The current residential population equivalent served by the WwTP is 574 p.e.

Roosky is served by a combined sewage network pumping to a WwTP (commissioned 2010). The WwTP was designed and constructed for a 2,600 p-e. and the treatment process consists of the following:-

e

rn Stormwater Storage a Biological Treatment;

Sedimentation Works; Sludge Treatment & Disposal;

rn

e Plant Controls.

Inlet works - Preliminary Treatment

Chemical dosing for Phosphorous Reduction and

The WwTP has been designed to the required effluent standard of: 4 25mgll BOD5 1 35mgll SS

125mg11 COD 2mgA Phosphorus (as P)

Tne primary discharge from the works is to the River Shannon, via a 225mm gravity outfall pipeline. There are three secondary discharge points for this facility. One is located at the Roosky Pumping Station, Co. Roscommon which has a 225mm emergency overflow pipe from the pump sump to a tributary of the River Shannon. The other two discharge points are located in Aghamore and Moher, County Leitrim. 'The Agharnore pumping station is equipped with a 300rnm emergency overflow pipe from the pump sump to a tributary of the River Shannon. The Moher pumping station also has an emergency overflow pipe from the pump sump to a tributary of the River Shannon.

Process Description Inlet Works - Preliminarv Treatment The influent arrives at the inlet works via a pumped rising main where it passes through an automatic fine inclined stepped screen. The screen is capable of passing the 6 times the Dry Weather Flow (DWF). Floating solids, paper, plastic, etc. are all removed from the flow, washed and compacted and deposited in a covered wheelie bin for removal off site. A grit classifier removes grit from the influent which is deposited in a separate covered wheelie bin for removal off site.

The treatment plant is designed for 3 DWF (1,755m3/day). Any screened flows above this ovetflow from the inlet works to the forward feed pumping station and pumped to the stormwater


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holding tank as required. When flows subside the stormwater is pumped back from the stormwater tank to the forward feed pumping chamber for onward treatment. There is an overflow on the stormwater tank, which allows screened and settled wastewater to overflow into the outfall pipeline. This may occur in extreme wet weather where the River Shannon would be in flood condition with a consequent high dilution factor.

Flow measurements are carried out on the rising main from the inlet sump to the aeration tanks via an electromagnetic flow meter. There is a ferric sulphate dosing point upstream of the aeration tanks at the flow splitting chamber.

Bloloaical Treatment The biological treatment stage comprises 2 No. aeration tanks with a Stahlerrnatic @ wheel providing aeration and an attached growth process.

Sedlmentation After the aeration stage, the mixed liquor is forwarded to the central bellmouth feed in the sedimentation tanks (2 No.). In the sedimentation tank, the sludge is settled out. The floor slopes into a central sump, where the sludge is gathered by rotating half bridge scrapers. The sludge that settles out in the bottom of the settlement tank is pumped to the sludge holding tank. A portion of the sludge is returned to the flow splitting chamber upstream of the aeration tanks in order to maintain the activated sludge process. Arty suspended matter which is less dense than water will rise to the surface and form a scum. Skimmer blades attached to the scraper bridge push the scum across the surface of the tank where it is discharged into a special sump called a scum box. From the scum box, it is pumped to the flow splitting chamber upstream of the aeration tanks.

The supernatant liquid from these tanks is decanted off the top through a v-notch overflow weir and baffle plate. The overflow weir and baffle runs around the periphery of the tank. The final effluent gravitates to the final effluent measurement and sampling chamber prior to discharge via the outfall into the River Shannon east of the boundary to the WwTP. There is continuous flow monitoring of the treated effluent discharging from the WwTP. Effluent samples are collected from the outlet sump via an automatic composite sampler.

The plant is designed such that the concentrations of BOD and suspended solids do not exceed 25 mgll and 35 mgll O2 in accordance with Table 1 of the Urban Wastewater Directive !Hl27l /EEC.

Sludse Treatment i& Disposal There is no sludge treatment on-site. Waste sludge from the settlement tanks at the WWTP is pumped to the sludge holding tank. The tank includes a supernatant draw off pipe, which returns the supernatant liquid directly to the inlet sump chamber where it mixes with the incoming effluent. The sludge is removed periodically from the sludge holding tank by a licensed service provider.

A facility for the removal of phosphorous has been incorporated into the WwTP. The phosphorous is removed by simultaneous precipitation by the addition of ferric sulphate, which acts as a coagulant. The ferric sulphate is injected into the flow splitting chamber upstream of the


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aeration tanks. Ferric sulphate is stored in a plastic bunded tank located adjacent to the aeration tanks. Dosing pumps located adjacent to the storage tank operate on a dutylstandby basis.

Reuse of Treated Effluent Final treated effluent is used as washwater for the inlet screen and for cleaning down the storm tank following storm events to reduce the consumption of potable water.

Description of the Receiving Environment and Monitoring Results All effluent from the Roosky WwTP discharges directly to the River Shannon. The Roosky WwTP is surrounded by palisade fencing and is dominated by hard surfaces within its boundaries. The northern and southern sections of land adjacent to the WwTP facility are consistent with Dry- humid acid grassland (GS3) (Fossitt, 2000). Along the fence boundary on the northern side there is a treeline of Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), and Willow (Salix spp.). Hawthorn is the dominant species of the two. The open ground area has a small, drainage ditch adjacent to the treeline before the wider expanse of open ground begins. The open ground area consists of mainly grasses i.e. Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus), Red fescue (Festuca rubra), Creeping buttercup (Ranunculus repens), Sweet-vernal grass (Anthoxanthum odoraturn), Meadow grass (Poa annua) and Rough meadow-grass (Poa friviak). Rushes present were Common rush (Juncus efusus) and Hard rush (Juncus inflexus). Forb species observed were White clover (Trifolium repens), Silverweed (Potentilla anserina) and Creeping cinquefoil (Potentilla reptans).

The western side of the facility (between the front of the entrance gate and the road) is an Amenity grassland (improved) GA2 (Fossitt, 2000) with Curled dock (Rumex crispus), Creeping buttercup, Common Sedge (Carex nigra) Red clover (Trifolium pratense) and rushes that were recently cut so identification was not possible. A small patch of stone chippings is present between the fence and this section of GAI grassland which hosts Black medick (Medicago lupuha), White clover and Creeping bent (Agrosfis stolonifera).

The eastern side of the WwTP is an extension of more mature Hawthorn (Crataegus rnonogyna), Willow (Salix spp.), Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Alder (Alnus glutinosa). This area is in between the WwTP and the outfall point. The discharge pipe is running underneath the ground of this area. The land that appears, on aerial photography, to be grassland area on the eastern side of this treeline is now gravel covered construction site. Waterways Ireland is currently carrying out works on the dock present next to the discharge point. The works planning file reference number is 12388.

The discharge point itself is enveloped by a small section of scrubhoodland most consistent with WN5 Riparian Woodland despite its small, narrow size. The canopy layer is Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Alder (Alnus glutinosa).The vegetation consists of Herb robed (Geranium roberfianum), Nettle (Uriica dioica) and Bramble (Rubus fiuticosus agg) . Reed canary-grass (fhalaris arundinacea), Yellow Iris (Iris pseudacorus), Yellow water-lily (Nuphar lutea) is also present and is concealing the discharge point.

Downstream of WwTP Discharne Point The WwTP discharges directly into the River Shannon, flowing south. The East bank of the river has a GA2 amenity grassland verge with a cyclinglwalking path that leads down to Roosky Lock Gates as well as providing access to several jetty’s for private boat owners along the bank, The

10 I Irish Water AA Screening - RoosKy

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treeline on the bankside is a single line of Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), Alder (Alnus glufinosa) as the canopy layer with a field layer of Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), Bush vetch (Vicia sepium), Chickweed (Cerastium fontanurn), White clover, Red clover, Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum), Daisy (Bellis perennis) and Hawthorn (Crataegus rnonogyna). Grasses include Creeping Bent and Red fescue. On the bankside of the pathway there is a more densely populated section of Ash and Alder dominated woodland. Yellow water-lily is scattered along the east bank of the river.

The West Bank of the River Shannon consists of a dense treeline of Ash and Alder dominated woodland. Stands of Reed canary-grass are present in sections closer to the Roosky Lock gates and absent for approx. 700-800m downstream of the discharge point.

Upstream of the WwTP Discharrre Point The immediate area upstream of the discharge point is an water-based amenity area .i.e. private jetty's, fishing supplies shop and public pier for approximately 0.26km north joining a bridge which traverses the River. Access was not possible to the upstream areas of the bridge but clear views were available from points on the road along the East bank. The west bank appears to be Riparian woodland that is slightly denser than downstream of the bridge. The East sides of the river appear to be dense Reedbed systems, with small sections of Riparian woodland beginning about 300-400m upstream of the bridge.

c I.

lmane I - Rooskv WwTP lmaae 2 - Rooskv WwTP dischame point

lmaae 3 - WwTP dischame point view from East bank of River Shannon

lmaae 4 - East riverbank of River Shannon opposite dischame point


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The EPA biological water quality monitoring currently classifies the water quality in the River Shannon upstream of the discharge location to be (23-4, Moderate Status, Station: Br E of Dromond. This monitoring station is approximately 3.5km upstream of the discharge location. The EPA monitoring station downstream of the discharge point, at Roosky dls Lock (LHS) currently classifies the water quality to be Q3-4, Moderate Status also. A summary of the Q Values are provided in Table I .O below.

Carbonaceous BOD

Ammonia (as NH3 - N)

A summary of the monitoring data provided by Roscommon County Council for the period 2012 to 2014 for upstream and downstream of the WwTP discharge point is provided in Table 1.0.

33 2.19

7.91 0.046

Table I .O: Monitoring Data both Upstream and Downstream of WwTP Discharge

I- BOD S2.6 1.32

Ammonia (as NH3 - N) 50.14 0.032 0.018

Orthophosphate 50.075 0.008 0.01 1 *European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations 2009, S.I. No. 272 of 2009

(95%ile standards presented).

The downstream monitoring results show that the River Shannon water quality is in compliance with Schedule 5 of the Surface Water Regulations and does not appear to be impacted by the WwTP discharge.

A summary of the monitoring data provided by Roscommon County Council for the period 2012 to 2014 for concentrations before (Influent) and after (Effluent) treatment is provided in Table 2.0

Table 2.0: Concentrations before (Influent) and after (Effluent) treatment. I Influent Effluent

I Orthophosphate I 0.7 I 0.31 I

From the table above it is evident that the Roosky WwTP facility is working within the parameters for BOD, Ammonia and Orthophosphate. The influent materials are entering the treatment system at typical high concentrations and are being discharged as effluent into the receiving water body and not having a negative impact on the composition of the River Shannon, and as a result the Lough Forbes Complex SAC downstream.

Waste Assimilative Capacity Table 3.0 summaries the assimilative capacity calculations which are based on the 2020 estimated loading of 5,73 p.e., 95%ile river flow and water quality standards in the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Water) Regulations, 2009 (S.I. No. 272 of 2009). Assimilative capacity calculations use both actual background concentrations and the ‘notionally clean river’ approach.


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Table 3.0: Assimilative capacity calculations at estimated 2020 loadings of 573 p.e. for actual background concentrations and for a notionally clean river.

Parameter Background Predicted EQS* (mgll) ( mg/U downstream

I 1 quality (mgll) - BOD Actual Background C l 1 .oo 52.6

Notionally Clean 0.260 0.26

Ammonia Actual Background 0.032 0.03 50.14

Notionallv Clean 0.008 0.01

Orthophosphate Actual Background 0.008 0.01 S0.075 Notionally Clean 0.005 0.01

*European Communities Environmental Objectives [Surface Waters) Regulations 2009, S.I. No. 272 of 2009 (95%ile standards presented).

Using both the actual background concentrations and the notional clean river concentrations demonstrates that the River Shannon has available assimilative capacity to accommodate the WwTP discharge.


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Brief .Description of the Natura 2000 Sites

This section of the screening process describes the Natura 2000 sites within a 15km radius of the WwTP discharge location. A 15km buffer zone has been chosen as a precautionaty measure, to ensure that all potentially affected Natura 2000 sites are included in the screening process, which is in line with Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland. Guidance for Planning Authorities (DoEHLG, 2009)

Table 4.0 lists the SACs and Table 5.0 lists the SPAs that are within 15km of the WwTP discharge location, and Figure 1.0 shows their location in relation to the Roosky WwTP discharge. The qualifying interests of each of the identified Natura 2000 Sites are also provided.

Table 4.

Site Code

002348

001818

002346

001626

SACs locati -~ __________ Site Name

._ __ ._ __ Cloonen Bog SAC

Lough Forbes Complex SAC

Brown Bog SAC

Annaghmore Lough

SAC

I within 15km from Roosky WwTP discharge

Qualifying Habitats

Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration [7120]; Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhyncbosporion [7150]; and * Bog woodland [91DO]. Natural euthrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition-ty pe

vegetation [3150]; *Active raised bogs [7T10];

Degraded raised bogs still capable of

natural regeneration [7120]; Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion [7150]; and Old sessile oak woods with //ex and Blecbnum in British Isles [91AO].

Active raised bogs [71 IO]; Degraded raised bogs still capable of

natural regeneration 171201; and Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion [7150].

Alkaline fens [7230].

indicates a priority habitat under the Habitats Directive.

Qurallfy Spi

Geyer's Whorl Snail (Verfigo

geyerd [1013].

SPAs located within 15km from Roosky WwTP discharge ___-_- Table 5.0: 7--

-

Greenland White-fronted Goose

__._I______---. - 004101 Ballykenny-Fishertown Wintering Specks

Bog SPA


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Possible Effects of the Waste Water Discharge in the Natura 2000 Sites

The purpose of this section of the screening is to examine the possibility that the proposed waste water discharge, either individually or ir! combination with other plans and projects, may result in significant negative effects on the Conservation Objectives and the integrity of the Natura 2000 Sites identified.

The most apparent potential risk to a Natura 2000 Site(s) from a WwTP discharge is to the water quality of the receiving environment, and if the receiving environments water quality has the potential to interact with the qualifying interests of the Natura 2000 Sites identified.

The WwTP discharges to the River Shannon, which flows through Lough Forbes SAC and Ballykenny-Fishertown Bog SPA, are located 5km downstream of the discharge location.

Direct, Indirect or Secondary Impacts Tables 4.0 and 5.0 provide details on the Natura 2000 sites within 15km of the Roosky WwTP discharge location. There are five sites in all, 4 SACS and 1 SPA. The waste water discharge location is not within the boundaries of any SAC or SPA; therefore, no direct impacts will occur through landtake or fragmentation of habitats.

The primary influencing factor in relation to the dilution capacity of the receiving environment is the river flows into which the outfall discharges. Using both the actual background concentrations and the notional clean river concentrations demonstrates that the River Shannon has assimitative capacity to accommodate the WwTP discharge. There is significant dilution capacity within the River Shannon at this location to assimilate discharges from the Waste Water Works. On a normal day, the flow in the river is 6,222 times that being discharged from the plant (based on a 95%ile flow of 22.4m3/sec), thus there is significant dilution of the effluent stream in the river. Physiochemical water quality monitoring in the River Shannon both upstream and downstream of the primary and secondary discharges from the waste Water works indicates that the discharges from the works are in compliance with Schedule 5 of the Surface Water Regulations and are not having an impact on the receiving environment, and therefore would not impact on the downstream receiving Natura 2000 Sites (i.e. Lough Forbes Complex SAC and Ballykenny-Fishertown Bog SPA are located 5km downstream of the discharge location).

In accordance with the Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 684 of 2007) the waste water discharged from Roosky WwTP does not negatively impact on the water quality of the River Shannon, and therefore, will not impact on the conservation objectives of the downstream receiving Natura 2000 Sites, Lough Forbes Complex SAC and Ballykenny- Fishertown Bog SPA which it directly flows into downstream of the discharge location. No significant adverse impacts on the water dependent qualifying habitats Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharifion-type vegetation [3150]; Active raised bogs [71 IO]; Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration 17220j; and Depressions on peat substrates of the Rbyncbosporion [7150j of the Lough Forbes Complex SAC, or Greenland White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons flavirostris) species of the Ballykenny-Fishertown Bog SPA are anticipated as a result of the waste water discharge from Roosky WwTP.


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No significant adverse impacts on the qualifying interests of the remaining Natura 2000 Sites identified within 15km of the discharge location is considered likely due to the treated nature of the effluent and that there are no connecting pathways (i.e. rivers or streams) between these Natura 2000 Sites and the discharge location.

Possible Cumulative Impacts with other Plans and Projects in the Area As part of Stage I Screening, in addition to the proposed waste water discharge, other relevant projects and plans in the relevant region must also be considered. This step aims to identify at this early stage any possible significant effects on the Natura 2000 Sites from the waste water discharge in-combination or cumulative with other plans and projects. Existing plans and projects which have been examined include:

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Roscommon County Development Plan 2014-2020 ; Leitrim County Development Plan 2015-2021; Western River Basin Management Plan 2009-201 5; Upper Shannon Water Management Unit Action Plan: Biodiversity Action Plan 2010 - 201 5; and Existing Roosky Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The above plans have been assessed in accordance with Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive and Part XAB of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, and are not envisaged to result in significant effects on the integrity of the Natura 2000 network.

The historic (2009) upstream monitoring results indicate that the River Shannon is already being impacted prior to the WwTP discharge. However, this monitoring data also demonstrates that the water quality within the River Shannon is in compliance with Schedule 5 of the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Water) Regulations 2009 (S.I. No. 272 of 2009).

Screening Assessment Table 6.0 provides a summary of the likely significant impact of the current waste water discharge on the conservation objectives of the identied Natura 2000 site in Tables 4.0 and 5.0.


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Table 6.0: Potential Significant Impacts on Natura 2000 sites from the Roosky Waste Water Discharge

Site Name

Cloonen Bog SAC

Lough Forbes Complex SAC

Brown Bog SAC

Annaghmore Lough SAC

Ballykenny- Fishertown Bog SPA

Direct Impacts

No impact on qualifying interest No impact on qualifying interest No impact on qualifying interest No impact on qualifying interest No impact on qualifying interest

Indirect/ Secondary

Resource Requirements (Drinking Water Abstraction Etc.)

No impact on No impact on qualifying qualifying interest interest





Emissions (Disposal to Land, Water or Air)

Excavation Requirements






Transportation Requirements

Duration of Construction, Operation, Decommissioning


No impact on Ongoing qualifying interest



No impact qualifying interest

on No impact on qualifying interest


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Likely Changes to the Natura 2000 Site(s) The likely changes that will arise from the Roosky waste water discharge have been examined in the context of a number of factors that could potentially affect the integrity of the identified Natura 2000 Sites. Overall, it has been found that the current waste water discharge will not affect the integrity of the identified Natura 2000 Sites.

Table 7.0: Llkely Affec Site Name Reduction

of Habitat Area

Cloonen Bog SAC None Lough Forbes None . Complex SAC I Brown Bog SAC I None Annaghrnore

Ballykenny- Fishertown Bog

:I ~ on Natura 2000 Sites

Elements of the Project where the Impacts are Llkely to be Significant No elements of the current waste water discharge are likely to cause significant impacts on NATURA 2000 Sites.


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Screening Conclusions and Statement The likely impacts that will arise from the current waste water discharge have been examined in the context of a number of factors that could potentially affect the integrity of the Natura 2000 network. Lough Forbes Complex SAC and Ballykenny-Fishertown Bog SPA are within 15km of the discharge location.

On the basis of the findings of this Screening for Appropriate Assessment of Natura 2000 Sites, it is concluded that the current waste water discharge from the Roosky WwTP will not have a significant effect on the Natura 2000 network and a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment is not required.

A finding of No Significant Effects Matrix has been completed and is presented in next section of this Screening Statement.

20 Irish Water AA Screening - Roosky

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Finding of No Significant Effects Report Matrix

21 1 Irish Water AA Screening - Roosky

Roosky Waste Water Certificate of Authorisation: D0408-01.

Cloonen Bog SAC; Lough Forbes Complex SAC; Brown Bog SAC; Annaghmore Lough SAC: and Ballykenny-Fishertown Bog SPA Roosky is located in the North East of Count) Roscommon. The current residential populatior equivalent served by the WwTP is 574 p-e.

Roosky is served by a combined sewage network pumping to a WwTP (commissioned 2010). The WwTF was designed and constructed for a 2,600 p.e. and the treatment process consists of the following:-

Inlet works - Preliminary Treatment; * Biological Treatment;

Sedimentation Works;

Plant Controls.

Sludge Treatment & Disposal; and

The WwTP has been designed to the required effluenl standard of

0 25mgllBOD5

35mghSS

2rng/l Phosphorus (as P)

The primary discharge from the works is to the River Shannon, via a 225mm gravity outfall pipeline. There are three secondary discharge points for this facility. One is located at the Roosky Pumping Station, Co. Roscommon which has a 225mm emergency overRow pipe from the pump sump to a tributary of the River Shannon. The other two discharge points are located in Aghamore and Moher, County Leitrim. The Aghamore pumping station is equipped with a 300mm emergency ovefiow pipe from the pump sump to a tributary of the River Shannon. The Moher pumping station also has an emergency overtlow pipe from the pump sump to a tributary of the River Shannon.

Descriotion of the Receivins Environment and Monitorinq Results

All effluent from the Roosky WwTP discharges directly to the River Shannon. The EPA biological water quality monitoring currently classifies the water quality in the River Shannon upstream of the discharge location to be Q3-4, Moderate Status, Station: Br E of Dromond. This

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- Is the project or plan directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site?

Are there other projects or plans that together with the project or plan being assessed could affect the site?

__ monitoring station is approximately 3.5km upstreamof the discharge location. The EPA monitoring station downstream of the discharge point, at Roosky d/s Lock (LHS) currently classifies the water quality to be Q3-4, Moderate Status also.

Waste Assimilative Capacity

Appropriate biological surveys carried out by the EPA (circa. 2009); have shown that there is significant dilution capacity within the receiving waters to assimilate discharges from the Waste Water Works. Physiochemical water quality monitoring in the River Shannon both upstream and downstream of the primary and secondaty discharges from the WwTP indicates that the discharges from the works are not having an impact on the receiving environment.

No.

No.

The Assessment d Significance OP Effects

Describe how the project or plan (alone or in combination) is likely to affect the European Site(s).

Explain why these effects are not considered significant.

-._ -I..I____ ---_ ^.___-_____..._..___.__.I The purpose of this section of the screening is to examine the possibility that the proposed waste water discharge, either individually or in combination with other plans and projects, may result in significant negative effects on the Conservation Objectives and the integrity of the Natura 2000 Sites identified.

The most apparent potential risk to a Natura 2000 Site(s) from a WwTP discharge is to the water quality of the receiving environment, and if the receiving environments water quality has the potential to interact with the qualifying interests of the Natura 2000 Sites identified.

The WwTP discharge to the River Shannon, which flows through the Lough Forbes Complex and Ballykenny- Fishertown Bog SPA approx. 5km downstream of the discharge location.

The waste water discharge location is not within the boundaries of any SAC or SPA: therefore, no direct impacts will occur through landtake or fragmentation of habitats.

The EPA sampling of the area from 2009 has shown there is no significant impacts being caused as a result of the discharges from Roosky WwTP, and therefore would be unlikely to impact on the downstream receiving Natura 2000 Sites (i.e. Lough Forbes Complex SAC and Ballykenny-Fishertown Bog SPA). The 2009 upstream and downstream monitoring results demonstrate that the River Shannon water quality is in compliance with Schedule 5 of the Surface Water Regulations and does not appear to be impacted by the WwTP discharge. The


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List of agencies consulted: provide contact name and telephone ore- mail address.

assirnilativecapacity accommodate the ~ WwTP discharge.

In accordance with the Waste Water Discharge {Authorisation) Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 684 of 2007) the waste water discharged from Roosky WwTP does not negatively impact on the water quality of the River Shannon, and therefore, will not impact on the conservation objectives of the downstream receiving Natura 2000 Sites, Lough Forbes Complex SAC and Ballykenny-Fishertown Bog SPA which it directly flows into downstream of the discharge location. No significant adverse impacts on the water dependent qualifying habitats Natural euthrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition-type vegetation [3150]; Active raised bogs [7110]; Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration [7120]; and Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion [7150] of the Lough Forbes Complex SAC, or Greenland White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons Aavirostris) species of the Ballykenny- Fishertown Bog SPA are anticipated as a result of the waste water discharge from Roosky WwTP.

Given the results of the 2009 sampling by the EPA and the assimilative capacity of the River Shannon, it is likely that there will be no significant adverse effects to the Natura 2000 sites linked to the River Shannon from Roosky WwTP

The EPA, as the competent authority, will seek NPWS advice as may be required in reaching their decision. The NPWS can only communicate with the applicant on request from the competent authority, when the formal application process to the competent authority has already commenced.

Data Collected to Carry Out the Assessment

Who camed out the assessment? I RPS on behalf of Irish Water I Sources of data NPWS database;

EPA database; WFD Ireland database: and Information from Irish Water.

Desktop and Field walkover survey Level of assessment completed

Where can the full results of the assessment be accessed and viewed?

Overall Conclusion

EPA

Stage 1 Screening indicates that the Roosky WwTP discharge is not having a significant negative impact on the Natura 2000 network. Therefore, a Stage 2 'Appropriate Assessment' under Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC is not required.


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Licensing Notice - Unsolicited Correspondence - 1 for RooskyLicence (D0408-01)

Licence: Roosky (D0408-01)

Action Type: Licensing Notice

Dear Loretta Joyce I refer to your letter dated 04/03/14. Please find attached copy of correspondence issued today. Note that this Reg.18(3)(b) Notice does not appear in the EDEN system, hence I am submitting as unsolicited correspondence. Regards Thomas Shryane Regional Wastewater Treatment Specialist, Irish Water

Issued On: 04/11/2014

ClosedStatus Reason:

Unsolicited CorrespondenceStatus History Action:

Associated Documents • IW-ER-LT0161_Roosky_RFI response Final.pdf

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