South Ayrshire Council Proposed South Ayrshire Local … c.pdf · 2012-08-22 · C4.3 Bedrock Aquifers and Groundwater Vulnerability 25. South Ayrshire Council SEA Baseline Report

South Ayrshire Council Proposed South Ayrshire Local Development Plan Strategic Environmental Assessment Appendix C: Baseline Report

August 2012

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South Ayrshire Council SEA Baseline Report

Contents

C1 Introduction 1 C1.1 Background 1 C1.2 Context 1

C2 Biodiversity 3 C2.1 Biodiversity SEA Objectives 3 C2.2 International Designations 3 C2.2.1 Special Areas of Conservation 4 C2.2.2 Special Protection Areas 4 C2.2.3 Important Bird Areas 5 C2.3 National Designations 6 C2.3.1 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) 6 C2.3.2 Areas of Special Protection (AoSP) 7 C2.4 Distribution of National and International Sites 7 C2.5 Important Species and Habitats 7 C2.5.1 European Protected Species 7 C2.5.2 Priority Species and Habitats 8 C2.6 Non Statutory Locally Designated Sites 10 C2.7 Biodiversity Features in proximity to South Ayrshire 11 C2.8 Future Trends 12 C2.8.1 Designated Sites 12 C2.8.2 BAP Objectives 12 C2.8.3 Climate Change Effects 13

C3 Cultural Heritage 14 C3.1 Cultural Heritage SEA Objectives 14 C3.2 Designated Sites 14 C3.2.1 Scheduled Monuments 14 C3.2.2 Listed Buildings 15 C3.2.3 Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes 15 C3.3 Conservation Areas 17 C3.4 Buildings at Risk 18 C3.5 Archaeological Sites 18 C3.5.1 Marine Archaeological Sites 18 C3.6 Tree Preservation Orders 18 C3.7 Future Trends 18

C4 Water Environment 20 C4.1 Water SEA Objectives 20 C4.2 Watercourses 20 C4.2.1 River Ayr 20 C4.2.2 River Doon 21 C4.2.3 Water of Girvan 22 C4.2.4 River Stinchar 23 C4.2.5 Coastal Areas 23 C4.3 Bedrock Aquifers and Groundwater Vulnerability 25


C4.4 Future Trends 25 C4.4.1 Water Quality 25 C4.4.2 Groundwater Quality 26 C4.4.3 Bathing Waters 26 C4.4.4 Flooding 26

C5 Soils and Geology 27 C5.1 Soils and Geology SEA Objectives 27 C5.1.1 Local Geology 27 C5.1.2 Geological Resources 28 C5.1.3 Designated Sites 29 C5.2 Soils 30 C5.2.1 Sand and Gravel 30 C5.2.2 Brick Clay 30 C5.2.3 Peat Resources 31 C5.3 Agricultural Land 31 C5.4 Vacant and Derelict Land 31 C5.5 Future Trends 32 C5.5.1 Soils 32 C5.5.2 Agricultural Land 32 C5.5.3 Vacant and Derelict Land 32 C5.5.4 Climate Change 32

C6 Landscape 34 C6.1 Landscape SEA Objectives 34 C6.2 Designated Sites 34 C6.3 Landscape Character Assessment 34 C6.4 Future Trends 35

C7 Air Quality 36 C7.1 Air Quality SEA Objectives 36 C7.2 Existing Air Quality in South Ayrshire 36 C7.2.1 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) 36 C7.2.2 Fine Particles (PM10) 36 C7.2.3 Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) 37 C7.2.4 Benzene 37 C7.2.5 Ozone 37 C7.2.6 Other Pollutants 37 C7.2.7 Implications 37 C7.3 Adjoining Council Areas 38 C7.3.1 East Ayrshire Council 38 C7.3.2 North Ayrshire Council 38 C7.3.3 Dumfries and Galloway Council 38 C7.4 Future Trends 38 C7.4.1 Air Quality Management Areas 38 C7.4.2 Climate Change Effects 38

C8 Climatic Factors 40 C8.1 Climatic SEA Objectives 40 C8.2 Carbon Dioxide Emissions 40 C8.2.1 Council Obligations 41 C8.3 Renewable Energy 41


C8.3.1 Energy Efficiency 41 C8.4 Local Climatic Conditions 41 C8.5 Future Trends 41 C8.5.1 Climate Change 41 C8.5.2 Carbon Dioxide Emissions 42 C8.5.3 Energy Efficiency 42

C9 Noise 44 C9.1 Noise SEA Objectives 44 C9.2 Noise Complaints 44 C9.2.1 Noise Exposure Levels 44 C9.3 Noise Sensitive Receptors 45 C9.3.1 Scottish Noise Mapping 45 C9.3.2 Sensitive Nature Conservation Areas 45 C9.4 Future Trends 45

C10 Human Health 48 C10.1 Human Health SEA Objectives 48 C10.2 General Health 48 C10.3 Obesity 48 C10.4 Physical Activity and Recreation 49 C10.4.1 Active Travel 49 C10.4.2 Physical Activity 49 C10.4.3 Recreational Facilities 50 C10.5 Accident Statistics 50 C10.6 Future Trends 51 C10.6.1 Obesity and Active Travel 51 C10.6.2 Road Safety 51

C11 Population 53 C11.1 Population SEA Objectives 53 C11.2 South Ayrshire Population Profile 53 C11.3 Demography 53 C11.4 Economic Development and Employment 54 C11.4.1 Economy 54 C11.4.2 Employment 54 C11.5 Community Facilities 55 C11.6 Accessibility 56 C11.7 Disability and Mobility 57 C11.8 Future Trends 57 C11.8.1 Demographics 57 C11.8.2 Community Facilities 57 C11.8.3 Accessibility 57

C12 Material Assets 58 C12.1 Material Assets SEA Objectives 58 C12.2 Natural Resources 58 C12.2.1 Primary Aggregates 58 C12.2.2 Secondary Aggregates 58 C12.2.3 Quarries 58


C12.2.4 Renewable Energy Practises 59 C12.3 Existing Transport Infrastructure 60 C12.4 Existing Industrial Areas 60 C12.5 Waste Management 61 C12.6 Water and Waste Water Assets 61 C12.7 Future Trends 62 C12.7.1 Aggregates 62 C12.7.2 Renewable Energy Usage 62 C12.7.3 Transport Infrastructure 63 C12.7.4 Recycling 63 C12.7.5 Waste Management 63 C12.7.6 Water and Waste Water Assets 63

C13 References 65

Annex A Biodiversity Features 69

Annex B Cultural Heritage Features 77

Annex C Water Quality 84

Annex D Soils and Geology – Vacant and Derelict Land Survey 2008 88


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C1 Introduction

C1.1 Background

Section 14(3) of the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 requires the Environmental Report to include information identified in Schedule 3 as may be reasonably required. Schedule 3 requires information on the relevant aspects of the current state of the environment and the likely evolution thereof without implementation of the plan or programme.

This document provides the environmental baseline for the SEA of the Proposed South Ayrshire Local Development Plan (PSALDP), setting out the current environmental conditions in South Ayrshire, and where possible, the likely future evolution of the environment without the intervention of the PSALDP. The environmental baseline considers the environmental parameters of biodiversity, population, human health, air quality, climatic factors, soils and geology, landscape, cultural heritage, water, and material assets. The baseline information contained within this report aims to provide a level of information that assists in addressing the defined SEA objectives and indicator questions identified for the environmental parameters and to assist in the environmental assessment process.

C1.2 Context

South Ayrshire is located on the south west coast of Scotland and is bordered by the Council areas of North Ayrshire, East Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway. The area covered by South Ayrshire council covers approximately 422 square miles, and has a population of 112,097, with the main centres of population located at Ayr, Girvan, Prestwick, Troon and Maybole.

The key transport routes relevant to South Ayrshire include the A77, A71 and A76, providing connections to Glasgow to the north, Stranraer to the south, Edinburgh to the north east and Dumfries to the south east. South Ayrshire is also served by rail links connecting to the central belt and Dumfries and Galloway. Prestwick airport in the north of the Council area is one of Scotland’s main airports, providing national and international connections.

South Ayrshire’s environment is rich and diverse and there are a number of environmentally important sites that are designated at an international, national and local level and hence protected from degradation, for example a key geological and biological feature is Ailsa Craig in the Firth of Clyde.

The following sections of the report will provide the details of the current and future state of the environment within South Ayrshire for each environmental parameter.


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C2 Biodiversity

C2.1 Biodivers ity SEA Objec tives

Biodiversity can be defined as the total variety of living organisms on earth, including all species of plants and animals and their associated habitats. The biodiversity environmental baseline as presented below focuses on providing information that will assist in addressing the SEA objectives and questions as set out in Table 2-1.

In line with present guidance (Therivel, 2004), the biodiversity resources within the Council area have been considered along with resources within other areas which may be affected by the final LDP. In general, the location of interventions in other areas will not be known within the SAC preparation and so external effects on biodiversity resources will be considered through the adoption of principles concerning recommendations for regional development. However as sites in close proximity to the SAC LDP boundaries can be divergently affected by interventions held within the Local Plan, this SEA has extend the boundary of study for the biodiversity impacts to the border of SAC plus 2 km.

Table 2-1: Biodiversity SEA Objectives

SEA Objective Questions

Ensure the integrity and conservation objectives of all internationally designated sites within or in close proximity to the SAC area are preserved.

Could a European designated site be affected in terms of either extent, or quality as a result of development?

Safeguard designated sites, habitats (particularly hedgerows and woodland) & priority species from loss and fragmentation.

Could the policy/proposal have a beneficial or adverse effect on issues of habitat loss, fragmentation and disturbance?

Biodiversity should be enhanced & protected in line with Local Biodiversity Action Plan targets.

Could the policy/proposal have a direct or indirect impact on designated biodiversity sites, habitats or priority species including those within the LBAP?

C2.2 In te rnational Des igna tions

Natura 2000 sites are the European network of protected sites, representing the highest value of rare, endangered or vulnerable natural habitats and species of plants and animals identified under the EC Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC). Natura 2000 sites include Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), designated under the EC Habitats Directive and Special Protection Areas (SPAs), designated under the EC Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds (79/409/EEC). There are also Ramsar sites, designated under the Ramsar convention for the protection of important wetlands; however there are none found within South Ayrshire.

Several Important Bird Areas (IBAs) are present in South Ayrshire. The European IBA programme aims to identify, monitor and protect key sites for birds to ensure that the conservation value of over 4,000 IBAs in Europe is maintained and, where possible, enhanced (Bird Life International, 2009). Figure 2-1 details all internationally designated sites.

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C2.2.1 Specia l Areas of Cons erva tion

There are currently two SACs within South Ayrshire; Lendalfoot Hills Complex SAC and Merrick Kells SAC.

Lendalfoot Hills Complex SAC

(classified in 2003)

Location and Size: The site is located southwest of South Ayrshire (grid reference at centre – 045315W, 551129N). The total size of the individual sites of this SAC is 1309.71 hectares.

Qualifying Features: Lendalfoot Hills Complex supports the following Annex 1 habitats: Species-rich Nardus grassland, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (priority feature) and alkaline fens. The site also supports the following Annex 1 habitats but these are not the primary reason for selection: Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix, European dry heaths, Calaminarian, grasslands of the Violetalia calaminariae, transition mires and quaking bogs (JNCC, 2007ii). Vulnerabilities: The complex mosaic of interest features fall within agricultural holdings and their maintenance is dependent on differing grazing and management regimes. Approximately 50% of the site is covered by management agreements which permit SNH to monitor the condition of the habitat and recommend adjustments if necessary to the level and intensity of grazing and the application of artificial fertilisers. Consideration is being given to similar management agreements for the remainder of the site (JNCC, 2006i).

Merrick Kells SAC

Location and Size: The site is situated in the southern part of South Ayrshire, crossing over into Dumfries and Galloway and extending into East Ayrshire (grid reference at centre – 042645W, 550800N). The site extends 8698.3 hectares.

Qualifying Features: This site qualifies by supporting the following Annex 1 habitats: Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix, siliceous alpine and boreal grasslands and blanket bogs (priority feature). The site also supports the following Annex 1 habitats (although not the primary reason for selection): oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea, natural dystrophic lakes and ponds, European dry heaths, depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion, Siliceous scree of the montane to snow levels (Androsacetalia alpinae and Galeopsietalia ladani) and siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation. The site also supports the Annex II qualifying species, otter (Lutra lutra) (JNCC 2007ii).

Vulnerabilities: Grazing levels on this large upland site are generally low, though there are some localised overgrazed areas and the existing grazing tenancies are currently under review. A small part of the site is a National Nature Reserve (NNR), but SNH's NNR Review has recommended expansion of this to cover a larger part of the SAC under Forest Enterprise ownership (JNCC, 2006ii).

C2.2.2 Specia l Pro tection Areas

There are currently two SPAs in South Ayrshire; Ailsa Craig SPA and Glen App – Galloway Moors SPA.

Ailsa Craig SPA


http://www.jncc.gov.uk/ProtectedSites/SACselection/habitat.asp?FeatureIntCode=H4010�




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Location and Size: Ailsa Craig is situated in the outer part of the Firth of Clyde, in the west of South Ayrshire. Ailsa Craig is 99.94 hectares in size.

Qualifying Features: Ailsa Craig is a cone-shaped granitic island with cliffs rising to 100m, providing nesting sites for a range of seabird species. Notably this includes one of the largest colonies of Gannet (Morus bassanus) in the world which is a qualifying species for the designation. The seabirds nesting in this area feed in surrounding waters outside the SPA as well as further afield.

The site qualifies under Article 4.2 of the Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) by supporting populations of European importance of the several migratory species. During the breeding season these species include the Gannet (Morus bassanus) – 32,460 pairs representing at least 12 per cent of the breeding North Atlantic population (Count as at 1995) and the Lesser black-backed gull (Larus fuscus), 1,800 pairs representing at least 1.5 per cent of the breeding Western Europe/Mediterranean/Western Africa population (Count, as at 1987). This site also supports a seabird assemblage of international importance (JNCC, 2001).

Vulnerabilities: There are significant threats to interest of the site at present. The site is subject to a Management Agreement (initially for one year, but running from year to year so long as necessary) to reduce and control the Brown rat population which currently discourage ground-nesting birds.

SNH are in discussion with the owners of Ailsa Craig regarding Management Undertakings to protect biological, geological and landscape features of the site. It is proposed that numbers of visitors to the island are maintained at the present level with seasonal restrictions to protect the colonies of breeding birds from disturbance. Grazing pressure by rabbits may be causing erosion, and it is proposed that this is monitored and if found to be a problem will be addressed through the Management Statement (JNCC, 2006iii).

Glen App – Galloway Moors SPA


Location and Size: Glen App – Galloway Moors SPA is located in the southern part of South Ayrshire. It comprises a large upland area that extends north from Castle Kennedy, in Dumfries and Galloway to Ballantrae in South Ayrshire. The site is 8942.38 hectares in size.

Qualifying Features: The area is mainly covered by heather moorland and rough grassland. The site qualifies under Article 4.1 of the Directive (79/409/EEC) by supporting populations of Hen harrier (Circus cyaneus); a migratory species of European importance with around 20 pairs in this area, representing at least four per cent of the breeding population in Great Britain (JNCC, 2007i).

Vulnerabilities: Glen App is composed of moorland with acid grassland and blanket bog mosaics. Much of the heather habitat has become fragmented, with acidic grasslands becoming a more common feature due to overgrazing.

Limited muirburn is still practised to reclaim moorland for livestock grazing. Many tenant farmers have now entered the Environmentally Sensitive Area Agri-Environment scheme which may result in more beneficial grazing patterns, and some owners have expressed an interest in improving heather moorland for game species. SNH is currently in the process of developing a Moorland Management Scheme for owners and occupiers which will include prescriptions for heather restoration, sensitive muirburn and the reduction of stocking levels (JNCC, 2006iv).

C2.2.3 Important Bird Areas

There are currently two IBA sites within South Ayrshire; Ailsa Craig IBA and Galloway Forest Park IBA.

Ailsa Craig IBA

Location and Size: Situated in the Firth of Clyde and is 99.49 hectares in size.

Features and Vulnerabilities: Ailsa Craig IBA is an important site for a range of seabird species. The high cliffs support important seabird colonies, which hold 36,700 breeding pairs on a regular basis. Vulnerabilities to this site are similar to those identified for Ailsa Craig SPA in section 2.2.2.

Galloway Forest Park IBA


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Location and Size: Galloway Forest Park IBA is situated to the eastern boundary of South Ayrshire, crossing into Dumfries and Galloway and into East Ayrshire and totals 58,295.31 hectares.

Features and Vulnerabilities: Galloway Forest Park is a very large area of forest, including lochs, rivers and moorland that stretch from Newton Stewart in Dumfries and Galloway into the Strathclyde region. This IBA supports a range of breeding waders and waterbirds in addition to species of forest and moorland.

C2.3 Nationa l Des ignations

C2.3.1 Sites of Specia l Sc ientific Inte res t (SSSIs )

These are designated sites within the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Nature Conservation (Scotland) 2004. SSSIs represent the best of Scotland’s natural heritage, designated for their plants, animals or habitats, rocks or landforms or a combination of natural features.

There are currently 13 biological SSSIs, 15 geological and three mixed (biological and geological) within South Ayrshire. These are detailed within Table 2-2 below and within Figure 2-1. Table 2-2: Biological SSSIs

Name of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) Total Area (ha)

Grid Reference

Afton Lodge (geological)

Ailsa Craig (biological) 99.94 NX 020998

Aldons Hills (biological) 235.6 NX 183900

Auchalton (biological) 5.2 NS 336037

Ballantrae Shingle Beach (biological) 34 NX 080818

Bennane Head Grasslands (Biological) 70.86 NX110880, NX099863, NX094864

Blair Farm (geological)

Byne Hill (geological)

Craig Wood (Biological) 23.22 NX 134829

Craighead Quarry (geological)

Dundonald Wood (Biological) 36.1 NS 363343

Feoch Meadows (Biological) 82.25 NX270821

Girvan to Ballantrae Coast Section (geological)

Glenn App and Galloway Moors (Biological) 8942.38 NX 123718

Knockdaw Hill (Biological) 387.33 NX155883 / NX166877

Knockdolian Hill (Biological) 64.1 NX113848

Knockgardner (Geological)

Knockormal (Geological)

Laggan Burn (Geological)

Littleton and Balhamie Hills (Biological) 242.47 NX130867, NX135882


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Name of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) Total Area (ha)

Grid Reference

Maidens to Doonfoot (Mixed) 216.05 NS16194 – 265177

NS251158 – 254139

NS242110 - 219095

Martnaham Loch and Wood (Biological) 65.5 NS 393173

Merrick Kells (Mixed)

Millerndale (Geological)

Penwhapple Burn (Geological)

Pinbain Burn to Cairnhill (Mixed) 522.38 NX165925

River Ayr Gorge (Biological)

Roughneuk Quarry (Geological)

Sgavoch (Geological)

South Threave (Geological)

Stairhill (Geological)

Troon Golf Links and Foreshore (Biological) 149.6 NS 335287

Turnberry Dunes (Biological) 77.7 NS 199062

Turnberry Lighthouse to Port Murray (Geological) (Scottish Natural Heritage, 2009) C2.3.2 Areas of Spec ial Protec tion (AoSP)

Areas of Special Protection (AoSP) are areas designated in the UK that increase protection afforded to birds under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Lady Isle is a designated Area of Special Protection within South Ayrshire (SNH, 2005).

C2.4 Dis tribution of Nationa l and In te rnational Sites

As illustrated in Figure 2-1, the majority of international and national designations are located in the region to the south of Girvan and running to the southern and south-eastern boundaries of South Ayrshire into Dumfries and Galloway and East Ayrshire. A large section of the eastern South Ayrshire boundary, directly east of Girvan is designated as an IBA. No international designations are present in the north of the local authority area.

Ten SSSI designations are situated along the coastal stretch of South Ayrshire at various locations with six isolated sites scattered throughout the rest of the local authority area.

C2.5 Important Spec ies and Habita ts

C2.5.1 European Pro tected Spec ies

Certain species are listed on Annex IV of the Habitats Directive as species of European Community interest and in need of strict protection. Protective measures required are outlined in Articles 12 and 13 of the Directive. Species are listed as Schedule 2 (animals) and Schedule 4 (plants) of the Habitat Regulations 1994 (amended 2008).

The Scottish Government produced interim guidance in 2001 to Local Authorities on how to proceed if Protected Species are present in any area which may be subject to a development proposal under the Planning System. Under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, individual Species Action Plans have been prepared for most of the European protected species occurring in Scotland (SNH, 2009).


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The European protected species located in South Ayrshire include:

• Bats; • Great crested newt; • Otter; • Dolphin; and • Marine turtles.

The table below illustrates their distribution in the Council Area.

Table 2-3: Distribution of European Protected Species in South Ayrshire

European protected Species Distribution

Risso’s dolphin Found along the coast between Girvan and Ayr.

Noctule bat East of Ayr, around Annibank and Mossblown.

Common Pipistrelle bat South of Ayr; Near A77, Culroy; Patna; Dalrymple; Culzean Castle; and South of Straiton.

Soprano Pipistrelle bat Annibank; Ayr, south of racecourse; Hollybush, east of Dalrymple; Patna; Kirkmichael; Crosshill; Straiton; north of Maybole; Dailly; Killochan Castle and Penkill; and Culzean Castle.

Great-Crested newt Near the Girvan coast.

European otter Found all over South Ayrshire.

Loggerhead turtle South of Troon; off Girvan coast; and off Dunure coast.

Leathery turtle Found between Arran and Ayr.

Kemp’s Ridley turtle Troon. (NBN Gateway, 2009)

C2.5.2 Priority Spec ies and Habitats

Following the Rio Earth Summit in 1992 and the signing of the Convention on Biological Diversity, there has been commitment from the UK government to protect the biodiversity of plants and wildlife, particularly rare and threatened species. This commitment is presented in the UK Action Plan for Biodiversity (1994) and transposed to the local level through Local Biodiversity Action Plans (LBAPs).

The framework for protecting South Ayrshire’s biological diversity is presented in the Ayrshire Biodiversity Action Plan (ABAP) (East Ayrshire Council, 2008). This provides a revised Biodiversity Action Plan and sets out the objectives and actions for Ayrshire. The Ayrshire LBAP (East Ayrshire Council, 2001) identifies Ayrshire’s key habitats and species, and is retained as a baseline description of Ayrshire’s Biodiversity. The Ayrshire LBAP identifies 32 Ayrshire Habitats, 20 of these are UK Priority Habitats. Annex A provides a full list of Ayrshire’s Priority Habitats.

The Ayrshire LBAP identified Action Plans for 11 Priority Species. The Action Plans have been identified for the 11 species are identified in Table 2-4.

Table 2-4: Priority Species with Action Plans Identified

Priority Species Location Vulnerabilities

Northern Brown Argus (Aricia artaxerxes)

Recorded at limited locations within South Ayrshire including to the north of Troon, to the South of Ayr, Coastal areas south of Girvan to Ballantrae, south of Ballantrae, east of Girvan to the eastern boundary of the council area.

Overgrazing. Agriculture. Agricultural improvement.


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Priority Species Location Vulnerabilities

Corncrake (Crex crex)

Recorded throughout the majority of South Ayrshire.

Loss of traditional grassland habitats. Changes in grass management and cutting techniques. Predation and disturbance.

Brown Hare (Lepus europaeus)

Recorded throughout the majority of South Ayrshire, with the exception of areas to the east of Girvan to the council’s boundary and to the southern boundary with Dumfries and Galloway.

Heavy grazing and trampling of riparian habitats. Agricultural enrichment.

Water Vole (Arvicola terrestris)

Recorded throughout the majority of South Ayrshire, with the exception of coastal areas south of Ayr, and areas at the Eastern and Southern boundaries of the council area.

Habitat degradation and fragmentation. Predation. Grazing pressure. River engineering works.

Oyster Plant (Mertensia maritime)

Recorded in limited coastal locations, to the north and south of Ayr, to the south of Girvan and to the north of Ballantrae.

Erosion or Accretion due to storms. Grazing animals. Recreational use.

Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos)

The Song Thrush has been recorded throughout the South Ayrshire area.

Changes in farming practice. Severe winter weather and dry soil affecting food supply. Predation. Formal management of parklands and gardens.

Lesser Whitethroat (Sylvia curruca)

Recorded in area surrounding Ayr and to the north of Maybole.

Habitat loss through scrub clearance. Grazing pressure by livestock. Structural changes in habitat. Lack of suitable habitat.

Pipistrelle Bat (Pipistrellus)

Widespread throughout South Ayrshire, except areas to the south and south east of the council area.

Destruction and disturbance of maternity roosts. Loss of suitable hibernation sites. Loss of foraging habitats. Reduction in abundance of insect pretty from increased pesticide use.

Hen Harrier (Circus Cyaneus) Widespread throughout South Ayrshire to the south of Ayr.

Predators. Destruction of adults/nest contents. Shooting. Development and land-use change. Inappropriate grazing/burning regimes.

Black Grouse (Tetrao Tetrix)

Recorded throughout South Ayrshire to the south of Ayr.

Loss, degradation and fragmentation of habitat through intensive sheep grazing, agricultural improvements and drainage. Changes in agricultural practices. Canopy closure. Increased predators. Shooting.

Pink Meadowcap (Hygrocybe Calyptraeformis)

Recoded in limited locations including surrounding Ayr and Troon, to the north of Girvan and the east of Maybole.

Agricultural Intensification and Urban Growth. Application of agricultural herbicides and fertilisers. Increased recreational use.

Source: East Ayrshire Council (2001)/NBN Gateway, (2009)

The ABAP 2008 identifies Ayrshire’s 68 key species (55 UK BAP Priority Species) these are listed in Annex A, with Action Plans identified for the Water Vole (see Table 2-3) and for the following woodland birds:

• Tree Sparrow; • Skylark; • Linnet; • Reed Bunting;


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• Corn Bunting; • Bullfinch; • Grey Partridge; • Song Thrush; • Lapwing; • Snipe; • Curlew; • Redshank; and • Yellowhammer.

All of these species of woodland bird, with the exception of corn bunting, breed in Ayrshire and all, with the exception of tree sparrow and corn bunting are regarded as widespread. The tree sparrow has a small population, which is very localised. In Ayrshire, the species is mainly located to the north and west of Kilmarnock, four areas west of Irvine, Troon and one area north of Maybole (RSPB, 2009). Tree sparrow monitoring is partially underway in Ayrshire in farmland to the north of Kilmarnock. The council aims to work with local farmers in this area to include tree sparrow measures (SAC, 2008). Current factors affecting the habitat of these woodland birds include removal of hedges, loss of habitat, agricultural operations or livestock trampling (East Ayrshire Council, 2008).

C2.6 Non Sta tutory Loca lly Des igna ted Sites

South Ayrshire also contains a number of Wildlife Sites or Ornithological Sites designated by the Scottish Wildlife Trust and the RSPB. These sites are considered to be sites of greatest valuable after statutory sites.

There are over 113 Wildlife Sites, including Provisional Wildlife Sites, within South Ayrshire and 56 Ornithological Sites (South Ayrshire Council, 2007). A full list is provided within Annex A. There are also four Scottish Wildlife Trust Reserves within South Ayrshire. These sites are Auchalton Meadow (12.2ha), Ayr Gorge Woodlands (46.02ha), Feoch Meadows (114.5ha) and Grey Hill Grasslands (328.5ha). Shewalton Woods (124.85ha) lies on the boundary of South Ayrshire and North Ayrshire to the east of Dundonald. Wildlife/green corridors are non-designated sites that are important to biodiversity, and include wetlands such as marshy areas in the corner of fields, woodland areas, hedgerows and areas of species rich grassland. Examples include rivers and river banks, traditional field boundary systems, ponds and small woodlands. Wildlife/green corridors are also important in mitigating the effects of climate change. As climatic conditions change wildlife must migrate in order to adapt to temperature change. These corridors are vital in facilitating this movement of species in response to climate change. South Ayrshire Council Wildlife Strategy identifies potential green/wildlife corridors that pass through main settlements, and these are listed in Table 2-5 below. In addition, within South Ayrshire there are approximately 170 areas of ancient woodland (of semi natural origin) and long-established woodland (of plantation origin). These sites are distributed fairly evenly across the whole of the local authority area. Table 2-5: Wildlife Corridors

Grid Reference (start-end approx) Name and Type of Corridor

Ayr/ Prestwick

NS 329228 – 363215 River Ayr – watercourse.

NS 325195 - 338178 / 315183 River Doon and Tributary – watercourses.

NS 295189 - 339282 Coastal Strip - coastal habitats (including Prestwick Golf


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Grid Reference (start-end approx) Name and Type of Corridor Courses).

NS 339282 - 367264 / 362252 Pow and March Burns – watercourse.

NS 325196 - 357197 / 349184 Slaphouse and Annfield Burns (including Cunning Park, Belleisle and Rozelle), watercourses plus established parkland and grassland habitats.

NS 300182 - 349184 Alloway Disused Railway Line - scrub and grassland.

NS 350187 – 347280 Glasgow to Stranraer Railway Line - scrub habitats.

NS 344227 - 368237 Ayr to Mauchline Railway Line - scrub habitats.

Troon

NS 339282 – 329332 Troon Golf Courses - dune grassland and heath.

NS 339282 – 325338 Coastal Strip - coastal habitats.

NS 345286 – 344307 Darley Plantation to Southwood -plantation mixed woodland.

NS 324320 - 345307 Darley Burn - watercourse and scrub habitats.

NS 335327 – 338323 Roughlea Place to Struthers Primary School – parkland.

NS 347280 - 327338 Ayr to Glasgow Railway Line - scrub habitats.

NS 33953280 Barassie Burn

Girvan

NX 180983 – 193988 River Girvan and Tributary – watercourses.

NX 180962 - 186994 Coastal Strip - coastal habitats

NX 193972 – 191986 Ayr to Stranraer Railway Line - scrub habitats.

Maybole

NS 294094 – 307106 Ayr to Stranraer Railway Line - scrub habitats. (South Ayrshire Council, 2011)

C2.7 Biodivers ity Fea tures in proximity to South Ayrs hire

Several international and national biodiversity designations are found close to the South Ayrshire local authority’s southern and eastern boundaries. These sites could be affected by any developments occurring in South Ayrshire itself. Details of these sites are outlined in the following table.

Table 2-6: Biodiversity Features in close Proximity to South Ayrshire

Type Name Size (ha)

Location Features & Vulnerabilities

Biosphere Reserve

Silver Flowe and Merrick Kells

8,767.62 Dumfries and Galloway, on the south-eastern boundary of South Ayrshire also incorporating part of East Ayrshire.

Silver Flowe is a unique bog formation and one of the least interrupted undisturbed mire systems in Europe. Its high value is principally due to the landscape pattern of an assemblage of discrete mires. It is also a breeding site for the rare Azure Hawker dragonfly.

Merrick Kells consists of three habitats of European interest: blanket bog, montane acid grasslands, and wet heath with cross-leaved heath. There are nationally important breeding bird populations, and important invertebrate populations. The site is the largest remaining un-afforested area of upland in Galloway.

Both sites are surrounded by commercial coniferous forestry. The management of Silver Flowe and Merrick Kells is mainly carried out through non-intervention, apart from areas where extensive livestock grazing is practiced in order to manage


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Type Name Size (ha)

Location Features & Vulnerabilities

vegetation.

Ramsar Silver Flowe

619.54 Dumfries and Galloway, approximately 4km from South Ayrshire south-eastern boundary.

This series of patterned blanket mires constitutes the least-disturbed and most varied extent of acid peatland in southern Scotland and is one of the most important systems of blanket mire in Great Britain.

SAC Kirkcowan Flow

777.57 Dumfries and Galloway, southern boundary of South Ayrshire.

The site is designated for Annex 1 habitat: blanket bogs and also depressions on peat substrates on the Rhynchosporion.

This large peatland site is covered by a Management Agreement to conserve the active blanket bog. The agreement controls grazing, drainage and muirburn. Controlled muirburn is acceptable to maintenance of the site interests. The establishment of permanent fire-breaks on the site or the use of mechanical swiping rather than burning will be considered.

National Nature Reserve (NNR)

Silver Flowe

619.54 Dumfries and Galloway, approximately 4km from South Ayrshire south-eastern boundary.

Blanket bog of international importance.

(Ayrshire Joint Planning Steering Group, 2009; SNH, 2009)

C2.8 Future Trends

C2.8.1 Des ignated Sites

Consultation is currently taking place in relation to the marine extension of Ailsa Craig SPA due to the presence of breeding populations of Northern gannet and Common guillemot. It is proposed that the Ailsa Craig SPA is extended by two km into the marine environment to better protect the seabird interests of the existing terrestrial SPA.

South Ayrshire is currently working with East Ayrshire Council and Dumfries and Galloway Council in establishing a submission to UNESCO for the re-designation of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Reserve in September 2009. Biosphere Reserves have three functions; conservation, development and logistics (AJPSG, 2008). The proposed Biosphere Reserve would incorporate a large area of South Ayrshire from the south of Ayr to the Dumfries and Galloway and East Ayrshire border.

No further proposals for statutory and non statutory biodiversity designations have been identified within South Ayrshire.

C2.8.2 BAP Objec tives

In relation to trends and pressures recorded in the Ayrshire BAP, there have been no losses in habitats and / or species monitored. Annual reviews of the Plan will be completed and monitoring incorporated into each individual Action Plan.

Table 2-7 details the long term objectives for the future of habitats and species with Action Plans in the LBAP.

Table 2-7: Future Objectives for Habitats and Species in Ayrshire

Action Plan Pressures Long Term Objectives

Habitats


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Action Plan Pressures Long Term Objectives

Lowland Raised Bog

Peat extraction has now ceased in Ayrshire. Damage is still occurring due to drainage and / or bisected by roads or railways.

All mosses are prone to fire damage, tending to occur in late Spring / early Summer.

To bring lowland raised bogs into favourable conservation condition as soon as possible and maintain irrecoverable sites as sites for wildlife.

Management of 2 raised bogs is proposed with remedial work included.

Coastal Habitats

Development along the coast has resulted in the expansion of many of the coastal towns and their associated roads and sea defences to prevent coastal erosion.

Flat coastal plains have attracted power stations, factories and landfill sites as well as holiday camps and golf courses. Some raised beaches have been improved for agriculture.

Obvious concern is the fragmentation of soft habitats such as sand dunes, salt marsh, shingle and mudflats. This is mainly due to, often small, development, segregating areas from the rest of the habitat.

Retain as much of the specialist coastal habitats in as large a unit as possible.

Achieve positive management for as much of the coastal habitat as possible for their specialised coastal biodiversity especially where land has another use.

Stimulate an enjoyment and appreciation of the Ayrshire coastal wildlife and interest in its well-being.

Species

Water vole Semi-aquatic mink is the main reason for Water vole decline. Heavy grazing and trampling of riparian habitats causes the upland marginal habitats in particular to be even less suitable for the Water vole.

Further detailed surveys required to assess exact extent of what the resource is like and what action should be taken. 2006 objectives include:

Protect and enhance sites where Water voles are present;

Enhance the habitats around these sites to promote growth of existing colonies;

Enhance the habitat within corridors between ‘hot spots’ in attempt to link populations; and

Enhance habitat within the study area in general to further reduce fragmentation of Water vole population.

Farmland birds

Recent studies have shown huge declines in populations of farmland birds mainly due to changes in farming practises.

The removal or severe cutting of hedges has resulted in loss of nesting sites for some species.

Reduced presence of weeds has affected species feeding on the seeds.

Aim is to encourage measures which benefit farmland birds across Ayrshire through demonstration, sharing good practise and encouraging changes in management, initially in small, targeted areas.

An important objective is to show that such measures are compatible with or even beneficial to commercial farming.

(Ayrshire Biodiversity Action Plan, 2008)

C2.8.3 Climate Change Effec ts

The UK Climate Impacts Programme (UKCIP) states that the implications of climate change on biodiversity for Scotland could include:

• Changes in abundance and distribution of species and length of growing season; • Higher temperatures less favorable for native species; • High intensity rainfall causing destruction to river habitat; • Increased erosion the removal of soil or rocks by water or wind. Erosion is a natural phenomenon that

can be accelerated by human activities; and • Disruption to the food chain, with potential catastrophic loss of species (e.g. island breeding sea bird

populations) (SEPA, 2009).


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C3 Cultural Heritage

C3.1 Cultural Heritage SEA Objec tives

The cultural heritage component considers the historic and archaeological components of the environment which assist in providing a sense of place, well-being and cultural identity.

South Ayrshire has a rich variety of cultural heritage resources from castles to buried flint scatterings, and it is possible that new sites of interest may yet be discovered. Cultural heritage features that are considered include those that are protected from the adverse effects of development and which require preservation.

The collection of baseline information has taken into consideration features defined in Section 16(3) of the Public Appointments and Public Bodies etc. (Scotland) Act 2003 including “… any or all of the structures and places in Scotland of historical, archaeological or architectural interest or importance”. SHEP 1 (Para 2.3)1 builds on this by identifying historic environment elements including built heritage features such as ancient monuments, archaeological sites and landscapes, historic buildings, townscapes, parks, gardens and designed landscapes, as well as marine heritage.

Furthermore, SHEP 1 states that the context or setting in which cultural heritage features sit, the patterns of past use (in landscapes and within the soil) and also in our towns, villages and streets should be considered. The historic environment is also identified as having less tangible aspects recognised as the historical, artistic, literary, linguistic and scenic associations of places and landscapes.

The cultural heritage SEA objectives and associated questions which have been used to help guide the development of the baseline are detailed in Table 3-1.

Table 3-1: Cultural Heritage SEA Objectives


Safeguard cultural heritage features and their settings through responsible design and positioning of development.

Could the policy/proposal affect any features designated for their cultural heritage value such as Scheduled Monuments, Listed Buildings, conservation areas or any Archaeological Consultation Trigger Sites?

C3.2 Des ignated Sites

Cultural Heritage is an important asset to South Ayrshire, bringing the benefits of tourism and economy. There are a number of different designated sites within South Ayrshire including Scheduled Monuments, Listed Buildings and Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes.

C3.2.1 Scheduled Monuments

A Scheduled Monument (SM) is a monument of national importance which is protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979.

There are 91 SMs within South Ayrshire including; Ardstinchar Castle, Ballentrae; Culzean Castle, to the west of Maybole; Turnberry Castle, north of Girvan and Ayr Fort, Ayr (Historic Scotland, 2009i).

A full list of SMs is detailed in Annex B.


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Distribution of Scheduled Monuments

Figure 3-1 provides details of the location of all SMs within South Ayrshire.

As shown on the map, Scheduled Monuments are relatively evenly distributed throughout the area. Several are located along the South Ayrshire coastline with others found in Ayr, Girvan and close to other settlements in the area.

C3.2.2 Lis ted Buildings

Listed Buildings are historic buildings identified and protected by Historic Scotland to ensure that they continue to add value to Scotland’s heritage. Listed Buildings have statutory protection that enables changes to take into account the needs of the historic environment. Historic Scotland determines which buildings should be listed and is responsible for administrating and maintaining the statutory list.

All listed buildings are protected under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997 which identifies that listed building consent must be obtained prior to any alterations or the demolition of a Listed Building.

There are three categories of Listed Buildings according to their relative importance:

Category A - Buildings of national or international importance, either architectural or historic, or fine little-altered examples of some particular period, style or building type;

Category B - Buildings of regional or more than local importance, or major examples of some particular period, style or building type which may have been altered; and

Category C - Buildings of local importance, lesser examples of any period, style, or building type, as originally constructed or moderately altered; and simple traditional buildings which group well with others in Categories A and B.

There are currently 945 Listed Buildings within South Ayrshire, a large number of which are located within the historic town of Ayr (Historic Scotland, 2009).

The range of buildings include nationally important A Listed Buildings such as Burns Cottage, Alloway and Cassillis Castle, Kirkmichael, to more regionally and locally important B and C Listed Buildings such as small rural cottages and farm buildings.

Distribution of Listed Buildings

As illustrated in Figure 3-1, many of the buildings are situated to the north of South Ayrshire, particularly around the larger towns of Ayr and Troon. Ayr has a large number of Listed Buildings within the town centre and radiating out along the roads, especially along the A719. Fewer buildings are located to the south of the local authority area. Notably, several are located in Girvan with scatterings along the A714 and B741. Outwith these areas they are scattered within and near to villages and mainly absent from the south-east of South Ayrshire.

Annex B details the distribution of Listed Buildings throughout the towns and villages in South Ayrshire.

C3.2.3 His toric Gardens and Des igned Lands capes

Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes are gardens and landscapes that are considered to be exceptional and which are designated by Historic Scotland. They are often associated with important country estates and monuments.

South Ayrshire has a total of nine Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes. Details of these sites and their condition are described in Table 3-2 below.

Designed landscapes in Ayrshire have been adversely affected in recent years by various forms of development. A few landscapes have become country parks, such as Culzean which is now in the care of the National Trust for Scotland (NTS). Others have been converted into hotels or institutions such as

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schools or colleges as is the case for Auchincruive. The decline and loss of non-commercial planting has further had dramatic effects on the landscape character (Ayrshire and Arran Woodland Partnership, 2007).

Table 3-2: Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes in South Ayrshire

Site Location Description Condition

Auchincruive 3 miles NE of Ayr

Informal 19th century parkland and woodland landscape overlaying an earlier formal 18th century one. Includes impressive walled garden and several outstanding architectural features.

Estate is now used by the West of Scotland Agricultural College with the parks farmed and some woodland under forestry management. Gardens are well maintained and under constant improvement.

Original woodland features are now largely lost.

Bargany Dalrymple Category A listed house which makes a major contribution to the local scenery. Bargany provides an important wildlife haven.

The estate is managed on a commercial basis with a felling and planting programme in operation. Paths and drives are generally in good condition. The woodland garden is a key visitor attraction. Site is a major contribution to the local scenery.

Blairquhan Straiton Parkland and woodland was first laid out in the 17th century and later re-modelled. It forms setting for A listed house and also contains an interesting collection of trees.

The present owner has carried out extensive refurbishment work on estate buildings and continued the tradition of planting on the estate.

The flower and walled gardens are in good condition. The parklands are being grazed and deciduous trees are being replanted. The woods are well-structured in terms of range of age; replanting within the park is mainly of beech, larch and Scots pine, while Sitka and Norway spruce are planted in the higher estate woodlands.

Carnell Craigie The early 20th century garden is an outstanding work of art and the designed landscape as a whole provides the setting for an impressive group of buildings.

The gardens are in very good condition and have been restored from previous war-time neglect. Parks are grazed.

Culzean Castle Kirkoswald The attractive layout of parkland, woodland, gardens and architecture at Culzean Castle makes a large impact on the surrounding scenery and provides a rich haven for wildlife. The gardens contain a wide range of interesting trees and shrubs and are noted for their tender exotic plants.

NTS has gradually improved the condition of the policies, woodland and gardens. Much renewal work has been undertaken and the landscape is in relatively good condition. Site has a long term management plan for its gardens.

Glenapp Ballantrae The arboretum within the designed landscape hosts an interesting collection of trees and the woodland and water habitats provide a valuable wildlife.

Since the War, it has been used as a shooting lodge and for commercial forestry. Glenapp is now part of the MacDonald group of luxury hotels.

The woodlands and parkland of the policies are now managed by Glenapp Estates. 100 acres of woodland are being planted per annum. Footpaths and steps providing access to the area are in good condition.

Kilkerran (Barclanachan)

Dailly The woodland, specimen trees and architecture in this designed landscape

The estate is farmed and the parks are grazed and in good condition. The parkland trees are of mixed age and are healthy. More deciduous


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Site Location Description Condition make an outstanding contribution to the local scenery. The variety of landscapes provides a valuable range of wildlife habitats, including the remnant of ancient woodland, the moors, burns and other policy woodland.

species could be added to the policy woodlands and at the edge of coniferous plantations.

The woodland garden to the south of the walled garden and within the Lady Glen is very overgrown. Paths are used for riding and need resurfacing in places.

Rozelle (La Rochelle) Ayr An attractive public park near Ayr town centre and notable for its interesting trees and planting, and as the setting for the category A listed Rozelle House.

The condition of the policies at Rozelle is mainly good. The ponds are well kept, but the path to the north of the ponds is suffering from motorcycle/cycle overuse.

The conifer plantation to the north, a part of which has been clear-felled, is overdue for thinning and presents a dark uninviting background to The Dell area.

Although some of the park is managed for sports pitches, the open parkland character should be retained.

Skeldon House A complete and well-maintained example of late 18th- / early 19th-century, medium-sized parkland landscape with riverside walks.

The gardens and grounds are under continual management. The Victorian rose garden in the kitchen garden has been restored, and new shrub borders planted.

(SNH, 2009)

Figure 3-1 identifies all Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes in South Ayrshire.

C3.3 Cons erva tion Areas

Conservation Areas can cover historic land, battlefields, public parks, designed landscapes or railways but most contain groups of buildings extending over areas of a village, town or city. The aim is to safeguard them for the enjoyment and benefit of future generations and any new development, including transportation, should preserve or enhance the character of each area.

There are a total of 21 Conservation Areas distributed throughout South Ayrshire, as identified on Figure 3-1 (South Ayrshire Council, 2010). The Conservation Areas within South Ayrshire are listed below:

• Kirkoswald; • Barr; • Burns Monument; • Dunure; • Straiton; • St. Quivox; • Dundonald; • Alloway; • Symington; • Girvan; • Monkton;


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• Ballantrae 1; • Ballantrae 2; • Kirkmichael; • Colmonell; • Troon; • Southwoods; • Crosshill; • Maybole; • Ayr 2; and • Ayr Central.

C3.4 Build ings a t Ris k

There are 60 buildings within South Ayrshire that are on the Buildings at Risk register (Historic Scotland, 2011).

In the main, the buildings on the at risk register are located in the main settlements of Ayr, Girvan and Maybole although several are also located in rural areas. C3.5 Archaeologica l Sites

The West of Scotland Archaeological Service (WoSAS) holds computer records of all of the known archaeological sites, finds, fieldwork and research in the West of Scotland (WoSAS, 2009).

Within South Ayrshire there are 2,762 sites recorded on the WoSAS database (WoSAS, 2011) and these are generally scattered across the local authority area with clusters around settlements; particularly the towns such as Ayr and Girvan. The type of sites and monuments range from bronze axes and spearheads to buildings, forts and castles.

There are many archaeological sites known as ‘Archaeological Consultation Triggers’. These sites are areas within which archaeological issues are known or thought likely to exist, thereby triggering consultation with Historic Scotland. These sites form an important part of Scotland’s heritage and contribute to tourism, education, the local economy and general amenity.

C3.5.1 Marine Archaeologica l S ites

The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS), identifies 602 maritime archaeological sites off the coast of South Ayrshire including ship wrecks, aircraft and submarines. Many are located off Girvan and Turnberry such as the Rialto. The Rialto was driven into the rocks north of Turnberry in 1862 whilst sailing from New York to the Clyde. An admiralty tug bound from Glasgow to Malta also sunk one mile from Turnberry lighthouse. Several maritime sites are located further north along the coast including the potential wreck of UB-82 German submarine in the Outer Clyde Estuary, near Ailsa Craig (RCAHMS, 2009).

C3.6 Tree Pres erva tion Orders

Mature trees in urban areas, together with areas of ancient and semi-natural woodland, are particularly valuable resources. Trees identified as being positive features of the landscape are protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) designated by the Council. This makes it an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a tree without the planning authority’s permission.

There are 49 confirmed TPOs in South Ayrshire as of November 2011. The majority of the TPOs are located within the Conservation Areas identified in Section 3.4 above.

C3.7 Future Trends

The Listed Building inventory is continuously updated by Historic Scotland. However, there is no estimate of how many new buildings will be listed in the future within South Ayrshire.


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There are three proposed Conservation Areas within the South Ayrshire area; Tarbolton, an extension to Crosshill Conservation Area and Barrhill. There is no prospect of any of these proposals being taken any further in the near future.

A potential 31 additional Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes are proposed by the Joint Structure Plan Committee and the Garden History Society for designation over the course of the next five years (South Ayrshire Council, 2007, 2007iv).

Scotland’s Historic Environment Audit (SHEA) is currently on-going. The audit will include statistics on heritage assets and information on how they are changing over time. It also aims to identify issues relevant to the health of the historic environment and the impact of resources used to manage and protect it.

The Audit Action Plan 2008 – 2011 has recently been published which states that baseline information will be gathered for the year 2008 for all heritage assets and updated every three years after this date. Analysis of this data will provide trends to be published in 2011 (Historic Scotland, 2008). From this it will be possible to obtain a greater understanding of the condition of cultural heritage assets and potential future trends in South Ayrshire.


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C4 Water Environment

C4.1 Water SEA Objec tives

South Ayrshire’s water features include the coastline which forms its western boundary, the River Ayr and numerous other watercourses that provide habitat to the local ecology and recreational walkways. The information outlined in this chapter looks at the water quality, (including groundwater), flooding issues and potential threats associated with each river and its catchment area. Table 4-1 highlights the SEA objectives and accompanying questions in relation to water.

Table 4-1: Water SEA Objectives


Protect, and where necessary, enhance water quality to good chemical & ecological status by 2015 in line with the WFD.

Could the policy/proposal have a beneficial or adverse effect on water quality?

Mitigate any potential flood risk from any new development. Could the policy/proposal help to achieve the WFD target of all waters having “Good” quality by 2015?

Ensure that all new infrastructures are designed in such a way that it reduces flood risk through the provision of SUDS.

Does the policy/proposal avoid areas of potential flood risk through appropriate siting of development?

C4.2 Watercours es

South Ayrshire has four main rivers namely the rivers Ayr, Doon, Girvan and Stinchar. River Ayr is the largest of these rivers with a catchment area of 574km2.

SEPA’s recent draft River Basin Management Plan Interactive Mapping application (SEPA, 2009i) identifies a wide range of classification results for the water quality of water bodies in Scotland as well providing further information such as areas considered to be at risk of flooding from fluvial and coastal waterbodies.

Annex C identifies the water quality results for various waterbodies within South Ayrshire whilst the information provided in the following sections outline the general condition and threats, water quality, groundwater information and flood risk for each catchment in the local authority area.

C4.2.1 River Ayr

General Condition and Threats

River Ayr is Ayrshire's largest river. It rises at Glenbuck Reservoir on the boundary of Ayrshire and Lanarkshire and flows westwards 63 km to its estuary at Ayr on the Firth of Clyde. The catchment area for the river is 574km2 and its principal tributaries include Greenock Water, Lugar Water, Water of Fail and Water of Coyle. The river is also of ecological importance with two designated SSSIs located at Howford by Mauchline and the Failford Gorge. The River Ayr plays host to several fish species including Salmon, Sea trout, Brown trout, Grayling, Eel, Stickleback, Minnow and Stone loach (Ayrshire Rivers Trust, 2011). The river plays a key role in terms of influencing catchment hydrology and ecology, and is therefore of high environmental value. Annex C includes details of the pressures on the watercourse which include a constant risk of pollution from operational and disused coal mines (Ayrshire Rivers Trust, 2011).

Water Quality and Groundwater

The quality of River Ayr is overall good throughout South Ayrshire. Monitoring takes place downstream of Greenock Water. Downstream of Greenock Water is overall good quality. The associated groundwater is Mauchline bedrock and localised sand and gravel aquifers and this is of good quality.


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Pressures on the River Ayr’s water quality downstream of Greenock Water include sewage disposal, livestock farming and urban development. Upstream outside of South Ayrshire, the pressures relate to point source pollution from mining and quarrying of coal.

Associated Protected Areas

Associated protected areas for the River Ayr include an Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (UWWTD) Sensitive Area and Freshwater Fish Directive (existing) Area – Salmonid Water (SEPA, 2008).

Flooding

The SEPA Indicative River and Coastal Flood Map (SEPA, 2006) identifies that the River Ayr floods in various locations:

• Ayr – east of the racecourse near to the A77; • East of Ayr – north of Bloomsbank Farm; and • South and east of Crawfordston.

C4.2.2 River Doon


The River Doon originates at Loch Enoch in the Galloway Hills, flowing for 63 km in a northwest direction by Dalmellington, directly through Patna and Dalrymple and enters the Firth of Clyde just south of Ayr. The river has a catchment area of 324km2. Tributaries of the river include Muck Water, Cumnock, Dunaskin and Culroy burns. Several large stillwaters are present in the catchment, the largest being Loch Doon followed by Bogston loch and Martnaham loch.

The river has been dammed to supply and store water for the Galloway hydro-electric power scheme. While this leads to significant interference with the flow rate, it is mitigated by a compensation flow agreement which maintains water quality and flow levels throughout the year.

There are several small to medium sewerage treatment works that feed into the River Doon however, the river is of sufficient flow to dilute pollution and maintain water quality.


River Doon is a highly modified river with its water quality classified as bad with regards ecological potential.

There are numerous pressures affecting the quality of the waterbody and these include livestock and mixed farming, substrate manipulation / gravel addition or removal, flow manipulation, impounding through weirs and dams and aquaculture.

The associated groundwater body for this catchment is Girvan bedrock and localised sand and gravel aquifers. This groundwater has poor to good status due to groundwater abstractions in this area that affect the surface water status.


The River Doon is an UWWTD Protected Area and a Freshwater Fish Protected Area (Salmonid Water).

Flooding


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The SEPA Indicative River and Coastal Flood Map identifies several areas where the River Doon is at risk of flooding these locations are identified below. In particular, much of Dalrymple is at risk of flooding from the river:

• South Ayr – near Mountcharles; • Nether Auchendrane – west of the A77; and • Dalrymple extending southwest to Dalrymple woods.

C4.2.3 Water of Girvan


The Water of Girvan’s source is Loch Girvan Eye, situated high in the Galloway Hills then passing through Bradan, Ayrshire’s major water supply reservoir. The River Girvan is a spate river, i.e. releases surges of water regularly, with only a small compensatory flow from Loch Bradan. Surges of water are also released from the dam with some regularity throughout the summer season. The river’s principal fish species are Atlantic salmon, Sea trout and Brown trout.

The River Girvan has a catchment area of around 250km2 and has a number of tributaries including Palmullan, Lamdoughty, Dyrock, Barlewan, Lindsayston and Penwhapple burns.

The old mine workings at Dailly carry a significant threat of pollution to the Water of Girvan although the National Coal Board makes continuous efforts to contain the overflows from the disused mineshafts (Ayrshire Rivers Trust, 2007). In 1979, there was a major pollution incident where groundwater from the abandoned Dalquharran mine at Dailly upwelled; killing everything in the lower reaches of the river. A number of settlements along the river, mostly small villages but also larger towns such as Maybole, discharge treated sewage into the river. Sections in the middle river have been channelized resulting in a loss of river length and habitat diversity. Furthermore, there are extensive stands of Japanese Knotweed in the lower river (Ayrshire Rivers Trust, 2007).


The Water of Girvan is of poor to moderate water quality. Downstream of Dailly, water quality is poor with pressures such as mixed farming, construction and structures including embankments and flood defences, chemical production and impounding. Measures have been identified to address these pressures. The Forestry Commission is responsible for improvements to the condition of the riparian zone and / or wetland habitat and SEPA is addressing the point source inputs (SEPA, 2008). From Dobbingstone Burn to Palmullan Burn, the water quality of the river is moderate with livestock farming and flood defences identified as pressures on this quality. Measures to reduce these include improvements to the modified habitat. The groundwater body associated with the catchment area is Girvan bedrock and localized sand and gravel aquifers which are of poor to good status.


UUWTD Sensitive Area (existing) and Freshwater Fish (existing) are the associated protected areas for the Water of Girvan.

Flooding

The Water of Girvan is at risk of flooding along most of its length according to the SEPA indicative River and Coastal Flood Map (2008). In particular the areas at risk include:

• Girvan – north of the town, across the golf course; • Girvan – NE, south of the B741 extending to the B734; • South of Killochan Castle including Cairnhill;


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• West of Dailly including part of the golf course; and, • North of Dailly including the grounds of Dalquharran Castle.

C4.2.4 River Stinchar


The source of the River Stinchar is in the Carrick Forest to the north of the Galloway Forest Park, one km from the source of the River Girvan. The river has a catchment area of 314km2 and runs for 54km initially flowing north before flowing southwest via Barr, Pinwherry and Colmonell, finally entering the Firth of Clyde at Ballantrae. Tributaries of the river include Muck Water, Duisk Water, Water of Assel and Water of Tig.

The River Stinchar is the most rural of the Ayrshire catchments and is highly responsive with a rapid run-off and steep valley sides resulting in sudden changes of water flow. There is little intensive agriculture, no major industry or large sewage treatment works and the catchment has low population density.

Unlike many of the other rivers, the Stinchar is relatively unaffected by pollution however, there are several potential hazards created by farming. Several areas of the upper Stinchar, Duisk River and small tributaries have been affected by livestock grazing which has resulted in extensive bank erosion and siltation. This has reduced spawning gravel quality and in stream cover for fry and parr (Ayrshire Rivers Trust, 2007).


The River Stinchar is classified as good water quality from Duisk River to the Water of Gregg and moderate quality upstream of the Water of Gregg. Saline lagoons at Ballantrae (around 1km2) are of excellent status.

Pressures associated with the quality of the water include morphological alterations as a result of road transport. Measures are in place to improve the modified habitat (SEPA, 2008).

The associated groundwater body with this river is Newton Stewart bedrock and localised sand and gravel aquifers which are good quality.


Protected areas associated with the River Stinchar include Freshwater Fish (existing) protected area (Salmonid Water) covering the whole river.

Flooding

The River Stinchar floods along much of its stretch with the main areas being:

• South of Ballantrae town centre; • South of Colmonell; and, • West of Pinwherry.

C4.2.5 Coas ta l Areas


The western side of South Ayrshire is bounded by coast. Along the coastal stretch there are several protected EC Bathing Waters including beaches at Prestwick, Troon (South Beach), Ayr (South Beach), Heads of Ayr, Girvan, Culzean and Maidens. Pictured opposite is Ayr Beach.

Bathing waters are designated under the Bathing Water Directive which was revised in March 2006 and was enacted in the UK by Regulations in 2008. Key features


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are tighter microbiological standards to be met by 2015 with monitoring started by 2012, and increased provision of public information.

Samples are taken at each of the bathing waters throughout the bathing season (01 June to 15 September) and checks are made at least once a fortnight. The table below provides a summary of the bathing water quality to date for 2009. Table 4-2: Bathing Water Quality in South Ayrshire

Location Summary of Water Quality to date (2010) Historical Record of Quality

Troon 2011 – mainly excellent. There was one failed sample for which no clear reason was found.

Monitoring has occurred since 1988.

Two fails recorded for the years 1988 and 2000.

Prestwick 2011 – 21 samples have been taken so far. Overall the results were good to excellent, with one failed sample which was considered to be due to bacteria being mobilised agricultural and urban sources as a result of intense rainfall.

Since 1988 there have been nine fails, the most recent in 2007.

Ayr (South) 2010 – Failed to meet mandatory standards. Diffuse pollution via the two main rivers (Doon and Ayr) that flow into Ayr Bay continues to have the potential to affect water quality.

2011 – 21 samples taken – mainly good to excellent, however, there was one failure which was considered to be due to bacteria being mobilised agricultural and urban sources as a result of intense rainfall.

There have been 14 out of 23 years recorded as fails against Directive’s standards since 1988.

Heads of Ayr 2010 – Failed to meet mandatory standards. There is potential for bacterial pollution from private sewage treatment facilities and from diffuse run-off from agricultural land following rainfall. As in 2009, two samples failed to meet the mandatory standard during 2010. There are a number of possible sources of contamination, which are currently being investigated.

2011 – 20 samples taken – mainly good to excellent, however, there was one failure and no specific reason could be identified as to why this was the case.

Monitoring of this beach only began in 2008.

Culzean 2011 - excellent quality. Monitoring started in 2008.

Maidens 2011 - Mainly excellent quality.

Girvan 2011 - Good to excellent quality.

2010 – One poor sample in the early p0art of the season was thought to have been caused in part by a leaking sewer line which was quickly repaired by Scottish Water. There were no further poor samples during 2010.

Monitoring has been undertaken since 1988. Nine out of 22 of the years since then have resulted in a fail against Directive Standards the most recent being in 2007.

Coastal Water Quality and Groundwater

Ayr Estuary: The estuary is heavily modified and classed as bad quality with regards ecology and hydromorphology. Associated groundwater is Prestwick coastal sand and gravel which has good status.

Ayr Bay: The bay comprises 98.32 km2 and is of moderate water quality. Pressures associated with this coastal stretch consist of diffuse pollution; mixed farming and point source pollution; sewage disposal.


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Girvan: This coastal stretch is 134.4 km2 and is of moderate water quality with pressures including point source pollution; sewage disposal and food production and diffuse pollution; mixed farming.

Culzean: Coastal water is of moderate water quality. Pressures are point source pollution; sewage disposal and diffuse pollution; and mixed farming. The Culzean coastal area is 89.06 km2 in area.

Flooding

The SEPA Indicative River and Coastal Flood Map (SEPA, 2006) identifies the South Ayrshire coast as at risk of flooding along much of its stretch. This includes the coastal areas of Ayr, Troon, Girvan, and Ballentrae.

Threats

A significant issue adversely affecting the water, and more specifically, coastal environment of South Ayrshire is that of the invasive Carpet Sea Squirt (Didemnid vexillum). The rate at which this organism can multiply and spread represents a significant threat to native marine biodiversity. The organism can be transferred from port to port via the hulls of boats and a significant population have already been identified in ports which feed South Ayrshire such as Belfast.

C4.3 Bedrock Aquifers and Groundwater Vulnerability

SEPA’s recent draft River Basin Management Plan Interactive Mapping application also identifies groundwater classification results.

There are a number of groundwater resources within South Ayrshire as identified in the individual catchment areas above and listed below;

• Girvan bedrock and localised sand and gravel aquifers; • Newton Stewart bedrock and localised sand and gravel aquifers; • Ayr bedrock and localised sand and gravel aquifers; • Prestwick coastal sand and gravel; • Mauchline bedrock and localised sand and gravel aquifers; and • Girvan coastal sand and gravel.

Bedrock aquifer productivity maps produced by SEPA locate aquifers in Scotland according to their productivity. There are five classes ranging from very high to very low. SEPA’s Bedrock Aquifer map (SEPA, 2004) identifies that to the north of South Ayrshire, aquifer productivity is largely of moderate productivity. To the south of the Council area, groundwater productivity is generally low, with areas of very low productivity to the south of Girvan. Scatterings of productivity are evident around Ballentrae, to the south of Ayr and around Maybole.

Groundwater vulnerability is defined as the tendency and likelihood for general contaminants to reach the water table after introduction at the ground surface. The SEPA groundwater vulnerability maps provide a regional screening tool that enables areas of comparatively higher risk to be identified (SEPA, 2004i).

Groundwater vulnerability varies throughout South Ayrshire, with the majority identified as Class 4b/4c (low permeability). Some pockets of Class 5 (low permeability and most vulnerable) are identified to the south of Ayr, and some areas of Class 2 and 3 (high to moderate vulnerability) are identified scattered to the South of Maybole and south and east of Girvan.

C4.4 Future Trends

C4.4.1 Water Quality

The European Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) (WFD) and the Water Environment (Controlled Activities) Regulations 2005 (CAR) aim to protect water courses from the adverse effects of development. The WFD aims to achieve an ecological status of ‘Good’ in all waterbodies by 2015.

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/Water/17316/8084�

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/Water/17316/8084�


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It is expected that without the implementation of the PSALDP, water quality for both rivers and coastal areas will remain at current levels, as specified in Section 4.2, or improve to a good status.

SEPA’s River Catchment Management Plan mapping identifies that the water quality of the majority of watercourses within Ayrshire will improve or stay the same quality up until 2027. This is based on a range of parameters and the breakdown of measures used to determine future water quality for each of the catchments in South Ayrshire are included in Annex C.

C4.4.2 Groundwater Quality

Although the classification results show that groundwater in Ayrshire is of good status in general, the long term risk to the water environment from coal mining is still present (SEPA, 2009ii).

Kames on the River Ayr and Dalquharran on the Water of Girvan have been identified as still posing potential risks for failure of groundwater quality in the future.

C4.4.3 Bathing Waters

By 2015, it is expected that all Bathing Waters will meet mandatory standards and significant improvements will be made in the number of waters achieving guide standards (SEPA, 2009ii).

C4.4.4 Flooding

It is likely that areas at risk of flooding will continue to be affected in the absence of the PSALDP, and may be exacerbated through the effects of climate change. According to the UK Climate Impacts Programme (UKCIP), the implications of climate change to Scottish water resources include:

• More frequent and severe flooding affecting more than 77,000 properties; • Increased likelihood of summer droughts leading to river water quality problems and disruption of water

supply; • Limitations to abstract any supply of water taken from natural environment practises; • More frequent coastal flooding, affecting more than 30,000 properties; • Higher sea level, increased wave height leading to coastal erosion and loss of habitat; • Loss of traditional commercial fishery; • Periods of reduced river flow, providing less dilution for discharges and increased sewage treatment

costs; • Increased treatment costs to provide water supplies; and • Increased run-off impacting on bathing water quality.

C4.4.5 Drainage infrastructure In general, there is sufficient capacity within South Ayrshire to accommodate development around the majority of the settlements. Consultation with Scottish Water has revealed that there are capacity issues located at land in and around Annbank, Ballantrae, Coylton, Craigie, Crosshill and Old Dailly, with only the rural settlements of Old Dailly, Craigie and Ballantrae having no capacity.


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C5 Soils and Geology

C5.1 Soils and Geology SEA Objec tives

Soils are an important natural resource that forms the uppermost layer of the Earth’s crust providing an interface between the atmosphere, biosphere, groundwater and underlying geology. Soils provide the basis for agriculture and forestry, underpin habitats, protect water from pollutants, store carbon and produce the foundation for construction.

Several aspects of soil are relevant to other SEA topics and so are discussed in more detail in those Chapters for example, Material Assets and Biodiversity.

The information included in this section aims to support the soils and geology SEA objectives and associated questions outlined in Table 5-1.

Table 5-1: Soils and Geology SEA Objectives


The PSALDP should promote use of vacant & derelict brownfield land over that of greenbelt.

Does the policy/proposal utilise or encourage use of vacant and derelict land?

Safeguard areas of prime agricultural land and designated geological sites.

Could the PPS have a negative or beneficial effect on protected/valued geological resources?

Does the policy/proposal impact on agricultural land or designated geological sites?

C5.1.1 Local Geology

Scotland is geologically a diverse area comprising three distinct geological regions; the Highlands, the Central Belt and the Southern Uplands. The Central Belt and the Southern Uplands are divided by the Southern Upland Fault, located in South Ayrshire. A small section of South Ayrshire falls within the Southern Upland geological area with the majority located in the Central Belt. South Ayrshire also comprises the Ballantrae and Girvan Cover, a prominent feature falling within the Central Belt (South Ayrshire Council, 2003).

The geology of the Southern Uplands consists of Greywacke, a sedimentary rock formed of poorly sorted Sandstone with Quartz, Feldspar and rock fragments overlying Black Shale and Silica material.

The upper drift geology of this geological region is underlain by the typical solid geology of the area with some inclusions of coal deposits as shown in the geological succession in Table 5-2.

The Ballantrae and Girvan Cover is approximately a triangular area on the coast of the South West End of the Southern Upland Fault. These rocks are predominantly igneous (Ophiolites); however, sedimentary Conglomerates, Sandstones, Shale and Limestone are also present, within which many of South Ayrshire’s coal deposits are located.

Further details of the geological resources in South Ayrshire are provided in the following sections with a summary provided in Tale 5-2 below.

Table 5-2: Geology within South Ayrshire

Overview of South Ayrshire Geology

Drift Geology

Recent and Pleistocene – Raised beaches alluvium and glacial boulder clays


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Solid Geology

Carboniferous (Sedimentary)

Upper (Barren Red) Coal Measures

Middle (Productive) Coal Measures

Old Red Sandstone (Sedimentary)

Silurian (Sedimentary)

Ordovician (Sedimentary) (Scottish Geology, 2007)

C5.1.2 Geologica l Res ources

Active Mines and Quarries

There are several active mines and quarries located in South Ayrshire as illustrated in detail within Material Assets: Chapter A12. The main rocks mined include igneous and metamorphic rocks, sandstone and limestone (BGS, 2009). These sites include:

• Hallyards Quarry – Carnell; • Hillhouse Quarry – Troon; • Craigiehill Quarry – Near Kilmarnock on the border of South Ayrshire; and • Barbrae Quarry – Tormitchell.

Opencast Coal Sites

Coal is found throughout Ayrshire. In South Ayrshire, there are several opencast coal prospecting sites and these are identified below:

• Lochlea – Carnell; • Craighall – East of Ayr; • Barclach – East of Ayr; • Tarholm - East of Ayr; • Raith Hill – South of Annbank; • Barquhey; • Lochend – North of Coylton; • Barngore – Coylton; • Sourlie – East of Troon; • Kilkerran & Cozeyden – South of Maybole; • Holehouse – Dailly; and • Mossgennock – Near Dailly.

Mining ended in the 1970s in South Ayrshire. Prior to this, coal was an important commodity. It was mined initially from shallow depths and then by deep longwall mining at larger collieries such as Auchincruive and Enterkine. Economic coals were only found in the Middle Coal Measures; Upper and Lower Coal Measures are barren around Ayr as is Limestone Coal Formation. The main target was Ayr Hard Coal (1m or more thick) and this had other overlying seams.

Around Dailly, the Limestone Coal Formation lies in a syncline and records show coal has been extracted from around 1415 up until 1960s. North of Dailly, coals come to ‘crop’ at the Burning Hills which were on fire for many years (BGS, 2008).

Crushed Rock Aggregate


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A variety of hard rocks have been extracted and used as aggregates in the past. Hard rock for aggregates is a principal resource in Ayrshire and both igneous and sedimentary rocks are being worked at the present time.

Igneous Rock

The main sources of hard rock aggregates in South Ayrshire are the dolerite or microgabbro sills in the north of the area. The Hillhouse sill at Dundonald is at least 45 to 60m thick and is worked by the Hillhouse and Hallyards quarries. Craigiehill quarry works the Craigie sill which is Carboniferous to early Permian alkali dolerite (BGS, 2008). More information on these quarries and their products can be found in Chapter A12: Material Assets.

Sedimentary Rock

The greywake sandstones in the southern part of South Ayrshire are marine sedimentary rocks consisting of compact, grey sandstone inter-bedded with siltstone and mudstone beds, though only the sandstone grade rocks are potentially aggregates, as the finer grade material tends to be softer and breaks into flakes.

In the best areas, the sandstone is several meters thick and has almost no inter-bedded siltstone. Elsewhere, sandstone beds are 0.01 – 1m thick with a high proportion of siltstone which is difficult to separate.

Limestone

In South Ayrshire, Ordovician Stinchar Limestone is present and quarried at Tormitchell (see Chapter A12: Material Assets for more details). Within the Girvan area, the Stinchar Limestone has been worked for many years and Ordovician Craighead Limestone was also quarried but is now almost exhausted (BGS, 2009).

Within the Carboniferous beds, only very small pits in the fine-grained dolomitic limestones (cornstones) were worked mainly for agricultural lime from the middle 18th century until the late 19th century. Near Dailly, the Hurlet Limestone was also formerly quarried.

Mineral Resources

There are several occurrences of minerals in South Ayrshire as recorded by the British Geographical Survey. Details of these minerals and their location are specified below:

• Dalmore – Antimony and copper; • Northeast of Maybole – Lead and silver; • East of Girvan on eastern boundary of South Ayrshire – Arsenic, copper and gold deposits; • Glendinning (east of Girvan) – Arsenic and gold; • Balloch mine – Zinc and lead; and • Laggan burn – Lead.

C5.1.3 Des ignated Sites

Geological Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) represent the best of Scotland’s natural heritage in terms of rocks or landforms, whilst also contributing to biological diversity. South Ayrshire has 15 geological SSSIs and three mixed (geological and biological), as listed below in Table 5-3 and as shown on Figure 5-1. Table 5-3: Geological SSSIs

Name of geological Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) Total Area (ha) Grid Reference

Girvan to Ballentrae Coast (Geological) 87.41 NX095874

NX153935

Knockormal (Geological) 5.44 NX339 885

South Threave (Geological) 1.41 NS 251083


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Name of geological Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) Total Area (ha) Grid Reference

Penwhapple Burn (Geological) 28.46 NX229985

Laggan Burn (Geological) 2.56 NX204946

Byne Hill (Geological) 8.62 NX179954

Afton Lodge (Geological) 2.8 NS415257

Blair Farm (Geological) 23.30 NS325024

Roughneuk Quarry (Geological) 0.40 NS271040

Knockgardener (Geological) 0.29 NS355036

Stairhill (Geological) 0.80 NS452242

Millenderdale (Geological) 1.40 NX177905, NX177906

Sgavoch (Geological) 6.20 NX073808

Turnberry Lighthouse to Port Murray (Geological) 24.41 NS196072 - 207081

Craighead Quarry (Geological) 2.42 NS 234 013, NS 232 011

Maidens to Doonfoot (Mixed) 216.05 NS16194 – 265177

NS251158 – 254139

NS242110 - 219095

Merrick Kells (Mixed) 8767.62 (part) NX450840

NX510860

Pinbain Burn to Cairnhill (Mixed) 522.38 NX165925

C5.2 Soils

The most common types of soils found within South Ayrshire are mineral gleys and brown earth soils. There are also isolated areas of peaty podzols and peaty gleys around Girvan and Ballentrae and scatterings of blanket peat (Macaulay Institute, 2002i).

C5.2.1 Sand and Gravel

Sand and gravel are mainly used in the construction industry with sand principally used as fine aggregate in concrete, mortar and asphalt. Gravel is mainly used as course aggregates in concrete.

Glaciofluvial sand and gravel deposits in South Ayrshire are small and resources are limited. Former pits in the area are found near Maybole, Kirkmichael House and Veenston Glen.

Dune sands offer a potential local source of relatively impure silica for washing moulding sand and possible filtration beds (BGS, 2011).

C5.2.2 Brick Clay

Clay and mudstones which are predominately used in the manufacture of bricks are termed ‘brick clay’.

In South Ayrshire, carboniferous mudstones and fireclays (seatearths) were formerly (until the mid 20th century) used for making ordinary bricks and fire-bricks respectively. Both were extracted from the Limestone Coal formation around Dailly and other smaller quarries in the past. The use of similar mudstones and seatearths from mines in the Coal Measures continued while the mines were operated. Resources of mudstones and seatearths remain if worked together with adjacent coal seams (BGS, 2011).

From about 1830, brick clays were worked for tile-making from alluvium near Martnaham Loch. These clays tend to be more limited and variable in quality than the Carboniferous mudstones and so are no longer considered to be an important resource.


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C5.2.3 Peat Res ources

In the past, peat was used as a fuel but now it is almost entirely dug for horticultural purposes. Many of the lowland bogs are now protected as a national or international conservation area.

Peat is a useful resource in terms of carbon capture and thereby offsetting the effects of climate change. As such it should be appropriately protected. Peat resources in South Ayrshire are mainly found in the south of the area, where it is largely rural and where there is a very limited amount of development.

In South Ayrshire, raised peat is sparsely developed in poorly drained hollows, for example, at Red Moss and tends to be intercalated with alluvial deposits. On some hillsides such as Glenside Hill, blanket peat cover is more extensive but little of it is over one meter thick. Peat in these remote, hilly locations is marginal as an economic resource (BGS, 2011).

C5.3 Agricultural Land

The Macaulay Institute holds records for the Land Capability for Agriculture (LCA). This classification groups land according to the degree of limitation imposed by biophysical factors on agriculture. It is used by the Scottish Government and planning authorities when development or other changes to agricultural land are proposed (Macaulay Institute, 2002).

The higher classes in the system (Classes 1, 2 and 3.1) are defined as ‘prime land’. SPP states that no development should be permitted on these areas unless the proposals meet specific criteria.

There are areas of Class 2 and Class 3 Agricultural Land surrounding Ayr, and to the North of the South Ayrshire area. These areas of land are roughly 30% of the total land area with the majority being of Class 3 capability. Class 2 land is capable of providing a wide range of crops, and Class 3 is capable of producing a moderate range of crops.

Approximately 20-30% of the land is classified as Class 4, found mainly south of Girvan and the remaining land (around 40%) particularly across the southern part of South Ayrshire, is Class 5 and Class 6; land capable of use of improved grassland and rough grazings (Macaulay Institute, 2002).

The current LCA system is based upon original guidelines and maps published in the early 1980s. The original climate data used in the LCA has recently been updated through a pilot study undertaken by the Macaulay Land Use Research Institute. This has been used to evaluate the impact of climate change in recent decades and also the potential future climate change effects through the national UKCIP climate change scenarios (see Future Trends, Section 5.5).

Results have shown that in recent decades, there have been subtle but significant changes across Scotland since the original LCA was published but little change has occurred in South Ayrshire (Macaulay Institute, 2009).

C5.4 Vacant and Dere lic t Land

The Vacant and Derelict Land Survey 2009 identifies 41 vacant and derelict sites within South Ayrshire with a total area of 95ha (Scottish Government, 2011i). South Ayrshire experienced a 27% decline in total derelict and urban vacant land between 2002 and 2008.

The majority of the vacant and derelict land in South Ayrshire is found within Ayr. There is a concentration of empty properties at the northern end of Ayr High Street and vacancy level has increased considerably in recent years.


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Annex D of this Appendix lists the location of the vacant and derelict land sites. C5.5 Future Trends

There is thought to be little change to the soils and geology of South Ayrshire as the composition of geology and soils is highly unlikely to change within the period of the PSALDP. The following sections detail possible changes to agricultural land and potential effects of climate change.

C5.5.1 Soils

There is no routing monitoring of soil and limited information on trends, however progress is being made towards a more consistent set of indicators with which to assess and monitor soil condition (SNIFFER, 2009).

C5.5.2 Agricultural Land

The levels of prime agricultural soils may be reduced through development that over-rides requirements to protect prime quality agricultural land.

The LCA is currently being updated and revised and new information could have significant implications for land use policy, planning and management (Macaulay Institute, 2009). Results of the recent pilot study detailed in Section 5.3 above, show that, using the climate change scenarios for the future, much larger changes could occur. These imply both large increases in ‘prime land’ and also some which is currently ‘unimproved’ (Class 6) land which could potentially provide improved as well as rough grazing.

The initial findings of the pilot study in relation to the change in LCA due to projected climate change scenarios (does not consider other factors at present) in South Ayrshire are that there will be a large increase in the amount of Class 2 land by 2050 with around 80% of the land falling in this category. Approximately 2% of the land will be Class 3 and the rest of the area falling in the Class 5 to 6 categories in the south with significant reductions in the amount of Class 6 (Macaulay Institute, 2009).

A more detailed assessment is now being undertaken by the Macaulay Institute to assess the changes in LCA in relation to soil properties, soil-climate interactions, vegetation and topography.

The LCA is an important component of the planning system and therefore changes will have important implications for future land use planning, particularly for future strategic planning. Some areas in the west, including South Ayrshire, may be constrained due to wetness and associated workability and these factors should be considered when planning future land use and infrastructure (Macaulay Institute, 2009).

C5.5.3 Vacant and Dere lic t Land

Several of the vacant land sites are constrained due to contamination, cost of land remediation, and cost of land acquisition, mixed ownership, access and low demand. These issues would need to be overcome to allow for future development in these areas.

The economic downturn has severely affected the ability and willingness of developers to develop all types of sites and it is unclear at present what the future trends in the uptake of brownfield / contaminated land will be.

C5.5.4 Climate Change

Climate change could result in subsequent effects on soils such as areas of peat drying or water-logging. Climate is now one of the key components of the LCA system and therefore has significant implications for how we plan and manage land currently and in the future (Macaulay Institute, 2009).

The UKCIP identifies several potential implications of climate change to Scottish soils and these consist of:

• Drying out of soils, combined with higher intensity storm events, causing landslides, with potential

disruption to transport;


33

• Accelerated decomposition of peaty soils, resulting in increased emissions of carbon dioxide and methane, further fuelling climate change;

• Increased loss of soil through water and wind erosion; and • Changes to agricultural practice and crops (e.g. longer growing season) (SEPA, 2009).


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C6 Landscape

C6.1 Lands cape SEA Objec tives

South Ayrshire’s landscape is diverse, ranging from a 70 km stretch of coastline comprising settlements and industry, to rural countryside dominated by agricultural practices. The South Ayrshire Local Plan, 2007 sets out to safeguard the landscape from unsuitable development and create enhancement where possible.

The landscape environmental baseline focuses on providing information that will assist in addressing the SEA objectives and questions as set out in Table 6-1.

Table 6-1: Landscape SEA Objectives


Protect and enhance & the area’s landscape character and designated Scenic Areas.

Could the policy/proposal have an effect on designated Scenic Areas or the landscape character of an area?

Maintain and protect greenbelt areas in South Ayrshire.

Will there be any land take for greenbelt areas as a result of the policy/proposal?

C6.2 Des ignated Sites

No National Scenic Areas (NSAs) or Areas of Great Landscape Value (AGLVs) have been identified within South Ayrshire. Scenic Areas are areas of particular landscape quality designated within the South Ayrshire Local Plan (South Ayrshire Council, 2007). There are six Scenic Areas designated as depicted on Figure 6-1. These are:

• Heads of Ayr; • Carrick Hills; • Merrick Kells; • Coastal Areas; and, • Glenn App and the Galloway Moors.

C6.3 Lands cape Charac ter As s es s ment

The landscape character assessment is undertaken by Scottish Natural Heritage and has established an inventory of all landscapes in Scotland. Landscape character types are distinct types of landscape that are relatively homogeneous in nature.

The Ayrshire Landscape Assessment (SNH, 1998) identifies the key features and landscape character types within Ayrshire. In general, Ayrshire’s landscape varies from lowland coastal areas to river valleys, foothills and the more prominent Southern Uplands. Certain areas have distinctive features and strong relief, thus providing dramatic contrasts with the surrounding areas. The coastline of raised beaches in South Ayrshire is particularly distinctive. In total there are 16 different landscape character types, which are shown in Table 6-2 and detailed in Figure 6-2.

The land use is similarly varied, ranging from agricultural, grazing, forestry, recreational to industrial. Land use in relation to Landscape Character Areas is listed in Table 6-2.

Table 6-2: Landscape Character Areas


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Landscape Character Areas Land Use

Ayrshire Lowlands. Agriculture, Grazing, Urban.

Lowlands. Grazing, Agriculture, Mineral Extraction.

Lowland Coast. Golfing, Mineral Extraction, Urban, Industrial, Transport, Forestry.

Lowland River Valley. Grazing Estate.

Ayrshire Lowlands – Complex Hills. Agriculture, Grazing Estate, Urban.

Coastal Headland. Grazing, Forestry.

Foothills. Agriculture, Grazing, Mineral Extraction, Industrial.

Foothills with Forest. Forestry, Grazing, Recreation.

Intimate Pastoral Valleys. Grazing, Forestry.

Raised beach coast. Agriculture, Grazing, Urban, Industrial, Transport, Tourism, Leisure.

Lower Dale. Agriculture, Urban, Transport, Industrial.

Plateau Moorland. Grazing.

Rugged Granite Upland with Forest. Forestry, Recreation.

Plateau Moorland with Forest. Forestry, Recreation, Grazing.

Rugged Granite Upland. Grazing, Recreation, Climbing, Hill walking.

Southern Uplands. Grazing Recreation. (SNH, 1998)

C6.4 Future Trends

Development within Scenic Areas and areas of significant landscape character could have adverse effects on their quality. Factors that could influence future landscape change include development and enhancement of forestry, agricultural practices, development pressures including urban expansion, tourism developments, energy related development and road development, and climate change through rising sea levels along coastlines, changing temperatures effecting upland vegetation and drought impacting on soil stability (SNH, 1998).

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C7 Air Quality

C7.1 Air Quality SEA Objec tives

Air pollution is generated from a number of different activities within South Ayrshire including road traffic, industry, domestic sources and commercial heating. Air quality in South Ayrshire has been generally good, with all National Air Quality Objectives met and no Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) declared.

The Air Quality Standards (Scotland) Regulations 2007 provides for the purpose of Local Air Quality Management. This legislation transposes EU Directive 2004/107/EC and replaces the Air Quality Limit Values (Scotland) Regulations 2003. The Air Quality Standards (Scotland) Regulations 2007 require local authorities to review and assess local air quality in order to assess compliance with the Regulations and identify objectives which are the target dates by which exceedences of a standard must not exceed a specified number. These are used to set bench marks for air pollution to determine if air pollution is improving or deteriorating over time.

The SEA objectives are listed in Table 7-1. These aim to promote development in such a way that avoids breaching air quality standards and alleviates air quality issues both within South Ayrshire and also adjoining Council areas.

Table 7-1: Air Quality SEA Objectives


Promote development in such a way that avoids air quality standards being breached within SAC and adjoining areas.

Could air quality within South Ayrshire be affected by the policy or proposal?

Promote development in such a way as to alleviate air quality issues in those areas where air quality standards may be breached.

Will the policy/proposal result in the exceedance of any of the National Air Quality Standards?

Could the PPS result in increased or decreased exposure to air pollution?

C7.2 Exis ting Air Quality in South Ayrs hire

South Ayrshire Council recently published an Air Quality Updating and Screening Assessment Report in May 2009 which contains the latest air quality data for South Ayrshire, including data for nitrogen dioxide, fine particles, sulphur dioxide, and benzene (South Ayrshire Council, 2009vi).

C7.2.1 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

Nitric oxide, derived from road transport emissions and other combustion processes, oxidises to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) when released to the atmosphere. NO2 is harmful to human health as it can irritate the lungs and lower resistance to respiratory infections (Scottish Air Quality, 2009).

There are 22 monitoring sites using diffusion tubes in South Ayrshire, as well as two real time analysers at High Street/New Bridge Street Ayr and Tarbolton Primary School. The measured annual mean concentration of NO2 was below the NAQS objective standard of 40 µg/m3 in 2008 however, two sites came close to this limit at Town Buildings, Ayr and Heathfield Road / Prestwick Road. 10 sites showed no change or a decrease in NO2 levels, whilst 12 sites showed a slight increase in NO2 levels. C7.2.2 Fine Partic les (PM10)

Fine particles arise from a variety of sources including combustion, road traffic, dust, suspended soils and secondary particles. Fine particles can cause inflammation of the lungs, and worsening of heart and lung diseases (Scottish Air Quality, 2009). The 2006 Updating and Screening Assessment (South Ayrshire Council, 2006i) identified that the annual mean objective may be exceeded at Maybole and Coylton for road traffic and in the vicinity of Craigie, Tormitchell and Hillhouse quarries.


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PM10 is currently monitored at New Bridge Street, Ayr and at Tarbolton Primary School. Recent monitoring did not show any exceedences of the mean annual or 24 hour mean PM10 Objectives. A tapered element oscillated microbalance analyser was previously monitored at New Bridge Street, Ayr and results from 2007 concluded that it was unlikely that there would be an exceedence of PM10 objectives however further monitoring should be carried out (South Ayrshire Council, 2009vi).

C7.2.3 Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)

Sulphur dioxide is produced from the burning of materials or fuels containing sulphur, including power stations burning fossils fuels. Sulphur dioxide may cause lung problems, particular in asthmatics (Scottish Air Quality, 2009). South Ayrshire Council monitors SO2 using two eight point bubblers, one at Dundonald Activity Centre and one at the Road Depot within Grangeston Industrial Estate, Girvan. SO2 measured at these locations over a period of seven years have revealed that they are significantly lower than objective levels, and it is therefore unlikely that NAQS objectives will be exceeded in South Ayrshire. No SO2 monitoring was carried out in 2008 (South Ayrshire Council, 2009vi).

C7.2.4 Benzene

The main sources of benzene are from the combustion of petrol. Possible health effects include cancer, liver and kidney disorders and birth defects (Scottish Air Quality, 2009). Benzene is monitored using chromosorb 106 absorbent tubes at four sites within South Ayrshire, two within Maybole, one at Ewanfield Place in Ayr and one at Rozelle Park in Ayr. On no occasion did the annual mean exceed the NAQS objective of 3.25 µg/m3 (2010 target) (South Ayrshire Council, 2009vi).

C7.2.5 Ozone

The most important man-made precursors for ozone are nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds produced by road transport, industrial processes and solvent use. Ozone concentrations tend to be lower in urban areas where it is converted to NO2 by reacting with nitrogen oxides. Air Quality Strategy1 objective (to be met by 2005) for ground level ozone was for a maximum daily concentration (eight hour running mean) of 100µg/m3, not to be exceeded more than 10 times a year. In 2007, this was not met at Strath Vaich (17 exceedences) and Eskdalemuir (11 exceedences).

Ozone levels are not monitored in South Ayrshire, the nearest monitoring stations being Glasgow (urban) and Eskdalemuir in Dumfries and Galloway (rural). Levels in Eskdalemuir have reduced since 1997 when 17 exceedences occurred over the year. In Glasgow, the levels have shown an increase from 1997 where there were no exceedences to 2006 which had five exceedences and 2007 where there was just one incidence of exceedence in the year (UK National Air Quality Information Archive, 2008).

C7.2.6 Other Pollu tants

No monitoring is available for carbon monoxide, lead and 1,3-Butadiene however, no significant new emissions sources have been identified since the initial Updating and Screening Assessment was published in 2006.

C7.2.7 Implications

Air quality in South Ayrshire is generally good. However South Ayrshire has a high rate of car ownership, with congestion problems identified within Ayr and Prestwick town centre. The towns of Ayr and Maybole were identified by the updating and Screening Report as areas where there are narrow congested streets with residential properties within five metres of the kerb (South Ayrshire Council 2009vi). Development in these areas should be promoted in such a way that will aim to alleviate air quality issues.

Other transport sources of air pollution include Glasgow Prestwick Airport, bus and coach stations, railways and


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ports. Emissions from Glasgow Prestwick are currently less than 25µg/m3. One bus station is located in Ayr, at Fullarton Street. However this is not considered relevant with less than 2,500 bus movements a day.

There is one location (Falkland Junction, Ayr) that diesel trains are stationary for longer than 15 minutes. However there is no potential for relevant exposure within 15m. South Ayrshire has a regular ferry which runs to Belfast from Troon and a fast ferry twice a day to Belfast from Belfast during the summer. Within 2008, Troon harbour had a total of 1,668 ship movements and Ayr Harbour a total of 640 ship movements (South Ayrshire Council, 2009vi).

No industrial processes within South Ayrshire have been identified (in agreement with SEPA) as having the potential to exceed emissions objectives. Domestic and commercial sources of air pollution are also minimal. The villages of Dailly and Tarbolton where identified as having more than 100 residential properties per 500 square metres with the potential for burning solid fuel. Monitoring at these areas has not shown an exceedence of air quality objectives (South Ayrshire Council, 2009vi).

C7.3 Adjoin ing Council Areas

C7.3.1 Eas t Ayrs hire Council

There are currently no AQMAs in East Ayrshire. The majority of air pollution within East Ayrshire is caused by vehicle pollution. John Finnie Street in Kilmarnock is noted as an areas seeing increased levels of NO2 and at potential risk of breaching the annual mean objective of 40µg/m3 as a result of heavy traffic, congestion, including buses, and rail emissions (East Ayrshire Council, 2008i).

C7.3.2 North Ayrs hire Council

North Ayrshire has no designated AQMAs at present. The 2004 Air Quality Monitoring Report determined that none of the pollutants assessed required a further detailed assessment.

With regards NO2, it was predicted that a highly localised area of High Street, Irvine would continue to be subject to concentration levels in excess of the guideline limit for the annual mean (40pg/mJ) national air quality standard at the end of 2005. However, as the area was not considered an "area of relevant public exposure", a detailed assessment for NO2 was unnecessary. The 2004 report predicted that by the end of 2010, all areas would meet the guideline limit for the annual mean national air quality standard for NO2 (North Ayrshire Council, 2004).

C7.3.3 Dumfries and Galloway Council

No AQMAs have been declared in Dumfries and Galloway. The latest Local Air Quality Management – Updating and Screening Assessment 2006 concluded that the air quality objectives for benzene, 1,3-butadiene, carbon monoxide, lead, PM10, NO2 and sulphur dioxide would be met and there would be no requirement to undertake a detailed assessment for these pollutants. It was recommended that the Council continue with its monitoring programme for NO2.

C7.4 Future Trends

C7.4.1 Air Quality Management Areas

Glasgow Prestwick International Airport is currently Scotland’s fastest growing airport with over 2.4 million passengers travelling through the airport in 2008. Should growth in the use of the airport continue, it is envisaged that levels of air pollution produced from aircraft emissions will continue to rise. If this were to happen, South Ayrshire Council should monitor air quality levels in order to establish an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) if appropriate. A recent planning application included a biomass combustion plant in Girvan linked to the new community hospital (South Ayrshire Council, 2009vi). This will need to be considered in future Local Air Quality Management Assessments.

C7.4.2 Climate Change Effec ts

The implications of climate change to Scottish air quality according to the UKCIP include:


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• Local and regional ozone air quality goals probably more difficult to achieve in the future; • An increase in summertime photochemical smog. A combination of fog and smoke linked to increasing

temperatures and small reductions in cloud cover; and, • Likelihood that the frequency of wintertime air quality pollution events will reduce.


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C8 Climatic Factors

C8.1 Climatic SEA Objec tives

Climate change is one of the greatest environmental challenges facing the world. The main human influence on global climate is emissions of the greenhouse gases, particularly, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane and nitrous oxide. The accumulation of these gases in the atmosphere strengthens the greenhouse effect.

At present, there is roughly 40% more CO2 in the atmosphere that there was prior to the industrial revolution. The concentrations of these gases in the atmosphere have not been experienced for at least 800,000 years. Global temperatures have risen by 0.75oC since 1990, global sea levels have risen by 10cm over the last 50 years and summer arctic ice continues to decline (DECC, 2009).

The Kyoto Protocol (1997) introduced a commitment to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in order to slow the effects of global warming. This has resulted in emission reduction targets for developed countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least five per cent and ideally eight per cent below levels during the period 2008 to 2012. The Scottish Climate Change Bill has the target of cutting emissions by 80 per cent by 2050, equating to a three per cent reduction per year.

Table 8-1 outlines the SEA Objectives and relevant questions related to climate change.

Table 8-1: Climatic Factors SEA Objectives


Contribute towards the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in line with Scottish Government targets of 80% by 2050 with interim targets of 34% by 2020 and 18% by 2013.

Could the policy/proposal make a positive contribution towards meeting national and local climate change targets through appropriate siting and design of development such as energy efficient housing and reduced need to travel?

Promote development resilient to the effects of climate change.

The PSALDP should promote the use of renewable energy, energy efficient development and increased use of public transport.

Does the policy/proposal make a positive contribute towards renewable energy targets?

C8.2 Carbon Dioxide Emis s ions

In the UK, the main sources of CO2 include power stations (33%), transport (24%), other industrial sources (17%) and domestic (14%) (Scottish Government, 2009iii). In Scotland, Grangemouth is the single largest producer of CO2, emitting 8 to 10 Mt (2006 data). Detailed information for the level of CO2 emissions at local authority level is not available for South Ayrshire. Mapping is however provided for CO2 emissions (as carbon) for 2005, measured in tonnes / 1x1 km for the UK, although the map provides only a rough guide to the levels of emissions in South Ayrshire. The highest emissions were shown to be in the vicinity of Prestwick and Ayr (1,996 – 5,665,194 t/1x1km). The main transport network produced emissions of between 101 – 1,995 t/1x1km in 2005 and the areas outwith the main settlements and road network in the north of the local authority area produced emissions of 11 - 20 t/1x1km. To the south, particularly the southeast of South Ayrshire, levels dropped to 4 – 10t/1x1km with a small area emitting 2 to 3 t/1x1km. Coastal stretches across the area were recorded at 0 – 1t/1x1km (SEPA, 2007).


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C8.2.1 Council Obligations

The UK Government has identified the Local Authority sector as key to delivering carbon reduction across the UK in line with the Kyoto commitments. South Ayrshire Council produced a Local Authority Carbon Management Programme Strategy and Implementation Plan within which the Council set a target for themselves to reduce carbon emissions by 20% by 2013 from 2005/2006 baseline levels of 55,937 tonnes of CO2.

C8.3 Renewable Energy

South Ayrshire Council encourages renewable energy development. Three wind farms are operational or have been consented in South Ayrshire. These include;

• Hadyard Hill wind farm - 53 turbines at Dailly, Operational; • Arecleoch wind farm - 60 turbines South of Barrhill, Consented; and • Mark Hill wind farm - 28 turbines at Barhill, Consented.

Chapter A12: Material Assets details renewable energy activities further. In summary, these include the utilisation of solar energy and woodfuel burning technologies within the Council area. C8.3.1 Energy Efficiency

South Ayrshire runs a very successful low cost insulation scheme for private householders willing to pay. As of 2005, approximately 2.5% of private households had taken up the offer (South Ayrshire Council, 2005).

C8.4 Local Climatic Conditions

Temperatures have in general increased in all seasons and parts of Scotland since 1961 with maximum temperatures increasing at a faster rate than minimum temperatures. Western Scotland, within which South Ayrshire falls, has become wetter since 1961 with an average increase of almost 60% more precipitation in the winter months. Heavy rainfall events have increased significantly in the winter in western regions (SNH, 2006).

C8.5 Future Trends

C8.5.1 Climate Change

The UKCIP identifies the likely implications of climate change to Scotland and these are specified per section in this baseline report. In general, it is predicted that weather will become less predictable with a greater likelihood of extreme weather events including storm damage.

In summary, future climate change is likely to affect:

• Water resources; • Biodiversity; • Marine; • Land surface (soils); • Human health; • Water quality; • Air quality; • Nutrient enrichment; and • Weather.


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C8.5.2 Carbon Dioxide Emis s ions

South Ayrshire Council’s CO2 emissions are likely to decrease in line with targets set by the Local Authority Carbon Management Programme Strategy and Implementation Plan by 20% by 2013. South Ayrshire Climate Change Declaration indicates that South Ayrshire Council will ensure that greenhouse gas reduction and climate change adaptation measures are incorporated in new and existing strategies, plans and programmes (South Ayrshire Council, 2007i).

Future reductions in CO2 emissions are predicted through advancements in technology and the introduction of new legislation such as the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009.

C8.5.3 Energy Efficiency

Chapter A12: Material Assets covers the utilisation of renewable energies and future energy efficiency in South Ayrshire in detail. The Council are committed to improving the future energy efficiency of both private and Council housing through a variety of measures including low cost insulation schemes and developing renewable technologies such as solar panels for use in public buildings such as schools and colleges.


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C9 Noise

C9.1 Nois e SEA Objec tives

The World Health Organisation defines noise nuisance as ‘a feeling of displeasure evoked by noise’. The nuisance caused by noise usually affects people in their homes, when out walking and when using open areas used for recreation. Certain species can also be adversely affected by noise.

This section presents the noise baseline for South Ayrshire focusing on providing information that will assist in addressing the SEA objectives and questions as set out in Table 9-1.

Table 9-1: Noise SEA Objectives


The PSALDP should avoid where possible the positioning of residential properties within areas with a noise level exceeding Noise Exposure Category C.

Is the policy/proposal within close proximity to noise sensitive receptors and could the proposal result in increased noise levels?

The PSALDP needs to establish & protect quiet areas, & avoid deterioration in the noise regime in noise sensitive areas.

Will any environmentally sensitive areas be impacted upon as a result of development?

C9.2 Nois e Compla ints

The South Ayrshire Council Environmental Health Department deals with noise and vibration complaints from the public. Common complaints include excessive residential noise, construction related noise, vibration from heavy goods vehicles and blasting at quarry construction sites undertaking activities such as pile driving.

C9.2.1 Nois e Expos ure Levels

PAN56: Planning and Noise sets out the measures for considering Noise Exposure Categories (NECs). NECs help planning authorities determine applications for residential development on sites subjected to noise from road, rail, air, and "mixed" transportation noise but not including industrial noise.

When assessing a proposal for residential development, planning authorities can determine into which category the proposed site falls, taking account of average day and night-time noise levels, as well as a maximum upper night time value. The categories identify the need for development proposals to address noise issues and put forward recommended standards for noise exposure to which new housing development must comply through, for example, the introduction of noise mitigation measures.

The following table details the NECs as outlined in PAN56.

Table 9-2: Noise Levels Corresponding to NECs for New Dwellings

Noise Source Time Noise Exposure Category (NEC) (LAeq,T dB) A B C D

Road Traffic 07.00 – 23.00

23.00 – 07.00

<55

<45

55 – 63

45 – 57

63 – 72

57 – 66

>72

>66

Rail Traffic 07.00 – 23.00

23.00 – 07.00

<55

<45

55 – 66

45 – 59

66 – 74

59 – 66

>74

>66

Air Traffic 07.00 – 23.00

23.00 – 07.00

<57

<48

57 – 66

48 – 57

66 – 72

57 – 66

>72

>66


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Noise Source Time Noise Exposure Category (NEC) (LAeq,T dB) A B C D

Mixed Sources

07.00 – 23.00

23.00 – 07.00

<55

<45

55 – 63

45 – 57

63 – 72

57 – 66 >72

C9.3 Nois e Sens itive Receptors

C9.3.1 Scottis h Nois e Mapping

The new Scottish Noise Mapping data is required under the European Environmental Noise Directive which maps major roads which have more than six million vehicle passages a year, major railways which have more than 60,000 train passages a year, major airports with more than 50,000 movements and transport sources and industry in agglomerations (large urban areas) (Scottish Government, 2007). The computer software calculates the noise level at a specific point as it spreads out from the sources of noise that have been included. It illustrates an average noise level for an average day in the year calculated on the basis of a 10m grid a height of 4m above ground level as required by Directive 2002/49/EC. The data for the major roads and airport in South Ayrshire are detailed below. The A77 is the main road artery from South Ayrshire to Glasgow and the central belt. The noise sensitive receptors along the length of the A77 in South Ayrshire are the nearby centres of population and nature conservation designations. The main population centres along the A77 in South Ayrshire are Ayr, Prestwick and Symington. Based on the strategic noise maps published by the Scottish Executive, none of these residential properties experience road noise levels higher than 65 ≤ to <70 dB (A) Lden and 55 ≤ to <60 dB (A) Lnight. Properties surrounding Glasgow Prestwick Airport are the only area that experiences higher noise levels in the range of 70 ≤ to <75 dB (A) Lden and 65 ≤ to <70 dB (A) Lnight (Scottish Government, 2007). Scottish Noise Maps for rail generated noise have not yet been published for South Ayrshire.

C9.3.2 Sens itive Nature Cons erva tion Areas

There are a number of sites designated for their nature conservation value that are in close proximity to potential transport related noise sources and these are shown in Table 9-3.

Table 9-3: Nature Conservation Sites in Close Proximity to Noise Source

Potential Noise Source Designation Type Designated Area

A77 SPA Glen App and Galloway Moors

SAC Lendalfoot Hills Complex

SSSI Glen App and Galloway Moors

Pinbain Burn to Cairn Hill

Aldons Hill

A713 SSSI Martnaham Loch and Wood

A78 SSSI Dundonald Wood

C9.4 Future Trends

The Scottish Government are in the midst of a five year rolling out programme of the Scottish Noise Maps and development of Action Plans for Glasgow and Edinburgh agglomerations, their associated airports and also Transportation Action Plans.


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The Transport Action Plan Planning Process has identified several sections of corridors or parts of areas which are likely to be included in an Action Plan. The Environmental Noise Directive requires places near major roads with more than six million vehicle passages per year and places near major railways which have more than six thousand train passages per year to be included in an Action Plan (Scottish Government, 2009ii). The M77 / A77 corridor encompassing the A77, M77, A79, A70 and A713 has been identified as requiring inclusion in a Transportation Action Plan. With the exception of the M77, all these roads are within the South Ayrshire area. Over the next five years, an assessment of potential Candidate Noise Management Areas (CNMAs) and the resultant Noise Management Areas (NMAs) will be identified. It is possible that some of these areas will be within South Ayrshire and any requirements relating to these Management Areas will need to be adhered to.


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C10 Human Health

C10.1 Human Health SEA Objec tives

The human health environmental baseline looks at various issues relating to the health of the population in South Ayrshire to support the SEA objectives and associated questions as outlined in Table 10-1.

Factors considered in this section include general health, obesity, physical activity, road traffic accidents and recreational facilities.

Table 10-1: Human Health SEA Objectives


To enhance and protect human health & promote healthy living through the promotion of more active travel behaviour, particularly walking & cycling.

Will the policy/proposal encourage walking and cycling rates, bringing them in line with the national average?

Maintain and improve recreational facilities and promote access to health, social and recreational facilities.

Does the policy/proposal facilitate healthy lifestyles & address safety concerns?

Does the policy/proposal include development appropriately sited for access to health social & recreational facilities & open space?

C10.2 General Health

According to census data, approximately 68 per cent of South Ayrshire’s population is considered to be in good health which is slightly higher than the Scottish average (SCROL, 2001). In terms of people not in good health, South Ayrshire is relatively similar to that of the whole of Scotland at approximately 10 per cent, as shown in Table 10-2. The data also shows that 21 per cent of the total resident population of South Ayrshire have a limiting long term illness (SCROL, 2001).

Table 10-2: General Health

General Health South Ayrshire Scotland

Total population 112,097 5,062,011

% Good 68.33 67.91

% Fairly Good 21.89 21.94

% Not good 9.78 10.15 (SCROL, 2001)

C10.3 Obes ity

The prevalence of obesity within Scotland has increased over the past two decades, with 2003 figures indicating that 33% of men and 24% of women are obese. Childhood obesity is also growing, with 18% of boys and 14% of girls obese. Obesity is linked to increased risk of coronary heart disease, diabetes, cancer, kidney failure and high blood pressure (ISD Scotland, 2007).

Within South Ayrshire Council, the percentage of Primary 1 school children that are obese is 7.5%, slightly under the Scottish average of 7.9% (ISD Scotland, 2008). The Scottish Health Survey (Scottish Executive, 2005) undertook a Body Mass Index (BMI) study by health board and found that within Ayrshire and Arran, 25.3% of adult males and 26.6% of adult women had a BMI of over 30 and so were classified as obese.


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A recent study by Dr Foster Research on obesity prevalence by primary care organisation throughout the UK for 2006/07 revealed that Ayrshire and Arran health board was in the lowest category for risk of obesity. These results were based upon GP records of patient obesity and illustrated that 6.7% of patients registered in the Ayrshire and Arran health board area were obese compared to the Shetland Isles which have the highest recorded obesity in the UK at 15.54%. C10.4 Phys ica l Ac tivity and Recrea tion

C10.4.1 Active Trave l

Active travel is non motorised travel, commonly by means of walking and cycling. Active travel has benefits to human health through increasing exercise levels and also to the wider community as a result of a reduction in traffic levels and congestion. South Ayrshire has an extensive path and cycle network, including a National Cycle Network Route (NCR 7) and numerous local routes. The NCR7 runs from Carlisle to Inverness. In South Ayrshire the route goes through Galloway Forest Park, up to Glengennet, through Cloyntie and South Mains before heading to the coast and through Ayr, Prestwick and Troon. South Ayrshire Final Consultation Draft Core Paths Plan was published in February 2009 (South Ayrshire Council, 2009) and once approved will form a central part of outdoor access provision in South Ayrshire. The Draft Core Paths Plan identifies a number of proposed Core Path routes, including the Ayrshire Coastal Path, National Cycle Routes and River Ayr Way. Paths include access for walking, cycling and equestrians with a variety of urban and rural routes.

C10.4.2 Phys ica l Activity

The Scottish Government’s physical activity statistics give an indication of general levels of exercise in Scotland. The statistics show a slight decline in physical activity since the Scottish Health Survey in 2003.

No information relates directly to South Ayrshire, however data for the Ayrshire and Arran Health Board indicated that 40% of Men and 30% of women had high physical activity levels (30 minutes or more at least 5 days a week). Furthermore, the statistics showed that 34% of men and 37% of women had low physical activity levels (few than 30 minutes of moderate or vigorous activity a week) (Scottish Government, 2005).

Improvements to public health have arisen from guidance issued by The Department for Transport (2005) for the promotion of walking and cycling. The percentage of people in South Ayrshire walking and cycling is slightly below the Scottish average as shown in Table 10-3 (Strathclyde Partnership for Transport, 2007).

Table 10-3: Walking and Cycling Figures

Mode South Ayrshire Scotland

Population 112,097 5,062,011

Bicycle 792 41,117

On Foot 13,696 717,328

% of People travelling by bicycle 0.7 0.8

% of People travelling on foot 12.2 14.2 (Strathclyde Partnership for Transport, 2007)


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C10.4.3 Recrea tional Facilities

Outdoor recreational facilities in South Ayrshire are numerous and these are outlined in Table 10-4. In general, the recreational opportunities are situated within the towns and villages, in particular there are many within Ayr which is the largest town. Table 10-4: Recreational Facilities in South Ayrshire

Type of Facility Details of Site Location

Forest and Country parks

Galloway Forest Park South of the local authority area.

Culzean Castle Country Park Near Maybole, in northwest.

Open and Amenity Space

Football pitches, tennis courts and play parks Oval Park, Prestwick (northwest)

Improved footpaths Glencairn Park, Ayr (northwest)

Activity Centres All the activity centres are situated in the north of South Ayrshire within the towns of Coylton, Dundonald, Mossblown, Muirhead, Troon and Whitletts, Ayr.

Leisure Centres Leisure centres including swimming pools. Citadel Leisure Centre, Ayr, Prestwick Swimming Pool, Troon Swimming Pool, and Maybole Swimming Pool

Golf Courses Numerous golf courses throughout South Ayrshire, particularly along the coastal stretch.

Turnberry, Royal Troon, Dundonald Links and Girvan;

Sports Clubs Football clubs, bowling clubs, rugby clubs, athletic clubs, cricket clubs, volleyball clubs and sailing clubs

Located throughout South Ayrshire in the numerous towns and villages.

Paths, trails and cycle routes

River Ayr Way, National Cycle Route 7, Pinmore Walk, Girvan and Barony Hill Walk, Dailly

(South Ayrshire Council, 2009ii)

C10.5 Accident S ta tis tics

During 2008 there were a total of 222 recorded road accidents in South Ayrshire, resulting in 298 people that were injured. Six of these were fatalities and 60 people were seriously injured. Table 10-5 identifies the fatalities, the number of people seriously injured and slightly injured during 2008 on trunk roads and local roads. Of these casualties, 33 were pedestrians, 83 were passengers and 180 were drivers or motorbike riders. Numbers of those seriously injured and slightly injured have increased from 2007 figures (South Ayrshire Council, 2009ii). South Ayrshire Council has analysed accident locations over a three year period from 2006 to 2008 and have identified 10 local roads with accident rates above the Scottish average. The B7023, from the A719 junction to Maybole and Crosshill, has the highest serious and fatal injuries with two fatalities, three seriously injured and 12 people slightly injured between 2006 and 2008. Within urban areas, the main commuter routes into Ayr and Prestwick have the highest number of accident black spots. In 2008, approximately one in every five collisions took place on a trunk road (the A77 or A78) (South Ayrshire Council, 2009ii).

Table 10-5: Accident Severity Statistics

Severity (2008) Trunk Road Casualties

Local Road Casualties

Total Casualties

Fatal and Seriously Injured

16 50 66

Slightly Injured 48 184 232


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Total 65 234 298 (South Ayrshire Council, 2009ii) The A77 Safety Group was formed in response to concerns about the number of fatal and serious road traffic accidents on this route. A total of 30 fatal, 243 serious and 830 slight casualties have resulted from crashes between January 1996 and December 2005 between Fenwick and Stranraer on the A77 (A77 Safety Group, 2005).

C10.6 Future Trends

The current trend of decreasing levels of mortality and increasing life expectancy is likely to continue in South Ayrshire, in line with Scotland nationally.

C10.6.1 Obes ity and Active Trave l

Forecasted trends show obesity to be increasing across Scotland and it is envisaged that South Ayrshire will show a similar trend. However, further promotion of walking and cycling could assist in addressing obesity and improving general health.

There are plans to expand the National Cycle Network, and to continue to encourage people to walk and cycle. This expansion will aim to link more communities to their schools, shops and green spaces, whilst at the same time promote the benefits of active, healthy and environmentally friendly travel. Once approved, the Core Path Plan networks will assist in opening up the countryside to pedestrians, equestrians and cyclists, making it more accessible to the public and providing the opportunity to improve the population’s health. C10.6.2 Road Safe ty

In terms of road safety, South Ayrshire’s targets for 2010 are to:

• Reduce the number of fatalities of people seriously injured (KSI) by 40%; • Reduce the number of child fatalities or seriously injured by 50%; and • Reduce the number of slightly injured casualties by 10% (South Ayrshire Council, 2009ii).

Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2020 was published in June 2009 and sets road safety targets to 2020. These are set out in Table 10-6.

Table 10-6: Road Safety Targets 2020

Target 2015 milestone % reduction 2020 target % reduction

Number of fatalities 30 40

People seriously injured 43 55

Child (<16) fatalities 35 50

Children (<16) seriously injured 50 65 (Scottish Government, 2009)


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C11 Population

C11.1 Popula tion SEA Objec tives

SEA Objectives relating to population are outlined in Table 11-1. These help to guide the baseline information.

Table 11-1: Population SEA Objectives


Improve the community environment & quality of life of residents.

Could the policy/proposal enhance the community environment & improve quality of life?

Maintain or enhance sustainable access to key services, amenities & employment particularly for rural communities.

Does the policy/proposal promote sustainable access to essential services and employment opportunities?

Promote economic growth to encourage retention of working age population.

Does the policy/proposal promote economic growth through encouraging new business?

C11.2 South Ayrs hire Popula tion Profile

The results from the 2001 Census indicate South Ayrshire’s population to be 112,097 which approximates to two per cent of Scotland’s total population (5,116,900) (SCROL, 2001). General Registry Office for Scotland’s population data indicates South Ayrshire’s estimated population to be 111,670 in 2008, a drop in population of 427 from the 2001 Census (GROS, 2008). In-migration and out-migration figures in 2008 are relatively similar; 3,839 left South Ayrshire (3.4% of the population), with 3,604 moving to South Ayrshire in 2008. In terms of total population, South Ayrshire is the 17th largest Council area out of a total of 32 Councils in Scotland. The bulk of the population lives in the major settlements of Ayr, Troon, and Prestwick along with the smaller towns of Girvan and Maybole. Approximately 11 per cent of South Ayrshire’s population live in settlements of less than 500 people. Table 11-2 provides details of the population of the main settlements of Ayr, Troon, Prestwick, Girvan and Maybole.

Table 11-2: Main Settlements 2001 and 2006 Population

Settlement 2001 Census (SCROL, 2001) 2006 Estimate (GROS, 2006)

Ayr 46,392 60,730

Troon 14,766 14,510

Prestwick 14,934 Not Available

Girvan 6,992 6,790

Maybole 4,552 4,710

C11.3 Demography

South Ayrshire’s demography is comparable to that of Scotland as a whole. There is however, a higher proportion of the older population with 2001 Census data indicating 22 per cent of South Ayrshire’s population to be of pensionable age compared to 19 per cent for Scotland as a whole. Estimated 2008 data indicates 21 per cent of the population to be pensionable age compared to 17 per cent of Scotland as a whole. Table 11-3 provides a comparative breakdown of South Ayrshire’s population profile.


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Table 11-3: Population Profile

2001 Census

South Ayrshire

(SCROL, 2001)

2001 Census

Scotland

(SCROL, 2001)

2008 Estimate

South Ayrshire

(GROS, 2008)

2008 Estimate

Scotland

(GROS, 2008)

Sex

Total resident population 112,097 5,062,011 111,690 5,144,200

% Males 47.64 48.05 47.8 48.37

% Females 52.36 51.95 52.19 51.62

Age

% under 16 18.10 19.20 16.6 17.7

% 16 to pensionable age 59.74 62.19 62.7 65.8

% pensionable age 22.16 18.61 20.7 16.6

Life expectancy at birth in Scotland (2005 – 2007) is 77.4 years. This has increased by 2.9% from 1995 to 1997. Within South Ayrshire life expectancy is higher than the Scottish average at 78.2 years, 3% higher than the 1995 to 1997 average. Males have a lower life expectancy than females in South Ayrshire at 75.7 years (2005-2007 average), with females expected to live for 80.6 years (2005-2007 average), 0.9% longer than the Scottish average over the same time period (GROS, 2008).

C11.4 Economic Development and Employment

C11.4.1 Economy

South Ayrshire has a long tradition of manufacturing and processing operations. The local economy has faced challenges including the decline of these sectors which include engineering, textiles, coal mining and fishing. Certain areas which depended heavily on these industries have suffered particularly noticeable decline with individual areas affected including the Newton, McCalls Avenue and West Sanquhar Road (South Ayrshire Council, 2007). The Local Plan supports the continuing role of manufacturing in the local economy and the future, growth of the hi-tech sector and associated industries through the identification of suitable sites for expansion. Commercial forestry is a growing sector within South Ayrshire with the conversion of marginal farming land into forests for commercial planting. The production and processing of timber has supported over 1,500 jobs in the local economy and helps to support the area’s ports. There is further opportunity to stimulate recreational, landscape improvements and increase biodiversity which could boost tourism both passive and active (South Ayrshire Council, 2009). Over the past decade, South Ayrshire has under performed relative to the Scottish and UK average, based on growth in the Gross Value Added (GVA) of goods and services. The Council area has a higher than average share of the export market which has increased over the last five years with the main exports related to the manufacturing sector with metal aerospace products, softwood timber, food and drinks being the major export products (South Ayrshire Council, 2009).

C11.4.2 Employment

A comparative breakdown of South Ayrshire’s employment patterns with those for Scotland is provided in Table 11-4. Manufacturing within South Ayrshire has declined from 20% of employee jobs in 1995 to 11.5% in 2007; employment within the construction industry has also declined during this time. Service related jobs including the distribution; hotels and restaurants sectors and public administration, health and education sectors have increased during this time period with employment rising 1.1% and 7.9% respectively (NOMIS, 2007).


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Table 11-4: Employment Patterns

Industry of Employment South Ayrshire (%) Scotland (%)

Construction 3.9 5.7

Manufacturing 11.5 9.2

Distribution, Hotels and Restaurants 29.6 22

Transport and Communications 6.8 5.4

Finance, IT and other Business Activities 7.1 18.8

Public Admin, Education and Health 33.1 30.3

Other Services 5.8 5.3

Tourism-related 13.5 9.1 (NOMIS, 2007)

Recent data from the Office of National Statistics indicates that Scotland’s unemployment rate is increasing. The employment rate in Scotland was 74.9% of the population at March 2009, 1.6% lower than the 2008 figure. The unemployment rate was 5.9% between the February to March period, 1.9% higher than the same period in 2008 (Office for National Statistics, 2009). Within South Ayrshire, 75.1% of the working age population where employed between October 2007 and September 2008, with 5.2% of the population unemployed and 20.3% economically inactive. The claimant count as a proportion of the resident working age population was 2.5% (Office for National Statistics, 2009). The claimant count as a proportion of the resident working age population was 4.1% in April 2009, slightly below the Scottish average of 4.4%, and an increase of 1.7% since April 2008 (Office for National Statistics, 2009). South Ayrshire’s unemployment rate (5.2%) compares equitably with other areas of Scotland. There are localised areas of high unemployment as a result of economic restructuring in areas such as Girvan and North Ayr, where priority partnership areas have been designated to encourage new investment. Tarbolton, Mossblown and Annbank are also recognised as requiring priority investment to aid economic regeneration. South Ayrshire has an abundance of tourist attractions with over 13% of the population employed in the industry both directly and indirectly. The development of RyanAir flights into and out of Glasgow Prestwick International Airport has increased the number of overseas visitors to the area but do not always stay. The number of tourists visiting Ayrshire and Arran has in fact declined in recent years and expenditure per tourist visit is still below the national average. The number of people directly employed by farming within South Ayrshire has declined in recent years with a move away from intensive farming into land management practises. There is a recognised need for diversification which is complimentary to services already existing in the area.

C11.5 Community Fac ilities

Community centres are located in the majority of settlements in South Ayrshire including Prestwick, Ayr, Girvan, Maybole, Barrhill, Maidens, and Troon. The John Pollock Centre in North Ayr provides community facilities including an employment training initiative, community development services and youth development services. There are 14 libraries within South Ayrshire and a mobile library serving rural areas.

In terms of learning, Ayr College provides further education including day and evening courses with campus’ in Ayr and Girvan (pictured left). The college also runs courses in partnership with Secondary schools. Other higher education establishments in South Ayrshire include the Scottish Agricultural College campus within Auchincruive Estate and the University of the West of


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Scotland in Ayr. There are eight Secondary schools within South Ayrshire, including four within Ayr and numerous primary schools.

Accident and emergency departments are located at Ayr and Crosshouse hospitals, both in the north of South Ayrshire. There are numerous GP surgeries and these are located in the main settlements. Several sporting and recreational facilities are also located within South Ayrshire; further details are provided within Chapter A10: Human Heath, Section 10.4.

C11.6 Acces s ib ility

Because of its relatively rural nature, South Ayrshire has a high rate of car ownership compared to the rest of Scotland. At present, the road network is capable of handling the current volume of traffic. However, there are a number of congestion hotspots such as the A77 Whitletts roundabout, Maybole town centre and Ayr town centre. Journey times for services to Glasgow are affected by congestion on the northern part of the M77 and the M8 especially in peak hours. As of the 2001 Census, there were 48,748 households in South Ayrshire. Of this total, 29 per cent did not own a car or van (lower than the Scottish average of 34%), 46 per cent had one car or van (higher than the Scottish average of 43%), 21 per cent had two cars or vans (higher than the Scottish average of 19%) while four per cent owned three or more (comparable to the Scottish average of 4%) (SCROL, 2001). Out of a total of 45,965 working people (aged 16 to 74) in South Ayrshire, almost 70 per cent travelled to work by car (compared to the Scottish average of 64 per cent), with 11 per cent travelling by bus or train (compared to the Scottish average of 15 per cent), six per cent working from home (compared to the Scottish average of four per cent) and 13 per cent using other means (compared to the Scottish average of 15 per cent). Car usage is therefore higher than the Scottish average of 64 per cent, whilst those using train or bus is lower than the overall average of 15 per cent (SCROL, 2001). South Ayrshire’s work modal choices are illustrated in Figure 11-1. Public Transport services are detailed within Section 12.3.

Figure 11-1: Travel to Work Modal Choice (SCROL, 2001)

The use of public transport as a means of travelling to work also rates lower than the Scottish average. South Ayrshire’s high car usage is reflected in fuel consumption, with over half being consumed by petrol cars or vans (SCROL, 2001).

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

%

No car or van 1 car or van 2 cars or vans 3 or more carsor vans

Car / Van Ownership

South AyrshireScotland

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

South Ayrshire Scotland

%

% Car (including passengers,car pools and taxis)

% Train or Bus

% Other

% Mainly at home


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Figure 11-2: Comparative Car/Van Ownership (SCROL, 2001)

C11.7 Dis ability and Mobility

A number of access problems exist in South Ayrshire for those with disabilities or mobility problems, particularly in relation to buses and taxis. In addition, access to buildings including new shopping centres and council buildings is often poor (South Ayrshire Council, 2006). The percentage of public buildings accessible to disabled people was 50% in March 2008 (South Ayrshire Council, 2008).

The South Ayrshire Access Panel aims to ensure that the design of new buildings and reconstruction works meet the need of disabled people and seek to improve the quality of life for disabled people. The Panel have successfully increased access to disabled amenities in Ayr town centre, and have developed access guides to Ayr, Prestwick, Troon, Maybole and Girvan.

Ayr Shopmobility enables easy access to shopping and leisure facilities within Ayrshire, but mainly within Ayr town centre. Wheelchairs and scooters are provided free of charge to the public with temporary or permanent disability. Shopmobility also runs a minibus service (South Ayrshire Access Panel, 2005).

C11.8 Future Trends

C11.8.1 Demographics

South Ayrshire’s population is projected to decline by 1.2% between 2006 and 2031. It is predicted that the child and working age populations will decline between 2006 and 2031, and South Ayrshire’s population of pensionable ages will grow by a projected 25.9% (GROS, 2008).

C11.8.2 Community Fac ilities

In terms of education provision, University campus proposals for the University of the West of Scotland (CWS) have recently been approved at Craigie Estate. This is due to commence in late 2009 and will see the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC) joining UWS on the site with shared facilities including a teaching and learning space, gym, refectory, library and other amenities for over 4,000 students by 2012 so increasing capacity by approximately 1000 students (South Ayrshire Council, 2009). A new secondary school as well as new primaries such as Ayr Grammar is also planned for the future.

C11.8.3 Acces s ib ility

A new SPT Park and Ride scheme at Monkton is proposed which would aid commuters often affected by congestion on the road network.


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C12 Material Assets

C12.1 Material As s e ts SEA Objec tives

The material assets sector looks at the natural resources of the area and how these are used in sustainable building methods, the transport infrastructure and waste management.

The material assets SEA objectives and associated questions are illustrated in Table 12-1, which are utilised to guide the collection of environmental baseline data.

Table 12-1: Material Assets SEA Objectives


The LDP should ensure that areas important for the production of materials for construction and energy generation are protected from development.

Could the policy/proposal promote sustainable design and construction?

Promote sustainable and efficient use of natural resources in the construction of existing and future developments.

Does the policy/proposal have the potential to promote reuse and recycle of waste in the construction of new developments?

Ensure that waste management in South Ayrshire is based on the principles of reduce, reuse and recycle, as set out in the Area Waste Plan BPEO.

Could the policy/proposal make a positive contribution towards achieving all European, national, regional and local waste reduction & recycling targets?

Would the policy/proposal minimise the production of waste for any new development?

C12.2 Natura l Res ources

C12.2.1 Primary Aggrega tes

Details of geological resources in South Ayrshire can be found in Chapter A5: Soils and Geology. The Ayrshire Joint Structure Plan Committee has assessed the long term availability of aggregates and other mineral resources. This assessment has indicated that no additional preferred or search areas will be required for the foreseeable future. However, future extraction is still a possibility.

All applications for future extraction will be considered against criteria including the consideration of the availability of alternative supplies from recycled or secondary sources.

C12.2.2 Secondary Aggrega tes

Secondary aggregates include the waste from collieries and other mineral extraction or processing operations as well as material recycled from former man-made constructions. They are used as alternatives to primary aggregates. In South Ayrshire, colliery tips (bings) that contain a high proportion of unburnt mudstone may provide suitable material for brick making but their composition can be variable. Tips of inert burnt mudstone with siltstone and sandstone can be used as fill. Some tips may be polluted and their use may not be environmentally or economically desirable. Recently, many of the local bings around Dailly have been landscaped and forested (BGS, 2008).

C12.2.3 Quarries

There are several quarries present in South Ayrshire with the main sources of hard rock aggregate being the dolerite or microgabbro sills in the north of the area.


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At Tormitchell, quarrying is undertaken for roadstone, crushed rock aggregate, crushed sandstone and ready mixed concrete. Tormitchell quarry now extends into the Ordovician sandstones and conglomerates which are crushed and used as aggregates. Barbrae Quarry, near Tormitchell, also produces crushed sandstone from the Ardwell Farm Formation. Hillhead quarry, Hallyards quarry and Craigiehill quarry all extract dolerite. Both Hillhead and Hallyards work the Hillhouse Sill at Dundonald. Hillhead quarry is one of the largest hard rock quarries in central Scotland, and produces a wide variety of crushed rock products including pre-coated chips, roadstone, concreting aggregates and rail ballast. Craigiehill Quarry works the Craigie Sill for crushed rock aggregate whilst Craiksland near Dundonald produced sandstone. Within the Girvan area, the Stinchar Limestone has been worked for many years and was originally used for agricultural purposes at Aldons, Craigneil and Bougang. Ordovician Craighead Limestone was also quarried in the past but is now almost exhausted (BGS, 2009). The Loch Doon Granite Pluton partially lies in South Ayrshire but so far, no significant use of this source of igneous rocks has been made. This is an environmentally sensitive area and may be too remote for economic markets. Until recently Ailsa Craig was quarried for microgranite in small quantities for curling stones (British Geological Survey, 2008).

C12.2.4 Renewable Energy Prac tis es

South Ayrshire Council are currently making a positive provision for renewable energy developments by supporting a wide range renewable energy technologies, undertaking community consultation, guiding development to appropriate locations and maximising environmental, economic and social benefits. This section outlines the current renewable energy practises undertaken in the Council area.

Wind Energy

There are several wind farms in operation in the local authority area at present. These sites are detailed in Chapter A8: Climatic Factors. In 2008, South Ayrshire Council installed its first wind turbine at Dundonald Primary School with funding from the Low Carbon Building Programme and the Co-Operative Bank.

Solar Energy

Several solar energy projects have also been undertaken in South Ayrshire as outlined in the following paragraphs.

Troon, Bradan Road – Approximately 30KWp of photovoltaic (PV) panels were installed onto a sheltered housing unit consisting of 32 flats in eight blocks of four flats each. This was completed in 2002 and saved tenants around £50 per year. At the time this was the largest PV installation in Scotland.

Girvan Academy – Installation of a 450 watt, wall mounted PV system in 2000 with DTI funding. This is used as a teaching aid to educate and give pupils experience working with renewable technology.

Other Projects – Barr Primary, Pinwherry Primary and Dailly Primary each have around 2.5KW of PV panels with display boards installed in 2008 with funding from Scottish and Southern Energy and the Government’s Low Carbon Building Programme Phase II. The Council has also installed solar thermal panels on a number of sheltered housing units.

Wood Fuel


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No woodfuel heating systems have yet been installed by the Council but they would consider the feasibility of such as system as and when required.

C12.3 Exis ting Trans port Infras truc ture

Within South Ayrshire, the A77 Trunk Road (sections of dual and single carriageway) forms the main spine of the road network within South Ayrshire linking Ballentrae, Girvan, Maybole, Ayr and Prestwick to Kilmarnock and Glasgow to the north and Stranraer to the south. The A78 is also a major trunk road (dual carriageway) which links the A77 to the north of Prestwick with Troon and continues north to Irvine, Largs and Greenock. Bus services are operated by a number of companies, with the majority of services operated by Stagecoach West Scotland. The most services radiate from Ayr, which also has an extensive town network. There are service links to North Ayrshire, East Ayrshire, Glasgow, Lanarkshire and Dumfries and Galloway. Rail services are operated by First ScotRail. Services run half hourly between Ayr and Glasgow, hourly between Girvan and Kilmarnock and also to Newcastle, Carlisle and Stranraer. Glasgow Prestwick Airport provides National and International services, and is currently the 4th busiest airport in Scotland. There has been rapid growth of Prestwick Airport in terms of flights and passenger numbers in the past 10 years although it has experienced a recent decline in both due to the global recession. Prestwick Airport has its own dedicated railway station on the Glasgow to Ayr line.

Key constraints and congestion points include;

• A77 South of Whitletts Roundabout; • A77 at Maybole; • Ayr town centre; • Prestwick town centre; • Lack of capacity on peak hour services between Ayr and Glasgow; • Lack of Park and Ride capacity at rail stations; • Lack of capacity to support growth in freight services; • Poor bus and rail interchange; and • Poor bus services to rural communities (South Ayrshire Council, 2009iii).

In general, the rail service south of Ayr is infrequent and slow compared to the electric service. The route between Ayr and Girvan is single track which restricts potential improvements.

C12.4 Exis ting Indus tria l Areas

Several small industrial areas exist in South Ayrshire, the majority of which are located in the northern areas such as Ayr and Prestwick. Table 12-2 details these industrial sites and their locations.

Table 12-2: Industrial Areas of South Ayrshire

Site Name Location Postal Code

Hannah Research Park Ayr KA6 5HL

Mossblown Industrial Estate Ayr KA6 6AJ

Mosshill Business Park Ayr KA6 6BE

North Harbour Estate and Trading Centre Ayr KA8 8BL

Viewfield Business Centre and Green Street Lane Business Park

Ayr KA8 8HH

Weir Road and Newton Trading Estate Ayr KA8 8BD

Olympic Business Park Dundonald KA2 9ED

Palmermount Industrial Estate Dundonald KA2 9BL


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Grangestone Industrial Estate Girvan KA26 9PD

Prestwick Industrial Park and Northside Park Prestwick KA9 2PL

Heathfield Industrial Estate Prestwick KA8 9AF

Glenburn and Shawfarm Industrial Estate Prestwick KA9 2NS

Branchline Industrial Estate Troon KA10 6QR (FreightScotland, 2009)

C12.5 Was te Management

South Ayrshire Council does not operate any landfill sites of its own, although it does operate one licensed waste transfer station and six licensed civic amenity sites within its area. The majority of municipal waste is disposed at Garlaff Landfill Site near Cumnock. Wastes arising in the south of the district are currently disposed of at Straid Landfill Site, and Tarbolton landfill site is also used for some limited disposal.

There are currently two private licensed landfill sites within South Ayrshire at Tarbolton Moss and at Straid Landfill Site, Lendalfoot. There is one licensed metal recovery facility at Ayr Harbour and one licensed waste transfer station at Saltpans Road in Ayr.

The South Ayrshire Local Plan identifies a need for two new waste transfer stations, to reduce the need for transport of material, one near to Ayr and another close to Girvan (South Ayrshire Council, 2007). The Council is working with North and East Ayrshire Council on a joint waste treatment project which will enable the Councils to meet landfill targets (South Ayrshire Council, 2009iv).

Civic amenity sites within South Ayrshire provide recycling facilities for garden waste, wood, metals, glass, paper, cardboard, textiles, oil, etc. There are also a number of glass and can recycling banks strategically located throughout the district. The council’s recycling and composting rate for municipal waste in 2001/2002 was around nine per cent (SEPA, 2003). The council has also introduced an extensive waste-minimization project involving the distribution and promotion of home-composting bins to householders within the district. Since the home-composting project was implemented, the amount of municipal waste landfilled by the council has reduced from 79,112 tonnes in 1999/2000 to 73,319 tonnes in 2001/2002. (SEPA, 2003). This diversion rate is significant, especially when achieved at the same time as municipal waste arisings are increasing at the rate of two to four per cent per annum (SEPA, 2003). Current waste recycling collection services in South Ayrshire include collections of glass, paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, cans and garden waste (South Ayrshire Council, 2009iv). South Ayrshire Council achieved an overall recycling rate of 43% in the year 2007 and 2008, the second highest recycling rate of all the council’s in Scotland (South Ayrshire Council, 2009iv).

C12.6 Water and Was te Water As s e ts

The Scottish Water Strategic Asset Capacity and Development Plan 2009, identifies water and waste water assets and their capacity within the Council areas in Scotland. Capacity is represented as the number of additional housing unit equivalents based on a localised population equivalent, which could be accommodated at the treatment works. Water and waste water treatment works within South Ayrshire are identified in Tables 12-3 and 12-4.

Table 12-3: Water Asset Capacity

Name Asset No. Capacity

Bradan WTW WTW000028 4,950

Penwhapple New WTW WTW000206 499

Table 12-4: Waste Water Asset Capacity



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Annbank STW STW000019 30

Barr STW STW000061 25

Barrhill STW STW000062 19

Colmonell Main Street Septic Tank STW000172 19

Craigie Septic Tank STW000188 < 10

Crosshill STW STW000205 34

Dailly STW STW000216 20

Doonbank Park Septic Tank STW000243 <10

Fiveways Septic Tank and Reed Bed STW000291 <10

Girvan STW STW000320 491

Hawkhill Septic Tank, Old Dailly STW000366 <10

Joppa STW (Coylton STW) STW000392 <10

Kirkmichael STW STW000442 491

Maybole STW STW000504 <10

Minishant (new) Septic Tank STW000518 81

Minishant St Helen’s Court Septic Tank 1 STW000520 176

Minishant, St Helen’s Court Septic Tank 2 STW000521 49

Pinmore Septic Tank STW000577 <10

Pinwherry Septic Tank STW000578 <10

St Quivox Septic Tank STW000667 <10

Dunure, Guildhall 5 Seaview UNS SO STW003533 <10

Ballentrae, 1 Foreland UNS SO STW003619 <10

Dunure, 17 Seaview UNS SO STW003532 <10 (Scottish Water, 2009)

C12.7 Future Trends

C12.7.1 Aggregates

The Carboniferous to early Permian alkali dolerite sills present in South Ayrshire should continue to provide good sources of hard rock and crushed rock for coated roadstone, concrete blocks and ready mixed concrete in the future (BGS, 2008).

C12.7.2 Renewable Energy Us age

South Ayrshire Council carried out a feasibility study in 2005 of 21 representative existing buildings across the area and found that 14 were technically feasible for woodfuel fired heating installation. This type of system could also be designed for a higher proportion of newbuilds.

Current housing can be improved utilising existing technology and products to reduce energy demand by 60% but significant costs are involved. The majority of the housing stock (73%) is privately owned and it is hard to reduce the carbon emissions of these. Possible measures include solid wall insulation, advanced glazing, automatic woodfuel heating systems, solar water heating heat pumps, micro Combined Heat and Power (CHP) and photovoltaics (South Ayrshire Council, 2005).


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C12.7.3 Trans port Infras truc ture

With regards Prestwick Airport, passenger growth is forecast to grow from three million in 2008 to nine million in 2030.

C12.7.4 Recycling

Recycling rates are likely to increase as more facilities become available such as the new site proposed in Girvan which will provide material sorting, reclamation and recycling facilities. The Dumfries and Galloway and Ayrshire Area Waste Plan (SEPA, 2003) aims to achieve a 19 per cent recycle rate by 2010 and 23 per cent by 2013. The targets also aim to reduce waste to landfill by 59 per cent by 2010 and 46 per cent by 2013.

C12.7.5 Was te Management

New zero waste targets for local authorities in Scotland are set out in Table 12-2. As identified in Section A12.4, South Ayrshire is already two years ahead of schedule for their recycling and composting rates. Table 12-5: New Zero Waste Targets for Council Areas

Year % Municipal waste recycled or composted

% Municipal waste used for energy

% Municipal waste to landfill

2010 40% 4% 56%

2013 50% 16% 36%

2020 60% 25% 15%

2025 70% 25% 5%

Several preferred options for future waste treatment and recycling have been identified by the Ayrshire Joint Strategic Waste Management Project Group (AJWMPG) and these are:

1) A Joint Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) for North and South Ayrshire; 2) In-Vessel Compositing or Anaerobic Digestion facilities to allow the compositing of food wastes; and, 3) One energy recovery plant (Combined Heat and Power) with recyclate recovery that will serve the

residual waste needs of the three Authorities (South Ayrshire Council, 2008ii).

C12.7.6 Water and Was te Water As s e ts

The South Ayrshire 2006 to 2010 Scottish Water Investment Programme is on-going and key water projects include:

• Upgrading of Bradan Water Treatment Works, improving water quality for 185,000 customers; and, • Penwhapple Water Treatment Works upgrade, improving water quality to 9,300 people.


64



65

C13 References

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67

Scottish Government (2009) Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2020. Available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/06/08103221/0 Scottish Government (2009i) Vacant and Derelict Land Survey 2010. Available from: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/339728/0112305.pdf Scottish Government (2009ii) Transportation Draft Noise Action Plan. Available at: http://www.scottishnoisemapping.org/public/action-planning.aspx Scottish Government (2009iii) Opportunities for CO2 Storage around Scotland. Scottish Natural Heritage (1998) Ayrshire Landscape Assessment. Scottish Natural Heritage (2005) Areas of Special Protection. Available at: http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/corporate/factsandfigures/0405/map02.pdf Scottish Natural Heritage (2006) How the Scottish Climate is Changing. Available at: http://www.snh.org.uk/trends/trends_notes/pdf/Climate%20change%20impacts/Scottish%20climate%20is%20changing.pdf Scottish Natural Heritage (2009) SiteLink. Available at: http://gateway.snh.gov.uk/portal/page?_pageid=53,910284,53_920284&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL&UNIT_ID=&DESIGNATION_ID=&CONTAINS=&LA_ID=27 SCROL (2001) Various pages on website. Available at: http://www.scrol.gov.uk South Ayrshire Access Panel (2005) Accessible Ayr Guide. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire-access-panel.org.uk/aapayrag.php South Ayrshire Council (2003) Inspection Strategy for the Identification and Remediation of Contaminated Land. South Ayrshire Council (2006) Disability Equality Scheme. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/equalities/publications/SAC%20Disability%20Equality%20Scheme%20December%202006%20.pdf South Ayrshire Council (2006i) Updating and Screening Assessment 2006. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/environmentalhealth/publichealth/airqualitylive.aspx South Ayrshire Council (2007) South Ayrshire Local Plan. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/local-plan/ South Ayrshire Council (2007i). South Ayrshire Council Climate Change Declaration. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/sustainable-development/climate-change.aspx South Ayrshire Council (2008) Disability Equality Scheme Annual Progress Report. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/equalities/publications/Disability%20Equality%20Scheme%20Annual%20Report%202008%20-%2004.12.08r.pdf South Ayrshire Council (2008i) Local Authority Carbon Management Programme South Ayrshire Council Strategy and Implementation Plan. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/sustainable-development/energy/ South Ayrshire Council (2008ii) Agenda Item 3 (1): Waste Strategy. South Ayrshire (2009) Final Consultation Draft Core Paths Plan. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/outdooraccess/corepathsmaps.aspx. South Ayrshire Council (2009i) Leisure and Culture Services. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/leisure/.

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68

South Ayrshire Council (2009ii) Road Crashes and Casualties in South Ayrshire in 2008. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/documents/roadcrashes2008.pdf South Ayrshire Council (2009iii) Local Transport Strategy 2009 – 2014 South Ayrshire Council (2009iv) Waste and Recycling. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/waste/ South Ayrshire Council (2009v) Environment and Conservation. Available at: http://gis.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/mapsEnvironmental/ South Ayrshire Council (2009vi) Updating and Screening Assessment for South Ayrshire Council 2009. Available at: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/environmentalhealth/publichealth/airqualitylive.aspx Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (2007) Environmental Report for the Regional Transport Strategy for the West of Scotland 2007-2021 Consultative Draft. West of Scotland Archaeological Service (2009), WoSAS Sites and Monuments Record, http://www.wosas.net/about.html

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69

Annex A Biodiversity Features

AYRSHIRE PRIORITY HABITATS 1 Maerl beds 2 Saline lagoons 3 Seagrass beds 4 Benthic zone 5 Rocky shore 6 Pelagic zone 7 Coastal saltmarsh 8 Sheltered muddy gravels 9 Coastal sand dunes 10 Coastal vegetated shingle 11 Maritime cliff and slopes 12 Raised beach platform 13 Rivers and streams 14 Mesotrophic lakes 15 Fens 16 Purple moor grass and rush pastures 17 Reedbeds 18 Ancient and/or species-rich hedgerows 19 Cereal field margins 20 Upland calcareous grassland 21 Lowland dry acid grassland 22 Lowland meadows 23 Coastal and floodplain grazing marsh 24 Planted conifers 25 Lowland wood-pasture and parkland 26 Upland mixed ashwoods 27 Upland oakwood 28 Wet woodland 29 Blanket bog 30 Lowland raised bog 31 Upland heathland 32 Urban


70

AYRSHIRE KEY SPECIES

Taxon Common Name Group Main Habitats BAP Priority Species?

Triturus cristatus Great Crested Newt Amphibians Lowland ponds Yes Alauda arvensis Skylark Birds Open grassland No Botaurus stellaris Great Bittern Birds Reedbeds Yes Caprimulgus europaeus European Nightjar Birds Heathland, open

woodland Yes

Carduelis cannabina Common Linnet Birds Heath, scrub, farmland Yes Circus cyaneus Hen Harrier Birds Moorland No Crex crex Corn Crake Birds Wet lowland hay

meadows Yes

Emberiza schoeniclus Reed Bunting Birds Wetland fringes Yes Melanitta nigra Common Scoter Birds Sea, upland lochs Yes Miliaria calandra Corn Bunting Birds Arable fields Yes Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher Birds Woodland edge Yes Passer montanus Eurasian Tree Sparrow Birds Woodland, farmland,

scrub Yes

Perdix perdix Grey Partridge Birds Lowland farmland Yes Pyrrhula pyrrhula Common Bullfinch Birds Woodland edge Yes Sterna dougallii Roseate Tern Birds Coastal waters, islets Yes Streptopelia turtur European Turtle Dove Birds Lowland farmland Yes Sylvia carruca Lesser whitethroat Birds Scrub No Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse Birds Upland woodland edge Yes Turdus philomelos Song Thrush Birds Woodland edge Yes Cetorhinus maximus Basking Shark Fish Open sea Yes Clupea harengus Herring Fish Open sea Yes Gadus morhua Cod Fish Open sea bottom Yes Merlangius merlangus Whiting Fish Open sea Yes

Molva molva Ling Fish Open sea Yes Pleuronectes platessa Plaice Fish Open sea bottom Yes Pollachius virens Saithe Fish Open sea No Hygrocybe calyptriformis Pink meadow cap Fungi Established grassland No Hygrocybe spadicea Date-coloured waxcap Fungi Established grassland Yes Colletes floralis Northern Colletes Insects Sand dunes Yes Formica aquilonia Scottish Wood Ant Insects Ancient woodland No


71


Aricia artaxerxes Northern Brown Argus Insects Base-rich grassland Yes Rheumaptera hastata Argent & Sable Insects Moorland Yes Myotis mystacinus Whiskered Bat Mammals Woodland edge No Nyctalus noctula Noctule Mammals Woodland with river Yes Pipistrellus pipistrellus Common Pipistrelle Mammals Woodland edge No Pipistrellus pygmaeus Soprano Pipistrelle Mammals Woodland edge Yes Lepus europaeus Brown Hare Mammals Open farmland Yes Balaenoptera acutorostrata

Minke Whale Mammals Open sea Yes

Delphinus delphis Common Dolphin Mammals Open sea Yes Globicephala melas Long-finned pilot whale Mammals Open sea Yes Grampus griseus Risso`s dolphin Mammals Open sea Yes Hyperoodon ampullatus Northern bottlenose

whale Mammals Open sea Yes

Lagenorhynchus acutus Atlantic White-sided Dolphin

Mammals Open sea Yes

Lagenorhynchus albirostris

White-Beaked Dolphin Mammals Open sea Yes

Megaptera novaeangliae Humpback Whale Mammals Open sea Yes Orcinus orca Killer Whale Mammals Open sea Yes Phocoena phocoena Harbour porpoise Mammals Coastal sea Yes Physeter catodon Sperm Whale Mammals Open sea Yes Tursiops truncatus Bottlenosed dolphin Mammals Open sea Yes Arvicola terrestris European Water Vole Mammals Lowland to upland

water’s edge Yes

Lutra lutra European Otter Mammals Rivers Yes Sciurus vulgaris Eurasian Red Squirrel Mammals Extensive broadleaved or

coniferous woodland Yes

Atrina fragilis Fan Mussel Molluscs Sheltered sea bottom Yes Margaritifera margaritifera Scottish pearl mussel Molluscs Acidic rivers Yes Campylopus setifolius Silky Swan-neck Moss Mosses and liverworts Upland heath No Hamatocaulis vernicosus Varnished Hook-moss

(Slender Green Feather-Moss)

Mosses and liverworts Bogs, fens, flushes No

Caretta caretta Loggerhead Turtle Reptiles Open sea Yes Dermochelys coriacea Leatherback Turtle Reptiles Open sea Yes


72


Lepidochelys kempii Kemp`s Ridley Turtle Reptiles Open sea No Lycopodiella inundata Marsh Clubmoss Vascular Plants Wet heath Yes Juniperus communis Juniper Vascular Plants Upland Yes Pilularia globulifera Pillwort Vascular plants Pond and lake edges Yes Trichomanes speciosum Killarney Fern Vascular plants Sheltered damp rock No Centaurea cyanus Cornflower Vascular plants Arable fields Yes Fumaria purpurea Purple Ramping-fumitory Vascular plants Arable, waste-ground Yes Sorbus arranensis Whitebeam Vascular plants Upland Yes Sorbus pseudofennica Arran Service-tree Vascular plants Upland Yes Mertensia maritima Oysterplant Vascular plants Coastal shingle No


73

WILDLIFE SITES Grid Reference Wildlife Site NX 057713 Galloway Burn to Downan Point NX 080760 Glen App NX 089791 Kilantringan Loch NX 136785 Beneraird Moorland NX 288765 Drumlamford Lochs NX 262797 Loch Duisk NX 274799 Corwar Estate NX 092807 Glen App Castle Woodlands NX130900 Ballantrae to Girvan NX 104832 River Stinchar (Knockenfinnick to Knockdolian) NX 120852 Knockdolian NX 155826 Glen Tig, Loch Meraddie and Dunnack Burn NX 163857 River Stinchar (Colmonell to Poundland) NX 145880 Knockdaw Hill and Knockormal Hill NX 197896 Aldons Hill and River Stinchar NX 200827 Black Loch and Kirkie Loch0 NX 202842 Loch Lig NX 229813 Cross Water NX 227833 Kildonan NX 2908400 Shentulloch Knowe and Black Clauchrie NX 253827 Laggan Loch NX 250815 Feoch Burn NX 220865 Muck Water NX 155925 Water of Lendal to Byne Hill NX 250925 River Stinchar (Minuntion to Pingerrach Burn) NX 223939 Water of Assel NX 204964 Glen Doune and Troweir Hill NX 225983 Camregan Hill and Penwhapple Burn NX 260975 Penwhapple Reservoir NX 335911 Craigenreoch and Eldrick Hill NX 321960 River Stinchar (Milton to Black Hill) NX 405907 Shalloch On Minnoch and Tarfessock NX 432960 Loch Brecbowie NX 185993 Girvan Mains to Balkenna NS 196072 Turnberry Castle to Maidens NS 210004 Trochrague NS 231011 Craighead Bank Wood NS 245005 Bargany NS 225048 Chapelton Burn NS 230096 Culzean Country Park NS 290007 Lindsayston Burn NS 275023 Water of Girvan (Dailly to Kilkerran) NS 287041 Baldronnan Burn NS 263065 Craigdow Loch NS 270092 Mochrum Loch NS 286058 Lochspouts and Ghaist Glen NS 312033 Kilkerran NS 335033 Shaws Knowe NS 332043 Kirkbride Glen NS 305055 Water of Girvan (Hamilton Bridge to Carsloe) NS 311094 Heart Loch NS 323097 Chapelton Loch NS 334085 Kirkmichael House NS 339098 Drumore Loch NS 347073 Tranew Flushes


74

Grid Reference Wildlife Site NS 420040 Straiton Hills NS 366055 Blairquhan NS 356093 Guiltree Wood NS 380080 Loch Spallander and Cloncaird Moor NS 267101 Mochrum Hill NS 243111 Goatsgreen to Katie Gray's Rocks NS 248151 Dunure to Drumbane Burn NS 277151 Carrick Hills NS 325115 Blairbowie Flushes NS 315144 Culroy Burn and Pinmore Burn NS 340135 River Doon (Monkwood to Dalrymple Wood) NS 342155 Carcluie Reservoirs NS 349162 Carcluie Loch NS 340168 River Doon (Cambusdoon to Brae of Auchendrane) NS 328184 Alloway Railway Track NS 338192 Rozelle NS 320194 Doonfoot and Cunning Park NS 380106 Dyrock and Backglen Burn NS 380114 Barnshean Loch and Loch Croot NS 392118 Shankston Loch NS 390141 River Doon (Dalrymple to Patna) NS 372163 Lindston Loch NS 384167 Martnaham Fen NS 391182 Fergus Loch NS 405165 Whitehill Wood NS 428155 Craigs of Kyle NS 433198 Water of Coyle (Bridgend to Mill of Shield) NS 367213 River Ayr (Craigie Park to Mainholm) NS 374254 Clune NS 343291 Troon South Wood NS 395235 River Ayr (Oswald Bridge to Tarholm Bridge) NS 391241 Auchincruive Marsh NS 385271 Raith Burn and Ladykirk NS 415208 Barquhey Wood NS 409214 Water of Coyle (River Ayr to the Cushats) NS 408223 Gadgirth NS 425240 River Ayr (Annbank to Stair) NS 470260 River Ayr (Stair to Barskimming) NS 450265 Water of Fail and Montgomerie Castle NS 428280 Fail Moss NS 425293 Fail Loch NS 475296 Rottenrow NS 320320 Troon North Foreshore NS 345303 Fullarton Wood NS 353333 Dundonald Hills NS 348348 Shewalton Moss NS 395328 Coodham NS 469324 Carnell and Cessnock Water NS 362255 Pow Mill Wood NS 338308 Darley Plantation, Troon


75

ORNITHOLOGICAL SITES Grid Reference Ornithological Site NX 075775 Downan Point to Garry Point to Glen App NX 115775 Glen App Hills NX 082820 Ballantrae Shingle Beach NX 105820 Auchairne NX 130830 Glen Tig Woodlands NS 115850 Knockdolian NX 117860 Loch Melemon NX 090790 Kilantringan Loch NX 095874 Bennane Head NX 175865 Stinchar Valley Woodlands and River NX 225870 Muckfoot Woodlands - Docherneil NX 225840 Kildonan to Mill Loch NX 280835 Black Clauchrie to Feoch Bridge NX 280803 Knockytoul NX 255803 Hilgh Altercannoch to Loch Duisk NX 285770 Drumlanford to Loch Gower NX 200840 Loch Lig to Black Loch NX 200890 Daljarrock to Asselfoot NX 130895 Carleton Bay NX 160900 Currarie NX 020995 Ailsa Craig NX 240920 Barr to Minuntion NX 310923 Changue NX 180950 Ardmillan to Ardwell NX 330920 Haggis Hill to Nick o' the Balloch NX 240997 Penwhapple Burn to Old Dailly NS 305040 Kilkerran NS 200035 Girvan Harbour to Maidens NS 265055 Kirkhill to Craigdow NS 270095 Mochrum Loch NS 240102 Culzean / Pennyglen NS 315100 Springgarden to Blairbowie NS 385115 Lochs Croot, Barnshean & Shankston NS 340130 Dalrymple Woodland to Boreland NS 330160 Monkwood to Doonside NS 320170 Newark Hill NS 305150 Sauchrie to Culroy NS 270140 Carrick Hills NS 290185 Croy Bay to Doonfoot and Cunning Park NS 395175 Fergus and Martnaham Lochs NS 365060 Kirkmichael House to Blairqhan NS 395020 Girvan Valley - Loch Derclach NS 400920 Shalloch to Loch Riecawr NS 325286 Meikle Craigs, Troon NS 405210 Auchincruive - Failford including Sundrum NS 342277 Powburn and Prestwick Golf Course NS 342300 Fullarton Woods NS 465300 Lochlea to Rottenrow NS 425285 Tarbolton Moss NS 324325 Barassie Shore NS 275294 Lady Isle NS 355340 Dundonald Woodlands NS 465320 Carnell NS 285006 Dobbingstone Burn, Dailly NX 310965 Glengennet to Dalwyne


76



77

Annex B Cultural Heritage Features

SCHEDULED MONUMENTS

Name Classification Grid Ref Alloway Kirk Ecclesiastical NS331180 Alloway,motte Secular NS339180 Ardstinchar Castle Secular NX087824 Ayr Fort Gate, nos.2 and 2A Montgomerie Terrace, Ayr Secular NS334220 Ayr Fort Wall (part), Ailsa Place, Ayr Secular NS333220 Ayr Fort Wall (part), Arran Terrace, Ayr Secular NS332221 Bain's Hill,standing stone 300m W of Maidens Police Station Prehistoric ritual and funerary NS207077

Balchriston Crossing,dun 320m E of Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS257111

Balig,earthwork 530m WSW of Prehistoric domestic and defensive NX066798

Balig,enclosure Prehistoric domestic and defensive NX071799

Ballmalloch, chambered cairn Prehistoric ritual and funerary NX264845 Barnweill Church Ecclesiastical NS405299 Barnweill, homestead moat Secular NS407301 Bencallen Hill, chambered cairn Prehistoric ritual and funerary NX337944 Blarbuie, cairn 300m SW of Prehistoric ritual and funerary NX051740 Blarbuie,stone setting 330m NE of Prehistoric ritual and funerary NX055749 Brigend Castle Secular NS333176 Cairnhill,palisaded enclosure and timber house 220m NNE of

Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS235004

Camp Castle Secular NS428327

Camregan Castle Secular NX214986

Carleton Mains,enclosure 280m SE of Prehistoric domestic and defensive NX139893

Carleton,motte,Little Carleton Secular NX134894

Craighead Hill, dun 380m WNW of Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS222014

Craigie Castle Secular NS408316

Craigie,fort 250m N of Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS428325

Craigmuir Mote, dun Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS337161

Craigneil Castle Secular NX147853 Crosbie House, remains of Secular NS344301 Crossraguel Abbey Ecclesiastical NS275083 Culzean Castle, battery ENE of Shelter Secular NS231102 Dunure Castle and dovecot Secular NS252158 Enterkine,barrow 550m ENE of Prehistoric ritual and funerary NS425238

Finnart's Hill,enclosure Prehistoric domestic and defensive NX053742

Finnarts Bridge,burnt mound 630m SSE of Prehistoric domestic and defensive NX054712

Finnarts Bridge,cairn 620m SE of Prehistoric ritual and funerary NX057725 Gallow Hill,settlement and ring-ditch 320m N of Girvan Mains Prehistoric ritual and funerary NX190996

Garleffin,standing stones and mesolithic settlement Prehistoric ritual and funerary NX087817 Girvan Mains, Roman camps, linear cropmark and Roman NX190991

http://hsewsf.sedsh.gov.uk/eschedule/show?id=308&OK=Y�










































78

Name Classification Grid Ref enclosure Glaisnock,ring-ditch 140m SE of Prehistoric ritual and funerary NS376221 Greenan Castle Secular NS311193 Hallyards, farmstead 750m SW of Secular NS353328

Heads of Ayr, fort 1050m NNW of Genoch Farm Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS284187

Helenton Mote, motte Secular NS393311

Highpark, enclosure 250m NW Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS400192

Hollowshean Camp, fort Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS244061

Houdston Hill,enclosure 300m SSW of Drumrannie Bridge

Prehistoric domestic and defensive NX197983

Howmoor Quarry,dun Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS277118

Katie Gray's Rocks, settlement Secular NS245139

Kemp Law, fort Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS355336

Kennedy Monument Ecclesiastical NX084824 Kennel Mount cairn, Culzean Country Park Prehistoric ritual and funerary NS241098

Kildoon,fort Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS299073

Kirkhill Castle Secular NX145859 Knockdolian Castle Secular NX122853

Knockdon, enclosure 700m NE of Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS437011

Knockinculloch, enclosures on E slope of,600m NW of Glenalla Secular NS342005

Lindston, moat Secular NS372168 Lyonston, standing stone 250m ESE of Prehistoric ritual and funerary NS309103

Maxwellston Hill, fort Prehistoric domestic and defensive NX259989

Maybole Collegiate Church Ecclesiastical NS301098 Monkton, windmill Industrial NS362280 Mote Hill, barrow 300m NNW of Coalpots Bridge Prehistoric ritual and funerary NX189972

Mote Knowe, dun, Monkwood Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS337139

Mote Knowe, motte, Kilkerran Secular NS298001 Munteoch, settlement and field systems Secular NS439037

Nethermuir,homestead and enclosure 250m SW of Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS350284

Old Dailly Church Ecclesiastical NX225993 Old Kirkcudbright,church & graveyard,Kirk Holm Ecclesiastical NX116838 Prestwick, Old Parish Church Ecclesiastical NS350264 Prestwick,market cross Crosses and carved stones NS352262 Rowantree tollhouse and inn, 230m S of Laigh Rowantree Bridge Secular NX353904

Shalloch Hill,palisaded enclosure 350m S of Shallochpark

Prehistoric domestic and defensive NX184957

Shields,enclosure 500m E of Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS380260

Tarbolton,motte Secular NS432273 The Lady Chapel,640m NE of Kilkerran Ecclesiastical NS311032 Thomaston Castle Secular NS240095 Turnberry Castle Secular NS196072 Wallace's Stone,cross-incised stone Crosses and carved stones NS332165

Wardlaw Hill,earthwork SSW of Harpercroft Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS360325














































79

Name Classification Grid Ref

Wardlaw Hill,earthwork W of Harpercroft Prehistoric domestic and defensive NS359327

Whiteside,enclosure W of Secular NS364278



South Ayrshire Council SEA Baseline Report 80

LISTED BUILDINGS by BURGH and PARISH

Burghs

Cat. A

Cat. B

Cat. C(S)

Total

First Listings

1st Re-Survey

Ayr Burgh

19 196 207 422

05.02.1971 10.01.1980 Prestwick Burgh

2 6 2 10

14.04.1971 None

Troon Burgh

2 32 46 80

14.04.1971 31.05.84 Maybole Burgh

3 18 31 52

14.04.1971 19.01.1982

Girvan Burgh

0 21 38 59

08.05.1980 None

Parishes Ayr Parish

4 14 8 26

14.04.1971 29.03.2000

Ballantrae Parish

2 12 2 16

14.04.1971 None Barr Parish

0 5 13 18

14.04.1971 07.09.1978

Colmonell Parish

1 15 9 25

14.04.1971 19.01.1982 Coylton Parish

0 8 3 11

14.04.1971 None

Craigie Parish

1 9 1 11

14.04.1971 None Dailly Parish

8 13 6 27

14.04.1971 15.02.1977

Dundonald Parish

6 10 5 21

14.04.1971 None Girvan Parish

0 4 1 5

14.04.1971 None

Kirkmichael Parish

2 18 26 46

14.04.1971 29.06.1979 Kirkoswald Parish

11 16 3 30

14.04.1971 None

Maybole Parish

3 22 1 26

14.04.1971 None Monkton and Prestwick Parish 3 4 5 12

14.04.1971 None

Straiton Parish

2 9 4 15

14.04.1971 None Symington Parish

2 11 3 16

14.04.1971 None

Tarbolton Parish

3 8 6 17

14.04.1971 None

Total 74 451 420 945


81


82


83


84

Annex C Water Quality

Water Quality of South Ayrshire’s Main Waterbodies

Water Body Length Status Pressures on Waterbody

Measures to Reduce Pressures

Objective 2015 Status

2021 Status

2027 Status

River Ayr 46.41km Moderate Diffuse Source Pollution: Sewage Disposal, Urban Development, Livestock Farming

Reduce point source inputs, change timing or frequency of discharge, increase treatment, and retrofit/improve existing SUDs.

General Water Quality – Phosphorus

Good High Good

General Water Quality - BOD

Good High Good

General Water Quality - Ammonia

Good High Good

Slaphouse Burn

7.97km Poor Diffuse Source Pollution: Sewage Disposal, Urban Development, Livestock Farming

Morphological Alterations

Improve Modified Habitat

Improve existing SUDs


Moderate Good Good


High High High


High High High

River Stinchar 15.09 km Good Morphological Alterations Agriculture and Forestry Physical structure and condition of the bed and banks/shore

Good Good Good

Water of Girvan

13.72 km Poor Diffuse Source Pollution: Mixed Farming.

Morphological Alterations: Mixed Farming, Construction/Structures, Flood Defence, Chemicals production, impounding.

Abstraction: Chemicals Production.

Point Sources Pollution

Reduce Point Source Inputs

Improvement to condition of Riparian Zone/wetland habitats

Physical structure and condition of the bed and

banks/shore - Multiple Pressure

Poor Poor Poor


banks/shore - Single Pressure

Moderate Moderate Moderate


High High High

General Water Quality - High High High


85




2021 Status

2027 Status

BOD


High High High

Water of Lendal

8.02 km Good Diffuse Source Pollution: Agriculture and Forestry

None General Water Quality Good Good Good

Milton Burn 10.19 km Poor Abstraction: Arable farming, Chemicals production, Water collection, purification and distribution.

Diffuse Source Pollution: Livestock farming.

Flow Regulation: Chemicals production.

Control Abstraction.

Improve Regulated Flows.

Water Flow and Water Levels – change from Natural Flow Conditions

Poor Good Good

Water Flow and Water Levels – Depletion of base flow from GW Body

Poor Good Good


Good Good Good


Good Good Good


Good Good Good

Culroy Burn / Minishant Burn

8.56 km Good

Diffuse Source Pollution: Livestock farming.

Morphological Alterations: Channelisation, realignment, straightening.

None General Water Quality – Phosphorus

High High High


High High High


High High High


banks/shore - Single Pressure

Good Good Good

Water of Coyle 13.39 km Good Diffuse Source Pollution: Livestock farming, Forestry.

None General Water Quality – Phosphorus

High High High


High High High


86




2021 Status

2027 Status


High High High

Rumbling Burn 7.63 km Moderate Diffuse Source Pollution: Livestock farming.

Morphological Alterations.

Improve modified habitat. Physical structure and condition of the bed and

banks/shore - Multiple Pressure

Good Good Good


Poor Poor Poor




Bad Poor Moderate

River Doon 40.1 km Bad ecological potential

Diffuse Source Pollution: Livestock Farming, Mixed Farming.

Morphological Alterations: Substrate manipulation, flow manipulation.

Flow Regulation: Impounding, Aquaculture.

Abstraction: Aquaculture.

None General Water Quality - Phosphorous

Good Good Good

UK Specific Pollutants Good Good Good

Pow Burn 13.89 km Poor Diffuse Source Pollution: Livestock Farming, Air transport urban development, sewage disposal, mining and quarrying of coal.

Morphological Alterations.

Retrofit/Improve existing SUDs.

General Water Quality - Phosphorous

Moderate Good Good

UK Specific Pollutants Failing to achieve good

Good Good


Poor Moderate Good

Water Quality - Ammonia Moderate Good Good


87




2021 Status

2027 Status

Coastal – Culzean

89.06 km2 Moderate Point Source Pollution: Sewage disposal.

Diffuse Source Pollution: Mixed Farming

Alien Species

None Invasive Non-Native Species – Japanese Knotweed

Sargassum muticum


General Water Quality - Nitrogen

Good Good Good

Coastal - Girvan

134.43 km2 Moderate Point Source Pollution: Sewage disposal, food production.

Diffuse Source Pollution: Mixed farming.

Reduce at Source Water Quality - Unknown Parameter -

Unknown Organics

Moderate Good Good

General Water Quality - Dissolved Oxygen

Good Good Good

General Water Quality - Nitrogen

Good Good Good

Coastal – Ayr Bay

98.32km2 Good Diffuse Source Pollution: Mixed farming, sewage disposal.

None General Water Quality - Nitrogen

Good Good Good

Coastal - Ballantrae

38.09km2 Moderate None None None None None None

(SEPA, 2009)


88

Annex D Soils and Geology – Vacant and Derelict Land Survey 2010

Site Type Location of Site Location Size

(Ha) EAST NORTH Year of

Survey Site Code

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Maybole, nr Lovers Lane 0.37 230610 610490 2008 7

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Prestwick, Shaw Road 1.27 236540 626420 2008 200

Vacant land & buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Maybole, Mill Street 0.45 229760 609810 2008 239

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, west of Old Bridge Road 0.64 235740 623260 2008 246

Derelict land & buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, Heathfield Road 3.64 235430 623830 2008 249

Derelict land & buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, north of Old Street, near the Golf Course

1.25 218610 598410 2008 254

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, Mccalls Avenue 0.27 234240 623010 2008 1D

Operational land defined as derelict

Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, east of West Sanquar Road 7.21 234920 623110 2008 1E

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Prestwick, east of the hospital 39.26 236380 624780 2008 212B

Derelict land & buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, west of Doonfoot Road 1.32 233050 620360 2008 A2

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, west of Somerset Road 0.87 234560 622810 2008 A5

Derelict land & buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, west of Old Bridge Road 1.27 235590 623330 2008 A6

Derelict buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, A719 near Wills Street 0.17 235330 622640 2008 GW003

Kirkoswald, Main Street GW004

Derelict buildings Within the countryside Near Barr, Off B734 0.76 227220 593790 2008 GW005


89

Site Type Location of Site Location Size (Ha)

EAST NORTH Year of Survey

Site Code

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, Mccalls Avenue 0.39 234480 623000 2008 GW010

Derelict land & buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Main Road near Sannox View 0.16 236030 622890 2008 GW011

Derelict land & buildings Within a settlement of < 2,000 Mossblown, off B743 3.23 240450 625090 2008 GW012

Derelict land & buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, south of B743, Heathfield Road 1.34 235940 623460 2008 GW013

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ north of Drybridge 0.30 235650 636890 2008 GW014

Derelict land & buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Grangeston, Ladywell Avenue 0.72 220030 600130 2008 GW015

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, Thorn Street 1.32 236640 622650 2008 H245

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, Harbour Street 0.40 233290 622460 2008 H251

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Maybole, Mill Street 1.35 229700 609840 2008 H35

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Prestwick, Grangemuir Road 0.59 234650 625480 2008 H38

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, Harbour Street 0.20 233450 622240 2008 H52

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, between Boundary Road and Liberator Drive

4.14 235900 623950 2008 I132

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Prestwick, north of Monument Crescent near Airport.

9.00 236670 626260 2008 I139

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, N.of Cowan Crescent 6.51 235400 623290 2008 I228

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, west of Old Bridge Road 0.38 235950 623330 2008 I229

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, west of Boundary Road 3.73 235550 624070 2008 I231


90

Site Type Location of Site Location Size (Ha)

EAST NORTH Year of Survey

Site Code

Derelict land & buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, west of Somerset Road 0.97 234570 622850 2008 I236

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, south of Heathfield Road 0.99 235520 623650 2008 I248

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Prestwick, near airport 14.04 236600 625550 2008 I257

Derelict land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Wheatpark Road, northeast of Ayr 4.82 236470 623500 2008 OPP08

Derelict buildings Within a settlement of 2,000+ Ayr, west of A719 0.20 233730 622010 2008 PRI12

Vacant land Within a settlement of 2,000+ Troon, Dukes Road 0.14 231960 631160 2008 T1

(Scottish Government, 2009ii)

Documents

South Ayrshire Council Proposed South Ayrshire Local … c.pdf · 2012-08-22 · C4.3 Bedrock Aquifers and Groundwater Vulnerability 25. South Ayrshire Council SEA Baseline Report