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Consultant Team:

CENTRAL SQUARE, CARDIFF

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

VOLUME 1 - NON TECHNICAL SUMMARY

Rightacres Limited

October 2014

Central Square, Cardiff: Non Technical Statement (October 2014)

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1.0 Introduction & Methodology

Purpose of Document

1.1 This document is a summary in non-technical language of an Environmental

Statement (‘ES’) that has been prepared on behalf of Rightacres Limited (the

‘applicant’). It accompanies a planning application for the development of a

mixed use development on land to the north of Cardiff Central Station, to be

known as ‘Central Square’.

1.2 An Environmental Impact Assessment (‘EIA’) has been undertaken because

the proposed development falls within part 10(b) (Infrastructure Projects) of

Schedule 2 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact

Assessment) Regulations 1999 (as amended) (the ‘1999 Regulations’). Part

10(b) relates to “urban development projects” where sites are over 0.5

hectares. For development proposals that meet this size, EIA is required

where there is a possibility that the development could have significant effects

on the environment.

1.3 This Non-Technical Summary (‘NTS’) of the main ES document includes the

following information: -

• Section 1.0 sets out the background to the assessment process and the

scheme;

• Section 2.0 describes the site and its surroundings;

• Section 3.0 describes the development, outlines the construction

methodology and also sets out how the design has evolved;

• Sections 4.0-14.0 provide a topic-by-topic review of the findings of the EIA;

• Section 15.0 reviews whether other impacts may happen when the scheme

is considered with other reasonably foreseeable developments in the area;

• Section 16.0 provides details of the availability of the document; and

• Section 17.0 provides key plans that are of most relevance to the EIA.

The EIA Process

1.4 The ES that has been submitted with the planning application sets out the

findings of an EIA of the proposed development at Central Square.

1.5 The EIA process aims to make sure that any significant effects arising from a

development are systematically identified, assessed and presented to help the

relevant local planning authority, statutory consultees and other key

stakeholders understand the impacts arising from development. If measures

are required to minimise or reduce effects then these are clearly identified.


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1.6 For the development scheme at Central Square, EIA has been carried out to

consider the likely significant effects that may occur during the construction

and operation of the development and due to its potential relationship to future

developments in the area. It has been completed having taken into account

best practice and relevant legislation and has addressed the following topics

that were agreed with Cardiff Council:-

1 Transportation

2 Socio-Economic

3 Townscape & Visual

4 Cultural Heritage

5 Air Quality

6 Daylight & Sunlight

7 Wind Micro Climate

8 Ground Conditions

9 Noise & Vibration

10 Water Resources

11 Waste

1.7 Likely effects are identified based on knowledge of the site and surroundings,

desk top assessment, survey and fieldwork and information available to the

EIA team. All those matters that could be reasonably required to assess the

effects of the proposals are set out in the ES; this includes effects arising from

the scheme itself as well as temporary effects arising during the construction of

the proposed residential development.

1.8 The EIA team has worked closely with the design team to ensure that the

scheme for which planning permission is sought incorporates any revisions or

modifications that are thought necessary or appropriate to avoid or reduce

significant adverse effects on the environment.

1.9 Consultation has also informed the EIA process in relation to the EIA

methodology, as a means to gather environmental data, to review the

effectiveness of any identified mitigation measures and as a way of keeping

interested bodies informed on the process of EIA undertaken.

Background to the Scheme

1.10 The development proposals have been developed in a cohesive and

collaborative way. The project team has worked closely with the Council in

agreeing basic principles and in ensuring that the development is properly

integrated into the existing fabric of the city.


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2.0 Site & Surroundings

2.1 The site under consideration extends to approximately 2.47 hectares and

includes Cardiff Bus Station, Marland House and existing public realm to the

north of Cardiff Central Station including Wood Street.

Figure 2.1 Aerial Image showing the extent of the Development Site

2.2 Until the 1930s, and prior to its use as a bus station, the site lay within the

residential area of ‘Temperance Town’.

2.3 The bus station opened in 1954 and is currently the main bus terminus within

the City Centre with most bus services using the station. Five rows of bus

shelters currently serve 21 bus stands on the site. Fixed barriers separate the

public open space in front of the Central Station from the bus station, and

pedestrian access to the bus station is through 5 gateways located alongside

Marland House.

2.4 In 2008 a 3-storey office building, known as Terminus House, was demolished

to the north of the bus station and south of Wood Street. This area has since

been pedestrianised with 4 tree planters and advertising stands introduced.

2.5 Marland House is a 1950s office block that ranges in height between 3 – 5

storeys with ground floor retail uses.

2.6 There is an existing public highway, known as Station Approach, which

currently serves as a pick up and drop off point for the railway station to the

west. There are also 25 taxi bays along the highway that are accessed from

Wood Street.


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2.7 Whilst the site and some of its surroundings are of low quality, there are a

number of listed buildings adjacent and close to the site such as Central

Station, as well as the St Mary’s Conservation Area.

2.8 The site lies within Cardiff City Centre, to the immediate north of Cardiff Central

Station and just to the west of the main shopping area. It is also located within

the Central Cardiff Enterprise Zone, which is an initiative to promote inward

investment and economic development.

2.9 Other key attractions within the surrounding area include the Millennium

Stadium and Millennium Plaza leisure development to the north west, the 13

storey Southgate House to the north, and 17 storey BT Stadium House.

3.0 Description of Development

3.1 The description of the proposed development is as follows:-

“Demolition of Marland House.

Full planning application for a Media Centre, ground floor retail and café units

(Use Class A1/A2/A3), roof-top plant, satellite dishes and photo voltaic panels

(Plot 3), basement car parking to Plots 2 and 3, public realm and landscaping,

and related infrastructure and engineering works.

Outline application for up to 14,550 sq m gross Class B1(a) office floorspace

(Plot 2), with all matters reserved except access.”

3.2 Detailed plans have been submitted in respect of the Plot 3 building and

basement that extends beneath Plots 2 and 3, as well as for the public realm

works and redesign of Wood Street. As the Plot 2 building from the ground

floor level and above is submitted in outline, a parameter plan has been

submitted that allows the key principles of the development to be agreed and

the detailed design to be applied for at a later date.

3.3 Section 17 of this NTS provides key planning application drawings that were

used to assess the environmental impacts of the proposed development.

Drawing reference A-B3-011-00-04PL Rev 0 ‘Proposed Site Plan’ identifies the

location of Plots 2 and 3 discussed above. Drawing Reference A-B3-020-00-

05PL Rev 0 ‘Plot 2 Parameter Plan’ identifies the parameters for the Plot 2

development.

3.4 The Plot 3 media centre building will be the focal point of the development, set

within new civic spaces and public realm. This is the preferred location for the

relocation of the BBC Wales Broadcasting House at Llandaff.

3.5 Plot 3 will accommodate 25,761 sq m gross floorspace, which will

predominantly be for media purposes. It will also include 862 sq m sq m of

retail floorspace and 168 sq m of café floorspace.


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3.6 The footprint of the Plot 3 media centre building will extend to 4,700 sq m. The

building will be 5 storeys (plus a mezzanine garden level) and will rise to a

maximum height of 32.5 metres (plus the rooftop satellite dishes).

3.7 Whilst full details of the Plot 2 building are not known at present, the parameter

plan shows that it will provide up to 14,500 sq m of office floorspace in a

building that is 8 storeys/up to 36 metres high, with a maximum footprint of

2,300 sq m.

3.8 The planning application also includes upgrading the public open space to the

north of Cardiff Central Rail Station and Wood Street. The proposals for Wood

Street involve reducing the width of the carriageway from four lanes to two and

increasing the width of the pavements. Paving within the public realm will

complement the recently completed St Mary Street paving upgrade.

3.9 As part of the proposed development the existing taxi rank pick-up/drop off on

Station Approach will be relocated to the south of Cardiff Central Rail Station

and along Wood Street.

Construction Methodology

3.10 A series of construction assumptions have been set out that form the basis of

the assessment of the potential for significant environmental effects to arise

during the construction phase of the development. It has been assumed for

the purposes of assessment that the construction of the proposed development

will take approximately 3.5 years (from June 2015 to December 2018).

3.11 The construction of the development will take place in a single phase. The

sequence of works will be:

1 Enabling works including setting up site hoardings and removing the bus

station stands, demolition of Marland House;

2 Construction of the sub-structure and basement excavation;

3 Construction of the superstructure (above ground); and

4 Completion of public realm works.

3.12 The contractor will be required to produce and agree a ‘Construction

Environmental Management Plan’ (CEMP) to describe how construction will be

managed to avoid, minimise and mitigate any construction effects on the

environment and existing surrounding communities.

Alternatives Considered

3.13 As part of the EIA, alternative forms of the development have been considered.

This helps in clarifying the main advantages for taking forward the current

scheme, taking account of the environmental effects.

3.14 Consideration of a scenario where the development does not proceed and the

site remains in its current use has been dismissed as it is considered that the

emerging Deposit Draft Local Development Plan (LDP) allocation of the site


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within the ‘Cardiff Central Enterprise Zone and Regional Transport Hub’, within

which major employment-led initiatives are proposed, means that it is likely that

a similar form of development would proceed in this location. Whilst the LDP

has not yet been adopted, it is at an advanced stage of preparation and is

therefore a material consideration in the determination of the planning

application. The emerging allocation is also consistent with the current Local

Plan, which allocates the site as part of the City Centre Principal Business

Area.

Consultation and Design Evolution

3.15 The design of the proposed development has gone through a number of

versions as a result of consultation with the likely occupier of the media hub

within Plot 3, as well as consultation with the Council, stakeholders,

landowners in the area and other interest, focus and user groups. The project

has also been reviewed by the Design Commission for Wales. Ways in which

the proposed development has been changed or ‘firmed up’ as a result of the

consultation include:

• The siting of the media hub building within Plot 3 has been moved to

increase the width of Marland Street following pedestrian flow

investigations;

• As a result of Marland Street being widened, Central Street has been made

narrower;

• The proposed materials have been agreed;

• The number of solar panels has been increased;

• The location of the basement access ramp has been moved to avoid

underground service arrangements and nearby development sites;

• Tree planting has been reduced and grouped into selected locations to help

pedestrian flows; and

• The creation of a shared space for cyclists and pedestrians.

4.0 Transportation

4.1 The Transportation technical assessment has been prepared by AECOM. The

scope of the Transportation chapter has been discussed and agreed with

Cardiff Council (CC) and the Welsh Government (WG). Consultation

responses from stakeholders such as Network Rail (NR) have also been

incorporated. The proposed development is in line with local and national

transport and development plan policies.

4.2 The assessment has been undertaken in accordance with Institute of

Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) ‘Guidelines for the

Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic’, and considers the traffic impact of


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the proposed development during the construction and operation phases of the

project in the agreed assessment years 2014, 2018 and 2024.

4.3 The IEMA guidelines require the identification and classification of sensitive

receptors, assessment of the magnitude of the effect, and therefore

determination of the significance of the impact. Sensitive receptors are links

which are sensitive to traffic increases which could include, but are not limited

to, those in close proximity to schools, hospitals, places of worship or historical

buildings. Substantial and moderate impacts are considered to be significant in

EIA terms.

4.4 The study area includes 29 highway links, which incorporate the area directly

surrounding the development site and key strategic routes to the wider

network. The links at the extents of the study area lead to regionally significant

routes such as the M4, A470, and the Penarth Distributor Road (PDR)/A4232.

Additionally, a baseline of accessibility by all modes has been established. The

site benefits from high quality pedestrian and cycle infrastructure to

accommodate movement along key desire lines, and a significant level of

facilities and residential catchment within walking distance. The site is highly

accessible by public transport with the adjacent Cardiff Central train station

providing local, regional and national connections. Whilst Cardiff bus station

will be relocated as part of the proposals, the majority of its comprehensive

network of services will remain within walking distance of the proposed

development site.

4.5 2014 traffic survey data, classified by vehicle type, has been obtained from

Cardiff Council and used to establish a baseline of light and heavy vehicle

traffic. Data was collected at 13 junctions within the defined study area

between 24 and 26 June 2014. The Department for Transport TEMPRO

computer programme (database of future planning and land use information)

was used to growth 2014 baseline traffic flows to the opening year of 2018 and

the agreed future assessment year of 2024.

4.6 This ES assesses the impact of the construction and operation phases of the

project. A robust analysis of traffic impact was completed for the peak of the

construction phase by identifying the period in which the most traffic will be

generated. The peak of the construction works was taken to be between June

2015 and December 2015 whilst the excavation of Plots 2 and 3 and the

demolition of Marland House occur concurrently. All construction impacts are

therefore short term and temporary. At the start of the construction phase

Station Approach will be stopped up and the bus station will close – this is

factored into the construction traffic impact assessment.

4.7 Construction work will take place between 08:00 and 20:00 Monday to Friday

and between 08:00 and 18:00 on Saturday and Sunday. This will result in 35

heavy vehicle trips per day, equating to three trips per hour, where each trip

comprises one arrival and one departure. During the construction phase there

will be a peak of 285 staff working on site, with limited parking of 40 spaces.

Therefore in one day there will be a maximum of 40 light vehicle arrivals and

departures, all occurring outside of peak hours. The Construction


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Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) will restrict routes used by

construction vehicles to lessen the environmental impact. For the purpose of

this assessment, the most suitable entry point to the local network has been

assumed to be Herbert Street to the east of Callaghan Square – this route will

minimise the traffic impact both within the study area and between the site and

the strategic road network.

4.8 The stopping up of Station Approach will result in traffic reassignment. In the

assessment, all vehicles accessing the pick up/drop off point were diverted to

the south of the train station off Penarth Road, and taxis were reassigned to

use Saunders Road. This was carried out using surveyed vehicle

classifications and turning movements. It was assumed that buses would

relocate to the potential new bus station on the Marland House site (this

scenario has been given further consideration in the cumulative impact

section). This represents a worst case traffic impact scenario, although a

further four options for the bus station relocation are explored fully in the

Transport Assessment, appended to this ES.

4.9 The assessment shows that only Link 11, Wood Street east of Station

Approach, will experience an effect classified as being of substantial adverse

significance, due to an increase in heavy vehicles. This will be a consequence

of the closure of Station Approach, increasing the number of buses continuing

eastbound on Wood Street. The high percentage impact calculated on this link

is due to the low baseline level and should therefore not require further

mitigation. Furthermore, this impact will be accompanied by a reduction in

westbound bus flow. All other links were classified as experiencing effects of

either minor adverse or negligible significance, and therefore do not warrant

any mitigation strategies.

4.10 The operational phase of the project has been assessed in the 2018 and 2024

future years. This comprises Plots 2 and 3, including the allocation of Plot 3

parking in the NCP car park and operational and servicing traffic. Station

Approach remains stopped up in the operational scenario, resulting in the

relocation of buses, taxis and pick up/drop off traffic.

4.11 Traffic generation for the operational phase has been determined through

analysis of TRICS information (database of trip generation from a range of land

uses), analysis of parking availability, and consideration of the likely

operational requirements of the Plot 3 occupier. Where necessary, robust

assumptions have been made to ensure that a worst-case scenario has been

assessed.

4.12 Traffic has been distributed onto the local road network using the 2011 Census

Journey to Work origin data for the Cardiff 032 Middle Super Output Area

(MSOA), within which the site is located. Consideration of the most likely

routes into the site from each MSOA has been made using reasonable

assumptions on route choice based on local knowledge and experience

validated by publicly available route planning software. This has enabled the

proportion of traffic using each entry point to the local road network to be

established. Calculated adjustments have been made to account for local route


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restrictions due to banned turning movements, such as the banned left-turn

movement from Westgate Street onto Wood Street eastbound.

4.13 The Operational Traffic Impact Assessment for 2018 has highlighted the traffic

impact on three links as being of substantial adverse significance. Link 11,

Wood Street east of Station Approach, is classified as having a substantial

increase in heavy vehicle (i.e. bus) traffic flows, resulting in a significance

classification of substantial adverse. However, this increase will only be in the

eastbound direction, equating to 12 heavy vehicles per hour, and is caused

primarily by the relocation of the bus station entry and exit. In the westbound

direction there will be a reduction in heavy vehicle trips of 58 vehicles per hour,

resulting in a net reduction in heavy vehicle traffic on this link. Therefore no

mitigation is proposed due to the net reduction in heavy vehicles on this link.

4.14 Links 18 and 19, Saunders Road and Penarth Road between Saunders Road

and Monument Junction, are classified as experiencing effects of substantial

adverse significance, resulting from substantial increase in total vehicles during

the PM peak period in the westbound direction. The total westbound flow on

these links equates to less than four vehicles per minute. It is reasonable to

conclude that this low level of traffic flow is unlikely to result in a severance

effect or have a significant impact on pedestrian safety considering that

facilities for pedestrian provision are good on these links. Therefore further

mitigation is not considered necessary.

4.15 All other traffic links in the network were classified as experiencing effects of

either minor adverse or negligible significance. In the 2024 scenario, traffic

impact percentages were lower compared to 2018 due to background traffic

growth on the wider network.

4.16 The development will provide improvements to the public realm and

pedestrian/cycle network. This will include; three pedestrian/cycle streets,

crossings on Wood Street, reallocation of road space on Wood Street to

pedestrians and cyclists, a high quality public space, and provision of 40 public

cycle parking spaces. These proposals will result in effects of substantial

beneficial significance for pedestrians and cyclists.

4.17 The removal of the bus station will require the provision of replacement

facilities. Options 1-4 form the likely end solutions for bus provision, although

the temporary arrangements assessed under Option 5 can be accommodated

without significant adverse effects. Utilising an appraisal framework developed

in conjunction with CC, each option is considered to have residual effects of

moderate beneficial significance on public transport users.

4.18 In order to mitigate the effects of increased traffic flows associated with both

the construction and operation of the development, a package of measures will

be implemented. For the construction phase of the project, a CEMP will be

produced with the intention of managing the construction traffic generated by

the development and minimising the effect of this traffic on the local highway

network. This will include a staff Travel Plan, restrictions on working hours and


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prescribed heavy vehicle routes. Suitable arrangements for the transport of

abnormal loads will be made with the relevant police and highways authorities.

4.19 A Detailed Travel Plan for Plot 3 will be implemented for the operational phase

as the likely end user is known. An Outline Travel Plan for Plot 2 will be

implemented as the end user is now yet known. The aim of these documents is

to mitigate the effects of increased traffic flows associated with the operation of

the development by supporting and encouraging staff and visitors to travel

using sustainable modes as an alternative to single occupancy vehicle travel.

4.20 Residual effects have been examined following the implementation of

mitigation measures. During construction, Link 11 was identified as a receptor

that will experience a residual effect classified as substantial adverse after the

application of the CEMP. It was concluded that further mitigation is not required

due to the low absolute increase in eastbound heavy vehicles and the

corresponding reduction in westbound heavy vehicles.

4.21 After completion, three links were identified as having substantial adverse

residual effects. Link 11 was concluded to require no further mitigation due to

the low absolute increase in eastbound heavy vehicles and the corresponding

reduction in westbound heavy vehicles. Links 18 and 19 will experience total

eastbound vehicle flows of four per minute in the PM peak, which is unlikely to

result in a severance effect or have a significant impact on pedestrian safety

considering that facilities for pedestrian provision are good on these links.

Therefore further mitigation is not considered necessary.

4.22 The enhanced public realm provided by the development proposals will result

in a substantial beneficial residual effect on pedestrians and cyclists. The

replacement bus station Options 1-4 will result in a moderate beneficial

residual effect for public transport users.

4.23 Construction and operational transport impacts on Event Management have

been considered in line with the requirements of statutory consultees. Both

construction and operational phases will not introduce vehicle conflict with

pedestrians at event time due to road closures. The ability for Marland Street to

be used for crowd management will be retained in both construction and

operational phases. The improvement in public realm in the operational phase

of the development will provide opportunities to enhance the crowd

management strategy associated with station access on event days.

4.24 In conclusion, both the construction and operational phases of the proposed

development will not have an unacceptable impact on sensitive receptors or

the ability to implement effective Event Management Strategies associated

with the Millennium Stadium. Furthermore, pedestrians, cyclists and public

transport users will experience significant beneficial effects following

completion of development proposals. Mitigation is proposed for the

construction phase in the form of a CEMP, whilst mitigation for the operational

phase will comprise appropriate Travel Plans for both Plots 2 and 3.


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5.0 Socio-Economic

5.1 The proposal will have positive impacts in Cardiff through the creation of new

jobs at the construction stage, along with the provision of operational jobs that

will increase labour supply. It will also have a positive economic impact through

spending by employees.

5.2 The scale of employment growth will not be substantial in the context of Cardiff

and so the net impact of the additional employees arising from the scheme on

health, leisure and recreation provision and community facilities will be

relatively minor. Any negative impacts in respect of these matters will be

mitigated through Section 106 agreements or on-site provision.

5.3 The most significant economic impacts of the proposed development would be:

1 A capital investment of approximately £35 million over a 3 year build

period;

2 Up to 410 person-years of temporary construction work;

3 41 FTE direct construction jobs plus an additional 60 FTE indirect and

induced jobs;

4 The creation of 1,115 net additional jobs (980 net additional FTE jobs)

following completion, contributing an additional £64 million in Gross

Value Added to the Welsh economy; and,

5 An additional £11.6m - £13.1m in taxation revenue.

5.4 The proposed development at Central Square represents a significant new

capital investment in the area, will raise the overall level of economic activity

and expenditure in the area, and will therefore have a beneficial economic

impact.

5.5 Not only would the alternative – do nothing – option prevent these benefits from

coming forward, but it would also result in a reduction in the local workforce as

a result of the ageing population. This would have significant adverse impacts

in social and economic terms.

6.0 Townscape & Visual

6.1 The townscape and visual impact assessment has considered the potential for

significant townscape and visual effects associated with the construction of a

new Media Centre, associated landscaping and public open space, together

with the outline planning application on Plot 2 for an office building.

6.2 A combination of desk study and fieldwork has been used to establish the

baseline conditions. This confirmed that the site is within an area of low

townscape value but that there are sensitive townscape receptors including


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Cardiff’s Central Station and associated Water Tower within the character area

most affected by the proposals. Sensitive townscape receptors within the wider

area include listed buildings adjacent to the site, the St. Mary Street

Conservation Area, River Taff, Millennium Stadium and residential areas to the

west of the river.

6.3 Sensitive receptors to changes in the views include; users of the Taff riverside

path/cycleway (National Cycle Route No. 8), pedestrians and cyclists in Wood

Street, Havelock Street, the junction of St. Mary Street and Wood Street,

residents with views overlooking the site, and users of the bus and rail stations

and adjacent public open space.

6.4 6 viewpoints have been selected and agreed with the local planning authority

to illustrate specific views experienced by different receptors. Accurate visual

representations (AVRs) have been prepared to show the location, extent and

mass of the development from four key locations. A further two assessments

have been made based upon computer generated images (CGIs) prepared for

prepared as part of a masterplanning document for the wider area.

6.5 The assessment has concluded that whilst the development of this site will be

visible from a number of viewpoints the proposals will not give rise to any

adverse townscape or visual effects.

6.6 There would be a substantial beneficial townscape effect deriving from the

development of the former bus station and surrounding public realm. The

setting of Central Railway Station will be enhanced and, by association the

Water Tower will also benefit from the proposals, although to a lesser degree

as One Central Square (an office building currently under construction adjacent

to Central Station) will provide its immediate setting. A minor adverse effect will

result from the loss of the existing street trees, however this will be mitigated

through the introduction of new trees as part of the landscaping strategy being

proposed for the site.

6.7 Within the wider area there would be minor beneficial townscape effects to the

adjacent St. Mary Street Conservation Area and Millennium Stadium Character

Areas. The proposals will enhance the setting of the Conservation Area and

associated listed buildings, within the immediate vicinity of the site, providing

an improved public realm and enhanced linkages from the development site to

the adjacent character areas.

6.8 In the majority of the views assessed the significance of the change to the view

will be moderate to substantial and beneficial in nature. The replacement of an

unattractive bus station to the front of a Grade II listed building will result in the

creation of a new building typology for Central Square. Views will now be

centred on a new landmark building which will provide an attractive foil to the

historic Central Station, and pedestrians guided along linear routes, framed by

buildings leading to/from the City’s new public square.

6.9 The proposals would give rise to neutral visual effects of negligible significance

from locations along the riverside path/cycleway and the majority of residential


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development overlooking the Taff - a result of both distance, and current

visibility already being limited by substantial existing and consented

development.

6.10 It is not considered that the proposed development would give rise to any

significant adverse environmental effects. The assessment concludes that the

proposals will be beneficial both visually and in terms of townscape,

encouraging activity and vitality at a key gateway to the City, enhancing the

setting of an important heritage asset and introducing development of a

significant scale that will provide new landmarks and enhance legibility within

the City Centre.

7.0 Cultural Heritage

Below Ground Heritage

7.1 The Glamorgan-Gwent Archaeological Trust’s Projects Department (GGAT

Projects) has prepared the Cultural Heritage chapter of the Environmental

Statement for the Central Square, Cardiff development. The report primarily

focusses on the development’s impact on the below ground archaeological

resource. Nathaniel Litchfield and Partners have produced a Townscape and

Visual Assessment and above ground heritage assessment in order to assess

the developments effect on the up-standing archaeological resource (see ES

Chapter E).

7.2 During the course of GGAT Project’s assessment the archaeological and

historical records contained within the regional Historic Environment Record

(curated by GGAT Curatorial), the National Monuments Record (curated by the

RCAHMW), Cadw, the Central Air Registry for Wales, National Museum Wales

and the Glamorgan Record Office were interrogated. A site visit to the

development area was also undertaken in order to access the current condition

of recorded heritage assets and identify previously unrecorded assets.

7.3 A total of 147 heritage assets where identified in a 250m wide study area

surrounding the current development. A total of three heritage assets have

been identified within the development area: Cardiff Central Bus Station

(407179), Temperance Town (409133) and River Taff relic channel (CSC007).

The full extent or exact location of St Mary’s Church (00117s) and the Medieval

town defence (307774) is not known and they may be affected by the proposed

development. There are no Scheduled Ancient Monuments, Registered

Historic Parks and Gardens or Listed Buildings within the development area.

7.4 It is recommended that the impact of the current development on Temperance

Town (409133) and the River Taff relic channel (CSC007) should be mitigated

by the implementation of a programme of archaeological investigation taking

the form of evaluation trenching and test-pitting. This programme of

archaeological investigation should be conducted prior to the start of

construction works in order to inform on the presence of buried archaeological


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deposits and structures, to clarify the risk to the development and inform on

subsequent archaeological mitigation strategies. These strategies may take

the form of further trenching or open area excavation. The effect and any

requisite mitigation on 407179 (Cardiff Central Bus Station) is assessed in the

built heritage section (Chapter F). It is recommended that the impact of the

current development on St Mary’s Church (00117s), Medieval town defence

(307774) and the River Taff relic channel (CSC007) can be mitigated by an

archaeological watching-brief conducted on all ground disturbance works

during the cause of the developments construction.

7.5 Given the nature of the end use of the development it is consider that there will

be no impact on the below ground archaeological resource during the

operational phase of the development, provided that the above mitigation is

followed.

Above Ground Heritage

7.6 Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners (NLP) has considered the effects of the

proposed development upon above ground heritage assets. “Heritage assets”

is an all-encompassing term for valued components of the physical

environment which reflect the human activities, ideas and attitudes that have

contributed to the character of an area over time. This assessment considers

the effects of the development proposals on surrounding heritage assets that

may be sensitive to change as a result of their proximity to the development

site, historical associations or their role in key views. Such valued elements

can include statutorily listed buildings, conservation areas, unlisted buildings of

interest, parks and gardens of special historic interest, scheduled ancient

monuments and other archaeological deposits.

7.7 There are no above ground heritage assets located within the site boundary

with the exception of a small element of the St Mary Street Conservation Area

which is located to the north-east of the application site. There are a number of

grade II listed buildings and one locally listed building located adjacent to the

site. NLP sought to agree the extent of the listed buildings assessed. No

comments on the assets proposed for assessment has been received from

Cardiff Council.

7.8 A total of 21 above ground heritage assets have been assessed for significant

environmental impact. These assets all have a visual relationship with the site.

7.9 The proposed development would have a substantial beneficial effect upon the

setting of grade II listed Cardiff Central Railway Station. At the present time,

the site is currently characterised by poor quality public realm and poor building

design and quality. The proposed development would result in a significant

positive environmental change to the setting of the Station. The high quality

public realm with soft landscaping, the removal of the taxi rank and bus station

and the introduction of high quality new buildings that provide definition to the

northern side of the square will create a considerable improvement to the

station approach


7570013v2 P15

7.10 The proposed development would have a moderate beneficial effect upon:

a The former Prince of Wales Theatre (grade II listed)

b 2 Wood Street (grade II listed)

c Royal Hotel (grade II listed)

d The Yard Public House (grade II listed)

e 47 & 48 St Mary Street (grade II listed)

f Water Tower (grade II listed)

7.11 The proposed development would have a limited effect ranging in scale from

negligible to minor beneficial on the following heritage assets:

a St Mary Street Conservation Area

b The Great Western Hotel (grade II listed)

c The Philharmonic Hall (grade II listed)

d Old Head Post Office (grade II listed)

e County Court Offices (grade II listed)

f Former County Club (grade II listed)

g Jackson Hall (grade II listed)

h The Queen’s and Royal Garage (grade II listed)

i The Flyhalf and Firkin (grade II listed)

j 38 & 39 St Mary Street (grade II listed)

k 40 & 41 St Mary Street (grade II listed)

l 49 St Mary Street (grade II listed)

m Jacobs Antiques (grade II listed)

n Custom House (grade II listed)

7.12 There will be no adverse effects upon any of the above ground heritage assets

as a result of the proposed development.

8.0 Air Quality

8.1 A detailed air quality assessment has undertaken by Aecom in order to

determine the potential air quality impacts of the proposed redevelopment of

the land in the Central Square area in Cardiff, currently occupied by the bus

station and Marland House. The assessment has considered the impacts

associated with both the construction and operational phases of the proposed

redevelopment.

8.2 A qualitative assessment of the construction phase activities suggests that the

site presents a medium risk with respect to dust and emissions. Without

mitigation, the construction phase activities have the potential to result in minor


7570013v2 P16

adverse effects on dust-sensitive receptors and human health given the scale

and likely duration of construction. However, with the implementation of

appropriate mitigation measures, construction phase impacts can be

considered to be at most of negligible significance.

8.3 The results of the detailed dispersion modelling indicate that the proposed

development is likely to lead to impacts of Minor Adverse significance with

respect to annual mean Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) concentrations at four existing

receptor locations:

a Receptor 1 (Holiday Inn, Castle Street).

b Receptor 7 (25 Westgate Street).

c Receptor 13 (Commercial premises, Castle Street).

d Receptor 20 (Hotel, Saunders Road).

8.4 At all other receptors negligible impacts are predicted with respect to annual

mean NO2 concentrations.

8.5 With respect to particulate matter (PM10) concentrations, the impact of the

proposed development on annual mean concentrations and exceedences of

the daily PM10 standard are negligible at all modelled receptor locations in all

modelled scenarios.

8.6 A quantitative assessment of the air quality impacts of construction traffic

indicates that vehicle exhaust emissions generated by the additional

construction-related traffic may result in minor adverse impacts at some

receptors with regard to annual mean NO2 concentrations and Negligible

impacts at all receptors with respect to annual mean PM10 concentrations.

9.0 Daylight & Sunlight

9.1 The Daylight and Sunlight ES chapter considers the effects of the Central

Square development in Cardiff in terms of daylight, sunlight and

overshadowing. The assessment has been carried out in accordance with BRE

guidelines relating to the analysis of daylight, sunlight and overshadowing.

9.2 There are no existing residential buildings or open spaces in the immediate

vicinity of the site or the wider masterplan which require assessment under the

BRE guidance in terms of daylight, sunlight or overshadowing. Consequently,

the proposed development will not result in any materially significant

environmental effects in terms of existing receptors.

9.3 The assessment has focussed on the levels of sunlight and shadow that will be

experienced within the proposed new areas of public spaces within the

development and the wider masterplan.

9.4 The results of the assessment for the proposed open space within the

development itself demonstrate that Central Square will receive large areas of


7570013v2 P17

direct sunlight and will comply fully with the BRE guidance. The creation of this

well-lit public space at the heart of Cardiff City Centre is a substantial beneficial

effect arising from the development.

9.5 It is concluded that the proposed development will not give rise to any

materially unacceptable environmental impacts in terms of daylight, sunlight

and overshadowing in the context of the BRE guidelines and relevant planning

policy.

10.0 Wind Micro Climate

10.1 A qualitative assessment of the wind environment around the proposed

development has been prepared by Arup. The assessment is based on

architectural drawings of the proposed development, evaluation of aerial views

of the site and its surroundings, plans and models of the buildings and Arup’s

previous extensive experience of wind tunnel studies around buildings.

10.2 The criteria used to describe windiness are those of T.V. Lawson of Bristol

University, extracted from “The evaluation of the windiness of a building

complex before construction”, T.V. Lawson, London Docklands Development

Corporation. These criteria are used widely in the UK and around the world.

Even without wind tunnel testing, they are useful to define windiness in terms

of acceptability for particular activities.

10.3 The acceptability of windiness is subjective and depends on a number of

factors, most notably the activities to be performed in the area being assessed.

The Lawson Criteria describe acceptability for particular activities in terms of

'comfort' and 'distress' (or safety).

10.4 The study shows that wind conditions at the existing site are generally

acceptable and will be reduced further on completion of the construction of No

1 Central Square.

10.5 With ‘One Central Square’ constructed, wind conditions around the proposed

Media Centre (Plot 3) are acceptable for the current expected general public

access use in all areas, including entrances.

10.6 Completion of the adjacent Plot 2 will also reduce windiness around Plot 3,

although potential mitigation measures associated with Plot 2 will need to be

assessed during the detailed design stage which is not being considered at

this outline stage.


7570013v2 P18

11.0 Ground Conditions

11.1 A detailed desk-based assessment has been carried out by Arup to determine

ground conditions, the hydrogeological regime and the potential for

contamination. This is based on:

a Published geological maps and memoirs;

b Existing ground investigation information;

c Current and historical land use information;

d Aerial photography;

e Pollution incidents and landfill records; and

f Consultation with the local authority.

11.2 Supplementary ground investigation is being undertaken to confirm the data

from previous site investigations.

11.3 Historically, the site was reclaimed from the old channel line of the River Taff

and comprises a deep layer of fill overlying estuarine alluvium.

11.4 The site and former river channel have been filled bringing site levels up to

their current elevation. Materials used as backfill are likely to be variable and

may potentially contain contamination. Historical adjacent site uses including a

timber yard and saw mill and the adjacent railway and the use of the site as a

bus station, have the potential to have resulted in contamination of the ground

and groundwater. Foundations and other buried obstruction from previous

buildings on the site have the potential to impact on future development of the

site.

11.5 On the basis of that the proposed development will be for commercial end use,

the study concludes that the majority of soil contamination falls below the

residential screening criteria and it is considered that the risk to site end users

is low.

11.6 The development will involve excavation of made ground materials to form the

basement. This will remove a significant proportion of the potentially

contaminating materials from the site resulting in a moderate beneficial effects.

11.7 By following best-practice construction procedures, pollution-prevention

measures and incorporating the proposed design mitigation measures, the

impact of the residual risk of the proposed development is considered to be

negligible.

12.0 Noise & Vibration

12.1 A Noise Assessment of the Central Square proposals has been prepared by

Arup.


7570013v2 P19

12.2 The proposed development would be constructed in an area which is currently

relatively noisy due to its urban setting. Sources of noise the in area include

buses, trains approaching and leaving Cardiff Central Station, plant on local

buildings and general activity noise from people.

12.3 The development site could affect noise sensitive receptors in the surrounding

area, during construction and operation.

12.4 The closest noise and vibration sensitive receptors have been identified as

office accommodation on Wood Street and residential properties on the

opposite side of the River Taff on Fitzhamon Embankment and Tudor Street.

12.5 Two baseline noise surveys have been carried out – the first in September

2013, the second in September 2014. Noise measurements were taken during

the daytime, evening and night-time, at a number of locations.

12.6 Before construction can start on the basement areas and the building on Plot

3, Marland House will be demolished. In order to build the basement for Plots 2

and 3, the perimeter of the site needs to be supported, and this will be

achieved by installing significant number of piles. During demolition and

construction, “best practicable means” will be used to keep noise to a

minimum. Good practice will be encouraged by requiring the Contractor to

create, and work within the requirements of, a Construction Environmental

Management Plan.

12.7 Potential noise from the demolition and construction phases has been

predicted, and the results ranked using a method suggested by the relevant

British Standard. The study concludes that the impact of noise and vibration

can be mitigated during construction with careful planning of construction

methods and working hours. No significant noise or vibration effects have been

indentified resulting from construction works.

12.8 When the building on Plot 3 is completed, operational noise effects from office

and retail uses would be associated with building services/plant for the

buildings, and local road traffic noise along routes providing access to the site.

12.9 To ensure that no significant effects are caused by noise from plant associated

with the building on Plot 3, building services/plant will need to be designed so

that it does not exceed a given noise limit at the nearest residential properties.

A target level has been provided in the noise chapter, related to the existing

background noise level. It is therefore concluded that there are no potential

significant effects resulting from the Media Centre building, subject to the

building services/plant being designed to achieve the target noise levels

identified.

12.10 No significant noise or vibration effects have been identified for residential

properties resulting from road traffic generated by the operation of the

proposed development.


7570013v2 P20

13.0 Water Resources

13.1 An assessment by Arup has been made of the impact of proposals on the

existing sewer network, the adjacent River Taff, the potential for flooding and

the consumption of water.

13.2 A strategy has been developed for draining the site and agreed in principle with

Dwr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW). This involves provision of a new storm

sewer to accept development storm run-off, which will reduce flows in the

existing combined sewer serving the site.

13.3 Storm drainage will be discharged to the River Taff, with incorporation of

suitable pollution-prevention measures to ensure that the water quality in the

river will not be affected.

13.4 The proposals require diversion of part of the existing combined sewer and this

is being progressed with DCWW.

13.5 The site is categorised as Zone A by the TAN 15 Development Advice Maps,

being an area at little or no risk from fluvial flooding. Appropriate storage will be

provided within the new storm sewer network to ensure capacity during times

of high flood levels within the River Taff.

13.6 The proposed drainage measures will have a beneficial impact on the capacity

of the DCWW network.

13.7 With regard to water consumption, future development will essentially replace

existing or previous development, and with the incorporation of design features

to minimise consumption (the media centre is targeting ‘BREEAM

Outstanding’), it is considered that the impact will be negligible.

14.0 Waste

14.1 Arup has undertaken an assessment of Construction, Demolition & Excavation

Waste (CDEW), together with the amounts of waste generated during the

operational phase during building occupancy.

14.2 A Survey of Construction and Demolition Waste in Wales in 2012 published by

Natural Resources Wales has been used to provide an estimated baseline for

CDEW and management methods. This represents the latest available

comprehensive data set for CDEW waste arisings in South East Wales.

14.3 Similarly, the Survey of Commercial and Industrial Waste in Wales in 2012

published by Natural Resources Wales has been used to provide an estimated

baseline for C&I waste arisings and management methods.


7570013v2 P21

14.4 Latest available information with respect to the existing waste infrastructure

capacity in South East Wales has been identified, using data published by

Natural Resources Wales.

14.5 Measures to re-use, recycle and manage materials to minimise waste are

identified, together with a need to develop a Site Waste Management Plan

alongside the development of detailed designs and contractor procurement.

14.6 Overall, the impact from CDEW during the construction phase is assessed as

minor adverse. Residual effects, following implementation of mitigation

measures, are also assessed as minor adverse.

14.7 The impact from operational waste arising from occupancy is assessed as

minor adverse. Residual effects, following implementation of mitigation

measures, are assessed as negligible.

15.0 Cumulative Effects & Summary of Findings

15.1 The table overleaf reviews whether the inter-relationship between effects

arising from the development may give rise to additional impacts not previously

identified. It also considers whether effects may arise when the development

is considered alongside other schemes or proposals in the surrounding area,

the likelihood of the other developments proceeding and the ability or necessity

of the applicant to mitigate any such effects for those other sites. The

developments to be assessed were agreed with Cardiff Council and extend to:

• One Central Square – Plot 1 of the Masterplan area which has planning

permission for 16,084 sq m of office space and is under construction; and

• Plots 4-13 of the Central Square Masterplan area, which do not have

planning permission but will be developed in due course as part of the

wider regeneration scheme.

15.2 A plan showing the location of Plots 1-13 within the Masterplan area is

provided at Section 17 (Drawing Reference A-SK-0255 Revision 00).

15.3 A range of mitigation measures have been identified throughout the ES which

are capable of being enforced through planning conditions or a Section 106

Legal Agreement in relation to the development.

15.4 Some negative residual effects remain in relation to specific sensitive receptors

in relation to traffic levels and the setting of heritage assets during construction.

However, these must be balanced against the beneficial environmental effects

on transportation (public transport users, pedestrians and cyclists) and socio

economic receptors in respect of increased employment opportunities.

15.5 With regards to cumulative effects, the analysis of the potential for cumulative

effects indicates that there are no issues that have not already been taken into

account within individual schemes.

7570013v2 P23

Table 15.1 Summary of Effects with Mitigation in Place

Environmental Topic

Effects during Construction

Effects during Operation

Commentary – Residual Impacts Cumulative Effects

Transportation None – substantial adverse

Substantial beneficial- Substantial adverse

During construction out of 29 links the only impact is on Link 11 (Wood Street, between Station Approach and Bus Exit) from increased heavy vehicles. Negligible effects are predicted on public transport users and no effects are predicted on pedestrians or cyclists. Following completion traffic impacts are expected on Links 11 (as above), 18 (Penarth Road, west of junction with St Mary Street/Caroline Street/ Bute Terrace) and Link 19 (Saunders Road) from increased vehicle numbers. Benefits are expected for public transport users, pedestrians and cyclists.

Increased traffic at some links, though further benefits will improve the public transport, pedestrian and cycle environment.

Socio-Economic Moderate positive

Major positive-negligible Additional benefits to local economy from employment during construction and operation.

Additional benefits to local economy and the local labour market from employment during construction and operation. Other uses will create a mixed use development that will also have a beneficial effect on housing affordability, deprivation and expenditure.

Townscape & Visual

Minor-moderate adverse

None During construction adverse visual impact on Cardiff Central Railway Station and St Mary Street Conservation Area. No impacts expected during operation

Beneficial impacts of creating a high quality mixed use development that will enhance the townscape of the immediate and surrounding area.

Cultural Heritage (Below Ground)

None None None anticipated. None anticipated.

Cultural Heritage (Above Ground)

Minor-moderate adverse

None During construction adverse visual impact on Cardiff Central Railway Station and St Mary Street Conservation Area.

Beneficial impacts on the setting of nearby heritage assets. Potential for taller buildings to be visible to Cardiff Castle and Bute Park, though not expected to change the overall effect on the setting of the assets.

7570013v2 P24

Environmental Topic

Effects during Construction

Effects during Operation

Commentary – Residual Impacts Cumulative Effects

Air Quality Negligible-minor adverse

Negligible-minor adverse During construction and operation negligible effects expected from dust soiling and PM10 concentrations. Minor adverse effects from exhaust emissions.

Negligible effects expected on dust sensitive receptors and human health. No additionnal perceptible impacts on local air quality expected.

Daylight & Sunlight

None Substantial beneficial Benefits from improved lighting in public realm once operational.

No unacceptable effects expected in terms of overshadowing.

Wind Micro Climate

Minor adverse Negligible-minor adverse Potential for increased wind in the north west corner of Plot 2 during construction and operation.

Potential for increased wind, though no significant impacts expected.

Ground Conditions

Negligible None None anticipated. Negligible cumulative effects expected, with benefit of removing potentially contaminated material during construction of semi-basement parking.

Noise & Vibration

None None None anticipated. None anticipated.

Water Resources

Moderate beneficial -negligible

Moderate beneficial- negligible

Beneficial effect on existing combined foul sewer in respect of flooding.

Negligible effects expected.

Waste Minor adverse Negligible During construction impact on landfill capacity. Negligible impact during operation.

Minor adverse effect during construction phase from reduced landfill capacity expected. Negligible effects expected during occupation.


7570013v3 P25

16.0 Availability of the Environmental Statement

16.1 If you would like to purchase a CD of this Non Technical Summary for £5.00,

please contact:

Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners, Helmont House, Churchill Way, Cardiff, CF10

2HE (Tel: +44 (0)29 2043 5880)

16.2 Alternatively, information on the ES can also be viewed on the Cardiff Council

website at http://planning.cardiff.gov.uk/online-applications/

17.0 Scheme Plans

The following key plans of the proposed development are provided overleaf:

Drawing Title Reference Number

Site Location Plan A-B3-011-00-01PL Rev 0

Hybrid Planning Application Boundary A-B3-020-00-05PL Rev 0

Existing Site Plan A-B3-011-00-02PL Rev 0

Demolition Plan A-B3-011-00-03PL Rev 0

Proposed Site Plan A-B3-011-00-04PL Rev 0

Setting-Out Plan A-B3-020-00-01PL Rev 0

Phasing Plan A-B3-020-00-02PL Rev 0

Full Application – Plot 3 Media Centre

Basement General Arrangement A-B3-031-B1-01PL Rev 0

Ground Floor Plan General Arrangement A-B3-031-00-01PL Rev 0

First Floor Plan General Arrangement A-B3-031-01-01PL Rev 0

Second Floor Plan General Arrangement A-B3-031-02-01PL Rev 0

Third Floor Plan General Arrangement A-B3-031-03-01PL Rev 0

Fourth Floor Plan General Arrangement A-B3-031-04-01PL Rev 0

Fifth Floor Plan General Arrangement A-B3-031-05-01PL Rev 0

Roof Plan Level 06 General Arrangement A-B3-031-R06-01PL Rev 0

Roof Plan General Arrangement A-B3-031-R07-01PL Rev 0

South Elevation A-B3-064-XX-01PL Rev 0

East Elevation – Marland Street A-B3-064-XX-02PL Rev 0

North Elevation – Wood Street A-B3-064-XX-03PL Rev 0

West Elevation A-B3-064-XX-04PL Rev 0

Full Application – Public Realm

Existing Site Survey A-B3-321-XX-01PL Rev 0

Existing Site Sections A-B3-321-XX-02PL Rev 0


7570013v3 P26

Drawing Title Reference Number

Tree Removal Plan A-B3-321-XX-03PL Rev 0

Public Realm Masterplan A-B3-321-XX-04PL Rev 0

Softworks Plan A-B3-321-XX-05PL Rev 0

Detail Plan – Central Square A-B3-321-XX-10PL Rev 0

Detail Plan – Plot 2 A-B3-321-XX-11PL Rev 0

Detail Plan – Plot 1 & 2 A-B3-321-XX-12PL Rev 0

Typical Street Section – Wood Street A-B3-321-XX-20PL Rev 0

Typical Street Section – Marland Street A-B3-321-XX-21PL Rev 0

Typical Street Section – Central Street A-B3-321-XX-22PL Rev 0

Typical Street Section – Millennium Walkway A-B3-321-XX-23PL Rev 0

Typical Street Section – Central Square A-B3-321-XX-24PL Rev 0

Outline Application – Plot 2

Plot 2 Parameter Plan A-B3-020-00-05PL Rev 0

Cumulative Sites

Central Square Masterplan Plot A-SK-0255 Revision 00

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