in the townland of meenamullan, near killeter, county tyrone · 2014. 9. 9. · local government...

MEENAMULLAN WIND FARM In the townland of Meenamullan, near Killeter, County Tyrone

Environmental Statement

Volume 4 – Non-Technical Summary

RES UK & Ireland Ltd, Unit C1 & C2, Willowbank Business Park, Willowbank Road, Millbrook, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 2SF

Meenamullan Wind Farm RES

Volume 4: Non-Technical Summary

Table of Contents

Preface

Introduction 1

Rationale for the Scheme 2

Project Description 4

Environmental Assessments 7

Conclusion 19


Volume 4: Non – Technical Summary

Preface

This Non Technical Summary (NTS) has been prepared in support of a planning

application for the proposed Meenamullan Wind Farm. The proposed wind farm is

located in the townland of Meenamullan, near Killeter in County Tyrone.

A planning application has been submitted to Northern Ireland Planning Service

(NIPS) in accordance with the Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment)

Regulations, 2012. The regulations require an Environmental Impact Assessment

(EIA) to be carried out and the results of the EIA to be included in an Environmental

Statement (ES) to accompany the planning application.

This document is Volume 4 of the ES, which comprises:

- Volume 1 – Environmental Statement (main text);

- Volume 2 – Figures;

- Volume 3 – Appendices; and

- Volume 4 – Non Technical Summary.

The ES has been prepared by RES UK & Ireland Ltd (RES) in consultation with

Northern Ireland Planning Service, various consultees, interest groups and in

collaboration with the various specialists outlined below.

ES Technical Support

Technical Specialism

Organisation

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Shanti McAllister

Landscape Planning &

Design.

Ornithology Assessment

David Steele.

Ecology Assessment

Blackstaff Wildlife

Consultants.

RPS.

Fisheries Assessment

Paul Johnston

Associates.

Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Assessment

Gahan & Long.

Geology and Hydrogeology Assessment

AECOM.

Hydrology Assessment

McCloy Consulting.

Peat Slide Hazard & Risk Assessment SKM Enviros.

Planning Policy; Acoustic Assessment; Transport Assessment; Shadow

Flicker Assessment; Electromagnetic Interference & Aviation; Air,

Climate and Renewable Energy; Health and Safety Assessment and

Socio – Economic & Tourism Assessment.

RES.


Volume 4: Non-Technical Summary

An electronic version of the Non Technical Summary and other details about the project can be viewed at: http://www.meenamullan-windfarm.co.uk/

Reference copies of the ES may be viewed and / or purchased during normal

opening hours at the following location:

Killeter Post Office,

17 Main Street,

Castlederg,

BT81 7EL

Paper Copies of the Non Technical Summary are available free of charge, the Main

Report, Figures and Technical Appendices can be purchased on CD for £10 each or

in paper form at a cost of £50 each from the address above or by contacting RES.

Cheques should be made payable to RES UK & Ireland Ltd.

RES UK & Ireland Ltd

Willowbank Business Park

Willowbank Road

Millbrook

Larne

County Antrim

BT 40 2SF

028 28440580


1-1 Volume 4: Non-Technical Summary

1 Introduction

The Application

1.1 RES UK and Ireland Limited, hereafter referred to as ‘RES’, is applying to the

Northern Ireland Department of the Environment (DOE) Planning Service for

permission to construct, operate and decommission a wind farm known as

Meenamullan Wind Farm. The application follows a detailed assessment of the

environmental and technical aspects of the site’s suitability for development.

1.2 The proposed Meenamullan Wind Farm is located within an existing coniferous

forest, approximately 3 km southwest of Killeter and 10.5 km southwest of

Castlederg. The centre of the site is located at Irish Grid Reference (IGR) 218500,

377000. The location of the proposed wind farm is shown in Figure 1.1.

1.3 The site has been designed to accommodate turbines in the 1.8 – 2.5 MW range with

a maximum height to blade tip of 125 m above ground level. The turbines will be

of the horizontal axis type, with a rotor consisting of three blades with a maximum

rotor diameter of 90.0 m. The dimensions are illustrated in Figure 1.2.

1.4 The proposed project entails the construction of up to five turbines (each with an

overall maximum height of 125 m above ground level) and associated infrastructure

including an upgraded site entrance, new onsite access tracks, an onsite substation

and control building, underground cables, two temporary monitoring masts, a

permanent meteorological mast, a temporary construction compound, a temporary

enabling works compound, permanent crane hardstandings and road widening and

improvement works on sections of the transport route (road improvement works).

The proposed Infrastructure Layout is illustrated in Figure 1.3.

1.5 Based on nominal 1.8 MW capacity turbines the wind farm would be capable of 9

MW total capacity and would produce electrical energy equivalent to the average

requirements of approximately 7000 homes every year. This would be the

equivalent electricity demand of approximately 47.24 % of the households in the

Local Government District of Strabane.

1.6 The wind farm would also prevent an estimated 254,250 tonnes of carbon dioxide

(CO2) emissions from entering the atmosphere annually that would otherwise be

produced by conventional fossil fuelled generators.

The Applicant

1.7 RES is one of the world’s leading wind energy developers. It has constructed or

developed medium-large scale wind farms around the world with a combined

capacity of over 7 GW and has a large portfolio under construction and

development. RES has been developing wind farms in Ireland since the early 1990s.

It has developed 18 operational wind farms in Ireland to date, totalling over 241

MW (Corkey, Elliott’s Hill, Wolf Bog and Gruig in County Antrim; Rigged Hill,

Altahullion Phase 1 & 2, and Curryfree in County Londonderry; Lendrum’s Bridge

Phase 1 & 2, Lough Hill, Slieve Divena Phase 1, and Hunter’s Hill in County Tyrone,

Callagheen in County Fermanagh, Cark in County Donegal, Beenageeha in County

Kerry and Milane Hill and Taurbeg in County Cork).

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Volume 4: Non – Technical Summary 1-2

Rationale for the Scheme

Combating Climate Change

1.8 Change in global and regional temperatures and precipitation patterns is a natural

phenomenon and there have been a number of cooling and warming periods

recorded over the last millennium. However, in the late 1980s a growing concern

emerged that climate change was being influenced by anthropogenic activity

beyond the normal fluctuations. The main contributing activities include emissions

of the so-called greenhouse gases in particular carbon dioxide (CO2), sulphur

dioxide (SO2) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) into the atmosphere and other effects

such as land use changes, which reduce the ability of the natural environment to

recycle these gases. A significant proportion of the increased greenhouse gas

emissions arise from the burning of traditional fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas

for energy generation and transportation.

1.9 The EU is responsible for about 14% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, but

has only 5% of its population (EU, 2009). The EU recognises that it must take a lead

in reducing emissions and has responded to the threat of climate change. The

European targets for greenhouse gas reductions under the Kyoto Protocol are set at

an 8% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions by 2012 compared to 1990 levels of

14%. Furthermore, all countries will need to make an additional effort, including

cuts of 80-95% by 2050 by developed countries. An EU target of 20% by 2020 is just

the first step to put emissions onto this path (EU, 2010).

1.10 The need to promote electricity produced from renewable energy sources within

the internal electricity market of the EU was established in September 2001 within

Directive 2001/77/EC. Article 3 of this Directive required Member States to “take

appropriate steps to encourage greater consumption of electricity produced from

renewable energy sources in conformity with…national indicative targets”.

1.11 Power from the wind can be harnessed and used to generate electricity. Wind farms

offer important advantages. Firstly, the carbon cost of wind power is significantly

smaller than that of other forms of conventional and renewable energy production.

Secondly, they contribute to a reduction in our dependence on finite reserves of

fossil fuels, which are being rapidly depleted and the costs of which are escalating.

Thirdly, they reduce our dependence on oil and gas imports and increase our self-

sufficiency in energy production. Additionally, wind farm developments are

reversible and a site can be decommissioned to the extent that no visible trace of

them existing is apparent.

1.12 In recent years, the UK Government has undertaken a number of studies designed

to inform its renewable energy policies. Key policies to emerge from these studies

include:

Meeting the Energy Challenge: UK White Paper on Energy 2007

1.13 The UK Government’s Energy White Paper, ‘Meeting the Energy Challenge’ sets out

a framework for action to address the energy challenges facing the UK. It sets out

four key energy policy goals:



- to put the UK on a path to cutting CO2 emissions by 60% by 2050, with real

progress by 2020;

- to maintain the reliability of energy supplies;

- to promote competitive markets in the UK and beyond; and

- to ensure that every home is adequately and affordably heated.

1.14 This Paper states that renewables are key to the UK strategy to tackle climate

change and deploy cleaner sources of energy. It also highlights the importance of

lowering practical barriers to renewables investment, such as improved planning

inquiry rules.

UK Renewable Energy Strategy (Action Plan) 2009

1.15 The UK Renewable Energy Strategy provides an action plan to ensure 15% of energy

comes from renewable sources by 2020, in implementation of Directive

2009/28/EC. It aims to tackle climate change, reducing the UK’s emissions of CO2

by over 750 million tonnes between now and 2030. It also promotes increasing the

security of energy supplies, reducing overall fossil fuel demand by around 10% and

gas imports by 20–30%, against what they would have been in 2020.

1.16 The strategy recognises that acceleration of the uptake of renewable energy will

help meet the goal of decarbonising energy production in the UK, while ensuring

secure and safe energy supplies and exploiting the significant economic

opportunities of the move to a low-carbon economy. The strategy will enable the

UK to meet its EU renewable energy target to source 15% of energy from

renewables by 2020. Renewable energy is therefore a key part of the overall UK

Low Carbon Transition Plan, which outlines how the UK will meet the 34% cut in

emissions on 1990 levels by 2020.

1.17 The strategy identifies Northern Ireland’s potential to make significant progress in

increasing the amount of energy from renewable sources in order to contribute to

policy goals on security of supply, reduction of greenhouse gases, as well as

contributing to business competitiveness, increasing competition in power

generation and presenting opportunities for enterprise activity.

The Challenge for Northern Ireland

1.18 A key policy driver for the development of renewable energy in Northern Ireland is

the need to increase security of supply. There are also potential adverse impacts on

local populations and the economy through high volatile fuel costs, contributing to

fuel poverty and high energy costs for businesses and industry. In addition,

increasing focus on renewable energy can deliver environmental and climate

change gains, reductions in carbon emissions, as well as investment and

employment opportunities. With a lack of indigenous fossil fuel and no nuclear

power stations, Northern Ireland is keen to develop the full range of its available

renewable energy resources to optimise the contribution that renewables make to

the overall energy mix.

1.19 Northern Ireland’s current renewable energy target is that 40% of electricity

consumption should be met from renewable sources by 2020 (DETI 2010). The 40%

target is the equivalent of 1600MW. Wind energy will be the main focus of



renewable electricity development on the island of Ireland, and certainly in

Northern Ireland, through to 2020.

1.20 As of 31st March 2012 there were 450.9 MW of onshore wind farms operational, this

comprises 29 operational wind farms (SONI 2013).

1.21 If approved, the proposed Meenamullan Wind Farm could account for between 9

MW and 12.5 MW, a material contribution to achieving the 40% renewable energy

target for 2020.

Public Information Programme

1.22 A Public Information Programme was implemented for the proposed Meenamullan

Wind Farm to inform local residents, communities and their elected representatives

about the proposal and to provide them with a contact point for information.

1.23 In June 2012, RES undertook door-to-door visits to 73 houses along sections of

Aghalougher Road, Meenamullan Road, Magherakeel Road, Shannaghy Road,

Aghalunny Road, Crilly’s Hill Road, Seegronan Road and Aghamore Road to provide

local residents with details of the project, to inform them of the public exhibition

dates and times, to provide people with the opportunity to respond, ask questions

or provide feedback.

1.24 In addition to the door-to-door visits, information about the project was sent to the

local community, including elected representatives, councils, community groups,

schools and churches.

1.25 RES also held a public exhibition in the Killeter Heritage and Enterprise Centre in

June 2012, to provide detailed information, including maps and photomontages, to

the local community. The exhibition provided visitors with an opportunity to

discuss the proposals in detail, to ask questions and provide feedback. The

exhibition was publicised through adverts in the local newspapers.

Project Description

Site Selection and History

1.26 RES undertook a Geographical Information System (GIS) search of Northern Ireland

as a first step towards identifying areas of land with the potential to accommodate

wind farm development. The search identified land which:

- Expected wind speeds would allow the development to be commercially viable;

- The site is not located within a designated landscape e.g. Area of Outstanding

Natural Beauty (AONB);

- Identified that a significant area of land was potentially available for

development.

1.27 Feasibility investigations were undertaken to determine the compatibility with

Planning Policy Statement 18 – Renewable Energy (PPS18). This included an

assessment of proximity to land designations and dwellings.

1.28 The wind farm layout evolved through a series of design reviews whereby

environmental and technical constraints identified during the EIA were taken into



account in the design. The proposed layout for the Meenamullan Wind Farm has

evolved in response to a number of policy recommendations, environmental,

technical, engineering and landscape design considerations and as a result of

feedback from key consultees.

Land Take

1.29 The land take for a wind farm development is relatively small. The wind turbines

have a necessity to be spaced apart, so as to not interfere aerodynamically with

one another (array losses). The actual permanent land take is limited to the area of

the towers themselves, the access tracks leading to them, the crane hardstandings,

control building, substation and permanent meteorological mast.

1.30 Only approximately 2.13 % of the land within the planning application boundary will

be utilised by the development due to the relatively small footprints of the

infrastructure and the wind farm design criteria applied in the design process. The

area of land expected to be utilised by the development is approximately 2.43 ha.

The Turbines

1.31 Each turbine would begin generating power automatically at a wind speed of

around 3.0 ms-1 (6.75 mph) and would shut down at a wind speed of around 25 ms-

1

(56 mph). A transformer unit would be located at the base of the turbine or within

the turbine tower. It is proposed that the turbines will be a uniform light grey

colour with a semi-matt finish to reduce their contrast with the background sky and

minimise reflections. The turbines will be uniform in colour and will not feature any

company logo.

Grid Connection

1.32 All electrical cabling between the turbines and the wind farm sub-station on the

site would be underground. The offsite grid connection will be provided by

Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE). NIE will be responsible for the design, acquisition

of planning permission, way leaving, construction and operation of the grid

connection line and it will remain in their ownership.

Construction

1.33 It is anticipated that the construction phase will take approximately 12-18 months

from starting on site to commissioning the wind turbines and electrical system.

However the programme is weather dependant and may vary accordingly. HGV

traffic movements will only occur between Mondays and Saturdays (i.e. none on

Sundays) from 07.00 to 19.00. However during turbine erection and commissioning,

and construction of concrete foundations, site working could extend outside these

times but at all times in accordance with the terms of any planning permission

granted for the proposed development.



1.34 The civil engineering works will comprise:

- the upgrading of the site entrance;

- the preparation and establishment of temporary site facilities;

- construction of a watercourse crossing;

- the provision of new access tracks to the turbine locations;

- construction of the on-site control room and substation;

- the preparation of hardstanding areas for cranes;

- at each turbine location, the preparation and construction of the concrete

foundation to support the turbine structure and the individual turbine

transformer; and

- foundation and hardstanding for permanent mast.

- all associated drainage & SuDS requirements;

- erection of site fencing, stockproofing and security requirements;

- public road widening.

1.35 A Construction and Decommissioning Method Statement (CMS) will be prepared

once planning consent has been gained. This will be submitted to Planning Service

prior to any construction works taking place. This will describe the detailed

methods of construction and working practices, work to reinstate the site following

completion of construction activities, and methods to reinstate the site post

operation.

Health and Safety Assessment

1.36 This assessment examined the potential impacts on health and safety during the

construction and operation on the proposed Meenamullan Wind Farm. It also

assessed the potential impacts of health and safety on the environment and

identified mitigation measures that can avoid or reduce impact.

1.37 The assessment has determined that if the appropriate legislation and guidance is

adhered to during the design, construction and operation phases of the

development, and the best available technology is utilised in the selection of the

turbine design, there will be no risk to the safety of the operators during

construction and maintenance of the wind farm, or to the general public during the

construction or operation. RES will ensure that the appropriate legislation and

guidance is followed through the different phases of the project.

Operation and Maintenance

1.38 Routine maintenance of the turbines will be carried out approximately twice a

year. In addition regular site checks will be carried out twice a month, throughout

the life of the project. This would not usually involve any large machinery and site

traffic would be limited to small maintenance vehicles.

1.39 Wind turbines are designed to have a minimum operational life of 25 years and the

design requirements are based on the local climatic conditions of a site. During the

design life of a turbine it is anticipated that the replacement of a major



component, typically a gear box or generator, will be required approximately

twice.

1.40 If the replacement of a major component is required it would be necessary to use

mobile cranes and heavy vehicles to repair the turbine or replace a major

component, and it is these activities which are defined as Non-Routine Maintenance

Works.

Decommissioning

1.41 One of the main advantages of wind power generation over other forms of

electricity production is the ease of decommissioning and the simple removal of

artefacts from the site. The residual impact on the site is limited to the continued

presence of the foundations and access tracks. All above ground structures can be

removed from the site.

1.42 At the end of the wind farm’s operational life RES proposes to decommission the

scheme. If the proposed wind farm obtains planning approval it is expected that a

planning condition would be set to provide for the decommissioning of the site in

accordance with a scheme agreed in writing with Planning Service.

1.43 The wind farm will be decommissioned in accordance with best practice and/or in

compliance with any planning conditions. Current best practice includes the

removal of all above ground structures; the removal of all underground structures

to one metre below ground level; and reinstatement of disturbed areas.

Landowners will be given the option to retain the access tracks for their own

purposes.

Environmental Assessments

EIA and the Design Process

1.44 In accordance with EIA process and best practice the project team employed an

iterative approach to the design of Meenamullan Wind Farm. The design evolved

throughout the EIA process as different constraints and adverse/ beneficial effects

were identified and evaluated. This approach allowed mitigation measures to be

integrated into the design in order to alleviate or remove significant effects of the

proposed development. It also allowed measures to enhance beneficial effects of

the proposed development to be incorporated into the design. The table below

shows how known constraints influenced the layout design process.

Key Design Iterations

Iteration Detail of Change Resulting Layout

Layout 1:

An initial site selection wind turbine layout was

established to determine whether the scheme, within

the land under the applicants control, had potential

for development. The layout was based on 8 turbines

each of which had a 90 m rotor diameter and 125 m tip

height and included the following constraints:

• A preliminary occupied residential property

separation distance of 900 m. H 34 was

Layout 1: Figure 5.1 –

Turbine Layout 1 – Initial

Site Selection




identified as an unoccupied farm building.

None of the turbines fell within the indicative

buffer;

• Preliminary avoidance to mapped

watercourses (50 m buffer);

• A 4d (360m) avoidance of the Church Hill

(constructed) and the Seegronan (consented)

wind farms.

Layout 2:

Following completion of the ecological baseline

surveys, advice was received from technical and

environmental specialists on the main constraints to

development, the likely significance of potential

environmental impacts and possible mitigation that

could reduce or alleviate detrimental impacts.

The layout was revised to incorporate the following

additional/amended considerations:

• Areas identified as ‘potential ecologically

sensitive’ of blanket bog and dry modified bog

was avoided.

• Buffer zones of 50 m around major

watercourses and 10 m around minor

watercourses were confirmed by the

hydrological consultant.

• Orange link was confirmed to the south west

of the development area and a 100m to blade

tip buffer was applied.

• A 25m buffer was applied to the badger sett

which was identified to the north east of the

site.

• The approximate location of a geological fault

was avoided with a 25 m buffer to turbine

foundation edges applied.

• The proposed Gronan wind farm was

identified and a 4d avoidance buffer was

applied.

The resultant impact was the removal of 3 turbines,

the remaining turbines were then re-configured to

ensure maintenance of adequate inter-turbine spacing

whilst maximising energy capture.


Turbine Layout 2 –

Baseline Surveys Review

Layout 3:

Prior to the turbine layout being finalised, further

advice was received from technical, engineering and

environmental specialists as a result of ongoing survey

work.

As a result T1 moved slightly to the west in order to

increase the separation between the area of blanket

bog. T2 moved slightly to the north east in order to

increase its separation distance from an area of slope

constraint.


Turbine Layout 3 – Pre

Layout Freeze




Layout 4:

A final technical and engineering assessment was

undertaken of the proposed layout including a site

walk over to assess the impacts of the proposed

layout.

Further advice was also received from the ecological

consultant who suggested that T3 should be moved to

the north east in order to maximise the distance which

the turbine is from the existing forest break to the

west.


Turbine Layout 4 – Final

Layout

1.45 The following sections provide summaries of the findings of the technical

investigations of the EIA.

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA)

1.46 An LVIA has been carried out to establish the full extent of likely landscape and

visual effects arising from the proposed wind farm at all stages of its development

within a Study Area that extends in a 30 km radius from the site. Following

detailed baseline assessment and field survey, where the nature of the existing

landscape and visual character was established and the potential impacts of the

proposed development analysed, conclusions on landscape and visual impacts have

been reached.

1.47 The LVIA process concludes that the significant impacts of this proposed

development are limited to its immediate surroundings. This is due largely to the

fact that the site is encircled higher ground on all sides, and also because of the

screening properties of other uplands in the Study Area. There are some clear

views from longer range Viewpoints but their distance from the proposed

development, and the wide extent of these sorts of Viewpoint, means that

individual elements such as the proposed wind farm are often insignificant visual

features.

Summary of Effects on Landscape Character

1.48 The proposed wind farm is in the southern part of the Killeter Uplands LCA within a

large area of coniferous forestry which already exerts a strong man-made influence

on the character of the site and surrounding landscape character. It would have a

direct physical effect on small parts of this coniferous forestry which would be

felled to facilitate construction of the proposed wind farm. However, the felling of

forestry is not an unusual activity in this LCA and the majority of the site will

remain as forestry throughout the lifetime of the wind farm. The remaining areas

will be replanted on completion of the construction works. The site will continue

to be managed as commercial forestry in the long term.

Summary of Effects on Visual Character

1.49 The proposed wind farm is not visually prominent or visible over a wide area.

Although it occupies an upland site, the encirclement of the proposed wind farm by

higher ground in all directions would limit the extent of its visibility in the wider

Study Area. In particular it is not visible from low lying land around the River Derg



and Fairy Water Valleys. In the majority of Viewpoints it would be barely visible.

The two primary areas of theoretical visibility would be from the landscape

immediately surrounding the proposed wind farm, and south facing lowlands and

hill slopes that contain the north east to north-west of the Derg river valley at

distances of 2 – 7 km. This area of visibility would also extend into upland areas to

the north east of Castlederg town and the lower slopes of the Sperrin Mountains to

the north and east of Strabane, as well as south-facing slopes along the southern

border of County Donegal around Ballybofey and Stranorlar.

1.50 Visibility from settlements at close range would often be limited by the acute

angles of view that are available towards the upland landscape on which the

proposed wind farm would be located. There would be clear views of the proposed

wind farm from areas immediately to the west and north-west of the site but views

from other close range views would be more restricted by topographic variation,

acute angles of view, and vegetation.

1.51 In the wider Study Area, the visibility of the proposed wind farm would be limited

by its sheer distance from available Viewpoints. In addition, elevated distant

Viewpoints often encompass very wide open views where individual elements, such

as the proposed wind farm, become insignificant. Topographic variation and land

cover elements contribute significantly to the screening of some medium to long

range views, particularly in the southern part of the Study Area around Lower Lough

Erne and Ballinamallard, and around Bessy Bell and Baronscourt in the east. The

presence of existing wind farms in the same area as the proposed wind farm mean

that it would be not an individually distinguishable feature, particularly in longer

range views.

Summary of Cumulative Landscape & Visual Effects

1.52 There are 53 other wind farms in this Study Area, of which 21 are existing, 10 are

consented, and 22 are proposed. Most of these are located in eight identifiable

clusters in the central belt of the Study Area, and to the north-west, north-east and

east. Many of these wind farm clusters are intervisible, or visible simultaneously

with each other and are also visible sequentially from the local road network, by

virtue of their location in upland areas.

1.53 The proposed wind farm would be located on lower ground within the Church Hill

cluster which comprises 2 existing, 2 consented, and 4 other proposed wind farms.

Although it would have a blade tip height of 125 m, which is slightly greater than

other wind farms that immediately surround it (they range from 99.5 – 110 m), it

would be encircled by adjacent higher ground which would reduce the apparent

size of the proposed turbines and ensure that they appear to be of a relatively

consistent size and scale with other wind farms in the same cluster. Its

encirclement also means that it would nearly always be viewed in the context of

other existing and consented wind farms, and would be most closely related to

Church Hill and Seegronan. The proposed wind farm’s location on lower ground

also avoids the potential for it to have an incremental flattening effect on the

profile of this part of the Killeter Uplands. Wider views of the proposed wind farm



would often be filtered or lessened by distance and also by preceding clusters of

wind farms.

1.54 Non-commercial single turbines are present in small numbers within lowland

agricultural landscapes throughout the Study Area. The proposed wind farm tends

to be far less visible from lowland landscapes and, in general, single turbines

appear visually separate from commercial wind farms. There are a small number

of Viewpoints at close range to the proposed wind farm where single turbines

appear to be closely related to wind farms in upland areas but, because they occur

at relatively low densities (there are only 6 single turbines in close proximity - 5 km

- of the proposed wind farm) they make a very minor contribution to the

Cumulative Baseline.

1.55 The proposed wind farm is sited in accordance with the principles identified by the

SPG in relation to the development of wind farms in the North West of Northern

Ireland:

• It is not located on a prominent ridgeline in the Killeter or Lough Bradan LCAs;

• Its visibility along the skyline on the north shores of Lower Lough Erne are

negligible;

• It is not within an area of wild landscape character. Instead it is within an area of

upland forestry that is encircled by higher ground on all sides and which includes

several existing, consented and proposed wind farms;

• It will not have any significant landscape effects on the setting of the A5 transport

corridor and its incremental effects on views from the South Sperrins Scenic Drive

would be negligible, and;

• It would have no significant effects on the landscape character of the Erne

Lakelands to the south because, at this distance, it is very hard to perceive with

the naked eye.

1.56 The assessment of Cumulative Visual Effects found that the proposed wind farm

would have no significant effects on any of the 20 shortlisted Viewpoints although

four Viewpoints were judged to experience Moderately Significant effects. The

effects on the remaining 16 Viewpoints were judged to be Not Significant.

Acceptability of the Proposed Wind Farm

1.57 In relation to both landscape and visual effects, the proposed wind farm’s

significant effects are limited to its immediate surroundings. This is due largely to

the fact that it is encircled higher ground on all sides, and also because of the

screening properties of other uplands in the Study Area. There are some clear

views from longer range Viewpoints but their distance from the Development, and

the wide extent of these sorts of Viewpoint, means that individual elements such as

the proposed wind farm are often insignificant visual features. On this basis the

proposed wind farm is deemed to be acceptable.

Ecology

1.58 An assessment has been undertaken to assess the potential impacts on ecology

within the site and the wider landscape was undertaken. Detailed surveys were

undertaken to establish the baseline conditions for the various habitats and for the



species groups that are likely to occur in the area of the proposed scheme. The

purpose of an ecological survey is to identify ‘valued ecological receptors’, those

species and habitats that are valued in some way for their ecological function, their

contribution to biodiversity or are protected by specific legislation.

1.59 The following specialist surveys were undertaken:

- Phase 1 Habitat Survey.

- Badger Survey.

- Otter Survey.

- Bat Survey.

- Common Lizard Survey.

- Marsh Fritillary Survey.

- Newt Survey.

1.60 The turbine and infrastructure layouts have been carefully designed to ensure that

the integrity of habitats of higher conservation value is maintained.

1.61 The proposed Meenamullan wind farm will result in a loss of poor quality habitats,

which are of lower conservation value. Restricted areas of habitat of higher

conservation value have been avoided and their interest maintained. In the case of

Meenamullan, this additional loss of habitats is considered to be not significant

because the coniferous forestry plantation is of low conservation value and are

widespread both locally and throughout the region. It is therefore within the ability

of the resource to absorb this loss. Those habitats that are of greater value,

principally residual areas of blanket bog and marshy grassland, have been avoided

and there will be no significant impact on them.

1.62 The potential impact on the ecological interest of the site on watercourses and

their associated wildlife will be mitigated through the implementation of

appropriate mitigation practices which will result in a neutral impact on fish and

aquatic invertebrates.

1.63 Overall the cumulative impacts on the ecology of the area are considered to be of

minor significance.

Fisheries Assessment

1.64 An assessment has been undertaken to assess the potential impacts of the proposed

wind farm on fish stocks and habitats in the river network both within the site

boundary and in other areas of the catchment directly connected to the site.

1.65 The proposed Meenamullan Wind Farm is located mostly within the catchment of

the River Derg which forms a significant part of the River Foyle and Tributaries

Special Area of Conservation (SAC), with Atlantic salmon noted as the primary

reason for selection of the site.

1.66 A small area of the site is located in the catchment of the Termon River which

forms part of the Lough Erne catchment.

1.67 The construction and operation of the proposed wind farm development will have a

neutral impact on fish stocks and aquatic biology of the River Derg and tributary

streams, along with the Termon River and its tributaries.



1.68 A series of specific mitigation measures have been designed to avoid adverse

effects on fisheries with regard to both construction and operational phases of the

project.

1.69 With implementation of the mitigation measures proposed, the proposed

Meenamullan wind farm will have a neutral impact on the Atlantic salmon as the

primary feature of the River Foyle & Tributaries SAC. There are no other fish

species listed as qualifying features of the SAC.

Ornithology Assessment

1.70 An assessment has been undertaken to assess the potential impacts on bird species

utilising the proposed Meenamullan Wind Farm site. The bird communities on the

site and in appropriate surrounding buffer areas have been surveyed over three

consecutive years covering the breeding and non-breeding seasons. The surveys

have been carried out in accordance with standard methodologies and protocols

and by experienced ornithologist surveyors.

1.71 One pair of curlew (Red-listed SOCC) was located on the extreme outer edge of the

buffer area but in just one of the three baseline years and breeding was not

confirmed and the evidence suggests that curlew is not an established breeding bird

in the area. No Red-listed SOCC were found breeding on the site.

1.72 Four Amber-listed SOCC were found breeding on the site - swallow (two pairs) and

starling (one pair) were nesting in a small abandoned building and whinchat (1-2

pairs) and grasshopper warbler (5-7 pairs) were associated with the young second-

rotation conifer habitat. Two additional Amber-listed SOCC were found breeding in

the buffer – snipe (2-3 pairs) and skylark (seven pairs).

1.73 Hen harrier (Annex 1 species) was confirmed breeding on the site in one of the

three baseline years. Two other Annex 1 raptor species (peregrine and merlin)

were recorded but were non-breeding. During the baseline period up to two pairs

of kestrel (Amber-listed SOCC) and one pair each of buzzard and sparrowhawk (both

Green-listed) were recorded breeding at locations approximately 1 km distant from

the site.

1.74 Annex 1 migratory species recorded passing over the site and / or buffer area

during the baseline period were Greenland white-fronted goose, whooper swan and

golden plover. However observations of these species were infrequent and flock

size was small – there was just one record of Greenland white-fronted goose (of two

birds).

1.75 Potential effects of the proposed wind farm on birds have been assessed using

defined criteria and where possible quantified. In most cases effects have been

assessed as negligible. Where potential adverse effects have been identified and

are likely to be significant then mitigation measures have been recommended and

the resulting residual effects assessed.

1.76 Potential effects have been identified only in relation to possible disturbance to

breeding birds on the site (including hen harrier) by construction work and this can

be avoided by the implementation the appropriate mitigation measures.



1.77 Cumulative effects have been assessed using the same defined criteria as for the

main assessment. Possible cumulative effects on curlew have been assessed in

relation to other built, consented or planned wind farms within 2 km radius of the

site and are assessed as negligible. Possible trans-boundary effects of the proposed

wind farm on migratory bird species recorded passing over the site and the relevant

buffer areas during the baseline period have also been assessed and no significant

effects can be identified.

1.78 The proposal is for a five turbine development on a site that is currently a

commercial conifer forest and therefore already significantly modified from the

natural / semi-natural state. It is concluded that, assuming implementation of the

recommended avoidance / mitigation measures then the proposed wind farm

should not have any significant adverse effects on bird populations on the site or in

surrounding buffer areas.

Acoustic Assessment

1.79 An assessment of the acoustic impact from both the construction and operation of

the proposed Meenamullan Wind Farm was undertaken taking into account the

identified most sensitive receptors.

1.80 The operational noise impact was assessed according to the guidance described in

the ‘The Assessment and Rating of Noise from Wind Farms’ referred to as ‘ETSU-R-

97’, as recommended for use in relevant planning policy. The methodology

described in this document was developed by a working group comprised of a cross

section of interested persons including, amongst others, environmental health

officers, wind farm operators and independent acoustic experts. It provides a

robust basis for assessing the noise impact of a wind farm and has been applied at

the vast majority of wind farms currently operating in the UK. ETSU-R-97 makes

clear that any noise restrictions placed on a wind farm must balance the

environmental impact of the wind farm against the national and global benefits

that would arise through the development of renewable energy sources.

1.81 Representative baseline conditions (the “background noise level”) at nearest

neighbours were established by undertaking noise surveys at two nearby properties.

These measured levels were then used to infer the background noise levels at other

nearby properties as the ETSU-R-97 document recommends. As background noise

levels depend upon wind speed, as indeed do wind turbine noise emissions, the

measurement of background noise levels at the survey locations were made

concurrent with measurements of the wind speed and wind direction, which

covered a representative range. These wind measurements are made at the wind

turbine site rather than at the properties, since it is this wind speed that will

subsequently govern the wind farm’s noise generation.

1.82 An estimate of noise levels at the nearest neighbours, using a sound propagation

model, were made over a range of wind speeds taking into account the position of

the proposed wind turbines, the nearest neighbours, and the candidate wind

turbine type. The model employed (which considered downwind conditions at all

times) took account of attenuation due to geometric spreading, atmospheric

absorption, ground effects and barriers. It has been shown by measurement based



verification studies that this model tends to slightly overestimate noise levels at

nearby dwellings.

1.83 The relevant noise limits were then determined through analysis of baseline

conditions and the criteria specified by the ETSU-R-97 guidelines. The general

principle regarding the setting of noise criteria is that limits should be based

relative to existing background noise levels, except for very low background noise

levels, in which case a fixed limit may be applied. This approach has the advantage

that the limits can directly reflect the existing noise environment at the nearest

properties and the impact that the wind farm may have on this environment.

Different limits have been applied during day and night-time hours. The daytime

limits are intended to preserve amenity (outdoor), while the night-time limits are

intended to prevent sleep disturbance (indoor).

1.84 For those properties considered, the predicted noise levels are within noise limits

at all considered wind speeds. The proposed Meenamullan Wind Farm therefore

complies with the relevant guidance on wind farm noise and the impact on the

amenity of all nearby properties would be regarded as acceptable.

1.85 An assessment of the cumulative operational impact of the consented and existing

wind farms, and the consented, existing and proposed wind farms has also been

undertaken. At all wind speeds considered the predicted noise levels are within

noise limits.

1.86 A construction noise assessment, which has incorporated the impact from increased

traffic noise, indicates that predicted noise levels likely to be experienced at

representative critical properties are below relevant construction noise criteria at

all but one property which has higher predicted noise levels due to construction

traffic at peak activity, and may not occur in practice.

Archaeology & Heritage Assessment

1.87 An assessment of the potential impact on the known and potential archaeological

and cultural sites within the sites itself and its wider landscape was undertaken.

To facilitate the assessment of the wider landscape a 5 km search radius was

utilised. The assessment of the proposed wind farm looked at both the potential

physical impact upon any known or potential sub-surface archaeological features

within the development boundary further assessed the impact upon the setting of

those monuments of regional importance within the 5 km search area.

1.88 The desktop survey and site inspection determined that there are no known sites of

archaeological interest located within the proposed development site. The survey

did identify the former road between Killeter and Pettigo which extends across the

northwest section of the site. Much of this road has now reverted to a trackway

across the bog, the main extent of which extends beyond the application site and is

known locally as the Causeway Hill Walking Route. The desktop survey indicated

that the development site is situated within a wider area of archaeological interest,

with a total of 33 recorded archaeological sites situated within a 5 km radius of the

development site, 8 of which area of regional importance. The earliest of the

known archaeology located within the 5 km search radius dates to the Neolithic

(4000BC to 2500BC) and Bronze Age (2500BC to 300BC) periods, whilst the majority



is either known or thought to date to the Early Christian period (400AD to 1177AD).

This illustrates that the area within which the development site is located has been

experiencing human activity and settlement from around 4000BC, with an increase

in activity from around 400AD to around 1177AD. This, coupled with the fact that

the proposed wind farm site represents a large area of land which, is developed as

a commercial forest, gives rise to the low potential for previously undiscovered,

sub-surface archaeological remains to exist within the development site

boundaries.

1.89 Overall the impact assessment concludes that the construction of the Meenamullan

wind farm will have no significant effects upon the known archaeology within the

development area and its wider context.

Geology & Hydrogeology Assessment

1.90 An assessment of the likely potential geological and hydrogeological impacts was

undertaken and includes a peat slide risk assessment due to the presence of peat

on-site, the likely potential hydrogeological impacts due to the risk of pollution of

the groundwater and watercourses on-site and the proximity of the River Foyle and

Tributaries which is designated as an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) for its

ecological value, which is to a large extent underpinned by the geology, channel

form and sediment characteristics of the constituent watercourses. River Foyle and

Tributaries is also designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for its

biological features.

1.91 The assessment involved:

• Analysis of current policy and guidance in relation to wind energy and the

effects of development on the geological and hydrogeological environment;

• Desk study to establish the existing baseline geological and hydrogeological

conditions at the site;

• Site walkover survey to verify the accuracy of the baseline information;

• Evaluation of the potential effects of the proposed wind farm on the geological

and hydrogeological environment;

• Identification of measures to mitigate against any potential adverse effects; and

• Assessment of the significance of residual effects following mitigation taking

into account the sensitivity of receptors, magnitude of effects and the

probability of these effects occurring.

1.92 A site visit was undertaken 03 October 2012 and included a site walkover survey to:

• Note features of geological and hydrogeological interest; and

• Assess the topography of the site.

1.93 The site is generally underlain by superficial deposits of peat, overlying

metamorphosed bedrock and carboniferous basalt clastics. A Peatslide Hazard Risk

Assessment has been undertaken and areas of medium or high risk have been

avoided during the design stage of the infrastructure layout.

1.94 The likely residual effect on peat and groundwater is considered to be

neutral/slight adverse and therefore not significant.



Hydrology Assessment

1.95 An assessment of the likely effects of the proposed wind farm on hydrology and

surface water quality was carried out. The assessment covers the construction,

operation, maintenance, and decommissioning of the development. The report

identifies and assesses the potential effects on existing natural and artificial

drainage patterns; runoff rates and volumes; flooding and impediments to flows;

surface water dependant ecosystems including hydrological units of peat bog; and

water quality of surface waters including abstractions.

1.96 The assessment demonstrates the potential effects of the development of

Meenamullan wind farm on the receiving hydrological environment, including

surface water quality. It summarises the relevant legislation and guidance and

provides appropriate baseline information, enabling the potential effects to be

identified.

1.97 Mitigation measures includes:

• Avoidance based on baseline constraints mapping;

• Design of site elements to minimise impact on the water environment;

• Implementation of a surface water management plan comprising the use of SuDS

(drainage) and silt management, including temporary blocking of forestry

drainage;

• Water quality monitoring particularly during construction;

• Construction phase pollution prevention procedures.

1.98 Implementation of the mitigation proposed would result in no significant residual

effects to the receiving hydrological environment as a result of the proposed

development.

Transport Assessment

1.99 An assessment of the potential traffic impacts associated with the construction of

the proposed wind farm was undertaken. The assessment has been carried out in

accordance with the IEMA - Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road

Traffic (IEMA Guidelines 1993), and other relevant documents.

1.100 Background information necessary for the completion of this assessment has been

acquired through site visits, discussions with landowners and DRD Roads Service,

and by means of traffic and topographical surveys, and route assessments.

1.101 The proposed access route for large turbine components (abnormal loads) will be

from either Belfast or Derry travelling to Omagh and leaving Omagh on the A5

travelling along the A32 Dromore/Clanabogan road. From the Clanabogan road the

delivery will turn right onto the B4 Drumlish road through the villages of Lack and

Ederney and then continue on the B4 to the village of Kesh onto the A35. Then

leave the A35 onto the Corlave road turning right onto the

Derrybrick/Drumnagalliagh road the delivery would turn left onto the B72. From

the B72 turn left onto the C674 Aghamore road and then turning left onto the U146

Seegronan road. The site entrance is then at the end of this road on the right. The

proposed return route is the same as the delivery route. Once the turbine



components have been delivered the vehicles will be shortened so they are no

longer than a typical articulated HGV.

1.102 A number of sensitive receptors have been indentified along the proposed

construction material delivery route (in line with the IEMA Guidelines (1993)),

including schools, settlements and a care home. The impacts on these receptors

have been assessed in terms of severance, driver delay, pedestrian delay,

pedestrian amenity, and fear & intimidation. The impacts range from neutral to

minor (with a moderate impact occurring twice), and mitigation measures have

therefore, been proposed to reduce the effects of the development traffic,

including:

• Design that minimises the amount of materials transported to and from the site;

• The provision of a Traffic Management Plan for approval by NI Planning Service;

• Highway upgrade works where necessary;

• Pre and post-construction road surveys to maintain the condition of the roads;

• Providing information to public and authorities; and

• Miscellaneous measures (pollution control, timing of deliveries outside busy

periods, etc.)

1.103 The mitigation measures are expected to reduce the impacts magnitude to neutral

to minor. Any negative traffic effects would be of temporary nature.

Electromagnetic Interference and Aviation Assessment

1.104 An assessment has been undertaken of the likely effects of the proposed

Meenamullan wind farm upon communication systems that use electromagnetic

waves as the transmission medium and aviation systems.

1.105 The proposed wind farm development will not have an impact on microwave or

radio links as consultation, for the most part, has confirmed adequate clearance

has been left between turbines and microwave links and RES will work with Orange

to resolve any concerns they have through further calculation or if necessary

application of mitigation.

1.106 The proposed development has been assessed through calculation and consultation

as to its potential impact on all forms of relevant electromagnetic communications.

Through applied and proposed mitigation the residual effect on such systems will be

minimal.

1.107 The proposed development has been assessed through study and consultation as to

its potential impact on aviation and military interests. This has shown that no

impact is anticipated.

Shadow Flicker Assessment

1.1 Under certain combinations of geographical position, time of day, time of year &

meteorological conditions, the sun may pass behind the turbine rotor and cast a

shadow over neighbouring buildings’ openings (i.e. windows and doors) where the

contrast between light and shade is most noticeable. To a person within that room

the shadow, depending on its intensity, may appear to flick on and off, giving rise

to an effect referred to as shadow flicker.



1.2 A shadow flicker assessment has been undertaken assuming shadow flicker to occur

up to or equal to 10 rotor diameters (as referenced in PPS 18) from turbine

locations (900m). It has been shown that there are no houses within this distance of

a wind turbine at Meenamullan and therefore the wind farm will have a low risk of

causing shadow flicker.

Socio – Economic and Tourism Assessment

1.3 An assessment has been undertaken to assess the potential social and economic

impacts of the proposed development. It details the likely employment generation

and business related opportunities which will result from the proposal, and

predicted impacts on the current land use and recreational users of the site and the

surrounding area.

1.4 The construction is expected to provide local employment opportunities for

contractors with a workforce of between 10 – 40 persons over a period of 12 -18

months with an average of 26 temporary construction jobs expected to be

provided. During operation one - two part time jobs will be created.

1.5 RES accepts that economic benefits to the local community are largely indirect,

whilst environmental benefits, in terms of combating climate change, can be

perceived as somewhat intangible and of more regional or national consequence.

1.6 RES believes that the Community Fund is the most equitable and effective method

of ensuring local benefit. The total Community Benefit Package at Meenamullan

Wind Farm will be based on £5,000 per MW for the 25 year lifetime of the project.

Based on a 9 MW project this equates to total a community benefit package of

£45,000 per annum, with the total value of direct community benefits over the

lifetime of the project equating to £1,125,000. The impact is therefore beneficial

and considered to be of significance.

1.7 Whilst the wind farm will not directly prevent the public from visiting the area

surrounding the wind farm, there is the potential for indirect impacts on recreation

and tourism due to perceived changes in the landscape and personal opinions

relating to this type of development, however impacts upon tourism are not

considered to be significant.

Conclusion

1.8 The potential effects of the proposed Meenamullan Wind Farm have been assessed

in accordance with regulatory requirements and good practice. The ES incorporates

technical assessments of the proposed development based on the requisite

legislation and the relevant planning policy framework. The EIA has demonstrated

that significant environmental effects associated with the construction, operation

and decommissioning of the proposed wind farm have been avoided or minimised

through the use of the iterative design process and with the application of

mitigation measures.

1.9 The Meenamullan Wind Farm will provide a number of benefits. The scheme will

result in a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from the electricity generating

industry by harnessing wind as an alternative to the burning of fossil fuels, in line



with the government’s energy goals. It will also make a significant contribution to

the Northern Ireland government target that 40% of electricity consumed should be

sourced from renewable energy by 2020 (DETI).

in the townland of meenamullan, near killeter, county tyrone · 2014. 9. 9. · local government...

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