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May 2013 Wether Hill Windfarm Extension page i Scoping Report

Wether Hill Windfarm Extension

Scoping Report

Wether Hill Windfarm Extension Scoping Report May 2013

May 2013 Wether Hill Windfarm Extension page ii Scoping Report


Scoping Report

1. Introduction 6

1.1 Background 6

1.2 The Applicant 6

1.3 Purpose of the Document 7

1.4 Structure 8

1.5 Terminology 8

2. Site Selection, Project Description and Potential Effects 9

2.1 Site Selection 9

2.2 Project Description 10

2.3 Windfarm Lifecycle 13

2.4 Potential Environmental Effects 14

3. Environmental Impact Assessment 15

3.1. The EIA Regulations 15

3.2. The EIA Process 15

3.3. EIA Guidance 16

3.4. Scoping 16

3.5. Approach to Assessments 17

4. Policy and Legislative Context 20

4.1. Renewable Energy Policy 20

4.2. International Context 20

4.3. The European Context 21

4.4. The UK Context 21

4.5. Scottish Renewable Energy Policy 22

4.6. Summary Overview 24

5. Planning Policy 25

5.1. Introduction 25

5.2. Development Plan Position 25

5.3. Material Considerations 28

6. Landscape and Visual 36


6.2. Guidance 36

6.3. Baseline Conditions 36

6.4. Landscape Character 37

6.5. Landscape Planning Designations 37

May 2013 Wether Hill Windfarm Extension page iii Scoping Report


Scoping Report

6.6. Visibility Analysis 37

6.7. Landscape and Visual Receptors 37

6.8. Viewpoint Assessment 38

6.9. Assessment Criteria 39

6.10. Landscape Sensitivity 39

6.11. Magnitude of Change to Landscape 39

6.12. Visual Sensitivity 40

6.13. Magnitude of Change to Visual Amenity 40

6.14. Cumulative Landscape and Visual Effects 41

6.15. Cumulative Magnitude of Change 41

6.16. Significance of Effects 42

6.17. Effects Scoped out of LVIA 43

6.18. Illustrative Tools 43

6.19. Suggested Viewpoint Locations 44

7. Ornithology 46


7.2. Legislation and Guidance 46


7.4. Potential Effects 47

7.5. EIA Methodology 48

7.6. Mitigation 53

8. Non-Avian Ecology 54


8.2. Legislation and Guidance 54


8.4. Potential Effects 55

8.5. EIA Methodology 55

9. Soils, Geology and the Water Environment 64

9.1 Introduction 64

9.2 Guidance 64

9.3 Baseline Conditions 65

9.4 Potential Effects 65

9.5 EIA Methodology 66

10. Cultural Heritage 71

May 2013 Wether Hill Windfarm Extension page iv Scoping Report


Scoping Report

10.1 Introduction 71

10.2 Legislation and Guidance 71

10.3 Baseline 72



11. Noise 77


11.2 Guidance 77




12. Access, Traffic and Transport 83


12.2 Guidance 83




13. Socio-economics, Tourism, Recreation and Land Use 86


13.2 Guidance 86




14. Forestry 93


14.2 Guidance 93




15. Other Issues 95


15.2 Aviation 95

15.3 Telecommunications 98

15.4 Shadow Flicker 99

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Scoping Report

15.5 Carbon Balance 99

15.6 Other Issues 99

16. Consultation 100

17. Proposed Environmental Statement Content 102

Figure 1 Site Context Plan 104

Figure 2 Site Location Plan 105

Figure 3 Indicative Turbine Layout 106

Figure 4 Landscape Character Assessment 107

Figure 5 Landscape Designations 108

Figure 6 Cultural Heritage and Ecology Designations 109

Figure 7 Blade Tip Zone of Theoretical Visibility and Viewpoints 110

May 2013 Wether Hill Windfarm Extension page 6 Scoping Report


Scoping Report

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

ScottishPower Renewables (UK) Limited (‘SPR’) is investigating the possibility of windfarm development in an area immediately adjacent to it’s operating Wether Hill Windfarm, located in Dumfries and Galloway. Wether Hill Windfarm became fully operational in 2007 and consists of 14 turbines with a height to blade tip of 91 m and a total installed capacity of 18.2 megawatt (MW).

The proposal would form an extension to the existing windfarm and its operating capacity and would be known as Wether Hill Windfarm Extension (referred to hereafter as the ‘proposed Development’). The location of the area being considered is shown on Figure 1.

The proposed Development is at an early stage in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process and there is limited baseline site information available at this time. An initial layout has been prepared based on the information that is available at the current time. It is anticipated that the layout will evolve through the EIA process. A candidate turbine has not yet been selected, however, it is currently anticipated that the proposed Development will comprise around 12 turbines with a tip height of approximately 100 m.

The capacity of the proposed Development has not as yet been established, however, following initial feasibility work undertaken it is anticipated that the proposed Development will have a generating capacity of under 50 MW (both stand-alone and in combination with the existing Wether Hill Windfarm). Below this threshold an application for planning permission will be made under the Town and Country Planning Act (Scotland) 1997, as amended by the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006.

This application will be subject to an EIA under The Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 2011, as amended, (the EIA Regulations 2011). The findings of the EIA process will be used to inform the final design of the proposed Development and assess its environmental effects. The results of the EIA will be presented in an Environmental Statement (ES) that will be submitted with the application for planning permission to Dumfries and Galloway Council (D&GC).

1.2 The Applicant

SPR is part of Iberdrola, the world’s largest wind energy developer, with an operating portfolio of over 14,000 MW. SPR is responsible for progressing Iberdrola’s onshore wind and marine energy projects in the UK and Ireland, and offshore windfarms throughout the world, managing the development, construction and operation of all projects. Securing its position at the forefront of the renewable energy industry, SPR became the first UK developer to reach an installed generating capacity of 1,000 MW in 2011, in addition to being award a second Queens Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development. SPR also has a pipeline including 10,000 MW of offshore wind, and the 10 MW world-first tidal energy array



Scoping Report

in the Sound of Islay. SPR is firmly committed to the responsible development of renewable energy.

For more than a decade, south west Scotland has been a key region for SPR. SPR operates four onshore windfarms (Wether Hill, Hare Hill, Arecleoch and Mark Hill), has two projects currently under construction (Kilgallioch and Harestanes), one project determined (Ewe Hill 6 turbine scheme) and three projects in planning (Dersalloch, Ewe Hill Section 36 and Harestanes Extension).

1.3 Purpose of the Document

This report constitutes a formal scoping request under schedule 7 of the 2011 EIA Regulations for the proposed Development to D&GC for its opinion as to the information to be provided in the ES (a ‘Scoping Opinion’).

This Scoping Report is written with a view to providing a structure for consultation on the approach to the EIA and the content of the ES. It has been prepared on behalf of SPR by SLR Consulting Limited (SLR), independent environmental consultants, with input from Macarthur Green Ltd, Hoare Lea Acoustics and Osprey Consulting, sub consultants in respect of ecology, ornithology noise and aviation.

Undertaking an EIA scoping study is regarded as good practice1 and is considered to be an important step in EIA as it allows all parties involved in the process to agree on key environmental issues relevant to the proposed Development and methodology for their assessment.

The specific aims of this Scoping Report are to:

Define and describe the proposed Development to be assessed; Define the regulatory and policy context; Summarise existing baseline information in relation to the area being considered for

windfarm development and surrounding vicinity; Set out the approach to the EIA, including the proposed content and structure of the

ES; Identify the issues that are to be assessed as part of the EIA; Agree the general approach to the assessment and the methodologies that will be

used; and Identify those issues that should be scoped out of the EIA.

In arriving at its formal scoping opinion, it is anticipated that D&GC will consult with a number of consultees and incorporate their views within the Scoping Opinion. D&GC and consultees are also invited to identify any sources of information which they consider are of relevance and value to the EIA of the proposed Development.

1 A Handbook on EIA, SNH revised 2006, Box C.4.2



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1.4 Structure

The structure of this Scoping Report is divided into seven sections, as follows:

Section 2: Provides a description of the scheme and its context; Section 3: Provides an outline of the EIA process; Section 4: Provides an outline of Energy and Planning Policy; Sections 6 to 15: Provide details of the proposed assessment methodology for

completing the EIA by technical discipline; Section 16: Summarises the community consultation process; and Section 17: Provides a proposed structure for the ES.

The following figures are also included:

Figure 1: Site context plan; Figure 2: Site location plan; Figure 3: Indicative turbine layout; Figure 4: Landscape character assessment; Figure 5: Landscape designations; Figure 6: Cultural heritage and ecology designations; and Figure 7: Blade tip Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) and viewpoints

1.5 Terminology

For the purposes of this Scoping Report the following terminology has been used:

Phrase Description

Application boundary The red line boundary of the proposed Development site. The application boundary will encompass the proposed turbines and all associated infrastructure as part of the proposed Development.

Proposed Development The proposed Wether Hill Windfarm Extension which is an extension to the existing Wether Hill Windfarm.

Development Area The area of the site required for new windfarm infrastructure as part of the proposed Development.

Site Area within the application boundary within which the proposed Development lies.

Study area The study areas for the EIA will be defined according to each discipline.



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2. Site Selection, Project Description and Potential Effects

2.1 Site Selection

SPR’s site selection process is designed to identify potential windfarm sites that are economically and technically viable, environmentally acceptable, most likely to obtain planning approval, and make meaningful contributions to Scottish Government targets for renewable energy generation.

SPR is committed to avoiding developing windfarms in areas where there would be an unacceptable effect on environmentally designated sites and where mitigation measures are likely to be unacceptable. SPR is also committed to avoiding sites that could have an unacceptable effect on landscape character or amenity of National Parks or National Scenic Areas. Special consideration is attributed to internationally and nationally important species and habitats in the wider area.

Site selection work is an ongoing process, whereby a list of candidate sites is maintained and updated as new opportunities are identified and candidate sites move into development. Candidate sites are identified initially through a desk based exercise which includes the consideration of issues such as site capacity; distance from properties; wind speed and energy yields; topography; site access and proximity to a potential electricity grid connection point.

These sites are then assessed in more detail including reviews of relevant planning policy and guidance; preliminary surveys to identify the potential for protected species, in particular birds; identification of any potential aviation/ Ministry of Defence (MOD) issues, as well as other potential issues.

Consultation is also undertaken at this stage with key stakeholders such as local authorities, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), to identify potential ‘high level’ issues which may prevent the progression of a site.

Adopting the approach outlined above, the location of the proposed Development was selected as a potential area suitable for windfarm development for a number of reasons, including the following:

Opportunity to extend an existing windfarm, which increases operation efficiency while reducing additional effects when compared to a new site for a project of a similar size;

Good wind resource; Lack of statutory nature conservation designations within the proposed Development

area; Good access to site; The area is accessible for construction traffic and turbine deliveries; Relatively sparsely populated area;



Scoping Report

Located within preferred area for windfarm development largely as defined in the Potential Area for Windfarm Development in The Dumfries & Galloway Structure Plan 1999, an Area of Search for Large Scale wind energy development in the Dumfries and Galloway Interim Planning Policy for Wind Energy Development (February 2012), an Area of Greatest Potential for large Typologies in the Dumfries and Galloway Proposed Local Development Plan (2013) and an Area of Greatest Potential for Large Typology Wind Turbines in the Consultation Draft Supplementary Guidance Wind Energy Development January 2013; and

Location in which a development can accord with the principles set out in Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) in relation to renewable energy.

2.2 Project Description

Site Location The proposed Development lies approximately 5 km north west of Moniaive and approximately 12.5 km east of Carsphairn and is fully within the administrative boundary of D&GC. The indicative site boundary and location are shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2.

The site is predominantly open moorland with pockets of commercial and private forestry at the northern and southern extremes of the site. To the east the land drops away to Dalwhat Water and to the west the Water of Ken.

The site is located on a raised plateau. To the north the ground rises sharply to the site boundary at a height of 503 m Above Ordnance Datum (AOD) and then levels off across the main part of the site before descending to 309 m AOD at the southern site boundary. On an east west axis, the site rises to the eastern site boundary at 440 m AOD from Dalwhat Water. The site is relatively level reaching a height of 467 m AOD and then dropping away westwards towards Stroanfreggan Burn. The B729 runs parallel to the southern boundary of the site.

Site Design and Layout The proposed Development will form an extension to the existing Wether Hill Windfarm. Careful consideration will be given to the design and layout of the proposed Development as the EIA and conceptual design process progresses, taking into account environmental and technical constraints, and feedback obtained during consultation.

SPR considers it important to gather the initial views of consultees before finalising the layout, so that initial feedback, in particular on the size of turbines, landscape and visual constraint and natural heritage constraints can be taken into account at the earliest possible stage.

Although the layout will be optimised through the EIA and conceptual design process, based on preliminary feasibility work, it is anticipated that the proposed Development would consist of the following components:



Scoping Report

Approximately 12 turbines and associated foundations including associated transformer plinths and enclosures;

Power cables linking the turbines laid underground in trenches; Permanent anemometry mast(s) and temporary power performance assessment

(PPA) masts for wind turbine performance monitoring; Control building, substation building and associated external compound; Access to site and graded stone tracks within the proposed Development integrated

with any existing tracks and giving access to turbine bases; Crane hard standings adjacent to each turbine; Temporary site construction compound(s) and associated infrastructure; A communication mast; Close circuit television (CCTV) mast(s); Forestry operations including tree felling and restocking; and Borrow pits for sourcing local materials for tracks and hardstandings.

Turbines At this early stage the maximum tip height of turbines has not yet been established, however it is proposed that the final turbine height and site layout will be informed by the EIA process and feedback from consultees. For the purposes of scoping, a turbine blade tip height of approximately 100 m has been assumed.

The proposed turbines will be three bladed horizontal axis turbines. The turbine towers will be of tapering tabular steel construction, finished in a light grey semi-matt colour.

Ancillary works The proposed Development would include the following ancillary features:

Permanent and temporary anemometry masts A permanent anemometer mast(s) would be erected on the site at the approximate hub height of the candidate turbine. The mast(s) would be used to record wind speed and direction, temperature, humidity and air pressure. PPA mast(s) may also be installed during construction and would be temporary in nature. These would also be installed at the hub height of the turbines.

Details of the location and construction of proposed masts will be provided in the ES.

Control building and substation compound A control building may be required onsite to provide welfare facilities, site communications and a storage area for windfarm personnel.

Electricity generated by each turbine would be transferred to an onsite substation via underground cabling along the sides of the access tracks. The substation would house switch gear and metering.



Scoping Report

The location and size of the control building and substation would reflect requirements of the network operator and would be in line with legislation and guidance.

Transformers and cables Transformers would be located adjacent to the base units of the wind turbines. Underground cables would run from the transformers to the onsite substation.

Access tracks Some new access tracks would require to be created on the site, in order to provide access to the various items of infrastructure. In so far as is possible existing access tracks would be utilised and the creation of new track would be minimised. The EIA process will advise where the tracks are to be located and their construction details.

Crane hard standings An area of hard standing would be required adjacent to each turbine to allow the safe operation of cranes during turbine erection and maintenance.

Temporary construction compounds Construction compounds would be formed comprising an area of hard standing, space for site portacabins, welfare facilities, secure fuel and oil storage tanks and appropriate areas for equipment and tool storage.

CCTV masts A communications mast would be used to support a broadband connection to the proposed Development. The mast would be up to approximately 15 m in height to accommodate the apparatus required. CCTV masts may also be installed across the site to provide security.

Borrow pits Work will be undertaken as part of the EIA process to assess onsite availability of rock suitable for construction purposes. Where possible, the stone required for tracks, turbine bases and hardstandings for the operation of cranes would be predominantly sourced from onsite borrow pits. This approach would minimise transportation movements of stone to site. However, depending on the quality of stone found, it may be necessary to import stone into the site for use as capping material for access tracks and hardstandings. The transport effects of this approach will be fully assessed in the ES.

If it is considered that onsite borrow pits would provide suitable material then the location, design and re-instatement of the borrow pits will be considered as part of the design/EIA process.

Grid connection The proposed Development would require a connection to the main electricity network (‘the grid’). An application for the grid connection will be made separately, under a different design and consenting process undertaken by the National Grid Company and/or ScottishPower Energy Networks as required.



Scoping Report

Site access The access route for construction vehicles will be subject to survey and assessment and will be selected to minimise potential effects on the local area and transport infrastructure. The most suitable access to the site will be assessed as part of the EIA process. The access route utilised for the existing Wether Hill Windfarm will be considered in this process.

Forestry It is anticipated that some felling would be required in the Martour Hill area. The nature and extent of this felling is not yet known and will be considered through the EIA.

Vehicle Movements Should the proposed Development receive consent a traffic management plan would be agreed in consultation with the local highways authorities.

Construction Details It is expected that the construction of the proposed Development would be completed over a period of approximately of 12-18 months. The construction phase would consist of the following principal activities:

Removal of forestry as required; Construction of temporary construction compounds; Extraction of stone from the borrow pits for track and turbine base construction; Construction of site access tracks, passing places and watercourse crossings

interlinking the turbine locations and other infrastructure; Provision of culverts under tracks to facilitate drainage and maintain existing

hydrology; Construction of turbine foundations and transformer plinths; Construction of an onsite substation; Excavation of trenches and cable laying adjacent to site tracks; Connection of distribution and signal cables; Transport to site and erection of wind turbines; Commissioning of site; and Restoration of borrow pits and temporary construction compounds.

Many of these operations would be carried out concurrently, although predominantly in the order identified. This would reduce the overall length of the construction programme. Restoration works would be programmed and carried out to allow the restoration of disturbed areas as early as possible in a progressive manner.

2.3 Windfarm Lifecycle

It is currently anticipated that the proposed Development would have an operational life of 25 years. At the end of this period, the proposed Development would be decommissioned and the turbines removed. Alternatively, a new application may be made to extend the life of the proposed Development or replace the turbines.



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2.4 Potential Environmental Effects

Previous experience of other windfarm development sites, combined with knowledge of the site and possible effects of the proposed Development, has identified the following topics for consideration in the EIA. A summary of known baseline conditions of relevance, predicted effects, any outline mitigation measures that can be recommended at this stage and the proposed scope for the EIA is provided for each of these topic areas in Sections 6 to 15. These are:

Landscape and Visual; Non-avian Ecology; Ornithology; Soils, Geology and the Water Environment; Noise; Access and Traffic and Transportation; Cultural Heritage; Forestry; Socio-economic; and Other Issues.



Scoping Report

3. Environmental Impact Assessment

3.1. The EIA Regulations

The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2011 requires the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment. Schedule 1 of the regulations lists large scale or high impact developments which will always require an EIA, whereas Schedule 2 lists developments which may or may not require an EIA depending on the likelihood the development will have significant effects on the environment by virtue of factors such as its nature, size or location. It is acknowledged that the application for the proposed Development should be subject to an EIA under Schedule 2 of the EIA Regulations.

Under the Part 4 of the EIA Regulations, an applicant may submit a request for a Scoping Opinion, scoping is a process whereby developers can seek clarification from the decision-maker and consultees as to the information to be provided within the ES. The Consultative Bodies are defined in Circular 3 2011 The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2011 as follows:

Any adjoining planning authority where development is likely to affect land in their area;

SNH; Scottish Water (SW); The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency(SEPA); The Scottish Ministers; and Other bodies designated by statutory consultees as having specific environmental

responsibilities and which the planning authority or Scottish Ministers, as the case maybe, considers are likely to have an interest in the application.

SPR proposes to consult a number of additional organisations, stakeholders and the local community for information to inform the EIA, as listed in Section 16 of this report.

The Scoping Opinion received from D&GC, and responses received from consultees, will be used in conjunction with this report to inform the EIA.

Consultation will continue throughout the EIA to inform and engage stakeholders and seek to ensure that the design takes account of any alterations or measures that will resolve potential issues and minimise potential effects.

3.2. The EIA Process

EIA is the process of systematically compiling, evaluating and presenting all the likely significant environmental effects of a proposed development. It enables the importance of these effects, and the scope for reducing negative, or enhancing positive effects to be clearly



Scoping Report

understood. The information compiled during the EIA will be presented in an ES to accompany the application for consent.

The EIA process should be systematic, analytical, impartial, consultative and iterative that runs in tandem with project design. As potential effects are identified, the design of the project, for example the layout of the turbines, will be adjusted where possible and mitigation measures proposed. Schedule 4 Part I of the EIA Regulations specifies that the ES should describe those:

“aspects of the environment likely to be significantly affected by the development, including, in particular population, fauna, flora, soil, water, air, climatic factors, material assets, including the architectural and archaeological heritage, landscape and the inter-relationship between the above factors.”

3.3. EIA Guidance

The EIA will be completed in accordance with the latest regulations and advice on best practice, including the following:

The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2011; Scottish Government (2011);

Scottish Planning Series Planning Circular 3/2011 The Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 2011; Scottish Government (2011);

Scottish Government Web Based Guidance on wind turbines (first published in February 2011 and last updated in October 2012);

Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessment, Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (2004); and

A Handbook on Environmental Impact Assessment: Guidance for Competent Authorities, Consultees and other involved in the Environmental Impact Assessment Process in Scotland (3rd Edition); Scottish Natural Heritage (2009).

3.4. Scoping

Establishing which aspects of the environment and associated issues are relevant for a particular project is captured in the EIA scoping process. Scoping is the process of identifying those aspects of the environment and associated issues that need to be considered when assessing the potential effects of a particular development proposal. This recognises that there may be some environmental elements where there will be no significant issues or likely effects resulting from the development and hence where there is no need for further investigation to be undertaken.

The proposed scope of this EIA is set out in the subsequent sections of this document.

Following the identification of the scope of the EIA, individual environmental topics are subject to survey, investigation and assessment, and individual topic chapters are prepared for the ES.



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The assessment methodologies are based on recognised good practice and guidelines specific to each topic area as outlined within this report, Sections 6 to 15.

3.5. Approach to Assessments

Baseline Conditions A fundamental aspect of the EIA will be to determine and describe the baseline environmental conditions prevailing at the site against which any future changes as a consequence of the proposed Development can be measured or predicted and assessed. As the benchmark for considering likely significant effects, baseline studies underpin both the quality and validity of an EIA, and must therefore be robust. The baseline conditions will be determined by a number of different methods, including desktop studies, site surveys, use of analytical models and the acquisition of data from third parties. The approach to baseline data collection and analysis is defined within each of the topic-based sections below.

Assessment of Effects The assessment of potential effects, using a range of appropriate methodologies, will take into account the construction and operation of the proposed Development in relation to the site and environs. An assessment of the decommissioning of the proposed Development will not be undertaken as part of the EIA as, at this stage, the future baseline conditions (environmental and other developments) cannot be predicted accurately and both the proposals for refurbishment/decommissioning and the future regulatory context are unknown.

Methodologies for predicting the nature and magnitude of any potential environmental effects vary according to the technical subject area. Numerical or quantitative methods of assessment can predict values which can be compared against published thresholds and indicative criteria contained in relevant guidance and standards.

Not all technical subject areas are capable of being assessed numerically or quantitatively, and thus qualitative assessments are used. Such assessments rely on previous experience of similar projects, environments and professional judgement.

Sensitivity of Receptors The sensitivity of the baseline conditions is defined according to the relative sensitivity of existing environmental features on or in the vicinity of the site, or by the sensitivity of receptors which would potentially be affected by the proposed Development. Criteria for the determination of sensitivity of or importance will be established based on prescribed guidance, legislation, statutory designation and/or professional judgement. The criteria for each environmental parameter will be outlined in the ES according to the technical subject area.



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Magnitude of Effects The magnitude of effects on environmental baseline conditions will be identified through detailed consideration of the proposed Development, taking due cognisance of any legislative or policy standards or guidelines, and / or the following factors:

The degree to which the environment is affected, e.g. whether the quality is enhanced or impaired;

The scale or degree of change from the baseline situation; Whether the effect is temporary or permanent, indirect or direct, short term, medium

term or long term; Any in-combination effects; and Potential cumulative effects.

In some cases the likelihood of effect occurrence may also be relevant, and where this is a determining feature of the assessment this will be clearly stated.

Significance of Effects Assessing the significance of effects relies, at least in part, on value judgements, including placing weight or value on the environment likely to experience the change. The significance of an effect is derived from an analysis of:

The sensitivity of the environment to change, including its capacity to accommodate the kinds of changes the proposed Development may bring about;

The amount and type of change, often referred to as the impact magnitude which includes the timing, scale, size and duration of the effect;

The likelihood of the effect occurring, which may range from certainty to a remote possibility;

Comparing the effects on the environment which would result from the proposed Development with the changes that would occur without the proposed Development- often referred to as the “do nothing” or “do minimum” comparison; and

Expressing the significance of the effects of the proposed Development, usually in relative terms, based on the principle that the more sensitive the resource, the more likely the changes and the greater the magnitude of the changes, compared with the do nothing comparison, the greater will be the significance of the effect. Where relative significance is reported the assessment will identify the threshold for significant effects.

Mitigation Mitigation is considered as an integral part of the overall design strategy for the proposed Development, including ‘embedded’ mitigation (e.g. altering and refining the proposed Development to reduce landscape and visual impact, watercourse crossings or avoid sensitive species and habitats) rather than relying solely on ‘add-on’ measures to prevent or reduce significant environmental effects. SPR adopts an iterative approach whereby mitigation is assessed and considered at all stages of the project, and the final design of the



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proposed Development evolves over the project life time, systematically being optimised in response to increasing knowledge of the site and potential environmental effects.

Where significant environmental effects are predicted in the EIA process, the ES will provide measures which would be employed to eliminate or ameliorate the effect to acceptable levels. Mitigation measures are envisaged through the consideration of alternatives, physical design, project management or operation to prevent, reduce or, where possible, offset any adverse significant effects.

Where complete avoidance of potential effects is not feasible during refinement of the site design, additional measures will be identified to reduce effects. These include a range of mitigation proposals such as the use of construction methods, avoidance of sensitive habitats, landscaping and site operation activities. Mitigation measures follow standard techniques and best practice and are therefore considered to be effective for the purposes of assessment.

Residual Effects Any remaining effects of the proposed Development, following implementation of available mitigation measures will be referred to as ‘residual effects’. The EIA will assess each residual effect and identify a significance level.

Cumulative Effects An assessment will be made of the likely cumulative effects of the proposed Development in combination with other windfarm developments which have been submitted to the relevant planning authority but not yet determined, or which are at the consented or construction phases, particularly other windfarms in proximity to the proposed Development. The extent to which the potential combined effects through that co-existence will be considered is described as appropriate throughout Sections 6 to 15 of this Scoping Report.



Scoping Report

4. Policy and Legislative Context

4.1. Renewable Energy Policy

In order to understand the context against which the proposed Development is being promoted, it is considered important that international, national and Scottish Government commitments to the development of renewable energy technology and approach to climate change is understood. The most recent and relevant documents are considered, in summary, below. The ES will set out Renewable Energy Policy in greater detail.

4.2. International Context

In order to understand the need for renewable energy generation in the UK it is important to consider the international drive towards addressing climate change. The policy framework for renewable energy development in the UK is largely motivated by international agreements on the reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases. This has been shaped by the following:

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change which came into force on 21 March 19942 and seeks to stabilise the atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases at “safe levels”.

The Kyoto Protocol, which was adopted in December 1997. As a result of this Protocol the European Union is obliged to secure an 8% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels by 2012.

The Bali Climate Change Conference took place in 2007 which resulted in the adoption of the Bali Road Map and Bali Action Plan. These consist of a number of decisions that represent the various routes that were identified as essential to reaching a secure climate future.

The Copenhagen Accord3 drafted at Conference of Parties (COP) 15 in Copenhagen 2009. As a result countries submitted non binding emissions reductions pledges or mitigation action pledges. The text recognised a requirement to limit the rise of global temperatures by no more than 2C (3.6F) above pre-industrial levels.

The Cancun Agreements4 reached in Cancun, Mexico, at the December 2010 United Nations Climate Change Conference. Many countries made pledges as a result of the Copenhagen accord. Cancun formally put the pledges into UN documentation, although it acknowledged that they may increase or decrease in future.

At COP17 held in Durban in 2011, governments of the parties to the Kyoto Protocol agreed that a second commitment period would follow the end of the first commitment period. This will start in 2013 and will be five or eight years long.

2 The UN Convention on Climate Change United Nations 1994 3 Report of the Conference of the Parties on its Fifteenth session, held in Copenhagen from 7th to 19th December 2009, The Copenhagen Accord, United Nations 2010 4 Report of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol on its sixth session, held in Cancun from 29 November to 10 December 2010 United Nations (2010)



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The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development held in Brazil in June 2012 (Rio +20) aimed to secure renewed political commitment to sustainable development. A non binding paper was agreed which urged parties to the UNFCC and Kyoto Protocol to implement their commitments in full.

4.3. The European Context

The EU reduction target is the subject of an EU Renewable Energy Directive (2001/77/EC)5. The UK’s commitment to the protocol is a reduction of greenhouse gasses to 12% below the 1990 levels by 2012.

Directive 2009/28/EC created, at clause 13, mandatory national targets consistent with a 20% share of energy from renewable sources by 2020. The Directive, clause 15, advises that it is necessary to translate the European Community target into individual targets for each Member State, with due regard to an equitable allocation, this takes into account the different starting points of the Member States and their potential, including the current level of energy from renewable sources and the existing energy mix. The UK target for its share of energy from renewable sources, in gross final consumption of energy, is 15% by 2020.

Article 22 of the EU Directive requires each Member State to submit a report to the European Commission on progress in the promotion and use of energy from renewable sources by 31 December 2011, and every two years thereafter.

4.4. The UK Context

The main responsibilities for policy development, in relation to energy production and regulation, in Scotland are retained by Westminster. This part of the Scoping Report sets out, in summary, the UK Government’s approach to renewable energy generation since 2011. This provides the framework for the development of renewable energy generation across the UK and provides a background for the emergence of Scottish renewable energy generation and wind energy policy.

The UK Renewable Energy Roadmap6 published in July 2011. This document sets out a comprehensive action plan to speed up the UK’s deployment and use of renewable energy and put the country on the path to achieving the targets for 2020 while reducing the cost of renewable energy over time.

The Carbon Plan December 20117 sets out how the Government proposes to tackle climate change and build a green economy. In addition the Plan also sets out how the devolved Governments will progress low carbon economies.

UK Renewable Energy Roadmap Update 2012 8 published in December 2012 advises that the Government is committed to supporting renewable energy as part of a diverse, low carbon and secure energy mix.

5 EU Renewable Energy Directive (2001/77/EC) 6 UK Renewable Energy Roadmap HM Government July 2011 7 Carbon Plan, HM Government, December 2011



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The executive summary reaffirms the Coalition Governments commitment to increasing the deployment of renewable energy across the UK. The Executive Summary also notes the important role the renewable energy is playing in supporting jobs and investment in the UK throughout the supply chain.

4.5. Scottish Renewable Energy Policy

Tackling climate change is a devolved matter and therefore the Scottish Government has a responsibility to set policy to ensure compliance with targets set at EU and UK level. To encourage the production of renewable energy the Government introduced a ‘2020 target’ for the production of renewable energy as a percentage of the total gross annual electricity consumption. This 2020 target for renewables production was subsequently raised from 40% to 50% in November 2007 and further upwards to 80% in September 2010 due to developments in the sector and changing expectations, particularly for the deployment of offshore wind. The target was then increased to 100% in May 2011 following the Scottish Government elections.

In order to set the context for the need for renewable energy development in Scotland it is important to understand the obligations that Scotland has to generate renewable energy. The following text identifies key Scottish Renewable Energy targets and policy that are relevant at the current time.

Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) (2010) SPP 20109 is considered in greater detail below. Paragraph 182 of the document identifies a government target for 50% of Scotland’s electricity to be generated from renewable sources by 2020. The Scottish Government have recently published a consultation draft of a revised SPP. This will be considered in the EIA.

2020 Route Map for Renewable Energy (June 2011) The 2020 Routemap for Renewable Energy was published in June 201110 and updates and extends the Scottish Renewable Action Plan 200911. This document sets out a Scottish Government target to meet an equivalent of 100% demand for electricity from renewable energy by 2020. The 2020 Routemap also makes a commitment to achieve at least 30% overall energy demand (heat and transport as well as electricity) from renewable sources by 2020.

Section 2.3.4 of the 2020 Routemap identifies that in order to meet the 2020 target for 100% of electricity demand from renewables, a further increase in consenting and deployment rates will be required.

8 UK Renewable Energy Roadmap Update 2012, HM Government December 2012 9 Scottish Planning Policy, Scottish Government, 2010 10 Routemap for Renewable Energy in Scotland to 2020 Scottish Government July 2011 11 Scottish Renewable Action Plan, Scottish Government, 2009



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Given the proven status of the technology, and the known and anticipated quantity of applications in the system, the Routemap notes that onshore wind is expected to provide the majority of capacity in the timeframe of the 2020 renewable electricity targets. Key actions relate to providing a supportive planning system which provides clear spatial and policy direction, continues to engage local communities, and balances the need to protect the environment alongside the need to continue to make progress to renewable energy targets (page 72).

Draft Electricity Generation Policy Statement (March 2012) The Draft Electricity Generation Policy Statement 2012 (DEGPS) 12 identifies that the generation of electricity from renewable and cleaner thermal generation are matters of considerable importance to the Scottish Government.

The DEGPS reiterates the targets for 2020 and acknowledges that it is a challenge to the energy supply sector, renewable industry and innovators and to communities to meet them.

2020 Renewable Routemap for Scotland Update (October 2012)The 2020 Renewable Routemap for Scotland Update was issued in October 201213. This document advises on the progress that has been made to date in the renewable energy sector and identifies what sill requires to be done and the ways in which the requirements are being addressed. The Ministerial Foreword advises that Scotland is on track to meet its targets and that figures to be published at the end of 2012 will confirm that the interim target for the equivalent of 31% of electricity demand to be generated from renewables by the end of 2011 was exceeded. The Foreword advises that the time is now right for a new interim target. This target is for the equivalent of 50% of electricity demand to be generated from renewables by 2015. It states that the vast majority of this new target will be met by hydro and onshore wind. Paragraph 2.6 of the document advises that surveys continue to suggest that the use of renewable energy technologies is supported by a very large majority of people.

Report on the achievability of the Scottish Government’s Renewable energy targets (November 2012) In November 2012 the Scottish Government Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee published their report on the achievability of the Scottish Government’s renewable energy targets14. The document advises that the Committee, on the balance of the evidence they heard, concluded that the target of generating the equivalent of 100% of electricity consumption by 2020 is achievable.

In December 2012 it was announced that 2012 was likely to be a record breaking year for renewable energy. The Energy Minister Fergus Ewing advised that the figures showed that

12 Draft Electricity Generation Policy Statement, Scottish Government March 2012 13 2020 Renewable Routemap for Scotland Scottish Government updated October 2012 14 Report on the achievability of the Scottish Government’s Renewable energy targets, The Scottish Parliament 23 November 2012



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2011 was a record year for renewable energy generation in Scotland and that the figures for 2012 looked even better. He advised that renewable electricity met 36.3% of Scottish electricity consumption in 2011, meeting the interim target set for 31% of electricity from renewable sources.

Low Carbon Scotland: Meeting our Emissions Reduction Targets 2013-2027 The Draft Second report on Proposals and Policies In January 2013 the First Minister set a target to cut carbon emissions by more than four fifths by 2030. A target of 50 gCO2/kWh by 2030 is contained within the Scottish Governments draft second report on proposals and policies to meet overall emissions targets15. The Ministerial Foreword notes that the target set is challenging and that the decarbonisation of electricity is a key driver in the progress towards a low carbon economy.

4.6. Summary Overview

It is clear that there is strong political support at international level and from UK and Scottish Governments for the development of renewable energy. Ambitious targets have been set for renewable energy production and the potential to meet the targets does exist providing appropriate schemes continue to be brought forward.

15 Low Carbon Scotland: Meeting our Emissions Reduction Targets 2013-2027 The Draft Second report on Proposals and Policies, Scottish Government January 2013



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5. Planning Policy

5.1. Introduction

Sections 25 and 37 (2) of the Town & Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 as amended by the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 require that planning decisions be made in accordance with the Development Plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. This section of the Scoping Report has been prepared to identify the main Development Plan and material considerations against which the proposed Development should be assessed.

5.2. Development Plan Position

Dumfries & Galloway Structure Plan 1999 (D&GSP) The Dumfries & Galloway Structure Plan (D&GSP)16 provides the strategic planning context for local planning in Dumfries and Galloway. The plan identifies a number of challenges that face the plan area. These include encouraging the growth and development of sustainable communities. The plan advises that, at the strategic level, the concept of sustainable development is a central thrust.

The D&GSP recognises that Dumfries and Galloway has potential to provide “developers of wind turbine schemes with such a range of sites in the area that they will not need to include sensitive sites within their actual assessment.” (paragraph 5.60). The proposed Development is within a Potential Area for windfarm development as identified on the Map showing Wind Energy Search Areas. The main policies of relevance to the proposed Development are S21 Renewable Energy and S22 Wind Farm and Wind Turbine Development. These are set out overleaf in Table 5.1

16 Dumfries & Galloway Structure Plan, Dumfries and Galloway Council December 1999



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Table 5.1 Dumfries & Galloway Structure Plan 1999 Policies

Policy Detail

Policy S21 “Development proposals for renewable energy sources will be considered positively provided they do not have a significant adverse impact on:-

1. the built and natural heritage; 2. areas and routes important for tourism or recreational use in

the countryside; 3. water and fishing interests; 4. air quality; and 5. the amenity of the surrounding area.

All proposals will be required to provide detailed information on associated infrastructure required, including roads and grid connections, impact during construction and operational phases of the development, including visual impact, noise and odour issues and provisions made for restoration of the site.”

Policy S22 “Proposals for wind farms and wind turbines will be considered favourably in Potential Areas identified on the Map showing Wind Energy Search Areas, where it can be clearly demonstrated:-

they are in accordance with policy S21; and take into account the guidance set out in the Wind Energy

Strategy, pending completion of more detailed guidance in the Subject Local Plan.

In Intermediate Areas the Council will take into account the location of the proposed development and the issues identified for that area in determining its response to the proposal.

There will be a presumption against Wind Farm development in Sensitive Areas.

When assessing Wind Farm developments the Council will take into account existing sites with planning permission and the cumulative impact of development proposals.

Development proposals for sites outside the search areas identified will be considered in terms of Policy S21 and Policy E3 until replaced by Local Plan guidance.”



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Paragraph 5.59, of the D&GSP, advises that the Council published a Technical Paper Number 5: Preparation of Wind Energy Diagram17 which was supplementary to the D&GSP, the comments received on this report were taken into account during the preparation of the D&GSP. The text states that:

“The strategy identified areas of high wind speed and then identified issues which would need to be taken into consideration by any developer before determining whether a wind energy scheme would be an acceptable development at that location. The areas of high wind speed have been classified as Potential, Intermediate and Sensitive depending upon the range of issues which have been highlighted as being of concern should a wind energy scheme be considered for that area. The study used the best information currently available to identify areas of high wind speed and there will be instances where development proposals for wind farms and also single turbines are received outside these areas. Development proposals out with these areas will require the same detailed evaluation of impacts that would be required in any of the identified areas.”

Nithsdale Local Plan 2006 (NLP) The NLP18 sets out the policies, proposals and recommendations of D&G as the local planning authority for the proposed Development and other use of land, protection of environmental resources and for the management of traffic and transport within the administrative area of Nithsdale. The vision for the NLP reflects that of the D&GSP which is to encourage sustainable development as an over-arching aim.

The NLP does not have specific policies on renewable energy generation but defers to the D&GSP. The D&GSP also indicates that because of the specific issues which surround them, these uses will be covered by separate Subject Local Plans. However, as an interim measure it is necessary to protect certain sites from other forms of development which would sterilise the resource. General Policy 13 is the most relevant policy in the NLP. This is set out in Table 5.2 below.

Table 5.2 Nithsdale Local Plan 2006 (NLP) Policies

Policy Detail

General Policy 13 “Renewable Energy facilities - will be safeguarded from other forms of development which would inhibit their efficient operation.”

17 Preparation of Wind Energy Diagram: D&G Structure Plan Technical Paper No. 5, Dumfries and Galloway Council December 1999 18 Nithsdale Local Plan Dumfries and Galloway Council October 2006



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5.3. Material Considerations

Wind Energy Diagram and Technical Paper Number 5: Preparation of Wind Energy Diagram (Tech Paper 5) Tech Paper 5 was prepared as a Technical Paper to the D&GSP. Consultation was undertaken in autumn 1996 and the comments received were used to help formulate the renewable energy policies in the Finalised Structure Plan. Tech Paper 5 was submitted to the then Secretary of State for Scotland with the D&GSP in January 1999.

The main purpose of Tech Paper 5 is to provide supporting information for the Finalised Structure Plan’s policies on windfarm development and the Wind Energy Diagram. The document provides detailed considerations in respect of wind energy development and outline principles of good design in its appendices.

The document identifies a number of technical constraints to windfarm development including aviation and defence interests. It contains information in respect of landscape and visual impacts; nature conservation; cultural heritage; land use; tourism and recreation; and people, roads and settlements. It does not contain any policy.

D&GC Interim Planning Policy (IPP) for Wind Energy Development (February 2012) D&GC produced an Interim Planning Policy (IPP) for Wind Energy Development (February 2012), in response to the requirements of SPP. This is not formally adopted policy. The Spatial Framework of the IPP sets out three different areas in relation to potential windfarm development:

Areas requiring significant protection; Areas with potential constraints; and Areas of search, with a distinction between large scale wind turbine typology

(turbines greater than 80m in height) and medium scale wind turbine typology (turbines less than 80m in height).

It is difficult to be sure of the exact boundaries of the areas identified in the Spatial Framework in the IPP. It is understood that the spatial framework, shown in Map 4 in the IPP, identifies much of the proposed Development as being within an Area of Search for Large scale wind energy development. The eastern part of the proposed Development is out with the Area of Search and is within the Thornhill Uplands Regional Scenic Area (RSA) which is identified in the IPP as a constraint. The main Interim Wind Energy Policies are set out overleaf in Table 5.3.



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Table 5.3 D&GC Interim Planning Policy (IPP) for Wind Energy Development Policies

Policy Detail

WEP 2 Areas of Search for Large and Medium Scale Wind Energy Developments

“Proposals for large and medium wind energy developments will be considered favourably in the relevant identified Areas of Search provided the Council has concluded that:

All relevant considerations contained in Section 7 of this IPP are adequately resolved; Following appropriate assessment (where needed), the proposal has no adverse effects either alone or in combination on the integrity of any Natura site; and Proposals have taken into account and responded to the sensitivity assessments and guidance contained in the DGWLCS (Dumfries and Galloway Wind Farm Landscape Capacity Study 2011)”

WEP 3 – All other areas “All proposals outwith the identified Areas if Significant Protection will be considered favourably, subject to assessment against the factors listed in Section 7 of this IPP and any other material planning considerations, provided that the Council has concluded that:

All relevant considerations contained in Section 7 of this IPP are adequately resolved; Following appropriate assessment (where needed), the proposal has no adverse effects either alone or in combination on the integrity of any Natura site; Proposals have no significant adverse effects on other areas of Potential Constraints; and Proposals have taken into account and responded to the sensitivity assessments and guidance contained in the DGWLCS”

Section 7 of the IPP outlines the issues that are to be considered in assessing proposals for wind energy developments. These are identified as follows:

“Landscape and Visual Amenity – All proposals will be assessed for potential impacts on landscape and visual amenity. Particular attention will be given to proposals within areas designated for their landscape qualities and to how the proposals will impact on the special qualities and/or reasons for such designations.

Cumulative Impacts on Landscape and Visual Amenity – All proposals will be assessed for their cumulative impact on landscape and visual amenity.



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Design of Proposals (in terms of turbine siting, design, layout, form and colour) – All proposals will be assessed for their impact on the landscape and visual amenity in relation to their design in terms of siting, layout, turbine form, colour, lighting and ancillary works.

Effects on Local Amenity and Communities – All proposals will be assed for their impact on local amenity and communities in relation, but not restricted, to the effects of noise, shadow flicker and visual dominance relative to all affected properties, considered in conjunction with any mitigation measures proposed.

Aviation and Defence – All proposals will be assessed for their impact on aviation and defence interests. Applicants must consult in detail with aviation and defence stakeholders such as Ministry of Defence, Civil Aviation Authority, NATS (National Air Traffic Services) and Airport Operations Association to ascertain the degree of constraint relevant to the development proposal. Applicants should also ensure that these bodies are satisfied with the proposal, that no material impact will occur or that a technical solution will be used to mitigate any issue that is deemed satisfactory to all interested parties.

Suspensive conditions may be utilised to address navigation, radar or other aviation/MOD concerns in appropriate circumstances.

Historic Environment and Cultural Heritage – All proposals will be assessed for their impact on the historic environment and cultural heritage. Site specific assessments will be required to identify potential issues and effects. Proposals should identify mitigation for identified effects.

Biodiversity - All proposals will be assessed for their impact on biodiversity, including protected species, ornithology and habitats. Site specific assessments will be required to identify biodiversity risks together with any on site mitigations or off site compensatory measures.

Forests and Woodlands - All proposals will be assessed for their impact on forestry operations and where appropriate replanting schemes will be required to replace trees and woodland lost as a result of construction and operational requirements of the windfarm/wind turbines subject to other considerations.

Tourism and Recreational Interests - All proposals will be assessed for their impact on the interests to tourism and recreation. Developers should identify any significant adverse affects on tourism and recreational interests and on the underlying factors which contribute to the appeal of such destinations to visitors and recreational users.

Broadcasting Installations – All proposals will be assessed for their impact on broadcasting instillations. Applicants should consult with network owners and Ofcom to ascertain the location of radio and television broadcasting instillations within the



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region and ensure that they are satisfied with the proposal, that no material impact will occur or that a technical solution will be sued to mitigate any issue of broadcast interference that is deemed satisfactory to all interested parties.

Ancillary Developments – All proposals relating to ancillary developments will be assessed for their impact on the locality. Detailed consideration of all the ancillary elements of a scheme will be taken into account in the application process.

Physical Site Constraints – All proposals will be assessed for their impact on the physical constraints in relation to the site including such aspects as soil and ground stability, the effect on water resources, how waste from excavations will be addressed and geodiversity.

Decommissioning and Restoration – All proposals will be assessed in relation to the reinstatement of the site at the end of the development along with any ancillary works. Reinstatement details must be submitted with any development proposals.”

The Dumfries and Galloway Proposed Local Development Plan (2013) The Dumfries and Galloway Proposed Local Development Plan (D&GPLDP)19 was published for consultation in January 2013. Once adopted, the D&GPLDP will replace the existing D&GSP and Local Plans. It is currently anticipated, by D&GC, that the D&GPLDP will be adopted in summer 2014.

The Spatial Framework for Large Typologies (over 80 m to blade tip) plan shows the majority of the proposed Development as being within an Area of Greatest Potential. The eastern part of the proposed Development is within the Thornhill Uplands Regional Scenic Area. For the purpose of Policy IN2 it is understood that this location is defined as all other areas.

The main polices relating to windfarm development in such areas are IN1 and IN2. These are set out overleaf in Table 5.4

19 Proposed Local Development Plan Dumfries and Galloway Council January 2013



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Table 5.4 The Dumfries and Galloway Proposed Local Development Plan Policies

Policy Detail

Policy IN1 (inter alia) “The Council will support development proposals for all renewable energy provided they do not have a significant adverse impact on:

landscape; the built and natural heritage; areas and routes important for tourism or recreational use in the countryside; water and fishing interests; air quality; and the amenity of the surrounding area.

All proposals will be required to provide detailed information on associated infrastructure required, including roads and grid connections (where this is subject to planning consent), impact during construction and operational phases of the development, including visual impact, noise and odour issues and provisions made for the restoration of the site. Details will also be required in respect of the extent to which the proposal helps to meet the current government targets for renewable energy generation and consumption. These details will form part of the Council’s consideration of the proposal.”

Policy IN2 “Proposals for wind energy development will be considered in relation to the following areas:

a) Proposals in Areas of Greatest Potential

Proposals for large and medium turbine typologies will be supported within the identified Areas of Greatest Potential subject to an assessment of the factors listed in the Supplementary Guidance and other material planning considerations.

c) All Other Areas

For all other proposals the Council will consider favourably wind energy proposals where it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Council that:

the landscape is capable of accommodating the development without significant detrimental impacts on landscape character or visual amenity and the design and



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scale of the proposal is appropriate to the scale and character of its setting, respecting the main features of the site and the wider environment; any cumulative impacts are considered to be acceptable; and the proposals adequately resolve and have no significant adverse impact on all relevant factors contained in Section 7 of the Supplementary Guidance: Wind Energy Developments, including such aspects as landscape, design, residential amenity, the natural and historic environment, the local economy, aviation and defence and other technical issues.

All proposals

All proposals will be considered in relation to the above, other relevant policies within the LDP and the supplementary guidance on wind energy developments including the spatial framework.

It should be noted that in certain circumstances, in relation to Natura sites designated for wildlife interests, development outwith the actual designation boundaries can also impact on the conservation objectives of the designated sites and will need to be considered. For all proposals the Council will only support wind energy proposals where, following appropriate assessment (where needed), the proposal has no adverse effects either alone or in combination on the integrity of any Natura site.

Information and guidance contained within the Dumfries and Galloway Wind Farm Landscape Capacity Study, and any subsequent revised or amended document, will be a material consideration in the assessment of all proposals.”



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Consultation Draft Supplementary Guidance Wind Energy Development January 2013 (DSG) The Draft Supplementary Guidance (DSG)20 will, when adopted, replace the Wind Energy Diagram and Technical Paper Number 5: Preparation of Wind Energy Diagram, which is supplementary to the D&GSP. It is understood that it would also replace the IPP although this document was not formally adopted. The DSG provides additional guidance and supports policy IN1 and IN2 within the D&GLDP as set out in the above section.

The DSG contains a spatial framework which is intended to guide large and medium typology turbine development to appropriate locations within the region. The Spatial Framework identifies Areas of Greatest Potential and Areas Requiring Significant Protection for large scale wind turbine typology (over 80 m in height to blade tip).

As with the other spatial plans it is not currently possible to define the exact boundaries of the areas identified in the Spatial Framework. It is considered that Spatial Framework, Map 2 in the DSG, identifies the majority of the proposed Development as being in an Area of Greatest Potential for Large Typology Wind Turbines (over 80 m to blade tip). The area in the east of the proposed Development is within a RSA and is considered to be an undefined area in the Spatial Framework Maps.

The document restates the Renewable Energy Policies, Policy IN1 Renewable Energy and IN2 Wind Energy which are stated in the D&GLDP. These are stated above and are not repeated here.

Other Material Considerations Material considerations relevant to the proposed Development include the following documents:

Scottish Planning Policy, Scottish Government. (February 2010) – this document is currently the subject of review and a consultation draft is available;

The National Planning Framework 2, Scottish Government (2009) – this document is currently under review and a draft Main Issues Report and Framework is available;

PAN 2/2011, Scottish Government, (2011); Online advice in respect of wind energy (which has replaced PAN 45 Renewable

Energy) (October 2012); PAN47 Community Councils and Planning (1996); PAN 50 Controlling the Environmental Effects of Surface Mineral Working (1996); PAN 51 Planning & Environmental Protection (2006); PAN 1/2011 (2011); PAN 60 Planning and Natural Heritage (2000, updated 2008); PAN 68 Design Statements (2003);

20 Consultation Draft Supplementary Guidance Wind Energy Development Dumfries and Galloway Council January 2013



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PAN 69 Planning and Building Standards Advice on Flooding (2004); PAN 75 Planning for Transport (2005); and PAN 79 Water and Drainage (2006).



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6. Landscape and Visual

6.1. Introduction

This section sets out the approach to the assessment of the potential effects of the proposed Development on landscape and visual amenity during both construction and operation of the windfarm. The Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) will be undertaken by SLR Consulting Ltd.

6.2. Guidance

The LVIA will be based on guidelines provided in:

Landscape Character Assessment, The Countryside Agency and SNH, (2002); Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Landscape Institute and

Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (2013); Guidance: Assessing the Cumulative Impact of Wind Energy Developments, SNH

(2012); Siting and Designing Windfarms in the Landscape Version 1, SNH (2009); Visual Representation of Windfarms - Good Practice Guidance, Horner + Maclennan

& Envision for SNH (2006); and Practice Advice Note: Photography and photomontage in landscape and visual

impact assessment. Advice Note 01/11 Landscape Institute.

6.3. Baseline Conditions

The study area for the LVIA would cover a 35 km radius from the outer most turbines in the proposed Development (see Figure 1 and Figure 2). The extent of the study area will be agreed following production of a preliminary ZTV (see Figure 7) based on an initial layout for the turbines for consultation with D&GC and SNH. However, in order to allow for the possibility of using turbines over 100 m, it is recommended that a 35 km radius study will be used to comply with SNH Guidance (2006).

The study area for the detailed Cumulative LVIA (CLVIA) will also comprise the same 35 km radius area from the outermost turbines assessed in the LVIA. The objective will be to assess predicted cumulative effects which would occur within this study area arising from the additional effects of the proposed Development along with other operational/under construction/consented and/or proposed windfarms for which applications have been submitted. Therefore, all windfarm at distances of up to 35 km from the proposed Development will be mapped and their status recorded. The potential for the proposed Development to interact with all of the windfarms which are existing, consented or at application stage will be considered in order to refine the list of projects included in the detailed cumulative assessment to those that are relevant. The list of windfarms included in the detailed cumulative assessment will be agreed with D&GC and SNH.



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6.4. Landscape Character

The landscape baseline for the agreed 35 km radius study area (see Figure 4) will be assessed and classified taking account of SNH Landscape Character Assessments (LCAs).

These assessments will be considered and verified, where possible, on site so that they are relevant for the purposes of the LVIA of the proposed Development.

A more detailed analysis of landscape character within approximately 10 km of the site will be carried out in order to reflect local landscape variations which may not be reflected in the SNH national assessments.

The key landscape characteristics of each landscape character type or area within the study area will be examined and the predicted visibility of the proposed Development will be described. The nature of views and the sensitivity of each landscape character type or area to change of the nature associated with windfarm development will be identified.

The proposed Development Site is located in the Southern Uplands with Forest landscape character type, with Foothills to the east and south east, the Upland Glen associated with the Dalwhat Valley to the east and Foothills with Forest to the south.

6.5. Landscape Planning Designations

Designated landscapes in the study area will be identified, including Dumfries and Galloway RSA, and Gardens and Designed Landscapes (GDLs) listed in the Historic Scotland (HS) Inventory (See Figure 5). The site is partially within and immediately adjacent to the Thornhill Uplands RSA which comprises several Landscape Character Types and the varied and contrasting upland and valley scenery are noted in the Dumfries and Galloway Proposed Local Development Plan Technical Paper Regional Scenic Areas January 2013 defining the RSAs.

6.6. Visibility Analysis

A Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) will be generated at the post design freeze stage to identify the potential extent of the proposed Development’s visibility within the 35 km radius study area. An assessment of the predicted visibility of the proposed Development from each of the landscape character and visual receptors in the study area will be carried out by analysis of the ZTV and field verification from key receptors. The visibility assessment will concentrate on the publicly accessible areas. Figure 7 shows the location of the draft viewpoints together with a ZTV for the proposed Development.

6.7. Landscape and Visual Receptors

Within the 35 km radius study area, there are a range of potential landscape and visual amenity receptors.



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Landscape receptors will comprise the landscape fabric on the site and all landscape character types or areas in the study area from where the proposed Development may be visible as indicated by the ZTV.

Designated landscapes and properties listed in the HS Inventory (HSI) of GDL’s within the study area from where the proposed Development may be seen will also be included as landscape receptors.

Visual amenity receptors will comprise individuals or groups of people who may have views of the windfarm. In the context of this proposed Development, the main groups of visual receptors are defined as follows:

Residents; Walkers and recreational users of the landscape; Tourists, visitors or users of recreational facilities; and Road users.

It is acknowledged that these groups may be sub-divided and that there may be more categories of receptors, but for the purposes of the assessment, it is considered that the above categories cover the main groups of landscape and visual receptors.

6.8. Viewpoint Assessment

A selection of publicly accessible viewpoints will be identified across the study area in consultation with D&GC and SNH. A draft list of viewpoints for consultation is provided at the end of this Section in Table 6.1.

The initial list of viewpoints will be refined to respond to the final proposed Development layout, field work survey and selection of representative locations. The full list of viewpoints considered will be included in a Technical Appendix with comments explaining why certain viewpoints have been excluded from the final list of locations included in the detailed assessment. The final list of viewpoints included in the assessment will be agreed with D&GC and SNH. Viewpoints will be selected to be representative of the main landscape and visual receptors in the study area for the purposes of assessing the proposed Development layout. Once cumulative data is available, viewpoint locations will be checked with the cumulative ZTV in order to ensure that they provide representative coverage of potential cumulative visibility and related effects.

An assessment of the potential effects on both landscape character and visual amenity arising from the proposed Development at each of the agreed viewpoints will be carried out. This assessment will involve the production of computer generated wirelines and, in some cases, photomontages to predict the views of the proposed turbines from each of the agreed viewpoints. The existing and predicted views from each of these viewpoints will be analysed to identify the magnitude of change and the residual effects on landscape character and visual amenity based on field work as well as desk based assessment.



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Finally, an assessment of the significance of the effects will be carried out to determine the effects of the proposed Development in this locality on landscape fabric, landscape character, landscape designations and Wild Land search areas and visual amenity.

6.9. Assessment Criteria

The effect of the proposed Development on landscape fabric, character or visual amenity relates to the magnitude of change that could potentially occur to the landscape or visual receptors.

The LVIA will identify, predict and evaluate potential effects arising from the proposed Development. Wherever possible, identified effects will be quantified, but the nature of landscape and visual assessment requires interpretation by professional judgement. The relationship between magnitude of change and landscape and visual sensitivity is complex and depends on consideration of many variables. In order to provide a level of consistency to the assessment of landscape sensitivity and visual sensitivity to change, the prediction of magnitude of change and assessment will be based on pre-defined criteria. These are based on guidance provided in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (including Edition 3, April 2013), as refined for the purposes of windfarm assessment and taking account of SNH guidance.

6.10. Landscape Sensitivity

Landscape sensitivity will be defined as high, medium, low or negligible based on professional interpretation of a combination of parameters including:

The value placed on the landscape as defined by designation or other identifiable form of recognition;

The scale and pattern of the landscape and its elements/features; The simplicity or complexity of the landscape; The nature of skylines; Landscape quality or condition; Existing land-use; Visual enclosure/openness of views and distribution of visual receptors; and The scope for mitigation, which would be in character with the existing landscape.

6.11. Magnitude of Change to Landscape

The magnitude of change to landscape will be defined as substantial, moderate, slight or negligible based on professional interpretation of a combination of parameters:

Substantial Change: Total loss or considerable alteration to key elements/ features/characteristics of the landscape character, resulting in a substantial change to the baseline condition;



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Moderate Change: Partial loss or alteration to one or more key elements/features/characteristics of the landscape character. Perceived partial or localised change within a broader, unaltered context;

Slight Change: Limited loss or small alteration to one or more key elements/features/characteristics of the existing landscape character. Change is discernible but underlying landscape character would be similar to baseline; and

Negligible Change: Very limited or imperceptible loss or alteration to one or more key elements/characteristics of the baseline. Change may be barely distinguishable.

In the case of magnitude of change occurring within designated landscape areas, the proportion of the designated area affected by the proposals is also a consideration.

6.12. Visual Sensitivity

Visual sensitivity is determined using an analysis of the visual situation from an agreed set of viewpoints towards the proposal and is defined as high, medium, low or negligible, based on an interpretation of a combination of parameters, as follows:

Location and context of the viewpoint; Land use or main activity at the viewpoint; Frequency and duration of use; and Landscape character and quality of the intervening landscape.

6.13. Magnitude of Change to Visual Amenity

The magnitude of change to visual amenity arising from the proposed Development at any particular viewpoint will be described as substantial, moderate, slight or negligible based on the interpretation of a combination of largely quantifiable parameters, as follows:

Distance of the viewpoint from the proposed Development; Duration of the predicted effect; Extent of the proposed Development in the view, e.g. the horizontal angle subtended

by the proposed Development; Angle of view in relation to main receptor activity; Degree of contrast; Visual permeability of proposed Development – i.e. extent to which views would be

blocked or would be retained, albeit interrupted and altered; Background to the proposed Development; and Extent and nature of other built development visible.

In the case of magnitude of change occurring along roads, railways or recreational routes, the length of the route affected by the proposed Development is also a consideration.

The criteria utilised in ascribing magnitude of change throughout this visual assessment will be as follows:



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Substantial Change: Total loss or considerable alteration to key elements/ features/characteristics of the view, resulting in a substantial change to the baseline condition;

Moderate Change: Partial loss or alteration to one or more key elements/features/characteristics of the view. Change perceived as a partial or localised change within a broader, unaltered context;

Slight Change: Limited loss or small alteration to one or more key elements/features/characteristics of the existing view. Change is discernible but underlying view composition would be similar to baseline; and

Negligible Change: Very limited or imperceptible loss or alteration to one or more key elements/characteristics of the baseline view. Change may be barely distinguishable.

6.14. Cumulative Landscape and Visual Effects

The purpose of the CLVIA will be to describe, visually represent and assess the ways in which the proposed Development would have additional effects when considered together with other operational, under construction, consented and, where required, proposed (i.e. those for which applications have been submitted to the relevant authority) developments of a similar nature. An initial review of other known windfarm developments in the public domain within 35 km of the site will be undertaken.

Cumulative effects on landscape character arise from two or more windfarm developments introducing new features into the landscape.

Cumulative effects on visual amenity consist of combined and sequential visibility of windfarms in the study area.

Combined visibility occurs where it is possible to see two or more developments from a single location. Combined visibility may either be in combination (where several windfarms are within a single arc of vision i.e. approximately 90°) or in succession (where windfarms occur in several arcs of vision at the same location).

Sequential effects occur where there is visibility of one or more windfarms from any route through the landscape: for example, roads or footpaths.

6.15. Cumulative Magnitude of Change

In addition to the above, the following criteria will be considered in order to determine cumulative effects:

The number of consented and/or proposed windfarms visible; Distribution and layout of consented and/or proposed visible windfarms in relation to

the proposed Development; Distance to each of the consented and/or proposed windfarms;



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

Horizontal angle subtended by windfarm development.

The criteria utilised in ascribing cumulative magnitude of change throughout this assessment will be follows:

Substantial Change: The proposed Development would represent a considerable increase in the proportion of the landscape or view affected by windfarm development;

Moderate Change: The proposed Development would represent a notable increase in the proportion of the landscape or view affected by windfarm development. Moderate cumulative change equates to a localised change within an otherwise unaltered context;

Slight Change: The proposed Development would represent a minor addition to the proportion of the landscape or view affected by windfarm development. The change would be discernible, but the original baseline conditions would be largely unaltered; and

Negligible Change: The proposed Development would represent a barely discernible addition to the proportion of the landscape or view affected by windfarm development. The baseline condition of the landscape or view would, for all intents and purposes, be unaffected.

6.16. Significance of Effects

Landscape and visual effects will be assessed as major, major/moderate, moderate/minor, minor, minor/negligible or none. These categories are based on considering landscape or visual amenity sensitivity and the predicted magnitude of change. Where an effect is identified as being major or major/moderate, this is considered to be equivalent to a significant effect in terms of the EIA Regulations. In all instances the reasoning behind the categorisation of receptor sensitivity, magnitude of change and residual effect will be explained by reference to the criteria described in preceding sections of this methodology.

Throughout the LVIA, the effects of the proposed Development on the landscape resource will be assessed in relation to the key characteristics of each landscape character area predicted to have visibility of the proposed turbines and therefore potentially affected by the proposed Development. The aim is to provide an objective assessment of the relationship between the proposed Development and the landscape in which it would be located and seen. It is important to consider the nature of the proposed change in the context of the key characteristics of the landscape and the extent to which these may be more, or less, sensitive to change of the nature associated with windfarms and accordingly, more, or less, able to accommodate the predicted changes.



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In relation to the effects of windfarm development on visual amenity, there is a wide spectrum of opinion regarding the appearance of wind turbines in the landscape which is well documented and has been reported in several research studies. An assessment of whether the predicted change on visual amenity as a consequence of the proposed development would be negative, neutral or positive will be made.

6.17. Effects Scoped out of LVIA

The list of cumulative projects to be considered within the LVIA will identify a large number of projects including those at scoping, application, consented and operational stages. Not all of these sites will be included within the assessment. Projects which are at scoping stage will not be included in the detailed cumulative assessment because of the considerable uncertainty about whether these projects will be progressed, and as recommended by guidance.

6.18. Illustrative Tools

The ZTV and visualisations illustrating the LVIA will be prepared in accordance with SNH and LI guidance and method statements will be provided in an Appendix to the LVIA.



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6.19. Suggested Viewpoint Locations

Table 6.1 Suggested Viewpoints

Viewpoint Location Grid Reference/

Elevation

Distance (km)/Direction to Site

Type of Receptors

1* Guffock Hill 275131, 614639, 459m AOD

21/S Walkers, land managers

2* Mulwhanny 271661, 597322, 525m AOD

3.5/S Residential, Road users

3 Cairnhead Community Forest Quarry

271435, 595132, 216m AOD

1/SE Recreation, forestry workers

4* Lowther Hill 288941, 610618, 710m AOD

25/SW Walkers, land managers

5 Drumlanrig (Westside)

281739, 601765, 371m AOD

14/SW RSA, walkers, road users

6* Mounthoolie Bridge

278355, 594626, 161m AOD

8/W Road users

7* Auchengibbert Hill

280630, 594424, 369m AOD

10.5/W Walkers

8* A76, Closeburn 289454, 592230, 67m AOD

19/W Road Users

9* Craigdarroch 275800, 592140, 160m AOD

6.1/W/NW Residential

10* Moniaive 277982, 590995, 106m AOD

13/W Residential, visitors

11* B729 Maxwellton House

282220, 589375, 106m AOD

13/W GDL, road users

12* B729 Auchenstroan

271543, 591657, 213m AOD

2.75/N/NW Residential

13* Corsock 276201, 580960, 189m AOD

15/NW Residential



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Viewpoint Location Grid Reference/

Elevation

Distance (km)/Direction to Site

Type of Receptors

14* A75, by Mollance

278292, 565426, 68m AOD

28/N Road users

15* New Galloway 262827, 577535, 107m AOD

16.9/NE Residential

16* B729 Carrock 267787, 591384, 284m AOD

2.2/NE Road users, residential

17* Shield Rig, Southern Upland Way

254892, 581495, 301m AOD

18.4/NE Walkers, recreation

18* B729 x Southern Upland Way

264194, 591768, 199m AOD

5/NE Walkers, road users

19* Carsphairn 257004, 592725, 175m AOD

12/E Residents, road users

20* Cairnsmore of Carsphairn

259467, 597988, 793m AOD

10.3/SE Residential

21* Benbrack 268035, 597034, 581m AOD

4.5/SE Walkers, recreation

*Denotes viewpoint used in the Wether Hill Wind Farm Environmental Statement December 2003



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7. Ornithology

7.1. Introduction

The proposed approach to the evaluation of bird interest on the site and surrounding area, and to the assessment of potential effects is set out below. The assessment of effects of the proposed Development on ornithology is being undertaken by MacArthur Green Ltd. SNH and RSPB have been consulted in respect of the scope of the work undertaken in respect of ornithology.

7.2. Legislation and Guidance

The following legislation and guidance will be considered as part of the assessment:

Directive 2009/147/EC on the Conservation of Wild Birds (Birds Directive); Directive 92/43/EEC on Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and

Flora (as amended) (Habitats Directive); The Environmental Impact Assessment Directive 85/337/EEC (as amended). The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended); The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 (as amended); The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland)

Regulations 2011; The Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended) (The

Habitats Regulations); SERAD (Scottish Executive Rural Affairs Department) 2000. Habitats and Birds

Directives, Nature Conservation; Implementation in Scotland of EC Directives on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna and the Conservation of Wild Birds (‘the Habitats and Birds Directives’). Revised Guidance Updating Scottish Office Circular No 6/1995;

The UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP); Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC) 3 ‘Red List’ (2009); Windfarms and birds: calculating a theoretical collision risk assuming no avoidance

action. SNH Guidance Note, SNH (2000); Assessing significance of impacts from onshore windfarms on birds outwith

designated areas SNH (2006); Survey methods for use in assessing the impacts of onshore windfarms on bird

communities SNH (2005, revised 2010); Cumulative effects of windfarms, SNH (2005); Planning Circular 3 2011; the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact

Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2011; Environmental Statements and Annexes of Environmentally Sensitive Bird

Information; Guidance for Developers, Consultants and Consultees SNH (2009); and Natural Heritage Assessment of Small Scale Wind Energy Projects which do not

require formal Environmental Impact Assessment, SNH (2008).



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A typical moorland and woodland bird assemblage exists at the site.

The following Target Species21 have been recorded flying over and around the site during Vantage Point (VP) surveys:

Goshawk; Hen Harrier; Peregrine Falcon; Red Kite; Short-eared Owl; Golden Plover; Curlew; and Pink-footed Goose.

During breeding bird surveys territories for the following species were recorded on site; curlew, snipe and oystercatcher.

Scarce breeding bird surveys recorded no Schedule 1 or Annex 1 species breeding within the site boundary, however peregrine and barn owl was recorded as breeding within the 2 km survey buffer.

Black grouse surveys revealed no leks within the site or surrounding area, however black grouse are known to exist in the wider area and historically at the site.

Woodland bird surveys revealed the presence of crossbills on site.

7.4. Potential Effects

Taking account of the findings of the survey work undertaken to date, whilst still adopting a precautionary approach at this preliminary stage, potential effects on birds associated as a result of the proposed Development could include:

A short-term reduction in breeding or wintering bird populations due to felling/construction disturbance (causing chilling, predation, damage or loss of eggs/chicks and the premature fledging of young);

A permanent reduction in breeding or wintering bird populations due to the loss of habitat critical for nesting or foraging. This may arise as a consequence of direct loss of habitat under infrastructure or disturbance/displacement as a result of operational activities;

A permanent reduction in breeding or wintering bird populations due to collision mortality (if collision risk is identified as a concern, predicted collision rates will be

21 Target species are drawn from those listed in Annex 1 of the Birds Directive and Schedule 1 of the WCA. Other species considered important in a regional or local context are also included.



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calculated through a combination of theoretical collision risk modelling and professional judgement); and

Cumulative effects with other nearby development proposals that are constructed during the same period, and / or with developments which pose either a potential collision risk or loss of habitat by displacement (the approach to assessment of cumulative effects will be agreed with SNH).

7.5. EIA Methodology

Ornithological surveys commenced on 07 November 2011 and will continue until the end of August 2013. Surveys cover the site, which is buffered to reduce the risk of failing to record birds that use the site only occasionally and to gather a spatially representative sample of flight activity. Accordingly, the site together with a 2 km buffer is being surveyed, with the buffer dependant on species. The following surveys have been, and continue to be, undertaken between November 2011 and August 2013.

Flight activity Vantage Point surveys during breeding and non-breeding seasons; Woodland Breeding Bird Surveys; Scarce Breeding Bird Surveys; Upland Breeding Bird Surveys; Winter Walkover; and Black Grouse Surveys.

Details of these methods are provided below.

Flight Activity Information on bird flight activity was collected during timed watches from strategic VPs using the methods described by Band et al. (2007)22.

Through a mix of Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis and ground-truthing in the field, a total of three VPs were selected (numbered 7, 8 and 9) with the aim of maximising ground visibility within the flight activity survey area using the minimum number of points. The flight activity survey area consisted of the site plus a buffer of 250 m.

Observers at the VPs positioned themselves to minimise their effects on bird behaviour. A viewing arc not exceeding 180 degrees was scanned. Watches were undertaken during daylight hours in a wide range of weather conditions, mainly in conditions of good ground visibility (> 2 km) and when the cloud base was higher than the most elevated parts of the survey area.

VP watches are spread as evenly throughout the year as possible to ensure that temporally representative data is collected, additionally in accordance with SNH guidance an average

22 Developing field and analytical methods to assess avian collision risk at Windfarms. Band, W., Madders, M. and Whitfield, D.P. in: de Lucas, M., Janss, G.F.E. and Ferrer, M. (eds.) Birds and Windfarms: Risk Assessment and Mitigation. Pp. 259-275. Quercus, Madrid 2007



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minimum of 36 hours VP effort is carried out across VPs per season. VP observations are also stratified across three daylight periods (termed ‘early’, ‘middle’ and ‘late’) to allow for diurnal variation in activity rates across seasons. The timing of watches within each period was adjusted each month in accordance with sunrise and sunset times.

To date two full winter (non-breeding) and one full summer (breeding) season of surveys have been completed, with a further full summer breeding season to follow.

The numbers of hours of observation carried out from each VP during these seasons are given in Table 7.1 to Table 7.3. A wide range of meteorological conditions will continue to be sampled.

Table 7.1 Vantage Point Survey Effort Winter 2011/2012

VP no. 7 8 9

VP Hours

37.5 35.75 36.5

Table 7.2 Vantage Point Survey Effort Summer 2012

VP no. 7 8 9

VP Hours

35 36 35

Table 7.3 Vantage Point Survey Effort Winter 2012/2013

VP no. 7 8 9

VP Hours

38 37 36

During each watch, two hierarchical recording methods were used, as follows:

Focal bird sampling The viewing arc was scanned constantly until a Target Species (i.e. those listed in Annex 1 of the Birds Directive and Schedule 1 of the WCA) was detected in flight. Once detected, the bird was followed until it ceased flying or was lost to view. The time the bird was initially detected and the time it spent within the flight activity survey area (to the nearest second) were recorded. The route followed by the bird was plotted in the field onto a 1:25,000 scale



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map, with the direction of flight indicated. Routes were plotted regardless of whether or not the bird was within the survey area. The bird’s flying elevation above the ground was estimated at the point of detection and at 15 second intervals thereafter, flying elevation was classified into three height bands; height band one < 20 m, height band two 20-125 m (i.e. Potential Collision Risk height), and height band three > 125 m.

Activity summaries For other selected bird species (secondary species) an index of activity is calculated based on the number of five minute periods that birds are observed. The number of birds recorded in any one period was the minimum number of individuals that could account for the activity observed. The height, direction and behaviour of individuals involved in notable bird movements (e.g. gull flights, displays from secondary raptors) were recorded.

Data were entered in the field onto recording sheets and later transferred to Excel spreadsheets allowing further analysis. Field maps of Target Species flights were plotted into GIS to allow flight activity maps to be generated for a survey visit, a particular month, or season. Summary maps will be produced at the end of the survey period.

Woodland breeding birds Woodland breeding birds have been surveyed according to SNH guidance (2010)23, over 27 sample points locations stratified spatially across the forest within a 500 m buffer of the site during all three survey seasons to date. The objectives were to describe the species composition of the woodland bird community.

Each point was surveyed twice during the winter seasons and three times during the summer breeding season. Visits were conducted between sunrise and six hours post sunrise on dry mornings with low winds which allowed for better detection of bird songs and calls. Each point will be surveyed a further two times during the summer 2013 surveys.

On arriving at a point the observer paused for five minutes to allow normal bird activity to resume. Thereafter all birds seen and heard in a five minute period were noted.

Scarce Breeding Birds Survey methods for raptors and owls followed those summarised in SNH guidance (2010)24 and further detailed within Gilbert et al., (1998)25.

Scarce breeding bird surveys focussed primarily on Target Species. Priority was given to detecting the species considered most likely to occur around the proposed Development such as rare raptors like goshawk, merlin and peregrine falcon. Surveys were undertaken from March to August 2012. These complemented search effort accrued during the course

23 Survey methods for use in assessing the impacts of onshore windfarms on bird communities. Guidance Note, SNH. Scottish Natural Heritage 2010. 24 Survey methods for use in assessing the impacts of onshore windfarms on bird communities. Guidance Note, SNH. Scottish Natural Heritage 2010. 25 Bird Monitoring Methods. RSPB, Sandy. Gilbert, G., Gibbons, D. W. & Evans, J. 1998



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of VP watches of flight activity within the site. Scarce breeding bird surveys will also be carried out for the duration of the 2013 breeding season.

During the 2012/2013 winter season surveys were also carried out for wintering barn owls around the site.

The survey area for scarce breeding birds consisted of the site plus a buffer of 2 km and thus covered an area much larger than the current site.

Black Grouse Surveys Black grouse surveys were conducted in the spring of 2012 and in the spring of 2013. Black grouse surveys followed guidance outlined in SNH (2010)26. The surveys are carried out around dawn in April and May. The survey area for black grouse consisted of the site plus a buffer of 1.5 km.

Areas of suitable habitat that could host leks, or where historical leks have been known to exist, were visited within two hours of dawn on calm dry mornings with good visibility. Surveys involve listening and scanning for lekking blackcock from strategic VPs and during walks between these VPs ensuring that all potential habitat is covered. Lek sites are recorded onto field maps with leks more than 200 m apart being considered separate leks.

Upland Breeding Bird Surveys Upland breeding bird surveys were carried out in the 2012 breeding season and will be carried out again in the 2013 breeding season. Surveys followed the Brown & Shepherd (1993) 27 methodology. The aims of these surveys are to locate breeding upland and moorland bird species, map their breeding territories and estimate the approximate size of breeding bird populations. The area covered includes the site and a 500 m buffer area around this.

The site is surveyed four times during each breeding season, in each month from April to July inclusive. Visits were conducted between sunrise and six hours post sunrise on dry mornings with low winds which allowed for better detection of birds.

On each visit the survey area was walked so that all areas were approached to within 100 m with particular attention paid to areas of interest such as along streams and hedgerows and around patches of trees and scrub. Surveyors also pause every so often to scan and listen for breeding birds. Where bird activity indicative of breeding was recorded the species and location was plotted onto field maps. A field map of breeding observations was therefore created on each survey visit, the four maps created by the end of the breeding season were then compared to each other and the territories of breeding birds were plotted according to standard techniques.

26 Survey methods for use in assessing the impacts of onshore windfarms on bird communities. Guidance Note, SNH. Scottish Natural Heritage 2010. 27 A method for censusing upland breeding waders. Bird Study, 40: 189-195. Brown, A. F. & Shepherd, K. B. 1993



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Winter Walk-over Surveys Winter walk-over surveys have been conducted in both the 2011/2012 and 2012/2013 winter seasons, a range of meteorological conditions were sampled. These surveys are designed to complement surveys of breeding birds undertaken during the spring and summer, and occur within the same 500 m buffered survey area, and so cover an area larger than the site.

Walk routes meander to closely examine as much ground as practical, in particular features of potential ornithological importance such as woodland edges, small copses, mires and streams. Observers frequently paused to scan for birds. In addition during the surveys, mini (30 minute) VPs were carried out at suitable locations to record bird activity and flights.

Walked transects are effectively mobile VP watches. The procedure employed is as follows:

For Target Species the time each individual was first detected was recorded along with details of age, sex and behaviour if applicable. These details were cross-referenced to a 1:25,000 scale map where the location and flight route (if applicable) were plotted; and

For all other species, the number of individuals was recorded and locations they were first detected were plotted on the map.

Assessment of Effects Effects will be assessed in relation to the species population, range and distribution. Key considerations will include territory occupancy, breeding success, foraging success and ranging behaviour. Relevant SNH guidance will be referred to (SNH, 200628; SNH, 200929).

The assessment method will follow the process set out in the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2011 ("the EIA Regulations") and guidance on the implementation of the EU Birds and Birds Directives30.

The assessment process involves the following:

Identification of the potential effects of the proposed Development; Incorporating potential effects into the design process as appropriate including

mitigation through design where possible; Consideration of the likelihood of occurrence of potential effects where appropriate; Defining the Nature Conservation Value of the bird populations present; Establishing the birds Conservation Status where appropriate; Establishing the Magnitude of the likely effect (both spatial and temporal);

28 Assessing significance of impacts from onshore windfarms on birds outwith designated areas. Information and Guidance paper. 20pp. SNH 2006 29 Environmental Statements and Annexes of Environmentally Sensitive Bird Information; Guidance for Developers, Consultants and Consultees. Guidance Note, SNH 2009 30 Habitats and Birds Directives, Nature Conservation: Implementation in Scotland of EC Directives on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna and the Conservation of Wild Birds (‘The Habitats and Birds Directives’). Revised

Guidance Updating Scottish Office Circular No 6/1995. SERAD (Scottish Executive Rural Affairs Department) 2000.



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Based on the above information, a professional judgement as to whether or not the identified effect is significant with respect to the EIA Regulations;

If a potential effect is determined to be significant, measures to mitigate or compensate for the effect are suggested where required;

If required, opportunities for enhancement may be considered; and Residual effects after mitigation, compensation or enhancement are considered.

Cumulative Assessment An assessment of cumulative effects will be undertaken following published guidance31.

By definition, cumulative effects are not possible to evaluate through the study of one development in isolation, but will require the assessment of effects when considered in combination with other windfarm developments. The context in which these effects are considered will be dependent on the ecology of the species in question.

For breeding species, it will be necessary to consider the cumulative effects of other windfarm developments within 20 km of the site whereby the overall displacement area is increased. In isolation, it may be considered that local displacement will result in breeding birds moving to adjacent habitats, whereas in reality, these ‘receptor sites’ are subject to development themselves and will thus be unavailable.

7.6. Mitigation

SPR is committed to implementing measures within the conceptual design process where possible to avoid or reduce potential effects on ornithology. Good practice during construction and operation of the proposed Development is also implemented by way of mitigation.

Any requirement for mitigation following impact assessment will be discussed with SNH prior to submission of the application.

31 Scottish Natural Heritage. (2005). Cumulative effects of windfarms; and Scottish Natural Heritage. (September, 2009). Environmental Statements and Annexes of Environmentally Sensitive Bird Information; Guidance for Developers, Consultants and Consultees.



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8. Non-Avian Ecology

8.1. Introduction

This section sets out the proposed approach to the assessment of potential effects of the proposed Development on non-avian ecology, during both construction and operation of the proposed Development. The ecological assessment will be undertaken by MacArthur Green Ltd.

8.2. Legislation and Guidance

The following legislation and guidance will be considered as part of the assessment:

Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna (“Habitats Directive”);

Council Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a framework for the Community action in the field of water policy (“Water Framework Directive”);

Environmental Impact Assessment Directive 85/337/EEC (as amended). Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland)

Regulations (2011); The Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 (WEWS); The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended); Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 (as amended); The Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011; The Protection of Badgers Act 1992; The Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended) (the

Habitats Regulations); SERAD (Scottish Executive Rural Affairs Department) 2000. Habitats and Birds

Directives, Nature Conservation: Implementation in Scotland of EC Directives on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna and the Conservation of Wild Birds (‘The Habitats and Birds Directives’). Revised Guidance Updating Scottish Office Circular No 6/1995;

Planning Circular 3 2011; Guidelines for selection of biological SSSIs; Nature Conservancy Council (1989). Dumfries and Galloway Local Biodiversity Action Plan (2009); Guidelines for ecological impact assessment in the UK; IEEM (2006). Bat Surveys: Good Practice Guidelines, 2nd edition, Bat Conservation Trust, Hundt L

(2012); Natural England Technical Information Note TIN 051. Bats and Onshore Wind

Turbines – Interim Guidance; Natural England (2009); Guidance Note 4 - Planning Advice on Windfarm Developments; SEPA (2011); Good Practice During Windfarm Construction Scottish Renewables, SNH, SEPA, FC

(Scotland) (2010, Version 1); and



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Calculating Potential Carbon Losses & Savings from Wind Farms on Scottish Peatlands. Windfarms and Carbon savings on peatlands. Technical Note – Version 2.0.1. Scottish Government (September 2001).


There are no known non-avian ecological designations within the site. The baseline conditions will be confirmed by a Phase 1 Habitat Survey, protected species surveys, bat surveys and a National Vegetation Classification Survey.

8.4. Potential Effects

The potential effects of the proposed Development are likely to be as follows:

Direct and indirect habitat loss; Disturbance to protected fauna as follows:

o Disturbance to/loss of breeding sites, shelters etc.; o Direct/indirect loss of foraging resource; o Disruption to movement of animals within/through the site; and o Direct effects upon protected fauna, i.e. road traffic accidents etc.

Environmental effects i.e. pollution of watercourses etc; and Changes to habitat composition through land-use change, increased human

presence etc.

8.5. EIA Methodology

Ecological surveys commenced during April 2013 and will extend until September 2013. The surveys will cover the indicative site boundary (as shown on Figure 1 and Figure 2) and those areas out with site relevant to the specific survey (as described within the sections below). The following surveys will be undertaken:

Extended Phase 1 Habitat surveys; NVC surveys; Badger surveys; Bat surveys; Otter surveys; Water Vole surveys; and Fisheries surveys.

Details of these methods are provided below.

Extended Phase 1 Habitat Surveys An Extended Phase 1 Habitat survey (Ex. P1) will be undertaken across the Development Area, with the findings serving to inform further survey work as appropriate. Surveys will be



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carried out in line with JNCC (2010)32 and involve surveyors completing a walkover of the Development Area, recording the habitats present onto a 1:10,000 map. Linear and point features (such as fencelines and single trees) will also be mapped. Ex. P1 is a standard technique for classifying and mapping British habitats, with the aim of providing an inventory of those areas of greatest ecological importance. In addition to the recording of habitats, all other features of ecological interest, especially those pertaining to the presence or likely presence of protected species will also be noted via the inclusion of ‘Target Notes’ (TN). Each TN includes a brief description of the feature together with a grid reference – additional information such as a diagram and/or photograph may also be appropriate depending on the feature.

Higher plant identification and nomenclature will follow Stace (199533).

NVC Surveys National Vegetation Classification (NVC) surveys will be undertaken in order to identify more specific habitats of interests, such as those which are listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive, UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) or those which correspond with SEPA guidance on Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystems (GWDTE). Surveys will follow standard NVC guidelines (Rodwell 2006 34). The NVC scheme provides a standardised system for classifying and mapping semi-natural habitats, and ensures that surveys are carried out to a consistent level of detail and accuracy.

Homogenous stands and mosaics of vegetation will be identified and mapped by eye, drawn as polygons on field maps; these polygons will be surveyed qualitatively to record dominant and constant species, sub-dominant species and others species present; where possible, aerial photographs will be used to aid accurate mapping of vegetation boundaries. NVC communities will be attributed to the mapped polygons using surveyor experience and matching field data against published floristic tables (Rodwell 1991 – 2000, 5 volumes35). Stands will be classified to sub-community where possible.

Quadrat sampling will not be used in this survey (in line with recent commissions undertaken by MacArthur Green Ltd) as it is not always necessary if vegetation types can be reliably identified in the field using sufficient qualitative data. This is because most NVC communities and sub-communities are defined by inter-stand frequency, not by the abundance of the constituent species. It is better, in many cases, to record several qualitative samples than one quantitative sample; furthermore qualitative information can be vital for understanding the dynamics and trends in vegetation patterns (Rodwell, 2006).

32.Handbook for phase 1 habitat survey – a technique for environmental audit. Joint Nature Conservancy Council. 2010 33 New Flora of the British Isles (2nd Edition), Cambridge University Press. Stace, C. 1997 34 NVC Users' Handbook. Rodwell, J.S. 2006 35 British Plant Communities (5 volumes). Cambridge, Cambridge University Press. Rodwell, J.S. (Ed), et al. 1991–2000



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Bat Surveys Bat Survey work will take two forms; firstly, surveys will be required to ascertain the presence and nature of any roosts. This will be done in the first instance via a preliminary habitat assessment, in line with standard methods described by Hundt (2012)36, and will involve a survey of all buildings, structures and mature trees to qualify the suitability of these features for roosting bats. Following this and dependent on these initial findings, it may be necessary for activity surveys to be undertaken in order that bat presence can be confirmed, and this presence qualified. Again, standard methods (Hundt 2012) will be followed, with surveyors positioned at appropriate points in close proximity to the feature, and hand-held bat detectors used to pick-up the calls of any bats using these features. Should further information be required (e.g. in the event that a licence is needed to disturb the roost), then a licensed bat worker will examine the roost (if possible) at an appropriate time of year (i.e. when the roost is in use) and gather data on bat species, numbers and the type of roost present (e.g. maternity roost, transitional roost etc.).

The second form of survey will be bat activity surveys across the Development Area in order that the potential collision risk/direct turbine effect upon bats can be included within the assessment. Surveys will follow recent Natural England guidance (201237 as adopted by SNH), which describes the processes involved in determining levels of survey effort required in order to sufficiently assess the Development Area’s importance to bats. The number of survey visits will be dictated by this guidance and will vary from bi-monthly surveys through the spring/summer, to monthly visits, dependent on the likely presence of certain key ‘at risk’ species. In addition to the static detector surveys, walked transects shall also be undertaken in order to gain a more complete picture of bat activity from across the Development Area. This will be done using hand-held detectors, with surveyors covering pre-defined routes over a period dictated by the Development Area’s perceived relative importance to bats (as described above). On completion of these surveys, recorded bat echolocation data shall undergo rigorous analysis (using appropriate computer software) in order to identify those species presence and quantify this presence through the relative abundance of bat passes recorded.

Badger Surveys Badger surveys will be carried out in line with standard methods (e.g. as described within Reynolds & Harris 2003 38 ) and will extend across the Development Area including a systematic search of field boundaries, scrub and woodland within the Development Area, in order to record any of the following signs of badger presence:

36 Bat Surveys: Good Practice Guidelines, 2nd edition, Bat Conservation Trust Hundt L 2012 37 Information Note TIN 051. Bats and Onshore Wind Turbines – Interim Guidance; 2nd Edition. Natural England Technical. 2012. 38 Inverness Badger Survey 2003. SNH Commissioned Report No. 096 (ROAME No. F02LE01). Reynolds, P. and Harris, M. 2005



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Faeces: usually deposited within excavated pits (‘latrines’). These sites are generally situated along territory boundaries, which in turn often follow topographical linear features such as hedgerows and fencelines;

Setts: comprising either single isolated holes or a series of holes, often associated with other signs of badger presence such as paths and faeces;

Paths: often connecting setts or foraging areas; hairs; Feeding signs (snuffle holes): Small scrapes where badgers have searched for

insects and plant tubers; and Footprints.

It may be necessary to extend the search to outwith the Development Area in order to confirm badger presence within its immediate vicinity.

Otter surveys Otter surveys will be undertaken along all watercourses across the Development Area. Surveys shall extend for 250 m up and downstream of the Development Area boundary in line with SNH guidance39 and will focus on the recording the presence of otter signs as described in Sargent & Morris (2003)40 and Chanin (2003)41, including:

Holts: Underground features where otters live. They can be tunnels within bank sides, underneath root-plates or boulder piles, and even man-made structures such as disused drains. Holts are used by otters to rest up during the day, and are the usual site of natal or breeding sites. Otters may use holts permanently or temporarily;

Couches: These are above ground resting-up sites. They may be partially sheltered, or fully exposed. Couches may be regularly used, especially in reed beds and on in-stream islands. They have been known to be used as natal and breeding sites. Couches can be very difficult to identify, and may consist of an area of flattened grass or earth. Where rocks or rock armour are used as couches, these can be almost impossible to identify without observing the otter in-situ;

Prints: Otters have characteristic footprints that can be found in soft ground and muddy areas;

Spraints: Otter faeces may be used to mark territories, often on in-stream boulders. They can be present within or outside the entrances of holts and couches. Spraints have a characteristic smell and often contain fish remains;

Feeding signs: The remains of prey items may be found at preferred feeding stations. Remains of fish, crabs or skinned amphibians can indicate the presence of otter;

39 Otters and Development. SNH. 40.How to Find and Identify Mammals. The Mammal Society, London. Sargent, G. and Morris, P. 2003 41 Monitoring the Otter (Lutra lutra) Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers Monitoring Series No.10 English Nature, Peterborough. Chanin, P. 2003.



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Paths: These are terrestrial routes that otters take when moving between resting-up sites and watercourses, or at high flow conditions when they will travel along bank sides in preference to swimming; and

Slides and play areas: Slides are typically worn areas on steep slopes where otters slide on their bellies, often found between holts/couches and watercourses. Play areas are used by juvenile otters in play, and are often evident by trampled vegetation and the presence of slides. These are often positioned in sheltered areas adjacent to the natal Holt.

Any of the above signs are diagnostic of the presence of otter. However, it is often not possible to identify couches with confidence unless other field signs are also present. Sprainting is the most reliably identifiable evidence of the presence of this species.

Water vole surveys Water vole surveys will be undertaken along all Development Area watercourses, concurrently with otter surveys described above. Surveys shall extend for 250 m up and downstream of the Development Area and will follow methodology prescribed in Strachan & Moorhouse (2006)42. This will involve a search for the following field signs:

Faeces: Recognisable by their size, shape, and content. If not too dried-out these are also distinguishable from rat droppings by their smell;

Latrines: Faeces, often deposited at discrete locations known as latrines; Feeding stations: Food items are often brought to feeding stations along pathways

and hauled onto platforms. Recognisable as neat piles of chewed vegetation up to 10 cm long;

Burrows: Appear as a series of holes along the water’s edge distinguishable from rat burrows by size and position;

Lawns: May appear as grazed areas around land holes; Nests: Where the water table is high above ground woven nests may be found; Footprints: Tracks may occur at the water’s edge and lead into bank side vegetation.

May be distinguishable from rat footprints by size; and Runways in vegetation: Low tunnels pushed through vegetation near the water’s

edge; these are less obvious than rat runs.

Fisheries surveys The Galloway Fisheries Trust will undertake fisheries surveys, as required. Full electrofishing survey and habitat suitability assessment will be undertaken as necessary, and as informed through this scoping/consultation exercise.

42 The Water Vole Conservation Handbook. Second Edition, Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford. Strachan, R. and Moorhouse, T. 2006.



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Additional protected species surveys Depending on the exact nature of works and following feedback and findings from this scoping/consultation exercise, it may be necessary to undertake surveys for additional faunal species. The main such examples are summarised below:

Red Squirrel: The extent of red squirrel surveys will depend on the nature of the habitat loss associated with a proposed Development and will be informed by an initial habitat assessment, and findings from the Ex. P1 surveys. In the event that the resident population needs greater levels of study, then walked transects and hair-tube surveys may be appropriate. These methods will follow Gurnell, Lurz & Pepper (200143);

Pine Marten: In most cases, pine marten surveys will be undertaken in combination with other protected species surveys, such as red squirrel and badger. Furthermore, the need for such surveys will depend on the nature of the planned works, together with findings from the Ex. P1 surveys. General surveys methods shall follow O’Mahony et al. (200644);

Reptiles: An assessment will be made of the Development Area’s importance to reptiles based on surveyor expertise and local knowledge. It is likely, given the prevailing habitats that both adder and common lizard will be present across the Development Area, and whilst specific survey in this regard is not considered necessary, features of particular importance (i.e. potential hibernacula) will be recorded and considered as part of the assessment; and

Invertebrates: As with reptiles, it is not considered necessary to undertake specific surveys for terrestrial invertebrates; however those habitats of particular importance to the group (e.g. dead wood, wild flower assemblages etc.) will be recorded and considered as part of the assessment.

Assessment of Effects The assessment method will follow the process set out in the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2011 ("the EIA Regulations") and guidance on the implementation of the EU Birds and Habitats Directives45.

The assessment process involves the following:

Identification of the potential effects of the proposed Development; Incorporating potential effects into the design process as appropriate including

mitigation through design where possible; Consideration of the likelihood of occurrence of potential effects where appropriate;

43 Practical Techniques for Surveying and Monitoring Squirrels. Forestry Commission Practice Note. Gurnell, J., Lurz, P. & Pepper, H. 2001. 44 National Pine Marten Survey of Ireland 2005. O’Mahony D., O’Reilly, C. & Turner, P. 2006. 45 Habitats and Birds Directives, Nature Conservation: Implementation in Scotland of EC Directives on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna and the Conservation of Wild Birds (‘The Habitats and Birds Directives’). Revised Guidance Updating Scottish Office Circular No 6/1995. SERAD (Scottish Executive Rural Affairs Department) 2000.



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Defining the Nature Conservation Value of the ecological receptors present; Establishing the receptor’s Conservation Status where appropriate; Establishing the Magnitude of the likely effect (both spatial and temporal); Based on the above information, a professional judgement as to whether or not the

identified effect is significant with respect to the EIA Regulations; If a potential effect is determined to be significant, measures to mitigate or

compensate for the effect are suggested where required; If required, opportunities for enhancement may be considered; and Residual effects after mitigation, compensation or enhancement are considered.

Determining Nature Conservation Value Value is defined on the basis of the geographic scale. Attributing a value to a receptor is generally straightforward in the case of designated sites, as the designations themselves are normally indicative of a value level. For example, a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) designated under the Habitats Directive is implicitly of European (International) importance. In the case of species, assigning value is less straightforward as it is necessary to consider its distribution and status, including a consideration of trends based on available historical records. This means that even though a species may be protected through legislation at a national or international level, the relative value of the population on site may be quite different (e.g. the site population may consist of a single transitory animal, which within the context of a thriving local/regional/national population of a species, is clearly of local or regional value rather than national or international).

Where possible, the valuation of habitat/populations within this assessment will make use of any relevant published evaluation criteria (e.g. Nature Conservancy Council guidance on selection of biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)). Furthermore, JNCC/NBN guidance (2008) 46 will be consulted where relevant in order that cross-referencing of classifications within different systems can be standardised (e.g. correctly matching NVC types with Annex I habitats where relevant etc).

The term used for the ecological receptors affected at the site is 'Valued Ecological Receptors' (VERs).

Where relevant, information regarding the particular receptor’s conservation status shall also be considered in order to fully define its value. This will enable an appreciation of current population or habitat trends to be incorporated into the assessment.

The following sections further define the methods used to evaluate the magnitude of likely effects and nature conservation value.

46 NVC & Other Classification (webpage and link to corresponding xls) http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-4266) JNCC/NBN. 2008.



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Magnitude of Effects Effect magnitude refers to changes in the extent and integrity of an ecological receptor. The only definition of ecological ‘integrity’ within Scottish planning policy is found within circular 6/199547 which states that, “The integrity of a site is the coherence of its ecological structure and function, across its whole area, which enables it to sustain the habitat, complex of habitats and/or the levels of populations of the species for which it was classified”. Although this definition is used specifically regarding SACs and SPAs, it is applied here to wider countryside habitats and species.

Determining the magnitude of any likely effects requires an understanding of how the ecological receptors are likely to respond as a result of the proposed Development. This change can occur during construction and/or operation of the windfarm.

Effects can be adverse, neutral or beneficial.

Effects are judged in terms of magnitude in space and time, with relevant criteria used to define this, as standard.

Significance of Effects The significance of potential effects is determined by integrating the assessments of Nature Conservation Value, Conservation Status and Magnitude in a reasoned way.

A set of pre-defined significance criteria will be used in assessing the effects of the proposed Development. It requires to be established whether there will be any effects which will be sufficient to adversely affect the VER to the extent that its Conservation Status deteriorates above and beyond that which would be expected should baseline conditions remain (i.e. the ‘do nothing’ scenario). Furthermore, these predictions will be given with a level of confidence relative to the effect being assessed (in line with IEEM 2006)48.

Cumulative Effects Cumulative effects are not possible to evaluate through the study of one development in isolation, but require the assessment of effects when considered in combination with other developments. The context in which these effects are considered is heavily dependent on the ecology of the receptor assessed but in all cases will involve consideration of the cumulative effects upon the receptor extents/populations relevant to that receptor. For example, for water voles it may be appropriate to consider effects specific to individual catchments, should the distance between neighbouring catchments be sufficient to assume no movement of animals between them.

47 Nature Conservation: Implementation in Scotland of the Habitats and Birds Directives: Scottish Executive Circular 6/1995 as amended June 2000 48 Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management 2006



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Mitigation SPR is committed to implementing measures within the conceptual design process where possible to avoid or reduce potential effects on ecology. Good practice during construction and operation of the proposed Development is also implemented by way of mitigation.

Where likely significant effects on ecology are identified, measures to prevent, reduce and where possible offset these adverse effects will be proposed. Measures likely to be utilised include:

Appointment of an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) during construction of the proposed Development;

Adherence to Pollution Prevention Guidance; Implementation of water quality protection measures; Reinstatement of habitats to pre-construction conditions where possible; and Careful timing of activities and other construction measures such as ramping of

trenches and installation of dry culverts to avoid effects on protected species.



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9. Soils, Geology and the Water Environment

9.1 Introduction

This section sets out the proposed approach to the assessment of the potential effects of the proposed Development on the water environment (which includes hydrology and hydrogeology) and soils and geology (which includes an assessment of the distribution and thickness of peat at site) during the construction, operation and decommissioning of the windfarm.

The geological and water environment assessment will be prepared by SLR Consulting Limited.

9.2 Guidance

The soils, geology and water environment Chapter, of the ES, will be prepared with reference to best practice guidance and legislation, including:

Geology and Soils Developments on Peatland: Guidance on the Assessment of Peat Volumes, Reuse

of Excavated Peat and the Minimisation of Waste, Scottish Renewables and SEPA, (2012);

SEPA Regulatory Position Statement - Developments on Peat, SEPA, (2010); Peat Landslide Hazard and Risk Assessments: Best Practice Guide for Proposed

Electricity Generation Developments, Scottish Government, (2007); Developments on Peatland – Site Surveys and Best Practice, SNH, SEPA, Scottish

Government and The James Hutton Institute, (2011); Floating Roads on Peat, SNH and Forestry Commission Scotland, (2010). Managing Geotechnical Risk: Improving Productivity in UK Building and

Construction, Institution of Civil Engineers, (2001); Ground Engineering Spoil: Good Management Practice, CIRIA Report 179, (1997); Scottish Roads Network Landslides Study Summary Report, Scottish Executive,

(2005); Guidelines for the Risk Management of Peat Slips on the Construction of Low

Volume/Low Cost Roads on Peat, Forestry Commission, (2006); and Peat Landslide Hazard and Risk Assessments: Best Practice Guide for Proposed

Electricity Generation Developments, Scottish Government, (2007).

Water Environment Scottish Planning Policy, Scottish Executive, (2010); EC Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC), Water Environment and Water

Services (Scotland) Act 2003, and Water Environment (Controlled Activities) Regulations (2011);

Forests and Water Guidelines, Forestry Commission, (2012); Land Use Planning System – SEPA Guidance Note 6, SEPA, (2012);



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Control of Water Pollution from Linear Construction Projects – Technical Guidance, C648, CIRIA, (2006);

Good Practice during Windfarm Construction, Ver1, a joint publication by Scottish Renewables, SNH, SEPA and Forestry Commission Scotland, (2010);

The SUDS Manual C697, CIRIA, (2007); and Environmental Good Practice on Site C650, CIRIA, (2005).

9.3 Baseline Conditions

Geology and Soils The geology of the area comprises sedimentary sandstones and mudstones of the Shinnel, Portpatrick and Glenless Formations. Drift deposits are largely absent from the ridgelines. Where present in the valleys the drift deposits comprise glacial till, with alluvial deposits of silt, sand and gravel in the valleys of the larger burns. Areas of peat are shown to overlie the glacial till in the base of broader valleys.

Hydrogeology The mudstones hinder groundwater movement in the sandstones and groundwater movement is restricted to fracture flow. Any groundwater abstraction is likely to sustain only a limited yield. Near to surface water features, groundwater in drift deposits is likely to be in hydraulic with surface water.

Hydrology The majority of the proposed Development lies within the catchment of the Craiglearan Burn and Dalwhat Water. Both are tributaries of the River Nith. Part of the existing Wether Hill Windfarm access road lies within the catchment of the Carroch Burn which is a tributary of the River Ken.

9.4 Potential Effects

A summary of the potential effects on ground conditions and the water environment resulting from construction, operation and decommissioning of a windfarm is provided below.

Potential construction effects include:

Effects on surface water and groundwater quality from pollution from fuel, oil, concrete or other hazardous substances;

Discharge of sediment-laden runoff to drainage system and watercourses; Increased flood risk to areas downstream of the site during construction through

increased surface run-off; Disturbance of any residual ground contamination which might be associated with

historic land use (such as mining or forestry); Changes in groundwater levels from dewatering excavations; Potential change of groundwater flow paths and contribution to areas of peat and

groundwater dependent terrestrial ecosystems (GWDTEs);



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Disturbance of watercourse bed and banks from the construction of culverts; Ground instability (including peat slide risk); Potential pollution effects to public and private water supplies; and Potential blockage of existing forestry drainage channels or culverts during forestry

clearance or construction activities.

Potential operational effects include:

Increased runoff rates and flood risks, resulting from increases in areas of tracks and hardstanding at turbines;

Changes in natural surface water drainage patterns (which may affect water contribution to areas of peat and GWDTEs);

Changes to groundwater levels and groundwater movement; Longer term effects on abstraction for water supplies, particularly any supplies

dependent on groundwater; and Pollution effects on surface water quality from maintenance work.

Potential decommissioning effects include:

Effects on surface water and groundwater quality from pollution from fuel, oil or other hazardous substances;

Discharge of sediment-laden runoff to drainage system and watercourses; Ground stability and peat slide risk; and Potential pollution effects to public and private water supplies.

9.5 EIA Methodology

The potential effects from the proposed Development on ground conditions and the water environment will be assessed by completing an initial desk study followed by an impact assessment, the processes of which are detailed below.

The study area will include the all proposed site infrastructure In addition details of local water use and quality within a buffer of at least 3 km from the proposed infrastructure will be considered.

Consultation As part of the consultation phase of the project environmental data and views of the proposed Development will be sought from the SEPA, SNH, River Nith Salmon Fisheries Board and D&GC.

Desk Study An initial desk study will be undertaken to determine and confirm the baseline characteristics by reviewing available information pertaining to soils, geology, hydrology, and hydrogeology such as groundwater resources, licensed and unlicensed groundwater and surface water abstractions, public and private water supplies, surface water flows, flooding, rainfall data,



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water quality and soil data. This will include review of published geological maps, OS maps, aerial photographs and site specific data such as site investigation data, geological and hydrogeological reports, digital terrain models (slope plans) and geological literature.

The desk study will identify sensitive features which may potentially be affected by the proposed Development and will confirm the geological, hydrogeological and hydrological environment.

Field Surveys The hydrological assessment specialists will liaise closely with the project ecology and geology / geotechnical specialists to ensure that appropriate information is gathered to allow a comprehensive impact assessment to be completed.

A detailed site visit and walkover survey will be undertaken, in order to:

Verify the information collected during the desk and baseline study; Undertake a visual assessment of the main surface waters and identify private water

supplies; Identify drainage patterns, areas vulnerable to erosion or sediment deposition, and

any pollution risks; Visit any identified GWDTEs (in consultation with the project ecologists); Prepare a schedule of potential watercourse crossings; Inspect rock exposures, establish by probing an estimate overburden thicknesses (a

probe is pushed vertically into the ground to refusal and the depth is recorded); Confirm underlying substrate, based on the type of refusal of the probe (solid and

abrupt refusal-rock, solid but less abrupt refusal with grinding or crunching sound-sand or gravel, rapid and firm refusal-clay, gradual refusal-dense peat or soft clay);

Allow appreciation of the site, determining gradients, possible borrow pits, access routes, ground conditions, etc., and to assess the relative location of all the components of the proposed Development;

Complete a probing exercise that will identify areas of thick peat that may constrain the proposed Development (by inserting a probe into the ground and pushing into the peat to refusal then the depth is recorded); and

Confirm the distribution and depth of peat across the site using a 100 m grid.

The desk study and field surveys will be used to identify potential development constraints and be used as part of the site design process. Initial desk work indicates that peat appears to cover only a small percentage of the site, it is anticipated peat will not present a significant constraint.

The peat probing completed as part of the initial field surveys (see above) will be developed further as part of the as part of the assessment of effects of the proposed Development. The following works would be completed:



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Peat depths within the site will be obtained using a 50 m grid (the probing will also provide information of the substrate below the peat);

Geomorphological mapping to inspect those parts of the site identified as being of risk of peat slide (this may include areas outside the proposed site boundary, where potential peat slides could impact on to site);

A limited (in terms of aerial extent) geomorphological mapping exercise will be undertaken to link the topographic features with the underlying geology and to visit those areas of the site that may be identified as potentially ‘at risk from peat slide’;

The thickness of the peat will be established by probing and the underlying sub-strata confirmed by inspection of watercourses;

The investigation will look at turbine locations, access routes and borrow pits for signs of existing or potential peat instability; and

Output from the field survey will comprise a record of investigation locations and summary of peat depths recorded.

Once the design layout has been finalised SLR Consulting will return to the site and peat probe along the infrastructure (including within the forestry) at 50 m centres and undertake 10 m crosshair probing at turbine locations.

In conjunction with the project ecologists and hydrologists, an assessment of the condition of any peat will be assessed. The peat condition assessment will include (but not be limited to) details related to the characteristics of the soils, classification of vegetation cover, assessment of current land use impacts, assessment of drainage paths and channels, evidence of peat erosion and coring to further characterise the peat.

Mitigation Given both SPR’s commitment to, and prior experience of, implementing accepted good practice during construction and operation, and the current regulatory context, any potential effects on soils, geology and the water environment identified by the assessment will be addressed and mitigated by the conceptual site design and the application of best practice guidance to prevent, reduce or offset effects.

As a consequence, a number of measures are not considered to be mitigation as such, but rather an integral part of the design/construction process; and it is proposed that these will be taken into account prior to assessing the likely effects of the proposed Development. However, where appropriate, more tailored mitigation measures will be identified prior to determining the likely significance of residual effects.

Specific measures will also be detailed within the Draft Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) and will include as a minimum:

Adoption of best practice pollution prevention, drainage control and waste management procedures;

Control of drainage and sediment runoff from excavation areas and access tracks;



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Control of drainage and sediment runoff during the construction of watercourse crossings;

Control of concrete pouring; and Appropriate design of foundation installation, taking into account the presence of peat

across the site, the management of soil water levels and the potential to generate excessive quantities of groundwater contaminated sediments.

Drainage control will involve treatment and discharge of water into surrounding vegetation so that no increase in runoff to surrounding watercourses is experienced. These measures will reflect current best practice in the industry and will serve to prevent an increase in flood risk or decrease in downstream water quality. Consideration will also be given to discharges to areas of peat so as not to increase peat slide risk or change peat hydrology. Standard construction practices adopted on windfarm developments will be assessed, and modified where necessary, to ensure that predicted effects are able to be controlled. Guidance on the protection of the water environment including relevant SEPA and CIRIA guidance will also be used to assist with the development mitigation.

Assessment of Effects Once the desk study is completed and sensitive soil, geological and water features identified an impact assessment will be undertaken to assess the potential effects on soils, geology and the water environment as a result of the construction, operation and decommissioning of the proposed Development.

The purpose of this assessment will be to:

Identify any areas susceptible to peat slide, using peat thickness and DTM data to analyse slopes;

Assist in the micrositing of turbines, tracks and other infrastructure; Assess potential effects on soils, peat and geology; Determine what the likely effects of the proposed Development are on the

hydrological regime, including water quality, flow and drainage; Allow an assessment of potential effects on identified licensed and private water

supplies; Assess potential effects on water (including groundwater) dependent habitats; Determine the presence of any sensitive hydrogeological features and habitats; Determine suitable mitigation measures to prevent significant hydrological and

hydrogeological effects; Assist in the micrositing of turbines in the least hydrogeologically and hydrologically

sensitive areas by applying buffer zones around watercourses and other hydrological features; and

Develop an acceptable code for working on the site that will adopt best practice procedures, effective management and control of onsite activities to reduce or offset



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any detrimental effects on the geological, hydrogeological and hydrological environment.

A qualitative risk assessment methodology will be used to assess the significance of the potential effects. Two factors will be considered: the sensitivity of the receiving environment and the potential magnitude should that potential impact occur.

This approach provides a mechanism for identifying the areas where mitigation measures are required, and for identifying mitigation measures appropriate to the risk presented by the proposed Development. This approach also allows effort to be focused on reducing risk where the greatest benefit may result.

The sensitivity of the receiving environment (i.e. the baseline quality of the receiving environment as well as its ability to absorb the effect without perceptible change) and the magnitude of impacts will each be considered through a set of pre-defined criteria.

The sensitivity of the receiving environment together with the magnitude of the effect defines the significance of the effect, which will be categorised into level of significance.

If significant peat deposits are found following field survey, a Peat Landslide Hazard and Risk Assessment will be completed using the site survey data and slope analysis (using DTM data), highlighting areas that may be impacted by a peat slide so that appropriate mitigation measures and can be identified (see below).

A draft peat management plan will be prepared (if required) as a supporting technical appendix in line with the SEPA Regulatory Position Statement: Developments on Peat (2010) and based on guidance in Developments on Peatland: Guidance on the Assessment of Peat Volumes, Reuse of Excavated Peat and the Minimisation of Waste (Scottish Renewables and SEPA, (2012).

Residual and Cumulative Effects A statement of residual effects, following consideration of mitigation measures will be given. The assessment will consider potential cumulative effects associated with other windfarm developments within 10 km of the site and within the same surface water catchments.

Statement of Significance The soils, geology and water environment assessment will conclude with a Statement of Significance associated with the proposed Development.



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10. Cultural Heritage

10.1 Introduction

The ‘cultural heritage’ of an area comprises archaeological sites, historic buildings, gardens and designed landscapes, historic battlefields and other historic environment features. It also includes features or places in the landscape that have the capacity to provide information about past human activity, or which have cultural significance due to associations with literary or artistic works, folklore or historic events. The ‘setting’ of an asset within the wider landscape may contribute to its cultural heritage significance.

The cultural heritage impact assessment will identify cultural heritage assets that may be subject to effects, both within the limits of the proposed Development site and beyond, establish the archaeological potential of the proposed Development site, assess the predicted impacts and propose a programme of mitigation where appropriate. It will consider both direct effects (such as physical disturbance), and indirect effects (such as caused by change within the settings of assets).

The proposed approach to the assessment of effects on cultural heritage is set out below. The assessment will be undertaken by SLR Consulting Ltd.

10.2 Legislation and Guidance

Relevant legislation includes:

The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979; The Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas ) (Scotland) Act 1997; The Historic Environment (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2011 (this includes

amendments to the above); Scottish Planning Policy, Scottish Government (2010); Scottish Historic Environment Policy (SHEP) Historic Scotland (2011); and PAN2 / 2011 Planning and Archaeology Scottish Government (July 2011).

Assessment of effects will follow the current relevant guidance which includes factors to be considered in assessing the effect of a change on the setting of a historic asset or place:

Historic Scotland’s Managing Change in the Historic Environment (October 2010). This document provides guidance on how to assess what constitutes the setting of historic structures or places. This is the key document available to assist in managing change.

Historic Scotland’s annex to Scoping of Wind Farm Proposals. Assessment of Impact on the Setting of Historic Environment Resources: General Considerations (2005). This outlines a useful check-list of topics to include when assessing and characterising setting, the importance of that setting for understanding the site, and whether the effect of the proposed Development upon it is likely to be significant.



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10.3 Baseline

Part of the site was included in a survey of 1995: many post-medieval farming remains were noted, together with features possibly suggesting earlier, prehistoric, activity. The Historic Environment Record suggests that these are mainly clustered in southern part of the area.

Approximately 5 km to the west of the site at Smittons are two scheduled monuments and a category B listed building, with more distant category B listed buildings and scheduled monuments west and south of Knowehead.

Approximately 3 km to the east of the site at Craigdarroch lie four listed buildings one of which is category A. There are Category A and B listed buildings, scheduled monuments and conservation areas further east at Moniaive, 5 km and Tynron approx. 8.5 km, and category B listed buildings and scheduled monuments south-east of the site at Castlefairn, approximately 5 km away. Figure 6 identifies cultural heritage sites.


Potential effects on cultural heritage associated with the construction and / or operation of the proposed Development include:

Direct effects on sites or features of regional or local cultural heritage value; Direct effects on known or hitherto undiscovered sites or features, including

unforeseen buried remains of archaeological interest (partial or total removal, including severance of linear features);

Indirect effects on the settings of cultural heritage features including those resulting from intervisibility between the site/feature and the proposed Development; and

Cumulative effects on setting with other existing or proposed developments.

On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the cultural heritage team, and experience from other similar projects, it is not considered that any potential effects can be scoped out at this stage.

10.5 EIA Methodology

Study Area There is no guidance which defines dimensionally a required study area for the archaeological and cultural heritage assessment of windfarms. The study area will be a key issue to identify and agree in scoping, to ensure acceptability to D&GC and other relevant consultees. Analysis of indirect effects will only be carried out on sites raised by consultees and / or sites considered to be of exceptional importance in terms of potential effects on their setting.

During pre-scoping informal consultation, D&GC indicated that they will require addressing of possible setting issues with respect to national and regionally important designated assets (the latter taken to be B category listed buildings) within 10 km of the Development Area.



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Consideration of non-designated assets within 5 km of the Development Area boundary would be acceptable.

The sources used and assessments provided will be based on three spatial areas : an Inner Study Area comprising land within the Development Area; a Middle Study Area comprising land beyond the Inner Study Area and within 5 km of it, and an Outer Study Area of land beyond the Middle Study Area, based on the ZTV as defined in the Landscape and Visual Section of this document.

Within the Inner Study Area, all cultural heritage assets will be assessed for their significance and potential to be subjected to all forms of impacts from construction and operation including direct impacts and impacts on setting. The historic environment within the Middle Study Area will be assessed in order to predict the significance of potential direct effects from construction on currently-unknown cultural heritage assets within the Inner Study Area. In addition, all nationally important cultural heritage assets will be considered for operational impacts on their setting.

Within the Outer Study Area sites raised by consultees and / or sites considered to be of exceptional importance will be assessed in terms of impacts on their setting.

Desk-based Assessment The desk-based assessment will provide a synthesis of the historic environment and identify any cultural heritage issues within the study area using the following sources:

Consultation with the Dumfries and Galloway Historic Environment Record (HER) for the Inner and Middle Study Areas, for site-specific information including a visit to consult locally-held records if appropriate;

Consultation with Historic Scotland as appropriate for designated assets; Consultation with the D&GC Conservation Officers or equivalent to establish and

assess listed buildings and conservation areas; Consultation of web-based facilities for other information; Map regression using historic mapping sources to identify changes and development

of the historic landscape; Review of available Historic Landscape Characterisation for the Inner and Middle

Study Areas; A review of aerial photographs of the Inner Study Area (National Collection of Aerial

Photography, Edinburgh); Review of any geotechnical data including peat probing and sampling data; Synthesis of published sources to establish historic landscape and archaeological

context and any cultural heritage associations, including data from Canmore (the RCAHMS database); and

On-line data on designated assets including scheduled monuments, listed buildings and gardens and designed landscapes.



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Field Surveys A site inspection will be carried out of the locations of the recorded assets (where there is potential for their survival) and the unforested land and road margins within the site, to establish survival of known assets and identify potential for the existence of additional assets not currently identified. Asset mapping will be compared with the ZTV information and satellite imagery in order to identify the greatest potential effects on a desk-based basis, and then a detailed analysis of those sites will be carried out, including targeted field inspection.

Inspections to assess settings will be made as a minimum to scheduled monuments at Smittons and listed buildings at Craigdarroch.

The results of the desk-based assessment and field surveys will be manipulated and analysed in GIS and presented in an illustrated synthetic report, setting out the evidence for the development of the historic environment around the proposed Development site.

Assessment of Effects The EIA will consider the potential direct effects from construction within the site on identified heritage assets, and also the potential indirect effects including visual change to the settings of statutorily designated historic assets49 and / or other features that fulfil criteria for national importance within the study areas.

The relevant aspects of parallel studies will be incorporated into the cultural heritage assessment, through liaison with the other specialist technical disciplines during the assessment process, and cross-referencing in the resulting ES chapters. Key related studies are anticipated to be:

Landscape and ZTV; Noise; Shadow Flicker; Design; and Transport.

Analysis will include assessing the importance of the archaeological / cultural heritage sites, their function, intentionality and design issues and vulnerability to change. This is also relevant to the assessment of cumulative effect upon sensitive receptors, such as listed buildings or scheduled monuments with views of several windfarms.

Analysis of GIS layered data about the historic environment will be provided to the design team to assist with avoiding or minimising both direct and indirect effects on heritage assets. This may also include wireframe visualisations of the topography and proposed turbines from cultural heritage locations to facilitate assessment.

49 This term covers world heritage sites, scheduled monuments, listed buildings, conservation areas, historic marine protected areas, designated gardens and designed landscapes and designated historic battlefields.



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The effects of the scheme with regard to the historic environment will be presented as structured text and a tabulated summary, in both cases separating the elements contributing to assessment.

Assessment of effects will be presented in the following stages:

Description of asset; Assessment of heritage significance, and for indirect effects, what is of significance

within the setting of the asset to assist in appreciation of the asset; Assessment of the magnitude of effects caused by the proposed Development taking

into account the sensitivity of the asset to that form of change; and An assessment of the significance of the effects, to be made as the final assessment

stage, to be considered in the following stages: construction, operation and decommissioning.

These assessments will be carried out using professional judgement, taking into account designations and archaeological / cultural heritage importance. Significance of effect will be based on a combination of archaeological / cultural heritage importance, and magnitude of effect.

Mitigation SPR is committed to implementing accepted good practice during the design, construction and operation of the proposed Development, thereby ensuring that many potential effects on cultural heritage can be avoided or reduced.

Where adverse effects on cultural heritage are identified, measures to prevent, reduce, and / or where possible offset, these effects will be proposed. Measures which may be adopted include:

The micro-siting of proposed Development components away from sensitive locations;

The fencing off or marking out of cultural heritage sites or features in proximity to working areas in order to ensure avoidance of disturbance where possible;

A programme of archaeological work where required such as archaeological watching brief, during construction activities in, or in proximity to, areas of particular concern, or excavation and recording where damage is unavoidable; and

A working protocol to be implemented should unrecorded archaeological features be discovered.

Residual Effects A residual impact assessment will identify the significance of effect of the proposed Development on the historic environment.

Cumulative Effects A cumulative effect is considered to occur when there is:



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An effect on an asset or group of assets due to changes which would be caused by the main development under assessment; and

An effect on the same asset or groups of assets which would be caused by another development or developments.

Consideration of the other contributor developments is limited to those of the following kind:

Windfarm developments which have been applied for with decision pending; and Windfarm developments which have been granted permission but not yet

implemented.

Effects from operational windfarms are included in the baseline position.

Consultation with Historic Scotland and D&GC will assist with identifying developments to be considered within the cumulative assessment. Having firstly assessed the effects of the current application alone, cumulative effects will be addressed in two stages:

Assess the combined effect of the developments including the proposed Development; and

Assess the degree to which the proposed Development adds to the combined effects of the other developments.

Technical Appendices These will comprise:

Detailed description of methodology; and List of historic environment assets within the study area, presented by type and

spatial grouping.



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11. Noise

11.1 Introduction

Noise can arise from both the construction and the operation of windfarms. The noise assessment will therefore evaluate the effects of construction and operational noise of the proposed Development on nearby noise sensitive receptors. The noise assessment will be undertaken by Hoare Lea Acoustics.

11.2 Guidance

A number of information sources will be consulted as part of the desk based work. These include:

Scottish Planning Policy, Scottish Government (2010); Planning Advice Note 1/2011: Planning & Noise, Scottish Government (March 2011; Scottish Government Web Based Guidance on wind turbines (first published in

February 2011 and last updated in October 2012); ETSU-R-97, the Assessment and Rating of Noise from Wind Farms, Final

ETSU-R-97 Report for the Department of Trade & Industry. The Working Group on Noise from Wind Turbines (1997);

PAN1/2011 Technical Advice Note – Assessment of Noise, Scottish Government (March 2011);

Control of Pollution Act, Part III, HMSO (1974); BS5228-1:2009 Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and

open sites – Part 1: Noise; BS5228-2:2009 Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and

open sites – Part 2: Vibration; Planning Advice Note 50: Controlling The Environmental Effects of Surface Mineral

Workings (1996); BS6472-2:2008: Guide to evaluation of human exposure to vibration in buildings -

Part 2: Blast-induced vibration; Calculation of Road Traffic Noise, HMSO Department of Transport, (1988); Prediction and assessment of wind turbine noise – agreement about relevant factors

for noise assessment from wind energy projects. D Bowdler, AJ Bullmore, RA Davis, MD Hayes, M Jiggins, G Leventhall, AR McKenzie. Institute of Acoustics, Acoustics Bulletin, Vol 34, No 2 (March/April 2009);

ISO 9613-2:1996 ‘Acoustics – Attenuation of sound during propagation outdoors – Part 2: General method of calculation’, International Standards Organisation (1996);

Adjacent windfarm Environment Impact Assessments where relevant; and The Environmental Statement for Wether Hill Windfarm December (2003).



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The proposed Development is adjacent to the existing Wether Hill Windfarm. A background noise survey was undertaken and formed the basis of the assessment for the Whether Hill Windfarm in accordance with ETSU-R-97. Baseline data and derived noise limits which formed the basis of the consent for Whether Hill Windfarm will be referenced for assessing the total cumulative effects of the proposed Development when operating with adjacent windfarms, including the existing Wether Hill Windfarm. These existing baseline data will be reviewed to determine applicability to nearby noise sensitive receptor locations. At this stage it is proposed that further surveys of baseline background noise levels would not be undertaken as sufficient data on baseline conditions already exists and receptor locations are likely to be exposed to noise from the proposed Development are those which are closest and most likely exposed to noise from the existing Wether Hill Windfarm.


Noise can arise from both the construction and the operation of windfarms. During windfarm construction, noise can arise from both on-site activities such as the construction of access tracks, turbine foundations, substation buildings etc., and also from the movement of construction related traffic both on-site and travelling on public roads to and from the site. During their operation, windfarms have the potential to create noise effects through both aerodynamic noise and mechanical noise. Aerodynamic noise is caused by the interaction of the turbine blades with the air. Mechanically generated noise is caused by the operation of mechanical components, such as the gearbox and generator, which are housed within the nacelle of the turbine. However, the level of mechanical noise radiated from current technology wind turbines is generally engineered to a low level.


Study Area Potential noise sensitive receptors are to be identified which are considered to be representative of residential dwellings which may experience noise effects during construction and operation of the proposed Development.

Desk and Field Survey Data in the Wether Hill Windfarm Environmental Statement December 2003 will be utilised and shall allow determination of representative background noise levels and the location of potential sensitive receptors prior to undertaking assessment. Further map based studies will be undertaken to identify any additional and appropriate assessment locations.

Consultation It is anticipated that the following organisations will be contacted for information to inform the EIA: The Environmental Health Officer (EHO) at D&GC will be contacted to seek agreement regarding the approach to baseline background noise data, the assessment methodology and the noise limits which will apply to control cumulative noise levels.



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Assessment of Effects - Construction Construction works include both moving sources and static sources (including tree felling). The moving sources normally comprise mobile construction plant and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs). The static sources include construction plant temporarily placed at fixed locations and, in some instances, noise arising from blasting activities where rock is to be worked through.

Analysis of construction noise effects will be undertaken in accordance with BS5228:2009. BS5228 contains a number of methodologies for undertaking the prediction of construction noise levels, using as the baseline tabulated noise output data for typical items of plant and construction activities. These methodologies provide for the calculation of construction traffic noise along access tracks and haul routes and also for construction activities at fixed locations such as the bases of turbines, site compounds or the substation. These predictions will be made for the closest receptor to each activity, to indicate worst-case impacts. BS5228 calculated levels will be compared with effect criteria applicable to temporary construction activities, which are commonly regarded as providing an acceptable level of protection from the short term noise levels associated with construction activities.

Separate consideration will also be given to the possible noise effects of construction traffic passing to and from the site along local surrounding roads. In considering potential noise levels associated with construction traffic movement on public roads, reference will be made to the accepted UK prediction methodology provided by ‘Calculation of Road Traffic Noise’ (CRTN, 1988).

It is anticipated that some rock extraction from borrow pits by means of blasting operations may be required. Reference will be made to recommendations in PAN50 and BS5228 and suggested to be most appropriately controlled by mitigation and working practices.

Cumulative construction effects are unlikely due to the distance between this and other potential developments known at this stage, however further investigation will be undertaken to determine the potential for cumulative construction effects and included within the assessment if necessary.

Assessment of Effects - Operational The ETSU-R-97 assessment procedure is to be used, which specifies that noise limits should be set relative to existing background noise levels at the nearest properties and that these limits should reflect the variation in both turbine source noise and background noise with wind speed. ETSU-R-97 requires that the wind speed range which shall be considered is between the cut-in speed (the speed at which the turbines begin to operate) and 12 m/s where all wind speeds are referenced to a 10 m height.

Separate noise limits apply for daytime and for night time. Daytime limits are set to protect a property’s external amenity and night time limits are set to prevent sleep disturbance indoors. Absolute lower limits, different for daytime and night time, are applied where the line



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of ‘best fit’ representation of the measured background noise levels equates to very low levels (<35 dB(A) for daytime and <38 dB(A) during the night time).

The night time noise criterion curve is derived from background noise data measured during the night time periods (23h00 to 07h00), with no differentiation being made between weekdays and weekends.

The daytime noise limit is derived from background noise data measured during so called ‘quiet periods of the day’, comprising weekday evenings (18h00 to 23h00), Saturday afternoons and evenings (13h00 to 23h00) and all day and evening on Sundays (07h00 to 23h00). The ETSU-R-97 daytime noise limit, or ‘criterion curve’, is set at a level 5 dB(A) above the ‘best fit’ curve to the quiet daytime background noise data over a 0 to 12 m/s wind speed range. For wind speeds where the ‘best fit’ curve to the background noise data lies below a level of 30 dB(A) to 35 dB(A), the criterion curve is set at a fixed level in the range 35 dB(A) to 40 dB(A). The precise choice of criterion curve level within the range from 35 dB(A) to 40 dB(A) depends on a number of factors: the number of noise affected properties, the likely duration and level of exposure and the potential effect on the power output of the windfarm. The existing consent for Wether Hill Windfarm has already adopted the upper value of 40 dB(A) within this range and will therefore be adopted as the relevant criterion.

The exception to the setting of both the daytime and night time lower limits on the criterion curves discussed above occurs where a property occupier has a financial involvement in the windfarm development. Where this is the case, if the derived criterion curve based on 5 dB(A) above the measured background noise level falls below 45 dB(A), the lower noise limit at that property may be set to 45 dB(A) during both the daytime and the night-time periods alike.

The noise limits defined in ETSU-R-97 relate to the total noise occurring at a dwelling due to the combined noise of all operational windfarms. The assessment will therefore consider the combined operational noise of all wind turbines on the proposed Development along with any turbines on other windfarms which may contribute significantly to cumulative noise levels. Individual windfarm and overall cumulative predicted turbine noise levels are to be provided, to ensure that the combined cumulative noise levels are within the relevant ETSU-R-97 limits. Other windfarms considered cumulatively with the proposed Development will be included for those operating, those consented or those where a full planning application has been submitted, windfarms only at scoping opinion stage will not be included. Those windfarms which are known to the project team and which are near to the proposed Development will be tested by prediction to determine if their contribution is significant enough to require their inclusion within the assessment. At this stage significant cumulative effects are not anticipated from windfarms more than 10 km from the proposed Development.

To undertake the assessment of noise in accordance with the foregoing methodology the following steps will be undertaken:



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Specify the number and locations of the wind turbines to be included in the assessment, those in the proposed Development and adjacent windfarms which are to be considered cumulatively;

Identify the locations of the nearest, or most noise sensitive, properties; Determine appropriate and representative background noise levels as a function of

site wind speed at the nearest properties; Determine the daytime and night time criterion curves from the background noise

data as a function of site wind speed at the nearest properties; Specify the type and noise emission characteristics of the wind turbines to be

included in the assessment, those in the proposed Development and adjacent windfarms which are to be considered cumulatively;

Calculate the noise immission levels due to the operation of the wind turbines of the proposed Development and other adjacent windfarms to be considered, individually and as a cumulative total at the nearest properties, all as a function of site wind speed; and

Compare the calculated cumulative windfarm noise immission levels with the derived criterion curves and assess in the light of ETSU-R-97 requirements.

Significance of Effects – Construction Based on the range of guidance values set out in BS 5228 Annex E, and other reference criteria, effects significance criteria will be derived. The significance values will be chosen in recognition of the relatively low ambient noise typically observed in rural environments. Assessing the potential effects of noise due to traffic during construction will also make use of the criteria in the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DRMB).

Significance of Effects – Operational A methodology for establishing acceptable operational noise limits is clearly defined in ETSU-R-97, as described above, which is designed to protect the amenity of surrounding residences whilst recognising the need for sustainable energy development. Windfarm noise immission levels that fall below the ETSU-R-97 derived criterion curves are considered to be acceptable, and conversely, noise levels exceeding the criterion curves may be considered unacceptable and therefore constitute a significant impact under the EIA Regulations.

Mitigation SPR is committed to implementing accepted good practice during design, construction and operation of the windfarm, thereby ensuring that many potential noise and vibration effects can be avoided or reduced.

Where significant noise or vibration effects are identified, measures to prevent, reduce, and where possible offset these adverse effects will be proposed. Measures which may be utilised during construction of the proposed Development include:

Restricted hours of infrastructure works to avoid sensitive periods;



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The fitting of equipment with appropriate noise control measures (e.g. silencers, mufflers and acoustic hoods);

The positioning of temporary site compounds as far as practicably possible from neighbouring residential properties; and

Additional good practice measures as set out in BS5228:2009.



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12. Access, Traffic and Transport

12.1 Introduction

Potential effects of the proposed Development in terms of access and transportation will be assessed and reported in the Access, Traffic and Transportation Chapter of the ES. A synopsis of the proposed assessment is provided in the sections below.

12.2 Guidance

The assessment will be undertaken to accord with the requirements of:

Transport Assessment Guidance, Transport Scotland (2012); Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic, Institute of

Environmental Assessment (The IEMA Guidelines, 1993); and The relevant DfT design standards contained within the Design Manual for Roads

and Bridges.


The access route for the existing Wether Hill Windfarm is from the west, via the B729 which joins with the A713. A review of access options to the site, including the existing Wether Hill Windfarm access will be undertaken. An Abnormal Loads Assessment will be prepared to examine the feasibility of the access routes for delivery of turbine components and following selection of the preferred option, a ‘Trial Run’ may be required.

At this point, on the assumption that the existing Wether Hill Windfarm access will continue to be utilised, the study area will be:

A high level overview of the A713 route from Ayr to Carsphairn (via Patna and Dalmellington);

Detailed assessment of the B729; and Detailed assessment of the site access.

On the wider road network, beyond the B729 / A713 junction at Carsphairn, it is envisaged that the increase in construction phase traffic when compared with baseline levels will be below defined thresholds (as defined below), and therefore further environmental assessment will not be required.


The proposed Development has the potential to effect transport receptors during its construction phase, with negligible impacts during the operational phase and, during decommissioning, a lesser level of effect than during construction. Transportation effects associated with the construction phase will be assessed as part of the EIA and reported in the ES.



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Potential environmental effects associated with the construction and / or operation of the proposed Development include:

Effects of construction traffic on existing traffic flows and the public road network (which will be quantified through comparison of existing traffic flows, and vehicle composition with the forecast construction phase traffic generation); and

Cumulative effects of construction traffic upon traffic flows (the combined effect of traffic generated by the proposed Development and other relevant developments).

On the basis of the work undertaken to date, the professional judgement of the traffic and transport specialist, and experience from other similar projects, it is considered likely that the following can be scoped out:

The effect of operational and maintenance vehicles on existing traffic flows and the local road network.


Desk and Field Survey Seven day, 24 hour automatic traffic counts (ATCs) will be undertaken to measure volume, vehicle classification and speed, at two locations within the study area, including the A713 and B729. The data will provide a picture of the current traffic levels on existing roads.

Road Traffic Accident data will be obtained from D&GC for a three year period within the study area.

A detailed visual survey will be undertaken of the localised access routes to the site for abnormal loads and other construction vehicles. Where necessary, vehicle swept path assessment will be undertaken over OS 1:1,250 mapping.

Assessment of Effects The level of construction phase trips will be assessed from first principles, based on the volumes of materials required, the programme for the works and the specific nature of each construction operation. A profile of construction phase trips through the construction period will then be developed.

Traffic effects will be assessed against measured baseline flows. Effects will be considered against the following elements:

Effects on road capacity and driver delay; Effects on road safety; Effects on community severance; and Effects on pedestrian and cyclists.

Data of predicted traffic increases will also be utilised within the assessment presented in the Noise Chapter of the ES.



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Appropriate outline designs of required road and junction improvements will be prepared.

Cumulative Effects A review of the likely programming of other windfarm developments, both under construction and/or permitted, will be undertaken so as to consider the overall cumulative effect of construction of the developments with the proposed Development. Once operational, developments generate negligible vehicle trips and therefore need not be considered cumulatively.

Significance of Effects The potential effects will be assessed by considering the predicted levels of traffic generated during construction against the baseline traffic levels on the adjacent roads. The significance of effects will be determined through the guidance provided in the IEMA Guidelines. The guidance advises that the day to day flow variation of + or – 10% is to be expected in the base situation and that projected changes in traffic of less than 10% would create no discernible environmental impact. Therefore, increases in traffic levels of below 10% will be considered as no effect.

Where effects exceed 10%, then the defined rules within the IEMA Guidelines will be used to determine whether thresholds are exceeded whereby an environmental assessment is required:

Where the total traffic would increase by 30% or more (10% in sensitive areas); or Where the HGV traffic would increase by 30% or more (10% in sensitive areas).

Further consideration as to whether the study area constitutes a sensitive area in the context of the above (i.e. the presence of sensitive receptors etc) will be considered as part of the assessment and reported in the ES Traffic and Transportation Chapter.

Where the defined threshold is not exceeded, in accordance with the IEMA Guidelines, no assessment of environmental impact is required and the significance of effect is considered as minimal or none. Where the threshold is exceeded, then an assessment of the relevant criteria (driver delay, safety, severance etc) will be undertaken and it its significance of residual effect evaluated.



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13. Socio-economics, Tourism, Recreation and Land Use

13.1 Introduction

The purpose of a Socio-economic Impact Assessment (SIA) is to consider effects both positive and negative as a result of the proposed Development on:

The local economy; Tourism; and Recreation and land use.

The SIA will assess:

The project and cumulative effects; The significance of these effects; and Potential mitigation measures.

The SIA will take into account the findings of other ES chapters including those of the LVIA and Cultural Heritage.

The SIA will be prepared by SLR Consulting Ltd.

13.2 Guidance

The EIA Regulations state that an EIA shall identify, describe and assess in an appropriate manner, the direct and indirect effects of a project on human beings, and the interaction between human beings and other environmental aspects of the project. The SIA will seek to fulfil this requirement.

The assessment will follow current best practice guidance as set out in the following documents:

PAN 58 Environmental Impact Assessment; Circular 3/2011: the Town and County Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment)

(Scotland) Regulations 2011; Economic Appraisal Guidance Note Scottish Enterprise (2008); A handbook on environmental impact assessment SNH (2009); Scottish Planning Policy, Scottish Government (2010); A Low Carbon Economic Strategy for Scotland: Scotland - A Low Carbon Society,

Scottish Government (2010); Good Practice Wind Guidance, Scottish Government (2012); and National Renewables Infrastructure Plan, Scottish Enterprise (2010).

Scottish Government economic policy is looking for 4% growth a year in low carbon sector jobs to 2020, rising from 70,000 to 130,000, over 5% of the Scottish work force. The three



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overarching themes that are considered as priorities in delivering low carbon growth are as follows:

Making Scotland a leading low carbon investment destination; Maximising the social and economic opportunities of energy and resource efficiency;

and Encouraging consumer and business demand for low carbon products and

services50.


The proposed Development site is located approximately 5 km northwest of Moniaive in Dumfries and Galloway. The proposed study area for the SIA is the Dumfries and Galloway region. The proposed Development is located within the administrative boundary of Dumfries and Galloway Council, more specifically in the Mid and Upper Nithsdale ward and in close proximity to the boundary of the Castle Douglas and Glenkens ward.

Dumfries and Galloway is the third largest region in Scotland covering 6,426 sq km and accounting for 8% of the total land area of Scotland. The largest town is Dumfries, followed by Stranraer and Annan. Over a quarter of the population lives more than 30 minutes drive from a large town and one third of people living in settlements with less than 500 people.

Agriculture accounts for 70% of the area with woodland covering another 25%. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture and forestry with a range of light industries and tourism making significant contributions. The two major trunk roads in the region are the A74 (currently being upgraded to motorway standards) and the A75 connection with Northern Ireland. Approximately 750,000 vehicles move through the area as a result of the ferry crossing51.

To obtain more detailed information on existing conditions a desk-based review and analysis of available information and data-sets will be undertaken to confirm the existing social characteristics and economic activity within the study area including population statistics, labour market, education, health and skills.

Tourism Dumfries and Galloway falls within the Southern Scotland Tourism Region which also include the Scottish Borders. In 2011, Great Britain residents took an estimated 1.24 million visits to Southern Scotland, staying 4.46 million nights and spending £255 million. Overseas visitors made 89,000 trips, staying 545,000 nights and spending £87 million52.

It is estimated tourism accounted for 11% of employment in Dumfries & Galloway – placing tourism in the top three of employment sectors. Tourism in the area is focused on a number

50 Scottish Government (2011) A Low Carbon Economic Strategy for Scotland: Scotland - A Low Carbon Society 51 Dumfries and Galloway Council: http://www.dumfries-and-galloway.co.uk/facts/info.htm 52 Visit Scotland- Tourism in Southern Scotland, 2011



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of visitor attractions, the majority of which have either archaeological or historical significance (Dumfries & Galloway operate or support more museums than any other Scottish local authority), and the attraction of the area’s countryside and coastline.

The area around the proposed Development site, the parish of Glencairn, is a tourist destination within Dumfries & Galloway and local community groups are active in promoting the area to visitors. Principal attractions are its landscape, historical interest, and its association with arts and crafts, particularly with James Paterson, one of ‘The Glasgow Boys’ who lived and worked in Moniaive for 22 years in the latter part of the 19th Century. Moniaive holds several annual events throughout the calendar year that attract a variety of tourists including the Flower Show, Folk Festival and Comics Festival.

The other principal element in attracting tourists into Glencairn is outdoor recreation. The 212 mile long Southern Upland Way is 3 km to the west of the site. This is the St Johns Town of Dalry to Sanquhar section of the Way and is the longest stretch at over 25 miles. It is suitable for experienced walkers. No signed footpaths or established rights of way have been identified on the site.

Cycling is also a popular activity in Dumfries & Galloway with a number of designated routes located in the area. No designated cycle routes traverse the site. The National Cycle Network passes through 200 miles of Dumfries & Galloway. Sustrans Route Leg 7 (Carlisle-Inverness) passes through Dumfries & Galloway via the principle settlements of Annan, Dumfries, Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbright and Newton Stewart. The B729 to the south of the site forms part of a “signed on-road cycle route” that leads to St John’s Town of Dalry in the south and to a spur route to the north-east, north of Penpont and Thornhill.

The Striding Arches Project which is a series of Andy Goldsworthy sculptures is set in the landscape at Cairnhead in the Dalwhat Valley about 7 km from Moniaive. There are four arches in total; three are on the summits of Benbrack, Colt Hill and Bail Hill, the fourth is at the Byre at Cairnhead and is easily accessible from the forest track. The project is a combination of public art, improved access into the countryside at Cairnhead and outdoor education. The project included the redevelopment of the Cairnhead Byre as an interpretive and educational facility. The Striding Arches Project also links up the arches with the Southern Upland Way and Moniaive, utilising existing routes and proposed new tracks.

Land use Scotland's first Land Use Strategy was laid in Parliament on 17 March 2011 53 . The development of the Strategy is a key commitment of Section 57 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009.

The Land Use Strategy recognises the benefits and implications of decisions by focusing on common goals for different land users, the Strategy will help to achieve a more integrated

53 Getting the best from our land - A land use strategy for Scotland Action Plan Scottish Government December 2011



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approach to land use, maintaining the future capacity of Scotland's land. The Land Use Strategy sets out objectives relating to the economy, environment and communities. It provides a set of Principles for Sustainable Land Use to guide policy and decision making by Government and across the public sector. The Strategy seeks to assist in a shift towards:

Delivering multiple benefits; Partnerships with nature; and Linking people with the land.

The land use on the site is predominantly rough grazing. The SIA will identify different land users to consider how the proposed Development would integrate with existing goals.


The potential effects of the proposed Development may include:

Effects on local tourism and recreation, such as walking, cycling, horse riding, public art and outdoor education;

The generation of local and wider direct, indirect and induced employment, business opportunities and development of local skills during the development, manufacturing, construction, operational and maintenance, and de-commissioning phases of the development;

Wider direct and indirect economic benefits and dis-benefits from the proposed scheme; and

Effects on existing land use.

Cumulative effects on employment opportunities, and tourism and recreation and their amenity will also be considered.


The assessment will involve desk study, consultation, data processing and analysis as well as interpretation using professional judgement. The proposed Development will be analysed within the socio-economic characteristics of the study area to identify the potential positive and negative effects on socio-economics, land use and tourism. A more detailed methodology is set out at the end of this section.

Baseline Assessment and Desk Study A review of existing conditions in the area will be undertaken, particularly those in close proximity to the proposed Development in relation to land use, recreation and socio-economics. This desktop assessment will be supplemented by a site visit.

The SIA will identify the key socio-economic constraints within the study area. These constraints will include inter alia:



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International, national and regional sites of tourism importance such as National Trust land, national walking trails, Southern Upland Way, Rights of Way, SUSTRANS routes, RSPB reserves etc;

Local receptors such as community forest, museums, picnic areas, playgrounds, heritage railways, fishing, riding schools etc;

Industry / business receptors – business parks; industrial estates; shopping centres; airports;

Strategic development sites, such as housing; Agricultural land; woodland; previously developed land; and Industries reliant on scenery – film, tourism, recreation

SIA Methodology The approach to this assessment will incorporate socio-economic factors by identifying the potential effect of the proposed Development on baseline conditions and its relevance to policy considerations, at a local, regional and national level. This will involve:

Consideration of the social and economic policy (including land use and tourism) context at the local, regional and national level;

A review of local land use, recreation, tourism and socio-economic baseline conditions at the site and in the surrounding area, including, inter alia, the numbers of businesses that benefit directly from tourism and visitor expenditure, the estimated turnover of these businesses and the numbers of people they employ;

An assessment of likely scale, scope, permanence and significance of identified impacts at all phases of the proposed Development; and

Recommending mitigation measures, where appropriate during the different phases of the proposed Development.

The SIA will seek to understand how the key construction and operational activities would translate into investment and jobs. The assessment will consider construction, operational and decommissioning effects along with any potential cumulative effects. The magnitude of change and significance of potential effects depends upon the scale, nature and quality of the proposal, together with the sensitivity of the receptor. Any significant effects which could be direct, indirect, secondary, cumulative, short, medium and long term, permanent or temporary will be examined and their significance assessed. It is recognised that these effects can be either adverse or beneficial. There are no agreed guidelines for socio-economic significance criteria, magnitude of change or sensitivity of receptors; however a set of pre-defined assessment criteria will be devised based on guidance, professional judgement and experience from assessment of similar projects.

Assessment of Significance The assessment of overall significance of effect is based on combining the degree of vulnerability of the receptor to change with the magnitude of the predicted effects. The threshold of significance will vary across different socio-economic receptors and will



Scoping Report

dependent on sensitivity and magnitude of effect. There are no guidelines at present and professional judgement will be applied. The criteria for assessment of significance will be clearly set out in the ES.

Mitigation Mitigation measures will be considered to optimise beneficial effects and mitigate significant effects, for example, the timing of direct effects during construction, the maximising of the local supply chain through choice of design. Where direct or indirect effects are deemed significant under the EIA Regulations, mitigation measures will be proposed. It is assumed that these will only be necessary if effects are perceived to be negative – positive effects in terms of direct and indirect employment and financial input into the local economy will not require mitigation.

Additional mitigation measures may include:

Appropriate placement of access tracks and ancillary infrastructure; Utilisation of existing tracks where feasible to reduce the area of land take; and Production of a Traffic Management Plan for use during construction to effectively

manage road users (motorists, walkers and cyclists) in the vicinity of the proposed Development.

Cumulative Effects The SIA will consider the baseline characteristics of the local area at the site, and given nearby proposals, the cumulative and synergistic effects arising from other developments (consented and in planning) on the study area. In relation to cumulative effect this will depend on the extent to which the supply chain has the capacity to meet demand from a number of projects. An assessment will be made as to whether it is likely that the cumulative effect indicates a loss of benefit due to cumulative projects or an enhancement of opportunity which helps to develop expertise and capacity in the supply chain. In terms of recreation the SIA will consider the findings of other disciplines (including LVIA, Traffic and Cultural Heritage) to assess the effects at the different phases of the proposed Development.

Consultation The initial consultation will encompass a stakeholder mapping process, which will in the first instance, identify statutory and non-statutory consultees for the SIA. Non-statutory consultees will include community interests, local tourism and economic bodies. Consultation will be undertaken throughout the EIA process and will include, however, it not limited to the following consultees:

British Horse Society Scotland; Cairnhead Community Forest Trust; Creative Scotland; Dumfries and Galloway economic development;



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Horse Scotland; Local Community Councils; Ramblers Association; Scottish Anglers Association; Scottish Enterprise; ScottishPower Renewables; Scottish Rights of Way and Access Society (Scotways); Visit Scotland; and

EIA and ES The EIA will include follow up with scoping and other consultees; carrying out further baseline data collection and analysis; constraints mapping; input to layout design; identification of potential environmental effects of all proposed infrastructure (construction, operation, decommissioning and cumulative); identify mitigation measures; evaluate the significance of effects taking into consideration mitigation measures and; identify residual effects and monitoring requirements.

The proposed method seeks to balance a top down assessment of economic impact (macro- picture) and bottom-up approaches which require a more detailed assessment of projected impacts at the local level.

Technical Appendices The technical appendix for the SIA will provide the methodology and detailed baseline assessment.



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14. Forestry

14.1 Introduction

This section sets out the approach which will be used to integrate the proposed Development into the existing woodland structure. A Windfarm Forest Design Plan will be prepared which will detail felling and replanting proposals during the construction and operation of the windfarm. This will be undertaken by DGA Forestry.

14.2 Guidance

In the UK there is a strong presumption against permanent deforestation unless it addresses other environmental concerns. In Scotland such deforestation is dealt with under the Scottish Government’s “Control of Woodland Removal Policy”.54 The purpose of the policy is to provide direction for decisions on woodland removal in Scotland. It will be essential that the requirements of the Policy are addressed within the forestry section of the ES whilst ensuring that the forestry proposals do not compromise the wind flow and yield of the proposed Development. The integration of the proposed Development into the forest design plan will be a key part of the development process.

The main forestry consultee is Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) who will be consulted throughout the development of the proposals to ensure that the proposed changes to the woodlands are appropriate and address the requirements of the Control of Woodland Removal Policy.

The forestry proposals will be prepared in accordance with the current industry best practice and guidance including, but not limited to:

The UK Forestry Standard: The Government’s Approach to Sustainable Forestry 3rd Edition. Forestry Commission (2011);

The Scottish Forestry Strategy, Forestry Commission Scotland (2006); The UK Woodland Assurance Standard 3rd Edition. UKWAS (2012); The Scottish Government’s Policy on Control of Woodland Removal. Forestry

Commission Scotland (2009); Forests and Water Guidelines (Fourth Edition). Forestry Commission (2003); and Forests and Archaeology Guidelines (and other guidelines in the same series).

Forestry Commission (1995).


The site, while only partially forested, is located in an area with extensive commercial woodlands both private and publicly owned. The crops within the site are primarily commercial conifers. A desk based constraints check revealed there are no woodland

54 The Scottish Government’s Policy on Control of Woodland Removal. Forestry Commission Scotland, Edinburgh, Forestry Commission Scotland (2009).



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based designations within the site (see Figure 6). Generally the majority of the woodlands are considered as being of low sensitivity.

The Forestry Study Area will be defined based on the existing Forest Design Plan areas and the developable area within the site. The forestry baseline will describe the crops existing at time of preparation of the ES. This will include species composition; age class structure; yield class; other relevant crop information; baseline felling and restocking plans, as available. The baseline will be prepared from existing records, site surveys and aerial photographs.


Areas of woodland may need to be cleared for the construction and operation of the proposed Development including access roads, turbine locations and other infrastructure. In addition areas of woodland may need to be cleared for wind resource purposes. The potential effects would be changes to the structure of the woodlands, which may result in a loss of woodland area. This will be addressed through the redesign of the existing forest including, for example, the use of designed open space; alternative woodland types; or changing the management intensity. The changes to the forests for a particular development are regarded as site specific and it is considered that there are no cumulative forestry issues to be addressed.


Forestry does not fit well into the standard EIA assessment process. As commercial forests are dynamic and constantly changing through landowner activities this will not be a formal EIA assessment, but instead it will describe the changes to the forest structure resulting from the incorporation of the windfarm into the forest. This will include the changes to, for example, the woodland composition and felling programmes.

The principal output will be the preparation of the Windfarm Forest Design Plan. This will include a felling plan to show which woodlands are to be felled and when they are to be felled during the life of the windfarm. It will further include a restocking plan showing which woodlands would be replanted and when they would be replanted during the life of the proposed Development. The changes to the woodland structure will be analysed and described including changes to species composition, age class structure, timber production, traffic movements and the felling and restocking plans.

The forestry report will be presented in a separate Forestry Technical Appendix, together with a summary in the main Project Description. Information will be presented in text, tables and diagrams together with maps as necessary.



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15. Other Issues

15.1 Introduction

In addition to the assessments outlined above in previous sections, the ES will include:

An assessment of the potential effects of the proposed Development on aviation, defence, and telecommunications interests;

Consideration of potential effects of the proposed Development associated with shadow flicker; and

A carbon balance calculation of the proposed Development.

15.2 Aviation

Introduction The effects of wind turbines on aviation interests have been widely publicised but the primary concern is one of safety. There are innumerable subtleties in the actual effects but there are two dominant scenarios:

Physical: Turbines can present a physical obstruction at or close to an aerodrome; and

Radar/Air Traffic Services: Turbine clutter appearing on radar displays can affect the safe provision of air traffic services as it can mask unidentified aircraft from the air traffic controller and/or prevent him from accurately identifying aircraft under his control. In some cases, radar reflections from the turbines can affect the performance of the radar system itself.

Guidance The following guidance documents will be reviewed to further establish the baseline for assessment:

Civil Aviation Publication (CAP)032 UK IAIP (United Kingdom Integrated Aeronautical Information Package);

CAP168 Licensing of Aerodromes; CAP393 Air Navigation: The Order and the Regulations; CAP670 Air Traffic Services Safety Requirements; CAP738 Safeguarding of Aerodromes; CAP764 Policy and Guidelines on Wind Farms; Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Policy Statement: The lighting of Wind Turbine

Generators in United Kingdom Territorial Waters; Lockyears Farm Strips and Private Airfields Guide; Military Aeronautical Information Publication (Mil AIP); and Pooleys Flight Guide, United Kingdom.



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Baseline Conditions The baseline environment will be described in detail in the Aviation Impact Assessment (AIA) that will form a technical appendix to the ES.

The main method of establishing the baseline environment and assessing the potential effects upon military and civilian aviation and radar is to consult with those who own and operate the potentially affected systems and infrastructure.

The location of the proposed Development will be compared against charts and data contained within the UK IAIP to determine the airspace structure and usage in the vicinity of the site. The CAA charts (CAA Visual Flight Rules [VFR], 2012) are used to identify aerodromes and other stakeholders.

A database of radar and navigation equipment is used in order to define and identify the potential systems that are relevant to the identified stakeholders and that may be affected by turbines placed within the proposed Development.

A Feasibility Assessment has been conducted as part of the Scoping Report. The Feasibility Assessment of the site has been completed in accordance with CAA CAP764 and CAP168 where applicable.

The indicative proposed turbines are under the Scottish Terminal Control Area TMA and significant Class C airspace. The National Air Traffic Services (NATS) will be consulted in this regard and any effects of the proposed Development assessed. The NATS Project RM (Raytheon Mitigation) will inform the technical mitigation options, should they be required, for the proposed Development.

The location, and cumulative effect, of the proposed Development with regards to military low flying areas will be established and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) consulted in this regard.

Potential effects on Glasgow and Glasgow Prestwick Airports will be reviewed and both will be consulted in this regard.

Following preliminary review, no other aviation issues were identified e.g. other unlicensed airfields / farm strips / glider strips that have the potential to be affected by the proposed Development.

Potential Effects

Potential effects of the proposed Development on aviation include: Vertical obstructions present collision risk to military low-flying, helicopter operations

(including Search and Rescue (SAR)) and general aviation; and



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Appearance of large areas of unwanted returns (clutter), and its cumulative effect, on Air Traffic Control (ATC) Primary Control Radar (PSR). Unmitigated, these effects persist for the life of the windfarm.

EIA Methodology The potential effects from the proposed Development on aviation stakeholders will be assessed by completing an initial desk study contributing to the AIA.

Potential aviation stakeholders are identified in accordance with guidance in CAP764. The extents of expected effects quoted in the guidance are used as a guide and a minimum; the guidance states that any wind turbine development within 30 km of an aerodrome with a surveillance radar facility, might have an effect upon civil aerodrome related operations. The guidance goes on to say that the distance can, however, be far greater than 30 km depending upon a number of factors including the type and coverage of the radar and the particular operation at the aerodrome.

Consideration is given to any en-route and air defence radars that are within operational range of the site. Operational range varies by radar and by using a database of all Air Traffic Control (ATC) and air defence radars in the UK, the study areas can be defined on a case by case basis in this respect. Definition of the study area for aviation can often be a subjective process.

No standard methodologies are applicable to defining the aviation baseline but established using a combination of the guidance provided above and professional judgement.

Assessment of Effects An AIA will be carried out which consists of a desk-based review of the location of the site relative to stakeholder locations, aeronautical navigation equipment (including radars) and operations in the study area. Safeguarding requirements contained within guidance documents, and radar line of sight (LoS) analyses, will inform the technical impact assessment.

The Radar LoS analysis technique makes use of a radar propagation model to assess whether the radar is likely to detect turbines within the site. This analysis is supported through consultation with the stakeholders where applicable.

Mitigation Mitigation of the effects of wind turbines on aviation will take the form of technical (radar) or operational (low flying) measures. Further mitigation may be achieved through site design.

Cumulative Effects It is difficult to quantify the maximum allowable impact or maximum tolerable level of mitigation as it will vary by stakeholder. Therefore, the main method for assessing the cumulative and in-combination impacts will be through consultation with the stakeholders.



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Other windfarm developments to be considered within the AIA will be confirmed with relevant consultees.

Residual Effects The primary concern for aviation stakeholders is one of safety. It is understood that NATS will not accept any significant residual (post-mitigation) restrictions on their ability to continue safe, and/or effective, operations. An expectation is that the implementation of suitable mitigation will reduce the magnitude of effects to an acceptable level.

Vertical obstruction, the wind turbines, will remain as a residual effect to low-flying.

Significance of Effects Magnitude of change and the sensitivity of a receptor are often subjective in aviation and difficult to quantify; whereas an Air Defence Radar (ADR) installation would be an obvious high value and high sensitivity receptor to most (due to its role in UK national security) the sensitivity of a local aerodrome can often be rated high if the Planning Authority considers the receptor to be significant asset to the local area.

Thus the significance criteria are not strictly based on the sensitivity of the receptor or magnitude of change but on whether the industry regulations for safe obstacle avoidance or radar separation (from radar clutter) can be maintained in the presence of the turbines.

A qualitative approach to assessing impacts has therefore been adopted for the assessment.

15.3 Telecommunications

Windfarms produce electromagnetic radiation which has the potential to interfere with broadcast communications and signals. In order to determine the potential effect of the proposed Development, scoping consultation will be undertaken with the relevant bodies and organisations including the following:

Ofcom; Arqiva; BBC online tool; and Any telecommunications operators identified by Ofcom.

If concerns are raised in respect of telecommunications the potential effects will be assessed and mitigation measures identified where appropriate. There are standard measures for mitigating against potential implications to telecommunications, measures may include an alteration to the windfarm layout or the instillation of signal boosting equipment.

Consultation with the BBC online tool for windfarms will be undertaken. This will indicate local properties that have the potential for their television signals to be affected by the proposed Development.



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15.4 Shadow Flicker

Introduction Under certain combinations of geographical position, time of day, and time of year, the sun may pass behind and cast a shadow over properties neighbouring the proposed Development. When the turbine blades rotate, the shadow flicks on and off, which is known as ‘shadow flicker’.

Guidance At present there is only limited guidance on the assessment of shadow flicker and there are no national or international standards that define the limits that are to apply. The now superseded Planning Policy Statement 22: Renewable Energy and its Companion Guide (although not directly applicable to Scotland) included a comprehensive discussion of shadow flicker and details that flicker effects only occur within 10 rotor diameters of a turbine. Similarly, the Wind Energy Annex to the Companion Guide stated that only properties within 130o either side of north, relative to the turbine, can be affected by the turbine.

EIA Methodology In the event that the turbines are located within an area of the site which brings them within ten times the rotor diameter of residential dwellings, a shadow flicker assessment will be undertaken. The shadow flicker influence area can be considered in the design process.

15.5 Carbon Balance

SLR Consulting Ltd will undertake a carbon balance assessment for the proposed Development using guidance Calculating Carbon Savings from Wind Farms on Scottish Peatlands - A New Approach55 . The main aims of the calculation are: to quantify sources of carbon emissions associated with the proposed Development (i.e. from construction, operation and transportation of materials, as well as loss of peat/forestry as relevant); to quantify the carbon emissions which will be saved by constructing the windfarm; and to calculate the length of time for the project to become a ‘net avoider’, rather than a ‘net emitter’ of carbon dioxide emissions. The length of time is termed the ‘payback time’.

15.6 Other Issues

The EIA process will also consider the issue of ice throw and dust and air quality.

55 Calculating Carbon Savings from Wind Farms on Scottish Peatlands - A New Approach, Nayak et al; 2008 and 2010 and Smith et al; 2011



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16. Consultation

Consultation is an essential element of the EIA process and will be reported within the ES and supplementary documentation.

SPR is committed to promoting dialogue with statutory and non-statutory consultees and the local community throughout the development process.

SPR is seeking to engage with all those with an interest in the proposed Development in order to inform the evolution of the proposed Development and to ensure that their views and ideas are identified and considered. Contact will be made through the EIA process with those who hold information that may inform the design of the proposed Development and the assessment process; including a range of statutory and non-statutory consultees. A number of public information days will be arranged to allow opportunity for the public and other interested parties to comment and engage with SPR and the EIA project team. It is anticipated that consultation will be undertaken with the following:

Arqiva; Association of Salmon Fisheries Board; BAA Safeguarding (Glasgow); BBC; British Horse Society Scotland; Cairnhead Community Forest Trust; Carsphairn Community Council & Carsphairn Renewable Energy Fund; Civil Aviation Authority (CAA); Creative Scotland; Crown Estate Office; Defence Infrastructure Organisation (MoD); Dumfries and Galloway Council; Dumfries and Galloway Raptor Study Group; Forestry Commission Scotland; Galloway Fisheries Trust; Glasgow Prestwick Airport; Glencairn Community Council; Historic Scotland; Joint Radio Company; Mountaineering Council of Scotland; National Air Traffic Services (NATS); NATS en route (NERL); Office of Communications (OFCOM); RSPB Scotland; Ramblers Association; Scottish Anglers Association;



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Scottish Enterprise; Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA); Scotland Gas Networks; Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH); Scottish Rights of Way and Access Society (Scotways); Scottish Water; The Scottish Wildlife Trust; The Southern Uplands Partnership; Transport Scotland; Tynron Community Council; and Visit Scotland.



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17. Proposed Environmental Statement Content

It is proposed that the ES will comprise four documents as follows:

Volume 1 Non Technical Summary Volume 2 Written Statement Volume 3 Figures Volume 4 Technical Appendices

The written statement will contain the following chapters:

Preface

Introduction

Site Setting and Background Information Overview of the Proposed Development SPR and Wether Hill Windfarm Extension Purpose of the ES Structure of the ES

Environmental Impact Assessment

Introduction Requirements of the EIA Regulations Assessment Methodology and Scope of the ES

Site Selection and Design Strategy

Introduction Site selection Design Strategy and Design Evolution

Development Description

Introduction Description of Proposed Development Site Access Operational Phase Components Construction Phase Components Site Operation and Maintenance Site Decommissioning Site and Environmental Management



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Planning

Introduction Renewable Energy Policy Scottish National Planning Policy Regional and Local Planning Policy Other Relevant Material Considerations

Scoping and Consultation

Introduction Scoping and Consultation

The following issues will be addressed in technical chapters

Landscape and Visual; Ornithology; Non-Avian Ecology; Hydrology, Hydrogeology and Peat; Cultural Heritage; Noise; Access, Traffic and Transport; Socio-economics, Tourism, Recreation and Land Use; and Other issues including Telecommunications; Aviation, Carbon Balance, Air and

Climate, Ice Throw, and Shadow Flicker.

It is anticipated that the above chapters would comprise the following structure.

Introduction Assessment Methodology Baseline Conditions Potential Effects Assessment of Effects Mitigation and Monitoring Cumulative Effects Assessment of Residual Effects Statement of Significance

It is expected that some chapters will not follow this structure exactly.

Summary and Conclusions

Schedule of Mitigation



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Figure 1 Site Context Plan

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Figure 5 Landscape Designations

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1. Gardens and Designed Landscapes supplied byHistoric Scotland. Crown Copyright All RightsReserved 2013.

2. Regional Scenic Area supplied by Dumfries andGalloway Council. Crown Copyright. All Rights Reserved 2013

3. Search Area for Wild Land supplied by SNH.Crown Copyright. All Rights Reserved 2013.

4. National Scenic Areas, South Ayrshire ScenicArea, East Ayrshire Sensitive Landscape Area andScottish Borders Area of Landscape Value from relevantlocal plan checked February 2013.



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Figure 6 Cultural Heritage and Ecology Designations

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1. Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, ScheduledAncient Monuments and Properties in Care supplied byHistoric Scotland. Crown Copyright All Rights Reserved2013.

2. Special Area of Conservation, RAMSAR, Site ofSpecial Scientific Interest, National Nature Reserveand Ancient Woodland Inventory supplied by SNH.Crown Copyright. All Rights Reserved 2013.



Scoping Report

Figure 7 Blade Tip Zone of Theoretical Visibility and Viewpoints

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8910

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1819

2021

210000

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5600

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1:320,000

Rev Date CommentBy

Scale @ A3 0 105Km


Drg NoRevDateFigure

0

14/05/13

7


WTHX_7Wether Hill Windfarm ExtensionScoping ReportBlade Tip ZTV and Viewpoints

LegendIndicative Wether Hill ExtensionTurbines

35km From Outer Turbine

Viewpoint Location

1. Predicted visibility is for observer eye level 2m above ground level

2. The analysis does not take into account thescreening effects of vegetation, buildings orother surface features

3. Created using Ordnance Survey digital terraindata on a 50m grid

1 - 2

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11 - 12

Number of turbines predicted to bevisible at blade tip level (Approximately100m)

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