Appendix B HDA Screening Report

12

Appendix B

HDA Screening Report

rpsgroup.com/ireland

DOCUMENT CONTROL SHEET

Client: Port of Cork

Project Title: Cobh Cruise Terminal Upgrade

Document Title: Habitats Directive Assessment - Screening Statement

Document No: D01

This Document Comprises:

DCS TOC Text No. of

Appendices List of Figures

List of Tables

1 1 39 2 3 3

Rev Status Author(s) Reviewed By Approved By Office of Origin Issue Date

V01 Working

Draft D.

McDonnell S. Downes Limerick

V02 1

st Draft for

preliminary review

D. McDonnell

S. Downes M. McConnell Limerick 15.05.2014

V03 Final Draft S. Downes R. Barr M. McConnell Limerick 22.07.2014

Port of Cork

Cobh Cruise Terminal Upgrade

Habitats Directive Assessment Screening Statement

Cobh Cruise Terminal Upgrade HDA Screening Statement

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

GLOSSARY OF TERMS & ABBREVIATIONS ..................................................................................... III

1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 1

1.1 REQUIREMENTS FOR HABITATS DIRECTIVE ASSESSMENT .................................................... 1

1.1.1 Legislative context ............................................................................................ 1

1.1.2 Guidance for Appropriate Assessment Reporting ............................................ 2

1.1.3 Additional Legislation in Relation to Designated Conservation Sites............... 3

1.2 THE APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT PROCESS ..................................................................... 4

1.2.1 Overview of Screening Methodology................................................................ 5

2 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF THE PROJECT ......................................... 6

2.1 PROJECT SETTING AND BACKGROUND ............................................................................. 6

2.1.1 Site Location ..................................................................................................... 6

2.1.2 Description of the project .................................................................................. 8

2.1.3 Desk Study and Consultation ......................................................................... 10

2.2 SCREENING OF THE NATURA 2000 SITES WITHIN THE STUDY AREA .................................. 10

2.2.1 Identification of Natura 2000 sites with the study area .................................. 10

2.2.2 Description of the Natura 2000 sites potentially affected by the project ........ 11

2.3 IMPACT ASSESSMENT CRITERIA ..................................................................................... 17

2.3.1 Potential Direct Impacts Affecting Natura 2000 Designations ....................... 18

2.3.2 Potential Indirect Impacts Affecting Natura 2000 Designations ..................... 18

2.3.3 Potential Cumulative or In-Combination Impacts Affecting Natura 2000

Designations ................................................................................................... 20

3 SCREENING CONCLUSION STATEMENT ............................................................................ 24

4 REFERENCES ......................................................................................................................... 26

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A: Project Drawings

APPENDIX B: Natura 2000 Site Synopses

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 2.1 Location of the proposed project at Cobh, Co. Cork ................................................................. 7

Figure 2.2 Location and layout of the proposed works at the Cobh Cruise Terminal, Cobh, Co. Cork. .... 9

Figure 2.3 Natura 2000 sites located within a 15km radius of the Cobh Cruise Berth Upgrade project .. 16


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LIST OF TABLES

Table 2.1 Summary of the conservation status of the Annex I habitats for which the Great Island Channel SAC (Site Code 001058) is designated. .................................................................................... 13

Table 2.1 Potential Direct, Indirect and Cumulative Impacts from the proposed development affecting Natura 2000 Sites ...................................................................................................................... 23

Table 3.1 Summary of significance of effects arising from the proposed works with regard to the Natura 2000 sites potentially affected. ................................................................................................................. 24


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GLOSSARY OF TERMS & ABBREVIATIONS

Appropriate Assessment: An assessment of the effects of a plan or project on the Natura 2000

network. The Natura 2000 network comprises Special Protection Areas under the Birds Directive,

Special Areas of Conservation under the Habitats Directive and Ramsar sites designated under the

Ramsar Convention.

Biodiversity: Word commonly used for biological diversity and defined as assemblage of living

organisms from all habitats including terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the

ecological complexes of which they are part.

Birds Directive: Council Directive of 2nd April 1979 on the conservation of wild birds (79/409/EEC).

Geographical Information System (GIS): A GIS is a computer-based system for capturing, storing,

checking, integrating, manipulating, analysing and displaying data that are spatially referenced.

Habitats Directive: European Community Directive (92/43/EEC) on the Conservation of Natural

Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna and the transposing Irish regulations (The European Union

(Natural Habitats) Regulations, SI 94/1997 as amended). It establishes a system to protect certain

fauna, flora and habitats deemed to be of European conservation importance.

Mitigation measures: Measures to avoid/prevent, minimise/reduce, or as fully as possible,

offset/compensate for any significant adverse effects on the environment, as a result of implementing a

plan or project.

Natura 2000: European network of protected sites, which represent areas of the highest value for

natural habitats and species of plants and animals, which are rare, endangered or vulnerable in the

European Community. The Natura 2000 network will include two types of area. Areas may be

designated as Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) where they support rare, endangered or vulnerable

natural habitats and species of plants or animals (other than birds). Where areas support significant

numbers of wild birds and their habitats, they may become Special Protection Areas (SPA). SACs are

designated under the Habitats Directive and SPAs are classified under the Birds Directive. Some very

important areas may become both SAC and SPA.

Scoping: the process of deciding the content and level of detail of an AA, including the key

environmental issues, likely significant environmental effects and alternatives which need to be

considered, the assessment methods to be employed, and the structure and contents of the Natura

Impact Statement.


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Screening: The determination of whether implementation of a plan or project would be likely to have

significant environmental effects on the Natura 2000 network.

Significant effects: Effects on the environment, including on issues such as biodiversity, population,

human health, fauna, flora, soil, water, air, climatic factors, material assets, cultural heritage including

architectural and archaeological heritage, landscape and the interrelationship between the above

factors.

Special Area for Conservation (SAC) / Candidate Special Area for Conservation (cSAC): A SAC

designation is an internationally important site, protected for its habitats and species. It is designated, as

required, under the EC Habitats Directive (1992). A cSAC is a candidate site, but is afforded the same

status as a ‘European Site’ as if it were confirmed.

Special Protection Area (SPA) / proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA): A SPA is a site of

international importance for breeding, feeding and roosting habitat for bird species. It is designated, as

required, under the EC Birds Directive (1979).

Statutory Instrument: Any order, regulation, rule, scheme or byelaw made in exercise of a power

conferred by statute.


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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 REQUIREMENTS FOR HABITATS DIRECTIVE ASSESSMENT

With the introduction of the Birds Directive in 1979 and the Habitats Directive in 1992 came

the obligation to establish the Natura 2000 network of sites of highest biodiversity importance

for rare and threatened habitats and species across the EU. In Ireland, the Natura 2000

network of European sites comprises Special Areas of Conservation (SACs, including

candidate SACs), and Special Protection Areas (SPAs, including proposed SPAs). SACs are

selected for the conservation of Annex I habitats (including priority types which are in danger

of disappearance) and Annex II species (other than birds). SPAs are selected for the

conservation of Annex I birds and other regularly occurring migratory birds and their habitats.

The annexed habitats and species for which each site is selected correspond to the qualifying

interests of the sites; from these the conservation objectives of the site are derived.

A key protection mechanism is the requirement to consider the possible nature conservation

implications of any plan or project on the Natura 2000 site network before any decision is

made to allow that plan or project to proceed.

Not only is every new plan or project captured by this requirement but each plan or project,

when being considered for approval at any stage, must take into consideration the possible

effects it may have in-combination with other plans and projects when going through the

process known as Appropriate Assessment (abbreviated in this document to AA). All

developments that require a planning permission process, public developments carried out by

Local Authorities, material contravention proposals and Exempted Development applications

within a Natura site, or which could potentially have a significant effect on Natura 2000 site,

are subject to AA.

1.1.1 Legislative context

Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of the Habitat Directive 92/43/EEC require an Appropriate Assessment

of plans or projects to prevent significant adverse effects on Natura 2000 sites.

Article 6(3) Any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management

of the site but likely to have a significant effect there on either individually or in-combination

with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for

the site in view of the site’s conservation objectives. In the light of the conclusions of the

assessment of the implications for the site and subject to the provisions of paragraph 4, the

competent national authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having ascertained


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that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned and if appropriate, after

having obtained the opinion of the general public.

Article 6(4) If, in spite of a negative assessment of the implications for the site and in the

absence of alternative solutions, a plan or project must nevertheless be carried out for

imperative reasons of overriding public interest, including those of social or economic nature,

the Member State shall take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure that the overall

coherence of the Nature 2000 site is protected. It shall inform the Commission of the

compensatory measures adopted.

The purpose of AA is for the competent authority to assess whether the proposed Cobh

Cruise Berth will adversely affect the integrity of any Natura 2000 sites. It should be

highlighted at this stage in the process that an application under Article 6(4) is highly unlikely

given the overall design of the project has been undertaken in such a way as to avoid any

construction directly within a Natura 2000 site.

1.1.2 Guidance for Appropriate Assessment Reporting

This appropriate assessment has been carried out using the following guidance:

• Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government Circular NPW 1/10 and PSSP

2/10 on ‘Appropriate Assessment under Article 6 of the Habitats Directive – Guidance for

Planning Authorities’ March 2010.

• ‘Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland: Guidance for Planning Authorities’.

Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (2009);

http://www.npws.ie/en/media/NPWS/Publications/CodesofPractice/AA%20Guidance.pdf

• ‘Managing Natura 2000 Sites: the provisions of Article 6 of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC’,

European Commission (2000);

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/docs/art6/provision_of_art6_

en.pdf

• ‘Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting Natura 2000 Sites: Methodological

guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC’.

European Commission (2001);

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/docs/art6/natura_2000_asse

ss_en.pdf


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• ‘Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the 'Habitats Directive' 92/43/EEC – Clarification of the

concepts of: alternative solutions, imperative reasons of overriding public interest,

compensatory measures, overall coherence, opinion of the Commission’;

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/docs/art6/guidance_art6_4_

en.pdf

• ‘Guidance document on the implementation of the birds and habitats directive in estuaries and

coastal zones with particular attention to port development and dredging’.

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/docs/guidance_doc.pdf

• ‘European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011’.

http://www.npws.ie/media/npwsie/content/files/Birds%20and%20Habitats%20Regulations%20

SI%20477%20of%202011.pdf

Based on these guidelines, the assessment process is a four-staged approach as described

below. An important aspect of the process is that the outcome at each successive stage

determines whether a further stage in the process is required.

1.1.3 Additional Legislation in Relation to Designated Conservation Sites

Natural Heritage Areas (NHA) are sites of national significance, proposed Natural Heritage

Areas (pNHA) are sites that have been proposed but not formally designated. When formally

designated, a pNHA is legally protected from damage under Irish legislation in the form of the

Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000. However, as this Appropriate Assessment report deals only

the Natura 2000 sites (SACs and SPAs) with reference to the EC Habitats Directive (1992) the

NHAs and pNHAs within the study area are not considered further.

The EU Birds Directive (Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the Conservation of Wild Birds) is

the main mechanism for protecting, management and control of bird species and defines rules

for their exploitation. According to Article 4 of the Birds Directive “species mentioned in Annex

I shall be the subject of special conservation measures concerning their habitat in order to

ensure their survival and reproduction in their area of distribution”. The key element of the

Birds Directive is that it provides for the creation of Special Protection Areas (SPAs) to protect

Annex I bird species, as well as for regularly occurring migratory species not listed in Annex I.

The Birds Directive is implemented in Ireland under the Wildlife Act (1976) and the Wildlife

(Amendment) Act (2000).


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1.2 THE APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT PROCESS

Article 6(3) of Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the ‘Conservation of Natural Habitats and of

Wild Fauna and Flora’, better known as “The Habitats Directive”, states that any plan or

project likely to have significant effects on a Natura 2000 site must undergo the process of

appropriate assessment. Proposed plans or projects can only be approved if it has been

ascertained that they will not adversely affect the integrity of the Natura 2000 site(s)

concerned or, in the case of a negative assessment where there are no alternative solutions,

the scheme can only be approved for reasons of overriding public interest.

According to European Commission Methodological guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3)

and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EC (2001) and the provisions of Article 6 of the

“Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC (commonly referred to as MN2000)1, the assessment

requirements of Article 6 establish a four-staged approach as described below. An important

aspect of the process is that the outcome at each successive stage determines whether a

further stage in the process is required.

• Stage 1 – Screening for a likely significant effect: An initial assessment of the project or

plan impacting on a European site(s). If it cannot be concluded that there will be no significant

effect upon a European site, an AA is required.

• Stage 2 – Appropriate Assessment (Natura Impact Statement or NIS): The consideration

of the impact on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site of the project or plan, either alone or in-

combination with other projects of plans, with respect to the site’s structure and function and

its conservation objectives. Additionally, where there are adverse impacts, an assessment of

the potential mitigation of those impacts.

• Stage 3 – Assessment of alternative solutions: The process which examines alternative

ways of achieving the objectives of the project or plan that avoid adverse impacts on the

integrity of the Natura 2000 site.

• Stage 4 – Assessment where no alternative solutions exist and where adverse impacts

remain: An assessment of compensatory measures where, in the light of an assessment of

imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI), it is deemed that the project or plan

should proceed.

1 See http://euroopa.eu.int/comm/environmnet/natura/home.htm


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Each stage determines whether a further stage in the process is required. If, for example, the

conclusions at the end of Stage One are that there will be no significant impacts on the Natura

2000 sites, there is no requirement to proceed further.

1.2.1 Overview of Screening Methodology

Thus, the current Screening Report determines whether the project is likely to have significant

effects on any Natura 2000 site. A detailed list of all cSACs and SPAs within the study area

(taking account of sites within a 15km radius, with reference to the zone of influence of the

proposal) was compiled and the qualifying interest features for each site identified. Following

this, the key environmental conditions (conservation objectives) needed to support site

integrity were detailed for each site. According to the NPWS guidance (DEHLG, 2010) the

initial Screening stage determines whether Appropriate Assessment is necessary, according

to the requirements of Article 6(3) by examining:

• Whether a plan or project can be excluded from AA requirements because it is directly

connected with or necessary to the management of a Natura 2000 site;

• Whether a plan or project, alone or in combination with other plans and projects, is likely to

have significant effects on a Natura 2000 site in view of its conservation objectives; and

• If the effects are deemed to be significant, potentially significant, or uncertain, or it the

screening process becomes overly complicated, then the process must proceed to Stage 2

(AA), which comprises the preparation of a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) to inform the

Appropriate Assessment process.

Screening for Appropriate Assessment involves the following:

• Description of plan or project;

• Identification of relevant Natura 2000 sites, and compilation of information on their qualifying

interests and conservation objectives;

• Assessment of likely effects – direct, indirect and cumulative – undertaken on the basis of

available information as a desk study or field survey or primary research as necessary;

• Screening Statement with conclusions.


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2 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF THE PROJECT

2.1 PROJECT SETTING AND BACKGROUND

2.1.1 Site Location

The existing cruise port terminal at Cobh, Co. Cork is managed by the Port of Cork. The Port

of Cork are responsible for port operations, navigation and safety within the vicinity of Cork

Harbour and carry out maintenance dredging to maintain navigable depths in the port facilities

including Cobh. Cork Harbour is a natural harbour and river estuary at the mouth of the River

Lee in the south of Ireland with extensive intertidal areas of high ecological value. Cork

Harbour is further characterized by a large tidal range, during spring tide up to 23% of the

water in the estuary flows to and from the sea twice a day. In summer hardly any fresh water

enters the estuary, in the winter the river discharges rise significantly, to up to 65 m3 of water

from the River Lee alone in January. (Van Oord, May 2012)

Cobh town is a noted tourist seaport on the south of Great Island in Cork Harbour. Spike

Island and Haulbowline Island lie to the south of Cobh, in Cork Harbour. The proposed

development site is currently in use as the only dedicated cruise ship terminal in Ireland, as

shown in Figure 2.1 below.


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Figure 2.1 Location of the proposed project at Cobh, Co. Cork


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2.1.2 Description of the project

The proposed works at Cobh Cruise Berth are intended to provide the facility for the berth to

accommodate cruise vessels with an overall length up to 350m (Quantum Class). Currently

the berth accommodates vessels up to 341m but larger vessels will require the provision of

additional mooring points with a greater mooring load capacity, as shown in Figure 2.2 below

and an additional drawing included in Appendix A: ‘Proposed Mooring Bollards – Layout and

Details’). In order to accommodate a Quantum class vessel three additional mooring points

are required at the following locations:

• Adjacent to the walkway at Five Foot Way

• Adjacent to the eastern corner of the existing berth

• Adjacent to the boarding pontoon in front of The Quays pub.

At location B1 (Figure 2.2) the mooring structure will comprise a reinforced concrete pile cap

immediately in front of the sea wall, supported on isolated piles installed in the seabed in front

of the wall and anchored by ground anchors onto land beneath Five Foot Way and the

adjoining car park. The top of the structure will be at ground level on the adjacent Five Foot

Way. At locations B2 & B3 the mooring structures will comprise isolated dolphins. These will

consist of a reinforced concrete pile cap supported on a series of individual piles installed in

the seabed. At these locations there will be no work undertaken on existing land. The top level

of the structures will be the same as the deck (ground) level at the adjacent quay. A steel

access walkway will be provided from the existing quay to the nearest proposed dolphin

structure. The construction works will include the following main activities (final details will be

subject to detailed design):

• Piling using both driving and drilling installation methods

• Installation of ground anchors

• Precast and in situ reinforced concrete works

• Miscellaneous civil engineering works

There are no coastal modifications, dredging works or disposal of dredged material arising

during the works phase as part of the current proposal.


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Figure 2.2 Location and layout of the proposed works at the Cobh Cruise Terminal, Cobh, Co. Cork.


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2.1.3 Desk Study and Consultation

In undertaking this Screening Assessment a desk study review of publically available

information relevant to the proposal and the Natura 2000 designation within the study area

was carried out. This included reporting, mapping and data available from the following:

• Cork County Council (Cork Co. Co.);

• National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS);

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); and

• Water Framework Ireland (WFD Ireland);

A consultation request to inform the assessment was submitted to the Development

Applications Unit of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht on the 17th April, 2014.

No response to this consultation has been received to date.

2.2 SCREENING OF THE NATURA 2000 SITES WITHIN THE STUDY AREA

This section provides an assessment of the Natura 2000 sites within the study area of the

proposal; a 15km radius has been chosen as a precautionary measure, to ensure that all

potentially affected Natura 2000 sites are included in the screening process, which is in line

with guidance produced by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local

Government ‘Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland – Guidance for

Planning Authorities’ (DoEHLG, 2010). Following this guidance the proposed project was

examined to establish whether it is likely to give rise to significant adverse effects on any

Natura 2000 site or sites. This was based on a preliminary impact assessment using best

available information. Data sources included the NPWS Natura 2000 data, the Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA) and in particular work undertaken by the Port of Cork with regard to

environmental and ecological surveys in the wider study area, associated with the Port of Cork

and Ringaskiddy facilities within Cork Harbour.

2.2.1 Identification of Natura 2000 sites with the study area

Two Natura 2000 sites were identified within the 15km radius study area of the proposed

development site; both of which are directly associated with the estuarine and transitional

habitats of Cork Harbour, these are:


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• Great Island Channel cSAC (01058) – located approximately 3.45km to the north of the

existing port at Cobh, at its closest point. This Natura 2000 site is designated primarily for

intertidal habitats and is separated by a distance of approximately 7km when calculated via

the hydrological connection of the inner Cork Harbour.

• Cork Harbour SPA (04030) – this designation includes a series of intertidal areas of

importance for wintering waders and waterbirds within the wider Cork Harbour, the closest

sections of this site to the proposed development are located approximately 2.44km to the

west, 2.69km to the south and 2.92km to the southeast.

The location of these designations in relation to the proposed development is presented in

Figure 2.3. The NPWS site synopses for these designations are presented for reference in

Appendix B.

2.2.2 Description of the Natura 2000 sites potentially affected by the project

The construction and operation phases of the proposal are considered to have the potential

for impacts affecting the following designations, taking account of their qualifying interests and

conservation objectives:

• Great Island Channel cSAC;

• Cork Harbour SPA.

This screening assessment aims to determine whether the impacts identified have the

potential to give rise to significant adverse effects on these Natura 2000 sites, in view of their

qualifying interests and conservation objectives.

2.2.2.1 Great Island Channel cSAC

The Great Island Channel stretches from Little Island to Midleton, with its southern boundary

being formed by Great Island. The main habitats of conservation interest are the sheltered

tidal sand and mudflats and Atlantic salt meadows, both habitats listed on Annex I of the EU

Habitats Directive. Owing to the sheltered conditions, the intertidal flats are composed mainly

of soft muds. These muds support a range of macro-invertebrates, notably Macoma balthica,

Scrobicularia plana, Hydrobia ulvae, Nepthys hombergi, Nereis diversicolor and Corophium

volutator. Green algal species occur on the flats, especially Ulva lactua and Enteromorpha

spp. Cordgrass (Spartina spp.) has colonised the intertidal flats in places, especially at

Rossleague and Belvelly. The salt marshes are scattered through the site and are all of the

estuarine type on mud substrate. Species present include Sea Purslane (Halimione


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portulacoides), Sea Aster (Aster tripolium), Thrift (Armeria maritima), Common Saltmarsh-

grass (Puccinellia maritima), Sea Plantain (Plantago maritima), Greater Sea-spurry

(Spergularia media), Sea Lavender (Limonium humile), Sea Arrowgrass (Triglochin

maritimum), Mayweed (Matricaria maritima) and Red Fescue (Festuca rubra). Annex I habitats

identified as qualifying interests for this designation and specified in the conservation

objectives include:

• Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide [1140]

• Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) [1330]

It is noted that two further Annex I habitats Spartina swards (Spartinion maritimae) [1320] and

Estuaries [1130] are listed on the Natura 2000 standard data form for this site and are also

identified as qualifying interests on the NPWS website (www.npws.ie). From consultation with

the NPWS Site Designations Unit, it is understood that the representativity and relative

surface area for these habitats have not been brought forward as conservation objectives for

the Natura 2000 site.

European and national legislation places a collective obligation on Ireland and its citizens to

maintain habitats and species in the Natura 2000 network at favourable conservation

condition. The Government and its agencies are responsible for the implementation and

enforcement of regulations that will ensure the ecological integrity of these sites. The

maintenance of habitats and species within Natura 2000 sites at favourable conservation

condition will contribute to the overall maintenance of favourable conservation status of those

habitats and species at a national level. Favourable conservation status of a habitat is

achieved when:

• its natural range, and area it covers within that range, are stable or increasing; and

• the specific structure and functions which are necessary for its long‐term maintenance exist

and are likely to continue to exist for the foreseeable future; and

• the conservation status of its typical species is favourable.

The conservation objectives set out by the NPWS (2011a) are ‘to maintain or restore the

favourable conservation condition of the Annex I habitat(s) for which the SAC has been

selected’, that is ‘Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide [1140]’ and

‘Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) [1330]’. Table 2.1 sets out the

conservation status, trends and threats identified with regard to the above Annex I habitats.


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Table 2.1 Summary of the conservation status of the Annex I habitats for which the Great

Island Channel SAC (Site Code 001058) is designated.

Qualifying

Interest

Site Sensitivity2 Conservation

Status / Trends 2

Threats3

Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide

Surface and marine water dependent. Moderately sensitive to hydrological change. Moderate sensitivity to pollution. Sensitive to changes in salinity and tidal regime as well as coastal development.

Inadequate Improving (+)

Pollution to surface waters (limnic & terrestrial, marine & brackish) Fishing and harvesting aquatic resources Bottom culture Hand collection Estuarine and coastal dredging Nautical sports Other outdoor sports and leisure activities

Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae)

Marine and groundwater dependent. Medium sensitivity to hydrological change. Sensitive to changes in salinity and tidal regime as well as overgrazing, erosion and accretion

Inadequate Stable (=)

Climate Change Intensive cattle/ sheep grazing Paths, tracks, cycling tracks Disposal of household / recreational facility waste Disposal of industrial waste Reclamation of land from sea, estuary or marsh Polderisation Modification of hydrographic functioning, Erosion Invasive non-native species

2.2.2.2 Cork Harbour SPA

Cork Harbour is an internationally important wetland site, regularly supporting in excess of

20,000 wintering waterfowl, for which it is amongst the top five sites in the country. Cork

Harbour is a large, sheltered bay system, with several river estuaries - principally those of the

Rivers Lee, Douglas, Owenboy and Owennacurra. The SPA site comprises most of the main

intertidal areas of Cork Harbour, including all of the North Channel, the Douglas River Estuary,

inner Lough Mahon, Monkstown Creek, Lough Beg, the Owenboy River Estuary, Whitegate

Bay and the Rostellan and Poulnabibe inlets.

Owing to the sheltered conditions, the intertidal flats are often muddy in character. Cork

Harbour is of major ornithological significance, being of international importance both for the

total numbers of wintering birds (i.e. > 20,000) and also for its populations of Black-tailed

Godwit and Redshank. In addition, there are at least 18 wintering species that have

populations of national importance, as well as a nationally important breeding colony of

Common Tern. Several of the species which occur regularly are listed on Annex I of the E.U.

2 http://www.npws.ie/en/PublicationsLiterature/ConservationStatusReport/

3 http://www.npws.ie/publications/euconservationstatus/


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Birds Directive, i.e. Whooper Swan, Golden Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Ruff and Common

Tern. The site provides both feeding and roosting sites for the various bird species that use it.

The E.U. Birds Directive pays particular attention to wetlands and, as these form part of this

SPA, the site and its associated waterbirds are of special conservation interest for Wetland &

Waterbirds. The special conservation interests listed for this SPA are as follows:

Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis) [A004]; Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) [A005];

Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) [A017]; Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) [A028]; Shelduck

(Tadorna tadorna) [A048]; Wigeon (Anas penelope) [A050]; Teal (Anas crecca) [A052]; Pintail

(Anas acuta) [A054]; Shoveler (Anas clypeata) [A056]; Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus

serrator) [A069]; Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) [A130]; Golden Plover (Pluvialis

apricaria) [A140]; Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) [A141]; Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

[A142]; Dunlin (Calidris alpina) [A149]; Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) [A156]; Bar-tailed

Godwit (Limosa lapponica) [A157]; Curlew (Numenius arquata) [A160]; Redshank (Tringa

totanus) [A162]; Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) [A179]; Common Gull (Larus

canus) [A182]; Lesser Black-backed Gull (Larus fuscus) [A183]; Common Tern (Sterna

hirundo) [A193]; and Wetlands & Waterbirds [A999].

From the results of a seasonal survey undertaken by RPS on behalf of the Port of Cork ‘Port

of Cork Bird Surveys Report on 2011 Breeding Season Bird Surveys at Ringaskiddy /

Monkstown Creek’ (RPS, 2012) it was found that Common Terns setting out to forage from

nesting colonies within the SPA tend to fly over water, whilst returning birds tend to fly directly

to the colony, overland if necessary. Observations, including anecdotal evidence suggest that

areas in the vicinity of Cobh and due east of Cobh provide an important foraging area for birds

from sub-colonies within the SPA (Port of Cork Deep Water Port/ Pfizer’s Golf Course and

Martello Tower), to the south of the Cobh Terminal site.

Whilst the period between May and July inclusive is the time of year when lowest numbers of

wintering waders and waterbirds listed as conservation interests of the SPA are present in the

wider study area of Cork Harbour, the RPS (2012) study found that substantial numbers of

some species are nevertheless present at this time including Shelduck, Cormorant, Black-

tailed Godwit and Curlew. All waterbird and wader species (other than breeding Common

Tern, and migratory Sandwich Tern and Whimbrel) are however present in greater numbers at

other seasons and it is considered that the period from April to July inclusive, provides the

most suitably ‘window’ in which construction activity in sensitive locations, within the proposed

Cobh site can be carried-out with minimal disturbance to birds.


IBE0925.00 15 Rev V02

The conservation objectives of this designation (NPWS, 2011b) are ‘to maintain or restore the

favourable conservation condition of the bird species listed as Special Conservation Interests

for this SPA’; where these special conservation interests are listed above. The favourable

conservation status of a species is achieved when:

• population dynamics data on the species concerned indicate that it is maintaining itself on a

long‐term basis as a viable component of its natural habitats; and

• the natural range of the species is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the

foreseeable future; and

• there is, and will probably continue to be, a sufficiently large habitat to maintain its populations

on a long‐term basis.

Existing threats to the conservation status of the Cork Harbour SPA include extensive areas of

estuarine habitat which have been reclaimed since about the 1950s for industrial, port-related

and road projects, and further reclamation remains a threat. As Cork Harbour is adjacent to a

major urban centre and a major industrial centre, water quality is variable, with the estuary of

the River Lee and parts of the Inner Harbour being somewhat eutrophic. However, the

polluted conditions may not be having significant impacts on the bird populations. Oil pollution

from shipping in Cork Harbour is a general threat4.

4 http://www.npws.ie/publications/euconservationstatus/


IBE0925.00 16 Rev V02

Figure 2.3 Natura 2000 sites located within a 15km radius of the Cobh Cruise Berth Upgrade project


IBE0925.00 17 Rev V02

2.3 IMPACT ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Based on EC (2000) and IEEM Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment (IEEM, 2006),

impacts are listed as significant if impacts have the potential to have a significant impact on

the ecological integrity on the conservation objectives (i.e. the habitats and species for which

the site is designated), or on the overall integrity of the Natura 2000 site itself. The approach

to assessing the significance of impacts in the IEEM guidelines (2006) states that the

significance of an impact “is defined as an impact (negative or positive) on the integrity of a

defined site or ecosystem and/or the conservation status of habitats or species within a given

geographical area.” Definitions of ‘integrity’ and ‘conservation status’ are provided in the IEEM

guidelines.

If an ecological feature is likely to experience a significant negative impact, the consequences

of that impact will depend on the level at which the ecological feature is valued. Typically in

Appropriate Assessment only features of international importance are considered as it is these

features (Annex I habitats and Annex II species under the Habitats Directive and Annex I bird

species under the Birds Directive) that Natura 2000 sites are designed for.

Once an impact is deemed to be significant on the basis of effects on integrity and/or

conservation status, then the value of the ecological feature that will be significantly affected is

used to identify the geographical scale at which the impact is significant. Impacts are not

always significant at the level at which the ecological feature has been valued and may be

significant at a lower geographical frame of reference. For example, a particular impact may

not be considered likely to have a negative effect on the overall integrity or conservation status

of a species which is considered to be internationally important. However it may be considered

that there would be an impact at the local population scale on this internationally important

species. In this case the impact on an internationally important species is considered to be

significant at only a local scale, rather than an international scale. The IEEM guidelines (2006)

have been followed for determining likelihood of impacts occurring. This provides the following

four categories, based on the fact that the 5% confidence level is conventionally chosen as the

lowest limit for acceptable statistical significance:

• Certain/near-Certain: probability estimated at 95% chance or higher.

• Probable: probability estimated 50% to 95%.

• Unlikely: probability estimated 5% to 50%

• Extremely Unlikely: probability estimated at less than 5%.


IBE0925.00 18 Rev V02

2.3.1 Potential Direct Impacts Affecting Natura 2000 Designations

The proposed development is not located within or directly adjacent to any designated Natura

2000 site; there are therefore no pathways by which direct impacts may arise from the

construction and operation of the proposed development.

2.3.2 Potential Indirect Impacts Affecting Natura 2000 Designations

The potential for indirect impacts are identified with regard to hydrological pathways between

the proposed development site and the Great Island Channel cSAC and the Cork Harbour

SPA. Therefore the potential for significant indirect impacts affecting habitat loss, severance,

modification and pollution within the cSAC and SPA designations located at a distance from

but within the Cork Harbour waterbody are evaluated. The potential for noise, disturbance and

emissions to air affecting the habitats and fauna listed as qualifying interests and special

conservation interests of the cSAC and SPA sites respectively, are also examined with

reference to the construction and operational phase of the proposal.

2.3.2.1 Potential indirect impacts affecting water quality

The construction phase of the proposed development will include the installation of piles in the

seabed adjacent to the existing seawall and isolated dolphins which will be secured to the

seabed by individual piles. These piles will be installed by direct driving and drilling. There is

associated pre-cast and in-situ reinforced concrete works required to anchor the mooring

structures. Both piling and concreting activities have the potential to give rise to water quality

impacts affecting the marine biological communities within the direct footprint of the proposed

works arising from increase suspended solids or accidental spillages of concrete. The dilution

factor identified within the Cork Harbour waterbody is considered to be of significant size,

capable of assimilating any such water quality impacts arising from the above works. This

would preclude any likelihood of significant adverse effects on the Annex I habitats for which

the Great Island Channel cSAC is designated.

Similarly there are no impacts identified in this regard potentially affecting the intertidal wetland

habitats listed as a special conservation interest of the Cork Harbour SPA. Taking account of

the distance between the proposed works area and the bird species listed as conservation

interests of the site and the scale of the proposed works with reference to the dilution factor

available within the Cork Harbour waterbody it is considered that there is no potential for

significant adverse effects on the Cork Harbour SPA arising with regard to water quality

impacts.


IBE0925.00 19 Rev V02

2.3.2.2 Potential indirect impacts arising from disturbance

With cognisance of the existing port facility at Cobh and the significant distance separating the

proposed development site and the Great Island Channel cSAC it is considered that there will

be no indirect impacts arising during the construction and operational phase of the proposed

development that would have the potential to give rise to significant disturbance impacts

affecting the Annex I mudflat / sandflat and saltmarsh habitats for which this site is designated.

There are no significant hydrological or hydrogeomorphological impacts arising from the

proposal which would have the potential to affect the tidal regime, flood level or indirect habitat

loss or disturbance within these Annex I habitats.

The bird species listed as special conservation interests of the Cork Harbour SPA and the

wetland habitats supporting these species are located at distances of approximately 2.44km to

the west, 2.69km to the south and 2.92km to the southeast. Taking account of the existing port

facilities operational at the Cobh port site and the distance of separation, with further reference

to the limited size and scale of the proposed works, there are no construction or operational

phase impacts identified that would have the potential for significant adverse effects on the

SPA taking account of the special conservation interests and conservation objectives of this

Natura 2000 site.

The Port of Cork to the southwest of the proposed works at Cobh Terminal is identified as an

important Common Term breeding site, a species listed as a special conservation interest of

the SPA (RPS, 2012). Breeding terns are subject to extraordinarily high levels of man-made

noise and visual disturbance to which they appear to be entirely habituated. Loud irregular

noise from human sources and movement of machinery, vehicles and people close-by is a

near-constant feature of the site. Sources include road traffic within 100m, including a high

proportion of trucks and other large commercial vehicles many of which are stopping and

starting, revving engines and using air brakes; port activity including mass bulk handling within

200m; pedestrians and regular human voices within 100m (for example at the Deep Water

Port security desk) and the regular docking of very large ocean going passenger ferries within

30m of the dolphins and on rare but regular occasions, directly up against the dolphins

themselves (RPS, 2012).

Sensitive qualifying interests of these Natura 2000 designations do not occur within the

development site or in close proximity to the development, i.e. within the zone of influence,

within the wider study area. The qualifying interests of the cSAC and conservation interests of

the SPA within the study area are evaluated as being habituated to the background noise /

disturbance levels.


IBE0925.00 20 Rev V02

2.3.3 Potential Cumulative or In-Combination Impacts Affecting Natura 2000 Designations

Ringaskiddy Redevelopment Plans

The Port of Cork have submitted an application to An Bord Pleanála (May, 2014) in relation to

proposed redevelopment plans for Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork. The proposed developments under

consideration form an extension to the existing facilities that Port of Cork currently operates at

Ringaskiddy; this development is being considered in four key areas:

1. At Ringaskiddy East, where works will comprise of:

• A multi-purpose berth that will be capable of accommodating vessels carrying

a range of different cargoes including containers, unaccompanied Roll On – Roll Off

freight and general cargoes;

• An additional 200 metres long berth which will be used for port container traffic;

• A new container yard and marshalling area;

2. At Ringaskiddy West, where works will comprise of:

• A 180 metre extension to the existing Deepwater Berth;

• Dredging works to facilitate navigational access to the new facilities

3. At Paddy’s Point, where a new public slipway is being constructed, new planting and

landscaping is being provided in a new public amenity area and new pedestrian circulation

routes, will be introduced.

4. Improvements to the existing road entrance at the Ringaskiddy Deep-water Terminal and

internal road upgrades to improve connectivity to the remainder of the port complex and

facilitate future connection to a new upgraded N28 both east and west of Ringaskiddy Village.

The above elements of the proposed redevelopment have been examined in a comprehensive

EIS and Appropriate Assessment reporting (Natura Impact Statement) prepared by RPS on

behalf of the Port of Cork. The baseline surveys, impact assessment and conclusions of

reporting to inform the above project proposals have been examined in preparing the current

cumulative and in-combination impact assessment.


IBE0925.00 21 Rev V02

Port of Cork Maintenance Dredging

Proposals have been prepared for undertaking maintenance dredging works associated with

the Port of Cork facility, within the Cork Harbour Channel. The proposals for the Port of Cork

maintenance dredging have been subject to separate Screening for Appropriate Assessment,

the conclusions of which found that all of the potential impacts identified will be avoided with

the correct implementation of the proposed mitigation measures. Furthermore no significant

residual negative impacts on any of the conservation objectives of any Natura 2000 sites were

identified.

Cobh Sailing Club Marina

Cove Sailing Club proposes to develop a 74 berth marina at White Point, Cobh, Co. Cork

which lies immediately west of the Cobh Cruise Terminal proposal. The marina will be an all

tide access marina in Cork Harbour with all marina components comprising floating pontoons.

Access to the marine will be via a fixed platform and gangway extending from the quay wall at

the “five foot way”. The marine will be restrained in position with a chain and anchor system

with no planned associated dredging. A Natura Impact Statement and Appropriate

Assessment Screening was prepared by Moore Group Environmental Services for Cronin

Millar Consulting Engineers on behalf of Cove Sailing Club. The conclusions from this

assessment indicated that given the relatively small footprint area of the proposed

development and the proposed use of point anchoring, there would be no significant impact on

the adjacent Cork Harbour SPA or Great Island Channel SAC. Therefore a finding of no

significant effect was documented in the Appropriate Assessment Screening Report.

Proposal by Harbour Ferries Ltd

Harbour Ferries Limited have a permitted proposal in place for a docking station (pontoon with

gangway) for the Harbour Cat Ferry close to the Cobh Deep Water Quay.

There is considerable support in planning policy for the Harbour Ferries project, and the

potential benefits it could offer as an alternate mode of transport, greater coastal connectivity,

and linkages along the coastline. This is an extant planning approval which would intimate

that this proposal is still active and deliverable on the ground. There was no AA screening

carried out at the time of planning for the Harbour Cat Ferry proposal. For the purposes of

assessing the in-combination impact of the Harbour Cat proposal and the proposed new

mooring dolphins at the Cobh Terminal, it is envisaged that there will not be any in-

combination impact.


IBE0925.00 22 Rev V02

Seaplane Berthing Facilities

Harbour Flights Ireland submitted a planning application in 2010 which was granted for a

commercial and charter seaplane service in Ireland with a proposed site for the landing

pontoon in Cobh adjacent to the Quays Bar & Restaurant, Westbourne Place. The installation

will comprise of a 5m wide berthing pontoon connected to the existing pontoon at the site and

access will be provided by 1m wide gangway which is currently in place.

The Appropriate Assessment Screening Report which accompanied the planning application

concluded that there will be no direct impact or loss of habitat within the Cork Harbour SPA as

the proposed developed is outside of the SPA. There will be no impacts on any of the

qualifying interests for the SPA or on the integrity of the site. The proposed landing and take-

off area is sufficiently distant from the surrounding areas of the SPA as not to cause a

disturbance to wintering waders and waterfowl occupying these primarily intertidal zones. The

taxiing, take-off or landing of seaplanes may results in a localised disturbance to birds in open

water but this will constitute a very limited spatial effect and be of no greater significance than

the regular passage of vessels with Cork Harbour.

No impacts are anticipated on either grey or common seal as a result of the operation of the

proposed development.

There will be no impacts from the proposed development on water quality or on the hydrology

of the designated areas. On the basis of the findings of the screening stage it was concluded

that there will be no potential impact on the qualifying interests or the integrity of either Natura

2000 site and therefore no requirement to proceed to Stage 23: Natura Impact Assessment

Conclusion

The proposed development has been evaluated with regard to the potential for direct and

indirect impacts affecting the Great Island Channel cSAC and the Cork Harbour SPA. Taking

account of the location of the proposed development outside of and at a distance from any

Natura 2000 designation; with cognisance of the size and scale of the proposal in the context

of existing shipping activity within the overall Cork Harbour marine and transitional water body;

and in the absence of sensitive receptors designated within either the SAC or SPA occurring

within the study area; it is evaluated that there would be no potential for in-combination

impacts affecting the conservation objectives or qualifying interests of these designations. No

other pathways have been identified by which any element of the proposed project could have

a significant ‘in combination’ effects on any of the Natura 2000 sites.

Table 2.1 identifies the potential direct, indirect and secondary impacts of the proposal on the

Natura 2000 sites which have been evaluated and screened for potential effects.


IBE0925.00 23 Rev V02

Table 2.1 Potential Direct, Indirect and Cumulative Impacts from the proposed development

affecting Natura 2000 Sites

Impact character Great Island Channel cSAC Cork Harbour SPA

Direct Impacts No works within or adjacent to the cSAC; no potential for significant impacts on the qualifying interests or conservation objectives.

No works within or directly adjacent to the SPA; no potential for significant impacts on special conservation interests or conservation objectives.

Indirect/ Secondary Taking account of the size and scale of the development, in addition to the existing level of shipping traffic within Cork Harbour there are no pathways for impacts that would have the potential for significant adverse effects on the qualifying interests or conservation objectives.

Taking account of the size and scale of the development, in addition to the existing level of shipping traffic within Cork Harbour there are no pathways for impacts that would have the potential for significant adverse effects on the special conservation interests or conservation objectives.

Resource Requirements (Drinking Water Abstraction etc.)

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development affecting the cSAC with regard to resource requirements.

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development affecting the SPA with regard to resource requirements.

Emissions (Disposal to Land, Water or Air)

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development affecting the cSAC with regard to emissions.

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development affecting the SPA with regard to emissions.

Excavation Requirements

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development affecting the cSAC with regard to excavation requirements.

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development affecting the SPA with regard to excavation requirements.

Transportation Requirements

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development affecting the cSAC arising from transport or transportation.

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development affecting the SPA arising from transport or transportation.

Duration of Operation and Decommissioning

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development affecting the cSAC during the operational phase.

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development affecting the SPA during the operational phase.

Cumulative and in-combination effects

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development with potential to interact in combination or cumulatively to adversely affect the cSAC.

No significant impacts arising from the proposed development with potential to interact in combination or cumulatively to adversely affect the SPA.


IBE0925.00 24 Rev V02

3 SCREENING CONCLUSION STATEMENT

The first stage of the Habitats Directive appraisal process, i.e. Screening, was completed in

compliance with the relevant European Commission (EC 2000; EC, 2001) and national

guidelines (DEHLG, 2010). The assessment set out in this report has provided a thorough

evaluation of the project proposal; mitigation measures are not considered as part of the

Screening process and can only be taken into account in the Appropriate Assessment (Stage

2). The potential impacts during the construction and operation of the proposed development

at the proposed Cobh Cruise Terminal Upgrade have been considered in the context of the

Natura 2000 sites potentially affected, their qualifying interests and conservation objectives.

From the findings of the Screening for Appropriate Assessment, the following conclusions with

regard to the proposed Cobh Cruise Terminal Upgrade project have been drawn:

• The proposal is not directly connected with or necessary to the management of any Natura

2000 site;

• The proposal does not have the potential to give rise to any significant effects, on the basis of

objective information, on the Great Island Channel cSAC or the Cork Harbour SPA, in view of

their qualifying interests and conservation objectives, either individually or in combination with

other plans or projects.

Table 3.1 presents a summary of the findings of the Screening for Appropriate Assessment

with regard to significance of effects on designated Natura 2000 sites.

Table 3.1 Summary of significance of effects arising from the proposed works with regard to

the Natura 2000 sites potentially affected.

Does the project have the potential to: Yes or No

Details

Cause delays in progress towards achieving the conservation objectives of the site?

No No significant impacts

Interrupt progress towards achieving the conservation objectives of the site?


Disrupt those factors that help to maintain the favourable conditions of the site?


Interfere with the balance, distribution and density of key species that are the indicators of the favourable condition of the site?


Cause changes to the vital defining aspects (e.g. nutrient balance) that determine how the site functions as a


Change the dynamics of the relationships (between, for example, water with flora and fauna) that define the structure and/or function of the site?



IBE0925.00 25 Rev V02

Does the project have the potential to: Yes or No

Details

Interfere with predicted or expected natural changes to the site (such as water dynamics or chemical composition)?

No No significant residual negative impacts

Reduce the area of the key habitats? No No significant residual negative impacts

Reduce the population of the key species? No No significant residual negative impacts

Change the balance between key species? No No significant residual negative impacts

Reduce diversity of the site? No No significant residual negative impacts

Result in disturbance that could affect population size or density or the balance between key species?


Result in habitat fragmentation? No No significant residual negative impacts

Result in loss or reduction of key features (e.g. inter-tidal/tidal feeding areas, alteration to tidal regime, etc.)


Therefore adopting the precautionary approach, in line with current guidance, the current

Screening Report concludes that an Appropriate Assessment of the proposal is not required.


IBE0925.00 26 Rev V02

4 REFERENCES

Council Directive 79/409 EEC on the Conservation of Wild Birds

Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and

Flora.

DEHLG (2010). Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland – Guidance for

Planning Authorities. Produced by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the

Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.

European Commission (2000a) Communication from the Commission on the Precautionary

Principle, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg.

European Commission (2000b) Managing Natura 2000 Sites: the provisions of Article 6 of the

‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities,

Luxembourg.

European Commission (2001) Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting

Natura 2000 Sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the

Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities,

Luxembourg.

European Commission (2011) Guidelines on the Implementation of the Birds and Habitats

Directives in Estuaries and Coastal Zones, with particular attention to port development and

dredging.

European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations (S.I. No. 477 of 2011)

IEEM (2006) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United Kingdom. Institute of

Ecology and Environmental Management (version 7 July 2006).

NPWS (2011a) Conservation objectives for Great Island Channel SAC [001058]. Generic

Version 3.0. Department of Arts, Heritage & the Gaeltacht.

NPWS (2011b) Conservation objectives for Cork Harbour SPA [004030]. Generic Version 4.0.

Department of Arts, Heritage & the Gaeltacht.

RPS (2012) Port of Cork Bird Surveys Report on 2011 Breeding Season Bird Surveys at

Ringaskiddy / Monkstown Creek. Prepared on behalf of the Port of Cork. RPS Belfast.


IBE0925.00 27 Rev V02

IBE0925.00 AP A Rev 0.1

APPENDIX A

PROJECT DRAWING

IBE0925.00 AP B Rev 0.1

APPENDIX B

NPWS NATURA 2000 SITE SYNOPSES

IBE0925.00 AP B Rev 0.1

SITE NAME: GREAT ISLAND CHANNEL

SITE CODE: 001058

The Great Island Channel stretches from Little Island to Midleton, with its southern

boundary being formed by Great Island. It is an integral part of Cork Harbour which

contains several other sites of conservation interest. Geologically, Cork Harbour consists

of two large areas of open water in a limestone basin, separated from each other and the

open sea by ridges of Old Red Sandstone. Within this system, Great Island Channel

forms the eastern stretch of the river basin and, compared to the rest of Cork Harbour, is

relatively undisturbed. Within the site is the estuary of the Owennacurra and Dungourney

Rivers. These rivers, which flow through Midleton, provide the main source of freshwater

to the North Channel.

The main habitats of conservation interest are the sheltered tidal sand and mudflats and

Atlantic salt meadows, both habitats listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. Owing

to the sheltered conditions, the intertidal flats are composed mainly of soft muds. These

muds support a range of macro-invertebrates, notably Macoma balthica, Scrobicularia

plana, Hydrobia ulvae, Nepthys hombergi, Nerei diversicolor and Corophium volutator.

Green algal species occur on the flats, especially Ulva lactua and Enteromorpha spp.

Cordgrass (Spartina spp.) has colonised the intertidal flats in places, especially at

Rossleague and Belvelly. The salt marshes are scattered through the site and are all of

the estuarine type on mud substrate. Species present include Sea Purslane (Halimione

portulacoides), Sea Aster (Aster tripolium), Thrift (Armeria maritima), Common Saltmarsh-

grass (Puccinellia maritima), Sea Plantain (Plantago maritima), Greater Sea-spurry

(Spergularia media), Sea Lavender (Limonium humile), Sea Arrowgrass (Triglochin

maritimum), Mayweed (Matricaria maritima) and Red Fescue (Festuca rubra).

The site is extremely important for wintering waterfowl and is considered to contain three

of the top five areas within Cork Harbour, namely North Channel, Harper's Island and

Belvelly-Marino Point. Shelduck are the most frequent duck species with 800-1000 birds

centred on the Fota/Marino Point area. There are also large flocks of Teal and Wigeon,

especially at the eastern end. Waders occur in the greatest density north of Rosslare, with

Dunlin, Godwit, Curlew and Golden Plover the commonest species. A population of about

80 Grey Plover is a notable feature of the area. All the mudflats support feeding birds; the

main roost sites are at Weir Island and Brown Island and to the north of Fota at

Killacloyne and Harper’s Island. Ahanesk supports a roost also but is subject to

disturbance. The numbers of Grey Plover and Shelduck, as given above, are of national

importance.

IBE0925.00 AP B Rev 0.1

The site is an integral part of Cork Harbour which is a wetland of international importance

for the birds it supports. Overall, Cork Harbour regularly holds over 20,000 waterfowl and

contains Internationally important numbers of Black-tailed Godwit (1,181) and Redshank

(1,896) along with Nationally important numbers of nineteen other species. Furthermore, it

contains the large Dunlin (12,019) and Lapwing (12,528) flocks. All counts are average

peaks, 1994/95 – 1996/97. Much of the site forms part of Cork Harbour Special Protection

Area, an important bird area designated under the EU Birds Directive.

While the main land use within the site is aquaculture (Oyster farming), the greatest

threats to its conservation significance come from road works, infilling, sewage outflows

and possible marina developments. The site is of major importance for the two habitats

listed on the EU Habitats Directive that it contains, as well as for its important numbers of

wintering waders and wildfowl. It also supports a good invertebrate fauna.

SITE NAME: CORK HARBOUR SPA

SITE CODE: 004030

Cork Harbour is a large, sheltered bay system, with several river estuaries - principally

those of the Rivers Lee, Douglas, Owenboy and Owennacurra. The SPA site comprises

most of the main intertidal areas of Cork Harbour, including all of the North Channel, the

Douglas River Estuary, inner Lough Mahon, Monkstown Creek, Lough Beg, the Owenboy

River Estuary, Whitegate Bay and the Rostellan and Poulnabibe inlets.

Owing to the sheltered conditions, the intertidal flats are often muddy in character. These

muds support a range of macro-invertebrates, notably Macoma balthica, Scrobicularia

plana, Hydrobia ulvae, Nepthys hombergi, Nereis diversicolor and Corophium volutator.

Green algae species occur on the flats, especially Ulva lactua and Enteromorpha spp.

Cordgrass (Spartina spp.) has colonised the intertidal flats in places, especially where

good shelter exists, such as at Rossleague and Belvelly in the North Channel. Salt

marshes are scattered through the site and these provide high tide roosts for the birds.

Salt marsh species present include Sea Purslane (Halimione portulacoides), Sea Aster

(Aster tripolium), Thrift (Armeria maritima), Common Saltmarsh-grass (Puccinellia

maritima), Sea Plantain (Plantago maritima), Laxflowered Sea-lavender (Limonium

humile) and Sea Arrowgrass (Triglochin maritima). Some shallow bay water is included in

the site. Cork Harbour is adjacent to a major urban centre and a major industrial centre.

Rostellan Lake is a small brackish lake that is used by swans throughout the winter. The

site also includes some marginal wet grassland areas used by feeding and roosting birds.

The site is a Special Protection Area (SPA) under the E.U. Birds Directive, of special

conservation interest for the following species: Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe,

Cormorant, Grey Heron, Shelduck, Wigeon, Teal, Pintail, Shoveler, Red-breasted

IBE0925.00 AP B Rev 0.1

Merganser, Oystercatcher, Golden Plover, Grey Plover, Lapwing, Dunlin, Blacktailed

Godwit, Bar-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Redshank, Black-headed Gull, Common Gull, Lesser

Black-backed Gull and Common Tern. The site is also of special conservation interest for

holding an assemblage of over 20,000 wintering waterbirds. The E.U. Birds Directive pays

particular attention to wetlands and, as these form part of this SPA, the site and its

associated waterbirds are of special conservation interest for Wetland & Waterbirds. Cork

Harbour is an internationally important wetland site, regularly supporting in excess of

20,000 wintering waterfowl, for which it is amongst the top five sites in the country. The

two-year mean of summed annual peaks for the entire harbour complex was 55,401 for

the period 1995/96 and 1996/97. Of particular note is that the site supports internationally

important populations of Black-tailed Godwit (905) and Redshank (1,782) - all figures

given are average winter means for the two winters 1995/96 and 1996/97. At least 18

other species have populations of national importance, as follows: Little Grebe (51), Great

Crested Grebe (204), Cormorant (705), Grey Heron (63), Shelduck (2,093), Wigeon

(1,852), Teal (922), Pintail (66), Shoveler (57), Red-breasted Merganser (88),

Oystercatcher (1,404), Golden Plover (3,653), Grey Plover (84), Lapwing (7,688), Dunlin

(10,373), Bartailed Godwit (417), Curlew (1,325) and Greenshank (26). The Shelduck

population is the largest in the country (over 10% of national total). The site has regionally

or locally important populations of a range of other species, including Whooper Swan

(10), Pochard (145) and Turnstone (79). Other species using the site include Gadwall

(13), Mallard (456), Tufted Duck (113), Goldeneye (31), Coot (53), Mute Swan (38),

Ringed Plover (34) and Knot (38). Cork Harbour is a nationally important site for gulls in

winter and autumn, especially Black-headed Gull (4,704), Common Gull (3,180) and

Lesser Black-backed Gull (1,440). A range of passage waders occurs regularly in autumn,

including such species as Ruff (5-10), Spotted Redshank (1-5) and Green Sandpiper (1-

5). Numbers vary between years and usually a few of each of these species over-winter.

The wintering birds in Cork Harbour have been monitored since the 1970s and are

counted annually as part of the I-WeBS scheme. Cork Harbour has a nationally important

breeding colony of Common Tern (3 year mean of 69 pairs for the period 1998-2000, with

a maximum of 102 pairs in 1995). The birds have nested in Cork Harbour since about

1970, and since 1983 on various artificial structures, notably derelict steel barges and the

roof of a Martello Tower. The birds are monitored annually and the chicks are ringed.

Extensive areas of estuarine habitat have been reclaimed since about the 1950s for

industrial, port-related and road projects, and further reclamation remains a threat.

As Cork Harbour is adjacent to a major urban centre and a major industrial centre, water

quality is variable, with the estuary of the River Lee and parts of the Inner Harbour being

somewhat eutrophic. However, the polluted conditions may not be having significant

impacts on the bird populations. Oil pollution from shipping in Cork Harbour is a general

threat. Recreational activities are high in some areas of the harbour, including jet skiing

IBE0925.00 AP B Rev 0.1

which causes disturbance to roosting birds. Cork Harbour is of major ornithological

significance, being of international importance both for the total numbers of wintering birds

(i.e. > 20,000) and also for its populations of Black-tailed Godwit and Redshank. In

addition, there are at least 18 wintering species that have populations of national

importance, as well as a nationally important breeding colony of Common Tern. Several

of the species which occur regularly are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive, i.e.

Whooper Swan, Golden Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Ruff and Common Tern. The site

provides both feeding and roosting sites for the various bird species that use it.

Documents

Appendix B HDA Screening Report