Craiggore Volume 4 - Non-technical Summary

8/9/2019 Craiggore Volume 4 - Non-technical Summary

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CRAIGGORE WIND FARM In the townlands of Moneyguiggy and Craiggore Forest, County Londonderry

Environmental Statement

Volume 4 – Non-Technical Summary

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


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Volume 4: Non-Technical Summary

Table of Contents

Preface

Introduction 1

Rationale for the Scheme 2

Project Description 4

Environmental Assessments 7

Conclusion 19


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Volume 4: Non – Technical Summary

Preface

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

application for the proposed Craiggore Wind Farm. The proposed Craiggore Wind

Farm is located on privately owned commercial forest to the east of the B190,

approximately 18km from Coleraine and 10km from Limavady, County Londonderry.

A planning application has been submitted to Planning Service in accordance with

the Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations, 2012. The regulations

require an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to be carried out and the results

of the EIA to be included in an Environmental Statement (ES) to accompany the

planning application.

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

- Volume 1 – Environmental Statement (main text);

- Volume 2 – Figures;

- Volume 3 – Appendices; and

- Volume 4 – Non Technical Summary.

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

Planning, various consultees, interest groups and in collaboration with the various

specialists outlined below.

ES Technical Support

Technical Specialism Organisation

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Soltys BrewsterConsulting Ltd

Ornithology Assessment David Steele

Ecology Assessment RPS

Fisheries Assessment RPS

Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Assessment Gahan & Long

Geology and Hydrogeology Assessment AECOM

Hydrology Assessment McCloy Consulting

Peat Slide Hazard & Risk Assessment SKM Enviros

Forestry Management Plan Premier Woodlands

Planning Policy; Acoustic Assessment; Transport Assessment; Shadow

Flicker Assessment; Electromagnetic Interference & Aviation; Air,

Climate and Renewable Energy; Health and Safety Assessment andSocio – Economic & Tourism Assessment.

RES


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Volume 4: Non-Technical Summary

An electronic version of the NTS and other details about the project can be viewed

at www.craiggore-windfarm.co.uk.

Reference copies of the full ES and planning application may be viewed and / orpurchased during normal opening hours at the following location:

Garvagh Community Building

85 Main Street,

Garvagh,

Co Londonderry,

BT51 5AB.

Paper Copies of the NTS are available free of charge, the Main Report, Figures and

Technical Appendices can be purchased on CD for £10 each or in paper form at a

cost of £50 each1 from the address above or by contacting RES. Cheques should be

made payable to RES UK & Ireland Ltd.

RES UK & Ireland Ltd

Willowbank Business Park

Willowbank Road

Millbrook

Larne

County Antrim

BT 40 2SF

028 2844 0508

1RES has an Environmental Management System which actively encourages the reduction of paper consumption and recycling where possible. Volumes 1 - 4 o f this ESare Certified Carbon Neutral publications. RES encourages the viewing of this ES via CD where possible to reduce paper use. Volumes 1, 3 and 4 are intended for

printing double sided. Please do so where appropriate.

http://www.craiggore-windfarm.co.uk/http://www.craiggore-windfarm.co.uk/http://www.craiggore-windfarm.co.uk/http://www.craiggore-windfarm.co.uk/


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1-1 Volume 4: Non-Technical Summary

1 Introduction

The Application

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

Northern Ireland Department of the Environment (DOE) Planning for permission to

construct, operate and decommission a wind farm known as Craiggore Wind Farm.

The application follows a detailed assessment of the environmental and technical

aspects of the site’s suitability for development,

1.2 The proposed Craiggore Wind Farm is located on privately owned commercial forest

to the east of the B190, approximately 18km from Coleraine and 10km from

Limavady, County Londonderry. The centre of the site is located at Irish Grid

Reference 276303E, 417058N. The location of the proposed Windfarm is shown in

Figure 1.1

1.3 The site has been designed to accommodate turbines in the 1.8 – 2.5MW range witha maximum height to blade tip of 125m above ground level. The turbines will be of

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

diameter of 90.0m the dimensions are illustrated in Figure 1.2

1.4 The annual electricity generated would be equivalent to the demand of

approximately 10, 000 homes.2 That equates to the equivalent electricity demand

of approximately 31% of the households in the Local Government Districts of

Limavady and Coleraine.

1.5 The proposal comprises the construction of up to ten turbines (each with an overall

maximum height of up to 125 m above ground level) and associated infrastructureincluding an upgraded site entrance, new and upgraded onsite access tracks, an

onsite substation and control building, underground cables, four temporary

monitoring masts, a permanent meteorological mast, a communications mast, a

temporary construction compound, a temporary enabling works compound,

permanent crane hardstandings and road widening and improvement works on

sections of the transport route (road improvement works). The proposed

Infrastructure Layout is illustrated in Figure 1.3.

1.6 A Forestry Management Plan (Appendix 1.1) has been developed with a shorter

rotation and a modified replanting layout scheme. Findings from the Craiggore

Environmental Impact Assessment and associated field work and desktop

investigation works have been fed into the development of this plan. The plan

would commence before wind farm construction begins and is for the lifetime of

the wind farm.

1.7 All trees on site will be felled and replanted during the Wind Farm construction

process. Throughout the lifetime of the wind farm, when the trees reach 12 m in

height, they will be harvested and replanted. This shorter rotation approach will

ensure that the land remains in commercial timber production whilst not

2 The 10,000 homes figure is a conservative estimate based on an 18MW project, the 2010 GB average household electricity consumption of 4370kWh pa and the 2008

UK-average onshore wind load factor of 29.4%, source DECC. The ‘number of homes’ figure may vary as more site-specific data becomes available.


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Volume 4: Non – Technical Summary 1-2

interfering with wind flow across the site. Replanting will take place based on:

Proposed Layout of Replanting Drawing Appendix 1.1 Fig.2.0.

The Applicant

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

developed wind farms around the world with a combined capacity of over 6.5 GW

and has a large portfolio under construction and development. RES has been

developing wind farms in Northern Ireland since the early 1990s and has developed

14 operational wind farms in Northern Ireland to date, totalling over 190 MW:

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

Phases 1 and 2, and Curryfree in County Londonderry; Lendrum’s Bridge Phases 1

and 2, Lough Hill, Slieve Divena, and Hunter’s Hill in County Tyrone; and

Callagheen in County Fermanagh.

Rationale for the Scheme

Combating Climate Change

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

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

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

emerged that climate change was being influenced by anthropogenic activity

beyond the normal fluctuations. The main contributing activities include emissions

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

dioxide (SO2) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) into the atmosphere and other effectssuch as land use changes, which reduce the ability of the natural environment to

recycle these gases. A significant proportion (56%) of the increased greenhouse gas

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

for energy generation and transportation.

1.10 One of the principal contributors to the build-up of greenhouse gasses is the use of

fossil fuels in electricity generation. In the UK, 66% of CO2 emissions are

attributable to electricity and heat production. Reducing the extent to which

electricity is produced by burning fossil fuels will reduce the amount of harmful

greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. (RenewableUK 2008).

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

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

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

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

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

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

sufficiency in energy production. Additionally, wind farm developments are

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

them existing is apparent.


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

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

include:

Meeting the Energy Challenge: UK White Paper on Energy 2007

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

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

that renewables are central to the UK strategy to tackle climate change and deploy

cleaner sources of energy. It also highlights the importance of lowering practical

barriers to renewables investment, such as improved planning inquiry rules, and

sets out four key energy policy goals:

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

progress by 2020;

- to maintain the reliability of energy supplies;

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

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

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

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

lowering practical barriers to renewables investment, such as improved planning

inquiry rules.

UK Renewable Energy Strategy (Action Plan) 2009

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

comes from renewable sources by 2020, in implementation of Directive

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

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

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

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

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

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

secure and safe energy supplies and exploiting the significant economic

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

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

renewables by 2020. Renewable energy is therefore a key part of the overall UKLow Carbon Transition Plan, which outlines how the UK will meet the 34% cut in

emissions on 1990 levels by 2020.

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

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

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

contributing to business competitiveness, increasing competition in power

generation and presenting opportunities for enterprise activity.

The Challenge for Northern Ireland

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

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


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

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

increasing focus on renewable energy can deliver environmental and climate

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

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

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

renewable energy resources to optimise the contribution that renewables make to

the overall energy mix.

1.19 Northern Ireland’s current renewable energy target is that by 2012, 12% of

electricity consumption should be met from renewable sources, and further that,

40% of electricity consumption should be met from renewable sources by 2020 (DETI

2010). The 40% target is the equivalent of 1600MW. Wind energy will be the main

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

in Northern Ireland to 2020.

1.20 As of July 2010 there were 297.6 MW of onshore wind farms operational and 305.4MW with planning approval in Northern Ireland. This comprises 23 wind farms

operational and 20 consented wind farms. Additionally, there are 736.4 MW

proposed applications, comprising 46 applications (DETI 2010).

1.21 If approved, the proposed Barr Cregg Wind Farm could account for up to 17.5 MW, a

material contribution to achieving the 40% renewable energy target for 2020.

Public Information Programme

1.22 A Public Information Programme was implemented for the proposed Craiggore Wind

Farm to inform local residents, communities and their elected representativesabout the proposal and to provide them with a contact point for information.

1.23 In June 2012, RES undertook door-to-door visits to 25 houses houses along sections

of the Kilhoyle, Plantation, Belraugh, Legavalon and Coolnasillagh roads to provide

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

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

or provide feedback.

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

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

schools and churches. RES also held a public exhibition in the Garvagh CommunityCentre: Thursday 7

th June, 3pm-9pm

1.25 The public exhibitions were attended by 7 residents in total, to provide detailed

information, including maps and photomontages, to the local community. The

exhibition provided visitors with an opportunity to discuss the proposals in detail,

to ask questions and provide feedback. Notification of the exhibitions were

publicised through adverts in local newspapers.


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Project Description

Site Selection and History

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

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

wind farm development. The search identified land which:

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

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

Natural Beauty (AONB);

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

development, out with a preliminary separation distance of 800 m from

occupied housing;

1.27 Feasibility investigations were undertaken to determine the compatibility with

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

assessment of proximity to road and railways, land designations and dwellings (in

relation to noise and residential amenity).

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

environmental and technical constraints identified during the EIA were taken into

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

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

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

feedback from key consultees.

Land Take

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

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

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

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

control building, substation and permanent meteorological mast.

1.30 Only approximately 5 Ha of the land within the planning application boundary will

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

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

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

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

1

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

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

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

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

company logo.

Grid Connection

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

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

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


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

connection line and it will remain in their ownership.

Construction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

granted for the proposed development.

1.34 The civil engineering works will comprise:

- the upgrading of the site entrance;

- the preparation and establishment of temporary site welfare facilities;

- construction of watercourse crossings;

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

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

- the preparation of hardstanding areas for cranes;

- the preparation and construction of the concrete foundation at each turbine

location to support the turbine structure and the individual turbine transformer;

- foundations and hardstanding for permanent mast;

- the installation of all associated drainage & Sustainable Drainage System

requirements;

- the erection of site fencing, stockproofing and security requirements, and;

- public road widening.

1.35 A Construction and Decommissioning Method Statement will be prepared in the

event that planning consent is granted for the proposed development. This will be

submitted to and agreed with Planning Service prior to any construction works

taking place. This will describe the detailed methods of construction and working

practices, work to reinstate the site following completion of construction activities,

and methods to reinstate the site post operation.

Health and Safety Assessment

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

construction and operation on the proposed Craiggore Wind Farm. It also assessed

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

mitigation measures that can avoid or reduce impact.

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

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

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

turbine design, there will be no risk to the safety of the operators duringconstruction and maintenance of the wind farm, or to the general public during the


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

guidance is followed through the different phases of the project.

Operation and Maintenance

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

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

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

traffic would be limited to small maintenance vehicles.

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

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

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

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

twice. If the replacement of a major component is required it would be necessary

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

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

Works.

Decommissioning

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

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

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

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

removed from the site.

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

scheme. If the proposed wind farm obtains planning approval it is expected that aplanning condition would be set to provide for the decommissioning of the site in

accordance with a scheme agreed in writing with Planning Service. The wind farm

will be decommissioned in accordance with best practice and/or in compliance with

any planning conditions. Current best practice includes the removal of all above

ground structures; the removal of all underground structures to one metre below

ground level; and reinstatement of disturbed areas. Landowners will be given the

option to retain the access tracks for their own purposes.

Environmental Assessments

EIA and the Design Process

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

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

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

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

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

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

the proposed development to be incorporated into the design. The illustration

below shows how known constraints influenced the layout design process.


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Key Design Iterations

Iteration Detail of Change

Layout 1: An initial site selection wind turbine layout was established to determine whether

the scheme, within the land under applicants control, had potential for

development. The layout was based on 11 turbines of 90 m rotor diameter and 125

m tip height, and included the following constraints:

- A preliminary occupied residential property separation distance of 900

m. House 10 is unoccupied and under the applicants control for the

duration of the lifetime of the proposed Development. T6 lies

marginally inside this indicative buffer at this preliminary stage;

- Preliminary avoidance to mapped water courses (50 m buffer);

- Avoidance of placement of turbines adjacent to roads (137.5m buffer

(tip height+10%)).

Layout 2: Following completion of the ecological baseline survey, areas identified as‘potential ecologically sensitive’ of blanket bog were avoided.

The resultant impact was the removal of T11 and movement of T10 out with this

identified area. The remaining turbines were then re-configured to ensure

maintenance of adequate inter-turbine whilst maximising energy capture.

Layout 3: Consultation with Ofcom identified communications links that may be affected by

the proposal. These individual operators (JRC, Arquiva, Northern Ireland Water,

NTL, Orange and PSNI) were contacted directly and the information plotted as

constraints to be avoided. The size of the buffer adopted was either as requested by

the operator or by reference to technical safeguarding advice.

The resultant impact upon the layout of the turbines was the movement of T1 to the

north-east and the subsequent movement of all other turbines to ensuremaintenance of adequate inter-turbine whilst maximising energy capture. This

allowed T7 to move out with the indicative buffer to residential properties.

The line highlighting the “Development Boundary” was modified to exclude the area

of blanket bog to the north west of the site as highlighted during the initial site

walkover.

Layout 4: Following completion of detailed surveys, further advice was received from

technical, engineering and environmental specialists on the main constraints to

development, the likely significance of potential environmental impacts and

possible mitigation that could reduce or alleviate detrimental impacts.

The turbine layout was revised to incorporate the following:

- Additional water courses were identified as a result of detailed survey.

Hydrology buffers were revised to showing results of detailed survey;

- Avoidance of areas utilised by bats were avoided as provided by the

ecologist;

- Badger sett 100m buffers were provided by the ecologist;

- Higher resolution terrain data allowed the steepness of the slope to be

added. Preliminary construction advice was to avoid those areas greater

than 12% slope for the placement of turbines.

As a result:

- T6, T5 and T10 all moved to avoid immediate proximity to areas of steep

slope.

- T1, T2, T3, T4, T7 & T9 all subsequently moved to ensure maintenance of


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Iteration Detail of Change

adequate inter-turbine whilst maximising energy capture.

Layout 5: A final technical and engineering assessment was undertaken of the proposed layout

including a site walk over to assess the impacts of the infrastructure layout.

Additionally a search of consented dwelling house sites was undertaken and the

positions of these sites considered as a constraints. As a result:

- T8 was moved to the north east to be at least 900m from any existing or

proposed dwelling;

- T2 was moved to ensure that the ground works associated with the turbine

would not encroach upon the hydrological buffer.

-

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

investigations of the EIA.

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA)

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

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

within a Study Area that extends in a 30km radius from the site, cumulative effects

within a 60km study area. Following detailed baseline assessment and field survey,

where the nature of the existing landscape and visual character was established

and the potential impacts of the proposed development analysed, conclusions on

landscape and visual impacts have been reached.

1.45 The assessment concluded that the direct impacts on landscape character will be

restricted to within the development area boundary, whereas indirect impacts willextend to location immediately surrounding the proposed development including

parts of the Binevenagh range, the Roe Basin and the eastern Binevenagh slopes.

From the wider study area and more distant locations, including the majority of

locations from Sperrins and Binevenagh AONBs, impacts are not predicted to be

significant. This assessment concluded that the proposed Craiggore Wind Farm is

acceptable development in terms of its impacts on landscape character and visual

amenity.

1.46 For any development to be acceptable in terms of landscape and visual effect, it

must be capable of being appropriately integrated within the receiving landscape

without detriment to the distinctive physical characteristics and visual amenities of

the study area. The assessment considers the proposed scheme acceptable and not

detrimental to landscape character and visual amenity within the study area due to

the limited effects resulting from the scheme.

Ecology

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

within the site and the wider landscape was undertaken. Surveys for bats were

extended to 200 m outside the development area, as required by Northern Ireland

Environment Agency (NIEA) guidance. Sites designated for their nature

conservation features within a radius of 2 km of the site boundary were also


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considered in order to assess potential remote effects on valuable ecological site-

based receptors.

1.48 Consultation was undertaken with the following statutory and non-statutory

organisations listed below regarding the proposed scope of the EcIA; the location of

any statutory or non-statutory designated nature conservation sites that have the

potential to be impacted by the proposed wind farm; identification of potential

ecological receptors; the existence of any ecological records within 2 km of the

site; and the existence of bat records within 15 km of the site.

• Botanical Society of the British Isles (BSBI);

• Butterfly Conservation;

• Centre for Environmental Data & Recording (CEDaR);

• Council for Nature Conservation & the Countryside (CNCC);

• Loughs Agency;

• National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Gateway;

• Northern Ireland Bat Group (NIBG);• Northern Ireland Squirrel Forum (NISF);

• The Derry and Strabane Squirrel Group;

• NIEA – Natural Heritage;

• Ulster Wildlife Trust (UWT).

1.49 The likely significance of effects of the proposed wind farm on the ecological

environment and its receptors have been assessed and it is concluded that with the

implementation of appropriate mitigation measures the effects would be reduced

to either a Slight Adverse Effect or a Neutral Effect that would not adversely

affect the conservation status of the ecological receptors or the integrity of the

ecological environment

Fisheries Assessment

1.50 The site of the proposed wind farm is drained by the headwaters of two

watercourses, the Castle River and Coolnasilagh River, where the primary landuse

in the upper parts of these catchments is agriculturally based. Water quality in

these watercourses is good and spawning and nursery areas for salmonids also

occur, with brook lamprey also being found in the Castle River. There are no

significant watercourses within the site of the proposed wind farm however, so the

potential for direct impacts on fish is therefore lessened.

1.51 The potential for impacts to fish are primarily related to water quality impacts

including suspended solids associated with soils and hydrocarbon pollution. The

risks of such impacts are low considering the absence of watercourses within the

site of the proposed wind farm. Furthermore, a Construction and Decommissioning

Method Statement will be drawn up at the post consent design stage and followed

by the contractor, which will be additionally informed by peat stability risk

assessments at the site at the pre-construction stage. Appendix 13.4: Drainage

Management (SuDS) Design Statement outlines forestry clearance works,

temporary spoil management and foul drainage as well as the design of watercourse

crossings, check dams and buffer zones. Mitigation for soils will also reduce the


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risk of suspended solids pollution, as detailed in the Chapter 13: Hydrology

Assessment.

1.52 It is considered that the proposed wind farm has the potential for impacts on fish

only at construction phase. In the absence of mitigation these impacts are assessed

as Intermediate Adverse but that these impacts will be reduced to Negligible with

the best approach planned. With implementation of measures outlined above to

protect water quality, the residual impacts on fish and their habitats would be

reduced to Minor Adverse, with impacts being localised and short-term in nature.

Residual impacts on areas further downstream such as the River Roe and the

Mettican River are evaluated as Negligible. Residual impacts are not predicted at a

scale that would affect the conservation status of salmon or lampreys.

Ornithology Assessment

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

utilising the proposed Craiggore Wind Farm site3. The assessment is based primarily

on the results of dedicated surveys commissioned by the applicant, extending over

two consecutive years of fieldwork covering breeding, winter and migration

seasons. Other information sources (published and unpublished) are very limited

but have been utilized where available. The assessment covers the site and also

surrounding buffer areas (i.e. likely zones of possible influence of the proposed

wind farm on birds) which vary in extent depending on the bird species / species

groups concerned.

1.54 For breeding and wintering birds, surveys were carried out on the site and a

surrounding buffer of 500 m around the proposed wind farm infrastructure (but

extended to 800 m around the proposed infrastructure for breeding curlew). Forraptors (which may visit the site to forage even though their nests might be located

some distance away) it was necessary to survey for nesting activity in a wider

surrounding area ranging from 1 km from the site for buzzard and kestrel up to

3 km from the site for hen harrier. Assessment of flight activity by raptors (e.g.

hen harrier) and other species (e.g. migratory waterfowl such as whooper swans

and geese) was carried out for the site and surrounding visible areas up to a

maximum 2 km from the vantage points.

1.55 Summary of consultations;

Northern Ireland Environment AgencyFrom the preliminary baseline reporting supplied NIEA were satisfied that an adequatelevel of ornithological survey had been completed for the site. Their principal concernsrelated to the possibility of increased activity by raptors on the site (especially by henharrier) following clearance of the tree cover and that this could possibly lead to anincreased risk of collisions with the turbines.

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds

In an informal discussion RSPB felt that because of the nature of the site (commercialforestry) there were unlikely to be any significant issues concerning effects on moorlandand woodland breeding birds. The main discussion was around the use of the area byraptors, notably hen harriers. Following a data request RSPB provided details of hen harrier

3 SNH Guidance Note (November 2005, revised December 2010)


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Northern Ireland Environment Agency

breeding records within 3 km of the site. On a more general point, RSPB expressed apreference for the use of a 98% avoidance rate in the collision risk model.

Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group

Individuals within Raptor Study Group were approached with regard to any additionalinformation that might be available on breeding activity by the three Schedule 1 raptorspecies recorded in the area - hen harrier, merlin and peregrine.

1.56 The bird communities on the site and in surrounding buffer areas have been

surveyed over two consecutive years covering the breeding, winter and migration

seasons. Three Annex 1 raptor species were found by the surveys - hen harrier (one

pair probably breeding within 2 km in the first baseline year, though evidence was

minimal), peregrine (one pair confirmed breeding within 2 km) and merlin

(breeding possible but no further evidence found). For hen harrier, no furtherevidence for breeding was found in the second baseline year and therefore an

established breeding territory (breeding confirmed in at least one year) was not

present during the baseline period. Two Red-listed species (red grouse and curlew)

and five Amber-listed species (kestrel, snipe, skylark, wheatear and grasshopper

warbler) were found breeding in the buffer areas but not on the site.

1.57 Possible effects on birds of the proposed wind farm have been assessed using

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

assessed as negligible. Where adverse effects have been identified and are likely

to be significant then mitigation measures have been recommended and the

resulting residual effects have been assessed as negligible. It is also possible that

over the life of the wind farm the shorter rotation time of the tree crop compared

to the baseline situation could result in an increased diversity of breeding bird

species on the site, which would therefore be a slight beneficial effect.

1.58 Collision risk for hen harrier has been quantified for both the baseline and post-

felling scenarios. Collision risk is increased post-felling but is still very low at one

collision every 69 years (so it is very unlikely that there would be a collision during

the life of the wind farm). Furthermore, implementation of the Forestry

Management Plan (whereby during the life of the wind farm the trees will be felled

earlier than under baseline conditions) is expected to have a beneficial effect ofincreased foraging opportunities that will offset any effects of increased collision

risk. A survey of harrier foraging activity over the site would be of interest in order

to assess whether activity increases following clearance of the trees.

1.59 The possibility of disturbance of nesting harriers by construction work during the

breeding season has also been assessed and based on the results of the baseline

surveys is considered to be negligible. In view of the results of the baseline surveys

and assessment of effects presented here, and assuming implementation of the

Forestry Management Plan during the life of the wind farm, then it is concluded

that the proposed development would not have any significant adverse effects on

bird populations in the area, including hen harrier, peregrine, merlin, breeding

birds and wintering and migratory species.


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Acoustic Assessment

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

the proposed Craiggore Wind Farm was undertaken taking into account the most

sensitive receptors.

1.61 The operational noise impact was assessed according to the guidance described inthe ‘The Assessment and Rating of Noise from Wind Farms’, referred to as ‘ETSU-R-

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

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

section of interested persons including, amongst others, environmental health

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

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

the vast majority of wind farms currently operating in the UK.

1.62 The acoustic impact for the operation of the proposed Craiggore Wind Farm on

nearby neighbours has been assessed in accordance with the guidance on wind farm

noise as issued in the DTI publication ‘The Assessment and Rating of Noise from

Wind Farms’ (ETSU, 1996), otherwise known as “ETSU-R-97”, as recommended for

use by relevant planning policy.

To establish baseline conditions, background noise surveys were carried out at four

nearby properties and the measured background noise levels used to determine

appropriate noise limits, as specified by ETSU-R-97.

Operational noise levels were predicted using a noise propagation model, the

proposed wind farm layout, terrain data and assumed turbine emission data.

The predicted noise levels are within derived appropriate noise limits at all

considered wind speeds.

The proposed wind farm therefore complies with the relevant guidance on wind

farm noise and the impact on the amenity of all nearby properties would be

regarded as acceptable.

1.63 A construction noise assessment has been carried out in accordance with

BS 5228-1:2009 ‘Noise control on construction and open sites’ Part 1 – Noise, and,

with due regard to mitigation outlined, indicates that predicted noise levels likely

to be experienced at representative critical properties are below relevant

construction noise criteria.

1.64 A cumulative operational acoustic assessment was completed for the potentialimpact of Craiggore Wind Farm alongside the consented Smulgedon Wind Farm and

the proposed Ballyrogan Wind Farm. The predicted noise levels are within derived

appropriate noise limits at all considered wind speeds for all occupied properties

and properties with planning consent, and therefore cumulatively the appropriate

limits as recommended by the ETSU-R-97 guidance shall not be breached.

Therefore the acoustic impact on the amenity of all nearby properties due to the

cumulative impact of the proposed Craiggore Wind Farm, the consented Smulgedon

Wind Farm, and the proposed Ballyrogan Wind Farm would be regarded as

acceptable.


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Archaeology & Heritage Assessment

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

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

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

utilised. The assessment of the proposed wind farm will look at both the potentialphysical impact upon any known or potential sub-surface archaeological features

within the development boundary and will further assess the impact upon the

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

1.66 Consultation was held with Paul Logue of NIEA:Protecting Historic Monuments on

13th December 2011. The purpose of this consultation was to identify any potential

risks to the development through the presence of archaeological or cultural

heritage features within the development boundary or its environs. NIEA were also

consulted on the scope for the assessment of the potential impact upon the setting

of monuments of regional importance.

1.67 The desktop survey and site inspection have determined that there are no known

sites of archaeological interest located within the proposed development site. The

desktop survey has however indicated that the development site is situated within

a wider area of archaeological interest, with a total of 65 recorded archaeological

sites situated within a 5km radius of the development site, 7 of which area of

regional importance. The earliest of the known archaeology located within the

5km search radius dates to the Neolithic (4000BC to 2500BC) and Bronze Age

(2500BC to 300BC) periods, whilst the majority is either known or thought to date

to the Early Christian period (400AD to 1177AD). This illustrates that the area

within which the development site is located has been experiencing human activity

and settlement from around 4000BC, with an increase in activity from around

400AD to around 1177AD. This, coupled with the fact that the proposed wind farm

site represents a large area of land which, while previously development as a

commercial forest, gives rise to the potential for previously undiscovered, sub-

surface archaeological remains to exist within the development site boundaries.

1.68 Given the nature of the proposed development, should such remains exist within

the areas proposed for the wind turbines and associated infrastructure, they may

be adversely impacted upon. A number of recommendations to mitigate such

adverse effects has therefore been suggested.

Geology & Hydrogeology Assessment

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

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

on-site. An assessment of the likely potential geological impacts is considered

necessary due to the presence of peat on-site. Also the site has been identified as

being in an Area of Constraint on Mineral Developments (ACMD)4.

1.70 Assessment of the likely potential hydrogeological impacts is considered necessary

due to the risk of pollution of the groundwater and watercourses on-site.

4 Draft Northern Area Plan 2016 website: http://www.planningni.gov.uk/index/policy/dev_plans/devplans_az/northern_2016.htm

http://www.planningni.gov.uk/index/policy/dev_plans/devplans_az/northern_2016.htmhttp://www.planningni.gov.uk/index/policy/dev_plans/devplans_az/northern_2016.htmhttp://www.planningni.gov.uk/index/policy/dev_plans/devplans_az/northern_2016.htmhttp://www.planningni.gov.uk/index/policy/dev_plans/devplans_az/northern_2016.htm


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1.71 The assessment involved:

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

effects of development on the geological and hydrogeological environment;

• Desk study to establish the existing baseline geological and hydrogeological

conditions at the site;

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

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

and hydrogeological environment;

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

• Assessment of the significance of residual effects following mitigation taking

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

probability of these effects occurring.

1.72 A site visit was undertaken on 1 July 2011 and included site walkover survey to:

• Note features of geological and hydrogeological interest; and

• Assess the topography of the site.

1.73 The site is underlain by superficial deposits of peat and glacial till overlying

Tertiary Basalt rocks. Alluvial soils are present along the course of the Evish Burn.

The soils within the site consist primarily of peat and humic gley soils which have

developed downslope of the peat mass. A Peatslide Hazard Risk Assessment has

been undertaken and the results for the site are ‘low risk’; three principal design

constraints are identified. The likely residual effect on the peat is considered to be

neutral/slight adverse and, therefore, not significant.

1.74 The site is located within an Area of Constraint of Mineral Development. The likely

residual effect of the proposed Wind Farm on this designated area is considered tobe neutral/slight adverse and, therefore, not significant.

1.75 Tertiary basalts, identified as locally important aquifers on the Hydrogeological Map

of Northern Ireland5, underlie the superficial deposits on-site. The development

and drainage in this area would be designed with consideration of the bedrock

aquifer. The likely residual effect on this aquifer is considered to be neutral/slight

or slight adverse for certain activities, and, therefore, not significant.

1.76 In conclusion no significant residual effects are predicted on the geological and

hydrogeological environment as a result of the proposed Wind Farm.

Hydrology Assessment

1.77 The assessment techniques used are aimed at identifying hydrological constraints

on the layout of the proposed development, including areas in which development

should be avoided and areas in which mitigation measures are required.

1.78 This assessment demonstrates the potential effects of the development of a wind

farm on the receiving hydrological environment, including surface water quality. It

summarises the relevant legislation and guidance and provides appropriate baseline

information, enabling the potential effects to be identified.

5 British Geological Survey (BGS). (1994): 1:250,000 scale Hydrogeological Map of Northern Ireland.


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1.79 Aspects of the design, construction and operation of a wind farm that may

potentially impact on the receiving surface water environment have been identified

and the pathways for adverse effects assessed. It has been determined that without

mitigation the proposed development has the potential to cause adverse changes of

major significance.

1.80 Mitigation provided includes (but is not limited to):

• Avoidance based on baseline constraints mapping;

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

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

(drainage) and silt management;

• Water quality monitoring;

• Construction phase pollution prevention procedures.

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

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

development.

Transport Assessment

1.82 An assessment of the predicted levels of traffic movements associated with the

proposed wind farm has been undertaken. The main transport effects will be

associated with the movements of commercial Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and

Abnormal Loads to and from the site during the construction phase of the

development. Once the wind farm is operational, it is envisaged that the amount of

traffic associated with the scheme will be minimal, comprising service and

maintenance visits.

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

from Belfast before taking the M2. From the M2 the vehicles would be taking the

A26 to Ballymoney and then Coleraine before turning left onto the A29 towards

Garvagh. They would then turn right onto the Craigmore Road before turning left at

Ringsend onto the Boleran road. The delivery would then turn right onto the

Belraugh road. The site entrance is on this road to the right. The proposed return

route is the same as the delivery route. Once the turbine components have been

delivered the vehicles will be shortened so they are no longer than a typical

articulated HGV.1.84 The associated traffic flows will vary over that time as different elements of the

site are developed and constructed, and will depend on the chosen contractor’s

preferred method of working. A Traffic Management Plan (TMP) will be prepared

by the developer or the chosen contractor once the construction schedule, plant

requirements and the turbine model have been defined. This will ensure impacts

to the delivery route are minimised where possible. The TMP will be submitted to

Planning Service for approval prior to the start of construction. This TMP will be

completed post planning consent.

Electromagnetic Interference and Aviation Assessment


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1.85 An assessment has been undertaken of the likely effects of the proposed Craiggore

Wind Farm upon communication systems that use electromagnetic waves as the

transmission medium and aviation systems.

1.86 The study area differed according to the type of medium being investigated: the

study area for civil fixed links was set at 1km from the proposed turbines; & the

study area for television reception was set at 10 km from the proposed turbines.

1.87 The proposed wind farm development has been assessed through study and

consultation as to its potential impact on aviation and military interests. Through

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

minimal.

Shadow Flicker Assessment

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

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

shadow over neighbouring buildings’ openings (i.e. windows and doors) where thecontrast between light and shade is most noticeable. To a person within that room

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

to an effect referred to as shadow flicker.

1.89 A shadow flicker analysis has been undertaken assuming shadow flicker to occur up

to or equal to 10 rotor diameters distant (based on best practice guidelines) from

turbine locations (900m). It has been shown that for the worst case conditions,

there are no instances of shadow flicker at dwellings within this distance .

Socio – Economic and Tourism Assessment

1.90 An assessment has been undertaken to assess the potential social and economicimpacts of the proposed development. It details the likely employment generation

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

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

surrounding area.

1.91 The construction is expected to provide local employment opportunities for

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

months with an average of 20 jobs expected to be provided.

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

whilst environmental benefits, in terms of combating climate change, can beperceived as somewhat intangible and of more regional or national consequence.

1.93 Once operational the wind farm would pay current rates of £4,000 per MW. For the

proposed 18 MW wind farm this will equate to rates of £72,000 per annum with the

total value of the fund over the lifetime of the project equating to £1,800,000

being paid to Limavady Borough Council/Department of Finance and Personnel,

which will be used to pay for a wide range of services. The impact is therefore

beneficial and considered to be of slight significance.

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

of ensuring local benefit. It is most likely that the proposed Craiggore Community

Fund would comprise a specially constituted Charitable Trust Fund. The


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Community Fund will be based on £2000 per MW for the 25 year lifetime of the

project. Based on a 18 MW project this equates to a community fund of £36,000 per

annum, with the total value of the fund over the lifetime of the project equating to

£900,000. The impact is therefore beneficial and considered to be of minor

significance.

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

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

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

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

considered to be significant.


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Documents

Craiggore Volume 4 - Non-technical Summary