REF: AVP4A ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT_London_NTS... · habitat survey and bat survey; Farrar Huxley Associates who prepared the landscape proposals; Caseyfierro Architects and Maccreanor

REF: AVP4A

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENTNON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY

Aberfeldy New Village Masterplan

June 2010

Aberfeldy New Village

Environmental Impact Assessment: Non-Technical Summary Final Report

Reference: AVP 4a

Prepared by: Steve Mitchell & Tamsin Lowe

For and on behalf of Environmental Resources Management Approved by: Steve Mitchell

Signed: Position: Technical Director Date: 24 June 2010

This report has been prepared by Environmental Resources Management the trading name of Environmental Resources Management Limited, with all reasonable skill, care and diligence within the terms of the Contract with the client, incorporating our General Terms and Conditions of Business and taking account of the resources devoted to it by agreement with the client. We disclaim any responsibility to the client and others in respect of any matters outside the scope of the above. This report is confidential to the client and we accept no responsibility of whatsoever nature to third parties to whom this report, or any part thereof, is made known. Any such party relies on the report at their own risk.

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION 1

1.1 PREFACE 1 1.2 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT 1 1.3 THE NEED FOR THE ABERFELDY NEW VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT, TOWER HAMLETS2

2 APPROACH TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 4

2.1 GENERAL APPROACH 4 2.2 CUMULATIVE ASSESSMENT APPROACH 5

3 SCOPE OF ASSESSMENT AND CONSULTATION 6

3.1 CONSULTATION 6 3.2 SCOPE OF ASSESSMENT 6

4 THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 8

4.1 VISION FOR THE SITE 8 4.2 ON-SITE EXISTING LAND USE 8 4.3 BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS 9 4.4 APPLICATION DESCRIPTION 9 4.5 CONSTRUCTION 15 4.6 ALTERNATIVES 17

5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION 21

5.1 OVERVIEW 21 5.2 AIR QUALITY 21 5.3 NOISE AND VIBRATION 22 5.4 ECOLOGY 22 5.5 TOWNSCAPE AND VISUAL 24 5.6 WATER RESOURCES AND FLOODING 25 5.7 LAND CONTAMINATION 26 5.8 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT 27 5.9 ARCHAEOLOGY AND CULTURAL HERITAGE 28 5.10 SOCIO-ECONOMICS 29 5.11 WIND 29 5.12 SUNLIGHT AND DAYLIGHT 30 5.13 TV, RADIO AND MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS 31

6 SUMMARY 33

7 CONTACTS AND FURTHER INFORMATION 34

ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT POPLAR HARCA

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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 PREFACE

1.1.1 Poplar HARCA (hereafter referred to as ‘the Applicant’) is promoting the Aberfeldy New Village, Tower Hamlets development (‘the Development’). The Development is located in east London as shown in Figure 1.1, which shows the boundaries of the 8.83 ha application site (‘the Site’).

1.1.2 The Development is a mixed use redevelopment comprising a combination of refurbishment and new build. The Development will comprise predominantly residential development, along with a new Community and Health Centre, retail units, commercial units, up to four energy centres and landscaping.

1.2 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT

1.2.1 This document is the Non-Technical Summary (NTS) of the Environmental Statement (ES). Its purpose is to provide an overview, in non-technical language, of the main findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reported in the ES. It describes the Development, how its construction and operation is expected to affect the environmental and socio-economic receptors and how any likely significant negative effects on the environment or socio-economic receptors will be mitigated. Any residual impacts which are expected to persist after mitigation are also described.

1.2.2 This NTS is one of a number of documents (see Table 1.1) presented in support of an outline planning application to the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation (‘LTGDC’), as local planning authority. The ES has been prepared in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 1999 (“the EIA Regulations”) and subsequent amendments in 2006. The ES will assist LTGDC in arriving at a robust decision with respect to the outline planning application.

Table 1.1 Project Documentation

Reference Documents AVP 1 Application Form, Article 7 Certificate, Certificate B and schedule of Notice No.1

recipients AVP 2 1:1250 scale site plan (showing site area boundary edged in red and applicants land

ownership in blue) AVP 3 Planning and Regeneration Statement and Statement of Community Involvement AVP 4a Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary AVP 4b Environmental Statement AVP 4c Environmental Statement Annexes AVP 4d Transport Assessment (Environmental Statement Annex P) AVP 5 Gas Holder Quantitative Risk Assessment AVP 6 Integral Design and Access Statement AVP 7 Illustrative Design and Access Statement AVP 8 Plans and Drawings detailing the proposals


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Reference Documents AVP 9 Financial Statement and S106 Heads of Terms AVP 10 Energy Statement AVP 11 Health and Equality Impact Assessment AVP 12 Sustainability Statement AVP 13 Aberfeldy Retail Statement

1.2.3 This NTS, and the ES which it summarises, have been prepared by Environmental Resources Management (ERM) on behalf of the Applicant. ERM is an independent environmental consultancy with extensive experience of undertaking EIAs for major schemes such as this.

1.2.4 In addition to ERM, contributors to the ES comprise PFA, who carried out the Transport Assessment and Utilities Assessment; Waterman, who prepared the Flood Risk Assessment; BMT Fluid Mechanics, who carried out the wind/microclimate and sunlight/daylight assessments; Cobham Technical Services, who carried out the TV and radio communications assessment; Place Archaeological Consultants Ltd, who carried out the archaeological and cultural heritage assessment; Thomson Ecology, who carried out the Phase 1 habitat survey and bat survey; Farrar Huxley Associates who prepared the landscape proposals; Caseyfierro Architects and Maccreanor Lavington, who provided details of all of the elements of building layout and design; and Hoare Lea, who provided advice on energy.

1.3 THE NEED FOR THE ABERFELDY NEW VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT, TOWER HAMLETS

1.3.1 The Development represents a major regeneration proposal for the renewal and upgrading of an estate located in one of the most deprived areas in the country.

1.3.2 Further details of the sustainability issues relating to the Development are set out in Volume AVP 12 of the application documentation. In particular, the application will address the following issues. Improving Land Use Efficiency and Building Communities

1.3.3 Currently the area is at a low density and the Site significant potential for improvement in terms of efficient land use and building communities. The Development therefore seeks, amongst other things, to: • introduce more housing and affordable homes; • introduce a more complementary mix of affordable and family homes; • create a more mixed and balanced community; • replace, enhance and increase the provision of social facilities; • accord with national policy objectives for efficient use of scarce land; and • respond to the Mayor’s LLV OAPF to introduce more housing in this

location.


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Improving the Design Quality of the Site

1.3.4 The Development is seeking to: • introduce new buildings that improve the layout and structure of the

estate; • introduce new and enhanced green spaces with better defined purposes; • introduce new and enhanced play facilities; • enhance and make safer routes into and through the Site; • introduce high quality buildings achieving better standards of design; and • upgrade the infrastructure of the Site. Improving the Energy Efficiency of the Site

1.3.5 The Development is seeking to: • improve existing buildings bringing them up to Decent Homes standard; • address the impacts of climate change; and • better manage resources. Providing a Management Overview of the Complete Aberfeldy Estate

1.3.6 The Applicant, Poplar HARCA, was established by the London Borough of Tower Hamlets in 1998 as the UK’s first Local Housing Company. It is a Registered Social Landlord and a Registered Charity. Following two successful rounds of stock transfer Poplar HARCA now owns and manages 8,500 ex-Council homes in the Poplar area. For much of the last ten years its focus has been on refurbishing these homes and on driving up the quality of services to its residents.

1.3.7 Poplar HARCA has a long-term interest and management responsibility for the future of the Aberfeldy Estate and is in a practical position to implement development proposals and deliver improvements that will enhance its quality and advance its future prosperity.


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2 APPROACH TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

2.1 GENERAL APPROACH

2.1.1 The likely significant environmental (including socio-economic effects) have been predicted for each relevant topic (eg ecology, landscape, noise etc) by comparing baseline environmental conditions (ie the situation without the Development) with the conditions that would prevail were the Development to be constructed and become operational. The ‘reasonable worst case’ scenario has been used to identify the likely impacts in relation to each effect.

2.1.2 The environmental effects have been predicted in relation to environmental receptors, including: people (eg residents of buildings, users of facilities, employees of businesses etc); built resources (eg listed buildings); and natural resources (eg sites of ecological interest). Significant effects have been reported and categorised as appropriate. Impacts can either be site-specific or development-wide; positive or negative; and temporary or permanent. They can also be direct effects from the activities comprising the Development or indirect effects from activities not explicitly forming part of the Development (eg additional traffic on parts of the road network not forming part of the Development). In addition, there is potential for cumulative effects to arise from the combination of different effects, the recurrence of effects of the same type at different locations and the interaction of different effects over time.

2.1.3 For each significant adverse effect of the Development identified during the process of assessment, the specialists undertaking the EIA have defined mitigation measures consistent with good practice in their respective field. The Applicant is committed to implementing these measures, full details of which will be submitted at appropriate stages of the Development. In particular, a Construction Method Statement (CMS), Code of Construction Practice (CoCP) and Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) will be applied to mitigate against any significant potential construction impacts.

2.1.4 Residual effects (ie effects of the Development once mitigation has been applied) have been identified, as appropriate, for each environmental topic. Where effects are still considered significant, the level of significance (ie major, moderate or minor) and the extent of any necessary amelioration is explained in the ES in accordance with the significance criteria defined for each environmental topic.


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2.2 CUMULATIVE ASSESSMENT APPROACH

2.2.1 Other major schemes located near to the Site in LB Tower Hamlets and which have been granted permission, whether in outline or full, or which are identified in local planning policy, have been considered in the assessment of impacts. The schemes considered comprise the following: • Lanrick Road – mixed use buildings to the east of the Development within

Lanrick Road and Portree Street, a Poplar HARCA scheme programmed to facilitate the Aberfeldy Village development;

• Culloden Primary School – planned extension to be complete by

September 2011; • Pura Foods – demolition and redevelopment on the Leamouth Peninsula

to the east and south-east of the Development; • Devons Wharf – provision of business floor space, residential units and

parking to the north of Leven Road, north of the Development; • Leamouth Road– commercial development including multi-story

buildings to the south of the Development and East India Dock Road (A13);

• Rathbone Market – to be constructed to the east of the Development and

including retail, offices, residential, market and parking; • Brownfield Phase 1 – 144 dwellings to be constructed to the west of the

Development; • Crown Wharf, Bidder Street – redevelopment of the Site to the east of the

Development, comprising retail and residential units and the provision of parking;

• River Lea Park – the provision of over 61 ha of open space in the Lower

Lea valley Area to enhance the availability of interlinked green space; and • London Olympics – the London Olympics will be occurring in the summer

of 2012 and the Olympic Park is approximately 2.5 km to 3 km north of the Development.

2.2.2 Potential cumulative environmental impacts including socio-economics, noise,

dust, transport and townscape/visual are assessed and reported in the relevant ES assessment section.


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3 SCOPE OF ASSESSMENT AND CONSULTATION

3.1 CONSULTATION

3.1.1 Consultation with statutory bodies and interested parties is a key part of assessing the environmental impacts of a scheme. Consultation is essential in order to gain a full understanding of the baseline environment and potential nature of impacts. It is also important in ensuring that the scheme is designed to maximise the benefits it can deliver.

3.1.2 The Applicant, in conjunction with ERM, has undertaken a full programme of public consultation.

3.1.3 In addition to the programme of public consultation, ERM prepared an ES Scoping Report. Potential environmental topics in relation to the Development were evaluated, having regard to the EIA Regulations, as part of this scoping exercise. This was carried out in order to determine whether such topics (or parts of topics) should be included in the EIA, having regard to whether they are likely to give rise to significant effects.

3.1.4 The Scoping Report setting out the proposed scope of the EIA was prepared and issued in November 2009 to LTGDC, statutory consultees, and a number of non-statutory consultees.

3.1.5 Three pre-application meetings held with LTGDC, LBTH and GLA were

attended by the EIA consultants to outline progress on the EIA and to seek further clarification of the authorities’ requirements.

3.2 SCOPE OF ASSESSMENT

3.2.1 On receipt of the responses from the various consultees, the scope of the EIA was refined to reflect the comments received. It was concluded that the topics set out in Table 3.1 should form the technical scope addressed in the EIA and reported in this ES.


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Table 3.1 Environmental Issues Included in the Scope of the EIA

Construction Operation Significant

effect unlikely Significant

effect possible Significant

effect unlikely Significant

effect possible Air Quality and Dust - - Noise and Vibration - - Ecology - +/- Townscape and Visual Impact - +/- Water Resources and Flooding - +/- Land Contamination - X Traffic and Transport - +/- Archaeology and Cultural Heritage

- X

Socio-Economics + +/- Wind and Microclimate - - Sunlight and Daylight - - Television and Radio Reception

- -

+ any impact likely to be positive - any impact likely to be negative X topic scoped out

3.2.2 For each of the above topics the geographical and temporal scope of the EIA was defined. The temporal scope of the assessment accounted for the construction period and then the occupation of the Development upon completion.


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4 THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

4.1 VISION FOR THE SITE

4.1.1 Poplar HARCA’s aim, as set out in its Reshaping Poplar document (1), is to create a new urban environment of interconnected and complementary neighbourhoods with their own character. It recognises that Aberfeldy New Village represents an opportunity for significant change, and aims to provide homes that people love, surrounded by green spaces they enjoy. The vision is to design an urban village with excellent community facilities and a thriving neighbourhood retail centre.

4.2 ON-SITE EXISTING LAND USE

4.2.1 Since the late 19th century, the Site has been developed for residential use. It remains a primarily residential area and at present the majority of land in the Site area is in the ownership and control of either Poplar HARCA or LB Tower Hamlets. It is bounded by the multi-lane Blackwall Tunnel approach (A12) to the west and East India Road (A13) to the south. Abbott Road links the two, bounding the eastern and northern parts of the estate, effectively creating an island.

4.2.2 Currently, the Site consists of 550 homes, of which 75% are classified as affordable. The Site also includes: • a retail component consisting of two rows of shops in the centre of

Aberfeldy Street; • Aberfeldy Neighbourhood Centre (513 m2), located just north of the retail

section of Aberfeldy Street and run by Poplar HARCA; • three main open spaces comprising the Millennium Green, Leven Road

Green (Abbott Road Park) and a children’s play park and ball court on Aberfeldy Street;

• St. Nicholas and All Hallows Church, south of Millennium Green and east

of the Neighbourhood Centre; • Aberfeldy Health Centre (440 m2) which is adjacent to St. Nicholas and

All Hallows Church (recently built but requires further expansion); • a pub (The Aberfeldy); and • three faith-based community centres along Aberfeldy Street, located

within the existing retail parade.

(1) Building One Tower Hamlets: Reshaping Poplar (Casey Fierro for Poplar HARCA, 2008)


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4.2.3 Buildings in the Currie and Dunkeld site in the south east corner of the Site (see Figure 3.1), other than the Inner London Hotel, have been demolished to make way for the Development. Blairgowrie Court in the north of this area is not included in the redevelopment programme.

4.3 BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

4.3.1 A full, up-to-date analysis of the existing environment, or baseline information, at the Site, in relation to each of the environmental topics, was assessed within the EIA. The baseline analysis involved both desk-studies and baseline surveys, undertaken between August 2009 and February 2010.

4.3.2 During the baseline survey period, the majority of the Currie and Dunkeld site (Phase 2) was demolished. For the EIA the baseline is taken as the pre-demolition site, because the demolition took place as advanced work to facilitate the Development. The Inner London Hotel, in the south side of this area, will be demolished as part of the Development.

4.4 APPLICATION DESCRIPTION

Summary Description

4.4.1 The Development will include the following main elements: • refurbishment and new build (primarily residential) with 14 new

buildings or building clusters, with blocks between two and 25 storeys in height;

• demolition of 384 dwellings, refurbishment of 24 dwellings and provision

of 1153 new dwellings, with a mix of unit sizes (between 1 and 6 bedrooms);

• re-provision of retail and community/faith space; • a new replacement Community and Health Centre, approximately twice

the size of the existing centre; • increased secure cycle parking provision; • re-provision of accessible open space as high quality amenity space,

increasing provision of this by over 50%; • car parking; • up to four energy centres to provide energy for the Development; and • inclusion of green roofs.


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4.4.2 The Development masterplan is shown in Figure 4.2. Decanting Residents

4.4.3 A decant strategy has been established to ensure existing occupants only have to move once and that, as far as possible, they are provided the opportunity of staying on the estate, should they wish to. The Lanrick Road scheme, to the east of the Site, is currently under construction and is due for completion in April 2011, with some units becoming available in advance of that. This will provide opportunity for relocation of occupants who currently reside in the Phase 1 area of the Site.

4.4.4 The Applicant is also in the process of bringing forward a number of other developments on other Poplar HARCA estates which are due for completion in advance of the Development’s Phase 1 decant date and these will also be available to decanted residents. Residents in the existing Phase 3 area of the Site will also be decanted; where appropriate, retail operators will be offered accommodation in the new retail space and the residents of units above the existing retail units will be offered new units in either Phase 1 or 2 of the Development. Built Uses

Overview

4.4.5 The Development will comprise buildings of various heights between 2 and 25 storeys, as shown in Figure 4.2. Residential Development

4.4.6 The application seeks permission for demolition of 384 dwellings, refurbishment of 24 dwellings and provision of 1153 new dwellings, with a net increase in dwellings of 769 units. There will be a total gross external residential floor space provision of 126,922 m2. An additional 142 existing dwellings within the masterplan area will not be affected by the Development.

4.4.7 The new housing will comprise the following: • 733 new private units; • 335 new affordable (social rented) units; and • 85 new affordable (intermediate) units.

4.4.8 The Development will provide a mix of dwelling sizes, between 1-bedroom and 6-bedroom flats and houses. Plans contained within Volume AVP 6 of the application documentation identify the sizes of all dwellings and whether they are private, affordable or intermediate. Overall, the Development will provide 35% affordable habitable rooms.


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4.4.9 The Applicant will achieve the London Plan target that 10% of all new homes are designed to meet wheelchair housing standards or be easily adaptable for wheelchair users. All homes will be constructed to Lifetime Homes Standard.

4.4.10 Further details on the design, access and building materials are given in the Design and Access Statement (Volume AVP 6 of the application documentation). Retail

4.4.11 The application will provide 1137 m² of retail floorspace (use class A1), representing a 46% increase in retail provision. All retail, health and community facilities (apart from St Nicholas Church) will have residential units on the floors above. Social and Community Space

4.4.12 The Development will provide new social and community infrastructure in the form of replacement and additional facilities as follows: • Replacement retail space will be provided in Phase 1 and 3 of the

Development as described above. • Replacement community/faith space will be provided in Phase 3 of the

Development. The sub-phasing of Phase 3 construction will enable continuous provision of community/faith space, with construction of new facilities being completed prior to removal of existing facilities.

• Enhanced replacement Community and Health Centre facilities will be

provided in Phase 1. Energy

4.4.13 It is proposed that the Development will include up to four energy centres; one within each of Phases 1, 2, 4 and 5 (with Phase 3 being supplied from Phase 1). In line with the GLA guidance that developments of this type should achieve a 20% renewable contribution from the energy generated on site if possible, the Development plans to meet this requirement in line with policy requirements, through the use of Combined Heat and Power (CHP) units within these energy centres, with photovoltaic power, ground source heat pumping and other evolving technologies considered as each phase comes forward for detailed design and planning submission.

4.4.14 Further details of the proposed energy provision for the Site are set out in the Energy Statement, Volume AVP 10 of the application documentation. Car Parking and Cycle Facilities

4.4.15 Currently there are 225 controlled parking bays and garages within the Site (0.34 spaces per dwelling). This will be reduced to 0.30 spaces per dwelling,


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with an additional 5 spaces for the community centre and an additional 2 for a car club, giving a maximum of 400 spaces. An additional estimated 143 on-street parking spaces also exist within the Site, under the control of LB Tower Hamlets, and no change is proposed to these parking spaces.

4.4.16 Car parking spaces will be provided for the uses set out in Table 4.1. Residential parking space provision will include provision of disabled accessible parking spaces for the disabled accessible residential units, in line with GLA guidance.

Table 4.1 Maximum Car Parking Provision

Use Number of spaces Residential 393 Other users including retail, health centre and community centre

5

Car club 2

4.4.17 The proposal also includes an increase in secure cycle parking provision, in particular in locations adjacent to the new large open spaces and retail area, to the standard required by LB Tower Hamlets. Transport Infrastructure and Access

Access by Road

4.4.18 The Site is bounded to the south by the A13 and to the West by the A12. There is no access to the Site for road traffic from these roads. Road access to the Site is from Abbott Road via Ettrick Street towards the northern end of the Site and via Blair Street towards the southern end of the Site. No change is proposed to the existing Site access points. Access for Pedestrians/Cyclists

4.4.19 Pedestrian access to the Site is currently limited, due to the Site being bounded by the A12 and A13. There is an existing pedestrian underpass, under the A12, as shown in Figure 3.4. A new traffic signal pedestrian crossing over the A13 south of Aberfeldy Street is planned to facilitate access to the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and other pedestrian routes to the south. This is not part of the Development and is outside the scope of this assessment. The introduction of this crossing is programmed for mid-2010 and the Development allows for it.

4.4.20 The Development has been designed to accommodate the future proposed introduction of a new high level pedestrian/cycle bridge over the A12 linking Dee Street with Brownfield Street, to the west of the Site. This bridge does not form part of the Development and is likely to be delivered by others in the longer term, so its construction impacts are not assessed in this ES, however the future operational use of this bridge is assessed in the ES.


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Highway Works

4.4.21 The Development does not propose changes to public highways, with the exception of alterations to access roads and footpaths within the Site. Road alterations have been planned with access for delivery and emergency vehicles in mind. Utility Services

4.4.22 Utilities companies have been contacted in relation to existing plant in the Aberfeldy area to enable this to be protected during construction, and in relation to reinforcements required to serve Aberfeldy New Village. Further consultations will be carried out at the detailed planning/reserved matters stage. An overview of how the Development will affect utilities services is provided here. Electricity

4.4.23 EDF is undertaking a network analysis to determine whether off-site reinforcement works are necessary to serve the Site. There are currently three substations within the Site area and it is estimated that a further three will be required depending on the final layout and phasing and on whether load is available in the existing substations. Existing substations, including that adjacent to Theseus House, will be relocated and/or diverted as necessary to accommodate the Development proposals and to maintain supplies to properties outside the Site. Water Supply

4.4.24 There are various distribution mains located within the Site, mainly within carriageways, and some disconnections or cut back of mains will be required with some localised diversions to maintain supply to existing properties. Thames Water is carrying out a flow and pressure investigation to determine whether off-site reinforcement works are required. Within the Site, the strategy is to utilise as much of the existing mains network as possible and to extend/upsize as necessary. It is expected that a number of the proposed blocks will require a boosted cold water tank/system in order to serve the flats and this will be confirmed at the detailed design stage. Gas

4.4.25 Various low pressure and medium pressure gas mains are located within and around the Site and some diversions are expected to be required to protect supplies. National Grid has initially confirmed that the existing network has sufficient capacity to serve the Development. Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plants are proposed in the Development to supply heating and hot water to dwellings, reducing carbon emissions, and a gas network to individual units may therefore not be required.


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British Telecom

4.4.26 There is a significant duct and chamber route within and surrounding the Aberfeldy estate. Diversions are dependent on changes to existing footpaths and carriageways. Although the aim is to respect the existing street pattern and keep changes to these to a minimum, some diversions will be necessary particularly where there are changes in level. Diversions will be agreed with BT at the detailed design stage. Future supply will utilise the existing duct network, extending/upsizing as necessary. On-Site duct and joint box installation is intended to be undertaken by the developer in accordance with BT specification and proposals. Virgin Media & Other Communications Networks

4.4.27 Two large Data Centres are located along the A13 opposite the Aberfeldy estate and consequently there is a significant quantity of national and local fibre communications plant within and surrounding the Site. Although the aim is to respect the existing street pattern to minimise the impact of the proposed development, some plant may require diversion. Open Space

Introduction

4.4.28 Much of the public realm within the Site is currently poorly maintained, lacking in character and imparting low social value to residents. The landscape strategy has been developed to make use of the currently inaccessible or underused open space and provide a variety of public, semi-private and private places for residents and visitors. The landscaping masterplan for the Development is shown in Figure 4.5.

4.4.29 Existing trees will be retained across the Site. Tree and sub-canopy planting will be used across the Site to strengthen pubic realm character, enhance ecology and habitat, mitigate against the impact of surrounding roads along the A12 and A13 edges and moderate climatic influence on the Site.

4.4.30 Key aspects of the proposed public realm are as follows. Public Green Spaces

4.4.31 There are two main existing green spaces within the Site – Millennium Green and Leven Road Open Space; improvements will be made to both these spaces. Millennium Green will be linked to the northern end of Aberfeldy Street with a new footpath network that will extend across Abbott Road to link to the Leven Road Open Space.

4.4.32 These spaces will be sub-divided through a series of hard and soft landscape interventions, including the creation of terracing. A series of allotment spaces will also be provided to give local people access to growing areas, along with tree, shrub, short and long grass and ecological planting areas. Natural play facilities will be introduced within the grass areas, for children of all ages and


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a small ball court will be installed to provide opportunities for more formal physical activity.

4.4.33 Two main new public green spaces will also be created across the Site (East India Green and Dee Park). These will provide a combination of active leisure and play opportunities and quieter areas. They will integrate play, recreation, ecology and bio-diversity and reinforce local identity (e.g. through providing public art). Urban Woodland

4.4.34 A woodland space with a unique character will be created on the southern edge of the Site. This will include noise mitigation measures and dense screen planting along the A13 road edge. Semi-private Courtyards

4.4.35 A series of private/communal spaces will be created in the residential block courtyards. Courtyard space will give residents immediate access to semi-private green space including informal playspace provision. Green Roofs

4.4.36 A variety of green roofs will be created across the Development. Extensive and inaccessible systems will allow for the planting of local and native species to increase habitat capacity and support biodiversity across the Site. A number of intensive accessible spaces will also be created to allow residents access to a green environment at roof level and will provide more decorative planted elements and food growing opportunities. Private Gardens

4.4.37 Private garden spaces will be provided for ground floor residents across the Development.

4.5 CONSTRUCTION

Phasing of the Development

4.5.1 The construction and operation of the Development will follow a phased approach, with five phases in total, which will be subject to applications for the discharge of reserved matters in accordance with a phased timetable as set out in the Integral Design and Access Statement (Volume AVP 6 of the application documentation).

4.5.2 Demolition is planned from September 2011. The overall construction for the whole Development will last 11 years to end in approximately June 2022. People will be living in parts of the Development from approximately May 2012, with the complete Development being operational in approximately 2022.


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4.5.3 The estimated timing of the works at present is set out in Table 4.2.

Table 4.2 Construction and Operation Schedule

Phase Start of Construction Operation Phase 1 Sep 2011 Dec 2014 Phase 2 Apr 2012 Mar 2014 Phase 3 Mar 2015 Dec 2017 Phase 4 Dec 2014 Mar 2018 Phase 5 Apr 2018 Jun 2022

4.5.4 Figure 4.3 shows the phasing of the construction of the Development. Construction Methods

4.5.5 A preliminary Construction Method Statement (CMS) has been set out for the Development, describing the likely methods, works and programme for construction. The following topics are addressed: • construction overview; • programme of works; • phasing; • description of works; • traffic generation; and • traffic routing. Construction Activities

4.5.6 The enabling and construction programme will be designed to minimise disruption to local residents, the general public, and the environment. Works will include: • initial site preparation, including diversion of services and setting up of

designated construction areas; • installation of site hoardings, security measures, signage of entrance and

exit; • demolition of buildings and structures; • earthworks, including removal of any contaminated materials in line with

legislative guidance; • excavation; • construction of Sales Centre and associated access, car park and

landscaping; • construction of new buildings including piling, laying foundations and

connection to services; and • land profiling, landscaping and public realm works; and • site completion, including removal of construction compounds.

4.5.7 The construction work force is expected to peak at about 100 people. Up to 40 HGVs and 25 cars/vans are envisaged each day. Access routes into and


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within the Site are set out in Figure 4.4. The Site compound, offices and Sales and Marketing Suite will be situated initially on vacant ground within Phase 2, with delivery vehicles parking in this area prior to unloading on site. Code of Construction Practice

4.5.8 Much of the construction work will be in the vicinity of residential areas, and it is recognised that there will need to be stringent controls on the Contractor to ensure that disturbance and environmental impacts are minimised. In order to maintain the environment surrounding the built areas in a manner as beneficial as possible to the occupants, the Code of Construction Practice (CoCP) developed by LBTH will be used. This sets out the measures that will be undertaken by all contractors to ensure site safety and good site practice with regard to the environment.

4.5.9 The CoCP requirements will be implemented through the Principal Contractor’s Health Safety and Environment Plan that will clarify environmental management responsibilities, monitoring and auditing processes, complaints response procedures, and community and stakeholder liaison processes. Furthermore, it will describe the different environmental procedures to be followed in order to complete the various works, including monitoring, for example, noise and dust levels.

4.5.10 The CoCP will be included in the contractual agreements between the Applicant and its selected contractors. Adherence to the CoCP will, therefore, be compulsory. It should be noted that compliance with the CoCP will not discharge the contractors, or their agents, from complying with any statutory requirements in force at the time.

4.6 ALTERNATIVES

Aims and Objectives

4.6.1 The EIA Regulations require that the main alternatives that have been considered be outlined in the ES. The principal reasons for their rejection in favour of the chosen scheme should also be given taking into account the environmental effects.

4.6.2 This section summarises how the Development has evolved as a result of careful consideration and evaluation of the alternatives. During this evaluation process a number of options have been considered. This section outlines the evaluation processes carried out.

4.6.3 The proposals presented in this ES are those which respond best to this process of evaluation, environmental constraints and the vision for the Site. Additional details regarding the design evolution can be found in the Integral Design and Access Statement (Volume AVP 6 of the application documentation).


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Alternative Site Layout

4.6.4 The extent of the Development has been determined primarily by the limits of Poplar HARCA’s ownership and the obvious demarcations formed by the A12, A13 and the industrial area to the north.

4.6.5 The main driver for the Development is the poor state of repair of the existing housing stock, and the poor urban design of the area. The Development will also help address the socio-economic limitations of the area, but not to change its function as providing a good place to live with associated community facilities. As such, when considering the environmental impacts of the Development, the options considered were mostly concerned with the way in which the necessary facilities are distributed around the available Site. In addition to the site layout alternatives discussed below, there were also the following principal environmental considerations: • impacts on remaining buildings and Culloden Primary School; • transport linkage options; • renewable energy options; • risks associated with the gas holders; • flood risk mitigation; • the A12 and A13 as sources of noise and air pollution; and • cumulative impacts with neighbouring development.

4.6.6 The way in which these environmental impacts were addressed when considering alternatives is summarised as follows.

4.6.7 Culloden Primary School was consulted to understand its future plans and concerns. Four expansion options and the likely timing of the expansion were studied. The option of providing land for construction was considered and rejected due to timing issues. The Development requires no land from the school. The proposed Development buildings respect the needs of the school in terms of overshadowing, security and access. Further details can be found in the Design and Access Statement. The Development aims to minimise impact on the school buildings, through layout, design and maintaining access by not disturbing the existing road layout.

4.6.8 The scheme exploits the A13 pedestrian crossing that is to be completed in 2010 by focusing pedestrian linkages to it and the DRL beyond. The scheme makes no change to access to the A12 underpass and provides a landing space for a future road crossing of the A12 should that come forward in due course. The existing road network is not altered by the Development, thus minimising impacts on the bus route and other road traffic.

4.6.9 Renewable and efficient energy options have been integrated into the Development whilst allowing flexibility for new technologies in the future by a phased approach. A central CHP was considered on Leven Road Open Space where land is available next to the Leven Road gas works to the north, but this was rejected; partly so as not to exacerbate the perceived risk the gas


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holders pose, and partly to better allow for future technologies through phased approach, as discussed in the Energy Statement (Volume AVP 10 of the application documentation).

4.6.10 A Flood Risk Assessment covering this area was completed in 2008. The EIA identified the need to refine this work in August 2009 due to the seriousness of the potential flood risk in the area. The ES explains the consultation process and how the flood mitigation measures were developed over a period of several months study and consultation with the Environment Agency. Several alternatives were considered, and the eventual package of measures that emerged had a large influence on architecture used to allow land raising to be integrated into the Development, and on the layouts of residential units to be provided.

4.6.11 The A12 and A13 were identified as major noise sources from the London Noise Map and initial observations. They were also identified as being in part responsible for the designation of the area as an Air Quality Management Area. The response to these constraints was to avoid development beyond the existing building line adjacent to the roads, to minimise single aspect units and to offer the mitigation measures discussed in the ES. In particular, family homes are located further from these sources, and the buildings fronting these roads are used as barrier blocks to screen areas within the Site, including open spaces away from noise and road emissions.

4.6.12 Neighbouring developments were identified at an early stage. The Development layout has evolved in knowledge of the location of the gas holders and the inner, middle and outer Consultation Zones for which the HSE gives specific guidance. The allocation of residential units across the Development has aimed to minimise high density housing on the side of the Site closest to these gas holders.

4.6.13 The massing of the permitted Leamouth Road scheme had a large influence on the building heights and forms proposed in Phases 2 and 4 that will be opposite this scheme. A large number of alternatives were considered for the massing and form of the buildings along the A13 (the Design and Access Statement provides more details) to address the visual impact of the two developments. To provide continuity to the building forms on both sides of the A13, it was considered essential for the buildings within the Site to be at their highest in the southeast corner to the Site, opposite the tall building in the consented Leamouth Road scheme. This results in the tallest (25 storey) building being in the vicinity of the largest gas holder. Risks associated with the gas holders are addressed in the Gas Holder Risk Assessment (Volume AVP 5 of the application documentation) which concludes that the possible effect of a gas explosion on this tall building can be mitigated by design measures.

4.6.14 In parallel with considering the above Site constraints and environmental implications, the architecture and functionality of the Development was progressed through numerous iterations of the Site layout and building forms.


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The evolving scheme was repeatedly tested against local planning policy as well as the Poplar HARCA design brief, with the EIA team advising on key environmental issues from August 2009. A block model was used extensively to visualise the Development throughout this process. ERM also provided input to heath, equality and sustainability issues throughout this optioneering process. The Health and Equality Impact Assessment (Volume AVP 11 of the Project documentation) and Sustainability Statement (Volume AVP 12 of the Project documentation) provide further details of these aspects of the Development.

4.6.15 The alternative options considered for the Development were also shaped by consultation with key stakeholders including LTGDC, LB Tower Hamlets, GLA and local residents groups, as described in the Statement of Community Involvement (Volume AVP 3 of the application documentation).


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5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION

5.1 OVERVIEW

5.1.1 This section provides a summary of the likely significant residual effects on the baseline environment at the Site.

5.1.2 Where relevant the EIA has also addressed the likely significant cumulative impacts arising from the construction and operation of the other developments which have permission, as described in Section 2.2 of this NTS.

5.2 AIR QUALITY

Short-Term Impacts

5.2.1 The emissions to air from the exhausts of construction traffic (NO2, PM10 and PM2.5) are predicted to result in a negligible increase in impacts at nearby sensitive receptors in the vicinity of the roads used by construction traffic. These impacts will decrease away from the roadside and will be occur only during the period of construction.

5.2.2 Impacts on sensitive receptors as a result of emissions of dust from construction activities and construction vehicles are expected to be negligible, provided that good practice as described in recent guidance is followed. Long-Term Impacts

5.2.3 A negligible decrease in air quality (due to NO2, PM10 and PM2.5 emissions) is predicted to occur, associated with the additional traffic generated as a consequence of the occupation of the Development.

5.2.4 The NO2 emissions to air arising from the operation of the energy centres are predicted to result in a moderate adverse impact. These impacts are small in the context of the existing concentrations.

5.2.5 The combination of the Development operational traffic and energy centre emissions is predicted to result in a negligible impact for PM10/PM2.5, and a moderate adverse impact for NO2 over and above the impact already arising from the baseline traffic and background concentrations.

5.2.6 The cumulative concentrations for short-term and long-term NO2 are predicted to exceed the AQSs at ground level. As a mitigation measure for the residential receptors, units at floors 1 to 5 and directly adjoining A12 and A13 will not take in air from these roads, or from locations directly next to the energy centre stacks.


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5.2.7 The contribution from operational traffic and energy centre emissions to the cumulative impact of NOX deposition upon Millennium Green is considered to be negligible.

5.3 NOISE AND VIBRATION

Short-Term Impacts

5.3.1 During construction, measures will be taken to control noise emissions, particularly to the Culloden Primary School. The measures that will be adopted include those specified in the LBTH Code of Construction Practice, and will be agreed with the LBTH through a prior consent process, so as to ensure the best practicable means are used to minimise noise disturbance. However, residual impacts are expected, from the noisiest works, at buildings within Aberfeldy village adjacent to each phase of the Development. Noise from the works will be audible over extended periods, but the residual noise impacts, affecting given receptors, will generally last for a few weeks each while the noisiest works proceed through the construction period.

Long-Term Impacts

5.3.2 It was recognised at an early stage of the master planning that the Site was exposed to high levels of noise from the South and West. These have been quantified and the design of noise sensitive elements of the scheme has allowed for incorporating measures to control road traffic noise to acceptable levels within residential units. Units have been positioned to include windows facing away from the major road noise sources wherever possible. Wide airspace acoustic glazing and some mechanical ventilation will be needed.

5.3.3 Amenity areas within the Development will be well screened from traffic noise and will provide relatively quiet areas, adding to their amenity value.

5.3.4 Potential sources of noise disturbance from equipment and activities within the Development have been identified, and measures have been incorporated to ensure acceptable noise environments can be achieved.

5.4 ECOLOGY

5.4.1 The habitats across the Site are considered to be of low value for nature conservation, only supporting breeding birds and a small number of common invertebrates.

5.4.2 Millennium Green is, however, considered to be of local value for nature conservation and is to be protected and retained within the Development. The provision of further features of benefit for biodiversity will encourage the use of this site by wildlife.


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5.4.3 Given the low overall ecological value of the Site, few potential adverse impacts are predicted and so limited mitigation is required.

5.4.4 In general, habitat loss will be limited to the minimum needed for safe implementation of the works; in particular, habitats within the Aberfeldy Millennium Green will be protected using fencing and retained within the Development.

5.4.5 All contractors working on the Site will be given ecological awareness training prior to the onset of construction. They will be made aware of the presence of protected species such as breeding birds and the importance of implementing species mitigation measures, as set out here and in the ES, where necessary.

5.4.6 Vegetation removal, in particular trees and scrub will take place outside the breeding bird season (March to August inclusive) to avoid effects on nesting birds. Where this is not possible, all potential nesting habitat that will be disturbed will be checked before removal to ensure that no nesting birds will be affected. If any nesting species are identified appropriate measures will be agreed and implemented in accordance with good practice and guidance from Natural England.

5.4.7 The Applicant and contractor will ensure that good practice measures are adopted to avoid incursion into areas adjacent to the work site or any secondary affects from pollution, draining of adjacent habitats within the Aberfeldy Millennium Green. Construction vehicles will be checked regularly for oil/fuel/hydraulic oil leaks and will be equipped with spillage contingency kits, as detailed in the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), to be drawn up for the Development.

5.4.8 Opportunities will be taken to enhance existing habitats and create further areas of new habitat within the Development. This will be done through the planting of native tree species and scrub, creating new hedges and improving the species diversity of existing hedges to mitigate against the loss of foraging and breeding habitat for wildlife. Specific measures detailed within the Landscape Strategy for the Site include: • the use of native plants and the establishment of native planting

communities; • mowing regimes and wildflower meadows to promote the development of

habitat for invertebrates and birds; • provision of bird and bat boxes across the Site; and • use of swales and water attenuation depressions for native planting to

increase habitat capacity and clean run-off water before it is returned to the ground water reservoir.

5.4.9 Features which will enhance the biodiversity value of the Site will also be

included within the Development. Enhancements will include the provision


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of green roofs, bird nesting boxes and in particular sparrow boxes, beetle banks and nectar rich flowerbed planting to provide a source of food for invertebrates and birds.

5.4.10 The measures implemented to help mitigate impacts to wildlife will be consistent with species and habitat priorities set out in the London Biodiversity Action Plan.

5.4.11 All invasive species recorded within the Site or within close proximity to the Site boundary will be removed by qualified specialists following EA guidelines.

5.4.12 Specifications for the habitat creation and provision of species features including detailed information for the method of turf translocation will be provided in the CEMP.

5.4.13 It is considered that, overall, the Development will provide a positive enhancement for biodiversity at a Site level and for the local area.

5.5 TOWNSCAPE AND VISUAL

Short-Term Impacts

5.5.1 It is acknowledged that the construction activities including lighting will provide a degree of increased disruption to the townscape and intrusion into views, especially to visual receptors within the estate and in the nearby residential areas. The construction phase has been proposed to be in phases and would last for approximately 11 years. However given that these impacts would be temporary, the townscape and visual impacts would also be temporary and are likely to be of moderate significance. Significance has been assessed to be moderate considering the close proximity of receptors eg residents along Lansbury gardens and Wooster Gardens and construction phasing programme. Assuming that mitigation measures will be implemented during the construction phasing period, it is considered that the significance of construction impacts will reduce from being moderate to being minor- moderate. The significance of these impacts will reduce over time, and will be removed once construction is complete. Long-Term Impacts

5.5.2 The Development will be located in an existing residential estate which is well connected in terms of established transportation networks as well as commercial establishments. The Development seeks to improve the public realm and urban design quality and in doing so will provide beneficial positive long term impacts.

5.5.3 It is considered that the Development will be compliant with relevant policies and is in accordance with appropriate landscape and visual guidelines.


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5.5.4 The Development does not come within the Protected Vistas identified within the Adopted and Draft Revised LVMF and therefore does not impact upon the designated views.

5.5.5 Assuming that the lighting scheme would incorporate lighting mitigation requirements, the impacts from the lighting are considered to have low positive significant impacts in terms of both the users of the areas and the nearby residential areas.

5.5.6 Selected views of the Development are shown as photomontages in Figures 5.1 to 5.5.

5.5.7 Overall, the long-term townscape and visual impacts are expected to be mainly beneficial, and of moderate to major significance, given that the Development is appropriate in the current urban context and is of a high design standard.

5.6 WATER RESOURCES AND FLOODING

5.6.1 The potential for pollution of water courses has been identified and mitigation measures adopted. The residual impact is predicted to be minor adverse.

5.6.2 There are no surface watercourses or waterbodies on the site and there will be

no direct (untreated) discharges from the proposed development. A draft drainage strategy has been developed and assessed, with the potential impacts from modifying drainage conditions considered to be minor adverse whilst construction is underway, but any effects extending into the operational phase would be temporary only.

5.6.3 Water usage in the residential units will meet the GLA’s Essential Standards

for new residential developments through a range of water efficiency measures.

5.6.4 The Site is at a significant level of risk with regard to the effects of a breach of

River Lea defences and subsequent flooding. Breach is a complex flooding mechanism to both understand and mitigate against. It does not have the same type of direct risk that fluvial, pluvial or coastal surge flooding has, as it relies upon a worst case where local defences and other mechanisms, such as Thames Barrier closure, fail. Whilst having a low probability of occurrence, however, the adverse impacts of a breach can be severe, due both to the reduced opportunity for warnings and the velocity at which waters pass through the breach.

5.6.5 Due to the complexity of issues, close consultation with the Environment

Agency has been crucial during outline design progression. The main difficulties encountered in the application of mitigation have taken considerable debate and have challenged the viability of the regeneration proposals. Solutions proposed are ‘hybrid’ in nature, consisting of land raising to the peak, worst case flood water depths for residential development


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together with a suite of mitigation measures to ensure safe refuge is provided, warnings are maximised, and resistance / resilience measures minimise the potential for property and possession damage. The role of Poplar HARCA as landlord affords the Site opportunities for mitigation that do not exist for other developments, and it is important that such benefits are maximised. Ongoing development of measures to avoid and minimise potential impacts during detailed design will also be critical to the overall management of risk at this location.

5.6.6 In terms of the wider assessment of impacts to the hydrological environment,

it is considered that, given the correct development and implementation of the mitigation presented, impacts can be avoided or reduced to as low as reasonably practicable levels. It will be of key importance to ensure that the progression of the detailed design stages continue to accommodate and address the risks, sensitivities and vulnerabilities of this water environment in an urban context. The mitigation measures will be taken forward within the CEMP, CoCP and Pollution Prevention and Emergency Response Plans (PPERPs) for the Development. Through the development of such measures, additional mitigation to avoid and / or minimise any additional risks that emerge prior to, and during construction, can be applied to address any impacts that can not be anticipated at the present time.

5.7 LAND CONTAMINATION

5.7.1 The EIA identified where impacts to the ground from contamination or from contaminated land to sensitive receptors is likely to occur. The EIA concluded that following mitigation the Development is expected to have a small negative impact on the geology and hydrogeology at the Site.

5.7.2 The construction works will be undertaken with the mitigation measures outlined in LBTH’s Code of Construction Practice (CoCP), which is being adopted for the Development. During construction, procedures will be in place to ensure any spills do not impact the underlying groundwater. If contamination is encountered, the residual impact will be removal of a contaminated source or breakage of a pollutant linkage, providing a beneficial effect to the environment and therefore a minor positive residual impact.

5.7.3 Activities which have the potential to impact on the underlying minor aquifer, such as fuelling activities, will be undertaken in a suitably controlled manner to prevent spills.

5.7.4 If groundwater is encountered during excavation works and dewatering works are required then this will be undertaken according to a methodology set out in the CEMP to mitigate any impact on surface water bodies.

5.7.5 When contamination is encountered during construction, the necessary mitigation measures to reduce risks to human health and the environment will be adopted. These measures will include an increase in the amount of personal protective equipment (PPE) worn by earthworks personnel.


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5.7.6 Any constraints to materials which can be used for drinking water pipes and the type of concrete used for underground structures due to the presence of contamination will be mitigated by the materials chosen in the final design of the Development.

5.8 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT

Short-Term Impacts

5.8.1 All contractors will be specifically required to minimise the use of private cars and vans when travelling to the Site and to maximise the use of public transport and shared vans. Provision will be made on site for essential parking only, and unapproved parking on local roads will not be permitted.

5.8.2 Appropriate lorry routes have been proposed avoiding the A12/ Abbott Road junction, and will be agreed with the local highway authorities at the detailed application stage. The aim will be to ensure that HGVs avoid residential areas and use the strategic highway network wherever possible. Contractors will be encouraged to use local suppliers where appropriate, and to make use of rail-based facilities in the area to minimise vehicle mileage.

5.8.3 Loading and unloading of materials and equipment will occur within individual site boundaries wherever possible, minimising the likelihood of local traffic congestion. Monitoring and control of all vehicles entering and exiting the Site will be maintained.

5.8.4 Pedestrian access around the perimeter of each site will be safely maintained. Whilst no long term road closures are envisaged, weekend closures may potentially be required to establish and remove tower cranes or to deliver large items of building plant. This will be agreed with LB Tower Hamlets and TfL as appropriate.

5.8.5 A wheel wash facility and implementation of a road cleaning procedure will also ensure minimal disruption to other road users. Standard inspections of the public highway adjacent to the Site will take place to determine if any additional remedial measures are required. The inspection will consider the amount of debris on the roads, dust generation, congestion and damage to the surfacing. Existing legislation which makes it criminal office to deposit material on a highway will ensure appropriate measures are adopted to avoid this.

5.8.6 Construction traffic is only temporary in its effects. The residual effects of construction traffic, following mitigation, are considered to be moderate but will ultimately result in an improved environment to the benefit of existing residents.


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Long-Term Impacts

5.8.7 A Travel Plan will be implemented to encourage walking, cycling and public transport trips and necessary improvements will be discussed and agreed with the local highway authorities at the detailed application stage and/or reserved matters stage. Other mitigation measures during the operation of the Development are expected to include: • Pedestrian and cycle facilities for residents; • Enhancements to bus provision; • Review of traffic calming on local roads within the site; • Cycle parking to the standard required by LB Tower Hamlets; • Parking restraints; and • Accommodation of the needs of the mobility impaired.

5.8.8 There are residual effects as a result of the Development in respect of an increase in walking and cycling and travelling by public transport. The effects of increased walking and cycling are considered to be positive and of moderate significance. The effect of increased bus travel is also expected to be positive and significant.

5.8.9 The Development will increase traffic flows on Aberfeldy Street and Abbott

Road, but the impacts on vehicle traffic on the A12 and A13 are expected to be negligible.

5.9 ARCHAEOLOGY AND CULTURAL HERITAGE

5.9.1 The archaeology and cultural heritage assessment has found that the proposed Development will not damage or disturb any designated sites, areas or historic buildings. In terms of the impacts that the Development might have on the settings of historic buildings and conservation areas, the assessment has found that these are located sufficiently far from the Site that any impacts would be negligible, and no mitigation is required.

5.9.2 In the absence of mitigation, the Development is likely to impact locally important non-designated prehistoric deposits and other remains. Mitigation measures have been proposed to reduce significant negative impacts, however a number of residual impacts remain, as follows.

5.9.3 The predicted low magnitude impact of the Development on the regionally important Lea Valley Arctic beds and on locally important Holocene alluvium is expected to give rise to potentially minor adverse impacts on these resources. The potential medium to high magnitude impact of the Development on later prehistoric remains known to exist in the Site is expected to be of possible minor to moderate significance. The potential low to medium magnitude impact of the Development on possible medieval or post-medieval marshland management features is expected to be of possible minor significance.


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5.9.4 Where archaeological work is required as compensation for the loss of any remains, the findings are likely to add to our knowledge of the history of the area, and therefore represent a potential positive impact. Likewise, any requirement to preserve in situ important archaeological remains will ensure their future safeguarding and this too should be viewed as a positive effect.

5.10 SOCIO-ECONOMICS

5.10.1 The Development lies within one of the 10% most deprived wards in the UK, and has a high crime rate, high unemployment rates and low home ownership levels. Survey work has been carried out to assess the state of housing within the Site and has resulted in the identification of housing for either refurbishment or rebuild.

5.10.2 As an identified Opportunity Area in the London Plan, the Site has been recognised as having the potential to deliver an intensive and beneficial regeneration development. The Development fits within the framework identified and will link into the wider regeneration aspirations. Furthermore, the Development will provide community infrastructure and encourage community cohesion.

5.10.3 The Development will be completed in Phases; significant work has been completed to ensure that people will only need to move once. Moreover, the Development has sought to front load the delivery of community infrastructure to ensure no significant gaps in provision or disruption to access to services.

5.10.4 The Development, once completed, will be delivering high quality housing including affordable and intermediate housing. The uplift in population will put additional pressure on social infrastructure, including school places, health care and community facilities. In response, the Development will provide a new health care centre and community facilities and, as part of the wider area regeneration, LB Tower Hamlets is considering school capacity and future need. In addition, the Development will provide a high quality environment that provides open space and Secured By Design as an integral part of the design strategy.

5.10.5 It is therefore considered that the proposed Development will have a moderate beneficial socio-economic impact. The residual effects of the Development are significant positive impacts in terms of the regeneration of the area, creation of new employment opportunities and provision of a range of housing to meet local needs.

5.11 WIND

5.11.1 The proposed buildings along the south of the Site represent significant structures in terms of their effect on the wind environment. Soft landscaping and wind mitigation schemes will be developed as each phase of the


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Development is progressed for detailed planning/reserved matters approval, and will be validated at a suitable stage in the design process. With the implementation of wind mitigation measures, comprising soft landscaping and suitable allocation of recreational areas, it is expected that conditions across the Site will be suitable for the planned pedestrian and recreational activities.

5.11.2 The proposed development is likely to have negligible impact on wind conditions in areas surrounding the Site.

5.11.3 The Development also has potential for a moderate cumulative adverse impact along the southeast of the Site if the Leamouth Road scheme is built to full height as consented. Resulting conditions could to be unsuitable, in terms of pedestrian comfort, for thoroughfare and ingress/egress, and mitigation would be required to avoid this. Again, soft landscaping and wind mitigation schemes will be developed and validated as each phase of the Development is progressed for detailed planning/reserved matters approval, in order to mitigate any adverse cumulative impacts.

5.12 SUNLIGHT AND DAYLIGHT

5.12.1 The residual impacts of the final Development design, in terms of sunlight and daylight are set out below. They have been assessed on the basis of experience, following the implementation of the mitigation measures suggested above. Impact on Existing Surrounds

5.12.2 The sunlight impact assessment of the Development on the existing baseline surrounds has shown that Athol Square to the west of the site will experience a reduction in sunlight availability. Resulting conditions are predicted to fall short of the recommended guidelines for sunlight availability by only 2% on an annual basis, and will meet the guidelines during winter. The Development is considered to have, at worst, a moderately adverse impact in terms of localised conditions within Athol Square.

5.12.3 The assessment of daylight impacts as a result of the Development on the existing baseline surrounds identified a number of areas where a major adverse impact is likely to be noticed in terms of both sunlight and daylight. The areas impacted are as follows:

• The ground and first floor windows on residential blocks on the north side of Blair Street.

• The southern façade of the Blairgowrie Court residential block to the immediate north of Block A11pa.

• The western façade of Julius House, a residential building located on the north side of East India Dock road.

• The ground and first floor windows located on the residential blocks on the northern side of Abbot Road.


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5.12.4 The overshadowing analysis shows that the Development will have a

negligible impact on overshadowing across Braithwaite Park. Proposed Development Assessment

5.12.5 The sunlight assessment and overshadowing analysis showed that the enclosed courtyards do not meet best practice guidelines for an amenity spaces. However, this assessment shows that solar access within communal gardens along East India Green, Aberfeldy Green and Millennium Green, complies with the best practice guidelines, and therefore the Development will have a negligible effect in terms of sunlight availability on these amenity areas.

5.12.6 Window locations facing closed courtyards within the Development experience a reduced amount of sunlight availability. However, these locations receive an adequate sunlight for planned uses. Therefore, overall there is expected to be a negligible effect in terms of sunlight levels within the Development.

5.12.7 Daylight availability within the Development is adequate for the intended usage at all locations assessed. Cumulative Effects

5.12.8 The introduction of the consented Leamouth Road scheme was found to have no significant cumulative impacts on surrounding buildings. The Leamouth Road scheme itself was assessed to have a minor significant impact on sunlight availability at the Development façade assessment locations.

5.13 TV, RADIO AND MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS

5.13.1 The TV, radio and mobile phone reception assessment concludes that the Development could potentially have an impact on analogue and digital terrestrial TV reception, in particular due to reflections, in an area located mostly to the north-west of the Development. The impacts have been predicted on the basis of the whole Development being completed. However, potential impacts on digital TV will be greatly reduced because the switch over to digital TV is expected in April 2012 in this area, when only a very small part of the Development will be completed (part of Phase 1).

5.13.2 The Development may have an impact on analogue and digital radio reception, and satellite TV reception, in properties located very close to the Development. The correct operation of some fixed links may also be impaired. All these services may therefore require some mitigation measures.

5.13.3 The impact on the other services (mobile phones and radars) is not considered significant.


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5.13.4 After implementation of the identified mitigation measures, if necessary, all residual impacts on TV, radio and mobile phone reception are considered to be of negligible significance.


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6 SUMMARY

6.1.1 The EIA process has identified that the construction and operation of the Development has the potential to impact on the environment in a number of ways, both positively, negatively and cumulatively.

6.1.2 Through amendments in the design and the development of mitigation for the construction and operation of the Development, negative impacts have been prevented or reduced wherever possible, and opportunities for environmental enhancement and positive impacts relating to the Development have been maximised.

6.1.3 The resultant Development is one that will have some residual negative impacts, but more so a range of positive impacts, on the physical, social and economic environment in which it will be constructed.

6.1.4 All mitigation measures have been approved by the Applicant and will be implemented as part of the Development.

6.1.5 The Development has been put forward in response to regional and local planning policy for the Site and has involved consultation with a number of organisations with environmental remits. The design and consultation process has led to a Development which will result in a greatly improved environment. Specifically, townscape and built environment of the Site will be improved with the creation of modern housing, retail and community facilities. The townscape will be transformed into a modern environment with plentiful green spaces for use by the local populace. In addition to the environmental benefits, the Development will give rise to new jobs which will result in a positive impact on the area.

7 CONTACTS AND FURTHER INFORMATION

7.1.1 A copy of the planning application and all of the related plans and other documents submitted with it, including the Environmental Statement, may be inspected free of charge at the following places and times for the duration of the consultation period on the Application. Venue Address Opening Hours London Borough of Tower Hamlets

Planning Department (5th Floor), Directorate of Development & Renewal, Anchorage House, 5 Clove Crescent, East India Dock, London, E14 1BY.

Normal offices hours: 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday.

7.1.2

7.1.3

7.1.4

If you wish to support, comment on, or object to the planning application you should write to Mr Mick Hyde (Senior Administration Officer) at the following address: Planning Department (5th Floor), Directorate of Development & Renewal, Anchorage House, 5 Clove Crescent, East India Dock, London, E14 1BY. Additional free copies of the Non-Technical Summary of the Environmental Statement can be obtained from the Applicant’s agent at: Leaside Regeneration Limited, Old Poplar Library, 45 Gillender Street, London, E14 6RN. Requests should be marked for the attention of Mr David Black.


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