Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Offaly County ...€¦ · during the plan preparation process. The SEA Statement provides the overview of the SEA process from the scoping

Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Offaly County Development Plan 2014-2020 Final Environmental Report 2014

Minogue and Associates

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Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Offaly County Development Plan 2014-2020

Final Environmental Report 2014

This report has been prepared by Minogue and Associates with all reasonable skill, care and diligence. Information reported herein is based on the interpretation of data collected and has been accepted in good faith as being accurate and valid.

This report is prepared for Offaly County Council and we accept no responsibility 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.

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Contents Chapter One Introduction ................................................................................................... 9

1.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 9

1.2 Strategic Environmental Assessment and the Environmental Report .................... 11

1.3 Report preparation................................................................................................... 12

1.4 Offaly County Area ................................................................................................... 13

1.5 Structure of the OCDP 2014-2020 .......................................................................... 15

Chapter Two Methodology ................................................................................................. 17

2.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................. 17

2.2 Scoping .................................................................................................................. 17

2.2.1 Consultation ...................................................................................................................................... 17

2.3 Consultation on OCDP 2014-2020, SEA ER and AA. ............................................ 29

2.4 Environmental Baseline Data ................................................................................. 29

2.5 Flood Risk Assessment ............................................................................................ 30

2.6 Consideration of Alternatives .................................................................................. 30

Option One: Amend settlement hierarchy and revise growth in fewer areas in line with infrastructural provision .................................................................................................................................................... 30

Option Two: Dispersed Settlement led approach ................................................................................... 30

Option Three: Strategic Planning Approach ............................................................................................ 31

Other Development Scenarios including rural housing and renewable energy ..................................... 31

Preferred Option ........................................................................................................................................ 31

2.7 Approach to assessment of significant environmental impacts ............................. 31

2.8 Mitigation ................................................................................................................ 33

2.9 Monitoring ............................................................................................................... 33

2.10 Data Gaps and Technical Difficulties Encountered .............................................. 33

Chapter Three Relationship to Plans, Policies and Programmes ..................................... 34

3.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 34

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3.2 International and European Plans, Policies and Programme ................................ 34

3.3 National Plans, Policies and .................................................................................... 42

3.4 Regional and County Plans, Policies and Programmes .......................................... 50

Chapter Four Environmental Baseline ............................................................................. 53

4.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 53

4.2 Defining the descriptive areas and zones of influence ........................................ 53

4.3 Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna ................................................................................. 54

4.3.1 Designated Sites ................................................................................................................................ 55

4.3.2 European Sites .................................................................................................................................. 55

4.3.3 Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) and Proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs) ....................... 59

4.3.4 Ramsar Sites, Nature Reserves, Biogenetic Reserves and Refuges for Fauna .............................. 61

4.3.5 Salminoid Waters and Freshwater Pearl Mussel (FPM) waters .................................................... 63

4.3.6 Habitats, Flora and Fauna................................................................................................................ 63

4.3.7 Ecological networks, wildlife corridors and stepping stones ......................................................... 70

4.3.8 Current Issues and Problems ........................................................................................................... 70

4.3.9 Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna sensitivities in neighbouring counties ................... 71

4.3.10 Evolution of Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna in the Absence of the OCDP ................................... 73

Section 4.4 Population and Human Health .................................................................. 73

4.4.1 Population ......................................................................................................................................... 73

4.4.2 Human Health .................................................................................................................................. 79

4.4.3 Current Issues and problems ........................................................................................................... 81

4.4.4 Population and Human Health sensitivities in neighbouring counties .................82

4.4.5 Evolution of human health in the absence of the OCDP ................................................................83

4.5 Geology and Soil ...................................................................................................... 83

4.5.1 Bedrock Geology ...........................................................................................................................83

4.5.2 Soil .................................................................................................................................................... 88

4.5.3 Current Issues and Problems .......................................................................................................... 90

4.5.4 Soil and Geology sensitivities in neighbouring counties ................................................................ 91

4.5.5 Evolution of soil and geology in the absence of the OCDP ............................................................. 92

4.6 Water Resources (surface, groundwater and flooding) .......................................... 92

4.6.1 Water Framework Directive and Flood Directive ........................................................................... 92 4

4.6.2 Surface Waters .............................................................................................................................. 93

4.6.3 High Status Water Bodies ................................................................................................................ 95

4.6.4 Groundwater ................................................................................................................................. 95

4.6.5 Flooding............................................................................................................................................. 99

4.6.6 Current Issues and Problems ..................................................................................................... 102

4.6.7 Water sensitivities in neighbouring counties ........................................................................... 103

4.6.8 Evolution of water in the absence of the OCDP ............................................................................ 104

4.7 Climate and Air Quality ......................................................................................... 104

4.7.1 Climate and Climate Change .......................................................................................................... 104

4.7.2 Air Quality Standards ..................................................................................................................... 107

4.7.3 Current Issues and Problems ......................................................................................................... 108

4.7.4 Air Quality and Climate sensitivities in neighbouring counties .............................. 108

4.7.5 Evolution of Air Quality and Climate in the absence of the OCDP .............................................. 109

4.8 Material Assets ...................................................................................................... 109

4.8.1 Energy and Renewable energy ....................................................................................................... 109

4.8.2 Integrated Pollution Prevention Control (IPPC) Licensed Facilities, Waste Licensed Facilities and Seveso II Sites ................................................................................................................................... 110

4.8.3 Water Services and Wastewater .....................................................................................................113

4.8.4 Transport ........................................................................................................................................ 122

4.8.5 Noise ................................................................................................................................................ 124

4.8.6 Waste Management ........................................................................................................................ 124

4.8.7 Current Issues and Problems ......................................................................................................... 125

4.8.8 Material Assets sensitivities in neighbouring counties.............................................. 126

4.8.9 Evolution of Material Assets in the absence of the OCDP ........................................................... 128

4.9 Cultural Heritage - archaeology and built heritage. ............................................. 128

4.9.1 Archaeological Heritage ............................................................................................................. 128

4.9.2 Architectural Heritage .................................................................................................................131

4.9.3 Current Issues and Problems ..................................................................................................... 133

4.9.4 Cultural Heritage Sensitivities in neighbouring counties ............................................................ 133

4.9.5 Evolution of Cultural Heritage in the absence of the OCDP ........................................................ 134

4.10 Landscape ............................................................................................................ 134

4.10.1 Current Issues and Problems........................................................................................................ 137

4.10.2 Landscape sensitivities in neighbouring counties ...................................................................... 137

4.10.3 Evolution of Landscape in the absence of the OCDP .................................................................. 138 5

4.11 Inter-relationship and Environmental Sensitivity mapping ............................... 138

4.11.1 Discussion of environmental sensitivities .................................................................................... 140

Chapter Five Strategic Environmental Objectives ........................................................... 141

5.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................ 141

5.2 Strategic Environmental Objectives ................................................................... 141

Chapter Six Consideration of Alternatives...................................................................... 145

6.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 145

6.2 Assessment of Consideration of Alternatives ....................................................... 145

Option Three: Strategic Planning Approach .................................................................... 149

Other Development Scenarios .................................................................................................................. 151

6.3 Consideration of Alternatives – Rural Housing..................................................... 151

6.4 Consideration of Alternatives - Wind Energy Strategy ......................................... 154

6.5 Preferred Alternatives ............................................................................................ 157

Chapter Seven Likely Significant Effects of the Offaly County Development Plan ....... 159

7.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................... 159

7.2 Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna- Significant Impacts. ........................................ 159

7.3 Population and Human Health- Significant Impacts. ...................................... 163

7.4 Soil and Geology Significant Impacts ................................................................ 166

7.5 Water - Significant Impacts ............................................................................... 168

7.6 Climate and Air Quality - Significant Impacts ................................................... 171

7.7 Material Assets - Significant Impacts ................................................................. 173

7.8 Cultural Heritage - Significant Impacts ............................................................ 176

7.9 Landscape - Significant Impacts ....................................................................... 178

7.10 Potential Significant Impacts from Wind Energy .......................................... 180

7.11 Volume 2 Settlements .................................................................................... 184

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7.12 General Discussion of Zonings ....................................................................... 184

7.12.1 Residential Zonings ........................................................................................ 186

7.12.2 Open Space ..................................................................................................... 186

7.12.3 Public/Community/Education ...................................................................... 186

7.12.4 Local Employment/Services .......................................................................... 187

7.12.5 Business/ Employment .................................................................................. 187

7.12.6 Town Centre/Mixed Use ................................................................................ 187

7.12.7 Village Centre/Mixed Use .............................................................................. 188

7.12.8 Industrial ........................................................................................................ 188

7.13 Cumulative Impacts and Interrelationships .................................................. 188

Chapter Eight Mitigation Measures ................................................................................. 191

8.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................ 191

8.2 Mitigation Measures ........................................................................................... 191

Chapter Nine Monitoring ................................................................................................ 227

9.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................... 227

9.1.1 Frequency of Monitoring and Reporting ........................................................................................ 227

9.2 Conclusion ............................................................................................................. 236

9.2.1 Implications for Offaly County Council and the Elected Members ................... 236

Annex A: Detailed Assessment of Vol 1 of the draft OCDP

Annex B: Detailed Assesment of Vol 2 of the draft OCDP

Annex C: SEA Screening of Material Amendments June 2014

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Chapter One Introduction

1.1 Introduction This is the environmental report for the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the draft Offaly County Development Plan 2014-2020 (OCDP). SEA is a key process that promotes sustainable development and highlights significant environmental issues within the planning regime. The purpose of SEA is to formally and systematically evaluate the likely significant effects of implementing a plan or programme, in this instance the OCDP. The report identifies the significant environmental effects of the Plan on the environment and where significant effects are identified, recommends appropriate mitigation measures to avoid or reduce such effects. SEA is an iterative process and has informed and influenced the preparation of the OCDP. This Environmental Report forms part of the SEA of the OCDP and documents the SEA process. It is the key consultation document in the SEA process and facilitates interested parties to comment on the environmental issues associated with the OCDP. This Environmental Report forms part of the SEA on the OCDP and should be read in conjunction with the OCDP itself.

The methodology used to carry out the SEA of the draft OCDP reflects the requirements of the SEA regulations and available guidance on undertaking SEA in Ireland, including:

• SEA Methodologies for Plans and Programmes in Ireland – Synthesis Report Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 2003;

• Implementation of SEA Directive (2001/42/EC) Assessment of the Effects of Certain Plans and Programmes on the Environment – Guidelines for Regional Authorities and Planning Authorities - published by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 2004;

• Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 (SI 436 and SI 435 of 2004);

• Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 201 of 2011);

• Planning and Development (Environmental Assessment of Certain Plans and Programmes) (S.I No 200 of 2011);

• SEA Process Checklist Consultation Draft 2008, EPA 2008;

• Circular Letter PSSP 6/2011 Further Transposition of EU Directive 2001/42/EC on Strategic Environmental Assessment, and

• Guidance on integrating climate change and biodiversity into Strategic Environmental Assessment European Union 2013.

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• SEA Resource Manual for Local and Regional Authorities, Draft Version, 2013

The Offaly County Development Plan was adopted on 15th September 2014 by Offaly County Council and this is the Final SEA ER. It is accompanied by the SEA Statement and a Natura Impact Report. New text in the Final SEA ER is shown in bold and italic font, and is accompanied by a footnote when additional text was inserted following the consultation processes. This Final SEA ER is accompanied by annexes that contain the SEA Screening Reports undertaken for material amendments proposed during the plan preparation process. The SEA Statement provides the overview of the SEA process from the scoping to adoption stage of the plan and should be read to understand how the SEA and AA informed the plan preparation process. Table 1.1 shows how the SEA and AA have related to the preparation of the Offaly County Development Plan.

Table 1.1 An Outline of the Integrated Development Plan Review, the SEA process and the Habitat Directive Assessment

Development Plan Review Process

Strategic Environmental Assessment and Habitats Directive Assessment (Natura Impact Report – NIR)

Notice of Review of Offaly CDP and public consultation period from 28th November 2012 to 4th February 2014.

Draft Scoping Report issued to Environmental Authorities.

Manager’s Report on submissions received was prepared and issued to the Elected Members for discussion and agreement on 25th March 2013. Members directed the Executive to make the plan.

• Scoping Report finalised following additional submissions from the public received relating to SEA and HDA.

• Manager’s Report specifically had an SEA/AA section dealing with (summarising, responding and making a recommendation) submissions where environmental concerns were raised.

• Full formal drafting of Environmental Report (ER) and NIR commenced after 25th March 2013.

Pre Draft Development Plan issued to Elected Members on 9th August 2013.

• Pre draft plan assessed for impacts on the environment.

• Draft ER and draft NIR issued to Elected Members on 20th August 2013.

Members made the draft development plan on 3rd October 2013

• SEA Screening and HDA screening of Members’ amendments to the plan between pre draft stage and draft stage.

• Draft ER and draft NIR updated and amended. Draft Development Plan on public display from 16th October 2013 to 6th January 2014.

• Draft ER and NIR updated, amended to account for members’ changes from the pre-draft stage to draft stage. On display for public consultation from 16th October 2013 to 6th January 2014.

Manager’s Report on submissions received was prepared and issued to the Elected Members for their consideration on 18th March 2014.

• Manager’s Report specifically had an SEA/AA section dealing with submissions (summarising, responding and making a recommendation) where environmental concerns were raised. Refer to Manager’s Report at this stage in the review process for full section.

Members amended the draft plan on the 28th April 2014. • SEA Screening and HDA screening of material

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amendments. • Draft ER and draft NIR updated and amended.

Material amendments to the draft plan on public display from 27th June 2014 to 25th July 2014.

Screening of Material Amendments on public display from 27th June 2014 to 25th July 2014.

Manager’s Report on submissions received was prepared and issued to the Elected Members on 19th August 2014 for their consideration on 15th September.

• Manager’s Report specifically had an SEA/AA section dealing with (summarising, responding and making a recommendation) submissions where environmental concerns were raised. Refer to Manager’s Report at this stage in the review process for full section.

Members adopted the development plan on 15th September 2014

• Draft ER and draft NIR updated and amended. • SEA Statement and Non Technical Summary

prepared.

1.2 Strategic Environmental Assessment and the Environmental Report Regulations contained in Schedule 2B of Statutory Instrument (S.I.) 436 of 2004(as amended) details the information to be contained in an Environmental Report. The following Table 1.2 lists the information required and details where this information is contained in this Environmental Report.

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Table 1.2: information required to be contained in Environmental Report Schedule 2B of Statutory Instrument 436 of 2004 Addressed in this SEA ER (a) an outline of the contents and main objectives of the plan and relationship with other relevant plans

Chapter One Introduction and Chapter Two Methodology outlines contents and main objectives; Chapter Three details the relationship with other relevant plans

(b) the relevant aspects of the current state of the environment and the likely evolution thereof without implementation of the plan;

Chapter Four Baseline Environment provides this information

(c) the environmental characteristics of areas likely to be significantly affected


(d) any existing environmental problems which are relevant to the plan including, in particular, those relating to any areas of a particular environmental importance, such as areas designated pursuant to the Birds Directive or Habitats Directive


(e) the environmental protection objectives, established at international, European Union or national level, which are relevant to the plan and the way those objectives and any environmental considerations have been taken into account during its preparation

Chapter Five: SEA Objectives provides this information

(f) the likely significant effects on the environment, including on issues such as biodiversity, population, human health, fauna, flora, soil, water, air, climatic factors, material assets, cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage, landscape and the interrelationship between the above factors

Chapter Seven, Significant Effects on the Environment provides this information

(g) the measures envisaged to prevent, reduce and as fully as possible offset any significant adverse effects on the environment of implementing the plan

Chapter Eight, Mitigation Measures provides this information

(h) an outline of the reasons for selecting the alternatives dealt with, and a description of how the assessment was undertaken including any difficulties (such as technical deficiencies or lack of know-how) encountered in compiling the required information

Chapter Six, Alternatives Considered provides this information and difficulties encountered are listed at the end of Chapter Four, Baseline Environment.

(i) a description of the measures envisaged concerning monitoring of the significant environmental effects of implementation of the plan

Chapter Nine, Monitoring provides this information

(j) a non-technical summary of the information provided under the above headings

This is provided as a separate document to this Environmental Report but is also available

1.3 Report preparation The SEA Team worked closely with the Forward Planning Team, the Heritage officer and the Environment, Roads and Water Services Sections of Offaly County Council. The following consultants prepared this SEA ER:

• Ruth Minogue MCIEEM, (BSoc Sc) Social Anthropology, University of Manchester 1996, MA (Econ) Environment and Development, University of Manchester 1998, Dip Field Ecology,

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University College Cork 2003, ongoing CPD including certificate in Health Impact Assessment (2012);

• Pat Doherty MCIEEM, MSc in Applied Environmental Science (Ecology), University College Dublin, 2003;BSc (Honours) in Environmental Earth Science, University of Wales, Aberystwyth, 2000; ongoing CDP including Habitat Assessment (NVC) and flora and fauna identification through IEEM

• Dr Ronan Hennessey, Ph.D Earth & Ocean Sciences, NUI Galway, Higher Diploma in applied Remote Sensing and GIS, NUI Maynooth, B.Sc Earth Sciences, NUI Galway

• Frances O’ Kelly, MA Community and Local Development, Dublin Institute of Technology, 2012, BSc Spatial Planning, DIT, 2004, CPD including planning and historic built environment Dublin Civic Trust 2010 and Health Impact Assessment IPH 2007.

1.4 Offaly County Area Offaly is situated in the Midlands of Ireland and shares boundaries with counties Westmeath, Meath, Kildare, Laois, Tipperary, Galway and Roscommon. The county remains largely rural in nature, with approximately 60% of its population residing in rural areas comprising a well-developed network of smaller towns and villages of less than 1,500 people and the open countryside. Currently, the population of County Offaly is 76,687 (CSO, 2011). While the population growth rate of the county matched the national rate over the last census period, at 8.2%, an examination of the growth figures across the county shows a contrast. The population growth in the east of the county was much stronger with growth in the western half limited to the just a small number of Electoral Districts. It must also be noted that a number of the EDs in the west of the county have small population bases meaning a small numerical difference can have a large percentage impact on the figures. 14 EDs saw a fall or 0% growth, with 22 EDs experiencing a 0-5% growth which is below the national and county growth rate of 8.2%. Tullamore is the largest town in the county with 14,361 persons. The fastest growing town in percentage terms was Edenderry which experienced 18.5% population growth between 2006 and 2011. Figure 1a shows the location of County Offaly within the wider region.

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Figure 1a: Location of County Offaly

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1.5 Structure of the OCDP 2014-2020 The Offaly County Development Plan sets out the overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the area. The development plan determines objectives, goals and strategies within the framework of a 6 year perspective and formulates policy measures for the achievement of planned goals and targets. The draft OCDP is composed of two volumes Volume 1 Written Statement and Volume II Settlement Plans. The following chapter titles comprise Volume I: VOLUME I – WRITTEN STATEMENT

Introduction and Context Chapter One: Core Strategy and Settlement Strategy Chapter Two: Economic Development Strategy Chapter Three: Energy Strategy Chapter Four: Infrastructure and Environment Strategy Chapter Five: Town Centre Retail Strategy Chapter Six: Community, Social and Cultural Development Chapter Seven: Heritage and Landscape Chapter Eight: Development Management Standards VOLUME 2 – SETTLEMENT PLANS

Volume 2 comprises all of the settlement plans provided for in the settlement hierarchy in Chapter 1 of the Plan. Tullamore, Birr, Edenderry and Portarlington are subject to their own development plans and Local Area Plans, respectively. Therefore settlement plans and landuse zonings are provided for the following towns: Banagher, Clara, Daingean, Ferbane and Kilcormac. Settlement plans and landuse zonings are also provided for Ballinagar, Ballycumber, Belmont, Bracknagh, Cloghan, Clonbullogue, Cloneygowan, Coolderry, Geashill, Killeigh, Kinnitty, Moneygall, Mountbolus, Mucklagh, Pollagh-Lemanaghan, Rahan, Rhode, Shannonharbour, Shannonbridge, Shinrone and Walsh Island. Finally, 25 Sraids are included in Volume 2, these are small embryonic rural settlements where land is not zoned within the development envelope.

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Chapter Two Methodology

2.1 Introduction This chapter presents the SEA methodology in more detail.

2.2 Scoping The SEA Directive is implemented through the above regulations. The preparation of a county development plan requires mandatory SEA; therefore the screening for SEA was not undertaken for the development plan review as it was automatically required. This section presents more information on the scoping of this SEA. 2.2.1 Consultation In accordance with legislation, separate scoping notification was issued to the prescribed environmental authorities in November 2012, as well as to adjoining local authorities. Two submissions were received on the SEA and AA specifically as part of the consultation with the environmental authorities. A summary of the scoping submissions received, and how the issues are addressed in this SEA is provided in Table 2.1 below. Table 2.1: Key Environmental Issues raised in relation to the SEA and Habitats Directive Assessment (HDA) at Scoping Stage No Submission Environmental Issue To be addressed in SEA 1 Cian

O’Mahony EPA Inniscarra County Cork

In addition to comments on scope of SEA, an SEA Information pack was provided consisting of an SEA Guidance Document, Environmental Integration Checklist and an SEA Pack The following in particular should be taken into account: • Consistency with the Regional Planning Guidelines • Integration of other key influential Plans/Programmes, where relevant and appropriate, including the Shannon CFRAMS, Shannon International and Eastern River Basin Management Plans and associated Programmes of Measures, Draft Nore Freshwater Pearl Mussel Sub Basin Management Plan • Ensuring adequate and appropriate provision of critical service infrastructure to facilitate sustainable development. • Fully implementing the Flood Risk Management Guidelines (OPW/DECLG, 2009) in the zoning and development of lands within the County. • Protection of designated (national & international)

Noted. The SEA Guidance document and integration checklist in particular will help inform the CDP; both documents will be also used throughout the SEA process. Key issues identified in the submission will be described in Chapter Four Baseline Environment and assessed through policies, objectives and zonings as appropriate in the SEA ER.

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No Submission Environmental Issue To be addressed in SEA and undesignated conservation sites (Natural Heritage Areas, Natura 2000 sites etc). • Protection of areas of significant landscape character (including urban scape, townscape, riverscape etc). Reference is also made to recent SEA and other environmental regulations and circulars.

2 Liam Smyth Development Applications Unit Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

It is recommended that the Plan should include a natural heritage section. All designated sites within the Plan area should be listed and mapped, including, if applicable, candidate Special Areas of Conservation (cSAC), special Protection Areas (SPA), Natural Heritage Areas (NHA), Proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHA), Nature Reserves and Refuges for fauna. The Plan should take cognisance of boundary changes to sites made during the lifetime of the Plan and all such sites should be zoned appropriately and policies and objectives should be devised to ensure their protection. The proposed Plan should recognise that protected species also occur outside designated sites and should take note of the National Biodiversity Plan and the need to protect the County’s biodiversity. Items to note:

• Stepping stones and wildlife corridors • Invasive species • It is important that the proposed Plan should

recognise the importance of linear features such as hedgerows and waterways.

Wetland habitats such as rivers are an important source of biodiversity. In addition flood plains, if present, should be identified in the Plans and left undeveloped to allow for the protection of these valuable habitats and provide areas for flood water retention.

Noted. A Natural Heritage section will be included in the CDP. The SEA ER will describe and map all designated sites where data is available. The NIS will map all European Sites. Noted. Appropriate zoning, policies and objectives will be developed as part of the SEA and HDA process informing the plan development. Noted. The recognition of protected species outside designated sites will be addressed in the CDP. Relevant plans such as the National Biodiversity plan will be referenced in Chapter Three of the SEA ER. Noted and will be described in SEA ER Chapter Four. Appropriate policies or objectives to promote stepping stones and wildlife corridors will be developed; importance of linear features will be acknowledged. Policy or objective to address invasive alien species will be included in CDP. Noted and will be described in SEA ER Chapter Four.

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No Submission Environmental Issue To be addressed in SEA Recreational impacts can arise particularly on mountains and rivers and due care is required It is recommended that the Biodiversity SEOs in the SEA cover habitats and species both within and outside of designated sites as below

With regard to the scope of baseline data for flora and fauna in the SEA, in addition to any County records, this Department advises consulting the data of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) at www.npws.ie and the data of the National Biodiversity Data Centre at http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/ With regard to the SEOs for Water in the SEA it is important that the needs of protected species such as crayfish, salmon and lamprey species, which are listed on annex II of the Habitats Directive, are considered in relation to water quality. The SEOs and targets should be also compatible with the relevant River Basin Management Plans. Important Draft Plan is screened for appropriate assessment and the screening takes place in tandem with SEA.

Noted, potential recreational impacts arising from policies, objectives or zonings will be assessed for impacts on biodiversity in the SEA ER and HDA Noted, appropriate Biodiversity SEOs will be developed with this in mind. Noted and will be included in the SEA ER Noted where feasible Water SEOs will be developed to include the protection of these species in terms of water quality and the RBMPs Noted. The plan is being screened in line with relevant guidance and the approach for SEA and AA is being integrated throughout.

Finally, an internal scoping meeting was held on 13th March with an additional Scoping workshop held on the 10th

of April 2013 with the EPA and the NPWS to ensure all of the relevant issues were raised and discussed through the scoping stage. A Final SEA Scoping Report was prepared to conclude this Scoping Stage. Pre-draft development plan submissions were sought in accordance with the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. 36 submissions were received on a range of issues in relation to the review of the OCDP. The following table summarises these submissions and highlights issues of environmental relevance. Further information on these submissions may be found in the Manager’s Report prepared by OCC and issued to elected members for their consideration on 25th March 2013.

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Table 2.2: Submissions received at Pre-Draft Stage of the review of OCDP No Submission

from Environmental Issue To be addressed in SEA

1 Noel Brett CEO Road Safety Authority Moy Valley Business Park Ballina County Mayo

Reference to forthcoming national Road Safety Strategy and consider provisions of same in preparation of CDP

Material Assets includes transport and will be described in the Chapter Four Baseline; transport policies and objectives will also be assessed through the SEA and HDA process.

2 Liam Smyth Sustainability and Marketing Manager Irish Concrete Federation 8 Newlands Business Park Naas Road Clondalkin Dublin 22

The ICF has been the lead consultee on Section 261/ 261A of the Planning & Development Act, 2000, the associated Planning Guidelines, 2004/2 012, and the EPA Environmental Management Guidelines for the Extractive Industry, 2006. Detailed submission that outlines strategic issues. References a range of guidelines, Codes of practice. Highlights GSI mapping of raw materials. Necessity of a strategic approach and need to materials for built environment. Rural housing likely to account for 85% of housing construction. Most quarries can only operate within a market radius of 30- 50 km from the production site. Ultimately only fully authorised quarries are allowed to operate. Recognise sensitivity of environmental resources, highlights concern with broad brush landscape character assessment. Aggregates with special qualities, which are not readily available in every area, should be considered at county level and regionally. Worked out extraction sites offer very favourable opportunities for the promotion of biodiversity, in their own right or as stepping stones between heritage areas Provides a suggested ICF Policy Statement for the Aggregates Industry.

The Geology and Soil section of Chapter Four Baseline will provide information on quarries in the County. Policies and Objectives relating to same will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process.

3 Maurice Hayden Director Irish Parachute Club Clonbullogue Airfield Edenderry County Offaly

Request to have Clonbullogue Airfield noted in future development plans and wish to have the airfield protected from developments which could compromise its safe use such as large wind turbines in close proximity.

Policies, objectives and zonings will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process.

4 Frank Durkin Offaly Rowing Club

Tourist resource of the Grand Canal and not being used as much as it could.

Policies, objectives and zonings for recreation and tourism will be assessed

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No Submission from

Environmental Issue To be addressed in SEA

Possibility of area in Tullamore for mooring but notes other requirements of boat users. Reference to a reservoir planned for Portarlington is to be fed from a single pumping house on Lough Derg.

Asks would such a reservoir accommodate sports and a rowing course in particular with comments on design principles for same.

through the SEA and HDA process.

5 Veronica Kelly Executive Officer Department of Education and Skills Portlaoise Road Tullamore County Offaly

Information on calculating school provision at primary and post primary. Where possible keep lands adjoining existing schools available

Noted

6 Michael McCormack Policy Advisor National Roads Authority 51. Martin's House Waterloo Road Dublin 4

The Authority recommends that the Council, in drafting a new Development Plan for the County, should have regard to the provisions of the Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines for Planning Authorities (DoECLG, 2012). In particular, Chapter 2 of the Guidelines addresses matters relating to development planning and national roads. The Authority requests that the Council considers the implications of land use zoning designations on the strategic national road network in the area as a criteria in determining the future zoning strategy to be outlined in any settlement plans to be contained in the Draft County Development Plan and the respective Core Strategy. The National Roads Authority is developing/progressing road schemes within the Region, details of the major scheme that should be incorporated into the review of the Offaly CDP is: • N52 Tullamore to Kilbeggan Link It is the Authority's opinion that consideration should be given to undertaking appropriate Strategic Transport Assessment (STA) in the preparation of the Draft County Development Plan Recommends specific policy objectives for Traffic and Transport Assessment (TTA) Road Safety Audits (RSA) and Signage and Noise

As above, transport will be described in the material assets section of Chapter Four, Baseline and policies, objectives and zonings assessed through the SEA and HDA process. Chapter Three will reference relevant guidelines.

7 John Mollin Rahan

Services for the Village and ownership of lands in the village, request for zonings to be considered.

Noted. Zonings will also be assessed through the SEA and HDA process.

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No Submission from


8 Yvonne Dalton Head of Planning Dublin Airport Authority Dublin Airport

No comments at this time Noted

9 Planning and Economic Development Strategic Policy Committee

Raises a number of issues including: • Rural housing policies. • Wind Energy development and rural housing. • Continuation of Sraid Policies queried. • Encourage Tourism and Inward investment. • Supports designation of Enterprise Opportunity

sites. • Likely change in water services administration. • Environmental Protection. • Energy production. • Encourage day and night activities and vitalize

town centres. • Community development. • Formal heritage route linking ecclesiastical

sites. • Flood risk and natural heritage designation. • Changing demographics.

For many of the items raised, policies and objectives will be developed in the CDP and will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process across a range of environmental parameters.

10 Ruth McNally Director Midlands Regional Authority

Detailed submission that aligns with the relevant sections of the Regional Planning Guidelines The Midland Regional Planning Guidelines (RPGs) 2010-2022 were made by the Members of the Regional Authority in July, 2010, and, in accordance with Sections 10 and 27 of the Act, the Local Authority should ensure that the proposed COP development objectives are consistent, as far as practicable, with those set out in the RPGs and, through this with the NSS.

• Core Strategy and Settlement Hierarchy. • Policy provisions for Central Eastern and

Western Development Areas. • Peatlands. • Transport and Smarter Travel. • Landscape Character. • Recognition of Eskers. • Updating policies for architecture and

archaeology. • Strategic open space and walking/cycling

routes. • Tourism. • Flood risk.

Policies and objectives will be developed in the CDP and will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process across a range of environmental parameters.

11 Margaret Murray/

Submission listing a number of requests and points of note. These principally refer to need for road marking,

Noted. At strategic levels issues such as water

22

No Submission from


Declan Harvey Secretary/ Coordinator/ Chairperson Northside Neighbourhood Watch area.

signage and street lighting. • Improvement of drainage and flood reduction

measures. • Improved water supply. • Upgrading of certain footpaths.

quality, roads and lighting are addressed through the County Development Plan and therefore assessed through the SEA and HDA process. Zonings will also be assessed through this process.

12 Maria Maher Reference to Western Greenway from Achill to Mayo and its success – model as an idea for County Offaly

Noted

13 William Grant & Sons Submission by McCutcheon Halley Walsh

Support for new policies regarding the distillery at Tullamore, economic development and tourism development.

Noted

14 Wind Energy Direct Ltd, Castletroy Commercial Campus, Limerick

Wind Energy Direct are requesting an inclusion in the development plan of the concept of auto-production and a framework for supporting applications by established and new commercial enterprises where auto-production generation is sought It should be noted that auto-production wind energy developments are viable at wind speeds where green-field wind farms would not be considered viable. This is due to the on-site usage of a large proportion of the energy produced.

Renewable energy policies, objectives and potentially zonings will be developed for the CDP and will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process. Energy usage and renewable energy is also described in Climatic Factors and Material Assets of the SEA Chapter Four Baseline.

15 An Taisce Tailors Hall, Back Lane Dublin 8

Detailed submission that addresses a range of issues including: Regardless of the scale of the CDP, compliance with these new regulations cannot be ensured in the absence of undertaking a full Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Habitats Directive Assessment (HDA) in parallel with the preparation of the CDP.

• Strategic Planning and Zoning. • Peak Oil, Resource Scarcity and Climate

Change. • Sustainable Transport and Landuse Patterns. • Economic and Employment Development. • Water. • Natural Capital and Ecosystem Services. • Social Capital and Public Participation. • Cultural and Built Heritage. • Implementation and Monitoring.

A number of appendices are also included addressing local climate change, monitoring regimes and transition measures.

The themes identified in this submission will be expanded and addressed through the CDP development process and assessed through the SEA and HDA process. Some of the suggested monitoring measures in Appendix 1 will be used in the SEA

16 James D & Concern about wind energy and approaches made for Renewable and Wind 23

No Submission from


Mary Phillips Tullamore

sites. In particular visual impacts on natural and historic sites.

energy policies, objectives and potentially zonings will be developed for the CDP and will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process. Energy usage and renewable energy is also described in Climatic Factors and Material Assets of the SEA Chapter Four Baseline.

17 Kilcormac Development Association

The following points are raised; • Bypass of the town. • Ageing Community and consideration of Elderly

Living Space. • Appropriate place for pedestrian crossing. • Resurfacing. • Improve access roads to Lough Boora. • Pedestrian Safety.

Noted. At strategic level issues such as water quality, roads and lighting are addressed through the County Development Plan and therefore assessed through the SEA and HDA process. Zonings will also be assessed through this process.

18 Dominic Guinan Ballydaly Tinnycross Residents Association

The following points are raised; • Flooding. • Extension of footpaths and lighting in certain

areas. • Landscaping to reduce dumping/littering. • Replacement of trees.


19 Irish Parachute Club submission by PDS Planning and Design

Relates to lands in the ownership of the Irish Parachute Club at Clonbullogue Airfield, Edenderry, Co. Offaly, and associated lands. • the recognition of Clonbulloge Airfield as a land use within the new County Development Plan • to ensure that appropriate policies are included in the new County Development Plan which support future airport/parachute related development at the aerodrome to promote the aerodrome as a significant tourism generator within the county o reflect the restrictions on development in the vicinity of the aerodrome (and wider afield) that are typically associated with aerodromes

Noted. Any policies, objectives and/or zonings associated with the issue would be assessed through the SEA and HDA process.

20 Keep Ireland Open

Detailed submission providing a critique of 2009 CDP with some suggestions for new text/updating especially around access, forestry, landscape and recreation

Noted. Recreational, landscape and forestry resources would be described in Chapter Four

24

No Submission from


Baseline of the SEA ER and any policies and objectives will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process.

21 Elizabeth Egan, Secretary Tubber Development Association

A number of items raised including: • Footpaths, pedestrian walkways • Road surfaces • Overhead cables and lights • General Development • Other issues including amenities and

archaeology.


22 Patrick Little Managing Director Midlands Airport Development

The Midlands Airport proposal is at a detailed stage of design development with a view to submitting planning in accordance with the Strategic Infrastructure Development Legislation. Request that Objective O13-46 to support the location of an airport in Offaly be retained and protected in the new County Development Plan. Due regard must be given to the airspace requirements for an airport to ensure that there are no existing or planned obstacles above 150m within range of the proposed airport site. The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) should be consulted as well as the ICAO Annex 14 regulations on obstacle restrictions as windfarm proposals are considered.

Noted. Any policies, objectives and/or zonings associated with the issue would be assessed through the SEA and HDA process.

23 (i)

Eamon Tyrrell Partnership submitted by CSR Ltd

Our client supports the establishment of ‘white lands’ generated for the current County Development Plan where a range of land uses are considered ‘open for consideration. Our client would like to see this concept retained in the 2014-2020 County Plan and enhanced if possible. We request the new inclusion of policies and objectives expressly stated in the new County Plan to set out and support the County Council’s position on development on white lands.

Noted. All such policies, objectives and zonings will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process.

23 (ii)

Eamon Tyrrell Partnership submitted by CSR Ltd

A range of uses are currently ‘open for consideration’ under the current white land zoning. A mixed use zoning is requested with the range of uses ‘open for consideration’ under the existing zoning to be made ‘normally permitted’ under the mixed use sought. A mixed use zoning would best accommodate the suggested live work units. The proposed live work units could not suitably be provided on existing or retained employment zoned sites in the Draft LAP

Noted. All such policies, objectives and zonings will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process

25

No Submission from


24 Gael Gibson Principal Planner, Transmission Projects, Grid Development & Commercial, EirGrid. The Oval Shelbourne Road Dublin 4

Provides information on the national grid. The Grid 25 Implementation Programme 2011-2016. Transmission network and planed projects. RPGs and Transmission network policies. Suggested wording for energy policies and infrastructure

Energy policies, objectives and potentially zonings will be developed for the CDP and will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process. Energy usage and renewable energy is also described in Climatic Factors and Material Assets of the SEA Chapter Four Baseline.

25 Gerard Crowley Planning and Asset Manager Electricity Supply Board, Lower Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin 2, Ireland

It is appropriate to give consideration to safeguarding existing infrastructure in the County, particularly, when it is of strategic importance both nationally and locally Refers to West Offaly Generating Station and Shannonbridge. CDP 2014 - 2020 must ensure that the long-term operational requirements of existing utilities including Power Stations are protected. ESB submit that those policies which support the ongoing generation of electricity in the County and the energy objectives in the Offaly County Development Plan 2009-2015 should be continued.


26 KMK Metals Recycling Limited submitted by Frank O’Donnell Planning and Development Consultants

The following submission details some of the issues facing the occupants and stakeholders of Cappincur Industrial Estate and by extension KMK Metals Recycling Limited. KMK Metals Recycling Limited intends to continue to operate and potentially, in the future, expand their current facility at Cappincur Industrial Estate. However, although identified in the Tullamore Town and Environs Development Plan, 2010 to 2016, for Industrial Use, it lacks certain infrastructure and a number of key services, which are considered to impact on the future viable development of the Estate.

Noted. At strategic level issues such as water quality, roads and, wastewater infrastructure are addressed through the County Development Plan and therefore assessed through the SEA and HDA process

27 Catriona Diviney CEO Irish Wind Energy Association, Sycamore House, Millennium Park, Osberstown, Naas,

Submission raises a number of items including renewable energy targets, strategic planning for wind energy, recent guidelines and request for specific policy provisions for renewable energy in the County in the new CDP.


26

No Submission from


Co. Kildare 28 Frances Neville

Mucklagh Community Development Mucklagh

Submission raises a number of issues including: • Community centre project • Capacity issues for wastewater • Flooding • Path improvements and cycling route • Outdoor gym and playground • Road access • Historic Site and screening of same and derelict

buildings

Noted. At strategic level issues such as water quality, roads and derelict,/historic buildings, wastewater infrastructure are addressed through the County Development Plan and therefore assessed through the SEA and HDA process. Zonings will also be assessed through this process.

29 Iarnród Éireann Connolly Station Dublin 1

Submission outlines investment to date and planned future investment in national rail system

Noted public transport will be described in material assets section of Chapter Four Baseline and policies, objectives will be assessed through the SEA and HDA process.

30 Bord na Mona Submission is the report ‘Strategic Framework for the Future Use of Peatlands’ BnM, 2011. This report sets out future potential for the peatlands under BnM ownership and their potential uses ranging from biodiversity, tourism, renewable energy and peat production.

Peatlands will be described in Biodiversity and Material Assets Sections of Chapter Four Baseline and their environmental importance and function is acknowledged. Policies, Objectives and zonings will also be assessed through the SEA and HDA process.

31 Noelle Spollen Killeigh Residents/ Development Association Secretary Killeigh Co. Offaly

Supports limited growth of village and concerns about current settlement boundary. Preference for small clusters above one large area for new settlement. Pressure on existing infrastructure Need to refurbish Macra hall as a community centre, a playground requested too and issue flood risk management.

Noted. At strategic level issues such as water quality, community facilities, flood risk and, wastewater infrastructure are addressed through the County Development Plan and therefore assessed through the SEA and HDA process. Zonings will also be assessed through this process.

32 Noelle Spollen Killeigh Co. Offaly

Does not agree with the present plans development boundary. This area zoned as "other settlement land" is too large for the type of low density and limited growth outlined for the village. Condensed development in only one area of the village would destroy the character of

Noted, such issues will be assessed through the SEA and AA process in particular policies, objectives and zonings.

27

No Submission from


the village. .

33 Tadg Ó Cruadhlaoich

Concerns about and suggested proposals to address urban generated lighting in rural areas.

Noted. This issue will be raised in the SEA ER and may be addressed through policy provisions in the CDP.

34 Inland Waterways Association of Ireland

The key areas addressed in this submission include: • appropriate development of Tullamore

Harbour Area • the need for multi-agency collaboration on the

Grand Canal to ensure its future • restoration of the Kilbeggan line of the Grand

Canal to navigation • the provision of adequate refuse, waste

management and ablution facilities on the waterways in the county

Noted. The canal will be described in the water resources, biodiversity and built heritage section of the SEA ER Baseline chapter. Policies relating to tourism and recreation and any zonings will also be assessed as part of the SEA and HDA process.

35 Mr Gerry Feery

Ballycommon

Canal Renewal

Group

Ballyteague

Our Mission is to promote and participate in the development of the full amenity potential of the Ballycommon to Kilbeggan Branch of the Grand Canal and related Grand Canal activities.

• A Way Marked walking/cycling route • Restoration of the bridges and Silver River

aqueduct • Re-watering of the entire stretch of the

Ballycommon to Kilbeggan Branch • Highlights ecology of the canal also.

Noted. The canal will be described in the water resources, biodiversity and built heritage section of the SEA ER Baseline chapter. Policies relating to tourism and recreation and any zonings will also be assessed as part of the SEA ad AA process.

36 Stephanie Heffernan Rhode Parish Playground Project

Suggest that provisions be made available for an outdoor area for sport and recreation. It was always our aim to further develop our project to suit the needs of other sections of the community including older children and adults. We would like to see provisions made for a multi -sport all weather outdoor training facility.

Noted. Policies, objectives and zonings associated with recreation will be assessed through the SEA and AA process.

28

2.3 Consultation on OCDP 2014-2020, SEA ER and AA. There were three public consultation periods associated with the review of the OCDP. The following table summarises these processes and how the SEA and HDA responded to the submissions.

Strategic Issues Paper and submissions from 28th November 2012 to 4th February 2013

SEA and HDA reviewed these submissions and they helped inform the SEA Scoping Report. For summary of these submissions please see Table 1.1 above

Public Display of Draft OCDP, SEA ER and Natura Impact Report16th October 2013 to 6th January 2014

SEA and HDA reviewed submissions and prepared a response to same. The SEA and HDA informed the preparation of the Manager’s Report on submissions.

Material Amendments to Draft Plan. Public Display of Amendments to Draft Plan, SEA Screening of amendments and Natura Impact Report 27th June to 25th July 2014

SEA and HDA reviewed submissions on material amendments and informed the preparation of the Manager’s Report.

2.4 Environmental Baseline Data The baseline data assists in describing the current state of the environment, facilitating the identification, evaluation and subsequent monitoring of the effects of the plan. It helps identify existing environmental problems in and around the plan area and in turn these can be quantified (for certain environmental parameters) or qualified. This highlights the environmental issues relevant to each SEA parameter and ensures that the plan implementation does not exacerbate such problems. Conversely this information can also be used to promote good environmental practices and opportunities through the plan thereby improving environmental quality where possible. Baseline data has been collected based on the environmental topics described in the SEA Directive i.e. biodiversity, fauna, flora, population, human health, soil, water, air, climate factors, material assets, cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage and landscape. The Directive requires that information be focused upon relevant aspects of the environmental characteristics of the area likely to be significantly affected by the plan and the likely change, both positive and negative, where applicable. The baseline data was gathered from currently available data sources as the SEA Directive does not require major new research to be undertaken. This was also supported by targeted fieldwork carried out by the SEA and AA Team in March 2013. A Geographical Information System (GIS) was established to spatially analyse this data; to identify areas of particular environmental sensitivity and to help understand how potential land use policies and zonings could impact on the environmental resources of the County. The AA also informed this baseline data especially in terms of European Site designations, sensitivities and potential impacts to same.

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2.5 Flood Risk Assessment The Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines (DoEHLG 2009) provide a methodology to incorporate flood risk identification and management into land use strategies. It also requires the alignment and integration of flood risk into the SEA process. The core objectives of the Guidelines are to:

• Avoid inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding; • Avoid new developments increasing flood risk elsewhere, including that which may arise from

surface water run-off; • Ensure effective management of residual risks for development permitted in floodplains; • Avoid unnecessary restriction of national, regional or local economic and social growth; • Improve the understanding of flood risk among relevant stakeholders; and • Ensure that the requirements of EU and national law in relation to the natural environment and

nature conservation are complied with at all stages of flood risk management.

Potential flood issues in the plan area are an important consideration in the preparation of the new OCDP, particularly in zoning lands for various uses. Therefore the OCDP Plan has been guided by the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) for County Offaly. Findings and recommendations arising from the SFRA have been integrated into the SEA process (see Chapter Four, Chapter Seven and Annex B in particular). Further information on the SFRA and results on County Offaly are provided in Chapter Four, Baseline Environment, and assessed in Chapter Seven Assessment of Effects.

2.6 Consideration of Alternatives A SEA Scoping workshop was held with various sections from Offaly County Council on the 13th

March 2013 to discuss all environmental issues relating to the plan which resulted in the examination of alternative development scenarios for the county. The following section summarises the alternatives under consideration and Chapter Six Consideration of Alternatives provides greater detail and assessment of same. Option One: Amend settlement hierarchy and revise growth in fewer areas in line with infrastructural provision This alternative is to amend the number of settlements within the plan area, reducing the number of smaller settlements, and targeting growth in a fewer number of locations where appropriate infrastructure is already in place. This would see a smaller number of existing settlements prioritised for development. Designated areas (European Sites, Groundwater Protection Zones etc.) would be subject to appropriate environmental protection measures in line with the regulatory framework. Rural development policies would support agriculture, forestry, renewable energy and tourism.

Option Two: Dispersed Settlement led approach This scenario envisages growth of all settlements within the County with heavy emphasis on accommodating housing within settlements. Other than the county town and large towns (Tullamore,

30

Birr, Edenderry and Portarlington) there would be no hierarchy of settlements. Designated areas (European Sites, Groundwater Protection Zones etc.) would be subject to appropriate environmental protection measures in line with the regulatory framework. As above, rural development policies would support agriculture, forestry, renewable energy and tourism.

Option Three: Strategic Planning Approach This scenario is a planned sustainable development approach to planning in the County. Development will be focused within zoned and serviced areas. This scenario plans for the strengthening of rural villages and residential development into designated settlements. Appropriate environmental protection measures will be implemented for designated areas. In this scenario particular rural development activities would be more strategic and certain areas identified to support tourism and renewable energy.

Other Development Scenarios including rural housing and renewable energy A final discussion in the workshop focused on other landuse scenarios for Offaly and in particular the presence of a number of brownfield industrial sites around the County such as former peat power stations and briquette factories. A strategic approach to the best use of these sites as a means to facilitate industrial development was considered and discussed. At a subsequent meeting in April 2013 the forward planning team and environmental consultants discussed renewable energy alternatives for the OCDP. A number of such alternatives are presented and assessed against the Strategic Environmental Objectives in Chapter Six, Consideration of Alternatives.

Preferred Option Arising from the workshop, Option Three with the above amendment to the approach to tourism policy and the potential inclusion of a strategy for brownfield sites within the county was selected as the preferred approach for the Offaly CDP.

It aligns more closely with European and National Policy and regulation, directs development to serviced lands, focuses on town centres for service provision and supports Tullamore as a Gateway and County Town. The settlement hierarchy remains on an evidence base and with the upgrading of wastewater treatment plants in smaller settlements offers serviced lands for housing in a more spatially balanced manner. A strategy for brownfield sites may also offer a means to facilitate renewable energy development or other industrial development activities at established sites around the county and counter the current commuting and economic pull of the Greater Dublin Area.

2.7 Approach to assessment of significant environmental impacts The assessment described within this Environmental Report aims to highlight the potential conflicts, if they are present, between the stated policies and objectives contained in the OCDP with the Strategic Environmental Objectives. Furthermore the assessment examines the potential impact arising from the Plan’s implementation of its policies and objectives on sensitive environmental receptors. Key to assessing the policies and objectives of the Plan is setting a specific set of environmental objectives for each of the environmental topics. The objectives are provided in Chapter Five and include

31

all aspects of the environment such as Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna, Human Beings, Soil, Water, Air and Climate Change, Noise, Material Assets, Cultural Heritage including Architectural and Archaeological Heritage and Landscape. The SEA, AA and Development Plan formulation is an iterative process and environmental considerations have informed all stages of plan preparation in order to avoid or minimise significant adverse environmental impacts. However, some individual objectives or landuse zonings may give rise to adverse impacts. Where the environmental assessment identifies significant adverse effects, consideration is given in the first instance to preventing such impacts; where this is not possible for stated reasons, to lessening or offsetting those effects. In accordance with SEA guidelines the assessment identifies ‘impact’ under three headings. Firstly the quality of impact is addressed using the following terms: Potential Positive impact: A change which improves the quality of the environment. Potential Negative impact: A change which reduces or lessens the quality of the environment. Uncertain impact: The nature of any impact cannot be ascertained at this stage. This initial stage aims to ascertain the quality, if any, of the potential impact. Each of the Plan’s policies and objectives have been assessed for their impact and where a neutral impact is noted no further discussion is provided within this report. In this manner, the ER focuses on the negative and positive impacts and proceeds to a discussion on their significance and duration. Thus it is a more robust, more focused approach to understanding the potential impacts associated with the Plan’s implementation. Secondly, where a potential impact is noted, either positive or negative, the significance of impact is addressed. Significance is assessed in terms of the type/scale of development envisaged by the plan and the sensitivity/importance of the receiving environment. This is presented using the following terms: Profound: An impact which obliterates sensitive characteristics. Moderate: An impact that alters the character of the environment in a manner that is consistent with existing and emerging trends. Slight: An impact which causes noticeable changes in the character of the environment without affecting its sensitivities. Imperceptible: An impact capable of measurement but without noticeable consequences. Thirdly the potential duration of identifiable impacts is discussed. The following terms are used: Short: Impact lasting one to seven years. Medium: Impact lasting seven to fifteen years. Long term: Impact lasting fifteen to sixty years. Permanent: Impact lasting over sixty years. Temporary Impact lasting for one year or less.

32

Finally where it has been determined that policies/objectives/landuse zonings may potentially result in a negative impact on an environmental receptor appropriate level mitigation measures are proposed.

2.8 Mitigation Section (g) of Schedule 2B of the SEA Regulations requires information on the mitigation measures that will be put in place to minimise/eliminate any significant adverse impacts due to the implementation of the OCDP 2014-2020. Chapter Eight of this SEA ER highlights the mitigation measures that will be put in place to counter identified significant adverse impacts due to the implementation of the Plan. As stated previously the formulation of the Draft Plan and the development of the SEA is an iterative process and therefore potential negative aspects of the Plan have been removed. Thus the objectives and policies contained within the Draft Plan are considered robust and environmentally sustainable. However some unavoidable residual issues may remain and therefore mitigation measures are required. Chapter Eight details the mitigation measures necessary to prevent, reduce and, as fully as possible, offset any significant adverse impacts on the environment of implementing the Plan. 2.9 Monitoring Article 10 of the SEA Directive sets out the requirement that monitoring is to be carried out of the significant environmental effects of the implementation of the OCDP in order to identify at an early stage any unforeseen adverse effects and to be able to undertake appropriate remedial action. Chapter Nine presents the monitoring requirements for the OCDP. Methods of monitoring and indicators of change in the environment have been proposed with set targets to be reviewed over the lifetime of the plan. 2.10 Data Gaps and Technical Difficulties Encountered Based on the level of information available, it can be reasonably concluded that no technical difficulties were encountered in formulating this environmental report. However it must be acknowledged the uneven availability of data for certain parameters. Whilst much data in now available for water and ecological resources, data on other issues such as climate change, county level ecological corridors, and human health are only partially available or limited.

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Chapter Three Relationship to Plans, Policies and Programmes

3.1 Introduction The OCDP is situated within a hierarchy of International, National, regional, and county level policy guidelines. In addition, there is an overarching legislative framework which provides the statutory basis for designations and objectives. This chapter of the Environmental Report reviews the consistency of the OCDP within this policy and regulatory framework.

3.2 International and European Plans, Policies and Programme Table 3.1 below sets out the main plans, policies, programmes and directives identified in an International context and gives a brief summary of their main objectives.

Table 3.1 International Plans, Policies and Programmes Title Summary Sustainable Development The EU Sustainable Development Strategy (SDS)

The overall aim of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy is to identify and develop actions to enable the EU to achieve a continuous long-term improvement of quality of life through the creation of sustainable communities able to manage and use resources efficiently, able to tap the ecological and social innovation potential of the economy and in the end able to ensure prosperity, environmental protection and social cohesion. The strategy sets overall objectives and concrete actions for seven key priority challenges until 2010, many of which are predominantly environmental:

• climate change and clean energy • Sustainable transport • Sustainable consumption & production • Conservation and management of natural resources • Public Health • Social inclusion, demography and migration • Global poverty and sustainable development challenges

To improve synergies and reduce trade-offs, a more integrated approach to policy making is proposed, based on better regulation (impact assessments) and on the guiding principles for sustainable development. A review of the SDS commenced in 2009 to date there is no replacement SDS.

EU Environmental Action Programme to 2020

Only recently adopted, the 7th EU Environmental Action Programme is more strategic in nature and identifies three main areas to guide EU environmental policy and research. The three thematic priority objectives are intended to: • Protect nature and strengthen ecological resilience • Boost sustainable resource-efficient low-carbon growth, and • Effectively address environment-related threats to health.

Environmental Assessment SEA Directive - Assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the Environment, (2001/42/EC) 2001

This Directive requires plan-makers to carry out an assessment of the likely significant environmental effects of implementing a plan or programme before the plan or programme is adopted. S.I. No. 435 of 2004 European Communities (Environmental Assessment of Certain Plans and Programmes) Regulations 2004 and S.I. No. 436 of

34

http://ec.europa.eu/governance/impact/index_en.htm

http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CELEX:52005DC0218:EN:NOT

2004 Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 as amended by S.I. No. 200 of 2011 European Communities (Environmental Assessment of Certain Plans and Programmes) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 and S.I. No. 201 of 2011 Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 transposed the SEA Directive into Irish law.

Environmental Impact Assessment Directive (85/337/EEC) (97/11/EC), 1985

The EIA Directive (85/337/EEC) came into force in 1985 and applies to a wide range of defined public and private projects, which are defined in Annexes I and II of the Directive. The Directive has been amended three times, in 1997, 2003 and 2009. Under the Directive Member States are required to carry out Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) of certain public and private projects, before they are authorised, where it is believed that the projects are likely to have a significant impact on the environment. The initial Directive of 1985 and its three amendments have been codified by Directive 2011/92/EU of 13 December 2011.

Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna UN Convention of Biological Diversity, 1992

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) entered into force in December 1993. It has 3 main objectives: 1. The conservation of biological diversity. 2. The sustainable use of the components of biological diversity. 3. The fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilisation of genetic resources.

EU Biodiversity Strategy to 2020

In 2011 the European Commission adopted a new strategy to halt the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services in the EU by 2020. There are six main targets, and 20 actions to help Europe reach its goal. The six targets cover: · Full implementation of EU nature legislation to protect biodiversity. · Better protection for ecosystems, and more use of green infrastructure. · More sustainable agriculture and forestry. · Better management of fish stocks. · Tighter controls on invasive alien species. · A bigger EU contribution to averting global biodiversity loss.

EU Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds, (2009/147/EC) 1979 Known as the Birds Directive

This Directive ensures far-reaching protection for all of Europe's wild birds, identifying 194 species and sub-species among them as particularly threatened and in need of special conservation measures. Member States are required to designate Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for 194 particularly threatened species and all migratory bird species. SPAs are scientifically identified areas critical for the survival of the targeted species, such as wetlands. They are part of the Natura 2000 ecological network established under the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC.

EU Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna, (92/43/EEC), 1992 known as the Habitats Directive

The main goal of the Directive is to promote the maintenance of biodiversity by requiring Member States to take measures to maintain, protect or restore natural habitats, animal and plant species to a favourable conservation status, introducing robust protection for those habitats and species of European importance. For Ireland, these habitats include raised bogs, active blanket bogs, turloughs, sand dunes, machair (flat sandy plains on the north and west coasts), heaths, lakes, rivers, woodlands, estuaries and sea inlets. The Directive provides for a network of protected sites known as The Natura 2000 network, which limits the extent and nature of development which may have a detrimental effect on the flora or fauna identified therein.

European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011

These regulations consolidate the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997 to 2005 and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats)(Control of Recreational Activities) Regulations 2010, as well as addressing transposition failures identified in the CJEU judgements.

35

Articles 6(1) and (2) of the Regulations require Member States to take appropriate conservation measures to maintain and restore habitats and species, for which a site has been designated, to a favourable conservation status. Furthermore the Regulations require Member States to avoid damaging activities that could significantly disturb these species or deteriorate the habitats of the protected species or habitat types. Under these regulations any plan or project likely to have a significant effect on a Natura 2000 site, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall undergo an Appropriate Assessment to determine its implications for the site. The competent authorities can only agree to the plan or project after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned. In exceptional circumstances, a plan or project may still be allowed to go ahead, in spite of a negative assessment, provided there are no alternative solutions and the plan or project is considered to be of overriding public interest.

Green Infrastructure Strategy

The European Commission in May 2013 adopted a Green Infrastructure Strategy, 'to promote the deployment of green infrastructure in the EU in urban and rural areas'. This is a key step in implementing the EU 2020 Biodiversity Strategy and specifically Target 2 that requires that 'by 2020, ecosystems and their services are maintained and enhanced by establishing green infrastructure and restoring at least 15% of degraded ecosystems'. Green Infrastructure (GI) is contributing to all other targets of the EU Biodiversity strategy – in particular the full implementation of the Birds and Habitats Directive (target 1) – and to maintain and enhance biodiversity in the wider countryside and the marine environment (targets 3 and 4).

The Green Infrastructure Strategy responds to action 6b of the Biodiversity Strategy and to the Roadmap on a Resource Efficient Europe which foresees that the Commission will put forward a communication on Green Infrastructure. It is supported by the different actions under target 2:

• Action 5, Mapping and Assessment of Ecosystems and their Services (MAES), shall help to reinforce the baseline against which the value of the benefits that nature provides to human society can be valued, and investments in GI can be measured;

• Action 6a, the establishment of a Restoration Prioritization Framework (RPF), shall support the prioritization of restoration in the context of GI;

• Action 7a, Biodiversity Proofing, seeks to mainstream consideration for biodiversity in key EU funds and promote the funding of projects with a positive impact on biodiversity, which includes GI projects;

• Action 7b on No-Net-Loss (NNL) will support the implementation of GI through developing an initiative that ensures there is no net loss of ecosystems and their services e.g. through compensation or offsetting scheme.

Population and Human Health The Stockholm Convention The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants is a global treaty to

protect human health and the environment from chemicals that remain intact in the environment for long periods, become widely distributed geographically, accumulate in the fatty tissue of humans and wildlife, and have adverse effects to human health or to the environment.

Several environmental parameters interact and impact on human health including water quality, infrastructure, air quality, soil, cultural heritage and landscape; the plans, policies and programmes associated with these are presented under thematic headings as appropriate.

36

http://biodiversity.europa.eu/ecosystem-assessments

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/biodiversity/comm2006/proofing.htm

https://circabc.europa.eu/faces/jsp/extension/wai/navigation/container.jsp?FormPrincipal:_idcl=FormPrincipal:left-menu-link-lib-closed&FormPrincipal_SUBMIT=1&javax.faces.ViewState=rO0ABXVyABNbTGphdmEubGFuZy5PYmplY3Q7kM5YnxBzKWwCAAB4cAAAAAN0AAIxNnB0ACsvanNwL2V4dGVuc2lvbi93YWkvbmF2aWdhdGlvbi9jb250YWluZXIuanNw

Geology and Soil EU Soil Thematic Strategy In September 2006, the European Commission published the final Thematic Strategy

for Soil Protection (COM(2006)231 final) and a proposal for a Directive establishing a framework for the protection of soil across the EU (COM(2006)232). The objective of the strategy is to protect and ensure the sustainable use of soil, based on the guiding principles of preserving soil functions, preventing further degradation and restoring degraded soils to a level of functionality consistent with current and intended use. Once adopted the European Soil Thematic Strategy will guide and frame Ireland’s approach to developing its own soil protection strategy.

Water Resources Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) as amended

The Water Framework Directive (WFD) was adopted in 2000 in an effort to establish a framework for the protection of waterbodies within the EU including:

· inland surface waters; · groundwater; · transitional waters; and · coastal waters.

The key aims of the WFD are: · expanding the scope of water protection to all waters, surface waters and

groundwater; · achieving "good status" for all waters by a set deadline · water management based on river basins; · "combined approach" of emission limit values and quality standards. · getting the prices right; · getting the citizen involved more closely, and · streamlining legislation.

Its ultimate objective is to achieve “good ecological and chemical status” for all Community waters by 2015.

Floods Directive (2007/60/EC)

Directive 2007/60/EC on the assessment and management of flood risks entered into force on 26 November 2007. The Directive aims to establish a common framework for assessing and reducing the risk that floods within the European Union pose to human health, the environment, property and economic activity. This Directive requires Member States to assess if all water courses and coast lines are at risk from flooding, to map the flood extent and assets and humans at risk in these areas and to take adequate and coordinated measures to reduce this flood risk. This includes the preparation and implementation of flood risk management plans for each river basin district. This Directive also reinforces the rights of the public to access this information and to have a say in the planning process.

The Drinking Water Directive (DWD), (98/83/EC) 1998

This Directive is intended to protect human health by laying down healthiness and purity requirements which must be met by drinking water within the Community. · Sets quality standards for drinking water quality at the tap (microbiological, chemical and organoleptic parameters) and the general obligation that drinking water must be wholesome and clean. · Obliges Member States to regular monitoring of drinking water quality and to provide to consumers adequate and up-to-date information on their drinking water quality. · Member States may exempt water supplies serving less than 50 persons or providing less than 10 m3 of drinking water per day as an average and water in food processing undertakings where the quality of water cannot affect the wholesomeness of the foodstuff in its finished form.

EC Freshwater Fish Directive, (78/659/EEC) 1978

The aim of the EU Freshwater Fish Directive (78/659/EEC) is to protect fish life from pollution discharge into waters and lays out water sampling and monitoring

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procedures and definitions. The Directive was ratified by Ireland by S.I. No. 293 of 1988, and aims to protect those fresh waterbodies identified by Member States as waters suitable for sustaining fish populations. The Directive will be repealed in 2013 by the EU Water Framework Directive.

Groundwater Directive, (2006/118/EC) 2006

This directive establishes a regime which sets underground water quality standards and introduces measures to prevent or limit inputs of pollutants into groundwater. The directive establishes quality criteria that takes account local characteristics and allows for further improvements to be made based on monitoring data and new scientific knowledge. The directive thus represents a proportionate and scientifically sound response to the requirements of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) as it relates to assessments on chemical status of groundwater and the identification and reversal of significant and sustained upward trends in pollutant concentrations. Member States will have to establish the standards at the most appropriate level and take into account local or regional conditions.

EC Bathing Water Quality Directive, (2006/7/EC) 2006

This Directive strengthens the rules guaranteeing bathing water quality It supplements Directive 2000/60/EC on water protection and management. Each year, the Member States are required to identify the bathing waters in their territory and define the length of the bathing season. They shall establish monitoring at the location most used by bathers or where the risk of pollution is greatest.

Shellfish Directive, (2006/113/EC), 2006

The Directive concerns the quality of shellfish waters, i.e. the waters suitable for the development of shellfish (bivalve and gasteropod molluscs). It applies to those coastal and brackish waters which need protection or improvement in order to allow shellfish to develop and to contribute to the high quality of shellfish products intended for human consumption. The Directive establishes parameters applicable to designated shellfish waters, indicative values, mandatory values, reference methods of analysis and the minimum frequency for taking samples and measures.

EC Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC), 1991

The Nitrates Directive (1991) aims to protect water quality across Europe by preventing nitrates from agricultural sources polluting ground and surface waters and by promoting the use of good farming practices. The Nitrates Directive forms integral part of the Water Framework Directive and is one of the key instruments in the protection of waters against agricultural pressures.

Further important pieces of International legislation which provide the main statutory provisions that the council must comply with in protecting the environment include: · Water Services Act 2007. · Waste Water Discharge Authorisation Regulations 2007 and all authorisations issued under these Regulations. · European Communities (Drinking Water No. 2) Regulations, 2007. · European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Water) Regulations, 2009. · European Communities Environmental Objectives (Groundwater) Regulations, 2010. · Water Framework Directive, implemented in Ireland by the Water Policy Regulations, 2003. · Water Pollution Act, 1977-2007. · Protection of the Environment Act, 2003. · EC Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations, 2009.

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· EC Bathing Water Quality Regulations, 2008. · EC Quality of Shellfish Waters (Amendment) Regulations, 2009. · EC Environmental Objectives (Freshwater Pearl Mussel) Regulations, 2009. · EC Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters Regulations, 2009. · EC Environmental Liability Regulations, 2008.

Climate and Air Quality Kyoto Protocol The Protocol was initially adopted on 11 December 1997 in Kyoto, Japan, and

entered into force on 16 February 2005. To date 191 states have signed and ratified the protocol. Following the Conference of Parties to the Climate Change Convention (COP) meeting in Copenhagen 2009, the EU revised its commitment to reducing greenhouse gases by increasing the target to 20% reduction on 1990 levels by 2020.

The Ambient Air Quality and Cleaner Air for Europe (CAFE) Directive

(2008/50/EC) was published in May 2008. It replaced the 1996 Air Quality Framework Directive and the first, second and third Daughter Directives that accompanied it which lay down limits for specific pollutants. The EU objective in relation to air quality is ‘to achieve levels of air quality that do not result in unacceptable impacts on, and risks to, human health and the environment’.

National Emissions Ceiling Directive 2001/81/EC (NEC Directive)

The implementation of the directive requires that Member States develop national programmes in 2002 and, where needed, revise those plans in 2006 that aim at meeting fixed ceilings of national emissions by 2010 and thereafter. Further Member States have to report their emission inventories to the EEA and the European Commission in order to monitor progress and verify compliance. The Thematic Strategy on Air Pollution in 2005 identified a number of key measures to be taken to help meet the 2020 interim objectives for human health and the environment. The revision of the NEC Directive was identified as one of the key measures.

Material Assets EU Directive on Waste, (2006/12/EC), 2006

This Directive requires EU States to publish waste management plans. It requires a system of permits and registrations to be put in place to authorise all waste management infrastructure, as well as setting down the basic requirements that need to be satisfied for these statutory authorisations to be issued.

EU Directive on Waste (2008/98/EC), 2008

This Directive establishes a legal framework for the treatment of waste within the Community. It aims at protecting the environment and human health through the prevention of the harmful effects of waste generation and waste management. The Directive requires Member States to take measures for the treatment of their waste in line with the following hierarchy which is listed in order of priority: · prevention; · preparing for reuse; · recycling; · other recovery, notably energy recovery; · disposal.

EU Landfill of Waste Directive (1999/31/EC), 1999

The Directive is intended to prevent or reduce the adverse effects of the landfill of waste on the environment. It defines the different categories of waste (municipal waste, hazardous waste, non-hazardous waste and inert waste) and applies to all landfills, defined as waste disposal sites for the deposit of waste onto or into land. The Landfill Directive mandates a series of targets to cause a substantial reduction of the land filling of biodegradable municipal waste by EU countries.

Environmental Noise Directive (2002/49/EC) 2002

The END aims to “define a common approach intended to avoid, prevent or reduce on a prioritised basis the harmful effects, including annoyance, due to the exposure to environmental noise”. For that purpose several actions are to be progressively implemented.

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It furthermore aims at providing a basis for developing EU measures to reduce noise emitted by major sources, in particular road and rail vehicles and infrastructure, aircraft, outdoor and industrial equipment and mobile machinery. The underlying principles of the Directive are similar to those underpinning other overarching environment policies (such as air or waste), such as monitoring, information and consultation, local issues, and development of a longer term strategy.

IPPC Directive, (2008/1/EC) 2008

The 2008 EU Directive concerning Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) requires industrial and agricultural activities with a high pollution potential to have a permit. This permit can only be issued if certain environmental conditions are met, so that the companies themselves bear responsibility for preventing and reducing any pollution they may cause. Integrated pollution prevention and control concerns new or existing industrial and agricultural activities with a high pollution potential, as defined in Annex I to the Directive (energy industries, production and processing of metals, mineral industry, chemical industry, waste management, livestock farming, etc.).

EU Reach Initiative, (EC 1907/2006) 2007

The REACH Regulation places greater responsibility on industry to manage the risks from chemicals and to provide safety information on the substances. The Regulation also calls for the progressive substitution of the most dangerous chemicals when suitable alternatives have been identified

EU Major Accident (Seveso II) Directive, (96/82/EC) 1996

This Directive aims to prevent major-accident hazards involving dangerous substances. Hazardous sites are identified that may pose a threat and development should be limited in the vicinity of such sites. The control of such hazardous sites for the purposes of reducing the risk, or limiting the consequences, of a major accident is a mandatory objective of a Development Plan.

EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), 1991

The aim of the Urban Waste Water Directive is to protect inland surface waters from the adverse effects of discharges of urban wastewater and discharge of certain biodegradable industrial waste water (particularly from the agro-food industry). Its purpose is to ensure that aquatic water quality is not negatively affected by uncontrolled urban wastewater discharges, such as from sewage treatment plants. It mandates that appropriate collection and treatment systems are put in place by a series of deadlines which relate to the size of an urban area. The Directive came into effect in June 1993 and is transposed into Irish law mainly by the Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations 2001 (S.I. No. 254 of 2001).

Directive 2009/28/EC on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources

Directive 2009/28/EC on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources establishes the basis for the achievement of the EU’s 20% renewable energy target by 2020. Under the terms of the Directive, each Member State is set an individually binding renewable energy target, which will contribute to the achievement of the overall EU goal. Each Member State is required to adopt a national renewable energy action plan.

Cultural Heritage Archaeology and Built Heritage The World Heritage Convention

The World Heritage Convention was adopted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in November 1972. The World Heritage Convention aims to promote cooperation among nations to protect heritage around the world that is of such outstanding universal value that its conservation is important for current and future generations..

European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage, 1992 (The Valletta Convention)

This Convention was ratified by Ireland in 1997 and as such the Planning Authority is legally bound by it. The aim of the Convention is to ‘protect the archaeological heritage as a source of the European collective memory and as an instrument for historical and scientific study’. It requires that appropriate consideration be given to archaeological issues at all stages of the planning and development process.

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Convention for the Protection of the Architectural Heritage of Europe, 1985 (Granada Convention)

Ratified by Ireland in 1997, the 1985 Convention for the Protection of the Architectural Heritage of Europe is intended to reinforce and promote policies for the conservation and enhancement of Europe’s heritage. The Convention is dual purpose, involving the promotion of architectural heritage policies while fostering European-wide co-operation measures. Covering monuments, groups of buildings and sites of importance, the Convention requires a national inventory of architectural heritage to be developed. Legal protection measures must be established, with a system of formal authorisation required for works affecting protected sites and structures. Architectural heritage conservation considerations are required to feature in the Convention signatories’ town and Regional planning processes.

Landscape The European Landscape Convention 2000

The 2000 European Landscape Convention, adopted in Florence (and was ratified by Ireland in 2002), requires a commitment to introduce policies on landscape protection and management. It promotes the protection, management and planning of EU landscapes as a response to European-wide concerns that the quality and diversity of landscapes were deteriorating. The underlying purpose of the Convention is to encourage public authorities to adopt policies and measures at local, Regional, National and International level to protect and manage landscapes throughout Europe.

The Aarhus Convention1 The Aarhus Convention establishes a number of rights of the public (individuals and their associations) with regard to the environment. The Parties to the Convention are required to make the necessary provisions so that public authorities (at national, regional or local level) will contribute to these rights to become effective. The Convention provides for: the right of everyone to receive environmental information that is held by public authorities ("access to environmental information"). This can include information on the state of the environment, but also on policies or measures taken, or on the state of human health and safety where this can be affected by the state of the environment. Applicants are entitled to obtain this information within one month of the request and without having to say why they require it. In addition, public authorities are obliged, under the Convention, to actively disseminate environmental information in their possession; the right to participate in environmental decision-making. Arrangements are to be made by public authorities to enable the public affected and environmental non-governmental organisations to comment on, for example, proposals for projects affecting the environment, or plans and programmes relating to the environment, these comments to be taken into due account in decision-making, and information to be provided on the final decisions and the reasons for it ("public participation in environmental decision-making"); the right to review procedures to challenge public decisions that have been made without respecting the two aforementioned rights or environmental law in general ("access to justice").

1 Information on the Aarhus Convention have been included following a number of submissions by the public 41

3.3 National Plans, Policies and Table 3.2 National Plans, Policies and Programmes Title Summary Sustainable Development Our Sustainable Future A framework for sustainable development in Ireland

Our Sustainable Future timeframe is to 2020 to tie in with other national and international frameworks, but a longer-term horizon to 2050 is also taken where appropriate, to provide a framework for guiding and reporting on long-term broad development trends such as on climate change. The objectives of the Framework follow those of the EU Thematic Strategy and aim to:

• Identify and prioritise policy areas and mechanisms where a sustainable development approach will add value and enable progress towards the strategy aims;

• Highlight and promote existing sustainable practices that, with the correct support, can underpin sustainable development more generally;

• Strengthen policy integration, coherence and co-ordination and bring a long term perspective to decision making;

• Set out governance mechanisms which ensure effective participation within government and across all stakeholders;

• Set out clear measures, responsibilities and timelines in an implementation plan;

• Set out how progress is to be measured and reported on through the use of indicators, and

• Incorporate adequate and effective monitoring, learning and improvement into the Framework process.

The National Spatial Strategy 2002 -2020

The National Spatial Strategy (NSS) 2002-2020 is the national strategic planning framework to achieve a better balance of social, economic and physical development across Ireland, supported by more effective planning. It recognises that regions of the country have different roles and seeks to organise and coordinate these roles in a complementary way making all regions more competitive according to their strengths. It seeks also to promote a high quality urban environment, as well as vibrant rural areas. A review of same was announced in 2012 but the current NSS remains in place for now.

Development Plans Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2007)

These guidelines were prepared under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). All planning authorities must have regard to them when preparing their Development Plans. The guidelines set out a framework within which development plans will achieve high standards in:

• how they set out their aims and objectives; • how they are produced; • how they are presented; and • how they are implemented and monitored.

Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna Actions for Biodiversity 2011 – 2016, Ireland’s 2nd National Biodiversity Plan

The National Biodiversity Plan is intended to play a central part in Ireland’s efforts to halt biodiversity loss and was developed as in line with the EU and International Biodiversity strategies and policies. It sets out the strategic objectives of the government in relation to biodiversity as follows: Objective 1: To mainstream biodiversity in the decision making process across all sectors.

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Objective 2: To substantially strengthen the knowledge base for conservation, management and sustainable use of biodiversity; Objective 3: To increase awareness and appreciation of biodiversity and ecosystems services; Objective 4: To conserve and restore biodiversity and ecosystem services in the wider countryside; Objective 5: To conserve and restore biodiversity and ecosystem services in the marine environment; Objective 6: To expand and improve on the management of protected areas and legally protected species, and Objective 7: To substantially strengthen the effectiveness of international governance for biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000

The Wildlife Act is Ireland’s primary national legislation for the protection of wildlife. It covers a broad range of issues, from the designation of nature reserves, the protection of species, regulation of hunting and controls in wildlife trading. It is implemented by a series of regulations. The Act provides strict protection for nearly all birds, 22 other animal species, and 86 plant species. These species are protected from injury, or from disturbance / damage to their breeding or resting place wherever these occur. The 2000 Act was amended in 2010.

National Heritage Plan (2002)

The Department of Arts Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands published the National Heritage Plan in April 2002. The plan sets out a vision for the management of the heritage of Ireland. A key element of the process of formulating the National Heritage Plan is the requirement to prepare Local Heritage Plans at County and City level.

Draft National Peatlands Strategy (2014)2

A national strategy on conservation and management of Ireland’s peatlands, it applies to all peatlands including peat soils as well as those designated as Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and Natural Heritage Areas. It establishes a vision, values and principles to guide policy relating to peatlands.

Draft Raised Bog SAC Management Plan (2014)3

The draft plan has two primary aims the conservation and management of raised bogs and addressing the needs of turfcutters and landowners. The plan scientifically assessed the raised bog habitats including designated sites and identified bogs not designated but of potential conservation value. Conservation objectives were set in the draft plan in addition to a number of means to achieve these objectives. 14 measures are identified over a timeframe with the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the lead agency.

STRIVE Boglands Report4 Sustainable Peatland Management in Ireland. A major research project funded by the EPA and led by UCD – the project is now finished but a number of key outputs were developed over the research programme- including a synthesis report and a protocol for the sustainable management of peatlands.

Freshwater Pearl Mussell Nore Sub basin Management Plan (2nd draft 2010)

This sub-basin management plan has been produced to act alongside the wider River Basin Management Plans (RBMPs) to provide a programme of measures required to improve the habitat of the freshwater pearl mussel so that it can attain favourable conservation status.

Population and Human Health Guidelines for Planning The aim of these guidelines is to set out the key planning principles which should be

2 This reference was inserted following a submission by the EPA 3 Inserted following submission by EPA 4 This reference was put in following a submission from members of the public and the Irish Peatland Conservation Council

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Authorities on Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas (Cities, Towns & Villages) (2009)

reflected in development plans and local area plans, and which should guide the preparation and assessment of planning applications for residential development in urban areas.

Sustainable Rural Housing – Guidelines for Planning Authorities 2005

The Rural Housing Guidelines seek to ensure that sustainable housing development patterns are supported in rural areas and that the policies and practices of planning authorities should seek to: (1) Ensure that the needs of rural communities are identified in the development plan process and that policies are put in place to ensure that the type and scale of residential and other development in rural areas, at appropriate locations, necessary to sustain rural communities is accommodated; (2) Manage pressure for overspill development from urban areas in the rural areas closest to the main cities and towns such as the gateways, hubs, and other large Towns, and (3) Take account of other related dimensions in relation to rural settlement such as environmental and heritage protection and the need to maintain the integrity of economic resources.

Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, (2007)

This 2007 policy statement provides for an integrated approach to housing and planning in Ireland. The policy recognises that continued strong demand for housing presents major challenges in respect of the planning of new housing and associated services. Sustainable neighbourhoods involve the efficient use of land and quality urban design, effectively integrated with the supply of appropriate physical and social infrastructure by providing a quality environment; sustainable neighbourhoods also contribute to the provision of attractive locations to support the NSS objective for a more coherent form of future regional development.

Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities, (2007)

Design guidelines intended to assist in the implementation of the policies set out in Delivering Homes Sustaining Communities (above). The aim of these Guidelines is to identify principles and criteria that are important in the design of housing and to highlight specific design features, requirements and standards that have been found to be particularly relevant

Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments. Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2007)

The primary aim of these guidelines is to promote sustainable urban housing, by ensuring that the design and layout of new apartments will provide satisfactory accommodation for a variety of household types and sizes – including families with children - over the medium to long term.

Geology and Soil Quarries and Ancillary Activities, Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2004)

These Guidelines are intended to offer guidance to planning authorities on planning for the quarrying industry through the development plan and determining applications for planning permission for quarrying and ancillary activities (Part A). Whilst Part B provides a practical guide to the implementation of section 261 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000. A number of new legislative provisions in relation to quarries have recently been commenced. These provisions are contained chiefly in the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 and the Environment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2011, relevant provisions of which were commenced on 15 November 2011.

Section 261A of the Planning and Development Acts, 2000 – 2011 and related provisions,

These guidelines provide both an overview of the new legislative provisions in relation to quarries that were laid down in the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 and the Environment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2011 and guidance on their implementation.

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Guidelines for Planning Authorities, (Jan 2012)

Subsequent to European Court of Justice (ECJ) rulings which required that Irish planning law was amended to remove the facility to apply for retention permission for any development that requires an EIS or AA, these new legal provisions were implemented. Section 261A of the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2011 relates to the requirement of Local Authorities to examine the quarries within their functional areas to assess whether development has been carried out (post 1 October 1964) that would have required EIA or AA.

Geological Heritage Sites Designation (under the Wildlife Amendment Act 2000)

The Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000 provides for designation of Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) which will include geological sites. Until actually designated, there is no real protection for any important sites identified by GSI and recommended for NHA status. However, a number of geological features are protected because they are the underlying reason for a biological or ecological site protected as a National Nature Reserve, National Park or as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). In addition many local authorities have scheduled County Geological Sites within their County Development Plans.

Guidance on Biodiversity in the Extractive Industry5

Notice Nature publication that provides guidelines relating to enhancement and management of biodiversity considerations from operation to rehabilitation of extractive activities.

Water Resources Shannon International River Basin District Management Plan

The key objectives of the Water Framework Directive for the Shannon International River Basin District (IRBD) are aimed at: maintaining "high status" of waters where it exists; preventing any deterioration in the existing status of waters and; achieving at least "good status" in relation to all waters in the Shannon IRBD by 2015. The Management Plan presents a series of measures to achieve these.

Eastern River Basin District Management Plan

The River Basin Management Plan identified specific waters which were targeted to achieve good status by 2015. These waters tend to be in the upper parts of catchments where problems can be addressed without other upstream pressures detrimentally affecting the waters. Other waters have later target dates because they are affected by pressures from upstream or because the measures required will take longer than 6 years to implement or become effective.

Local Government (Water Pollution) Acts (1977 and 1990)

Statutory responsibility for water management and protection rests primarily with local authorities. The Local Government (Water Pollution) Acts 1977 and 1990, and associated regulations, including regulations giving effect to EU Directive, constitute the main national legislation.

Water Services Act (2007)

The Act sets down a comprehensive modern legislative code governing functions, standards, obligations and practice in relation to the planning, management, and delivery of water supply and waste water collection and treatment services. The Act focuses on management of water "in the pipe", as distinct from broader water resources issues such as river water quality, etc.

Water Services (Amendment) Act (2012)

The 2012 Act amends the 2007 Water Services Act in order to comply with a European Court of Justice ruling against Ireland in October 2009. The Court found that Ireland had failed to fulfil its obligations under the Waste Directive (75/442/EEC) regarding domestic waste waters disposed of through septic tanks and other individual waste water treatment systems. The new Part 4A requires each water services authority to establish and maintain a register of domestic waste water treatment systems situated within their functional area.

5 This reference was inserted following a submission from the Irish Concrete Federation 45

Irish Water Services Strategic Plan SEA and AA6

The 25 year plan for strategic delivery of water services is currently being prepared and the SEA Scoping report was issued for consultation with a deadline in September 2014.

The Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines (and Technical Appendices) for Planning Authorities (DoEHLG, OPW), 2009

In relation to planning at the County level the guidelines require planning authorities to:

• introduce flood risk assessment as an integral and leading element of their development planning functions at the earliest practicable opportunity.

• Align strategic flood risk assessment (SFRA)with the SEA process. • Establish flood risk assessment requirements as part of the preparation of

the County Development Plan. • Assess planning applications against the guidance set out in the Guidelines. • Ensure development is not permitted in areas of flood risk except where

there are no suitable alternative sites. Water Quality (Dangerous Substances) Regulations, (2001)

The Water Quality Regulations give effect to the Dangerous Substances Directive 76/464/EC and the Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC. They prescribe water quality standards in respect of 14 dangerous substances in surface waters and aim to ensure that, in relation to a substance present, where the existing condition of a water body does not meet a specific standard there shall be no decline in the condition of the water body.

Code of Practice: Wastewater Treatment Systems for Single Houses (P.E. <10), EPA, (2009)

This EPA code of practice provides guidance on the design, operation and maintenance of onsite wastewater treatment systems for single houses (p.e. less than or equal to 10). The code of practice establishes an overall framework of best practice in relation to the development of wastewater treatment and disposal systems, in unsewered rural areas, for protection of our environment and specifically water quality

Climate and Air Quality National Climate Change Strategy (2007-2012)

The National Climate Change Strategy 2007 - 2012 sets out a range of measures, building on those already in place under the first National Climate Change Strategy (2000) to ensure Ireland reaches its target under the Kyoto Protocol. The Strategy provides a framework for action to reduce Ireland's greenhouse gas emissions

Air Pollution Act, (1987)

In accordance with the Air Pollution Act 1987, local authorities are obliged to take whatever measures they consider necessary to prevent or limit air pollution in their area and the owners of certain industrial plants must obtain an air pollution licence from their Local Authority or the Environmental Protection Agency in order to operate certain industries that will be responsible for emissions.

Review of Ireland’s climate change policy and Climate Action and Low Carbon Bill 2013

The National Economic and Social Council submitted a review of Ireland’s climate change policy to the Minister of Environment in late 2012. The review includes the development of potential policies and measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture, transport, heat in buildings and renewable energy supply and a basis for a national transition to a low-carbon future by 2050. This review is associated with the proposed Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Bill 2013. This Bill if enacted will place a statutory obligation on Government to adopt and implement plans that enable the State to transition to a low carbon, climate resilient and environmentally sustainable economy in the period to 2050

Material Assets Design Manual For Urban Roads 2013

This Manual offers a holistic approach to the design of urban streets in cities, towns, suburbs and villages in Ireland for the first time and promotes a collaborative and

6 This reference was inserted following a submission by the EPA 46

consultative design process. It requires professionals of different disciplines to work together to achieve better street design.

Transport 21 & Infrastructure and Capital Investment 2012-2016 Medium Term Exchequer Framework

Launched in 2005, Transport 21 is a 10 year (2006 - 2016), €34.4 billion investment programme in transport infrastructure throughout Ireland. Connecting communities and promoting prosperity is the core aim of this Strategy. The programme seeks to meet the transport needs of the Country’s citizens and also underpin competitiveness into the future. Transport 21 recognises that quality, integrated transport is critical for competitiveness, return on investment and regional development. It covers national roads, rail, bus services and Regional airports. It relates to two investment programmes, i.e. a national programme and a separate programme for the Greater Dublin Area. One of its key objectives is to support the NSS by developing connectivity between the Greater Dublin Area and the identified centres which comprise the NSS gateways and hubs.

Smarter Travel, A Sustainable Transport Future, A New Transport Policy for Ireland 2009-2020

Smarter Travel is the transport policy for Ireland that sets out how the vision of a sustainable travel and transport system can be achieved. This document represents the transport policy for Ireland for the period 2009-2020. Key goals of this policy are:

• To reduce overall travel demand, • To maximise the efficiency of the transport network • To reduce reliance on fossil fuels, • To reduce transport emissions, and • To improve accessibility to transport.

National Cycle Policy Framework 2009-2012

Stemming from the Smarter Travel transport policy, the intention of the document is to promote cycling as a method for commuting within Ireland and ensure that all areas are bicycle friendly. Its aim is to achieve a rate of 10% cycling by the year 2020. It references the role that planning has in supporting and encouraging the use of bicycles and refers to the need for local authorities to have policies, objectives and action plans consistent with the Policy Framework. Several wide ranging objectives to improve the conditions for cycling and to encourage more users of this mode of transport are detailed.

Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines for Planning Authorities, 2012

These guidelines set out planning policy considerations relating to development affecting national roads (including motorways, national primary and national secondary roads) outside the 50/60 km/h speed limit zones for cities, towns and villages

The Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 (Noise) Regulations, 1994 (S.I. No. 179 of 1994)

These Regulations, relating to the 1992 EPA Act, simplify and strengthen the procedures for dealing with noise nuisance, and give Local Authorities power to take action when they consider that it is necessary to do so in order to prevent or limit noise.

Environmental Noise Regulations 2006 SI 140 of 2006

These regulations set out legislation with respect to the control of unwanted or harmful outdoor sounds created by human activities, including noise emitted by means of transport, road traffic, rail traffic, air traffic, and from sites of industrial activity.

Draft National Renewable Export Energy Policy SEA underway7

The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources is developing a Renewable Energy Export Policy and Development Framework (with a spatial dimension) for renewable export opportunities from Ireland, in the first instance to the United Kingdom as stated, with particular focus on large scale projects for renewable energy generation.

7 This was inserted following a submission by the EPA 47

Development of the Renewable Energy Export Policy and Development Framework is to be informed by the carrying out of a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). This will be accompanied by a Habitats Directive Assessment [or Appropriate Assessment (AA)] under the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, and widespread consultation with the public and stakeholders. The first consultation stage was completed in 2013 and the draft policy with accompanying SEA and AA is scheduled for mid to end 2014.It is not yet available on the website.

Forests, Products and People –Ireland’s Forestry Policy a renewed vision Draft Report for public consultation 20138

Vision: To develop an internationally competitive and sustainable forest sector that provides a full range of economic, environmental and social benefits to society. Key policy measures to achieve this vision include the expansion of the forestry resource; management of the resource; environment and public goods; supply chain; wood processing; forestry protection and health; education, training and research and policy implementation and review.

National Renewable Energy Action Plan, (NREAP) 2010

Submitted under Article 4 of Directive 2009/28/EC this plan sets out Ireland’s renewable energy targets to be achieved by 2020. Ireland’s overall target is to achieve 16% of energy from renewable sources by 2020. Member states are to achieve their individual target across the heat, transport and electricity sectors and apart from a sub-target of a minimum of 10% in the transport sector that applies to all Member States, there is flexibility for each country to choose how to achieve their individual target across the sectors.

Government Policy Statement on the Strategic Importance of Transmission and Other Energy Infrastructure (2012)9

Government policy statement in relation to the transmission network and support need for sufficient infrastructure aligned with proper planning and consultation.

Delivering a Sustainable Energy Future for Ireland - The Energy Policy Framework, 2007–2020 (White Paper)

This White Paper sets out the Government’s Energy Policy Framework 2007-2020 to deliver a sustainable energy future for Ireland. It is set firmly in the global and European context which has put energy security and climate change among the most urgent International challenges. The White Paper sets out the actions to be taken in response to the energy challenges facing Ireland. The objective is to deliver a sustainable energy future, starting now, with a time horizon of 2020 but also looking beyond that.

Bioenergy Action plan 2007

The Bioenergy Action Plan sets out an integrated strategy for collective delivery of the potential benefits of bioenergy resources across the agriculture, enterprise, transport, environment and energy sectors. It is a key component of the Government’s objectives under the Energy Policy Framework 2007 - 2020.

Local Authority Renewable Energy Strategies Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (201310)

A methodology to assist local authorities in preparing their Renewable Energy Strategy.

Wind Energy Developments and Natura 2000 sites 201111

European Commission Guidance Document on wind energy developments and Natura 2000 sites and provide guidance on how best to deliver wind energy developments that are compatible with requirements of Habitats and Birds Directive

Changing Our Ways, (1998) This 1998 policy statement sets out the national policy on waste management. It

8 As above. 9 This was inserted following a submission by Eirgrid 10 As above 11 As above

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sets out a range of targets in relation to waste management to be achieved over a 15 year time period. The policy is based on the waste management hierarchy of prevention, minimisation, reuse/recycling, and the environmentally sustainable disposal of waste which cannot be prevented or recovered.

Preventing and Recycling Waste: Delivering Change, (2002)

This Policy Statement is grounded in the 1998 policy statement Changing Our Ways and addresses the factors and practical considerations that are relevant to the achievement of Government policy objectives for the prevention of waste and for the reuse and recycling of the waste which is produced.

National Strategy for Biodegradable Waste, (2006)

This National Strategy for Biodegradable Waste is based on the integrated waste management approach first set out by the government’s 1998 Changing Our Ways policy document. The strategy highlights measures to increasingly redirect biodegradable municipal waste from landfill in accordance with the agreed targets in EU Directive 999/31/EC on the landfill of waste.

Towards a new National Waste Policy, Discussion Document, (2011)

This discussion document was prepared to further refine our national waste management policy and was done so in light of the transposition of the Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC) into Irish law in March 2011. The document sets out the principles that will guide how the country will deal with waste over the coming decades.

Proposed Revised National Hazardous Waste Management Plan (2013)

A six year plan from publication the National Hazardous Waste Management Plan is a strategic level document designed to provide overall direction to policy and decision makers involved in the prevention and management of hazardous waste. All of the plan’s recommendations are designed to reduce the environmental impact of hazardous waste. Local authorities are obliged to take these recommendations into account when they review their own waste management plans.

Cultural Heritage Archaeology and Built Heritage National Monuments Act 1930 with subsequent amendments

This is the primary legal protection to archaeology in Ireland and has been amended a number of times, most recently 2004.

Architectural Heritage Protection - Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2011)

The 2004 guidelines were reissued in 2011 following the transfer of architectural heritage protection functions to the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Part IV of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 – 2011 sets out the legislative provisions for the protection and conservation of our architectural heritage

National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH)

The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) is a state initiative under the administration of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. The purpose of the NIAH is to identify, record, and evaluate the post-1700 architectural heritage of Ireland, uniformly and consistently as an aid in the protection and conservation of the built heritage. NIAH surveys provide the basis for the recommendations of the Minister to the planning authorities for the inclusion of particular structures in their Record of Protected Structures (RPS).

Landscape A National Landscape Strategy for Ireland – Strategy Issues Paper for Public Consultation, (Sept 2011)

The Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has issued A National Landscape Strategy for Ireland – Strategy Issues Paper for Public Consultation, which sets out objectives and principles in the context of a proposed National Landscape Strategy for Ireland. This strategy is being prepared in compliance with the European Landscape Convention and was intended to be put forward for government consideration in 2012.

Draft Landscape and These Guidelines attempt to approach landscape appraisal in a systematic manner

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Landscape Assessment Guidelines, (2000)

and recommend Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) as the method for assessment. LCA involves the characterisation of landscape based primarily on landcover (trees, vegetation, water etc.) and secondly on the value (i.e. historical, cultural, etc.). LCA is intended to aid the development management process as it gives indicators of development types which would be suited to certain locations using certain design criteria and consequently the character of the landscape remains intact

Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). This Act consolidated all planning legislation from 1963 to 1999 and remains the basis for the Irish planning code, setting out the detail of regional planning guidelines, development plans and local area plans as well as the basic framework of the development management and consent system. Among other things, it provides the statutory basis for protecting our natural and architectural heritage, the carrying out of Environmental Impact Statements and the provision of social and affordable housing. There have been a number of changes to the legislation since 2000, the most significant of which are set out in • The Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2002 and the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004,

which made substantial changes to Part V of the Act. • The Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006, which provided for, among other things, the

establishment of a streamlined consent procedure for certain types of major infrastructure and the creation of a specialised division within An Bord Pleanála to take decisions in relation to such projects.

Planning Guidelines exist for a suite of development activities and these are integrated to the development plan process. In addition, DoECLG have issued a series of guidelines for planning authorities relating to their various functions which have been considered in the review of the OCDP. These include specific planning guidelines in relation to Retailing, Telecommunications, Renewable Energy, Built Heritage, Childcare, Schools, Sustainable Rural Housing, Quarries etc.

3.4 Regional and County Plans, Policies and Programmes Table 3.3: Regional and County Plans, Policies and Programmes Title Summary Sustainable Development Regional Planning Guidelines for the Midland Region

The RPGs set out a strategic planning framework for the region which translates national policy and guidelines to the local level where it is ultimately implemented by Planning Authorities in the Region. The RPG's integrate land-use, transport, economic growth and investment policies to enable the Regional grow as a sustainable, high quality location for investment and an attractive location in which to live, work and visit. The Midlands RPGs contain the following:

• Economic development strategy; • Regional Settlement strategy; • Transport and Infrastructure Strategy; • Environment and Amenities Strategy; • Tourism Strategy, and • Implementation Strategy.

Implementation of Regional Planning Guidelines Best Practice Guidance (2010)

This document updates previous best practice advice on Regional Planning Guideline (RPG) implementation, taking into account the new statutory provisions of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010. It is now a requirement that RPGs must be set within the policy framework of the NSS, including its population targets, which are to be updated from time to time by the Minister. RPGs are a key enabler for the preparation of Core Strategies which are now a requirement for every development plan as they translate overall national and

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regional population targets and estimates of future housing requirements into city and county council figures.

Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna Biodiversity Action Strategy for County Offaly 2005

A strategy that establishes actions for a meaningful Biodiversity Plan for subsequent years.

Population and Human Health Geology and Soil Water Resources River Basin District River Basin Management Plan (2009 – 2015)

River Basin Management Plans are to be prepared and renewed in six year cycles and the first plans cover the period to 2015. River Basin Management Plans were finalised for each of the 7 river basin districts in July 2010. These plans are a blueprint for the protection and improvement of waters in the period to 2015 and beyond. They cover approximately 800 groundwater bodies and 5,000 surface water bodies (canals, rivers, lakes, transitional and coastal waters). The plans set out the current status of our waters, the objectives to be achieved by 2015, and the programme of measures to be implemented in order to achieve those objectives. The WFD identifies River Basin Districts as the key management units. 73% of County Offaly is located within the Shannon International River Basin District, the largest RBD in Ireland

Catchment based Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CRFAM)

The EU Directive on the assessment and management of flood risk (the ‘Floods Directive’ [2007/60/EC]) requires Member States to prepare flood maps for areas of potentially significant flood risk, and to develop flood risk management plans (FRMPs) setting out measures aimed at achieving objectives to manage the risk in these areas. In Ireland, these requirements (transposed into national law through S.I. No. 122 of 2010) are being implemented through the Catchment-based Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Studies. The outputs from the CFRAM Studies will be catchment-based flood risk management plans (CFRMPs) and associated flood maps. The CFRMPs will be valid for the period 2015- 2021 and will be reviewed on a six-yearly basis.

Climate and Air Quality Offaly Climate Change Strategy 2009-2014

The goals of this Strategy are as follows: • To put in place effective and timely measures both at the corporate and

community level to address the causes and impacts of climate change in Co. Offaly

• To Reduce our Carbon Footprint. Material Assets Midland Regional Waste Management Plan 2005-2010 (extended to 2014).

Longford, Westmeath, Laois, North Tipperary and Offaly have prepared a regional waste management plan. This has been reviewed and extended to 2014.

Strategic Flood Risk Assessment for County Offaly

Accompanies the OCDP

Landscape Cultural Heritage Archaeology and Built Heritage Building on the previous two heritage plans for the County, the Heritage Plan 2012 -

2016 has the following key actions: • To utilise technology to bring heritage information to a broad audience. • To increase the involvement of children with heritage • To Provide Information to Local Communities about their

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• Heritage and Facilitate them to develop Heritage Projects • To Maximise Heritage Data and Sites for Tourism • To continue with data collection, recording the current status of • natural and built heritage • To be proactive in enhancing, protecting and raising awareness of • Offaly’s natural heritage • To record and conserve the built heritage

Neighbouring Authorities Development Plans The following plans set out the development and core strategy for the respective functional areas over a six year period: Kildare County Development Plan 2011-2017 Westmeath County Development Plan 2008-2014 Meath County Development Plan 2013-2019 Tipperary County Development Plan 2010-2016 Roscommon County Development 2014-2020 Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

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Chapter Four Environmental Baseline

4.1 Introduction This chapter describes the principal environmental parameters that are of relevance to both the plan area of County Offaly and its environs. It includes a description of the relevant aspects of the current state of the environment, the existing environmental problems, environmental characteristics of the areas likely to be significantly affected, and the likely evolution without implementation of the OCDP. This section aims to describe the environmental context within which the OCDP will operate and the constraints and targets that this context imposes on the OCDP. The purpose of this section is to provide enough environmental baseline data to:

1. Support the identification of environmental problems; 2. Support the process of assessing the environmental effects, and 3. Provide a baseline against which future monitoring data can be compared.

The following sections provide information on the environmental parameters below:

• Biodiversity – Flora and Fauna • Population and Human Health • Geology and Soil • Water – surface, ground, flooding • Air Quality and Climatic factors • Material Assets including transport, waste, noise, waste water and water services • Cultural Heritage – archaeology and architectural resources • Landscape • Interrelationship between these parameters.

Whilst all environmental parameters are described, certain parameters are identified as being of greater significance and may be subject to greater impacts associated with the implementation of the OCDP. In addition, certain parameters and key elements of same were identified in draft and scoping submissions of meriting particular scrutiny; therefore the focus on this chapter reflects these comments12.

4.2 Defining the descriptive areas and zones of influence The OCDP will aim to support the sustainable development of County Offaly over a six year period. Therefore, the baseline data is principally focused on the functional area of the county and its immediate environs. However, the zone of influence of the OCDP depends on the environmental parameter described. For example, water quality impacts on the River Shannon could extend downstream to neighbouring counties; visual impacts may also be identified for areas beyond the County Boundaries; conversely impacts on individual archaeological sites may be site specific. The

12 Please see Table 2.1 and 2.2 for further information on these parameters and consultee who highlighted same. 53

potential of cross boundary impacts is particularly relevant due to its Offaly’s landlocked, midlands location, with six neighbouring counties.

4.3 Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna Biodiversity has become an integral part of the conservation of our habitats and species and is a measure of the number, variety and variability of living organisms within a given area. The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) defines biological diversity as ‘the variability among living organisms from all sources including, inter alia, terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are part; this includes diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems’ (Article 2).

Awareness about the roles and functions of ecosystems has increased in recent years and it can be a useful means to highlight their importance and value services to society. The Economics of Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity (TEEB) study defines ecosystem services as:

‘the benefits people receive from ecosystems’. Humans are ultimately dependant on the natural environment and ecosystem services highlight how these systems provide and interact to create the essential components for human wellbeing. Four key services are identified for ecosystems and are shown in the following Figure 4a.

Figure 4.a: Ecosystem Services.

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4.3.1 Designated Sites County Offaly supports a range of designated and undesignated habitats and species. Consultation with the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has advised on the scope of the SEA to include the following:

• All designated sites within the Plan area should be listed and mapped, including, if applicable, candidate Special Areas of Conservation (cSAC), special Protection Areas (SPA), Natural Heritage Areas (NHA), Proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHA), Nature Reserves and Refuges for fauna.

• Stepping stones and wildlife corridors • Invasive species

4.3.2 European Sites The conservation of biodiversity in Ireland has been strengthened through EU law, most notably the EU Birds Directive 79/409/EEC and the EU Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. The Wildlife Act 1976 and the Wildlife Amendment Act 2000 has also informed and strengthened biodiversity conservation.

The EU Birds Directive establishes Special Protection Areas (SPAs) across the EU which forms a network of conservation sites for the protection of wild birds. Of the seven SPAs within County Offaly, all are located in the western border and six are associated with the River Shannon, its tributaries and floodplains; this reflects the importance of this area for a range of bird species that use the river and its supporting habitats

The Habitats Directive is unlike the Birds Directive in that it focuses entirely on the protection of flora and fauna, other than birds, that are important, rare or vulnerable within the EU. Protection is given at different degrees for certain species and their habitats that reach the ecological criteria required.. The Directive lists certain habitats and species that must be protected within SACs. Irish habitats include raised bogs, blanket bogs, turloughs, heaths, lakes, rivers, woodlands and sea inlets. The 25 Irish species which must be afforded protection include Salmon, Otter and Freshwater Pearl Mussel. Under the Habitats Directive member states are required to establish Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) for the protection of these species. Since 1994 all SPAs and SACs form an ecological network known as the Natura 2000 network. Ireland is required to take appropriate steps to maintain and restore a favourable conservation status of these areas. There are 18 SACs within the county, some of which straddle the county boundary such as those associated with the River Shannon and the Slieve Blooms. They vary in size considerably from relatively small esker ridges supporting distinctive rare flora, to the more extensive habitats. The principal habitats selected for designation are bogs (principally raised bogs but extensive blanket bog is also present at the Slieve Bloom site), eskers, rivers and floodplains associated with same. Figure 4b shows the European sites both within the county and a 15km buffer of same. Table 4.1 lists the site name, code, area and qualifying interests of European Sites within the county. Further information on the European Sites in and within a 15km zone of the county is provided in the NIR of the OCDP and should be read in conjunction with this SEA.

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Table 4.1: European Sites in County Offaly European Site Site code Area-

hectares (in County Offaly)

Qualifying Interests

Special Area of Conservation All Saints Bog & Esker

000566 369.68 Bog woodland, Active raised bogs, Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco Brometalia)(*important orchid sites), Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration, depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion.

Charleville Wood

000571 377.52 Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in British Isles Vertigo moulinsiana

Clara Bog 000572 836.54 Bog woodland, Active raised bogs, Seminatural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco brometalia)(*important orchid sites), Marsh fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia).

Ferbane Bog 000575 153.08 Active raised bogs, Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration, Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion.

Fin Lough 000576 78.10 Alkaline fens, Hard oligo-mesotrophic waters with benthic vegetation of Chara spp., Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration. Vertigo geyeri.

Mongan Bog 000580 207.83 Active raised bogs, Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration, Depressions onpeat substrates of the Rhynchosporion.

Moyclare Bog 000581 129.86 Active raised bogs, Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration, Depressions onpeat substrates of the Rhynchosporion.

Raheenmore Bog

000582 210.01 Active raised bogs, Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration, Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion.

Sharavogue Bog 000585 222.76 Active raised bogs, Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration, Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion.

Clonaslee Eskers & Derry Bog

000859 0.01 Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco Brometalia)(*important orchid sites) , Alkaline fens. Vertigo geyeri.

Ridge Road, SW of Rapemills

000919 16.44 Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco Brometalia)(*important orchid sites).

The Long Derries, Edenderry

000925 30.25 Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco Brometalia)(*important orchid sites).

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European Site Site code Area- hectares (in County Offaly)


Pilgrim's Road Esker

001776 69.76 Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco Brometalia)(*important orchid sites.

Lisduff Fen 002147 31.13 Alkaline fens, Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) Vertigo geyeri.

Island Fen 002236 12.12 Juniperus communis formations on heaths or calcareous grasslands, Alkaline fens.

River Shannon Callows

000216 1961.95 Lowland hay meadows (Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis), Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clavey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae), Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae), Limestone Pavements. Otter (Lutra lutra).

Slieve Bloom Mountains

000412 1618.28 Blanket bog (*active only), Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix, Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno- Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae).

River Barrow & River Nore

002162 96.08 Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation , European dry heaths , Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels , Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) , Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in British Isles , Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae), Estuaries,Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide, Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand, Spartina swards (Spartinion maritimae),Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae), Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi),Killarney fern (Trichomanes speciosum) Vertigo moulinsiana, Freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera), Pearl mussel (Margaritifera durrovensis)White-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes), Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus), Brook lamprey (Lampetra planeri), River lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis), Allis shad (Alosa alosa), Twaite shad (Alosa fallax fallax), Salmon (Salmo salar), Otter (Lutra lutra).

Special Protection Area Mongan Bog SPA

004017 129.3 Greenland White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons flavirostris).

Middle Shannon Callows SPA

004096 1923.85 Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus), Wigeon (Anas Penelope), Teal (Anas crecca), Pintail (Anas acuta), Shoveler (Anas clypeata), Golden Plover

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European Site Site code Area- hectares (in County Offaly)


(Pluvialis apricaria),Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus), Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa), Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) Greenland White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons flavirostris), Wetlands & Waterbirds.

All Saints Bog SPA


Dovegrove Callows SPA


Slieve Bloom Mountains SPA

004160 6672.58 Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus).

River Little Brosna Callows SPA

004086 417.01 Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus), Wigeon (Anas penelope) Teal (Anas crecca), Pintail (Anas acuta), Shoveler (Anas clypeata), Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria), Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus), Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa), Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus), Greenland White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons flavirostris), Wetlands & Waterbirds.

River Suck Callows SPA

004097 0.01 Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus), Wigeon (Anas penelope), Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria), Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus), Greenland White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons flavirostris), Wetlands & Waterbirds.

4.3.3 Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) and Proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs) The basic designation for wildlife is the Natural Heritage Area (NHA). This is an area considered important for the habitats present or which holds species of plants and animals whose habitat needs protection. In many cases, there is an overlap in designations, so that several of the bogs listed above in Table 4.1 as SACs, are also designated as NHAs. Table 4.2 lists the NHAs and pNHAs in County. Figure 4c shows the location of both NHAs and pNHAs in the County. The principal habitats for designation relate to raised bogs, eskers, wetlands/watercourse and woodlands.

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Table 4.2: NHAs and pNHAs in County Offaly Site name Site Code Area

hectares Black Castle Bog NHA 000570 167.62 Clonydonnin Bog NHA 000565 76.51 Daingean Bog NHA 002033 179.51 Screggan Bog NHA 000921 175.89 Hawkswood Bog NHA 002355 136.68 River Little Brosna Callows NHA 000564 582.69 Cangort Bog NHA 000890 105.86 Suck River Callows NHA 000222 0.01 PNHAs Woodfield Bog 000586 252.24 River Shannon Callows 000216 1976.96. Raheenmore Bog 000582 209.91 Grand Canal 002104 792.11 Doon Esker Wood 001830 8.26 Murphy's Bridge Esker 001775 17.39 Clara Bog 000572 849.19

Mongan Bog 000580 207.74 Pilgrim'S Road Esker 001776 22.70 Murphy'S Bridge Esker 001775 13.25 Clara Bog 000572 7.81 Clonfinlough Esker 000892 5.06 Fin Lough (Offaly) 000576 78.06 The Long Derries, Edenderry 000925 30.23 Lough Nanag Esker 000910 38.69 Clonlyon Glebe Bog 000893 116.26 Clorhane Wood 000894 39.18 Ballyduff Wood 001777 63.37 Ballyduff Esker 000885 11.44 Ferbane Bog 000575 153.01 Moyclare Bog 000581 129.80 Charleville Wood 000571 50.86 Kilcormac Esker 000906 49.05 Clonad Wood 000574 116.30 Pallas Lough 000916 69.61 Cloghanbeg 002059 0.0221

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Site name Site Code Area hectares

Lough Boora 001365 36.09 Raheen Lough 000917 29.04 Banagher (Domestic Dwelling, Occupied) 000567 0.011 Annaghmore Lough Fen (Offaly) 000413 94.68 Lough Coura 000909 199.62 All Saints Bog And Esker 000566 383.61 Ridge Road, Sw Of Rapemills 000919 6.17 Ross And Glenns Eskers 000920 40.32 Woodville Woods 000927 113.82 Dovegrove Callows 000010 71.76 Slieve Bloom Mountains 000412 1590.14 Kinnitty (Domestic Dwelling, Occupied 000579 0.0053 Camcor Wood 000889 20.82 Derrykeel Meadows 000897 14.04 Birr (Domestic Dwelling No.1, Occupied 000569 0.016 Birr (Domestic Dwelling No. 2, Occupied) 000568 0.004 Bracken's Dwelling, Near Whiteford 002058 0.006 Sharavogue Bog 000585 223.33 Lough Nahinch (Tipperary) 000936 5.22 Golden Grove Woods 000903 23.74 Drumakeenan, Eagle Hill And Perry'S Mill 000900 11.69 Drumakeenan National School 002064 0.02 Mount St.Joseph Woods 000913 35.86 Roscrea Bog 000583 21.63 St. Joseph's, Mountheaton 002063 0.72 Milltown, Shinrone 002065 0.033 Ballintemple Bog 000882 33.94

4.3.4 Ramsar Sites, Nature Reserves, Biogenetic Reserves and Refuges for Fauna The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, called the Ramsar Convention, is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. The Convention uses a broad definition of the types of wetlands, including lakes and rivers, swamps and marshes, wet grasslands and peatlands. There are four such Ramsar sites within the County – Mongan Bog, Clara Bog, Raheenmore Bog and the Slieve Blooms; these sites are also designated under the Habitats Directive and are outlined above.

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Four nature reserves are located in County, Clara Bog (460ha), Mongan Bog (c119ha), Raheenmore Bog (162ha) and the largest nature reserve in the state – Slieve Blooms (2,300ha). These reserves are designated under the Wildlife Acts 1976 and 2000 (amended) and are managed by the NPWS.

Biogenetic Reserves are designated by the Council of Europe for natural habitats of particular nature conservation value. Of the fourteen such reserves in Ireland, four are located in the county; these are the same sites listed above as nature reserves, and further reflect the importance of the bog habitats present in Offaly.

A designation as a refuge for fauna is also facilitated under the Wildlife Acts but there are no such designations in the county.

4.3.5 Salminoid Waters and Freshwater Pearl Mussel (FPM) waters The River Nore is designated as salmonid waters as prescribed under the European Communities (Quality of Salmonid Waters) Regulations, 1988. Salmonid waters must reach water quality standards set out in the second schedule of these regulations to ensure that they have the capability to support salmonid fish- Salmon (Salmo salar), Trout (Salmo trutta), Char (Salvelinus) and Whitefish (Coregonus). Although not formally designated, the River Barrow also contains salmonids throughout the main channel and tributaries13.

There are two types of pearl mussels in Ireland, one called Margaritifera margaritifera and the other is the very rare Margaritifera durrovensis, which is only known from the Nore Catchment. It is included on the red data list for Ireland as being critically endangered. One site in east Offaly , which is part of the Barrow Catchment is classed as a “Catchments with presumed extinct populations but further survey required”. No mussels have been found within these catchments in recent years, despite survey of some historic locations. These are large rivers, however, and difficult to survey, so it is unlikely that sufficient, comprehensive survey will be completed to allow the populations to be declared extinct. Added to that, there is the likelihood that live mussels may be washed downstream from the SAC populations in the upper Nore and Barrow tributaries. Owing to the small sizes of the Nore and Barrow tributary populations, these individuals are extremely important.

4.3.6 Habitats, Flora and Fauna Figure 4d shows the landcover of the County as assessed by the Corine Survey in 2006, this provides further information on the landuse and at a general level the types of habitat found in the County. Table 4.3 provides principal landcover types in County Offaly again based on the Corine 2006 Data.

13 This was amended and new text inserted following submission from Inland Fisheries Ireland 63

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Table 4.3: Summary of habitats as classified by Corine Level 1 in County Offaly Corine Level 1 Landcover Hectares Artificial Surface 3,437.84 Agricultural areas 23,599.28 Forest and semi natural 22,207.63 Wetlands 33,426.88 Water bodies 518.91

The following section describes the principal habitats of ecological importance in the County.

Peatlands Approximately 21% of the landcover in the county is peatland (42,000 ha). The presence of these bogs habitats and their international importance is reflected in the high number of sites with natural heritage designations as shown in Tables 4.1 and 4.2. Whilst many of the bogs are protected, there are other areas that continue to be used for energy production and certain areas are identified for restoration works14. This is particularly relevant in the context of bog habitats that are identified as being capable of regeneration over time.

In addition to their biodiversity role, peatlands are very important for the hydrological cycle and function as long term carbon storage. Raised bogs are the more common peat habitat in the county and originate from the post glacial period 10,000 years ago. Offaly contains some of the deepest raised bogs in Ireland and form under moderate rainfall between 750 and 1,000 mm per year. The surface is strongly acid, but beneath the peat are alkaline moraine soils of limestone origin. Raised bogs are Sphagnum dominated, with heather (Calluna vulgaris), bog cotton (Eriophorum angustifolium), and several species of sundew and orchids also present.

Blanket bogs are more recent in origin and developed about 4,000 years ago; they are more strongly associated with the west of Ireland and uplands; they are most widespread in areas where annual rainfall levels are greater than 1,200 mm and the number of rain days exceeds 225. These bogs are shallow and form a blanket-like layer averaging 2.5 m in depth over an underlying acidic mineral soil. In their natural condition, these areas are dominated by Eriophorum species, black bog rush (Schoenus nigricans L.), and purple moor-grass (Molinia caerulea)15. Hence in County Offaly, the only extensive area of blanket bog is found in the uplands of the Slieve Blooms that experiences average rainfall of up to 1800mm/year; much higher than the rest of the County (see Figure 4q Average Annual Rainfall County Offaly).

Woodlands and Hedgerows The National Survey of Native Woodlands16 found that after County Waterford, Offaly has the highest percentage of native woodland (3.4%). Ancient woodland17 is term that refers to areas of the

14 Bord na Mona Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-201515 BOGFOR Research project UCD Renou and Farrell UCD 16 The National Survey of Native Woodlands 2003-2008 Vol 1 Main Report BEC Consultants for NPWS 17 A provisional inventory of ancient and long established woodland in Ireland. NPWS. Irish Wildlife Manual 46. 2010

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countryside that have had continuous woodland cover since before planting and afforestation became common practices. They potentially offer a link to ancient prehistoric woodlands but all are likely to have been managed at some point. In terms of biodiversity, these sites are more likely to contain communities of animals and plants which are confined to and dependent upon ancient semi natural woodland. It is recognised that these woodlands support a more complex and diverse composition of plant and animal species than woodland of more recent origin. Many of these species are considered rare or endangered therefore these woodlands can function as a reserve for such species and could contribute to restoration of other sites.

Table 4.3 and Figure 4e presents information on these woodland sites in the County. The table shows the top ten native woodland sites ranked by their conservation value from the Native Woodland Survey, habitats corresponding to the Guide to Habitats of Ireland (Fossitt, 2000) and identification as ancient or possible ancient woodland from Inventory of 2010. Note that of the top ten sites ranked for their conservation value, four woodlands are not designated. Two other woods in the County, Clonood Wood and Hand’s Wood were also identified as possible ancient woodlands based on desktop research.

Table 4.4 Top Ten Native Woodlands in County based on conservation score. Woodland Name Ancient

Woodland Conservation % score

Habitat Classification Designation

Charleville South yes 87.5% Oak-ash-hazel woodland / Wet willow-alder-ash woodland / Bog woodland

NHA, SAC

Charleville North Yes 70.8% Oak-ash-hazel woodland NHA, SAC Charleville Killeska 66.7% Oak-ash-hazel woodland SAC Hand's Wood 66.7% Oak-ash-hazel woodland SAC Cloghan Demesne Bog and Wood

63.6% Wet willow-alder-ash woodland NHA, SPA

Clooneen () 63.6% Bog Woodland NHA Cushcallow 63.6% Oak-ash-hazel woodland SAC, SPA Brownstown 63.6% Oak-ash-hazel woodland / Bog

woodland -

Camcor Wood/Glinsk

60.6% (Mixed) broadleaved woodland NHA

Balleek Beg 58.3% Oak-ash-hazel woodland - Charleville Brookfield

58.3% Oak-ash-hazel woodland / (Mixed) broadleaved woodland

SAC

Hara's Hill 58.3% (Mixed) broadleaved woodland - Pallas Lough 58.3% Bog Woodland NHA Killeigh townland 58.3% Bog Woodland NHA Graigue North 58.3% Bog Woodland -

Although native woodland cover in the county compares well nationally, the figure of 3.4% is low with many of these sites being relatively small, scattered and isolated. This fragmentation means that the role of hedgerows in the county both as a linear feature of native woodland species and as an ecological

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corridor is extremely valuable. The 2005 Hedgerow Survey of County Offaly 18 recognised the extensive network of hedgerows throughout the county, with an estimated total length of 11,543km. Certain areas due to landuse practices support more hedgerows, in particular agricultural landscapes; conversely bogs and uplands areas contain none or very few hedgerows. The average hedgerow density for the county was 5.81 per km2. Of the 130 recorded hedges in the county, 41 were classed as species rich. Further information on hedgerows as ecological corridors is provided in Section 4.3.8.

Eskers and Mushroom Stones Eskers are a result of post glaciation and a distinctive landscape feature in the midlands. The 2006 Esker survey surveyed the largest esker system in Offaly, the Clonmacnoise Esker19. This study confirmed that habitat diversity is high on eskers with 24 habitats identified. Whilst much of the land on eskers is improved grassland which is of relatively low biodiversity value, the hedgerows, scrub and semi natural habitats associated with these areas are of high biodiversity interest. Eleven sites with priority grassland covering 4.6ha were found within and outside designated areas. Several small semi natural oak-ash hazel woodlands of high biodiversity value were also identified along this one esker system. As Tables 4.1 and 4.2 show many of the eskers are designated for natural heritage however it is likely that potential other habitats associated with eskers are not designated to date.

Mushroom Stones are a further distinctive ecological feature in the County and although spatially dispersed and very small in size, they are important in ecological terms due to their isolation and their age. The bare limestone of these stones supports a distinctive range of lichens. The Nun’s Stone outside Birr is one of the few mushroom stones whose lichen flora has been studied in any detail. The Nun’s Stone was the first site from which Weddellomyces epicallopisma was recorded in Ireland (in 1996). The species is also abundant on the vertical lips of mushroom stones at Clorhane20.

Waterways, Floodplains and Callows The water resources of the County are described in more detail in Section 4.6. The principal rivers in the County are:

• the Shannon and associated tributaries the rivers Brosna, Camcor and Silver and floodplains inthe west,

• the Barrow which rises in the Slieve Bloom mountain range (encompassing Offaly, Laois andTipperary), the rivers Fighille and Black are the principal tributaries in County Offaly and,although clearly a manmade structure, the Grand Canal is of ecological significance andtraverses the county from Edenderry in the east, joining the River Shannon at ShannonHarbour; and

• The Upper Boyne which rises near Newberry Hall in County Kildare, flows northeasterly beforeentering the sea at Drogheda in County Louth. The river passes through eastern Offaly. 21

18 County Offaly Hedgerow Survey Report, Foulkes and Murray, 2005 19 County Offaly Esker Survey, Tubridy and Associates, 2006 20 http://www.ucd.ie/gpep/mushroomstones/index.html 21 This was inserted following a submission by Inland Fisheries Ireland.

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Flora The primary legislation aimed at protecting rare plant species in Ireland is the Flora (Protection) Order, 1999, S.I. No. 94/1999. The following sites are designated under the provision of the Wildlife Act 1976 for protection of plants, species and habitats. These are: two locations along the Grand Canal, Shannonharbour near Bullock Island and Camus Callows, at Clonmacnoise. Plant species protected under this order in the County are as follows (associated habitats in brackets)

• Basil Thyme (eskers, dry species rich grasslands)• Green-winged Orchid (eskers, dry species rich grasslands)• Red Hemp Nettle (eskers, dry species rich grasslands)• Opposite-Leaved Pondweed (mesotrophic lakes/water bodies)• Meadow Barley (waste ground, banks, field edges)• Slender Cotton Grass (peatlands).

Fauna Qualifying interests of species listed in Annex 1 – 11 of the habitats directive are presented in Table 4.1. Internationally important populations of bird species designated under the Birds Directive are also provided in this table. Table 4.5 below presents an overview of main fauna found within the county.

Table 4.5: Fauna in the County Species Notes Irish hare(Lepus timidus hibernicus)

The Irish mountain hare is one of Ireland's longest established indigenous species of mammal. They are close relatives to the mountain hare of Scandinavia and northern Europe

Pine marten (Martes martes) Pine martens have been indigenous to Ireland since a period just after the last ice age, they are widespread throughout the forested areas of Europe and western Russia

Badger (Meles meles) Badger habitats are generally found in areas of deciduous or mixed woodlands which are near farmland or open ground. They have made good use of hedgerow systems in Ireland and have also adapted to life in parks and large gardens

Bat Species There are 10 known bat species in Ireland. With the exception of the Lesser Horseshoe Bat all other bat species are present within the county

Otter (Lutra lutra) Otters are believed to have come to Ireland at the end of the last ice age around 10,000 years ago. In decline across Europe.

The Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara)

Found on bog habitats and any area with a mixture of cover and open areas for basking. Ireland’s only native reptile species.

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Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) Eel River Lamprey (Lamptera fluviatilis) Brook Lamprey (Lamptera planeri) and Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon marinus)22

Freshwater species many of which are listed on Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive. Some of the rivers in County Offaly contain important habitats such as gravel beds for salmonid species (trout and salmon).

4.3.7 Ecological networks, wildlife corridors and stepping stones The EU Habitats Directive recognises the importance of ecological networks as corridors and stepping stones for wildlife. These areas are particularly important for the successful migration, dispersal and genetic exchange of species. The Habitats Directive requires that ecological connectivity and areas of ecological value outside the Natura 2000 network are maintained and managed in land use planning and development policies. Ecological networks are important in connecting sites of local biodiversity with each other and with designated sites. This will serve to prevent islands of habitats becoming isolated and hence reducing species range in the county.

Ecological networks are composed of linear features such as treelines, hedgerows, rivers and streams. These provide corridors or stepping stones for wildlife species which allow them to move within their normal range. Ecological networks are very important for many mammal species particularly bats and also for fish of both marine and freshwater systems that use them for spawning and breeding at certain times of the year (e.g. salmonid species).

Woodland areas are also very important ecological stepping stones for species in the County. As shown above Offaly has a low but important range of native woodland, some of ancient origin. The linking of habitats through linear features facilitates the movement and distribution of flora and fauna through the landscape. This corridor role can be significantly enhanced where linear features such as hedgerows connect into other natural or semi natural habitats. Hedgerows of Offaly compare favourably with the results from the other hedgerow surveys, showing links with six other natural or semi-natural habitat types. 12%of hedges surveyed linked to semi-natural woodland, scrub, and transitional woodland, whilst 15% linked with a watercourse, and 90% linked to other hedgerows. However, 22% had no end link with any natural or semi natural habitat.23

4.3.8 Current Issues and Problems Habitat loss through habitat destruction, degradation and fragmentation is a major concern throughout the country. Habitat loss has led to a decline in native species in the recent past in Ireland and is regarded as the biggest threat to biodiversity at a national level.

22 This text was inserted following a submission by Inland Fisheries Ireland 23 Offaly County Hedgerow Survey Report 2005 OCC and the Heritage Council

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Species and habitat locations are constrained by suitable climatic conditions. Peatlands are predicted to be particularly badly affected by climate change. The extent to which peatlands are affected depends largely on the temporal characteristics of climate change. For example, changes in winter precipitation or temperature are unlikely to have a significant effect, whereas even small changes in the summer water balance may be enough to alter conditions for plant growth and peat decay such that they become a threat to their survival. An increase in decomposition, a reduction in peat formation, more erosion, changes in species composition, loss of carbon storage and an increase in acid runoff may occur in this already fragile resource24. Recent assessments have predicted that by 2075 approximately 40% of the current suitable climatic area of Irish peatlands will be lost25.

Invasive species present another significant threat to biodiversity and the impact of climate change may hasten their distribution in some instances. Their ability to directly alter their new environment both physically and chemically, out competing native species and disrupting the existing food-web structure represent a significant challenge in landuse planning and management. Japanese Knotweed has been recorded in County Offaly and a management programme established in 2009; other species include the grey squirrel and freshwater species such as the Asian clam. Other issues include:

• Current agricultural practices (the excessive use of fertiliser and pesticides, hedgerow removaland lack of hedgerow management, overgrazing and undergrazing).

• Land use change such as building on previously undeveloped land.• Water pollution within the county is an area of concern, particularly the density of on-site waste

water treatment systems in the vicinity of significant water resources, there has also been aconsiderable decline in high status water bodies which are of significant conservation value for anumber of species.

• Gravel extraction and their impact on esker habitats.• Impacts on bog habitats through extraction, drainage, drying out of raised bogs.• Intensive weather events associated with climate change such as flooding events at times of

year when species are especially vulnerable.

4.3.9 Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna sensitivities in neighbouring counties26 Galway27: Compliance with the objectives of the Habitats Directive will be a challenge in all areas but especially in coastal areas and along the banks of Lough Corrib as most of the pressure upon designated habitats as a result of development is likely to occur these areas. Roscommon: County Roscommon supports a wide diversity of natural and semi- natural habitats and a wide range of plant and animal species, which have come under threat due to

24 http://www.climateadaptation.eu/ireland/en#biodiversity 25 6th Scientific Statement Impacts of Climate Change on Biodiversity Royal Irish Academy

26 Additional information on environmental sensitivities in adjoining counties was inserted on foot of a submission by the EPA. 27 This data is taken from Non Technical Summary of SEA ER of Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015 ‘important issues to consider’ section.

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development pressures and increased demand for new development land. Projects such as quarrying, road building and large industrial and residential developments can cause irreversible damage to these habitats. Development should be avoided in highly sensitive and very sensitive habitats and minimised in habitats classified as moderately sensitive, or those with functional linkages to sites with nature conservation designations. These are principally wetlands and unimproved grasslands. Westmeath28: A County Biodiversity Plan has yet to be undertaken, this should include the proposal for management plans for council owned property within or near designated sites. Abstractions from lakes having potential for impacts on Lough Owel and Lene Waste water treatment upstream from water based Natura 2000. Quarries, and gravel pits in and adjacent to Natura 2000 sites, Eskers, Karst areas and other areas of complex hydrology. Ground water impacts from agricultural developments and on site WWTS on water based and GWDTEs Peat Harvesting, locally and cumulatively. Invasive Species (Zebra Mussel) new supply from Lough Ennell into Royal canal. Amenity and Recreational impacts on lakes. Impacts on Hedgerows arising from rural Development. Potential impacts on biodiversity of N4 Mullingar to Rooskey realignment.

Meath29: The variety of habitats distributed throughout Meath are focussed around the Boyne and Blackwater rivers as well as along the short coastline which supports a wide range of rare or threatened flora and fauna species. Certain developments and activities associated with agricultural activities, afforestation, urban developments, windfarms, quarries, tourism, peat extraction, commercial fishing, ports and airports and a wide range of infrastructural works (including road works, water abstraction, wastewater disposal) that are located within or close to ecologically sensitive sites can give rise to significant environmental pressures. Within Meath the protection of coastal areas, wetlands and the avoidance of the spread of invasive species are major issues.

Kildare30 ;Changes in land indicate that semi natural areas within the County have been replaced by uses which generally include impermeable surfaces. Most rivers and some underlying groundwater within and surrounding the County are “at significant risk” or “probably at significant risk” with regard to meeting legislative water quality objectives under the Water Framework Directive. There are existing problems with regard to surface water quality in the County which are likely to be impacting upon aquatic biodiversity and flora and fauna.

The NPWS Site Synopsis for the River Barrow and River Nore SAC states that Indian Balsam ( Impatiens glandulifera ), an introduced and invasive species, is abundant in places within the SAC. It is noted that other invasive species may occur in the County.

28 This data take from Draft SEA ER of draft Westmeath County Development Plan 2014-2020 29 This data taken from Draft SEA ER of draft Meath County Development Plan 2013-2019 30 This data taken from SEA ER of Kildare County Development Plan 2011-2017

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Laois31: not provided in draft SEA or SEA Statement

North Tipperary: The Site Synopses for certain designated sites identify certain threats to the conservation value of these sites. There are problems with illegal fishing on the Shannon and possibly other waters. Intermittent and scattered damage to the habitats has occurred due to over-deepening of drains and peat silt deposition, water-skiing, ploughing and neglect of hay meadow (or reversion to pasture). However, none of these can as of yet be said to be serious. The main threat to the long-term survival of Hen Harriers within the Slievefelim to Silvermines SPA, is further afforestation, which would reduce and fragment the area of foraging habitat.

4.3.10 Evolution of Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna in the Absence of the OCDP In the absence of the OCDP it is likely that developments near ecologically important sites may become more widespread due to the absence of strategic planning and development management. This may present as a greater issue for areas not designated but still ecologically significant. The ecological network throughout the county would become more and more fragmented and species range decrease as a result.

Habitat loss would undoubtedly continue to be the leading cause of a decline in biodiversity in the county and habitats would be lost to development and its associated effects. Water pollution would increase and it is likely that on-site waste water treatment systems draining into already saturated water bodies would increase leading to ongoing decline in water quality both surface and groundwater.

A key challenge is to plan for climate change and allow for adaptability to the possible impact of this change on biodiversity. The strategic approach to landuse management and implementation of appropriate mechanism through forward planning and development management is an opportunity to design in a robust adaptable framework for biodiversity and climate change in the county.

Section 4.4 Population and Human Health This section provides information on the current population, demographic trends and changes in the county as shown through 2006 and 2011 census data. In addition, information is provided on housing and settlement patterns and human health trends in the County. Impacts can arise on people’s health and quality of life from a range of environmental factors, often through a combination of environmental impacts such as landuse, water quality and transport patterns.

4.4.1 Population Currently, the population of County Offaly is 76,687 (CSO, 2011). While the population growth rate of the county matched the national rate over the last census period (2006), at 8.2%, an examination of the

31 The draft SEA ER of the draft plan is only available on line and the structure of this ER is slightly different and it does not contain specific sections on environmental issues for each parameter. SEA ER of draft Laois County Development Plan 2012-2018

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growth figures across the county shows a contrast. The population growth in the east of the county was much stronger with growth in the western half limited to the just a small number of Electoral Districts (EDs). It must also be noted that a number of the EDs in the west of the county have small population bases meaning a small numerical difference can have a large percentage impact on the figures. 14 EDs saw a fall or 0% growth, with 22 EDs experiencing a 0-5% growth which is below the national and county growth rate of 8.2%. The majority of the population of live in rural areas with 43.8% of people living in urban areas of the county. Tullamore is the largest town in the county with 14,361 persons. The fastest growing town in percentage terms was Edenderry which experienced 18.5% population growth between 2006 and 2011. Figure 4f shows population change between the 2006 and 2011 census, and Figure 4g shows population density in the County.

Population Targets The NSS does not allocate population at a county level. This is done by the Settlement Strategy in the MRPGs which sets out the target population for the overall region, the counties and each of the main settlements in the region. The population targets in the MRPGs are based on the ‘National Population Projections and Regional Population Targets 2010-2022’ issued by the DEHLG in January 2009 and ‘Gateway and Hub Population Targets’ issued by the DEHLG in October 2009. The Core Strategy for the current OCDP 2009-2015 presents the housing requirements for the county up to 2016 and is shown in Table 4.6 below.

Table 4.6: Population Growth and Housing Requirements up to 2016 Population growth 2006-2016

No of units Density of units per hectare

Ha of housing land required to 2016

Tullamore 7,280 3,033 35 units 129 County Balance 3,966 1,653 12 207 Total 11,246 4,886 336

The population and land allocation for housing is a critical consideration of the OCDP and the assessment of environmental impacts associated with this provision in the SEA. Services associated with housing provision are another important element of the OCDP and SEA and include wastewater, drinking water, transport and other infrastructural provision. Further information is provided in Section 4.8 Material Assets.

Age and Demographic Profile The age profile of a County places varying demands on public service provision including childcare, education facilities and healthcare. The analysis of the age profile of the County’s population is used to focus the delivery of these services and other services such as housing. Table 4.7 below compares the age profile in the County recorded by Census 2006 and Census 2011. There has been an increase across all age groups.

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Table 4.7: Age and Demographic Profile 2006 and 2011 Age Group 2006 2011

Population aged 0 to 19 years 21077 22909

Population aged 20 to 64 years, 2011 42033 44869

Population aged 65+ years, 2011 7758 8909

Household Patterns and Housing Stock The changing nature of household patterns is an important consideration for the Plan. There were 23,769 private houses in 2006, with 2.92 being the average number of persons per household. This number had increased to 26,750 private households in April 2011. However the average number of persons per household remained the same at 2.9. The average number of children per family was 1.5 compared with 1.4 nationally. In terms of housing stock, the table below shows that Offaly has a slightly higher number of houses built pre 1960 compared to the national average and a slightly lower number of houses with no central heating.

Table 4.8: Household Pattern and Housing stock National and County

Housing Data Republic of Ireland County Offaly

Percentage of households with no central heating, RoI 2011 1.6 1.4 The percentage of households built pre 1960, RoI 2011 23.8 25.4 Percentage of households that consist of one person, 2011 23.7 21.7 Percentage of persons aged 65 years and over that live alone, RoI 2011 27.7 25.4 Percentage of lone parent households, RoI 2011 10.9 10.9

Employment The 2011 census showed that Offaly has a higher unemployment rate than the national at 23.2% compared to 19% whilst the numbers in active employment have broadly stayed the same. Table 4.9 shows employment figures for males and females in 2006 and 2011. From the 2011 Census, an analysis of employment shows in line with national trends, higher male than female unemployment with the most significant losses in the construction industry and associated industries such as quarrying. The percentage of the population in professional managerial and technical occupations is lower in Offaly at 28.7% compared to a national average of 34.6%; the county however has a higher percentage of those employed in skilled, non manual (35.4% compared to national of 32.9%) and semi skilled, and unskilled occupations (16.9% in compared to national percentage of 14.3%).

Table 4.9: Employment by gender 2006 and 2011. 2006 2011

Male 18768 15116 Female 12463 12420

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Travel to Work The most popular means of travelling to work was by car (driver) with this mode accounting for 63.6 per cent of all journeys. 569 persons commuted using public transport (bus or rail). The average journey time was 27 minutes and 25.9 per cent of workers faced a commuting time in excess of 30 minutes.

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4.4.2 Human Health Human health can be determined by social, environmental and economic factors, among others. Human health may be impacted upon in a variety of ways and by a number of environmental receptors such as water, biodiversity, climate, flooding, air and major accidents, etc. The exposure to contaminants or pollutants can have serious implications for human health. Potential impacts on population and human health include inadequate water and wastewater and waste infrastructure, contamination of soils, excessive noise, flooding and poor air quality in areas where there are large volumes of traffic and the associated health impacts.

The Institute of Public Health states: ‘Where people live affects their health. There are a number of elements of the living environment that influence health including the built environment, travel choices and the communities in which people live. The design, maintenance and location of buildings influence health. Similarly, public spaces and transport networks can facilitate health by providing opportunities for physical activity, social interaction and access to social goods’32. Disadvantaged people are more likely to live in poor quality built environments and have limited access to transport and local amenities supporting healthy choices. The following figures highlight macro factors that contribute to health generally and health inequality (Figure 4h) whilst Figure 4i highlights factors arising from the built environment.

Figure 4h Health Inequalities

32 See. www.iph.ie for more information. 79

http://www.iph.ie/

Figure 4i Built Environment and Health

Table 4.10 below provides some determinants for human health in the county with a national comparison. In certain areas Offaly performs well such as school involvement with green schemes, lower crime levels (measured through burglaries, theft and damage). However a higher percentage is identified as experiencing a severe lack of social support, though this data is from 2007 but later data from 2009 shows 23.5% of the population is at risk of poverty. Clearly the OCDP is limited in how it may promote health determinants, but in some instances such as transport, landuse zonings and built design the plan can have an influence.

Table 4.10: Health Determinants

Health Determinants based on available data County Offaly

Republic of Ireland

Percentage of the population at risk of poverty, RoI 2009 23.5 14.1 Percentage of people who consume less than five portions of fruit or vegetables per day, RoI, 2007 34.6 34.4 Percentage of people who are physically inactive, RoI, 2007 26.5 28.4 Percentage of children aged 5-12 years that walk or cycle to school, RoI 2011 17.8 25.8 Percentage of children aged 5-12 years that are driven to school by car, RoI 64.1 61.3

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Health Determinants based on available data County Offaly

Republic of Ireland

2011 Number of children's playgrounds directly provided or facilitated by the local authority per 1,000 population, RoI 2011 0.2 0.2 Number of General Practitioners per 100,000 people, RoI, 2011 43.2 60.1 Number of residential and nursing care beds for people aged 65 years or over per 1,000 people, RoI 2011 3.8 4.2 Local Authority expenditure on sports, recreation and leisure facilities per person, RoI 2011. 4 33 Percentage of schools and youth groups involved in the Youth Council / Comhairle na n-Og scheme, RoI 2011 100 66.1 Percentage of secondary schools participating in Environmental campaigns, RoI 2011 100 88 Percentage of households with internet access, RoI 2011 66.9 73.6 Number of recorded burglaries per 100,000 population, 2010/11 497.7 567.6 Number of recorded thefts per 100,000 population, 2010/2011 1246.3 1711 Number of recorded criminal damage offences per 100,000 population, RoI, 2010 664 870.2 Number of recorded violent crimes per 100,000 population, RoI, 2010 376.7 462.3 Percentage of people experiencing a severe lack of social support, RoI, 2007 3.6 1.9

Radon Levels in County Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas caused by the breakdown of Uranium which is found in underground rock. It is a colourless and odourless gas which disperses in air but it has been shown to be carcinogenic with risks of contracting lung cancer. At measurements above 200bg/m3 it is recommended that action be taken to reduce radon levels in the home. 786 house have been measured for Radon in the County since the Radiological Protection Institute started monitoring in the early 1990s, of these only 18 have been found to be above the 200 bg/m3 threshold. Radon is not generally an issue in the county due to the underlying geology of the county.

4.4.3 Current Issues and problems The dispersed rural settlement pattern and unemployment levels present a number of challenges in the county. Promoting sustainable travel patterns and reducing car dependency with subsequent health benefits is problematic and costly to deliver given the rural settlement pattern. Retaining and promoting employment opportunities to ensure a viable working population and retaining the younger population is both a national and county issue. Environmental quality can impact on human health across a range of parameters including contamination of public and private water supplies, poor air quality, noise, the quality of the built environment and access to services. Flooding can have profound impact on populations through direct impact on housing stock, wastewater and health. Whilst there has been significant investment in recent years in municipal water treatment and supplies, the microbiological

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quality of private group water schemes remains inferior to public water supplies and is a growing cause for concern33.

4.4.4 Population and Human Health sensitivities in neighbouring counties Galway: Certain environmental vectors within the County’s area - such as air, water or soil - have the potential to transport and deposit contaminants or pollutants, which have the potential to cause harm and adversely impact upon the health of the County’s population. The most important of these issues relate to drinking water quality and bathing water quality as expanded upon above.

Roscommon: Certain environmental vectors within the Plan area, such as air, water or soil, have the potential to transport and deposit contaminants or pollutants, which have the potential to cause harm and adversely impact upon the health of the area’s population. Increases in population can impact on biodiversity, water quality, landscape and cultural heritage which would all impact on human health. Population growth and infrastructure capacity constraints can result in waste infrastructure being incapable of meeting demand, shortages of water supply and poor quality water serving urban and rural areasDrinking water quality problems have the potential to impact upon human health.

Westmeath :The most significant issues pertaining to SEA and population relate to population distribution and variability of environmental carrying capacity across the county. For the purposes of this consideration the most significant environmental carrying capacity impacts on resources relate to water supply and waste water disposal.

Meath: The significant increases in population experienced in County Meath over the past decade, in addition to their activities and settlement patterns have placed increased pressure on biodiversity, water quality, landscape, cultural heritage and air. In particular, increased pressure on water quality arising from pollution can have a significant impact on human health. Individual and cumulative changes in the quality of the natural and built environment at local, regional and national level has the potential to impact to varying degrees on human health and wellbeing. Unsustainable commuting patterns are a particular cause for concern in County Meath.

Kildare: Certain environmental vectors within the Plan area - such as air, water or soil - have the potential to transport and deposit contaminants or pollutants, which have the potential to cause harm and adversely impact upon the health of the area’s population. Radon and air quality around hotspots.

Laois: Poor drinking water may have an impact on human health. This has been recognised by the EPA and Laois County Council. The potential environmental problems associated with the lack of adequate wastewater infrastructure and water quality are further described in Chapter 9.

North Tipperary: not provided in NTS of SEA ER

33 http://www.epa.ie/irelandsenvironment/environment-&-health/ 82

4.4.5 Evolution of human health in the absence of the OCDP Given the significant though somewhat uneven growth patterns in County Offaly over the last two Census periods, ensuring appropriate, sustainable settlement patterns including the provision of the necessary planning framework to accommodate educational, community, leisure and recreational facilities to satisfactorily match the level of population growth is a key issue in planning for the future of the county. The OCDP also presents an opportunity to strategically plan and promote employment opportunities and increasing the attractiveness of the county as a place to work and live in. In addition the plan can ensure the proper provision of serviced lands in appropriate places. In the absence of the plan there would be no strategic guidance or direction of resources to appropriate areas, and the cumulative effects on populations and human health in the county could be significant. In rural areas most people use individual septic tanks that, if poorly sited and/or not properly maintained, can pollute groundwater, surface water and local drinking water supplies. In 2012 the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government published the Water Services (Amendment) Act to regulate wastewater discharges from all homes that are not connected to the public sewer network. Implementation and enforcement of this legislation regulating septic tanks will reduce the potential threat to public health.

4.5 Geology and Soil 4.5.1 Bedrock Geology The oldest rocks in the county are those of the Slieve Bloom, composed of Silurian sedimentary rocks surrounded by thick Old Red Sandstone. A considerable amount of the county is underlain by various types of limestone many of which are overlain with peat soils or glacial deposits. Figure 4j shows the principal bedrock found in the County.

Eskers were created due to deposition associated with the last glacial period 10,000 years ago and were formed by rivers flowing underneath the ice, depositing a long narrow ridge of sand and gravel. The orientation of these ridges reflects the glacial flows. These eskers are an excellent example of multifunctional uses, having been used as a dry elevated route across the peatlands for hundreds of years, providing quarrying material for construction and an important specialised habitat for flora and fauna. There are 20 esker systems in the county covering over 1,618 hectares. In the current OCDP 2009-2014 eskers are designated as Areas of High Amenity.

Mushroom stones are another post glacial feature of the landscape, and are indicators of the extent of previous lakes that existed in Ireland when the water table was much higher than today. These limestone structures were formed by the continued erosion of waves of these lakes. They are known as mushroom stones due to the shape though some just have an overhang at one side. These are also important archaeological indicators as they show the shorelines of these ancient lakes and can provide clues as to where the first Mesolithic settlers lived in Ireland34.

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Other features of geological interest in Offaly are tufa springs and to a far lesser extent, swallow holes and caves.The Irish Geological Heritage (IGH) Programme (Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS)) aims to identify, document, protect and conserve geological heritage in Ireland, promoting its value with the landowners and the public. A provisional list of geological NHAs have been prepared for the County and are indicated on Figure 4k and listed in Table 4.11 below. These sites are still being assessed but may be proposed for designation as Natural Heritage Areas.

Table 4.11: Provisional Geological NHAs in County Offaly Site Name Principal characteristics Ballyduff Esker (Ballyduff Esker-Rahugh Ridge) Esker ridges Clara Bog Raised peat bogs Clonbullogue Spring warm spring Clorhane Crinoidal limestone, quarried and used in the building

of Clonmacnoise ('Clonmacnoise marble'). Croghan Hill Volcanic breccias, Lava Flows, Xenoliths Esker Bridge Esker Gloster Stream tufa (spring-chalk) with quaternary land snail

fauna. Little Brosna - Shannon confluence anastomosing channel, confined by bog Lough Boora post glacial lakeshore Millpark Stream tufa (spring-chalk) with quaternary land snail

fauna. Mongan Bog (part of Killimor-Birr-Fivealley-Kilcormac Esker)

Eskers

Mushroom rock Clorhane Mushroom rock Mushroom rock: Ballylin Mushroom rock Mushroom rock: Clonkeen Mushroom rock Mushroom rock: Crancreagh Mushroom rock Mushroom rock: Creevagh Mushroom rock Mushroom rock: Crinkill Mushroom rock Mushroom rock: Derrinlough Mushroom rock Mushroom rock: Drinagh Mushroom rock Mushroom rock: Endrim Mushroom rock Mushroom rock: Loughandonning Mushroom rock Mushroom rock: Tullin Mushroom rock Ross and Glenns Eskers (part of Killimor-Birr-Fivealley-Kilcormac Esker)

Eskers.Part of Killimor-Birr-Fivealley-Kilcormac Esker complex

Sillogue Spring spring Silver River Silver River, Cadamstown - Glenletter bedrock channel, gorge W Cadamstown captures and diversion Toberdaly warm spring Tullamore Fans Kilcormac Esker (part of Killimor-Birr-Fivealley-Kilcormac Esker)

Esker ridges

Kinnity-Clonaslee Esker Esker ridges Ballyduff Esker-Rahugh Ridge Esker ridges buried by fans and deltas in places

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Site Name Principal characteristics Clara Esker Complex [Ballinasloe (Galw)-Split Hills (Rosc)-Clonmacnoise-Clara Esker System]

Fans: part of the Ballinasloe (Galw)-Split Hills (Rosc)-Clonmacnoise-Clara Esker System

Quarrying and extraction. The County does have an established tradition of quarrying, principally associated with limestone and eskers. Table 4.12 shows operational quarries and pits in the county.

Table 4.12: Operational Quarries and Pits in County Offaly Name Town Ballykilmurray Pit Tullamore Banagher Concrete Ltd. Birr D. O' Brien Sand & Gravel Loughnane Concrete (Birr) Ltd. Birr Murray's Sand & Gravel (Clara) Tullamore Murray's Sand & Gravel (Moate) Moate Nally Sand & Gravel (Clonfinlough) Clonfinlough Quinlan Sand & Gravel Ltd. (Beggarstown) Banagher Quinlan Sand & Gravel Ltd. (Glaster) Banagher Smyth's Sand & Gravel Birr Stephen Kenny Sand & Gravel Ferbane Tinnycross Pit Tullamore

The regulation of quarries has been strengthened significantly and the new determination regarding extension of planning permissions, substitute consent, and EIA/AA has further enhanced the environmental assessment of quarrying operations in Ireland. Post works and reinstatement also offer opportunities to help restore and enhance the ecological and hydrological regime of former quarries.

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4.5.2 Soil Soil can be considered as a non-renewable natural resource because it develops over very long timescales. It is an extremely complex, variable and living medium and performs many vital functions including: food and other biomass production, storage, filtration and transformation of many substances including water, carbon, and nitrogen. Soil has a role as a habitat and gene pool, serves as a platform for human activities, landscape and heritage and acts as a provider of raw materials. Such functions of soil are worthy of protection because of their socio-economic as well as environmental importance. Soils in any area are the result of the interaction of various factors, such as parent material, climate, vegetation and human action.

There is no overarching soil legislation in place currently, however a 2012 report by the European Commission on the Thematic Soil Strategy included a legislative proposal (ie: a Soil Directive). Under the proposed Directive, Member States will be required to identify risk areas for erosion, organic matter decline, compaction, salinization and landslides. They will establish risk reduction targets for those risk areas and programmes of measures. Member states will also identify contaminated sites and a national remediation strategy. The Directive also addresses the prevention of diffuse contamination by limiting the introduction of dangerous substances into the soil and reduce the sealing of soils by rehabilitating brownfield sites. Based on the above, it is considered likely action will arise on soil management at EU level over the lifetime of the OCDP.

Figure 4l shows the soil map for the County.

The principal soil types including parent material and hectares in the County are shown below in Table 4.13.

Table 4.13: Principal Soil Type, Description and Area in County Offaly Parent material Soil Description Area_Ha Limestone till (Carboniferous)

Peaty poorly drained mineral (Mainly basic) 95196.982

Cutover/cutaway peat Cutover/cutaway peat 74933.293 Marl Alluvial (marl) 13743.873 Blanket peat Blanket peat 1875.267

Bedrock at surface-Non calcareous

Shallow reasonable drained mineral soil derived from mainly acidic parent materials 8542.726

Lacustrine Lacustrine 518.027 Made ground Made ground 1430.047 Water Water 421.884 Fen peat Fen peat 522.383 Scree Scree 842.709

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4.5.3 Current Issues and Problems Extraction of sand, gravel or rock in an area ultimately leads to the total removal of a resource within a given area and can lead to localised environmental problems. Adverse environmental impacts can occur from extractive industries, from both existing quarries and new quarry extensions if not appropriately managed. The implications for the natural and cultural environment can result in the landscape being degraded, archaeological heritage being lost, and pollution occurring. Due to the nature of quarrying it can result in re-profiling of the landform which can have adverse visual impacts on the landscape and on scenic routes. Biodiversity, groundwater and aquifer resources are also vulnerable. However the regulatory regime has been strengthened considerably in recent years and opportunities exist for post works reinstatement.

The identification of geological NHAs will assist in the development of appropriate management regimes for these sites, either through avoidance or mitigation measures.

Soil erosion can occur with construction activities, agricultural activities and forestry operations, extractive industries, forestry practices, industrial and commercial and road projects and other major infrastructural projects. Surface soil erosion (loose soil) impacts on water quality and fishery resources; similarly development on peat bogs in upland areas can result in landslides or slippages. Developments can potentially distort the natural drainage of an area. Pollution and contamination of soil can occur if not serviced by appropriate waste water infrastructure and excess nutrients on land from agricultural activities (where soil becomes saturated) results in run-off to surface water, eutrophication and poor quality drinking water supplies. Certain soils have poor percolation qualities and this can impact on the sustainability of septic tanks; this has implications for rural housing also.

The EPA35 has identified the main pressures on soil resources nationally to be:

• intensive agriculture and organic waste disposal

• Forestry

• Industry

• Peat extraction and

• Urbanisation and infrastructure development.

Such activities can contribute to soil degradation including loss of organic matter, declining soil fertility, loss of soil stability, soil compaction, contamination, loss of biodiversity and loss of soil to buildings and

35 EPA discussion document “Towards setting environmental quality objectives for soil: developing a soil protection strategy, 2002.

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infrastructure. Because of the complex interrelationship between water, air and soil, declining soil quality can contribute to negative or declining water or air quality and function.

4.5.4 Soil and Geology sensitivities in neighbouring counties Galway:. Loss of quality rare bog habitats has resulted in the decline in numbers of vulnerable birds which live and breed on the bogs. Extensive areas of limestone pavement occur often in association with species-rich calcareous grassland and sometimes support the protected species. In addition to being a valuable ecological resource, Galway’s soils provide employment within the County through areas such as agriculture, forestry, harvesting of peat and tourism. Greenfield development involves the building upon and thereby sealing off of non-renewable subsoil as well as topsoil. Such sealing can prevent soils from performing certain functions such as drainage. .

Roscommon: the main pressures on soil resources are intensive agriculture and organic waste disposal, forestry, industry, peat extraction and urbanisation and infrastructure development. Roscommon is one of the county’s most dependant on groundwater supplies, and therefore the risk is more serious than for most other counties. Large portion of the County are classed as having either extreme or high vulnerability areas.

Westmeath: The protection of sites of geomorphic interest remains difficult in the absence of statutory protection. There has been ongoing exploration of Lead and Zinc Deposits in the area of Westmeath, there is significant potential environmental implications on exploitation this resource. County Development Plan policy has a potentially significant impact on environmental considerations with regard to establishment, extension, alteration, after use, reinstatement and environmental and or environmental enforcement pertaining to Quarrying enterprises.

Meath Soil is lost annually through the development of agricultural land. The number of hectares, which are rezoned annually on a countrywide basis is not known, nor is the quantity of soil loss through surface sealing. Urban environments have greatly changed in Ireland with the centre of cities and towns being subjected to depopulation with growth focused on the periphery of these areas. With urban expansion, agricultural land surrounding cities and towns as well as green areas within them are subjected to increasing pressures.

Kildare: Soil has the potential to be polluted and contaminated as a result of pollution from development which is not serviced by appropriate waste water infrastructure and from agricultural sources. Greenfield development involves the building upon and thereby sealing off of soil thus representing an environmental problem. Soil erosion and replacement of soils with impermeable surfaces.

North Tipperary: Greenfield development involves the building upon and thereby sealing off of soil thus representing an environmental problem.

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4.5.5 Evolution of soil and geology in the absence of the OCDP Section 261 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended) provides for the registration and control of quarries, and the Quarry and Ancillary Activity Guidelines for Planning Authorities 2004 assist OCC when assessing applications for quarry developments. In the absence of the OCDP the regulation of quarries would be avoided and particularly in terms of esker resources there would be ongoing degradation and removal of sand and gravel on an ad hoc and unregulated basis. Opportunities to strategically direct extraction to particular sites with reinstatement post works would be lost.

The currently proposed Soil Directive suggests encouraging the rehabilitation of brownfield sites, thus reducing the depletion of greenfield sites. However, in the absence of the OCDP, there would be no framework for the direction of growth towards brownfield sites in Offaly, where such direction is appropriate. As a result greenfield development would be likely to occur on an increased basis and would result in the building upon and thereby sealing off of the non-renewable subsoil and soil resources. In addition, there would be no input at county level to direct peat extraction and restoration opportunities and cumulative loss of peat soils could continue. In the absence of policies regarding water management and land use objectives, adequate protection would not be given to groundwater protection and associated impacts on soil quality and groundwater quality.

4.6 Water Resources (surface, groundwater and flooding) Water resources and their quality have a clear interaction and impacts with other environmental parameters, therefore its protection and enhancement is of particular importance.

4.6.1 Water Framework Directive and Flood Directive The Water Framework Directive (WFD) is a key initiative aimed at improving water quality throughout the EU. It applies to rivers, lakes, groundwater, and coastal waters. The Directive requires an integrated approach to managing water quality on a river basin basis; with the aim of maintaining and improving water quality. The WFD identifies River Basin Districts as the key management units. 73% of County Offaly is located within the Shannon International River Basin District, the largest RBD in Ireland. Table 4.14 provides further information on all the River Basin Districts in County Offaly. The maintenance and improvement of water quality in the County is a key consideration and responsibility in the OCDP.

The EU Directive on the assessment and management of flood risk (the ‘Floods Directive’ [2007/60/EC]) requires Member States to prepare flood maps for areas of potentially significant flood risk, and to develop flood risk management plans (FRMPs) setting out measures aimed at achieving objectives to manage the risk in these areas. The Directive requires that the PFRA, flood maps and flood risk management plans are prepared in cooperation and coordination with neighbouring states in cross-border river basins, and with the implementation of the Water Framework Directive. A Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) has been undertaken for County Offaly and this has in particular informed the preparation of the plan. Please see Section 6.6.5 for more detail on the SFRA for the county.

In essence, both the WFD and Floods Directive support integrated water management, on a river basin district approach. Clearly there is a strong relationship between flood risk management and meeting and

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promoting good functioning water systems. The complex relationship between land use and water quality, and the interaction between coastal, surface, groundwater systems and water quality and flood risk is at the core of integrating the WFD and Floods Directive in land use strategies.

4.6.2 Surface Waters The relevant River Basin Management Plans provide considerable data on surface waters within the River Basin. The next level of detail is the Water Management Unit Action Plans for waterbodies within the River Basin District. Figure 4m shows the latest surface water quality results for the county combined with the relevant water management unit and high status waters in the County. The surface water is measured using Q values; these use biological indicators to assess the overall quality of surface water with a value of Q5 being unpolluted and Q1 being seriously polluted. The following table shows a breakdown of the number of sites recorded.

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Table 4.14: River Basin Districts and Q Values in County Offaly River Basin Districts in County Area km2 Water Management Units Shannon Lower (part of Shannon International River Basin District SIRBD)

5032 Lough Derg Nenagh Little Brosna Brosna

Suck (part of SHIRBD) 1585 Suck Shannon Upper (Part of SHIRBD) 3749 Inny

Hind/Lough Ree Barrow (part of South Eastern River Basin District)

3025 Barrow Main Figile Barrow/Owenass/Triogue

Nore (part of South Eastern River Basin District)

2595 Nore Upper

Boyne (part of Eastern River Basin District) 2694 Boyne Upper Q Value Number Q1-2 Seriously polluted 1 Q2-3 Moderately polluted 13 Q3-4 Slightly polluted 36 Q4-5 Unpolluted 89

4.6.3 High Status Water Bodies As shown above, the overall surface water quality is good in the county. However, the quality of water bodies known as high status is becoming an increasing concern. These water bodies are indicators of largely undisturbed and unmodified conditions. They play a very significant role for a range of ecological functions including biodiversity, ecological integrity and as refugia for species from the surrounding modified landscape. These waterbodies are important for supporting aquatic species sensitive to enrichment or siltation such as the protected, but declining, freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) and juvenile salmon (Salmo salar). The presence of high status sites along a river system can contribute significantly to the overall species diversity and recolonisation of species to rehabilitated stretches. These sites play an important part in conserving individual species and overall catchment biodiversity. As a result of their high status, the smallest pressure can impact considerably on this environment, much more so than already modified or impacted waterbodies. For example, the input of a few grams of phosphorus will have a much more damaging impact on the ecology of a high status sensitive system than the same addition to an already eutrophic system36. The Water Framework Directive (WFD) requires Member States to protect and maintain high and good status water bodies.

4.6.4 Groundwater Groundwater is a further significant resource and refers to water stored underground in saturated rock, sand, gravel, and soil. Surface and groundwater functions are closely related and form part of the hydrological cycle. The protection of groundwater from land uses is a critical consideration and

36 Management Strategies for the Protection of High Status Water Bodies (2010-W-DS-3) STRIVE Report EPA

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groundwater vulnerability is becoming an important management tool. The entire island of Ireland has been designated as a Protected Area for Groundwater under the WFD. Groundwater is important as a drinking water supply as well as the supply to surface waters. County Offaly in particular relies on groundwater abstraction for drinking water (72% of drinking water abstracted from groundwater). In addition, groundwater also supplies surface waters. Groundwater is exposed to higher concentrations of pollutants that are retained in the layers of rock and soil. The exposure to pollutants lasts much longer as groundwater moves at a slower pace through the aquifer. The quality of our drinking water supply, fisheries and terrestrial based habitats is intrinsically linked with groundwater quality. The Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) aquifer categories are based on their vulnerability to pollution, i.e. the ease at which it can enter the subsurface layers. The classification of extreme or high vulnerability means that the groundwater in these areas is very vulnerable to contamination due to hydrogeological and soil factors.

Figure 4n shows groundwater vulnerability zones and the current surface and groundwater abstraction sites within the County. Areas of extreme groundwater vulnerability highlighting greater vulnerability to contamination are found around the Slieve Blooms, in a westerly belt towards Birr, north and South of Daingean and occasional pockets elsewhere. For much of the remainder of the County, there is no clear pattern, instead there is a mix of principally high to moderate groundwater vulnerabilities.

The WFD identifies all of the groundwater in County Offaly as being of good status; in terms of its ability to meet the Good Status target of 2015, there is some variability with many groundwaters identified as being ‘probably at risk’ from not meeting the 2015 target, and Clonaslee identified as at risk.

Two Circular letters SP 5/03 and PSSP 1/10 linked the need to protect groundwater with planning policy and specifically required local authorities to prepare Groundwater Protection Schemes and to incorporate them into their County Development plans. It emphasised the need for information in development plans on the location and vulnerability of groundwater resources and clear policies on development in these areas. It made specific reference to ‘source protection areas’ and indicated that the development plans should show them as ‘areas of sensitivity’. It also referred to the Groundwater Protection Response Matrix, which should be used to assist in decision making for certain types of activities.

Due to the importance of the groundwater supply, Groundwater Source Protection Zones have been established for groundwater sources at five group water schemes and ten public schemes in the County and are shown in Figure 4o.

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4.6.5 Flooding The Planning System and Flood Risk Management, Guidelines for Planning Authorities, 2009, issued by the DoEHLG and undertaken in conjunction with the OPW, requires Planning Authorities to prepare an SFRA. The primary purpose of the SFRA is to determine flood risk within a particular geographical area, in this instance, County Offaly and to support spatial planning decisions in relation to the zoning of particular areas or lands for development. Under the Guidelines the objectives of an SFRA are to:

• Provide for an improved understanding of flood risk• Provide an identification of areas of natural floodplain to be safeguarded• Produce a suitably detailed flood risk assessment drawing on existing data and apply the

sequential approach to development in areas identified at risk of flooding.• Inform the application of the Justification Test• Define measures required to deal with flood risks to reduce the risks to an acceptable level

while not increasing flood risk elsewhere, and• Produce guidance on mitigation measures on how surface water should be managed and

appropriate criteria to be used in the review of site specific flood risk assessments.

Robust information on flood risk is essential to inform and frame policies relating to flooding issues to be contained within the Offaly County Development Plan 2014-2020. The SFRA should be read as a technical document which forms part of the evidence base for the Offaly County Development Plan 2014-2020. It should be noted the SFRA is an ever evolving document, which is to be reviewed and updated on a regular basis in the light of emerging information, flood data and an improved understanding of flood risk. This SFRA takes into account the latest flood risk information/data available from the OPW and national guidance available.

The SFRA reviewed historical flood events using the OPW data and this review shows rivers to be the most common and most damaging source of flooding in County Offaly. In addition, flooding occurs from a number of other sources and these are described below.

Fluvial flooding Flooding of watercourses or rivers is associated with the exceedance of the channel capacity, the channel is blocked or restricted and excess water flows on adjacent low lying areas (floodplain). This is known or referred to as Fluvial flooding. This can occur in a short range of time or over a prolonged period. In large, relatively flat catchments, flood levels will rise slowly and natural floodplains may remain flooded for several days, acting as the natural regulator of the flow. In small, steep catchments, local intense rainfall can result in the rapid onset of deep and fast-flowing flooding with little warning. Such “flash” flooding, which may only last a few hours, can cause considerable damage and possible threat to life.

The main locations in County Offaly shown to be at risk from flooding are lands and settlement areas located along the rivers. Fluvial flooding accounts for approximately 80% of events in County Offaly. The major sources of this include the River Shannon to the West of the County, River Barrow at Portarlington, Tullamore River and Figile River in East. Smaller tributaries and drains pose flood risk also.

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Other sources of flood risk in County Offaly Whilst the majority of flood risk is associated with the rivers in County Offaly, the following other sources of flood risk exist to a lesser degree:

• Pluvial Flooding: Pluvial flooding is defined as being flooding from rainfall that exceeds theinfiltration capacity of the ground to absorb it before runoff enters any watercourse or sewer. Itis usually associated with high intensity rain events but can also occur with lower intensityrainfall where ground is already saturated, developed or otherwise has low permeabilityresulting water lying on land/sites

• Groundwater flooding is caused when the level of water stored in the ground rises as a result ofprolonged rainfall and meets the ground surface flowing out over it when the capacity of thenatural underground reservoir is exceeded. Groundwater flooding tends to be very local anderratic. However such flooding may often result in significant damage to property rather than apotential risk to life.

• Sewer flooding occurs when urban drainage networks become overwhelmed and maximumcapacity is reached. This can occur if there is a blockage in the network causing water to back upbehind it or if the sheer volume of water draining into the system is too great to be handled.Higher flows are likely to occur during periods of prolonged rainfall, common to the autumn andwinter months. This is also when the capacity of the sewer systems is most likely to be reached.During periods of low flow, for example summer months, sewers may become susceptible toblockage as the low flows are unable to transport solids. This leads to deposition and gradualbuildup of solid debris thus leading to a cyclical problem where flood risk is concerned.

• It is important that canals are included in an SFRA as canals can form a vital land drainagefunction. Any FRA should also take account of canals. Occasionally, canals can overtop due tohigh inflows from natural catchments and if overtopping occurs from adjacent water courses.This additional water can be routed/conveyed by the canal which may cause issues elsewherealong the line of the watercourse. It should be noted that there is a residual risk of breach fromall raised canals and development should be avoided adjacent to these locations.

Further information on the influence and integration of the SFRA into settlement plans and policies/objectives of the OCDP are provided in Chapter Seven of this SEA ER. Figure 4p shows Flood Risk Zones A and B for County Offaly.

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4.6.6 Current Issues and Problems The principal environmental problems associated with water in the County area and environs are those associated diffuse sources largely associated with agricultural activities and septic tanks or un-sewered properties. Impacts associated with excessive phosphorus which is dependent on soil type, subsoil type, aquifer type and aquifer vulnerability (i.e. how much phosphorus that the soil can absorb before it becomes saturated and excess is washed away etc.) is a key issue of concern and contributes significantly to the pressures on groundwater and surface water.

The EPA has highlighted, as a key concern, the decline in high ecological quality river sites (see also Section 4.6.4). In order to protect the remaining high status sites and to reverse the trend of decline, it is important to tackle the principal pressures causing the ecological damage. Apart from obvious point source pollution or accidental releases of pollutants, relatively low intensity activities are important in this context, including, land-use changes such as field drainage and fertilisation, one-off housing (please see Consideration of Alternatives Rural Housing page 134), forestry activities, wind farms, animal access to waters, and sheep dip pesticides37.

The Shannon River Basin District Management Plan38 (encompassing over 70% of the County) identifies the following environmental pressures on water resources:

• Nutrient enrichment from agricultural practices• Wastewater and Industrial Discharges• Wastewater from unsewered properties• Forestry• Landfills, Mines, Quarries and Contaminated Sites• Physical modifications and damage• Water abstractions• Peat extractions• Dangerous substances• Cruising and Boating• Alien invasive species• Aquaculture• Shared water issues• Climate change

Significant detrimental environmental effects of flooding can include soil erosion, bank erosion, land sliding and damage to vegetation as well as the impacts on water quality, habitats and flora and fauna caused by bacteria and other pollutants carried by flood water. Flooding can however play a beneficial role in natural habitats. Many wetland habitats are dependent on annual flooding for their sustainability and can contribute to the storage of flood waters to reduce flood risk elsewhere. The avoidance of

37 Management Strategies for the Protection of High Status Water Bodies (2010-W-DS-3) STRIVE Report EPA 38 Shannon River Basin District Management Plan 2009 -2015.

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developments in known flood plains and flood risk areas reduces the overall exposure to damage from flooding and the accompanying negative impacts on water quality, biodiversity, human health and other material assets.

4.6.7 Water sensitivities in neighbouring counties Galway: A number of the County’s water bodies are at significant risk of failing to achieve the WFD’s objectives of good status by 2015. The compliance of all water bodies within the County with the objectives of the Water Framework Directive will contribute to the protection of drinking water resources and consequently human health. Failure to comply could result in adverse impacts upon drinking water resources and consequently human health. The most productive aquifers in the County are those which are most vulnerable to pollution and are those over which most existing development occurs and most new development is likely to occur.

Roscommon: Housing development and agriculture are the main sources of impact on waterbodies within the County. River water quality in several rivers in the County are seriously polluted ie: Roosky, Arigna and the Jiggy (Hind), due to a number of suspected pollutants including agriculture, engineering works and municipal sources. A section of the River Suck at Laurencetown isof Bad Status while rivers of poor status include a portion of the Lung River east of Ballaghaderreen and Edmonstown tributary, the River Suck from Ballygar to Ballinasloe and east of Shannonbridge and the Lissanuffy tributary of the Curraghroe Stream The lakes in the county are also under pressure from a variety of anthropogenic nutrient sources.

Westmeath: Athlone recurring flooding events • Flooding identified in Robinstown, Mullingar South LAP’s • Agriculture and agricultural development in floodplains. • Rural Housing septic tanks. • Adaptation to climate change,water abstraction.

Meath: The principal threat to water is pollution which can adversely impact on all parts of the water cycle from groundwater to rivers, lakes estuaries and coastal waters. In simple terms pollution means the presence of a harmful substance such as a poisonous metal or pesticide, a nutrient or indeed silt. Urban and rural development including wastewater and surface water disposal, landfills, quarries, contaminated lands, illegal dumping, agricultural activity, water recreational activities and afforestation can have significant impacts on water quality.

Kildare: A number of sensitivities with regard to the status of water bodies within the Kildare Plan area are identified. These water quality problems have the potential for significant adverse impact upon human health, drinking water supplies, biodiversity and flora and fauna. Water quality data identifies multiple points on rivers throughout the County as being of Moderate, Poor or Bad Status.

Laois: water bodies under pressure from a range of pollution sources diffuse and morphological

North Tipperary: environmental problems in North Tipperary with regard to water quality which have the potential for significant adverse impact upon human health, drinking water supplies and biodiversity and flora and fauna. Water quality of rivers in North Tipperary River varies from Q5 to Q2.

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4.6.8 Evolution of water in the absence of the OCDP Considering the multiple pressures on water resources and the necessity to maintain and improve water quality, the lack of land use planning associated with the absence of the OCDP would result in extensive cumulative and negative impacts on water resources both in the County and in waterbodies further downstream. If development was to occur without being accompanied by the appropriate waste water infrastructure then it is likely that a number of water bodies would fail to meet WFD commitments in the short or medium term. Also, the extent and severity of adverse impacts with regard to biodiversity and flora and fauna, groundwater and human health as a result of poor water quality would be likely to increase.

In the absence of the OCDP, the integration of the Flood Risk Assessment for County Offaly and land use zonings would not occur and incompatible development may occur on flood risk areas, again with permanent and profound negative impacts on biodiversity, water, material assets, population and human health.

4.7 Climate and Air Quality 4.7.1 Climate and Climate Change Ireland has an abundance of rainfall with low evapotranspiration, high humidity, mild winters (4.5°C) and cool summers (15.5°C). Figure 4q shows the average annual rainfall for County Offaly.

However with climate change and a number of recent policy and research initiatives, it is recognised that Ireland’s climate will alter. According to the EPA future impacts of climate change in Ireland will be both direct and indirect, resulting from spillover from impacts in other parts of Europe and the rest of the world. Predicted negative impacts in Ireland include:

• more intense storms and rainfall events• an increased likelihood of flooding in rivers and on the coast, where almost all cities and large

towns are situated• water shortages in summer in the east and the need for irrigation of crops• changes in the distribution of species• the possible extinction of vulnerable species

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Recent research on Ireland’s climate39 has also confirmed the pattern of climate change. Although not available at county level, the main findings of Ireland’s current climate are as follows:

Table 4.15: The Status of Ireland’s Climate 2012. Atmosphere • Mean annual surface air temperature has increased by approximately 0.80C over the

last 110 years. The number of annual frost days has decreased whilst the number ofwarm days has increased.

• Average annual national rainfall has increased by approximately 60 mm or 5% in theperiod 1981 to 2010, compared to the 30-year period 1961 to 1990. However, clearchanges in rainfall spatial patterns across the country cannot be determined with ahigh level of confidence

• Current carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations of more than 390 ppm as measured atMace Head, Co. Galway are in line with observations from around the globe and arehigher than at any time over the last 400 thousand years.

• Concentrations of other greenhouse gases including methane (CH4) and nitrousoxide (N2O) are approximately 140% and 20% respectively above pre-industrialvalues and concentrations continue to increase.

Terrestrial One of the major land-use changes across Ireland since 1990 has been the conversion of grassland and peatland to forest. This expansion of forest area has seen the amount of carbon stored or sequestered in forest increase by 40%.

It is estimated that Ireland’s soil carbon stock has decreased by 27 million tonnes between 1990 and 2000. This is mainly due to changes in the management of peatland, including drainage and peat extraction and to a lesser extent to changes in patterns of agricultural land use and urban development.

Observations of the timing of bud-burst for a number of tree species at the phenological gardens indicate that the beginning of the growing season (BGS) is now occurring more than a week earlier than in the 1970s, leading to an extension of the growing season.

Analysis of long-term river flows from over 40 measurement sites around the country shows a tendency for increasing annual mean flows. Moreover, seasonal analysis indicates that summer mean flows are dominated by increasing trends while there is a tendency also for increases in winter mean flows.

All developments, agriculture, energy generation, industry and commercial activity and waste generation contribute emissions to air and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; however the emission of pollutants from vehicles is one of the main threats to air quality in Ireland and contributes significantly to the increase of greenhouse gases. Under the Kyoto Protocol Ireland agreed to a target of limiting its greenhouse gas emissions to 13% above 1990 levels by the first commitment period 2008 – 2012 as part of its contribution to the overall EU target. Whilst Ireland is a small country by population, we are one of the highest emitters’ of greenhouse gas per person in the world. The following Figure4r shows a breakdown of the sectorial producers of GHG (EPA 2009).

39 The Status of Ireland’s Climate 2012. Compiled by Ned Dwyer, EPA 2012 106

Figure 4r: Sectoral producers of Greenhouse Gases Ireland.

Under the National Climate Change Strategy, every Local Authority must make energy savings of approximately 3% per annum. The target is to achieve a 33% energy reduction by the year 2020 as set out in Chapter 9 of the National Climate Change Strategy. The Midland Energy Agency includes counties Offaly, Westmeath, Laois and Longford. The agency produced a Climate Change Strategy 2009-2014 that outlined a number of targets and actions. In the context of County Offaly, the role and potential of the peatlands as carbon storage and sinks is very pertinent to addressing and adapting to climate change. Some areas of peatland may be at risk from degradation (see Section 4.3.7) and drying out and be accompanied by release of additional carbon as a result. Planning for and adapting to climate change is a significant challenge and the National Climate Change Adaptation Framework (2012) requires local authorities to integrate climate change adaptation (as well as mitigation) considerations into their statutory plans.

4.7.2 Air Quality Standards The Air Framework Directive 96/62/EC (CEC, 1996) requires that member states divide their territory into zones for the assessment and management of air quality. County Offaly is located in Zone D. The only site in the County assessed for air quality was at Ferbane and this was monitored for a period in 2006-2007. No updates to the monitoring results have been released since the last plan was adopted.

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http://www.environ.ie/en/Publications/Environment/ClimateChange/FileDownLoad,32076,en.pdf

http://www.environ.ie/en/Publications/Environment/ClimateChange/FileDownLoad,32076,en.pdf

The closest Air Quality Monitoring station to County Offaly is at Mullingar, approximately 38km north of Tullamore and also in Zone D. The overall air quality is good for this station (as at 11.20.13).

The latest annual report on Air Quality in Ireland (EPA 2011) states that overall air quality in the country is good. The primary sources of pollutants are traffic (source of nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter), and domestic solid fuel use (particulate matter).

The Midlands region has a higher proportion of occupied dwellings relying on solid fuels (coal, peat and wood pellets) for central heating. 37.1 % of County Offaly households used solid fuel for home heating in 2011 (CSO 2011).

4.7.3 Current Issues and Problems There may be localised air pollution from roads and industrial processes which impact on health and quality of life. Transport patterns especially commuter patterns cumulatively impact on air quality with the production of greenhouse gas emissions from traffic. Poor development design results in loss of energy from buildings and energy consumption is higher where there is poor insulation. Climate change has the potential to impact habitats and impact on species distribution. The loss of biodiversity will impact on human health and water resources. The role of peat extraction and its use as a fuel source is an issue for greenhouse gas emissions in the county as is the likely degradation of the peat resource from climate change and the loss of carbon sinks in the peatlands.

4.7.4 Air Quality and Climate sensitivities in neighbouring counties Galway: not contained in NTS of SEA ER

Roscommon: There may be localised air pollution from traffic hotspots on roads as well as pollution from industrial and waste disposal processes which could impact on human health and quality of life due to greenhouse gas emissions produced by traffic, particularly in congested areas and where there are large amounts of traffic. There may be localised noise pollution in the County including increased noise and vibration from traffic, industrial processes and the extractive industry as well as noise pollution and dust from road construction projects. Climate change has the potential to adversely impact on habitats and species leading to a loss of biodiversity which will impact on human health and water.

Westmeath: Significant Environmental Issues The implications of Climatic factors have a local aspect with regard to adaptation to climate change and a national and global dimension in relation to the potential contribution of development in Westmeath to climate change.

Meath Air and Climate Air quality within the Plan area is generally good. Increased greenhouse gas emissions have been linked with climate change resulting in increases in the intensity and frequency of flooding. Of particular concern is the high dependency on the use of the private car within the County.

Kildare: Traffic hotspots within the County area are likely to have elevated levels of air pollution and noise due to traffic congestion. Localised air pollution incidences with regard to PM10 and PM2.5 and

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noise pollution are both likely to occur when demolition/construction takes place - especially in relation to PM10 if suppression techniques are not introduced - and when traffic is queuing for long periods of time. Changes in sea level and/or changes in the occurrence of severe rainfall events as a result of climate change could adversely impact upon the area’s human beings, its biodiversity and its economy

North Tipperary: Localised air pollution incidences in urban areas with regard to PM10 and PM2.5 and noise pollution are both likely to occur when demolition/construction takes place - especially in relation to PM10 if suppression techniques are not introduced - and when traffic is queuing for long periods of time. . Transport related emissions continue to be the dominant growth sector.

4.7.5 Evolution of Air Quality and Climate in the absence of the OCDP The OCDP sets out a settlement and land use strategy for Offaly and consequently can aid the implementation of objectives of the National Climate Change Strategy and various Directives in relation to energy efficiency, settlement patterns and traffic generation, waste generation etc. In the absence of the OCDP, there is little strategic direction or policy to facilitate alternative transport modes, energy efficiency measures or greenhouse gas abatement options for the County.

4.8 Material Assets The EPA SEA Process Draft Checklist (2008) defines material assets as the critical infrastructure essential for the functioning of society such as: electricity generation and distribution, water supply, wastewater treatment, transportation, etc. Thus this section will discuss the following:

• Energy production• Integrated Pollution Prevention Control (IPPC) Licensed Facilities, Waste Licensed Facilities and

Seveso II Sites• Water Services – drinking water and wastewater• Transport• Noise• Waste Management

4.8.1 Energy and Renewable energy County Offaly has a tradition of peat based energy production dating back to the 1930s. The first peat fired station was located in Portarlington in 1949. Now there are two plants in the County, the West Offaly Generating Station covered by an IPPC license and based in Shannonbridge, this station comprises a single boiler/turbine unit with an electrical output of 150 MW Edenderry is another peat fired power station with 120 MW output. Planning permission has also been granted to build a new gas fired generating station at Lumcloon, near Cloghan (on the site of the former Ferbane peat fired station) to produce a maximum of 350mw.

In terms of renewable energy production, to date, one wind farm has been granted approval and 28 turbines have been constructed at the Mount Lucas Wind Farm.

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4.8.2 Integrated Pollution Prevention Control (IPPC) Licensed Facilities, Waste Licensed Facilities and Seveso II Sites IPPC Facilities IPPC licences aim to prevent or reduce emissions to air, water and land, reduce waste and use energy/resources efficiently. Before a licence is granted, the Environmental Protection Agency must be satisfied that emissions from the activity do not cause a significant adverse environmental impact. There are 20 IPPC Licensed facilities in County. The range of activities undertaken varies considerably including peat extraction, energy production, pig production, chemical production, metal production and metals. Table 4.15 below; the distribution of these facilities are also shown in Figure 4s.

Table 4.16 IPPC Licensed Facilities in County Offaly License Number Name Licensed Activity

P0479-02 EJ Ireland Access Solutions Limited Metals

P0833-01 Castle Paints (Tullamore) Limited Surface coatings

P0294-01 Grant Engineering Limited incorporating Azcroft Limited Metals

P0412-01 Harvest Lodge Pigs Limited Pig production

P0500-01 Bord Na Mona Energy Limited Peat extraction

P0501-01 Bord na Mona Energy Limited Peat extraction

P0502-01 Bord Na Mona Energy Limited Peat extraction

P0503-01 Bord na Mona Allen Peat Limited Peat extraction

P0611-01 Electricity Supply Board Energy production

P0614-01 Rosderra Farms Pig production

P0638-01 Reliance GeneMedix Limited Chemical production

P0649-01 Mr Kevin Kiernan Pig production

P0681-01 Mr Padraig Kiernan Pig production

P0694-01 SSE Generation Ireland Limited Energy prduction

P0430-01 Mr Patrick Moore Pig production

P0320-02 T & J Standish (Roscrea) Limited Wood

P0180-02 Rosderra Irish Meats Group Slaughterhouse

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P0932-01 Lumcloon Energy Limited Energy production

P0938-01 Skeagh Farms Pig production

P0482-04 Edenderry Power Limited Energy production

Waste Licensed Facilities A waste licence is a single integrated licence dealing with emissions to all environmental media and the environmental management of the facility. Four such facilities operate in the county including the municipal landfill operating by OCC. Table 4.17 lists these facilities.

Table 4.17: Waste Licensed Facilities in County Offaly License Number: Name Facility Type

W0113-03 KMK Metals Recycling Limited Hazardous Waste Facility

W0049-02 Bord Na Mona Landfill

W0104-02 Advanced Environmental Solutions (Ireland) Limited Waste Transfer Station

W0029-04 County Council Landfill

Seveso II Sites The control of major accident hazards involving dangerous substances Directive - also referred to as the Seveso II or COMAH Directive is aimed at preventing major accidents involving dangerous substances and limiting the consequences in the event of such a major accident The Directive defines major-accident hazard sites as those that store or can generate quantities of dangerous substances in excess of specified thresholds. Dangerous Substances are classified as follows:

• Toxic• Flammable/explosive• Dangerous for the Environment

There are two designated Seveso sites in the County (as of October 2014), both are lower tiers - one is located at Srah Industrial Estate (Isotron), Tullamore and the second is also in Tullamore, the Tullamore Dew distillery. . In Ireland, the Health and Safety Authority is the designated authority for Seveso sites and liaise with local authorities in relation applications for Seveso sites and land use planning.

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4.8.3 Water Services and Wastewater The quality of drinking water supplies relies on a variety of factors including landuse, treatment, source and infrastructure. There has been considerable investment in water services infrastructure in the County in the past decade, particularly in municipal treatment of drinking water and wastewater.

Drinking Water The County sources a large proportion of its drinking water from groundwater (72% compared to national average of less than 25%) This groundwater receives just a precautionary dose of chlorine to provide disinfection. Due to the importance of the groundwater supply, Groundwater Source Protection Zones have been established for groundwater sources at five group water schemes and 10 public schemes in the County. Further information on this is provided in the Water Resources Section (Section 4.6) of this chapter.

Surface water is the source for four drinking water supplies in the county:, the River Shannon for Banagher Regional Water Supply, the Camcor river for Birr water supply, the Gageborough river for Clara Regional water supplies and Gorragh and Clodiagh rivers for Tullamore's water supply40. The EPA prepared a list of public water supplies in 2008 where remedial action or management action was required to ensure compliance with Regulations into the future. This list is called the “Remedial Action List for Public Drinking Water Supplies” (RAL). County Offaly originally had 8 water supplies on this list, through remedial works all 8 supplies have been addressed and improved. The latest data drinking water quality for the county is for 2011 and as Table 4.17 below shows, the drinking water quality in the county is overall very good with few non compliances and 100% microbiological compliance in public water supplies (PWS)41. Microbiological parameters are the most important as their presence can indicate a potential risk to health. Cryptosporidium in drinking water is of significance to public health and monitoring takes place at the Tullamore PWS 2012 results showed absence of cryptosporidium in the drinking water at this PWS. Any level detected will be reported to Public/Environmental Health who will issue advice in relation to the protection of human health. Prolonged exposure to chemical parameters can also pose a potential risk to health.

Table 4.18: Drinking Water Quality Results 2011 Offaly County Council is responsible for the operation of 23 Public Water Supplies (PWS) serving a population of 44,267. Boil Water Notices & Water Restrictions No boil water notices or water restriction notices were issued to consumers during 2011 Microbiological compliance levels in PWS s in increased from 98.8% in 2010 to 100% in 2011 Chemical compliance levels decreased from 100% in 2010 to 99.3% in 2011 Microbiological Parametric Values:

No non-compliance of the microbiological parametric values occurred during 2011.

Chemical Parametric Values:

PWS

Trihalomethanes Clara/ The trihalomethanes non-compliance was primarily due

40 Source: Offaly County Council 41 The Provision and Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland, A report for the year 2011. EPA 2012

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Ferbane RWSS (1) to the chlorination of water with elevated levels of organic matter present.

Flouride Dungar (1) Kilcormac (1) Rahan - Agall/Hollimshill (1) Tullamore (1)

The fluoride non compliances were due to elevated levels of fluoride above the Irish standard. However, all samples were below the EU fluoride standard of 1.5 mg/l.

Pesticides (Mecoprop)

Clara/Ferbane RWSS (1)

The pesticide exceedance was due to elevated levels of pesticides (Mecoprop) in the source water.

Private wells are exempt from the drinking water regulations so there is little data available on the quality of this supply. However the EPA report states at national level the microbiological quality of private group water schemes remains inferior to public water supplies. Nationally, the number of private group water schemes where E. coli was detected in 2011 was 46 (10.2%), down from 56 (11.6%) in 2010. Small private supplies showed a small increase in level of supplies with E. coli exceedances, from 7.4% of supplies in 2010 to 7.7% of supplies in 2011. The level of E.coli non-compliance in private supplies is higher than that of public supplies. Table 4.18 shows a breakdown of type of water supply to permanent private houses in the County in 2011.

Table 4.19: Types of water supply to permanent houses CSO 2011 County Offaly

Total Supplies

Public mains

Local authority group schemes

Private group schemes

Other private source

No piped water

Not stated

26,543 17,227 3,619 1,679 3,363 46 609

Drinking Water Supply and Capacity in County Offaly. The following Table 4.20 provides information on the water supply, sources and capacity from Water Services Section of Offaly County Council. The average daily usage for 2012 provides a reliable record of usage in the county; whilst the source capacity data is taken from the Offaly Water Supply Outline Strategic Plan 2009. The capacity of the river sources is accurate, based on abstraction licenses and water treatment capacity; the borehole source information is considered less exact.

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Table 4.20: Data on Water usage, supply and capacity in County Offaly

Scheme

Water Conservation Water Audit 2012 Offaly Water Supply Outline Strategic Plan 2009

Spare Capacity

? Comment

Average Daily Usage

Residential Properties

Metered Commercial Properties

Source

Source Capacit

y Storage

Storage

Capacity

m3 m3/d m3

Birr 2496 2307 294.5 Camcor River 2273 Seefin 2000 Marginal

New abstraction secured; Proposed new WTW & Reservoir at planning stage; Rehabilitation Contracts ongoing.

Banagher 1570 1244 334 Shannon River 1700 Mullaghakaraun 450

Yes Clontotin Boreholes

1000 Cloghan 136

Clara / Ferbane

1985 1688 225.5 Gageborough

River 5000 Aughamore 5000

Yes 2009 1158 276.5 Ballyboughlin

WTW Borehole 450 Cor Hill 2250

Moyclare 455 Moyclare 682

Clonbullogue 272 238 62.5 Figile River Well 300 Clonbullogue 227 No Borehole at Limit; Upgrade required.

Coolderry 19 16 1 Coolderry Borehole

15 No Adequate source for current supply.

Daingean 1207 496 68

Townspark Borehole

900 Killaderry 455 Yes

Toberronan Spring

500

Dunkerrin / 815 294 220.5 Jones Well 650 Lisduff 227 Yes

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Scheme


Spare Capacity

? Comment

Average Daily Usage



Source

Source Capacit

y Storage

Storage

Capacity

m3 m3/d m3 Moneygall

136 155 35 Dunkerrin Borehole

370 Moneygall 109

Lisduff Spring 550

Guilfoyles Well (not in

production) 0

Busherstown Well

211

Edenderry / Rhode

2829 2243 236.5 Heavey’s Well

3600

Blundellwood High

455

Yes

1900 971 280 Mount Well Blundellwood

Low 455

Pool Well Clonin 136

Pool Borehole Croghan 227

Heavey’s Borehole

Fahy 1136

Edenderry WTW Borehole

2800

Kishawanny Borehole

450

Blundellwood Boreholes

900

Geashill 419 190 54 Geashill Spring 431 Geashill 136 Yes

Kilcormac 416 394 42.5 Kilcormac 550 Kilcormac 164 No

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Scheme


Spare Capacity

? Comment

Average Daily Usage



Source

Source Capacit

y Storage

Storage

Capacity

m3 m3/d m3 Borehole

Kinnity 156 164 22.5 Ballyshane Well 300 Kinnity 125 Yes

Mountbolus 73 62 12.5 Newgate Well 50 Mountbolus 45

Yes Newgate at capacity Reservoir Borehole

Rahan

1960 1694 239.5 Agall Borehole 600

Yes Holmshill Borehole

600 Holmshill 273

Tully Borehole 1400 Tully 455

Shinrone

835 572 105 Shinrone Borehole

450 Shinrone 91

Yes Niamh's Well Borehole

900 Brosna 362

Import: NTCC 620

Tullamore

8250 5976 649 Gorragh River 1135 Ardan 4090

Marginal

Includes proposed new boreholes in Clonalee & Ardan; New source supply required; Rehabilitation Contracts ongoing.

Clodiagh River 1135 Clonaslee 2880

Clonaslee Boreholes

1600

Sillogue Well 3410

Ardan Boreholes

2220

Walsh Island 630 327 97.5 Coolagarry Boreholes

930 Coolagarry 182 Yes

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Scheme


Spare Capacity

? Comment

Average Daily Usage



Source

Source Capacit

y Storage

Storage

Capacity

m3 m3/d m3

Dungar Import: NTCC 50

Portarlington Import: LCC 655

Horseleap Import: WCC 100

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Wastewater Disposal The 2007 the “Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, 2007 (S.I. 684 of 2007)” were introduced to control and regulate discharges from Waste Water Treatment Works and Agglomerations (Network). These Regulations apply to all discharges from Waste Water Treatment Plants. Local Authorities are required to apply to the EPA for a Discharge Licence, or in the case of smaller populations (less than 500) a certificate of authorisation.

Offaly County Council operates 28 wastewater treatment works in the County. The purpose of these plants is to collect and treat municipal sewage to an acceptable standard and discharge to an appropriate watercourse. Therefore monitoring of these discharges is critical to avoid pollution of watercourses. The frequency of monitoring depends on the size of the plant with larger ones monitoring 12 times a year, other smaller plants are monitored 4 times a year. The thresholds of acceptable parameters are detailed in the discharge license or certificate of authorisation for each plant. The three main tests carried out on the final effluent are the Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and Suspended Solids (SS). The following table lists the wastewater treatment works and type of license required in the County. Population Equivalent is a calculated value of the population serving a wastewater treatment works. It is calculated using data such as the number of people, shops, restaurants, industries etc., all within the catchment area of the treatment works, and assigns relevant population equivalent values.

Aligning the capacity of wastewater treatment in settlements is one of the considerations for the county development plan to facilitate service led development.

Table 4.21: Breakdown of County Council Wastewater treatment works according to Population Equivalent Treatment Works Population

Equivalent Shannonharbour 64 Coolderry 80 Mountbolus 149 Leamonaghan/Pollagh 187 Killeigh 209 Clonygowan 216 Belmont 233 Ballycumber 278 Bracknagh 300 Shannonbridge 330 Moneygall 354 Geashill 438 Walsh island 494 Kinnitty 536 Cloghan 754 Ballinagar 800 Shinrone 768

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Treatment Works Population Equivalent

Rhode 846 Mucklagh 786 Kilcormac 1026 Daingean 1229 Kilcormac 1026 Ferbane 1635 Banagher 2540 Clara 5776 Edenderry 6992 Birr 7659 Tullamore 25000

A number of wastewater treatment plants have been upgraded in the county including significant upgrades to Tullamore, Clara and Ballinagar WWTP. Whilst the upgrading of these plants has benefited water quality, there is now an increased focus on the receiving waters and their assimilative capacity. It is recognised that receiving waters can only accommodate a finite amount of treated wastewater even allowing for improvements in the treatment processes.

Table 4.22 provides further information on types of sewage treatment in permanent houses in the County from the 2011 Census. Approximately 64% of the rural houses have individual septic tanks, whilst this declines to 3.7% for aggregate town areas in the County. Given the dispersed and rural nature of settlement in the County, individual septic tanks or propriety wastewater treatment systems are another important issue. If they are poorly sited or maintained, or located in areas of poor percolation, the cumulative effects on groundwater quality could be long term and significant. Again relating back to 72% of drinking water supplies for the county coming from groundwater this may have serious human health implications in the future. The Water Services (amendment) Act 2012 introduced a new registration and inspection system for septic tanks and other domestic waste water treatment systems in Ireland. . This should provide better data on the impact of these systems in particular on groundwater resources.

Table 4.22: Wastewater Treatment Types in permanent houses in County Offaly, 2011. Aggregate Total Public Individual

septic tank

Individual treatment system

other No sewage

Not stated

Rural Areas

14,319 3367 9267 1276 57 34 318

Town Areas

12,224 11268 464 39 67 4 382

Water Supply Project –Dublin Region Plan. Dublin City Council (DCC) were appointed by the Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government (DEHLG) as Lead Authority to act on behalf of the seven Local Authorities in the Dublin Region (Water Supply Area), for the purpose of developing a strategy to meet the long-term water

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supply needs of the Region. The options for this project have been subject to SEA and HDA and a preferred route has emerged. The new scheme has been designed to deliver potable water to the Dublin, Mid East (and Midland) Regions to meet average and peak demands up to 2040 and beyond. It is estimated that a total volume of water of 350Mld42 will be required by 2040. The Sea and HDA process informed the options appraisal and the preferred option is abstraction from northern Lough Derg with external storage of water at Garryhinch Bog near Portarlington. The project will now require Environmental Impact Assessment and an application to An Bord Pleanála. This will involve more detailed studies across the project area, including County Offaly. More detail is provided in Box A below and schematically in Figure 4s.

Figure 4s Schematic of Water Supply Project Shannon Option 2

Box A: Shannon Option F2 involves raw water abstraction from northern Lough Derg, pumping of raw water to a ‘cutaway bog’ site near Portarlington (Garryhinch Bog - owned by Bord na Mona), raw water storage facilities at the site, water treatment and pumping facilities at the site and pipelines to convey treated water from the site to the Midlands and to the Dublin Region. Combined raw water and treated water pipelines are approximately 131km in length (including pipelines from the Termination Point Reservoir to Saggart & Peamount Service Reservoirs). Storage facilities will accommodate at least 2 months average supply requirements at 2030 – 2040 (12 million m3) which would limit / eliminate the need for abstractions from Lough Derg at times of extreme low flow.

42 1Mld = 1 million litres per day = 1 Megalitre per day 121

4.8.4 Transport Road As at 2013, County Offaly currently comprises of approximately 2,000 km of roads, which are categorised as follows: • National Primary Roads (18 km)• National Secondary Roads (123 km)• Regional Roads (344 km)• County Roads (1524 km)

Offaly is located on a “Central Spine” which was identified in the National Spatial Strategy as linking the east / west radial transport corridors by road through the midlands. It is also where two national secondary routes interconnect i.e. the (N52) Dundalk - Nenagh and the (N80) Enniscorthy-Moate routes. They are also fundamental in providing connections with other urban centres in the midlands. Completion of the M6 (Dublin – Galway) motorway, M7 (Dublin to Limerick) and the forthcoming by-pass for Tullamore will assist in substantially improving the County’s accessibility.

Public Transport Public transport in Offaly is served by the main Dublin to Galway railway line that has frequent trains and stops in Portarlington, Tullamore and Clara.

Bus Eireann and some private bus operators provide services within the county with some interregional services also. Principal routes in the county are as follows:

• Tralee- Limerick- Birr-Athlone• Waterford –Athlone – Longford• Dublin –Clane-Prosperous- Edenderry- Tullamore• Limerick- Killaloe- Newport –Nenagh- Borrisokane- Birr

The Grand Canal may also offer potential for cycling and walking under smarter travel initiatives. Offaly County Council was awarded funding under the national cycling network provision of Smarter Travel to develop 16.8km of dedicated cycle lanes along the R420 (former N80 national road) from Tullamore to Moate with future potential to extend route on to Athlone along a disused rail line.

Figure 4t shows the main transport routes in the County.

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4.8.5 Noise The Environmental Noise Regulations relate to community or environmental noise, which is classified in the draft International Institute of Noise Control Engineering (I-INCE) publication “A Global Approach to Noise Control Policy” (2006) as ‘Community/Environmental Noise Unwanted sound in a non-occupational setting, indoors or outdoors, caused by sources over which an individual has little or no control, including sounds produced by neighbours.’

Many different noise sources contribute to community/environmental noise, including:

• Roads, railways, airports, industry or recreational activities adjacent to residential properties ornoise sensitive premises such as schools or hospitals, or recreational spaces.

• Noisy neighbours, barking dog• Gardening machinery, construction activities, ice cream vans, street cleaning, delivery vehicles.• Air-conditioning equipment.• Public house, nightclubs, restaurants or other recreational activities.• Industrial operations, workshops and factories.

The location of new residential properties, mixed residential/commercial use buildings or noise sensitive premises such as schools or hospitals, adjacent to existing roads, railways, airports, industry or recreational activities can result in significant noise management issues. Noise sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals, churches, funeral homes, etc. have particular requirements for low level noise environments in order to be able to function effectively. A high standard of insulation can be applied to improve noise attenuation in these buildings but this measure is rendered relatively ineffective when windows are opened. It also does not protect the external environment around the noise sensitive location from community/environmental noise.

Noise Action Plans are required under the Environmental Noise Directive transposed in to Irish law by SI 140 of 2006. The aim of this directive is to provide for the implementation of a European Commission common approach to avoid, prevent or reduce on a prioritised basis the harmful effects, including annoyance, due to exposure to environmental noise. Noise Mapping Bodies and Action Planning Authorities were assigned responsibility under the regulations to draw up noise maps and prepare action plans for noise from the following noise sources:

• major railways with more than 60,000 trains per annum (not applicable to Offaly );• major airports with more than 50,000 flights per annum (not applicable to Offaly );• major roads with more than 6 million vehicles per annum (applicable to M6); and• agglomerations of greater than 250,000 inhabitants (not applicable to Offaly ).

The Noise Action Plan has been adopted by Offaly County Council but as shown above, for noise mapping it will only be required for roads with greater than 6million vehicles a year.

4.8.6 Waste Management The Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC) provides for a general framework of waste management requirements and sets the basic waste management definitions for the EU. The EPA National Waste

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http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CELEX:32008L0098:EN:NOT

Report 2011 confirms that Ireland’s recycling rates of municipal rate are now in line with the EU 27 average of 40%. This amount of waste can be further reduced by prevention, minimisation, reuse and recycling. The Midlands Region Waste Management Replacement Plan 2005-2010 was been developed by the Local Authorities of Offaly, Laois, Longford, Westmeath and North Tipperary to address this issue. The Plan was reviewed in 2011 and has been extended to 2014. However, an evaluation of the plan in 2012 determined that a new Plan was required. This decision was reached based on the change in environmental and waste management policy in Ireland as well as the proposal to reduce the current waste management regions from a number of ten to three. To date, no decision has been made regarding the new regions and until such a time, the Midlands Region Waste Management Plan 2005-2014 is applicable. The current plan proposes an integrated approach to waste management based on the following:

• Reducing dependence on landfill• Reducing waste growth• Greatly increasing recycling• Introducing waste to energy with energy recovery

Derryclure is the only municipal landfill facility in the county. Total waste collected at Derryclure in 2011 was 110,123 tonnes43.Three recycling centres are operated by OCC – Derryclure, Birr and Edenderry. There are 43 bring banks that accept glass and cans.

County level data on waste management is provided in most recent EPA report. This found that combined local authority and private sector waste collection in the county had 78% market penetration with kerbside collections of two bins (one mixed and one recyclables). Only 19% of the market was serviced by three bin kerbside collections (this third bin relates to organic waste). Again the same research estimate that 402 tonnes of waste is home composted in the county; 9006 tonnes of mixed residual waste was collected in the county and 3460 tonnes of mixed dry recyclables was collected44. 2011 Census data shows that household waste in kg per person was lower in the county than the national figures (137.5 kg/per person compared to 147.6kg/per person) but recycling rates per person were lower also (94.4kg/per person compared to national figure of 124.4kg/per person).

4.8.7 Current Issues and Problems Census results show that the car remains the most popular transport method in the county 63% of all journeys made by cars. Commuting to Dublin is primarily around the eastern part of the County. The maintenance and upgrade of existing roads and pressure on smaller roads from rural housing patterns and travel to work patterns remains a challenge. Whilst the Dublin- Galway railway line and bus services offer an alternative transport for commuters, altering people’s behaviour and encouraging a modal shift in transport patterns remains a challenge for the County.

43 National Waste Report A report for the year 2011. EPA 44 ibid

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Encouraging increased recycling and increased provision of 3 bin kerbside waste collection would improve waste management in the County; however kerbside collection is not always feasible on narrow country roads; encouragement of waste reduction and littering is an ongoing challenge for all local authorities.

Whilst several public water plants have been upgraded in recent years, capacity issues remain at Coolderry, Clonbullogue and Kilcormac whilst Tullamore has only marginal capacity. In addition to public supplies, private wells and boreholes are a significant source of potable water in the county particularly in rural areas. These are not subject to the same regulatory system and issues can arise in terms of yield, quality and extraction rates. Moreover individual wells are more vulnerable to groundwater pollution from inappropriate or unregulated landuse activities and cumulative impacts in particular. Heavy rainfall as experienced in recent years can also affect compliance in public water supplies.

Ensuring adequate wastewater treatment and assessing the assimilative capacity of receiving waters will continue to be a key requirement of the OCDP. The implementation of an inspection regime for septic tanks will likely highlight a number of areas that will need addressing over the lifetime of the OCDP in terms of repairs and upgrades to poorly functioning septic tanks. The 2011 Census found 9,267 houses with sceptic tanks in rural Offaly which is a significant portion; maintenance and upgrading of these to meet statutory requirements for groundwater protection will be required for a number of these tanks.

Clearly the Water Supply Scheme has the potential to be a significant infrastructural project that will include parts of the County. At strategic level the preferred option has been identified and further information will arise through the detailed design and EIA process.

The Noise Action Plan will help identify noise issues solely for the M6; therefore landuse zoning and ensuring appropriate and compatible uses will be another means for the OCDP to address potential noise issues from other sources.

Whilst Offaly has an established energy production tradition encouraging renewable energy and shifting energy production away from fossil fuels and reliance on peat fired power stations is a particular issue for the County.

4.8.8 Material Assets sensitivities in neighbouring counties Galway: 16 wastewater treatment plants20 in the county are identified by the EPA (Focus on Urban Waste Water Discharges in Ireland, 2012) as having failed to comply with certain requirements of the Urban Waste Water Regulations (2001). The most recent EPA Remedial Action List (Q3 of 2013) identifies 12 water supplies in the County that are in need of improvement. The provisions of the new

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Plan 2015-2021 will contribute towards protection of the environment with regard to impacts arising from material assets45

Roscommon: While County Roscommon is well served by the road network, there are limited public transport options within the County as well as a lack of public infrastructure such as footpaths and cycle lanes. Consequently the County’s population is heavily car dependant which may have adverse impacts on climate and air quality as well as biodiversity and human health. There may be issues with drinking water supply in some areas of the County given that several of the County’s water supply schemes have been noted on the EPA’s Remedial Action List of 2012 and there have been several boil water notices in recent years. Leakage of drinking water in the County is also an issue with current unaccounted water loss at approximately 50%, however this also includes unknown and illegal connections. Although most wastewater treatment plants are operating at adequate capacity, there are currently four plants operating at limited capacity.

Westmeath Material assets for the purposes of the SEA Environmental Report include the built environment, water, waste water and transport infrastructure, as well as the natural material assets which have a supporting role in the physical and natural infrastructure. Consideration of material assets in this SEA assessment has a particular focus on the sustainable economic use of public investment and natural resources The most significant interaction arising as a result of the above considerations relate to the impacts of the settlement hierarchy on material assets, the physical and natural infrastructure of the county. The location application of regional and national spatial policy to prioritise the development of certain urban centres such as impacts on roads, water treatment and waste water treatment along with rural development policy for employment/economic development, residential and social infrastructure.

Meath – Transportation: The residents of County Meath rely heavily on the use of private cars for transport. Travel patterns show that a high proportion of residents commute long distances by car to school, work, mostly to Dublin. - Waste Management:In 2009, over 75% of occupied households in County Meath were serviced by a kerbside separate collection system for dry recyclables, however significant additional progress is required in terms of providing a 3-bin collection service to cater for the separate collection of organics. Water Supply: Significant water capacity issues exist within the water treatment plants which supply the County. Wastewater: There is currently insufficient wastewater treatment infrastructure in the County to serve the existing and future population. Energy County Meath is overly reliant on external and non renewable energy sources.

Kildare: Certain regions of the Plan area are not within the catchment of the waste water treatment network and consequently development in these areas use septic tanks to treat waste water arising. There are no problems foreseen in terms of waste capacity for the Plan area.

North Tipperary: There are a number of waste water treatment shortfalls in the County. The overloading of waste water treatment plants, low levels of treatment and discharge of outflow to

45 This section taken from the SEA ER of Draft County Galway CDP 2015-2021 127

water bodies at risk has significant potential to harm human health - through contamination and pollution of drinking water - and biodiversity and contribute to failing Water Framework Directive objectives if unmitigated.

4.8.9 Evolution of Material Assets in the absence of the OCDP It the absence of the plan there would be no framework directing developments to appropriate locations in and around Offaly. The promotion of energy efficiency, sustainable travel, renewable energy, water and wastewater infrastructure would not be facilitated in an appropriate manner and could result in piecemeal and poorly located services. This could result in significant impacts across a range of environmental parameters including biodiversity, water, human health, landscape and soil and geology.

4.9 Cultural Heritage - archaeology and built heritage. 4.9.1 Archaeological Heritage County Offaly contains significant archaeological resources including evidence of Ireland’s earliest settlers from the Mesolithic period (7000BC) at Lough Boora. The peatlands have preserved many archaeological artifacts and undoubtedly more will be recovered in years to come. The Early Christian period is also very well represented in the County and is associated most strongly with the River Shannon, the Esker Riada and Clonmacnoise. Clonmacnoise was put forward for World Heritage Site nomination in 2009. The archaeological heritage of the County is afforded protection through legislation. However, the cultural heritage can still be impacted upon through development. Development on sites or land adjacent to protected sites can impact upon the context, if not mitigated. Previously unknown archaeology can be damaged as a result of development. At a wider level, archaeological and historical landscapes can be affected over time by the gradual erosion of features that contribute to the special setting of that archaeological resource. There are a range of categories under the National Monuments Acts 1934 to 2004. These are:

• National monuments in the ownership or guardianship of the Minister or a Local Authority ornational monuments which are subject to a preservation order;

• Historic monuments or archaeological areas recorded in the Register of Historic Monuments; or• Monuments or places recorded in the Record of Monuments and Places.

The Site and Monuments Record (which forms the statutory basis for the above record of monuments and places under the National Monuments Act) records 4908 sites in the County. Figure 4u shows these sites at County level. The diversity of sites is extremely high ranging from raths, barrows, and castles to megalithic tombs and cilins. The following Table 4.23 lists national monuments in state and county ownership in Offaly. Zones of Archaeological Potential are designated for a number of towns in the current CDP. These are Banagher, Birr, Daingean, Dunkerrin, Seir Kieran.

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Table 4.23 National Monuments in State and County Ownership Monument Townlands National Monument Registration

Number State Ownership High Cross and Grave Slab Durrow Demense 313 High Cross and Remains of Church, Kinnity

Castletow and Glinsk 510

Sier Kieran Monastic Churchland and Settlement

Clonmore and Churchtown 497

Earthwork Clonin 532 Churches, Two Round Towers, Crosses, slabs

Clonmacnoise 81

Two Churches Rahan Demense 82 Land at Clonmacnoise Clonmacnoise 601 Medieval Deserted Village Canakill 617 County Ownership Clonfinlough Stone Clonfinlough 336 Churches and Slabs Gallen 505

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4.9.2 Architectural Heritage The Planning and Development Act (2000) allows for the listing of important structures in County Development Plans in order to provide protection to these structures which must be of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest. Details of protected structures are entered by the authority in its Record of Protected Structures, which is part of the Development Plan. Figure 4v shows protected structures at county level. These range from bridges, and industrial heritage features to houses and demesnes.

The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) is a representative sample of the architectural heritage of each county and aims to raise awareness of the wealth of architectural heritage in Ireland. It has also undertaken surveys of gardens on a county level basis. Figure 4w shows buildings that are in the County Offaly NIAH. The highlights from this survey include the Georgian Terraces of Birr town, one of the most architecturally significant towns in Ireland; the architecture associated with the Grand Canal (bridges, and associated hotels, lock-houses, harbours, warehouses and the Blundell Aqueduct) and more generally the wider vernacular architecture of the county which contributes to a distinctive sense of character and place around the County.

Finally, legislation is provided for Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA). ACAs may be used to protect the following:

a) Groups of structures of distinctiveness or visual richness or historical importance;

b) The setting and exterior appearance of structures that are of special interest, but the interiorsof which do not merit protection;

c) The setting of a Protected Structure where this is more extensive than its curtilage;

d) Designed landscapes where these contain groups of structures as in, for example, urbanparks, the former demesnes of country houses and groupings of archaeological or industrial remains;

e) Groups of structures which form dispersed but unified entities but which are not within theattendant grounds of a single dominant Protected Structure.

Works materially affecting the character of a protected structure or to the exterior of a building/structure within an ACA require planning permission. Buildings of local significance which retain traditional features also contribute to the local distinctiveness and identity. Many sites and structures can be afforded dual protection under the National Monuments (Amendment) Acts and the Planning Legislation. To date there is no ACA designations in the County.

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http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/ZZA30Y2000.html

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4.9.3 Current Issues and Problems Potential impacts can arise on structures, features and landscapes associated with cultural heritage resources. Impacts can be site specific or cumulative impacts can arise over time due to the erosion of contributing features that may not be subject to protection (eg; stone walls).

Whilst legislation and OCDP policies protect sites that are listed, inadvertent or wilful damage can arise in relation to land clearance or peat extraction.

Whilst the tourism and economic potential of cultural heritage is increasingly recognised, balancing visitor impacts and sustainable tourism on certain sites for example Clonmacnoise remain a challenge.

The archaeological landscape and cultural landscape around certain sites and features can be sensitive to inappropriate development activities and requires appropriate consideration in the OCDP.

The setting of protected structures is another consideration and insensitive or inappropriate developments that negatively impact on these resources may be another potential threat. Conversely promoting the maintenance and viability of older structures can present a challenge and ensuring their continued use as functioning buildings in an important consideration.

Whilst vernacular architecture is recognised as important, it can be difficult to promote its continued use and for vernacular buildings to adapt to contemporary living and housing standards and expectations.

4.9.4 Cultural Heritage Sensitivities in neighbouring counties Galway46: The context of archaeological and architectural heritage has changed over time within County Galway however no existing conflicts with legislative objectives governing archaeological and architectural heritage have been identified.

Roscommon: No existing problems have been identified with regard to cultural heritage within County Roscommon; however the cultural heritage of an areas can be impacted upon through development; insensitive or inappropriate development can negatively impact on important cultural resources such as protected structures and national monuments and their settings and may be a potential threat.

Westmeath: The erosion of character of buildings in/on the record of protected structures is a significant concern, in the case of both occupied and unoccupied structures. The character of architectural conservation areas is being eroded for a range of reasons including lack of awareness of the designation to the owners with regard to obligations arising from the designation. Linear and other features included in the Sites and Monuments Record including Uisneach are presented as point

46 ibid 133

data in the electronic datasets and therefore do not appear in the normal searches conducted in the course of development control.

Meath is known as the Heritage Capital of Ireland. It contains many sites of international heritage significance including Brú na Bóinne and the Hill of Tara. It is essential that the valuable heritage assets of the County are protected from pressures that can arise from certain developments and activities on or near such sites of heritage value.

Kildare: Threats to cultural heritage include the cumulative accommodation of large scale development in the County, development which involves material alteration or additions to protected structures, brownfield development and development on sites adjoining protected monuments, places or structures.

North Tipperary: The cumulative accommodation of large scale development in North Tipperary has the potential to cumulatively impact upon the cultural heritage of the Plan area. Archaeology can be previously unknown but can be damaged through development causing ground disturbance. Development which involves material alteration or additions to protected structures can detract from the special character of the structure and its setting, and have the potential to result in the loss of features of architectural or historic interest and the historic form and structural integrity of the structure are retained.

4.9.5 Evolution of Cultural Heritage in the absence of the OCDP The landscapes, sites, structures and artefacts that make up the cultural heritage of County Offaly are integral to the identity and character of the County. In the absence of the OCDP there would likely be negative impacts on the cultural heritage of the County as development would be allowed to take place in inappropriate areas or without due consideration of the cultural impacts associated with such development.

Cumulative impacts could be significant as the ad hoc approach would see the erosion of cultural heritage integrity over time and the loss of sense of character in the landscape of the County.

4.10 Landscape Landscapes are areas which are perceived by people and are made up of a number of layers: landform, which results from geological and geomorphological history; landcover, which includes vegetation, water, human settlements, and; human values, which are a result of historical, cultural, religious and other understandings and interactions with landform and landcover.

Offaly County Council’s Landscape Character Assessment classifies landscapes according to their sensitivity to different types of development. The County is classified into ten character areas and ranked for sensitivity. Figure 4w shows the areas in the county identified for low, moderate and high sensitivity. Table 4.24 presents the 10 landscape areas identified for the County.

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Table 4.24 Landscape Areas in current OCDP Area Type Characteristics Rural and Agricultural Areas (low sensitivity)

Predominantly flat and undulating agricultural landscape coupled with a peatland landscape. Field boundaries typically composed of mature hedgerows typify the county’s rural landscape.

Cutaway Bog (moderate sensitivity)

There are a number of uses for cutaway bog and some are more robust landscapes than others.

The River Shannon and Callows (high sensitivity)

Lands extremely likely to flood , local scenic views along the river. Shannon callows an important habitat. Major tourist resource and recreational asset

The Grand Canal Corridor (high sensitivity)

Canal traverses large tracts of boglands and is bordered by hedgerows dating back 200 years. Small fringes of wild vegetation present along the canal bank.

Wetlands (high sensitivity)

Lough Boora Parklands, Pallas Lake and Fin Lough.

Slieve Bloom Upland area (high sensitivity)

Only substantial upland area in the county. Value derived from contrast to largely low lying landscape.

Croghan Hill and environs (high sensitivity)

Extinct volcano includes Raheenmore Bog and Cannakill medieval deserted village.

Bogland Areas (high sensitivity)

List the main raised and blanket bogs in the county.

The Esker landscape (high sensitivity)

Important geological and biodiversity asset. Eiscir Riadia.

Archaeological and historical landscapes (high sensitivity)

Primarily include Clonmacnoise, Durrow, Killeigh, Leamonaghan and Rahan.

In addition to the landscape character and advice therein, the current OCDP designates areas of high amenity and scenic amenity routes. In addition, a number of protected views are listed in the current plan. These are shown in Figure 4w.

Landscape as outlined above is composed of a number of layers and in combination creates a sense of place and character of an area. Vernacular architecture, field boundaries, transport systems and landuse activities all create landscapes that people live and work in. Some landscapes may be more functional than others or serve specific purpose such as wilderness, agriculture, industrial or urban. It is important to acknowledge the dynamic role of landscapes and accept landscape change; the challenge is in ensuring this change is managed in an appropriate and sustainable manner.

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4.10.1 Current Issues and Problems Local landscapes, including features such as rivers, streams, bogs, lakes, woodlands, hedgerows and field boundaries, make a considerable contribution to the amenity and local distinctiveness of both urban and rural landscapes. It is these landscapes that are most in danger from permanent alteration due to development. Hedgerows, shelter belts and stone walls make a significant contribution to the appearance and character of the local environment while also being important wildlife habitats. Changing agricultural practices can also see loss or lack of maintenance of key features such as hedgerows; whilst urban generated housing if poorly designed and sited can cumulatively result in negative impacts on the landscape.

Planning and providing for key infrastructural developments in appropriate locations whilst reducing visual impacts can be an issue particularly for large scale developments.

4.10.2 Landscape sensitivities in neighbouring counties Galway: The most valuable and sensitive landscapes in the County are found to the west of Lough Corrib - especially in the uplands of Connemara and in coastal areas. Landscapes of lesser value and sensitivity - with the exception of areas including the coast of the County from Clarinbridge to Gort, the Lower Burren, water bodies and their banks and some upland areas in the Slieve Aughty Mountains - generally occur in the eastern half of the County.

Roscommon: key issues include the following: the monotony of new housing estates, absence of rural housing guidelines, lack of integration of new development, quality of architecture and siting of new buildings, need to retain hedgerows and stone walls.

Westmeath: changes in landcover, changing agricultural practices and policy and renewable energy developments

County Meath has a rich and varied landscape with historic features dating back to prehistory and many well-known tourist attractions related to its heritage. The County retains a strong connection with traditional agriculture and the landscape supports a wide range of ecological habitats despite the rapid growth in its resident population. The Landscape Character Assessment for Meath has identified that the unprecedented population growth experienced in the County as a threat to its landscapes and historic settlement structure. Modern unsympathetic development is also a threat to the landscape quality. In many areas of the County hedgerows have been removed and replaced with post and wire fencing resulting in an open and more diminished landscape condition.

Kildare: Generalised landscape problems include the cumulative visual impact resulting from developments such as one off houses. Such developments, which individually often do not have significant adverse impacts, have the potential to cumulatively and adversely significantly impact upon sensitive landscapes.

North Tipperary: The development of pits for sand and gravel extraction has impacted upon the landscape of the Plan area and its various geomorphological, scientific, historical, recreational and

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amenity values. Individual developments such as one-off houses have cumulatively changed the appearance of the landscape within the Plan area.

4.10.3 Evolution of Landscape in the absence of the OCDP In the absence of the Development Plan the issues highlighted above will continue and the lack of strategic focus that the OCDP offers would contribute to a significant decline in landscape quality and character. Particular issues may arise in relation to edges of towns and villages in the absence of the plan and the landscape setting of the important historical, tourism and recreational areas in the county may be negatively impacted.

4.11 Inter-relationship and Environmental Sensitivity mapping Sensitivity mapping is a means of assessing the overall vulnerability of an area using many different indicators and key critical data sets. The following data sets were chosen for the sensitivity analysis.

• Groundwater Vulnerability• Groundwater Protection Area• Landscape Sensitivity• Flood Risk• European Sites and Natural Heritage Areas, proposed Natural Heritage Areas, Nature Reserves• Record of Monuments and Places, National Inventory of Architectural Heritage• High Amenity Areas• High Status Water Bodies.

In the modelling, each variable is assigned a value of 5. For example, where an SAC occurs, the value is 5. Where an SAC does not occur, the value is 0. Where e.g. 3 variables overlap - the resultant value is 15. Exceptions to this are as follows: Groundwater Vulnerability Moderate & High = 5; Groundwater Vulnerability Extreme and Exposed = 10; Landscape Sensitivity Moderate = 5; Landscape Sensitivity High = 10; Flood Risk 100 Year = 10, and Flood Risk 1000 Year = 10

Figure 4x shows the results of the above sensitivity analysis and presents the areas of greatest environmental sensitivity.

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4.11.1 Discussion of environmental sensitivities Reflecting the designations and the hydrological regime within the plan area, the areas of greatest environmental sensitivity are the areas designated for natural heritage, flood zones and water courses. Based on this modeling, the areas of greatest sensitivity are the Slieve Blooms and the River Shannon and its callows. These correspond to designations including high status water bodies, European Sites, landscape sensitivity and in the case of the River Shannon flood zones. Whilst the most sensitive areas are clearly demarcated on this map, showing as red to orange, other parts of the county are also quite sensitive as can be seen in the yellow and light green areas- these principally relate to water features and bog habitats so an area around Clara Bog is shown to be sensitive as are all the various principal water courses in the County.

In understanding this sensitivity map it is important to stress how these resources interact with each other; declining water quality in the high status water bodies at the Slieve Blooms will impact downstream on both water quality and species dependent on the high quality character of this water body. Inappropriate landuses in the east of the county could, over time, generate soil impacts that in turn would contribute to declining groundwater resources with subsequent impacts on human health and biodiversity. In the case of Offaly, the role of the peatlands cannot be understated. Because hydrological conditions define peatlands (as with all wetlands), any change in the volume of water threatens the area and integrity of same; furthermore, eutrophication (increase in nutrient loads) can further threat the integrity of the peatlands. In terms of ecosystem services, the peatlands provide the following services:

• biodiversity support, water quality improvement, flood abatement, and carbon management.

At a broader level, wetlands ecosystem services include the purification of air and water; regulation of rainwater runoff and drought; waste assimilation and detoxification; soil formation and maintenance; control of pests and disease; plant pollination; seed dispersal and nutrient cycling; maintaining biodiversity for agriculture, pharmaceutical research and development, and other industrial processes; protection from harmful UV radiation; climate stabilization (for example, through Carbon sequestration); and moderating extremes of weather47.

The example of the role of peatlands highlights the complexity of how resources interact with each other to produce multifunctional services. Ensuring appropriate and sustainable management to benefit the communities of Offaly remains an essential role of the OCDP.

47 Wetland Resources Status, Trends, Ecosystem Services and Restorability. Zedler, J & Kercher, S. Annual Review of Enviornmental Resources 2005, 30. 39-74.

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Chapter Five Strategic Environmental Objectives

5.1 Introduction This overall aim of the SEA is to facilitate environmental protection and to allow the integration of environmental considerations into the development of the OCDP. To that end, the SEA process assesses the draft OCDP as it evolves in terms of its environmental impacts, positive, negative, neutral, cumulative and synergistic and also in terms of duration ie: short, medium, long term, temporary, permanent, and secondary effects. This process highlights how improvements can be integrated into the draft OCDP to increase its environmental performance and maintain environmental resources.

A series of environmental objectives are presented in this chapter and are developed into a monitoring programme in the form of targets and indicators which are presented in more detail in Chapter Nine Monitoring Programme.

5.2 Strategic Environmental Objectives Establishing environmental objectives is a key element of SEA as it allows for the assessment of the OCDP as it is implemented over time. The development of such objectives has been undertaken with regard for international, national, regional policies, the SEA guidelines and consultation. SEA Objectives are different to objectives detailed in the OCDP, however, they are used to assess the development strategies of the OCDP and allow its evaluation and identification of where conflicts may occur. This forms the basis of the environmental assessment of the draft OCDP, which is presented in Chapter Seven. Table 5.1 below presents the Strategic Environmental Objectives.

Table 5.1 Strategic Environmental Objectives Topic and SEA Objective

Biodiversity

Bio 1: Protect, conserve, enhance where possible48 and avoid loss of the diversity and range of habitats, species and wildlife corridors.

Bio 2: Protect designated sites including European Sites (SACs and SPAs) under Article 6 of the Habitats Directive. Conserve and protect, or maintain and restore European Sites.

Bio 3 - Conserve and protect other sites with nature conservation status(NHAs, pNHAs, Nature Reserves, Wildfowl Sanctuaries) and protected species and habitats outside these areas (as covered under the Wildlife Act).

Bio 4: Protect habitats (terrestrial and aquatic) from invasive species.

Bio 5: Protect and enhance where possible, the aquatic environment and meet the requirements of the WFD and the RBMP.

48 This SEO was amended on foot of a submission by the EPA 141

Topic and SEA Objective

Population and Human Health

Pop 1: Protect, enhance and improve people’s quality of life based on high quality residential, community, working and recreational environments and on sustainable travel patterns.

Pop 2: To protect human health from risks or nuisances arising from exposure to incompatible land uses/developments.

Water

Wat 1:- Protect and enhance the status of aquatic ecosystems and with regard to their water needs, terrestrial ecosystems and wetlands directly depending on the aquatic ecosystem (quality, level, flow).

Wat 2: Maintain or improve the quality of surface water to status objectives as set out in the Water Framework Directive, River Basin Management Plans and Programme of Measures.

Wat 3: Prevent pollution and contamination of groundwater by adhering to aquifer protection plans.

Geology and Soil

Soil 1: Encourage the use of derelict, disused and infill sites rather than Greenfield sites where appropriate.

Soil 2: Protect, improve and maintain the quality of soils.

Soil 3: Conserve, protect and avoid loss of diversity and integrity of designated habitats, geological features, species or their sustaining resources in designated ecological sites.

Cultural heritage

CH1: Protect and conserve the cultural heritage including the built environment and settings; archaeological (recorded and unrecorded monuments), architectural (Protected Structures, Architectural Conservation Areas, vernacular buildings, materials and urban fabric) and manmade landscape features (e.g. field walls, footpaths, gate piers etc.).

CH2: To encourage the restoration and reuse of existing uninhabited and derelict structures where possible as opposed to demolition and new build.

Landscape

Land 1: Protect designated landscapes and scenic views, routes and landscape features of local value.

Land 2: Conserve and protect cultural landscapes including archaeological and architectural landscapes.

Land 3: Minimise visual impacts through appropriate design, assessment and siting.

Air Quality and Climate

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AQ1: Seek to avoid air pollution and maintain/improve ambient air quality.

AQ2:Minimise emissions of greenhouse gases through energy efficiency and promotion of renewable energy.

Material Assets

Mat 1: Reduce risk of flooding through avoidance of inappropriate development in flood plains or in areas at risk of flooding and manage the risk of flooding.

Mat 2: Ensure that drinking water supplies are free from contamination.

Mat 3: To protect residents from adverse noise levels.

Mat 4: Ensure that all new domestic developments are served by public wastewater treatment or an approved onsite wastewater treatment plant designed, constructed and managed in accordance with the relevant EPA guidelines.

Mat 5: Promote the waste pyramid and encourage reuse/recycling of material wherever possible.

Mat 6: Reduce waste of energy, promote use of renewable energy sources and support energy conservation initiatives.

Mat 7: Maximise sustainable modes of transport, provide for ease of movement for all road users and promote development patterns that protect and enhance road safety.

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Chapter Six Consideration of Alternatives

6.1 Introduction One of the critical roles of the SEA is to facilitate an evaluation of the likely environmental consequences of a range of alternative scenarios for accommodating future growth in County Offaly. These alternative development scenarios must be realistic, capable of implementation, and should represent a range of different approaches within statutory and operational requirements of the County Development Plan. In some cases the preferred scenario will combine elements from the various alternatives considered.

In order to assess in more detail the alternatives under consideration, a workshop was held in March 2013 with the SEA team and staff from the planning, water, roads and heritage sections of the County Council. This workshop assessed the likely environmental effects of implementing the following alternative scenarios and through the process helped to identify a preferred development strategy for the OCDP. In assessing the different scenarios the following questions were considered:

• Current wastewater capacity issues – are there particular settlements with these issues? • What kind of wastewater provision would be required to deliver this development approach? • Would this increase one off housing significantly? • Would this effect transport patterns? • Can this result in greater non vehicular transport and promote public transport? • Where are the areas of greatest flood risk – does this approach sufficiently address flood risk? • Does this approach direct development to serviced areas? • Will this approach promote the town centres? • Would there be direct or indirect impacts on water quality or designated habitats? • How would this approach address uneven population growth? • How would this approach promote sustainable use of the resources of the County? • Will this approach benefit one area above another? • Can this approach achieve balanced development?

In addition to the overall development strategy considered at the workshop further discussions took place in relation to wind energy consideration and rural housing as these were identified as issues that required additional scrutiny through the development plan preparation process; therefore the considerations evaluated and preferred approach to these two issues are also presented in this chapter.

6.2 Assessment of Consideration of Alternatives Table 6.1 presents the criteria used in the assessment matrix and the SEOs that the alternatives are assessed against are those presented in the previous Chapter Five SEOs.

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Table 6.1: Evaluation of Alternatives

No likely interaction with /insignificant impact with SEOs 0

Potential conflict with SEOs – likely to be mitigated

Likely to improve status of SEOs Uncertain interactions with SEOs

?

Probable conflict with SEOs – unlikely to be mitigated

In accordance with SEA guidelines the assessment identifies ‘impact’ under three headings. Firstly the quality of impact is addressed using the following terms49: Potential Positive impact: A change which improves the quality of the environment. Potential Negative impact: A change which reduces or lessens the quality of the environment. Uncertain impact: The nature of any impact cannot be ascertained at this stage. This initial stage aims to ascertain the quality, if any, of the potential impact. Secondly, where a potential impact is noted, either positive or negative, the significance of impact is addressed. Significance is assessed in terms of the type/scale of development envisaged by the plan and the sensitivity/importance of the receiving environment. This is presented using the following terms: Profound: An impact which obliterates sensitive characteristics. Moderate: An impact that alters the character of the environment in a manner that is consistent with existing and emerging trends. Slight: An impact which causes noticeable changes in the character of the environment without affecting its sensitivities. Imperceptible: An impact capable of measurement but without noticeable consequences. Thirdly the potential duration of identifiable impacts is discussed. The following terms are used: Short: Impact lasting one to seven years. Medium: Impact lasting seven to fifteen years. Long term: Impact lasting fifteen to sixty years. Permanent: Impact lasting over sixty years. Temporary Impact lasting for one year or less.

49 Clarification on how effects were assessed are provided following a submission by the EPA 146

Table 6.2 Assessment Table –Consideration of Alternatives Alternative Considered O ?

Option One: Amend settlement hierarchy and revise growth in fewer areas in line with infrastructural provision

This alternative is to amend the number of settlements within the plan area, reducing the number of smaller settlements, and targeting growth in a fewer number of locations where appropriate infrastructure is already in place. This would see a smaller number of existing settlements prioritized for development. Designated areas (European Sites, Groundwater Protection Zones etc) would be subject to appropriate environmental protection measures in line with the regulatory framework. Rural development policies would support agriculture, forestry, renewable energy and tourism

Pop 1

Mat 7

CH 2

Soil 1

CH 1

CH 2 (partly)

Bio 1, Bio 2

Bio 3, Bio 4

Bio 5,

Wat 1, Wat 2, Wat 3

Pop 2

Soil 2, Soil 3

Land 1, Land 2

Land 3

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Alternative Considered O ?

Principal environmental impacts identified for this scenario:

• Whilst most settlements now meet wastewater treatment standards due to recent investments there is currently little pressure on these due to the recession, though this may likely change over the lifetime of the CDP. Notwithstanding that, the absorption capacity of rivers is a consideration in the longer term and the indefinite upgrading of wastewater treatment plants not sustainable;

• This scenario could generate transport infrastructural pressure in Edenderry (not served by a national road) and Portarlington (bottlenecks). Dispersed settlement at these towns would likely see an increase in private car usage. If rural economy becomes more active eg; through renewable energy development you would likely see increased commuting patterns;

• Bigger towns – to address bottleneck issues would require investment in junctions traffic calming etc. and would not always be able to accommodate cycle lanes – generally for a number of these towns the physical streetscape is limited so addressing private and public transport improvements could be constrained;

• This scenario represents a large shift in policy with rural areas reverting to ‘open/rural areas’ with no specific policy instead of ‘sráids’; challenges would arise in relation to controlling ribbon development and risk of significant increase in same;

• Consequently, people would have to driver longer distances for future services/provisions; • This scenario would see higher densities in the larger areas, support the four large town centres and would likely

reinforce existing development trends between East and West Offaly. It would also promote brownfield development above greenfield development;

• Smaller towns such as Kilcormac and Banagher would most likely decline over time with fewer services provided, and this scenario would benefit certain areas above others.

• An indirect impact from this scenario would be greater decline and loss of services in smaller settlements with accompanying social impacts. There could also be an accompanying increase in dispersed rural housing and associated groundwater, transport and landscape impacts.

• Should development be concentrated in a smaller number of settlements, the declining activity and maintenance of the other settlements could see rising dereliction and land abandonment – this would impact on population, cultural heritage and soil SEOs and could impact on biodiversity SEOS due to lack of land management in certain areas especially grassland areas.


Option Two: Dispersed Settlement led approach

This scenario envisages growth of all settlements within the County with heavy emphasis on accommodating housing within settlements. Other than the county town and large towns (Tullamore, Birr, Edenderry and Portarlington) there would be no hierarchy of settlements. Designated areas (European Sites, Groundwater Protection Zones etc.) would be subject to appropriate environmental protection measures in line with the regulatory framework. As above, rural development policies

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would support agriculture, forestry, renewable energy and tourism.

Mat 7 Mat 1, Mat 2

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• This scenario would require significant road infrastructural improvements for Birr, Edenderry and Portarlington; it would also require improvement of the Birr to Athlone link which is quite constrained as it the route traverses peatlands;

• More generally, due to dispersed pattern and lack of hierarchy, whole infrastructure would require improvement under this scenario;

• This scenario could lead to stagnation of rural settlements as lack of housing provision and policy could result in developments in countryside and not existing settlements;

• Significant increase in rural housing with lack of policy would result in increased private wastewater treatment, potential groundwater impacts and increase in private car trips with resulting issues on road safety;

• Indirect cumulative impacts on biodiversity especially loss of ecological corridors and fragmentation of non designated habitats under this scenario.

• This scenario could work against the rural economy and result in adverse impacts on rural settlements and areas; there would be less recognition of the strengths and characteristics of rural settlements; in turn, there could be a range of landscape and heritage impacts;

• Legislative focus is driving population targets right down to small areas and this scenario risks county population target being reached (through grants of permission) within a few years, essentially freezing much of the CDP for the remainder of the CDP lifetime, and

• In the absence of a county level settlement hierarchy, a criteria based approach to development infrastructure would be required.


Option Three: Strategic Planning Approach This scenario is a planned sustainable development approach to planning in the County. Development will be focused within zoned and serviced areas. This scenario plans for the strengthening of rural villages and residential development into designated settlements. Appropriate environmental protection measures will be implemented for designated areas. In this scenario particular rural development activities would be more strategic and certain areas identified to support tourism and renewable energy.

Bio 2

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Pop 2

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CH 1

CH 2

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Land 2

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• This scenario would see the current settlement hierarchy retained subject to serviced provision of lands; • Similar wastewater issues remain in this scenario – ie: many smaller settlements have been upgraded but issues

remain at a small number of others; • Tullamore retains its gateway status under the National Spatial Strategy, retains function of a County town and

can build on the infrastructural investment in the town in recent years eg; bypass and wastewater treatment plan;

• Smarter Travel policy and proposals can fit better within this scenario; • Rural housing trend likely to continue with this scenario but within a policy framework and hierarchy; whilst 6

DEDs declined in 2011 census these were generally in remote bog areas whilst most DEDs saw population increases;

• This scenario directs development to town centres; • This approach allows for better protection of designated sites and achievement of WFD targets as serviced led

development is directed to settlements. • Reuse of brownfield and infill sites promoted in this scenario • Better population densities in clustered makes public transport options more viable • Uneven population growth in Offaly but with adoption of core strategy that is evidence based the forthcoming

CDP will be able to assess success of addressing this issue over the lifetime of the plan; • Commuting patterns generally remain towards the Greater Dublin Area.

When discussing this scenario it was felt that tourism policies focused on certain areas may not result in positive impacts as there may be greater disturbance issues on habitats and species particularly around West Offaly where there are a higher number of designated sites; therefore it is proposed that instead of targeted identified tourism areas, this scenario be altered to ensure tourism policies are open and flexible enough to accommodate tourism activities within appropriate locations.

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Other Development Scenarios A final discussion in the workshop was focusing on other landuse scenarios for Offaly and in particular the presence of a number of brownfield industrial sites around the County such as former peat power stations and briquette factories. A strategic approach to the best use of these sites as a means to facilitate industrial development was considered and discussed. Some positive benefits associated with such a strategy are that they are at some distance from European Sites, several have well established industrial use and they could offer a means of enhancing economic activities within established industrial brownfield sites; potential issues could arise in terms of traffic impacts depending on the function and employment associated with land use.

6.3 Consideration of Alternatives – Rural Housing Considerable research on current rural housing policies in the OCDP 2009-2015 has been undertaken. This assessed historical (from 2002), current and future housing trends in the county, environmental considerations and national policy such as the Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines 2005. These guidelines require Planning Authorities to tailor policies that respond to:

• The different housing requirements of urban and rural communities. • The varying characteristics of rural areas.

These distinctions are necessary to ensure that the housing requirements of persons with inextricable links to the rural area in which they propose to locate are facilitated in all such areas and that planning policies also respond to local circumstances i.e. economic or population decline or areas under significant development pressure.

The challenge presented for the CDP 2014-2020 for County Offaly is to how best to deal with rural housing in the following context:

• Strong Urban Influence: In areas under the influence of urban areas and those in close proximity to key and strategic transport corridors.

• Strong Rural Areas: In areas where the challenge is to maintain a balance between the promotion of development in the smaller towns and villages as identified as part of the settlement hierarchy (Core Strategy) and rural housing in their wider rural hinterlands, and

• Structurally Weak Areas: In areas where the key challenge is to arrest the sustained population and economic decline in both settlement areas and rural areas.

An additional consideration for dealing with rural housing within the lifetime of the new CDP is the allocation of population targets as per the Core Strategy. This can be used as an indicator of development progress of an individual tier of the settlement hierarchy over another. This is important in the context of the settlement hierarchy, the overall strategic approach to development within the

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County and compliance with the development objectives of the higher order plans of the NSS and MRPGs.

Other considerations that influence these alternatives and will be of increasing importance in terms of compliance are achieving the targets of the Water Framework Directive and achieving ‘good status’ on water bodies by end of 2015. In Ireland, wastewater and agricultural runoff are the principal contributors to declining water quality. Whilst individual point sources of pollution from these sources may be minor, combined at a broader scale and county level, they contribute to declining water quality. Over time, they contribute to declining groundwater quality – a particularly important water resource in County Offaly given the high dependency on groundwater as a drinking water supply. This has impacts on people’s health and quality of life in addition to impacts on soil, fisheries, agriculture and ecology amongst others. Balancing the needs for rural housing provision and compliance with requirements such as the Water Framework Directive informs the consideration of alternatives through the plan preparation process. The primary target date of achieving ‘good status’ for all waters is 2015 by which time the OCDP will be operational.

Table 6.3 Consideration of Alternatives Rural Housing Alternative Considered O ?

Option 1 – Rural areas identified as being under Strong Urban Influence, Strong Rural Areas and Structurally Weak Areas are required to apply local need criteria to all rural housing applications submitted to the Planning Authority. For areas where there are considerations such as environmental designations, landscape sensitivities, infrastructural constraints and ribbon development etc., ‘Functional Need’ of the applicant(s) or exception in the applicant’s circumstances must put forward for assessment.

All SEOs

This scenario explicitly acknowledges the pressures and drivers that have contributed to unsustainable rural housing patterns in the county; by strengthening the local need and functional need criteria genuine applicants will be facilitated and speculative or non rural driven development should be reduced. Better environmental protection is also recognised and highlighted in this option and therefore all the SEOs should be enhanced at strategic level. Clearly individual impacts will arise at site level but the density and drivers of speculative development should be reduced thus contributing to a more realistic and genuine application of rural housing policy that also protects environmental resources. This should also assist in addressing through avoidance cumulative impacts associated with unsustainable rural housing patterns. Key impacts of these option would be:

• Improved management of drivers of rural housing need • Facilitates more orderly and sustainable development of housing within the county • Facilitates targeted and efficient service provision • Greater consistency with National Spatial Strategy and Midland Regional Planning Guidelines • Greater alignment with core strategy targets

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• Improved promotion of town and village structure and less risk to integrity of established settlements and • Cumulative environmental impacts reduced and avoided by stronger management and strengthening

local need and functional need. Option 2: All areas identified as being under Strong Urban Influence and as Strong Rural Areas are required to apply local need criteria to all rural housing applications in those areas. Rural areas identified as being Structurally Weak Areas would allow and provide for rural housing without an assessment of local need criteria. For areas where there are considerations such as environmental designations, landscape sensitivities, infrastructural constraints and ribbon development etc., ‘Functional Need’ of the applicant(s) or exception in the applicant’s circumstances must put forward for assessment.

Pop 1 Wat 2

Bio 1

All other SEOs

In this option applications for rural housing in areas under Strong Urban Influence and Strong Rural areas would be subject to local need assessment; however, for Structurally Weak Areas not located within an Area of Special Control, this would not apply. This option applies greater control in areas that have been shown to be under strong urban influence and strong rural areas whilst facilitating growth in structurally weak areas to assist population decline. The areas where local need criteria do not apply are not extensive in this scenario. Therefore whilst it is facilitates less strict conditions for rural housing in certain limited areas, there would still be positive benefits in some parameters. Environmental impacts identified for this option include:

• Positive benefits could arise in structurally weak areas in terms of supporting existing settlements and villages;

• Cumulative impacts over the lifetime of the plan could arise in certain areas, in terms of water quality and biodiversity loss primarily due to the loss of habitat features and potential decline in water with private wastewater treatment plants and wells.

Option 3: All areas identified as being under Strong Urban Influence are required to apply local need criteria to all rural housing applications in those areas. Rural areas identified as Strong Rural Areas and Structurally Weak Areas would allow and provide for rural housing without an assessment of local need criteria. For areas where there are considerations such as environmental designations, landscape sensitivities, infrastructural constraints and ribbon development etc., ‘Functional Need’ of the applicant(s) or exception in the applicant’s circumstances must put forward for assessment.

Wat 2

Bio 1

All other SEOs

The impacts associated with this scenario are similar to those for Option 2 however impacts are identified as

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follows: • the scope and extent of impacts would be wider; this is due to both strong rural areas and structurally

weak rural areas not being required to provide for local need criteria unless located within an Area of Special Control.

• This could result in much more extensive rural housing of an unsustainable nature with cumulative impacts such as habitat loss, loss of ecological corridors, groundwater pollution and unsustainable transport patterns.

• In addition, this option could see continuing trends that adversely affect the viability of settlements and services associated with same and would run counter to policies for the provision of services within existing towns and villages.

6.4 Consideration of Alternatives - Wind Energy Strategy A number of alternative scenarios were considered in updating the Wind Energy Strategy and these are discussed below and assessed against the SEOs in Table 6.1 Consideration of Alternatives.

The consideration of alternatives for the WES in County Offaly must be assessed within the context of the County. As a landlocked midland county, renewable energy associated with tidal power is clearly not a viable alternative. In addition given the generally low lying topography and the natural heritage designations given to main watercourses of the county, hydropower although historically present in the county (on the River Brosna, associated with mills); this option could not be developed without significant impacts on flora and fauna associated with the river habitats and corridors. Therefore, the following alternatives focus primarily on wind energy as the most viable and established renewable energy option for the county.

Mount Lucas in the only windfarm granted and constructed currently in County Offaly. The following Table 6.4 assesses the Wind Energy Alternatives against the SEOs.

Table 6.4 Wind Energy Strategy Consideration of Alternatives Alternative Considered O ?

Option 1 – Ad-hoc Planning for Wind Farm Development This option would result in wind energy applications being addressed on a case-by-case basis without an overall strategic framework to guide wind energy development in County Offaly. This is not in line with existing planning guidance for wind energy development and would not facilitate an evaluation of cumulative impacts associating with wind farm

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development. In addition, the lack of a strategic evaluation of this land use would not be in keeping with the SEA Directive.

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This alternative emerges as generating a significant number of negative impacts, particularly in relation to biodiversity including ecological corridors and protected habitats and species. The lack of a strategic approach to wind energy planning in the county would also weaken the assessment of cumulative impacts and cross boundary impacts in areas such as water quality, biodiversity and landscape. This option is also unlikely to protect populations from incompatible land uses, particularly those living outside but close to the county boundary as impacts may not be assessed through development management at local authority level. Cumulative impacts may also impact on human health if combinations of impacts arise.

In addition, in the absence of clear guidance to potential applicants, this option is unlikely to promote wind energy development at a viable level for the County.

Material assets such as promoting the sharing of infrastructure associated with this development type such as access roads would not be facilitated as the planning response would be on a reactive, ad hoc basis.


Option 2 – Alternative Renewable Energy Sources This option would involve planning for alternative renewable energy sources such as biomass in seeking to achieve a target that reflects the national target of 40% renewable energy production by 2020. As outlined above viable alternative energy options for County Offaly are limited to terrestrial (onshore) energy as hydro and tidal energy production cannot be produced in the county.

Bioenergy sources such as energy crops/wood, biogas produced on-farm or in mixed feedstock facilities, and biofuels manufactured from used or renewable sources are alternative sources of

All SEOs All SEOs

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renewable energy.

Alternative renewable energy generates positive and negative impacts depending on the type of alternative energy proposed. This evaluation assumed miscanthus and willow as the primary biomass crops to be used in the County; miscanthus having been tested already through co-firing at Rhode Island powerstation (ESB).

Figures from the Farmers Journal (6.7.2013) states nationally, 3,100ha of miscanthus and willow has been planted. Of the 53 Megajoules of biomass calculated to be required to meet 2020 targets,9mgj and 8mgj would come from forest based biomass and agricultural residues respectively. The balance would be made of indigenous energy crops and imported biomass. This would require approximately 160,000 ha of the 4.2 million hectare of Ireland’s usable agricultural land. Tillage farmers are more likely to consider switching to biomass due to similarities in crop production, agronomy and farm machinery. County Offaly is primarily a beef producing county.

For all these reasons, whilst biomass is clearly an important although small element currently for Ireland’s renewable target it is not considered reasonable that Offaly could contribute in a meaningful way to these targets by relying solely on biomass. ‘In the absence of a developed market, it is difficult to make long-term forecasts on the area that will be devoted to willow and miscanthus. If the industry is to develop to a significant scale, ways of improving profitability must be found and more progress is needed to develop supply chains and viable end uses. Co-firing of biomass materials has commenced at the peat stations. While good progress is being made, issues associated with intake, transport, handling and storage remain. In terms of scale, the co-firing market is critical to establishing a viable market.’

‘The quantity of existing biomass resources in Ireland is limited. There is a significant shortfall in the amount of biomass needed to meet Government 2020 targets for bioenergy.’50

The National Renewable Energy Strategy 2012 retains the overall focus on wind energy as the means to achieve the 2020 renewable energy targets. Clearly there is scope for bioenergy to contribute to renewable energy production in the County but it is less well established. Biomass has a role to play and can contribute within the lifetime of the OCDP however, in practice wind energy technology is currently the most established and experienced renewable technology in this country hence the focus for the lifetime of this strategy as part of the OCDP remains on wind energy planning.

Option 3 – Strategic Approach to Wind Energy Development The approach specifically excludes any European Sites in the County. It identified areas of the county that are less sensitive from a visual and environmental perspective and with further detailed assessment it identifies broad brush areas where wind energy will be open for consideration.

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It allows for a medium term view of wind energy developments in the County and encourages clustering or sharing of infrastructure associated with wind energy development such as access roads.

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This approach allows for a more detailed assessment of wind energy resources combined with consideration including infrastructure, natural and cultural designations and residential dwellings. The methodology used to develop this approach is in line with national statutory guidelines 2006. By identifying areas in this manner more sensitive areas are removed from consideration at strategic level. In turn this assists assessing significant environmental impacts and compliance with the SEOs at SEA level.

6.5 Preferred Alternatives In conclusion, the preferred alternatives identified through the SEA are as follows. Overall Strategy – Option Three: Strategy Planning Approach. Arising from the workshops and assessment against the SEOs, Option Three Strategic Planning Approach with the above amendment to the approach to tourism policy and the potential inclusion of a strategy for brownfield sites within the county was selected as the preferred approach for the Offaly CDP. It aligns more closely with European and National Policy and regulation, directs development to serviced lands, focuses on town centres for service provision and supports Tullamore as a Gateway and County Town. The settlement hierarchy remains on an evidence base and with the upgrading of wastewater treatment plants in smaller settlements offers serviced lands for housing in a more spatially balanced manner. A strategy for brownfield sites may also offer a means to facilitate renewable energy development or other industrial development activities at established sites around the county and counter the current commuting and economic pull of the Greater Dublin Area.

For Rural Housing options, Option One was identified as the most sustainable option. This acknowledges and mitigates against influencing factors driving pressure and demand for rural housing in areas under strong urban pressure and strong rural areas. Furthermore it acknowledges environmental and landscape sensitivities associated with areas identified as being structurally weak rural areas and recognises the need to protect and preserve County Offaly’s natural resources, environment, landscape and infrastructure. It also provides an opportunity to redress unsustainable pattern of development in the open countryside and contribute to achieving policies/objectives for growth and consolidation of the Sráid and village settlements. In relation to the WES, Option Three was considered the most appropriate as it aligns most closely with wind energy statutory guidelines and preparation of a new county development plan.

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Chapter Seven Likely Significant Effects of the Offaly County Development Plan

7.1 Introduction The purpose of this section of the Environmental Report is to predict and evaluate as far as possible the environmental effects of this draft plan for County Offaly. SEA is an iterative process and the new policies and objectives developed for the draft OCDP have taken consideration of environmental issues raised during the scoping process. These issues have been incorporated into draft policies, objectives and land use zonings and the principal purpose of this chapter is to discuss the evaluation of these. The discussion of likely impacts is grouped around each environmental parameter listed in the SEA Regulations:

• Biodiversity, Flora & Fauna • Water • Soil & Geology • Population & Human Health • Cultural Heritage • Landscape • Air & Climatic Factors • Material Assets

The individual evaluation of each policy/objective and landuse zoning across the draft OCDP is presented in Annexes A (assessment of Volume 1 of the Draft OCDP) and B (assessment of Volume 2 of the Draft OCDP). This evaluation was undertaken from August to October 2014 on the predraft and draft plan. The identification of impacts through the evaluation matrix and discussion of significant impacts detailed below, in turn informs the development of mitigation measures presented in Chapter Eight, Mitigation Measures. Where material amendments were made to the Draft Plan, the evaluation for significant effects was undertaken through the SEA Screening process, a copy of which is presented in Annex C of this final SEA ER.

7.2 Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna- Significant Impacts. The promotion of compact, sustainable settlements with support for brownfield development and the policies pertaining to designated sites and habitats strengthens the protection of biodiversity resources.

The strategic objectives of the Core Strategy are identified as positive for biodiversity, promoting sustainable development in appropriate locations founded on a population evidence base.

Rural housing policies could give rise to a range of cumulative impacts and merit both additional mitigation measures and monitoring. A number of other policies such as Economic Development and Infrastructure have the potential to generate adverse impacts on biodiversity, with key potential impacts relating to disturbance, disruption, fragmentation and loss of habitats. Indirect and cumulative

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impacts are identified for biodiversity in the event of damage to soil and water resources associated with development activities. Transport policies road and rail infrastructure could give rise to negative impacts on European Sites such as Charleville Wood cSAC and Clara Bog cSAC in the absence of mitigation51. In this context, cumulative impacts could arise in relation to STAO -11. However, policies within these chapters also support environmental protection, particularly those associated with integrated landuse and transport, water quality protection and wastewater infrastructure. A number of mitigation measures are proposed to enhance protection of biodiversity for these chapters.

Policies and Objectives contained within the plan to increase accessibility generally such as TP-07 could have the potential to impact adversely on biodiversity resources through disturbance and fragmentation unless mitigation is provided for. This is particularly important in relation to Slieve Bloom SPA and the Shannon Callows and the associated habitats and species that this area supports. .

Finally, a range of policies and objectives particularly in Chapter Seven are identified as creating positive long term impacts for biodiversity, flora and fauna. A number of other policies and objectives such as Policy NHP-01 all contribute to complying with the Biodiversity SEOS. In addition, the suite of policy and objectives in Chapter Seven and the Water Section in Chapter Four generate long term positive impacts by improving water quality and management within the plan area and accompanying positive impacts on biodiversity, particularly habitats and species that are dependent on good water quality. See Table 7.1 below for a summary of potential impacts of the draft OCDP on Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna.

Table 7.1: Biodiversity Impacts OCDP Volume I

Chapter Title

Biodiversity Impacts

Chapter One: Core Strategy and Development Strategy.

Potential adverse impacts on biodiversity are associated with new housing development if it results in Greenfield development or loss of habitats. However, the focus on higher densities, reference to relevant guidelines, and promotion of infill/brownfield development assists in reducing the overall impacts and many impacts are identified as being addressed through mitigation.

Largely positive impacts associated with reference to national and regional guidelines and plans. Specific reference to Core Strategy and Development Management Guidelines of County Development Plan offer considerable protection of biodiversity through development control. Additional mitigation measures through new policies are recommended to strengthen overall environmental management and development approach.

Chapter Two: Enterprise and

Biodiversity impacts are identified as being managed through mitigation at development management level for Enterprise Policies and Objectives. For certain policies, uncertain

51 The EPA and DAHG commented on potential impacts arising from transport policies and mountain trails that may give rise to impacts on Clara Bog cSAC and Charleville Wood cSAC, as well as the Slieve Blooms SAC. These are

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Economic Activity- impacts are identified due to the type of development applications that may arise. Notwithstanding that, the overall focus of these policies is on promoting enterprise based on the settlement hierarchy which consolidates existing settlements. Thus generating far fewer potential biodiversity impacts through new sites in greenfield areas. EntO- 05 regarding the county’s peatlands is identified as generating potential negative impacts on biodiversity so is recommended for mitigation.

Tourism policies are largely identified as being mitigated through development management and policies within this section support proper planning and protection of resources. Increased recreational accessibility may disturb sensitive species particularly bird species and could damage peatland habitats if not managed carefully, therefore two policies in this section are recommended for mitigation – TP-5 and TP -12 respectively.

Chapter Three Energy Strategy

Promotion of renewable energy and support for reduction in greenhouse gases will have positive long term effects on biodiversity although meaningful change is more appropriate at national level for greenhouse gas reduction. Notwithstanding that, local air quality may improve and this could have indirect positive impacts on biodiversity soil and water resources.

If not managed and assessed properly renewable energy could have negative impacts on biodiversity through poor planning and siting in inappropriate locations. EP-02 is recommended for mitigation.

Chapter Four: Infrastructure and Environment

Large infrastructural development can impact adversely due to loss of habitat, and potential impacts on water quality and wildlife corridors. Such impacts may be permanent. Several other policies and objectives are considered to have impacts that can be mitigated through development control including Policy STAP 06 (Walking/Cycling). Impacts associated with cycling and walking provision have potential to impact adversely on biodiversity if located close to sensitive habitats but these are likely to be mitigated.

Additionally there may be positive indirect impacts on biodiversity arising from modal shift in transport within the town arising from the implementation of these objectives and other sustainable transport and integrated landuse policies and objectives, such as STAP-01 and STAP-03.

Cumulative impacts may arise over the lifetime of the OCDP if the range of road projects particularly new construction are realized.eg STAO -11(regional roads) These would contribute to overall loss of greenfield soils. A number of these are identified for additional mitigation to provide greater protection of biodiversity; in addition STAP-25 is identified as meriting additional mitigation to provide greater environmental detail into road design.

Generally, many of the policies and objectives contained in Water Services Section of this chapter provide stronger commitments to improving overall water quality and management

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in the plan area, and thus are identified as generating positive direct and indirect impacts on biodiversity. For example, commitments associated with WSP-01, and WSP-03 and WSP-14

The policies and objectives contained in the Environment Section are identified as supporting biodiversity or can be addressed through mitigation at development management level. The specific policies on climate change (EP-01) and high status waters (EP-04) are noted. EP 18-24 all relate to flood risk assessment and management, and the implementation of these should benefit biodiversity. It is of particular relevance for parts of the Offaly that the floodplains (especially Shannon Callows) continue to function as such and seasonal flooding regimes continue.

Chapter Five Retail and Town Centre

Policies and objectives for this chapter are identified as likely to be mitigated, again through development control. However, the focus on concentrating retail activities in town centres and promoting the viability of town centres will likely have positive indirect impacts on biodiversity due to reuse of brownfield sites. In addition, the opportunity for public transport and more sustainable transport options associated with these policies reduces the need over time for additional road infrastructure and out of town retail developments that are largely car dependent.

Chapter Six Community, Social and Cultural Development

Again impacts on biodiversity would arise in relation to provision of new facilities on greenfield sites but the focus on concentrating such activities within town centres or close to residential areas assists in reducing potential impacts, many such impacts would also be mitigated through the development management regime.

Chapter Seven Natural Heritage

Overall positive medium to long term impacts on biodiversity relating to commitments to protection of designated sites, wildlife corridors and non- designated habitats. (Policies NHP-01 to NHP-04 in particular)

Awareness raising, education and participation approaches to biodiversity are also positive as they improve overall understanding and appreciation about these resources within the county, eg: NHP-05 and NHP-06.

The important ecological role of peatlands, trees, hedgerows are also acknowledged through a number of policies in this chapter (NHP- 10, NHP- 11 and NHP -12).

Policies NHP-17 is recommended for mitigation to promote native tree species of Irish provenance.

The new policies relating to Green Infrastructure will have positive impacts across all SEOs.

Policies for Areas of High Amenity and Landscape are generally found to have positive impacts on biodiversity SEOS, principally indirect and cumulative due to the focus being on preservation –there is commonly a cross over between areas of high biodiversity value and

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high amenity eg; Callows, Eskers, Slieve Blooms.

Whilst the Public right of way policies especially PROW-01 may increase disturbance or trampling of habitats, Policy PROW-03 specifically references the Habitats Directive Assessment and Water Framework Directive so is considered sufficiently strong to avoid such impacts.

Archaeological and architectural policies and objectives. Many impacts identified in relation to these policies are neutral or likely to be addressed through development control. Many do not relate directly to biodiversity resources as the focus is largely cultural heritage.

Chapter Eight Development Management

Most policies and objectives generate impacts that can be mitigated on biodiversity, many impacts are associated with new development and development management standards are adequate to address these.LUZP 01 is recommended for mitigation to further strengthen environmental protection.

7.3 Population and Human Health- Significant Impacts. Landuse planning impacts on the everyday lives of people and can either hinder or help promote healthy sustainable environments and communities. For example the provision of safe walking routes, cycle-ways, parks, playgrounds, safe routes to school, Slí na Sláinte, public transport facilities, etc. result in direct and indirect health benefits and allow for healthier transportation choices to be made by communities over than private motor car.

The policies of the draft OCDP are overall found to likely improve the status of the SEO’s on population and human health. The plan promotes the development of quality, sustainable settlements with policies relating to integrated landuse and transport, environmental protection and energy efficiency balanced with economic vitality.

Both the strategic objectives and policies of the core strategy highlight appropriate development on an evidence base, supported by environmental protection, all of which contribute to achieving the SEOs for human health and population. The changes to the rural housing policies and objectives between the current and draft OCDP focus more clearly on the relationship between providing rural housing provision and environmental protection (eg: SSP -17) and this strengthens overall environmental protection through the plan area.

The maintenance, protection and enhancement of water quality are important and are closely allied to human health generally. It is acknowledged that there is over zoning of lands in the plan area and fewer lands are required in order to achieve the target population in the Core Strategy.

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The draft plan emphasises the need to integrate landuse and transportation. It sets out a strategy for mixed-use, economic and residential environment underpinned by recreational and community infrastructure provided in a timely fashion, in accessible locations and connected to, or within easy reach of, good public transport networks. The promotion of retail in line with the settlement hierarchy and viable town centres also enhances the SEOs for this parameter.

The promotion of sustainable development by balancing complex sets of environmental, social and economic goals in planning decisions can only prove to be positive for population and human health. Certain transport policies encourage a modal shift from private vehicular to other forms of transport. Accompanying this is positive impacts associated with improved air quality, noise impacts and reduced emissions (see for example STAP-04).

In general policies and objectives are likely to improve the status of the SEOs’s on human health. Maximising the use of central urban areas contributes to the conservation and protection of the natural environment for the enjoyment and protection of all. Provision of green infrastructure and recognition of formal and informal green areas (see GI 1-3 and related objectives, and LAP-07), will assist in improving environmental amenity, protecting important ecological functions and provide recreational and amenity areas contributing to the health and well-being of the population of County Offaly. Table 7.2 provides a summary of potential impacts on Population and Human Health.

Table 7.2 Population and Human Health Impacts OCDP Volume I

Chapter Title

Water Impacts


Significant positive impacts associated with sustainable development of the county with a focus on promoting high quality built and natural environment and quality of life for those residents.

Whilst design is recognized in these buildings, the quality of the built environment is a contributory factor in human health so additional mitigation measures are recommended for some policies and objectives.

The commitment to monitor residential development in Policy CSP-05 provides for ongoing assessment of range and scale of residential development within the County and should be sufficient to identify early on if adverse effects on related resources such as water quality are arising. Ongoing monitoring of rural housing and water quality impacts will be necessary to avoid unsustainable management of water extraction, wastewater infrastructure and monitoring of environmental impacts.

Chapter Two: Enterprise and Economic Activity-

Overall positive impacts identified for these SEOs; EntP- 06 will assist in avoiding incompatible landuses, and the promotion of economic activities that can reduce commuting are positive for population and human health SEOs.

Rural Development policies are generally positive but RDP- 03 is recommended for

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mitigation to protect human health from potential nuisances arising in relation to issues such as noise.


Promotion of renewable energy and support for reduction in greenhouse gases will have positive long term effects on air quality with indirect positive impacts on human health.

If not managed and assessed properly renewable energy could have negative impacts on human health if it gave rise to incompatible landuses; however application of development management, impact assessments and national guidelines should avoid this issue.


Overall, positive permanent impacts associated with public transport policies, walking and cycling. In addition mobility management policies have positive permanent impacts on population and health. The integration of land use and transport (STAP-03) and reference to national policy such as Smarter Travel (STAP-01) promote a modal shift to more sustainable transport patterns, and this generates positive impacts on human health and population generally. Long term positive human health impacts are identified in relation to water services, waste management, energy efficiency of homes and commitments regarding the general protection of water resources. The provision of a range of policies relating to flood risk management based on quality flood risk data will also provide positive impacts to human health and population. In turn, these impact positively on the general population of the county (EP-01-24 inclusive).


All Retail and Town Centre Policies are identified as positive for population and human health; namely due to promotion of viable town centres with services, retail activities promoted in appropriate locations and settlements (eg RTCP-16), and reuse of derelict or obsolete sites in town centres.


Again, positive permanent impacts for population in relation to housing provision for all sectors of society. Encouraging the establishment of sustainable residential communities and facilitating needs of socially excluded groups including traveller accommodation. Additionally, provision of community facilities in town centre or within established residential areas promotes accessible facilities and indirect impacts arise on human health if this results in more pedestrian or cycle access to such facilities.


Protection of biodiversity resources will have positive impacts due to promoting ecological functionality with accompanying benefits to human health and sustainable communities.


Public right of way policies such as PROW-01 will enhance access and recreation opportunities and can have positive human health impacts.

Policies for Areas of High Amenity and Landscape are generally found to have positive impacts on population and human health SEOS, principally related to cultural identity, character and sense of place.

Finally, largely positive impacts associated with these policies and objectives in particular the

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promotion of cultural heritage. Long term positive impacts associated with supporting and enhancing these resources.


Most policies and objectives generate positive impacts on population and human health as they promote appropriate development on suitably zoned lands.

7.4 Soil and Geology Significant Impacts The intensification of the town centre, reuse of existing building stock, promotion of brownfield and infill sites, waste management, amenity and green infrastructure all offer positive impacts associated with the soil and geology objectives. Soil quality and function may be enhanced through particular measures associated with water quality and landuse and achieving the Water Framework Directive Objectives. The quality of groundwater is directly related to soil quality and landuse, and abstraction of geological and soil resources can also affect the water table over time.

Potential permanent adverse impacts arise if extensive residential development and major infrastructural developments occurs on Greenfield sites, or extraction of peat and gravel is not carefully managed.

Table 7.3 Soil and Geology OCDP Volume I

Chapter Title

Geology Impacts


Overall, positive impacts associated with sustainable development of the county through the Core Strategy Objectives.

Potential adverse impacts on soil and geology are associated with new housing development if it results in Greenfield development with accompanying loss of soil and sealing of soil. For many of the policies and objectives the impacts are otherwise identified as being addressed through mitigation.


Potential adverse impacts relate to new developments and require mitigation at site level. However, focus on concentrating enterprise activities in centres will likely have positive impacts on soil and geology due to reuse of brownfield sites, and opportunity for public transport and more sustainable transport options thus reducing need for additional road infrastructure.

EntO-05 (Peatlands) is recommended for mitigation to enhance sustainable management of peatlands.

RDP- 01 (agriculture) and 10 (forestry) can be beneficial for soil maintenance if sustainably

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approached and managed.

Potential adverse impacts identified pertain to new developments and mitigation is required through adherence to development management guidelines.


All impacts for this chapter on Soil and Geology are considered to be mitigated through development management and control. Uncertain impacts are identified for EP-06 as location and type of energy production not yet determined.


Principal impacts are associated at site level relating to transport and can be mitigated through development control and management guidelines. Greenfield development for infrastructure generates permanent negative impacts. However, flood risk management and protection and enhancement of open space and corridors can also indirectly impact positively on soil function and integrity.

EP-03 Groundwater and source protection zones will result in positive impacts on groundwater quality and function and indirectly on soil quality as it strictly regulates land uses in these areas. Maintaining ecological status of water bodies will impact indirectly on soil function and protection which is positive.

Waste management policies can also impact positively on soil through reduction of materials to landfill and recycling of construction and demolition waste.

Flood Risk Management Policies can also result in positive soil and geology impacts through avoidance of development activities in known flood risk areas.


RTCP 17 and 18 relate to reuse of buildings and infill sites; these are identified as positive in relation to soil and geology as they reuse existing structures or brownfield sites.

For other policies and objectives in this chapter, impacts are identified as likely to be mitigated.


Impacts on soil and geology may arise in relation to provision of new facilities but focus on concentrating such activities within town centre/residential areas assists in reducing potential impacts, many such impacts would be mitigated through the planning regime



NHP 14, 15, 16 and 22 are identified as positive for these SEOs as they aim to protect geological resources and features such as mushroom stones; NHP-22 supports a geopark designation for the eskers In the northern part of the county.

Cultural heritage policies are identified as largely neutral to positive impacts on soil and geology, though reuse and promotion of existing buildings enhances soil and geology resources by avoiding new development and resource use – see AAH-02.

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Chapter Nine Development Management

Key permanent impacts would arise in relation to soil and development on greenfield sites with accompanying sealing of soil and loss of soil function. The focus of the plan on town intensification and settlements assists in reducing these impacts overall. For greenfield developments or other developments many impacts may be mitigated against at project level; nonetheless, greenfield development does represent permanent loss of soil in that particular area. Should a new EU Soil Directive be adopted, this will have positive implications for soil management generally.

7.5 Water - Significant Impacts The general impacts associated with water (and frequently biodiversity) include:

• A reduction in water quality in groundwater, springs and watercourses associated with the construction phase of new developments (short to medium term impacts);

• Surface water runoff from impermeable surfaces leading to reduced water quality in groundwater springs or surface waters affecting qualifying habitats and species downstream(impacts can range from short to long term);

• Changes in the flow rate of watercourses arising from an increased footprint of impermeable surfaces within the Plan area - increasing the extent of impermeable surfaces will result in a decrease in infiltration and an increase in runoff;

• Inadequate wastewater treatment resulting in pollution of groundwater springs or surface watercourses;

• Generally, landuse practices can result in water quality impacts and whilst surface water impacts may be identified quickly, impacts to groundwater can take much longer to ascertain due to the slow recharge rate of this water resource;

• Interruptions in hydrological regimes, particularly in wetlands and peatlands that can have direct impacts on biodiversity, and

• Water quality impacts can also have human health impacts in the case where bacterial or chemical contamination arises, this is more of a risk for private wells.

There are a range of policies and objectives developed for the OCDP that aim to specifically address the issues discussed above, including Policies WSP -01 to 09 General Water Policies.

The protection of groundwater and aquifers are also provided for through EP-03 and objectives EO -02 and EO- 03. More positive permanent impacts are associated with indirect policies including wildlife corridors, open space provision and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems. The recognition of the WFD and its roles and responsibilities currently act as a key driver toward long term positive impacts for water quality and water management generally. Whilst capacity of drinking water supplies is not identified as a concern for most settlements in the county, there is no spare capacity at Clonbulloge, Coolderry, Kilcormac whilst Tullamore has marginal capacity. Table 7.4 summarises the significant impacts for each chapter in relation to water resources.

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Table 7.4 Water Impacts OCDP Volume I

Chapter Title

Water Impacts


Largely positive impacts associated with reference to national and regional guidelines and plans. Specific reference to Core Strategy and Development Management Guidelines of County Development Plan offer considerable protection of water resources through development control. Additional mitigation measures through new policies are recommended to strengthen overall environmental management and development approach.

Potential adverse impacts on water resources are associated with new housing development or cumulative impacts on ground and surface water in the absence of sufficient infrastructure or inadequate capacity. However a number of Core Strategy Policies address appropriately scaled residential development within the core strategy and settlement hierarchy. The commitment to monitor residential development in Policy CSP-05 provides for ongoing assessment of range and scale of residential development within the County. Ongoing monitoring of rural housing and water quality impacts will be necessary to avoid un sustainable management of water extraction, wastewater infrastructure and monitoring of environmental impacts.

Population increases both within the plan area and neighbouring areas may increase pressure on drinking water and surface water infrastructure. However, as stated in Section 7.3 a range of policies and objectives have been developed to address these issues.


Provision of new facilities, construction activities and increased demand for potable water and wastewater treatment are identified as potential adverse impacts in relation to new facilities but are likely to be mitigated through development management and control at site level.

Enterprise Policies and Objectives. For certain policies, uncertain impacts are identified due to the type of development applications that may arise. Notwithstanding that, the overall focus of these policies are on promoting enterprise based on the settlement hierarchy which consolidates existing settlements where existing infrastructure is monitored and maintained.

Rural Development policies are generally positive or mitigated through Development management as they promote sustainable agricultural practices. However RDP- 15 is recommended for additional mitigation to protect water resources, as is RDP-17 in relation to peatlands. RDO-04 specifically references the Water Framework Directive and Nitrates Directive further strengthening water quality resources.

Tourism policies are identified as being mitigated through development management and policies within this section support proper planning and protection of resources. TO-05 relates to a peatlands strategy so hydrological impacts should be carefully considered within such a strategy and a mitigation measure is proposed for this objective.

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Promotion of renewable energy and support for reduction in greenhouse gases will have positive long term effects on biodiversity although meaningful change is more appropriate at national level for greenhouse gas reduction. Notwithstanding that, local air quality may improve and this could have indirect positive impacts on biodiversity soil and water resources.

If not managed and assessed properly renewable energy could have negative impacts on water resources, especially if developed on deep peat areas where natural water regime could be disturbed. EP- 02 is recommended for mitigation to enhance protection of environmental resources.


Infrastructural development can impact adversely due to potential impacts on water quality, disruption of water hydrology, increased surface run off and complex interactions between impacts on soil and biodiversity. Such impacts may be medium to permanent. For many of the policies and objectives impacts are identified as being mitigated through development management. A number of objectives are identified as having minor or no impact on water quality for example STAP-12 (provision of bus shelters)

As for biodiversity, cumulative impacts may arise over the lifetime of the OCDP if the range of road projects particularly new construction are realized.eg STAO -11(regional roads) These would contribute to overall loss of greenfield soils and increase in impermeable surfaces. However, it is considered that other Water Services Policies and Objectives within this chapter should apply sufficient protection to ensure this is avoided.

Generally, all of the policies and objectives contained in Water Services Section of this chapter provide stronger commitments to improving overall water quality and management in the plan area, and thus are identified as generating positive impacts on water resources. A small number are recommended for mitigation to further strengthen water protection.

The policies and objectives contained in the Environment Section are identified as supporting water resources or can be addressed through mitigation at development management level. The specific policies on climate change and high status waters are noted. EP- 18 to 24 all relate to flood risk assessment and management, and the implementation of these should further protect water resources. The application of SUDs for new development should have a combined positive effect on water percolating through soil and reducing overall surface run off.


Policies and objectives for this chapter are identified as likely to be mitigated, again through development control. However, the focus on concentrating retail activities in town centres and promoting the viability of town centres will likely have positive indirect impacts on water resources due to existing water and wastewater infrastructure being present and prioritising improvement works to existing settlements.

Chapter Six Community, Social and Cultural

Certain policies such as CSCP-02 are neutral or unlikely to interact with water resources; provision of new facilities, construction activities and increased demand for potable water and wastewater treatment are identified as potential adverse impacts in relation to new

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Development

facilities but are likely to be mitigated through the development management process and control at site level.


Policies NHP-01 to NHP-06 in particular are identified as generating positive impacts on the water resources of the county. NHP10 specifically conserves and enhances a number of water resources and features in the county. Due to the close relationship between biodiversity and water, many of the impacts discussed in Table 7.1 apply here.

The important ecological role of peatlands and other wetlands are also acknowledged through a number of policies in this chapter (NHP-11 for example).


Policies for Areas of High Amenity and Landscape are generally found to have positive impacts on water SEOS, principally indirect and cumulative due to the focus being on preservation –there is commonly a cross over between areas of high biodiversity value and high amenity eg; Callows, Eskers, Slieve Blooms.

Archaeological and architectural policies and objectives: Many impacts identified in relation to these policies are neutral or likely to be addressed through development control. Many do not relate directly to water resources as the focus is largely cultural heritage.


For most of the impacts identified on water resources, these will be addressed through development management and control. Moreover the implementation of other policies in the OCDP particularly those in chapters one and chapter four will strengthen protection of water resources and landuse management.

7.6 Climate and Air Quality - Significant Impacts Overall the draft OCDP policies and objectives will have significant beneficial impacts on air quality. County Offaly does not suffer from poor air quality generally although there may be localised issues arising from transport. Energy related carbon dioxide emissions indicate that the transport sector is the single greatest contributor to energy related carbon dioxide emissions. There will be significant benefits relating to air quality and climatic factors due to the development of a number of specific policies/objectives addressing these issues. Some short-term impacts on climatic factors will occur (particularly in relation to the emissions of greenhouse gases and use of energy) as a result of increased development and construction however these are considered to be short-term impacts and can generally be mitigated against. Again, positive impacts are identified for Air Quality and Climate associated with policies and objectives such as enhanced transport policies and promoting alternative transport methods eg. STAP -04 (modal shift). The policy focus on addressing climate change (EP-01) energy efficiency and buildings (EO-10) is

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also identified as being positive for air quality and climate SEOs. Table 7.5 summarises key impacts relating to Climate and Air Quality.

Table 7.5 Climate and Air Quality Impacts OCDP Volume I

Chapter Title

Climate and Air Quality Impacts


Generally positive impacts associated with sustainable development of settlements, promotion of public transport, walking and cycling.


EntP- 04 and 08 are identified as generating positive impacts in relation to AQ1 as they promote local based enterprise and reduced commuting. Other impacts identified as being likely to be mitigated through existing development management guidelines. EntO- 05 (development of peatlands) and RDP- 17 are recommended for mitigation in part due to carbon storage function of peatlands and requirement for their sustainable ongoing development/management.


Impacts on soil and geology are identified as being addressed through mitigation.


Overall, positive permanent impacts for air quality associated with public transport policies, and encouraging modal shift to more sustainable transport options, eg: STAP 01 – STAP 13.

Indirect long term positive impacts for policies relating to efficiency and capacity of roads as greater traffic congestion results in higher fuel consumption and therefore greenhouse gases.

Long term positive air quality impacts are identified in relation to Policy EP -01, EP -05 and EP -06.


Largely neutral, however by promoting the town centres, and reuse of existing structures, this has an indirect positive impact on air quality and climate by reducing need for new development and associated greenhouse gas emissions.


Neutral impacts associated with these policies and objectives. However where policies promote provision of services close to/adjoining existing population centres, this can indirectly result in less vehicular traffic and has indirect positive local impacts on air quality.


Long term positive impacts associated with policies such as NHP-08 which promotes tree planting as these contribute to better air quality and assist in CO2 take up. Other positive policies include NHP- 10, NHP- 11 and NHP- 12.

Indirect positive impacts are associated with high quality biodiversity functions and air

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quality.


Policy LUZP 01 promotes sequential development. This will have indirect positive impacts if it results in modal shift in transport patterns around settlements and makes public transport considerations more viable. This has been recommended for mitigation to further strengthen environmental protection.

For other policies and objectives impacts can be addressed through development management.

7.7 Material Assets - Significant Impacts The Flood Risk Management policies and objectives are developed in response to the flood risk assessment work and strengthen the overall policy response to flood risk in the plan area. Impacts associated with flooding include:

• Impacts on people and communities – Flooding can cause physical injury, illness and loss of life. Deep, fast flowing or rapidly rising flood waters can be particularly dangerous;

• Floodwater contaminated by sewage or other pollutants (e.g. chemicals stored in garages or commercial properties) is particularly likely to cause such illnesses, either directly as a result of contact with the polluted floodwater or indirectly as a result of sediments left behind;

• Flood water may also hide other hazards for wading pedestrians, such as manhole openings where the covers have been lifted by flood flows;

• Impacts on Infrastructure - The damage flooding can cause to businesses and infrastructure, such as transport or utilities like electricity and water supply can have significant detrimental impacts on local and regional economies;

• Flooding of primary roads or railways can deny access to large areas beyond those directly affected by the flooding for the duration of the flood event, as well as causing damage to the road or railway itself. Flooding of water distribution infrastructure such as pumping stations or of electricity sub-stations can result in loss of water or power supply over large areas. This can magnify the impact of flooding well beyond the immediate community;

• The long-term closure of businesses, for example, can lead to job losses and other economic impacts, and

• Impacts on the environment - Significant detrimental environmental effects of flooding can include soil erosion, bank erosion, land sliding and damage to vegetation as well as the impacts on water quality, habitats and flora and fauna caused by bacteria and other pollutants carried by flood water. Flooding can however play a beneficial role in natural habitats. Many wetland habitats are dependent on annual flooding for their sustainability and can contribute to the storage of flood waters to reduce flood risk elsewhere.

Flood risk management policies such as EP- 18 (Flooding and Flood Risk) are identified as generating positive impacts. In addition, as will be discussed in the land use zoning discussion, the application of the SFRA for County Offaly during the development of the draft OCDP has resulted in the avoidance (where possible) of intensive and unsuitable development activities in areas identified as flood risk zones A or B. Due to fluvial flood risk representing the greatest flood risk in the county and the historical siting of settlements along the river, existing development including residential dwellings remain in flood risk zones so these must be managed in the future in accordance with the guidelines.

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Policy EP-19 supports the implementation of the Planning System and Flood Risk Management, Guidelines to Planning Authorities 2009. These guidelines provide for additional identification of flood risk and mitigation measures of same; therefore this increases overall flood risk management in the plan area. Flood risk management is further enhanced through EP- 20, EP- 21 and EP -22. The SEA has also integrated the SFRA findings and assessed the landuse zonings from a flood risk management perspective to ensure that inappropriate new zonings do not apply. Wastewater and Potable Infrastructure and Management in the county are a critical component of the SEA assessment. A range of policies are included in the draft OCDP that support water quality and water management, for example EP - 02, WSP -11, and WSP-12. More positive permanent impacts are associated with indirect policies including Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems and the provision for green infrastructure throughout the plan area. The recognition of the WFD and its roles and responsibilities currently act as a key driver toward long term positive impacts for water quality and water management generally. Waste management is very site specific and can be difficult to assess at strategic level. Careful storage and treatment of excavated soils can mean their reinstatement post construction which contributes to a neutral impact. Recycling facilities provision for larger residential developments and commercial developments (EP- 14) and Waste Management Plans at application stage (EP- 13) also create positive impacts for some of the Material Assets SEOs. Noise, energy efficiency and renewable energy are all addressed through specific policies and objectives including EP- 16 Noise, and a range of policies including EP-05 and EO-10. For transport, policies and objectives of particular relevance include STAP- 01 Sustainable Transport and Accessibility, STAP -03 Landuse and Transportation Integration and STAP- 04 Trip Generation/Modal Shift. These are identified as generating positive impacts for a number of SEOs including population and human health, air quality and climate and sustainable transport. STAO- 11 is recommended for mitigation. Several transport policies and objectives (in particular public transport and walking and cycling) create positive impacts as they support more sustainable transport options with cumulative and in combination positive impacts relating to human health, biodiversity and air quality. Table 7.6 summarises impacts on material assets SEOs from the draft OCDP.

Table 7.6 Material Assets Impacts OCDP Volume I

Chapter Title

Material Assets Impacts


Generally positive impacts associated with sustainable development of settlements, promotion of public transport, walking and cycling. .

Overall, the promotion of higher densities can have positive impacts in relation to transport, for other material assets the impacts are generally associated with project level mitigation.

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EntP-04 is identified as generating positive impacts in relation to Mat 7 as it promotes local based enterprise and reduced commuting. Other impacts identified as being likely to be mitigated through existing development management guidelines.

RDP-01 concerns sustainable agriculture and this generates positive indirect impacts on Mat 1 (flooding SEO) as agricultural landuse is considered appropriate in flood zone areas.

RDP-08 and 09 (renewable energy) is identified as positive for Mat 6 SEO.

RDP-16 generates positive impacts for Mat 3 as it avoids incompatible residential and quarrying land uses and potential noise nuisance

EntO- 05 (development of peatlands) and RDP-17 are recommended for mitigation in part due to carbon storage function of peatlands and requirement for their sustainable ongoing development/management.


EP- 02 is recommended for mitigation to strengthen overall environmental protection. Otherwise these policies are positive for Mat 6.


Flooding: The application of the flood management guidelines in EP- 18 and supporting policies and objectives should result in enhancing Mat 1.

Wastewater: Policies WSP -11,12 and 13 will all enhance Mat 2 and Mat 4.

Energy: EP- 05 is identified as positive for Mat 6, other policies are likely to be addressed through development management. .

Waste: EP -08, 09 and 14 are positive for Mat 6; other policies in this chapter are considered to be addressed through development management.

Transport: a number of policies/objectives are identified as having a long term positive impact on the transport EPO by promoting a modal change to more sustainable forms of transport via smart travel, better public transport provision, walking and cycling facilities. In turn, such a modal shift would result in positive impacts on energy and greenhouse gas emission reductions. Overall, positive permanent impacts for associated with public transport policies, and encouraging modal shift to more sustainable transport options, eg: STAP 01 – STAP 13.


Policies RTCP -03, 04, 14 and 15 are positive for Mat 7 as they promote compact town centres and retail uses in appropriate location, this generates positive indirect permanent impacts for sustainable transport if it reduces car dependency and increases viability of public transport options. Generally sustainable transport is promoted indirectly through the policies and objectives in this chapter; for other Material Assets impacts are identified as being mitigated.

Chapter Six Community, Social and Cultural

Where policies promote provision of community services close to existing settlements (eg CSCP- 04) or integrate landuse and transport, positive impacts are identified for the sustainable transport SEO. Most impacts for material assets in this section are identified as

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Development likely to conflict with SEOs but mitigated. In this instance many of the potential impacts and mitigation are more suitable for assessment at project or site level.


Indirect positive impacts on flood risk management arise due to recognition of wetland landscapes (NHP-01) and protection of wetlands (NHP-10)

Green infrastructure policies and objectives generate positive impacts across all SEOs


All of the impacts identified on material assets, these will be addressed through development management and control. Moreover the implementation of other policies in the OCDP particularly those in chapters one and chapter four will strengthen protection of water resources and landuse management.

7.8 Cultural Heritage - Significant Impacts Overall the impacts of the draft OCDP are long term and positive in relation to cultural heritage due to the recognition of the value of County Offaly’s heritage and the range of cultural heritage features including built heritage, natural heritage and landscapes.

Potential cultural heritage impacts arise once more in relation to transport and landuse, though should any large infrastructural projects be proposed, they will be subject to project level assessment and therefore are not considered significant at strategic level. The erosion of vernacular architecture and features over time is a longer term cumulative impact, as is potential climate change impacts on built heritage with a number of important sites located in flood plains. Application of flood risk management guidelines and promotion of heritage awareness plus reuse of older buildings can contribute to addressing these issues.

Archaeology

Overall, impacts on archaeology are positive in light of a number of specific policies addressing a range of archaeological resources. Potential negative impacts may arise on new developments or infrastructural developments but generally these can be mitigated through the planning process. The county a supports a very rich archaeological record and a range of specific objectives recognise this, including policies AAH -17, 18 and 19.

Architecture

Architectural heritage impacts can be associated with negative long term impacts on the setting of protected structures or construction damage to protected structures such as gate entrances, or bridges. The built heritage of County Offaly is important and contributes to the sense of place and local identity so a range of policies and objectives in Architectural Heritage Policies and objectives generate positive impacts. In addition indirect positive impacts arise on cultural heritage through a range of related landscape and natural heritage policies. Table 7.7 summarises the key impacts on cultural heritage.

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Table 7.7 Cultural Heritage Impacts OCDP Volume I

Chapter Title

Cultural Heritage Impacts


Generally positive impacts associated with sustainable development of town, focus on quality of life and environmental resources.

SSP- 03 recommended for mitigation to enhance design for new developments.

SSP- 12 is positive for cultural heritage as it recognizes and promotes heritage features.


Impacts identified range from likely to be mitigated if new development occurs to uncertain impacts. The consolidation of the town centre for services again supports reuse of brownfield sites and averts Greenfield site development which is a positive impact as it avoids potential disturbance to unknown archaeological resources.

RDP- 07 has indirect positive impacts on cultural heritage as it promotes conversion of redundant farm buildings.

RDP-10 is recommended for mitigation to ensure forestry development is in line with Forestry Service Guidelines (that address archaeology and landscape)


Energy policies are identified as being addressed through development management for cultural heritage.


Large infrastructural developments associated with road schemes or transport infrastructure may impact negatively on the setting of built heritage or provide excavation opportunities for archaeological resources. Again, such impacts are likely to be mitigated through the planning process and project assessments. The provision of cycling and walking facilities provide for positive indirect impacts through greater access, enjoyment and participation of cultural heritage and facilities.

Cultural heritage impacts are identified as largely neutral impacts in relation to policies and objectives proposed for utility and environmental infrastructure. Site specific impacts may occur in relation to infrastructure provision but would be addressed at site level and through the development management process

STAO- 19 promotes the retention of buildings and infrastructure associated with railway lines


Policies RTCP 03, 04, 14 and 17 are positive for cultural heritage SEOs as they promote compact town centres , reuse of buildings and require new development to reflect urban character

Chapter Six Community, Social

Generally, neutral impacts associated with these policies; however site level impacts for new developments will be captured by individual assessments

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and Cultural Development


Largely neutral impacts in relation to natural heritage policies and objectives; however, Policies NHP- 06 (landscapes) and NHP-08 (treescape) often contribute to overall setting of cultural heritage features so are identified as positive impacts on cultural heritage. Overall, positive long term impacts associated with archaeological and architectural policies in this chapter.


Cultural heritage impacts are identified as being mitigated for all policies and objectives in this chapter. Again, other policies particularly those in Chapter Seven will ensure appropriate protection of cultural heritage resources in the county.

7.9 Landscape - Significant Impacts Overall some positive impacts are associated with new policies and objectives that promote key landscape resources, identify key viewpoints and settings and promote landscape character and built environment. The focus on design statements for developments (SSP 12 (f) and RTCP 15), enhancing sense of place and high quality urban realm provides further positive impacts for the county’s landscape resources.

Cumulative impacts are a particular issue in relation to landscape character, and the degradation and weakening of landscape character over time can create negative long term impacts. The topography and historical character of Offaly combines to create a strong landscape character and identity so the adherence to, and implementation of, landscape policies such as LAP- 01 and LAP- 04 are important to protect the landscape resources of the area. The commitment to preparing a full Landscape Character Assessment over the lifetime of the plan is important as it will provide a useful baseline description for the landscape of the county and ensure landscape impacts are more easily assessed at strategic and project level. Table 7.8 summarises key landscape impacts.

Table 7.8 Landscape Impacts OCDP Volume I

Chapter Title

Landscape Impacts


Generally positive impacts associated with sustainable development of Offaly, focus on good quality designs and environmental resources. SSP -03 and SSP- 07 recommended for mitigation to enhance landscape resources.

SSP-12 (g) positive for landscape as it relates to good quality design and use of appropriately qualified landscape professionals.

Chapter Two: Enterprise and

Impacts identified range from likely to be mitigated if new development occurs to uncertain impacts.

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Economic Activity- RDP-01 has indirect positive impacts on landscape as it promotes sustainable agricultural practices thereby maintaining the rural landscape character of much of the county. RDP-10 is recommended for mitigation for application of forestry service guidelines for landscape.

TO- 02 relates to tourism signage strategy and the implementation of good quality design will enhance rather than detract from landscape character.


EP-08 requires explicit consideration of landscape for energy related infrastructure and this is identified as positive for landscape SEOs.

Other energy policies are identified as being addressed through development management for landscape SEOs.


Large infrastructural development can impact adversely due to changes in landscape character and views. Site specific mitigation measures through development management can contribute to managing this change.

CIP- 03 addresses visual impacts of telecommunications so is identified as promoting protection of landscape resources.

Longer term indirect positive impacts on landscape quality can arise due to appropriate management and good quality of related environmental services including water quality and biodiversity.


Policies RTCP- 12, 13, 14 and 15 are positive for landscape SEOs as they promote high quality urban design, relationship with local setting, contribution to village character and design statements.


Again potential adverse impacts arise in relation to provision of new facilities, but neutral impacts identified for landscape for a range of policies and objectives. CSCP-10 (open space), CSCP-19 and CSCP- 20 (arts and culture) generate positive impacts on landscape resources through promotion of green space and arts and design projects within the county.


All the landscape and amenity policies and objectives generate positive long term impacts of landscape character and quality.

Other natural and cultural heritage policies also contribute to positive impacts on landscape resources as they related to features or elements of the landscape; these include:

NHO -04 (tree survey), NHO -08 (geological features) and many architectural and archaeological policies and objectives.


Landscape impacts will be mitigated through development management and control and a range of supporting policies particularly the landscape and amenity policies in Chapter Seven.

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7.10 Potential Significant Impacts from Wind Energy52 Wind farm developments are commonly composed of a number of activities and features. Often the critical environmental impacts are associated with the construction stage of the development. Through careful siting and design, informed by environmental constraints mapping, there is considerable scope to avoid significant impacts. The following section discusses significant environmental impacts that can occur in relation to wind energy developments. This presumes a ‘worst case scenario’ and in the absence of the policies and objectives that are contained in the OCDP. It is worth noting that many impacts are site specific and difficult to quantify at strategic level. Table 7.9 highlights such impacts.

Table 7.9 Summary of significant environmental impacts associated with wind energy in absence of mitigation Environmental Parameter Potential Significant Impacts Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna •Direct loss of habitat to the developments’ infrastructure -

This can be a permanent impact •Loss or deterioration of habitat can result in direct or indirect loss of species of flora or fauna, or reduction in populations, displacement of fauna or introduction and spread of non native species. •Degradation of habitats through alteration or disturbance, this can be a permanent direct or secondary impact •Fragmentation of habitats and increased edge effects; this can be a short to long term impact depending on the regeneration capabilities of the habitats •High flying bats/aerial feeding bats colliding with turbine blades; Nathusius pipistrelles, common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle and Leislers Bat considered to be potentially affected by wind turbines. This can be a permanent impact on individual bats and may alter commuting and foraging patterns for the remaining population leading to longer term disturbance. I • Impacts on water quality of rivers, lakes and streams • The extent to which birds will be impacted by wind energy

developments will vary depending on species, season and location, and these impacts may be temporary or permanent. Those species groups considered to be most at risk are raptors, Swans, Geese, Divers, breeding waders and concentrations of waterfowl. Potential impacts on migratory birds and local bird movements between breeding, feeding and roosting areas require careful consideration.

• In addition to the impacts identified for bird species, other species such as bats or otters could be subject to temporary to permanent impacts associated with habitat disturbance, loss of feeding grounds, declining water quality or damage to riparian zones.

Population and Human health There may be positive short term impacts on population

52 Discussion of potential significant impacts from wind energy was provided following a submission from the EPA. 180

through employment opportunities associated with the construction phase of wind farms. In addition, the leasing of land for wind farms may also bring positive benefits to owners of land utilised for wind energy developments. Positive impacts could also be associated with reduced costs of carbon taxes for the county. Human Health There may be short term construction impacts associated with construction traffic and activities including dust, noise from machines and traffic, widening or construction of access roads. Long term impacts on human health could arise from poorly sited wind farms and subsequent negative noise, shadow flicker and visual impacts. Conversely, positive impacts can arise due to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality.

Soil and Geology Impacts on these parameters can occur in particular at construction stage. Again the duration and severity would be site specific but common significant impacts would include:

• Soil pollution due to inadequate waste management, storage, spills from machinery or run off from clearfelling or agricultural activities

• Soil erosion can result from improperly managed construction works, clear felling, or poor management and treatment of excavated soils

• Quarrying and borrow pits are associated with wind farm developments at construction stage and need to be carefully and sensitively managed to minimise impacts such as soil and water pollution and run off to water resources

• Run off from soils being eroded in turn can create negative impacts on water quality and the aquatic ecosystem through increased nutrient inputs to the aquatic environment. This can lead to eutrophication of rivers and lakes.

• Peat extraction can lead to localised water problems including silt nutrient release from areas

• Clearfelling to facilitate wind energy developments may result in release of phosphorous locked into soils and this can impact on water quality.

Water Resources Potential impacts on water relate in particular to surface and groundwater. Again, water impacts are most likely to occur at construction stage, though hydrogeological impacts can occur post construction during the lifetime of the wind farm operation. Such impacts could be negative and temporary or permanent in duration depending on the extent and significance of the impact at the site level. Significant potential impacts on water are as follows •Short to medium term surface water pollution arising from drainage works, construction machinery, forestry clearance, inadequate silt traps, siltation, poor management of peat soils

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•Medium term ground water contamination due to pollution incidents from construction machinery, inadequate handling and storage of construction materials, inadequate waste storage and handling •Long term hydrogeological impacts particularly on peat soils resulting in degradation of bog system • Surface water pollution associated with run off from construction activities •Water impacts can include impacts to aquatic and wetland habitats and aquatic species •Synergistic impacts can result due to the complex relationship between water quality, biodiversity, soil function and ecological processes.

Climate and Air Quality Construction activities could negatively impact in the short term on local air quality due to machinery and traffic. More positive long term impacts could arise from a reduction in burning fossil fuels, reduction in greenhouse gases and improved air quality. Climatic factors Impacts associated with wind energy development for this parameter are likely to be long term or permanent and positive, and are all associated with an increase in renewable energy production arising from wind energy developments. The issue of constructing wind farms on peat lands and peats role as carbon sinks must be carefully considered over the lifetime of the proposed wind energy development. The multifunctional role of peatlands in terms of flood storage also requires additional consideration also

Landscape Impacts Landscape impacts associated with wind energy could include permanent impacts associated with access roads, and visual impacts associated with poorly sited and highly visible wind turbines. Significant environmental impacts could be short term such as temporary construction compounds or long term in the case of poorly sited turbines:

• Negative impacts on landscape character and visual amenity derived from poorly screened access roads

• Conversely positive visual impacts may arise with well sited wind energy developments located within an area that has seen positive community engagement and community buy in of a project

• Negative visual impact associated with construction site works

• Negative landscape impact due to disjointed turbine design and different turbine heights

• Negative impacts associated with new pylon construction or highly visible overhead lines

• Cumulative impacts on landscape character and impacts cross county due to impacts on views across uplands or lowlands depending on siting and design.

Cultural Heritage Archaeology Impacts on archaeological resources could be long term or

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permanent if a site is wholly or partly destroyed by construction activities. Indirect impacts could occur if blasting or groundworks are undertaken without adequate geotechnical investigation of subsurface archaeological resources. Permanent impacts on the archaeological landscape of an area may occur again if archaeology is not adequately assessed initially. Architecture Architectural heritage impacts can be associated with negative long term impacts on the setting of protected structures or construction damage to protected structures such as piers, or stone cut bridges from construction machinery. In the context of County Offaly, the straightening of roads, widening of bridges or removal of stone walls could also be a permanent impact. The setting of architectural conservation areas may be negatively impacted on by poorly designed wind farms.

Material Assets Again impacts associated with construction may be short term due to transport as these impacts will principally relate to construction traffic, transporting turbines to site and transporting construction materials on site and waste materials off site. Proper design and loading of access tracks is also important as a potential impact could arise with poor loading for construction vehicles on access roads to and from a site. Waste management is very site specific and is very difficult to assess at strategic level. Careful storage and treatment of excavated soils can mean their reinstatement post construction which contributes to a neutral impact. In addition, proper waste management on site during construction and operation is important to avoid pollution incidents and cumulative impacts associated with litter and water and soil impacts from inadequate storage of materials on site. Energy impacts could be associated in the short term with the energy use involved in the construction and transport of the wind energy development which may be negative. However over the lifetime of the wind energy development it is considered that the energy balance payback for wind energy developments is a long term positive impact as long as certain issues including peatsoils and carbon sinks and flood storage are factored in and assessed. Noise impacts associated with construction may be short term but if a wind energy development were not properly designed and sited, noise impacts on residents can become an issue for residents. The draft revised noise and shadow flicker sections of the Wind Energy Guidelines address this issue and make a number of recommendations. As much of the soil within the proposed wind energy areas is composed of peat of varying depths that retains water well, there is likely to be little flood risk. However disrupting hydrological regimes around peatlands may affect the soils

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ability to retain water and flood risk may arise in relation to areas where roads are known to be subject to localised flooding.

Cumulative Cumulative impacts can arise from indirect, cumulative and impact interactions across parameters. For example, clearfelling of forestry and construction of wind energy could combine and interact to result in a range of cumulative impacts on mobile species, water quality and hence subsequent impacts on biodiversity, soil and population. Cumulative impacts can also arise from a number of wind farms in terms of landscape character and visual amenity and how they interact together. The capacity of the landscape to accommodate different scales of development can assist in assessing these impacts.

Cross county Impacts53 Cross county impacts could arise in relation to water quality and subsequent impacts on biodiversity and fisheries, soil and population. Trans boundary impacts could also arise in relation to landscape given midlands location of County Offaly, surrounded by six other counties, the clustering of wind energy development and the height of commercial turbines currently.

7.11 Volume 2 Settlements Volume II of the OCDP is composed of plans for 51 settlements (21 no. village plans and 25 no. Sráid plans) in addition to five no. listed town plans (Banagher, Clara, Daingean, Ferbane and Kilcormac). Landuse zoning plans are presented for Towns and Villages, whilst the sráids do not include landuse zoning.

Policy and objectives are prepared for the five town plans along with the landuse zonings are all assessed in detail in Annex B of this SEA ER. The purpose of this section is to summarise and discuss the principal impacts associated with the different landuse zonings proposed.

7.12 General Discussion of Zonings The following Table 7.9 presents data on the total landuse zonings in the adopted OCDP. Total landuse zonings for the County are calculated to be 1,160.65 ha out of a total land area of 20,000 ha. Clearly the total land area includes peatlands, floodplains, uplands and areas under agricultural production and forestry.

53 Cross county impacts were inserted following submissions from Westmeath County Council and Meath County Council

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Table 7.9 Landuse Zonings in adopted OCDP

Plan Zoning Total Zoned

Land (developed & undeveloped) (Ha)

Residential 456.93

Open space 250.62

Public/Community/Educational 116.04

Local Employment/services 106.38

Business/employment 90.52

Town Centre/mixed use 51.25

Village centre/mixed use 55.27

Industrial 33.64

Total 1160.65

The elements of the Plan that have the potential to negatively affect European Sites are outlined in full in the accompanying Natura Impact Report. The main elements of the draft Plan with the potential to result in such impacts relate to the zoning of development land-use in undeveloped sites close to or part of European Sites, the development of infrastructure such as the Relief Road or energy infrastructure and the pressures associated with the adequate supply of water throughout the lifetime of the Plan.

The general impacts (in the absence of mitigation measures) to the qualifying interests of European Sites associated with elements of the Plan will include:

• A reduction in water quality in surface waters associated with the construction phase of new developments, surface water runoff from impermeable surfaces and the use of the River Shannon as a tourist and amenity attraction.

• Inadequate wastewater (i.e. sewer) collection system resulting in pollution of surface watercourses and groundwaters.

• Unsustainable abstraction of water from surface and groundwaters leading to the drawdown of baseline water levels.

• Disturbance to qualifying habitats and species from increased human presence particularly associated with tourism and amenity activity on the River Shannon, Brosna and Slieve Blooms.

The following section discusses the impacts associated with each zoning proposed for the plan area.

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7.12.1 Residential Zonings The Core Strategy in the plan has identified a target population 90,445 persons for County Offaly to 2020, which results in a requirement for 456 ha of zoned land for residential purposes. The settlement hierarchy and direction of residential development to towns and villages in particular accounts for this zoning. The rural housing policies have been strengthened further to ensure local need is a key criterion for all rural housing applications in the county over the plan period. The residential landuse zonings in Vol II of the draft CDP are infill sites, or greenfield sites adjoining either the town centre or adjoining existing residential uses (eg: Daingean Town Plan, Ballinagar Village Plan). Water supply issues arise for Kilcormac, Coolderry and Clonbullogue (no spare capacity). In terms of wastewater services, Daingean is operating at capacity and Geashill wastewater treatment has exceeded its design capacity; these issues will require addressing in advance of residential development being facilitated through the OCDP. Most of the impacts identified for residential development zones are identified as being mitigated at project level through development management. Positive impacts were identified for population and human health, plus a number of material assets such as Mat 1 (flood risk) and Mat 7 (sustainable transport). Section 5.2.1 of the Natura Impact Report of the draft OCDP provides additional information on the habitats and potential impacts on Natura 2000 sites from residential (and other zonings) for a number of towns and villages in the county.

7.12.2 Open Space The next largest zoning relates to Open Space at 250.62 ha. Many of these areas are composed of small areas that have either been zoned following the Flood Risk Assessment or are areas of existing open green space associated with residential development. Impacts identified with such zonings include disturbance to species through increased access and accompanying noise or human presence. However, the land use matrix has curtailed a range of potential uses for this zoning and a limited number of uses are open for consideration (outdoor playgrounds/open space being the only use permitted in principle). The uses include agricultural buildings, cultural facilities, bring banks, and recreational/cultural facilities.. Generally, for most of the small zonings, impacts were neutral or positive for a range of parameters including cultural heritage (neutral), population and human health (positive), soil (positive) and landscape (positive).

7.12.3 Public/Community/Education Public/Community/education lands are largely concentrated close to the existing town or village centre, frequently adjoining the town/village centre zonings. This often confirms existing use commonly schools or churches but in some settlements provision has been made for adjoining lands to be zoned to allow for future expansion of the facility eg: Cloneygowan Village Plan.

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Other undeveloped lands zoned for this use are close to the town/village centre where possible to facilitate and promote town/village centre viability and easy access to these facilities for inhabitants of the settlement.

The range of uses permitted in principle for community facilities include bring banks, cemeteries, schools, cultural uses, community centres, hospitals and swimming pools. Again on undeveloped lands, negative impacts are identified for biodiversity and soil due to development on greenfield sites, but for many SEOs these can be mitigated through development management and relevant policies and objectives in the draft Plan. Positive impacts are identified for population and human health, transport and air quality for these zonings.

7.12.4 Local Employment/Services Local employment/services lands are distributed throughout the village plans in the draft OCDP. The use of land as ‘Local Employment/Services Lands’ shall be taken to include the use of land within villages to which no specific preferred land use is being assigned but to where distinct development opportunities exist to provide development that contributes positively to the location or to a wider area. Within this zoning, therefore, appropriate development proposals for any type of land use set out in the matrix in Table 8.3 is open to consideration, subject to site suitability and consideration of impacts (if any) on the amenities and character of the village, amenities of adjacent or adjoining residential properties and the development potential of adjacent or adjoining lands. The priority will be to ensure that the existing character of the settlement is maintained by a high standard of design, and where possible, be reinforced further whilst also seeking to support and strengthen the service base. The range of impacts will vary according to the potential use; however for most of the SEOs, the impacts are considered to be addressed through mitigation at development management level.

7.12.5 Business/ Employment This zoning principally relates to the town plans such as Clara, Ferbane and Daingean. Shinrone and Cloghan are the only villages that contain this zoning and both are small parcels of land. Again, for many EPOs this zoning was identified as presenting impacts that can be mitigated, principally through development management and policies and objectives contained in the OCDP.

7.12.6 Town Centre/Mixed Use The town centre zonings are concentrated in the existing centre of towns, confirming existing and established landuses. Whilst there is generally little greenfield land identified for this zoning, many of the town centre structures are established a considerable time so have a number of backlands or areas that could be expanded to the rear of the town centre. For much of this zoning, the lands are established urban areas; the main undeveloped land zoned town centre are these backland areas composed of improved grassland, or built surfaces.

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Whilst many SEOs for these zonings were found to be mitigated through development control, positive impacts were identified for population and human health, and material assets, namely sustainable transport and air quality.

7.12.7 Village Centre/Mixed Use These may be considered similar to the above town centre/mixed use but apply to the village plans only.

7.12.8 Industrial Four towns in the County support industrial zonings – Banagher (16.38ha), Clara (9.91 ha), Daingean (4.62) and Shannonbridge (1.64). These all relate to existing industrial uses with the exception of an infill area in the industrial zoning in Daingean. This undeveloped land is characterised by improved agricultural grassland with treeline and hedgerow boundaries. At its closest this undeveloped land is located 80m west of the River Philipstown which drains into the Barrow Catchment however, buffering from the river is provided by existing built development.

The industrial landuse at Shannonbridge principally relates to existing use (peat fired station); however a small area of undeveloped land is also zoned adjoining the existing use. This is characterised by improved grassland and is buffered from the River Shannon by existing roads, cutover peat and grassland. However at a distance of approximately 400m from the River Shannon, any proposals for industrial uses on these lands would require assessment under the Habitats Directive Assessment.

Industry general, industry light, abattoirs, wholesale and civic amenity are some of the uses permitted in principle for this landuse zoning. Notwithstanding the above comment regarding Shannonbridge, impacts are identified as being addressed through development management and policies and objectives contained in the draft OCDP.

For a number of supporting policies and objectives, the SEA and HDA identified potential impacts and recommended a number of mitigation measures at this level. These are detailed in the following Chapter Eight, Mitigation Measures.

7.13 Cumulative Impacts and Interrelationships The interrelationships between environmental parameters and how they interact with each other is complex and variable. Notwithstanding that, clear relationships can be seen between water resources and a number of other parameters which serves to signify yet again the importance of water quality management and monitoring.

The relationship between biodiversity, soil and water is complex but critical. Particularly in the case of County Offaly that contains a high number of peatlands that are highly depending on the hydrological regime, the relationship is further compounded by the high level of groundwater abstraction rates in the county for private dwellings, well above the national average. Finally, Table 7.10 identifies the key interrelationships of the environmental parameters. Although all such parameters may be considered

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interrelated and may impact on each other at some level, the purpose of this table is to show the significant relationships only.

Table 7.10: Key Interrelationships of environmental parameters Topic

Biod

iver

sity

Wat

er

Soil

Land

scap

e

Cultu

ral

Herit

age

Popu

latio

n

Hum

an h

ealth

Air

Clim

atic

fa

ctor

s

Mat

eria

l As

sets

Biodiversity √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Water √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Soil √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Landscape √ √ √ √ √ √

Cultural Heritage √ √ √ √

Population √ √ √ √ √ √

Human health √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Air √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Climatic Factors √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Material Assets √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

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Chapter Eight Mitigation Measures

8.1 Introduction This chapter outlines the mitigation measures that will prevent, reduce, and offset as much as possible any significant adverse effects on the environment of the plan area resulting from the implementation of the OCDP. Section (g) of Schedule 2B of the SEA Regulations (as amended) requires: ‘The measures envisaged to prevent, reduce and as fully as possible offset any significant adverse effects on the environment of implementing the Plan’.

Mitigation involves ameliorating significant negative effects. Where the environmental assessment identifies significant adverse effects, consideration is given in the first instance to preventing such impacts or where this is not possible, to lessening or offsetting those effects. Mitigation measures can be generally divided into those that:

• Avoid effects; • Reduce the magnitude or extent, probability and/or severity of effect; • Repair effects after they have occurred, and • Compensate for effects, by balancing out negative impacts with positive ones.

In addition, many impacts will be more adequately identified and mitigated at project and EIA level. In general terms, all proposals for development will be required to have due regard to environmental considerations outlined in this Environmental Report and Natura Impact Report. Proposals for development which are deemed contrary to the environmental objectives and policies contained within the Plan will not normally be permitted, and if permitted, not without the appropriate site and development specific mitigation measures. In addition, the draft OCDP contains a Statement of Compliance that confirms compliance with Ministerial Guidelines during the preparation of the draft plan. There are also a number of overarching policies and objectives that are provided in the draft OCDP and these will ensure that any project level applications are assessed against these policies and objectives.

There are also a number of policies/objectives that are identified as potentially generating significant adverse impacts on the environment, and suggested rewording of these policies is put forward for consideration and recommended for adoption.

8.2 Mitigation Measures The following policies are recommended for inclusion as overarching policies within the draft plan and preferably within Chapter One or Chapter Four. The following Table 8.1 presents all the recommended mitigation measures for policies and objectives from the SEA and AA process to date. Where new text is proposed this is provided in Blue and Bold font. The first two mitigatory policies are new policies and are recommended for inclusion in Chapters One or Four of the draft OCDP.

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• Impact Assessments Ensure full compliance with the requirements of the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC), SEA Directive (2001/42/EC) and EIA Directive 2011/92/EU and associated legislation/regulations, including the associated European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (SI No. 477 of 2011), European Communities (Environmental Assessment of Certain Plans and Programmes) Regulations 2004-2011, Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004-2011 and the European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 1989-2011 (or any updated/superseding legislation). Planning applications for proposed developments within the Plan Area that may give rise to likely significant effects on the environment may need to be accompanied by one or more of the following: an Environmental Impact Statement, an Ecological Impact Assessment Report, a Habitats Directive Appropriate Assessment Report or a Natura Impact Statement, as appropriate. Ensure that Natura Impact Statements and any other environmental or ecological impact assessments submitted in support of proposals for development are carried out according to best practice methodologies and contain all necessary baseline assessments.

• Natural Heritage, Landscape and Environment It is the policy of Offaly County Council, to support the conservation and enhancement of natural heritage and biodiversity, including the protection of the integrity of European sites, the protection of Natural Heritage Areas and proposed Natural Heritage Areas and the promotion of the development of a green/ecological network within the Plan Area, in order to support ecological functioning and connectivity, create opportunities in suitable locations for active and passive recreation and to structure and provide visual relief from the built environment. The protection of natural heritage and biodiversity, including European sites, will be implemented in accordance with relevant EU environmental directives and applicable national legislation, policies, plans and guidelines, including the following (and any updated/superseding documents): • EU Directives, including the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC), the Birds Directive

(2009/147/EC codified version of Directive), the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive (85/337/EEC), the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) and the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive (2001/42/EC).

• National legislation, including the Wildlife Act 1976, the European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 1989 (SI No. 349 of 1989) (as amended), the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, the European Union (Water Policy) Regulations 2003 (as amended), the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477 of 2011).

• National policy guidelines, including the Landscape and Landscape Assessment Draft Guidelines 2000, the Environmental Impact Assessment Sub-Threshold Development

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Guidelines 2003, Strategic Environmental Assessment Guidelines 2004 and the Appropriate Assessment Guidelines 2010.

• Catchment and water resource management plans, including the Shannon and Eastern River Basin District Management Plan 2009-2015.

• Biodiversity plans and guidelines, including Actions for Biodiversity 2011-2016 and Ireland’s National Biodiversity Plan.

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Table 8.1: Recommended Mitigation Measures for policies and objectives in the OCDP. Reference

Original Text SEA /NIR Comment Recommended Mitigation Included in Final Plan Yes/No

Chapter 1 Section 1.4

Inserted the following text: The Core Strategy will aim to recognise at all times the requirements to avoid significant environmental effects and protect sensitive environmental receptors such as European Sites, Natural Heritage Areas as well as habitats and species of conservation concern

No. Reason: Core Strategy Strategic Objective No’s 7 and 10 address this in addition to Policies CSP-07 and CSP-08.

Table 1.5: Tier 6 Sraid and Open Countryside

The Council’s approach to encourage development within sráids could result in significant effects to surrounding European Sites

Inserted the following text to ensure that significant environmental effects will be avoided during development in sráids: including the potential for interaction with European Sites, in the sentence: Given the Sráids’ existing and envisaged scale and size, development envelopes are delineated and no formal zoning has been applied. Residential and other development which is appropriate in scale and character of the Sráid concerned, and subject to servicing, amenity and environmental limitations, including the potential for interaction with European Sites, will be encouraged within the development envelope.

Yes

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Reference


Section 1.15.2 New Residential Development

Insert the following additional criterion: The potential for the development to result in adverse environmental effects including likely significant effects to European Sites

Yes

SSP-03 It is Council policy that future residential development proposals shall be located in accordance with the provisions of the settlement hierarchy set out in the Core Strategy, and at a scale appropriate to the levels identified in the Core Strategy Table and the accompanying land use zoning maps Site identification should incorporate the following characteristics:

• Develop sequentially from the centre of existing settlements and maintain the existing pattern and character of settlements and;

• Make efficient use of existing and proposed infrastructure and;

Integrate with the existing transport network to help reduce the overall need to travel and encourage the use of alternatives to the car

To enhance compliance a number of SEOs including Biodiversity, population and human health, material assets and landscape

It is Council policy that future residential development proposals shall be located in accordance with the provisions of the settlement hierarchy set out in the Core Strategy, and at a scale appropriate to the levels identified in the Core Strategy Table and the accompanying land use zoning maps. Site identification should incorporate the following characteristics:

• Develop sequentially from the centre of existing settlements at appropriate scale and density respecting and maintain the existing pattern and character of settlements;

• Make efficient use of existing and proposed infrastructure;

• Integrate with the existing transport network to help reduce the overall need to travel and

Yes

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Reference


encourage the use of alternatives to the car.

• Respect environmental and landscape elements such as designated sites, watercourses, hedgerows, treelines and stonewalls.

SSP-07 It is Council policy to require applicants proposing large scale residential development i.e. over 50 residential units to provide a statement to assist the Planning Authority in assessing the sustainability of the proposal in the context of integrating landuse with sustainable transport. The statement must address the following

• Assessment of proximity and access to existing public transport connections and safe routes for walking and cycling to access such connections and other local amenities.

• Integration of cycling and public transport.

• How the proposed development promotes new residential and mixed-use development to take place on brownfield/existing sites to consolidate urban growth and enable organic development of urban areas from the centre out

Large scale residential developments will have the potential to result in indirect effects to European Sites located downstream or within the vicinity of such developments.

It is Council policy to require applicants proposing large scale residential development i.e. over 50 residential units to provide a statement to assist the Planning Authority in assessing the sustainability of the proposal in the context of integrating landuse with sustainable transport and avoiding deterioration of the natural environment. The statement must address the following:

• Assessment of proximity and access to existing public transport connections and safe routes for walking and cycling to access such connections and other local amenities.

• Integration of cycling and public transport.

• How the proposed development promotes new residential and

Yes

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Reference


• Ensures a general minimum housing density as advocated in the Core Strategy for urban areas of suitable size and population and higher densities where local circumstances warrant, particularly in high capacity public transport corridors.

• Addresses the specification of a maximum permitted level of car parking for commercial sites, which have suitable public transport facilities and are within walking/ cycling distance to amenities.

• The provision of a viable travel plans for larger developments.

• Incorporation of ways in which the development encourages a switch to more sustainable modes of travel

mixed-use development to take place on brownfield/existing sites to consolidate urban growth and enable organic development of urban areas from the centre out.

• Ensures a general minimum housing density as advocated in the Core Strategy for urban areas of suitable size and population and higher densities where local circumstances warrant, particularly in high capacity public transport corridors.

• Addresses the specification of a maximum permitted level of car parking for commercial sites, which have suitable public transport facilities and are within walking/ cycling distance to amenities.

• The provision of a viable travel plans for larger developments.

• Incorporation of ways in which the development

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Reference


encourages a switch to more sustainable modes of travel.

• Provision of landscape treatment plan addressing protection and promotion of existing flora & fauna including hedgerows, native species, planting and appropriate leisure/ recreation amenity areas for the community.

Suggested Policy after SSP-08

It is Council policy to ensure that population growth and associated development within settlements is preceded by sufficient infrastructural capacity to ensure the protection of the environment.

To ensure that key infrastructure for the protection of the environment, such as surface and wastewater infrastructure, is in place in advance of development and population growth. This will have beneficial effects in ensuring that adequate waste treatment capacity is in place.

No. Policy SSP 03 adequately addresses infrastructure provision and development.

SSP -09 Key Service Towns: It is Council policy to ensure that population growth of Key Service Towns, Birr, Edenderry and Portarlington is appropriate in scale within their identified role in the settlement hierarchy and to apply appropriate management measures in ensuring that such growth and/or pace of growth is appropriate and in compliance with the Core Strategy.

To promote sustainable management

Key Service Towns It is Council policy to ensure that population growth of Key Service Towns, Birr, Edenderry and Portarlington is appropriate in scale within their identified role in the settlement hierarchy and to apply appropriate management measures in ensuring that such growth and/or pace of growth is appropriate, sustainable, and in compliance with the Core Strategy..

No. Core strategy policies in particular CSP 07 and CSP 08 address sustainability.

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Reference


SSP- 10 Service Towns: It is Council policy to ensure that population growth of the Service Towns Clara and Ferbane is appropriate in pace, scale and diversity of uses and services within its identified role in the settlement hierarchy. The Council will apply appropriate management measures in ensuring that such growth and/or pace of growth is appropriate and in compliance with the Core Strategy.

Reference to development management to strengthen development management and control

Service Towns It is Council policy to ensure that population growth of the Service Towns Clara and Ferbane is appropriate in pace, scale and diversity of uses and services within its identified role in the settlement hierarchy. The Council will apply appropriate management measures as defined in Chapters One and Eight in ensuring that such growth and/or pace of growth is appropriate, sustainable, and in compliance with the Core Strategy.

Yes

SSP- 11 It is Council policy to conserve, enhance and strengthen the Local Service Towns within the county ensuring that the appropriate scale of growth is supported. Growth in these towns should be commensurate with their envisaged role.

To ensure sufficient infrastructure is in place

Local Service Towns It is Council policy to conserve, enhance and strengthen the Local Service Towns within the county ensuring that the appropriate scale of growth is supported by sufficient physical and social infrastructure. Growth in these towns should be commensurate with their envisaged role.

Yes

SSP -12 (b)

It is Council policy that expansion of villages will be in a planned manner and in line with the population projections directed by the Core Strategy and the existing infrastructural capacity. Development may also be permitted where it will facilitate the provision of the necessary infrastructure provided that it is

Stronger environmental protection

It is Council policy that expansion of villages will be in a planned and sustainable manner and in line with the population projections directed by the Core Strategy and the existing infrastructural capacity. Development may also be

Yes

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Reference


in accordance with policy, in particular concerning scale, design and in accordance with the established character of the village.

permitted where it will facilitate the provision of the necessary infrastructure provided that it is in accordance with policy, in particular concerning scale, siting, design and in accordance with the established character of the village.

SSP- 12 (d)

It is Council policy that there will be a presumption in favour of small developments of differing scale and character rather than larger, more homogenous urban scaled housing ‘estates’. (For example 3 separately designed 10-house developments would generally be preferable to a single homogenous suburban style 30-house development). This approach would be more likely to create a sense of individualism and differing aspirations to each development. However, these smaller developments must not be solely “stand alone” developments. They must demonstrate how they fit in with and contribute to the overall development of the village (roadlines, services etc.) as indicated on the relevant plan. Where an individual landowner or a number of interests propose to combine and provide the necessary framework and infrastructure as an integral part of their proposals, and it is demonstrated that this is in line with the greater good of the area, the Council would be prepared to examine such a proposal and consider it on its

Reference to national guidelines etc strengthens policy and increases compliance with population and human health and material assets SEOs

It is Council policy that there will be a presumption in favour of small developments of differing scale and character rather than larger, more homogenous urban scaled housing ‘estates’. (For example 3 separately designed 10-house developments would generally be preferable to a single homogenous suburban style 30-house development). This approach would be more likely to create a sense of individualism and differing aspirations to each development. However, these smaller developments must not be solely “stand alone” developments. They must demonstrate how they fit in with and contribute to the overall development of the village (roadlines, services etc.) as indicated on the relevant plan. Where an individual landowner or a number of interests propose to combine and provide the necessary framework and

Yes

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merit. Such a proposal may necessitate a ‘master plan’ for the landholding(s), clearly indicating potential development areas, obvious distinct character areas and vehicular, pedestrian, open space and services linkages to / through the remainder of the landholding or adjacent landholdings / developments.

infrastructure as an integral part of their proposals, and it is demonstrated that this is in line with the greater good of the area, and will not result in significant environmental effects the Council would be prepared to examine such a proposal and consider it on its merit. Such a proposal may necessitate a ‘master plan’ for the landholding(s), clearly indicating potential development areas, obvious distinct character areas and vehicular, pedestrian, open space and services linkages to / through the remainder of the landholding or adjacent landholdings / developments.

SSP-12g

It is Council policy to ensure that developments have regard to and help to maintain and reinforce the form and character of the village concerned in terms of design, layout, finishing details, boundary make-up, landscaping etc. The resulting development shall be high in quality, appropriate in scale and designed in a style suitable for its location and context. In particular, roads which open up significant tracts of land relative to the existing size of the settlement should be designed by suitably qualified professionals with strong Landscape Architecture and design input. Boundary treatments, footpaths and lighting should

Such residential developments and associated road infrastructure could have negative effects for European Sites.

It is Council policy to ensure that developments have regard to and help to maintain and reinforce the form and character of the village concerned in terms of design, layout, finishing details, boundary make-up, landscaping etc. The resulting development shall be high in quality, appropriate in scale and designed in a style suitable for its location and context. In particular, roads which open up significant tracts of land relative to the existing size of the settlement should be assessed to ensure significant

Yes

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reflect the village’s rural character. effects to the environment are avoided and designed by suitably qualified professionals with strong Landscape Architecture and design input. Boundary treatments, footpaths and lighting should reflect the village’s rural character.

SSP- 13 It is Council policy to encourage residential development within Town Centres and village cores which can take place on infill sites or brownfield sites.

Increase environmental protection

It is Council policy to encourage residential development within Town Centres and village cores which can take place on infill sites or brownfield sites, subject to normal planning considerations which respect the character and setting of the existing settlement.

No. Policies SSP 08, SSP 09, SSP 10, SSP 11 and SSP 12 address proper planning and siting.

SSP- 15 a

Sráids It is Council policy to promote the development of Sráids to assist in satisfying rural generated housing needs within a structured but low density settlement, as a viable alternative to the development of “one-off” houses in the open countryside, remote from services etc. It is also policy to promote Sráids as limited opportunities for housing for urban dwellers who would not satisfy “local need” criteria but who aspire to live in a rural environment.


It is Council policy to promote the sustainable development of Sráids to assist in satisfying rural generated housing needs within a structured but low density settlement, as a viable alternative to the development of “one-off” houses in the open countryside, remote from services etc. It is also policy to promote Sráids as limited opportunities for housing for urban dwellers who would not satisfy “local need” criteria but who aspire to live in a rural environment.

Yes

SSP -15 It is Council policy to encourage the To increase general It is Council policy to monitor Yes

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d development of the Sráids in an incremental and plan-led manner, with the emphasis on small scale developments over a medium to long term period.

environmental protection through monitoring and to increase compliance with SEOs

development activity and to encourage the sustainable, balanced development of the designated Sráids in an incremental and plan-led manner, with the emphasis on small scale developments over a medium to long term period, in keeping with character of the settlement.

HS0-2 It is Council policy to promote social inclusion by ensuring that social housing is distributed throughout all residential developments and locations. .

Increase compliance with population and human health, air quality and material assets SEOs

It is Council policy to promote social inclusion by ensuring that social housing is of good quality design and layout, appropriately located with access to public transport services and community facilities where possible and is distributed throughout all residential developments and locations.

Yes

Ent O – 05

It is an objective of the Council to identify, facilitate and promote the sustainable development of the county’s peatlands where appropriate, in accordance with proper planning practice. Further, to seek the formulation of a coherent integrated land use plan for the after-use of cutaway bogs.

Negative. This objective does not distinguish the type of peatland areas suitable for the future sustainable development and could result in negative impacts to European Sites designated for peatland features. The proposed rewording will ensure

Mitigation is provided by rewording this Objective as follows: It is an objective of the Council to identify, facilitate and promote the development of the county’s peatlands where appropriate, in accordance with proper planning practice. Further, to seek the formulation of a coherent integrated land use plan for the after-use of cutaway bogs. In seeking to achieve this objective, Offaly County Council will have

Yes

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that peatland habitats forming qualifying habitats of European Sites will not form part of the peatlands to which this objective refers. It will also ensure that undesignated peatlands that support active conditions which are representative of Annex I habitats will not be included under the term peatland used in this objective.

regard to any national and regional policy, legislation or guidelines which may be published in the future, that will assist in further classifying the status of Offaly’s peatlands.

RDP – 03

It is Council policy to favourably consider proposals for the expansion of existing industrial or new business enterprise in the countryside where the proposal is; a) an appropriate size and scale, b) does not negatively impact on the character and amenity of the surrounding area, and c) has regard to other guidelines/standards This policy will generally relate to enterprises which are rural resource based and which have the potential to strengthen rural areas.

Negative. The expansion of existing industrial or new business enterprise in areas upstream or hydrologically linked to European Sites or within close proximity to European Sites will have the potential to negatively effect such Sites .

Adequate mitigation is provided by: The rewording of this Objectives as follows: It is Council policy to favourably consider proposals for the expansion of existing industrial or new business enterprise in the countryside where the proposal is; a) an appropriate size and scale, b) does not negatively impact on the character and amenity of the surrounding area, and c) has regard to and

Yes

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complies with guidelines/standards including traffic, noise and environmental considerations This policy will generally relate to enterprises which are rural resource based and which have the potential to strengthen rural areas.

RDP – 06

It is Council policy to consider favourably proposals for on-farm based diversification, which is complementary to the agricultural operation on the farm, and is operated as part of the farm holding.

This Policy has been reworded to provide positive environmental effects with the inclusion of the following wording:

This Policy has been reworded to provide positive environmental effects with the inclusion of the following wording: It is Council policy to consider favourably proposals for on-farm based diversification, which is complementary to the agricultural operation on the farm, the biodiversity supported by the farm and is operated as part of the farm holding.

Yes

RDP – 08

It is Council policy to support the development of renewable energy in rural areas, where it is considered appropriate. Such development will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Negative. The development of renewable energy in rural areas upstream or hydrologically linked to European Sites or within close proximity to European Sites will have the potential to negatively effect such Sites. Hydro-

Adequate mitigation is provided by: The rewording of this Objectives as follows: It is Council policy to support the development of renewable energy in rural areas, where it is considered appropriate (i.e where it is demonstrated that such development will not result in significant environmental effects). Such development will

Yes

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power developments will have particular implications of waterbody-dominated European Sites while the location of Ferbane Bog cSAC and Moyclare Bog cSAC in a designated Wind energy Development Area could have particular consequences for these European Sites.

be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

RDP – 10

It is Council policy to encourage state and private afforestation, both native broadleaf and coniferous species, in appropriate locations, in co-operation with Coillte and the Forest Service and in line with national policy.

Negative. Afforestation in areas upstream and hydrologically linked European Sites or within or in close proximity to such Sites will have the potential to result in negative affects to European Sites.

Adequate mitigation is provided by The insertion of the following wording into this Objectives: It is Council policy to encourage state and private afforestation, both native broadleaf and coniferous species, in appropriate locations, in co-operation with Coillte and the Forest Service and in line with national policy and Forest Service guidelines.

Yes

RDP – 15

It is Council policy to ensure that agricultural developments are designed and constructed in a manner that will ensure that watercourses and sources of potable water are protected from the threat of pollution in line with Water Quality

This Policy has been reworded to strengthen the positive environmental effects through the insertion of the following wording:

It is Council policy to ensure that agricultural developments are designed and constructed in a manner that will ensure that watercourses and sources of potable water are protected from the threat of pollution in line with Water Quality Regulations and

Yes

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the requirement of the Water Framework Directive.

RDP – 17

It is Council policy to support the sustainable development of cutaway peatlands within the county for appropriate alternative uses, subject to environmental considerations and nature designations.

Negative. Cutaway peatlands occur within and adjacent to European Sites designated for peatland habitats. development of such peatland will have the potential to negative affect active peatlands associated with such Sites.

Adequate mitigation is provided by rewording this Policy to further define areas where this Policy will apply within the County. It is Council policy to support the sustainable development of cutaway peatlands within the county for appropriate alternative uses, subject to environmental considerations and nature designations. The Council will not support development in such peatland areas where uses have the potential to undermine the status of remaining active peatlands.

No, however policies NHP 12, and objectives NHO 04 and NHO12 address peatlands as well as overarching policies CSP 07 and CSP 08

RDO – 04

It is an objective of the Council to ensure that all agricultural activities adhere to any legislation on water quality e.g. Phosphorus Regulations, Water Framework Directive, and Nitrates Directive.

This Objective is strengthen by the insertion of the following wording:

It is an objective of the Council to ensure that all agricultural activities adhere to any legislation on water quality and biodiversity e.g. Phosphorus Regulations, Water Framework Directive, and Nitrates Directive, Habitats Directive.

Yes

TP - 04 It is Council policy to protect natural resources on which tourism is based through the enforcement of in relation to resource protection, architectural conservation areas, bogs, water quality, biodiversity, rural housing and holiday

This Policy is strengthen by the following changes:

It is Council policy to protect natural resources on which tourism is based through the enforcement of policies and relevant legislation in relation to protection of resources

Yes

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home development protection, architectural conservation areas, bogs peatlands, water quality, species and populations of conservation concern and biodiversity, rural housing and holiday home development.

TP - 07 It is Council policy to favourably consider tourism infrastructure development related to sport, recreation and information including boating, angling, walking and pony trekking routes, golf courses, adventure centres, and interpretive centres etc. subject to proper planning and sustainable development and policies of this plan

Negative. Similar to Policy – 05 above the development of such tourism infrastructure will have the potential to result in significant effects to European Sites.

Adequate mitigation is provided with the insertion of the following wording into this Policy: It is Council policy to favourably consider tourism infrastructure development related to sport, recreation and information including boating, angling, walking and pony trekking routes, golf courses, adventure centres, and interpretive centres etc. subject to proper planning, environmental protection and sustainable development and policies of this plan.

Yes

TP- 09 It is Council policy that where tourism related developments involve the interaction of a number of the above listed activities with accommodation facilities, such proposals should be facilitated where integration and linkage between tourism facilities is promoted

Increase overall environmental protection

It is Council policy that where tourism related developments involve the interaction of a number of the above listed activities with accommodation facilities, such proposals should be facilitated (subject to proper planning) where integration and linkage between tourism facilities is promoted

Yes

TP – 12 It is Council policy to recognise the value of the Slieve Blooms as an area of natural

Negative – in the absence of an

Adequate mitigation is provided by the insertion of the following

Yes

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beauty with considerable recreation value and potential for diverse opportunities for the tourism industry.

appropriate approach, tourism opportunities promoted in the Slieve Blooms may not be compatible with the conservation objective of the Slieve Bloom European Sites.

wording: It is Council policy to recognise the value of the Slieve Blooms as an area of natural beauty with considerable recreation value and potential for diverse opportunities for the tourism industry. The Council acknowledges the designation of the Slieve Blooms as a cSAC and SPA and will only support opportunities where it can be demonstrated that they will not result in significant effects to the conservation objectives of the Slieve Bloom European Sites.

TO - 05

It is an objective of the Council to facilitate the development of a tourism resource using cutaway peatlands in conjunction with Bord na Mona and Fáilte Ireland.

Negative. Cutaway peatlands occur within and adjacent to European Sites designated for peatland habitats. Development of such peatland will have the potential to negative affect active peatlands associated with such Sites.

Adequate mitigation is provided by rewording this Policy to further define areas where this Policy will apply within the County. It is an objective of the Council to facilitate the development of a sustainable tourism resource using cutaway peatlands in conjunction with Bord na Mona and Fáilte Ireland subject to environmental considerations and nature designations.

Partly –‘subject to environmental considerations and natural designations’ is include. ‘sustainable’ is not. However, again a number of policies would integrate sustainable development including CSP 07 and CSP 08.

TO – 06

It is a policy of Offaly County Council to encourage the development of water-based recreation activities on flooded cutaway bog where the opportunity

Negative. the flooding of cutaway peatlands in area contiguous to or in

Adequate mitigation is provided by rewording this Policy to further define areas where this Policy will apply within the

Yes

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arises, including possibly in Noggus Boy Bog and in Garryhinch.

close proximity to peat-dominated European Sites will have the potential to result in significant effects to such Sites.

County. It is a policy of Offaly County Council to encourage the development of water-based recreation activities on flooded cutaway bog where the opportunity arises, including possibly in Noggus Boy Bog and in Garryhinch subject to environmental considerations and nature designations.

Section 3.5.1 Strengthen protection of European Sites

Strengthen the wording in this Section by inserting the following text ‘Where wind energy development is open for consideration, projects must demonstrate that they will not have likely significant effects on the conservation objectives of European Sites’.

No. However policies CSP 07 and CSP 08 as well as EP 02 and EP 03 address this.

EP-02 It is Council policy to facilitate the continual development of renewable energy sources having regard subject to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area concerned, having particular regard to amenities, landscape sensitivities and the protection of habitats and heritage, where such proposals comply with policy contained in the County Development Plan, in the interests of proper planning and sustainable development.

Positive. This Policy sets out the Council’s approach to renewable energy developments which will have regard to the protection of habitats and heritage. However the wording of this Policy falls short of ensuring likely

This Policy is strengthened by revising the wording as follows: It is Council policy to facilitate the continual development of renewable energy sources having regard subject to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area concerned, the protection of amenities, landscape sensitivities, European Sites, biodiversity, natural heritage, and built

Yes

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significant effects to European Sites will not occur. This is mainly due to the lack of reference to protected species in the Policy

heritage, where such proposals comply with policy contained in the County Development Plan, in the interests of proper planning and sustainable development.

EP -08 Having regard to the county’s long tradition in power generation, it is Council policy to facilitate the continuance of power generation stations within the county, as appropriate

Increase overall environmental protection

Having regard to the county’s long tradition in power generation, it is Council policy to facilitate the continuance of power generation stations within the county, as appropriate including the consideration of co-fuelling and in line with National Policy Guidelines.

Yes

STAP-06

Walking/Cycling: It is Council policy to promote walking and cycling as an alternative mode of transport for travelling to work and for recreational purposes, to require the provision of cycle ways and walkways and associated facilities as part of new development and to support safer walking and cycling routes to schools under the Green Schools Initiative where feasible.

Negative. The provision of walking and cycling routes in inappropriate areas adjacent to European Sites could result in disturbance to qualifying habitats and species. Bird species associated with SPAs will be sensitive to such routes should they be site within or adjacent to European Sites.

Adequate mitigation is provided by the insertion of the following wording: Walking/Cycling: It is Council policy to promote walking and cycling, subject to appropriate environmental assessments, including Habitats Directive Assessment, as an alternative mode of transport for travelling to work and for recreational purposes, to require the provision of cycle ways and walkways and associated facilities as part of new development and to support safer walking and cycling routes to schools under the Green Schools Initiative

Yes

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where feasible. STAP-08

It is Council policy to support the continued development of cycle routes by identifying routes both within the county and at national and regional level. Particular emphasis will be placed on those that link existing cycle routes and tourist destinations.

Negative. The provision of cycling routes in inappropriate areas adjacent to European Sites could result in disturbance to qualifying habitats and species. Bird species associated with SPAs will be sensitive to such routes should they be site within or adjacent to European Sites.

It is Council policy to support, subject to appropriate environmental assessments, including Habitats Directive Assessment, the continued development of cycle routes by identifying routes both within the county and at national and regional level. Particular emphasis will be placed on those that link existing cycle routes and tourist destinations.. It is Council policy to support the continued development of cycle routes by identifying routes both within the county and at national and regional level. Particular emphasis will be placed on those that link existing cycle routes and tourist destinations. Cycle routes shall adhere to the principles contained within the national policy document Smarter Travel A Sustainable Transport Future 2009-2020, and the National Cycle Policy Framework document or updated/amended guidance document where appropriate.

Yes

STAP- 27

It is Council policy when designing or inputting into road schemes to recognize the importance of hedgerows and

Increase compliance with biodiversity and landscape SEOs in

It is Council policy when designing or inputting into road schemes to recognize the

Yes

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roadside boundaries for wildlife and bio-diversity.

particular importance of hedgerows and roadside boundaries for wildlife and bio-diversity. Retention of such features will be incorporated into design and where this is not possible, replacement planting with native species of indigenous provenance will be provided.

STAO- 11

It is an objective of the Council to construct, upgrade and improve, where necessary, the regional roads in the county as outlined in Table 5.5. The Council will have regard to national and regional transport plans and the Council’s programme of works. The undertaking of any works will be subject to the availability of finance and resources


It is an objective of the Council to construct, upgrade and improve, where necessary, the regional roads in the county as outlined in Table 5.5. The Council will have regard to national and regional transport plans and the Council’s programme of works. The undertaking of any works will be subject to the availability of finance and resources and will be subject to environmental assessments where necessary.

No Policies CSP 07 and CSP 08 adequately address this consideration.

WSP -04

It is Council policy to ensure that the capacity of water supplies and wastewater facilities must be appropriate prior to the acceptance of a development proposal. The Council may, where it is deemed appropriate, require developers to provide water services mains with capacities in excess of those required by the development being served, if this is required in the interests of long term development of the area.

Increase compliance with material assets SEOs

It is Council policy to ensure that the capacity and efficiency of water supplies and wastewater facilities must be appropriate prior to the acceptance of a development proposal. The Council may, where it is deemed appropriate, require developers to provide water services mains with capacities in excess of those required by the development being served, if this is required in

Yes

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the interests of long term development of the area

WSO- 03

It is an objective of the Council to promote and comply with all environmental standards and objectives established for bodies of surface water, by the European Communities (Surface waters) Regulations 2009

Increase compliance with Water and Biodiversity SEOs

Surface Water and Surface Water Disposal It is an objective of the Council to promote and comply with all environmental standards and objectives established for bodies of surface water, by the European Communities (Surface waters) Regulations 2009 and to meet the requirements of the Water Framework Directive and River Basin District Management Plans Programme of Measures.

Yes

EnvP- 04

All proposed development which may have an impact on a high status water quality site (as determined by the EPA) must be shown to have such mitigation measures proposed that will protect the site from any pollution arising from the development.

Increase compliance with Water and Biodiversity SEOs

High status water quality sites All proposed development which may have an impact on a high status water quality site (as determined by the EPA) will require site specific assessment to determine localised pressures and demonstrate suitable mitigation measures in order to protect these sites where appropriate.

Yes

EnvP- 10

It is Council policy to apply relevant EU and Irish environmental legislation. Permitted developments shall be required to comply with all such legislation.

Increase compliance with all SEOs

It is Council policy to apply and enforce where appropriate relevant EU and Irish environmental legislation. Permitted developments shall be required to comply with all such legislation.

Yes

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EnvP -17

It is Council policy to have regard to the mitigation measures, as outlined in the accompanying Environmental Report, and implement such measures, where appropriate.

Increase compliance with SEA ER

It is Council policy to adhere to the mitigation measures, as outlined in the accompanying Environmental Report, and implement such measures.

Yes

EnvP -23

It is Council Policy to preserve riparian strips along rivers free from development and of adequate width to permit access to rivers for maintenance

Increase compliance with Biodiversity, water, landscape, population and human health and material assets SEOs

It is Council Policy to preserve riparian zones along rivers free from development and of adequate width to permit access to rivers for maintenance.

Yes

EnvO- 20

Flooding and Flood Risk:

It is an objective of the Council to reduce risk to life and property in the County from flooding

As above Flooding and Flood Risk: It is an objective of the Council to reduce risk to life and property in the County from flooding by adhering to the Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines for Planning Authorities 2009

Yes

CSCP -03

It is Council policy to identify suitable sites for community facilities within the county, particularly in newly developing areas.

Increase compliance with population and human health and material assets SEOs

It is Council policy to identify and facilitate the development of suitable sites for community facilities within the county, particularly in newly developing areas. These sites should be easily accessible (walking and cycling) and promote the use of public transport.

Yes

CSCP -08

It is Council policy that residential homes and nursing homes are located within defined settlement boundaries and are appropriate in scale to the size and scale of the settlement. The provision of new

Clarification It is Council policy that residential homes for the elderly are located within defined settlement boundaries and are appropriate in scale to the size and scale of

Yes

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residential homes and nursing homes within the rural countryside is considered only in such cases where it is clearly demonstrated that due to the nature of the services to be provided, a rural location is necessary and that no suitable alternative sites are available within a nearby settlement.

the settlement. The provision of new residential homes and nursing homes within the rural countryside is considered only in such cases where it is clearly demonstrated that due to the nature of the services to be provided, a rural location is necessary and that no suitable alternative sites are available within a nearby settlement.

CSCP- 12

Education Facilities

It is Council policy to liaise with and to facilitate the Department of Education and Skills in the provision of education facilities, as appropriate. This includes the identification and reservation of sufficient land to meet the need for expansion of existing schools and/or provision of new schools in accordance with the county’s settlement hierarchy, requirements of individual settlements, their catchment area and the requirements of the relevant education authority,

Increase compliance with population and human health and material assets SEOs

Education Facilities It is Council policy to liaise with and to facilitate the Department of Education and Skills in the provision of education facilities, as appropriate. This includes the identification and reservation of sufficient land to meet the need for expansion of existing schools and/or provision of new schools in accordance with the county’s settlement hierarchy, requirements of individual settlements, their catchment area and the requirements of the relevant education authority, in accordance with ‘The Provision of Schools and the Planning System, A Code of Practice for Planning Authorities’, the Department of Education and Science, and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (2008).

Yes

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CSCP- 24

It is Council policy to look favourably upon primary care centres which comprise / provide access to a range of healthcare services including General Practitioners, nurses / midwives, health care assistants, home help assistants, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers and administrative personnel, as appropriate. However, the provision of individual healthcare facilities will also be considered, as appropriate

As above It is Council policy to look favourably upon the development of primary care centres in accessible locations which comprise / provide access to a range of healthcare services including General Practitioners, nurses / midwives, health care assistants, home help assistants, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers and administrative personnel, as appropriate. However, The provision of individual healthcare facilities will also be considered, as appropriate

Yes

NHP-04

It is Council policy to have regard to the views and guidance of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in respect of proposed development where there is a possibility that such development may have an impact on sites with nature / conservation designations.

Increase compliance with Biodiversity SEOs

Alternative Policy: Consultation with Environmental Authorities: Ensure that development proposals are screened to determine whether they are likely to have a significant direct, indirect or cumulative effect on the integrity or conservation objectives of any European Site and, where significant effects are likely or uncertain, there will be a requirement for consultation with the relevant environmental authorities as part of any Habitats Directive Assessment that may be required

Yes

NHP - It is Council policy to promote areas for Increase It is Council policy to promote Yes

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10 appropriate, development, primarily for recreational or educational purposes, which would not conflict with the preservation of these sites in their natural state.

environmental protection generally

areas for appropriate, sustainable development, primarily for recreational or educational purposes, which would not conflict with the preservation of these sites in their natural state or impact on the overall conservation objectives of European Sites.

NHP -18

It is Council policy to encourage the retention, where possible, of hedgerows and other distinctive boundary treatments in rural areas. Where removal of a hedgerow, stone wall or other distinctive boundary treatment is unavoidable, provision of the same type of boundary will be required of similar length set back within the site. This shall also relate to road improvements and realignments carried out by the Local Authorities or other agents on their behalf

Greater enhancement of biodiversity through promotion of native species of Irish provenence.

It is Council policy to encourage the retention, where possible, of hedgerows and other distinctive boundary treatments in rural areas. Where removal of a hedgerow, stone wall or other distinctive boundary treatment is unavoidable, provision of the same type of boundary will be required of similar length set back within the site. The hedgerow will be composed of a variety of native species of Irish provenance. This shall also relate to road improvements and realignments carried out by the Local Authorities or other agents on their behalf.

Yes

NHO -1 It is an objective of the Council to ensure that any development proposal in the vicinity of, or affecting a designated site, complies with the provisions relating to Appropriate Assessment and SEA requirements and the Council will consult Department of Environment, Community

Stronger biodiversity protection

It is an objective of the Council to ensure that any development proposal in the vicinity of, or affecting a designated site, complies with the provisions relating to Appropriate Assessment and SEA

Yes

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and Local Government in this regard. requirements and the Council will consult with the appropriate statutory environmental authority in this regard.

NHO -11

It is the objective of the council to create a Data Base of Habitats to inform habitat mapping for the county working with chief stakeholders including BnM, NPWS, Coillte, WWI and Farmers and Community Groups.

As above It is the objective of the council to create a Data Base of Habitats to inform habitat mapping for the county working with chief stakeholders including BnM, NPWS, Coillte, WWI and Farmers and Community Groups and NGOs

Yes

GIO- 04

It is an objective of the Council to develop and support the implementation of Green Infrastructure Strategy for Offaly working with chief stakeholders including Bord na Móna NPWS, Coillte, WWI and Farmers and Community Groups .

As above It is an objective of the Council to develop and support the implementation of Green Infrastructure Strategy for Offaly working with chief stakeholders including Bord na Móna NPWS, Coillte, WWI and Farmers and Community Groups and NGOs.

Yes

New Objective

Control of Invasive and Alien Invasive Species Seek to prevent and promote measures to prevent the spread of invasive and alien species.

Clearer protection of habitats and potential invasive species

Yes. Policy GI 04 It is a policy of the Council to seek to prevent and promote measures to prevent the spread of invasive and alien species. When landscaping plans are included or requested as part of the planning assessment process they should indicate the specific measures to be taken to avoid and prevent the spread of invasive species.

AHAP- 01

It is Council policy to protect and preserve the county’s primary areas of high

Increase compliance with all SEOs but

It is Council policy to protect and preserve the county’s primary

Yes

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amenity namely the Slieve Bloom Mountains, Clonmacnoise Heritage Zone, Durrow High Cross, Abbey & surrounding area, the River Shannon, Lough Boora Parklands, Grand Canal, Croghan Hill, Raheenmore Bog, Pallas Lake, Clara Bog and Eskers, Eiscir Riada and other eskers. These areas are indicated on Map 7.17. Notwithstanding the location of certain settlements, or parts of, for which there are settlement plans (towns, villages, ‘sráids’), within the Areas of High Amenity, it is not the intention of this policy to hinder appropriate, levels of development (as set out in the plans ). Further, it is policy to facilitate the extension and expansion of existing visitor, tourist related or other rural enterprises within the Areas of High Amenity, where such development is appropriate and where it can be demonstrated that it gives ‘added value’ to the extending activity and to the immediate area which is subject of the Area of High Amenity designation.

particularly landscape, cultural heritage, and population and human health.

areas of high amenity namely the Slieve Bloom Mountains, Clonmacnoise Heritage Zone, Durrow High Cross, Abbey & surrounding area, the River Shannon, Lough Boora Parklands, Grand Canal, Croghan Hill, Raheenmore Bog, Pallas Lake, Clara Bog and Eskers, Eiscir Riada and other eskers. These areas are indicated on Map 7.2. Notwithstanding the location of certain settlements, or parts of, for which there are settlement plans (towns, villages, ‘sráids’), within the Areas of High Amenity, it is not the intention of this policy to hinder appropriate, sustainable levels of development (as set out in the plans and subject to proper planning). Further, it is policy to facilitate the sustainable extension and expansion of existing visitor, tourist related or other rural enterprises within the Areas of High Amenity, where such development is appropriate and where it can be demonstrated that it gives ‘added value’ to the extending activity and to the immediate area which is subject of the Area of High Amenity designation.

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LAP -06

It is Council policy that new development should ensure the protection of mature trees, hedgerows and the conservation of existing stone walls, and their integration into new development. Where the provision of new boundaries is required, these should comprise native hedgerow planting of Irish provenance, or stone walls which consist of stone found in the locality. Where comprehensive new development occurs, it should take into account the pattern of existing hedgerows and incorporate same into layouts or plant connecting hedgerows where hedgerow removal to facilitate development works is necessary. The Council will require that all new development will respect the existing character of the settlement, in particular through the provision of sensitive landscaping schemes. In the event that the removal of tree(s) is deemed to be necessary, it will be generally conditional on replacement with appropriate species

Increase compliance with Biodiversity SEO

It is Council policy that new development should ensure the protection of mature trees, hedgerows and the conservation of existing stone walls, and their integration into new development. Where the provision of new boundaries is required, these should comprise native hedgerow planting of Irish provenance, or stone walls which consist of stone found in the locality. Where comprehensive new development occurs, it should take into account the pattern of existing hedgerows and incorporate same into layouts or plant connecting hedgerows where hedgerow removal to facilitate development works is necessary. The Council will require that all new development will respect the existing character of the settlement, in particular through the provision of sensitive landscaping schemes. In the event that the removal of tree(s) is deemed to be necessary, it will be generally conditional on replacement with appropriate species.

Yes

LUZP- 01

It is Council policy, generally that a sequential approach is adopted in the development of the county’s settlements

Generally stronger environmental protection

It is Council policy, generally that a sequential approach is adopted in the development of the

No. Governing principles of proper planning and sustainable development are adequately

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(i.e. development from the centre most point of a settlement outwards), where feasible

county’s settlements (i.e. development from the centre most point of a settlement outwards), where feasible and in line with proper planning and sustainable development and to ensure most efficient and timely delivery of necessary services.

covered in Chapter One policies and objectives.

Volume 2 policies and objectives – mitigation measures for Town Plans – these mitigation measures follow on from the preceding ones in Volume 1.

CTTP4 -07

It is Council policy to encourage and facilitate the development of the tourism sector centred on Clara Bog and Eskers, as a means of employment generation

It is Council policy to encourage and facilitate the sustainable development of the tourism sector centred on Clara Bog and Eskers, as a means of employment generation

Yes

CTTP 8-01

It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the River Brosna and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone.

It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the River Brosna and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone.

Yes

CTTP8-04

It is Council policy to recognise the geological, zoological, botanical and scientific value of the Eiscir Riada esker system, running north and south of the plan area and to ensure that new development will not unduly impact on this landscape feature

It is Council policy to recognise the geological, zoological, botanical and scientific value of the Eiscir Riada esker system, running north and south of the plan area and to ensure that new development will not unduly impact on the integrity of this landscape feature

Yes

Banagher Pol 6-02

It is Council policy to have regard to ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning

It is Council policy to have regard to/ apply ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk Management –

Yes

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Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Banagher or County Offaly.

Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Banagher or County Offaly.

Banagher Pol 8-01

It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the River Shannon and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone

It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the River Shannon and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone

Yes

Daingean POL 4-07

It is Council policy to facilitate the further development of the tourism potential of the town and capitalise on its relationship with the Grand Canal.

It is Council policy to facilitate the further sustainable development of the tourism potential of the town and capitalise on its relationship with the Grand Canal.

Yes

Daingean Pol 6-02

It is Council policy to have regard to ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Daingean or County Offaly

It is Council policy to have regard adhere to ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Daingean or County Offaly

Replacement word used: It is Council policy to apply the The Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Daingean or County Offaly

Daigean Pol 8-01

It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the Philipstown River and Grand Canal and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone.

It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the Philipstown River and Grand Canal and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone.

Yes

Ferban It is Council policy to have regard to ‘The It is Council policy to have regard No. However relevant flood risk

223

Reference


e Pol 6-02

Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Banagher or County Offaly.

to/ apply ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Ferbane or County Offaly.

management policies from Volume One will apply including EP 18 to EP23

Ferbane Pol 8-01

It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the River Brosna and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone

It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the River Brosna and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone

Not included, however, Policy NHP 13 will apply as follows: It is Council policy to protect riparian corridors by reserving land along their banks for ecological corridors and maintain them free from inappropriate development, where appropriate clear span structures will be promoted where fisheries exist, and culverting and/or realignment of streams will be discouraged. The Council will consult with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) in relation to riparian and instream works as appropriate.

Ferbane Pol 8-02

It is Council policy to recognise the geological, zoological, botanical and scientific value of the Eiscir Riada esker system, running north and south of the plan area and to ensure that new development will not unduly impact on this landscape feature.

It is Council policy to recognise the geological, zoological, botanical and scientific value of the Eiscir Riada esker system, running north and south of the plan area and to ensure that new development will not unduly impact on this the integrity of this landscape feature.

Not included, application of the following policies should facilitate the protection of the Eiscir Riada’s integrity, in particular: NHP 01, NHP 11 and NHP 16.

Kilcormac

It is Council policy to have regard to/ ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk

It is Council policy to have regard to/ apply ‘The Planning System

Yes

224

Reference


Pol 6-02

Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Kilcormac or County Offaly.

and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Kilcormac or County Offaly.

Kilcormac POL 8-01

It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the Silver River and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone

It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the Silver River and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone

Yes

Table 8.2 Wind Energy Mitigation Measures54 Environmental Issues relating to Wind Energy Policy or Objective Potential impacts on Human health, particularly shadow flicker and noise impacts

RDP 03. EnvP 16 address noise EP 02 addresses amenity

Potential impacts on landscape, EP 02 addresses landscape considerations and EP 09 refers to landscape considerations in transmission networks; specific landscape policies elsewhere in the plan include: AHAP 01, AHAP 02, AHAO 01, as well as landscape policies LAP 01 to LAP 09 and Landscape objectives LAO 01 and LAO 02.

Potential impacts on amenity Amenity policies AHAP 01, AHAP 02 and objective AHAO 01 in addition to RDP 03 and EP 02 Potential impacts on ecological resources Policies CSP 07, CSP 08, NHP 01 to NHP 06 and NHP 22 amongst others. Many policies

relating to water quality also address management and protection of ecological resources Overdevelopment of wind energy in the county, capacity of the county to accommodate wind energy and wind energy development taking place outside areas open for consideration

Policy EP 04 was included in the plan to define cumulative impacts from wind energy and to provide assurance that this will be monitoring of the lifetime of the plan to avoid cumulative impacts on environmental parameters from wind energy developments (existing and proposed).

54 Table 8.2 is taken from the SEA Statement and is inserted here to show how potential wind energy impacts (see Table7.10) are mitigated in the plan 225

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Chapter Nine Monitoring

9.1 Introduction It is proposed, in accordance with the SEA Directive, to base monitoring on a series of indicators which measure changes in the environment, especially changes which are critical in terms of environmental quality, for example water or air pollution levels. Monitoring will focus on the aspects of the environment that are likely to be significantly impacted upon by the implementation of the draft OCDP. The targets and indicators are derived from the Strategic Environmental Objectives (SEOs) discussed in Chapter Five. The target underpins the objective whilst the indictors are used to track the progress of the objective and targets in terms of monitoring of impacts.

The monitoring programme will consist of an assessment of the relevant indicators and targets against the data relating to each environmental component. Similarly, monitoring will be carried out frequently to ensure that any changes to the environment can be identified.

9.1.1 Frequency of Monitoring and Reporting It is proposed that the SEA monitoring reporting should go parallel with the reviewing of the draft OCDP. However, in some cases as data becomes available, the Planning Authority may prepare an additional SEA Monitoring Report. In particular, should new data or the following occur, additional monitoring will be required:

• Significant unauthorised development (either large scale or cumulative small scale) • Illegal waste activity • Water pollution incidents (not resulting from oil spills).

In turn the list below is subject to review at each reporting stage to reflect new data. Should the monitoring regime identify significant impacts (such as impacts on designated sites) early on in the draft OCDP implementation, this should trigger a review of the plan and monitoring regime. In addition, the identification of positive impacts from monitoring should also be reported as this will assist in determining successful environmental policies.

It is recommended that data arising from planning applications, particularly in terms of environmental constraints mapping and Environmental Impact Statements be integrated into the GIS and monitoring system. This will assist in assessing cumulative impacts also, in particular ecology and water quality.

Finally, it is recommended that the monitoring report be made available to the public upon its completion. It is recommended that this data be shared with neighbouring local authorities to assist in monitoring cross county effects should they arise. Table 9.1 below presents the SEA Monitoring Table.

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Table 9.1 Monitoring Table Topic and SEA Objective Target Indicator Data sources Responsible Body

Biodiversity

Bio 1: Protect, conserve and avoid loss of the diversity and range of habitats, species and wildlife corridors

No loss of connectivity between significant areas of biodiversity55 (based on designated site data)

% Habitat Loss56 without remediation provided

NPWS – Conservation Status of habitats and species as reported by NPWS.

OCC GIS mapping

OCC and NPWS

Bio 2: Protect designated sites including Natura 2000 (SACs and SPAs) under Article 6 of the Habitats Directive. Conserve and protect, or maintain and restore Natura 2000 sites and the Natura 2000 network.

No significant adverse impacts, including direct, cumulative and indirect impacts, to relevant habitats, geological features, species or their sustaining resources in designated ecological sites by development within or adjacent to these sites as a result of implementation of the CDP.

Number of applications that require Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment.

Number of applications granted within or adjoining designated sites

Number of applications refused within or adjoining designated sites where nature conservation was a reason for refusal.

NPWS/OCC OCC and NPWS

55 To measure this indicator prior to full mapping of wildlife corridors, proxy data will be used –namely, designated natural heritage sites including rivers, lakes, peatlands, uplands and canals. 56 Measurement of this indicator is dependent on availability of appropriate data

228

Topic and SEA Objective Target Indicator Data sources Responsible Body

Bio 3 - Conserve and protect other sites with nature conservation status(NHAs, pNHAs, National Parks, Nature Reserves, Wildfowl Sanctuaries) and protected species outside these areas (as covered under the Wildlife Act)

No significant adverse impacts, including direct, cumulative and indirect impacts, to relevant habitats, geological features, species or their sustaining resources in designated ecological sites by development within or adjacent to these sites as a result of implementation of the CDP.

Number of applications granted within or adjoining designated sites

Number of applications refused within or adjoining designated sites where nature conservation was a reason for refusal.

NPWS/OCC

National Biodiversity Centre

OCC and NPWS

Bio 4: Protect habitats (terrestrial and aquatic) from invasive species

Prevent introduction of new invasive species.

Promote the control and manage current invasive species to prevent spread of their distribution

- extent and distribution of invasive species in the county

Numbers of submissions and observations on presence of invasive species

NPWS/OCC

Invasive species Ireland

Inland Fisheries Ireland

Waterways Ireland

OCC, NPWS, Waterways Ireland (WWI) and Inland Fisheries Ireland (FI).

Bio 5: Protect the aquatic environment and meet the requirements of the WFD and the RBMP

Biotic Quality Rating (Q Values) and Risk assessment

Compliance with RBMP

- Improve Q value status for river bodies in plan area and zone of influence

- Aim to achieve Q4 value in line with Water Framework requirements by 2015.

- No reductions in Q value in

WFD/RBMP/ OCC/Irish Water

OCC, WWI, FI and OPW

229


relevant watercourses

Population and Human Health

Pop 1: Protect, enhance and improve people’s quality of life based on high quality environments and on sustainable travel patterns.

Drinking Water Sources to comply with the EC (Drinking Water) (No.2) Regulations, 2007 and EC (Quality of Surface Water

All water bodies to achieve good status, or maintain high status, by 2015 as required by the EU WFD 2000/60/EC

Increase accessibility to public transport and safe cycling and walking options in new developments

Status of drinking water and drinking water sources

Ecological status of water bodies

Travel patterns in Census

% increase in cycle and pedestrian facilities around settlements

OCC

Health Service Executive-

Census data

Irish Water

OCC

Irish Water

Department of Transport

National Roads Authority

Providers of Public Transport

Pop 2: To protect human health from risks or nuisances arising from exposure to incompatible land uses/developments.

Promote compatible land use where possible

No spatial concentration of health problems arising from incompatible landuses

No. of complaints relating to noise, odour, water quality and visual issues

OCC

Health and Safety Authority

EPA

OCC

EPA

HSE

Water

Wat 1 - Protect and enhance the status of aquatic ecosystems and with regard to their water needs, terrestrial


- Improve Q value status for river bodies in plan area and zone of

WFD/RBMP/ OCC

Irish Water

OCC

Irish Water

230


ecosystems and wetlands directly depending on the aquatic ecosystem (quality, level, flow)

influence

- Aim to achieve Q4 value in line with Water Framework requirements by 2015.

- No reductions in Q values in relevant watercourses

Wat 2 - Maintain or improve the quality of surface water to status objectives as set out in the Water Framework Directive, WRBM and POMS

No severe pollution incident

- Appropriate WWT Infrastructure in plan area


WFD/ OCC/ RBD Project

Irish Water

OCC

Irish Water

Wat 3 - Prevent pollution and contamination of groundwater by adhering to aquifer protection plans

No change or improvement in groundwater quality associated with development

- Risk Assessment

EPA / WRBD Project

Irish Water

OCC

Irish Water

Geology and Soil

Soil 1: Encourage the use of derelict, disused and infill sites rather than Greenfield sites where appropriate

Infill developments on brownfield sites over lifetime of the plan.

- Number of developments granted for brownfield sites (or area)

OCC OCC

Soil 2:Protect, improve and maintain the quality of soils

- No recorded soil contamination incidents

Specific soil management plans for large developments as part of construction management plans.

EPA and OCC OCC

EPA

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Soil 3: Conserve, protect and avoid loss of diversity and integrity of designated habitats, geological features, species or their sustaining resources in designated ecological sites.

No impacts on such sites associated with the implementation of the OCDP

Number of applications requiring either Stage II Appropriate Assessment or Ecological Impact Assessment

OCC

GSI

NPWS

OCC and GSI

Cultural heritage

CH1: Protect and conserve the cultural heritage including the built environment and settings; archaeological (recorded and unrecorded monuments), architectural (Protected Structures, Architectural Conservation Areas, vernacular buildings, materials and urban fabric) and manmade landscape features (e.g. field walls, footpaths, gate piers etc.).

Ensure that the cultural heritage of the County is maintained and protected from damage and deterioration

% of Protected Structures identified as ‘buildings at risk’

Number of enforcement notices issued in relation to Protected Structures.

OCC OCC

CH2: To encourage the restoration and reuse of existing uninhabited and derelict structures where possible as opposed to demolition and new build

To ensure a positive increase in such development over lifetime of OCDP.

Number of applications received for restoration of derelict buildings over lifetime of the plan.

OCC OCC

Landscape

Land 1: Protect designated landscapes and scenic views, routes and landscape features of local

Promote, enhance landscape character through policy

Number of applications granted in areas of high

OCC OCC

232


value. implementation sensitivity.

Land 2: Conserve and protect cultural landscapes including archaeological and architectural landscapes.

Number of developments requiring landscape impact assessment

Number of developments granted/refused in areas of high landscape sensitivity and areas of high amenity.

OCC OCC

Land 3: Minimise visual impacts through appropriate design, assessment and siting

Reduction of negative visual impacts from new developments

Number of developments requiring a visual impact assessment.

OCC OCC

Air Quality and Climate

AQ1: Seek to avoid air pollution and maintain/improve ambient air quality

No decline in overall air quality

Maintenance of air quality standards and values.

OCC

EPA

OCC

EPA

AQ2:Minimise emissions of greenhouse gases through energy efficiency and promotion of renewable energy

Decrease Greenhouse gas emissions in line with 2020 commitments

Preparation of Local Authority Renewable Energy Strategy.

EPA, OCC, SEAI OCC


Material Assets

Mat 1: Reduce risk of flooding through avoidance of inappropriate development in flood plains or in areas at risk of flooding and manage the risk of flooding

Compliance with the Floods Directive and with OPW /DoEHLG ‘Flood Risk Management in the Planning Process’ standards

Flood Risk Assessment be carried out for all new developments within

New areas identified as flood risk areas.

Number of developments granted permission on lands which pose a significant flood

OCC

OPW

OCC

OPW

233


flood risk zones

risk.

Mat 2: Ensure that drinking water supplies are free from contamination

100% compliance with water quality monitoring

% compliance in potable water quality monitoring.

% compliance in wastewater discharges from municipal treatment.

OCC /EPA OCC

Mat 3: To protect residents from adverse noise levels

Targets as set out in Noise Action Plan

Number of complaints re: noise.

OCC OCC

Mat 4: Ensure that all new domestic developments are served by public wastewater treatment or an approved onsite wastewater treatment plant designed, constructed and managed in accordance with the relevant EPA guidelines.

Improved compliance in wastewater discharges from municipal treatment

Improved compliance and maintenance of private onsite domestic wastewater treatment plants57.

% Section 4 compliances.

Number of applications granted without connection to public wastewater treatment.

Number of applications granted with onsite wastewater treatment plant in accordance with relevant

OCC

EPA

Irish Water

OCC

EPA

Irish Water

57 Inspection regime for domestic wastewater treatment plants will assist in gathering this data over the lifetime of the plan.

234


EPA guidelines.

Mat 5: Promote the waste pyramid and encourage reuse/recycling of material wherever possible

Increased % recycling from regional waste strategy

Number of schools in Green School Initiatives.

Census Data (due 2016) on household recycling rates.

CSO

OCC

CSO

EPA

Mat 6: Reduce waste of energy, promote use of renewable energy sources and support energy conservation initiatives

Decrease Greenhouse gas emissions in line with 2020 commitments capita/year

Preparation of Local Authority Renewable Energy Strategy

EPA, OCC, SEAI OCC

Mat 7: Maximise sustainable modes of transport, provide for ease of movement for all road users and promote development patterns that protect and enhance road safety.

Extension and improvement of the cycling and walking network

Percentage of population within the County travelling to work or school by public transport or non-mechanical means.

Average distance travelled to work or school by the population of the County.

Kms of walking and cycling routes within County Offaly.

OCC

CSO

Smarter Travel

OCC

Department of Transport

National Roads Authority

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9.2 Conclusion The OCDP sets out an overall strategy, policies and objectives for the period 2014 to 2020 which seeks to provide for the long term planning and overall benefit of the county. This SEA Environmental Report demonstrates how environmental parameters have been addressed in the plan preparation process. Consultation has been undertaken for the Scoping of the Environmental Report, and current baseline information has been described for all SEA parameters. This ER forms a key part of the consultation process and is accompanied by the Habitats Directive Assessment (HDA) and draft OCDP which was put on public display and consultation in Autumn 2013. Following consideration of submissions and material amendments proposed, the draft Plan, SEA and HDA were put on display again in summer 2014. The OCDP, SEA and HDA were adopted on 15th September 2014 and the plan and supporting documents came into effect on 13th October 2014.

Policies, objectives and land use zonings were assessed in terms of the impacts on the environment and mitigation measures proposed through rewording of the policies/objectives or rezoning where necessary. The mitigation measures proposed for the policies/objectives through the SEA and HDA process have largely been incorporated into the OCDP.

The SEA and HDA have informed the plan through an ongoing iterative process that incorporated environmental considerations and sensitivities throughout the plan development. The SEA and HDA has been undertaken in line with the Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 to 2011 (as amended) and the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. Subject to the full and proper implementation of the mitigation measures outlined in this SEA Environmental Report (and subsequently incorporated into the Offaly County Development Plan), including appropriate site level investigations, it is considered that significant adverse impacts on the environment will be avoided.

9.2.1 Implications for Offaly County Council and the Elected Members This Environmental Report, which identifies the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the OCDP was submitted to the Elected Members for their consideration and should be read in conjunction with the OCDP and Natura Impact Report. The Environmental Report and Natura Impact Report and subsequent assessment reports were taken into account before the adoption of the County Offaly Development Plan 2014 -2020.

236

A-1

Annex A: Assessment of Policies and Objectives in draft OCDP Volume I Written Statement

The Policies and Objectives of the draft Offaly County Development Plan 2014-2020 have been assessed in accordance with the Strategic Environmental Objectives of the SEA Environmental Report.

Where the HDA or SEA has recommended text inclusion or changes, these are shown in blue font. For clarity, where numbers of policies/objectives have been changed in final plan, where

policies/objectives were deleted or amended through the material amendment process, it is referenced in the final column in the table. In the event that any mitigation measures were not

included in the final plan, a comment to address this is provided in the comment column.

The following criteria have been used in the Assessment Matrix:

No likely interaction with SEOs/insignificant 0 Potential conflict with SEOs – likely to be mitigated

Likely to improve status of SEOs

Uncertain interactions with SEOs

?


.

Chapter One Core Strategy and Settlement Strategy No. Section Title 0 ? Comment Included in

Final Plan yes/no.

Strategic Objectives of Core Strategy

1 To strengthen the role of the Offaly Development Plan in implementing the objectives of higher order plans, where appropriate and ensure that the Offaly County Development Plan is consistent with the objectives and provisions of national and regional strategies, policy guidelines and national and regional population targets.

All SEOs Yes

A-2

No. Section Title 0 ? Comment Included in Final Plan yes/no.

2 To develop a settlement strategy framework setting out a settlement hierarchy and providing an evidence base within which sustainable development, infrastructure, amenities and economic investment can be provided in a coherent and structured manner that maximises the use of resources in the County.

All SEOs Yes

3

To provide for population growth in County Offaly in line with the population targets set out by the MRPGs and to allocate the population growth to settlement areas identified in the settlement hierarchy. This provides a framework within which sustainable infrastructure, amenities, economic investment and development can be provided in a manner that maximises the use of resources in the County, for current and future generations.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All SEOs

Yes

4 To provide for an appropriate quantity and location of zoned land so that this Plan accommodates the level of development anticipated over the plan period and support the priorities for growth as indicated in the settlement hierarchy of the Core Strategy whilst maintaining a level of development to secure the viability of rural communities

ALL SEOs

Yes

5 To promote sustainable settlement and transportation strategies in order to focus and integrate development in the most sustainable locations in the County making best use of existing and planned transport infrastructure/networks available and making isolated locations more accessible by improving transport links, particularly and public transport services.

Mat 7 & All SEOs

AQ1 Yes

6 To ensure that future development is sustainable and will integrate with the existing and planned transport and services infrastructure such as road, rail and water services infrastructure in order to utilise them in the most efficient way possible (as per priority investments outlined at national and regional level).

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Bio 1 EIA & HDA as appropriate

Reference made to energy within this objective through the amendment process. Please

A-3


see Annex C.

7 To ensure a high level of environmental protection ensuring the implementation of the policies and objectives of the plan through the observance of all legal requirements with regard to Strategic Environmental Assessment, Habitats Directive Assessment, Water Framework Directive and Floods Directive, as appropriate.

All SEOs

Yes

8 To promote sustainable economic development and direct economic activity into the most appropriate locations within County Offaly for employment generation and to capitalise on opportunities available in order to enhance the strategic competiveness and attractiveness of the County.

Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

9 To revitalise town centres maintaining a clear hierarchy of vibrant, diverse and distinct town centres across the County as the focus for commercial, retail and leisure uses to meet the needs of the local population and ensuring the primacy of town centres as the first choice for the location of retail development.

Pop 1 & All SEOs

Yes

10 To protect and conserve the high quality natural environment, built and cultural heritage of the County while ensuring that any future development is facilitated in a manner which complements, respects and protects natural, built and cultural heritage features.

CH1 CH2 &

All SEOs

Yes

11 To ensure that development promoted, supported or facilitated by the Development Plan provides for the adaptation to climate change and the promotion of renewable energy where possible, including the risk of flooding.

Mat 6 Mat 1 AQ 2,

Mat 1 & indirectly

to All SEOs

Yes

12 To ensure that development over the lifetime of this plan is monitored and managed so as to achieve the overall objectives of the Core Strategy.

All SEOs Yes

Core Strategy Policies and Objectives

A-4


CSP-01 It is Council policy to implement the Core Strategy for Offaly, as part of the overall County Development Plan, in order to be consistent with, and in accordance with, policies at a national level and regional level, in particular population targets and distribution.

All SEOs Yes

CSP-02 It is Council policy that development will not be permitted where it conflicts with the Core Strategy.

All SEOs Yes

CSP-03 It is Council policy to prioritise development in accordance with the settlement hierarchy identified in the Core Strategy and in the MRPGs.

All SEOs Yes

CSP-04 Notwithstanding the amount of land made available for residential purposes to 2020, it is Council policy not to exceed, through the facilitation of residential development, the allocated housing land requirements set out in the Core Strategy.

All SEOs Yes

CSP-05 It is Council policy to monitor and manage residential development in Offaly, in line with national and regional development objectives, through the Core Strategy in this plan and also through the development management process. In this regard, it is Council policy to co-operate with the Midland Regional Authority as part of the monitoring and review approach.

Pop 1 Mat 7

& All SEOs

Supports Strategic Objective 12

(above)

Yes

CSP-06 It is Council policy to ensure that development in urban areas maximises opportunities to reuse previously developed land and further, to use land in the most efficient way possible and appropriately according to the area (settlement) in which it is located.

Soil 1 & All SEOs

Structure of policy altered final plan It is

Council policy to ensure that land

is used in the most efficient

way possible and appropriately

according to the area (settlement)

in which it is

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located and that in particular

development in urban areas maximises

opportunities to reuse previously developed land.

CSP 07 Impact Assessments Ensure full compliance with the requirements of the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC), SEA Directive (2001/42/EC) and EIA Directive 2011/92/EU and associated legislation/regulations, including the associated European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (SI No. 477 of 2011), European Communities (Environmental Assessment of Certain Plans and Programmes) Regulations 2004-2011, Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004-2011 and the European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 1989-2011 (or any updated/superseding legislation). Planning applications for proposed developments within the Plan Area that may give rise to likely significant effects on the environment may need to be accompanied by one or more of the following: an Environmental Impact Statement, an Ecological Impact Assessment Report, a Habitats Directive Appropriate Assessment Report or a Natura Impact Statement, as appropriate.

All SEOS Yes. This policy was

recommended for inclusion at predraft stage

and were formally inserted to the Draft Plan

during the material

amendment stage. Please see

Annex C.

CSP 08 Natural Heritage, Landscape and Environment It is the policy of Offaly County Council, to support the conservation and enhancement of natural heritage and biodiversity, including the protection of the integrity of European sites, the protection of Natural Heritage Areas and proposed Natural Heritage Areas and the promotion of the development of a green/ecological network within

All SEOs Yes. This policy was

recommended for inclusion at predraft stage

and was formally inserted to the

A-6


the Plan Area, in order to support ecological functioning and connectivity, create opportunities in suitable locations for active and passive recreation and to structure and provide visual relief from the built environment. The protection of natural heritage and biodiversity, including European sites, will be implemented in accordance with relevant EU environmental directives and applicable national legislation, policies, plans and guidelines, including the following (and any updated/superseding documents): • EU Directives, including the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC), the Birds Directive (2009/147/EC codified version of Directive), the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive (85/337/EEC), the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) and the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive (2001/42/EC). • National legislation, including the Wildlife Act 1976, the European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 1989 (SI No. 349 of 1989) (as amended), the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, the European Union (Water Policy) Regulations 2003 (as amended), the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477 of 2011).

Draft Plan during the material amendment

stage. Please see Annex C.

CSO-01 It is an objective of the Council to seek to direct development in such a manner as is appropriate to achieve the overall aims of the Core Strategy.

Pop 1 & All SEOs

Yes

CS0-02 It is an objective of the Council to zone an adequate amount of appropriately located lands within the settlement areas to accommodate the projected population growth as set out in the Core Strategy.

Pop 1 & All SEOs

Yes

CSO-03 It is an objective of the Council to monitor and manage the delivery of residential development throughout the County during the plan period through the development

All SEOs . Yes

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management process.

CSO-04 It is an objective of the Council that all developments shall be in accordance with the policies as set out in the County Development Plan 2014-2020.

All SEOs Yes

Settlement Strategy Policy

SSP-01 It is Council policy to ensure sustainable balanced growth and development across the County in accordance with the settlement hierarchy and strategically prioritise investment and the development of Tullamore as part of the Midlands Linked Gateway in the County.

All other SEO’s

AQ 1 & AQ 2

(likely)

Mat 7 The linked gateway may result in

increased vehicular activity & therefore increase in carbon emissions. Linking the Gateways via

sustainable modes of transport would

be of benefit to SEOs.

Yes

SSP-02 It is Council policy to monitor growth patterns and the pace of growth within individual settlements and ensure sustainable development and compliance with the population targets set out in the Core Strategy for all settlements.

All SEOs Reference to Housing Strategy.

Yes

SSP-03 It is Council policy that future residential development proposals shall be located in accordance with the provisions of the settlement hierarchy set out in the Core Strategy, and at a scale appropriate to the levels identified in the Core Strategy Table and the accompanying land use zoning maps. Site identification should incorporate the following characteristics:

Develop sequentially from the centre of existing settlements at appropriate scale and density respecting and maintain the existing pattern and

Pop 1 Land 3 Mat 7 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Yes

A-8


character of settlements;

Make efficient use of existing and proposed infrastructure;

Integrate with the existing transport network to help reduce the overall need to travel and encourage the use of alternatives to the car.

Respect environmental and landscape elements such as hedgerows, treelines and stonewalls.

SSP-04 It is Council policy to encourage the provision of high quality residential design, layout and construction in all developments and in settlement areas in accordance with, but not exclusive to the Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas’ and the accompanying ‘Urban Design Manual’, published by DoEHLG, 2009.

Pop 1 Land 3

All other SEOs

Yes

SSP-05 It is Council policy to encourage the provision of private serviced building sites, for example as part of housing developments within the county’s settlements boundaries in order to strengthen the fabric of these existing settlements and to offer an element of choice. It is also Council policy to ensure that the size of such sites is adequate for appropriate levels of privacy and choice of house type and style.

Pop 1 Wat 3 Mat 7 Mat 4 AQ1

All SEOs Needs to be clarified that this

policy is for existing settlements as

identified in the Settlement Strategy.

Yes

SSP-06 It is Council policy to promote the integration of landuse with transportation and to seek the most optimal location for new residential development with good accessibility to existing and planned transport infrastructure in accordance with the actions set out in Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future – A new Transport Policy for Ireland 2009-2020 (DoT 2009.)

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7 Mat 3

All other SEOs

Land 1

Yes

SSP-07 It is Council policy to require applicants proposing large scale residential development i.e. over 50 residential units to provide a statement to assist the Planning Authority in assessing the sustainability of the proposal in the context of integrating landuse with sustainable transport and

Pop 1 Soil 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

Soil 2 All other SEOs

Mat 6 Mat 5 AQ 2

Wat 3 Bio 1

Policy could reference

overarching National Guidelines

on residential

Yes

A-9


avoiding deterioration of the natural environment. The statement must address all Development Plan policies include but not limited to the following:

Assessment of proximity and provision of access to existing public transport connections and safe routes for walking and cycling to access such connections and other local amenities.

Integration of walking, cycling and public transport modes.

How the proposed development promotes new residential and mixed-use development to take place on brownfield/existing sites to consolidate urban growth and enable organic development of urban areas from the centre out.

Ensures a general minimum housing density as advocated in the Core Strategy for urban areas of suitable size and population and higher densities where local circumstances warrant, particularly in high capacity public transport corridors.

Addresses the specification of a maximum permitted level of car parking for commercial sites, which have suitable public transport facilities and are within walking/ cycling distance to amenities.

The provision of a viable travel plans for larger developments and / or traffic impact assessment as required.

Incorporation of ways in which the development encourages a switch to more sustainable modes of travel.

Provision of landscape treatment plan addressing protection and promotion of existing flora & fauna including hedgerows, native species, planting and appropriate leisure/ recreation amenity areas for the community.

Bio 4

developments and Waste Management

Plan for the Midlands Region 2005-2010 (and

subsequent revisions).

A-10


SSP-08 Linked Gateway It is Council policy to ensure that Tullamore can support the level of growth (socially and economically) to underpin its role as part of the ‘Midland’s Linked Gateway’ and as a ‘driver’ of development in sustaining strong levels of economic growth and prosperity in the county and region as a whole in a sustainable manner.

All SEOs

Yes

SSP-09 Key Service Towns It is Council policy to ensure that population growth of Key Service Towns, Birr, Edenderry and Portarlington is appropriate in scale within their identified role in the settlement hierarchy and to apply appropriate management measures in ensuring that such growth and/or pace of growth is appropriate, sustainable, and in compliance with the Core Strategy.

All other SEOs

Yes.

SSP-10 Service Towns It is Council policy to ensure that population growth of the Service Towns Clara and Ferbane is appropriate in pace, scale and diversity of uses and services within its identified role in the settlement hierarchy. The Council will apply appropriate management measures as defined in Chapters One and Eight in ensuring that such growth and/or pace of growth is appropriate, sustainable, and in compliance with the Core Strategy

Pop 1 Soil 1

All other SEOs

Yes however mitigation

‘sustainable’ not in final plan -Core strategy policies in particular CSP 07 and CSP 08

address sustainability.

SSP-11 Local Service Towns It is Council policy to conserve, enhance and strengthen the Local Service Towns within the county ensuring that the appropriate scale of growth is supported by sufficient physical and social infrastructure. Growth in these towns should be commensurate with their envisaged role

Pop 1 Mat 7 Soil 1

All other SEOs

Yes

SSP-12(a)

Villages It is Council policy to conserve, enhance, consolidate and strengthen villages within the county, in accordance with their existing size and character and through the

Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 1 CH 2

All other SEOs

Yes

A-11


implementation of the Development Plan policies.

Land 1

SSP-12(b) It is Council policy that expansion of villages will be in a planned and sustainable manner and in line with the population projections directed by the Core Strategy and the existing infrastructural capacity. Development may also be permitted where it will facilitate the provision of the necessary infrastructure provided that it is in accordance with policy, in particular concerning scale, siting, design and in accordance with the established character of the village.

Pop 1 Land 1 Land 3 Mat 4 Mat 7


Bio 1 Could include a reference/ policy -

It is council policy to complete and

review ‘Local Area Plans’ in accordance

with Department Guidance & Manual

(2013) for the appropriate

settlements within the lifetime of the

Plan.

Yes

SSP-12(c) It is Council policy to restrict single and/or multiple large scale developments which would lead to rapid completion of the village within the development boundary and in excess of the village’s capacity to absorb development in terms of physical (i.e. water, wastewater, surface water, lighting, footpaths, access etc) and social infrastructure (i.e. schools, community facilities etc).

Wat 2 Wat 3 Mat 2 Mat 4 Pop 2

Al other SEOs

Yes

SSP-12(d) It is Council policy that there will be a presumption in favour of small developments of differing scale and character rather than larger, more homogenous urban scaled housing ‘estates’. (For example 3 separately designed 10-house developments would generally be preferable to a single homogenous suburban style 30-house development). This approach would be more likely to create a sense of individualism and differing aspirations to each development. However, these smaller developments must not be solely “stand alone” developments. They must demonstrate how they fit in with and contribute to the

Pop 1 Land 3

All other SEOs

Bio 1 Mat 7

Refer to national planning policy

references.

Yes

A-12


overall development of the village (roadlines, services etc.) as indicated on the relevant plan. Where an individual landowner or a number of interests propose to combine and provide the necessary framework and infrastructure as an integral part of their proposals, and it is demonstrated that this is in line with the greater good of the area, and will not result in significant environmental effects, the Council would be prepared to examine such a proposal and consider it on its merit. Such a proposal may necessitate a ‘master plan’ for the landholding(s), clearly indicating potential development areas, obvious distinct character areas and vehicular, pedestrian, open space and services linkages to / through the remainder of the landholding or adjacent landholdings / developments.

SSP-12(e) It is Council policy to ensure that development in villages will both reinforce existing village commercial centres and facilitate the expansion of or provision of new mixed-use and employment-generating development in a sustainable manner. Lands zoned as ‘Local Employment/Services Lands’ and in particular within the ‘core’ areas as indicated on the zoning plans will be considered favourably for such developments, subject to site suitability and normal planning requirements. This will bring variety and vitality to the settlements, providing a wider choice of services and will help to create a ‘centre’ with a greater sense of place.

Pop 1 Soil 1

ALL other SEOs

Need to show that economic

development / ‘employment-

generation development’ does

not compromise sustainability of the

area.

Yes

SSP-12(f) It is Council policy to require that applications for developments of 8 houses or more in Villages will be accompanied by a design statement, prepared by a suitably qualified professional. Such statements should indicate the reasons for choosing the design(s), the design cues from which ideas were taken and how it is considered that the design(s) chosen are compatible with their immediate environs. Regard should be had to the context and cues provided by the existing

Land 1 Land 3 Soil 1

Soil 2 All other SEO’s

Yes

A-13


development and to the Council’s policy to maintain attractive, appropriately scaled and well designed rural settlements.

SSP-12(g) It is Council policy to ensure that developments have regard to and help to maintain and reinforce the form and character of the village concerned in terms of design, layout, finishing details, boundary make-up, landscaping etc. The resulting development shall be high in quality, appropriate in scale and designed in a style suitable for its location and context. In particular, roads which open up significant tracts of land relative to the existing size of the settlement assessed to ensure significant effects to the environment are avoided and should be designed by suitably qualified professionals with strong Landscape Architecture and design input. Boundary treatments, footpaths and lighting should reflect the village’s rural character.

Land 1 Land 2 Land 3 Mat 7 Soil 1 Bio 1

All other SEOs

SSP-12(h) It is Council policy to ensure that developments, where possible, retain valuable man-made and natural heritage features within their boundaries or environs, and are designed in a manner which is sympathetic to the natural or heritage aspect concerned, (for example: attractive stands of trees, mature hedgerows, stone walls, protected structures, archaeological sites, street furniture, recorded monuments etc.).

CH 1 CH 2 Soil 1 Soil 3

Land 2 Land 3 Bio 1

All other SEOs

Yes

SSP-12(i)

It is Council policy to promote the formation/consolidation of a central meeting place or similar open space within villages where practicable. It is also policy to facilitate by land identification, reservation means, the development of/extension of community facilities within villages.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Land 1 Land 3 Soil 1

Yes

SSP-12(j) It is Council policy to monitor development activity within each village boundary to ensure that growth is completed in an orderly and sustainable manner.

All SEOs Yes

SSP-13 Town/Village Brownfield Site: It is Council policy to encourage residential development

Soil 1 CH 2

ALL other

Yes, but mitigation

A-14


within Town Centres and village cores which can take place on infill sites or brownfield sites, subject to normal planning considerations which respect the character and setting of the existing settlement.

Pop 1

SEOs wording not included in final plan. Policies SSP 08, SSP 09, SSP 10, SSP 11 and SSP 12 address proper planning

and siting.

SSP-14 Local Employment/Services Lands: It is Council policy that multiple housing developments i.e. two or more residential units, will not be considered on any land zoned as “Local Employment/Services Lands” in Villages Proposals for single house development will still be considered on appropriate sites and multiple housing developments will be open for consideration but only within village cores areas as identified on the land use zoning maps

Soil 1 Pop 2

ALL SEOs

Yes

SSP-15(a) Sráids: It is Council policy to promote the sustainable development of Sráids to assist in satisfying rural generated housing needs within a structured but low density settlement, as a viable alternative to the development of “one-off” houses in the open countryside, remote from services etc. It is also policy to promote Sráids as limited opportunities for housing for urban dwellers who would not satisfy “local need” criteria but who aspire to live in a rural environment.

Soil 1

Soil 2 Bio 1 CH2

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Mat 6

& ALL

other SEOs

Issues will depend on site specifics -

Are all Sráid connected to waste,

water infrastructure/

easily connection to public system – If

not, should this be an objective of

Council to facilitate- mitigation measure should strengthen

this..

Yes

A-15


SSP-15(b) It is Council policy not to permit developments which would lead to rapid completion of the Sráid development envelope i.e. in a period considerably short of the medium to long term time period envisaged, and in excess of the settlement’s capacity to absorb development in terms of physical (i.e. water, sewerage (if applicable), lighting, footpaths, access etc.) and social infrastructure (i.e. schools, community facilities etc.).

Mat 2 Mat 4 Mat 7 Land 3

All other SEOs

Yes

SSP-15(c) It is Council policy to facilitate the provision of appropriately scaled commercial development within the Sráids. This may include limited new mixed-use development, including employment generating development, childcare and other appropriate commercial development. This will bring variety and vitality to the settlement, providing a wider choice of services and assist in creating a ‘centre’ with a greater sense of place.

Pop 1 Land 3 Soil 1

Soil 2

All SEOs Yes

SSP-15(d) It is Council policy to monitor development activity and to

encourage the sustainable, balanced development of the

designated Sráids in an incremental and plan-led manner,

with the emphasis on small scale developments over a

medium to long term period, in keeping with character of

the settlement.

Soil 1 Soil 2 Bio 1

All other SEOs

Yes

SSP-15(e) It is Council policy to provide an estimate of the possible / potential population capacity that each Sráid envelope may achieve sustainably in the medium to longer term

All SEOs General monitoring objective.

With inclusion of

‘sustainably’ could include all in ‘likely

to improve’ specifically:

Mat 2, Mat 4, Mat 7

Yes

SSP-15(f)

It is Council policy to monitor development activity within each Sráid envelope to ensure that growth is completed in

All SEOs Yes

A-16


an orderly and sustainable manner and in keeping with the medium to long term timeframe envisaged. In particular, it is policy to ensure that the levels of housing development envisaged by the individual Sráid plans (which will be primarily single house development but with limited scope for small-scale multi-house developments) takes place in a balanced pattern throughout the Sráid over the plan period.

SSP-15(g) It is Council policy that there will be a general presumption against proposals of more than 4 units in any one application as such multi-house estate type developments would lead to “completion” of the Sráids at a faster rate than suggested, leading to premature overdevelopment. Larger scale development (i.e. >4 units) may be considered in exceptional circumstances but only if it can be demonstrated that: (a) it would add significantly to the area’s sustainable development (b) it is reflective of the Sráid’s character and envisaged growth rate; (c) it will be strictly phased by the developer. The Sráid plans contain a presumption in favour of the small scale and incremental development of Sráids and a presumption against urban scale and style housing schemes within these designated settlements.

Land 3 Bio 1 Soil 1

All other SEOs

Mat 2 Mat 4 AQ 1 Mat 7

Traffic Calming arrangements in

Sráids should be in place along with footpaths, etc to

promote safe option along roads to the private car for community.

Traffic Study/ TIA may be required?

Yes

SSP-15(h) It is Council policy that: (i)Most opportunities for residential development in Sráids will take the form of frontage / linear development and that sites will be a minimum of half an acre in size. It shall further be the policy of the Council where in the limited cases that in-depth development is appropriate in a Sráid, that houses shall be detached only and that densities shall not exceed a maximum of 3 to the acre. (ii)This maximum density shall be determined having regard to the area’s character, density and to the residential amenity of proposed and existing development. (iii)In circumstances where a street already exists or is

Land 3 All other SEOs

AQ 1 Mat 2 Mat 4 Mat 7

Yes

A-17


appropriate and in the interests of protecting and enhancing the character of the Sráid, it may be appropriate to allow a street form.

SSP-15(i) It is Council policy to ensure that developments have regard to and help to maintain the form and character of the Sráid concerned. The resulting development shall be high in quality, appropriate in scale and designed in a style suitable for its location and context. In particular:

a) Proposed new access roads through previously undeveloped lands should be designed to create a ‘rural’ rather than an ‘urban’ impression. Roads which open up significant tracts of land relative to the existing size of the settlement should be designed by a suitably qualified professional with strong Landscape Architecture and design input.

b) Boundary treatments, footpaths and lighting should reflect the Sráid’s rural character.

c) Where a Sráid (or part of) is characterised by interesting building layouts, plans and designs, these should be retained and complimented, rather than replacement with more ‘standardised’ development styles to ensure a varied character is maintained and to avoid typically suburban standardised developments.

Land 3 CH 1

Soil 1 Soil2 Bio 1

All other SEOs

Mat 7 AQ 1

Yes

SSP-15(j) It is Council policy to require that applications for developments of 8 houses or more within Sráids will be accompanied by a Design Statement, prepared by a suitably qualified professional. Such statements should indicate the reasons for choosing the design(s), the design cues from which ideas were taken and how it is considered that the design(s) chosen is/are compatible with their immediate environs. Regard should be had to the context and cues provided by the existing development, and to the Council’s policy to create attractive, appropriately scaled

Mat 3 Land 3 All other SEOs

Mat 6 Yes

A-18


and well designed rural settlements.

SSP-15(k) It is Council policy to ensure that developments within Sráids, where possible, retain valuable man-made and natural heritage features within their boundaries or environs, and are designed in a manner which is sympathetic to the natural or heritage aspect concerned (for example; attractive stands of trees, mature hedgerows, stone walls, protected structures, recorded monuments etc.).

CH 1 Land 2 Bio 1

Yes

SSP-15(l) It is Council policy to promote the formation/consolidation of a central meeting place or similar open space within Sráids where practicable. It is also policy to facilitate by land identification, reservation of other means, the development of/extension of community facilities within Sráids.


Yes

SSP-16 It is Council policy to closely monitor growth and pressure for growth and to implement appropriate management measures in controlling development in Sráids.

ALL SEOs Yes

SSP-17 Rural Housing Design: It is Council policy to encourage and promote quality design, appropriate scale, form, informed siting, quality materials and finishes and to incorporate where possible and practicable, the best principles and mechanisms for sustainability and energy efficiency. In addition, it is also Council policy to ensure that, notwithstanding compliance with the local need criteria, applicants comply with all other normal siting and design considerations including the following:

The protection of features that contribute to local attractiveness including; landscape features, historic and archaeological landscapes, water bodies, ridges, skylines, topographical features, geological features and important views and prospects.

The capacity of the area to absorb further

Bio 5 Pop 1 Pop 2 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 3 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2 Land 3 AQ 2 Mat 1 Mat 2 Mat 4 Mat 6 Mat 7

Soil 1 Soil 2 CH 2

All other SEOs

Yes

A-19


development. In particular, the following factors will be examined; the extent of existing ribbon development in the area, the degree of existing haphazard or piecemeal development in the area and the degree of development on a single original landholding.

The ability to provide safe vehicular access to the site.

The ability of a site in an unserviced area to accommodate an on-site waste water disposal system in accordance with the EPA Code of Practice for Wastewater Treatment Systems for Single Houses (2009), Source Protection Plans within the county, and any other relevant documents /legislation as may be introduced during the Plan period.

The need to comply with the requirements of The Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines for Planning Authorities published by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in November 2009.

SSP-18 Rural Housing Policy: It is Council policy that within areas of the open countryside identified as a pressure area in Map 1.4 A positive presumption will be given towards a new single house for the permanent occupation of an applicant who falls within one or more of the 3 categories below and meets the necessary criteria.

All SEOs

Impacts on specific SEOs are dependent

on the specific development

pressures of that area. However, generally rural

housing increases reliance on private

car &builds over soil resources.

Yes

Category 1: Local Rural Persons (a), (b) and (c) The following 3 criteria arise in assessing applicants under this category:

General criteria based policy.

Yes

A-20


The applicant must come within the definition of a ‘Local Rural Person’ and the proposed site must be situated within their ‘Local Rural Area’ and the applicant must have a ‘Local Rural Housing Need’ a) A ‘Local Rural Person’ (applicant) is a person who was born within the local rural area, or who is living or has lived in the local rural area for a minimum of 5 years at any stage prior to making the planning application. It includes returning emigrants seeking a permanent home in their local rural area. b) The ‘Local Rural Area’ for the purpose of this policy is defined as the area generally within a 8km radius of where the applicant was born, living or has lived. The rural area excludes all urban settlements contained with Tiers 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the settlement hierarchy). c) An applicant who satisfies a ‘Local Rural Housing Need’ is defined as a person who does not or has not ever owned a house in a rural area and has the need for a permanent dwelling for their own use.

Category 2: Persons Working Fulltime or Part-time in Rural Areas (a) or (b) Such persons shall be defined as persons who by the nature of their work have a functional need to reside permanently in the rural area generally immediately adjacent to their place of work. Such circumstances will normally encompass persons involved in full-time farming, horticulture or forestry as well as similar part-time occupations where it can be demonstrated that it is the predominant occupation. Other cases will be dealt with on their own individual merits having regard to the intended spirit of the policy. In each case the applicant must not already own or have owned a house in the rural area.

Yes

Category 3: Exceptional Health Circumstances Having regard to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government’s ‘Sustainable Rural

ALL SEOs

Policy on who can apply – it is SEO /

area based.

Yes

A-21


Housing Guidelines’ (2005), special consideration shall be given in limited cases of exceptional health circumstances - supported by relevant documentation from a registered medical practitioner and a disability organisation proving that a person requires to live in a particular environment or close to family support, or requires a close family member to live in close proximity to that person.

SSP-19 Having regard to the need to protect County Offaly’s natural resources, environment, landscape and infrastructure, it is Council policy to consider a single dwelling for the permanent occupation of an applicant in Areas of Special Control where all of the following can be demonstrated: 1. Applicant must meet the criteria of one or more of the 3 categories of Policy 18 (Rural Housing Policy) and, 2. Applicant has a functional need to reside in this particular rural area, 3. Adequate measures are proposed which will ensure protection of the drinking water source from any deleterious effects of the development (source protection zones). 4. No alternative site is available outside the areas of special control and, 5. Applicant does not already own or has owned a house in a rural area. Areas of special control include: • National/International Conservation Designations (SPA, SACs, NHAs). • Areas of High Amenity. • Source Protection Zones. • Restricted Regional Roads (as per list set out in Infrastructure Chapter). ‘Functional need’ is defined as a need to reside at this

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3

Land 1 Wat 3 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Bio 5 Wat 1 Mat 7 Wat 2 Wat 3

Site dependent Potential

requirement for the need for: HDA,

EIA , or Environmental report, TIA as appropriate.

Yes

A-22


particular location in exceptional circumstances to be outlined by the applicant or for the purposes of employment.

SSP-20 SSP – 20 It is Council policy that within areas of the open

countryside identified as being:

NOT under Rural Housing Development Pressure

(refer to Map 1.4), or

NOT in an Area of Special Control (refer to Map 1.4

and SSP – 19),

There will be a presumption in favour of applications for

single houses by persons from within or outside these rural

areas who seek a permanent dwelling and will therefore

contribute to the social and economic well being of the

area. It is the policy of the Planning Authority to prohibit

speculative development in these areas. Any application for

a single permanent dwelling must be made in the name of

the person for whom it is intended and a condition will be

attached to any permission granted requiring them to

occupy the house in the first instance.

All SEOs Yes

SSP-21 In the case of the proposed demolition of a habitable dwelling and its replacement with a new single dwelling, it is Council policy to favourably consider proposals subject to normal environmental, siting, design and layout considerations. In such circumstances, applicants will not be required to comply with local need criteria as set out in Rural Housing-Local Need Policy SSP 18 and Rural Housing Policy for Areas of Special Control –SSP 19 Planning permission will be considered for a replacement dwelling when the building to be replaced is a dwelling house fulfilling the following criteria:

Land 3 Land 2 CH 1

Mat 5 All other SEOs

Wat 2 Wat 3 Mat 1 Mat 2 Mat 4 Mat 6 Mat 7

Where habitable houses are in flood

plains applicant need are required

to complete a Flood Risk Assessment Study and new design needs to show no risk or contribution to

flooding.

Yes

A-23


Existing dwelling house must: • Exhibit all the essential characteristics of a dwelling house; • Be in use, or have last been used, as a dwelling house. This use must not have been abandoned or changed from another use, without previous planning permission; • Be occupied or be capable of occupation with minor renovation. There may be instances where an existing dwelling, which fulfils the replacement criteria, should not be replaced for good planning reasons such as the dwelling or parts of the dwelling are of special, architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest. The siting of a replacement dwelling should be within the same curtilage as the existing building, to take advantage of any natural features or mature planting and to reduce the visual impact of new larger dwellings. The siting and design of the total new development should not create a visual impact significantly greater than the existing building, in order that it is satisfactorily integrated into the landscape. The assurance of substantial landscaping, as a means to

reduce the impact of a prominent and overly dominant dwelling in the longer term, will not be considered an acceptable design solution.

SSP – 22 Reuse of Existing Structures as dwellings in the Open Countryside: It is Council policy to favourably consider all applications (i.e. ‘Local Need’ requirement will not apply) for the refurbishment and/or reuse of older building stock subject to the following criteria;

The reuse will normally only be considered appropriate where the structure is an important element in the landscape or of local architectural

CH 2 Bio 1 Mat 5 Land 3 Soil 1

All other SEOs

Mat 7 AQ 1 Wat 1 Mat 4 Mat 5

Yes

A-24


merit or historic interest.

The external walls and roof are substantially intact.

The external walls and roof are substantially intact.

The design of the proposal does not erode the siting and design qualities of the building which makes it attractive in the first instance.

The size of any extension takes account of the siting and size of the existing building.

The design, scale and materials used in the refurbishment and/or extension are in keeping and sympathetic with the existing structure.

Mature landscape features are retained and enhanced, as appropriate.

That normal planning considerations i.e. road safety, amenities, public health, design etc. shall take precedence over the ‘principle’ of encouraging such development.

SSP-23 It is Council policy to encourage the sensitive refurbishment of existing derelict dwelling houses which have fallen derelict provided that the refurbishment provides for quality design, scale, form, material and finishes and does not detract negatively from the original character of the derelict of the dwelling. The existing derelict dwelling house must: • Exhibit all the essential characteristics of a dwelling house; • Be in use, or have last been used, as a dwelling house.

Sol 1 CH 2

Land 3

Bio 1 All other SEOs

Yes

SSP-24 It is Council policy to consider the proposals for the replacement of derelict dwellings in the open countryside subject to normal planning considerations. In such circumstances, applicants will not be required to comply with local need criteria as set out in Rural Housing-Local Need Policy XX and Rural Housing Policy for Areas of

Soil 1 CH 1

Land 3

CH 2 All other SEOs

Yes however, additional text was included through the

material amendment

A-25


Special Control. Planning permission will be considered for a replacement dwelling when the derelict building to be replaced is a dwelling house which exhibits all the essential characteristics of a dwelling house. There may be instances where an existing derelict dwelling, which fulfils the replacement criteria, should not be replaced for good planning reasons such as the dwelling or parts of the dwelling are of special, architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest. The siting of a replacement dwelling should be within the same curtilage as the existing building, to take advantage of any natural features or mature planting and to reduce the visual impact of new larger dwellings. The siting and design of the total new development should not create a visual impact significantly greater than the existing building, in order that it is satisfactorily integrated into the landscape. The assurance of substantial landscaping, as a means to reduce the impact of a prominent and overly dominant dwelling in the longer term, will not be considered an acceptable design solution.

process, please see Annex C.

Part V Housing Strategy Policy

HS-01 Reservation of Lands for the Provision of Social Housing: It is Council policy, as required under Section 95 of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 (as amended), that 20% of all land zoned for residential use and/or for a mixture of residential and other uses, (subject to preferred options as determined in Offaly County Council, Guidelines for the Implementation of Part V of Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) shall be reserved for the provision of housing for the purposes of Housing for persons referred to in Section 19 (2) (a) of the Housing Act 2009.

Pop 1 ALL SEOs

Yes

HS-02 It is Council policy to promote social inclusion by ensuring that social housing is of good quality design and layout,

ALL SEOs

Yes

A-26


appropriately located with access to public transport services and community facilities where possible and s distributed throughout all residential developments and locations.

HS-03 It is Council policy to allow for revisions should the Housing Strategy be reviewed or if Planning Legislation (notably ‘Part V’) is amended during the lifetime of plan.

All SEOs

Yes

HS-04 It is Council policy to ensure the delivery of the Part V Housing Strategy by ensuring sufficient lands within the county are zoned in accordance with its settlement hierarchy.

All SEOs

Yes

HS-05 It is Council policy that where considering development and/or acquisition of social and traveller specific housing the Council will have full regard to: a) The policies contained in the County Development Plan and any other relevant action plans. b) The County’s Settlement Strategy. c) The policies contained in the Councils’ Social Housing Investment Programme and Traveller Accommodation Programme. d) The need for social integration. e) The need to ensure the overall coherence of the development.

All SEOs Yes

HS-06 Social Housing: It is Council policy to provide social houses through a combination of mechanisms including, subject to funding, direct build, ‘Part V’, turnkey developments and the acquisition of second-hand housing in accordance within the County’s settlement hierarchy to meet identified needs. Social housing units will be allocated on the basis of the Council’s adopted Scheme of Letting Priorities 2011

ALL SEOs

.

Yes

HS-07 It is Council policy to appropriately manage the provision of social housing provided by the Council within the county.

All SEOs Positive influence on population but

Yes

A-27


neutral overall based on specific

SEOs

HS-08 House Types and Sizes: It is Council policy to ensure that an appropriate mix of house types and sizes are provided in each residential development. House designs and layout should reflect the requirements of different categories of households within the county – particularly those needs and requirements of elderly persons and persons with disabilities coupled with continuing trends in changing demographics (i.e. decreasing household size). This will be considered in relation to each settlement tier within the county’s settlement hierarchy.


Pop 1 Mat 7 Mat 3

Yes

HS-09 Homeless People: It is Council policy to actively promote integrated solutions to address the issue of homelessness within the county. The Council will continue to work in partnership with the statutory and voluntary agencies on the Midlands Regional Joint Homeless Consultative Forum and Offaly’s Homeless Action Team to address the accommodation needs of homeless persons in a targeted and focussed manner, using an inter-agency approach. In particular, the Council will support the ongoing provision of emergency accommodation in Tullamore in partnership with Midlands Simon.

All SEOs

Yes

HS-10 Travellers: It is Council policy to respect the distinctive culture of the Travelling Community and assist in the process of integration with the settled community.

All SEOs Yes

HS-11 It is Council policy to provide a good and well-managed living environment for the Travelling Community including recommended standards of accommodation, sanitary facilities, and pre-school education facilities, where feasible

Pop 1 Mat 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Mat 7 Mat 3 Mat 5 Land 3

Yes but slight amendment to wording through the material

A-28


and on approved sites only. amendment process please see Annex C.

Objectives1

HSO-01 It is an objective of the Council to secure the implementation of the Part V Housing Strategy of this plan including the proper implementation of its policies and objectives, in particular, through the reservation of 20% of all land zoned solely for residential use, or for a mixture of residential or other uses, to be made available for the provision of social housing referred to in Section 94(4)(a) of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 (as amended) subject to preferred options as determined in Offaly County Council, Guidelines for the Implementation of Part V of Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).

Pop 1 All other SEOs

HSO-02 House Types and Sizes: It is an objective of the Council to ensure that an appropriate mix of house types and sizes are provided in each residential development as part of ‘Part V’ proposals, where feasible.

All SEOs Yes

HSO-03 Proposed Accommodation for the Travelling Community: It is an objective of the Council to provide accommodation for Travellers in accordance with the Council’s Traveller Accommodation Programme for County Offaly. Further it is an objective of the Council to take a flexible approach to the location of this accommodation for Travellers.

All other SEOs

Pop 1

Pop 2 Mat 7 Mat 2 Mat 3 Mat 4 Mat 5

Yes

HSO-04 Purpose built dwellings: All other Mat 7 Supports policy Yes

1The order of listing of objectives is not intended to indicate priorities. Subject to the availability of resources, it is the Council’s aim to monitor and accomplish the objectives listed in this section within the period of the

plan.

A-29


It is an objective of the Council to provide purpose built dwellings for those with special needs within existing settlements, including provisions for the needs of the elderly, persons with physical disabilities and persons with learning disabilities where feasible and in conjunction with other voluntary bodies and the private sector.

SEOs Pop 1

HS-08

Need to include something on

location of these dwellings. V.

Important in terms of sustainability and

in particular the Social and economic

impacts.

Chapter Two Economic Development Strategy No. Section Title O ? Comment Included in Final

Plan yes/no

Chapter Two 2.6 Enterprise Policies

EntP - 01 It is Council policy that future development in Offaly be largely distributed throughout the county’s settlement hierarchy, having regard to each individual area’s (a) identified role within the region, (b) existing size, (c) existing function and (d) capacity for sustainable growth (i.e. growth without detriment to its surroundings, its built or natural assets and/or its character). However, there is a positive presumption in terms of employment creation and therefore it is Council policy to examine such proposals within other locations on a case-by-case basis


Whilst identified as potential conflict but mitigation;

there may also be uncertain impacts

at this level subject to development activity and sites

unknown

Yes but additional reference to

infrastructure capacity including through material

amendment process please see

Annex C.

EntP- 02 It is Council policy to co-operate with local, regional and national enterprise authorities, most notably the IDA and Enterprise Ireland, in the attraction of investment into the county, including both overseas investment and local investment and the provision of employment / enterprise within Offaly.


Due to type and siting uncertainties but likely DM will

address

Yes

EntP - 03 It is Council policy to strengthen and channel All SEOs Yes, but additional

A-30

No. Section Title O ? Comment Included in Final Plan yes/no

development into Tullamore the primary driver for economic development within the county, a role identified as part of the Midlands Linked Gateway as set out in the National Spatial Strategy and the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines.

text referencing co-ordination

approach to the three linked

Gateway towns was included through

the material amendment

process. Please see Annex C

EntP - 04 It is Council policy to support local employment creation where it can mitigate against long distance commuting.

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

EntP - 05 It is Council policy to actively encourage, facilitate and provide for the location and development of knowledge-intensive and technology based specialisation companies within the county, as appropriate, in accordance with development / environmental standards.


Yes

EntP - 06 It is Council policy to facilitate and work pro-actively with other interest groups (both public and private sector) in the location of industry, business and enterprise in particular by Zoning of lands within an adequate range of locations for industry and business / employment uses which can facilitate the provision of large-scale and small-scale development, as appropriate. This includes the identification and possible reservation of lands at suitable locations which will accommodate, where appropriate – business / commercial activity, industry, enterprise, retail etc. having regard to proper planning and sustainable development. The Council will protect zoned lands from inappropriate development that would undermine future economic activity or the unsustainable development of such areas.

Pop 2 All SEOs

Yes

EntP - 07 It is Council policy to actively encourage the redevelopment of brownfield sites for enterprise and employment creation throughout the county, in particular, disused sites which were formerly ESB plants


Mat 7 Depending on activity transport patterns are identified as

Yes with additional text included through the

material

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and Bord na Mona works.

uncertain. amendment process, please see

Annex C.

EntP - 08 It is Council policy to co-operate with and facilitate Government agencies, and other bodies where feasible, in encouraging home-based employment. This is in accordance with the National Spatial Strategy’s policy of “Bringing people and jobs together” and includes the provision of small-scale individual enterprises. Proposals which involve the change of use and/or new development for purposes of home-based employment will be generally considered favourably where it can be clearly demonstrated that, a) the proposal is of an appropriate scale for its location; b) there are no adverse environmental, health and safety impacts and c) the proposal is without prejudice to residential amenity d) the proposal will not detract from the vitality and viability of Town or Village Centres

Pop 1, Pop 2 Soil 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Likely to be minor as scale likely to be low re; impacts for mitigation.

Yes with additional reference made

regarding viability of towns and village

centres inserted through the

material amendment

process; please see Annex C.

EntP - 09 It is Council Policy to encourage the provision of incubator units at a scale appropriate to their location, in accordance with the county’s settlement hierarchy and to ensure that an appropriate programme of support is in place across the county that will both provide education and networking opportunities for new businesses.

Pop 1 All SEOs

Again minor Yes

EntP - 10 It is Council policy to encourage and establish links between County Offaly and National University of Maynooth (NUIM) and Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT) and other higher level colleges as appropriate, which will improve the skills base/education of inhabitants within County Offaly.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Yes

New policy EntP-11 supporting

infrastructural development and employment was included through

the material

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amendment process, please see

Annex C

2.7 Enterprise Objectives

EntO – 01 It is an objective of the Council to facilitate the development of the Midlands Linked Gateway, in accordance with national / regional policy. This will include measures to seek to reserve lands within Tullamore (part of the Midlands linked Gateway) which will make provisions for potential national and regionally significant activities and to attract specialist large-scale enterprise development within the county. The Planning Authority will therefore enhance, promote and protect Tullamore in the interests of providing for and facilitating the potential development of the gateway in accordance with national and regional policy.

Pop 1 Mat 7

All SEOs

Yes

EntO– 02 It is an objective of the Council to co-operate with and seek to facilitate local community based development groups in developing industrial clusters as appropriate.


uncertain Yes

EntO– 03 It is an objective of the Council to identify a range of optimum locations which can present opportunities for the location of specific / specialised enterprise and employment within the county.

All SEOs

Due to not known how this will be undertaken, intensitiy, location etc.

Yes

EntO– 04 It is an objective of the Council to encourage, in co-operation with Enterprise Ireland, the Offaly County Enterprise Board, and other local development bodies, the development of further small to medium scale indigenous industries and services. Further, to promote the establishment of a number of small incubator units, together with a county-wide support programme, within designated areas to accommodate new business start-ups.

Pop 1 All other SEOS

Areas not identified so uncertain however in line with DM and policies should be not a prob

Yes

EntO– 05 It is an objective of the Council to identify, facilitate and promote the development of the county’s peatlands where appropriate, in accordance with proper planning

Bio 1 Bio 2 Wat 1

All other SEOs

Yes, with additional text referencing sustainable and

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practice. Further, to seek the formulation of a coherent

integrated land use plan for the after-use of cutaway bogs. In seeking to achieve this objective, Offaly County Council will have regard to any national and regional policy, legislation or guidelines which may be published in the future, that will assist in further classifying the status of Offaly’s peatlands.

appropriate use inserted through


process. Please see Annex C.

EntO– 06

It is an objective of the Council to continue to liaise and work alongside the enterprise agencies, ESB and Bord na Mona and the private sector, to develop enterprise space at various locations throughout the county, where feasible.

Pop 1 All other SEOS

Again sites not determined at this objective, so uncertain impacts

Yes

EntO - 07 It is an objective of the Local Enterprise Office of the Council to create and adopt a local enterprise plan for County Offaly.

Yes

New objective EntO-08 regarding support for Lough

Boora as a national peatlands centre

was inserted through the

material amendment

process. Please see Annex C.

New Objective EntO-09 promoting

potential of e-commerce/digital hub in the county inserted through

material amendment

process please see Annex C.

2.9 Rural Development Policy

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RDP– 01 It is Council policy to support the development of agriculture where it is compatible with the sustainable development of the county, and commensurate with sustaining the farming community.

Bio 1 Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 2 CH 1 Land 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

CH 2 Depending on farming activities, restoration/continued use of farm buildings could be an indirect positive impact associated with this policy.

Yes

RDP – 02 It is Council policy to encourage the development of alternative rural based small-scale enterprises. The Council will consider the use, nature and scale of developments when assessing such applications. In addition, the Council will also consider the requirement to locate such developments in rural areas


Yes

RDP – 03 It is Council policy to favourably consider proposals for the expansion of existing industrial or new business enterprise in the countryside where the proposal is; a) an appropriate size and scale, b) does not negatively impact on the character and amenity of the surrounding area, and c) has regard to and complies with guidelines/standards including traffic, noise and environmental considerations This policy will generally relate to enterprises which are rural resource based and which have the potential to strengthen rural areas.

All SEOs

Yes

RDP – 04 It is Council policy that the development of small rural enterprises and craft industries in rural areas will, in general be encouraged, subject to compliance with normal planning requirements.


Yes

RDP – 05 It is Council policy to encourage the development of environmentally sustainable practices, particularly agriculture, to ensure that development does not impinge on the visual amenity of the countryside and that watercourses, wildlife habitats and areas of ecological

Soil 1 Mat 4 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

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importance are protected from the threat of pollution.

RDP – 06

It is Council policy to consider favourably proposals for on-farm based diversification, which is complementary to the agricultural operation on the farm, the biodiversity supported by the farm and is operated as part of the farm holding.


Really depends on what type of diversification proposed and levels of development but would be addressed through DM control

Yes

RDP – 07 It is Council policy to support those who live and work in rural areas and who wish to remain on the land holding and accordingly the Council will favourably consider rural diversification intended to supplement farm income such as: Specialist farming practices e.g. flower growing, equine facilities, poultry, mushroom growing, and specialised animal breeding. Farm enterprises such as processing, co-ops, farm supply stores and agri-business. The production of organic and specialty foods to meet the increase in demand for such products. The conversion of redundant farm buildings of vernacular importance for appropriate owner-run enterprises, as a way of supporting a viable rural community, subject to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2 Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

RDP – 08 It is Council policy to support the development of renewable energy in rural areas, where it is considered appropriate.(i.e where it is demonstrated that such development will not result in significant environmental effects) Such development will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Pop 1 AQ 2 Mat 6

All other SEOs

Yes

RDP – 09 It is Council policy to encourage and facilitate the development of local and community based renewable energy projects in the county, notwithstanding their

Pop 1 AQ 2 Mat 6

All other SEOs

Yes

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suitability and additional considerations such as location, nature of use, compliance with relevant guidelines and scale, where it can be demonstrated that such proposals are feasible.

RDP – 10 It is Council policy to encourage state and private afforestation, both native broadleaf and coniferous species, in appropriate locations, in co-operation with Coillte and the Forest Service and in line with national policy and Forest Service environmental guidelines

AQ 2 Mat 1 Mat 3 Mat 4 Mat 5 Mat 6 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

RDP – 11 It is Council Policy to encourage expansion and employment in industries such as agriculture, horticulture, forestry, peatlands, food, crafts, tourism and energy


Yes

RDP – 12 It is Council policy to facilitate and encourage the reuse of redundant farm buildings of vernacular importance for appropriate agri-tourism enterprises, subject to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

Pop 1 CH 1 Ch 2 Soil 1 Land 1 Land 2

Yes

RDP – 13 It is Council policy to liaise and co-operate with statutory, local development, sectoral and community / voluntary agencies and groups to develop economic, social and cultural benefits for the rural community and its service base.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Yes

RDP – 14 It is Council policy to ensure those extractions (quarries /

sand and gravel pits) which would result in a reduction of

the visual amenity of areas of high amenity or damage to

areas of scientific importance or of geological, botanical,

zoological and other natural significance shall not be

permitted. It is Council policy that all such workings

should be subjected to landscaping requirements and

that worked out quarries should be rehabilitated to a use

Bio 3 Soil 1 Soil 3 Land 1

All other SEOs

Yes but with changes inserted

through the material


Annex C

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agreed with the Planning Authority which could include

recreational, amenity and end-of-life uses. The use of

these rehabilitated sites shall be limited to wastes such as

soil, stone and subsoils and sites shall be authorised

under the appropriate waste regulations. Where the

Council considers and accepts that in cases where inert

material (i.e. soil, stones and subsoil etc.) cannot be

recycled or otherwise sold, such materials may be

considered for the phased restoration and landscaping of

the site in line with standard planning conditions

imposed.

RDP – 15 It is Council policy to ensure that agricultural developments are designed and constructed in a manner that will ensure that watercourses and sources of potable water are protected from the threat of pollution in line with Water Quality Regulations and the requirements of the Water Framework Directive.

Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3

All other SEOs

Yes

RDP – 16 It is Council policy to continue to protect existing resource based industry from encroachment by residential development, for example mining, quarrying, gravel pits, peat extraction and intensive agriculture.

Pop 2 Mat 3

All other SEOs

Many of these existing industries are subject to IPPC so under an environmental monitoring regime.

Yes

RDP – 17 It is Council policy to support the sustainable development of cutaway peatlands within the county for appropriate alternative uses, subject to environmental considerations and nature designations. The Council will not support development in such peatland areas where uses have the potential to undermine the status of remaining active peatlands.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Soil 1 Soil 3

All other SEOs

Yes but mitigation measure not in final

plan, however policies NHP 12,

and objectives NHO 04 and NHO12

address peatlands as well as

overarching policies CSP 07 and CSP 08

New policy RDP 18

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regarding added value in the food

sector was inserted through the

material amendment

process please see Annex C.

2.10 Rural Development Objectives

RDO– 01 It is an objective of the Council to support agricultural development and encourage the continuation of agriculture as a contributory means of maintaining population in the rural area and sustaining the rural economy.


Yes

RDO – 02 It is an objective of the Council to identify and support, where feasible, Commercial Rural Enterprise Centres throughout the county.


Yes

RDO – 03 It is an objective of the Council to support rural employment initiatives across the county

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Yes, but with additional text

inserted through the material amendment

process, please see Annex C

RDO – 04

It is an objective of the Council to ensure that all agricultural activities adhere to any legislation on water quality and biodiversity e.g. Phosphorus Regulations, Water Framework Directive, and Nitrates Directive, Habitats Directive.

All SEOs Yes

RDO – 05 It is an objective of the Council to investigate the possibility of and support the preparation of an Aggregate Potential Mapping exercise for Offaly in association with the Geological Survey of Ireland.

All other SEOs

Soil 3 No, this objective was deleted through the

material amendment


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2.12 Tourism Policy

TP - 01

It is Council policy to promote and foster a growing sense of innovation and entrepreneurial activity in the tourism sector throughout County Offaly.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Yes

TP - 02 It is Council policy to continue to support and encourage increased co-ordination, cohesion and linkages between agencies involved in tourism development e.g. Fáilte Ireland, Waterways Ireland and Offaly County Council.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Yes

TP - 03 It is Council policy to encourage clustering of products to increase linkages within and reduce leakage from the local economy e.g. linkages between providers of accommodation and local farmers / niche food producers, across County Offaly and the wider region.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 May be indirect positives associated with cultural heritage and landscapes

Yes

TP - 04 It is Council policy to protect natural resources on which tourism is based through the enforcement of policies and relevant legislation in relation to protection of resources protection, architectural conservation areas, bogs peatlands, water quality, species and populations of conservation concern and biodiversity, rural housing and holiday home development.

All SEOs

Yes

TP - 05 It is Council policy to further investigate the potential of and opportunities for the development of trails in County Offaly to include a mixture of walking, cycling and driving trails, for the provision of appropriate services along these trails, and for the development of linkages between these trails in Offaly and adjoining counties. The Council will only support such developments where it is demonstrated that no significant environmental effects will arise as a consequence of their construction or operation.

All other SEOs

The mitigation measure facilitates stronger protection in terms of potential disturbance to environmental parameters arising from recreational use.

Yes

TP - 06 It is Council policy to liaise with strategic partners such as Bord na Mona, The National Parks and Wildlife Service and Coillte on the identification of land use strategies for appropriate areas of peatland within the county focusing on the tourism, environmental and heritage value of these areas.

Pop 1 Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 CH 2 Land 1

All other SEOs

Yes with additional reference to

forestry including through the

material amendment

process; please see

A-40


Land 2 Annex C

TP - 07 It is Council policy to favourably consider tourism infrastructure development related to sport, recreation and information including boating, angling, walking and pony trekking routes, golf courses, adventure centres, and interpretive centres etc. subject to proper planning, environmental protection and sustainable development and policies of this plan.

All SEOs

Yes

TP – 08 It is Council policy to promote and facilitate conferencing facilities in the county and to support future tourism opportunities which may offer the opportunity to build on this existing attraction to the county, based on the county’s location.

All SEOs

Yes

TP - 09 It is Council policy that where tourism related developments involve the interaction of a number of the above listed activities with accommodation facilities, such proposals should be facilitated (subject to proper planning) where integration and linkage between tourism facilities is promoted

All SEOs

Yes

TP - 10 It is Council policy to encourage tourism related developments inside existing settlements where the scale and size of the proposed development is appropriate and in keeping with the character of the settlement.

Bio 1 Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 1 Land 1 Land 2 Land 3

All other SEOs

Yes

TP - 11 It is Council policy that tourism related developments outside of settlements will be considered where there is proven sustainable need. The need to locate in a particular area must be balanced against the environmental impact of the development and the impact of the development and benefits to the local community.

All SEOs

Yes

TP – 12 It is Council policy to recognise the value of the Slieve Blooms as an area of natural beauty with considerable recreation value and potential for diverse opportunities for the tourism industry. The Council acknowledges the

All SEOs

Yes

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designation of the Slieve Blooms as a cSAC and SPA and will only support opportunities where it can be demonstrated that they will not result in significant effects to the conservation objectives of the Slieve Bloom European Sites.

New policy TP 13 promoting Durrow Abbey was inserted



Annex C

2.13 Tourism Objectives

Tourism Objective - 01

It is an objective of the Council to implement a Tourism Strategy for Offaly.


Depending on the focus and content of the tourism strategy

Yes

TO - 02 It is an objective of the Council to establish a signage policy committee to design and investigate funding opportunities for integrated directional and interpretive signage with a timeframe for implementation in the county and guidance for the appearance and location of these.

All other SEOs

Land 1 Land 3

Yes

TO - 03 It is an objective of the Council to prepare a Tourism Development and Management Plan in association with Failte Ireland and adjoining local authorities for key tourist sites in the county. This plan should include the built and natural features which have an established tourist draw and will set out requirements in relation to tourism facilities and accommodation of visitors./sustainable visitor management?

All SEOs Depending on the focus and content of the tourism strategy

Yes

TO - 04 It is an objective of the Council to co-operate with Fáilte Ireland, Bord na Móna, Waterways Ireland and other relevant bodies and agencies in promoting the waterways and lakelands of the county in respect of an overall

All SEOs

Content and focus of strategy not known so uncertain impacts

Yes

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tourism development and marketing strategy.

TO - 05

It is an objective of the Council to facilitate the development of a sustainable tourism resource using cutaway peatlands on conjunction with Bord na Mona and Fáilte Ireland subject to environmental considerations and nature designations.


Yes Partly included in final plan–

‘subject to environmental

considerations and natural

designations’ is included.

‘sustainable’ is not. However, a

number of policies would integrate

sustainable development

including CSP 07 and CSP 08.

TO – 06 It is an objective of Offaly County Council to encourage the development of water-based recreation activities on flooded cutaway bog where the opportunity arises, including possibly in Noggus Boy Bog and in Garryhinch subject to environmental considerations and nature designations

Pop 1 Soil 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Garryhinch is currently promoted as an ecotourism park by BNM

YEs

TO-07 It is an objective of Offaly County Council to seek to promote the provision of tourism amenity signs in accordance with national policy.

All SEOs Neutral impacts, minor elements and will be provided in line with national policy in relation to signage.

Yes

New Objective TO 08 investigating

viability of reopening canal

was inserted through the

material

A-43



Annex C

New Objective TO 09 supporting

mountain bike trail in Slieve Blooms

was inserted during the material amendment


New objective TO 10 supporting

amenity development at Lough Boora and

Clara Bog was inserted during the

material amendment


New objective TO 11 investigating

feasibility of Energy Park was inserted following material


Annex C

New Objective TO 12 supporting

water resource infrastructure and storage (note this

was inserted

A-44


following material amendment and was presented as objective EO 22 in SEA Screening in

Annex C)

New Objective TO 13 regarding

development of walking and cycling

strategy was inserted through


process; please see Annex C (was

referred to as TO 08 in SEA

Screening)

Chapter Three Energy Strategy No. Section Title O ? Comment Included in Final

Plan yes/no

EP-01 It is Council policy to support national and international initiatives for limiting emissions of greenhouse gases and to encourage the development of renewable energy sources.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 AQ 1 AQ 2 Mat 6

Indirect positives on biodiversity and soil and flood

Yes

EP-02 It is Council policy to facilitate the continual development of renewable energy sources having regard subject to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area concerned, having particular regard to the protection of amenities, landscape sensitivities habitats and, European Sites, biodiversity, natural heritage, and built heritage, where such proposals comply with policy contained in the County Development Plan in the interests of proper planning and sustainable development.

AQ 2 Mat 6

All other SEOS

Yes

A-45


EP-03 It is Council policy to encourage the development of wind energy in suitable locations, within the wind energy development areas open for consideration identified in Map 3.2, in an environmentally sustainable manner and in accordance with Government policy, having particular regard to the Wind Energy Strategy for the County and Section 3.5.1, which states that appropriate buffers should be provided, which shall be a minimum of 2km from Town and Village Cores, European designated sites, including Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Areas (SPA), and national designations, Natural Heritage Areas (NHA). The cumulative impact of wind energy development will be a material consideration in the assessment of any planning application for wind energy development

AQ 2 Mat 6

All other SEOs

‘Appropriate’ buffers will allow for case by case assessment depending on siting and environmental considerations.

Yes but with amendments at

material amendment

changes that made reference to

cutaway bogs, changed buffer distances and

removed Area 4 from Areas Open to

Consideration. Please see Annex C

New Policy EP 04 addressing

cumulative impacts was inserted through the

material amendment

process; please see Annex C.

This also changes the numbering of

subsequent policies in this chapter.

EP-04 It is Council policy that applications for wind energy development outside of the wind energy development areas open for consideration identified in Map 3.2 will not normally be permitted except when it can be demonstrated that the proposals fall into one of the following category: Category A: Single Turbines that are sited close to and specifically relate to the operations of an

Yes, EP 05 in Final Plan

A-46


industrial/commercial premise or a school, hospital or other community-related premises. Supporting evidence must be provided detailing that the development will facilitate and is related to the operation of the business or community facility. Each proposal within this category will be open for consideration outside of the wind energy development areas and subject to site specific assessment in accordance with relevant guidance.

EP-05 It is Council policy to promote energy conservation and efficiency measures and to facilitate innovative building design that promotes energy efficiency and use of renewable energy sources in accordance with national policy and guidelines.


All other SEOS

Yes EP 06 in Final plan

EP-06 It is Council policy to promote, encourage and facilitate the provision of micro-renewable energy and auto-generation subject to the protection of residential amenities.

Pop 1 Pop 2 AQ 1 AQ 2 Mat 6

All other SEOS

Yes, EP 07 in final plan

EP-07 Having regard to the county’s long tradition in power generation, it is Council policy to facilitate the continuance of power generation stations within the county, as appropriate including the consideration of co-fuelling and in line with National Policy Guidelines.

All SEOs

Uncertain impacts cofuelling and increased efficiency of plants would result in some positive impacts longer term.


EP-08 It is Council policy to require any applicant for energy generation facility to provide details of all transmission infrastructure associated with the development and to assess the impact of this infrastructure on both the environment, and landscape as a material consideration of the planning decision.

Land 1 Land 2 Land 3

All other SEOs


Energy Objectives

EO-01

It is an objective of the Council to achieve a reasonable balance between responding to government policy on

AQ 1 AQ 2

All other

Yes

A-47


renewable energy and in enabling the wind energy resources of the county to be harnessed in an environmentally sustainable manner. This will be implemented having regard to the Council’s Wind Energy Strategy as follows:

1. In Areas open for consideration for Wind Energy

Development, as identified in Map 3.2, the

development of Wind Farms and smaller wind

energy projects shall be open for consideration.

2. In all other areas Wind Energy Developments shall

not normally be permitted – except as provided

for under exemption provisions and as

specifically described in Section 5.4 of the Wind

Strategy and Policy EP – 05.

Mat 6 SEOs

E0 -02 It is an objective of the Council to facilitate the promotion and construction of energy efficient developments throughout the county.

AQ 1 AQ 2 Mat 6

All other SEOs

Yes

EO-03 It is an objective of the Council to support the further extension of the gas grid into County Offaly to serve existing and envisaged future residential development and commercial and industrial activity

All SEOs

Location of gas grid not certain but likely impacts would be addressed through DM

Yes

EO -04

It is an objective of the Council to support and facilitate the generation of electrical power within the county and the provision of high-voltage electricity infrastructure to cater for natural growth, new and existing large customers. Further, it is an objective of the Council to ensure, insofar as is possible, that the necessary infrastructure is in place to support the existing and future economy in Offaly, to support economic development and to attract investment .

All SEOs

As above Yes

EO-05 It is an objective of the Council to assist the Midland AQ 1 Yes

A-48


Energy Agency in delivering energy efficiency solutions, stimulating the increased uptake of renewable energy sources and the promotion of clean and sustainable transport.

AQ 2 Mat 6 Mat 7

Chapter Four Infrastructure and Environment Strategy No. Section Title O ? Comment Included in Final

Plan yes/no

STAP-01 Sustainable Transport and Accessibility It is Council policy to support sustainable transport and accessibility in County Offaly and to be consistent with the goals of Smarter travel – A sustainable Transport Future, A new transport policy for Ireland 2009-2020 which seeks to:

Reduce overall travel demand.

Maximise the efficiency of the transport network.

Reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Reduce transport emissions.

Improve accessibility to transport.

Pop 1 Pop 2 AQ 1 Mat 6 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

STAP-02

It is Council policy to support the Government’s Electric Transport Programme 2008-2020 by facilitating the roll-out of battery charging infrastructure for electric vehicles where considered appropriate.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 AQ 1 AQ 2 Mat 6 Mat 7

These are generally located in populated areas and landtake and development associated with provision of same is considered minor

Yes

STAP-03 Landuse and Transportation Integration: It is Council policy to integrate landuse and transport to ensure a sustainable, coherent, efficient and cost effective approach to transport provision for development in County Offaly


All other SEOs

Yes

STAP-04 Trip Generation/Modal Shift: It is Council policy to promote more compact development forms that reduce overall demand for transport and transport infrastructure and support


All other SEOs

Yes

A-49


proposals that encourage modal shift towards sustainable travel modes.

Mat 7

STAP-05

It is Council policy to encourage better integration of transport services with the aim of reducing car trips and to encourage and foster improved consultation and co-operation between both public and private providers of transport services operating the County and in the Midland Region, including all providers of bus and rail services.


All other SEOs

Yes

STAP-06 Walking/Cycling: It is Council policy to promote walking and cycling subject to appropriate environmental assessments, including Habitats Directive Assessment as an alternative mode of transport for travelling to work and for recreational purposes, to require the provision of cycle ways and walkways and associated facilities as part of new development and to support safer walking and cycling routes to schools under the Green Schools Initiative where feasible.


All other SEOs

Yes

STAP-07 It is Council policy to develop a cycling route along the canal towpaths in County Offaly (from Edenderry to Shannon Harbour) for recreational purposes and to enhance tourism potential.

Pop 1 CH1

Land 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes, Please note, this

policy STAP 07 was omitted from

assessment of draft plan – oversight. But was assessed during material

amendments stage please see Annex C

STAP-08 It is Council policy to support subject to appropriate environmental assessments, including Habitats Directive Assessment the continued development of cycle routes by identifying routes both within the county and at national and regional level. Particular emphasis will be placed on those that link existing cycle routes and tourist destinations. Cycle routes shall adhere to the principles


All other SEOs

Yes

A-50


contained within the national policy document Smarter Travel A Sustainable Transport Future 2009-2020, and the National Cycle Policy Framework document or updated/amended guidance document.

STAP-09 It is Council Policy to support the pedestrianisation in town and village centres where appropriate

Bio 1,2,3,4

Wat 1,2,3

AQ 2 Soil 1,2, 3 CH 2 Land 1,2,3

Mat 1,2, 3,4, 5

Pop 1 CH 1 AQ 1 Mat 6 Mat 7

Indirect positives on cultural heritage and landscape if design appropriate to urban form.

Yes

STAP-09

It is Council Policy to provide secure cycle parking facilities in towns and at all public service destinations.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 AQ 2 Mat 7

Yes, with amendments to text through the

material amendment


Also, please note this policy is STAP

10 in final plan with number changes to subsequent policies

in this section.

STAP-10 Public Transport: It is Council policy to co-operate with and encourage Iarnród Éireann to secure the upgrading of the existing rail linkages between Athlone, Tullamore and Portarlington.


All other SEOs

Yes, STAP 11 in final plan

STAP-11

It is Council policy to promote and facilitate, in co-operation with the Department of Transport, Irish Rail and adjoining local authorities, the provision of a second

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 6

All other SEOs

Yes, STAP 12 (a) and (b) in final plan

A-51


line between Portarlington and Athlone. In conjunction there is an opportunity for Tullamore station and adjoining lands to be developed as a transport (bus/rail node) this would allow for the integration of local bus services including a possible future town bus service with the rail network. Clara station should be developed similarly to increase service provision in the town. Portarlington Land use and Transportation Study has identified the railway station as a key asset in the development of the town.

Mat 7

STAP-12 It is Council policy to support and facilitate the operation of existing bus services and to facilitate the provisions of improved facilities for bus users in towns and villages including the provision of set down areas for coaches and bus shelters at all bus stops where feasible

All other SEOs


Yes, STAP 13 in Final plan

New Policy STAP 12 regarding railway lines was included


amendment process. Please see Annex C and note

changes to subsequent policy numbering in this

section

STAP-13

It is Council policy to support the rural transport programme in County Offaly which facilitates the provision and promotion of privately run transportation systems to provide accessibility in rural areas of the County.

All other SEOs


Yes STAP 14 in final plan

STAP 14 Roads: It is Council policy to facilitate development of the primary road network in Offaly and the Midland Region in accordance with the National Development Plan and with Government policy. The Council will also support the

Pop 1 Yes, in Final Plan as STAP 15 with

numbering changes to subsequent policies in this

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relevant agencies and bodies involved in achieving such development including the National Roads Authority and the National Transport Authority

section. Word ‘primary’ was

removed during material

amendment stage, please see Annex C

STAP-15

It is Council policy to strictly control development, outside of identified settlements, which could generate significant additional traffic, thereby potentially compromising the capacity and efficiency of the national roads/restricted regional roads and associated interchanges and possibly lead to the premature and unacceptable reduction in the level of service available to road users. This policy will also apply to National roads which may be downgraded during the lifetime of this plan but which will still comprise high quality Regionally important links.

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs


STAP-16 It is Council policy to protect the safety, capacity and efficiency of national roads and associated junctions.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7


STAP-17

It is Council policy that development(s) requiring a new direct access or an intensification of an existing access onto a National Primary or National Secondary road, or onto a privately owned road leading onto a National Primary or National Secondary road where a speed limit greater than 50 km/h applies will be restricted in accordance with the provisions of Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines for Planning Authorities, January 2012. Exceptional circumstances may be considered where the development is of National and Regional Strategic Importance and complies with the criteria set out in the Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines in this regard.

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes, with amendments to the

text through the material


Annex C. This policy is STAP 18 in the final plan

and please note subsequent

numbering changes to other policies in

this section.

STAP-18

It is Council policy that proposals for rural dwellings which are seeking direct access onto a regional restricted route as identified in Table 4.3, will generally be


Increased private access onto restricted regional


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permitted provided all of the criteria set out under the Rural Housing policy for Areas of Special Control as set out in Policy SSP-19 is complied with.

routes will impact negatively on sustainable transport patterns and increase road safety issues.

STAP-19 It is Council policy to improve the road links between the national roads network and identified settlements within Offaly’s Settlement Hierarchy in order to cater for anticipated additional traffic flows and to facilitate the economic development of these settlements.

All SEOs


STAP-20 It is Council policy to ensure that developments which have the potential to generate significant traffic movement as a result of the use proposed are subject to a Traffic Impact Assessment. The Council may also require the provision of Road Safety Audits in the case of major road works.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs


New policy STAP 22 referring to NRA

guidelines on provision of service

stations was inserted through

material amendments


STAP-21 Air Transport: It is a Council policy to support the provision of an airport within the county to aid the development of the Gateway and the Midland Region.

All SEOs

Location and feasibility of such a development undetermined.

Yes, STAP 23 in the final plan

STAP-22 Midland Linked Gateway: It is Council policy to encourage and facilitate transport investment within the county and the Midlands Region in particular the gateway towns, in order to create effective links and to reduce travel times between the main towns and to maximise the cohesion and critical mass of the

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs


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region and improve intra and inter-regional connectivity. In this regard, it is also Council policy to co-operate with the adjoining local authorities to achieve these effective and improved links

STAP-23 It is Council policy to maximise the use of fully accessible public transport that links the Midland Gateway towns internally and externally by co-ordinating built form, land use and transport planning. This will include facilitating high-quality bus and rail services that meet user needs

All other SEOs

Pop 1, AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs


STAP-24 General: It is Council policy to improve deficiencies in pavement surface, riding quality and general alignment to protect the heavy investment in existing facilities

Pop 1 Yes, STAP 26 in final plan

STAP-25 It is Council policy when designing or inputting into road schemes to recognize the importance of hedgerows and roadside boundaries for wildlife and bio-diversity. Retention of such features will be incorporated into design and where this is not possible, replacement planting with native species of indigenous provenance will be provided.


Please note, this policy is now STAP

27 in final plan

STAP-26 In considering applications for quarries, the Council will seek to ensure access to the highest possible category of the road network hierarchy


HGVs will impact on road quality so access to highest standard of road has positive impacts on lower category roads in terms of infrastructure, road safety and noise and dust

Yes, now STAP 28 in final plan

Sustainable Transport and Accessibility Objectives2

STAO-01

It is an objective of the Council to carry out and implement:

Pop 1 AQ 1

All other

Yes

2The order of listing of objectives is not intended to indicate priorities. Subject to the availability of resources, it is the Council’s aim to monitor and accomplish the objectives listed in this section within the period of the plan.

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A walking and cycling strategy for County Offaly.

The existing Birr and Edenderry Walking and Cycling Strategies.

Mat 7 SEOs

STAO-02

It is an objective of the Council to facilitate the provision of transport infrastructure in County Offaly in line with national policy as outlined in the National Development Plan, Government policy and also in line with the Councils own programme of works.

All SEOs

Yes

STAO-03 It is an objective of the Council to facilitate the development of the national secondary road network in Offaly through the continued upgrading and improvement of the national secondary roads in the county, the N62, the N52 and the N80.

All SEOs

Yes

STAO-04 The Council recognises the importance of providing a safe and efficient road system in the county in order to facilitate the development of the local and national economy, to protect the safety of users of public roads and to safeguard public investment in their provision. In this regard it is an objective of the Council to construct, upgrade and improve, where necessary, the national secondary roads in the county as outlined in Table 5.4. The Council will have regard to national and regional transport plans and the Council’s programme of works. The undertaking of any works will be subject to the availability of finance and resources


For this and subsequent impacts will be mitigated through development control and management and adherence to national guidelines

Yes

Objective Reference

Table 4.4 - National Secondary Route Roads Objectives: Scheme Description

STAO-05 N52: To construct a new road between Tullamore and Kilbeggan (Link Road).

All SEOs

Yes

STAO-06 To secure the provision of a Western Bypass/Relief Road to the west of Tullamore town linking the R 420 to the north west of the town with the N52 to the south west of the town.

All SEOs

Yes

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STAO-07 To co-operate with the NRA in providing a bypass for the following towns and villages, should the decision be made to do so and to protect from development any reservation bands / corridors so as to avoid compromising the construction of the road: N52: Kilcormac N80: Killeigh

All SEOs

Yes

STAO-08 N62: Upgrade, widen and reconstruction of N62 from Kennedy’s Cross to the County boundary at Ballynahown

All SEOs

Yes

STAO-09 N62: Construction of Birr Relief Road and construction of Birr By-pass and Distributor Road Network (Birr LUTS).

All SEOs

STAO-10 N62: Birr-Riverstown-local widening and re-surfacing All SEOs

Yes

STAO-11:

It is an objective of the Council to construct, upgrade and improve, where necessary, the regional roads in the county as outlined in Table 5.5. The Council will have regard to national and regional transport plans and the Council’s programme of works. The undertaking of any works will be subject to the availability of finance and resources and will be subject to environmental assessments where necessary.

All SEOs

Cumulative impacts and assessment of interaction particularly for new roads

Yes

Objective Reference

Table 5.5: Regional Roads Objectives Scheme Description

STAO-12 R402: Construction of Edenderry By-Pass and Relief Roads

All SEOs

Yes

STAO-13 R420: Construction of Portarlington By-Pass and Relief Roads.

All SEOs

Yes with amendments through the

material amendment


STAO-14 To secure the provision and undertake upgrades of regional roads in the county as listed in the following objectives: R357: Blueball to Cloghan and Cloghan to Shannonbridge. R400: Rochfortbridge to Portarlington.

All SEOs

Yes

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R401/419/R442: Portarlington to Edenderry. R402: Ballina Cross to Daingean to Edenderry. R420: Tullamore to Portarlington. R421: Tullamore to Roscrea via Kinnitty. R436: Ferbane to Ballycumber, Ballycumber to Clara and Clara to Kilbeggan. R437: Kilcormac to Ferbane. R439: Birr to Banagher. R440: Birr to Kinnitty. R441:Rhode to Edenderry R444: Clonmacnoise to Shannonbridge, to Doon, to County Boundary. R446: Moate to Horseleap (Old N6) R490: Moneygall to Cloughjordan. R491: Shinrone to Roscrea and Shinrone to Cloughjordan R492:Sharavogue to Shinrone

STAO-15 (a) STAO 15 (b) STAO 15 (c)

R420: To provide a bypass for Cloneygowan and to protect from development any reservation bands / corridors so as to avoid compromising the construction of the road. R420: To secure the provision of providing a bypass for Geashill and, should the decision be made to do so, protect from development any reservation bands / corridors so as to avoid compromising the construction of the road. R420: To co-operate with Laois County Council to provide the following: Relief Road from the Tullamore Road to Botley Lane. Long Term bypass to the south

All SEOs

Yes

STAO-16 It is an objective of the Council to provide effective linkages between the county and National roads.

All SEOs

Yes

STAO-17 It is an objective of the Council to facilitate the continued improvement and upgrading of all roads, should their status be re-graded, under the national roads programme and / or the Council’s road programme.

All SEOs

Yes

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STAO-18 It is an objective of the Council to improve and maintain county roads.

All SEOs

Yes, with minor amendments through the

material amendment


STAO-19 It is an objective of the Council to safeguard all existing rail infrastructure and encourage the re-opening of rail stations, and to preserve disused stations / halts and track, appropriate to future strategic county public transport needs.

All SEOs

Yes

STAO-20 It is an objective of the Council to improve poor road alignment and junctions with a high accident rating as the opportunity presents itself or as development need requires. In general, the decision regarding which road section to improve first will be guided by the following considerations:

The need to provide strategic links to National Road access

The elimination of traffic hazards.

The development of industry, agriculture, forestry, housing and commercial development wherever such development will be of substantial social or economic benefit to the county.

The need to provide for essential communications at an acceptable social and economic cost

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

STAO-21 It is an objective of the Council to improve and upgrade bridges in the county including the following:

R400 (Rhode.)

R420 (Derrykillane, Cloneygowan.)

R420 (Cloneygowan Bridge).

Pullough Bridge.

N80 (Charlestown Bridge Clara).

All SEOs

Yes

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R421 (Clonfosse, Kinnitty).

R401 (Kilcumber,Edenderry).

Rahan Bridge

STAO-22 To reserve land for future relief roads adjacent to the following towns and villages:

Tullamore

Birr

Clara

Ferbane

Portarlington

Cloghan

Killeigh

Geashill

Cloneygowan

Ballinagar

Edenderry

Kilcormac

Yes

STAO-23

It is an objective of the Council to support the location of an airport in the county and/or within the Midland Region.

All SEOs

Yes

4.11 Water Services Policy Water Services General Policies

WSP-01

It is Council policy to ensure that the provision of water and wastewater treatment facilities is undertaken in accordance with EU policies and Directives, relevant National legislation and National / Regional policies

Bio 5 Wat 1, Wat 2, Wat 3 Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 2 Mat 2 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Yes

WSP-02 It is Council policy to enable infrastructure and service delivery in the context of the National Development Plan, subject to available finance.

All SEOs

Yes

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WSP-03

It is Council policy to provide and maintain adequate water supply, drainage and wastewater services in settlements as resources permit, giving priority to those centres where serious deficiencies are in evidence or where further development is anticipated. Further, it is Council policy that this be undertaken in a manner which protects and enhances the natural environment whilst providing for economic, urban and rural development purposes.

Pop 1 Pop 2

Mat 2 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Yes

WSP-04

It is Council policy to ensure that the capacity and efficiency of water supplies and wastewater facilities must be appropriate prior to the acceptance of a development proposal. The Council may, where it is deemed appropriate, require developers to provide water services mains with capacities in excess of those required by the development being served, if this is required in the interests of long term development of the area.

Bio 5 Pop 1 Pop

2 Wat 1 Wat 2 Mat 2 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Yes

WSP-05

Water Supply Policies: It is Council policy to provide public water supply to towns, villages and rural areas in accordance with the Water Services Investment Programme 2010 - 2013 and the Rural Water Programme where feasible and where approved by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. All such supplies shall comply with Drinking Water Regulations 2007.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 2

All other SEOs

Yes

WSP-06

It is Council policy that the scale of provision of public water supply relates to scale of envisaged settlement size, in accordance with the county’s settlement hierarchy. Therefore, large-scale availability and/or possibility of services available must not to be a pre-cursor to large-scale growth in inappropriate locations

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 2

All other SEOs

Yes

WSP-07

It is Council policy to require developments to connect to public water supplies where adequate, or where proposals for upgrading works are put forward, as appropriate

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 2

All other SEOs

Yes

WSP-08 It is Council policy to monitor and regulate Group Water Pop 1 All Yes

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schemes in accordance with National policy and regulations.

Pop 2 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Mat 2

other SEOs

WSP-09.

It is Council policy to endeavour to facilitate developments which have requirements for water by allowing potential water resources of County Offaly to be utilised, where practicable and possible, subject to appropriate safeguards.

All SEOs

Impacts regarding flow regime, flood risk, potential direct and indirect impacts arise from hydrological regime on habitats, species, hydrogeology, soil etc merits scrutiny.

Yes

WSP-10 It is Council policy to endeavour to facilitate developments which may have exceptionally large requirements for water by allowing the potential water resources of the River Shannon to be utilised, where possible, subject to appropriate safeguards.

All SEOs

Yes

WSP-11 Water Conservation: It is Council policy to continue to facilitate, encourage and comply with best practice methods in water conservation throughout the county.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Yes

WSP-12 Wastewater Treatment Policies: It is Council policy to make provision for improved and additional wastewater services on a planned basis, related to present and future needs of housing, industry and commerce, in accordance with the county’s settlement hierarchy and the Water Services Investment Programme 2010 - 2013 where feasible and where approved by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 2 Mat 4 Bio 5

All other SEOs

Yes

WSP-13

It is Council policy that the scale of effluent treatment plants relates to the scale of envisaged settlement size, in accordance with the county’s settlement hierarchy.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Yes

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Therefore, large-scale availability and/or possibility of services available must not be a pre-cursor to large-scale growth in inappropriate locations

WSP-14

It is Council policy to control impacts of wastewater produced in the most environmental sustainable and cost-effective manner in accordance with Discharge Regulations Licenses and Certificates.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Wat 1 Bio 5 Mat 4 Mat 2

All other SEOs

Yes

WSP-15

It is Council policy to require / implement appropriately defined buffer zones surrounding all effluent treatment plants.


All other SEOs

Yes

WSP-16

It is Council policy to have regard to and conform with policies and objectives contained in the Council’s Sludge Management Plan.


All other SEOs

Yes

WSP-17

It is Council policy to limit and manage the permitted stormwater run-off from all new developments. The maximum permitted surface water outflow from any new development is to be restricted to that of a Greenfield site before any development took place unless otherwise agreed by the Environment & Water Services Section of Offaly County Council. It is therefore Council Policy to require all proposed new developments within settlements as per the County’s settlement hierarchy, to provide ‘Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems’ (SuDs) as part of their Development proposals.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 1 Mat 2 Bio 5 Wat 2

Yes

Water Services Objectives Water Supplies

WSO-01 (WSO 05 in final plan)

It is an objective of the Council to facilitate and co-operate with Irish Water in acquiring statutory responsibility for water services operations in County

All SEOs Yes but order is changed this policy is now WSO 05 in

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Offaly until the final transfer of operations is complete. final plan


It is an objective of the Council to provide and/or facilitate the provision and/or upgrading of water supplies in accordance with the Water Services Investment Programme and Assessment of Needs, where appropriate, subject to adequate resources being available and the approval from the Department of the Environment Community and Local Government.

Pop1 Pop 2

Mat 2

All other SEOs

Yes WSO 01 in final plan


Wastewater Services: It is an objective of the Council to provide and/or facilitate the refurbishment and / or upgrading of wastewater treatment schemes, in accordance with the Water Services Investment Programme and Assessment of Needs, where appropriate and any other measures where an immediate need arises, subject to adequate resources being available and the approval of Department of the Environment Heritage and Local Government.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 2 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Yes, WSO 02


Surface Water and Surface Water Disposal It is an objective of the Council to promote and comply with all environmental standards and objectives established for bodies of surface water, by the European Communities (Surface waters) Regulations 2009 and to meet the requirements of the Water Framework Directive and River Basin District Management Plans Programme of Measures.


All other SEOs

If brought through this mitigation text will help achieved Bio 5 Wat 2. Please note this objective is now WSO 03 in final plan.

Yes, WSO 03


It is an objective of the Council to make provisions for the extension and improvement of surface water disposal infrastructure, in particular to facilitate identified settlements as per the county’s settlement hierarchy.


All other SEOs

Communications Infrastructure Policies Communications Infrastructure

CIP-01: The Council recognises the national and local importance of a high quality telecommunications service. It is Council policy to achieve a balance between facilitating the provision of telecommunications services in the interests of social and economic progress, sustaining residential

Pop 1 Pop 2 Land 1

All other SEOs

Yes, with additional text referencing

appropriate guidelines included

through material

Comment [d1]: Is there one missing? Irish Water WSO_05

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amenities and environmental quality. The Local Authority will have regard to the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Governments Guidelines on Telecommunications Antennae and Support Structures in assessing development proposals.

amendment process. Please see

Annex C

CIP-02:

It is Council policy to avoid an unnecessary proliferation of masts. It is Council policy to encourage owners and operators to facilitate the co-location of antennae on existing support structures and masts. In particular, it is Council policy to avoid a proliferation of communication masts, aerials etc. in upland areas of the Slieve Bloom Area in order to protect the amenity value and unspoilt character of such areas. The Council acknowledges that there is a need to facilitate land based communications masts, however such masts will not be permitted in areas above the 150-metre contour, unless it can be clearly demonstrated that it is not possible to locate antennae on the existing mast clusters at Wolftrap Mountain or Coolcreen

Pop 1 Pop 2 Land 1 Land 3

All other SEOs

Yes

CIP-03:

The Council acknowledges the importance of telecommunications within rural areas of the county, however design, siting and visual impact are of paramount importance. It is Council policy to restrict the provision of overground masts and antennae within the following areas in particular:

Designated Areas of High Amenity.

Areas adjoining or within the curtilage of protected structures.

On or within the setting of archaeological sites, structures and zones.

Pop 1 Pop 2

CH 1 Land 1 Land 2 Land 3

All other SEOs

Yes

New Objective CIO 01 inserted through



Environment Policy- note in draft plan these were

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named EP polices but are changed to Envp to reflect final plan references.

ENVP-01 Climate Change: It is Council policy to reduce emissions to the air of greenhouse gases in order to contribute to a reduction and avoidance of human induced climate change. The Council supports and is committed to the National Climate Change Strategy and, in general to facilitating measures which seek to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. In this regard, the Council will support any initiatives taken to provide for more sustainable forms of energy use. Refer to Chapter 3, Energy Strategy for further relevant policies on energy.


All other SEOs

Indirect positive impacts on biodiversity, soil and water quality if effective

Yes

ENVP-02 Water Protection: It is Council policy to comply with the provisions of the EU Water Framework Directive in order to fulfil obligations relating to water quality in the county and to implement the provisions of the River Basin Management Plans i.e. Eastern River Basin District, Shannon River Basin District and South East River Basin District. To this end, the Council will continue to co-operate with other statutory authorities / agencies and stakeholders in the preparation and implementation of existing water quality monitoring and management plans and also implementation of River Basin District Management Plans. In the assessment of development proposals due regard shall be given to the requirements of the plans.

Bio 4,Bio 5 Pop 2 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 3 Mat 1 Mat 2 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Positive indirect impacts on a number of parameters also

Yes

ENVP-03 It is Council policy to protect groundwater sources in the form of Source Protection Zones. Proposals to develop within these zones will be required to demonstrate that adequate protection of groundwater quality will be put in place.

Yes

ENVP-04

High status water quality sites: All proposed development which may have an impact on a high status water quality site (as determined by the EPA) will require site specific assessment to determine localised pressures and demonstrate suitable mitigation

Generic measures are not sufficient

for these sites and policy advice is for site specific rather

Yes

Comment [d2]: EP amended to EnvP in Final Plan

A-66


measures in order to protect these sites.

than general measures. Cf: Management

Strategies for the Protection of High

Status Water Bodies. A Literature

Review. 2010-W-DS-3

STRIVE Report

Please note in final plan this policy is

EnvP 04

ENVP-05 Energy: It is Council policy to pursue procurement policies which shall take account of the lifetime energy cost of equipment and facilities. It shall be the policy of the Council to actively engage in energy use reduction programmes as laid out in the Energy Plan.

All other SEOs

AQ 1 AQ 2 Mat 6

Yes

ENVP-06 Air Quality: It is Council policy to maintain good air quality in the county.

AQ 1 AQ 2

All other SEOs

Indirect positive impacts no mat 7 through sustainable transport, and pop and health.

Yes

ENVP-07 Environmental Awareness: It is the policy of the Council to promote environmental responsibility and to make resources available to the public to this end.

All SEOs Awareness raising if successfully implemented should increase environmental awareness across all parameters

Yes

ENVP-08 Waste Management: It is Council policy to ensure the provision of quality cost effective waste infrastructure and services, which reflect

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 5

All other SEOs

Yes

A-67


and meet the needs of the community and to ensure that the ‘polluter pays principle’ is observed in all waste management activities

Mat 6

ENVP-09 It is Council policy to ensure that all permitted development shall be such that the requirements of Waste Management regulations shall be observed. Due regard shall also be given to the requirements of the current Waste Management Plan for the Region.


All other SEOs

Yes

ENVP-10 It is Council policy to apply and enforce where appropriate relevant EU and Irish environmental legislation. Permitted developments shall be required to comply with all such legislation.

Please note in final plan this policy is EnvP 10

Yes

ENVP-11 It is Council policy to co-operate with the Environmental Protection Agency in regard to licensing arrangements for Scheduled activities in County Offaly in accordance with the provisions of the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992.

All SEOs Yes

ENVP-12 It is Council policy to ensure that all waste disposal shall be undertaken in compliance with the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency and relevant Waste Management Legislation.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 5

All other SEOs

Yes

ENVP-13 It is Council policy to require Waste Management Plans to be prepared for Construction and Demolition Projects of a particular scale in accordance with Best Practice Guidelines issued by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government in July 2006. It is Council policy to require developers of projects with significant potential for the generation of construction and demolition waste to prepare a Project Construction and Demolition Waste Management Plan where the project exceeds any of the following thresholds:

New residential developments of 10 houses or more.

New residential developments other than (1) above, including institutional, educational, health and other public facilities, with an aggregate floor area in excess of 1,250m2.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 5

All other SEOs

Yes

A-68


Demolition / renovation / refurbishment projects generating in excess of 100m3 in volume of construction and demolition waste.

Civil engineering projects in excess of 500m3 of waste, excluding waste materials used for development works on the site.

ENVP-14

Recycling: It is Council policy that all proposed residential development applications of 100 units or greater will be assessed and if necessary required to provide a set of bring banks for recyclable material to the specifications and design required by Offaly County Council. A similar policy will also apply to commercial developments such as shopping centres where large volumes of people congregate. Such developments shall, where considered necessary, be required to provide a set of bring banks as part of their car park layout.


Yes

ENVP-15 Major Accidents Directive: It is Council policy that where proposals are being considered for the following:

New establishments which may pose a risk of causing major accidents,

The expansion and/or modification of existing establishments designated under the EU Council Directive 96/82/EEC (known as the Seveso II Directive﴿ and

Other developments proposed near to existing establishments,

the Council will require that applicants demonstrate that the following considerations are taken into account:

Prevention of major accidents involving dangerous substances,

Public health and safeguarding of public health and

The protection of the environment.


Yes, minor changes to text through

material amendment


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ENVP-16 Noise: It is Council policy that potential development will be assessed for noise risk. Planning permission will not normally be granted for new developments or extensions of existing industrial, commercial, leisure, or other uses that produce significant and unacceptable levels of noise and/or vibration at site boundaries or within adjacent noise sensitive areas, especially residential areas. Reference shall also be made to the Offaly Noise Action Plan

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 3

All other SEOs

Yes, with inclusion of date of Noise

Action Plan included in final plan. Please see

Annex C

ENVP-17 It is Council policy to adhere have regard to the

mitigation measures, as outlined in the accompanying

Environmental Report, and implement such measures,

where appropriate.

All SEOs Yes

ENVP-18 Flooding and Flood Risk: It is Council policy to have due regard to the CFRAM plans in assessing development proposals

Pop 1 Pop 2 Wat 1 Wat 2 Mat 1 Mat 2

All other SEOs

For Mat 2 and water SEOS these are indirect impacts

Yes

ENVP-19

It is Council policy to implement the Flood Risk Management Guidelines at both Plan and development levels.


All other SEOs

As above Yes, changes to text through the

material amendment


ENVP-20 It is Council policy to apply the Sequential Test and Approach within development sites located within Flood Zones A and B to inform site layout by locating the most vulnerable elements of a development in the lowest risk areas. Flood Zone A & B shall be promoted for less vulnerable uses such as for recreation, amenity and environmental purposes thus providing for an effective


All other SEOs

Yes

A-70


means of flood risk management as well as providing connected green spaces with consequent social and environmental benefits.

ENVP-21 It is Council Policy to require development proposals locating in Flood Zones A and B to be accompanied by a detailed explanation of how the Development Management Justification Test has been met where proposals for development may be vulnerable to flooding i.e. Box. 5.1: The Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines, 2009.

Yes

ENVP-22 It is Council Policy to require more detailed assessment frameworks (Site Specific Flood Risk Assessments) for planning applications where flooding is an issue, including the assessment of flooding from other sources at the site-specific level and offer mitigating options for the management of the risk, without increasing flood risk elsewhere.


All other SEOs

Yes

ENVP-23 It is Council Policy to preserve riparian strips zones along rivers free from development and of adequate width to permit access to rivers for maintenance.

Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 Land 1 Mat 1 Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

ENVP-24 Sustainable Drainage Systems: It is policy of the Council that all planning applications whether for new development or redevelopment are required to make an assessment of the suitability of the proposed development for the incorporation of sustainable drainage systems and provide accordingly on site. All development sites will require the following:

The drainage system to be designed to accommodate all storm events up to and including the 1% AEP (1 in 100 year) event, with an appropriate allowance for climate change

A hierarchical approach should be applied to the

All SEOs

Will indirectly assist in flood risk management by providing permeable surfaces and supporting actions.

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SuDS used, in order of priority:

Preventative measures ensuring there are no unnecessary impermeable areas on-site

Source control measures such as rainwater harvesting and infiltration systems, provided the site conditions are appropriate

Site control measures, where prevention and source control measures alone cannot deal with all on-site drainage. Above ground site control attenuation systems, such as balancing ponds and swales, should be considered in preference to below ground attenuation, due to the water quality, biodiversity and amenity benefits they offer.

A hierarchical approach should be applied to the disposal of surface water from the site referencing in order of priority:

Rainwater harvesting systems

An adequate soakaway or other adequate infiltration system

A watercourse

A surface water sewer

Where prevention, source control/infiltration cannot deal with all on-site site drainage, for both

Greenfield and Brownfield sites, the development runoff volumes and peak flow rates leaving the site should be attenuated to the Greenfield discharge conditions. (It is noted that on brownfield sites it is not always practicable to attenuate flows to Greenfield rates).

Exceedance design measures to be applied to ensure that extreme events above the design standards of the system do not pose adverse

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impacts. A sequential approach should be applied to the site layout to specifically set aside appropriate location for SuDS.

SuDS should be designed for the lifetime of the development, with suitable provisions for likely future permitted and minor development.

Environment Objectives3 Climate Change Adaptation:

ENVO-01

It is an objective of the Council to incorporate a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy into the plan in accordance with the National Policy and Guidelines when issued and implemented.

AQ 2 All other SEOs

Again, indirect impacts will arise on parameters following implementation of the adaptation strategy. These are likely to be positive

Yes

ENVO-02

It is an objective of the Council to promote and comply with the Environmental standards and objectives established for: Bodies of Surface water, by EC (Surface Water Regulations) 2009 and Groundwater, by the EC (Groundwater) Regulations 2010, which standards and objectives are included in the River Basin Management Plans.

Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 3 Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 2 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Indirect positive on geological features

Yes

ENVO-03

Water Protection: It is an objective of the Council to Protect and preserve the quality of surface water, ground water and drinking water in the county through the relevant legislative provisions.


All other SEOs

Yes

3

Comment [d3]: EO Amended to EnvO-

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ENVO-04

It is an objective of the Council to continue to work with the Environmental Protection Agency, and the relevant River Basin District Authorities in relation to implementing the River Basin District Management Plans for the 3 River Basin District Authorities pertaining to Offaly.


All other SEOs

Yes

ENVO-05 It is an objective of the Council in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency to continue its programme of monitoring water quality in the county’s waterbodies to ensure that the objectives under the Water Framework Directive 2000 are met.


Yes

ENVO-06 It is an objective of the Council to implement the relevant provisions of Water Pollution Legislation.

Yes

ENVO-07

It is an objective of the Council to protect the county’s waters from pollution.


All other SEOs

Yes

ENVO-08 It is an objective of the Council to issue and monitor, where appropriate, effluent licences for discharges to sewers and waterbodies.

Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 3 Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

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Pop 2 Mat 2 Mat 4

ENVO-09

High Status Water Quality Sites: It is an objective of the Council to protect all high water quality sites in the County as determined by the EPA from any deleterious effect of development

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 3 Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 2 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Yes

ENVO-10

Energy: It is an objective of the Council, as a Public Body, to commit to fulfilling its exemplary role in energy efficiency, as required by the Energy Services Directive and the European Communities (Energy End-Use Efficiency and Energy Services) Regulations 2009. OCC will aim to achieve a 33% reduction in energy consumption by 2020; this is a Public Sector energy efficiency target, as outlined in the Second National Energy Efficiency Action Plan for Ireland (NEEAP).

All other SEOs

AQ 2 Mat 6

Yes

ENVO-11

Air Quality: It is an objective of the Council that good air quality is maintained in the County.

Pop 1 AQ 1

All other SEOs

Indirect positive impacts across a range of parameters if good air quality maintained.

Yes

ENVO-12 Environmental Awareness: It is an objective of the Council to continue to develop environmental awareness initiatives in the areas of Waste, Water quality, Air quality and Energy designed to create increased public awareness of environmental

All SEOs Yes

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responsibility.

ENVO-13 Waste Management: It is an objective of the Council to implement the provisions of the Waste Management Hierarchy and the current Waste Management Plan for the Region. As a result, developments in the county will be expected to take account of the provisions of the Waste Management Plan for the relevant Region and observe those elements of it that relate to waste prevention and minimisation, waste recycling facilities, and the capacity for source segregation

Mat 5 Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

ENVO-14 It is an objective of the Council to use statutory powers to prohibit the illegal deposit and disposal of waste materials, refuse and litter, and to authorise and regulate, waste disposal within the county in an environmentally sustainable manner

Bio 5 Soil 2 Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 5

All other SEOs

Yes

ENVO-15

It is an objective of the Council that the environment shall be protected against harmful effects of inadequate waste management.

All SEOS Yes

ENVO-16

It is an objective of the Council that the environment be protected against the harmful effects of litter

All SEOs Yes

ENVO-17 It is an objective of the Council to implement the legislative provisions in relation to historic landfill sites in the county and to undertake risk assessments where required and any subsequent remedial measures where necessary.

All SEOs Yes

ENVO-18

It is an objective of the Council to restore and protect the quality of the environment in the County.

All SEOs Yes

ENVO-19

Fire Service: It is an objective of the Council to ensure that communities are adequately serviced by a modern and effective Fire Service for the county and that the Fire and

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Indirect negative impacts potentially on sites if inadequate fire

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Emergency Operations Plan (as required under Section 26 of the Fire Services Act) is implemented in full.

service provision leads to greater fires and damage to property?

ENVO-20

Flooding and Flood Risk: It is an objective of the Council to reduce risk to life and property in the County from flooding by adhering to the Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines for Planning Authorities 2009.


All other SEOs

ENVO-21

It is an objective of the Council to ensure that all new development and as far as is practical all redevelopments incorporate suitable sustainable urban drainage systems.

Mat 1 Mat 2

All other SEOs

Chapter Five Town Centre and Retail Strategy O ? Comment Included in Final

Plan yes/no

RTCP-01

It is Council policy to implement the retail hierarchy. The Council will seek to locate retail development in the designated settlements where the scale and size of retail development proposed matches the size and the defined function of the settlement as outlined in the Core Strategy.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

RTCP-02 It is Council policy to promote Tullamore, part of the Midlands Linked Gateway, as the main retail centre in the County and to ensure that the retail quantity, quality and range is of a standard that contributes to the strengthening of the retail economy within Tullamore Town, the County and within the Midlands Gateway and Region as a whole.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

RTCP-03 It is Council policy to support the vitality and viability of existing town and village centres and facilitate a competitive and healthy environment for the retailing sector into the future by ensuring that future growth in

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 1 Mat 7

All other SEOS

Indirect positive on cultural and landscape if viable town centres are

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O ? Comment Included in Final Plan yes/no

retail floorspace responds to the identified retail hierarchy and needs of the projected population of the settlement areas

promoted

RTCP-04 It is Council policy to direct retail development to existing settlements and that retailing in rural areas should be commensurate with the needs of the local population.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

RTCP-05 It is Council policy to apply the Sequential Approach in the consideration of the location of retail developments located outside of core retail areas.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

RTCP-06 It is Council policy to ensure that higher order retail services and developments are located in higher order settlements, as set out in Offaly’s Settlement Strategy. The Council will consider the scale, type and location of retail developments within the County when determining their suitability.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

RTCP-07 It is Council policy to address leakage of retail expenditure from the County by providing the means to strengthen the range and quality availability of its retail offer.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

RTCP-08 It is Council policy to resist the loss of retail units to non-retail use at pedestrian level, particularly in the primary shopping frontages of towns.

Pop 1

All other SEOs

RTCP-09 It is Council policy to encourage and facilitate the re-use and regeneration of derelict land and buildings for retail uses with due cognisance to the sequential approach

Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 2

All other SEOs

RTCP-10 It is Council policy to encourage retail development, including new forms of shopping which relates to the regeneration of existing Town Centres. Proposals, which would undermine the vitality and viability of retail core areas or Town Centres, as a whole will not be permitted

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Indirect positives on sustainable transport, cultural heritage too.

RTCP 10 deleted through material

amendments as it is a duplicate policy of RTCP 11. Please see Annex C. This

alters the subsequent policy

numbers in this section.

RTCP-11 It is Council policy to encourage retail development, Pop 1 All Indirect positives Yes, RTCP 10 in

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including new forms of shopping which relates to the regeneration of existing town and village centres. Proposals, which would undermine the vitality and viability of retail core areas or Town Centres, as a whole will not be permitted.

Pop 2 other SEOs

on sustainable transport, cultural heritage too.

final plan

RTCP-12 It is Council policy to encourage high quality design in retail development to support and promote the attractiveness and competiveness of town and village centres as places to live, work, shop and visit.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 1 Land 3 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes RTCP 11 in final plan

RTCP-13 It is Council policy to require applicants of retail development include as part of the planning application, a design brief showing the rationale and evolution of the proposal and how the proposal will interact within its context and setting.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 1 Land 3

All other SEOs

Yes, RTCP 12 in final plan

RTCP-14 Town Centre: It is Council policy to encourage the re-development of key opportunity sites identified in the settlement plan areas contained in Volume 2 for appropriate development that contributes positively to the character of the town and village centre.


All other SEOs


RTCP-15

It is Council policy to require that any proposal brought forward on potential opportunity sites identified in the settlement plans in Volume 2 will include a design statement showing the rationale behind the proposal and how it will interact within its context and the wider urban area.


All other SEOs


RTCP-16 It is Council policy to promote town and village centres in accordance with the Town Centre Strategy of the plan and to prohibit development that would detract in any way from their viability enhancement or improvement.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Again, indirect positives likely across a range of parameters


RTCP-17 It is Council policy to promote and encourage the re-utilisation of suitable redundant or obsolete structures, ensuring that the improvement and screening of neglected sites and the renewal, repair and/or maintenance of structures is in line with the Council’s powers under the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2 Land 1

All other SEOs


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Land 3 Mat 7

RTCP-18 It is Council policy to seek to encourage the redevelopment of derelict or vacant buildings as an alternative to new build on new undeveloped sites. Vacancy rates will be a material consideration in the assessment of retail and other uses considered appropriate for location within town and village centres to promote their vitality and vibrancy and to prevent leakage to outlying areas.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2 Land 1 Land 3 Mat 7

All other SEOS


New policy RTCP 18 references Design Guide Manual for

urban roads. Please see Annex C

Objectives

RTC0-01 It is an objective of the Council to prepare and implement a joint retail strategy in conjunction with Westmeath and Roscommon County Councils

All SEOS

Yes

RTC0-02 It is an objective of the Council to encourage the continued vitality and viability of town centres by:

Identifying and promoting key town and village centre opportunity sites for development.

Promoting the revitalisation of vacant and derelict properties/shop units.

Promoting ongoing environmental improvements to the public realm.

Prevent overdevelopment of particular non retail uses such as takeaways in Core Retail Areas.

Promoting activities including events, street markets and farmer’s/country markets in appropriate town and village centres in the County

Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2 Land 2 Land 3 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

RTC0-03 It is an objective of the Council in conjunction with Tullamore Town Council to undertake a Comprehensive Town Centre Delivery Strategy which will examine

Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 1

All other SEOs

Yes

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unlocking the potential of Tullamore Town Centre. Mat 7

Chapter Six Community Social and Cultural Development . Section O ? Comment Included in Final

Plan Yes/No

Chapter 6 Community, Social and Cultural Development

CSCP- 01 Community - General It is Council policy to assist, where feasible, in social, community and cultural development within the county. It is Council policy to encourage and facilitate the provision and extension of community facilities to serve individual communities throughout the county.

All SEOs

Yes

CSCP-02 It is Council policy to support and facilitate the County Development Board / Social and Economic Committee in its key objectives of strengthening the community sector throughout the county and developing a long-term strategy of social investment at community level.

ALL SEOs Support & facilitation role & Strategy Development.

Yes with changes through the

material amendment

process; please see Annex C

CSCP-03 It is Council policy to identify and facilitate the development of suitable sites for community facilities within the county, particularly in newly developing areas. These sites should be easily accessible (walking and cycling) and promote the use of public transport.

All SEOs

Policy relates to identifying sites. Not development. If include text could have likely positives for Pop 1 and Mat 7. After that depends on what the community facility is & likely to be mitigated.

Yes

CSCP-04 It is Council policy that proposals for new developments will have regard to the Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government Guidelines on Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas (2009) in relation to Sustainable neighbourhoods to provide new (including play facilities) for community use. Proposals should be in suitable locations and be compatible with adjoining

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Three separate policies in this policy.

Yes

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. Section O ? Comment Included in Final Plan Yes/No

developments. Such proposals will be subject to other policies of the Development Plan, in particular those concerning open space provision. Further, it is Council policy to encourage the provision of multi-functional buildings, which are adaptable to accommodating a range of community facilities, where appropriate. (This is particularly apparent in the case of new housing estates, whereby a crèche facility can be designed to be re-developed in subsequent years, if required, for an alternative community facility). Further, it is Council policy that the multi-use of public spaces will be encouraged.

CSCP-05 Childcare: It is Council policy to encourage the provision of childcare facilities in residential areas, employment areas, retail centres and other areas as appropriate, when development proposals are put forward for consideration.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7 AQ 1

All other SEOs

Yes

CSCP-06 It is Council policy to encourage the provision of childcare facilities as an integral part of proposals for new residential developments. The Planning Authority will have regard to the DECLG’s Childcare Facilities Guidelines for Planning Authorities, 2001 in relation to the provision of childcare facilities.


Yes

CSCP-07 It is Council policy to assist the County Childcare Committee in identifying priority areas within the county for the provision of childcare facilities.

ALL SEOs Assistance policy Yes

CSCP-08 It is Council policy that residential homes for the elderly and nursing homes are located within defined settlement boundaries and are appropriate in scale to the size and scale of the settlement. The provision of new residential homes and nursing homes within the rural countryside is considered only in such cases where it is clearly demonstrated that due to the nature of the services to be provided, a rural location is necessary and that no suitable

All SEOs

Yes

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alternative sites are available within a nearby settlement.

CSCP-09 It is Council policy to support ‘the Offaly Age Friendly County Programme’.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Yes, with changes through the

material amendment


CSCP-10 Open Space / Amenity Facilities It is Council policy to preserve the landuse of existing public and private recreation areas, including sports clubs, built leisure facilities and open space areas. In exceptional circumstances, a change of use may be sought, but must demonstrate that alternative recreational provisions are provided in a suitable location. Further, it is Council policy to identify, where possible, sites for possible future extension adjacent, if appropriate, within settlement plans.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Land 3 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

CSCP-11 It is Council policy to encourage and facilitate the provision of community and recreational infrastructure as an integral component of proposed new residential schemes and in particular, the provision of playgrounds for children.

Pop 1 Land 3


Yes

CSCP-12 Education Facilities It is Council policy to liaise with and to facilitate the Department of Education and Skills in the provision of education facilities, as appropriate. This includes the identification and reservation of sufficient land to meet the need for expansion of existing schools and/or provision of new schools in accordance with the county’s settlement hierarchy, requirements of individual settlements, their catchment area and the requirements of the relevant education authority, in accordance with ‘The Provision of Schools and the Planning System, A Code of Practice for Planning Authorities’, the Department of Education and Science, and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (2008).

Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

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CSCP-13 It is Council policy to consult with the Department of Education and Skills in the identification and facilitation of suitable sites, for new educational facilities.

All other SEOs

All other SEOs

Yes

CSCP-14 .

It is Council policy to restrict new development adjacent to existing schools where such development may have potential to restrict the expansion of that school.

Pop 2

All other SEOs

Site specific Yes

CSCP-15

It is Council policy to encourage the multi-use of schools and facilities provided this does not conflict with the delivery of the education service.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

CSCP-16 It is Council policy to ensure that no significant residential developments proceed without an assessment of existing school capacity or the provision of new schools facilities in tandem with the development.


Yes

CSCP-17 Libraries: It is Council policy to ensure that the county library service is positioned to support: the knowledge society, social inclusion, e-Government, life-long learning initiatives, local studies and archive services, children’s services, services to rural communities, the housebound and homes for the elderly.

ALL SEOs .

Yes

CSCP-18 It is Council policy to support the refurbishment of the Libraries at Banagher, Daingean, Ferbane and Kilcormac, in accordance with the Offaly Local Authorities Library Development Plan.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Land 3 CH 1

Yes

CSCP-19 It is council policy to implement the Offaly County Council, Library Development Plan 2010-2014 and any subsequent Library development plans.

Yes

CSCP-20 Arts and Culture: It is Council policy, having particular regard to Tullamore’s Gateway status and projected population growth, to facilitate the development of a dedicated multipurpose arts centre in the town, as resources permit.

Land 3 All Other SEOs

(Pop 1, Mat 7, AQ1 – if people can access it via public transport, walk or cycle to facility).

Yes

CSCP-21 It is Council policy to implement the Council’s Arts Plan Land 3 All Implementation

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2012- 2016 and the development of successive County Arts Plans.

other SEOs

policy - Projects enhance visual landscape (normally) Project/ sites specific but overall positive – issues likely to be mitigated.

CSCP-22 It is Council policy to maximise the per cent for art scheme for Offaly in relation to its major capital projects which provides opportunities for artists of all disciplines to create work to exist in the public realm. Public capital projects, for example: housing developments, roads, water and waste water treatment schemes, as well as hospitals, schools and libraries, have a percentage of the total capital costs allocated for the creation of a work of art. It is Council policy to reflect a commitment to, and recognition of, the diversities of the scheme in line with national guidelines.


Economic – Artist benefits & landscape. Project/ sites specific but overall positive – issues likely to be mitigated.

Yes

CSCP-23 Community Healthcare: It is Council policy to promote the improvement of health services throughout the county, in particular to encourage the integration of health services and facilities with new and existing community facilities, where feasible

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Improvement & integration

Yes

CSCP-24 It is Council policy to look favourably upon the development of primary care centres in accessible locations which comprise / provide access to a range of healthcare services including General Practitioners, nurses / midwives, health care assistants, home help assistants, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers and administrative personnel, as appropriate. The provision of individual healthcare facilities will also be considered, as appropriate.

Pop 1 Mat 7

All SEOs

Site specific would need to reference accessibility or other public transport accessible in order to be Pop 1 and Mat 7.

Yes

CSCP-25 It is Council policy to support the Health Service Executive and other statutory and voluntary agencies in the

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other

Yes

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provision of appropriate healthcare facilities including the development of both the system of hospital care and the provision of community-based primary care facilities. It is Council policy to encourage the integration of appropriate healthcare facilities within new and existing communities.

SEOs

CSCP-26 Burial Grounds: It is Council policy to protect the cultural heritage of historical burial grounds within the county and to encourage their management and maintenance in accordance with conservation principles.

All other SEOs

Land 1 CH 1

Bio 1

Yes

CSCP-27 It is council policy to implement the Offaly County Council Burial Grounds Policy 2011-2016 and any subsequent Burial Grounds policies.

Likely to have limited impact/ interaction with SEOs.

Yes

CSCP-28 It is council policy to consider handing Council graveyards back to communities to allow them to be cared for by the community, as appropriate.

ALL SEOs Management issues in long-term – Council would have to ensure sustainable management.

Yes

New policy CSCP 29 regarding

traditional local services was

included through the material amendment

process; please see Annex C

CSCO-01 Education: It is an objective of the Council that the provision of new education facilities are located within existing settlements and thereby out-of-town locations are considered only in exceptional circumstances.

Pop 1 Mat 7 AQ 1

All other SEOs

Yes

CSCO-02 It is an objective of the Council that the provision of extensions to existing education facilities is provided for

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Mat 7

Objective Yes

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by appropriate zoning of adjoining lands where feasible.

CSCO-03 Open Spaces / Amenity: It is an objective of the Council to develop open spaces throughout the county which will encourage a range of recreational and amenity activities that will cater for both active and passive needs.

Pop 1 Soil 1

All other SEOs

Site specific issues. e.g. Development of pitches etc. lead to sterilisation of land

Yes

CSCO-04 Sports and Recreation: It is an objective of the Council to support and facilitate local community groups / sporting organisations in the development of sport and recreational facilities, in particular through land-use zoning, where appropriate.

All SEOs General policy. Likely positive overall but subject to site specifics.

Yes

CSCO-05 Burial Grounds: It is an objective of the Council to provide or assist in the provision of burial grounds and extensions to existing burial grounds, by 1) reservation of land at suitable locations and 2) provision of local authority burial grounds, where feasible. Regard will be afforded to the heritage value of cemeteries and access to and information on the history, ecology, archaeology and genealogy of the sites will be promoted.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Mat 7 Bio 1 CH 1 Land 1 Land 3

Yes

CSCO-06 Play Facilities: It is an objective of the Council to develop a partnership approach in funding and developing children’s play opportunities throughout the county, in accordance with ‘Ready Steady Play,’ A National Play Policy and Offaly County Council and OLDC, Joint Playground Policy 2009-2013’ and any subsequent policies.

Pop 1 All SEOs

Italic text is inserted to show completed policy. Reference to appropriate policies is positive for Pop and human health SEOs in particular. Other impact would be mitigated at project level.

Yes

CSCO-07 Library Facilities: It is an objective of the Council to support the refurbishment of Libraries at Banagher, Daingean, Ferbane and Kilcormac, in accordance with the Offaly County Library Development Plan, as resources allow.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 Land 3 CH 1

Yes

CSCO-08 It is an objective of the Council to examine making Pop 1 All Examination /and Yes

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improvements to and/or seek to redevelop the library in Edenderry over the lifetime of this plan.

Mat 7 CH 1

other SEOs

or redevelopment – two very different but likely to have positive impact on policies overall.

CSCO-09 Arts Facilities: It is an objective of the Council to cooperate with Tullamore Town Council on the development of a dedicated multi-purpose Arts Centre at an agreed location within the town of Tullamore.


Yes

Ch 7 Natural Heritage

No. Section Title O ? Comment Included in Final Plan Yes/No

Chapter 7 Natural Heritage

NHP-01 It is Council policy to prohibit any development that would be harmful to or that would result in a significant deterioration of habitats and/or disturbance of species in a Special Protection Area (SPA), Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and candidate Special Area of Conservation (cSAC), Natural Heritage Area (NHA) and Proposed Natural Heritage Area (pNHA), that are listed in table7.1-7.3 above (and also future additions to this list.)

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Pop 2 Soil 3 Soil 4

All other SEOs

Yes

NHP-02 It is the policy of the Council to ensure an Appropriate Assessment in accordance with Article 6(3) and Article 6(4) of the Habitats Directive, and in accordance with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland – Guidance for Planning Authorities, 2009 and relevant EPA and European Commission guidance documents, is carried out in respect of any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect on a European Site(s), either individually or in


All other SEOs

Yes

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combination with other plans or projects, in view of the site’s conservation objectives.

NHP-03 It is Council policy to support and co-operate with statutory authorities and others in support of measures taken to manage proposed or designated sites in order to achieve their conservation objectives.


All other SEOs

Yes

NHP-04 It is Council policy to have regard to the views and guidance of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in respect of proposed development where there is a possibility that such development may have an impact on sites with nature / conservation designations. Alternative Text Recommended:: Consultation with Environmental Authorities: Ensure that development proposals are screened to determine whether they are likely to have a significant direct, indirect or cumulative effect on the integrity or conservation objectives of any European site and, where significant effects are likely or uncertain, there will be a requirement for consultation with the relevant environmental authorities as part of any Habitats Directive Assessment that may be required


‘regard to’ is a considered too permissive for European Sites and requirements of HDA

Yes, replacement text is NHP 04

NHP-05 It is Council policy to continue to promote education, knowledge and pride in the natural heritage and biodiversity of the county.

Mat 1 to 7

All other SEOs

Yes

NHP-06 It is council policy to promote increased public participation in biodiversity conservation by supporting and encouraging community-led initiatives

Mat 1- 7 All other SEOs

Indirect positives on related parameters.

Yes

NHP-07 It is Council policy to protect the landscape associated Land 1 All Linear Park -Could Yes

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with the River Shannon, including the Callows and views of special interest, and also to encourage the development of Shannonbridge, Banagher and Shannonharbour as focal points. It will also be Council policy to investigate the possibility of providing a Linear Park based on the River Shannon from Banagher to Meelick, which takes account of the sensitive ecological nature of the Callows area.

Land 2 Mat 1

other SEOs

result in disturbance to sensitive water bird species. Typo corrected in final plan

NHP-07 It is Council policy to protect, conserve and enhance the county’s biodiversity and natural heritage including wildlife (flora and fauna), habitats, landscapes and / or landscape features of importance to wildlife or which play a key role in the conservation and management of natural resources such as water.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 3 Land 1 Land 2 Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes, in final plan as NHP 08

NHP-08 It is Council policy to promote the protection and preservation of existing hedgerows and to encourage planting of native hedgerow species. It is also Council policy to encourage the replanting and extension of the treescape within the county (in particular mixed forests and broadleaf forests) in order to ensure the preservation and enhancement of this attractive element of County Offaly’s landscape.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Land 1 AQ 1 Pop 1

All other SEOs

Indirect positive impacts on soil, water and flood management with increased native species planting


NHP-09 It is Council policy to promote areas for appropriate, sustainable development, primarily for recreational or educational purposes, which would not conflict with the preservation of these sites in their natural state or impact on the overall conservation objectives.

All SEOs

Please note this is policy NHP 10 in final plan and alters subsequent numbers in this chapter.


NHP-10 It is Council policy to conserve, protect and enhance where possible wildlife habitats such as rivers, streams,

Bio 1 Bio 2

All other


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canals, lakes, and associated wetlands including reed-beds and swamps, ponds, springs, bogs, fens, trees, woodlands and scrub, hedgerows and other boundary types such as stone walls and ditches which occur outside of designated areas providing a network of habitats and corridors essential for wildlife to flourish.

Bio 3 Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 2 Soil 3 Land 1 AQ 1 Mat 1

SEOs

NHP-11 It is Council policy to ensure that peatland areas, which are designated for protection under international and national legislation, are conserved and managed appropriately to conserve their ecological, archaeological, cultural and educational significance.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 5 Pop 1 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 2 Soil 3 CH 1 Land 1 Land 2 AQ 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs


NHP-12 It is Council policy to protect riparian corridors by reserving land along their banks for ecological corridors and maintain them free from inappropriate development, where appropriate, and to discourage culverting or realignment

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 5 Pop 1 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 2 Soil 3 CH 1 Land 1

All other SEOs

Yes, with additional text inserted through the

material amendment

process, please see Annex C. Please

note this policy is NHP 13 in Final

Plan

A-91


Land 2 Mat 1

NHP-13 It is Council policy to protect and enhance the built and natural heritage and the recreational potential of the Grand Canal Corridor and to encourage and promote access to and understanding of the Grand Canal.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 5 Pop 1 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 2 Soil 3 CH 1 Land 1 Land 2 AQ 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes, is policy NHP 14 in final plan

NHP-14 It is Council policy to protect the identified Mushroom Stones listed in Table 7.14.1.

All other SEOs

Bio 1 Bio 3 Soil 3 Land 1

Yes, policy NHP 15 in final plan

NHP-15 It is Council policy to protect from inappropriate development the scheduled list of geological heritage sites identified in Appendix Y Offaly Geological Heritage Sites.


All other SEOs


NHP-16 It is the policy to the council to recognise the natural heritage value of disused quarries as rich habitat, and to provide appropriate protection to these renewing habitats.

Bio 1 Soil 3 Land 1

All other SEOs


NHP-17 It is Council policy to encourage the retention, where possible, of hedgerows and other distinctive boundary treatments in rural areas. Where removal of a hedgerow, stone wall or other distinctive boundary treatment is unavoidable, provision of the same type of boundary will be required of similar length set back within the site. The hedgerow will be composed of a variety of native

All other SEOs

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Pop 1 Land 1 AQ 1

Some indirect positives for soil, flooding and water Please note, this policy is now NHP 18 in final plan.


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species of Irish provenance. This shall also relate to road improvements and realignments carried out by the Local Authorities or other agents on their behalf.

NHP-18 It is Council policy to promote the preservation and enhancement of native and semi-natural woodlands, groups of trees and individual trees.

All other SEOs



NHP-19 It is Council policy to use native species wherever possible in the county including Offaly County Council’s own landscaping work and on Council property.


NHP-20 It is Council policy to discourage the felling of mature trees to facilitate development and to encourage tree surgery rather than felling where necessary.

This policy needs strengthening in order to comply and highlight need for limited felling license or general felling licenses.


NHP-21 It is council policy to encourage, pursuant to Article 10 of the Habitats Directive, the management of features of the landscape, such as traditional field boundaries, important for the ecological coherence of the Natura 2000 network and essential for the migration, dispersal and genetic exchange of wild species.

All other SEOs

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Soil 3 Land 1

Yes, Policy NHP 22 in final plan

NHP-22 To consider, in consultation with the National Parks & Wildlife Service, Westmeath County Council, the Geological Survey of Ireland and others, the potential designation of the north Offaly esker landscape as a UNESCO geo-park, to promote the unique geological heritage of the area.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 5 Pop 1 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 2 Soil 3 CH 1 Land 1


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Land 2 AQ 1 Mat 1

NHP-23 It is Council policy to protect, conserve and enhance the county’s biodiversity and natural heritage including wildlife (flora and fauna), habitats, landscapes and / or landscape features of importance to wildlife or which play a key role in the conservation and management of natural resources such as water.

All SEOs Yes, in final plan as NHP 24

NHP-24 It is Council policy to promote the protection and preservation of existing hedgerows and to encourage planting of native hedgerow species. It is also Council policy to encourage the replanting and extension of the treescape within the county (in particular mixed forests and broadleaf forests) in order to ensure the preservation and enhancement of this attractive element of the landscape.


Yes in Final Plan as NHP 18. This

duplicate policy (NHP 24)was

removed through the material

amendment stage, please see Annex C

NHP-25 It is Council policy to plant native species in the county including Offaly County Council’s own landscaping work and on Council property.

Duplicate policy-deleted in Final

Plan. Please refer to Annex C. Policy

in Final plan is NHP20

Natural Heritage Objectives

NHO-01 It is an objective of the Council to ensure that any development proposal in the vicinity of, or affecting a designated site, complies with the provisions relating to Appropriate Assessment and SEA requirements and the Council will consult with the appropriate statutory environmental authority Department of Environment, Community and Local Government in this regard.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Soil 3

All other SEOs

Yes

NHO-02 It is an objective of the Council to conserve and protect the natural heritage of the county and to conserve and protect European and National designated sites within the county including Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), candidate Special Areas of Conservation (cSACs), Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs),

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

A-94


Proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs), Ramsar Sites, Statutory Nature Reserves, Biogenetic Reserves and Wildfowl Sanctuaries

Pop 2 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Soil 3

NHO-03 It is an objective of the Council to protect, conserve and enhance the county’s biodiversity and natural heritage and the principle of enhancement will be taken into account in the Development Control Process. It is a particular objective to protect plants, animal species and habitats which have been identified by the Habitats Directive, Birds Directive, Wildlife Act and the Flora Protection Order.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 3

All other SEOs

Cumulative and indirect positive impacts across a number of parameters

Yes

NHO-04 It is an objective of the Council to co-operate with Bord na Móna and other relevant authorities to prepare a biodiversity management strategy for Offaly’s peatlands.

All other SEOs

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Pop 1 Wat 1 Soil 3

Yes

NHO-05 It is an objective of the Council to undertake a comprehensive tree survey of the county and, where appropriate, propose measures for their protection.

All other SEOs

Bio 1 Land 1

Yes

NHO-06 It is an objective of the Council to renew or extend the Local Biodiversity Plan (Bio-Action Plan)

All other SEOs

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Soil 2 Soil 3

Yes

NHO-07 It is an objective of the Council to carry out and promote ecological studies in order to have improved baseline data and decision-making capacity.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Soil 2

Biodiversity baseline research would benefit a number of related landuse impacts

Yes

A-95


Soil 3

NHO-08 It is an objective of the Council to seek the preservation of important features of geological interest within the county. (Esker complex with Westmeath.)

All other SEOs


Yes but with minor changes through

material amendment


NHO-09 It is an objective of the Council to seek the preservation of important features of geological interest within the county, identified in Appendix Y Offaly Geological Heritage Sites.

All other SEOs


Yes

NHO-10 It is an objective of the Council to support the provision of bird-watching facilities at suitable locations in the county.

All SEOs

Yes

NHO-11 It is the objective of the council to create a Data Base of Habitats to inform habitat mapping for the county working with chief stakeholders including BnM, NPWS, Coillte, WWI and Farmers and Community Groups and NGOs

All SEOs Indirect positives due to good baseline mapping to help inform development

Yes

NHO-12 It is the objective of the Council to work in partnership with relevant stakeholders towards achieving a national peatlands strategy and national peatlands park for Ireland.

All SEOs Yes

Green Infrastructure Policies

GI-01 It is Council policy to recognise the economic, social, environmental and physical value of Green Infrastructure

All SEOs Yes

GI-02 It is Council policy to protect existing green infrastructure within the County and to provide additional green infrastructure, where possible

All SEOs Yes

GI-03 It is Council policy to require that all Land Use Plans protect, manage and provide where possible green infrastructure in an integrated and coherent manner

All SEOs Yes, with additional text inserted through the

material amendment stage, please see Annex C

New policy

Policy GI 04 It is a policy of the Council to seek to prevent and promote measures to prevent the spread of invasive

New policy GIP 04 inserted through

A-96


and alien species. When landscaping plans are included or requested as part of the planning assessment process they should indicate the specific measures to be taken to avoid and prevent the spread of invasive species

material amendments


Green Infrastructure Objectives GIO-01 It is an objective of the Council to develop and support

the implementation of a Green Infrastructure Strategy, in accordance with international best practice and emerging national guidance, subject to the availability of resources

All SEOs Yes

GIO-02 It is an objective of the Council to identify sites of local biodiversity value in the over the lifetime of the plan.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 5 Soil 3 Land 1

All other SEOs

Yes

GIO-03 It is an objective of the Council to encourage, pursuant to Article 10 of the Habitats Directive, the management of features of the landscape, such as traditional field boundaries, important for the ecological coherence of the Natura 2000 network and essential for the migration, dispersal and genetic exchange of wild species

All other SEOs

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Soil 3 Land 1

Yes

GIO-04 It is an objective of the Council to develop and support the implementation of Green Infrastructure Strategy for Offaly working with chief stakeholders including Bord na Móna NPWS, Coillte, WWI and Farmers and Community Groups and NGOs

All SEOs Yes

All SEOs GIO 05 deleted through material

amendment process, replaced

by GIP 04 (see above) also please

see Annex C

Areas of High Amenity – Policy

A-97


AHAP-01 It is Council policy to protect and preserve the county’s primary areas of high amenity namely the Slieve Bloom Mountains, Clonmacnoise Heritage Zone, Durrow High Cross, Abbey & surrounding area, the River Shannon, Lough Boora Parklands, Grand Canal, Croghan Hill, Raheenmore Bog, Pallas Lake, Clara Bog and Eskers, Eiscir Riada and other eskers. These areas are indicated on Map 7.17. Notwithstanding the location of certain settlements, or parts of, for which there are settlement plans (towns, villages, ‘sraids’), within the Areas of High Amenity, it is not the intention of this policy to hinder appropriate, sustainable levels of development (as set out in the plans and subject to proper planning). Further, it is policy to facilitate the sustainable extension and expansion of existing visitor, tourist related or other rural enterprises within the Areas of High Amenity, where such development is appropriate and where it can be demonstrated that it gives ‘added value’ to the extending activity and to the immediate area which is subject of the Area of High Amenity designation.

Bio 1 Pop 1 Wat 1 Soil 1 Soil 3 CH 1 Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

AHAP-02 It is Council policy, in both cases above, to ensure that issues of scale, siting, design and overall compatibility (including particular regard to environmental sensitivities) with the site’s location within an Area of High Amenity are of paramount importance when assessing any application for planning permission. The merits of each proposal will be examined on a case-by case basis.


All other SEOs

Yes

AHAO-01 Areas of High Amenity – Objective It is an objective of the Council to protect and preserve the county’s primary areas of high amenity namely the Slieve Bloom Mountains, Clonmacnoise Heritage Zone, Durrow High Cross, Abbey & surrounding area, the River Shannon, Lough Boora Parklands, Grand Canal, Croghan Hill, Raheenmore Bog, Pallas Lake, Clara Bog and Eskers, Eiscir Riada and other eskers

Bio 1 Pop 1 Wat 1 Soil 1 Soil 3 CH 1 Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Landscape and Amenity Policy

A-98


LAP-01 Amenity It is Council policy that landscape considerations will be an important factor in all land use policy and decision making for the county in line with the requirements of the European Landscape Convention ensuring that a pro-active view of sustainable development will be is undertaken whilst maintaining respect for the environmental and heritage as per the general principles of sustainable development. Further it is policy to conserve, protect and enhance the landscape of Offaly at a number of levels: The value of the landscape itself, as open countryside and the associated form and character of settlements. The value of the landscape as a resource for economic growth in accordance with its physical and visual attributes. The value of the landscape and its role with habitats and species whose diversity enriches the environment.


All other SEOs

Yes

LAP-02 It is Council policy to control development as per the county’s landscape classification listed in Tables 7.11.1 to 7.11.4


All other SEOs

Yes

LAP-03 It is Council policy to protect the county’s scenic amenity routes from insensitive levels of roadside development and excessive levels of development. For development directly accessing onto restricted regional routes (key amenity routes) as shown on Map 7.19 (Chapter 4, infrastructure and Environment Strategy) and on map 4.1, restrictions as per policy STAP-18 will apply.


All other SEOs

Yes

LAP-04 It is Council policy that existing local landscape features, including hedgerows, shelter belts and stone walls are retained, protected and enhanced where appropriate, so as to preserve the local landscape and character of an area, whilst providing for future development.


All other SEOs

Some indirect positives for biodiversity

Yes

LAP-05 It is Council policy to protect the landscape comprising the River Shannon and flood plain including the callows and views of special interest from inappropriate development. However, appropriate development within settlements adjacent to the Shannon and its callowsand


All other SEOs

Yes

Comment [d4]: ??

Comment [d5]: 7.19

A-99


which act as focal points for both residential and commercial / business, industry and recreation will be positively considered.

LAP-06 It is Council policy that new development should ensure the protection of mature trees, hedgerows and the conservation of existing stone walls, and their integration into new development. Where the provision of new boundaries is required, these should comprise native hedgerow planting of Irish provenance, or stone walls which consist of stone found in the locality. Where comprehensive new development occurs, it should take into account the pattern of existing hedgerows and incorporate same into layouts or plant connecting hedgerows where hedgerow removal to facilitate development works is necessary. The Council will require that all new development will respect the existing character of the settlement, in particular through the provision of sensitive landscaping schemes. In the event that the removal of tree(s) is deemed to be necessary, it will be generally conditional on replacement with appropriate species.


All other SEOs

Yes

LAP-07 It is Council policy to protect formal and informal open spaces which contribute to the landscape and scenic amenity of the county and/or act as a ‘green buffer’ within settlements in particular.

Bio 1 Land 1 Land 2 Land 3 Pop 1 Pop 2 AQ1

Yes

LAP-08 It is Council policy to make provisions for the reservation of land which will allow for the development of public open space, where appropriate.

Land 1 Land 2 Land 3 Pop 1 Pop 2 AQ1

Yes

LAP-09 It is Council policy to require that any necessary assessments, including landscape and visual impact assessments are provided when undertaking, authorising,


All other SEOs

Yes

A-100


or approving development in high sensitivity areas

Landscape and Amenity Objectives

LAO-01 It is an objective of the Council to preserve and enhance the character of the county’s landscape where, and to the extent that in the opinion of Offaly County Council, the proper planning and sustainable of the area requires it.


All other SEOs

Yes

LAO-02 It is an objective of the Council to preserve scenic views and prospects throughout the county which will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, as part of the development management process. (Views are listed in Table 7.11.5 and shown on Map 7.18


All other SEOs

Yes

LAO-03 It is an objective to the Council to make provisions for cyclists including where appropriate, dedicated cycleways, subject to availability of finance.

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

LAO-04 It is an objective of the Council to investigate the feasibility of preparing a Landscape Character Assessment during the lifetime of this plan.

All SEOs Landscape encompasses all parameters and would offer a means to collect useful baseline information to inform landuse development and strategy.

Yes

LAO-05 It is an objective to investigate the feasibility of preparing an Historic Landscape Characterisation and utilise the results to complement and contribute to comprehensive Landscape Character Assessment (LCA).

All SEOs Yes

New objective LAO 6 to review the county LCA was included in final

plan through material

amendments,

Comment [d6]:

A-101


please see Annex C.

Public Right of Way Policies – named ROWP in final plan

ROWP-01 It is a policy of the Council to promote sustainable outdoor recreation in the form of walking and cycling and improve the recreational and tourist potential of walking and cycling routes in the county whilst ensuring the protection of the environment

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes, with changes during the material

amendments process; please see

Annex C. Please note these policies are named ROWP

in final plan

ROWP-02 It is a policy of the Council to engage and co-operate with representative bodies, local groups, landowners and where relevant adjoining local authorities, in order to support the sustainable development of walking and cycling routes

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

ROWP-03 It is a policy of the Council to promote the development of riverside walking routes, whilst protecting areas of ecological value and ensuring that any development takes cognisance of the aims and objectives of the Water Framework Directive and ensuring that all development is undertaken in compliance with Articles 6 and Article 10 of the Habitats Directive

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

ROWP-04 It is the policy of the council to consider proposals for development along former railway lines for local heritage and outdoor activities including the provision of recreational walkways or cycling routes, subject to feasibility and availability of funding

Pop 1 Mat 7 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Public Right of Way Objectives-note named ROWO in final plan

ROWO-O-01 Public Right of Way Objectives It is an objective of the Council to examine the feasibility of identifying and mapping Public Rights of way in the recreational and amenity areas of the county.

Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

ROWO-02 It is an objective of the Council to protect potential ‘greenway’ routes along and in proximity to abandoned rail lines from inappropriate development that could

Pop 1 Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

A-102


compromise the delivery of a cycling or walking route in the future

CH 1 CH 2

Mat 7

Architectural Heritage Policies –please note, these are named AAHP in final plan

AAHP-01 It is Council Policy to ensure that the alteration or extensions to protected buildings and structures will only be permitted if the proposals are in keeping with the character of the building and preserve the architectural and historic features of the buildings or structures

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


All other SEOs

For other SEOS likely to be minor impacts

Yes

AAHP-02 It is Council Policy to encourage the retention, sympathetic maintenance, and appropriate re-use of the vernacular buildings, in both the towns and rural areas of the County, including the retention of the original fabric, such as windows, renders, shop fronts, gates, yards, boundary walls and other significant features where possible, to discourage the replacement of good quality vernacular buildings with modern structures.

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2

Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

AAHP-03 It is Council Policy to ensure that new build adjoining, and extensions to, vernacular buildings are of an appropriate design and do not detract from the building’s character.

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


All other SEOs

Yes

AAHP-04 It is Council policy to apply the following principles to the archaeological heritage:

To facilitate appropriate guidance in relation to the protection of the county’s archaeological heritage.

To promote public awareness of the rich archaeological heritage in this area.

To protect and enhance archaeological monuments and their settings and Zones of Archaeological Potential

All other SEOs

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


Neutral impacts identified as aim of policy is awareness, guidance etc.

Yes

A-103


AAHP-05 It is Council policy that the area comprising the National Monument at Clonmacnoise, enclosing Eskers, Mongans Bog, Clonmacnoise Callows, Fin Lough and the limestone pavement at Clorhane shall retain its nominated status as the “Clonmacnoise Heritage Zone”, in accordance with the recommendations of the study of the area carried out by the Environmental Sciences Unit of Trinity College, Dublin and as indicated on Map 7.21.

Bio 1, Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Pop 2 Pop 2 Wat 1 Wat 2 Soil 3 CH 1 CH 2

Land 1 Land 2 Mat 1

All other SEOS

Probably good to ref flood risk, Habitat directive also for this area – relevant policies such as CSP 07 and CSP 08 would apply

Yes, in draft plan AAH 05 and 06

were presented as one policy,

separated to two policies in final

plan.

AAHP-06 In the primary control zone around the National Monument, development will be strictly curtailed, so as to preserve and protect the unique character and distinctive quality of this area. The boundaries of the secondary control area correspond with that of the Shannon Area of High Amenity. Within this secondary area the controls applicable to Areas of Special Control will apply together with a further requirement that the Planning Authority must be satisfied that the particular purpose of the proposal justifies the location proposed.

Bio 1, Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Pop 2 Pop 2 Wat 1 Wat 2 Soil 3 CH 1 CH 2

Land 1 Land 2 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes

AAHP-07 It is policy of the Council to promote awareness of, and access to, the archaeological inheritance of Offaly.

All other SEOs

CH 1 CH 2

Yes

AAHP-08 It is Council Policy to ensure that development in the immediate vicinity of a recorded monument is sensitively sited and designed so that it does not significantly detract from the monument. Where upstanding remains exist, a visual impact assessment may be required.

Pop 1 CH 1


All other SEOs

Yes

AAHP-09 It is Council Policy to inform and seek guidance from the National Museum of Ireland if an unrecorded

Pop 1 CH 1

All other

Yes

Comment [d7]: 7.21

A-104


archaeological object is discovered, or the National Monuments Service of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in the case of the discovery of an unrecorded archaeological site, in accordance with National Monuments legislation.

Land 1 Land 2

SEOs

AAHP-10 It is Council policy to ensure that full consideration is given to the protection of archaeological heritage when undertaking, approving or authorising development in order to avoid unnecessary conflict between development and the protection of the archaeological heritage.

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

AAHP-11 It is Council policy to ensure that all development proposals affecting sites specified in the Record of Monuments and Places or Zones of Archaeological Potential are referred to the prescribed bodies (as set out in the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended) and to have regard to the advice and recommendations of the prescribed bodies in relation to undertaking, approving or authorising development.

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

AAHP-12 It is Council policy to ensure that when an unrecorded archaeological object or site is discovered, any works that threaten the object or site are immediately suspended and that the appropriate Government agency is informed.

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

AAHP-13 It is Council policy to protect historical burial grounds within Offaly and encourage their maintenance in accordance with conservation principles.

All other SEOS

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

Yes

AAHP-14 It is Council policy to facilitate appropriate guidance in relation to the protection of the archaeological heritage in the area covered by the plan.

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

AAHP-15 It is Council policy that developments, which require vehicular access from public roads that were formerly towpaths or from existing towpaths along the Grand Canal, are very strictly controlled. This is in addition to restrictions relevant to the Canal’s designation as a Natural Heritage Area and consequently as an Area of

All SEOs

Cumulative impacts and monitoring required

Yes

A-105


Special Control. It is policy to consider housing applications for established families* only along roads that were formerly towpaths along the Grand Canal and that such developments will be strictly controlled. *Families for the purpose of this policy are defined as husband, wife and their children, siblings of the husband and wife and their sons and daughters.

AAHP-16

It is Council policy to encourage the protection, promotion and enhancement of heritage gardens and parks in the county and support public awareness, enjoyment of and access to these sites.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

Yes

AAHP-17 It is Council policy to protect archaeological sites and monuments, underwater archaeology, and archaeological objects, which are listed in the Record of Monuments and Places, and to seek their preservation in situ (or at a minimum, preservation by record) through the planning process. It is Council policy to seek to protect important archaeological landscapes from inappropriate development.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2

Land 1 Land 2

Yes

AAHP-18 It is Council policy to encourage and promote the appropriate management and maintenance of the County’s archaeological heritage, including historical burial grounds, in accordance with conservation principles and best practice guidelines.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

Yes

AAHP-19 It is Council policy to continue to develop the Council’s advisory/educational role with regard to heritage matters and to promote awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the architectural heritage of Offaly

All other SEOs

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2

Land 1 Land 2

Yes

AAHP-20 It is Council Policy to encourage, where appropriate, the adaptive re-use of existing buildings and sites in a manner compatible with their character and significance.

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2

Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

AAHP-21 It is Council Policy to identify places of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural,

Pop 1 CH 1

Yes

A-106


scientific, social or technical interest and where appropriate to define them as Architectural Conservation Areas.

CH 2 Land 1 Land 2

AAHP-22 It is Council Policy to require that all development proposals within an ACA should be appropriate to the character of the area, inclusive of its general scale and materials, and are appropriately sited and sensitively designed having regard to the advice given in the Statements of Character for each area.

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


All other SEOS

Yes

Architectural Heritage Objectives

AAHO-01 It is an objective of the Council to examine the feasibility of designating Architectural Conservation Areas in the county over the plan period.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


Yes

AAHO-02 It is an objective of the Council to protect all structures listed in the Record of Protected Structures, that are of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest throughout the county.

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


All other SEOs

Yes

AAHO-03 It is an objective of the Council to protect the Slí Mór and Slí Dála routes and sign post them where appropriate.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


Yes

AAHO-04 It is an objective of the Council to secure the protection (i.e. preservation in situ or at a minimum protection by record) of all archaeological monuments included in the Record of Monuments and Places as established under Section 12 of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1994, and their setting.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


Yes

AAHO-05 It is an objective of the Council to protect and preserve archaeological sites and their settings discovered since

All other SEOs

Pop 1 CH 1

Yes

A-107


the publication of the Record of Monuments and Places and the publication of the Urban Archaeology Survey.


AAHO-06 It is an objective of the Council to protect the Zones of Archaeological Potential identified in the Record of Monuments and Places.

All other SEOs

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


Yes

AAHO-07 It is an objective of the Council to prohibit the demolition of a structure that positively contributes to the character of an ACA, except in exceptional circumstances. The Council will require such applications to be accompanied by a measured and photographic survey, condition report and architectural heritage assessment of the structure. Where permission for demolition is granted within an ACA, an assessment of the impact of the replacement building on the character of the ACA will be required.

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


All other SEOs

Yes

AAHO-08 It is an objective of the Council to ensure that any new development within or contiguous to an ACA is sympathetic to the character of the area and that the design is appropriate in terms of scale, height, plot density, layout, materials and finishes.

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


All other SEOs

Yes

AAHO-09 The council acknowledges the nomination by the Government of Ireland, of two Monastic sites, Clonmacnoise and Durrow, on the tentative list for inclusion to the UNESCO World Heritage sites list. It is an objective of the Council to explore potential of further designating the Monastic Sites at Clonmacnoise and Durrow as prospective UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Pop 1 CH1 CH2

Land 1 Land 2

Yes

A-108

Ch 8 Development Management


Chapter 8: Landuse and Zoning

LUZP-01 It is Council policy, generally that a sequential approach is adopted in the development of the county’s settlements (i.e. development from the centre most point of a settlement outwards), where feasible and in line with proper planning and development and to ensure most efficient and timely delivery of necessary services.

All SEOs

Please note, mitigation text not included in final plan. Governing principles of proper planning and sustainable development are adequately covered in Chapter One policies and objectives.

Yes, without mitigation text

LUZP-02 It is Council policy to facilitate the development of the county’s settlements and ensure that any development proposed is in the interests of proper planning and sustainable development. In particular, it is Council policy in the case of town centre zoning, to prohibit a proliferation of any individual use which in the opinion of the Planning Authority, does not contribute to the vitality and viability of town centres.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

LUZP-03 It is Council policy to encourage the natural growth of the county’s towns and villages. In the case of the development of zoned greenfield sites, a mix of uses may be required as opposed to excessive homogenous developments. This will ensure the proper planning and sustainable development of these areas, providing necessary services and adding vitality and viability to their future use.


Yes

LUZP-04 Multiple residential developments i.e. residential development of more than one house or residential unit, will not be permitted on Local Employment/Services Lands zoning objective except in instances where the housing needs of more than one family member of established landowners is required to be accommodated. In such cases, applicants will be required to demonstrate

All SEOs

Yes

A-109


that they meet and comply with all normal planning criteria for individual dwellings including the following:

Landownership is established in the family name i.e. 5 years or more.

Housing need (i.e. applicant does not own their own dwelling at another location) is required to meet applicant’s accommodation needs

LUZP-05

Rural economic activities or development may be considered on ‘White Lands’ where the activity or development can demonstrate:

A need to locate in a particular location.

That there is no conflict with the objective for growth in any urban area, and,

Long term sustainability in the rural area.

All SEOs

Yes

Objectives 4

LUZO-01 It is an objective of the Council that sufficient zoned lands be provided at appropriate locations throughout the county to accommodate the expected land use requirements within the lifetime of the County Development Plan i.e. 2014-2020.

All SEOs

Yes

LUZO-02 It is an objective of the Council to ensure that development progresses in accordance with the landuse zoning objectives set out within this chapter.

All SEOs

Yes

4

B- 1 -

Annex B: Assessment of Policies, Objectives and Landuse Zonings in draft OCDP Volume II

B.1 Introduction The Policies, Objectives and Landuse Zonings of the draft Offaly County Development Plan 2014-2020 have been assessed in accordance with the Strategic

Environmental Objectives of the SEA Environmental Report. Where the HDA or SEA has recommended text inclusion or changes, these are shown in blue

bold font. Figure Annex B shows the settlements of the plan area covered in Volume II overlaid on the environmental sensitivity map; this assists in

assessing potential land use impacts on environmental resources. For clarity, where numbers of policies/objectives have been changed in final plan,

where policies/objectives /landuse zonings were deleted or amended through the material amendment process, it is referenced in the final column in the

table. In the event that any mitigation measures were not included in the final plan, a comment to address this is provided in the comment column. All

material amendments to the plan were screened for significant environmental effects and the SEA Screening Report is found in Annex C of this SEA ER.

In addition, towns, villages and sraids will be developed in accordance with the Policy framework outlined in the Plan, including the settlement strategy and evidence base upon which sustainable development, infrastructure, amenities and economic investment can be provided in a coherent and structured manner. Policies and Objectives relating to flood risk, natural and cultural heritage will be applied, in particular those found in Chapter Four: Infrastructure and Environment and Chapter Seven: Heritage.

The following criteria have been used in the Assessment Matrix:

No likely interaction with SEOs/insignificant 0 Potential conflict with SEOs – likely to be mitigated

Likely to improve status of SEOs

Uncertain interactions with SEOs

?


B- 2 -

Figure Annex B Settlements – Towns, Villages and Sraids overlaid on environmental sensitivity map of County Offaly.

B- 3 -

Offaly County Development Plan draft Volume 11 Town, Village and Sraid Plans

Clara Town Plan

Landuse Zonings Total Ha

Residential 80.85

Business /

Employment

15.73

Industrial 9.91

Open Space 58.97

Town Centre/Mixed

use

8.97

Public/community/ed

ucation

21.12

Clara Town Plan Key Data

Population (CSO 2011) 3,894

Wastewater Treatment The Clara wastewater treatment plant has a capacity to treat the waste of 4,500 population equivalent (p.e.) and had been operating close to capacity during the previous plan period. As a result of exceptional demand relating to construction and development in the last decade, there was a corresponding demand on services. Therefore a number of proposed developments could not proceed owing to the need for an upgrade to the waste water treatment plant.

This issue has now been resolved with an upgrade that increased the capacity of the wastewater treatment plant to 9,000

p.e.

Water Supply Clara’s water supply is from the Clara and Ferbane Regional Water Supply, which was established in 1998 and serves a large

area of mid and west Offaly. There is spare capacity available.

Proximity to European Site Clara is located on the River Brosna The river itself is not a designated site, but it is a tributary of the River Shannon, a Special

Area of Conservation, Special Protection Area and Natural Heritage Area, which it meets at Shannon Harbour approximately

17km downstream of Clara.

Flood Risk Zones Clara is partially located on flood zones A and B

B- 4 -

Other Environmental

Considerations.

Clara Bog, one of the most intact midland raised bogs is located south of the town and in addition to the above designations

is a nature reserve

Eskers to the north and northeast of the town

Clara has a rich industrial past, which is worthy of acknowledgement; in particular a linen industry, a gasworks, flour milling

enterprises and jute processing. The presence of the railway, the River Brosna, local raw materials and local

entrepreneurship made Clara a busy industrial town from the mid 18th

century to the mid 20th

century.

AA and SFRA may be required for proposed development

Clara Town Plan Landuse Zonings

Comment O

Residential Two principal areas are zoned residential on undeveloped land; in the northeast on agricultural lands and a smaller area in the southwest. These are sequential in that they develop from the town centre so will support the core strategy and sequential approach.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 1

Land 1 Land 3 AQ 1 AQ 2

All other SEOs

Business/ Employment

Three areas; one adjoining existing use north of town, and two areas closer to the settlement.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Industrial Located along Ballycumber Road and Brendan Street; much of the land confirms existing use. However an area of improved grassland with hedgerows is also zoned between the two existing industrial uses. This land is buffered from the River Brosna by built land including residential and the R436 Regional Road. Notwithstanding that the proximity of these lands to the River Brosna and a small wetland area to the north will require careful consideration of potential new industrial uses on these lands and adherence to appropriate development management controls particularly water quality policies and objectives.

B- 5 -

Open Space Areas close to the river are zoned open space which will assist in flood risk and riparian vegetation management.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2 Bio 1 Soil 2 Soil 3

Land 1 Mat 1

Town Centre/mixed

Confirms existing town centre uses. All other SEOs Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2 AQ 1 Mat 7

Clara Town Plan Policies and Objectives O Included in final

plan yes/not

CTPP2-01 It is Council policy that the development of Clara over the lifetime of this plan shall be primarily focused on employment generation, the consolidation of the town centre, the completion of ongoing developments and the provision of community and social services

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

CTPP2-02 It is Council policy to implement the development strategy for Clara in order to be consistent with, and in accordance with, policies at a national level, regional level and at a county level.

All SEOs Yes

CTPP2-03 Offaly County Council supports and encourages the appropriate growth of Clara over the plan period and will facilitate such growth where it can be demonstrated that such proposals are consistent with national, regional and local level policy and in line with the sequential approach.

All SEOs Yes

CTPO2-01 To monitor the growth in population and associated residential development in Clara during the plan period through the development management process and also using accurate and recent statistics as and when they are published.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Policies CTPP3-01 It is Council policy to encourage and enhance the role of Clara Town Centre as a retail and commercial centre serving the town and its wider hinterland.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Yes

B- 6 -

CTPP3-02 It is Council policy to facilitate the comprehensive consolidation of the town’s retail core and, where appropriate, expansion to the backland areas of Main Street, River Street and Church Street.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

CTPP3-03 It is Council policy to encourage retail development in Clara, including new forms of shopping, which relates to the regeneration of the existing Town Centre. Proposals which would undermine the vitality and viability of the Town Centre will not be permitted.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

CTPP3-04 It is Council policy to facilitate the appropriate redevelopment of the opportunity sites identified in this Town Plan for uses that will ensure the satisfactory use of the subject site or, in the case of surface car parking, facilitate development elsewhere in the town.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7 CH 1 CH 2

All other SEOs

Yes

CTPO3-01 To maintain and improve accessibility to and within the town centre and develop a comprehensive approach to the provision of car parking and pedestrian access with particular regard to the needs and access for people with disabilities

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2 AQ 1 Mat 7

Yes

CTPP4-01 It is Council policy to ensure employment maintenance, generation and expansion is a key focus of the development of Clara.

Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

CTPP4-02 It is Council policy to ensure that sufficient serviced land is available for employment generation, which will cater for an increase in Clara’s workforce


Yes

CTPP4-03 It is Council policy to facilitate, where appropriate, the development of employment generating enterprises within the existing employment areas in the town.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

CTPP4-04 It is Council policy to encourage the establishment and expansion of service industries and facilities within the town

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

CTPP4-05 It is Council policy to encourage and support local start up business in the area through flexibility in the reuse of existing vacant units.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 1 CH 2

Mat 7

All other SIEs

Yes

CTPP4-06 It is Council policy to facilitate the further development of the tourism potential of the town.

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 7 -

CTPP4-07 It is Council policy to encourage and facilitate the sustainable development of the tourism sector centred on Clara Bog and Eskers, as a means of employment generation


Yes

CTPP4-08 It is Council policy to consider the development of the cowpark lands to the north of Clara town should a use, appropriate to this location come forward. Any proposal to develop these lands must demonstrate that this site is best located to serve its operational needs and that the proposed use cannot be accommodated satisfactorily elsewhere on zoned and serviced lands within the county

All SEOs Yes

CTPP5-01

It is Council policy to maintain the existing quality of the (R420) which provides a vital link to both the M4/M6 motorway to the north and Tullamore to the south.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Mat 7

Yes

CTPO5-01 To reserve land for a future relief road running to the west of the town centre from the Moate Road (R420) to the Ballycumber Road (R436.


Yes

CTPO5-02 To improve and upgrade cycling facilities and in particular to investigate the feasibility of providing dedicated cycle lanes linking the Kilcoursey area and Ballycumber Road area to the town centre.

Pop 1 AQ 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

CTPO5-03 To improve public lighting where necessary. All other SEOs Pop 1 Yes

CTPO5-04 To improve and upgrade junctions within the town, specifically at the locations shown on the land use zoning map.

Pop 1 Mat 7

Yes

CTPO5-05 To investigate the feasibility of providing a pedestrian bridge adjacent to Charlestown Bridge.


Yes

CTPP6-03 It is Council policy to ensure that applications for all development on lands identified as being at risk of flooding shall be accompanied by an appropriate flood risk assessment.

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes

CTPP7-01 It is Council policy to assist, encourage and facilitate the provision and extension of community facilities to serve the individual community needs of all individuals in Clara in liaison with community based groups, public bodies, government departments, state agencies and other interested parties.


Yes

CTPP7-02

It is Council policy to encourage the provision of necessary Public/Community/Educational services and facilities, within the boundary of Clara town.


Yes

CTPO7-01 To seek to support the provision of a new playground in the town. The playground should be in an accessible location close to residential areas.

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 8 -

CTPP8-01 It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the River Brosna and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Pop 1 Pop 2 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Land 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes

CTPP8-02

It is Council policy to recognise the importance of the industrial heritage of Clara and to positively encourage the appropriate redevelopment and reuse of the mill-related buildings, including protected structures that remain in the town

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2


All other SEOs

Yes

CTPP8-03

It is Council policy to recognise Clara Bog to the south of the town as a habitat of international significance and to ensure that no development will adversely impact on the area designated as an SAC or the conservation objectives put in place by the NPWS.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Pop 1 Wat 1 Wat 2 Soil 3

Land 1

All other SEOs

Yes

CTTP8-04

It is Council policy to recognise the geological, zoological, botanical and scientific value of the Eiscir Riada esker system, running north and south of the plan area and to ensure that new development will not unduly impact on the integrity of this landscape feature

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Pop 1 Wat 1 Wat 2 Soil 3

Land 1

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 9 -

CTPO8-01 To improve and increase access along the banks of the River Brosna while seeking to develop a linear park.

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 10 -

Ferbane Town Plan


Residential 42.51

Business /

Employment

43.25

Industrial 9.91

Open Space 21.55

Town Centre/Mixed

use

6.31

Public/community/ed

ucation

14.52

Ferbane Town Plan Key Data

Population (CSO 2011) 1,165

Wastewater Treatment The Ferbane wastewater treatment plant has a capacity to treat the waste of 3,184 population equivalent (p.e.) and is there is currently adequate capacity for short term demands. Notwithstanding that the amount of land zoned in the plan allows for growth in the town, normal planning development management practice is that proposals are assessed as regards capacity of services to cater for them and development would not be permitted unless adequate treatment can be assured.

B- 11 -

Water Supply Ferbane’s water supply is taken from the Gageborough River and Ballyboughlin WTW Borehole. Storage is at Cor Hill and Aughamore. There is spare capacity available

Proximity to European Site Ferbane Bog SAC is located close to Ferbane town. The River Brosna flows through the town of the town centre. The river itself is not a designated site, but it is a tributary of the River Shannon, a Special Area of Conservation, Special Protection Area and Natural Heritage Area, which it meets at Shannon Harbour approximately 15km downstream of Ferbane.

Flood Risk Zones Ferbane is partially located on flood zones around River Brosna

Other Environmental

Considerations.

The Eiscir Riada system runs in a west to east direction north and south of the town.


Ferbane Town Plan Landuse Zonings

Comment O

Residential Main area zoned residential on undeveloped land; adjoins the town centre. These are sequential in that they develop from the town centre so will support the core strategy and sequential approach.



All other SEOs

Business/ employment

Extensive area zoned in the north east of the town plan that is characterised by improved grassland with hedgerows/tree lines and does not appear to currently support development land.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs



Land 1 Mat 1

Town Centre/mixed

Confirms existing town centre uses.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2 AQ 1 Mat 7

B- 12 -

Public/community/education

Principally confirms existing uses and are close to town centre. Additional undeveloped land is at largest area adjoining town centre.


Ferbane Town Plan Policies and Objectives O Final plan yes/no

Ferbane Pol-01 It is Council policy that the development of Ferbane over the lifetime of this plan shall be primarily focused on employment generation, rural based activities, the consolidation of the town centre, the completion of ongoing developments and the provision of community and social services

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol-02 It is Council policy to implement the development strategy for Ferbane in order to be consistent with, and in accordance with, policies at a national level, regional level and at a county level.

All SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol-03 Offaly County Council supports and encourages the appropriate growth of Ferbane over the plan period and will facilitate such growth where it can be demonstrated that such proposals are consistent with national, regional and local level policy and in line with the sequential approach.

All SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol-04 It is Council policy to prioritise the completion of housing development where works are incomplete in Ferbane. In this regard, Offaly County Council will, where necessary, engage with developers, landowners and agencies involved to resolve outstanding issues and reach a satisfactory conclusion. The Council will have regard to future DoECLG/Government guidance in relation to the satisfactory completion of unfinished developments

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol-05 It is Council Policy to ensure that development within the lifetime of this plan takes place within the zoned and serviced area of the town and in an orderly fashion, so that economic use is made of resources.

All SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj-01 To monitor the growth in population and associated residential development in Ferbane during the plan period through the development management process and also using accurate and recent statistics as and when they are published.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj-02 To adequately address the completion of residential developments that are ongoing, where Offaly County Council have the capacity to do so, particularly on foot of DoECLG/Government guidance being issued.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs Yes

B- 13 -

Ferbane Pol 3-01 It is Council policy to encourage and enhance the role of Ferbane Town Centre as a retail and commercial centre serving the town and its wider hinterland

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol 3-02 It is Council policy to facilitate the comprehensive consolidation of the town’s retail core and, where appropriate, expansion to the backland areas of Main Street, Chapel Lane and Ballycumber road (R436).

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol 3-03 .It is Council policy to encourage retail development in Ferbane that provides an appropriate level of comparison and convenient retail for its surrounding hinterland. Additional convenience and comparison floor-space will be encouraged where it is needed to support levels of population growth over and above that already identified, gaps are identified in local provision and there is no retail impact on existing retail development and facilities. Proposals, which would undermine the vitality and viability of the Town Centre will not be permitted.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol 3-04 It is Council policy to facilitate the development of brownfield sites within Ferbane Town Centre and the reuse of existing buildings to provide for a broader range of services.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2

Yes

Ferbane Pol 3-05 It is Council Policy to continually improve the public realm, identifying elements that contribute positively and maintaining them while seeking to identify and resolve issues that detract from the quality of the public realm.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2 Land 1

Yes

Ferbane Pol 3-06 It is Council policy to monitor the levels of dereliction in Ferbane and take action when necessary in accordance with the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

Soil 1 CH 2

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol 3-07 It is Council policy to monitor the type of uses occurring within Ferbane town centre and to not permit the proliferation of any one use which, in the opinion of the Council, will detract from the vitality and vibrancy of the Town Centre.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol 3-08 It is Council policy to seek the maintenance and improvement of shopfronts within the town centre. Proposals for new shopfronts should be sensitively designed with regard to their location within the streetscape. Refer to ‘Guide to Shop fronts and Signs’ leaflet, Offaly County Council.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 1

Land 1

Yes

B- 14 -

Ferbane Pol 3-09 It is Council policy to facilitate the appropriate redevelopment of the opportunity sites identified in this Town Plan for uses that will ensure the satisfactory use of the subject site.


Mat 7

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj 3-01 To maintain and improve accessibility to and within the town centre and develop a comprehensive approach to the provision of car parking and pedestrian access with particular regard to the needs and access for people with disabilities.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj 3-02 To further improve the streetscape and public realm including reviewing and maintaining paving and street furniture in particular.

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 2

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj 3-03 To work with service providers with a view to undergrounding overhead cables visible within the town centre.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Land 1 Land 2 Land 3

Yes

Ferbane Obj 3-04 To provide loading bays of adequate capacity where they are needed most in order to ensure that traffic flows are not restricted.

All other SEOs Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

Yes

Ferbane Obj 3-05 To explore the feasibility of providing a piece of civic art within the town centre

All other SEOs Pop 1 Yes

Ferbane Pol 4-01 It is Council policy to ensure employment maintenance, generation and expansion is a key focus of the development of Ferbane.


Ferbane Pol 4-02

It is Council policy to ensure that sufficient serviced land is available for employment generation, which will cater for an increase in Ferbane’s workforce.

Pop 1 all other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol 4-03

It is Council policy to facilitate, where appropriate, the development of employment generating enterprises within the existing employment areas in the town

All other SEOS Pop 1 Yes

Ferbane Pol 4-04

It is Council policy to encourage the establishment and expansion of service industries and facilities within the town.

Pop 1 All other SEOs Yes

FerbanePol 4-05

It is Council policy to encourage and support local start up business in the area through flexibility in the reuse of existing vacant units.

All other SEOS Pop 1 CH 2

Yes

Ferrbane Pol 4-06

It is Council policy to facilitate the further development of the tourism potential of the town and capitalise on its location in the Shannon region.

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOS Yes

B- 15 -

FerbanePol 4-07

It is Council policy to actively encourage the implementation of government measures, focused on the creation of increased job opportunities and re-training in the town.


Ferbane Obj 4-01

To facilitate the establishment of incubator units to provide work space for start up businesses provided these units will participate in a county-wide programme of education and networking opportunities.


Fervane Obj 4-02 To engage with and co-operate with employment agencies, such as the Offaly Local Development Company, Enterprise Ireland and the IDA, to foster an environment of job creation and attracting inward investment


Ferbane Obj 4-03

Co-operate with government agencies and the Offaly County Enterprise Board in examining potential sites for industry and in attracting firms to any land zoned as such.


New objectives Ferbane Obj 4-04 recognising potential of disused Clara-Banager Railway line and Ferbane Obj 4-5 supporting feasibility of development of amenity route along river Brosna were included in Final Plan through the material amendment process, please see Annex C

Ferbane Pol 5-01 It is Council policy to investigate and make provision where possible for alternative access and linkage routes through the town to alleviate pressure from the main thoroughfares. These will be encouraged to be provided through proposed development sites for delivery in tandem with overall site development

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol 5-02 It is Council policy to continue to liaise with Bus Éireann and other public transport operators to seek to ensure that the existing level of public transport provision is maintained or improved.

All other SEOs AQ 1 Mat 7 Pop 1

Yes

Ferbane Pol 5-03 It is Council policy to ensure that new developments provide for increased permeability in their layouts where possible. Linkages to adjoining undeveloped lands should be provided where possible.


Ferbane Pol 5-04 It is Council policy to Protect the corridor to the west of the town for a possible future by-pass (see map).

Pop 1

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol 5-05 It is Council policy to protect the corridor from the northwest corner of the Ferbane Business Park to accommodate a distributor link to the N62 at the north of the town.


Ferbane Obj 5-01 To investigate the feasibility of providing off-street car parking within easy reach of the town centre.

Pop 1

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj 5-02 To reserve lands within the town to provide for future access to undeveloped lands


B- 16 -

Ferbane Obj 5-03 To improve and upgrade all approach roads to Ferbane providing ‘gateway’ features that may act as traffic calming measures and as a method of enhancing the entrances to the town.

All SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj 5-04 To facilitate safe pedestrian movement and improved access for all by providing, improving and upgrading footpaths as required


Yes

Ferbane Obj 5-05 To improve and upgrade cycling facilities and in particular to investigate the feasibility of providing dedicated cycle lanes

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj 5-06 To improve public lighting where necessary All other SEOs Pop 1 Yes

Ferbane Obj 5-07 To improve and upgrade junctions within the town, specifically at the locations shown on the land use zoning map

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs Yes

FerbanePol 6-01 It is Council policy to upgrade /maintain water and wastewater infrastructure as deemed necessary to serve the needs of the population in Ferbane

Bio Yes

Ferbane Pol 6-02 It is Council policy to have regard to/ apply ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Banagher or County Offaly.

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs Mitigation not included in final plan

however, flood

management policies

including EP 18 to EP 23 will apply.

FerbanePol 6-03 It is Council policy to ensure that applications for all development on lands identified as being at risk of flooding shall be accompanied by an appropriate flood risk assessment.

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol 6-04 It is council policy to have regard to any mapping of flood patterns, in particular those carried out by the Office of Public Works, www.floodmaps.ie and also to the relevant CFRAM

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Pol 6-05 It is Council policy to support the infrastructural renewal and development of electricity networks in the area. The development of a secure and reliable electricity transmission infrastructure is recognised as a key factor for supporting economic development and attracting investment to the area


B- 17 -

FerbanePol 6-06 It is Council policy to facilitate the provision of broadband telecommunications in Banagher, in conjunction with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and any other relevant bodies


Ferbane Obj 6-01 To encourage the extension of the Gas Network to Banagher so as to provide gas supply connections available to domestic and business users


Ferbane Obj 6-02 To improve leak detection and resolve leakage, where possible, in the water supply network

All SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj 6-03 To support the provision of civic amenity facilities for Ferbane, where necessary


Yes

FerbanePol 7-01 It is Council policy to assist, encourage and facilitate the provision and extension of community facilities to serve the individual community needs of all individuals in Ferbane in liaison with community based groups, public bodies, government departments, state agencies and other interested parties.


Ferbane Pol 7-02 It is Council policy to encourage the provision of necessary Public/Community/Educational services and facilities, within the boundary of Ferbane town.


Ferbane Obj 7-01 To seek the provision of additional open space/amenity within the boundary of the town in order to improve recreational and amenity facilities in the town.

Pop 1 Soil 2

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj 7-02 To promote and support the Arts in Ferbane and support the provision of a permanent civic art piece at a suitable location within the town.


Ferbane Obj 8-03 To develop a strategy for tree-planting in public areas and along roadways within the town and on approach roads

All other SEOs Bio 1 Pop 1 AQ 1

Yes

B- 18 -

Ferbane Pol 8-01 It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the River Brosna and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone.


All other SEOs Yes, but mitigation

not included in final plan,

oversight. However

Policy NHP 13 will apply.

Ferbane Pol 8-02 It is Council policy to recognise the geological, zoological, botanical and scientific value of the Eiscir Riada esker system, running north and south of the plan area and to ensure that new development will not unduly impact on the integrity of this landscape feature.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 2 Soil 3 Wat 1 Wat 2 Wat 3 Land 1 Mat 1

Yes, but mitigation

Not included in final plan,

oversight. However,

application of the

following policies should

facilitate the protection

of the Eiscir Riada’s

integrity, in particular:

NHP 01, NHP 11 and NHP

16.

B- 19 -

Ferbane Obj 8-01 To conserve, protect and enhance important landscape features, such as rivers, wetlands, stonewalls, hedgerows etc, which form wildlife corridors and link habitats and to promote and encourage biodiversity within all new developments in Ferbane


Yes

Ferbane Obj 8-01 To improve and increase access along the banks of the River Brosna while seeking to develop a river waterways linear park

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs Yes

Ferbane Obj 8-03 To develop a strategy for tree planting in public areas and along roadways within the town and on the approach roads.


Yes

B- 20 -

Banagher Town Plan


Residential 71.78

Business / Employment 9.01

Industrial 16.38

Open Space 17.09

Town Centre/Mixed use 15.29

Public/Community/Education 14.65

Banagher Key Data

Population (CSO 2011) 1653

Wastewater Treatment The Banagher wastewater treatment plant has a capacity to treat the waste of 2,500 population equivalent (p.e) and is

currently operating at capacity. An upgrade will be required to serve the town as it expands over the plan period.

Notwithstanding that the amount of land zoned in the plan allows for growth in the town, normal planning development

management practice is that proposals are assessed as regards capacity of services to cater for them and development would

not be permitted unless adequate treatment can be assured.

B- 21 -

Water Supply Banagher’s water supply is taken from the River Shannon and Clontotin boreholes, storage is in Cloghan and at Mullaghakaraun

on an elevated site near the town. There is spare capacity available.

Proximity to European Site Banagher is located on the River Shannon, a SAC, SPA and NHA

Flood Risk Zones Part of the town centre is in Flood Zone A,

Other Environmental Considerations. Cultural Heritage: The town is an important urban archaeological centre with evidence of settlement dating from medieval times, around an early Christian foundation, probably the Church of Cill Rignaight (St. Rynagh). The town has been identified in a study carried out by the Office of Public Works as an important urban archaeological centre in recognition of its ancient ancestry and of the fact that an urban centre existed here prior to the year 1700

Air Quality and Climate: IPPC Concrete factory (Banagher Concrete)


Banagher Town Plan O Landuse Zonings Comment

Residential Much of the residential zoning confirms existing use. Two undeveloped areas are proposed for residential. One infill area in the north east of the town surrounded by existing residential and a new area to the southeast that adjoins the existing settlement and supports sequential development.



All other SEOs

Business/ Employment

Two areas zoned confirm existing use; adjoining these areas, additional lands are zoned for this use.

Pop 1 Pop2

All other SEOs

Industrial This zoning relates to the current industrial use associated with the precast concrete factory

All SEOs

Open Space Largely neutral but positive impacts for population and human health, soil resources and indirect positive for landscape.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 2

Land 1

Town Centre/mixed use Promotes existing town centre uses with central provision of retail and services.


B- 22 -

Public/community/education Zonings adjoin existing residential so positive for population and human health; indirect positives for sustainable transport and air quality.

Pop 1 Pop 2 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Policies and Objectives O Included in final

plan yes/no

Banagher Pol-01 It is Council policy that the development of Banagher over the lifetime of this plan shall be primarily focused on employment generation, sensitive tourism-related development, the consolidation of the town centre, the completion of ongoing developments and the provision of community and social services

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Pol-02 It is Council policy to implement the development strategy for Banagher in order to be consistent with, and in accordance with, policies at a national level, regional level and at a county level.

All SEOs Yes

Banagher Pol-03 Offaly County Council supports and encourages the appropriate growth of Banagher over the plan period and will facilitate such growth where it can be demonstrated that such proposals are consistent with national, regional and local level policy and in line with the sequential approach.

All SEOs Yes

Banagher Pol-04 It is Council policy to prioritise the completion of housing development where works are incomplete in Banagher. In this regard, Offaly County Council will, where necessary, engage with developers, landowners and agencies involved to resolve outstanding issues and reach a satisfactory conclusion. The Council will have regard to future DoECLG/Government guidance in relation to the satisfactory completion of unfinished developments.

All other SEOS Pop 1 Pop 2

Yes

Banagher Obj-01 To monitor the growth in population and associated

residential development in Banagher during the plan

period through the development management process

and also using accurate and recent statistics as and when

they are published.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 23 -

Banagher Obj-02 To adequately address the completion of residential developments that are ongoing, where Offaly County Council have the capacity to do so, particularly on foot of DoECLG/Government guidance being issued.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Yes

Banagher Pol 3-01 It is Council policy to encourage and enhance the role of Banagher Town Centre as a retail and commercial centre serving the town and its wider hinterland.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7 CH 1 CH 2

Yes

Banagher Pol 3-02 It is Council policy to facilitate the comprehensive consolidation of the town’s retail core and, where appropriate, expansion to the backland areas of Main Street and Harbour Street


Yes

Banagher Pol 3-03 It is Council policy to encourage retail development in Banagher that provides an appropriate level of comparison and convenient retail for its surrounding hinterland. Additional convenience and comparison floorspace will be encouraged where it is needed to support levels of population growth over and above that already identified, gaps are identified in local provision and there is no retail impact on existing retail development and facilities. Proposals, which would undermine the vitality and viability of the Town Centre will not be permitted


All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Pol 3-04 It is Council policy to facilitate the development of brownfield sites within Banagher Town Centre and the reuse of existing buildings to provide for a broader range of services.

Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2

All other SEOS

Yes

Banagher Pol 3-05 It is Council Policy to continually improve the public realm, identifying elements that contribute positively and maintaining them while seeking to identify and resolve issues that detract from the quality of the public realm.

Pop 1 CH 1 CH 2

Land 1 Land 3

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Pol 3-06 It is Council policy to monitor the levels of dereliction in Banagher and take action when necessary in accordance with the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 1 CH 2

Land 1

Yes

B- 24 -

Banagher Pol 3-07 It is Council policy to monitor the type of uses occurring within Banagher town centre and to not permit the proliferation of any one use which, in the opinion of the Council, will detract from the vitality and vibrancy of the Town Centre.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2

Yes

Banagher Pol 3-08 It is Council policy to seek the maintenance and improvement of shopfronts within the town centre. Proposals for new shopfronts should be sensitively designed with regard to their location within the streetscape.

All other SEOs Pop 1 CH 1

Land 2 Land 3

Yes

Banagher Pol 3-09 It is Council policy to facilitate the appropriate redevelopment of the opportunity sites identified in this Town Plan for uses that will ensure the satisfactory use of the subject site

Pop 1

All other

SEOs Yes

Banagher Obj 3-01

To maintain and improve accessibility to and within the town centre and develop a comprehensive approach to the provision of car parking and pedestrian access with particular regard to the needs and access for people with disabilities.

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Obj 3-02 To further improve the streetscape and public realm including reviewing and maintaining paving and street furniture in particular


Land 1 Land 3

Yes

Banagher Obj 3-03 To work with service providers with a view to undergrounding overhead cables visible within the town centre

All other SEOs Land 1 Land 2 Land 3

Yes

Banagher Obj 3-04 To provide loading bays of adequate capacity where they are needed most in order to ensure that traffic flows are not restricted

All other SEOs AQ 1 Mat 7

Yes

Banagher Obj 3-05 To explore the feasibility of providing a piece of civic art within the town centre.

All SEOs Yes

Banagher Pol 4-01 It is Council policy to ensure employment maintenance, generation and expansion is a key focus of the development of Banagher


Banagher Pol 4-02 It is Council policy to ensure that sufficient serviced land is available for employment generation, which will cater for an increase in Banagher’s workforce


Yes

B- 25 -

Banagher Pol 4-03 tI is Council policy to facilitate, where appropriate, the development of employment generating enterprises within the existing employment areas in the town.


Banagher Pol 4-04 It is Council policy to encourage the establishment and expansion of service industries and facilities within the town.


Yes

Banagher Pol 4-05 It is Council policy to encourage and support local start up business in the area through flexibility in the reuse of existing vacant units.

All other SEOs Yes

Banagher Pol 4-06 It is Council policy to facilitate the further development of the tourism potential of the town and capitalise on its relationship with the River Shannon.

Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Pol 4-09 It is Council policy to actively encourage the implementation of government measures, focused on the creation of increased job opportunities and re-training in the town.


Banagher Obj 4-01 To facilitate the establishment of incubator units to provide work space for start up businesses provided these units will participate in a county-wide programme of education and networking opportunities.


Banagher Obj 4-02 To engage with and co-operate with employment agencies, such as the Offaly Local Development Company, Enterprise Ireland and the IDA, to foster an environment of job creation and attracting inward investment


Banagher Obj 4-03 Co-operate with government agencies and the Offaly County Enterprise Board in examining potential sites for industry and in attracting firms to any land zoned as such


Yes

Banagher Obj 4-04 To engage with local community organisations and Failte Ireland to develop informational signage for the Harbour area and Fort Eliza

All SEOs Pop 1 Land 1 Land 2 Land 3

Yes

Policies

Banagher Pol 5-01 It is Council policy to investigate and make provision where possible for alternative access and linkage routes through the town to alleviate pressure from the main thoroughfares. These will be encouraged to be provided through proposed development sites for delivery in tandem with overall site development

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 26 -

Banagher Pol 5-02 It is Council policy to continue to liaise with Bus Éireann and other public transport operators to seek to ensure that the existing level of public transport provision is maintained or improved.


Yes

Banagher Pol 5-03 It is Council policy to ensure that new developments provide for increased permeability in their layouts where possible. Linkages to adjoining undeveloped lands should be provided where possible.


Yes

Banagher Obj 5-01 To investigate the feasibility of providing off-street car parking within easy reach of the town centre.

Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Obj 5-02 To reserve lands within the town to provide for future access to undeveloped lands


Yes

Banagher Obj 5-03 To improve and upgrade all approach roads to Banagher providing ‘gateway’ features that may act as traffic calming measures and as a method of enhancing the entrances to the town.

All SEOs Yes

Banagher Obj 5-04 To facilitate safe pedestrian movement and improved access for all by providing, improving and upgrading footpaths as required


Yes

Banagher Obj 5-05 To improve and upgrade cycling facilities and in particular to investigate the feasibility of providing dedicated cycle lanes

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Obj 5-06 To improve public lighting where necessary All other SEOs Pop 1 Yes

Banagher Obj 5-07 To improve and upgrade junctions within the town, specifically at the locations shown on the land use zoning map

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Pol 6-01 It is Council policy to upgrade water and wastewater infrastructure as deemed necessary to serve the needs of the population in Banagher

Bio Yes

Banagher Pol 6-02 It is Council policy to have regard to/ apply ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Banagher or County Offaly.

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 27 -

Banagher Pol 6-03 It is Council policy to ensure that applications for all development on lands identified as being at risk of flooding shall be accompanied by an appropriate flood risk assessment.

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Pol 6-04 It is council policy to have regard to any mapping of flood patterns, in particular those carried out by the Office of Public Works, www.floodmaps.ie and also to the relevant CFRAM

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Pol 6-05 It is Council policy to support the infrastructural renewal and development of electricity networks in the area. The development of a secure and reliable electricity transmission infrastructure is recognised as a key factor for supporting economic development and attracting investment to the area


Yes

Banagher Pol 6-06 It is Council policy to facilitate the provision of broadband telecommunications in Banagher, in conjunction with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and any other relevant bodies


Yes

Banagher Obj 6-01 To upgrade the Wastewater Treatment Works to cater for the treatment of wastewater in Banagher.

Pop 1 Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 Mat 2 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Obj 6-02 To encourage the extension of the Gas Network to Banagher so as to provide gas supply connections available to domestic and business users

All SEOs Yes

Banagher Obj 6-03 To improve leak detection and resolve leakage, where possible, in the water supply network

All SEOs Yes

Banagher Obj 6-04 To support the provision of civic amenity facilities for Banagher, where necessary

Mat 5

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Pol 7-01 It is Council policy to assist, encourage and facilitate the provision and extension of community facilities to serve the individual community needs of all individuals in Banagher in liaison with community based groups, public bodies, government departments, state agencies and other interested parties.


Yes

B- 28 -

Banagher Pol 7-02 It is Council policy to encourage the provision of necessary Public/Community/Educational services and facilities, within the boundary of Banagher town.


Yes

Banagher Obj 7-01 To seek the provision of additional open space/amenity within the boundary of the town in order to improve recreational and amenity facilities in the town.

Pop 1 Soil 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Obj 7-02 To promote and support the Arts in Banagher and support the provision of a permanent civic art piece at a suitable location within the town.


Yes

Banagher Obj 8-03 To develop a strategy for tree-planting in public areas and along roadways within the town and on approach roads


Yes

Banagher Pol 8-01 It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the River Shannon and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone


All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Pol 8-02 It is Council policy to recognise the importance of the industrial heritage of Banagher and to positively encourage the appropriate redevelopment and reuse of the mill-related buildings, including protected structures that remain in the town.



All other SEOs

Yes

Banagher Pol 8-03 It is Council policy to protect the archaeological heritage and to ensure that any applications for development within areas identified in the Special Monuments Record are referred to the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht for assessment

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 29 -

Daingean Town Plan


Residential 21.3

Business /

Employment

15.09

Industrial 4.62

Open Space 37.54

Town Centre/Mixed

use

7.5

Note: Material amendment zoned an

additional 0.28 ha of land and included

it within settlement boundary. This

increased overall town centre/mixed

use zoning to a total of 7.87 ha. Please

see Annex C for material amendment

and SEA Screening.

Also, access point from R402 was

deleted through material amendment

process.

Public/community/

education

5.66

B- 30 -

Daingean Town Plan Key Data


Wastewater Treatment The Daingean wastewater treatment plant has a capacity to treat the waste of 1200 population equivalent (p.e.) and is currently at capacity. Notwithstanding that the amount of land zoned in the plan allows for growth in the town, normal planning development management practice is that proposals are assessed as regards capacity of services to cater for them and development would not be

permitted unless adequate treatment can be assured

Water Supply Daingean’s water supply is taken from the Townspark Borehole and Toberronan Spring. There is spare capacity available.

Proximity to European Site Located on the Grand Canal, a proposed NHA and on the edge of the Bog of Allen; Daingean Bog NHA south of the town.

Phillipstown River is a tributary of the Barrow catchment.

Flood Risk Zones Daingean is partially located on flood zones A and B

Other Environmental

Considerations.

Architectural heritage


Daingean Town Plan Landuse Zonings

Comment O

Residential Much of this zoning confirms existing landuse; there are small backland areas zoned close to the centre of the town; however such development will be contingent on wastewater capacity and provision.

All SEOs


Much of this zoning confirms existing landuse; however two parcels are undeveloped land one to the rear of residential housing close to the centre ; the second is north of the centre adjoining residential areas and public/community zoning.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Industrial An area along R402 south of town is zoned industrial confirming existing industrial use; an infill greenfield site is proposed for zoning between existing industrial uses; this is characterised by improved agricultural land with hedgerows. Buffering from the River Phillipstown to the southeast is provided by built land in this instance.

All SEOs

Open Space A large area is zoned adjoining the Phillipstown River around the east and south of the town.


Land 1 Mat 1

B- 31 -

Town Centre/mixed use

Confirms existing town centre uses and allows for mixed use All other SEOs Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2 AQ 1 Mat 7


Again largely confirms existing landuse; northern area zoned is adjacent to existing cemetery to allow for future expansion

Pop 1

Daingean Town Plan Policies and Objectives O Incljded in final

plan yes/no

Daingean Pol-01 It is Council policy that the development of Daingean over the lifetime of this plan shall be primarily focused on employment generation, sensitive tourism-related development, the consolidation of the town centre, and the provision of community and social services

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol-02 It is Council policy to implement the development strategy for Daingean in order to be consistent with, and in accordance with, policies at a national level, regional level and at a county level.

All SEOs Yes

Daingean Pol-03 Offaly County Council supports and encourages the appropriate growth of Daingean over the plan period and will facilitate such growth where it can be demonstrated that such proposals are consistent with national, regional and local level policy and in line with the sequential approach.

All SEOs Yes

Daingean Pol-04 It is Council Policy to ensure that development within the lifetime of this plan takes place within the zoned and serviced area of the town and in an orderly fashion, so that economic use is made of resources

All SEOs Yes

Daingean Obj-01 To monitor the growth in population and associated residential development in Daingean during the plan period through the development management process and also using accurate and recent statistics as and when they are published.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 3-01 It is Council policy to encourage and enhance the role of Daingean Town Centre as a retail and commercial centre serving the town and its wider hinterland.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

Yes

B- 32 -

Daingean Pol 3-02 It is Council policy to facilitate the comprehensive consolidation of the town’s retail core and, where appropriate, expansion to the backland areas of Main Street, and Back Lane.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

Yes

Daingean Pol 3-03 It is Council policy to encourage retail development in Daingean that provides an appropriate level of comparison and convenient retail for its surrounding hinterland. Additional convenience and comparison floor-space will be encouraged where it is needed to support levels of population growth over and above that already identified, and where gaps are identified in local provision and there is no retail impact on existing retail development and facilities. Proposals which would undermine the vitality and viability of the Town Centre will not be permitted.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

Yes

Daingean Pol 3-04 It is Council policy to facilitate the development of brownfield sites within Daingean Town Centre and the reuse of existing buildings to provide for a broader range of services.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 1 CH 2

Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 3-05 It is Council Policy to continually improve the public realm, identifying elements that contribute positively and maintaining them while seeking to identify and resolve issues that detract from the quality of the public realm.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Land 1 Land 2 Land 3 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 3-06 It is Council policy to monitor the levels of dereliction in Daingean and take action when necessary in accordance with the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Land 1

Yes

Daingean Pol 3-07 It is Council policy to monitor the type of uses occurring within Daingean town centre and to not permit the proliferation of any one use which, in the opinion of the Council, will detract from the vitality and vibrancy of the Town Centre

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2 Land 1 CH 1

Yes

Daingean Pol 3-08 It is Council policy to seek the maintenance and improvement of shopfronts within the town centre. Proposals for new shopfronts should be sensitively designed with regard to their location within the streetscape. Refer to ‘Guide to Shop fronts and Signs’ leaflet, Offaly County Council


Land 1

Yes

B- 33 -

Daingean Pol 3-09 It is Council policy to facilitate the appropriate redevelopment of the opportunity sites identified in this Town Plan for uses that will ensure the satisfactory use of the subject site.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Obj 3-01

To maintain and improve accessibility to and within the town centre and develop a comprehensive approach to the provision of car parking and pedestrian access with particular regard to the needs and access for people with disabilities.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

Yes

Daingean Obj 3-02

To further improve the streetscape and public realm including reviewing and maintaining paving and street furniture in particular.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Land 1 Land 3

Yes

Daingean Obj 3-03

To work with service providers with a view to undergrounding overhead cables visible within the town centre


Yes

DaingeanObj 3-04

To provide loading bays of adequate capacity where they are needed most in order to ensure that traffic flows are not restricted.

All other SEOs AQ 1 Mat 7

Yes

DaingeanObj 3-05

To explore the feasibility of providing a piece of civic art within the town centre.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Land 3

Yes

Daingean Pol 4-01 It is Council policy to ensure employment maintenance, generation and expansion is a key focus of the development of Daingean.in

Pop 1

All other SOEs

Yes

Daingean Pol 4-02 It is Council policy to ensure that sufficient serviced land is available for employment generation, which will cater for an increase in Daingean’s workforce.


Yes

Daingean Pol 4-03 It is Council policy to facilitate, where appropriate, the development of employment generating enterprises within the existing employment areas in the town

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 4-04 It is Council policy to encourage the establishment and expansion of service industries and facilities within the town.

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 4-05 It is Council policy to encourage and support local start up business in the area through flexibility in the reuse of existing vacant units.

Pop 1 CH 2 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 4-06 It is Council policy to facilitate the further development of the sustainable tourism potential of the town and capitalise on its location in the Shannon region.

Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 34 -

Daingean Pol 4-07 It is Council policy to actively encourage the implementation of government measures, focused on the creation of increased job opportunities and re-training in the town.


Daingean Pol 4-08 It is Council policy to facilitate the further development of the tourism potential of the town and capitalise on its relationship with the Grand Canal.

Yes

Daingean Obj 4-01

To facilitate the establishment of incubator units to provide work space for start up businesses provided these units will participate in a county-wide programme of education and networking opportunities


Yes

DaingeanObj 4-02

To engage with and co-operate with employment agencies, such as the Offaly Local Development Company, Enterprise Ireland and the IDA, to foster an environment of job creation and attracting inward investment.


Daingean Obj 4-03



Yes

Daingean Pol 5-01 It is Council policy to investigate and make provision where possible for alternative access and linkage routes through the town to alleviate pressure from the main thoroughfares. These will be encouraged to be provided through proposed development sites for delivery in tandem with overall site development

Pop 1 AQ 1

Mat 7

Yes

Daingean Pol 5-02 It is Council policy to continue to liaise with Bus Éireann and other public transport operators to seek to ensure that the existing level of public transport provision is maintained or improved

All other SEOs Pop 1 AQ 1

Mat 7

Yes

Daingean Pol 5-03 It is Council policy to ensure that new developments provide for increased permeability in their layouts where possible. Linkages to adjoining undeveloped lands should be provided where possible.

Pop 1 AQ 1

Mat 7

Yes

Daingean Pol 5-04 It is Council policy to Protect the corridor to the west of the town for a possible future by-pass (see map).

All SEOs Yes

DaingeanObj 5-01

To investigate the feasibility of providing off-street car parking within easy reach of the town centre.

Pop 1 AQ 1

Mat 7

All other SEOS

Yes

Daingean Obj 5-02 To reserve lands within the town to provide for future access to undeveloped lands.

Pop 1 AQ 1

Mat 7

Yes

B- 35 -

Daingean Obj 5-03 To improve and upgrade all approach roads to Daingean providing ‘gateway’ features that may act as traffic calming measures and as a method of enhancing the entrances to the town.

Pop 1 Land 3 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Obj 5-04

To facilitate safe pedestrian movement and improved access for all by providing, improving and upgrading footpaths as required.


Mat 7

Yes

Daingean Obj 5-05

To improve and upgrade cycling facilities and in particular to investigate the feasibility of providing dedicated cycle lanes.


Mat 7

Yes

Daingean Obj 5-06

To improve public lighting where necessary.


Daingean Obj 5-07

To improve and upgrade junctions within the town, specifically at the locations shown on the land use zoning map.

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 6-01 It is Council policy to upgrade/maintain water and wastewater infrastructure as deemed necessary to serve the needs of the population in Daingean.

Bio 5 Pop 1 Pop 2 Wat 1 Wat 2 Mat 2 Mat 4

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 6-02 It is Council policy to have regard adhere to ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Daingean or County Offaly .

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes Note: in Adopted OCDP, the

word ‘apply’ is

used instead of ‘adhere’

Daingean Pol 6-03 It is Council policy to ensure that applications for all development on lands identified as being at risk of flooding shall be accompanied by an appropriate flood risk assessment.

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 6-04 It is council policy to have regard to any mapping of flood patterns, in particular those carried out by the Office of Public Works, www.floodmaps.ie and also to the relevant CFRAM.

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 36 -

Daingean Pol 6-05 It is Council policy to support the infrastructural renewal and development of electricity networks in the area. The development of a secure and reliable electricity transmission infrastructure is recognised as a key factor for supporting economic development and attracting investment to the area.

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 6-06 It is Council policy to facilitate the provision of broadband telecommunications in Daingean, in conjunction with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and any other relevant bodies.


Yes

Daingean Obj 6-01 To encourage the extension of the Gas Network to Daingean so as to provide gas supply connections available to domestic and business users.


Yes

DaingeanObj 6-02

To improve leak detection and resolve leakage, where possible, in the water supply network.

All SEOs Yes

Daingean Obj 6-03

To support the provision of civic amenity facilities for Daingean, where necessary


Yes

Daingean Pol 7-01 It is Council policy to assist, encourage and facilitate the provision and extension of community facilities to serve the individual community needs of all individuals in Daingean in liaison with community based groups, public bodies, government departments, state agencies and other interested parties

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Pol 7-02 It is Council policy to encourage the provision of necessary Public/Community/Educational services and facilities, within the boundary of Daingean town.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Obj 7-01 To seek the provision of additional open space/amenity within the boundary of the town in order to improve recreational and amenity facilities in the town.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Obj 7-02 To promote and support the Arts in Daingean and support the provision of a permanent civic art piece at a suitable location within the town.


Daingean Obj 7-03 To develop a strategy for tree-planting in public areas and along roadways within the town and on approach roads.


Land 3

Yes

B- 37 -

Daingean Pol 8-01 It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the Philipstown River and Grand Canal and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone.

all other SEOs Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

Yes

Daingean Pol 8-02 It is Council policy to recognise the importance of the architectural heritage of Daingean and to positively encourage the appropriate redevelopment and reuse of the protected structures that remain in the town

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 1 CH 2 Soil 1


Yes

Daingean Pol 8-03 It is Council policy to protect the archaeological heritage and to ensure that any applications for development within areas identified in the Special Monuments Record are referred to the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht for assessment.


Land 1 Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Daingean Obj 8-01 To conserve, protect and enhance important landscape features, such as rivers, wetlands, stonewalls, hedgerows etc, which form wildlife corridors and link habitats and to promote and encourage biodiversity within all new developments in Daingean

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Bio 4 Bio 5 Wat 1 Wat 2 CH 1

Land 1 Land 2

Yes

Daingean Obj 8-02 To improve and increase access along the banks of the Philipstown River while seeking to develop a river waterways linear park.


Yes

B- 38 -

Daingean Obj 8-03 To develop a strategy for tree-planting in public areas and along roadways within the town and on approach roads

Pop 1 AQ 1

Land 3

Yes

Po

B- 39 -

6-06

Kilcormac Town Plan


Residential 24.83

Business / Employment

4.93

Industrial 0

Open Space 19.6

Town Centre/Mixed

use

9.74

Public/community/

education

8.84

Kilcormac Town Plan Key Data


Wastewater Treatment The wastewater treatment plant currently has a capacity of 2000 and the treated effluent is discharged into the Silver River. While there is space capacity available to accommodate expansion in the short term preparatory work is in hand regarding future upgrading. Notwithstanding that the amount of land zoned in the plan allows for growth in the town, normal planning development management practice is that proposals are assessed as regards capacity of services to cater for them and development would not be permitted unless adequate treatment can be assured.

Water Supply Kilcormac is currently served by a public Water Scheme supplied by 2 no. boreholes located in Park Townland.

Proximity to European Site Nearest European Site is Clonaslee Eskers and Derry Bog approximately 6km distance.

Flood Risk Zones Partially located within flood zones.

Other Environmental SFRA may be required for proposed development

B- 40 -

Considerations.

KilcormacTown Plan Landuse Zonings

Comment O

Residential Two principal areas are zoned residential on undeveloped land; in the northeast on agricultural lands and a smaller area in the southwest. These are sequential in that they develop from the town centre so will support the core strategy and sequential approach.



All other SEOs


Extensive area zoned in the north east of the town plan along N52 with limited existing development. This would not support the sequential approach as it is some distance from the town centre.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs



Land 1 Mat 1

Town Centre/mixed

Confirms existing town centre uses.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2 AQ 1 Mat 7


Principally confirms existing uses and are close to town centre. Additional undeveloped land is at largest area adjoining town centre.


B- 41 -

Kilcormac Town Plan Policies and Objectives

O Included in final

plan yes/no

Kilcormac Pol-01 It is Council policy that the development of Kilcormac over the lifetime of this plan shall be primarily focused on employment generation, the consolidation of the town centre, the completion of ongoing developments and the provision of community and social services

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol-02 It is Council policy to implement the development strategy for Kilcormac in order to be consistent with, and in accordance with, policies at a national level, regional level and at a county level.

All SEOs Yes

Kilcormac Pol-03 Offaly County Council supports and encourages the appropriate growth of Kilcormac over the plan period and will facilitate such growth where it can be demonstrated that such proposals are consistent with national, regional and local level policy and in line with the sequential approach.

All SEOs Yes

Kilcormac Pol-04 It is Council policy to prioritise the completion of housing development where works are incomplete in Kilcormac. In this regard, Offaly County Council will, where necessary, engage with developers, landowners and agencies involved to resolve outstanding issues and reach a satisfactory conclusion. The Council will have regard to future DoECLG/Government guidance in relation to the satisfactory completion of unfinished developments

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol-05 It is Council Policy to ensure that development within the lifetime of this plan takes place within the zoned and serviced area of the town and in an orderly fashion, so that economic use is made of resources.

All SEOs Yes

Kilcormac Obj-01 To monitor the growth in population and associated residential development in Kilcormac during the plan period through the development management process and also using accurate and recent statistics as and when they are published.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Obj-02 To adequately address the completion of residential developments that are ongoing, where Offaly County Council have the capacity to do so, particularly on foot of DoECLG/Government guidance being issued.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 3-01 It is Council policy to encourage and enhance the role of Kilcormac Town Centre as a retail and commercial centre serving the town and its wider hinterland

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 42 -

Kilcormac Pol 3-02 It is Council policy to facilitate the comprehensive consolidation of the town’s retail core and, where appropriate, expansion to the backland areas

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 3-03 It is Council policy to encourage retail development in Ferbane that provides an appropriate level of comparison and convenient retail for its surrounding hinterland. Additional convenience and comparison floor-space will be encouraged where it is needed to support levels of population growth over and above that already identified, gaps are identified in local provision and there is no retail impact on existing retail development and facilities. Proposals, which would undermine the vitality and viability of the Town Centre will not be permitted.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 3-04 It is Council policy to facilitate the development of brownfield sites within Kilcormac Town Centre and the reuse of existing buildings to provide for a broader range of services.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 3-05 It is Council Policy to continually improve the public realm, identifying elements that contribute positively and maintaining them while seeking to identify and resolve issues that detract from the quality of the public realm.


Yes

Kilcormac Pol 3-06 It is Council policy to monitor the levels of dereliction in Kilcormac and take action when necessary in accordance with the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

Soil 1 CH 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 3-07 It is Council policy to monitor the type of uses occurring within Kilcormac town centre and to not permitted proliferation of any one use which, in the opinion of the Council, will detract from the vitality and vibrancy of the Town Centre.

Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 2

Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 3-08 It is Council policy to seek the maintenance and improvement of shopfronts within the town centre. Proposals for new shopfronts should be sensitively designed with regard to their location within the streetscape.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Pop 2 CH 1

Land 1

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 3-09 It is Council policy to facilitate the appropriate redevelopment of the opportunity sites identified in this Town Plan for uses that will ensure the satisfactory use of the subject site.


Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

B- 43 -

Kilcormac Obj 3-01 To maintain and improve accessibility to and within the town centre and develop a comprehensive approach to the provision of car parking and pedestrian access with particular regard to the needs and access for people with disabilities.

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Obj 3-02 To further improve the streetscape and public realm including reviewing and maintaining paving and street furniture in particular.

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Obj 3-03 To work with service providers with a view to undergrounding overhead cables visible within the town centre.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Land 1 Land 2 Land 3

Yes

Kilcormac Obj 3-04 To provide loading bays of adequate capacity where they are needed most in order to ensure that traffic flows are not restricted.

All other SEOs Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

Yes

Kilcormac Obj 3-05 To explore the feasibility of providing a piece of civic art within the town centre


Kilcormac Pol 4-01 It is Council policy to ensure employment maintenance, generation and expansion is a key focus of the development of Kilcormac


Kilcormac Pol 4-02

It is Council policy to ensure that sufficient serviced land is available for employment generation, which will cater for an increase in Kilcormac’s workforce.

Pop 1 all other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 4-03

It is Council policy to facilitate, where appropriate, the development of employment generating enterprises within the existing employment areas in the town

All other SEOS Pop 1 Yes

Kilcormac Pol 4-04

It is Council policy to encourage the establishment and expansion of service industries and facilities within the town.


Yes

Kilcormac Pol 4-05

It is Council policy to encourage and support local start up business in the area through flexibility in the reuse of existing vacant units.

All other SEOS Pop 1 CH 2

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 4-06

It is Council policy to actively encourage the implementation of government measures, focused on the creation of increased job opportunities and re-training in the town.

All other SEOs Pop 1

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 4-07 It is Council policy to facilitate the further development of the tourism potential of the town and capitalise on its relationship with the Offaly Way and Lough Boora Parklands.

Yes

Kilcormac Obj 4-01

To facilitate the establishment of incubator units to provide work space for start up businesses provided these units will participate in a county-wide programme of education and networking opportunities.


Yes

B- 44 -

Kilcormac Obj 4-02 To engage with and co-operate with employment agencies, such as the Offaly Local Development Company, Enterprise Ireland and the IDA, to foster an environment of job creation and attracting inward investment


Kilcormac Obj 4-03



Kilcormac Obj 4-04 To engage with local community organisations and Fáilte Ireland to develop informational signage where appropriate.

All other SEOs Pop 1 Land 3

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 5-01 It is Council policy to investigate and make provision where possible for alternative access and linkage routes through the town to alleviate pressure from the main thoroughfares. These will be encouraged to be provided through proposed development sites for delivery in tandem with overall site development

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 5-02 It is Council policy to continue to liaise with Bus Éireann and other public transport operators to seek to ensure that the existing level of public transport provision is maintained or improved.


Yes

Kilcormac Pol 5-03 It is Council policy to ensure that new developments provide for increased permeability in their layouts where possible. Linkages to adjoining undeveloped lands should be provided where possible.


Yes

Kilcormac Obj 5-01 To reserve a corridor for a possible by-pass to the north of the town (see plan).

Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Obj 5-02 To investigate the feasibility of providing off-street car parking within easy reach of the town centre.

Pop 1

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Obj 5-03 To reserve lands within the town to provide for future access to undeveloped lands


Yes

Kilcormac Obj 5-04 To improve and upgrade all approach roads to Kilcormac providing ‘gateway’ features that may act as traffic calming measures and as a method of enhancing the entrances to the town.

All SEOs Yes

Kilcormac Obj 5-05 To facilitate safe pedestrian movement and improved access for all by providing, improving and upgrading footpaths as required


Yes

Kilcormac Obj 5-06 To improve and upgrade cycling facilities and in particular to investigate the feasibility of providing dedicated cycle lanes

Pop 1 AQ 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Obj 5-07 To improve public lighting where necessary All other SEOs Pop 1 Yes

B- 45 -

Kilcormac Obj 5-08 To improve and upgrade junctions within the town, specifically at the locations shown on the land use zoning map

Pop 1 Mat 7

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 6-01 It is Council policy to upgrade water and wastewater infrastructure as deemed necessary to serve the needs of the population in Kilcormac

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 6-02 It is Council policy to have regard to/ apply ‘The Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, November 2009’, and any future reports in relation to flood risk for Banagher or County Offaly.

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 6-03 It is Council policy to ensure that applications for all development on lands identified as being at risk of flooding shall be accompanied by an appropriate flood risk assessment.

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 6-04 It is council policy to have regard to any mapping of flood patterns, in particular those carried out by the Office of Public Works, www.floodmaps.ie and also to the relevant CFRAM

Pop 1 Mat 1

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 6-05 It is Council policy to support the infrastructural renewal and development of electricity networks in the area. The development of a secure and reliable electricity transmission infrastructure is recognised as a key factor for supporting economic development and attracting investment to the area


Yes

Kilcormac Pol 6-06 It is Council policy to facilitate the provision of broadband telecommunications in Kilcormac, in conjunction with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and any other relevant bodies


Yes

Kilcormac Obj 6-01 To encourage the extension of the Gas Network to Kilcormac so as to provide gas supply connections available to domestic and business users


Yes

Kilcormac Obj 6-02 To improve leak detection and resolve leakage, where possible, in the water supply network

All SEOs Yes

Kilcormac Obj 6-03 To support the provision of civic amenity facilities for Kilcormac, where necessary


Yes

Kilcormac Pol 7-01 It is Council policy to assist, encourage and facilitate the provision and extension of community facilities to serve the individual community needs of all individuals in Kilcormac in liaison with community based groups, public bodies, government departments, state agencies and other interested parties.


Yes

Kilcormac Pol 7-02 It is Council policy to encourage the provision of necessary Public/Community/Educational services and facilities, within the boundary of Kilcormac town.


Yes

B- 46 -

Kilcormac Obj 7-01 To seek the provision of additional open space/amenity within the boundary of the town in order to improve recreational and amenity facilities in the town.

Pop 1 Soil 2

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Obj 7-02 To promote and support the Arts in Kilcormac and support the provision of a permanent civic art piece at a suitable location within the town.


Yes

Kilcormac Obj 7-03 Typo in final plan Objective 8-03.

To develop a strategy for tree-planting in public areas and along roadways within the town and on approach roads


Yes

Kilcormac Pol 8-01 It is Council policy to recognise and protect the ecological value of the Silver River and to ensure that no form of inappropriate development occurs within the immediate riparian zone


All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Pol 8-02 It is Council policy to protect the archaeological heritage and to ensure that any applications for development within areas identified in the Special Monuments Record are referred to the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht for assessment.

Pop 1 CH 1

Land 1

All other SEOs

Yes

Kilcormac Obj 8-01 To conserve, protect and enhance important landscape features, such as rivers, wetlands, stonewalls, hedgerows etc, which form wildlife corridors and link habitats and to promote and encourage biodiversity within all new developments in Kilcormac


Yes

B- 47 -

Village Plans Volume 11

Ballycumber Village Plan


Residential 6.62

Business/

Employment

3.35

Industrial 0

Open Space 1.67

Village Centre/Mixed

use

1.13

Ballycumber Key Data


Wastewater Treatment The Wastewater Treatment System has a design capacity of 450p.e. dealing with a current load of 278p.e.

Water Supply Water supply is from Clara/Ferbane Public Mains with capacity available.

Proximity to European Site Clara Bog SAC is less than 1km distance

Flood Risk Zones There is an extensive flood zone relating to the River Brosna south of the village centre

B- 48 -

Other Environmental

Considerations.

Mature trees and stone walls contribute to village character.


Ballycumber Village Plan Comment O Residential Again much zoning confirms existing residential use; new areas proposed are infill sites

primarily to the north of the village centre. Capacity exists for both wastewater and potable water and sequential development plus directing development away from floodzone south of village is sustainable and should maintain/protect environmental resources.

Bio 1 Bio 2 Bio 3 Pop 1 Pop 2 Soil 1

Land 1 Mat 1 Mat 2 Mat 4 Mat 7

All other SEOS

Business/Employment A large area zoned adjoining and north of the existing business/employment zoning. Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space All other SEOS

Pop 1 Pop 2 Bio 1 Soil 2 Soil 3

Land 1 Mat 1

Village Centre/Mixed use All other SEOs

Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2 AQ 1 Mat 7

Community New objectives added through material amendment process to investigate development of a playgroun and to promote the maintenance and development of GAA club. These were assessed through the SEA Screening please see Annex C

B- 49 -

Ballinagar Village Plan


.

Residential 17.93

Local

Employment/services

4.59

Public/community/ed

ucational

3.81

Open Space 8.44


use

1.48

Ballinagar Key Data


Wastewater Treatment Balliangar Waste Water Treatment Plant Upgraded 2011– 1000 p.e.

Water Supply The village is served by the Ballinagar GWS which has adequate capacity.

Proximity to European Site Raheenmore Bog SAC is closest European Site over 6km in distance.

Flood Risk Zones Benefitting lands adjacent to Ballinagar Stream (a tributary of Tullamore River than drains to the River Brosna)

Other Environmental

Considerations.


B- 50 -

Ballinagar Village Plan Comment O Residential Again much zoning confirms existing residential use; new areas

proposed are infill sites primarily to the north of the village centre. Capacity exists for both wastewater and potable water and sequential development plus directing development away from floodzone south of village is sustainable and should maintain/protect environmental resources.



All other SEOS

Business/Employment A large area zoned adjoining and north of the existing business/employment zoning.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS



Land 1 Mat 1

Village Centre/Mixed use All other SEOs


B- 51 -

Belmont Village Plan


Residential 8.43



al

Open Space 0.5

Village Centre/Mixed use 1.89

B- 52 -

Belmont Key Data

Population (CSO 2011)

% change 2006 to 2011 209

Wastewater Treatment Belmont Waste water Treatment Plant design PE 350—current PE 233.

Water Supply Served by Clara/Ferbane public water scheme. .

Proximity to European Site MoyclareBog SAC is located approximately

370m away from Belmont

Flood Risk Zones Benefitting lands adjacent to Ballinagar Stream (a tributary of Tullamore River than drains to the River Brosna)

Other Environmental Considerations. AA and SFRA may be required for proposed

development

Belmont Village Plan

Comment O

Residential Majority of residential zoning confirms existing use with low density housing present within the village. Two greenfield areas proposed sequentially south of the village, one adjoining village core. Capacity exists for both wastewater and potable water within the village.



All other SEOS

Local Employment Services

A large area zoned adjoining and north of the existing local employment/services zoning.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Two areas associated with existing residential development. The third straddles existing and future residential.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1

B- 53 -

Village Centre/Mixed use

All other SEOs


Bracknagh Village Plan


Residential 8.25

Local

Employment/services

8.27

Public/community/ed

ucational

2.97

Open Space 3.09


use

2.92

B- 54 -

Bracknagh Key Data

Population (CSO 2011)

274

Wastewater Treatment Belmont Waste water Treatment Plant design PE 400—current PE 300.

Water Supply Bracknagh Group Water Scheme

Proximity to European Site Distance greater than 15 km

Flood Risk Zones Floodplains function of lands outside development boundary for River Figile.


development

Bracknagh Village Plan

Comment O

Residential Majority of residential zoning confirms existing use New residential land proposed is either adjacent to existing residential and/or close to the village centre.



All other SEOS


Extensive areas zoned for this use north and south of existing village core

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Largely associated with open space provision of existing and future residential development. Large area zoned east of village core that is covered by an objective to create a village green.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


These zonings allow for future extension of school and expansion of graveyard

Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs

B- 55 -


All other SEOs


Cloghan Village Plan


Residential 19.94


Public/community/educatio

nal

2.97

Village centre/mixed use

Open Space 5.06


B- 56 -

Cloghan Key Data


Wastewater Treatment The village is served by a waste water treatment plant designed to cater for 800 p/e.

Water Supply A public water supply from the Banagher Scheme is available to serve development

within the village

Proximity to European Site River Little Brosna Callows SPA just over 10km

in distance

Flood Risk Zones No


development

Cloghan Village Plan

Comment O

Residential Majority of residential zoning confirms existing residential zoning is on lands between or adjoining existing residential uses. Capacity of wastewater system is not yet n issue but will require monitoring over the timeframe of the plan in terms of residential or other applications arising.



All other SEOS


Extensive areas zoned for this use in eastern part of village; range of uses under this zoning could complement the needs of residents close by.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

B- 57 -

Open Space Large area proposed for open space south of the church; other spaces relate to residential landuse and open space provision for same.

All other SEOS

Pop 1 Pop 2 Bio 1 Bio 5 Soil 2 Soil 3

Land 1 Mat 1

Business/employment

Very small area zoned, impacts would be addressed through development management and control

All SEOs

Clonbullogue Village Plan


Residential 9.90



nal

1.35

Open Space 12.48


B- 58 -

Clonbullogue Key Data


Wastewater Treatment Clonbullogue Waste water Treatment Plant design PE 700 —current PE 382

Water Supply Public Water Supply – no capacity

Proximity to European Site Over 6km to closest site Long Derries SAC.

Flood Risk Zones Amenity buffer ‐ flood risk management and to act as a natural boundary to settlement.

Other Environmental Considerations. Protection of groundwater resource within

Source Protection Zone (refer to Chp 4, Vol 1).


Clonbullogue Village Plan

Comment O

Residential Majority of residential zoning confirms existing use. New residential zoning is on lands between existing residential and adjoining village core thus supporting sequential approach.



All other SEOS


Extensive areas zoned for this use in eastern part of village; range of uses under this zoning could complement the needs of residents close by.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Lands adjoining River Figile south and western part of the village are zoned open space thus enhancing riparian function and flood risk management. Other open spaces relate to residential landuse and open space provision for same.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1

B- 59 -


Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs


All other SEOs


Cloneygowan Village Plan


Residential 9.93



nal

1.95

Open Space 2.4


Cloneygowan Key Data


Wastewater Treatment Clonygowan Wastewater treatment Plant

B- 60 -

Water Supply Killeigh Private GWS – Adequate

Proximity to European Site Over 4km distance to nearest European Site,

River Barrow and River Nore SAC

Flood Risk Zones No flood risk issues

Other Environmental Considerations.

Cloneygowan Village Plan

Comment O

Residential Majority of residential zoning confirms existing use New residential zoning proposed is limited to infill lands close to village core and/or adjoining existing residential use



All other SEOS


Two such areas are zoned for this use in west and eastern part of village.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Village green is open space, whilst other proposed zoning relate to residential or local employment uses.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


Existing school with surrounding lands zoned. Pop 1 Pop 2 Mat 7

All other SEOs


This relates to the village core and area off the green. All other SEOs


B- 61 -

Coolderry Village Plan


Residential 5.65


Public/community/

educational

2.17

Open Space 5.52




B- 62 -

Water Supply Public Mains existing with no spare capacity

Proximity to European Site Island Fen SAC is closest European Site just over

5km

Flood Risk Zones No flood risk zones



Comment O

Residential Majority of residential zoning confirms existing use New residential zoning proposed is limited to infill lands close to village core and/or adjoining existing residential use. Issue of potable water supply will need addressing in advance of new residential development.



All other SEOS


Two such areas are zoned for this use in west and eastern part of village.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS



Land 1 Mat 1

Public/community/educational

Pop 1 Pop 2

B- 63 -

Geashill Village Plan


Residential 14.68


Public/community/

educational

4.01

Open Space 8.5




Wastewater Treatment Geashill Waste water Treatment Plant design PE 420—current PE 438.

Water Supply Public Water Supply

Proximity to European Site Distance greater than 15km

Flood Risk Zones

B- 64 -

Other Environmental Considerations. Architectural Conservation Area in village

centre?

Groundwater Source Protection Zones


Comment O

Residential Most confirms existing residential use; there is a small backland area southwest of village core that is undeveloped but zoned residential. Clearly with wastewater treatment at capacity, upgrading or provision of wastewater treatment would be a requirement in advance of increased residential provision.



All other SEOS


One area only in the northwest of the village close to the centre; Again wastewater capacity would be a consideration for new developments.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Some areas associated with residential development; wooded areas in the east of the village are attractive amenity and ecological features.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


Pop 1 Pop 2


This relates to the village core All other SEOs


B- 65 -

Killeigh Village Plan


Residential 8.24



nal

4.1

Open Space 10.84



Wastewater Treatment Served by wastewater treatment plan designed to cater for 460 p/e.

Water Supply A private group water supply exists to serve

development within the village.


Flood Risk Zones No flood risk areas

Other Environmental Considerations. Significant archaeological remains associated

B- 66 -

with early Christian period.


Comment O

Residential Within commuting distance of Portlaoise and Tullamore, this village may see increased residential development and wastewater treatment has considerable capacity. Undeveloped lands proposed for this zoning adjoin existing residential development primarily in the northern part of the village boundary.



All other SEOS


The village centre supports existing landuse zoning; another larger area is proposed east of the village centre.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Significant areas zoned for open space, some partly to facilitate potential recreational space for school. Frequently overlap with identified zones of archaeological potential.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOs




B- 67 -

Kinnitty Village Plan


Residential 10.02

Note: 1 hectare was rezoned from

white land to residential and 0.8

hectare was rezoned from residential

to white land through the material

amendment process, please see Annex

C. This increased overall residential

zoning by 0.2 hectares.



nal

3.7

Open Space 1.24




Wastewater Treatment Kinnitty Waste water Treatment Plant design PE 750—current PE 418.


Proximity to European Site Slieve Bloom Mountains SPA is located just

over 1km.

B- 68 -

Flood Risk Zones No settlement lands in flood zones but other areas are at risk of flooding

Other Environmental Considerations. Landscape setting at foothills of Slieve Blooms,

architectural heritage

AA and SFRA may be required for applications


Comment O

Residential New residential lands are proposed in the northeast of the village, adjacent to existing residential and public/community/education lands. Wastewater capacity is sufficient for these additional lands.



All other SEOS


These zonings radiate from the existing village core and would complement similar uses.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space These open space zones relate to existing residential developments.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


One large area in the north east of the village, two smaller zonings adjoining the village core.

Pop 1 Pop 2




B- 69 -

Moneygall Village Plan


Residential 9.93



nal

3.12

Open Space 2.03




B- 70 -

Wastewater Treatment Wastewater Treatment plant constructed in 2012, with an overall capacity of 750p.e. and a current load of 354p.e.

Water Supply Public Mains—Spare Capacity Available


Flood Risk Zones No settlement lands in flood zones but other lands at risk of flooding



Comment O

Residential New residential lands are proposed at infill locations around the village centre, supporting sequential development with sufficient wastewater and potable water capacity.



All other SEOS


Two sizeable areas proposed for this use at either end of the village.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space These open space zones relate to existing residential developments. One larger area to the north of the village boundary.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


Largest zoning relates to educational use. Pop 1 Pop 2



Pop 1 Soil 1 CH 1 CH 2 AQ 1

B- 71 -

Mat 7

Mountbolus Village Plan


Residential 3.26



nal

3.4

Open Space 2.43




B- 72 -


Water Supply Public Mains—Spare Capacity Available

Proximity to European Site Clonaslee Bog and Eskers SAC located 2.5km

away.




Comment O

Residential New residential lands are proposed close to village centre to the north and south; in addition there is sufficient wastewater and potable water capacity.



All other SEOS


Four individual areas in total, two of which appear largely developed already.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Small areas relate to residential development; largest zoning relates to the GAA pitch.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


Again, confirms existing land use in the village. Pop 1 Pop 2


This relates to the village core and is small in size. All other SEOs


B- 73 -

AQ 1 Mat 7

Mucklagh Village Plan


Residential 21.86



nal

8.06

Open Space 5.34




B- 74 -

Wastewater Treatment Mucklagh Waste Water Treatment Plant. Option in future to connect to Tullamore WWTW

Water Supply Rahan GWS scheme ‐ Public Scheme

Proximity to European Site Charleville Wood SAC just over 100m away

from settlement

Flood Risk Zones Area of ‘Flood Zone A and Benefiting Lands’ to the south of village

Other Environmental Considerations. AA and SFRA may be required for applications


Comment O

Residential Majority confirms existing residential land use; limited new development proposed in backlands from main street, supporting sequential approach.



All other SEOS


Three areas proposed two close to residential areas, the other adjoining the village centre.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Primarily relates to open space in residential areas and larger area is sports field.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


Pop 1 Pop 2



Pop 1 Soil 1

B- 75 -

CH 1 CH 2 AQ 1 Mat 7

Pollagh Lemanaghan Village Plan


Residential 6.61


Public/community/

educational

0.68

Open Space 6.26


B- 76 -



Wastewater Treatment Pollagh/Lemanaghan Waste water Treatment Plant design PE 400—current PE 187.

Water Supply Rahan Group Water Scheme (Pollagh), Boher/Lemanaghan Group Water Scheme

(Lemanaghan).

Proximity to European Site Greater than 15km in distance

Flood Risk Zones Area at risk of flooding: Sequential approach to be adopted to ensure that new development is directed towards lands that are at least risk of flooding. Site Specific Flood Risk Assessments will be required for development proposals in areas identified in Flood Zones A & B (Refer to SFRA and Chapter 4, Vol 1).

Other Environmental Considerations. Adjoins the Grand Canal


Comment O

Residential Largely confirms existing landuse in residential areas. Liable to flood means residential development must follow sequential test and avoid flood zones.



All other SEOS


Uses considered under this zoning would again need to apply relevant flood risk guidelines to avoid inappropriate uses.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Large area adjoining the canal; other area relates to sport field

All other SEOS

Pop 1 Pop 2

B- 77 -

Bio 1 Bio 5 Soil 2 Soil 3

Land 1 Mat 1


Pop 1 Pop 2




Rahan Village Plan


Residential 4.03


Public/community/

educational

1.34

Open Space 2.47

B- 78 -


Rahan Village Plan


Wastewater Treatment Treatment Plan opposite College View (no longer in use) and Individual Effluent Treatment Systems.

Water Supply Rahan Public Water Supply.


Flood Risk Zones Lands at River Clodiagh liable to flood.

Other Environmental Considerations. Adjoins the Grand Canal

Rahan Village Plan Comment O

Residential Largely confirms existing landuse in residential areas. Liable to flood means residential development must follow sequential test and avoid flood zones. Issue of wastewater treatment or lack thereof will require addressing prior to additional residential development.

All SEOs


Uses considered under this zoning would again need to apply relevant flood risk guidelines to avoid inappropriate uses.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Large area adjoining the canal; other area relates to sport field

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


Pop 1 Pop 2




B- 79 -

Rhode Village Plan


Residential 20.09



nal

1.54

Open Space 9.14


Rhode Village Plan


Wastewater Treatment Rhode Waste water Treatment Plant design PE 1000—current PE 846

B- 80 -


Proximity to European Site Greater than 15km distance

Flood Risk Zones

Other Environmental Considerations. Protection of the groundwater resource within the Source Protection

Zone.

Rhode Village Plan Comment O

Residential Largely confirms existing landuse in residential areas. Three areas on undeveloped land are proposed and these adjoin existing residential development. Monitoring of wastewater capacity recommended to ensure service led development and alignment of population with infrastructure.



All SEOs


Zoning for this land use adjacent to village centre and concentrated on eastern part of the village.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Confirms existing landuse, associated with open space and residential development and sports fields.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


Close to village centre. Pop 1 Pop 2


This relates to the village core. All other SEOs


B- 81 -

Shannon Harbour Village Plan


Residential 1.26


Open Space 1.13


B- 82 -


Population (CSO 2011) 30 (estimate)

Wastewater Treatment The Wastewater Treatment System has a design capacity of 200p.e. dealing with a current load of 64p.e. Served by the Clara/ Ferbane public water supply with capacity available


Proximity to European Site Located on the Shannon Callows (SPA) and at

end of Grand Canal (NHA)

Flood Risk Zones Located on flood zone



Comment O

Residential Confirms existing landuse in residential areas. Location of the village on the floodplain is highlighted in village plan.

All SEOs


Zoning for this land use is close to village core and again would require flood risk consideration depending on applications being considered.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Open space adjoins the canal, this enhances landscape and visual elements of the canal and provides greater flood risk protection also. Other open space relates to residential development (existing)

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1





B- 83 -

Shannonbridge Village Plan


Residential 5.77


Public/community/

educational

1.26

Open Space

5.92

Industrial 1.64


B- 84 -



Wastewater Treatment Shannonbridge WWTW– currently being upgraded

Water Supply The village is served by Moyclare Public Scheme

Proximity to European Site Located on the River Shannon SPA

Flood Risk Zones There is an area of Flood Zone A (OPW) within village boundary,



Comment O

Residential Confirms existing landuse in residential areas. Location of the village on the floodplain is highlighted in village plan, infill residential zoning proposed in eastern part of village, away from the River.

All SEOs


Zoning for this land use is again around the east and southeast part of the village.

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Open space is proposed to support civic green space in the east of the village. Other open space relates to residential development (existing)

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1

Industrial Largely confirms existing landuse. However undeveloped part of this land is also zoned industrial – AA likely to be required for any industrial development proposed for these lands in light of proximity to River Shannon

All SEOs


Confirms existing land use and provides for extension to same at mid village location.




B- 85 -

Shinrone Village Plan


Residential 21.29



nal

4.92

Open Space 6.03






Water Supply Public Mains with capacity available

B- 86 -


Flood Risk Zones Flood risk zones in settlement

Other Environmental Considerations. Architectural heritage and attractive character

of village core

Tributary of Little Brosna River and density of

archaeological sites close to tributary


Comment O

Residential Confirms existing landuse in residential areas. Residential on undeveloped lands are all infill and backlands adjoining the village core. Wastewater and potable water have capacity



All other SEOs


Existing development confirmed through this zoning. Undeveloped lands proposed for this zoning at the eastern part of the village close to existing residential

Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Open space relates to residential development (existing) and recreation grounds.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


Confirms existing land use




B- 87 -

Walsh Island Village Plan


Residential 19.45



nal

4.78

Open Space

3.85

1.34


B- 88 -

Walsh Island Village Plan


Wastewater Treatment Rhode Waste water Treatment Plant design PE 340—current PE 494.

Water Supply Public water supply.

Proximity to European Site Greater than 15km




Comment O

Residential Undeveloped lands proposed for residential are identified close to the village core; the remaining residential confirms existing use. There is no capacity in the wwtp to support additional residential development currently.

All other SEOs


Two areas to the north and south of the village boundary. Pop 1 Pop 2

All other SEOS

Open Space Open space relates to residential development (existing) and recreation grounds.

All other SEOS


Land 1 Mat 1


Confirms existing land use with some additional undeveloped lands adjoining same for expansion.




Sraid Plans Sraid Plans do not include specific landuse zonings, rather they define the envelope of the settlement. These plans are covered by relevant policies and

objectives in Volume 1 of the OCDP, in particular the specific policies for the Sraids including SSP 15 (a) to (l). These policies are assessed in Annex A of this

SEA ER.

Documents

Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Offaly County ...€¦ · during the plan preparation process. The SEA Statement provides the overview of the SEA process from the scoping