TERMINAL 9 REFURBISHMENT WORKS, DUBLIN PORT, NORTH … · at Terminal 9, Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1 (herein referred to as the proposed Project). An Appropriate

_____________________________________

Report Prepared For

OPW Brexit Unit _____________________________________

Report Prepared By

Emma Carroll BA

Environmental Consultant

Teri Hayes BSc MSc PGeo Director

_____________________________________ Our Reference

EC/19/9000P12296

____________________________________ Date of Issue

20 January 2020

_____________________________________

TERMINAL 9 REFURBISHMENT

WORKS, DUBLIN PORT, NORTH DOCK, DUBLIN 1

ENVIRONMENTAL

IMPACT ASSESSMENT SCREENING REPORT

EC/19/9000P12296 AWN Consulting Ltd.

Dublin Port Terminal 9 Screening Report 1

Document History

Document Reference Original Issue Date

EC/19/9000P12296 15 April 2019

Revision Level Revision Date Description Sections Affected

Revision One 15 April 2019

Revision Two 2 July 2019

Revision Three 8 July 2019

Revision Four 20 January 2020 Revised layout to improve readability

Record of Approval

Details Written by Approved by

Signature

Name Emma Carroll Teri Hayes

Title Environmental Consultant Director

Date 20 January 2020 20 January 2020



CONTENTS Table of Tables .............................................................................................................. 3

1.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................. 4

2.0 LEGISLATION AND GUIDANCE ......................................................................... 4

2.1 Schedule 7A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2011 (Annex IIA of the New Directive) ........................................................................................... 5

2.2 Schedule 7 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2011 (Annex III of the New EIA Directive) ..................................................................................... 5

3.0 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT ...................................... 7

3.1 Introduction ...................................................................................................... 7

3.2 Size and Design of the Whole of the Proposed Project .................................... 7

3.2.1 Overview ...................................................................................................... 7

3.2.3 Construction Phase .................................................................................... 12

3.2.4 Operational Phase ...................................................................................... 12

3.3 Cumulation with other Existing, Permitted or Proposed Developments .......... 12

3.4 Use of Natural Resources .............................................................................. 15

3.5 Production of Waste ....................................................................................... 15

3.6 Pollution and Nuisances ................................................................................ 15

4.0 LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT ................................................... 15

4.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 15

4.2 Overview ........................................................................................................ 15

4.3 Existing and Approved Land Use ................................................................... 15

4.4 Relative Abundance, Availability, Quality and Regenerative Capacity of Natural Resources (including soil, land, water and biodiversity) in the Area and its Underground .................................................................................................. 18

4.5 Absorption Capacity of the Natural Environment ............................................ 18

5.0 TYPES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF POTENTIAL EFFECTS ........................ 18

5.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 18

5.2 Air Quality and Climate .................................................................................. 20

5.3 Biodiversity including species and habitats .................................................... 21

5.4 Cultural Heritage, Architecture and Archaeology ............................................ 25

5.5 Material Assets (including waste) ................................................................... 25

5.6 Landscape and Visual .................................................................................... 27

5.7 Major Accidents ............................................................................................. 27

5.8 Noise and Vibration........................................................................................ 27

5.9 Population and Human Health ....................................................................... 28

5.10 Land, Soils and Geology and Hydrogeology .................................................. 28

5.11 Hydrology ...................................................................................................... 29

5.12 Traffic and Transportation .............................................................................. 30

5.13 Cumulative Effects ......................................................................................... 30



6.0 CONCLUSIONS ................................................................................................ 30

Table of Figures Figure 1 Showing the proposed Project location at the Dublin Port Shared Services

Warehouse Site, Tolka Quay Road, North Dock, Dublin 1. .............................. 9 Figure 2. Showing the proposed location on recent aerial photography ........................ 10 Figure 3. Map showing a layout plan of the proposed Project. ...................................... 11 Figure 4. Zoning map from the Dublin City Development Plan 2016 – 2022, showing the

proposed site as being zoned for Employment (Heavy). ................................ 16 Figure 5. Zoning map from the Dublin Port Masterplan 2040 (Reviewed 2018) showing

the proposed site being zoned as a Unified Ro-Ro Ferry Terminal. ............... 17 Figure 6. Location of adjacent European sites. ............................................................. 24 Figure 7. Location of heritage sites in the vicinity of the proposed site. Red dots indicate

National Monuments while blue dots indicate National Inventory of Architectural Heritage sites. ........................................................................... 26

Table of Tables Table 1. Summary of the developments currently being considered by the OPW in

Dublin Port. .................................................................................................... 13 Table 2 European sites located within 15 km of the proposed Project. .......................... 22 Table 3. Screening Checklist to determine if EIA is required based on the characteristics

of a project and its environment. .................................................................... 31



1.0 INTRODUCTION At the request of the OPW AWN Consulting Ltd (AWN) has prepared the following Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Report for the proposed Project of the Dublin Port Shared Services Warehouse Site as a Contingency Border Crossing Point at Terminal 9, Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1 (herein referred to as the proposed Project). An Appropriate Assessment screening accompanies this EIAR screening report (Appendix 1). As described in detail in Section 2.0 of this report, the proposed Project is considered to be outside the mandatory requirements for EIA. This report has been prepared with the primary aim to provide sufficient information to the planning and environment departments of the Commissioners of Public Works of Ireland to allow them to determine that the proposed Project is not likely to have a significant effect on the environment.

AWN has assessed the likely impact of the proposed Project for each aspect of the environment; air, noise, water, land, soils & geology, landscape, material assets, traffic and human health. The environmental assessment concluded that the proposed Project will have a long-term imperceptible impact only on the environment. As such it is concluded that the proposed Project does not warrant preparation of an EIA report due to environmental considerations.

2.0 LEGISLATION AND GUIDANCE

The requirements for EIA in relation to planning consents in Ireland are outlined in Part X of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended and in Part 10 of the Planning and Development Regulations, 2001, as amended.

Section 172 (1) of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended states: “Where a planning application is made in respect of a development or class of development referred to in regulations under section 176, that application shall, in addition to meeting the requirements of the permission regulations, be accompanied by an environmental impact statement.” This EIA screening report has been compiled having paid due regard to the procedures outlined in Article 123A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2000 – 2019. Following guidance outlined in this Article, which relates to sub-threshold developments in terms of EIAR requirements, an assessment of the proposed development was made, taking into account the nature, size and location of the development. Following this assessment, the Commissioners of Public Works requested that AWN Consulting Ltd. undertake an environmental screening exercise of the proposed development, as per the requirements stipulated in the Regulations.

The prescribed classes of development and thresholds that trigger the need for an EIA are set out in Schedule 5 of the Planning and Development Regulations, 2001, as amended. A review of the classes of development was carried out to determine whether the proposed development falls into any of the development classes which require an EIA.

It has been determined that the proposed development does not meet any of the classes described in Schedule 5 of the Planning and Development Regulations, 2001. The need for an EIA has therefore not been triggered under the requirements of the Planning and Development Regulations, 2001, as amended.



There is a requirement to undertake EIA for a development where it is considered likely that the development would have ‘likely significant effects’ on the environment. The consideration of ‘likely significant effects should take into account the size, nature and location of a development. The proposed development does not fall within a category of development requiring a mandatory EIA as the development would not have ‘likely significant effects’ on the environment. This EIA Screening Report has been prepared to provide sufficient information to support this statement. The information provided herein, to allow an assessment of the ‘likely significant effects’ to be undertaken, is in accordance with Annex IIA of the EIA Directive as set out in Schedule 7A of S.I. No. 600/2001 Planning and Development Regulations 2011, as amended.

2.1 Schedule 7A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2011 (Annex IIA of the New Directive) Schedule 7A sets out the information which a developer must provide to the competent authority for a screening determination. This includes:

1. A description of the proposed development, including in particular:

(a) a description of the physical characteristics of the whole proposed development and, where relevant, of demolition works; and

(b) a description of the location of the proposed development, with particular regard to the environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected.

2. A description of the aspects of the environment likely to be significantly affected by the proposed development. 3. A description of any likely significant effects, to the extent of the information available on such effect, of the proposed development on the environment resulting from: (a) the expected residues and emissions and the production of waste, where relevant;

and (b) the use of the natural resources, in particular soil, land, water and biodiversity. It is also stated in Schedule 7A that the information compiled must take into account the criteria set out in Schedule 7 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2011 (Annex III of the New EIA Directive), where relevant.

2.2 Schedule 7 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2011 (Annex III of the New EIA Directive) Schedule 7 sets out criteria that the planning authority will consider in determining whether a development would or would not be likely to have significant effects on the environment. Those criteria are as follows:

1. Characteristics of proposed development

The characteristics of proposed development, in particular:

(a) the size and design of the whole of the proposed development; (b) cumulation with other existing development and/or development the subject of a

consent for proposed development for the purposes of section 172(1A) (b) of the Act and / or development the subject of any development consent for the purposes of the New EIA Directive by or under any other enactment;

(c) the nature of any associated demolition works; (d) the use of natural resources, in particular land, soil, water and biodiversity;



(e) the production of waste; (f) pollution and nuisances; (g) the risk of major accidents, and/or disasters which are relevant to the project

concerned, including those caused by climate change, in accordance with scientific knowledge; and

(h) the risks to human health (for example, due to water contamination or air pollution). 2. Location of proposed development

The environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected by the proposed development, with particular regard to:

(a) the existing and approved land use; (b) the relative abundance, availability, quality and regenerative capacity of natural

resources (including soil, land, water and biodiversity) in the area and its underground;

(c) the absorption capacity of the natural environment, paying particular attention to the following areas: (i) wetlands, riparian areas, river mouths; (ii) coastal zones and the marine environment; (iii) mountain and forest areas; (iv) nature reserves and parks; (v) areas classified or protected under legislation, including Natura 2000 areas designated pursuant to the Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive; (vi) areas in which there has already been a failure to meet the environmental quality standards laid down in legislation of the European Union and relevant to the project, or in which it is considered that there is such a failure; (vii) densely populated areas; and (viii) landscapes and sites of historical, cultural or archaeological significance.

3. Types and characteristics of potential impacts

The likely significant effects on the environment of proposed development in relation to criteria set out under paragraphs 1 and 2, with regard to the impact of the project on the factors specified in paragraph (b)(i)(I) to (V) of the definition of ‘environmental impact assessment report’ in section 171A of the Act, taking into account:

(a) the magnitude and spatial extent of the impact (for example, geographical area and size of the population likely to be affected);

(b) the nature of the impact; (c) the transboundary nature of the impact; (d) the intensity and complexity of the impact; (e) the probability of the impact; (f) the expected onset, duration, frequency and reversibility of the impact; (g) the cumulation of the impact with the impact of other existing and/or development

the subject of a consent for proposed development for the purposes of section 172(1A) (b) of the Act and/or development the subject of any development consent for the purposes of the New EIA Directive by or under any other enactment; and

(h) the possibility of effectively reducing the impact. The assessment of impact on any of the above receptors in the surrounding environment can be aided by using the source-pathway-receptor model. This model describes the potential sources of contamination at a site, the migration pathways it may follow and the receptors it could impact upon. 1



Each of these points is addressed below and is supported by the environmental review provided in Section 5

3.0 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT 3.1 Introduction

This section describes the physical characteristics of the proposed Project with particular regard to the design, construction and operational elements of relevance to the proposed Project. The impacts of the characteristics of the proposed Project are discussed in Section 5.

3.2 Size and Design of the Whole of the Proposed Project 3.2.1 Overview

The works are to provide a temporary BCP facility at a site c. 1.9 hectares in extent, which is currently designated as a Shared Services Warehouse site It will be used on a short-term basis, as an interim BCP facility from April 2019 onwards. It is intended to comprise the following: External works:

• Repair works to the roof;

• Demolition of portions of the existing lower height blockwork warehouses located to the north of the main warehouse. Existing floor slabs will be retained;

• External façade treatment i.e. paints or other (to be confirmed);

• Site works to east boundary of site to create extension of road surface, line marking, secure boundary structure, etc.;

• New Gate: It is proposed to create a new vehicular exit / egress gate onto Tolka Quay Road, adjustments will be required to median strip on centre line of Tolka Quay Road and associated road markings;

• Repair of 6 existing dock levellers including replacement of all roller shutters, rails, surrounds, dock seals, control systems, etc.;

• Fitting of 3 new dock levellers to existing building, as indicated on the attached sketches; and

• New side-curtain inspection bays within the existing building.

No bulk fuel storage is required Internal works:

• The interior of the warehouse will be fitted out to accommodate additional storage and inspection facilities, with associated ancillary spaces;

• Demolition of internal walls in existing front shed building (to allow for new dock levellers) and demolition of some internal walls to main warehouse building. Also, demolition works to provide for new doorways and dock-levellers;

• The construction of new internal raised floor sections served by ramps, stairs and platform lifts to form new internal unloading area to the rear of the existing dock levellers and also in the front shed building;



• New ramps, stairs and lifts to be installed;

• Construction of new internal partitions and/or prefabricated inspection rooms and staff welfare facilities Prefabricated cleanroom-style modules, to be reviewed for possible use; and

• New internal consignment storage rooms to include temperature-controlled spaces DAFM building - It is proposed to fit out the interior of the DAFM building to accommodate updated office facilities.

The proposed site would be developed on the existing Dublin Port Shared Services Warehouse site, which currently comprises a warehouse building, existing hardstanding areas, and truck and car parking areas. The site has a number of concrete road surfaces which will be incorporated into the proposed Project. There are no proposed changes to the existing surface water drainage regime; the majority of the site surface will continue to be composed of a porous, gravel surfaces, with surface water drainage discharging to the Dublin Port Surface Water drainage system. The proposed Project has an existing connection to the public sewer network and the Dublin Port Surface Water drainage system, and there would be no discharges to the surrounding aquatic environments from the proposed site.

Figure 1 shows the Project location and Figure 2 shows the proposed project site on recent aerial photography. Figure 3 shows a plan of the proposed project.

EC/19/9000P12296 AWN Consulting Ltd. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Figure 1 Showing the proposed Project location at the Dublin Port Shared Services Warehouse Site, Tolka Quay Road, North Dock, Dublin 1.



Figure 2. Showing the proposed location on recent aerial photography



Figure 3. Map showing a layout plan of the proposed Project.

EC/19/9000P12296 AWN Consulting Ltd. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________


3.2.3 Construction Phase

Minimal demolition works involving the demolition of portions of the existing lower height blockwork warehouses located to the north of the main warehouse will be required. Some internal walls within the existing warehouse building will also be demolished. Minimal construction works are required as part of the proposed Project. It is intended to extend the roadway on site, and also create a new site entrance onto the Tolka Quay Road. The works are estimated to take c. 8 weeks to complete.

3.2.4 Operational Phase

The site will be used on a short-term basis, as an interim BCP facility from April 2019 onwards. Facilities will include a staff canteen, staff toilet and public toilets and washroom facilities. Effluent will discharge as current to the public sewer. A hardstand area for truck parking will be provided. Surface water will drain into the Dublin Port Surface Water drainage system, with no runoff to surrounding marine environments. This proposed Project is temporary in nature. It is being proposed to accommodate the expected backlog of goods and vehicles attempting to enter the UK through Dublin Port in a post-Brexit scenario, where the processing of documents for movements in and out of the UK may take significantly longer than at present.

3.3 Cumulation with other Existing, Permitted or Proposed Developments A review of planning applications made in the vicinity of the proposed Project was conducted on Dublin City Council’s website. Following analysis of this data, it was concluded that most of the applications made refer to either internal or minor site developments, which would have no impact on the proposed Project or vice versa. A planning application was made by the Dublin Port Company which consists of a program of remediation and repair of Dublin Port’s private internal road network, which also includes works to be conducted on public roads (Planning Ref. 3084/16). The application was accompanied by a Screening Report for EIA and a Report for AA Screening which determine that there would be no significant impacts on the adjacent European sites in Dublin Bay. This application was granted permission on 4th August 2016.

In addition to the proposed Project, 5 no. temporary and permanent sites at Dublin Port are being planned for by the OPW which are similar in nature to this proposed Project (that is, contingency-based developments which are intended to ameliorate so far as reasonably practicable the effects of any changes that will result from the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union). These sites are intended to provide the required infrastructure for customs, sanitary, phytosanitary, health checks and controls that may be required following the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union. Table 1 below presents a summary of the developments currently being considered by the OPW in Dublin Port.



Table 1. Summary of the developments currently being considered by the OPW in Dublin Port.

Location Development Description

Terminal 9, Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1.

The proposed development will take place on a site which currently comprises a warehouse building, existing hardstanding areas, and truck and car parking areas. It is intended to comprise the following: External works:

• Repair works to the roof;

• Demolition of portions of the existing lower height blockwork warehouses located to the north of the main warehouse. Existing floor slabs will be retained;

• External façade treatment i.e. paints or other (to be confirmed);

• Site works to east boundary of site to create extension of road surface, line marking, secure boundary structure, etc.;

• New Gate: It is proposed to create a new vehicular exit / egress gate onto Tolka Quay Road, adjustments will be required to median strip on centre line of Tolka Quay Road and associated road markings;

• Repair of 6 existing dock levellers including replacement of all roller shutters, rails, surrounds, dock seals, control systems, etc.;

• Fitting of 3 new dock levellers to existing building, as indicated on the attached sketches; and

• New side-curtain inspection bays within the existing building. Internal works:

• The interior of the warehouse will be fitted out to accommodate additional

• storage and inspection facilities, with associated ancillary spaces;

• Demolition of internal walls in existing front shed building (to allow for new dock levellers) and demolition of some internal walls to main warehouse building. Also, demolition works to provide for new doorways and dock- levellers;

• The construction of new internal raised floor sections served by ramps, stairs and platform lifts to form new internal unloading area to the rear of the existing dock levellers and also in the front shed building;

• New ramps, stairs and lifts to be installed;

• Construction of new internal partitions and/or prefabricated inspection rooms and staff welfare facilities Prefabricated cleanroom-style modules, to be reviewed for possible use; and

• New internal consignment storage rooms to include temperature-controlled

• spaces DAFM building - It is proposed to fit out the interior of the DAFM

• building to accommodate updated office facilities.

Terminal 7, Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1.

The proposed site would be developed on the existing Dublin Port T7 Site, which currently comprises a warehouse building, existing hardstanding areas, and truck and car parking areas. The proposed development is intended to comprise the following:

• A minimum of six booths for seal checks with associated queuing capacity for

• at least 40 articulated trucks;



Location Development Description

• Parking facilities for at least 80 articulated trucks associated with the document checks;

• Document check facility (pre-fabricated);

• 20 staff car parking spaces; and

• Staff facilities (pre-fabricated)

Yard 2, Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1 (Former Calor Gas Site)

The proposed development will take place on a site which currently comprises a warehouse building, existing hardstanding areas, and truck and car parking areas. The proposed development is intended to comprise the following:

• The refurbishment of an existing warehouse facility on-site to provide animal inspection facilities and staff welfare services.

Site at Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1 (Former Wincanton Site)


• 2 no. warehouse facilities, to include goods inspection facilities and staff offices;

• Parking facilities for at least 35 articulated trucks associated with the document checks; and

• 20 staff car parking spaces.

Site at Promenade Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1 (Former M&S Site)


• The construction of 1. no new structure which includes staff facilities, animal stalls, storage, and inspection facilities is to be constructed in the northern half of the site; and

• The retention of 1 no. existing warehouse in the southern portion of the site.

Yard 3, Bond Drive Ext Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1 (Former Bord na Móna site)


• The refurbishment of an existing portacabin facility on-site;

• Parking facilities for at least 9 heavy goods vehicles (HGVs); and

• 16 staff car parking spaces.

It should be noted that cumulatively, the developments listed in Table 1, and with the proposed development, extend across an area of c. 11 hectares. As such, the cumulative proposed developments being undertaken by the OPW are sub-threshold for a full EIAR. The proposed Project will result in an imperceptible change in relation to impact to the surrounding environment (see Section 5) therefore there will be no increase in cumulative effects with other existing developments in the area.



3.4 Use of Natural Resources

There will be minimal excavations and no significant construction required for the construction as any office and staff areas will be incorporated into the existing buildings on site. Minor construction will be required for the development of a new Tolka Quay Road site entrance, and the extension of the existing site roadway. No soil will be removed from the site and the footprint of the proposed Project will not require use of any previously undeveloped land.

3.5 Production of Waste

There will be minimal production of waste other than standard office waste. The demolition and construction phase will involve the generation of small quantities of construction waste. However, it is not expected that there will be any impact associated with this as waste will be appropriately handled and disposed of in line with best practices. Wastewater will discharge to the receiving sewer. Surface water will drain into the Dublin Port Surface Water drainage system. There will therefore be no perceptible effects on the environment from the production of waste/wastewater.

3.6 Pollution and Nuisances

There will only be construction activities related to the installation of the new roadway on site, and the new Tolka Quay Road entrance. Some demolition works will be required for some existing lower height blockwork walls in the north section of the site Therefore, while there will be a low potential for off-site short-term nuisances and/or pollution (such as dust and noise etc.), this effect is expected to be temporary and imperceptible due to the minor nature and efficient management of the works. This means that there will be no likely significant effects on the surrounding environment.

4.0 LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT 4.1 Introduction

This section describes the location of the proposed Project with particular regard to environmental sensitivities on site and in the surrounding area.

4.2 Overview

The proposed Project site is c. 1.9 hectares in extent and is within the Dublin Port Shared Services Warehouse site at Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1. The site is surrounded by industrial developments. The nearest European sites are South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA (Site Code 004024), which is located along the coast approximately 300 m to the north of the proposed Project, and North Bull Island SPA (Site Code 004006), which is located approximately 1.98 km east north east of the proposed Project.

4.3 Existing and Approved Land Use

The site for the proposed Project is situated within the administrative area of Dublin City Council. A review of the Dublin City Development Plan 2016 – 2022, Map F shows the proposed Project lands as “Z7 – Employment (Heavy)” (Figure 4). the Dublin Port Masterplan 2040 (Reviewed 2018) shows the proposed Project site zoned as a “Unified Ro-Ro Ferry Terminal” (Figure 5).



Figure 4. Zoning map from the Dublin City Development Plan 2016 – 2022, showing the proposed site as being zoned for Employment (Heavy).



Figure 5. Zoning map from the Dublin Port Masterplan 2040 (Reviewed 2018) showing the proposed site being zoned as a Unified Ro-Ro Ferry Terminal.



The Dublin City Development Plan 2016 – 2022 identifies Dublin Port as a key area for development.

Policy SC9: To support and recognise the important national and regional role of Dublin Port in the economic life of the city and region and to facilitate port activities and development, having regard to the Dublin Port Masterplan 2012–2040.

Further, the Dublin Port Masterplan 2040 (Reviewed 2018) indicates the objectives to:

Recover lands that are not being used for core port activities and; Optimise the use of Port lands by rationalising the distribution and location of specific areas of activity (including Ro-Ro, Lo-Lo, passenger ferry services, Cruise Ships, Bulk Liquid, Bulk Solid and Break-Bulk goods) with necessary reconfigurations of service facilities as required.

4.4 Relative Abundance, Availability, Quality and Regenerative Capacity of Natural Resources (including soil, land, water and biodiversity) in the Area and its Underground As outlined in Section 3.4 above, the proposed Project does not require any significant usage of natural resources other than the building materials required for the construction of the roadway on site and the new Tolka Quay Road site entrance.

4.5 Absorption Capacity of the Natural Environment

There will be no additional emissions to air as a result of the proposed Project. The trucks passing through the site are already en route to the port facility. There are no additional emissions to surface water or ground as part of the proposed Project. Each of the sub sections in Section 5.0 below addresses the sensitivity of the existing environment and assesses the absorptive capacity of the natural environment to the potential emissions and nuisances generated by the proposed Project. Please refer to Section 5.0 for additional information related to the following receptors:

5.0 TYPES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF POTENTIAL EFFECTS 5.1 Introduction

The likely significant effects on the environment of the proposed Project in relation to the criteria set out in Section 2.2, with regard to the impact of the project on the factors specified in paragraph (b)(i)(I) to (V) of the definition of ‘environmental impact assessment report’ in section 171A of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, are set out in the sections (Sections 5.2 – 5.15) below, taking into account:

(a) the magnitude and spatial extent of the impact (for example, geographical area and size of the population likely to be affected);

(b) the nature of the impact; (c) the transboundary nature of the impact; (d) the intensity and complexity of the impact; (e) the probability of the impact; (f) the expected onset, duration, frequency and reversibility of the impact; (h) the possibility of effectively reducing the impact.



An overall summary is provided below with full justification provided in relation to each environmental aspect in Sections 5.2 – 5.15.

5.1.1 Magnitude and Spatial Extent of the Impact (geographical area and population size likely to be affected)

There will be no increase in the geographical area taken up by the site of the proposed Project. The proposed Project covers the footprint of the existing Dublin Port Shared Services Warehouse site. There is no significant increase in the population size likely to be affected.

5.1.2 Nature of the Impact

The proposed Project will have a long-term and imperceptible impact on the receiving environment. This is further justified below (Sections 5.2 – 5.15) under each environmental aspect assessment.

5.1.3 Transboundary Nature of the Impact

There is no potential for transboundary impact as the zone of influence is immediate to the site and local environs.

5.1.4 Intensity and Complexity of the Impact

The proposed Project will have a long-term and imperceptible impact on the receiving environment. This is further justified below (Sections 5.2 – 5.15) under each environmental aspect assessment.

5.1.5 Probability of the Impact

The impact is long-term and imperceptible on all receptors. This is further justified below (Sections 5.2 – 5.15) under each environmental aspect assessment.

5.1.6 Expected onset, Duration, Frequency and Reversibility of the Impact

It is anticipated that the facility will be short term. There is no requirement to consider the reversibility of the impact as the assessed impact is imperceptible. There are no significant effects identified (Sections 5.2 – 5.15).

5.1.7 Cumulation of the Impact with Other Projects

The proposed Project will not result in any changes to emissions. The traffic impact is negligible (see Section 5.12). Therefore, the potential cumulative impact of the proposed Project on ambient air quality and climate or other environmental factors is deemed to be imperceptible and as such the cumulative impact is also long term imperceptible.

5.1.8 Possibility of Effectively Reducing the Impact

No reduction of the impact of the proposed Project is required as the proposed Project will have a long-term imperceptible impact on the receiving environment. This is further justified below (Sections 5.2 – 5.15) under each environmental aspect assessment.



5.2 Air Quality and Climate

5.2.1 Baseline Environment

AWN Consulting Limited were commissioned to conduct an assessment into the likely air quality and climate impacts associated with the proposed Project.

As part of the implementation of the Air Quality Standards Regulations 2002 (S.I. No. 271 of 2002), four air quality zones have been defined in Ireland for air quality management and assessment purposes (EPA 2019). In terms of air monitoring, the region of the proposed Project is categorized as Zone A. In terms of the existing air quality environment, baseline data and data available from similar environments indicates that levels of nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, particulate matter less than 10 microns and less than 2.5 microns and benzene are generally well below the National and European Union (EU) ambient air quality standards.

5.2.2 Construction Impacts Minimal demolition works involving the demolition of portions of the existing lower height blockwork warehouses located to the north of the main warehouse will be required. Some internal walls within the existing warehouse building will also be demolished. Minimal construction works are required as part of the proposed Project. It is intended to extend the roadway on site, and also create a new site entrance onto the Tolka Quay Road. Transport Infrastructure Ireland Guidelines for the Treatment of Air Quality During the Planning and Construction of National Road Schemes (2011) detail a methodology for determining air quality impact significance criteria for road schemes and can be applied to any development that experiences a change in traffic values. The construction and operational impact of the proposed Project was reviewed for the pollutants nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter less than 10 microns, particulate matter less than 2.5 microns, carbon monoxide and benzene. Due to the low construction and operational phase impact on local traffic, the screening criteria indicates that no road links can be classed as ‘affected’ by the proposed Project and therefore, a local air quality assessment is not required as impacts are neutral in the long and short term. Based on the short-term duration (8 weeks) and small-scale nature of the proposed works, construction will not generate significant emissions of air quality pollutants or greenhouse gases. Therefore, there will be no significant effects on the local or global climate in terms of national CO2 emissions and Ireland’s agreed limit under the Kyoto Protocol (Framework Convention on Climate Change, 1997, 1999) and the EU Effort Sharing Agreement (“20-20-20” Targets). There is low potential for fugitive dust generation during construction due to the short-term duration and small-scale nature of the proposed works. The predicted impact of the construction works on air quality and climate will therefore be temporary and imperceptible.

5.2.3 Operational Impacts

In relation to the operational phase of the proposed Project, the proposed Project will not result in any significant emissions of air quality pollutants or greenhouse gases once operational. Therefore, the impact to air quality from the operational phase of the proposed Project is expected to be imperceptible. Therefore, the predicted impact of the proposed Project on ambient air quality is deemed to be negligible. Current EPA guidance states that a development may have an influence on global climate where it represents “a significant proportion of the national contribution to



greenhouse gases” (EPA, 2003). The draft “Guidelines On The Information To Be Contained In Environmental Impact Assessment Reports” (EPA, August 2017) states that impacts relevant to adaptation to climate change should be assessed and that projects should be assessed in terms of their vulnerability to climate change Therefore, the impact to climate from the operational phase of the proposed Project is expected to be imperceptible in terms of national CO2 emissions and Ireland’s agreed limit under the Kyoto Protocol (Framework Convention on Climate Change, 1997, 1999) and the EU Effort Sharing Agreement (“20-20-20” Targets). The proposed Project will not result in any impacts relevant to adaptation therefore the project will not be vulnerable to climate change. It is concluded that the proposed Project will not have a significant effect on air quality and climate during the construction and operational phases and thus, the proposed Project would not warrant preparation of an EIA on air quality grounds.

5.3 Biodiversity including species and habitats

The proposed Project site was surveyed by Ger O’Donoghue, ecologist with Moore Group. A summary of the baseline environment is presented below. Additionally, an Appropriate Assessment Screening Report has been carried out to assess the impact of the proposed Project on Natura 2000 sites. The Screening Report concludes that the proposed Project will not have any significant effects on the surrounding Natura 2000 sites and there is no requirement for any further stage of the Appropriate Assessment process.

5.3.1 Baseline Environment

The proposed Project would be constructed on the existing Shared Services Warehouse site at the Dublin Port which is composed of the existing hardstanding areas. There are no significant habitats or flora species on the site. Further, there is no evidence of any rare or protected fauna species being present within the site. No rare habitats, flora or fauna would be affected by the proposed Project. There were no invasive species recorded during the site survey for ecological screening.

DoEHLG (2009) Guidance on Appropriate Assessment suggests an assessment of European sites within a zone of impact of 15 km. This distance is a guidance only and the zone of impact has been identified taking consideration of the nature and location of the proposed Project to ensure all European sites with connectivity to it are considered in terms of a catchment-based assessment. The zone of impact may be determined by connectivity to the proposed Project in terms of:

• Nature, scale, timing and duration of works and possible impacts, nature and size of excavations, storage of materials, flat/sloping sites;

• Distance and nature of pathways (dilution and dispersion; intervening ‘buffer’ lands, roads etc.); and

• Sensitivity and location of ecological features. The guidance provides that, at the screening stage, it is necessary to identify the sites and compile information on their qualifying interests and conservation objectives. In preparation for this, the potential for source pathway receptor connectivity is firstly identified and detailed information is then provided on sites with connectivity. European sites that are located within 15 km of the Project are listed in Table 2 and presented in Figures 5 and 6, below. Spatial boundary data on the Natura 2000



network was extracted from the NPWS website (www.npws.ie) on the 12th February 2019. Table 2 European sites located within 15 km of the proposed Project.

Site Code Site Name Direct Distance (km)

000199 Baldoyle Bay SAC 6.75

000202 Howth Head SAC 6.9

000205 Malahide Estuary SAC 10.22

000206 North Dublin Bay SAC 1.29

000210 South Dublin Bay SAC 1.57

002122 Wicklow Mountains SAC 13.86

002193 Ireland's Eye SAC 10.25

003000 Rockabill to Dalkey Island SAC 7.11

004006 North Bull Island SPA 1.28

004016 Baldoyle Bay SPA 6.75

004024 South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA 0.03

004025 Malahide Estuary SPA 10.91

004040 Wicklow Mountains SPA 14.1

004113 Howth Head Coast SPA 9.48

004117 Ireland's Eye SPA 10.05

004172 Dalkey Islands SPA 10.51

The proposed Project is to take place within the existing Dublin Port Shared Services Warehouse site at Tolka Quay Road, North Dock, Dublin 1. The nearest European sites are South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA (Site Code 004024), which is located along the coast approximately 30 m to the northeast of the proposed Project, and North Bull Island SPA (Site Code 004006), which is located approximately 1.28 km east north east of the proposed Project. Also within relatively close proximity to the proposed site are the North Dublin Bay SAC (Site code 000206), the South Dublin Bay SAC (Site code 000210). There is no meaningful biological or relevant hydrological connectivity to any other European sites located in the potential zone of impact of the proposed Project and so only these four sites are brought forward for further consideration.

The proposed Project site is located on a catchment boundary and there are no rivers or streams that cross the proposed Project site, as indicated in Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSI) Geographical Information System (GIS) data made available by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It has been noted that there are no proposed changes to the existing surface water drainage regime; the majority of the site will continue to be composed of a porous, gravel surfaces, with surface water drainage going straight to ground.

The potential for any adverse effects on the South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA, the North Bull Island SPA, the North Dublin Bay SAC or the South Dublin Bay SAC as a result of the proposed Project is highly unlikely given:

• The nature and scale of the proposed Project;

• The distance between the proposed project and the European sites

considered;

• The lack of hydrological connectivity between the proposed Project site and

any water courses that flow to the European sites considered;



• The proposed project site has an existing connection to the public sewer

network for waste water; and

• The current regime for surface water is to remain unchanged.

Having considered the above, significant effects on any European sites as a result of the proposed Project can be ruled out and, therefore, potential significant effects on European sites can be excluded at a preliminary screening stage.

5.3.2 Construction Impacts

The proposed Project does not require any significant construction works or any additional land-use changes therefore the impact of the minimal construction works will be short-term, imperceptible and neutral.

5.3.3 Operation Impacts There will be no significant changes to the existing habitat as a result of the proposed Project and therefore no impact on the surrounding habitats. There are no water courses on the site and no hydrological connectivity or biological connectivity to the European sites considered in this assessment. No fuel storage is required and there are no discharges to ground or surface water drainage (other than stormwater). It is concluded that the proposed Project will not have a significant effect on biodiversity and the proposed Project would not warrant preparation of an EIA on biodiversity grounds. A screening for Appropriate Assessment has been included with this submission.



Figure 6. Location of adjacent European sites.



5.4 Cultural Heritage, Architecture and Archaeology 5.4.1 Baseline Environment

There are no recorded archaeological monuments located within the site boundary (see Figure 7).

5.4.2 Construction Impacts The proposed Project does not require any significant construction works or any additional land-use changes therefore the impact of the minimal construction works will be short-term, imperceptible and neutral.


The operation of the facility will remain consistent with the type of activity and buildings currently in place at the site, therefore there will be no impacts on the archaeological heritage in the receiving environment.

It is concluded that the proposed Project will not have a significant effect on archaeology or cultural heritage and the proposed Project would not warrant preparation of an EIA on cultural heritage grounds.

5.5 Material Assets (including waste) 5.5.1 Baseline Environment

The proposed Project site is c. 1.9 hectares in extent and is located in Tolka Quay Road, North Dock, Dublin 1 (please see Figure 1 in Section 3.0). The surrounding area is dominated by industrial developments. The proposed Project will be serviced by the existing council sewer that runs adjacent to the site.

As discussed in Section 3.4, the proposed Project will not require/consume any substantial quantities of additional raw materials.




There will be minimal production of waste other than standard office waste. and foul effluent will discharge to the receiving sewer. Surface water will drain into the Dublin Port Surface Drainage system. There will therefore be no perceptible effects on the environment from the production of waste/wastewater.

In conclusion, the proposed Project will not give rise to any significant impacts on the surrounding land and material assets and would not warrant preparation of an EIA on these grounds.



Figure 7. Location of heritage sites in the vicinity of the proposed site. Red dots indicate National Monuments while blue dots indicate National Inventory of Architectural Heritage sites.



5.6 Landscape and Visual 5.6.1 Baseline Environment

The site is located along the Tolka Quay Road, North Dock, Dublin 1. The site of the proposed Project is zoned as Z7 – Employment (Heavy) in the Dublin City Development Plan 2016 – 2022, Unified Ro-Ro Ferry Terminal in the Dublin Port Masterplan 2040 (Reviewed 2018), with the predominant land use in the area being industrial. The Tolka Quay Road defines the southern extent of the site. The site of the proposed Project shares a boundary with a Calor Gas depot along the western extent of the site The Tolka Quay Road defines the southern extent of the site, with another Calor Gas depot also located along the Tolka Quay Road, immediately opposite the proposed Project site to the south. The Tolka Quay Road is one of the main throughways in North Dock, with other established businesses such as Irish Ferries, Stena Line and Seatruck Ferries utilising it for transport and logistics purposes. The Tolka Quay Road, links to Bond Drive, before leading into Promenade Road, which heads west and has a direct connection to the M50 through the Port Tunnel. The northern and eastern aspects of the proposed Project site are defined by the Irish Sea. The site is within the extent of the Dublin City Council administrative area and is zoned as Employment (Heavy) in the in the Dublin City Development Plan 2016 – 2022. Given the minimal changes to the overall infrastructure on site, the site is not considered to be significant or sensitive from a landscape and visual aspect.



5.6.3 Operational Impacts The operation of the proposed Project will remain consistent with the type of activity and buildings currently in place at the site, and therefore, there will be no change to the visual landscape during the operation of the proposed Project.

In conclusion, the proposed Project will not give rise to any significant landscape and visual impacts either from within or outside of the site boundary and would not warrant preparation of an EIA on landscape and/or visual grounds.

5.7 Major Accidents

The Chemicals Act (Control of Major Accident Hazards involving Dangerous Substances) Regulations 2015 do not apply to this site. There are no potential impacts arising from major accidents due to the nature of the proposed Project and therefore there will be no significant effects on the surrounding environment.

5.8 Noise and Vibration 5.8.1 Baseline Environment

The nearest residential noise sensitive locations are located some 800m across the Tolka Estuary to the north of the site. The proposed Project site is situated in an industrial zone which hosts 24/7 port activity and is the main port in Dublin for the intake and export of goods and services.






There will be no increase in traffic volume along the Tolka Quay Road as a result of the operation of the proposed Project. The operation of the proposed Project will remain consistent with the type of activity and buildings currently in place at the site, therefore, there will be no change to the operational phase of the contingency BCP i.e. no significant change in traffic, vibration levels and so no impacts on the noise levels in the receiving environment. In conclusion, the proposed Project will not give rise to any significant noise and vibration impacts and would not warrant preparation of an EIA on noise impact grounds.

5.9 Population and Human Health 5.9.1 Baseline Environment

The proposed Project is located in a purpose-built site at Tolka Quay Road, North Dock, Dublin 1. The potential receptors within the environs of the site include other industrial businesses in the area. The nearest residential area is located some 800m across the Tolka River Estuary to the north of the site. The site is currently surrounded by industrial sites.




There will be an imperceptible impact on human beings as the impacts to the ambient air quality, noise levels or traffic levels in the receiving environment as a result of the proposed Project will be imperceptible. Local landscape, tourism and cultural heritage will not be impacted by the proposed Project as the site activities will remain the same as current operations. In conclusion, the proposed Project will not give rise to any significant population or human health impacts and would not warrant preparation of an EIA on population human health grounds.

5.10 Land, Soils and Geology and Hydrogeology 5.10.1 Baseline Environment

The Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) indicates that the underlying bedrock is dark limestone & shale. No data exists with regards the local aquifer. There are no discharges to ground on site currently and there will be no discharges to ground from the proposed Project.



The GSI online data base was consulted regarding areas of geological interest in the area of the proposed Project site and this confirmed that no geological heritage site has been identified in the vicinity of the proposed Project site. The closest Geological Heritage Site is North Bull Island which is located some 1.28km to the east of the site.

The Groundwater Body (GWB) underlying the site was identified as the Dublin

Groundwater body (Code IE_EA_G_008). This groundwater body has been

categorised as ‘not at risk’.

5.10.2 Construction Phase The proposed Project does not require any significant construction works or any additional land-use changes therefore the impact of the minimal construction works will be short-term, imperceptible and neutral.


The operation of the proposed Project will remain consistent with the type of activity and buildings currently in place. There will be no discharges to ground or groundwater abstraction arising from the proposed Project. Therefore, the impact will be long-term imperceptible. In conclusion, the proposed Project will not give rise to any significant impacts and would not warrant preparation of an EIA on land, soils, geology and hydrogeology grounds.

5.11 Hydrology 5.11.1 Baseline Environment

The proposed Project site is located on a catchment boundary and there are no rivers or streams that cross the site. The majority of the site will continue to comprise porous, gravel surfaces, with surface water draining into the Dublin Port Surface Drainage system. According to the OPW FloodInfo website, there is a low probability that at least part of the proposed Project site would be subject to a coastal flooding event. There are no record of any historical flooding events at the proposed Project site.


The proposed Project does not require any significant construction works no changes to any natural drainage channels therefore the impact of the minimal construction works will be short-term, imperceptible and neutral.


There will be no significant changes to the existing environment as part of the proposed Project, including minimal increase in hardstand and no additional fuel storage. As such, there will be no potential impacts on the receiving hydrological environment or potential for flood impact as a result of site operation. There will be no significant effects on the surrounding environment as a result of the proposed Project.



5.12 Traffic and Transportation 5.12.1 Baseline Environment

The site is located along the Tolka Quay Road, which is the main access route to the remainder of North Dock. There are limited public transport services in the area, with one Dublin Bus service servicing the area. Traffic in the area largely relates to incoming and outgoing Dublin Port customers.

5.12.2 Construction Phase Minimal demolition works involving the demolition of portions of the existing lower height blockwork warehouses located to the north of the main warehouse will be required. Some internal walls within the existing warehouse building will also be demolished. Minimal construction works are required as part of the proposed Project. It is intended to extend the roadway on site, and also create a new site entrance onto the Tolka Quay Road. The proposed Project does not require any significant construction works or any additional land-use changes therefore the impact of the minimal construction works will be short-term, imperceptible and neutral.


There will be no significant traffic associated with the proposed Project in addition. It is anticipated that the proposed Project will avoid traffic congestion in the area by providing a purpose-built area for vehicles to stop for the appropriate new customs checks before proceeding to Dublin Port. In conclusion, the proposed Project will not give rise to any adverse impacts and would not warrant preparation of an EIA on traffic impact grounds.

5.13 Cumulative Effects

Interactive and cumulative effects occur when a receptor is impacted by multiple effects. Since the installation and operation of the Contingency Border Crossing Point at the Dublin Port Shared Services Warehouse Site, Tolka Quay Road, North Dock, Dublin 1 will not have a significant cumulative effect on any receptors, there are only long-term imperceptible effects on receptors, Therefore, the potential cumulative impact of the proposed alteration is deemed to be negligible.

6.0 CONCLUSIONS On the basis of the information set out in Section 2.0 the proposed Project does not mandatorily require an EIA. The information set out in Sections 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 confirm that the proposed Project will not have any significant effects on the surrounding environment and that an EIA report is not required to be submitted with the planning application. The European Guidance on EIA Screening provides a checklist to assist with the decision of whether an EIA is required based on the characteristics of a project and its environment. This screening checklist is presented in Table 3 below.



Table 3. Screening Checklist to determine if EIA is required based on the characteristics of a project and its environment.

Brief project description Yes/No Is this likely to result in a significant impact?

Why

1. Will construction, operation or decommissioning of the Project involve actions which will cause physical changes in the locality (topography, land use, changes in waterbodies, etc.)?

No No demolition works and minimal construction works are required as part of the proposed Project. There will only be shallow construction activities for resurfacing. Refer to Section 3.2 for details.

2. Will construction or operation of the Project use natural resources such as land, water, materials or energy, especially any resources which are non-renewable or in short supply?

No The project requires minimal resource use, asides from those required for the minimal construction process. Refer to Section 3.4 for details.

3. Will the Project involve use, storage, transport, handling or production of substances or materials which could be harmful to human health or the environment or raise concerns about actual or perceived risks to human health?

No The purpose of the site will not significantly change from its current use as a Multi-Use Transit Storage site. No hazardous materials or substances are required for this operation to be carried out, nor will any hazardous materials or substances be required for the construction phase.

4. Will the Project produce solid wastes during construction or operation or decommissioning?

No The demolition and construction phase will involve the generation of small quantities of construction waste. However, it is not expected that there will be any impact associated with this as waste will be appropriately handled and disposed of in line with best practices. Only light office waste will be generated through the operation. Please refer to Sections 3.5 and 5.5 for details.

5. Will the Project release pollutants or any hazardous, toxic or noxious substances to air?

No No emissions will result from the proposed Project. Please refer to Section 5.2 for details.

6. Will the Project cause noise and vibration or release of light, heat energy or electromagnetic radiation?

No The minimal demolition and construction works will result in some short-term noise and vibration emittance. Please refer to Section 5.8 for details. No light or heat energy, nor electromagnetic radiation, will be emitted.

7. Will the Project lead to risks of contamination of land or water from releases of pollutants onto the ground or into surface waters, groundwater, coastal

wasters or the sea?

No All potential polluting substances would be stored and managed appropriately by the contractor to reduce the risk of accidental spillages and/or discharges. There will be no discharge to surface water, groundwater, coastal waters or the sea and appropriate measures to ensure effective incident control would




Why

be outlined in works method statements.

8. Will there be any risk of accidents during construction or operation of the

Project which could affect human health or the environment?

No No major accidents are predicted. Please refer to Section 5.7 for details.

9. Will the Project result in social changes, for example, in demography, traditional lifestyles, employment?

No The purpose of this site will not change from its current function as a Multi-Purpose Transit Storage site, and so no social changes will occur.

10. Are there any other factors which should be considered such as consequential development which could lead to environmental effects or the potential for cumulative impacts with other existing or planned activities in the locality?

No

There are no other developments proposed for the site. The proposed Project is not expected to generate significant effects and so in-combination effects and cumulative impacts can be excluded.

11. Are there any areas on or around the location which are protected under international or national or local legislation for their ecological, landscape, cultural or other value, which could be affected by the project?

Yes Potential impacts on Areas of Natural Conservation concern were ruled out. Refer to Section 5.3 for details.

12. Are there any other areas on or around the location which are important or sensitive for reasons of their ecology e.g. wetlands, watercourses or other waterbodies, the coastal zone, mountains, forests or woodlands, which could be affected by the project?

Yes Refer to Section 5.3 for details. The ecological value within and around the site is considered to be insignificant in the context of the relative abundance of natural resources in the wider area.

13. Are there any areas on or around the location which are used by protected, important or sensitive species of fauna or flora e.g. for breeding, nesting, foraging, resting, overwintering, migration, which could be affected by the project?

Yes Refer to Section 5.3 for details. The ecological value within and around the site is considered to be insignificant in the context of the relative abundance of natural resources in the wider area.

14. Are there any inland, coastal, marine or underground waters on or around the location which could be affected by the project?

Yes Refer to Section 5.3 for details. The ecological value within and around the site is considered to be insignificant in the context of the relative abundance of natural resources in the wider area. Further, appropriate management of surface water through the Dublin Port Surface Drainage scheme, as well as the discharge of wastewater to the local sewer mitigates any risk of water pollution.

15. Are there any areas or features of high landscape or scenic value on or

No There are no features of scenic value in the area which could be affected by




Why

around the location which could be affected by the project?

the proposed Project. Please refer to Section 5.6 for details.

16. Are there any routes or facilities on or around the location which are used by the public for access to recreation or other facilities, which could be affected by the project?

No Adjacent to the Tolka Quay Road, the proposed Project will not interfere in any way with current transportation systems in the area, as there will be no change in purpose for the site. No additional traffic will be loaded onto transport networks in the area through the operation of the proposed Project. Please refer to Section 5.12 for details.

17. Are there any transport routes on or around the location which are susceptible to congestion or which cause environmental problems, which could be affected by the project?

No

No additional traffic will be loaded onto transport networks the operation of the proposed Project. Please refer to Section 5.12 for details.

18. Is the project in a location where it is likely to be highly visible to many people?

No The site of the proposed Project is located in a heavily industrialized area that forms part of one of Ireland’s busiest ports. The proposed Project will not contribute to any visual pollution. Please refer to Section 5.6 for details.

19. Are there any areas or features of historic or cultural importance on or around the location which could be affected by the project?

No There are no important heritage sites located within the site boundary. Please refer to Section 5.4 for details.

20. Is the project located in a previously undeveloped area where there will be loss of greenfield land?

No The proposed Project involves the repurposing of a facility currently in use as an Import Centre. Minimal construction works will be required, and no undeveloped land will be used. Please refer to Section 3.4 for details.

21. Are there existing land uses on or around the location e.g. homes, gardens, other private property, industry, commerce, recreation, public open space, community facilities, agriculture, forestry, tourism, mining or quarrying which could be affected by the project?

No The proposed site is currently located in a heavily industrial area. The nearest residential zone, or comparably sensitive receptor, is some 800m to the north of the site across the Tolka Bay Estuary This will result in little to no effect on the surrounding land uses.

22. Are there any plans for future land uses on or around the location which could be affected by the project?

No A search of Dublin City Council planning applications has not revealed any significant applications which would be affected by the proposed Project.

23. Are there any areas on or around the location which are densely populated or built-up, which could be affected by the project?

No The nearest residential zone is some 800m north of the proposed site across the Tolka River Estuary, with the site itself being located in an industrial area. It is not anticipated that




Why

there will be any effect on any densely populated areas.

24. Are there any areas on or around the location which are occupied by sensitive land uses e.g. hospitals, schools, places of worship, community facilities, which could be affected by the project?

No There are no sensitive land uses of this nature on or near the proposed site.

25. Are there any areas on or around the location which contain important, high quality or scarce resources e.g. groundwater, surface waters, forestry, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, minerals, which could be affected by the project?

No No.

26. Are there any areas on or around the location which are already subject to pollution or environmental damage e.g. where existing legal environmental standards are exceeded, which could be affected by the project?

Yes There exist some European sites close to the proposed site. However, it is not anticipated that there will be any interaction between the activities on the proposed site and on the European sites, and there will be no effect of the proposed Project on those sites.

27. Is the project location susceptible to earthquakes, subsidence, landslides, and erosion, flooding or extreme or adverse climatic conditions e.g. temperature inversions, fogs, severe winds, which could cause the project to present environmental problems?

No There is no evidence to suggest that any extreme climatic, geological, hydrological or hydrogeological events would likely occur in the proposed Project location. Please refer to Sections 5.10 and 5.11 for details.



APPENDIX 1

Appropriate Assessment

Prepared by Moore Group Environmental Services

Terminal 9 Refurbishment Works, Report for Appropriate Assessment Screening 19015

Moore Group Environmental Services ([email protected]) I

Report for the purposes of

Appropriate Assessment Screening

as required under Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive

(Council Directive 92/43/EEC)

Terminal 9 Refurbishment Works

Dublin Port

Prepared by: Moore Group – Environmental Services

8th July 2019

On behalf of

the Office of Public Works


Moore Group Environmental Services ([email protected]) II

Client OPW

Project Terminal 9 Refurbishment Works Dublin Port

Title Report for the purposes of Appropriate Assessment Screening

Terminal 9 Refurbishment Works Dublin Port

Project Number 19015 Document Ref 19015 Terminal 9 Refurb Works AAS1 Rev2.docx

Revision Description Author Date

Rev0 Issued for client review G. O’Donohoe 31st January 2019

Rev1 Updated per Planning Laws G. O’Donohoe 1st July 2019

Rev2 Minor edits (title change) G. O’Donohoe 8th July 2019

Moore Archaeological and Environmental Services Limited


Moore Group Environmental Services ([email protected]) III

Table of Contents

1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 1

1.1. General Introduction ............................................................................................................... 1

1.2. Legislative Background - The Habitats and Birds Directives ................................................... 2

2. Methodology ........................................................................................................................................... 3

2.1. Guidance ................................................................................................................................. 4

2.2. Data Sources ........................................................................................................................... 4

3. Description of the proposed Project ........................................................................................................ 5

4. Identification of Natura 2000 Sites ........................................................................................................ 10

4.1. Description of Natura Sites Potentially Affected .................................................................. 10

4.2. Conservation Objectives of the Natura 2000 Sites ............................................................... 16

4.2.1. North Dublin Bay SAC (000206) – Version 1 6th November 2013 ................................ 16

4.2.2. South Dublin Bay SAC (000210) - Version 1; 22nd August 2013 ................................... 22

4.2.3. North Bull Island SPA (004006) – Version 1 9th March 2015 ....................................... 22

4.2.4. South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA (004024) - Version 1, 9th March 2015 23

4.3. Assessment Criteria .............................................................................................................. 25

4.3.1. Examples of Direct, Indirect or Secondary Impacts ...................................................... 25

4.3.2. Ecological Network Supporting Natura 2000 Sites ....................................................... 27

5. Identification of Potential Impacts & Assessment of Significance .......................................................... 28

5.1. Potential Impacts .................................................................................................................. 28

5.2. Assessment of Potential In-Combination Effects .................................................................. 29

6. Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................. 30

7. References ............................................................................................................................................ 32

Appendix A – Finding of No Significant Effects Report


Moore Group Environmental Services ([email protected]) IV

Abbreviations

AA Appropriate Assessment

BRE Building Research Establishment

EEC European Economic Community

EPA Environmental Protection Agency

EU European Union

GIS Geographical Information System

NHA Natural Heritage Area

NIS Natura Impact Statement

NPWS National Parks and Wildlife Service

OSI Ordnance Survey Ireland

pNHA proposed Natural Heritage Area

SAC Special Area of Conservation

SPA Special Protection Area

WWTP Waste Water Treatment Plan


Moore Group Environmental Services ([email protected]) 1

1. Introduction

1.1. General Introduction

This report contains information required for the competent authority to undertake screening for Appropriate

Assessment (AA) on the potential for the proposed redevelopment and refurbishment of existing warehouses

at Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1 (hereafter referred to as the proposed Project), to

significantly affect European sites.

The screening process has been prepared having regard to the provisions of the Planning and Development Acts

2000-2018 and to the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 – 2018 (Unofficial Consolidation) Updated

to 16 November 2018. Specifically Chapter 5 Development by a State authority prescribed under section 181 of

the Act.

Screening is the process that addresses and records the reasoning and conclusions in relation to the first two

tests of Article 6(3):

i) whether a plan or project is directly connected to or necessary for the management of the site, and

ii) whether a plan or project, alone or in combination with other plans and projects, is likely to have

significant effects on a Natura 2000 site in view of its conservation objectives.

If the effects are deemed to be significant, potentially significant, or uncertain, or the screening process becomes

overly complicated, then the process must proceed to Stage 2 (AA). Screening should be undertaken without

the inclusion of mitigation. If potential impacts clearly can be avoided through the modification or redesign of

the plan or project, then the screening process is repeated on the altered plan or project.

When screening the project, there are two possible outcomes:

• the project poses no risk of a significant effect and as such requires no further assessment; and

• the project has potential to have a significant effect (or this is uncertain) and AA of the project is

necessary.

This desktop report has been prepared by Moore Group - Environmental Services for the OPW and assesses the

potential for the proposed Project to impact on sites of European-scale ecological importance in accordance

with Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of the Habitats Directive. The report was compiled by Ger O’Donohoe (B.Sc. Applied

Aquatic Sciences (GMIT, 1993) & M.Sc. Environmental Sciences (TCD, 1999)) who has 25 years’ experience in

environmental impact assessment and has completed numerous Appropriate Assessment Screening Reports

and Natura Impact Statements on terrestrial and aquatic habitats.



The report assesses the potential for the proposed Project to impact on sites of European-scale ecological

importance. It is necessary that the proposed Project has regard to Article 6 of the Council Directive 92/43/EEC

on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (as amended) (referred to as the Habitats

Directive). This is transposed into Irish Law by the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats)

Regulations, 2011 (S.I. 477) (referred to as the Habitats Regulations).

1.2. Legislative Background - The Habitats and Birds Directives

The Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna

and flora) is the main legislative instrument for the protection and conservation of biodiversity in the European

Union (EU). Under the Directive, Member States are obliged to designate Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)

which contain habitats or species considered important for protection and conservation in a EU context.

The Birds Directive (Council Directive 79/409/EEC and Council Directive 2009/147/EC on the conservation of wild

birds), is concerned with the long-term protection and management of all wild bird species and their habitats in

the EU. Among other things, the Directive requires that Special Protection Areas (SPAs) be established to protect

migratory species and species which are rare, vulnerable, in danger of extinction, or otherwise require special

attention.

Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) designated under the Habitats Directive and Special Protection Areas,

designated under the Birds Directive, form a pan-European network of protected sites known as Natura 2000.

The Habitats Directive sets out a unified system for the protection and management of SACs and SPAs. These

sites are also referred to as European sites.

Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of the Habitats Directive set out the requirement for an assessment of proposed plans and

projects likely to affect Natura 2000 sites.

Article 6(3) establishes the requirement to screen all plans and projects and to carry out a further assessment if

required (Appropriate Assessment (AA)):

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

the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with

other plans or projects, shall be subjected to an appropriate assessment of its implications for the

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

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

authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having ascertained that it will not adversely

affect the integrity of the site concerned and, if appropriate, after having obtained the opinion of

the general public.”



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

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

of overriding public interest, including those of a social or economic nature, Member States shall

take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure that the overall coherence of the Natura 2000

is protected. It shall inform the Commission of the compensatory measures adopted. Where the site

concerned hosts a priority natural habitat type and/or a priority species the only considerations

which may be raised are those relating to human health or public safety, to the beneficial

consequences of primary importance for the environment or, further to an opinion from the

Commission, to other imperative reasons of overriding public interest.”

2. Methodology

The Commission’s methodological guidance (EC, 2002) promotes a four-stage process to complete the AA and

outlines the issues and tests at each stage. An important aspect of the process is that the outcome at each

successive stage determines whether a further stage in the process is required.

Stages 1-2 deal with the main requirements for assessment under Article 6(3). Stage 3 may be part of Article

6(3) or may be a necessary precursor to Stage 4. Stage 4 is the main derogation step of Article 6(4).

Stage 1 Screening: This stage examines the likely effects of a project either alone or in combination with other

projects upon a Natura 2000 site and considers whether it can be objectively concluded that there are not likely

to be significant effects on a Natura 2000 site. Mitigation measures (i.e., measures intended to avoid or reduce

the harmful effects of the project on the site concerned) cannot be taken into account at this stage.

Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment: In this stage, there is a consideration of the impact of the project with a view

to ascertain whether there will be any adverse effect on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site either alone or in

combination with other projects or plans, with respect to the site’s structure and function and its conservation

objectives. Additionally, where there are predicted impacts, an assessment of the potential mitigation of those

impacts.

Stage 3 Assessment of Alternative Solutions: This stage examines alternative ways of implementing the project

that, where possible, avoid any adverse impacts on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site.

Stage 4 Assessment where no alternative solutions exist and where adverse impacts remain: Where

imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI) exist, an assessment to consider whether compensatory

measures will or will not effectively offset the damage to the sites will be necessary.

To ensure that the proposed Project complies fully with the requirements of Article 6 of the Habitats Directive

and all relevant Irish transposing legislation, Moore Group compiled this report to inform the screening for AA



of the proposed Project to be undertaken by the competent authority to determine if the next stage (Stage 2)

of the AA process is required.

2.1. Guidance

This report has been compiled in accordance with guidance contained in the following documents:

• Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland - Guidance for Planning Authorities.

(Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 2010 rev.).

• Appropriate Assessment under Article 6 of the Habitats Directive: Guidance for Planning Authorities.

Circular NPWS 1/10 & PSSP 2/10.

• Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting Natura 2000 sites: Methodological Guidance

on the Provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC (European Commission

Environment Directorate-General, 2001); hereafter referred to as the EC Article Guidance Document.

• Managing Natura 2000 Sites: The Provisions of Article 6 of the Habitat’s Directive 92/43/EEC (EC

Environment Directorate-General, 2000); hereafter referred to as MN2000.

• Managing Natura 2000 Sites: The Provisions of Article 6 of the Habitat’s Directive 92/43/EEC (EC, 2018).

2.2. Data Sources

Sources of information that were used to collect data on the Natura 2000 network of sites, and the environment

within which they are located, are listed below:

• The following mapping and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) data sources, as required:

o National Parks & Wildlife (NPWS) protected site boundary data;

o Ordnance Survey of Ireland (OSI) mapping and aerial photography;

o OSI/Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rivers and streams, and catchments;

o Open Street Maps;

o Digital Elevation Model over Europe (EU-DEM);

o Google Earth and Bing aerial photography 1995-2019;

• Online data available on Natura 2000 sites as held by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS)

from www.npws.ie including: the Natura 2000 network Data Form; Site Synopsis; Generic Conservation

Objective data;

o Online database of rare, threatened and protected species;

o Publicly accessible biodiversity datasets.

• Status of EU Protected Habitats in Ireland. (National Parks & Wildlife Service, 2013); and

• Relevant Development Plans and Local Area Plans in neighbouring areas;

o Dublin City Development Plan 2016-2022.



3. Description of the proposed Project

It is proposed refurbish existing warehouses at Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1. The works

will involve:

External:

- Repair works to the roof

- Demolition of portions of the existing lower height blockwork warehouses located to the north of the main

warehouse. Existing floor slabs will be retained.

- External façade treatment i.e. paint or other (to be confirmed)

- Site works to east boundary of site to create extension of road surface, line-marking, secure boundary

structure, etc.

- New Gate: It is proposed to create a new vehicular exit / egress gate onto Tolka Quay Road, adjustments will

be required to median strip on centre line of Tolka Quay Road and associated road markings.

- Repair of 6 existing dock levellers including replacement of all roller shutters, rails, surrounds, dock seals,

control systems, etc.

- Fitting of 3 new dock levellers to existing building, as indicated on the attached sketches

- New side-curtain inspection bays within the existing building

Internal:

The interior of the warehouse will be fitted out to accommodate additional storage and inspection facilities,

with associated ancillary spaces.

- Demolition of internal walls in existing front shed building (to allow for new dock levellers) and,

demolition of some internal walls to main warehouse building. Also, demolition works to provide for new

doorways and dock-levellers.

- The construction of new internal raised floor sections served by ramps, stairs and platform lifts to form new

internal unloading area to the rear of the existing dock levellers and also in the front shed building

- New ramps, stairs and lifts to be installed



- Construction of new internal partitions and/or prefabricated inspection rooms and staff welfare facilities

Prefabricated cleanroom-style modules, to be reviewed for possible use

- New internal consignment storage rooms to include temperature-controlled spaces DAFM building - It is

proposed to fit out the interior of the DAFM building to accommodate updated office facilities.

Figure 1 shows the Project location and Figure 2 shows a detailed view of the proposed development site on

recent aerial photography. Figure 3 is a plan of the proposed Project.



Figure 1. Showing the proposed Project location at Dublin Port. ..



Figure 2. Showing the proposed Project site on recent aerial photography.



Figure 3. Layout of the proposed Project.



4. Identification of Natura 2000 Sites

4.1. Description of Natura Sites Potentially Affected

DoEHLG (2009) Guidance on Appropriate Assessment suggests an assessment of European sites within a zone

of impact of 15 km. This distance is a guidance only and the zone of impact has been identified taking

consideration of the nature and location of the proposed Project to ensure all European sites with connectivity

to it are considered in terms of a catchment-based assessment.

The zone of impact may be determined by connectivity to the proposed Project in terms of:

• Nature, scale, timing and duration of works and possible impacts, nature and size of excavations,

storage of materials, flat/sloping sites;

• Distance and nature of pathways (dilution and dispersion; intervening ‘buffer’ lands, roads etc.); and

• Sensitivity and location of ecological features.

The guidance provides that, at the screening stage, it is necessary to identify the sites and compile information

on their qualifying interests and conservation objectives. In preparation for this, the potential for source

pathway receptor connectivity is firstly identified and detailed information is then provided on sites with

connectivity. European sites that are located within 15 km of the Project are listed in Table 1 and presented in

Figures 4 and 5, below.

Table 1 European Sites located within 15km or the potential zone of impact of the Project.

Site Code Site name Direct Distance (km)

000199 Baldoyle Bay SAC 6.75

000202 Howth Head SAC 6.9

000205 Malahide Estuary SAC 10.22

000206 North Dublin Bay SAC 1.29

000210 South Dublin Bay SAC 1.57

002122 Wicklow Mountains SAC 13.86

002193 Ireland's Eye SAC 10.25

003000 Rockabill to Dalkey Island SAC 7.11

004006 North Bull Island SPA 1.28

004016 Baldoyle Bay SPA 6.75

004024 South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA 0.03

004025 Malahide Estuary SPA 10.91

004040 Wicklow Mountains SPA 14.1

004113 Howth Head Coast SPA 9.48

004117 Ireland's Eye SPA 10.05

004172 Dalkey Islands SPA 10.51



There are numerous European sites in the potential zone of impact of the proposed development. The proposed

development site is located at Dublin Port and comprises the location of an complex of warehouses and storage

units that will be refurbished. The site is adjacent to the North Dublin Bay SAC (Site code 000206), the South

Dublin Bay SAC (Site code 000210), the North Bull Island SPA (Site code 004006) and the South Dublin Bay and

River Tolka Estuary SPA (Site code 004024).

There is no relevant connectivity to the other European sites located in the potential zone of impact of the

proposed development and so only these four sites are brought forward for further consideration.

Details of the qualifying interests of the North Dublin Bay SAC (Site code 000206), the South Dublin Bay SAC (Site

code 000210), the North Bull Island SPA (Site code 004006) and the South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary

SPA (Site code 004024) are listed in Tables 2 and 3 below, and Site Synopses are available from the NPWS website

(www.npws.ie). Spatial boundary data on the Natura 2000 network was extracted from the NPWS website on

the 31st January 2019.



Figure 4. Showing European sites and NHAs/pNHAs in the vicinity of the proposed Project.



Figure 5. Showing the proposed Project in relation to the Dublin Bay European sites.



Figure 6. Detailed view of the proposed Project in relation to adjacent Dublin Bay European sites.



Table 2 SACs located within the potential zone of impact of the Project (*indicates priority habitat).

Site Code Site Name Qualifying Interests

000206 North Dublin Bay SAC

Habitats:

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

[1210] Annual vegetation of drift lines

[1310] Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand

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

[1410] Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi)

[2110] Embryonic shifting dunes

[2120] Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (white dunes)

[2130] Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation (grey dunes)

[2190] Humid dune slacks

Species:

[1395] Petalwort Petalophyllum ralfsii

000210 South Dublin Bay SAC

Habitats:

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

Table 3 SPAs located within the potential zone of impact of the Project.


004006 North Bull Island SPA

Habitats:

Wetlands [A999]

Species:

[A046] Light-bellied Brent Goose Branta bernicla hrota

[A048] Shelduck Tadorna tadorna

[A052] Teal Anas crecca

[A054] Pintail Anas acuta

[A056] Shoveler Anas clypeata

[A130] Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus

[A140] Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria

[A141] Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola

[A143] Knot Calidris canutus

[A144] Sanderling Calidris alba

[A149] Dunlin Calidris alpina alpina

[A156] Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa

[A157] Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica

[A160] Curlew Numenius arquata

[A162] Redshank Tringa totanus

[A169] Turnstone Arenaria interpres

[A179] Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus

004024 South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA

Habitats:

Wetlands [A999]

Species:

Light-bellied Brent Goose (Branta bernicla hrota) [A046]

Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) [A130]

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula [A137] Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) [A141]

Knot (Calidris canutus) [A143]




Sanderling Calidris alba [A144]

Dunlin (Calidris alpina) [A149]

Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica) [A157]

Redshank (Tringa totanus) [A162]

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus [A179]

Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii [A192]

Common Tern Sterna hirundo [A193]

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea [A194]

4.2. Conservation Objectives of the Natura 2000 Sites

4.2.1. North Dublin Bay SAC (000206) – Version 1 6th November 2013

The following Conservation Objective is set out for the North Dublin Bay SAC. Specific attributes, measures and

targets are presented in the relevant Conservation Objectives documents and will be addressed in more detail

if required after potential impacts have been determined.

1140 Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low

tide in North Dublin Bay SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:

Attribute Measure Target

Habitat area Hectares The permanent habitat area is stable or increasing, subject to natural processes

Community extent Hectares Maintain the extent of the Mytilus edulis -dominated community, subject to natural processes

Community structure: Mytilus edulis density

Individuals/m2 Conserve the high quality of the Mytilus edulis-dominated community, subject to natural processes

Community

distribution

Hectares Conserve the following community types in a natural condition: Fine sand to sandy mud with Pygospio elegans and Crangon crangon community complex; Fine sand with Spio martinensis community complex.

1210 Annual vegetation of drift lines

To restore the favourable conservation condition of Annual vegetation of drift lines in North Dublin Bay SAC,

which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Habitat area Hectares Area increasing, subject to natural processes, including erosion and succession. Total area mapped: South Bull - 0.11ha.




Habitat distribution Occurrence No decline, or change in habitat distribution, subject to natural processes

Physical structure: functionality and sediment supply

Presence/ absence of physical barriers

Maintain the natural circulation of sediment and organic matter, without any physical obstructions

Vegetation structure: zonation Occurrence Maintain the range of coastal habitats including transitional zones, subject to natural processes including erosion and succession

Vegetation composition: typical species and sub-communities

Percentage cover at a representative number of monitoring stops

Maintain the presence of species-poor communities with typical species: sea rocket (Cakile maritima), sea sandwort (Honckenya peploides), prickly saltwort (Salsola kali) and oraches (Atriplex spp.)

Vegetation structure: negative indicator species

Hectares Negative indicator species (including non-natives) to represent less than 5% cover

1310 Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand

To restore the favourable conservation condition of Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand in

North Dublin Bay SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Habitat area Hectares Area stable or increasing, subject to natural processes, including erosion and succession. For sub-site mapped: North Bull Island - 29.10ha.


Physical structure: sediment supply Presence/ absence of physical barriers

Maintain, or where necessary restore, natural circulation of sediments and organic matter, without any physical obstructions

Physical structure: creeks and pans Occurrence Maintain creek and pan structure, subject to natural processes, including erosion and succession

Physical structure: flooding regime Hectares flooded;

frequency

Maintain natural tidal regime


Vegetation structure: vegetation height

Centimetres Maintain structural variation within sward

Vegetation structure: vegetation cover

Percentage cover at a representative sample of monitoring stops

Maintain more than 90% of area outside creeks vegetated


Percentage cover Maintain the presence of species-poor communities listed in SMP (McCorry and Ryle, 2009)

Vegetation structure: negative indicator species - Spartina anglica

Hectares No significant expansion of common cordgrass (Spartina anglica). No new sites for this species and an annual spread of less than 1%



1330 Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae)

To restore the favourable conservation condition of Atlantic salt meadows (GlaucoPuccinellietalia maritimae) in





Physical structure: sediment supply


Maintain natural circulation of sediments and organic matter, without any physical obstructions

Physical structure: creeks and pans

Occurrence Maintain creek and pan structure, subject to natural processes, including erosion and succession

Physical structure: flooding regime

Hectares flooded; frequency










Maintain range of subcommunities with typical species listed in SMP (McCorry and Ryle, 2009)


Hectares No significant expansion of common cordgrass (Spartina anglica), with an annual spread of less than 1%

1410 Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi)

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi) in




Habitat distribution Occurrence No decline or change in habitat distribution, subject to natural processes.

Physical structure: sediment supply


Maintain/restore natural circulation of sediments and organic matter, without any physical obstructions

Physical structure: creeks and pans

Occurrence Maintain creek and pan structure, subject to natural processes, including erosion and succession




Physical structure: flooding regime

Hectares flooded; frequency


Vegetation structure: zonation

Occurrence Maintain range of coastal habitats including transitional zones, subject to natural processes including erosion and succession








Maintain range of sub-communities with characteristic species listed in SMP (McCorry and Ryle, 2009)


Hectares No significant expansion of common cordgrass (Spartina anglica), with an annual spread of less than 1%

2110 Embryonic shifting dunes

To restore the favourable conservation condition of Embryonic shifting dunes in North Dublin Bay SAC, which is

defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Habitat area Hectares Area stable or increasing, subject to natural processes, including erosion and succession. For sub-sites mapped: North Bull - 2.64ha; South Bull - 3.43ha.

Habitat distribution Occurrence No decline, or change in habitat distribution, subject to natural processes.





Occurrence Maintain range of coastal habitats, including transitional zones, subject to natural processes including erosion and succession

Vegetation composition: plant health of foredune grasses

Percentage cover More than 95% of sand couch (Elytrigia juncea) and/or lyme-grass (Leymus arenarius) should be healthy (i.e. green plant parts above ground and flowering heads present)



Maintain the presence of species-poor communities with typical species: sand couch (Elytrigia juncea) and/or lyme-grass (Leymus arenarius)

Vegetation composition: negative indicator species

Percentage cover Negative indicator species (including non-natives) to represent less than 5% cover

2120 Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (white dunes)

To restore the favourable conservation condition of Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria

('white dunes') in North Dublin Bay SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:




Habitat area Hectares Area stable or increasing, subject to natural processes including erosion and succession. North Bull - 2.20ha; South Bull - 0.97ha.

Habitat distribution Occurrence No decline, or change in habitat distribution, subject to natural processes.





Occurrence Maintain range of coastal habitats, including transitional zones, subject to natural processes including erosion and succession

Vegetation composition: plant health of dune grasses

Percentage cover 95% of marram grass (Ammophila arenaria) and/or lyme-grass (Leymus arenarius) should be healthy (i.e. green plant parts above ground and flowering heads present)



Maintain the presence of species-poor communities dominated by marram grass (Ammophila arenaria) and/or lymegrass (Leymus arenarius)


Percentage cover Negative indicator species (including non-natives) to represent less than 5% cover

2130 Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation (grey dunes)

To restore the favourable conservation condition of Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation ('grey

dunes') in North Dublin Bay SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Habitat area Hectares Area stable or increasing, subject to natural processes including erosion and succession. For subsites mapped: North Bull - 40.29ha; South Bull - 64.56ha.






Occurrence Maintain the range of coastal habitats including transitional zones, subject to natural processes including erosion and succession

Vegetation structure: bare ground

Percentage cover Bare ground should not exceed 10% of fixed dune habitat, subject to natural processes

Vegetation structure: sward height




Maintain range of sub-communities with typical species listed in Delaney et al. (2013)

Vegetation composition: negative indicator species (including Hippophae rhamnoides)

Percentage Cover Negative indicator species (including non-natives) to represent less than 5% cover




Vegetation composition: scrub/trees

Percentage Cover No more than 5% cover or under control

2190 Humid dune slacks

To restore the favourable conservation condition of Humid dune slacks in North Dublin Bay SAC, which is defined

by the following list of attributes and targets:


Habitat area Hectares Area increasing, subject to natural processes including erosion and succession. For sub-sites mapped: North Bull - 2.96ha; South Bull - 9.15ha.





Physical structure: hydrological and flooding regime

Water table levels; groundwater fluctuations (metres)

Maintain natural hydrological regime


Occurrence Maintain the range of coastal habitats including transitional zones, subject to natural processes including erosion and succession

Vegetation structure: bare ground

Percentage cover Bare ground should not exceed 5% of dune slack habitat, with the exception of pioneer slacks which can have up to 20% bare ground





Maintain range of sub-communities with typical species listed in Delaney et al. (2013)

Vegetation composition: cover of Salix repens

Percentage cover;

centimetres

Maintain less than 40% cover of creeping willow (Salix repens)


Percentage Cover Negative indicator species (including non-natives) to represent less than 5% cover

Vegetation composition: scrub/trees

Percentage Cover No more than 5% cover or under control

1395 Petalwort Petalophyllum ralfsii

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Petalwort in North Dublin Bay SAC, which is defined by the

following list of attributes and targets:


Distribution of populations Number and geographical spread of populations

No decline.




Population size Number of individuals No decline. Population at Bull Island estimated at a maximum of 5,824 thalli. Actual population is more likely to be 5% of this, or c. 300 thalli

Area of suitable habitat Hectares No decline. Area of suitable habitat at Bull Island is estimated at c. 0.04ha.

Hydrological conditions: soil moisture

Occurrence Maintain hydrological conditions so that substrate is kept moist and damp throughout the year, but not subject to prolonged inundation by flooding in winter

Vegetation structure: height and cover

Centimetres and percentage

Maintain open, low vegetation with a high percentage of bryophytes (small acrocarps and liverwort turf) and bare ground

4.2.2. South Dublin Bay SAC (000210) - Version 1; 22nd August 2013

The following Conservation Objective is set out for the South Dublin Bay SAC. Specific attributes, measures and

targets are presented in the relevant Conservation Objectives documents and will be addressed in more detail

if required after potential impacts have been determined.

1140 Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low

tide in South Dublin Bay SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets.


Habitat area Hectares The permanent habitat area is stable or increasing, subject to natural processes

Community extent Hectares Maintain the extent of the Zostera-dominated community, subject to natural processes

Community structure: Mytilus edulis density

Individuals/m2 Conserve the high quality of the Zostera-dominated community, subject to natural processes

Community

distribution

Hectares Conserve the following community types in a natural condition: Fine sands with Angulus tenuis community complex.

4.2.3. North Bull Island SPA (004006) – Version 1 9th March 2015

Generic Conservation Objectives

In the absence of specific conservation objectives, the following generic conservation objectives can be applied

to each qualifying species listed. Species with specific conservation objectives are listed below.

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of [each qualifying species] in North Bull Island SPA, which is

defined by the following list of attributes and targets:



[Qualifying Bird Species]


Population trend Percentage change Long term population trend stable or increasing

Distribution Range, timing and intensity of use of areas

No significant decrease in the range, timing or intensity of use of areas by [each qualifying species], other than that occurring from natural patterns of variation

Specific Conservation Objectives

A99 Wetlands

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of the wetland habitat in North Bull Island SPA as a resource

for the regularly occurring migratory waterbirds that utilise it. This is defined by the following attribute and

target:


Habitat area Hectares The permanent area occupied by the wetland habitat should be stable and not significantly less than the area of 1,713 hectares, other than that occurring from natural patterns of variation.

4.2.4. South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA (004024) - Version 1, 9th March 2015

Specific Conservation Objectives and Target Notes are set by the NPWS (Vers 1; 9th March 2015) for the South

Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA (004025) as follows.

Generic Conservation Objectives

In the absence of specific conservation objectives, the following generic conservation objectives can be applied

to each qualifying species listed. Species with specific conservation objectives are listed below.

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of [each qualifying species] in Malahide Estuary SPA, which

is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:

[Qualifying Bird Species]


Population trend Percentage change Long term population trend stable or increasing

Distribution Range, timing and intensity of use of areas

No significant decrease in the range, timing or intensity of use of areas by redshank, other than that occurring from natural patterns of variation



Specific Conservation Objectives

A141 Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola

Grey Plover is proposed for removal from the list of Special Conservation Interests for South Dublin Bay and

River Tolka Estuary SPA. As a result, a site-specific conservation objective has not been set for this species.

A192 Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Roseate Tern in South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary

SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Passage population: individuals Number No significant decline

Distribution: roosting areas Number; location; area (hectares) No significant decline

Prey biomass available Kilogrammes No significant decline

Barriers to connectivity Number; location; shape; area (hectares)

No significant decline

Disturbance at roosting site Level of impact Human activities should occur at levels that do not adversely affect the numbers of roseate tern among the post-breeding aggregation of terns

A193 Common Tern Sterna hirundo

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Common Tern in South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary



Breeding population abundance: Apparently occupied nests (AONs)

Number No significant decline

Productivity rate: fledged young per breeding pair

Mean number No significant decline

Passage population: individuals Number No significant decline

Distribution: breeding colonies Number; location; area (Hectares) No significant decline

Distribution: roosting areas Number; location; area (Hectares) No significant decline



No significant increase

Disturbance at breeding site Level of impact Human activities should occur at levels that do not adversely affect the breeding common tern population

Disturbance at roosting site Level of impact Human activities should occur at levels that do not adversely affect the numbers of common tern among




the post-breeding aggregation of terns

A194 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Arctic Tern in South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary



Passage population Number of individuals No significant decline

Distribution: roosting areas Number; location; area (Hectares) No significant decline



No significant increase

Disturbance at roosting site Level of impact Human activities should occur at levels that do not adversely affect the numbers of Arctic tern among the post-breeding aggregation of terns

A99 Wetlands

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of the wetland habitat in South Dublin Bay and River Tolka

SPA as a resource for the regularly-occurring migratory waterbirds that utilise it. This is defined by the following

attribute and target:


Habitat area Hectares The permanent area occupied by the wetland habitat should be stable and not significantly less than the area of 2,192 hectares, other than that occurring from natural patterns of variation.

4.3. Assessment Criteria

4.3.1. Examples of Direct, Indirect or Secondary Impacts

In order to identify those sites that could be potentially affected, it is necessary to describe the Natura 2000 site

in the context of why it has been designated i.e. in terms of its Qualifying Interests and the environmental and

ecological conditions that maintain the condition of these features. The underpinning conditions that are

required to maintain the ‘health’ of these features are listed in Table 4 below.



Table 4 Qualifying Interests and Key environmental conditions supporting site integrity.

Qualifying Interests Key environmental conditions supporting site integrity

Current Threats to Qualifying Interests

Annual vegetation of drift lines

Marine and groundwater dependent. Sensitivity to hydrological change. Changes in salinity and tidal regime. Overgrazing, erosion and accretion.

Grazing, Sand and gravel extraction –removal of beach materials, Walking, horse riding and non-motorised vehicles, Outdoor sports and leisure activities –

Motorised vehicles, Other leisure and tourism impacts (beach cleaning), Trampling, overuse, Sea defence or coastal protection works

Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae)

Marine and groundwater dependent. Medium sensitivity to hydrological change. Changes in salinity and tidal regime. Overgrazing, erosion and accretion.

Overgrazing; erosion; invasive species, particularly common cordgrass (Spartina anglica); infilling and reclamation.

Embryonic Shifting dunes

Marine and groundwater dependent. Substrate is highly unstable, availability of nutrients is low and there is an absence of organic soil and humus. The habitat is subject to salt spray and occasional tidal inundation. Exposure increases the risk of water loss.

Walking, horseriding and non-motorised vehicles, Motorised vehicles, Trampling, overuse, Sea defence or coastal protection works, Erosion, Other natural processes (depletion of sediment source)

Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation (grey dunes) *

Marine and groundwater dependent. Once a complete sward is established and sand mobility has effectively ceased, dunes are said to be stable or ‘fixed’ and are referred to as ‘fixed dunes’. A combination of geomorphologic, edaphic, climatic and anthropogenic factors determine the composition of the fixed dune vegetation that develops at a particular site.

Mowing/cutting, Agricultural improvement, Fertilisation, Grazing, Abandonment of pastoral systems, Overgrazing by sheep, Overgrazing by cattle, Overgrazing by hares, rabbits, small mammals, Undergrazing, Restructuring agricultural holding, Stock feeding, Burning, Sand and gravel extraction, Urbanised areas, human habitation, urbanization, Dispersed habitation, Disposal of household waste, Other urbanisation, industrial or similar activities, Paths, tracks, cycling routes, Routes, autoroutes, course, Sports pitch, Camping and caravans, Walking, horseriding and non-motorised vehicles, Motorised vehicles, , Trampling, overuse, pollution or human activities, Sea defence or coastal protection works, Erosion, Invasion by a species, Competition

Humid dune slacks Marine and groundwater dependent. Sensitivity to hydrological change. Changes in salinity and tidal regime.

The principal threats to the wetland habitats are water abstraction and drainage, a lack of natural dynamics leading to few ‘embryo’ slacks, under-grazing and scrub development.

Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi)

Marine and groundwater dependent. Sensitivity to hydrological change. Changes in salinity and tidal regime. Overgrazing, erosion and accretion

Overgrazing; erosion; invasive species, particularly common cordgrass (Spartina anglica); infilling and reclamation.

Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide

Surface and marine water dependent. Low sensitivity to hydrological changes. Aquaculture, fishing and pollution.

Aquaculture, fishing, dumping of wastes and water pollution.

Petalwort

(Petalophyllum ralfsii)

Lime-rich sandy habitat. Overgrazing. Water supply for damp conditions.

Grazing Imbalance, Physical Disturbance, Pollution, Desiccation, trampling from stock and recreation, changes in land use.



Qualifying Interests Key environmental conditions supporting site integrity

Current Threats to Qualifying Interests

Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand

Marine and groundwater dependent. Medium sensitivity to hydrological change. Changes in salinity and tidal regime. Infilling, reclamation, invasive species.

Invasive Species; erosion and accretion.

Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (white dunes)

Marine habitat subject to accretion (sand accumulation) and ablation (sand removal). Plants highly specialised and can cope with some degree of salinity (in the form of salt spray and occasional periods of inundation), an unstable substrate and limited levels of nutrients and moisture.

Grazing, Sand and gravel extraction, Removal of beach materials, Paths, tracks, cycling routes, Walking, horseriding and non-motorised vehicles, Motorised vehicles, Trampling, overuse, Sea defence or coastal protection works, Erosion, Other natural processes (depletion of sediment source)

Wetlands & Waterbirds Highly sensitive to hydrological changes and loss of wetland habitat. Sensitive to disturbance.

A number of pressures have been identified by Crowe (2005). These pressures include: the modification of wetland sites, particularly for industry or housing and increased levels of disturbance, largely related to recreational activity. Eutrophication at a number of wetland sites as a result of nutrient inputs from a range of polluting activities were also identified as a potential pressure. However, this latter pressure is now being alleviated through stricter control of activities associated with water discharge/runoff etc. Climate change was also noted as a significant factor underlying changes in trends of wintering waterbirds in Ireland.

4.3.2. Ecological Network Supporting Natura 2000 Sites

An analysis of the proposed Natural Heritage Areas and designated Natural Heritage Areas in terms of their role

in supporting the species using Natura 2000 sites was undertaken. It was assumed that these supporting roles

mainly related to mobile fauna such as mammals and birds which may use pNHAs and NHAs as “stepping stones”

between Natura 2000 sites.

Article 10 of the Habitats Directive and the Habitats Regulations 2011 place a high degree of importance on such

non-Natura 2000 areas as features that connect the Natura 2000 network. Features such as ponds, woodlands

and important hedgerows were taken into account during the rest of the AA process.

Many of the sites listed are also designated as proposed Natural Heritage Areas and for the purposes of this

screening report, are dealt with under their higher conservation status designation as a European site.

There are no other sites of conservation concern that would be affected by the proposed development.

The site will entail the development of the existing buildings and immediate curtilage and there will be no in-

combination or cumulative effects.



5. Identification of Potential Impacts & Assessment of Significance

The proposed Project is not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the sites considered in

the assessment and therefore potential impacts must be identified and considered.

5.1. Potential Impacts

This section uses the information collected on the sensitivity of each European site considered and describes

any likely significant effects of implementation of the Project. This assumes the absence of any controls,

conditions or assumption mitigation measures.

The likely significant effects of the proposed Project are presented in Table 5, both in isolation and potentially

in combination with other plans and projects.

There would be no direct impacts on the Dublin Bay European sites and there would be no habitat loss or

fragmentation as a result of the proposed development.

The proposed demolition of smaller warehouses in the northern portion of the site and demolition of internal

walls will not generate significant disturbance or waste as the walls are standard block and roofs are primarily

metal with some Perspex. All waste will be removed to a licenced facility.

Potential impacts on SPA bird species can be ruled out given the nature of the proposed development within an

existing industrial zone with existing levels of human activity, e.g., movement of vehicles, forklifts, containers

and background noise and given the site is elevated above the high water mark with an intervening treeline and

the constructed mound of the internal road network improvements.

Having considered direct impacts and ruling them out, indirect impacts are then considered in terms of source-

vector pathways, in particular hydrological connectivity.

A worst-case scenario may be considered whereby the Project would be the source of a significant detrimental

change in water quality in Dublin Bay either alone or in combination with other projects or plans as a result of

indirect pollution. The effect would have to be considered in terms of changes in water quality which would

affect the habitats or food sources of the species for which the Dublin Bay sites are designated. This scenario

would involve the release of contaminated surface water in terms of chemical pollutants and this will not occur.

The existing site is connected to Municipal Sewer and the Dublin Port Surface Water Drainage system and there

will be no discharge of contaminated surface water to the aquatic environment of Dublin Bay.

In light of the foregoing, significant effects on the Europeans sites considered can be excluded.



5.2. Assessment of Potential In-Combination Effects

Cumulative impacts or effects are changes in the environment that result from numerous human-induced, small-

scale alterations. Cumulative impacts can be thought of as occurring through two main pathways: first, through

persistent additions or losses of the same materials or resource, and second, through the compounding effects

as a result of the coming together of two or more effects.

As part of the Screening for an Appropriate Assessment, in addition to the proposed Project, other relevant plans

and projects in the area must also be considered at this stage. This step aims to identify at this early stage any

possible significant in-combination effects of the proposed development with other such plans and projects on

European sites.

A review of data made available through the planning section of the Dublin City Council website indicates that,

within the last three years, there have been 46 applications based upon a search for planning applications which

contain the following search terms in their address details: ‘Dublin Port’.

It is not feasible to include the details of each application in the present report. Suffice it to say that the files

were viewed on the Dublin City Planning portal and the majority of the application refer to either internal or

minor site development with no potential for in combination effects.

The only application considered further, located immediately adjacent to the subject Project site, is the

development of the internal port road network; Pl. Ref. 3084/16.

The development comprises of works to the Port's private internal road network and includes works on public

roads at East Wall Road, Bond Road and Alfie Byrne Road. The development will consist of: a) Construction of

new roads and enhancements to existing roads within the Dublin Port estate north of River Liffey; b)

Construction of enhanced landscaping and amenity route along the northern boundary; c) Construction of new

pedestrian and cycle overbridge at Promenade Road; d) Construction of access ramps to pedestrian and cycle

overbridge at Promenade Road; e) Construction of new pedestrian and cycle underpass at Promenade Road; f)

Construction of 11 no. new signage gantries; g) Ancillary construction works, including site clearance,

demolitions, earthworks, pavement construction, construction of verges, modifications to accesses,

construction of new and amended drainage services, diversion and installation of utility services, installation of

road markings and signs and accommodation works; h) Works to existing boundaries and construction of new

boundaries; i) Construction of minor works to the junctions of East Wall Road with Tolka Quay Road and East

Wall Road with Alexandra Road. The application is for a 10 year planning permission.

The application was accompanied by a Screening Report for EIA and a Report for AA Screening which determine

that there would be no significant impacts on the adjacent European sites in Dublin Bay.



Given the determination of no significant impacts from the subject Project and the that there are no predicted

significant effects for adjacent projects, there are no predicted in-combination effects for the subject Project.

The Dublin City Development Plan in complying with the requirements of the Habitats Directive requires that all

Projects and Plans that could affect the Natura 2000 sites in the same zone of impact of the Project site would

be initially screened for Appropriate Assessment and if requiring Stage 2 AA, that appropriate employable

mitigation measures would be put in place to avoid, reduce or ameliorate negative impacts. In this way any, in-

combination impacts with Plans or Projects for the development area and surrounding townlands in which the

development site is located, would be avoided.

Any new applications for the Project area will be initially assessed on a case by case basis by Dublin City Council

which will determine the requirement for AA Screening as per the requirements of Article 6(3) of the Habitats

Directive.

Table 5 Outlining the potential impacts in the absence of mitigation of the Project.

Site Potential Direct Impacts

e.g. Habitat Loss

Potential Indirect Impacts

e.g. alteration to hydrological regime

Surface or Groundwater Contamination

Disturbance to Protected Species

(Habitats Directive Annex II & IV)

Stage 2 AA Required

000206 North Dublin Bay SAC

No No No No No

000210 South Dublin Bay SAC

No No No No No

004006 North Bull Island SPA

No No No No No

004024 South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA

No No No No No

6. Conclusion

There would be no direct impacts on the Dublin Bay European sites and there would be no habitat loss or

fragmentation as a result of the proposed development.

Potential impacts on SPA bird species can be ruled out given the nature of the proposed development within an

existing industrial zone with existing levels of human activity, e.g., movement of vehicles, forklifts, containers

and background noise and given the site is elevated above the high water mark with an intervening treeline and

the constructed mound of the internal road network improvements.



Having considered direct impacts and ruling them out, indirect impacts are then considered in terms of source-

vector pathways, in particular hydrological connectivity.

A worst-case scenario may be considered whereby the Project would be the source of a significant detrimental

change in water quality in Dublin Bay either alone or in combination with other projects or plans as a result of

indirect pollution. The effect would have to be considered in terms of changes in water quality which would

affect the habitats or food sources of the species for which the Dublin Bay sites are designated. This scenario

would involve the release of contaminated surface water in terms of chemical pollutants and this will not occur.

The existing site is connected to Municipal Sewer and the Dublin Port Surface Water Drainage system and there

will be no discharge of contaminated surface water to the aquatic environment of Dublin Bay.


It has been objectively concluded by Moore Group Environmental Services that:

1. The proposed Project is not directly connected with, or necessary to the conservation management of

the European sites considered in this assessment.

2. The proposed Project is unlikely to indirectly significantly affect the Qualifying interests or Conservation

Objectives of the European sites considered in this assessment.

3. The proposed Project, alone or in combination with other projects, is not likely to have significant

effects on the European sites considered in this assessment in view of their conservation objectives.

4. It is possible to conclude that there would be no significant effects, no potentially significant effects

and no uncertain effects if the proposed Project were to proceed.

It is the view of Moore Group Environmental Services that it is not necessary to undertake any further stage of

the Appropriate Assessment process.

A finding of no significant effects report is presented in Appendix A in accordance with the EU Commission’s

methodological guidance (European Commission, 2002).



7. References

Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (2010) Guidance on Appropriate Assessment

of Plans and Projects in Ireland (as amended February 2010).

European Commission (2000) Managing Natura 2000 sites: the provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive

92/43/EEC.

European Commission Environment DG (2002) Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura

2000 sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43EEC.

European Commission, Brussels.

European Commission (2007) Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the 'Habitats Directive '92/43/EEC:

Clarification of the concepts of: alternative solutions, imperative reasons of overriding public interests,

compensatory measures, overall coherence and opinion of the Commission. European Commission, Brussels.

European Commission (2018) Managing Natura 2000 sites: the provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive

92/43/EEC.

NPWS (2013) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. National Parks and Wildlife Service,

Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.

NPWS (2013) Conservation Objectives: North Dublin Bay SAC 000206. Version 1. National Parks and Wildlife

Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

NPWS (2013) Conservation Objectives: South Dublin Bay SAC 000210. Version 1. National Parks and Wildlife


NPWS (2015) Conservation Objectives: North Bull Island SPA 004006. Version 1. National Parks and Wildlife


NPWS (2015) Conservation Objectives: South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA 004024. Version 1. National

Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.



Appendix A

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS REPORT Finding no significant effects report matrix

Name of project or plan

proposed redevelopment and refurbishment of existing warehouses at Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1.

Name and location of the Natura 2000 site(s)

There are numerous European sites in the potential zone of impact of the proposed development. The proposed development site is located at Dublin Port and comprises the location of an complex of warehouses and storage units that will be refurbished. The site is adjacent to the North Dublin Bay SAC (Site code 000206), the South Dublin Bay SAC (Site code 000210), the North Bull Island SPA (Site code 004006) and the South Dublin Bay and River Tolka Estuary SPA (Site code 004024).

There is no relevant connectivity to the other European sites located in the potential zone of impact of the proposed development and so only these four sites are brought forward for further consideration.

Description of the project or plan

It is proposed refurbish existing warehouses at Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1. The works will involve:

External:

- Repair works to the roof

- Demolition of portions of the existing lower height blockwork warehouses located to the north of the main warehouse. Existing floor slabs will be retained.

- External façade treatment i.e. paint or other (to be confirmed)

- Site works to east boundary of site to create extension of road surface, line-marking, secure boundary structure, etc.

- New Gate: It is proposed to create a new vehicular exit / egress gate onto Tolka Quay Road, adjustments will be required to median strip on centre line of Tolka Quay Road and associated road markings.

- Repair of 6 existing dock levellers including replacement of all roller shutters, rails, surrounds, dock seals, control systems, etc.

- Fitting of 3 new dock levellers to existing building, as indicated on the attached sketches

- New side-curtain inspection bays within the existing building

Internal:

The interior of the warehouse will be fitted out to accommodate additional storage and inspection facilities, with associated ancillary spaces.

- Demolition of internal walls in existing front shed building (to allow for new dock levellers) and,

demolition of some internal walls to main warehouse building. Also, demolition works to provide for new doorways and dock-levellers.

- The construction of new internal raised floor sections served by ramps, stairs and platform lifts to form new internal unloading area to the rear of the existing dock levellers and also in the front shed building

- New ramps, stairs and lifts to be installed

- Construction of new internal partitions and/or prefabricated inspection rooms and staff welfare facilities Prefabricated cleanroom-style modules, to be reviewed for possible use



- New internal consignment storage rooms to include temperature-controlled spaces DAFM building - It is proposed to fit out the interior of the DAFM building to accommodate updated office facilities.

Is the project or plan directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site(s)

No

Are there other projects or plans that together with the projects or plan being assessed could affect the site

A review of data made available through the planning section of the Dublin City Council website indicates that, within the last three years, there have been 46 applications based upon a search for planning applications which contain the following search terms in their address details: ‘Dublin Port’.

It is not feasible to include the details of each application in the present report. Suffice it to say that the files were viewed on the Dublin City Planning portal and the majority of the application refer to either internal or minor site development with no potential for in combination effects.

The only application considered further, located immediately adjacent to the subject Project site, is the development of the internal port road network; Pl. Ref. 3084/16.

The development comprises of works to the Port's private internal road network and includes works on public roads at East Wall Road, Bond Road and Alfie Byrne Road. The development will consist of: a) Construction of new roads and enhancements to existing roads within the Dublin Port estate north of River Liffey; b) Construction of enhanced landscaping and amenity route along the northern boundary; c) Construction of new pedestrian and cycle overbridge at Promenade Road; d) Construction of access ramps to pedestrian and cycle overbridge at Promenade Road; e) Construction of new pedestrian and cycle underpass at Promenade Road; f) Construction of 11 no. new signage gantries; g) Ancillary construction works, including site clearance, demolitions, earthworks, pavement construction, construction of verges, modifications to accesses, construction of new and amended drainage services, diversion and installation of utility services, installation of road markings and signs and accommodation works; h) Works to existing boundaries and construction of new boundaries; i) Construction of minor works to the junctions of East Wall Road with Tolka Quay Road and East Wall Road with Alexandra Road. The application is for a 10 year planning permission.

The application was accompanied by a Screening Report for EIA and a Report for AA Screening which determine that there would be no significant impacts on the adjacent European sites in Dublin Bay.

Given the determination of no significant impacts from the subject Project and the that there are no predicted significant effects for adjacent projects, there are no predicted in-combination effects for the subject Project.

The Dublin City Development Plan in complying with the requirements of the Habitats Directive requires that all Projects and Plans that could affect the Natura 2000 sites in the same zone of impact of the Project site would be initially screened for Appropriate Assessment and if requiring Stage 2 AA, that appropriate employable mitigation measures would be put in place to avoid, reduce or ameliorate negative impacts. In this way any, in-combination impacts with Plans or Projects for the development area and surrounding townlands in which the development site is located, would be avoided.

Any new applications for the Project area will be assessed initially on a case by case basis by Dublin City Council which will determine the requirement for AA Screening as per the requirements of Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive.

THE ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE OF EFFECTS Describe how the project or plan (alone or in combination) is likely to affect the Natura 2000 site.

A worst-case scenario may be considered whereby the Project would be the source of a significant detrimental change in water quality in Dublin Bay either alone or in combination with other projects or plans as a result of indirect pollution. The effect would have to be considered in terms of changes in water quality which would



affect the habitats or food sources of the species for which the Dublin Bay sites are designated. This scenario would involve the release of contaminated surface water in terms of chemical pollutants and this will not occur.

Explain why these effects are not considered significant.

There would be no direct impacts on the Dublin Bay European sites and there would be no habitat loss or fragmentation as a result of the proposed development. The proposed demolition of smaller warehouses in the northern portion of the site and demolition of internal walls will not generate significant disturbance or waste as the walls are standard block and roofs are primarily metal with some Perspex. All waste will be removed to a licenced facility. Potential impacts on SPA bird species can be ruled out given the nature of the proposed development within an existing industrial zone with existing levels of human activity, e.g., movement of vehicles, forklifts, containers and background noise and given the site is elevated above the high water mark with an intervening treeline and the constructed mound of the internal road network improvements. Having considered direct impacts and ruling them out, indirect impacts are then considered in terms of source-vector pathways, in particular hydrological connectivity. A worst-case scenario may be considered whereby the Project would be the source of a significant detrimental change in water quality in Dublin Bay either alone or in combination with other projects or plans as a result of indirect pollution. The effect would have to be considered in terms of changes in water quality which would affect the habitats or food sources of the species for which the Dublin Bay sites are designated. This scenario would involve the release of contaminated surface water in terms of chemical pollutants and this will not occur. The existing site is connected to Municipal Sewer and the Dublin Port Surface Water Drainage system and there will be no discharge of contaminated surface water to the aquatic environment of Dublin Bay. In light of the foregoing, significant effects on the Europeans sites considered can be excluded.

List of agencies consulted: provide contact name and telephone or e-mail address

The requirement for Appropriate Assessment Screening was determined by the Office of Public Works.

Response to consultation

N/A.

DATA COLLECTED TO CARRY OUT THE ASSESSMENT Who carried out the assessment

Moore Group Environmental Services.

Sources of data

NPWS database of designated sites at www.npws.ie

National Biodiversity Data Centre database http://maps.biodiversityireland.ie

Level of assessment completed

Desktop Assessment.

Where can the full results of the assessment be accessed and viewed

Office of Public Works Web Portal https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/a7ba02-brexit-info/

OVERALL CONCLUSIONS There would be no direct impacts on the Dublin Bay European sites and there would be no habitat loss or fragmentation as a result of the proposed development.



Potential impacts on SPA bird species can be ruled out given the nature of the proposed development within an existing industrial zone with existing levels of human activity, e.g., movement of vehicles, forklifts, containers and background noise and given the site is elevated above the high water mark with an intervening treeline and the constructed mound of the internal road network improvements.

Having considered direct impacts and ruling them out, indirect impacts are then considered in terms of source-vector pathways, in particular hydrological connectivity.

A worst-case scenario may be considered whereby the Project would be the source of a significant detrimental change in water quality in Dublin Bay either alone or in combination with other projects or plans as a result of indirect pollution. The effect would have to be considered in terms of changes in water quality which would affect the habitats or food sources of the species for which the Dublin Bay sites are designated. This scenario would involve the release of contaminated surface water in terms of chemical pollutants and this will not occur.

The existing site is connected to Municipal Sewer and the Dublin Port Surface Water Drainage system and there will be no discharge of contaminated surface water to the aquatic environment of Dublin Bay.


It has been objectively concluded by Moore Group Environmental Services that:

1. The proposed Project is not directly connected with, or necessary to the conservation management of the European sites considered in this assessment.

2. The proposed Project is unlikely to indirectly significantly affect the Qualifying interests or Conservation Objectives of the European sites considered in this assessment.

3. The proposed Project, alone or in combination with other projects, is not likely to have significant effects on the European sites considered in this assessment in view of their conservation objectives.

4. It is possible to conclude that there would be no significant effects, no potentially significant effects and no uncertain effects if the proposed Project were to proceed.

It is the view of Moore Group Environmental Services that it is not necessary to undertake any further stage of the Appropriate Assessment process.

Documents

TERMINAL 9 REFURBISHMENT WORKS, DUBLIN PORT, NORTH … · at Terminal 9, Tolka Quay Road, Dublin Port, North Dock, Dublin 1 (herein referred to as the proposed Project). An Appropriate