Nottingham Trent Left Bank Flood Alleviation Scheme Left Bank FAS Nov...Nottingham Trent Left Bank Flood Alleviation Scheme Scoping Report (External Consultation Version) Revision

Nottingham Trent Left Bank Flood Alleviation Scheme

Scoping Report (External Consultation Version) Revision 1

November 2005

B&V Ref: 108765 Environment Agency Midlands Region Olton Court 10 Warwick Road, Olton, Birmingham, B92 7HX Telephone – 08708 506 506

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Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS Scoping Report

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SUMMARY .............................................................................................................. iii

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION.................................................................................. 9

1.1 Purpose of the Document .................................................................................... 9 1.2 Location............................................................................................................. 9 1.3 Background to the Project ................................................................................. 10

SECTION 2 PROJECT OBJECTIVES ................................................................... 13

2.1 Objectives of the Project ................................................................................... 13

SECTION 3 THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT..................................................... 15

3.1 Introduction...................................................................................................... 15 3.2 Data Collection and Study Area......................................................................... 16 3.3 The Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS............................................................... 16 3.4 Generic Environmental Conditions.................................................................... 18 3.5 Site Specific Environmental Conditions............................................................. 19 3.6 Sawley ............................................................................................................. 19 3.7 Trent Meadows ................................................................................................. 22 3.8 Attenborough.................................................................................................... 23 3.9 Rylands ............................................................................................................ 26 3.10 Meadows .......................................................................................................... 27 3.11 Colwick............................................................................................................ 29 3.12 Constraints and Opportunities............................................................................ 31

SECTION 4 ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS ................................................................ 33

4.1 How the options were developed....................................................................... 33 4.2 Standard of Protection....................................................................................... 35 4.3 Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS Options......................................................... 35 4.4 Alignments of Flood Defences (Option 3) for Scheme Areas............................... 36 4.5 Sawley ............................................................................................................. 37 4.6 Trent Meadows ................................................................................................. 38 4.7 Attenborough.................................................................................................... 39 4.8 Rylands ............................................................................................................ 41 4.9 Meadows .......................................................................................................... 42 4.10 Colwick............................................................................................................ 43 4.11 Flood Embankments......................................................................................... 44 4.12 Flood Walls...................................................................................................... 44 4.13 Drainage........................................................................................................... 45

SECTION 5 CONSULTATION................................................................................. 47

5.1 Previous Consultation....................................................................................... 47 5.2 Current Consultation......................................................................................... 47 5.3 Future Consultation........................................................................................... 48

SECTION 6 POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES................ 49

6.1 Our approach to impact assessment.................................................................... 49 6.2 How we assessed the impacts............................................................................ 49 6.3 Impacts of Do Nothing (Option 1)..................................................................... 50 6.4 Impacts of Do Minimum (Option 2)................................................................... 50


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6.5 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Generic Impacts & Mitigation...............51 6.6 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Site Specific Impacts & Mitigation ........51 6.7 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Sawley.............................52 6.8 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Trent Meadows ................53 6.9 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Attenborough ...................54 6.10 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Rylands ...........................56 6.11 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Meadows .........................56 6.12 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Colwick...........................58 6.13 Cumulative Impacts...........................................................................................59

SECTION 7 ENHANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES ..................................................63

7.1 Areas of Proposed Environmental Enhancement.................................................63 7.2 Enhancement Opportunities at Sawley................................................................63 7.3 Enhancement Opportunities at Trent Meadows ...................................................64 7.4 Enhancement Opportunities at Attenborough......................................................64 7.5 Enhancement Opportunities at Rylands ..............................................................65 7.6 Enhancement Opportunities at Meadows ............................................................65 7.7 Enhancement Opportunities at Colwick..............................................................65

SECTION 8 NEXT STEPS IN THE EIA PROCEDURE...........................................67

SECTION 9 FURTHER INFORMATION................................................................. 69

ANNEXES Annex 1: List of Consultees Annex 2: Glossary Annex 3: Planning Documents Annex 4: EIA Scoping Impact Matrices Annex 5: Plans and Drawings FIGURES

(in Annex 5 unless otherwise stated) Figure 1 Extent of Scheme (in main text) Figure 2a Indicative Outline Design – Sawley Figure 2b Indicative Landscape Plan – Sawley Figure 3a Indicative Outline Design – Trent Meadows Figure 3b Indicative Landscape Plan – Trent Meadows Figure 4a Indicative Outline Design – Attenborough Figure 4b Indicative Landscape Plan – Attenborough Figure 5a Indicative Outline Design – Rylands Figure 5b Indicative Landscape Plan – Rylands Figure 6a Indicative Outline Design – Meadows Figure 6b Indicative Landscape Plan – Meadows Figure 7a Indicative Outline Design – Colwick Figure 7b Indicative Landscape Plan – Colwick Figure 8 Hierarchy of Flood Defence Management (in main text) Figure 9 Example of Profile for Flood Embankment (in main text) Figure 10 Example of Profile for Flood Wall (in main text) Figure 11 Summary of EIA Process (in main text)


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SUMMARY Purpose of the Scoping Report The Environment Agency is committed to managing the flood risk in Nottingham. We are investigating options to protect properties and people along the left bank of the River Trent through our Nottingham Trent Left Bank Flood Alleviation Scheme. Over 15,000 properties could benefit from this scheme and we are currently seeking public comment on our proposals.

As part of the Flood Alleviation Scheme (FAS) we are looking to:

Ø reduce flood risk to homes and businesses on Nottingham’s left bank.

Ø improve the biodiversity, amenity and recreation value of the river corridor.

Ø consider the interests of individuals and organisations.

General Location Plan We have produced this Scoping Report as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process. There will be a month long consultation period for this document, during which time we welcome any comments, questions or concerns about the options under consideration. We would also welcome any suggestions for environmental enhancement. Feed back forms are available from our website www.NottinghamFloodDefence.co.uk, or alternatively please submit your comments to Jody Harris at the following address:

Jody Harris Environmental Assessment Officer Environment Agency Olton Court 10 Warwick Road Olton Solihull B92 7HX Telephone - 08708 506 506 [email protected]

The closing date for consultation is Friday 23rd December 2005. Due to the large number of comments we are expecting to receive, we are unlikely to be able to answer any queries individually. However, we will summarise responses to queries in a newsletter to be published early in 2006. We will also update the website regularly with ‘frequently asked questions’.


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Further copies of the Scoping Report, outline design drawings, and indicative landscape plans are also available from our website or from the address on the previous page. We will also be publicising the Scoping Report in a series of roadshows. More information on these roadshows is available on our website.

Background to the Project

Nottingham has a well-documented history of flooding, dating back to 1795. The most serious, recent flood occurred in March 1947 when 28 miles of streets, 3,000 properties and 86 factories in the city centre were flooded. In response, during the 1950s, flood defences were constructed through Nottingham. Fifty years on, these defences still protect Nottingham from the River Trent. Although the flood defences have been well maintained over the last half-century, they are nearing the end of their design life. The standard of flood protection provided to some areas is below that currently recommended by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Fluvial Trent Flood Risk Management Strategy Following the widespread flooding in 1998 and 2000, the Environment Agency carried out an appraisal of flood risk along the River Trent, between Stoke-on-Trent and Newark. We assessed the condition and height of the existing defences and investigated options to improve flood protection to properties. Our appraisal highlighted the need for an increased standard of flood protection in Nottingham and showed that the best method of doing this would be to construct new, or raise existing, flood defences. In March 2005 we published our findings in the Fluvial Trent Flood Risk Management Strategy (the ‘Fluvial Trent Strategy’).

Nottingham Trent Left Bank Flood Alleviation Scheme Having identified the flood risk to Nottingham, we carried out more detailed investigations through the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS. We have concluded that:

Ø some areas of Nottingham’s Left Bank are only protected against a flood which has a 1 in 251 chance of occurring in any year

Ø most areas are protected against a 1 in 50 annual chance event

Ø some stretches of existing defence are in poor condition

1 Floods are categorised by their size and the frequency with which they are expected to occur. A 1 in 25 annual chance event has a 1 in 25, or 4%, chance of occurring in any given year. A 1 in 100 annual chance event has a 1 in 100, or 1%, chance of occurring in any year, but its effects can be very large.


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What are our options? The options being considered for each location are, in summary;

Ø do nothing

Ø do minimum or ‘business as usual’

Ø construct flood defences We always consider the ‘do nothing’ and the ‘do minimum’ options for all our schemes as a baseline against which all other options are assessed. For Nottingham, our preferred solution is to increase the height of existing flood defences and to construct new defences where required. We propose to construct these defences to protect against a 1 in 100 annual chance event. Where are we proposing to work? We are looking to improve flood protection between the M1 at Sawley and Radcliffe Railway viaduct in Colwick; a distance of 27km. This will reduce flood risk to over 15,000 properties. Within this area, works need to be carried out at six geographical areas (shown on Figure 1):

Ø Sawley

Ø Trent Meadow

Ø Attenborough

Ø Rylands

Ø Meadows

Ø Colwick

Figure 1: Extent of Scheme


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What stage are we at? We have already begun consultation in order to develop a number of options for each of the six areas. We have produced outline design drawings for each area and are currently seeking your input on:

Ø the proposed route of the defences

Ø the proposed type of defence (walls or embankments)

Ø any local features that could benefit from or constrain the scheme What are the impacts? In the long term, the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS will have a positive impact on the city. It will reduce the flood risk to thousands of people’s homes and businesses, enhance people’s enjoyment of the river, and improve the existing environment. However, there are potentially some negative environmental impacts associated with new or raised defences. The most significant negative impacts are likely to be:

Ø potential disturbance of archaeological interest along the Trent floodplain

Ø the visual impact of new and raised defences particularly in areas of high historic, scenic or recreation value such as Sawley, Attenborough, and the Meadows

Ø disturbance to areas of wildlife value, including a number of Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) and Attenborough Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

In the short-term, there may also be some impacts associated with our construction activities. These may include restricted access to properties and businesses, increased traffic and noise, and disturbance to the local environment. We will minimise these impacts by consulting people affected and by following the Planning and Environmental Impact Assessment processes. When the scheme is complete, there will be a modest increase in flood levels both upstream and downstream of Nottingham during periods of extreme flooding. We plan to ease the impact to these areas through appropriate mitigation. We also intend to undertake a separate study, investigating long term solutions to reduce flood risk to these communities. What are the opportunities? This scheme offers an opportunity to enhance the riverside areas through the city. We have produced indicative landscape plans for the six areas. These plans highlight the enhancement opportunities that we are exploring and include:

Ø creating wetland areas at Sawley

Ø enhancing the river and adjacent habitat for fish

Ø providing additional footpaths, improved access and recreation throughout Nottingham

Ø enhancing the Attenborough SSSI lakes and other wildlife sites

Ø improving the area for specific species, for example bats and otters


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When do we plan to undertake work? We are currently in the scheme’s Appraisal phase. This involves demonstrating that building the scheme is technically possible, environmentally acceptable and best use of public money. Provided this is the case, we will construct the scheme in stages over the next six years. The Way Forward We will consider all comments received on this Scoping Report before finalising the outline design for the scheme. We will then proceed with the detailed design of the scheme and undertake further environmental assessment and evaluation. The environmental impact assessment will be documented in an Environmental Statement. The Environmental Statement will include an Environmental Action Plan, which will outline how the environmental impacts associated with the scheme will be managed and mitigated. We will continue to consult with landowners, residents and interested parties throughout the design and construction of this scheme.


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SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Purpose of the Document 1.1.1 The Environment Agency is the leading Government authority for the protection and

improvement of the environment in England and Wales. We have produced this document as the first stage of our Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the proposed Nottingham Trent Left Bank Flood Alleviation Scheme (FAS). EIA is the process to ensure that environmental impacts of schemes are identified prior to the work being carried out, so that proposals can be modified or managed in such a way that adverse impacts are avoided or minimised.

1.1.2 The requirement for EIA derives from the European Community Directive 85/337/EC,

and amended by Directive 97/11/EC. These Directives are implemented in the UK by a series of Regulations and those which relate to our EIA works are:

Ø Environmental Impact Assessment (Land Drainage Improvement Works) Regulations 1999 (SI 99/1783 as amended by SI 2005/1399)

Ø The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 1999 (SI99/293)

1.1.3 This report presents the environmental scoping of the Nottingham Trent Left Bank

FAS. It outlines the existing environmental conditions and makes a preliminary assessment of the likely environmental impacts of the proposed options. It allows interested parties to provide feedback on the EIA with any concerns, opportunities or alternative views relevant to the proposed works.

1.1.4 We will produce an Environmental Statement, which will document the EIA process

and include a detailed EIA of the preferred option. The Environmental Statement will accompany any associated planning applications.

1.2 Location 1.2.1 The Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS follows the line of the River Trent through

Nottingham, stretching from the M1 at Sawley to Radcliffe Railway viaduct in Colwick. Due to the size of the area, we have split it into the following six geographical areas:

Ø Sawley

Ø Trent Meadows

This section explains why we are developing a flood alleviation scheme for the left bank of the River Trent through Nottingham. It covers:

Ø the purpose of this report

Ø the main legislation

Ø an overview of the need for the scheme



Ø Attenborough

Ø Rylands

Ø Meadows

Ø Colwick 1.2.2 The boundaries of these areas are shown on Figure 1. Each area is shown in more

detail on Figures 2-7 in Annex 5.

1.3 Background to the Project

Flood risk in Nottingham 1.3.1 The city of Nottingham, situated on both banks of the River Trent, contains over

22,000 properties which are currently at risk from a flood which has a 1 in 1002 chance of occurring in any year (1in 100 annual chance event).

1.3.2 In March 1947, thousands of properties were flooded nationally and Nottingham was

one of the worst hit areas. Twenty eight miles of streets, including 3000 properties and 86 factories, were flooded. In response to this, a comprehensive scheme of flood defences was constructed during the 1950s to protect Nottingham.

1.3.3 The defences prevented significant flooding during the November 2000 event but

parts of the city did flood. We classified this flood as a 1 in 33 annual chance event.

Arkwright Street, Nottingham, during the 1947 event.

Attenborough Railway Village, during the November 2000 event.

2 Floods are categorised by their size and the frequency with which they are expected to occur. A 1 in 100 annual chance event has a 1 in 100, or 1%, chance of occurring in any given year.



Our Approach 1.3.4 We adopt a tiered approach to investigate flood risk, as shown in Figure 8. This

approach is recommended by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

The Fluvial Trent Strategy

1.3.5 We issued the Fluvial Trent Flood Risk Management Strategy (‘Fluvial Trent

Strategy’) in 2005. This was a high level technical, environmental and economic appraisal of options for all the flood risk areas in the 200km length of the fluvial River Trent between Stoke on Trent and Newark.

Figure 8: Hierarchy of Flood Defence Management

1.3.6 The findings of the Fluvial Trent Strategy can be summarised as follows:

Ø flood defences through Nottingham are of insufficient height and in poor condition

Ø raising or construction of new defences is technically, economically and environmentally the most appropriate option to improve protection

Ø the solution providing best value for money is to protect against a 1 in 100 annual chance flood event

Ø there is opportunity for environmental enhancement and improvement to leisure and recreation facilities along the river frontage

Ø separate appraisals should be carried out for the left and right banks of Nottingham, as these are effectively independent ‘flood cells’

Flood Risk Management Strategy (Fluvial Trent Strategy)

Detailed Scheme Appraisal (Nottingham Trent Left Bank

FAS)

Construction and Management



Nottingham Trent Left Bank Flood Alleviation Scheme 1.3.7 In accordance with recommendations of the Fluvial Trent Strategy we are now

undertaking a detailed appraisal for improvements along the left bank through Nottingham (the ‘Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS’). Up to 15,000 properties are potentially at risk from flooding on the left bank of the Trent, in a 1 in 100 annual chance event. This appraisal process involves demonstrating that building the scheme is technically possible, environmentally acceptable and the best use of public money. Provided this is the case, we will construct the scheme in stages over the next six years.



SECTION 2 PROJECT OBJECTIVES

2.1 Objectives of the Project 2.1.1 Our primary objectives for the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS are to:

1. Implement the recommendations of the Fluvial Trent Strategy relating to flood management options for the Sawley, Trent Meadows, Attenborough, Rylands, Meadows and Colwick areas of Nottingham. The Fluvial Trent Strategy indicates that constructing new and raising existing flood defences is the preferred option at these areas.

2. Determine the appropriate alignments and design of defences taking into account

issues, such as:

Ø reduction of flood risk

Ø legislative requirements

Ø technical feasibility

Ø costs

Ø impact on the environment 2.1.2 The environmental objectives for the scheme are outlined in Table 2.1. We have

developed these objectives in line with our vision for the environment and a sustainable future.

2.1.3 As the scheme progresses we will develop more detailed site specific environmental

objectives. These will be included in the Environmental Statement.

This section describes the objectives of the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS. These include:

Ø technical objectives

Ø environmental objectives

The section also describes how these objectives will be developed as the scheme progresses.



Table 2.1: Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS Environmental Objectives

Environment Agency Vision Themes Objectives for Nottingham Trent Left Bank Scheme

Provide clear overall social benefit in the provision of flood risk management. To protect features of local archaeological and historic interest. To design flood protection (if required) that enhances the visual amenity of the neighbourhood. To identify opportunities for development and redevelopment in areas affected by the proposed works, including enhanced recreational facilities. To minimise the adverse impacts on affected communities and individuals including noise, visual and traffic impacts during construction of flood protection assets (if required).

A better quality of life

To ensure proposed construction works result in minimal disruption to infrastructure services.

An enhanced environment for wildlife To minimise impacts on biodiversity and to identify opportunities for ecological enhancement.

Cleaner air for everyone To protect air quality by avoiding or minimising emissions from construction activities (if required).

Improved and protected inland and coastal waters

To protect water quality by avoiding or minimising emissions from construction activities (if required).

Restored, protected land and healthier soils To avoid or minimise the impact of works on beneficial land uses, including adjacent agricultural land uses.

A 'greener' business world Where opportunities for development and redevelopment are identified, ensure sustainable outcomes are developed.

Wiser sustainable use of natural resources To incorporate sustainable design and procurement initiatives across the scheme.

Limiting and adapting to climate change To ensure the potential impacts from climate change are considered and incorporated in the scheme.

Reduced flood risk To reduce the number of properties at a high risk of flooding.



SECTION 3 THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

3.1 Introduction 3.1.1 In Section 3.2, we set out our study area and the methods used to collect the data. We

then describe the existing environment for the study area. In EIA it is standard approach to describe the existing environment in terms of ten receptors:

Ø Human Beings and Land Use

Ø Flora and Fauna

Ø Air & Climate

Ø Landscape & Visual Amenity

Ø Water, including navigation

Ø Cultural Heritage, Archaeology & Material Assets

Ø Traffic & Transport

Ø Soils, Geology and Hydrogeology

Ø Use of Natural Resources 3.1.2 Due to the nature and scale of the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS the existing

conditions for a number of these receptors are similar across all the areas within the scheme. We consider these as generic receptors (see Section 3.4):

Ø Air and Climate



Ø Use of Natural Resources 3.1.3 Where the environmental conditions differ significantly between the sites, we consider

these separately for each area. These receptors are as follows and are discussed in Sections 3.5-3.11:


Ø Flora and Fauna

Ø Landscape and Visual Amenity

Ø Cultural Heritage, Archaeology and Material Assets

This section describes the existing environment. It includes:

Ø an explanation of how the information was collected

Ø a general description of the existing environment of the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS study area.

Ø a description of the generic environmental features

Ø a more detailed description of the key environmental features of each area



Ø Traffic and Transport 3.1.4 The environmental features of each area are also shown on the Indicative Landscape

Plans in Annex 5.

3.2 Data Collection and Study Area 3.2.1 We collected environmental data for the study area from the following sources:

Ø desk study research

Ø walk over surveys by Engineers, Ecologists and Landscape Architects

Ø information and comments from our environmental specialists

Ø an archaeological desk based assessment

Ø consultation (refer to Section 5)

3.2.2 The limit of the study area is the 1 in 100 annual chance floodplain as shown in Figure 1. There are a number of tributaries that flow into the Trent within the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS. These form separate flood cells and are not within our study area.

3.2.3 We have summarised the environmental data in the Indicative Landscape Plans in Annex 5. There is a plan for each of the six areas. For reference purposes, we have sub-divided the areas into reaches which are marked on the plans and referenced in the text. For example, the area at Sawley is subdivided into nine reaches, numbered from S1 to S9.

3.3 The Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS 3.3.1 This section provides an overview of the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS study area.

The scheme extends from Sawley in Derbyshire, through the centre of Nottingham and finishes just downstream of Colwick Country Park in Nottinghamshire. We have listed the affected counties and local planning authorities in Table 3.1. Details of the relevant development plans produced by each planning authority are listed in Annex 3.

3.3.2 The scheme lies mainly within English Nature’s ‘Trent Valley and Rises Natural

Area’. Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire have each developed a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP). These include lists of priority species and habitats which require protection, active restoration and creation respectively. We have presented the main water related BAP habitat and species for each county in Table 3.2.

3.3.3 The scheme lies within the Countryside Agency’s ‘Trent Valley Washland and Trent

and Belvoir Vales’ Landscape Character Areas.



Table 3.1: Administrative Counties and Local Planning Authorities

Area County

Local Planning Authority

Sawley Derbyshire Erewash Borough Council

Trent Meadows Derbyshire Erewash Borough Council

Attenborough Nottinghamshire Broxtowe Borough Council and Erewash Borough Council

Rylands Nottinghamshire Broxtowe Borough Council & Nottingham City Council

Meadows Nottinghamshire Nottingham City Council

Colwick Nottinghamshire Nottingham City Council and Gedling Borough Council

Table 3.2 Water Related Biodiversity Action Plan Species and Habitats Biodiversity Action Plan

Relevant Areas Water Related Habitat & Species

Habitat Rivers and streams Standing open water including ponds, lakes and canals Lowland swamps, mires, fens and reedbeds Wet woodland Floodplain grazing marsh Species Otter (Lutra lutra)

Lowland Derbyshire

Sawley Trent Meadows

Water vole (Arvicola terrestris) Habitats Lowland wet grassland Rivers and streams Eutrophic and mesotrophic standing waters Species Otter (Lutra lutra) Water vole (Arvicola terrestris)

Nottinghamshire Attenborough Rylands Meadows Colwick

Freshwater white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes)



3.4 Generic Environmental Conditions 3.4.1 In this section, we describe the environmental receptors that are similar for all the six

geographical areas. These generic environmental receptors are:

Ø Air and Climate



Ø Use of Natural Resources Air and Climate

3.4.2 Air quality is better in the rural areas, such as Sawley and Attenborough. Nearer the

centre of Nottingham or near major roads the local air quality is lower. 3.4.3 The impact of climate change will be taken into consideration in the design. Current

Defra guidance indicates that increases of up to 20% in peak flows could be experienced within 50 years.

Water, including navigation

3.4.4 The River Trent and its floodplain have been significantly modified in the past. As a

result, their ecological interest has been reduced. The river and its non-urbanised floodplain, however, still remain a significant ecological resource. We will maintain and enhance its value, wherever possible.

3.4.5 There are a number of tributaries of the River Trent through Nottingham. The largest

are the River Erewash at Attenborough, and the River Leen at Rylands. 3.4.6 Lakes formed by gravel extraction are a characteristic landscape feature and many now

provide an important ecological and recreational resource, particularly at Attenborough and Colwick Country Park.

3.4.7 There are several active canals along the left bank. These include the Erewash Canal at

Sawley along with the Beeston Canal connecting Rylands and the Meadows. The River Trent is fully navigable between Sawley and Beeston Lock, and again downstream of Meadow Lane Lock at Trent Bridge.

Meadow Lane Lock, where Beeston Canal meets the Trent. Meadows area.



Soils, Geology and Hydrogeology 3.4.8 The solid geology comprises rocks of the Mercia Mudstone and Sherwood Sandstone

Groups of the Triassic Age. The Triassic rocks are underlain by Coal Measures. 3.4.9 Overlying the rocks are superficial deposits of Pleistocene and Recent Age. Alluvium

and terrace gravels are widespread throughout the floodplain. The soils are mainly silts and sands, which reflect the underlying geology. There is widespread man-made filled ground linked with the extensive urban and commercial development of the left bank.

3.4.10 The Sherwood Sandstone is a recognised aquifer. The terrace gravels also act as an

aquifer and are likely to provide hydraulic links to the river. This means that water can flow underground to the river. Use of Natural Resources

3.4.11 The floodplain provides a valuable resource for the extraction of gravels. Our works

will need to ensure that there is no significant impact on the availability of gravels or the day to day running of the extraction sites.

3.5 Site Specific Environmental Conditions 3.5.1 In this section, we describe the key environmental receptors that are specific to each

area. These are:


Ø Flora and Fauna



Ø Traffic and Transport 3.6 Sawley 3.6.1 Sawley currently has existing flood protection through most of the area. The existing

flood defences are shown on Figure 2a in Annex 5. Main features of the existing environment are shown on Figure 2b in Annex 5 .

Existing flood embankment to the west of Harrington Bridge.



Human Beings and Land Use 3.6.2 The urban communities of Sawley and Long Eaton form much of this area and are

mainly residential. Nearer the river, the agricultural fields are crossed by a network of informal footpaths, which are regularly used by local residents. The Trent Lock Golf Club is also an important local recreational resource.

3.6.3 The River Trent at this location is partly navigable and a significant number of leisure

craft join it from both the Erewash and Trent and Mersey canals. Sawley Marina is located to the south of the river along Sawley Cut.

3.6.4 The land around the existing defences is mainly agricultural. The existing defences

also run around the old Sawley town centre, which includes residential properties, the Harrington Arms Public House and All Saints Parish Church. Flora and Fauna

3.6.5 There is one Derbyshire Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) to the west

of Sawley close to the existing defences (Sawley Carr SINC (ER037)). This has been established along the old course of the River Trent. To the east of Sawley, there are two SINCs close to the proposed areas of work near Sheetstore sluice, namely the Erewash Canal SINC (ER150) and Lock Lane Ash Tip Nature Reserve (ER061).

3.6.6 A number of other SINCs are located in the wider area but will not be affected by the

scheme. 3.6.7 Outside of the SINCs, the fields behind the main defences are generally arable or

intensively managed agricultural grassland. These are of a limited nature conservation value. Apart from the golf course, the fields riverside of the main defences are generally less intensively managed and have a higher value for wildlife.

3.6.8 There are a number of protected species in the local area. The river and the adjacent

meadows are used by otter and water vole. Bats are present, with mature trees, buildings and other structures, such as the railway bridges, providing potential roosting habitat. There are also records of great crested newts in the Long Eaton area.

Landscape and Visual Amenity

3.6.9 Around the old town centre, the landscape still has a rural quality and is visually attractive. The settlement of Sawley has an attractive village setting and is designated as a Conservation Area. All Saints Church is a major landmark in the local landscape and is attractively set with mature trees in its grounds. These, and a large number of other trees within the Sawley Conservation Area, are subject to Tree Preservation Orders.

3.6.10 The existing flood embankment is a significant feature in the flat and open landscape. However, it sits well in the floodplain and does not restrict views of the surrounding countryside. In sections, the embankment is well masked from nearby housing by a tall hedgerow.



3.6.11 As the landscape is very flat, the large residential areas of New Sawley and Long Eaton to the north are not visually intrusive. The railway viaduct, crossing the floodplain and the River Trent, is an attractive landscape feature.

3.6.12 The fields along the river are fairly open, being a mixture of arable land and grassland.

Field boundaries are mainly hedgerows with only scattered mature trees. There is more extensive woodland to the west of Harrington Bridge, which forms Sawley Carr SINC.

Cultural Heritage, Archaeology and Material Assets 3.6.13 We have undertaken an archaeological assessment to identify sites of archaeological

and palaeoenvironmental interest likely to be affected by the scheme. The features found are discussed below and their locations are marked by the letters A to G on Figure 2b in Annex 5.

Ø Cropmarks and palaeochannel (A). The fields to the north of the defences in reach S2 contain cropmarks, which may be prehistoric. It is possible that the surrounding area may contain archaeological remains. In addition, the flood defences twice cross a palaeochannel.

Ø Sawley medieval village (B). This area is thought to be of medieval or perhaps even earlier date. This is based on evidence provided by excavations, maps, aerial photographs and architecture of the church. A fishpond and a possible rectangular earthwork may also be medieval. The area was originally surrounded on the west and south by ridge and furrow field systems of medieval date. Overall, this area could be of regional significance for archaeology.

Ø Earthwork, Scheduled Monument (C). The flood defences run adjacent to a Scheduled Monument, which may be of Roman or medieval date. The scheduled area covers the whole of the field in which the monument is located. Legislation and planning controls protect the Scheduled Monument and its setting.

Ø Cropmarks and palaeochannel south of Scheduled Monument (D). Cropmark features lie to the south west and south east of the Scheduled Monument. These are undated but may relate to the medieval village. A palaeochannel is also apparent to the south east of the Scheduled Monument.

Ø Ridge and furrow and palaeochannel near Harrington Bridge (E). There is evidence that there was ridge and furrow to the west and east of Harrington Bridge. These could provide protection for medieval or earlier remains. There are also two palaeochannels.

Ø Ridge and furrow around Grounds Farm (F) and Trent Farm (G). Around Grounds Farm and Trent Farm there are areas of ridge and furrow. These are recorded on aerial photographs and can still be seen on the ground at Trent Farm. These areas, therefore, could have some archaeological interest.

3.6.14 In addition, Harrington Bridge is a listed structure. The remains of the south section of

the former bridge and Sawley Church are Grade II listed buildings. There are also a number of palaeochannels and other sites on the Sites and Monuments Record in the Sawley area, but these are not considered to be affected by the proposed works.



Traffic and Transport 3.6.15 The River Trent has influenced the development of the road network at Sawley and

throughout Nottingham. At Sawley, there are just two river crossings; the M1 at the upstream limit of the scheme, and the main route from the south into Sawley across Harrington Bridge. Sawley is also crossed by a number of railway lines, several sections of which perform a flood defence function.

3.7 Trent Meadows 3.7.1 Trent Meadows currently has flood defences through reaches T4 and T6 with high

ground and the railway forming a flood defence function elsewhere. The existing flood defences are shown on Figure 3a in Annex 5. Key features of the existing environment are shown on Figure 3b in Annex 5 .

Existing flood embankment off Pasture Lane – Trent Meadows

Human Beings and Land Use

3.7.2 Trent Meadows lies to the south east of Long Eaton and comprises residential areas and

large areas of agricultural land. Sections of the existing defences run in part through residential gardens. The Trent Meadows Picnic Area and Cranfleet Canal both provide amenity areas. A series of formal and informal footpaths connect the River Trent, the canal and the picnic area.

Flora and Fauna

3.7.3 Barton Pool SINC (ER075) lies to the north of the picnic area, adjacent to the railway

line. Much of the SINC is wet woodland. To the south of Barton Pool, lies Trent Meadows Candidate SINC (ERR6559), a mostly grassland area which has established over an area of former landfill. To the south east is Attenborough West Gravel Pits (ER078), which is a wetland area adjacent to the River Trent. Protected and notable species recorded in the area include badger and otter, as well as plant species that are rare for the county.


3.7.4 The existing embankment passes along the edge of Sawley Brook and through

agricultural land, blending well with the surrounding landscape. The raised land at the picnic area provides panoramic views across to Gotham Hill and Ruddington Moor.



Cultural Heritage, Archaeology and Material Assets 3.7.5 We have undertaken an archaeological assessment to identify sites of archaeological

and palaeoenvironmental interest likely to be affected by the scheme. The features found are discussed below and their locations are marked by the letters H to J on Figure 3b in Annex 5.

Ø Palaeochannel (H). A palaeochannel lies close to the railway and is crossed by the existing flood defences.

Ø Ridge and furrow and cropmarks at Home Farm (I). The area to the east of Home Farm shows evidence of ridge and furrow and of possible cropmarks.

Ø Cropmarks and palaeochannels near the River Erewash confluence (J). Two palaeochannels lie to the south of the proposed defence.

Traffic and Transport

3.7.6 There are few roads in the area immediately surrounding the defences. However, there

is a single railway line acting as an informal flood defence. 3.8 Attenborough 3.8.1 Attenborough currently has no formal flood defences except for a short reach at the

most westerly point of Allendale Avenue, in Attenborough village, and along the Erewash. The existing flood defences are shown on Figure 4a in Annex 5. Key features of the existing environment are shown on Figure 4b in Annex 5.

Attenborough SSSI, with the village church spire in the background.

Human Beings and Land Use 3.8.2 The community of Attenborough is formed by an older village situated riverside of the

railway with newer residential and commercial areas behind. Riverside of the railway, the land is dominated by the Attenborough Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Nature Reserve. This contains a series of inter-connected lakes which were formed as a result of aggregate mining. Aggregate mining in the wider area is expected to continue for another 15 to 20 years.



3.8.3 There is a network of footpaths and bridleways across the SSSI and a visitor centre has recently been constructed. The area is very popular with local residents and visitors for activities such as bird-watching, walking and dog-walking.

3.8.4 High voltage underground cables were recently installed through the SSSI, along the

approximate alignment of the proposed defences.

Flora and Fauna 3.8.5 Attenborough SSSI is an extensive area of gravel pits of varying age. It includes areas

of open water and mature woodland. The boundaries of the SSSI lie adjacent to the railway line and the proposed defences. Due to the sensitivity of this site, we have already had preliminary discussions on the alignment and design options with English Nature.

3.8.6 The lakes of Attenborough SSSI and the River Trent are important for breeding and

over-wintering waterfowl. In addition, Attenborough provides habitat for several protected species, including otter and water vole, and supports a wide variety of invertebrates, including butterflies and dragonflies. There are also bat, badger and harvest mice in the area. The Erewash catchment supports white-clawed crayfish.

3.8.7 Two of the SINCs within Trent Meadows extend into the Attenborough area (the

Attenborough West Gravel Pits (ER078) and the Trent Meadows Candidate SINC (ER R6559)). The Erewash and its floodplain upstream of the railway also contain two SINCs, namely Attenborough Junction Tip (ER076) and Attenborough Pastures (ER198).


3.8.8 Attenborough SSSI is a scenic area. Attenborough itself has a number of attractive

listed buildings, including St Mary’s Church, and is designated as a Conservation Area. The church spire acts as a local landmark and forms a picturesque focal point from the surrounding landscape. The cricket pitch and backdrop of attractive houses create an attractive village setting.

3.8.9 To the north east of Attenborough, there is a quarry batching plant, which is a visually

unattractive feature. Cultural Heritage, Archaeology and Material Assets

3.8.10 We have undertaken an archaeological assessment to identify sites of archaeological

and palaeoenvironmental interest likely to be affected by the scheme. The features found are discussed below and their locations are marked by the letters J to R on Figure 4b in Annex 5.

Ø Cropmarks and palaeochannels near the River Erewash confluence (J). At reach A1, near the River Erewash confluence, cropmarks are located just to the south of the proposed defence. This may indicate the location of archaeological remains. Two palaeochannels also lie to the south of the proposed defence.

Ø Cropmarks and palaeochannel along Erewash (K). Some cropmarks have been observed on aerial photographs within the area north of the River Erewash



confluence. Within this area, a broad palaeochannel runs east to west and the proposed defences would cross this.

Ø Attenborough medieval village (L). The Attenborough area around the medieval Church of St Mary’s has potentially high archaeological value. Medieval artefactual material and structures may survive in the area and there is a suggestion of a moated site to the south and west of the church. There is evidence of medieval finds, structures and ridge and furrow just to the north of the railway line.

Ø Fishponds, Scheduled Monument (M). Six medieval and possibly post-medieval fishpond are located south east of the church and are designated as a Scheduled Monument. The group value of these sites makes this an area of potentially regional archaeological significance.

Ø Post-medieval gatehouse (N). The post -medieval gatehouse dates from 1886 (or earlier) and lies on the line of the proposed defence, between reaches A3 and A4.

Ø Cropmarks (O). Undated cropmarks lie close to the proposed flood defences at reach A3 and the area has the potential for archaeological remains.

Ø Further listed buildings in Attenborough (P). Two further listed buildings, Rose Cottage (Grade II) and Ireton House (Grade II*), lie close to the proposed new defences at A5.

Ø Palaeochannel (R). A palaeochannel has been identified by desk study in the east of the SSSI but may no longer exist.

3.8.11 There are two Conservation Areas in Attenborough. The Attenborough Church

Conservation Area is centred around St Mary’s Church and the Barge Lane Conservation Area lies north of the railway line.

Traffic and Transport 3.8.12 The A6005, a major route into Nottingham runs along the landward side of the

floodcell through Attenborough. Any new defences would need to cross Barton Lane and other roads within the village. There is an arterial railway line into Nottingham, along the length of the Attenborough area.

The railway line passing through the Attenborough area. This currently provides the only low-level flood protection to the area.



3.9 Rylands 3.9.1 Rylands currently has flood defences along its entire length. The existing flood

defences are shown on Figure 5a in Annex 5. Key features of the existing environment are shown on Figure 5b in Annex 5 .

Beeston Lock, Rylands, where the Beeston canal meets the River Trent.


3.9.2 The Rylands study area includes a large industrial complex, allotments, a caravan site,

residential areas, Beeston Canal and large recreation grounds stretching down to the river. There are footpaths along the canal and the River Trent. The downstream end of Rylands is dominated by large industrial estates.

Flora and Fauna

3.9.3 The Attenborough SSSI lies at the upstream end of the area. We describe this in detail

in Section 3.8 (Attenborough). There are a number of SINCs close to the river near the A453 Clifton Bridge. There are records of water vole in the Beeston Canal and surrounding area. There are also records of badger, and the mature trees appear suitable as bat roosts.


3.9.4 Rylands is an urban area which comprises residential housing, a caravan park and a

number of industrial complexes. Open areas include an allotment and recreation ground. The footpath on the embankment along Beeston Canal provides a scenic walk towards Nottingham city centre. The Lock Keeper’s Cottage and canal lock gates create an attractive setting at the confluence of the canal with the River Trent. There are views across the Trent to the hills opposite and buildings occupied by Nottingham Trent University.

Cultural Heritage, Archaeology and Material Assets


and palaeoenvironmental interest likely to be affected by the scheme. The features found are discussed below and their locations can be seen on Figure 5b, Annex 5.

Ø Beeston canal and lock (Q). The 18th century Beeston Canal and lock.



Ø Palaeochannel (R). A palaeochannel has been identified by desk study to the west of the flood defences but may no longer exist.

3.9.6 Meadow Road Bridge on the Beeston Canal is a listed structure.

Traffic and Transport 3.9.7 Rylands contains part of the A453 road (Queen’s Drive), which is one of the main

roads leading into the centre of Nottingham. 3.10 Meadows 3.10.1 The Meadows currently has flood defences throughout its length. The existing flood


The London Plan trees currently aligned to the Victoria Embankment.

Human Beings and Land Use 3.10.2 The Meadows is an urban area near to Nottingham city centre. Victoria Embankment is

a large recreation area, which attracts local residents and visitors, and is a venue for public events. The Memorial Gardens are also located on Victoria Embankment. The Nottingham Canal joins the Trent just downstream of Trent Bridge and the river is well used by recreational boats. The river frontage from Trent Bridge through to Colwick Country Park forms part of the proposed Waterside Regeneration Area.


3.10.3 The Meadows is a popular attraction for both the locals and tourists, and is within

walking distance from Nottingham city centre. The bridges, mature trees, open parkland and War Memorial create an impressive riverside landscape. Victoria Embankment is the main vehicular route through the Meadows and is lined with an avenue of mature London Plane trees.



3.10.4 The existing flood defence wall runs part way along Victoria Embankment. The defence ties into high ground opposite Victoria Public Baths, over which there are views to the riverfront.

3.10.5 The avenue of mature London Plane trees which lines Victoria Embankment is highly

attractive and a landscape feature. The War Memorial is an historic landmark and the surrounding gardens are maintained to a high standard. Trent Bridge is also one of the most famous landmarks in Nottingham.

3.10.6 Downstream from Trent Bridge, the riverside is dominated by a number of industrial

units and warehouses. The Park Yacht Club lies beyond the warehouses. The Yacht Club has attractive grounds including mature trees.



and palaeoenvironmental interest likely to be affected by the scheme. The features found are discussed below and their locations are marked as letters S to Z on Figure 6b, Annex 5.

Ø Anglo-Saxon finds near suspension bridge (S). An Anglo-Saxon brooch found close to the suspension bridge indicates that other finds of the period are possible.

Ø Trent Bridge (T). The area around the modern Trent Bridge may retain archaeological remains of the medieval bridge or a medieval chapel which stood on the bridge. Much of the present bridge structure dates from the 19th century.

Ø Suspension bridge (U). The suspension bridge across the River Trent.

Ø Wilford Lodge at rear of Wilford recreation ground (V). At the rear of the recreation ground is the site of a former 1609 house. The house was demolished by 1901.

Ø Cropmark enclosure at recreation ground (W). A cropmark of an enclosure was recorded on the west side of the recreation ground

Ø Victorian Public Baths (X), Wilford Bridge (Y) and Trent Bridge Lock Gates (Z). The Victorian Public Baths, Wilford Bridge and Trent Bridge Lock Gates are all located close to the line of the proposed works.

3.10.8 The area also includes a concentration of Historic Parks and Gardens, including the

Victoria Embankment, the Victoria Embankment Recreation Ground and Memorial Gardens. There are a number of listed buildings within the Memorial Gardens, including the Municipal War Memorial.


3.10.9 The Meadows includes three bridges over the River Trent, namely Wilford Bridge,

Trent Bridge and the Meadows Suspension Bridge. Only Trent Bridge is used by vehicle traffic and it forms a key route into the centre of Nottingham. The Victoria Embankment connects Rylands, Trent Bridge and Nottingham city centre.



3.11 Colwick 3.11.1 Colwick currently has flood defences throughout its length. The existing flood


Colwick Country Park.

Human Beings and Land Use 3.11.2 A large proportion of this area is comprised from Colwick Country Park, Nottingham

Racecourse and residential areas. Downstream of the country park, the area is dominated by a large industrial estate.

Flora and Fauna

3.11.3 Colwick Country Park SINC (2/901) includes landscaped areas of former sand and

gravel workings, and an old course of the River Trent. The park has a variety of habitats including open grassland, planted woodland, swamp areas and lakes. Racecourse Wetland (Pond) SINC (5/7) comprises two wetland areas which are connected by culverts beneath the racecourse; it includes a notable variety of dragonflies and damselflies.

3.11.4 There are records of bats and water voles at Colwick, and a wide variety of birds pass

through to over winter and breed in the large waterbodies within the country park. The invasive plant Himalayan Balsam dominates much of the bankside vegetation along many sections of the River Trent but is particularly extensive by the Colwick industrial estate.


3.11.5 Colwick Country Park and Nottingham Racecourse make up a large part of the area. Colwick Hall Hotel and St John’s Church create an attractive setting next to the Trent Backwater. The Holme Sluice control structure on the main river channel is a dominant feature.



Cultural and Historic Heritage 3.11.6 Colwick Hall is a listed building. There are also a number of archeological features in

that may be affected by the proposed works. These are described below and their locations are indicated by the symbols AA to EE on Figure 7b, Annex 5.

Ø Archaeological remains in the Country Park (AA). Parts of the Country Park are likely to retain archaeological remains of various periods.

Ø Earthwork mound close to Daleside Road East (BB). A mound close to Daleside Road East may have archaeological interest.

Ø Roman and medieval finds near River Road (CC). Roman and medieval material found close to River Road indicates that the area may have archaeological interest.

Ø Neolithic site close to river in Industrial Estate (DD). Unusual finds of Neolithic axes in the area of the Industrial Estate indicate that it may be an area of prehistoric occupation close to the river.

Ø Palaeochannels (EE). A palaeochannel lies near to the flood defences.

Lakes in Colwick Country Park

Drainage outfall through existing flood embankments near Candle Meadow, Colwick



3.12 Constraints and Opportunities 3.12.1 We have summarised the key constraints and opportunities on the Nottingham Trent

Left Bank FAS on the Indicative Landscape Plans in Annex 5. The key constraints that influence the choice of options are summarised in Table 3.3. In Section 7, we describe in more detail the potential environmental enhancement opportunities.

Table 3.3 Key Constraints that Influence the Options

Site Constraints

Sawley

· Restrictions on working near railway · Significant archaeological interest including Scheduled Monuments, listed

buildings · Numerous utilities including gas mains and sewers · High scenic value of area including a Conservation Area · Proximity of SINCs · Key road crossing of Trent · Canal lock forms part of defences · Need to maintain navigation

Trent Meadows

· Sections of existing defences in private gardens · Proximity of SINCs · Need to provide flood protection to railway · Restrictions on working near railway · Electricity pylons · Archaeological interest including paleochannels

Attenborough

· Need to provide flood protection to railway · Restrictions on working near railway · Proximity of SSSI · Proximity of SINCs · Need to cross Erewash · High voltage underground cables · High amenity value of area · High archaeological and landscape value of Attenborough Village Conservation

Area · Significant archaeological interest including Scheduled Monument and

paleochannels

Rylands

· Need to maintain navigation and public amenity at Beeston lock · Caravan park riverside of existing defences · Proximity of Attenborough SSSI · Archaeological interest of Beeston Canal and lock

Meadows

· Archaeological importance of Victoria Embankment, recreation grounds, Memo rial Gardens and Trent Bridge

· Large number of visually important mature trees · High public amenity value of adjacent land and trees · Need to ensure defences do not compromise future plans to develop the

Meadows area, including for recreation · Need to maintain navigation at Trent Lock

Colwick

· Proximity of SINCs · High recreational value of the area · Visual and safety impact of new defences close to residential and amenity area · Commercial interests of hotel and racecourse · Need to ensure options do not compromise future development of footpath

network · Ongoing redevelopment at Colwick Industrial Estate · Archaeological interest in area






SECTION 4 ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS

4.1 How the options were developed 4.1.1 The Fluvial Trent Strategy identified that there are 20 specific areas at risk from

flooding along the 200km of the fluvial Trent. This included the main conurbation of Nottingham.

4.1.2 To reduce flood risk to these areas, 18 generic options were investigated to determine

their suitability. Table 4.1 presents these options, identifying those we found to be most suitable for Nottingham using the following three criteria:

Ø technically: ‘Will it work?’

Ø economically: ‘Is there a good case for spending public money?’

Ø environmentally: ‘What are the effects on the environment?’

4.1.3 We built a mathematical model of the Trent to technically assess each option. This was developed following a comprehensive survey of the river and surrounding floodplain. Observed river flow data was input to the model and the resulting water levels checked against observed flood levels, photographs and maps. We then used the mathematical model to assess whether each option would prevent flooding and if it did, what the surrounding impacts would be.

4.1.4 The environmental appraisal considered the effects of the options against the objectives

in our Strategic Environmental Assessment. 4.1.5 For those options which were both technically and environmentally acceptable, we

carried out an economic assessment to ensure it was sound use of public money. The economic appraisal followed guidance published by Defra. These guidance documents set out a method where the costs of the options are compared with the flood damages that the proposed option would prevent. If the damages avoided are greater than the costs, public money may be spent on this proposal.

This section includes how the:

Ø options were developed through the Fluvial Trent Strategy

Ø standard of protection was identified

Ø alignments were developed for each area



Table 4.1 Options considered for Nottingham by the Fluvial Trent Strategy

Suitability

No Name Description

Tec

hnic

ally

Eco

nom

ical

ly

Env

iron

men

tally

Rec

omm

ende

d

1 Do nothing Undertake no further maintenance or construction work whatsoever on the watercourse ü ü ü ü

2 Do Minimum Continue to undertake present day maintenance and flood warning tasks ü ü ü ü

3 Off-line & Floodplain Storage

The increase in capacity, or managed use of available floodplain storage x - ü x

4 On-Line Storage The creation of a water retaining structure(s) across the valley to create a flood storage area(s) x - ü x

5 Managed Retreat Abandon flood defences and defended property and revert back to a natural floodplain x - x x

6 Development Control

Prevent development within areas that are at risk from flooding ü - ü ü

7 Sustainable Drainage Systems

Drainage systems that mimic natural processes, such as allowing water to soak into the ground.

- x ü x

8 Managing the Effects of Floods

Raise awareness of flooding issues, including the use of local flood-protection measures

ü - ü ü

9 Land Management Options

Change land use to reduce the amount and rate of runoff to local watercourses

ü - ü ü

10 Weirs and Sluices Manage water levels in the river using existing, or new control structures

x - ü x

11 Groundwater Recharge

Divert flood water into natural underground aquifers - - x x

12 Underground Tanks

Divert flood water into man made underground tanks - - x x

13 Dredging Mechanically remove sediment from the river bed to increase the capacity of the river channel

ü ü x x

14 Remove Floodplain Obstructions

Remove, or modify structures that have a detrimental effect on water levels in the floodplain ü - ü ü

15 River Re-profiling Re-build the river channel to aid the dispersal or storage of flood flows x - ü x

16 Flow Diversion Create artificial channels to divert flood water x ü x 17 Tributary Storage Retain water within tributary catchments to reduce

flows in the Trent - - ü x

18 Defences Raise existing, or construct new barriers to protect property from flood water

ü ü ü ü



4.1.6 Table 4.1 confirms the options that the Fluvial Trent Strategy found to be most suitable for Nottingham are:

Ø Do-nothing

Ø Do-minimum

Ø Development Control

Ø Managing the Effects of Floods

Ø Land Management Options

Ø Remove Floodplain Obstructions

Ø Construct flood defences

4.1.7 Development Control, Managing the Effects of Floods and Land Management are effectively best practice methods and would not significantly reduce the flood risk. Removal of Floodplain Obstructions is technically possible through Nottingham. However, this would mean the removal, or rebuilding, of most river crossings, including Harrington Bridge, Trent Bridge, Lady Bay Bridge and Radcliffe Railway viaduct. The associated impacts on the local environment, transport and likely construction costs make this unfeasible.

4.1.8 Therefore, through further analysis of the options recommended by the Fluvial Trent

Strategy for Nottingham, we have confirmed that the only suitable options are do nothing, do minimum and construct flood defences.

4.2 Standard of Protection 4.2.1 Whilst the Fluvial Trent Strategy identifies that defences are the preferred option, we

still needed to determine the optimum standard of protection. Through detailed studies we have confirmed that areas of the Nottingham left bank are only protected against a flood that has a 1 in 50 chance of occurring in any year. This is well below the standard recommended by Defra. In addition, we found that the majority of the city’s defences are nearing the end of their design life.

4.2.2 We concluded that:

Ø The most cost effective solution is to provide Nottingham with defences capable of protecting against a flood which has a 1 in 100 chance of occurring in any year.

Ø Detailed appraisals should be carried out separately for the left and right banks, as these are effectively independent ‘flood cells’.

Ø The right bank works have been appraised under the West Bridgford FAS. More information on what we are proposing for the right bank is available on our website www.NottinghamFloodDefence.co.uk.

4.3 Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS Options 4.3.1 We considered the following options appropriate for the Nottingham Trent Left Bank

FAS:



Ø Option 1 – Do nothing: This is the baseline case against which the other options are compared. We would not construct any new defences and would cease all maintenance and flood warning works.

Ø Option 2 – Do minimum: This is a ‘business as usual’ approach. All maintenance

and flood warning activities would continue at their present level. As the condition of the defences deteriorates, breaches will occur which would be repaired. No raising or rebuilding of the defences would take place.

Ø Option 3 – Construct flood defences: Construct flood defences to protect against a 1

in 100 annual chance event. 4.3.2 These options apply to each of the six areas on the left bank. We have confirmed the

flood defences (option 3) will protect against a flood which has a 1 in 100 chance of occurring in any year. However, there are still the following outstanding decisions to be made:

Ø whether to raise or replace the existing defences

Ø where new defences are required, whether embankments or walls are more appropriate

Ø the defence alignment 4.4 Alignments of Flood Defences (Option 3) for Scheme Areas. 4.4.1 Currently, existing flood defences are in place along most of the left bank. The notable

exception is Attenborough where informal protection is provided by the low level railway embankment combined with slightly high natural ground.

4.4.2 For the majority of reaches, we will either raise or rebuild defences along their current

alignment. This is the choice which is most likely to:

Ø be the cheapest

Ø be acceptable to Council Planning Departments

Ø cause the least environmental impact

Ø have minimal detrimental visual impact 4.4.3 In addition, there are a number of reaches at Sawley, Trent Meadows, Attenborough,

Meadows and Colwick, where new defences may be required. At these locations, our choice of alignment is influenced by a number of factors including topographic features, existing property locations and maximising floodplain storage.

4.4.4 The following sections provide more information on the flood defence options for each

area. We outline the proposed works, summarising where alignment choices exist and the associated factors likely to influence the alignment decision.



4.5 Sawley 4.5.1 Figure 2a in Annex 5 shows the indicative design for Sawley. For reference purposes,

Sawley is split into nine reaches (S1 to S9). 4.5.2 For reaches S2, S4, S6 and S8 we propose to raise the existing flood defences along

their current alignment by between 0.1 and 0.5m. 4.5.3 The only reach through Sawley where we propose a variation in alignment, is reach S3.

At this location, the existing defence ties into ground which is not sufficiently high. We therefore know that a new defence is required and have identified three possible alignment choices. The following is an explanation on why we have proposed each alignment and any associated constraints.

Ø Alignment A: Would follow the naturally high ground across Tamworth Road, tying the two existing embankments together across the shortest route.

Ø Alignment B: Would follow the boundary of the properties to the west of Tamworth Road. This ensures protection to these properties but would require an embankment 3m in height and the raising of the road by 1.5m.

Ø Alignment C: Would again follow the boundary of the properties to the west of Tamworth Road. To avoid the raising of the road, the embankment would tie into the Harrington Bridge where the parapet was sufficiently high.

Existing flood embankment at Trent Farm – Sawley.

Existing flood embankment to the rear of the Harrington Arm’s public house.



4.6 Trent Meadows 4.6.1 Figure 3a in Annex 5 shows the indicative design for Trent Meadows. For reference

purposes, Trent Meadows is split into six reaches (T1 to T6). 4.6.2 For reach T4 we propose to raise the existing flood defences along its current

alignment by between 0.1 and 0.5m. For reach T2 we propose to raise the road and build a new flood defence wall of between 0.05 and 0.5m.

4.6.3 The only reach through Trent Meadows where we propose a variation in alignment, is

reach T6. At this location the existing defence ties into a railway embankment which is not sufficiently high. We therefore know that a new defence is required and have identified three possible alignment choices. The following is an explanation on why we have proposed each alignment and any associated constraints:

Ø Alignment A: Would raise the existing embankment, continuing it in parallel to the railway line and on towards Attenborough. This maximises the natural floodplain.

Ø Alignment B: Would again raise the existing embankment, but would continue it around the Barton Pool SINC to protect this wildlife site.

Ø Alignment C: Would follow the shortest route across the reach. The existing embankment would be abandoned and the material from it used to construct the new defence. This alignment reduces the natural floodplain.

Existing flood embankment at Home Farm – Trent Meadows.

Existing flood embankment to Trent Meadows picnic area.



4.7 Attenborough 4.7.1 Figure 4a in Annex 5 shows the indicative design for Attenborough. For reference

purposes, Attenborough is split into eight reaches (A1 to A8). 4.7.2 There are currently no defences through this area. We therefore propose new defences

throughout, with a mixture of different defence types. 4.7.3 For reaches A1, A3, A4, A6, A7 and A8, a new flood defence would run parallel to the

existing railway. All these reaches pass through the lakes at the Attenborough SSSI. There are three buried electrical cables which run along the route of the proposed defence. Consequently, it is necessary to consider a number of different defence types and alignments to accommodate these constraints. Figure 4a in Annex 5 provides more information, but in summary the feasible alignments are:

Ø Alignment A: A new embankment would run approximately 10 to 15m from the existing railway boundary fence and beyond the outer electrical cable. This is also generally to the east of any access path/road but, through reaches A3 and A4, there would be encroachment into the lake.

Ø Alignment B: A new wall would run approximately 10 to 15m from the existing railway boundary fence and beyond the outer electrical cable. This is also generally to the east of any access path/road.

Ø Alignment C: The existing access path/road would be raised to form the defence. This alignment is not favoured by the electricity company as it would restrict access to their cables in certain reaches.

Ø Alignment D: A new wall would run approximately 1 to 3m from the existing railway boundary fence. It would be sited between the 11kv and inner 132kv electrical cables.

Ø Alignment E: We would replace the existing post and rail railway boundary fence with a new flood defence wall. This would require Network Rail’s consent and, in some reaches, the 11kv cable would need to be realigned.

4.7.4 Given the constraints the preferred choice of alignment for reaches A1, A3, A6, A8 is

alignment D, for reach A4 it is alignment A and reach A7 it is alignment C. 4.7.5 Around Attenborough village, reach A5, a new defence is required and we have

identified five possible alignment choices. The following is an explanation on why we have proposed each alignment and any associated constraints:

Ø Alignment F: Would follow the naturally high ground via the shortest route across Church Lane, before tying into The Strand. Beyond this point, the defence could follow a number of alignments (H, I or J) which are described below.

Ø Alignment G: Would follow the boundary of the isolated properties to the south-west of the village. These eight properties would be protected by a 2m high defence following a convoluted route. Beyond this point, the defence could follow a number of alignments (H, I or J) which are described below.

Ø Alignment H: Would be the replacement of the hedgerow along the Strand with a flood wall. This is the shortest route through this stretch and the existing views would be maintained as the wall would be a similar height to the hedgerow. This alignment maximises the natural floodplain.



Ø Alignment I: Would follow the southern boundary of the cricket pitch. The embankment would be approximately 1.8m high and, to avoid removal of the existing trees, would encroach onto the pitch’s outfield. This alignment reduces the natural floodplain.

Ø Alignment J: Would be similar to alignment I, but to avoid directly impacting on the cricket pitch, would be positioned on the southern side of the existing watercourse. This alignment further reduces the natural floodplain.

4.7.6 The proposed works on reach A2 are to prevent flooding from the Trent via the River

Erewash railway culvert. Through this reach, we are proposing new defences to the low lying areas.

Existing railway line currently providing the only flood protection to the area.

The river Erewash, which flows out to the Trent through the Attenborough Nature Reserve.



4.8 Rylands 4.8.1 Figure 5a in Annex 5 shows the indicative design for Rylands. For reference

purposes, the area is split into three reaches (R1 to R3). 4.8.2 For reach R1 we propose to raise lengths of existing flood defences along their current

alignment by between 0.1 and 0.3m. The raising of existing roads is also required through this reach.

4.8.3 We do not propose a variation to the current alignment along any of the reaches in this

area.

Flood embankment with natural floodplain in foreground.

Flood embankment at Beeston Lock.



4.9 Meadows 4.9.1 Figure 6a in Annex 5 shows the indicative design for the Meadows. For reference

purposes, the Meadows is split into six reaches (M1 to M6). 4.9.2 For all of reach M1 and short lengths within reach M4, we propose to raise the existing

flood defence along its current alignment by between 0.1 and 0.8m. 4.9.3 The only reach through Meadows where we propose a variation in alignment, is reach

M2 along Victoria Embankment. At this location, the existing protection is provided by a flood wall and surrounding ground, both of which are insufficiently high. A new defence is required and we have identified three possible alignment choices. The following is an explanation on why we have proposed each alignment and any associated constraints

Ø Alignment A: Would raise the existing flood wall and continue it along the shortest route to high ground around Victoria Embankment. A precise alignment to avoid interference with the mature London Plane trees would be required.

Ø Alignment B: Would follow the northern boundary of the recreation grounds to avoid the majority of the London Plane trees and to maximise the natural floodplain. The defence would return to the Victoria Embankment at the bandstand to ensure protection to the Memorial Gardens.

Ø Alignment C: Is a similar route to alignment B. The defence would cross the easterly recreation ground at a location where construction is easier and natural ground slightly higher.

Flood wall along Victoria Embankment.

Outside County Hall, looking across to the Meadows area on the far bank.



4.10 Colwick 4.10.1 Figure 7a in Annex 5 shows the indicative design for Colwick. For reference

purposes, Colwick is split into four reaches (C1 to C4). 4.10.2 For reaches C2 and C3 we propose to raise the existing flood defences along their

current alignment by between 0.1 and 0.5m. 4.10.3 The only reach through Colwick where we propose a variation in alignment, is reach

C1. At this location t he existing defence ties into ground which is not sufficiently high. We therefore know that a new defence is required and have identified two possible alignment choices. The following is an explanation on why we have proposed each alignment and any associated constraints:

Ø Alignment A: Would be the setting back of defences by tying into the A612, which is sufficiently high. This maximises the natural floodplain. The racecourse and Colwick Hall Hotel area is currently protected by high ground against a flood which has a 1 in 50 chance of occurring in any year.

Ø Alignment B: Would follow the naturally high ground through the Country Park. An alignment to minimise tree removal would be required.

Existing flood embankment at Candle Meadow.

Route of proposed flood defence – alignment B – through Colwick Country Park



4.11 Flood Embankments 4.11.1 We propose new flood embankments of the profile shown in Figure 9. This

embankment has 1 in 3 slopes and a 4m crest to enable safe vehicular access needed for maintenance. We also require a 10m easement at the embankment toe for access during the proposed, and any future, construction. Table 4.2 summarises the approximate widths for a range of embankment heights.

Table 4.2: Land Impact from Varying Embankment Heights

Height (m)

Landtake (m)

Desired Easement (m)

Total Effected Area (m)

1 10 10 20

2 16 10 26

3 22 10 32 4.11.2 The embankment described is the desired profile, with landtake being the land

occupied by the flood defence after it is constructed. We accept that this profile will not always be possible due to, for example, a nearby property.

Figure 9: Example of Profile for Flood Embankments

4.12 Flood Walls 4.12.1 We propose new flood walls of the profile shown in Figure 10. The typical wall would

be reinforced concrete with cladding to suit its surroundings. Concrete foundations are likely but steel sheet piles for stability or cut -off purposes may be necessary at some locations.

4.12.2 To ensure cost savings we will, where appropriate, raise rather than replace the existing

walls. However, we will require detailed geotechnical and structural assessments before finalising such a decision.



4.12.3 Typically a new flood wall will require a 2m landtake with a 10m easement, which would include the working area.

Figure 10: Example of Profile for Flood Walls

4.13 Drainage 4.13.1 We will include drainage systems at the toe of the defences on the landward side,

where necessary, to enable surface water or groundwater to flow into the River Trent. An example of this is through Attenborough, where the runoff from the railway embankment would need to be dealt with.

4.13.2 Surface water outfalls within the existing flood defences affected by the proposed

works will be upgraded, where necessary. New outfalls will be constructed through reaches where we propose new flood defences to ensure current drains and minor watercourses continue to discharge to the River Trent.






SECTION 5 CONSULTATION

5.1 Previous Consultation 5.1.1 Our consultation process began in March 2004 with the issue of the draft Fluvial Trent

Strategy. Public launches in Nottingham and Alrewas were followed by three months of public consultation, during which we sent out over 300 copies of the report and received 60 comments. The final version of the report was issued in March 2005. The results of this high level consultation are summarised in the final strategy report, which is available on the Environment Agency website.

5.1.2 To identify opportunities and constraints for the flood defence alignments for the

Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS, we have held meetings with a number of organisations. These include the various departments of Borough, City and County Councils, the Trent River Park Group, the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trusts, English Nature, Network Rail and major landowners, including Cemex and British Waterways.

5.2 Current Consultation 5.2.1 We have produced this Scoping Report as part of our Environmental Impact

Assessment process. Details of the internal and external parties that are being consulted on this Scoping Report are provided in Annex 1. There will be a month long consultation period for this document, during which time we would welcome any additional data/information on the areas, and any comments, questions or concerns about the options under consideration. Consultees are also encouraged to highlight opportunities for environmental enhancement.

5.2.2 Feed back forms are available from our website www.NottinghamFloodDefence.co.uk

or alternatively please submit your comments to Jody Harris at the following address:

Jody Harris Environmental Assessment Officer Environment Agency Olton Court 10 Warwick Road Olton Solihull B92 7HX [email protected]

This section includes a summary of:

Ø previous consultation (including those undertaken for the Fluvial Trent Strategy)

Ø our approach to current and ongoing consultation during the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS



5.2.3 The closing date for consultation is Friday 23rd December 2005. Due to the large number of comments we are expecting to receive we are unlikely to be able to answer any queries individually. However, we will summarise responses to queries in a newsletter to be published early in 2006. We will also update the website regularly with ‘frequently asked questions’.

5.2.4 Further copies of the Scoping Report, outline design drawings, and indicative

landscape plans are also available from our website or from the above address. 5.2.5 There will be an official launch to the main consultees on the 22nd November 2005.

We will also be publicising the Scoping Report by a series of roadshows at some of the scheme areas.

5.3 Future Consultation 5.3.1 To co-ordinate future consultation, we have prepared a Community Engagement Plan.

This aims to:

Ø identify important groups with a likely interest in the works

Ø clarify the roles and responsibilities of the project team for specific aspects of external communication

Ø establish a programme for future consultation rounds



SECTION 6 POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

6.1 Our approach to impact assessment 6.1.1 This section provides a summary of the environmental impacts of all the options. In

Sections 6.3 and 6.4, we consider the impacts of the ‘do nothing’ and the ‘do minimum’ options. The impacts of these options are similar for all areas so we have assessed these for the whole of the left bank.

6.1.2 We then assessed the potential impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3). Where the

impacts on an environmental receptor are considered similar for all areas, we discuss these in Section 6.5 under ‘generic impacts’. Where the impacts are specific to each area these are discussed in Sections 6.6-6.12.

6.1.3 Further detail of the impacts, together with possible mitigation measures, are provided

in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Scoping Impact Matrices in Annex 4. The matrices also detail where we intend to carry out further surveys, the scope of which will be agreed in advance with the relevant stakeholders.

6.1.4 This Scoping Report provides an outline assessment of the options. We will provide a

detailed assessment of the preferred option in the Environmental Statement. 6.2 How we assessed the impacts 6.2.1 An outline assessment of the impacts and mitigation on the receptors in each section

has been made. A number of criteria have been used to determine whether or not the potential impacts of the proposed scheme are ‘significant’. Impacts are assessed to be either during the construction stage or at the end state (the operational phase).

6.2.2 In carrying out this assessment, a general method for grading of the significance of

environmental impacts has been adopted to ensure consistency in the terminology of significance, whether for a positive or a negative impact. The two principal criteria determining significance are the sensitivity of the receptor and the magnitude of the change arising from the scheme, as shown in Table 6.1 below.

6.2.3 As can be seen in the Table 6.1, the assessment of impact significance has been classed

as major, moderate, minor or none; either positive (beneficial) or negative (adverse). This categorisation is widely recognised and accepted in the field of EIA.

This section:

Ø describes our approach to the impact assessment

Ø describes potential impacts that are generic to all areas

Ø describes the main potential impacts in each area



Table 6.1 Determination of Impact Significance

SENSITIVITY OF RECEPTOR MAGNITUDE OF CHANGE High

(e.g. international, national

protection)

Medium (e.g. regional, local

protection)

Low (e.g. no protection)

High (e.g. >75% of

area or receptor affected)

Major

Major

Moderate

Medium (e.g. 25-75% of area or receptor

affected)

Major

Moderate

Minor

Low (e.g. 5 to 25%

of area or receptor affected)

Moderate

Minor

None

Very Low (e.g. s>0, but

<5% of area or receptor affected)

Minor

None

None

6.3 Impacts of Do Nothing (Option 1) 6.3.1 The impacts of the do nothing option for the River Trent’s left bank through

Nottingham are summarised below and presented in Matrices 1.1 and 1.2 in Annex 4. 6.3.2 The do nothing option is the benchmark against which the other options are compared.

For this scenario, we would not construct any new defences and would cease all existing maintenance and flood warning works. The flood risk to Nottingham would increase with time as defences reach the end of their design life and fail.

6.3.3 This option is not recommended due to the increased flood risk. 6.4 Impacts of Do Minimum (Option 2) 6.4.1 The do minimum option is a business as usual approach. All maintenance and flood

warning activities would continue at their present level. As the condition of the defences deteriorates, breaches will occur which would be repaired. No raising or rebuilding of the defences would take place.

6.4.2 This option is not recommended as the existing defences currently protect, on average,

against a 1 in 50 annual chance event. Some reaches only protect against a 1 in 25 annual chance event, which is less than the standard recommended Defra for a population the size of Nottingham.



6.5 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Generic Impacts & Mitigation 6.5.1 Due to the nature and scale of the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS the impacts on a

number of the environmental receptors are similar across all the areas within the scheme. We consider these as generic impacts. We have therefore described the impacts on the following receptors for the entire Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS:

Ø Air and Climate


Ø Use of Natural Resources

Air and Climate 6.5.2 There will be potential impacts on local air quality during the construction works. Dust

emissions can arise from the movement of stockpiled material and machinery/vehicles. There will also be noise generated from machinery and vehicles. The severity of any impacts would be greatest in the more rural locations, such as at Rylands, and sensitive environmental areas, such as Attenborough. The effects would be reduced by the adoption of good working practices.

Soils, Geology and Hydrogeology

6.5.3 None of our proposals are expected to have a significant adverse effect on the geology,

hydrogeology and soils in any of the areas. The reinstatement of some natural floodplain, particularly in Colwick (alignment A), would allow natural geological and hydrogeological processes to develop.

Use of Natural Resources

6.5.4 Material would be needed to raise or create new defences. Most would be required at

Attenborough, where significant lengths of new defences are proposed. Such impacts will be greatest in areas where the materials cannot be sourced locally. We will look to identify opportunities to maximise sustainability during the design and construction phases, wherever possible, by:

Ø the use of sustainable or recycled materials

Ø sourcing material locally

Ø designing a solution that requires minimal maintenance.

6.6 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Site Specific Impacts & Mitigation 6.6.1 Where the environmental impacts on a receptor differ significantly between the sites,

we consider these separately for each area (see Sections 6.7-6.12). The following receptors are considered for each area:


Ø Flora and Fauna






Ø Traffic and Transport

6.7 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Sawley 6.7.1 The main potential impacts of flood defence works at Sawley are:

Ø disturbance to the significant archaeological interest of the area

Ø disturbance to Trent Lock Margins candidate SINC

Ø construction impacts to the community of Sawley, including disruption to traffic using Harrington Bridge

6.7.2 Table 6.1 and Figure 2b (in Annex 5) summarise these impacts with further detail

provided in Matrix 1.2 in Annex 4.

Table 6.1 Summary of Potential Impacts at Sawley

Receptor Summary of Potential Impacts during Construction

Summary of Potential Impacts Post-Construction


· Disturbance to Sawley village and some disruption to footpaths/access during construction.

· Minor landtake · Improved standard of flood

protection.

Flora and Fauna · Disturbance to protected

species and SINCs. · Minor landtake and severance

of habitats. · Potential for habitat creation.


· Reduced visual amenity during construction.

· Raised and new defences including through the Conservation Area.

Water

· Pollution risk during works close to waterbodies.

· Disruption to Erewash Canal during works to sluice.

· None.


· Disturbance to significant archaeological interest.

· Visual impact on setting of listed buildings and Scheduled Monument.

· Improved flood protection to listed buildings, Scheduled Monument and Sawley Village.


· Disruption to traffic across Harrington Bridge. Increased local traffic movements.

· None.



6.7.3 The specific impacts of the different alignment choices for reach S3 are:

Ø Alignment A would potentially cause the most disturbance to Sawley village and would pass through the Sawley Village Conservation Area.

Ø Alignments B and C would cause increased disturbance to Trent Lock Margins SINC and have more of an impact to the setting and the structure of Harrington Bridge than Alignment A.

6.8 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Trent Meadows 6.8.1 The main potential impacts of the flood defence works at Trent Meadows would be:

Ø working in private gardens

Ø disturbance to a feature of archaeological importance (palaeochannel)

Ø disturbance to two SINCs (Trent Meadows candidate SINC and Barton Pool SINC).


provided in Matrix 1.3 in Annex 4. 6.8.3 The specific impacts of the different alignments for reach T6 are:

Ø Alignment A would potentially cause the most disturbance to Barton Pool SINC but it would not present a barrier between Trent Meadows candidate SINC and Barton Pool SINC.

Ø Alignments B and C would result in a physical barrier across an area of high wildlife value, as well as being more visually intrusive. These alignments would also reduce the available floodplain.

Public footpath across railway line onto existing flood embankment; Trent Meadows.



Table 6.2 Summary of Potential Impacts at Trent Meadows




· Minor disturbance to public recreation areas.

· Works to existing defences through private gardens and agricultural land.

· Improved standard of flood protection.

· Minor landtake.

Flora and Fauna

· Disturbance to Trent Meadows candidate SINC and Barton Pool SINC.

· Landtake within SINCs. · Creation of physical barrier

between SINCs. · Opportunity to enhance SINCs.


· Reduced visual amenity. · Visual impact of new and raised defences, particularly in private gardens and recreation areas.

Water · Pollution risk during

works close to watercourse.

· None.


· Works proposed in areas of archaeological interest.

· No additional impacts.


· Increased traffic on local road network.

· None.

6.9 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Attenborough 6.9.1 The main potential impacts of the flood defence works at Attenborough would be:

Ø landtake in the Attenborough SSSI and three SINCs (Attenborough Pastures, Attenborough Junction Tip and Trent Meadows candidate SINC)

Ø disturbance to archaeological interest

Ø the visual impact of the new defence

Ø disturbance to the community of Attenborough village and users of the SSSI during construction


provided in Matrix 1.4 in Annex 4.



Table 6.3 Summary of Potential Impacts at Attenborough




· Disturbance to recreational areas including Attenborough SSSI and footpaths.

· Works sometimes in or adjacent to private property and through paddocks.


· Minor landtake. · Footpath and vehicle access

may be improved.

Flora and Fauna

· Disturbance to SSSI, three SINCs (Attenborough Pastures; Attenborough Junction Tip and Trent Meadows candidate SINC), and possibly some protected species.

· Minor landtake. · Creation of physical barrier

if wall constructed. · Opportunity to enhance

SINCs and SSSI.


· Reduced visual amenity. · Visual impact of new and raised defences, particularly in private gardens, recreation areas and Attenborough Church Conservation Area.

Water · Pollution risk during works

close to waterbodies. · Minor loss of open water

habitat if Alignment A chosen.


· Works proposed in areas of significant archaeological interest.

· Visual impact on setting of listed buildings and Scheduled Monument.

· Improved flood protection to listed buildings and Attenborough Village.


· Increased traffic on local road network. Disruption to rail network.

· None.

6.9.3 The specific impacts of the different alignments through the area are:

Ø Alignment A will impact on the open water and bankside habitat in some reaches. The banksides may support protected species such as water vole and provide important habitat for birds. The new bank profile would need to be designed to maximise the potential for biodiversity.

Ø Alignments A & B would result in the most disturbance to the SSSI in Reach A3 as work would be outside the existing track and in the natural vegetation.

Ø Alignments C, D & E would potentially cause the most impacts to the railway and the underground power cables.

Ø Alignments F & G would require work close to St Mary’s Church and several listed buildings and would pass through the Attenborough Church Conservation Area. Alignment G would be closer to the Fishponds Scheduled Monument than F.



Ø Alignments I and J would protect the cricket pitch but would require the removal of mature trees along the boundary. Alignment J would cause the more disturbance to the SSSI then Alignment I. Alignment I would have a greater visual impact on the Conservation Area and require some landtake in the cricket pitch.

Ø Alignment H would require a new wall in the Attenborough Church Conservation Area, between the residential area and the cricket pit ch, probably replacing the existing hedge.

6.10 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Rylands 6.10.1 As the defences are only to be raised by a very small amount, the main potential

impacts at Rylands are associated with the construction phase and include the disturbance in the caravan park, the lock keeper’s cottage and visitors to the canal. Table 6.4 and Figure 5b (in Annex 5) summarises these impacts with further detail provided in Matrix 1.5 in Annex 4.

Table 6.4 Summary of Potential Impacts at Rylands




· Disturbance to canal and footpath users.

· Disturbance to allotments and private property.


· Opportunities to improve access along river.

Flora and Fauna · Minimal risk of disturbance to

SSSI/protected species. · None.


· Reduce visual amenity. · Minor visual impact of raised defences.


close to river/canal. · None.


· No significant impacts likely. · None.

Traffic and Transport · Increased traffic on local road

network. · None.

6.11 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Meadows 6.11.1 The main potential impacts of flood defence works at Meadows are:



Ø disturbance to the amenity, landscape and archaeological importance of Victoria Embankment, the recreation grounds, and the Memorial Gardens;

Ø the mature avenue of trees along the embankment has a particularly high landscape value and will be protected where possible;

Ø we also need to ensure that the navigation at Trent Lock is maintained and its archaeological interest protected;

Ø a large number of trees, including many with Tree Protection Orders (TPOs), are likely to be affected at Park Yacht Club and new landscape planting will be required.

6.11.2 Table 6.5 and Figure 6b (in Annex 5) summarises these impacts with further detail

provided in Matrix 1.6 in Annex 4. 6.11.3 The specific impacts of the different alignments for reach M2 are:

Ø Alignment A along the Victoria Embankment may require the removal of some trees of landscape and ecological interest, and the raised/new walls would restrict views to the river. However, it would minimise the construction impacts on the residential community of Meadows.

Ø Alignment B and C would allow the recreation grounds to act as flood storage areas. However, this would mean the recreation area and Victoria Embankment would be unusable in a 1 in 75 annual chance event.

Victoria Embankment, just upstream of Trent Bridge.

Table 6.5 Summary of Potential Impacts at Meadows






· Disturbance to community at Meadows, recreational use at Victoria Embankment, Park Yacht Club, and some commercial property.

· Minor landtake. · Improved standard of flood

protection.

Flora and Fauna

· Some trees may be lost, with potential impacts to bats and breeding birds. Otherwise minimal impact as mainly urban.

· No significant impact.



· Negative visual impact of raised and new defences, particularly at Reaches M1 & M2.

· Visual impact if any trees need to be removed.

· Opportunities to improve landscaping and access along the riverside in reach M4.


close to waterbodies.

· None.


· Disturbance to archaeological interest.

· Visual impact on setting of listed buildings.

· Improved flood protection to some listed buildings.


· Disruption to traffic along Victoria Embankment.

· Increased traffic movements on local roads.

· None.

6.12 Impacts of Flood Defences (Option 3) – Summary for Colwick

6.12.1 The main potential impacts of flood defence works at Colwick are:

Ø the ecological, landscape and recreation value of Colwick Country Park and SINC

Ø Nottingham racecourse and Colwick Hall Hotel through disturbance and very slight change in the standard of flood defence

6.12.2 There is the potential for partnership with other organisations to develop a footpath

network along the River Trent between the Country Park and the Industrial Estate. Table 6.6 and Figure 6b (in Annex 5) summarises these impacts with further detail provided in Matrix 1.7 in Annex 4.

6.12.3 The specific impacts of the different alignments for reach C1 are:

Ø Alignment A will impact on a small strip of landscape woodland which provides screening to the adjacent housing estate and is possibly an important bat flight



route. It would also pass close to an earthwork of archaeological interest. The alignment would allow the Colwick Country Park and racecourse to be used as a flood storage area.

Ø Alignment B is longer in length and would cause increased disruption to the Country Park, and impact on habitats in Colwick Country Park SINC. It would, however, increase the standard of protection to the racecourse and Colwick Hall Hotel.

Table 6.6 Summary of Potential Impacts at Colwick




· Disturbance to residential areas and industrial estate. Disturbance to public recreation areas (including Colwick Country Park) and some disruption to footpaths/access during construction.


· Minor landtake · Opportunities to improve

footpath network.

Flora and Fauna

· Disturbance to protected species and SINC.

· Minor landtake, possibly within the SINC.

· Potential for habitat enhancement.



· Visual impact of raised and new defences through Country Park but visual amenity of defences along the industrial estate could be improved.

Water

· Pollution risk during works close to waterbodies.

· None.


· Disturbance to archaeological interest.

· No additional impact.

Traffic and Transport · Increased traffic movements. · None.

6.13 Cumulative Impacts Surrounding Villages within the River Trent Floodplain 6.13.1 Raising the current defences to protect thousands of homes and businesses will have a

very positive impact on Nottingham. It will reduce the flood risk to thousands of people’s homes and businesses, enhance people’s enjoyment of the river, and improve the existing environment. Preventing inundation, however, reduces the river’s ability



to store flood water behind the city’s defences, resulting in slightly more water passing downstream during extreme events.

6.13.2 Raising the Nottingham defences will not change the flood risk to the surrounding

villages up to the event which has a 1 in 50 chance of occurring in any year. It is only for the very rare events that flood depths to the surrounding villages will increase up to a maximum of 6cm, or 2? inches.

6.13.3 We have used our mathematical model to quantify this slight impact and confirm that

the communities which may be affected are:

Ø Barton In Fabis

Ø Holme Pierrepont

Ø Radcliffe on Trent

Ø Shelford

Ø Stoke Bardolph

Ø Burton Joyce

Ø Gunthorpe

Ø Caythorpe

Ø Hoveringham

Ø Bleasby 6.13.4 We plan to ease the impact to these areas through appropriate mitigation. We are also

committed to undertaking a separate study to investigate methods to reducing flood risk to these communities, in the longer term. The progress of this study will be reported upon in the Environmental Statement.

Tributaries

6.13.5 When the River Trent passes through Nottingham it is the result of rain which has

fallen on an area of 7,500km2, which is an area approximately 1/16th the size of England. The time taken from when the rain falls on this catchment area, until the swollen River Trent passes through Nottingham is usually between 1 and 2 days.

6.13.6 The majority of tributaries flowing into the Trent through Nottingham are small

watercourses with a highly urban catchment. They also normally have a steel flap across their outfall pipe to prevent the Trent flowing back up them. For these watercourses, the time it takes for the river to respond to rainfall (and ‘peak’) is measurable in a few hours. Therefore, the peak levels in these tributaries have passed through before the surge of the Trent arrives. As a result, peak flows that could result in flooding are very unlikely to occur in these tributaries at the same time as the River Trent. Consequently, the work we are proposing to manage the flood risk from the Trent during times of high flows is not going to affect the flood risk from the tributaries.

6.13.7 The exception is the River Erewash. This large river discharges to the Trent within the

Attenborough reach of the FAS and historic records show that flooding can occur



simultaneously along these two rivers. Therefore, we are going to construct flood defences to the north of the railway to prevent against the Trent flowing up the Erewash and using this as a route to by-pass our newly constructed Trent defences. The option to construct a new large flapped outfall is un-economical.

6.13.8 We are also currently carrying out a separate study to investigate the flood risk along

the River Erewash. For more information on this study please consult the Environment Agency website.






SECTION 7 ENHANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

7.1 Areas of Proposed Environmental Enhancement 7.1.1 As part of the Environment Agency’s commitment to improving the environment we

will endeavor to undertake enhancement as part of any flood alleviation scheme. 7.1.2 Through initial consultation with the main consultees a number of potential

enhancement opportunities were identified. We will investigate these as the design develops. All enhancements will be subject to landowner permission and an environmental impact assessment.

7.1.3 Specific enhancement opportunities at each site are described below. A number of

consultees have already highlighted that there is a major enhancement opportunity to improve access along the river frontage throughout the length of the Nottingham Trent Left Bank FAS. The enhancement opportunities are summarised on the Indicative Landscape Plans in Annex 5.

7.1.4 Some of these enhancement measures may provide suitable mitigation and

compensation opportunities for the impacts of the preferred options. 7.2 Enhancement Opportunities at Sawley

Backwater and Reedbed Creation 7.2.1 A potential option for ecological enhancement is to create a new backwater channel

and a reedbed. The backwater would be created by excavating a meandering 50m wide channel from the upstream face of the Railway Bridge into the floodplain in a westerly direction. The connection to the Trent would be via a series of culverts, rather than the removal of the low level defences. The excavated material could also be used for the new embankments at Sawley and elsewhere.

7.2.2 A reedbed could be created by opening an existing surface water drainage pipe and

allowing it to discharge into the backwater. The reedbed would serve a dual purpose; becoming a natural treatment system for the drainage water and a valuable habitat for wildlife.

7.2.3 However, the area proposed for both the backwater and the reedbed contains

archeological interest and further investigation and consultation with Derbyshire County Archaeologists would be required

This section describes a number of opportunities for environmental enhancement within each area.



Buffer Strip Creation 7.2.4 Fencing could be erected around the drain east of Harrington Bridge to create a 5m

wide buffer strip. The benefits of this include:

Ø improved water quality

Ø provision of corridors to aid movement of wildlife, such as water voles

Ø diversifying of the river corridor by providing additional semi-natural habitats Instream Enhancement - Extending Gravel Riffles and Removal of Silt

7.2.5 Habitat for fish could be enhanced near Harrington Bridge by the following measures:

Ø widening the river immediately upstream of the bridge to encourage the existing gravel shoal to extend further downstream

Ø extending the gravel riffles at Sawley

Ø removing silts beneath the bridge, to improve the condition of gravel beds for fish spawning

BAP Habitat and Species Enhancement - Tree Planting and Otter Holt Creation

7.2.6 It would be possible to enhance habitats in line with the Derbyshire BAP, by planting

riverside trees and building artificial otter holts along the riverbank. 7.3 Enhancement Opportunities at Trent Meadows 7.3.1 We will continue to consult with the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust over possible

enhancement of the Barton Pool SINC. To compensate for landtake through the Trent Meadows and Attenborough areas, including the SSSI, we will look to enhance the large grassland area to the west of Attenborough. This area has already been identified as a candidate SINC (Attenborough Tip). However, it is on a former landfill site and an assessment will be required before proposals can be drawn up.

7.3.2 We also propose to create additional public footpaths throughout the area to improve its

recreation value. These would also form part of a strategic footpath network along the River Trent.

7.4 Enhancement Opportunities at Attenborough 7.4.1 Environmental enhancements for the SSSI are proposed by Nottinghamshire Wildlife

Trust and include:

Ø Dredging the shallowest part of Coneries Lake and transferring this material to the periphery of the lake near Barton Lane where valuable BAP priority marginal habitats could be created. This would have the additional advantages of improving Coneries Lake for the sailing club.

Ø Removal of silt from Works Pond and transferring it to create valuable marginal habitats elsewhere in the SSSI.



7.4.2 Consultation will also be undertaken with Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Wildlife

Trusts to establish whether there are any enhancement opportunities at the SINCs at Attenborough Junction Tip and Attenborough Pastures adjacent to the Erewash.

7.5 Enhancement Opportunities at Rylands 7.5.1 British Waterways are currently improving public information boards around the lock.

There may be an opportunity for the Environment Agency to provide information related to flood defence in the area.

7.5.2 Nottingham City Council has plans to open out the riverside around this area to extend

its amenity value. British Waterways carried out a feasibility study into linking the towpath with a riverside footpath. The council is in the process of trying to secure a budget for this and any proposed defence works could be integrated into the scheme.

7.6 Enhancement Opportunities at Meadows 7.6.1 Ecological enhancements could include the provision of bat boxes on mature trees.

Some planting could also be carried out, for example, along the boundaries of the recreation grounds. This would improve habitat for breeding birds and provide vegetation belts beneficial to bats.

7.6.2 Nottingham City Council is working in collaboration with Nottingham Waterside

Limited and British Waterways on a new link across Trent Lock. This comprises an improved bridge across the mouth of the canal for all users. The current bridge is for pedestrians only. An upgraded cycle and pedestrian link on Lady Bay Bridge is also proposed, depending on its structural condition. We will look into partnership opportunities for these initiatives.

7.6.3 Nottingham City Council has an objective to provide a continuous cycle and pedestrian

route along the Trent. Where possible, the defences will contribute to creating a safe and convenient cycle/pedestrian route.

7.6.4 The Meadows Partnership are looking to regenerate areas of The Meadows and have

submitted a Living Landmarks Lottery Bid. We are already meeting with this group to identify any partnership opportunities.

7.7 Enhancement Opportunities at Colwick 7.7.1 To compensate for the landtake for the flood defences within the Colwick County Park

SINC, we would undertake local ecological and environmental enhancement. This could involve planting vegetation along the edges of ponds, installing tern floats or creating and installing public information boards.



7.7.2 Other potential ecological enhancements are to:

Ø move the existing river bank inland by approximately 10m, lower the embankments to enhance the river corridor such as by creating a low berm and planting trees. This would bring biodiversity benefits and also increase access to the river for anglers and dog walkers;

Ø link the western lake with the river;

Ø source material for the flood defences from around the weir area and thereby create a bay for fish shelter;

Ø improve the river meander at the downstream end of the backwater by moving the weir 30m and lowering it or creating several lower weir;

Ø construct a culvert where the present channel meets the old meander, to create a flow through the meander. Flows would discharge back to the Trent at the weir end of the drain;

Ø incorporate bat bricks into new flood defence walls.

7.7.3 Various consultees have also suggested the following recreational enhancements at

Colwick:

Ø extend the riverside path continuously throughout Colwick. Where the path passes the industrial estate, it is very narrow and could benefit from widening and the provision of lighting;

Ø provide an access bridge across the downstream end of the meander to allow the continuation of the footpath through the Country Park to the Colwick Industrial Estate.



SECTION 8 NEXT STEPS IN THE EIA PROCEDURE 8.1.1 Figure 11 provides a summary of the EIA process for the Nottingham Trent Left Bank

FAS. There will be two main public reports, namely the Scoping Report and the Environmental Statement. Consultation will also continue as the scheme progresses. This will include liaison with landowners, local planning authorities, English Nature, English Heritage, Countryside Agency and any other interested parties.

Figure 11 Summary of EIA Process

EIA Procedure Main Activities Public Documents

Screening and Scoping

Options Available

Assessment and Evaluation

Implementation

· Undertake initial internal and external consultation. · Collect baseline environmental data. · Identify likely impacts, mitigation, survey

requirements, opportunities and constraints for the options.

· Review feedback on Scoping Report. · Develop preferred option with further

internal and external consultees, as required. · Outline design. · Prepare business case to Defra on preferred

option.

· Undertake further surveys as required. · Detailed appraisal of the preferred option. · Assessment of impacts, mitigation and

enhancements.

· Consultation on Environmental Statement

· Develop detailed design

· Consultation on Scoping Report

This is the stage we are now at.

SCOPING REPORT

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

· Obtain all planning and other environmental consents.

· Construction of Scheme



8.1.2 Due to the overall size, each area is likely to be taken forward as a separate scheme. We will need to check with the Local Planning Authority if planning permission is required for each area. However, the works are likely to fall under the Land Drainage Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations SI 99/1783. In accordance with these regulations, an Environmental Statement will be produced for the entire left bank, if it is considered to give rise to significant environmental effects.

8.1.3 The Environmental Statement will document the potential environmental impact of the

options. It will assess, in detail, the preferred option and include the outline design for it. The Environmental Statement will identify opportunities for environmental enhancements. The Environmental Statement will also include an Environmental Action Plan, which will outline how the environmental impacts will be managed and mitigated during the development process. The Environmental Statement will be open to full public consultation.



SECTION 9 FURTHER INFORMATION 9.1.1 This Scoping Report was prepared on behalf of the Environment Agency’s Project

Manager, Mr. Malcom Dineley. The Environment Assessment Officer is Mrs Jody Harris, who can be contacted at the following address:

Jody Harris Environmental Assessment Officer Environment Agency Olton Court 10 Warwick Road Olton Solihull B92 7HX Email: [email protected]

Tel: 08708 506 506 (Mon-Fri 8am-6pm)






ANNEX 1

List of Consultees at Scoping Stage






Annex 1 List of Consultees at Scoping Stage Table A1.1 Internal Environment Agency Consultees

Function/Role Contact Name

Project Manager Malcolm Dineley EIA Officer Jody Harris Lower Trent Area Flood Risk Manager Paul Lockhart Lower Trent Area Client Sponsor Andy Pendleton Regional Estates Manager Paul Freeborough Senior Legal Officer Derek Smith Team Leader, Regional Asset & Investment Management Roy Stokes Principal Communications Officer, Corporate Affairs Lyn Fraley Biodiversity Technical Specialist Andrew Crawford Team Leader, Biodiversity, Fisheries & Recreation Penny Thorpe External Relations Officers Emma Corns

Jayne Widdowson James Freeborough

Team Leader, Planning Liaison Dave Bartram Team Leader, Operations Delivery Technical Team Peter Reilly Team Leader, Development Control Andrew Disney Team Leader, Environmental Management (Lean & Greet) Kath Williams Team Leader, Environmental Management (Tome & Eau) Dave Briggs Team Leader, Environmental Management (Ryton & Maun) Eric Stevens Team Leader, Environmental Management (Erewash & Devon)

Emma Williams






Table A1.2 Planning Authorities and Statutory Consultees Organisation Name

Clare Morton Senior Planning Officer Steve Fisher Senior Engineer Design

Broxtowe Borough Council

Tony Ward Principal Planning Officer - Policy Adam Reddish Planning Officer (Local Plans)

Erewash Borough Council

Bob Willard Development Control Officer Gill Morley Development Control Michael Stevenson Head of Planning

Gedling Borough Council

Geoff Stevenson Development Control Officer Jayne Cox Recreation Manager Simon Gladwin Parks Development Manager Paul Owen City Ecologist SJ Rippey Property Plus Mike Senior Team Leader, Planning Services

Nottingham City Council

John Washbrook Senior Drainage Engineer Dr David Barrett Archaeologist George Brydon TPO Annie Cooper Ecologist Bill Cox Planning Control Glynis Foster Senior Landscape Officer Dee Hill Senior Assistant Education Officer John Holmes Area Countryside Manager (Trent Valley Way) David Jenkinson Rights of Way Inspector for Erewash BC Ian Shuttleworth Chief Emergency Planning Officer

Derbyshire County Council

Peter White Forward Planning Manager

Nottinghamshire County Council

Henry Blagg Corporate Property Division



Organisation Name

Nick Crouch Acting Senior Nature Conservation Officer Peter Dornig Senior Forestry Officer - TPO Richard Hunt Mineral Reviews Officer Tom French Ecologist Peter Jarman Countryside Access Team David Mills Group Manager for Environment Strategies Jason Mordan Senior Conservation Officer (Heritage Conservation) Ian Parker Highways - South Ursilla Spence Senior Archaeological Officer

Steve Tipping Footpaths Officer, Colwick

Rushcliffe Borough Council Rick Simpkin Design and Nature Conservation

Newark and Sherwood District Council Mike Evans Head of Planning Services

English Nature Dan Abrahams Conservation Officer, Peak District & Derbyshire Team

English Nature Nick Tribe Conservation Officer, East Midlands Team

English Heritage (East Midlands) Glyn Copack Highways Agency Mark Allen Countryside Agency Elizabeth Newman British Waterways James Moon



Table A.1.3 Non-Statutory Consultees

Organisation Arkwright Community Gardens Meadows Advice Group Attenborough CAT Meadows Partnership Trust Attenborough Sailing Club MEPs Beeston & District Civic Society National Federation of Anglers Beeston Rylands CAT Netherfield Forum British Canoe Union Network Rail Broxtowe LSP Partnerships New Meadows Tenants’ & Residents’ Assoc BT Newark Area Internal Drainage Board Cemex Nottingham East Midlands Airport Central Networks Nottingham Historical & Arch. Soc. Civic Trust Nottingham Nottingham Pedals Colwick Parish Council Nottingham Racecourse Country Land & Business Association Nottingham Regeneration Ltd Corus UK Ltd Nottinghamshire CPRE Derbyshire Archaeological Society Nottinghamshire CTC District Association Derbyshire CPRE Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust Derbyshire Wildlife Trust Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust/ Attenborough

Reserves Manager East Midlands Development Agency NTL Erewash Ramblers OnTrent Fairham Brook Internal Drainage Board Powergen Retail Ltd General Public Queens Walk Community Association Government Office East Midlands Ramblers Association Greater Nottingham Partnership Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Groundwork Erewash Valley Saint Gobain Pipelines Ltd Groundwork Greater Nottingham Sawley Parish Council Ilkeston & District Local History Society Severn Trent Water Ilkeston Civic Society South Nottingham BAT Group Inland Waterways South Broxtowe Local Area Forum Lafarge Sport England Landowner/tenants directly effected St. Saviour’s Community Project Little Eaton Parish Council Stoke Bardolph Parish Council Local Angling and Recreation Groups Sustrans Local MPs The Coal Authority Local Councillors Three Valleys Housing Ltd Long Eaton Parish Council Transco PLC Lord Mayor of Nottingham Trent River Park Meadows Action Group Trent Rivers Trust Consultees will either be issued with a copy of the Scoping Report or provided with a summary leaflet and advised of the location of the full report.






ANNEX 2

Glossary






Description Alignment The correct relative position of a feature, such as the proposed flood

walls and flood embankments. Amenity A positive element or elements that contribute to the overall character of

an area, for example open land, trees, historic buildings and how they relate to each other

Aquifer A body of rock that holds water or through which water flows. Appraisal The evaluation of the value, significance, or status of the

environment/and or receptors that may be affected by a project or development.

Arable A form of agricultural land use, meaning land that is (and can be) used for growing crops.

Archaeology The study of past human life and culture through the recovery and study of remaining material evidence, including human remains, structures, artefactual and environmental material.

Archaeological Potential

The probability that surviving archaeological remains may be found.

Artifactual Material Objects made or formed by human actions which reflect the culture and lifestyle of people in the past.

Bat Bricks Specially designed brick-sized objects with a series of gaps providing suitable crevices for bats. These can in suitable situations be used in brickwork.

Berm Low lying floodplain area between river’s edge and riverside toe of flood defence.

Biodiversity Biodiversity is the living component of the natural world and embraces all plant and animal species, and communities associated with terrestrial, aquatic and marine habitats. It also includes genetic variation within species.

Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)

The UK Biodiversity Action Plan is a result of the Rio Convention held in 1994 to deal with biodiversity conservation. Councils are required to construct their own species and habitat action plans to maintain and enhance their local environment.

Conservation The maintenance of environmental quality and resources in a given area. Conservation Areas An area considered to be of special architectural or historic interest, the

character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance. Designated under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.

Countryside Agency The organisation responsible for advising Government and taking action on issues affecting the social, economic and environmental well being of the English countryside.

Countryside Character Areas

Areas of distinctive landscape, wildlife and natural features as defined by the Countryside Agency.

County Archaeologist An officer within a County Council responsible for maintaining and compiling Sites and Ancient Monuments Records on behalf of English Heritage, and advising on development affecting archaeological remains.

County Council A ‘higher tier’ local authority providing strategic planning functions in non-unitary local authority areas.

Cropmarks These are usually seen on air photographs and show features which are apparent due to differential growth of vegetation so revealing buried archaeological sites not visible on the ground.



Description CROW Act The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 created a new statutory

right of access to open country and registered common land, modernised the rights of way system, gave greater protection to Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), provided better management arrangements for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and strengthened wildlife enforcement legislation.

Culvert An enclosed flowing body of water which generally passes underneath a road, railway, or embankment, or the part that does so.

Cumulative Impact A number of developments in a locality or a continuous activity over time that together may have an increased impact on the environment, local community or economy.

Cut-off The end point or terminus of a feature. Diversification To increase the diversity or variety. Dry Side The side of a flood defence facing away from the river Ecology The study of the detrimental effects of modern civilization on the

environment, with a view towards prevention or reversal through conservation.

English Heritage A national body funded by the government to promote and give advice on building conservation matters. Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission for England.

English Nature A national body funded by the government to promote and give advice on the conservation of England's wildlife and natural features.

Enhancement Measures to improve the quality or amount of an environmental feature or habitat in it’s own right and/or for the benefit of people and plant and animal species.

Environment Act 1995 The Environment Act 1995 created a number of new agencies and set new standards for environmental management. It set up the Environment Agency, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and the National Park Authorities. It also required the Secretary of State to prepare a national air quality strategy and a national waste strategy, with power to impose obligations on producers. It also gave powers to protect important hedgerows.

Environment Agency The Environment Agency is a public body established by the Environment Act 1995. Generally speaking, it is empowered under the Water Resources Act 1991 to manage flood risk arising from designated main rivers and the sea. The Agency are also responsible for flood forecasting and flood warning dissemination, and for exercising a general supervision over matters relating to flood defence in England and Wales.

Environmental When environmental issues are referred to, this term is used to encompass landscape/natural beauty, flora, fauna, geological or geo-morphological features, buildings, sites and objects of archaeological, architectural or historic interest.

Environmental Assessment

A tool for integrating environmental considerations into decision making, by ensuring that significant environmental effects of the decision are taken into account.

Environmental Action Plan (EAP)

A stand alone report or section within another environmental impact assessment (q.v.) document (e.g. an Environmental Report or Environmental Statement (q.v.)) which ensures that constraints, objective and targets are translated into contract documents and practice on the ground from the ES or ER.



Description Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

Applied at the project level, this is a process to ensure that environmental impacts of schemes are identified prior to the work being carried out, so that proposals can be modified or managed in such a way that adverse impacts are avoided or minimised. It is also referred to in some of the literature as Environmental Assessment.

Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations

This is used in the Guidance to refer to the Regulations by which EIA has been adopted in the UK. For Environment Agency projects this is principally the Environmental Impact Assessment (Land Drainage Improvement) Regulations SI 1999/1783 and the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations SI 1999/293.

Environmental Statement (ES)

Applicants for certain types of development, usually more significant schemes, are required to submit an "Environmental Statement" with a planning application. This evaluates the likely environmental impacts of the development, together with an assessment of how the severity of the impacts could be reduced.

Environmental Report (ER)

An Environmental Report is produced for projects that do not require an Environmental Statement (q.v.), including for projects requiring planning permission from a local authority and where the effects of the proposal will not be significant. The ER is similar in content but less detailed that an Environmental Statement.

Fauna Animals, considered as a group. Flood Cell A discret e area at risk from flooding, where the defences which protect it

overtop or breach. Flood Risk Mapping (S105 Mapping)

Flood Risk Mapping is the production of maps by/for the Environment Agency, usually using computational modelling of the watercourse. It shows the extents of areas affected by varying probabilities of flooding (see also Indicative Floodplain Maps).

Flora Plants considered as a group, especially the plants of a particular country, region, or time.

Fluvial Of, or occurring, in a non-tidal river. Geotechnical Geotechnical refers to the properties of soil and rock below the ground.

The geotechnical properties of soil and rock influence the design of foundations for structures such as walls, buildings and bridges or structures built in or of soil or rock, such as embankments.

Gravel Riffle Part of a stream or river where the flow is shallower and more turbulent. A riffle can be comprised of gravel.

Habitats Regulations Two European Directives; the 1979 Wild Birds Directive and the 1992 Habitats Directive have resulted in the designation of a number of Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), which are designed to protect species and habitats which are threatened in a European context. In the UK, these designations are subject to national legislative protection under the 1994 Habitats Regulations. The Regulations have created an additional set of assessment procedures to which proposed plans and projects are subject.

Hydrogeology The branch of geology that deals with the occurrence, distribution, and effect of groundwater.

Hydrogeology The scientific study of the properties, distribution and effects of water on the earth's surface, in the soil and underlying rocks, and the atmosphere.

Interpretation Board A board installed at nature reserve, archaeological feature, view point, or other area of interest which provides information highlighting the special feature s of the area, often accompanied by a map and pictures or photographs



Description Invasive Species (Plants)

Either native species that grow well in disturbed or nutrient enriched conditions, to the detriment of other plant and animal species, or non-native plants that have been introduced to this country by accident or as a consequence of trade or deliberate collection.

Landscape Character Initiatives

Similar to the Countryside Agency Landscape Character Assessment a system of mapping, classifying and describing variations in landscape character. Such initiatives involve making judgments about the character and quality of the landscape, and analysing forces for change, to help us make informed decisions about how we should manage change in the future.

Landscape Woodland Woodland which has been deliberately planted for as opposed to woodland that has naturally developed.

Listed Building A building or other structure of special architectural or historic interest included on a statutory list and assigned a grade (I, II* or II). A listed building may not be demolished, extended or altered without special permission being granted by the local planning authority.

Local Plan A statutory development plan prepared by a local planning authority which sets out detailed policies for environmental protection and development.

Local Planning Authority

The local authority or council that is empowered by law to exercise planning functions. This is normally the local borough or district council, but in National Parks and some other areas, there are different arrangements.

Main River This is a term defined in the Water Resources Act 1991. A Main River is a ‘watercourse shown as such on a main river map’. Copies of the main river maps are available for public inspection at the Environment Agency’s offices.

Mitigation Measures Steps that may be taken to minimise, eliminate or compensate the adverse effects of a development.

Nature Conservation The preservation, management and enhancement of natural plant and animal communities, and occasionally modified vegetation, as representative samples of their kind.

Natural Resources Natural commodities which can be considered as inputs to and/or receptors affected by, infrastructure construction and development processes. They include soil, air, water, timber, oil, minerals and other goods extracted, used or affected during the construction and development process.

Navigable Waters Inland waters sufficiently deep and wide for navigation by all, or specified sizes of vessels

Objective A statement of what is intended, specifying the desired direction of change in trends.

Palaeochannel Ancient stream or river channel cut into surrounding rock or soil, left after a water course changed its route or dried up and which may retain palaeoenvironmental material.

Palaeoenvironmental Deposits and sediments of this type are retained in ancient environments and may include evidence such as pollen, molluscs and other organic materials suitable for dating and examination. These may provide data on ancient habitats and land use.

Protected Species Plant and animal species, including all wild birds, protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats and Conservation) Regulations 1994, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and subsequent amendments, or other species protected under legislation specific to them.



Description Prehistoric The period before written history when the only information on the life of

people in the past is available from archaeology.

Proposals Map An obligatory component of a local plan showing the location of proposals in the plan on an Ordnance Survey base map.

Public Amenity Areas Areas of public value (although not necessarily publicly owned), including not just land, but also areas of water such as rivers, canals, lakes and reservoirs, which can offer opportunities for sport and recreation. They can also act as a visual amenity and a haven for wildlife.

Re-instatement To restore to a previous condition or position. Reach A continuous extent of a feature such as a flood wall or flood

embankment or a continuous extent of land or water, especially a stretch of river between two bends.

Receptor The components of the environment effected by a process or event during development. Environmental receptors include, the air, water, people, or for example specific habitats or species.

Ridge and Furrow Long parallel ridges of soil separated by linear depressions or furrows. Wide ridges, (up to 4m) which are often S-shaped, are usually of medieval date. Narrower and straighter ridges are often post-medieval and can reflect ploughing undertaken up to the 19th century.

Runoff Rainfall (precipitation) on land that ultimately reaches streams and rivers, often with dissolved or suspended material.

Scoping Process of deciding the scope and level of detail of the study, including environmental effects and options to be considered, assessment methods to be used and the structure and contents of the resulting environmental report.

Schedule 1 The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, Part 1, has several lists of species, known as schedules. Schedule 1 lists birds which are protected by special penalties.

Scheduled Monument (SM)

An archaeological monument that is included in the Schedule required to be maintained by the Secretary of State under Section 1 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. Such monuments are protected by law.

Scheme The systematic planning, design and arrangement of proposed flood defences to achieve the required standard of flood defence.

Severance The act or process of separating, dividing or removing a part of an environmental receptor or habitat.

Sheet Piling A type of foundation made out of steel sheet piles driven into the ground in soft soils and/or tight spaces where the weight of the structure (or building) must be carried by deeper soil layers.

Shoal A patch of sand, soil, silt, gravel, cobbles, shingle or boulders in water such as a river or lake, creating a shallow area which may pose a navigation or grounding hazard to boats.

Sites and Monuments Record (SMR)

A computerised database containing information on known archaeological sites and finds, Scheduled Monuments, historic landscapes and listed buildings. The record indicates the location, date (when known), description and data source for each site.

Site of Interest for Nature Conservation (SINC)

Non-statutory designation for a site normally of county value for nature conservation, although some protection is provided through the planning system.



Description Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

Sites protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and Countryside and Rights of Way Act.

Sluice A water channel that is controlled at its head by a gate. Sluice gates are commonly used to control water levels and flow rates in rivers and canals.

Sourcing Material Locating the source of material to be used in construction or development.

Standard of Protection The expected return period of flooding that a defence will protect against. Solid Geology The solid rock that an area comprises. Strata A horizontal layer of material, especially one of several parallel layers. Statutory Required by law (statute), usually through an Act of Parliament. Statutory Body A Government appointed body set up to give statutory advice and

comment upon development plans and planning applications affecting matters of public interest. (For example, Countryside Agency, English Heritage, English Nature, Environment Agency, Health & Safety Executive, Regional Development Agency, and Sport England).

Structure Plan Statutory plan setting out key strategic policies which provide the framework for more detailed policies in local plans.

Stable Substrate A stable surface or material (on which an organism such as a fish lives, grows or feeds).

Sustainable The degree to which flood and coastal defence solutions avoid tying future generations into inflexible and or expensive options for defence. It will also take account of long term demands for non-renewable materials.

Sustainable Development

A widely used definition drawn up by the World Commission on Environment and Development in 1987: "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs". The Government has set out four aims for sustainable development in its strategy “A Better Quality of Life, a Strategy for Sustainable Development in the UK”. The four aims, to be achieved at the same time, are: social progress which recognises the needs of everyone; effective protection of the environment; the prudent use of natural resources; and maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment.

Sweetening Flow An inflow of fresh water. Tern Float An artificial raised platform or floating raft covered with gravel to

simulate the tern's normal nesting habitat, constructed to reduce the loss of eggs or young when heavy rains cause water levels to rise.

Terrestrial Of, relating to, or composed of land. Tidal Limit The furthest upstream extent along a river which is affected by coastal

tides. Tree Preservation Order (TPO)

An order made by a local planning authority (London Boroughs, district or unitary councils and sometimes county councils) which in general makes it an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, willfully damage or willfully destroy a tree without the planning authority's permission.

Waterbody A body of water: any significant natural pool of water such as pond, lake or river.

Washlands Used interchangeably with the term ‘floodplain’. Sometimes are associated with flood embankments which provide some protection of land behind (often a settlement) during flood events whilst allowing the rest of the floodplain to flood. Previously referred to as 'controlled' floodplains.



Description Unitary Development Plan

A local plan produced by certain unitary district authorities and London boroughs which have responsibility for the full range of local authority services.

Wildlife Corridor A continuous area facilitating the movement of wildlife through rural or urban environments.

Wildlife and Countryside Act

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) is the principal mechanism for the legislative protection of wildlife in Great Britain and covers many subjects, including the protection of animals, plants, and certain habitats.






ANNEX 3

Planning Documents



Page has been left intentionally bl ank



Annex 3 Planning Documents

Area County Local Planning Authority

Relevant Development Plans

Sawley Trent Meadows

· Derbyshire

· Erewash Borough Council

· Erewash Borough Local Plan (Replacement Plan) adopted on 25 July 2005

· Derby and Derbyshire Joint Structure Plan adopted on 31 January 2001

Attenborough · Derbyshire · Nottinghamshire

· Erewash Borough Council · Broxtowe

Borough Council

· Erewash Borough Local Plan (Replacement Plan) adopted on 25 July 2005

· Derby and Derbyshire Joint Structure Plan adopted on 31 January 2001

· Broxtowe Local Plan adopted in September 2004

· Nottinghamshire Structure Plan adopted in 1996*

Rylands Nottinghamshire · Broxtowe Borough Council · Nottingham City Council

· Broxtowe Local Plan adopted in September 2004


Meadows Nottinghamshire · Nottingham

City Council · Nottinghamshire Structure Plan

adopted in 1996*

Colwick Nottinghamshire · Nottingham City Council · Gedling

Borough Council


· Gedling Borough Replacement Local Plan was adopted on 12th July 2005

* The Deposit Draft Joint Structure Plan was produced for Nottingham City and Nottingham

County. This Plan, when adopted, will replace the current County Structure Plan.






ANNEX 4

EIA Scoping Impact Matrices





Significance of Impact 4 Minor Positive 44 Moderate Positive 444 Major Positive N/A No significant impact 7 Minor Negative 77 Moderate Negative 777 Major Negative November 2005 Page 95

Annex 4 EIA Scoping Impact Matrices Matrix 1.1 Do nothing and Do Minimum options for all Scheme Areas (Sawley, Trent Meadows, Attenborough, Rylands, Meadows and Colwick)

Receptors & Environmental

Resources Affected

Cause of impact (what activities,

processes etc. give rise to the impact)

Description of effect: Construction (C) or End-state (E)

Potential Significance of

impacts (indicate 4or 7 ) (see key below)

Baseline data requirements, Comments & Recommendations (1)

Option 1: Do nothing Human Beings and Land Use:

Failure of all or part of the current defences.

Widespread flooding of urban and semi-rural areas. Existing land-use would cease during a flood event. E

777

Flora and Fauna: Failure of all or part of the current defences.

Increased flooding of fields within floodplain could increase their biodiversity value. E

4

Landscape & Visual Amenity:


Flood events in urban areas would have a significant impact on local landscape. Defences would be in poor state of repair and be visually unattractive. E

777

Water: Surcharge of wastewater treatment network during flood events .

Possible contamination of water but river will be in spate, which will dilute the pollution. E

77 Liaison will be required with utility companies and local community on possible health risk.




Resources Affected







Cultural Heritage, Archaeology & Material Assets:


There are Scheduled Monuments, Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings currently protected by the existing defences. Regular flooding may damage their interest. E

77 Liaison with English Heritage and County Archaeologists.

Traffic & Transport: Failure of all or part of the current defences.

Regular flooding of transport network. E

777 Highlight areas at threat to Highways Authority, Network Rail and British Waterways.




Resources Affected

Cause of impact (what activities, processes etc. give rise to the impact)

Description of effect:

Construction (C) or End-

state (E)




Option 2: Do Minimum Human Beings and Land Use:

No improvement in existing standard of protection. Increased risk of failure.

Flood event. E

77 Public awareness campaign on current flood risk including methods of flood warning, flood proofing etc.

Flora and Fauna: N/A Landscape & Visual Amenity:

N/A

Water: N/A Cultural Heritage, Archaeology & Material Assets:

No improvement in existing standard of protection. Increased risk of failure.

Flood event. E

77 Liaison with English Heritage/County Archaeologist on flood risk.

Traffic & Transport: No improvement in existing standard of protection. Increased risk of failure.

Flood event. E

77 Highlight areas at threat to Highways Authority, Network Rail and British Waterways.

(1) No Mitigation is possible under the do nothing or do minimum options.



Matrix 1.2 Flood Defences (Option 3) Sawley


Resources Affected


Description of effect: Construction (C) or

End-state (E)

Potential Significance of impacts

(indicate 4or 7 ) (see key below)

Baseline data requirements, Comments & Recommendations

Raising of existing embankments at reaches S2, S4, S6 and S8 and construction of new walls or embankment at reach (S3). Human Beings and Land Use

Construction activity associated with raising embankments or new defences.

Disruption to public rights of way at S2, S3, S4 and S8. Possible disruption to public footpaths at S6 - Grounds Farm. C

7 Liaison with Derbyshire Council Footpaths Officer, obtaining closure or diversion notices as required. Ensure all footpaths are re-instated with potential to improve access.

Disturbance to local residential and commercial properties. Disruption to access to fields and fi shing huts near River Trent at S2 and S3.C

77 Close liaison with local owner/occupiers most affected and the general local community. Good construction practice would be followed to minimise impacts. Alignments B and C will slightly reduce disturbance to properties.

Disturbance to recreation e.g. to Trent Lock Golf Course at S5, the Erewash Canal and Sawley Marina. C

7 Liaison with British Waterways, Trent Lock Golf Club and Sawley Marina. The most significant impact will be any requirements to close Sawley Lock during construction. Close liaison should be maintained with British Waterways, particularly on the timing of works.

Reduced flood risk. There will be a significant change in flood risk due to the increase in standard of protection provided by the new or raised defences. E

444




Resources Affected



End-state (E)




Construction working areas/access and landtake required for new or raised defences.

Loss of agricultural, and residential/commercial properties through landtake and temporary working areas and access. C and E

7 Only relatively minor areas required, use of rest of fields will be maintained. Early liaison with landowners over scope of works and timing. Maintain essential access.

No raising or maintaining of minor defences.

Increased flood risk to fields between minor and major defences in long term. E

7 Existing minor defences will not be removed. Area already subject to flooding. Liaison with landowner/occupier. Opportunities to manage fields under agri-environmental grant should be discussed.

Flora and Fauna: Construction activity, construction working areas and landtake required for new and raised defences.

Disturbance to protected species and their habitats including water vole and breeding birds. Disturbance to candidate SINC and an area supporting a county rare plant species at Alignment C. Minor permanent loss of SINC habitat possible. C and E

77 Protected species surveys will be required at the appropriate time of year and include (but not limited to) breeding birds, badger, bats, water vole, and otter. Mitigation to be agreed with English Nature to ensure no significant impact on population or habitat and licences applied for as appropriate. Design should minimize landtake and severance of SINCs. Timing of works wherever possible should be outside breeding bird season. Opportunities to enhance habitat value in local area to be investigated as compensation.




Resources Affected



End-state (E)




No raising of maintaining of minor defences.

Increased flooding of fields behind minor defences in long term. E

4 to 444 Increased flooding of fields behind minor defences should increase local biodiversity but enhancement will be required to maximize the gains. Will require liaison with local landowners, County Ecologist and Wildlife Trust.


Construction activity. Reduction of visual amenity during construction. C

7 Minimise through good construction practice. Minimise removal of vegetation and protect areas to be retained.

New or raised defences. Increased height of defences: Minimal impacts on views for local residents and across the river between Sawley and Sawley Marina. The higher defences will intrude on the natural landscape. Raised and new defences through Sawley Conservation Area may impact on the visual quality. E

7 Sympathetic alignment design and finishes will be required.




Resources Affected



End-state (E)





Construction activity. Potential disturbance to archaeological interest including cropmarks, palaeochannels, Sawley medieval village, Scheduled Monument and ridge and furrow. Part of scheme within Conservation Area close to Harrington Bridge Grade II Listed structure. C and E

77 to 777 Liaison with County Archaeologist and English Heritage. Archaeological site investigation/watching brief as required. Protect Scheduled Monument and Listed structures and their settings. Sensitive location of access roads and working areas. Good construction practice. Will also require liaison with County Archaeologist over potential impacts on archaeology through additional enhancement measures. All alignment options could have potential impacts on archaeology but Option A has the longest section through the Conservation Area. Alignments B & C would have potentially the most impact on Harrington Bridge.

Improved standard of flood protection.

Improved standard of protection to Sawley medieval village & Conservation Area and Scheduled Monument E

44 Flooding can cause damage to historic buildings and structures.




Resources Affected



End-state (E)




Traffic & Transport:

Construction activity. Increased local traffic and disruption to road network. C

7 to 77 Liaison with Highways Authority and local community. Traffic management plan to be drawn up and any necessary road closures obtained. Minimise necessary traffic movements. Impacts will be greatest during any works to Harrington Bridge which is a main route into the West of Nottingham.



Matrix 1.3 Flood Defences (Option 3) Trent Meadows


Resources Affected


Description of effect: Construction (C) or End-

state (E)




Raising of existing embankments at reaches T4 and T6A &T6B. Construction of new wall at T2 and new embankment at T6A, T6B and T6C. Human Beings and Land Use:

Construction activity. Disruption to public rights of way near Home Farm at T4 and Trent Meadows Picnic Area at T6. C

7 Liaison with Derbyshire County Council and Erewash Borough Council footpaths officers, obtaining closure or diversion notices as required. Ensure all footpaths are re-instated with potential to improve access.

Disturbance to local residential and commercial properties and agricultural land at T4. C

77 Close liaison with local owner/occupiers most affected and the general local community. Good construction practice should be followed to minimise impacts.

Disturbance to recreation areas and their access, particularly to Trent Meadows Picnic Area and to a lesser extent Trent Rifle & Pistol Club, Nottingham Yacht Club, Cranfleet Lock. C

7 Liaison with Erewash Borough Council, Nottingham Yacht Club, British Waterways, and Trent Rifle & Pistol Club. Good construction practice should be followed to minimise impacts.

Reduced flood risk. E 444 There will be a significant change in flood risk due to the increase in standard of protection provided by the new or raised defences.




Resources Affected



state (E)




Loss of land within private gardens and agricultural land. E

7 Liaison with landowners. Only relatively minor areas required. Use of rest of fields will be maintained. Early liaison with landowners over scope of works and timing. Maintain essential access.

Flora and Fauna: Construction activity. Disturbance to Barton Pool SINC and Trent Meadows Tip Candidate SINC. C

7 to 77 Detailed ecological survey required. Liaison with County Ecologist and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust to ensure any impacts are minimised. Investigate opportunities for partnership to enhance biodiversity value in local area.

Disturbance to protected species and their habitats including water vole, bats breeding and over-wintering birds. C

7 Protected species surveys will be required at the appropriate time of year and include (but not limited to) breeding birds, badger, bats and water vole. Mitigation to be agreed with English Nature to ensure no significant impact on population or habitat and licences applied for as appropriate. Timing of works wherever possible should be outside breeding bird season. Opportunities for partnership to enhance habitat value in local area for protected species should be investigated.




Resources Affected



state (E)




New defences. Permanent landtake of Barton Pool SINC (Alignment A only) and Trent Meadows Tip cSINC (all alignments). Creation of a physical barrier between the two SINCs (Alignments B & C) would also have a negative impact. E

7 to 77 Any landtake should be compensated by an equivalent area of habitat creation/enhancement.



7 Minimise impacts through good construction practice. Minimise removal of vegetation and protect areas to be retained.

Raising of defences. Increased height of defences. Reduces views for local residents at Newbery Avenue across Pasture Lane. The raised embankments will intrude on but blend into the natural landscape. E

7 This can be compensated for if designated footpaths are located on top of the embankments. However, privacy must be considered.




Resources Affected



state (E)




Water: Construction activity. Potential for decrease in water quality of watercourses adjacent to T4 through pollution incident and, particularly, silt mobilisation during earthworks. C

7 Minimise risk through good construction practice and implementation of pollution control measures. All works to be carried out in accordance with Agency pollution prevention guidance "Works in, near or liable to affect watercourses: PPG 5". Liaison with Environment Agency Environmental Protection Officer.


Construction activity. Disturbance to palaeochannel at western end of T4 and possibly at T2, ridge and furrow and crop marks to the east of Home Farm at T4. C and possibly E

7 to 77 Liaison with Derbyshire County Archaeologist. Archaeological site investigation/watching brief as required. Sensitive location of access roads and working areas. Good construction practice.


Construction activity. Increased local traffic and disruption to road network at Trent Lane and Pasture Lane. C

7 Liaison with Highways Authority and local community. Traffic management plan to be drawn up and any necessary road closures obtained. Minimise necessary traffic movements.




Resources Affected



state (E)




Potential disturbance to Network Rail railway line at T2 and T6. C

7 Liaison with Network Rail. A Method Statement submitted to ensure health and safety issues for safe working at/on railway and railway operational safety. A Controller of Site Safety (COSS) and/or other Network Rail staff may be required to ensure safety of workers. Liaison with Network Rail will be required to determine if line closure is required.



Matrix 1.4 Flood Defences (Option 3) Attenborough Receptors & Environmental Resources Affected



Potential Significance of impacts (indicate 4or 7 ) (see key below)


Reach A2 - Raising of existing embankment and construction of new wall. Human Beings and Land Use:

Construction activity. Disturbance to boundaries of local residential properties, riding school and adjacent horse paddocks. Disturbance to recreation e.g. users of fishing pond south of Devonshire Avenue and football grounds and informal access to the Attenborough Junction Tip SINC. C

7 to 77

Close liaison with local owner/occupiers most affected and the general local community. Good construction practice should be followed to minimise impacts. Only limited areas of the paddocks will be affected but horses particularly sensitive to disturbance.

New or raised defences. Minor landtake along line of new and raised defences. E

7

Only minor areas effected. Good liaison with landowners, tenants and users essential. Embankments will need to incorporate suitable all weather access points.

Improved standard of protection.

Improved quality of life for local community with higher standard of defence. E

444



Receptors & Environmental Resources Affected





Flora and Fauna: Construction of new or raised defences.

Disturbance to, and minor landtake of, Attenborough Junction Tip SINC and Attenborough Pastures SINC. C & E

7 to 77 Detailed ecological survey required. Liaison with Wildlife Trusts and County Ecologists over exact alignment and to ensure any impacts are minimized and fully compensated for. Investigate opportunities for partnership to enhance biodiversity value in local area. The existing embankment and the proposed flood wall lie for the most part along the boundaries of the SINCs therefore minimising impacts.








Construction activity. Disturbance to protected species and their habitats. C

7 Protected species surveys will be required at the appropriate time of year and include (but not limited to) bats, badger, otter and water vole. Mitigation to be agreed with English Nature to ensure no significant impact on population or habitat and licences applied for as appropriate. Timing of works wherever possible should be outside breeding bird season. Opportunities to enhance habitat value in local area for protected species should be investigated.








Site clearance for construction work.

Removal of mature trees with potential as bat roosts. E

7 Raising the existing embankment at the rear of properties along Devonshire Avenue and Somerset Close may require the removal of a line of mature trees, some of which provide potential as bat roost sites. A bat survey will be required at the appropriate time of year of any affected trees suitable as bat roosts. A DEFRA licence for the disturbance/destruction to bat roosts will be required if trees identified from surveys as bat roosts are to be felled or lopped. Bat boxes should be erected as required.








Water: Construction activity. Some potential for decrease in water quality through pollution incident or silt mobilisation during construction to the River Erewash (and ultimately the SSSI & the River Trent). C

7 Minimise risk through good construction practice and implementation of pollution control measures. All works to be carried out in accordance with Agency pollution prevention guidance “Works in, near or liable to affect watercourses: PPG 5”. Liaison with Environment Agency Environmental Protection Officer.


Construction activity. Disturbance to palaeochannel and cropmarks. C and possibly E

7 Close liaison with County Archaeologists. Archaeological site investigation/watching brief as required. Sensitive location of access roads and working areas. Good construction practice.



77 Minimise through good construction practice. Minimise removal of vegetation and protect areas to be retained. Replacement planting as advised by local planning authority.








New or raised defences on landscape.

Raising the existing embankment at the rear of properties along Devonshire Avenue and Somerset close may require the removal of a line of mature trees which will alter the landscape and open up views from and into the rear of residential properties. Creating a new flood wall around the riding school buildings and rear of properties at Nottingham Road and Chilwell retail park in the north of the paddocks and pastures will impact on the landscape of the area. E

7 to 77 Raising the embankment should not compromise the open feel and rural setting within the pasture/paddock areas.


Construction activity. Increased local traffic and disruption to road network in particular along Nottingham Road and Devonshire Road. C




Receptors &

Environmental Resources Affected



Description of effect: Construction (C) or End-state

(E)




Reach A1, A3, A4, A6, A7, A8 : New walls or embankments Human Beings: Construction

activity. Informal and formal paths could be disrupted along reaches A1, A3, A4 & A8. Vehicle access could be disrupted along A3. Disturbance to users of the nature reserve and nearby properties. C

7 to 77

The path at A8 is a definitive right of way and liaison with Nottinghamshire Council Footpaths officer will be maintained with closure or diversion notices obtained as required. Ensure all access is re-instated. Investigate potential to improve local access. Vehicle access will need to be maintained to Attenborough Nature Reserve car-parks, Attenborough Sailing Club and for Network Rail and the National Grid (for underground power cables). Close liaison with owner/occupiers of the Gate House, local community and management of the visitor centre at Attenborough Nature Reserve. Good construction practice should be followed to minimise impacts. Large areas of the Nature Reserve will be unaffected.

Disturbance to Cemex site. C 7 Close liaison with the owners to ensure minimal impact on normal operational activity.




Resources Affected




(E)






444




Resources Affected




(E)




Flora and Fauna: Construction activity plus perm anent landtake required for new defences.

Disturbance and permanent landtake at Attenborough SSSI at A1, A3, A4, A6, A7 and A8. Disturbance and permanent landtake at Trent Meadows Tip candidate SINC along A1. Disturbance to protected species throughout including breeding birds. Alignment A will involve impacts on the open water in some reaches – most significant of which will be disturbance to the existing bankside habitats which may support protected species such as water vole and provide important habitat for birds. Alignments A & B would generally result in the most disturbance to the SSSI in Reach A3 as work would be outside the existing track. C and E

77

Detailed ecological survey required throughout, the scope of which will be agreed with English Nature and the Wildlife Trusts. In Reach A1 liaison with County Ecologists and Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trusts required to ensure any impacts are minimized and enhancement is undertaken to compensate for any landtake within Trent Meadows Tip candidate SINC. Close liaison will be required with English Nature on the choice of the preferred option, mitigation and compensation measures in SSSI. Construction impacts would be greatest during breeding bird season and the main over-wintering season so works will need to be carefully programmed. The new bank profile if in open water would need to be designed to maximise the potential for biodiversity. Mitigation/compensation measures should ensure that there was an overall enhancement in the quality of habitat within the SSSI and the SINC.




Resources Affected




(E)




Site clearance for new defence.

At the junction between Reach A1 and Reach A3 a mature oak tree with the potential as a bat roost may be affected by the proposed works. E

7 A bat survey at the appropriate time of year will be required and DEFRA licence obtained if this tree is to be felled or lopped and has been determined as a bat roost.

New flood defence walls.

Construction of the new walls would create a physical barrier to the movement of wildlife. E

7 The railway currently provides a minor barrier to movement but a wall would be much more significant. The Erewash would still provide connectivity to the upstream SINCs. The alignment of the defence would ensure that most of the SSSI/SINC would be still be within the natural floodplain of the Trent. Ecological enhancement would be undertaken in the local area to compensate for any negative impacts.


Construction activity.

Reduction of visual amenity during construction. C


New defences. A floodwall would be visually intrusive and in the more open areas along reach A3 the view into the reserve will be almost totally obscured. E

7 to 77 Design of defence works to be sensitive to local landscape. Liaison with local planning authority, and other interest groups.




Resources Affected




(E)




Traffic & Transport


Working on or near a railway line. C

77 if closure required Network Rail will need to be consulted and a Method Statement submitted to ensure health and safety issues for safe working at/on railway and railway operational safety. A Controller of Site Safety (COSS) and/or other Network Rail staff may be required to ensure safety of construction workers and railway operation. Liaison with Network Rail will be required to determine if line closure is required

Increased local traffic and disruption to road network. C


Water: Construction activity.

Potential for decrease in water quality through pollution incident or silt mobilisation during construction along A1 and A3 in River Erewash or in A3, A4 & A8 where works adjacent to lakes. C

7 to 77 Minimise risk through good construction practice and implementation of pollution control measures. All works to be carried out in accordance with Agency pollution prevention guidance “Works in, near or liable to affect watercourses: PPG 5”. Liaison with Environment Agency Environmental Protection Officer.




Resources Affected




(E)






Disturbance to palaeochannel and cropmarks. C and possibly E

7 to 77 Close liaison with County Archaeologist. Archaeological site investigation/watching brief as required. Sensitive location of access roads and working areas. Good construction practice.

Reach A5 New Defences Human Beings and Land Use:


Disturbance to local residential properties, paddocks, footpaths, and cricket pitch/bowls ground (depending on choice of alignment). C

77 Close liaison with local owner/occupiers most affected and the general local community. Good construction practice should be followed to minimise impacts. Liaison with Nottinghamshire County Council and Broxtowe Borough Council footpaths officers, obtaining closure or diversion notices as required. Ensure all footpaths are re-instated with potential to improve access.

New defences. Landtake for new defences including private property, cricket ground (Alignment I only) and SSSI (Alignment J only). E

7 Close liaison with local owner/occupiers most affected and the general local community.


Improved quality of life for local community with higher standard of defence. If Alignment I or J chosen then cricket pitch and bowling green would also be protected. E

444




Resources Affected




(E)




Flora and Fauna: Construction activity and landtake for new defences.

Disturbance and landtake to Attenborough SSSI (Alignment J and all works along Ferndale Close). C & E

7 to 77 (if Alignment J chosen)

Detailed ecological survey required, the scope of which will be agreed with English Nature and the Wildlife Trusts. Close liaison will be required with English Nature on the choice of the preferred option, mitigation and compensation measures. Construction impacts would be greatest during breeding bird season and the main over-wintering season so works will need to be carefully programmed. Work may disturbance existing bankside habitats which may support protected species such as water vole and provide important habitat for birds. The new bank profile would need to be designed to maximise the potential for biodiversity. Mitigation/compensation measures should ensure that there was an overall enhancement in the quality of habitat within the SSSI.




Resources Affected




(E)





Potential for decrease in water quality through pollution incident or silt mobilisation during construction particularly for alignments G, I & J. C

7 to 77 Minimise risk through good construction practice and implementation of pollution control measures. All works to be carried out in accordance with Agency pollution prevention guidance “Works in, near or liable to affect watercourses: PPG 5”. Liaison with Environment Agency Environmental Protection Officer.





New defences. High visual impact of construction of a flood wall along The Strand along the boundary of the cricket pitch. Embankment along the boundary of the brook would blend more naturally into the surrounding landscape but would have an overall negative impact if any of the mature boundary trees would be lost. E

7 to 77 All cladding would have to be in keeping with the surrounding Conservation Area.




Resources Affected




(E)






Disturbance to area of significant archaeological interest including: Ø Disturbance to palaeochannel

(Alignments I & J only) Ø Disturbance to boundary wall

of St Mary’s Church Grade I Listed Building (Alignment F),

Ø Disturbance near to Fishponds Scheduled Monument and disturbance to boundary of Grade II Listed Building Ireton House (Alignment G).

C and possibly E

7 to 77 Close liaison with County Archaeologist/English Heritage. Archaeological site investigation/watching brief as required particularly within Conservation Area or close to Scheduled Monument. Detailed design to also considered setting of Scheduled Monument and Listed Buildings. Sensitive location of access roads and working areas. Good construction practice.

New defences. Improved standard of defence to Attenborough Village. E

44

Flood waters can damage historic buildings and structures.



Matrix 1.5 Flood Defences (Option 3) Rylands






Reach R1 – Raise existing defences

Human Beings: Construction activity.

Disruption to public rights of way and disturbance to recreation e.g. along canal and in recreation areas. C

7 Liaison with Broxtowe Borough Council Footpaths officer, obtaining closure or diversion notices as required. Ensure all footpaths are re-instated with potential to improve access. Liaison with British Waterways. Access to the canal towpath will need to be maintained during the works. Good construction practice should be followed to minimise impacts. Use of the canal would not be impacted and potential to provide additional information boards at canal.

Disturbance to local residential properties adjacent to R1, in particular mobile homes located on the existing embankment; adjacent allotment gardens and the canal lock keepers cottage. C

7 Close liaison with local owner/occupiers most affected and the general local community. Working area needs to be carefully designed to minimize disturbance to residents. Good construction practice should be followed to minimise impacts.








Potential disturbance to National Grid pylon to the north of the existing embankment to be raised at R1. C

7 Best practice methods will be used to ensure a safe working distance from the pylon. Liaison with National Grid may be required to determine any related unseen underground structures.

Removal of security fencing and flood lights along southern boundary of recreation ground at Riverside Road. C

7 Fence and floodlights will be reinstated after raising of the existing embankment.

Raised defences. Reduced flood risk. E

444 Although only minor works are needed locally the benefits are from increasing flood protection upstream (as areas hydraulically linked).

Flora and Fauna: Construction activity.

Disturbance to protected species and their habitats including breeding birds. Potential disturbance to the eastern edge of the adjacent Attenborough SSSI. C

7 Minimal impacts envisaged but protected species surveys will be undertaken as required at the appropriate time of year and include (but not limited to) breeding birds, badger, bats, water vole, and otter. Liaison to be continued with English Nature over any potential impacts to SSSI.




7 Minimise through good construction practice. Minimise removal of vegetation and protect areas to be retained. Existing mature waterside vegetation will serve to screen views of the flood defence from Attenborough Nature Reserve.








Increased height of defences.

Impact on views for local residents particularly at the caravan site and along Riverside Road. The higher defences will intrude on the natural landscape. E

7 Any proposed work at the lock keepers cottage should tie in with the existing red brick flood wall.


Potential for decrease in water quality of watercourses and canal through pollution incident and, particularly, silt mobilisation during earthworks. C




Increased local traffic and disruption to road network, including works to raise Riverside Road at two specific locations. C




Matrix 1.6 Flood Defences (Option 3) Meadows






Raised or new defences in reaches M2 & M3. Raise existing defences in M1 & M4. New defences at M6.

Human Beings and Land Use:


Disruption to public rights of way and public amenity areas. C

7 The majority of the recreation ground at M2 would be unaffected. Pedestrian access along Wilford Grove and the memorial Gardens would be maintained. Liaison with Nottingham City Council to try and programme works to avoid major events. Liaison with Nottingham City Council Footpaths officer, obtaining closure or diversion notices as required. Ensure all footpaths are re-instated with potential to improve access, particularly for disabled access.








Disturbance to local residential and commercial properties. C

7 to 77 Close liaison with local owner/occupiers most affected (including the Park Yacht Club) and the general local community. Good construction practice should be followed to minimise impacts. Alignment A would cause least disturbance to local residents.

Disturbance to boundary of school at Felton Road (Alignments B & C only) C

7 Liaison with school required. Advance notification, safe working practices, and hazard warning signage will be employed during construction.

Reduced flood risk.


444









Disturbance to protected species and their habitats including bats and breeding birds at M1, M2, M3 and M6. C

7 Protected species surveys will be required at the appropriate time of year and include (but not limited to) breeding birds and bats in mature trees and otter along western, vegetated section of the River Trent. Mitigation to be agreed to minimise impacts with English Nature and licences applied for as appropriate. Timing of works wherever possible should be outside breeding bird season. Opportunities to enhance habitat value in local area for protected species e.g. placement of bat bricks within flood defence wall or bat boxes on trees or other suitable boxes and improved boundary planting should be investigated.












New and raised defences.

Possible removal of trees. Visual impact of defences. E

7 A full tree survey will be required to fully assess the impacts on trees. Impacts on trees to be minimized by sensitive design and through good construction practice. Minimise removal of vegetation and protect areas to be retained. New planting to be included in the detailed design. Design and appearance of defence wall will need careful consideration and liaison with Nottingham City Council. Careful selection of cladding materials. Permission will be required in advance from the Nottingham City Council Tree Officer if any trees with TPOs are to be felled lopped or topped.








Increased height of defences will obscure view to river from the Meadows and also the view of Victoria Embankment and War Memorial from the opposite (right) bank of the Trent. E

7 Minimise views for local residents along Bathley Street, River View, School Close, and Felton Road and across the river towards West Bridgford. The higher defences will intrude on the landscape. This can be compensated for if designated footpaths are located on top of the embankments. On the right bank the defences are also to be raised a similar amount so the views from the footpath should not be significantly affected.


Potential for decrease in water quality of watercourses through pollution incident and, particularly, silt mobilisation during earthworks. C











Disturbance to archaeological interest. C and possibly E

7 to 77 Liaison with County Archaeologist. Archaeological site investigation/watching brief as required. Protect features at Victoria Embankment and Listed structures. Sensitive location of access roads and working areas. Good construction practice.

New or raised defences.

Improved standard of defence to archaeological and historic interest. E

44 Alignment options B and C would not protect buildings within the creation grounds. All alignments would protect the Memorial Gardens.







Matrix 1.7 Flood Defences (Option 3) Colwick






Raised or new defences at reach C1. Raise or refurbish defences at reaches C2 and C3 Human Beings and Land Use:


Disruption to public rights of way and open access areas across the Country Park. C

7

Liaison with Nottingham City Council over impact to amenity areas including children’s playground near works at C2. Liaison with Nottingham County Council Footpaths officer, obtaining closure or diversion notices as required. Ensure all footpaths are re-instated. Opportunities exist to improve the footpath network in the area by creating a continuous footpath from Colwick Country Park over the Trent and between the Trent backwater and along the Trent south of Colwick industrial estate. The incorporation of steps into the new embankment would tie in footpaths and allow continued pedestrian access through the part of the country park between the residential area of Candle Meadow and Nottingham Racecourse grounds. Opportunities exist to develop abandoned moorings into fishing pegs.








Disruption to residential area. C

7

Proposed works are within close proximity to residential houses and gardens. Local residents will need to be kept informed of nature and duration of works. Best practice methods will need to be employed to ensure health & safety and to minimise noise and dust disturbance.

New or raised defences.

Reduced flood risk to Colwick (all alignments. E

444 During a 1% annual chance flood event parts of the racecourse would be used as a flood storage area and would also reduce flood risk downstream (Alignment A).

Alignment B will improve the standard of protection to Nottingham Racecourse and Colwick Hall Hotel. E

44

Alignment A: potential flooding of Nottingham Racecourse and Colwick Hall Hotel in 1% annual chance flood event. E

77

Nottingham Racecourse would still be protected to 30 year levels. Further information is needed on the potential damage to downstream areas with regards to speed of water, duration of inundation and level around structures as a result of defences at Colwick.









Disturbance to protected species and their habitats including breeding birds. C

7 Protected species surveys will be required at the appropriate time of year and include (but not limited to) bats in mature trees, badgers, bats, water vole and otter along River Trent. Mitigation to be agreed with English Nature to ensure no significant impact on population or habitat and licences applied for as appropriate. Timing of works wherever possible should be outside breeding bird season. Removal of trees within woodland should be minimised. A number of mature trees some with potential as bat roosts may be affected at C2 in the vicinity of the recreation ground and playground near River Road. The tree line along Alignment A has also been highlighted as a potentially important bat flight line. Guidance should be sought from qualified arborist regarding the micro-location of the defence through woodland areas. Best practice methods for working near to trees should be adhered to and restrict the size and weight of plant used in and near wooded areas Opportunities to enhance habitat value in local area for protected species and fisheries should be investigated. As compensation planting and habitat creation can be undertaken, for example along lake edges to enhance aquatic habitats for wildlife. Liaison with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and Nottingham City Council Ecologist required.








Construction activity and landtake required for raised defences.

Disturbance and landtake to SINC Colwick Country Park (Alignment B only). C & E

7 to 77 The construction of scheme could have a significant effect on the mature habitats within the SINC and woodland is a scarce habitat in the county. Where possible loss of mature trees should be avoided and minimised to a loss of a few trees on the edge of tree belts. Further information is needed about potential damage from flooding to Racecourse Wetland (Pond) SINC (9/7) from water levels during flooding events.





New and raised defences.

Visual impact of defences. Removal of any trees. E

7 A full tree survey will be required to fully assess the impacts on trees. Impacts on trees to be minimized by sensitive design and through good construction practice. New planting to be included in the detailed design. Design and appearance of defences will need careful consideration and liaison with Nottingham City Council, particularly in Country park.









Potential for decrease in water quality through pollution incident or silt mobilisation during construction adjacent to the SINC and River Trent. C

77 Minimise risk through good construction practice and implementation of pollution control measures. All works to be carried out in accordance with Agency pollution prevention guidance “Works in, near or liable to affect watercourses: PPG 5”. Liaison with Environment Agency Environmental Protection Officer.



Potential disturbance to features of archaeological interest. C and possibly E

7 to 77 Liaison with County Archaeologist. Archaeological site investigation/watching brief as required. Sensitive location of access roads and working areas. Good construction practice.

Raised defences. Improved standard of protection to Colwick Hall (alignment B only) E

44 Further information is needed about potential damage from flooding to Colwick Hall Listed Building with regards to speed of water and levels around structures if alignment A preferred.







ANNEX 5

Plans and Drawings




