Vattenfall Wind Power Ltd Thanet Extension Offshore … Wind Power Ltd Thanet Extension Offshore Wind Farm Preliminary Environmental Information Report - Volume 3 . 12-1 12 Onshore

Vattenfall Wind Power Ltd

Thanet Extension Offshore Wind Farm Preliminary Environmental Information Report Volume 3

Chapter 12: Onshore Conclusions

Thanet Extension Offshore Wind Farm Preliminary Environmental Information Report - Volume 3

ii



Thanet Extension Offshore Wind Farm

Volume 3

Chapter 12: Onshore Conclusions

November 2017

Drafted By: GoBe Consultants Ltd/ Amec Foster Wheeler

Approved By: Helen Jameson

Date of Approval November 2017

Revision A


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Copyright © 2017 Vattenfall Wind Power LtdAll pre-existing rights retained

Liability

In preparation of this document Vattenfall Wind Power Ltd (VWPL) and their consultants have made reasonable efforts to ensure that the content is accurate, up-to-date and complete for the purpose for which it was prepared. Neither VWPL nor their subcontractors make any warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of material supplied. Other than any liability on VWPL or their subcontractors detailed in the contracts between the parties for this work, neither VWPL or their subcontractors shall have any liability for any loss, damage, injury, claim, expense, cost or other consequence arising as a result of use or reliance upon any information contained in or omitted from this document.

Any persons intending to use this document should satisfy themselves as to its applicability for their intended purpose. Where appropriate, the user of this document has the obligation to employ safe working practices for any activities referred to and to adopt specific practices appropriate to local conditions.

Vattenfall Wind Power Ltd Thanet Extension Offshore Wind Farm Preliminary Environmental Information Report - Volume 3

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Table of Contents

12 Onshore Conclusions ............................................................................................................ 12-1

12.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 12-1

12.2 EIA outcomes ................................................................................................................. 12-1

12.3 Key conclusions of the assessment ............................................................................... 12-1

12.4 Summary of potential effects ........................................................................................ 12-2

Table 12-1 Summary of predicted effects on landscape and visual receptors ........................... 12-2

Table 12-2 Summary of predicted effects on socio-economics .................................................. 12-4

Table 12-3 Summary of predicted effects on tourism and recreation ........................................ 12-6

Table 12-4 Summary of predicted effects on onshore biodiversity .......................................... 12-10

Table 12-5 Summary of predicted effects on ground conditions, flood risk and land use ....... 12-15

Table 12-6 Summary of predicted effects on the historic environment ................................... 12-21

Table 12-7 Summary of predicted effects on traffic and transport .......................................... 12-24

Table 12-8 Summary of predicted effects on air quality ........................................................... 12-25

Table 12-9 Summary of predicted effects on noise and vibration ............................................ 12-27

Table 12-10 Summary of predicted effects on aviation and radar ........................................... 12-28


12-1

12 Onshore Conclusions

12.1 Introduction

12.1.1 This chapter of the Preliminary Environmental Information Report (PEIR) presents a summary of the key environmental issues associated with the Thanet Extension Offshore Wind Farm (Thanet Extension), as identified via the impact assessment work carried out to date. The content of this summary section is taken from the individual chapters contained in Volume 3 of the PEIR.

12.1.2 The potential impacts of the proposed development were identified and then assessed by considering both the magnitude (which may include spatial extent, duration and frequency) and the sensitivity (which may consider the vulnerability, recoverability and importance of the receptor) for each potential impact.

12.1.3 The significance of effect was judged according to a matrix such as that illustrated in Table 3.1 of Volume 1 Chapter 3 (EIA Methodology). Effects arising, both adverse and beneficial, were graded on a scale ranging from negligible to major. Effects rated as ‘moderate’ to ‘major’ are considered to be ‘significant’ and will usually require mitigation. Effects rated as ‘minor’ or ‘negligible’ are not considered to be significant in EIA terms. However, there are exceptions to this for certain topics. Where such variations to the standard approach have been adopted, this is clearly set out within the individual topic chapter.

12.1.4 In order to provide a full summary of the potential effects of the onshore components of Thanet Extension, all impacts have been listed in summary tables below in Section 12.4, (Table 12-1 to Table 12-10). Where proposed, additional mitigation measures to address the key issues is included and the significance of the residual effect is provided. There are a range of embedded mitigation measures (built into the project design) which have been drawn from the impact assessment process. The assessment of effects has therefore taken into account of all measures that form part of the proposed development process and to which VWPL is committed.

12.2 EIA outcomes

12.2.1 The EIA process has been carried out with reference to accepted methods covering the approach to defining baseline conditions, methods for assessment, definitions and criteria for identifying potential effects, and ascribing significance levels to potential effects.

12.2.2 Consultation has also played a key role in this, with stakeholders and statutory bodies inputting to the methodologies and scope of assessments to ensure that all relevant issues have been fully considered. This PEIR is a full and detailed summary of the assessments carried out to date and the PEIR clearly identifies significant effects, where these are considered likely to occur, as well as any necessary mitigation measures to reduce such effects to acceptable levels.

12.3 Key conclusions of the assessment

12.3.1 Based on the results of the EIA undertaken against the worst-case scenario and reported in this PEIR, the onshore components of the proposed Thanet Extension development are predicted to result in a limited number of significant adverse effects. These are listed in the following tables (Table 12-1 to Table 12-10), along with proposed mitigation measures, where appropriate, and the residual significance once the proposed mitigation has been applied.


12-2

12.4 Summary of potential effects

Table 12-1 Summary of predicted effects on landscape and visual receptors

Receptor Sensitivity to Change Magnitude of Change Significance of Effect Duration Permanent / reversible

Physical Landscape Effects

Trees and scrub Medium Option 1 – Medium – Low Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Option 2 – Medium Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Coastal Groundcover Medium Option 1 – Low Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Option 2 – Low Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Substation Landscape Character Effects

LCA 4 - The Sandwich Corridor Low Medium - Low Not Significant Long-term Reversible

LCA 6 - Sandwich Bay Medium - Low Low Not Significant Long-term Reversible

Cable Route and Landfall Landscape Character Effects

LCA F1 - Pegwell Bay Medium – High Option 1 – Medium – High Significant Long-term Permanent

Option 2 – Low Not Significant Long-term Permanent

LCA E1 – Stour Marshes Medium – Low Option 1 – Low – Negligible Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Option 2 – No Change No Effect N/A N/A

LCA 4 - The Sandwich Corridor Low Option 1 – Negligible Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Option 2 – Negligible Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Substation Visual Effects

Viewpoint 1 - A256 (Richborough Port Roundabout) Road users (A256): low; and walkers (England Coastal Path, Kent Coastline Walk, Regional Cycle Route 15): Medium

Medium - High Not Significant Long-term Reversible

Viewpoint 2 - Saxon Shore Way (South) Walkers (Saxon Shore Way): Medium - Low Medium Not Significant Long-term Reversible

Viewpoint 4 - Sandwich Flats (England Coastal Path) Walkers (England Coastal Path, Sandwich Flats): Medium Negligible Not Significant Long-term Reversible

Viewpoint 6 - Richborough Castle Visitors: Medium Low Not Significant Long-term Reversible

Viewpoint 7 - A299, Thorne Hill Road Users: Low Medium - Low Not Significant Long-term Reversible

Cable Route and Landfall Visual Effects

Viewpoint 9 - Pegwell Bay Country Park near the bird hide walkers (Thanet Coastline Path, England Coastal Path and Kent Coastline Walk): Medium - High




12-3

Receptor Sensitivity to Change Magnitude of Change Significance of Effect Duration Permanent / reversible

Viewpoint 10 - Cycle route and path adjacent to Sandwich Road Walkers / Cyclists (RCR15): Medium - Low

Option 1 – Medium – High Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Option 2 – Medium - Low Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Viewpoint 11 – Cycle route and path near Sandwich Road access Walkers / Cyclists (RCR15): Medium - Low

Option 1 – High Significant Long-term Permanent

Option 2 – Medium - Low Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Viewpoint 12 – Sandwich Road Road Users (Sandwich Road): Medium - Low

Option 1 – Low - Negligible Not Significant Long-term Permanent

Option 2 – No change No Effect N/A N/A


12-4

Table 12-2 Summary of predicted effects on socio-economics

Description of impact Effect Possible mitigation measures Residual effect

Construction, O&M and Decommissioning

Impact of construction and O&M activity on direct and indirect employment creation in the construction and O&M supply chain.

UK study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact

- Minor beneficial significance

Kent study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact


No mitigation measures are required.

UK study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact


Kent study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact


Impact of construction and O&M activity on direct and indirect GVA creation in the construction and O&M supply chain.

UK study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact


Kent study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact



UK study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact


Kent study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact


Impact on access to construction and O&M-related employment for local residents.

Kent study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact



Kent study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact



12-5


Impact on the potential for employment to result in displacement of workers in other industries.

Kent study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact

- Minor negative significance


Kent study area

- High sensitivity

- Negligible impact


Impact on the demand for housing accommodation and local services.

Kent study area

- Medium sensitivity

- Negligible impact



Kent study area

- Medium sensitivity

- Negligible impact


Cumulative effects

Cumulative impact across all receptors at Kent study area.

The projects identified for cumulative impacts at all levels are not expected to overlap at construction stage, and any employment effects at O&M phase are expected to be minimal.

The cumulative impacts of these projects on displacement of workers

alongside Thanet Extension are therefore expected to be negligible.

No mitigation measures required. Negligible cumulative effect across all receptors.


12-6

Table 12-3 Summary of predicted effects on tourism and recreation


Construction

Direct effects on onshore recreation and utility users

- Sensitivity varies from low to high

- Magnitude varies from low tomedium

The construction of Thanet Extension will have a significant effect on the following onshore recreation utilities:

- RR15 (major)

- Thanet Coastal Path (moderate)

- ECP (moderate)

- Pegwell Bay Country Park(moderate)

- LHA will seek to ensure that suitablealternative provision is made forcontinued public access

- Establish manned, temporarycrossing points during theconstruction period

- Work will generally progress instages along the route of the cablerun so that individual sections areaffected for a short period ratherthan the whole construction period

- Erection of heras fencing aroundperimeter of site to enable continued use of RR15 while work is underway.

Mitigation measures will lessen the magnitude of the disruption and interruption for users of RR15 and Pegwell Bay Country Park.

Careful choice of diversion routes will eliminate any practical difficulties for route users, however, the indirect effects of noise, dust and visuals will remain.

Residual impacts would mean this effect is not significant.

Direct effect on offshore and inshore recreational users

- Sensitivity varies from low tomedium

- Magnitude varies from negligibleto medium

- Significance varies from minoradverse to negligible

The construction of Thanet Extension is not expected to have a significant effect on the receptor.


- Sensitivity varies from low tomedium

- Magnitude varies from negligibleto medium

- Significance varies from minoradverse to negligible



12-7


Indirect effect on onshore and offshore recreational users

- Sensitivity varies from low to medium

- Magnitude varies from negligible to medium

- Significance varies from minor adverse to negligible.

The construction of Thanet Extension is not expected to have significant effect on the receptor.



- Magnitude varies from negligible to medium



Effects on tourism economy

- High sensitivity

- Low magnitude

Construction of Thanet Extension will be of minor adverse significance

on receptor.


- High sensitivity

- Low magnitude

Construction of Thanet Extension will be of minor adverse significance on receptor.

O&M



- Low magnitude

The O&M of Thanet Extension will have a moderate effect on the following onshore recreation utilities:

- RR15 (moderate)

- Pegwell Bay Country Park (moderate)

- Stonelees Nature Reserve (moderate)

- River Stour (moderate)

Cable run and its infrastructure designed to require zero maintenance over O&M phase. Inspection will be facilitated and test pits. Use of these will not impact on recreation in the vicinity.

If maintenance or repair is needed, this can be achieved by isolating the affected section and replace cables

through installed ducts. No excavation will be needed.

Embedded mitigation measures will lessen the magnitude of the disruption and interruption for users of RR15 and Pegwell Bay Country Park.


Residual impacts would mean this effect is not significant.


12-8




- Negligible magnitude

- Significance varies from minor adverse to negligible

The O&M of Thanet Extension is not expected to have a significant effect

on the receptor.










The O&M of Thanet Extension is not expected to have significant effect

on the receptor.







- High sensitivity


The O&M of Thanet Extension will be of minor adverse significance on

receptor.


- High sensitivity


The O&M of Thanet Extension will be of minor adverse significance on

receptor.

Decommissioning



- Low magnitude

The decommissioning of Thanet Extension will have a moderate effect on the following onshore recreation utilities:

- RR15 (moderate)

- Pegwell Bay Country Park (moderate)

Cables will be removed from inside ducts, reducing the need for extensive works or ground disturbance. Ducting will be left in situ, and will not require any excavation work.

Embedded mitigation measures will lessen the magnitude of the disruption and interruption for users of RR15 and Pegwell Bay Country Park.



12-9


- Stonelees Nature Reserve

- River Stour



- Magnitude varies from negligible to low


The decommissioning of Thanet Extension is not expected to have a significant effect on the receptor.





The decommissioning of Thanet Extension is not expected to have a significant effect on the receptor.





The decommissioning of Thanet Extension is not expected to have significant effect on the receptor.





The decommissioning of Thanet Extension is not expected to have significant effect on the receptor.


- High sensitivity

- Low magnitude

Decommissioning of Thanet Extension will be of minor adverse significance on receptor.


- High sensitivity

- Low magnitude

Decommissioning of Thanet Extension will be of minor adverse significance on receptor.

Cumulative effects

There are no relevant projects that would contribute to cumulative effects for tourism and onshore and offshore recreation receptors.


12-10

Table 12-4 Summary of predicted effects on onshore biodiversity

Description of Impact Effect Summary of embedded mitigation and effects Residual effect:

Thanet Coast and Sandwich Bay SPA/ Ramsar: Golden plover (non-breeding); Turnstone (non-breeding).

Damage to designated sites and their qualifying features, direct and indirect habitat loss, disturbance to qualifying species, pollution.

Negligible adverse Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level where the site’s integrity and/ or the conservation status of the qualifying interest features are maintained. Construction scheduling would be covered under a detailed method statement minimising any disturbance and would be timed to avoid the wintering period (October - March). Given the short - term adverse negligible level impact in construction, the short - term adverse negligible level impact in operation and the short - term adverse negligible level impact in decommissioning, the overall magnitude of change is considered to be short - term negligible adverse. Therefore, the resultant effect is Minor adverse and not significant. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.

Minor adverse: not significant

Thanet Coast and Sandwich Bay Ramsar: Invertebrate assemblage.

Damage to designated sites and their qualifying features, direct and indirect habitat loss, disturbance to qualifying assemblage, pollution.

Low to Negligible/ Negligible adverse

Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level where the site’s integrity and/ or the conservation status of the qualifying interest features are maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts including pre-construction verification surveys and employment of trackway to protect sensitive habitats. The Ramsar invertebrate assemblage is a receptor of high importance, and subject to an adverse impact of Low or Negligible magnitude during construction, Negligible magnitude during O&M and Low to Negligible or Negligible magnitude during decommissioning, not affecting FCS of the qualifying features, and thus not affecting FCS and thus site integrity, resulting in an overall effect of Minor significance. Thus, overall the effects are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.


Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes SSSI: Aggregations of non-breeding birds; assemblage of breeding birds.

Damage to designated site and its qualifying features, direct and indirect habitat loss, disturbance to qualifying species, pollution.

Negligible adverse Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level where the site’s integrity and/ or the conservation status of the qualifying interest features are maintained. Construction scheduling would be covered under a detailed method statement minimising any disturbance and would be timed to avoid the wintering period (October - March). Works would be covered under a detailed method statement outlining the sensitive method of works and embedded environmental management measures incorporated to avoid negative effects to SSSI breeding assemblage and other Schedule 1 species. Given the short - term adverse negligible level impact in construction, the short - term adverse negligible level impact in operation and the short - term adverse negligible level impact in decommissioning, the overall magnitude of change is considered to be short - term negligible adverse. Therefore, the resultant effect is Minor adverse and not significant. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.


Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes SSSI: Terrestrial and marine plant assemblages.

Damage to designated sites and their qualifying features, direct and indirect habitat loss, pollution.


Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level where the site’s integrity and/ or the conservation status of the qualifying interest features are maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts. The SSSI habitats are a receptor of high importance, and subject to a temporary adverse impact of Low or Negligible magnitude during construction, Negligible magnitude during O&M and Low to Negligible or Negligible during decommissioning, not affecting the site integrity; resulting in an effect of Minor significance. Thus, the effects overall are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.



12-11


Sandwich Bay to Hacklinge Marshes SSSI: invertebrate assemblages.

Damage to designated sites and their qualifying features, direct and indirect habitat loss, disturbance to qualifying species, pollution.


Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level where the site’s integrity and/ or the conservation status of the qualifying interest features are maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts including pre-construction verification surveys and employment of trackway to protect sensitive habitats. The SSSI invertebrate assemblages are a receptor of high importance, and subject to an adverse direct impact of low or negligible magnitude during construction, Negligible magnitude during O&M and Low to Negligible or Negligible during decommissioning not affecting the FCS of the qualifying features, and thus not affecting site integrity, resulting in an effect of Minor significance. Thus, the effects overall are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.


Sandwich and Pegwell Bay NNR: coastal habitats.

Damage to designated sites and their qualifying features, direct and indirect habitat loss, pollution.


Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level where the site’s integrity and/ or the conservation status of the qualifying interest features are maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts. The NNR is a receptor of high importance, and subject to an adverse impact of Low or Negligible magnitude during construction, Negligible magnitude during O&M and Low to Negligible or Negligible magnitude during decommissioning, not affecting FCS of the qualifying features, and thus not affecting FCS and thus site integrity, resulting in an overall effect of Minor significance. Thus, overall the effects are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.


Roadside Nature Reserve A256 (Ramsgate Road).

Direct damage to designated sites and their qualifying features, indirect habitat loss, indirect pollution effects.

Low Adverse Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level where the site’s integrity and/ or the conservation status of the qualifying interest features are maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts. The RNR habitats are a receptor of medium importance, and subject to an adverse direct impact of Low magnitude during construction, Negligible magnitude during O&M and decommissioning not affecting the site integrity, resulting in an effect of Minor significance. Thus, the effects overall are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.


Ash Level and South Richborough Pasture LWS.

Indirect damage to designated sites and their qualifying features, indirect habitat loss, indirect pollution effects.

Negligible adverse Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level where the site’s integrity and/ or the conservation status of the qualifying interest features are maintained. MSs would be developed to minimise impacts relating to pollution. The LWS habitats are a receptor of medium importance, and subject to an adverse indirect impact of negligible magnitude during construction, and negligible magnitude during O&M and decommissioning not affecting the site integrity; resulting in an overall effect of Minor significance. Thus, the effects overall are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.



12-12


Schedule 1 breeding species: peregrine, marsh harrier, Cetti’s warbler, kingfisher.

Disturbance to breeding birds

Negligible adverse O&M Works would be covered under a detailed method statement outlining the sensitive method of works and embedded environmental management measures incorporated to avoid negative effects to Schedule 1 species, including 500 m disturbance buffer distances for peregrine and marsh harrier and 50 m buffer distances for kingfisher and Cetti’s warbler. Given the short - term adverse negligible level impact in construction, the short - term adverse negligible level impact in O&M and the short - term adverse negligible level impact in decommissioning, the overall magnitude of change is considered to be Negligible adverse. Therefore, the resultant effect is Minor adverse and not significant. Therefore, the resultant effect is not significant.


GCN/ Natterjack toad.

Disturbance/ kill/ injure/ destroy though habitat removal, pollution, increased vehicle movement; affect distribution.


Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level the conservation status of the receptors are maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts, including pre-construction verification surveys; avoidance of breeding ponds and terrestrial habitats; prevention of habitats fragmentation; maintenance of access, and best practice guidelines for pollution prevention and siltation to water receptors during all works phases, to avoid contravening legislation. A method statement, and (if necessary) a derogation licence would be required prior to the start of works.

GCN / Natterjack toad are a receptor of high importance, and subject to an adverse impact of Low or Negligible magnitude during construction, Negligible magnitude during O&M and Low to Negligible or Negligible during decommissioning not affecting the FCS, resulting in an effect of Minor significance. Thus, the effects overall are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.


Reptiles

Disturbance/ kill/ injure though habitat removal, increased vehicle movement.


Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level the conservation status of the receptors are maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts, including pre-construction verification surveys; avoidance of habitats, prevention of habitats fragmentation; to avoid contravening legislation. A MS would be required prior to the start of works; mitigation may include installation of fencing, displacement/ vegetation manipulation and/ or trapping and translocation of reptiles to a receptor site, followed by a destructive search of the works area.

Reptiles are a receptor of high importance, and subject to an adverse impact of Low or Negligible magnitude during construction, Negligible in O&M and Negligible in decommissioning phases, not affecting the FCS; resulting in an effect of Minor significance. Thus, the effects overall are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.



12-13


Badger

Disturbance through habitat removal, noise/ vibration, damage/ death of individuals, damage/ disturbance to setts.

Negligible adverse Badgers are not receptors of biodiversity value therefore effects upon them do not have the potential to be significant. Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level the illegal status is maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts, including details of pre-construction verification surveys, and measures taken during all phases to avoid contravening legislation, such as covering steep sided excavation or providing an escape ramp to prevent badgers becoming trapped in excavations; minimising noise and vibration to a negligible level when working within 30 m of a sett; measures to reduced vehicle collisions, ecological supervision of works; obtaining a derogation licence if required.

Badgers are a receptor of negligible importance, and subject to an adverse impact of negligible magnitude, resulting in an effect of Negligible significance. Thus, the effects of construction, O&M and decommissioning disturbance are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.

Negligible/ Not significant in illegal terms

Bat assemblage.

Disturbance, kill/ injure/ destroy habitat, affect distribution, traffic movement, disturbance to foraging, commuting bats.


Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level the conservation status of the receptors are maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and timings, and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts, including: avoidance of the removal of any confirmed bat roosts in trees, or in structures where they could be disturbed, a method statement and tool - box talk would be prepared that would include details of pre-construction verification surveys for bats, and would describe the approach that would be followed to avoid contravening legislation. Where required, this would involve obtaining a Natural England licence with respect to development.

The MS would detail removal and compensation habitats, a lighting strategy, noise, vibration and vehicle movement controls and describe habitat enhancements to be implemented as part of the proposed development.

Bat roosts are a receptor of high importance, and subject to an adverse impact of Low or Negligible magnitude during construction, negligible magnitude during O&M and Low to Negligible or Negligible magnitude during decommissioning not affecting the FCS, resulting in an effect of Minor significance. Thus, the effects overall are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.


Water vole and otter.

Disturbance, pollution, kill/ injure/ destroy/ fragment habitat, affect distribution.


Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level the conservation status of the receptors are maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts, including details of pre-construction verification surveys, pollution control measures, and measures taken during all phases to avoid contravening legislation. Water vole and otter are a receptor of high importance, and subject to an adverse impact of Low or Negligible magnitude during construction, Negligible magnitude during O&M and decommissioning and not affecting the FCS, resulting in an effect of Minor significance. Thus, the effects overall are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.



12-14


Terrestrial Invertebrate Assemblages

Disturbance though habitat removal, destroy habitat, affect distribution, light disturbance, pollution.

Negligible adverse Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level the conservation status of the receptors are maintained. Design would seek to microsite the works to avoid the most sensitive areas and MSs developed to minimise remaining impacts, including pre-construction verification surveys and employment of trackway to protect sensitive habitats. Invertebrates are a receptor of high importance, and subject to an adverse impact of negligible magnitude during construction, O&M and decommissioning not affecting the FCS, resulting in an effect of Minor significance. Thus the effects overall are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.


Invasive species.

Land take/ land cover change.

Negligible, beneficial Invasive species are not receptors of biodiversity value therefore effects upon them do not have the potential to be significant. Embedded environmental measures would render effects to a level whereby legal compliance is maintained. Embedded mitigation measures in the form of method statements, tool - box talks and best practice approaches which would be implemented during the construction phase to reduce the potential for disturbance and spread of invasive species would limit the magnitude for effects. Invasive species are not a valued receptor, and thus of negligible importance, and subject to a beneficial impact of Low magnitude, resulting in an effect of Negligible significance. Thus, the effects overall are not significant in relation to the EIA Regulations. The embedded mitigation would ensure no illegal effects would result.

Negligible/ Not Significant in legal terms


12-15

Table 12-5 Summary of predicted effects on ground conditions, flood risk and land use


Construction

Effects on human health from trenching and excavation works for the installation of landfall transition joint bays, transition joint pits, link boxes, onshore cable route, substation, and connection to the National Grid point through:

• Disturbance and mobilisation of existing contaminated soil and / or groundwater, including potential current and historical contamination from the on-site pipeline;

• Generation of dust and of fibres (potentially including asbestos); and

• Potential removal of existing underground tanks.

Major significance Site investigation to determine if there is any evidence of contamination (including asbestos), a process to prevent mobilisation of fuel during tank removal, and implementation of construction good practices to control exposure to contamination (compliant with COSHH Regulations 2002 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999). Survey of potential asbestos containing materials (a pre-site preparation survey as defined by the HSE) and removal of asbestos containing materials, and other materials and structures contaminated with asbestos fibres, to be performed by a competent/ licensed contractor prior to any demolition/removal works.

Minor significance

Effects on human health and property from trenching and excavation works for installation of landfall transition joint bays, transition joint pits, link boxes, onshore cable route and installation through:

• Discovery and potentially explosion of UXO disturbed during the construction process;

• Ingress of ground gas; and

• Development of artesian groundwater.

Major significance A detailed UXO threat and risk assessment to be undertaken prior to any ground works and the findings of the risk assessment implemented to ensure all risks are reduced to acceptable levels;

Through the Pegwell Bay Country Park (historic Cliffsend landfill), onshore cable route to be installed above ground within a concrete trough. The trough will have cable ducts installed to house the cables and will be backfilled with suitable material;

A site investigation including gas and groundwater monitoring will also be carried out before construction. The findings will inform additional mitigation measures to be embedded into the project design, e.g. implementation of appropriate working methods, and ventilation in confined spaces and/ or gas resistant membranes.

Minor or Negligible significance

Effects on human health from construction activities, including at the substation, through:

• Spillages of oils, including transformer oil, and other chemicals.

Major significance Construction good practices to control exposure to contamination to be embedded into the site's CEMP and project design.

Minor significance


12-16


Pollution of controlled waters, designated sites and off-site Grade 2 and Grade 3a soils from trenching and excavation works and / or laying of substation foundations through:

• Creation of pathways for the migration of potential contamination;

• Soil disturbance and mobilisation of existing potential contamination, including potential historical contamination from the on-site pipeline;

• Sediment-laden run-off (from the excavation of the route corridor and temporary stockpiling of soil); and

• The construction of the watercourse crossing of the Minster Stream.

Major to Moderate significance

Implementation of a suitable foundation design for the substation, soil stockpiles to be located at least 8 m from surface watercourses, and water management measures (e.g. cut-off trenches, silt fences, settlement ponds etc.) to prevent potential polluted run-off to enter any excavations; Construction good practices to be embedded into the site’s CEMP, the pollution response plan and project design;

Site investigation to be carried out before construction and incorporation of any additional mitigation measures into the site’s CEMP and project design.

Minor or Negligible significance

Pollution of controlled waters, designated sites and off-site Grade 2 and Grade 3a soils from construction activities for installation of landfall joint bays, transition joint pits, the Nemo cable onshore crossing, for works on sea defence and Pegwell Bay Country Park extension, for onshore cable installation and / or installation of the substation through:

• Spillages of oils, including transformer oil, and other chemicals associated with the construction process;

• Removal of potential existing tanks at the National Grid connection point;

• Release of contaminants from backfilling material and building materials used; and

• Concrete batching and cement products on-site.

Major to Minor significance Pollution prevention measures, a process to prevent mobilisation of fuel during tank removal, use of clean and free of contaminants imported material, designating specific areas for activities associated with cement or concrete processes to be embedded into the site's CEMP and project design;

Site investigation including soil testing to be carried out before construction; and

Excavated materials to be re-used on-site will be controlled in accordance with the CL:AIRE Definition of Waste: Development Industry Code of Practice (version 2).

Minor to Negligible significance


12-17


Changes in the quantity of surface and groundwater abstractions, and designated sites from construction activities through:

• Changes in run-off/ infiltration rates andpatterns/ new flow pathways associatedwith ground disturbance and developmentof working areas during construction; and

• Changes in river baseflow from dewateringof excavations.

Temporary Moderate to Major adverse significance Provision of dewatering onto adjacent vegetated areas away from watercourses where possible;

Excavated areas to be reinstated carefully and in a timely manner, and areas which have not been reinstated within three months to be reseeded;

Cable route to be reinstated with earth and crushed chalk to recreate a chalk grassland effect;

At the substation location drainage schemes to utilise SuDS principles where new systems are required.

Negligible significance

Volumetric displacement of flood water from construction activities through:

• The construction of temporary spoil mounds infloodplain areas; and

• The presence of temporary constructioncompounds, hardstanding in floodplain areas.

Minor significance N/A Minor significance

Pollution of designated sites and controlled waters due to existing sea defence removal and reworking for installation of landfall TJBs through:

• Leaching of historic Cliffsend landfill’scontaminants during construction, O&M anddecommissioning phases.

Major significance Site investigation including gas monitoring and soil sampling within the landfill. Design of the mitigation measures to be adjusted based on investigation results, and discussed and agreed with TDC, KCC and EA prior to construction phase. As stated earlier, as a result of the evolving design process for the project it has become apparent that in order to ensure mitigation against the potential release of leachate from the historic landfill at Pegwell Bay a cofferdam is required during construction. The detailed design for the cofferdam is ongoing and as such the PEIR relates to characterisation of the receiving environment only, with full parameters and assessment of the associated impacts relating to the temporary installation of the cofferdam to be included as part of the ES.

Subject to incorporation of good working practices and confirmation of the detailed design this engineering could be sufficient to reduce the residual effect to Negligible magnitude and Minor significance.


12-18


Effects on human health and property due to existing sea defence removal and reworking for installation of landfall TJBs through:

• Generation of ground gases from the deposits of the historic Cliffsend landfill.

Major/ Moderate to Major significance Site investigation including gas monitoring and soil sampling within the landfill. Design of the mitigation measures to be adjusted based on investigation results, and discussed and agreed with TDC, KCC and EA prior to construction phase. As stated earlier, as a result of the evolving design process for the project it has become apparent that in order to ensure mitigation against the potential release of leachate from the historic landfill at Pegwell Bay a cofferdam is required during construction. The detailed design for the cofferdam is ongoing and as such the PEIR relates to characterisation of the receiving environment only, with full parameters and assessment of the associated impacts relating to the temporary installation of the cofferdam to be included as part of the ES.

Subject to incorporation of good working practices and confirmation of the detailed design this

engineering could be sufficient to reduce the residual effect to Negligible magnitude and Minor

significance.

O&M

Effects on human health from maintenance works at the landfall transition joint bays, transition joint pits, link boxes, onshore cable route, the Nemo Link cable onshore crossing, substation, and connection to the National Grid point through:

• Ground gas ingress and accumulation into buildings or onshore cable inspection chambers/ test pits or other structures.

Major significance Method statements and good working practices;

Site investigation to be carried out prior to construction to identify any remediation and design requirements, e.g. use of defined service corridors, ground gas membranes and monitoring of ground gas.

Minor significance

Effects on human health from maintenance works at the landfall transition joint bays, transition joint pits, link boxes, onshore cable route, the Nemo Link cable onshore crossing, substation, and connection to the National Grid point through:

• Disturbance of any residual contamination due to future maintenance works;

• Spillages of oils, including transformer oil, and other chemicals; and

• Inappropriate re-use/ use of contaminated fills and soils that may have occurred during the construction phase.

Major significance Method statements and good working practices;

Site investigation to be carried out prior to construction to identify any remediation and design requirements, e.g. use of soil in accordance with the CL:AIRE Definition of Waste.

Minor significance


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Pollution of controlled waters and off-site Grade 2 and Grade 3a soils at the landfall transition joint bays, transition joint pits, onshore cable route, the Nemo cable onshore crossing, substation, and connection to the National Grid point from maintenance works through:

• Spillages of oils and other chemicals; and

• Inappropriate re-use/ use of contaminated fills and soils during the construction phase

Major to Minor significance

Pollution prevention measures;

Use of impermeable cover at the substation site where necessary (based on the findings of the site

investigation);

Implementation of good working practices in any O&M plan (similar to those within the site CEMP)

and the pollution response plan and project design.

Minor significance

Effects on property from location of infrastructure and maintenance works through:

• Ground gas ingress and accumulation into buildings/ compounds or onshore cable inspection chambers/ test pits and/ or creation of pathway for gases through sand in the trench around the cable and accumulation of gases.

Major significance Site investigation including gas monitoring to be carried out before construction;

Findings to inform the mitigation measures to be embedded into the project design, e.g.

implementation of ventilation in confined spaces and/ or gas resistant membranes on top of the

landfill and within the buildings/ compounds at the location of the substation.

Minor significance

Effects on property from location of infrastructure and maintenance works through:

• Inappropriate re-use/ use of contaminated fills and soils during the construction phase;

• Aggressive ground conditions (i.e. permeation of plastic pipes, degradation of concrete); and

• Gross settlement of infrastructure in very soft and/ or compressible materials.

Moderate significance

Site investigation to be carried out prior to construction to provide more detailed information on the geotechnical ground conditions and help to identify hazards and any remediation and design

requirements, e.g. foundation design requirements, construction material resistant to contaminants,

ground gas membranes, re-use of soil in accordance with the CL:AIRE Definition of Waste or use of

barrier pipe.

Minor significance

Changes in watercourse conveyance associated with the proposed watercourse crossing.

Moderate significance Culvert to be adequately designed to convey the 1% AEP flow plus allowance of climate change for fluvial

crossings (+ 20%) as agreed with the EA;

Following construction, reinstatement to replace bed and bank material in the same general profile as

the pre-installation state;

Robust O&M plans to be prepared post DCO providing details on how blockages can be

prevented and addressed, including inspection schedules and outlining key responsibilities.

Minor significance


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Changes in patterns and rates of infiltration and run-off arising from development of a below ground earth grid, and substation support structures and working areas.

Minor significance Substation earth grid to be surfaced with material which is at least as permeable as the topsoil which

was removed during construction;

Where this is not practical, SuDS measures to be implemented during the operation of the scheme;

Type of measures will be commensurate with local conditions, and the scale/ duration of the substation

building;

Detailed drainage strategy to be prepared for the substation building prior to development.

Negligible significance

Volumetric displacement of flood water associated with the presence of a berm above the Nemo crossing.

Moderate significance Design of the berm and associated slopes to be subject to feasibility studies, and consultation to be

carried out with KCC and the EA prior to construction;

Surface water drainage requirements to be provided within a final drainage study, prior to construction to ensure that the displacement of flood waters at the

Nemo crossing is minimised.

Minor significance

Volumetric displacement of flood water associated with the increase in impermeable footprint in the vicinity of the substation area.

Negligible significance N/A Negligible significance

Decommissioning

It is expected that decommissioning phase effects would, at worst, be similar to construction phase effects.


12-21

Table 12-6 Summary of predicted effects on the historic environment


Construction

Disturbance of elements of the anti-invasion defences at Pegwell Bay. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No further mitigation is proposed as archaeological

works have been considered as embedded measures Minor effect: Non-significant effect.

Disturbance of elements of the Boarded Groin and associated floodbanks. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No further mitigation is proposed as archaeological

works have been considered as embedded measures Minor effect: Non-significant effect.

Disturbance of Richborough Port and related heritage assets Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No further mitigation is proposed as archaeological

works have been considered as embedded measures Negligible effect: Non-significant effect.

O&M

Change in the Setting of the Abbot’s Wall. No effect predicted No mitigation is proposed No effect predicted.

Change in the setting of the Boarded Groin. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect.

Change in the setting of the Broadstairs Conservation Area and Bleak House (NHLE 1239493).

Potential Major adverse effect: significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Major adverse effect: significant effect.

Change in the setting of other listed buildings at Broadstairs.

Potential Moderate adverse effect: significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Moderate effect: significant effect.

Change in the Setting of St Peter’s Church, Sandwich. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect.

Change in the setting of the Clifftop Conservation Area and Walpole Bay Tidal Pool.

Potential Moderate adverse effect: significant effect.

No mitigation is proposed. Potential Moderate adverse effect: significant effect.

Change in the setting of other listed buildings in the Clifftop Conservation Area. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect.

Change to setting of scheduled double ring ditch and two enclosures north-west of Danes Court (NHLE 1004230).

No effect predicted. No mitigation is proposed No effect predicted.

Change to setting of the scheduled Anglo-Saxon cemetery, Dane Valley Road (NHLE 1003601). No effect predicted. No mitigation is proposed No effect predicted.


12-22


Change in the setting of Deal Middle Street Conservation Area, the Scheduled Artillery Castle and Selected Grade II Listed Buildings.

Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect.

Change in the setting of Dover Castle. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect.

Change in the setting of Dover Patrol Monument. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect.

Change to setting of Kentlands and The Lodge at Sandwich Bay Estate.


Change in the setting of the Kingsgate Conservation Area, Holland End, Holland House and Kingsgate Castle

Potential Major adverse effect: significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Major adverse effect: significant effect.

Change in the setting of other listed buildings in Kingsgate Conservation Area.



Change in the setting of Margate Conservation Area and Paragon Court (NHLE 1088960).



Change in the settings of other listed buildings within the Margate Conservation Area.


Change in the setting of North Foreland Lighthouse including attached Lighthouse Keepers’ Houses (Grade II Listed, NHLE 1222802).



Change in the setting of Pegwell Bay WWII Anti-Invasion defences (Grade II Listed, NHLE 1413803).

Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No further mitigation is proposed as exclusion zones and planting are considered as embedded mitigation. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect.

Change to setting of Ramsgate Conservation Area and selected listed buildings.


Change in the setting of Reculver Saxon Shore Fort, Anglo-Saxon Monastery and Associated Remains.


Change in the setting of Richborough Castle, Saxon Shore Fort, Roman Port and Associated Remains.



12-23


Change to the Setting of the Royal Sea Bathing Hospital, Margate.


Change to the setting of Sandown Castle. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect.

Change in the setting of Seven Stones House. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect.

Change in the setting of South Foreland Lighthouse.


Change to setting of Walmer Artillery Castle. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect. No mitigation is proposed. Potential Minor effect: non-significant effect.

Change to setting and historic landscape character of the Wantsum Channel. No effect predicted. No mitigation is proposed. No effect predicted.

Change in the setting of non-designated enclosure at Weatherlees Hill. No effect predicted. No mitigation is proposed. No effect predicted.

Change to setting of Westgate-on-Sea Conservation Area and Grade II Listed Westgate-on-Sea British Legion War Memorial.



12-24

Table 12-7 Summary of predicted effects on traffic and transport


Construction

Driver delay from construction traffic associated with the Thanet Extension construction period. Magnitude of impact is less than 30%, and therefore is classed as very low. GEART thresholds not exceeded.

Negligible (not significant) None required Negligible (not significant)

Public transport delay from construction traffic associated with the Thanet Extension construction period. Magnitude of impact is less than 30%, and therefore is classed as very low. GEART thresholds not exceeded.


Effects on pedestrian amenity from construction traffic associated with the Thanet Extension construction period. Magnitude of impact is less than 30%, and therefore is classed as very low. GEART thresholds not exceeded.


Effects on pedestrian severance from construction traffic associated with the Thanet Extension construction period. Magnitude of impact is less than 30%, and therefore is classed as very low. GEART thresholds not exceeded.


Effects on accidents and safety from construction traffic associated with the Thanet Extension construction period. PIAs recorded during the last five years is low on the construction routes, and without significant trends in occurrence.

Negligible (not significant) Temporary traffic management and banksman control of site entrances. Negligible (not significant)


12-25

Table 12-8 Summary of predicted effects on air quality


Construction

Increase in road traffic generated air quality pollutant concentrations from construction traffic – human receptor locations

No significant impact None required Negligible

Increase in road traffic generated air quality pollutant concentrations – ecological habitats No significant impact None required Negligible

Construction dust impacts – human receptors The construction dust impact on dust sensitive

receptors in the area including residential properties close to the proposed development

Full details in Volume 3, Chapter 9 Temporary Minor Adverse and Long Term Negligible

Construction dust impacts – ecological habitats The construction dust impact on dust sensitive receptors in the area Full details in Volume 3, Chapter 9 Temporary Minor Adverse and Long Term

Negligible

O&M

Increase in road traffic generated air quality pollutant concentrations – human receptor locations


Increase in road traffic generated air quality pollutant concentrations – ecological receptor locations


Decommissioning

Demolition dust impacts – human receptors

The demolition dust impact on dust sensitive receptors in the area including residential

properties close to the proposed development

Full details in Volume 3, Chapter 9, Table 9.25 Temporary Minor Adverse and Long Term Negligible

Demolition dust impacts – ecological habitats The demolition dust impact on dust sensitive

receptors in the area Full details in Volume 3, Chapter 9, Table 9.25 Temporary Minor Adverse and Long Term

Negligible


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Cumulative effects

Cumulative impacts of construction dust effects for all committed developments in the area No significant combined impact Full details in Volume 3, Chapter 9, Table 9.25 Temporary Minor Adverse and Long Term

Negligible

Cumulative impacts of demolition dust effects during decommissioning for all cumulative developments in the area

No significant combined impact None Required Negligible


12-27

Table 12-9 Summary of predicted effects on noise and vibration


Construction

Construction noise Negligible Works undertaken according to the principles of BPM. Negligible

Construction traffic noise Negligible N/A Negligible

Construction vibration Negligible Works undertaken according to the principles of BPM. Negligible

Offshore piling noise Negligible Works undertaken according to the principles of BPM. Negligible

O&M

Operational noise from fixed plant Minor N/A Minor

Decommissioning

Construction noise Negligible N/A Negligible

Construction traffic noise Negligible N/A Negligible

Cumulative effects

Operational noise from fixed plant

Depending on the plant and equipment proposed for the Richborough Solar Farm, noise from the development, when considered alongside Thanet Extension onshore infrastructure, has the potential to result in cumulative impacts as a result of an increase in the ambient noise environment at noise sensitive receptors.

Operational noise from fixed plant

Depending on the plant and equipment proposed for the Richborough Solar Farm, noise from the development, when considered alongside Thanet Extension onshore infrastructure, has the potential to result in cumulative impacts as a result of an increase in the ambient noise environment at noise sensitive receptors.


12-28

Table 12-10 Summary of predicted effects on aviation and radar


Construction

WTG and the infrastructure required in the construction of the Site may present a physical obstruction and effect helicopter SAR and NPAS operations

Obstructions can be difficult to see from the air, particularly in poor meteorological conditions leading to potential increased collision risk

Embedded mitigation protocols as discussed in Volume 3, Chapter 13 Negligible

O&M

The presence of WTGs has the potential to interfere with the LSA PSR system.

WTG clutter appearing on a radar display can affect the safe provision of ATS by LSA as it can mask unidentified aircraft from the air traffic controller and/or prevent accurate identification of aircraft under control or the identification/tracking of conflicting aircraft.

The implementation of a NAIZ software function to the LSA PSR system is considered an appropriate mitigation strategy.

Negligible

WTG considered as physical obstructions to flight operations.

WTG can be difficult to see from the air, particularly in poor meteorological conditions leading to potential increased collision risk for NPAS and SAR flight operations.

Embedded mitigation protocols as discussed in Volume 3, Chapter 13 Negligible

Decommissioning

WTG and the infrastructure required in the decommissioning of the Site may present a physical obstruction and effect helicopter SAR and NPAS operations

Obstructions can be difficult to see from the air, particularly in poor meteorological conditions leading to potential increased collision risk

Embedded mitigation protocols as discussed in Volume 3, Chapter 13

Technical mitigation for the impacts of WTG on the LSA PSR system will remain operational until the last WTG is decommissioned.

Negligible

Cumulative effects


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All other WTG developments (offshore and onshore) that are unmitigated and within operational range and within radar line of sight to the LSA PSR may lead to a cumulative effect on the system.

All WTG that do not benefit from any operational or technical mitigation to resolve effects would combine to cumulatively affect the LSA PSR system.

Embedded mitigation protocols as discussed in Volume 3, Chapter 13

The implementation of a NAIZ software function to the LSA PSR system is considered an appropriate mitigation strategy. The residual impact of the cumulative impact is reduced to negligible once mitigation has been put in place.

Negligible

Documents

Vattenfall Wind Power Ltd Thanet Extension Offshore … Wind Power Ltd Thanet Extension Offshore Wind Farm Preliminary Environmental Information Report - Volume 3 . 12-1 12 Onshore