Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment ENYAS HILL, ORKNEY

Transcription

Landscape and Visual
Impact Assessment
BALNAMOON
ENYAS HILL, ORKNEY
Wind Energy Project,
Proposed
Wind Turbines
near Keith, Moray
May 2004
September 2004
Jenny Taylor, Dip.LA, MLI
Landscape Architect
3 Manse Lane, Stromness, Orkney
KW16 3BX
Tel/Fax: 01856 851322
e-mail : [email protected]
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. The Study
This study assesses the landscape and visual impact of the proposed siting of a single wind
turbine at Balnamoon, near Keith, Morayshire.
1.2. Methodology
The methodology used has been developed in line with the ‘Guidelines for Landscape and
Visual Impact Assessment’ Second Edition. It involves • the collection of all relevant background information,
• the generation of a Zone of Visual Influence,
• the establishment of 14 viewpoints,
• a baseline study of the existing landscape and visual resource by use of field work,
• the assessment of the sensitivity of the existing landscape and visual resource,
• the identification and assessment of the potential effects of the proposed
development on the landscape and visual resource of the area,
• the use of all the above plus supplied wireframes and photomontages to assess the
overall significance of the impact of the proposed development.
1.3. Field Work
The field work was undertaken during August, 2004 and the weather was sunny and clear.
1.4. The Site
The site of the proposed turbine lies at an elevation of 165m on gently-rising arable land. It
lies at a distance of 0.5 km from the B9018 road, seven kilometres to the north-east of Keith
and is backed to the north-west by the higher, conifer-clad land of Aultmore forest.
1.5. Project Images
Plans, photomontages and wireframes referred to in this document can be found in the
‘Project Images’ document.
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2.0 THE PROPOSAL
2.1 The Turbine
The proposed turbine has a height of 44 m to the hub with 52 m diameter rotor blades,
making an overall height of 70 m to the tips of the rotors. The turbine is of simple and elegant
design, with a slim tower and rotor blades.
2.2. Associated Infrastructure
The turbine will stand on a substantial concrete foundation, most of which will be below
ground level, leaving a concrete area of approximately 6.5 x 6.5m visible at the surface.
The access track will be 4.5 m wide and surfaced with local stone. The edges will be allowed
to grow back to merge with the surrounding land. All cables will be underground.
Plan 1 shows the site layout of the project.
2.3. The Life Cycle of the Project
The construction phase of the project will be relatively short and, as the landscape and visual
effects of this phase will be only temporary, this stage has not been considered in great detail
in this study. The main subject of this study, therefore, is to assess the landscape and visual
effects during the operational phase of the project, which is estimated to last between 15 and
20 years. At decommissioning the turbine will be removed, the concrete base will be left in
place but covered over to screen it and the land will be returned to agricultural use. The access
track will be removed and the ground reinstated.
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Plan 1 - The Proposal
374400
N
Aultmore Forest
856800
1:5000
215
210
856600
205
200
856400
195
856200
190
185
180
856000
175
fe n
ce
170
165
855800
ca
Py
er
he
ad
kV
ov
27
5
Access track
kV
11
gate
Switchgear
House
fe
nc
e
348160
culvert
170
Underground
cable
bl
e
lo
n
s
rn
Bu
on
mo
lna
Ba
347700
155
855625
Wind Turbine
855600
160
855575
gate
Balnamoon
165
fen
ce
160
155
150
855400
Site
Access
145
Bridge of
Balnamoon
La
B o nd o
u n wn
da er
ry
855200
Bo
w
ie
Bu
rn
140
B9
01
8
135
Orkney Sustainable Energy Ltd.
855000
130
348400
348200
348000
347800
347600
347400
347200
6 North End Road
Stromness,
Orkney KW16 3AG
Telephone 01856 850054
Balnamoon Wind Energy Project: July 2004
3.0. BACKGROUND INFORMATION
3.1. Introduction
The following policies, papers and documents may relate to, or have implications for, the
proposal and have therefore been referred to in the preparation of this report• Planning Advice Note, PAN 45 - Renewable energy technologies,
• National Planning Policy Guidelines, NPPG 6 revised 2000 - Renewable energy
developments,
• Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment - Second edition
• Guidelines on the Environmental Impacts of Windfarms and Small Scale
Hydroelectric Schemes, Scottish Natural Heritage.
• SNH policy statement 02/02 (May 2002) - Strategic Locational Guidance for
Onshore Wind Farms in respect of the Natural Heritage,
• SNH Policy statement 02/03 - Wildness in Scotland’s Countryside,
• Visual Assessment of Windfarms: Best Practice - Scottish Natural Heritage
Commissioned report FO1AA303A,
• Moray and Nairn Landscape Character Assessment. No. 101 (1998),
• Banff and Buchan Landscape Character Assessment No. 37 (1997),
• Moray Local Plan ‘Proposals’ Plan,
• Moray Council Wind Energy Policy Guidance,
• Ordnance survey maps at 1:50,000 and 1:25,000 scales.
3.2. Policies
Moray Council have developed a Wind Energy Policy Guidance document. This includes a
map showing the ‘preferred areas of search’ for new windfarm developments in the County.
The site at Balnamoon lies outwith these preferred areas, the nearest one lying approximately
2.5 km to the north-west across the higher ground at Aultmore.
3.3. Landscape Designations in the Area of Study
• Areas of Great Landscape Value : An extensive area of land lying mainly south of Rothes
has been designated by Moray Council as an AGLV. Aberdeenshire Council has also
designated a coastal strip, lying to the east of Cullen, as an AGLV.
• The following places are listed in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes Old Manse of Marnoch, Gordon Castle, Cullen House, Duff House and Innes House.
3.4. Moray and Nairn Landscape Character Assessment’ No.101
This document classifies and describes the different landscape types and areas lying within
the County. The site itself lies within Landscape Character Type ‘Upland Farmland’.
The LCA states that In visual terms there is scope for accommodating a limited amount of windfarm development
in this area due to the simple character of the landscape elements, such as landform, vegetation
patterns and settlement, which would help reduce any feeling of ‘clutter’.
The Banff and Buchan Landscape Character Assessment was also referred to.
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3.5. Other Guidance
• SNH policy statement 02/02 (May 2002) “Strategic Locational Guidance for Onshore Wind
Farms in respect of the Natural Heritage.” divides Scotland into three zones according to the
land’s sensitivity in natural history terms to windfarms. The site falls into Zone 1 which
includes Areas at the broad scale with least sensitivity to wind farms, with the greatest opportunity
for development, within which overall a large number of developments could be acceptable
in natural heritage terms, so long as they are undertaken sensitively and with due regard to
cumulative impact.
• SNH Policy statement 02/03 - Wildness in Scotland’s Countryside, confirms that the site
does not fall into the areas of search for wild land and possesses no wild land characteristics.
3.6. Settlement Patterns
The site itself lies in the midst of a working agricultural landscape with scattered farms and
houses, occasional groups of houses, but few villages. The nearest substantial settlement is
the town of Keith. The town consists of two areas the older part of the town to the west of
the river Isla and the later, 18th century part laid out in a grid pattern to the east of the river.
The village of Newmill lies between the site and Keith.
The nearest residential properties lie along the minor road to the north of the site. The
majority of houses in this area are surrounded by groups of broadleaved trees.
3.7. Existing Transport Network
The major roads in the study area tend to follow low-lying valleys. The principal roads in the
study area are the A95, A96, B9018, B9014 and the B9103. A network of minor roads serve
the scattered farms and houses of the area. The Inverness to Aberdeen railway line passes
along low-lying land within the study area.
3.8. Visitor Attractions in the Area
There are a number of distilleries in the vicinity and the Strathisla distillery is located within
Keith and has a visitor centre which is part of the Whisky Trail.
3.9. Other Windfarm Developments in the Vicinity of the Site
There is a proposal for an extensive windfarm to be sited amidst the coniferous woodlands at
Aultmore. This would lie approximately 3 km to the north-west of the site and consist of
approximately 30 turbines each 100m high.
It is understood that this development has not yet received permission.
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4.0. FACTORS AFFECTING THE IMPACT OF THE DEVELOPMENT
4.1. Introduction
There are many, often complex, factors which may affect the impact of the proposed
development. Those considered in this study can be summarised as follows • the sensitivity of the landscape and viewers,
• the siting and design,
• the degree or ‘magnitude’ of the effects caused by the development,
• any cumulative effects,
• transitory effects.
4.2. The Sensitivity of the Landscape / the Viewers
The impact of the proposed development will be affected by the sensitivity of the
surrounding landscape and of the potential viewers.
4.3. Siting
A bold, simple image which relates well to the landform is most easily visually absorbed.
Confusing views may include • views where the rotors are partially seen against the sky and partially against the
land,
• views where only the tips of a rotor can be seen eg behind a hill,
• views where the turbine seems out of scale with the landform,
• views where the turbine seems to add further complexity to an already cluttered
scene.
The infrastructure associated with a development, for example access tracks and substations
can also have a strong visual impact if inappropriately sited.
Careful siting is particularly important in a simple, open landscape where turbines are likely
to be viewed over long distances and will form a local landmark.
4.4. Magnitude of Effects
The overall impact of the proposed development will be affected by the degree or ‘magnitude’
of the changes which it brings about.
4.5. Cumulative Impact
The visual interaction between different windfarms proposed in the area may serve to
compound any visual impacts caused by the Balnamoon development alone.
4.6. Transitory Effects
Other factors which may affect the impact are more transitory and therefore more difficult to
assess. They include • Weather - The turbines is likely to be more obvious in certain light and weather conditions
and at different times of the day (and possibly seasons of the year). Thus it may be seen as
dark silhouettes against a light sky or a bright white structure highlighted by sun against dark
clouds. At other times it may merge as a dull coloured structure against a similarly dull sky.
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The weather and light conditions can therefore dramatically increase or decrease the impact of
windfarms.
• Direction of wind - the rotor blades will lie in different planes in different wind
directions.
• Movement - the eye is drawn to turbines far more when they are in motion than when
they are stationary. Some studies suggest that movement of the rotors can be detected up
to 15-17 km. By contrast, when stationary, the height of the turbines may appear greater
as the full height of the rotor blades can be more clearly seen.
• Time - the sculptural qualities of the turbine may lead to its acceptance over time
as a local landmark.
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5.0. THE IMPACT OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ON THE LANDSCAPE
CHARACTER OF THE AREA
5.1. Existing Landscape Character of the Site and its surrounds
The site lies on sloping arable land which forms the transition zone between the lower lying
‘valley’ areas and the higher, generally conifer-clad uplands. The area is very much a working
landscape and is attractive in a subtle, undramatic way. There is very little in the way of
intrusive development and the landscape is generally simple, uncluttered and harmonious in
appearance.
From the site itself , there are extensive views over agricultural land to the east and south,
with the characteristic shape of Knock Hill, the wooded ridge at Sillyearn and the wooded
slopes of Balloch forming a backdrop. Views to the south east of more distant hills can be
glimpsed through the lower-lying land along the Isla / Deveron valleys.
To the south-west there are more distant views of rugged, conifer-clad hills.
Views to the north and west are effectively blocked by the high ground and coniferous
woodland at Aultmore.
5.2. Methodology
The significance of the impact of the proposed development on the landscape character was
assessed by • assessing the sensitivity of the landscape character and the degree or ‘magnitude’ of
the predicted changes to it,
• assessing the ‘significance’ of the impact by means of a simple matrix which relates
the ‘sensitivity’ to the ‘magnitude’ of effect.
5.3. Landscape Sensitivity
The ‘sensitivity’ of the landscape is an indication of its capacity to absorb change and the
factors used to assess this sensitivity included • the quality of the landscape – how intact and harmonious the landscape is,
• the value of landscape – the importance put on the landscape either through
national or local designations or because of popular local use, perceived special
qualities, ‘wild land’ characteristics, historical or cultural associations,
• any existing discordant features – existing features in the landscape which deter
from the harmony of the landscape,
• the ability of the landscape type to absorb the type of change.
The grading of the landscape can thus be summarised as follows VERY HIGH sensitivity is used to describe an area which meets most of the following criteria:
• it is of very high quality ie it is intact, coherent and harmonious;
• it is very highly valued ie it is distinctive and considered scenically beautiful and of
high importance (internationally or nationally and locally);
• it contains no or very few intrusive or discordant features.
HIGH sensitivity is used to describe an area which meets most of the following criteria:
• it is of good quality ie it is largely intact, coherent and harmonious;
• it is valued ie it is considered attractive and valued nationally and locally;
• it contains minor discordant or intrusive elements.
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MEDIUM sensitivity is used to describe an area which meets most of the following criteria:
• it is of average quality ie it is less intact, coherent and harmonious;
• it has lower value or is valued only locally;
• it contains a number of confusing, discordant or intrusive elements.
LOW/NEGLIGIBLE sensitivity is used to describe an area which meets most of the following
criteria:
• it is of low quality ie it is a despoiled or degraded landscape;
• it is not valued even locally;
• it contains many confusing, discordant or intrusive elements.
5.4. Magnitude of the Change to the Landscape Character
The degree or ‘magnitude’ of change to the landscape character was assessed by using the
following factors • the location of the proposed turbine in or immediately adjacent to the
landscape area,
• the size and scale of the proposed turbine in relation to the size and scale of
the landform,
• the level / extent / scale of the effects caused by the proposed development,
• the compatibility of the development with the existing landscape character,
• any existing discordant features in the landscape,
• the loss or degradation of any key landscape elements / features,
• the permanence of the effects caused by the development,
• the cumulative effect of other windfarms in the same or adjacent landscape areas.
The grading of the resulting magnitude of effect can be summarised as follows VERY HIGH magnitude is used to describe • a major change to baseline conditions resulting in complete alteration of landscape
character, composition and quality.
HIGH magnitude is used to describe • an easily discernible change to some features of the baseline conditions such that a
noticeable change to the landscape character, composition and quality results.
MEDIUM magnitude is used to describe • a minor, but still discernible change to some features of baseline conditions, such
that the landscape character, composition and quality remains largely intact.
LOW/NEGLIGIBLE magnitude is used to describe • a change of indiscernible nature such that the baseline conditions remain
fundamentally, or even totally, unchanged.
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5.5. The Significance of the Impact on the Landscape Character
The overall significance of the impact brought about by the proposed development is a
combination of the ‘sensitivity’ of the landscape character and the ‘magnitude’ of the change
affecting it. The following matrix gives the likely significance of the impact on the landscape
character -
MAGNITUDE
Very
High
High
High
Very
High
Very
High
High
Medium
High
High
Very
High
Medium
Medium
Medium
High
High
Low/
Negligible
Low/
Negligible
Medium
Medium
High
Low/
Negligible
Medium
High
Very High
SENSITIVITY
5.6. Assessment of the Impact of the Proposed Development on the Landscape
Character of the Area
Plan 2 shows the landscape character of the area as defined in the Moray and Nairn
Landscape Character Assessment and as further assessed by this study. The following pages
analyse the likely impact of the proposed development on the landscape character of the
areas which surround the site.
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5.6.1. Landscape Type (as defined in Moray and Nairn Landscape Character
Assessment) : Upland Farmland
General Landscape Description
The LCA describes this landscape character type as -
broad, gently undulating slopes rising in close proximity to the coast, cut by gently graded
valleys to the higher lands of the Open Uplands and punctuated by distinctive conical hills
such as the Bin of Cullen and Knock Hill.
On the ground it is clear that this type subdivides into the following landscape types • Low-lying, valley areas,
• Undulating arable lands and
• Higher upland areas.
Main Characteristics
The main characteristics of each of these sub-types can be summarised as follows • Low-lying valley areas • elevation generally under 100m,
• gently contoured river valleys,
• low-lying arable / grazing land,
• frequently used as transport corridors for main roads and railways,
• scattered farms, houses and settlements,
• small pockets of generally broadleaved trees,
• absence of hedgerows and stone dykes,
• distant views often blocked by adjacent rising land, except where framed along valleys.
• Undulating arable lands • elevation generally between 100 and 200 m,
• gently undulating arable / grazing land, generally in fairly large fields,
• a network of minor roads,
• scattered farms and houses,
• small pockets of broadleaved, occasionally coniferous woodland and a number of areas
of recent tree planting,
• absence of hedgerows and stone dykes,
• extensive views across farmland and longer views to higher upland areas.
• Higher upland areas • elevation generally over 200 m,
• steeper, generally unenclosed land,
• often totally or partially covered by sometimes extensive coniferous woodland,
• few roads,
• few farms or houses,
• hills often strong, characterful shapes eg Knock Hill,
• hills form visual blocks separating other, lower-lying areas,
• extensive views in all directions, although can be limited by coniferous plantations.
Sensitivity to Change
• The landscape is intact and harmonious and its quality is therefore assessed as high.
• There are no designated landscapes within the area and the value is therefore assessed as
medium. It is however valued as a working landscape.
• There are few existing discordant features and little development in this landscape. The
exception to this are the lines of pylons which traverse the area.
• The overall sensitivity of this landscape area is therefore assessed as High.
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Magnitude of Change
• The site lies within this landscape type.
• The development is small in scale, consisting of a single, relatively small turbine, which will be
sited off the higher ground and take up only a tiny proportion of this landscape type. It will not,
therefore, dominate or overwhelm the character of the surrounding landscape.
• The introduction of a wind turbine into this landscape will be appropriate to the simple
uncluttered landform and landuse pattern.
• There will be a small area of arable land lost to the foundations and the access track.
• The effects caused will not be permanent and should be completely removed at the end of the
life of the turbines.
• The predicted magnitude of change on this landscape type/area is therefore assessed as
Low/Negligible
Significance of the Effects on the Landscape Area
The combination of high sensitivity with low/negligible magnitude of change means that the
significance of the effects is assessed as MEDIUM.
5.7. Potential Cumulative Impacts on Landscape Character of the Area
The large scale windfarm proposed at Aultmore lies within the same Landscape Character
Type (Upland Farmland). However, it lies on a very different site from the Balnamoon
turbine ie on high ground, amidst forestry plantation and it extends over about 6 kilometres of
land. The Aultmore development will thus have a considerable impact on the landscape
character of the area.
The proposed single turbine at Balnamoon would, therefore, make negligible contribution to
the cumulative effects of other developments in the area.
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6.0 ZONE OF VISUAL INFLUENCE
6.1. The Generation of the Zone of Visual Influence
The Zone of Visual Influence plan shows the extent of the area from which any part of the
proposed development, including rotor tips only, would be visible. It was generated using
‘Wind Farm’ programme and Ordnance Survey gridded, topographic ‘Panorama’ data .
(A further ZVI was generated which shows the extent of the area from which the turbine hub
only would be visible).
6.2. The Extent of the Zone of Visual Influence
The ZVI covers a radius of 20 km from the proposed site, in accordance with the
recommendations in ‘Visual Assessment of Windfarms: Best Practice.’ It includes any area
from which any part of the turbine may be visible.
6.3. The Limitations of the Zone of Visual Influence
The ZVI shows a ‘worst-case’ situation, that is, it indicates the full extent of visibility (of
even the very tip of a rotor blade) and assumes clear weather conditions. It does not take into
account areas where the views may be blocked by trees, buildings and minor changes in
landform. The field work attempted to clarify the true extent of the visibility from selected
viewpoints and the wider area.
6.4 Initial Interpretation of Zone of Visual Influence
It can be seen that the ZVI is most concentrated in the area within 5 km of the site, especially
to the east, south and west. Extensive forestry at Aultmore is likely to screen views from the
west and some views from the east, from Lurg Hill, Knock Hill and Sillyearn hill will also be
blocked by woodland.
A number of the more distant patches of the ZVI also coincide with high, conifer-clad land
and the trees are likely to limit views from these areas.
It is likely therefore, that a ZVI which took into account the height of forestry, would be
much reduced in size.
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7.0. THE IMPACT OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ON THE VISUAL
RESOURCE OF THE AREA
7.1. Methodology
The significance of the impact of the proposed development on the visual resource of the area
was assessed by • the establishment of 14 viewpoints,
• assessing the sensitivity of the viewpoints / viewers and the degree or ‘magnitude’ of
the predicted changes at those points,
• assessing the ‘significance’ of the impact by means of a simple matrix which relates
the ‘sensitivity’ to the ‘magnitude’ of change.
7.2. Visual Sensitivity
The sensitivity of each viewpoint / viewer is an indication of its capacity to absorb change.
The factors used to assess this sensitivity include • the quality of landscape and views – how composed and attractive the views are,
• the value of landscape – the importance put on the landscape either through
national or local designations or because of popular local use, perceived special
qualities, ‘wild land’ characteristics or cultural associations,
• any existing discordant or prominent features – existing features in the landscape
which deter from the harmony of the view or attract the eye,
• the type and number of viewer – the sensitivity of different types and numbers of
people who are likely to see any changes in the landscape (eg walkers in a ‘wild’
landscape may be few but may be very sensitive to the intrusion of a development,
whilst large numbers of people at work in an office may be largely unaware of its
effects.)
The grading of the visual sensitivity can be summarised as follows VERY HIGH sensitivity is used to describe a visual receptor which meets most of the following
criteria:
• it is very highly valued ie it is distinctive and considered scenically beautiful and of high
importance (internationally or nationally and locally),
• it comprises a high quality and highly valued view,
• it contains no or very few intrusive or discordant features,
• it contains highly visually sensitive receptors.
HIGH sensitivity is used to describe a visual receptor which meets most of the following criteria:
• it is valued ie it is considered attractive and valued nationally and locally,
• it comprises a good and valued view,
• it may contain some discordant or intrusive elements,
• it contains sensitive viewers.
MEDIUM sensitivity is used to describe a visual receptor which meets most of the following criteria:
• it has lower value or is valued only locally,
• it comprises an attractive view,
• it contains a number of confusing, discordant or intrusive elements,
• it contains less sensitive viewers.
LOW/NEGLIGIBLE sensitivity is used to describe a visual receptor which meets most of the following
criteria:
• it is not valued even locally,
• it comprises an unattractive or average view,
• it contains many confusing, discordant or intrusive elements,
• it contains viewers of low sensitivity.
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7.3. Magnitude of the Changes to the Visual Amenity of the Area
The degree or ‘magnitude’ of change to the visual resource was assessed using the following
factors • the proximity to the development,
• the compatibility of the development with the existing landscape character,
• visual conflicts with any existing distracting features in the landscape,
• the composition / simplicity of image presented by the development,
• the fullness/direction/angle/elevation of view,
• the distance over which the view is seen ie long and continuous or short glimpse,
• the percentage of the view which is taken up by the development,
• the elements of the development which will be visible eg turbine, track etc,
• the permanence of all these effects,
• the cumulative impact of the development together with other existing, approved
or planned windfarm developments in the area.
The grading of the resulting magnitude of effect can be summarised as follows VERY HIGH magnitude is used to describe •a major change to baseline conditions resulting in complete alteration of the visual character,
composition and quality.
• the development would dominate or control the view.
HIGH magnitude is used to describe • an easily discernible change to some features of the baseline conditions such that a noticeable
change to the visual character, composition and quality results.
• the development would be conspicuous and distinct
MEDIUM magnitude is used to describe • a minor, but still discernible change to some features of baseline conditions, such that the visual
character, composition and quality remains largely intact.
• the development would be apparent.
LOW magnitude is used to describe • a change of less discernible nature such that the baseline conditions remain fundamentally
unchanged.
• the development would be inconspicuous and not obvious.
NEGLIGIBLE magnitude is used to describe • a change of such indiscernible nature that the baseline conditions remain unchanged
• the development would be scarcely visible.
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7.4. The Significance of the Change to the Visual Resource of the Area
The significance of the change brought about by the proposed development is a combination
of the ‘sensitivity’ of the visual resource and the ‘magnitude’ of the change affecting it. The
following matrix gives the likely significance of the impact on the visual resource -
MAGNITUDE
Very
High
High
High
Very
High
Very
High
High
Medium
High
High
Very
High
Medium
Medium
Medium
High
High
Low
Low
Medium
Medium
High
Negligible
Low
Low
Low
Medium
Low
Medium
High
Very
High
SENSITIVITY
NB This study deliberately avoids classifying any impacts as positive or negative. More so
than perhaps any other form of development, windfarms may evoke completely opposite
reactions in different individuals. Some people may perceive them as visually exciting, bold
and symbolising a ‘green’ and alternative way of generating electricity; other viewers may,
however, perceive them as an intrusive, dominating and inappropriate element in an attractive
and unspoilt landscape.
7.5. Choice of Viewpoints
Viewpoints were selected to reflect a variety of views and to include those experienced by
motorists, residents, visitors etc from and across a range of landscape types and at varying
distances from the site.
Only viewpoints from which the turbines would be visible, ie those that fall within the Zone
of Visual Influence, have been used. Photomontages and wireframes were provided by the
client.
7.6. Assessment of the Impact of the Proposed Development on the Visual Resource of
the Area
The following pages analyse the likely impact of the proposed development on the chosen
viewpoints.
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7.6.1. VIEWPOINT NAME: Under Knock Hill
Viewpoint Number: 1
Grid Reference: 352800/855500
Distance from Site: 5 km
Direction of View: west
Elevation: 200 m
Landscape Type (as in Landscape Character Assessment) : Upland Farmland (Moray
and Nairn Landscape Character Assessment)
Reason for Choosing viewpoint / Description of Existing Views:
• An attractive, open view from a minor road across bands of mixed woodland to gently
undulating arable lands. Coniferous woods swathe the distant high ground. This is very much a
working landscape with only scattered farms and houses.
Sensitivity:
• the view is attractive and the quality is therefore assessed as medium.
• there are no designated landscapes within the view and its value is assessed as medium.
• there are few discordant features in the view.
• the view will be seen by a small number of people as they travel along this minor road and their
sensitivity is assessed as medium.
• the sensitivity at this viewpoint is therefore assessed as Medium.
Magnitude of Change:
• the site lies at 5 km from this viewpoint and the proposed turbine would therefore be visible in
any normal weather conditions.
• the proposed development seems compatible with the simple, uncluttered nature of the
landscape character.
• there are few distracting features or existing focal points in the landscape and the proposed
turbine would therefore form a local landmark.
• the photomontage / wireframe of this view shows that the whole of the turbine would be seen
set against the land. It will not, therefore, be seen silhouetted against the sky. The access track
may be faintly visible from this point.
• the view to the turbine lies to one side of the road and is not therefore in direct line of view
from the road.
• the effects caused will not be permanent and should be completely removed at the end of the
life of the turbine.
• the magnitude of the change at this point is assessed as Low, that is it would be Inconspicuous
Significance of the Impact on the Visual Resource:
• The combination of medium sensitivity with low magnitude of change means that the
significance of the impact at this point is assessed as MEDIUM.
18
7.6.2. VIEWPOINT NAME: Croylet Reservoir
Viewpoint Number: 2
Distance from Site: 2.25 km
Direction of View: south-west
Elevation: 200 m
• An attractive, open view from a minor road across bands of mixed woodland to gently
undulating arable lands. The extensive coniferous woods at Aultmore swathe the higher distant
ground. Young, mixed woodland has been planted in the middle distance. This is very much a
working landscape with only scattered farms and houses.
Sensitivity:
• the site lies at 2.25 km from this viewpoint and the proposed turbine would therefore be visible
in any normal weather conditions.
set partially against the land and partially against the sky, which may be slightly distracting. The
access track should be visible from this point, though is unlikely to be any more visible than any
other farm track.
• the view to the turbine lies to one side of the road but in easy view for drivers.
• the magnitude of the change at this point is assessed as Medium, that is it would be Apparent
• The combination of medium sensitivity with medium magnitude of change means that the
19
7.6.3. VIEWPOINT NAME: B9018 North of Balnamoon
Viewpoint Number: 3
Direction of View: west
Elevation: 110 m
• An attractive view from the B9018 road at one of the nearest points to the site. The view is
across arable land to the farm of Balnamoon which is surrounded by mature broadleaved trees.
The coniferous woodland at Aultmore can be seen on the skyline. A prominent pylon lies
between the viewpoint and the farm. This is very much a working landscape with only scattered
farms and houses.
Sensitivity:
• the prominent pylon and hydro poles form discordant features in the view.
• the view will be seen by a medium number of people as they travel along the road and their
• the site lies at only 0.75 km from this viewpoint and the proposed turbine would therefore be
clearly visible in any normal weather conditions.
• the proposed turbine will combine with the pylon and hydro-poles to increase the visual
confusion at this point.
set mainly against the sky. Visually it appears to be the same height as the closer pylon. The
access track should be largely hidden by the trees and buildings.
from the road.
• the magnitude of the change at this point is assessed as High, that is it would be Conspicuous
• The combination of medium sensitivity with high magnitude of change means that the
significance of the impact at this point is assessed as HIGH.
20
7.6.4. VIEWPOINT NAME: Starhill Road
Viewpoint Number: 4
Direction of View: east-north-east
Elevation: 200 m
• An attractive view from the junction of several minor roads which shows the site set against
higher ground to the north-east. The view is across large open, gently-undulating, arable fields to
the higher, partially conifer-clad land of Lurg Hill. Small pockets of mainly coniferous woodland
lies in the middle distance just beyond the site.
Sensitivity:
• the photomontage / wireframe of this view shows that almost the whole of the turbine would be
seen set against the land. It will not, therefore, be seen silhouetted against the sky. The access
track should not be visible from this point.
from any of the roads.
21
7.6.5. VIEWPOINT NAME: B9018 Grange Crossroads
Viewpoint Number: 5
Direction of View: north
Elevation: 130 m
• A view from the B9018 road at the crossroads by the local primary school. The view is across
gently undulating pasture with scattered broadleaved trees, to the skyline coniferous woods of
Aultmore forest. A line of pylons traverse the view.
Sensitivity:
• the line of pylons form discordant features in the view.
• the view will be seen by a medium number of people as they travel along the road and approach
the school and their sensitivity is assessed as medium.
• the site lies at only 1 km from this viewpoint and the proposed turbine would therefore be
clearly visible in any normal weather conditions.
• the proposed turbine will combine with the pylons etc to increase the visual confusion at this
point.
set mainly against the sky. The access track may be just visible from this point.
from the road.
• The combination of medium sensitivity with high magnitude of change means that the
significance of the impact at this point is assessed as HIGH.
22
7.6.6. VIEWPOINT NAME: Crannoch ridgeline
Viewpoint Number: 6
Direction of View: north west
Elevation: 150 m
• An open view from a minor road along the ridgeline of Crannoch, which also represents views
from an area of residential properties in the vicinity. The view is across lower land to the rising
land around the site with its mixture of arable and pasture land. The coniferous woodland at
Aultmore lies spread along the skyline.
Sensitivity:
• the view will be seen by a small number of people as they travel along this minor road, but as
this view also represents the groups of residential properties in this area, the sensitivity is assessed
as high.
• the sensitivity at this viewpoint is therefore assessed as High.
• the site lies at 1.5 km from this viewpoint and the proposed turbine would therefore be visible in
set partially against the land and partially against the sky. This may be slightly distracting. The
access track will be clearly visible from this point.
from the road.
• The combination of high sensitivity with high magnitude of change means that the significance
of the impact at this point is assessed as HIGH.
23
7.6.7. VIEWPOINT NAME: A95 at Auchinhove
Viewpoint Number: 7
Direction of View: north east
Elevation: 100 m
• A view from the main A95 road across gently rising arable land to the skyline buildings at
Berryleys Farm. A line of pylons are visible along the skyline.
Sensitivity:
• the view is average and the quality is therefore assessed as low.
• the line of pylons form discordant features in the view.
• the view will be seen by a high number of people as they drive along the road, but their
sensitivity is assessed as medium as they are likely to be driving quickly through the area.
• the proposed turbine will combine with the pylons etc to increase the visual confusion at this
point.
• the photomontage / wireframe of this view shows that the rotors only of the turbine would be
seen set against the sky. This may be slightly distracting. The access track would not be visible
from this point.
• the view to the site lies to one side of the road and is not therefore in direct line of view from
the road.
24
7.6.8. VIEWPOINT NAME: A95 North of Keith
Viewpoint Number: 8
Elevation: 120 m
• A fairly direct line of view from the A95. The road is bordered by scattered mature, broadleaved
trees and the view is across the lower ground of the Aultmore valley to the rising land and
coniferous woods at Aultmore forest and Lurg Hill.
Sensitivity:
• the view will be seen by a high number of people as they travel along the road, but their
sensitivity is assessed as medium as they are likely to be driving quickly through the area.
seen set against the sky, but would be largely screened by trees. The access track should not be
visible from this point.
• the view to the turbine lies in fairly direct line of view from the road, but will be seen only in
fleeting glimpses through gaps in trees. The turbine may be more evident in winter when the
leaves are off the trees.
• the magnitude of the change at this point is assessed as Negligible, that is it would be Scarcely
Visible.
• The combination of medium sensitivity with negligible magnitude of change means that the
significance of the impact at this point is assessed as LOW.
25
7.6.9. VIEWPOINT NAME: Meikle Cantly bridge
Viewpoint Number: 9
Direction of View: north
Elevation: 110 m
• An attractive view from the railway bridge near the riding centre at Meikle Cantly. The view is
across rolling, arable land with a small, broadleaved woodland in the middle distance and the
coniferous woodland at Aultmore on the distant, higher skyline. A nearby pylon is prominent in
the view.
Sensitivity:
• the nearby prominent pylon forms a discordant feature in the view.
• the proposed turbine may combine with the adjacent pylon etc to increase the level of visual
confusion, but the evident physical separation may lessen these effects.
access track should not be visible from this point.
• the view to the site lies in direct line of view from the road.
26
7.6.10. VIEWPOINT NAME: behind Keith School
Viewpoint Number: 10
Elevation: 150 m
• An attractive view from behind Keith School and swimming pool. The view is across the
playing fields to undulating arable land dissected by the A95, beyond which lies the higher, conifer
capped land at Aultmore and Lurg Hill.
Sensitivity:
• the view will be seen by a medium number of people as they attend the school and swimming
pool and their sensitivity is assessed as medium.
seen set against the sky. The access track should not be visible from this point.
• the view to the turbine lies in the sweep of view from the grounds.
27
7.6.11. VIEWPOINT NAME: B9115 south of Keith
Direction of View: north-north-east
Elevation: 205 m
• An attractive view framed between the conifer-clad slopes of the Balloch and the slopes of
Cairds Hill. The site can be seen through the low-lying, arable, valley landscape with scattered
houses and small groups of broadleaved woodland. The backdrop to the view is the rising land and
coniferous woods at Aultmore forest and Lurg Hill. A line of pylons crosses the view.
Sensitivity:
• the pylons form discordant features in the view.
• the view will be seen by a medium number of people as they travel along the road and their
• the site lies at 10 km from this viewpoint and the proposed turbine would therefore be visible in
any clear weather conditions.
• the proposed turbine may combine with the adjacent pylons to increase the visual confusion at
this point.
access track should not be visible from this point.
• the view to the turbine lies to one side of the road and not in direct line of view from the road.
28
7.6.12. VIEWPOINT NAME: Glen of Newmill road
Direction of View: east
Elevation: 220 m
• An attractive, open view from the minor road which runs through Glen of Newmill; this also
represents views from an area of residential properties in the vicinity. The view is across gentlyundulating arable and pasture land, with small pockets of broadleaved woodland. The strong
shapes of Lurg Hill and Knock Hill form the backdrop with their partially conifer-clad slopes.
Sensitivity:
• the view will be seen by a small number of people as they travel along the road, but as this view
also represents the groups of residential properties in this area, the sensitivity is assessed as high.
• the sensitivity at this viewpoint is therefore assessed as High.
seen against the land, with the tower of the turbine hidden behind a small woodland. The access
track should not be visible from this point.
• the view to the turbine lies to one side of the road.
• The combination of high sensitivity with low magnitude of change means that the significance
of the impact at this point is assessed as MEDIUM.
29
7.6.13. VIEWPOINT NAME: Road near Allacardoch Viewpoint Number: 13
Elevation: 150 m
• An attractive, open view from along a farm track off the minor road which runs towards Glen
of Newmill. The view is across gently-undulating arable and pasture land, with small pockets of
broadleaved woodland. The strong shape of Lurg Hill forms the backdrop.
Sensitivity:
• there are few discordant features in the view, except the foreground hydro-pole.
• the view will be seen by a small number of people as they travel along the road and their
• the photomontage / wireframe of this view shows that the rotor tips only of the turbine would
be seen set against the sky. This may be slightly distracting. The access track should not be visible
from this point.
• the view to the turbine lies to one side of the road and not in direct line of view from the road.
30
7.6.14. VIEWPOINT NAME: Carestown, north of Balnamoon
Direction of View: south south east
Elevation: 110 m
Landscape Type (as in Landscape Character Assessment) : Coastal Farmland (Moray
• This viewpoint demonstrates how difficult it is to find clear views to the site from the north.
This is an attractive view from near Carestown over conifer clad slopes to the site.
Sensitivity:
• the view will be seen by a small number of people as they travel along the road and their
• the photomontage / wireframe of this view shows that the rotor tips only of the turbine would
be seen set against the sky above the conifers. No access tracks or other infrastructure should be
visible from this point.
• the view to the turbine lies to one side of the road and not in direct line of view from the road;
it will be seen in glimpses only.
• the magnitude of the change at this point is assessed as Negligible, that is it would be Scarcely
Visible
• The combination of medium sensitivity with negligible magnitude of change means that the
significance of the impact at this point is assessed as LOW.
31
8.0. IMPACT OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ON THE LANDSCAPE
CHARACTER AND VISUAL RESOURCE OF THE AREA
This table summarises the predicted impact of the development as assessed in sections 5.6.
and 7.6.
Landscape Character Type/Area
Sensitivity
Magnitude
Significance
Upland Farmland
High
Low/Neg
Medium
Sens
Mag
Sig
Viewpoints
Distance from Site
1. Under Knock Hill
5 km
M
L
M
2. Croylet Reservoir
2.25 km
M
M
M
3. B9018 North of Balnamoon
0.75 km
M
H
H
4. Starhill road
1.25 km
M
M
M
5. B9018 Grange crossroads
1 km
M
H
H
6. Crannoch ridgeline
1.5 km
H
H
H
7. A95 Auchinhove
4.5 km
M
L
M
8. A95 north of Keith
5.5 km
M
N
L
9. Meikle Cantly bridge
4.5 km
M
M
M
10. behind Keith School
6.5 km
M
L
M
11. B9115 south of Keith
10 km
M
L
M
12. Glen of Newmill road
4.5 km
H
L
M
13. road near Allacardoch
3.75 km
M
L
M
14. Carestown, north of B’moon
7.5 km
M
N
L
KEY
N = Negligible
L = Low
M = Medium
H = High
VH = Very High
Sens. = Sensitivity
Mag. = Magnitude of Change
Sign. = Significance of Impact
32
9. SEQUENTIAL IMPACT
9.1. Introduction
This section assesses the journeys from which the Balnamoon turbine would be seen
9.2. From A95 road
• travelling east from Elgin
The turbine would not be visible until the road enters Keith where the views would be very
intermittent due to screening by the built environment and trees. To the east of the town, at
Viewpoint 8, the significance of impact is assessed as ‘Low’ as views to the site are limited
due to scattered trees and minor landform features. At viewpoint 7 (Auchinhove) the site is
briefly seen and, at this point, the significance of impact is assessed as ‘Medium’. The site is
then out of view. There are no long, clear, direct views to the site.
• travelling west from Banff
The turbine would not be visible.
There is therefore no significant visual impacts on this road.
9.3. From A96 road
• north from Huntly
The turbine would not be visible until a fleeting glimpse near the junction with B9115
(Viewpoint 11) where the significance of impact is assessed as ‘Medium’. Entering Keith, any
views would be very intermittent due to screening by the built environment.
There is therefore no significant visual impacts on this road.
9.4 . From B9014 and B9103 roads
There are no views to the site from these roads until they approach Keith. Here views would
again be very intermittent due to screening by the built environment and trees.
There are therefore no significant visual impacts on these roads.
9.5. From B9018
• north from near Auchinhove
Views of the turbine would be intermittent initially due to trees and minor landform
fluctuations. Views then open out near Grange crossroads (Viewpoint 5) where the
significance of impact is assessed as ‘High’ and there are then open views to the site until it is
passed. These views lie to the side of the road.
• south from Cullen
the turbine would be only fleetingly visible until near Myreton where views to the turbine
would start to open up. At Viewpoint 3 (North of Balnamoon) the significance of impact is
assessed as ‘High’. The site is then passed.
There are therefore significant effects on the nearest part of this road to the site. This extends
over approximately a 1.5 kilometre stretch of the road. However, the turbine is never seen in
direct line of view for drivers along this road.
33
9.6. Minor roads
Generally, the site has higher levels of impact on the minor roads of the area and this is
reflected in the fact that 8 out of the 14 viewpoints are located on minor roads. The most
significant impacts on minor roads has been assessed at Viewpoint 6 (Crannoch ridgeline)
where the significance of impact is assessed as ‘High’.
9.7. Railways
The railway line from Inverness to Aberdeen follows the valley landscapes of the burn of
Mullen and the river Isla. From its low-lying route, the ZVI shows that there will be only a
few, very fleeting glimpses of the turbine from this route.
34
10.0. CUMULATIVE VISUAL IMPACT
10.1. Introduction
The cumulative visual impact of windfarms is clearly of increasing concern with the growing
number of applications for new developments at a variety of scales. Cumulative impact is
significant when • an area ceases to be a ‘landscape with windfarms’ and becomes a ‘windfarm
landscape’.
• valued views contain a number of windfarms, especially when they spread over a
large proportion of the landscape.
• wide scale / panoramic views contain a number of windfarms in all / several different
directions.
• a windfarm ceases to be an unusual, but welcome, landmark and becomes just one of
many similar and indistinguishable developments seen along a journey.
At Aultmore forest, within 3 kilometres of the Balnamoon site, an extensive windfarm is
proposed and so this study has also considered the visual implications of both developments
proceeding.
10.2. Relative Scale and Siting
The following table summarises the differences between the two proposed developments Aultmore
Balnamoon
No. of turbines
30
1
Turbine height
100m
70m
Elevation of site
250m +
155m
Nature of site
coniferous woodland
arable land
It can be seen, therefore that the two developments are on a completely different scale and
sited very differently.
10. 3. Cumulative Zones of Visual Influence
In order to help assess the cumulative effects likely to be brought about by the two
developments, a cumulative ZVI was produced. The ZVI for Aultmore shows a considerably
more extensive area than that of Balnamoon as would be expected given its greater scale and
elevation. It can be seen that the ZVI for Balnamoon fits as a sort of sub-set to that of
Aultmore, from which it can be seen that Balnamoon would introduce virtually no additional
areas from which turbines would be seen.
35
10.4. Cumulative Effects from Viewpoints
Additional wireframes and photomontages for two of the viewpoints were produced to
illustrate representative views of Aultmore and Balnamoon together. The viewpoints were
chosen to reflect one close view and one more distant view.
Cumulative viewpoint 6 shows the very spread-out, straggly line of turbines at Aultmore, all
of which are partially hidden by trees or rising land, thus presenting a distracting image
without any clear pattern or rhythm. The Balnamoon turbine appears as a very separate
turbine which has ‘escaped’ from the main group, but presents a simpler, more complete
image.
Cumulative viewpoint 11 shows one group of the extensive Aultmore project spread along
the skyline. It can be seen that, from this distance, the surrounding forest does little to
effectively screen the turbines. The Aultmore turbines therefore again present a distracting
image without any clear pattern or rhythm. The Balnamoon turbine appears as a ‘lost’ turbine
which is set away from the other groups
The following table shows the resulting assessment of these cumulative viewpoints -
Viewpoint 6
Balnamoon Alone
(as previously assessed)
Sens Mag Sig
H
H
H
Balnamoon and Aultmore
(cumulative)
Sens Mag Sig
H
VH
VH
Viewpoint 11
M
M
L
M
VH
VH
However it should be noted that the cumulative significance of impact, (very high) is the same
as that which would be assessed for the Aultmore development alone. The presence of
Balnamoon, therefore, does not increase the level of impact caused by Aultmore alone.
36
11.0 VISUAL IMPACTS ON DESIGNATED, POPULAR OR SENSITIVE AREAS
This table further assesses the potential visual impacts on key areas which may be affected
by the development.
Areas falling within ZVI
Further assessment from field work/ detailed study
Areas of Great Landscape Value
1. Within Moray
The turbine would not be visible from this AGLV.
2. Within Aberdeenshire (east of Cullen)
The ZVI shows fleeting visibility from the A98 as it passes
through the AGLV. In reality views are largely blocked by trees
and minor variations in landform. Therefore negligible impact on
AGLV.
Historic gardens and Designed landscapes
The ZVI shows that the turbine would not be visible from Innes
House, Cullen House, Duff House, Gordon Castle or the Old
Manse of Marnoch.
Settlements
1. Keith
The built environment and trees screen the development from the
heart of the town. It will however be occasionally visible from
some parts eg from the secondary school (see viewpoint 10)
2. Newmill
The turbine would not be visible from the village.
3. Nearest residential properties
The study of individual residential properties is not the subject of
this report. There are few properties in the close vicinity which are
orientated to face the proposed site. Most have established or new
groups of broadleaved trees around them, which will screen any
development.
Some properties on Crannoch ridge are more orientated towards
the site and will have unrestricted views of the turbine. (see
viewpoint 6)
37
12.0. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
12.1. Fit with Policies
The site falls within ‘Zone 1’ according to Scottish Natural Heritage’s Strategic Locational
Guidance for Onshore Wind Farms in respect of Natural Heritage; this is defined as the zone
with the ‘least sensitivity for windfarms.’
The site lies outwith the ‘preferred areas of search’ as defined in Moray Council’s Wind
Energy Policy Guidance.
12.2. Impact on Designated Landscapes
The site does not fall within any land which has been designated for its landscape value, nor is
it visible from any such designated landscapes (with the possible exception of fleeting
glimpses from the Aberdeenshire Council designated ‘Area of Great Landscape Value’ which
lies to the east of Cullen).
The site will not be seen from any of the properties which are listed in the Inventory of
Gardens and Designed Landscapes.
12.3. Impact on Wider Landscape Character
The landscape within the study area is generally an attractive, working landscape with good
quality views. The turbine will be sited off the higher ground and take up only a tiny
proportion of this landscape type. The introduction of a wind turbine into this landscape will
be appropriate to the simple uncluttered landform and landuse pattern of the area.
This study has, therefore, assessed the significance of the impact on the surrounding
landscape character as ‘Medium’. The turbine would not, therefore, significantly alter the
landscape character of the area.
12.4. Impacts on Visual Resource of the Area
The use of the Zone of Visual Influence, maps and field work show that the greatest visibility
to the site is from the east / south-east within 5 kilometres of the site. From elsewhere, views
are more distant, screened by forestry or high ground, or occur only as glimpses.
The use of viewpoints, has concluded that the most significant visual impacts occur along a
1.5 kilometre stretch of the B9018 (Viewpoints 3 and 5) and along Crannoch ridge which
overlooks the site (Viewpoint 6). From these viewpoints, the significance of impact has been
assessed as ‘High’.
12.5. Cumulative Visual Impact
The study addresses the extreme variation in size and siting of the Balnamoon and Aultmore
proposals. Balnamoon is a single, relatively small turbine sited on rising ground, whilst
Aultmore consists of 30 large turbines on a prominent hill-top site. The cumulative ZVI and
wireframes/photomontages confirm that Balnamoon would contribute a negligible amount to
any cumulative effects were both developments to proceed.
38
12.6. Siting and Image
The turbine generally presents a simple, bold image which should be absorbed into the
landscape without major significant affects. From a few viewpoints (eg 2, 6 and 7) there may
be slight visual confusion caused by either the rotors-only being visible, or by the turbine
being viewed partially against the sky and partially against the land.
The turbine will form a local landmark, but will not dominate any direct lines of view eg along
roads.
The access tracks and other infrastructure are generally well designed to ensure that they are
inconspicuous in views to the site.
13.0 CONCLUSIONS
• The site lies outwith the ‘areas of search’ as defined in Moray Council’s Wind Energy Policy
Guidance.
• The site does not affect any designated landscapes.
• High visual impact is limited to a 1.5 kilometre stretch of the B9018 and the Crannoch ridge
which overlooks the site.
• The proposal would contribute a negligible amount to any cumulative visual effects if both
Balnamoon and Aultmore were to proceed.
• The proposal generally presents a simple, bold image which seems appropriate to the
simple, uncluttered landform and landuse pattern of the area.
39

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment ENYAS HILL, ORKNEY

Transcription

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