4.3 Consultation on Scoping

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1 22 Topics in the EIA Regulations Topics in this EIS Fauna Chapter 9 ecology Soil Scoped Out see Chapter 10 Water Air Chapter 11 water environment Chapter 13 air quality (including odour and dust) Climatic factors Scoped Out see Chapter 13 Material assets, including the architectural and archaeological heritage Landscape The inter-relationship between the above factors Chapter 12 cultural heritage / material assets Chapter 14 landscape and visual These are discussed within each chapter as relevant. 4.3 Consultation on Scoping Consultation is an essential element of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process. It is designed to allow consultees to become engaged in the evolution of the development proposals and to ensure that their concerns and ideas are identified and considered The Scoping Letter was forwarded to Laois County Council and consultees to seek their views on the proposed scope of the assessment. The responses received are summarised in Table 4.2 and included in full in Appendix 4A. These have been addressed within the EIS as appropriate. EPA Export :23:50:40

2 23 Table 4.2 Summary of Scoping Responses Consultee Consultee Comments EIS Response to Comments Southern Regional Fisheries Board Office of Public Works An Bord Pleanála The Board welcomes the proposed upgrading of the Portarlington WwTW. The River Barrow at Portarlington supports an important salmonid fishery and is an important angling river. The Board acknowledges that a new plant would likely produce a high quality effluent. However, in the interest of sustainable development it is essential that the capacity of the treatment plant and the loadings discharged are capable of being assimilated by the river without jeopardising the requirement of achieving good status. The Draft European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations 2008 are the relevant water quality standards which need to be achieved to satisfy requirements of the Water Framework Directive. It should be clearly established that the river is capable of assimilating the proposed discharges prior to designing the new plant. The current plant is designed for 8,000 p.e., one quarter the size of the proposed plant. It is also essential that the storm water detention tanks are provided and adequately sized to prevent untreated effluent discharging to the river prior to the river rising to flood levels at which point adequate dilution may be available for such discharges. The Board states that their preferred position, in terms of the overall well being of the reach concerned, is that there be a bank side outfall. The proposed development is in an area identified as benefiting land from the Barrow Drainage District and there may be a risk of flooding at this location. The Consultants and Local Authority should satisfy themselves that there is an adequate level of protection against flooding at this location. The definition of benefiting land is a dataset prepared by the Office of Public Works identifying land that might benefit from the implementation of Arterial Drainage Schemes under the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945, and indicating areas of land subject to flooding or poor drainage. The Office of Public Works would request that areas contained within benefiting land maps be subjected to a Flood Risk Analysis. There is a flood study ongoing in the Portarlington area and it should be considered when preparing the EIS. The EIS shall contain the information specified in Para 1 of Schedule 6 of the Planning & Development Regulations 2001 (SI No 600 of 2001) and the information specified in Para 2 of Schedule 6 to the extent that this is relevant to the approval procedures as set out in Section 175 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, to the nature of the development in question and to the environmental features likely to be affected. A summary in non-technical language of info in main body of EIS to be given. Relevant legislation and the assimilative capacity of the River Barrow have been taken into account in establishing discharge standards as discussed in the Water Environment chapter (Chapter 11). A storm tank will be provided at the main pumping station in Portarlington to reduce overflows during extreme weather. Flood risk has been addressed in the Water Environment chapter (Chapter 11). The EIA has been carried out in accordance with the requirements of the Planning Regulations. A non-technical summary is provided at the front of this EIS. EPA Export :23:50:40

3 24 Consultee Consultee Comments EIS Response to Comments An Bord Pleanála The EIS shall be prepared having regard to the Guidelines on the Information to be Contained in Environmental Impact Statements published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in March 2002 and the relevant parts of Advice Notes on Current Practice (in the preparation of the EIS) published by the EPA in September Particular attention should be give to Section 3, Project Type 30 in the latter document. Need for the scheme: Outline implications of a do nothing scenario; include assessment of current impacts on water quality, flora & fauna etc. Distinction between current, committed and planned loadings and take cognisance of adequacy of existing storm overflow facilities. The EIS should give an indication as to the desirable maximum loading which could be assimilated into the catchment of River Barrow at location of discharge and impact of this downstream in Barrow River. Alternatives: Consider do nothing scenario and option of new Greenfield site for entire or part of catchment and main reason for developer s choice with regard to environmental effects. Information on alternative treatment processes, particularly operation of existing works and reliability, implications for control strategies, differences in performance between treatment processes relating to odours and other parameters of environmental significance. Information to be provided on alternative locations for the final effluent outfall and the relative impacts on dispersion and water quality in the River Barrow. Context / Interactions: Impacts & relationship with other effluent discharges to the River Barrow. Cumulative impact of effluent discharges in context of Water Framework Directive & South East River Basin Management Plan 2008 (draft). Information to be provided on water abstractions from the River Barrow which could impact on or be impacted upon by proposed effluent discharge. This information should also be submitted in the context of the Water Framework Directive (WFD). The EIS should indicate how it is proposed to comply with the WFD and its applicability to South East River Basin District catchment. The EIS has been prepared with due regard to guidance produced by the EPA on EIS. Each technical chapter identifies how the baseline will evolve in the absence of the proposed development. Assimilative capacity has been addressed in the Water Environment chapter (Chapter 11). These comments have been addressed by Nicholas O Dwyer and the outcome summarised in Chapter 2. The impact of the proposed development upon water quality has been considered in the Water Environment chapter (Chapter 11). Whilst the outfall may need to be upgraded it will still be located on the same stretch of the River Barrow. A standalone report to inform an Appropriate Assessment has been produced, which considers incombination effects of other effluent discharges to the River Barrow. There are no drinking water abstractions on the River Barrow within 10km of the WwTW outfall. EPA Export :23:50:40

4 25 Consultee Consultee Comments EIS Response to Comments An Bord Pleanála Procurement / Operational Options: Potential modalities for procurement & operation of proposed facility and choice thereof with regard to environmental effects. Visual Impact: Assessment and impact of treatment plant on landscape re: correspondence on Water: Assessment and impact of proposed discharge on water quality at discharge point with regard to provision of 2007 Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, existing baseline conditions, objectives & provisions of WFD. Flora & Fauna: Impact on River Barrow/River Nore csac assessment on impact of discharge on terrestrial ecology of that csac particularly on habitats & species listed by NPWS within the site & other protected species. Assessment for aquatic ecology particularly fresh water pearl mussel. To include comprehensive survey of baseline conditions relating to terrestrial and aquatic baseline conditions and impact of discharges. Identify negative impacts and suitable mitigation measures. This as suggested at Para 2 of the Proposed Scope in submission of Regard to Methodological guidance on provisions of Article 6 (3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC and Circular L8/08 of entitled Water Services Investment and Rural Programmes Protection of Natural Heritage and National Monuments. Human Beings: Effects of wastewater treatment plant on human beings in vicinity in respect of odours, noise and traffic. Construction Phase: Effects on human beings, water quality, flora and fauna, air and climate arising from construction activities. The procurement method has yet to be determined. Section 1.4 details how the Contract Documents will define the range of environmental effects that will be permitted and emission limits which must be met. Any treatment process or layout will be considered appropriate provided its positive impacts are of greater significance than those outlined in this EIS; and/or its negative impacts are of lesser significance than those outlined in this EIS. The Landscape and Visual Chapter (Chapter 14) details the assessment of the proposed development on the landscape. These comments have been addressed in the Water Environment chapter (Chapter 11). These comments have been addressed in the Ecology chapter (Chapter 9). A separate Report to Inform an Appropriate Assessment has been provided. The Air Quality, Noise and Traffic chapters (Chapters 13, 8 and 7) detail the assessment of the proposed development in terms of odours, noise and traffic. Impacts during the construction phase of the proposed development are considered within each of the EIS topic chapters. EPA Export :23:50:40

5 26 Consultee Consultee Comments EIS Response to Comments An Bord Pleanála Environmental Protection Agency Health Service Executive Cultural Heritage: Archaeological assessment of proposed site including adjacent field to west, to include impacts of proposed development on items of archaeological interest. Assessment of architectural heritage in the vicinity. Where no structures of architectural heritage exist this should be clearly stated. Traffic and Transport: Assessment of traffic volumes, resultant air quality and road safety impacts. The EPA currently has a waste water discharge licence application from Laois County Council for the treatment plant serving the Portarlington agglomeration. This activity requires a licence under the Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, To be aware of guidance on information to be contained in EIS at If discharge likely to have significant impact on European site as defined in Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations 2007 assessment in accordance with Circular L8/08 to be undertaken. The Waste Management Plan for the development in question should cater specifically for: issues concerning protection of groundwater and surface water; methodology for how sludge/other waste to be stored; propose environmentally acceptable methodology for how sewage sludge managed and disposed of. Particular attention should also be given to any possible impact on residences in vicinity through noise and odour. Adequate vector control programmes should be provided to ensure that pest/insect management is efficiently carried out based on good scientific principles. The Cultural Heritage chapter (Chapter 12) details the assessment of the proposed development on cultural heritage. The field to the west was included within the archaeological desk study. No further assessment has been undertaken of the field to the west as no development is proposed within this area. Comments addressed in the Traffic chapter (Chapter 7). Comment noted and taken into consideration. The EIS has been prepared with due regard to guidance produced by the EPA on EIS. A standalone report to inform an Appropriate Assessment has been produced. The proposed WwTW capacity upgrade is detailed in Section 3.3. It is proposed to extend the existing secondary treatment plant. The current arrangement of skips being used to export the dewatered sludge for further treatment and disposal will continue. The Noise and Air Quality chapters (Chapters 8 and 13) detail the assessment of the proposed development in relation to noise and odour. It will be the responsibility of the operator to ensure that adequate vector control is provided. EPA Export :23:50:40

6 27 Consultee Consultee Comments EIS Response to Comments Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Offaly County Council Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government The Department suggests, that the impact, if any, of the proposed upgrade of the WwTW on agriculture/agricultural activities in the locality be considered as part of the EIA. Aspects that should be considered include: impact on local water sources during construction and when operational (water quality), health and safety impacts, sewage sludge disposal, odour impacts and pests (rodents and birds). Regard given to the South Eastern River Basin District Draft Management Plan in relation to water quality and aquatic ecology. Archaeological: Proposed development partly located in historic town recorded Monument LA and other monuments within area outlined in map. Possible disturbance of archaeological material. National Monument Service of this department recommend an archaeological assessment be carried out should permission be granted as follows: Employ suitably qualified archaeologist, licensed to carry out assessment. No site preparation works, demolition or other groundwork to be carried out without consultation with archaeologist. If features of archaeological potential identified, excavation of test trenches, archaeological monitoring/survey to be carried out. Period of 3 weeks allowed for processing of excavation license. On completion of work, archaeologist to submit written report to Local Authority and National Monuments Service, to include projected impact of development of any archaeological remains. The National Monuments Service will advise on receipt of archaeologist s report. Nature conservation: Impact assessment on River Barrow & River Nore csac (site code 2162) designated under the Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC). In particular the impact on habitats & species listed by NPWS within the site & other protected species. For negative impacts identified suitable mitigation measures must be supplied. Potential of project to impact on csac. In accordance with article 6.3, Habitats Directive, project should be subject to assessment of implications of site in view of sites conservation objectives. Appropriate assessment as per the EU Commissions guidelines Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites. Methodological guidance on the provision of Article 6 (3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC and Circular L8/08 of entitled Water Services Investment and Rural Programmes Protection of Natural Heritage and National Monuments. The Water and Air Quality chapters (Chapters 11 and 13) detail the assessment of the proposed development in relation to water quality and odour. The proposed WwTW capacity upgrade will be developed within the existing WwTW site boundary and therefore the proposals will not impact upon agriculture/agricultural activities. Comments addressed in the Ecology and Water chapters (Chapters 9 and 11). The Cultural Heritage chapter (Chapter 12) details the assessment of the proposed development on archaeology. As detailed in Section 12.5 the site is over 1500m from the historic centre of Portarlington and the closest recorded monuments are the potential motte and bailey castle at Cooltedery and Lea Castle, both over 800m from the site. The EIS recommends an archaeological watching brief (Section 12.11). Comments addressed in the Ecology chapter (Chapter 9). A standalone report to inform an Appropriate Assessment has also been produced. EPA Export :23:50:40

7 28 Consultee Consultee Comments EIS Response to Comments Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government Architectural Heritage: since adoption of EU Communities (EIA (Amendment) Regulations 1999, S.I. 93 of 1999 the matter of architectural heritage is integral part of EIS process. The subsequent Planning and Development Regulations 2001, No 600 of 2001 post date the making of an EIA in 1998, thus the content of that EIS may be deficient. Take into account the affect of proposal on the architectural heritage of locality. Advice Notes provided in Appendix 1. Recommend Advice Notes be forwarded to archaeologist and possible consultation with Conservation Officer in respect of the impact on structures of merit. The Cultural Heritage chapter (Chapter 12) details the assessment of the proposed development on all aspects of cultural heritage. 4.4 Public Consultation This EIS was advertised in accordance with Part X (Section 175) of The Planning and Development Act The requires that, before submission of the EIS to An Board Pleanála, Laois County Council will, publish in one or more newspapers circulating in the area in which it is proposed to carry out the development a notice indicating the nature and location of the proposed development This advert will, amongst others, specify, the times and places at which, and the period (not being less than 6 weeks) during which, a copy of the environmental impact statement may be inspected free of charge or purchased A public consultation event was held by Laois County Council on 29 October 2009 and comments received during this event were fed back into the decision making process for Laois County Council to determine a balanced way forward regarding the proposals. 4.5 Comments on Draft EIS Comments on the draft EIS received by Laois County Council are summarised in Table 4.3 and have been addressed within the EIS as appropriate. Table 4.3 Summary of Comments on Draft EIS Consultee Consultee Comments EIS Response to Comments Fáilte Ireland General response on how to consider tourism. No changes to draft EIS required. EPA Export :23:50:40

8 29 Consultee Consultee Comments EIS Response to Comments Environmental Protection Agency Health Service Executive Southern Regional Fisheries Board Confirmed that Laois County Council have submitted an application for a discharge licence for Portarlington. Noted that if the scheme was likely to have a significant impact on a European Site an Appropriate Assessment should be undertaken. Requested EIS and the Waste Management Plan for the development consider: Impacts on groundwater and surface water Noise and odour impacts Sludge storage and disposal routes Vector control Generally satisfied with the contents of the draft EIS. Comments made regarding the methodology used for calculating assimilative capacity in the River Barrow. The Board s view is that assimilative capacity and compliance with the water quality standards identified in the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations 2009 should be based on a 95%ile approach. The EIS uses 95%ile values for Biochemical Oxygen Demand and ammonia but mean values to calculate the assimilative capacity for Ortho-phosphate. Future loadings to the river have not been considered and the standard for Ortho-phosphate is considered lenient in the context of best available technology. Whilst detailed consideration has been given to construction impacts, the Board s general requirements Maintenance and Protection of the Inland Fisheries Resource During Road Construction and Improvement Works have not been referenced. In particular, the requirement to carry out in-stream works during the period July September inclusive. No changes to draft EIS required. To comply with the Habitats Regulations a stand alone report to inform an Appropriate Assessment of the Portarlington WwTW upgrade has been produced. No changes to draft EIS required. The impacts of the proposed development on groundwater and surface water are addressed in Chapter 11, noise impacts are addressed in Chapter 8, and odour impacts are addressed in Chapter 13 of EIS. The proposed WwTW capacity upgrade is detailed in Chapter 3 and the current arrangement of skips being used to export the dewatered sludge for further treatment and disposal will continue. It will be the responsibility of the operator to ensure that adequate vector control is provided. The EIS has been amended to reflect the Board s construction guidance as an additional consideration. In cases where background concentrations already exceed the water quality standards, the EPA assume that the effluent is discharged to a clean water body, such that it will not lead to a deterioration in water quality within the river. The proposed discharge standards for ortho-phosphate have been revisited by Nicholas O Dwyer and Section 11 updated. However, it is understood from further consultation with the fisheries board that the 95%ile approach is contained in draft EPA guidance not in the public domain. EPA Export :23:50:40

9 30 Consultee Consultee Comments EIS Response to Comments Southern Regional Fisheries Board Current guidance from the EPA on the calculation of assimilative capacity requires mean values to be used for Ortho-phosphate; as stated on pages 32/33 and page 35 of the Wastewater Discharge Application Guidance Notes Version 7/09 available from No new guidance has been published since the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations 2009 were introduced and so it is still considered appropriate to use the mean value in carrying out the water quality assessment. South Eastern River Basin District Project In relation to Section and the comment on the viability of the fresh water pearl mussel, the viability of this species has yet to be established and as the only remaining population in the world of this particular species, every effort will be made to ensure its survival. Up to date water quality monitoring results from 2009 have been provided. This approach has been discussed with the fisheries board and they accept that until the draft EPA guidance is published this is the correct approach to adopt. Ultimately it is the EPA who will be responsible for establishing an appropriate standard for Orthophosphate in granting a wastewater discharge licence to Laois County Council. If the 95%ile approach is used, to comply with the target of 0.06mg/l ortho-p (as the target for floating river vegetation) an effluent standard of 0.21, 0.17 and 0.12mg/l ortho-p will be required for Stages 1, 2 and 3 respectively. This will not require any additional infrastructure to be installed. This statement comes from the NPWS conservation assessment of the Nore freshwater pearl mussel published in 2007 and is repeated in the sub-river basin management plan for the Nore. However, the EIS has been amended to reflect that efforts will be made to ensure its survival. Section 11 has been updated to reflect the latest data provided. EPA Export :23:50:40

10 31 5. Planning Policy Overview 5.1 Introduction This section sets out an overview of the planning and regulatory context within which the development proposals need to be considered. A full description of the relevant national, regional and local planning policy frameworks are included below along with identification of relevant planning policies. 5.2 National Spatial Strategy The National Spatial Strategy for Ireland (NSS) was published by the Minister for the Environment and Local Government in late The NSS is a twenty year planning framework designed to achieve a better balance of social, economic, physical development and population growth between regions. In order to drive development in the regions, the NSS requires that areas of sufficient scale and critical mass be built up through a network of gateways and hubs The NSS identifies the town of Portarlington as being an urban strengthening opportunity. The NSS states that; smaller towns in the Midlands such as Portarlington and Mountmellick in Laois can be enhanced through physical and townscape improvements, water services, facilities for smaller enterprises and enhancements to road and bus networks. This will offer an attractive environment for residential, employment, retailing and service functions The NSS sets out a number of sustainable development principles, which include: developing sustainable urban and rural settlement patterns and communities to reduce distance from employment, services and leisure facilities and to make better use of existing and future investments in public services; promoting cost-effective provision of public services like roads, drainage, waste management facilities, lighting, public amenities and schools; and contributing to the evolution of socially integrated communities in both urban and rural areas. 5.3 Regional Planning Guidelines The Midland s Regional Authority adopted Regional Planning Guidelines (RPG) for the Midlands Region on 25 May The RPG provide a strategic development and planning vision for the region and the framework for the delivery of that vision. By 2020, the Midland region will be a successful, sustainable and equitable region full of opportunities for its expanded population achieved through: Enhancing the critical mass of the region by combining the strengths of the linked gateway as envisaged in the NSS with those of the county towns of Portlaoise and Longford. EPA Export :23:50:40

11 32 Developing the full potential of rural areas in the region in a manner that is compatible with the strengthening of the urban structure of the region. Offering a distinctive lifestyle rooted in a high quality living environment, rich in heritage and landscape value. Harnessing the central geographical location of the region at the heart of Ireland with more inter-regional links than any other region in Ireland to build a strategically focused network of transport and communications links Under the Planning and Development Act 2000 local planning authorities must have regard to any regional guidelines in force for their area when making and adopting a development plan The RPG are designed to implement the NSS by establishing a framework at regional level to further coordinate and integrate the development plans of the planning authorities in the region. The RPG focus on building on and enhancing the competitiveness and attractiveness of the region that comprises the four Counties of Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath, which will be achieved by focusing on: building up the critical mass of the region in terms of economic strength, employment, education and population; developing and strengthening the identity of the region; providing better transport and communications connections within the region and between the region and other regions; and ensuring both urban and rural areas play their full roles in driving the development of the region in a balanced and sustainable way The RPG identifies Portarlington as a Key Service Town. The RPG state that Key Service Towns need to act as important drivers of their own local economies in areas that are comparatively remoter from the main population centres of the region, providing vital economic, administrative and social functions. The RPG envisages that the development of these towns will be closely linked with the development of principal towns and the gateway. 5.4 County Laois Development Plan The County Development Plan 2005 for Laois sets out Laois County Council s policies for the overall development of the County up to The overall goals of the Plan are to: encourage and promote balanced and sustainable growth patterns in urban and rural areas so as to develop the potential of County Laois; to promote and encourage social inclusion in all aspects of life so as to ensure equal access to all employment, educational, transport, social and cultural activities; to maintain and improve the quality of life for all local people and visitors; and to provide for and protect the interests of the local population of the County With regard to water and sanitary services, the County Laois Development Plan includes the strategic aim: To ensure a good quality of life for the citizens of Laois, through maintaining and improving waste water treatment and water supplies and to minimise the adverse impacts of development on the environment, through policies for the management of wastes and emissions. EPA Export :23:50:40

12 There are a number of policies contained in the Laois County Development Plan relating to the environment. Policy ENV 2 Water and Wastewater Provision deals with water and wastewater provision. Under Policy ENV2 it is the policy of Laois County Council to: Pursue a physical development strategy that optimises existing and proposed water and wastewater infrastructural investment; Concentrate infrastructure improvement and provision in the areas in which the greatest shortfall and the greatest potential for residential industrial and commercial growth exist at present; Assess all proposals in the light of the available infrastructural facilities in the development area, and to prohibit those developments that would put undue pressure on the available water and wastewater facilities. In areas of inadequate water pressure developers may be required to provide auxiliary pumping facilities; Refuse permission, even permission in principle, for developments which will not have adequate wastewater disposal facilities available to them within a reasonable period to ensure an orderly expansion of the urban areas and in order to avoid making premature commitments of land; Encourage water conservation, to minimize wastage, and protect sources by reducing the requirement for water abstraction and treatment; and Discourage the use of pumping stations for technical and environmental reasons. 5.5 Local Planning Guidance In administrative terms, Portarlington and its urban area are divided between County Laois (Portarlington south) and County Offaly (Portarlington north). Portarlington Local Area Plan The Portarlington Local Area Plan sets out the policy framework, objectives and general land use proposals for Portarlington. Key policy issues for the Local Area Plan include: ensuring sufficient land is zoned to cater for the future growth and development needs of the town; facilitating the provision of sufficient and adequate employment opportunities to cater for the needs of the population of the town; stimulating activity in the town centre and its backlands in a manner which respects the architectural character and historic context of the area; facilitating the provision of improved amenities within the town and securing the appropriate re-development and renewal of obsolete areas; contributing to the evolution of a socially integrated community; and ensuring the physical and social integration of new development into the town Section of the Local Area Plan, Waste and Wastewater Provision, states that it is the policy of Laois County Council to: Provide the necessary drainage facilities to serve the needs of all development within the Town and to prevent pollution; EPA Export :23:50:40

13 34 Ensure that sufficient capacity exists to cater for existing consumers, the needs of the projected population increase, and facilitate future industrial and commercial development; Encourage only as much development, both in terms of quantity and type of development as can be provided for, based on the utility services available while recognising the importance of low water services impact, high employment generating developments such as larger scale retail developments; Continue to provide an adequate quantity and quality supply of water suitable for domestic, industrial, agricultural and other uses; Assess all proposals in the light of the available infrastructural facilities in the development area. In areas of inadequate infrastructure (water and waste water) developers will be required to provide infrastructure to cater for proposed developments in line with proposed zoning as set out in the Local Area Plan, this may include the provision of additional waste water treatment facilities, water sewerage networks, waste pumping capacity, potable water supply, potable water auxillary pumping facilities; Prohibit permission, even permission in principle, for developments which will not have adequate wastewater disposal facilities available to them within a reasonable period to ensure an orderly expansion of the urban areas and in order to avoid making premature commitments of land while recognising the importance of low water services impact, high employment generating developments such as larger scale retail developments ; Prohibit the proliferation of small private pumping stations within the development area for technical and environmental reasons. Regional pumping stations catering for full catchments will generally be allowed where gravity networks are unfeasible and impractical due to the local topography; Promote water conservation measures within the Town and its environs by requiring the installation of water meters in all new residential units and in units where planning permission is required for an extension; Protect the water supply source at Ballymorris Treatment Works and the Lough Borehole (where Portarlington derives its water supply); Implement the Polluter Pays Principle for non-domestic usage; Comply with the European Union Drinking Water Directive 98/83/EC; Continue to undertake improvements and extend the existing infrastructure of the water network; and Have regard to the condition, location and accessibility of heritage items in the planning and provision of services (telecommunications, water, and sanitary services). EPA Export :23:50:40

14 35 Portarlington Town Plan The Draft Portarlington Town Plan forms part of the County Development Plan for Offaly. The Town Plan details the settlement plans for Portarlington, which stem directly from the policies and objectives contained in the County Development Plan. Portarlington is classed as a Large Town in the County Development Plan Settlement Strategy. The Strategic objectives of the Town Plan are to: promote Portarlington as a Large Town; reinforce the mass of the town in order to maintain the existing level of services currently available and encourage diversification to bring a greater variety of services / uses to the town; consolidate the urban fabric in order to create a more cohesive town by opening up the backland areas to allow coherent infill to develop; and create a sense of place by employing well designed schemes, and ensuring the Offaly element of the town integrates in properly planned and coherent manner with the Laois part With regard to utility services, Section 10.2 of the Portarlington Town Plan acknowledges that the WwTW is currently very close to capacity. Having regard particularly to the outstanding granted planning permissions, for housing, there may be very limited capacity to cater for development over the plan period Offaly County Council are aware that Laois County Council are examining ways to address this issue and will have regard to this constraint when considering planning applications. In accordance with the Sanitary Services Policy of the Portarlington Town Plan it is the policy of Offaly County Council to: Co-operate with Laois County Council to ensure sufficient service and capacity of water and wastewater services are available to cater for development. 5.6 Planning Summary It is clear that with the predicted future growth of Portarlington the current sewerage system and wastewater treatment facilities will need to be upgraded. For Portarlington to develop sustainably it is vital that there is sufficient wastewater treatment capacity in place to cope with current and future demand. EPA Export :23:50:40

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16 37 6. Socio-economics 6.1 Introduction This chapter addresses the potential social and economic effects of the Portarlington WwTW capacity upgrade as described in Chapter 3 on the population of Portarlington, Ballybrittas, Killenard and Emo. Following a summary of relevant policy and legislation, the chapter outlines the data gathering methodology that was adopted as part of the socio-economic assessment. This leads onto a description of the overall baseline conditions, the environmental measures that have been incorporated into the scheme, the scope of the assessment, the assessment methodology and an assessment of the potential effects. The chapter concludes with a summary of the residual significant effects. 6.2 Policy and Legislative Context Consideration of policies is important when defining the scope of the assessment in order to ensure that the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) has been prepared in the knowledge of what the relevant policy issues are. A summary of the relevant national, regional, county and local planning policy issues are included in Table 6.1. Table 6.1 Policy Reference Policy Issues to be Considered in Preparing the EIS Policy Issue National Spatial Strategy for Ireland The National Spatial Strategy (NSS) is a twenty year planning framework designed to deliver more balanced social, economic, physical development and population growth between regions. In order to driver development in the regions, the NSS requires that areas of sufficient scale and critical mass be built up through a network of gateways and hubs. The NSS identifies the town of Portarlington as being an urban strengthening opportunity. The NSS states that smaller towns in the Midlands such as Portarlington and Mountmellick in Laois can be enhanced through physical and townscape improvements, water services, facilities for smaller enterprises and enhancements to road and bus networks. This will offer an attractive environment for residential, employment, retailing and service functions. The National Development Plan Transforming Ireland A Better Quality of Life for All The National Development Plan sets out the economic and social investment priorities needed to realise the vision of a better quality of life for all. The general goals of the plan include addressing structural infrastructure deficits that continue to impact on competitiveness, regional development and general quality of life and to meet the needs of the increasing population; enhancing enterprise development and integrating regional development with the NSS framework; and investing in long term environmental sustainability. EPA Export :23:50:40

17 38 Policy Reference Policy Issue Midland Regional Authority Regional Planning Guidelines (Adopted May 2004) The Midland Regional Planning Guidelines (RPG) provide a strategic development and planning vision for the Midlands region and a framework for delivering that vision. The RPG are designed to implement the NSS by establishing a framework at regional level to further coordinate and integrate the development plans of the planning authorities in the region. The RPG focus on building on and enhancing the competitiveness and attractiveness of the region that comprises the four Counties of Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath, which will be achieved by focusing on: building up the critical mass of the region in terms of economic strength, employment, education and population; developing and strengthening the identity of the region; providing better transport and communications connections within the region and between the region and other regions; and ensuring both urban and rural areas play their full roles in driving the development of the region in a balanced and sustainable way. The RPG identifies Portarlington as a Key Service Town. The RPG state that Key Service Towns need to act as important drivers of their own local economies in areas that are comparatively remoter from the main population centres of the region, providing vital economic, administrative and social functions. The RPG envisages that the development of these towns will be closely linked with the development of principal towns and the gateway. Laois County Development Plan The County Development Plan 2005 for Laois sets out Laois County Council s policies for the overall development of the County up to The overall goals of the Plan are to: encourage and promote balanced and sustainable growth patterns in urban and rural areas so as to develop the potential of County Laois; to promote and encourage social inclusion in all aspects of life so as to ensure equal access to all employment, educational, transport, social and cultural activities; to maintain and improve the quality of life for all local people and visitors; and to provide for and protect the interests of the local population of the County. Policies within the plan which relate to the proposed WwTW capacity upgrade are as follows: Policy ENV2: Water and Wastewater Provision Policy CF14: Recreation and Sports Provision Policy EE2: Industry Portarlington Local Area Plan The need to concentrate infrastructure improvement and provision in the areas in which the greatest shortfall and the greatest potential for residential, industrial and commercial growth exist at present. The Council will not normally permit development which would result in the loss of playing fields, parks, children s play space, amenity open space or land zoned for recreational or open space purposes. It is the policy of the Council to enhance and develop existing and proposed industrial areas through the provision of appropriate infrastructure, and to support the development of enterprise space, particularly in those towns subject to an area development plan. The Portarlington Local Area Plan sets out the policy framework, objectives and general land use proposals for Portarlington Town. Key policy issues for the Local Area Plan include: ensuring sufficient land is zoned to cater for the future growth and development needs of the town; facilitating the provision of sufficient and adequate employment opportunities to cater for the needs of the population of the town; stimulating activity in the town centre and its backlands in a manner which respects the architectural character and historic context of the area; facilitating the provision of improved amenities within the town and securing the appropriate re-development and renewal of obsolete areas; contributing to the evolution of a socially integrated community; and ensuring the physical and social integration of new development into the town. Policies in the plan which relate to this socio-economic chapter are as follows: Wastewater Treatment Employment It is the policy of the Council to provide the necessary drainage facilities to serve the needs of all development within the town and to ensure that sufficient capacity exists to cater for existing customers, the needs of the projected population increase and to facilitate future industrial and commercial development. It is the policy of the Council to ensure that sufficient serviced land is available to cater for the employment needs of Portarlington and its surrounding areas and to promote the growth of the service employment in Portarlington. EPA Export :23:50:40

18 39 Policy Reference Policy Issue Open Space and Amenity It is the policy of Laois County Council to: link open spaces and amenity developments throughout the town so as to secure integration of the provision as far as possible; cooperate with Sporting Organisations who wish to expand or develop facilities; and to encourage the provision of all weather sports facilities within lands designated for open space and amenity purposes. It is the objective of the Council to preserve, provide for and improve active and passive recreational public and private open space facilities within zoned open space and amenity areas. The areas included in this zoning objective cover both private and public open space and are dispersed throughout the Town. The Council will not normally permit development that would result in a loss of open space within the Town. Industry and Enterprise It is the objective of Laois County Council to facilitate the expansion of the industrial and enterprise base in designated industrial areas of the town. The Council will promote the development of industrial areas as the primary locations for uses including manufacturing, repairs, warehousing, distribution, open-storage, waste materials treatment and recovery, and transport operating centres. Draft Portarlington Town Plan (Volume 2 of the Draft Offaly County Development Plan ) The Draft Portarlington Town Plan forms part of the County Development Plan for Offaly. The Town Plan details the settlement plans for Portarlington, which stem directly from the policies and objectives contained in the County Development Plan. Portarlington is classed as a Large Town in the County Development Plan Settlement Strategy. The Strategic objectives of the Town Plan are to: promote Portarlington as a Large Town; Reinforce the mass of the town in order to maintain the existing level of services currently available and encourage diversification to bring a greater variety of services / uses to the town; consolidate the urban fabric in order to create a more cohesive town by opening up the backland areas to allow coherent infill to develop; and create a sense of place by employing well designed schemes, and ensuring the Offaly element of the town integrates in properly planned and coherent manner with the Laois part. Policies in the Town Plan which relate to this socio-economic chapter are as follows: Population Employment Sanitary Services To ensure that adequate zoned and serviced land is available to accommodate appropriate population expansion for Portarlington to fulfil its role within the County Development plan settlement strategy and in line with the RPG. To ensure that adequate infrastructural, community, social and recreational facilities are brought forward in line with ongoing expansion. To ensure by means by land use zoning and development management functions that adequate land is available for employment generating uses in order to accommodate growth, and to promote Portarlington as a location for local employment growth. To co-operate with Laois County Council to ensure sufficient service and capacity of water and waste water services are available to cater for development. Land Use Zoning To ensure adequate land is zoned to accommodate the sustainable growth of the town and to ensure that development takes place on zoned, serviced land in an orderly fashion. To encourage development activity to expand/enhance the availability of services within the zoned areas. 6.3 Data Gathering Methodology Baseline information has been obtained from the following sources: National Spatial Strategy for Ireland ; Laois County Development Plan ; Portarlington Local Area Plan ; Draft Portarlington Town Plan (Volume 2 of the Draft Offaly County Development Plan ); and EPA Export :23:50:40

19 40 Preliminary Population Analysis Figures for Portarlington Wastewater Treatment Works provided by Nicholas O Dwyer. 6.4 Socio-economic Baseline Current Baseline Population Portarlington is situated to the north of County Laois and south east of County Offaly. It is located on the N7 road approximately 70km from Dublin, 27km from Tullamore, County Offaly and 17km from Portlaoise, County Laois. The County boundary is formed by the River Barrow, which flows immediately west of the town centre. In administrative terms, the town and its urban area are divided between County Laois (Portarlington south) and County Offaly (Portarlington north) Population figures published in the Draft Portarlington Town Plan indicate that in 2006 Portarlington north and Portarlington south had a population of 1,609 and 4,395 respectively. Based on these figures, the total population of Portarlington town in 2006 was 6, The Draft Portarlington Town Plan reported that during the period from 1996 to 2006 the population of Portarlington north rose by 451 people (equivalent to 31.25%) from 1,158 to 1,609. Over the same period, the change in Portarlington south has been 2,233 people (103%) from 2,162 to 4,395. The Draft Portarlington Town Plan indicates that the bulk of this growth has been stimulated by commuter driven housing demand related to Portarlington s good rail link and relatively close proximity to the Greater Dublin Area. Employment and Industry Employment data for County Laois shows that in January 2003 the unemployment rate was 3.6%, compared with the national average of 4.5%. Statistics indicate that unemployment in County Laois has been steadily declining, reflecting the growth in the economy. In line with national and regional trends, the socio-economic profile of County Laois is currently undergoing change; service sector employment is expanding whilst employment in agriculture, forestry and fishing, and manufacturing is declining Portarlington is designated a Key Service Town in the Midlands Regional Planning Guidelines, acting as an important driver of the local economy and providing vital economic, administrative and social functions. The NSS for Ireland states that smaller towns such as Portarlington can be enhanced through physical and townscape improvements, water services, facilities for smaller enterprises and enhancements to road and bus networks, offering an attractive environment for residential, employment, retailing and service functions There are a range of local shops and services in the town, most of which are located in the town centre along the R419 road and the R420 road (Main Street). Existing business and industry in the proximity of the WwTW include Portarlington Tyres and SIAC Butler Steel Works, both of which are located adjacent to the R420 road just to EPA Export :23:50:40