Appendix F. Assessment of Environmental Effects

Transcription

1 Appendix F. of Environmental Effects The LTP elements have been assessed against each of the SEA topics and the results are reported in the sub sections which follow. Table AF.1 summarises the elements of the LTP that have been used for the assessment. The results of the assessment utilise the following key to categorise the nature of the predicted (Adapted from Carroll et al, 2002). reen () lue () range () Red (R) ption actively encouraged in its current form as it would resolve an existing issue / maximise opportunities. ption would have a neutral or an uncertain. ption would need some changes in order to have a positive on issues identified. The option would exacerbate existing problems and cannot be suitably mitigated. Consider exclusion of option. Carroll,. et al (2002): Sustainability Threshold : An approach to inform decision-making. Summary uidance for Agency staff. Published by the Environment Agency, ristol Where an is scored as major positive or major negative it is considered to be a significant. ther significant have also been identified as a result of the cumulative assessment. Table AF.1: West Midlands LTP Plan Element Description Plan Element Smarter Choices, Enhancing Transport Information Plan Description The West Midland s programme of awareness raising and promotion of sustainable travel modes aims to achieve a 5% modal shift from car to public transport, walking and cycling by The programme supports the TravelWise schemes and will see targeted campaigning to promote public transport, walking and cycling, and capitalise on the synergy that can be created between local initiatives. The programme also aims to increase car occupancy, which improves network efficiency (includes measures such as the consideration of HV lanes).

2 Red Routes Urban Traffic Management and Control Improvements Park & Ride Managing Network Assets; 5-Year Maintenance Programme Demand Management uses Metro Heavy Rail Targeting Investment in Infrastructure to Support Regeneration Accessibility Strategy Air Quality Strategy Red routes will be implemented in certain locations (all strategic routes) within the WMMA. Red routes improve the traffic flows on existing urban roads through implementing restrictions on stopping and waiting. Improvements to traffic signals and other control systems are expected to improve junction efficiency in the WMMA. The programme proposes to upgrade hardware and software, improve management capability and establish clear performance criteria. The Park & Ride element of the strategy aims to expand existing P&R sites and develop new P&R facilities to meet local demand to enable car users to switch to public transport for the final part of their journey into more congested urban areas (potential sites (Longbridge excepted) are yet to be selected). Managing the network assets through embracing the whole highway network (carriageways, footways, structures and cycleways, and other non-highway assets). Two key principles are: maintenance work must be done in good time so that the costs are controlled and assets prevented from deteriorating so much that route maintenance is no longer possible; and whole life costs of new infrastructure are considered carefully when compared against alternatives which could be more economic, such as medium or long term maintenance. Demand management aims to optimise the use of the transport network by spreading traffic more evenly throughout the day. This element also incorporates the Congestion Strategy for the WMMA, which supports research into innovative demand management measures through the DfT s Transport Innovation Fund (TIF). The buses element of the strategy includes the expansion of Quality us Networks, introduction of us Rapid Transit and improvements of routes to Showcase standard to promote modal shift to buses. Extensions to the existing Metro lines will be supported to encourage modal shift from private cars, with the aim of reducing congestion, improving accessibility, air quality and road safety, and encouraging regeneration. There are two extensions planned to Metro Line 1; irmingham City Centre and to rierley Hill, and a further lack Country route linking the centres of Walsall, Wolverhampton, Wednesfield, Willenhall and Wednesbury and radial routes serving irmingham along the Walsall Road, Coventry Road and Hagley Road. The LTP proposes to improve several railway stations and provide more/better Park & Ride facilities as a way of supporting the use of heavy rail. Proposals include enhancing irmingham New Street, Coventry and Wolverhampton Stations. Targeting investment in infrastructure to support regeneration aims to promote regeneration and renewal of the Metropolitan Area through investment in transport infrastructure, such as supporting schemes arising from Housing Renewal Areas, Regeneration Zones and High Technology Corridors. This aims to support job creation on brownfield land. The irmingham New Street and irmingham International Airport proposals are among those enhancements in support of the Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) and Regional Economic Strategy (RES). The Accessibility Strategy is primarily concerned with equity, social inclusion, and access to key services and opportunities, such as employment, education, health care and fresh food shops. There are the Air Quality Strategy; work with the Highways Agency on emissions from motorway traffic; detailed local initiatives to tackle local hotspots (not specified); and policies which encourage more sustainable transport with less impact

3 Road Safety Strategy Major Schemes on air quality. The Road Safety Strategy will see the continuation of a programme of Local Safety Schemes to maintain current positive trends in accident reduction. See Appendix A for summary of major schemes s for the West Midlands Local Transport Plan have been based on analysis using eographical Information Systems (IS) and information contained in Appraisal Summary Tables (ASTs) where available. These ASTs present the results of appraisals carried out on proposed transport schemes, recording the degree to which the five Central overnment objectives for transport (environment, safety, economy, accessibility and integration) would be achieved and provide a comprehensive summary of the impacts of an option. (N: Where information has been used from ASTs it is shown in italics within the assessment tables). Those schemes for which an AST was not available are as follows: irmingham East irmingham and North Solihull Access Mobility Project irmingham Eastside Minworth/Chelmsley Wood Link Road Longbridge Link Road Sutton Coldfield Environmental and Public Transport Improvements Coventry Coventry Station Transport Hub Swanswell Area Regeneration Scheme Canley Area Regeneration Scheme Walsall radford Place Public Transport Interchange M6 Junction 10 Wolverhampton Wolverhampton Railway Station Wolverhampton us Station

4 M54 Junction 2 Wobaston Road Access (i54) Centro Rail Showcase Schemes Miscellaneous Strategic Park and Ride III us Rapid Transit II and III utstanding Quality us Networks Please note that as part of the assessment the following assumptions have been made: All Red Route Major Schemes are assessed under the Wolverhampton heading as the Council is the custodian of the funding on behalf of the other authorities Red Routes will be implemented across all local authority areas over the LTP period. Centro schemes, given that they often cross administrative boundaries, are considered under the ther Major Schemes heading. This category includes additional cross-boundary schemes such as the uter Circle us Showcase and West Midlands Urban Traffic Control. us rapid Transit II and III and further Quality us Network Major Scheme proposals are included under the Coventry heading this does not imply that these schemes will take place in Coventry, there locations are yet to be specified but it does permit the more advanced Coventry Primelines and Rapid Transit schemes to act as a proxy for their assessment in some instances. For reasons similar to the above, Strategic park and Ride III is considered under the ther Major Schemes heading to permit comparisons with the more advanced Longbridge proposal. The A4123/A461 urnt Tree Junction Improvement is assessed under the Dudley heading although this is a joint scheme between Dudley and Sandwell Councils.

5 F.1 Air Quality SEA bjective: Improve air quality, particularly in AQMAs, both within and outside of the WMMA SEA Indicators: West Midlands Metropolitan Area monitoring data for N 2 and PM 10 Emissions modelled from traffic flows, speed and composition Questions: Would the plan in association with other plans and programmes result in: Changes in traffic that affect an Air Quality Management Area. Causing any areas to experience a 10% or greater change in traffic flow (including through modal switch) or a change in the nature of traffic (i.e. higher % HVs) especially within 200m of sensitive receptors such as houses, schools and hospitals. Changes in traffic within 200m of sensitive receptors such as houses, schools and hospitals. Air pollution adjacent to species and habitats known to be susceptible to deterioration in air quality. reen () lue () range () Red (R) ption actively encouraged in its current form as it would resolve an existing issue / maximise opportunities. ption would have a neutral or an uncertain. ption would need some changes in order to have a positive on issues identified. The option would exacerbate existing problems and cannot be suitably mitigated. Consider exclusion of option.

6 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the Strategic Elements Smarter Choices, Enhancing Transport Information Increased levels of marketing for the existing bus and cycle facilities will help to encourage a shift towards these transport modes. If a mode shift of at least 10% is achieved, and remaining cars do not travel faster or further, there may be positive results for improving air quality. Reduction of reliance on cars in favour of travel by walking, cycling and car sharing could help reduce PM 10 and N x emissions. However, as modes of transport such as buses can emit more N x than the average car per passenger-km, this positive may be counteracted (average vehicle occupancy applied). Short to medium term, Reversible Smarter Choices Changing the Way We Travel. (DfT) Less Traffic Where People Live, Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851, UK (Sloman, L.) Pollution Handbook 2004 (NSCA) The way forward: the final report of the Cleaner Vehicles Task Force. (DfT) The Air Quality Strategy (DETR) TRL ongoing research: London orough of rent bus patronage and vehicle occupancy baseline study This advantage will be lost if induced traffic occupies the road space vacated by those moving to the more sustainable transport modes. Where buses are used, there should be a move towards those with Euro IV emissions standard. Around 2008/9, buses that meet the Euro V emissions standard will become available, and these should be used as soon as they are available on routes which pass through AQMAs. Red Routes Urban Traffic Management and Control Improvements Red Routes have the potential to smooth traffic flows, which may potentially reduce emissions. However, if this in turn leads to more traffic on the road, the benefit could be lost Improvements to traffic signals and other control systems are expected to improve junction efficiency and thus improve air quality. Similar to Red Routes. Short term benefit, possible longer term return to original levels Short term benefit, possible longer term return to original levels Monitoring Monitoring

7 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the Park & Ride Managing Network Assets; 5-Year Maintenance Programme Demand Management Expanding existing P&R sites and developing new facilities could lead to a switch from car to bus in urban areas. However it could lead to increased traffic outside the proposed new sites due to people driving to the P&R (including new car journeys that would previously have been made by other modes or not at all). No predicted Prioritising the supply of road space in favour of sustainable transport modes may help to lock in the air quality benefits of achieving modal shift. The LTP supports a study into innovative demand management measures Such measures may result in peripheral roads receiving more traffic as drivers find ways to avoid using the roads where demand is managed. This may have adverse impacts on sensitive areas (such as AQMAs, residential areas. (depends on who uses the P&R and how) Major positive Medium term Reversible Medium term Reversible CPRE (1998) Park & Ride: Its role in local transport policy. Parkhurst,. (1995) Could it lead to an increase in car traffic?, Transport Policy 2(1) Parkhust,. (2002) Influence of bus-based Park & Ride facilities on users car traffic, Transport Policy 7. Traffic Management and Air Quality Research Programme. (TRL) However, it may be prudent to bear in mind, when constructing/maintaining an asset, to keep the spread of particulate matter to a minimum. Monitoring

8 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the uses Metro Heavy Rail Improvements to encourage use of public transport should have a positive on air quality. However, as modes of transport such as buses can emit more N x than the average car per passenger-km, this positive may be counteracted (average vehicle occupancy applied). Light rail is typically more likely to lead to a modal change from the car than improved buses are. Light rail is electricity powered: it would improve air quality and reduce emissions along its route, but would not lead to a correspondingly high improvement outside of the metro corridor. The LTP target is to increase light rail use from 5.1 to 5.8 million light rail trips between 2003/4 and 2010/11. The impact on air quality depends on the level of change from car to Metro use, and how electricity is produced, but could be significant Where improvements are made to encourage use of public transport rather than private vehicles, a positive may be gained as a result of fewer vehicles, and therefore emissions. Minor Short term Reversible Ir Medium to long term, Reversible Smarter Choices Changing the Way We Travel. (DfT) Review of technical and non-technical options for reducing emissions from road transport (AEAT). archive/reports/cat09/ _summary.pdf See comment regarding emission from buses in Smarter Choices Smarter Choices Changing the Way We Travel. (DfT) Review of technical and non-technical options for reducing emissions from road transport (AEAT) Effects can be mitigated by: 1. Renewing fleets/upgrading buses to Euro IV standard, and introducing technology to reduce emissions at the source; 2. Renewing fleets/upgrading buses to Euro V standards when these buses become available from 2008/9. Use of clean-fuelled buses on routes passing through AQMAs. Use green electricity to power the Metro Centro should seek to purchase energy from green sources. An investigation into methods for decreasing public transport vehicles emissions and implementing one or more of those methods would build upon the positive of modal shift.

9 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the Targeting Investment in Infrastructure to Support Regeneration rownfield land is typically in urban areas. If the sites are located close to urban areas with a range of access modes such as public transport services, cycling and walking provision, then there may be positive on maintaining air quality as car use to the site can be kept to a minimum. Medium to long term, ir Accessibility Strategy No predicted Monitoring targeting declared AQMAs. Air Quality Strategy The Air Quality Strategy is expected to have a positive on local air quality in the WMMA, with a combination of policies and measures which aim to tackle poor air quality. ther strategy elements will compliment the air quality strategy, such as those promoting a reduction in congestion and emissions and promoting more sustainable modes of transport. Alternative, less polluting fuels, will also be promoted by the Metropolitan authorities, which will further contribute to reduced emissions Moderate positive Medium term Reversible The Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland (DETR) TA Regional Air Pollution (HA) It is not clear from the LTP how the Air Quality Strategy (Section 8.4) is going to promote the opportunities that are identified in Section 6.5 (pportunities to Improve Air Quality). There is also a discrepancy between the Executive Summary which says that the Air Quality Strategy involves broad policies to encourage forms of transport that have less impact on air quality, such as alternative fuelled vehicles and the strategy itself which is not so specific. Road Safety Strategy Some traffic calming methods have been shown to reduce levels of N x. However, research has shown that this results in increases in all the other emissions (PM 10, etc.). Some traffic calming methods also have the of reducing the number of cars using the calmed road, but the traffic is often simply diverted around the road nearby and so no improvement is seen. Short term Reversible Traffic Advisory Leaflet 12/00: Urban Street Activity in 20mph Zones - Ayres Road Area, ld Trafford (DfT) Traffic Advisory Leaflet 03/01: Urban Street Activity in 20mph Zones Seedley, Salford (DfT) Traffic Management and Air Quality Research Programme. (TRL) Traffic calming and traffic management measures should be examined for their air quality, noise and community affects as well as delivery of the transport objectives.

10 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the irmingham Major Schemes (N: Whilst the whole of irmingham has been declared as an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) for N 2, not all areas of the City actually exceed the threshold set. There are however areas identified within the City where the N 2 levels are exceeded. Where a major scheme has a direct impact on one of these areas this is identified below). Northfield Regeneration (committed) Selly ak Access Road (provisional) New Street Station Regeneration Chester Road Access Improvements Dudley Road Traffic Management Stage 2 E irmingham/n Solihull Mobility and Access Project Air quality in the communities relieved from traffic would improve. However there may potentially be an overall increase in vehicle emissions along the route corridor if the upgraded road results in induced traffic. Air quality in the communities relieved from traffic would improve. However there may potentially be an overall increase in vehicle emissions along the route corridor if the upgraded road results in induced traffic. The new road will divert traffic away from the ristol Road AQMA (specific area already exceeding AQ standards for N 2) Station improvements may encourage a mode shift resulting in a reduction in the number of vehicles/trips in city centre, which would have a positive on emissions and local air quality (AST). The scheme is within a specific area already exceeding AQ standards for N 2. The proposed Chester road improvements, mainly comprising junction improvements and public transport priority, reducing congestion levels and therefore having a positive on air quality. The scheme is within a specific area already exceeding AQ standards for N 2. Junction improvements and public transport priority along the route are not expected to have any impacts on local air quality (AST). us priority measures, higher quality vehicles and improved information/ interchange facilities are likely to promote mode shift to the bus, reducing the number of private vehicles used and therefore emissions. However, as modes of transport such as buses can emit more N x than the average car per passenger-km, this positive may be counteracted (average vehicle occupancy ir ir Short to medium term, Medium to long term, Medium term, Traffic Management and Air Quality Research Programme. (TRL) DMR Vol.10 (HA) Constructing Excellence Website est Practice Docs Review of technical and non-technical options for reducing emissions from road transport (AEAT). archive/reports/cat09/ _summary.pdf Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMPs) should ensure that adverse impacts on air quality are minimised during the construction process. CEMPs should ensure that adverse impacts on air quality are minimised during the construction process. This advantage will be lost if induced traffic occupies the road space vacated by those moving to the more sustainable transport modes. Monitoring. This advantage will be lost if induced traffic occupies the road space vacated by those moving to the more sustainable transport modes Effects can be mitigated by: 1. Renewing fleets/upgrading buses to Euro IV standard, and introducing technology to reduce emissions at the source;

11 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the irmingham Eastside Minworth/Chelmsley Wood Link Road Longbridge Link Road Sutton Coldfield Environment and PT Improvements Coventry Major Schemes applied). Through traffic removal in the city centre will have a positive on air quality. The scheme is within a specific area already exceeding AQ standards for N 2. Air quality in the communities relieved from traffic would improve. However there may potentially be an overall increase in vehicle emission along the route corridor if the upgraded road results in induced traffic. Air quality in the communities relieved from traffic would improve, particularly via the rerouting of HVs. However there may potentially be an overall increase in vehicle emission along the route corridor if the new road results in induced traffic. ne of the key issues that the scheme is intended to address is the poor local air quality resulting from buses laying over in the town centre. Moderate positive Medium to long term, ir ir Medium term Reversible See comment regarding emission from buses in Smarter Choices Traffic Management and Air Quality Research Programme. (TRL) DMR Vol.10 (HA) Constructing Excellence Website est Practice Docs Review of technical and non-technical options for reducing emissions from road transport (AEAT). archive/reports/cat09/ _summary.pdf. See comment regarding emission from buses in Smarter Choices. 2. Renewing fleets/upgrading buses to Euro V standards when these buses become available from 2008/9. Monitoring. CEMPs should ensure that adverse impacts on air quality are minimised during the construction process. Effects can be mitigated by: 1. Renewing fleets/upgrading buses to Euro IV standard, and introducing technology to reduce emissions at the source; 2. Renewing fleets/upgrading buses to Euro V standards when these buses become available from 2008/9.

12 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the PrimeLines (Quality us Network) (committed) us Quality Network II Coventry Rapid Transit (CRT) us Rapid Transit II us Rapid Transit III Coventry Station Transport Hub Swanswell Area Regeneration Scheme (SARS) Quality us Networks may encourage mode shift, less car journeys will result in a reduction of emission, contributing to improved air quality (AST). Past experience also suggests that operators may invest in less polluting vehicles Changes in traffic flow, composition and speed will be negligible No predicted The scheme will run through the Coventry Air Quality Management Area 2. Modal shift to improved public transport facilities and congestion reductions/ improved efficiency of flow conditions improvement in air quality. (AST). However, as buses can emit more N x and PM 10 than the average petrol car per passenger-km, this positive may be counteracted. The interchange facilities for all modes may facilitate mode shift away from cars, having a positive on air quality in the city centre. However, as modes of transport such as buses can emit more N x than the average car per passenger-km, this positive may be counteracted (average vehicle occupancy applied). Through traffic removal in the city centre will have a positive on air quality. The scheme overlaps with part of Coventry s Air Quality Management Area. Moderate positive Medium term Reversible Medium to long term, Sloman, L. (2003) Less Traffic Where People Live: How Local Transport Schemes Can Help Cut Traffic, Transport for Quality of Life, UK. Henderson,. and ull, M. (1996) Policy ptions for Improving Air Quality: The Relationship etween Transport Policies and Air Quality, Proceedings of Seminar C held at the PTRC European Transport Forum, 2-6 th September, 1996, vol. P403, London See comment regarding emission from buses in Smarter Choices. Review of technical and non-technical options for reducing emissions from road transport (AEAT). archive/reports/cat09/ _summary.pdf See comment regarding emission from buses in Smarter Choices. In conjunction with travel awareness campaigns etc, modal shift to buses may occur reducing congestion along routes and positive on air quality. This advantage will be lost if induced traffic occupies the road space vacated by those moving to the more sustainable transport modes. This advantage will be lost if induced traffic occupies the road space vacated by those moving to the more sustainable transport modes. Effects can be mitigated by: 1. Renewing fleets/upgrading buses to Euro IV standard, and introducing technology to reduce emissions at the source; 2. Renewing fleets/upgrading buses to Euro V standards when these buses become available from 2008/9. Monitoring.

13 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the Canley Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) Dudley Major Schemes rierley Hill Sustainable Access Network (Provisionally) A4123/A461 urnt Tree Junction Improvement Sandwell Major Schemes Cradley Heath Town Centre Strategy (committed) wen Street Level Crossing relief road (provisionally) A41 Expressway/A4031 All Saints Way Junction Improvements Solihull Major Schemes Airport/NEC Public Transport Access Scheme Through traffic removal in the city centre will have a positive on air quality. Reduction of traffic in the town centre may lead to improved air quality, although there will be some displacement of traffic to a new road, although less residentially populated (AST) The scheme is located within a proposed AQMA. A signalised junction is likely to improve traffic flows, therefore decreasing congestion and potentially improving air quality, although N 2 could increase at the junction (AST) Air quality is expected to worsen along the bypass, but improve in the town centre (AST). The scheme is not within one of Sandwell s AQMAs Air quality in the communities relieved from traffic would improve. However there may potentially be an overall increase in vehicle emission along the route corridor if the upgraded road results in induced traffic (AST) Moderate positive Minor Positive Medium to long term, Medium to long term, ir There may be positive on air quality as a result of freer flowing traffic. No predicted in AST uses along the affected route would only increase by 0.5%, and there have been no AQMAs declared in Solihull MC. No predicted (AST) Walsall Major Schemes Walsall Town Centre Reduced congestion levels as a result of road, Medium to Cloke, J., et al (1998) Traffic Management and Air Quality Research Programme, TRL Report 327, Crowthorne, UK Traffic Management and Air Quality Research Programme. (TRL) DMR Vol.10 (HA) Constructing Excellence Website est Practice Docs Cloke, J., et al (1998) Traffic Management and Air Quality Research Programme, TRL Report 327, Crowthorne, UK Monitoring. CEMPs should ensure that adverse impacts on air quality are minimised during the construction process.

14 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the Transport Package (provisionally) junction and priority improvements may result in positive impact on emissions and local air quality (AST) ir Darlaston SDA Access Project (Provisionally) radford Place Public Transport Interchange rownhills Transport Package Wolverhampton Major Schemes Centre Access, interchange and integration (committed) (W) Red Route Network Package 1 (committed) Red Route Network 2 Red Route Network 3 Red Route Network 4 Red Route Network 5 No predicted (AST) Improvements at interchange may encourage the use of buses rather than cars for some trips, reducing congestion and emissions. However improvements will not be achieved unless mode shift is at least 10%, and assuming that more cars do not take advantage of the additional road space. Positive on air quality will be achieved in the town centre where through traffic and ratrunning is reduced (AST), although the construction of the relief road may increase air pollution in more sensitive areas, including the greenbelt It is expected that air quality will be improved as a result of interchange improvements and a reduction of buses in the City Centre. No increase in air pollutant concentrations along scheme routes, traffic volumes constant. Improved conditions as a result of less congestion (AST) Medium term, ir ir Medium term, Henderson,. and ull, M. (1996) Policy ptions for Improving Air Quality: The Relationship etween Transport Policies and Air Quality, Proceedings of Seminar C held at the PTRC European Transport Forum, 2-6 th September, 1996, vol. P403, London This advantage will be lost if induced traffic occupies the road space vacated by those moving to the more sustainable transport modes To lock in benefits of improved traffic flow along the route, measures should be implemented to ensure extra traffic is not attracted to the routes, e.g. implementation of bus lanes. Wolverhampton Railway Station Improvements at the us station may encourage the use of buses rather than cars for some trips, Medium term, ir This advantage will be lost if induced traffic occupies the road space vacated by those

15 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the M54 Junction 2 Wobaston Road Wolverhampton us Station ther Major Schemes uter circle / radial routes (Committed) Longbridge Strategic Park & Ride West Midlands Strategic Park& Ride III West Midlands UTC Metro lines Phase 2 reducing congestion and emissions. However improvements will not be achieved unless mode shift is at least 10%, and assuming that more cars do not take advantage of the additional road space. Traffic volumes will be increased as a result of increased capacity; however, this will also ease congestion levels, having positive impacts on air quality. Improvements at the us station may encourage the use of buses rather than cars for some trips, reducing congestion and emissions. However improvements will not be achieved unless mode shift is at least 10%, and assuming that more cars do not take advantage of additional road space. Investment in newer fleets by operators (AST) and potential mode shift from private vehicles to public transport for some trips may result in improved air quality. However improvements will not be achieved unless mode shift is at least 10%, and assuming that more cars do not take advantage of the additional road space. Increase in N 2 and PM 10 as a result of traffic flow generation on local highway network (AST) The reduction of stationary and stop-start traffic will have a positive on reducing emission and improving air quality. However, this could also increase N 2 emissions due to greater speeds Mode shift from private cars or other public transport may reduce congestion and emission, having a positive on air quality. Minor adverse Minor Positive Medium term, ir Medium term, ir ir Medium term, R Ash, A., Wood, K., and aker, K. (1999) UTMC03: Potential of UTMC Measures to manage emissions from vehicles Traffic Management and Air Quality Research Programme. (TRL) DMR Vol.10 (HA) Constructing Excellence moving to the more sustainable transport modes This advantage will be lost if induced traffic occupies the road space vacated by those moving to the more sustainable transport modes Monitoring CEMPs should ensure that adverse impacts on air quality are minimised during the construction process. This advantage will be lost if induced traffic

16 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the Cross City Line South Frankley Extension M6 Junction 10 Rail showcase Cannock Line Rail showcase II Snow Hill Lines Rail showcase III Cross City & Walsall Lines Rail Showcase IV Wolverhampton and Coventry Lines Cumulative Effects Cumulative Effects within the plan Mode shift from private cars or other public transport may reduce congestion and emission, having a positive on air quality. However, there may be some adverse impacts during the construction phase. It is not likely that there will be significant air quality impacts from this scheme Traffic volumes may increase as a result of increased capacity, however, this will also ease congestion levels, having positive impacts on air quality. Upgrading of rail routes to Showcase standards could have a positive on air quality if mode shift from private vehicles or other public transport occurs. Neutral Air quality is already a problem in irmingham and Wolverhampton, where the whole cities are designated as an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA). Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall also have AQMAs. All AQMAS are designated for N 2, and the AQMA for Wolverhampton is also for particulates (PM 10). Annual emissions of N 2 and particulates in much of the WMMA are also near the national air quality standards. Website est Practice Docs Traffic Management and Air Quality Research Programme. (TRL) DMR Vol.10 (HA) Constructing Excellence Website s Sloman, L. (2003) Less Traffic Where People Live: How Local Transport Schemes Can Help Cut Traffic, Transport for Quality of Life, UK. occupies the road space vacated by those moving to the more sustainable transport modes CEMPs should ensure that adverse impacts on air quality are minimised during the construction process. This advantage will be lost if induced traffic occupies the road space vacated by those moving to more sustainable transport modes This advantage will be lost if induced traffic occupies the road space vacated by those moving to the more sustainable transport modes Care will be needed that the space freed up on the road network by the new transport improvements is not taken up by new/induced traffic. This could be done by demand management measures, perhaps triggered by certain traffic levels (e.g. traffic over x would lead to imposition of some demand management measures; over y would trigger additional measures). verall the LTP should, in the long term, help to reduce air pollution or at least not make it worse. Its emphasis on improving public transport (and to a lesser extent walking and cycling) should help to reduce people s reliance on car transport, and to reduce congestion. This should, in turn have health benefits, particularly for people living closest to roads that are currently heavily trafficked and/or congested. Air pollution is likely to decrease, at least in the short run, in areas where congestion was a problem and where traffic is freed up as the result of transport improvements. uses should use low emission technology; else switching from car to bus could have no advantage in terms of air quality. Taxi firms could be provided with incentives to ensure that all vehicles are of Euro IV engine emissions standards, and to use sulphur free fuels. Provide incentives to use Euro V vehicles from 2007.

17 Policy/Measure (ased on AST of scheme where available) Magnitude of the Several of the new roads proposed in the LTP are likely to go counter to this trend of general improvement. These include Northfield Regeneration, Selly ak Access Road, Minworth/Chelmsley Wood Link Road, and Longbridge Link Road (all in irmingham), and wen Street Level Crossing Relief Road (in Sandwell). Several of the public transport projects could also increase air pollution problems if measures are not taken to use low emission buses and prevent additional traffic from taking up any road space freed up by these public transport measures.

18 F.2 iodiversity SEA bjectives: To ensure no loss or damage to statutory nature conservation sites, nor any constraint on management of these sites to achieve favourable condition; To conserve and enhance biodiversity at all levels, and to maximise opportunities for achieving iodiversity Action Plan targets. SEA Indicators: Condition of SSSIs Achievement of Local iodiversity Action Plan targets Population of appropriate indicator species which would be good indicator for transport (e.g. Dingy Skipper butterfly) - If one is identified include this in the SEA Statement Questions: Would the plan in association with other plans and programmes result in: Actions that help to reach targets R compromise targets of APs. Actions that cause changes in habitat fragmentation or habitat loss R actions that safeguard habitats (especially affecting protected species or species important in a West Midlands context) (including of air, noise and light pollution). Actions that affect areas where biodiversity is already exposed to significant threat, e.g. through habitat loss or fragmentation. Actions that affect Natura 2000 sites, SSSIs or other designated sites. reen () lue () range () Red (R) ption actively encouraged in its current form as it would resolve an existing issue / maximise opportunities. ption would have a neutral or an uncertain. ption would need some changes in order to have a positive on issues identified. The option would exacerbate existing problems and cannot be suitably mitigated. Consider exclusion of option.

19 Policy/Measure (ased on AST for schemes Strategic Elements Smarter Choices, Enhancing Transport Information Public transport, walking and cycling are all indirectly better for biodiversity than the car in terms of air pollution, noise, severance and road kill per journey or km travelled. Although this measure aims to achieve a 5% modal shift, overall road mileage is still expected to increase between 2004 and In the longer term, to the extent that it obviates the need to build new transport infrastructure, benefits for biodiversity could improve) Short term, Red Routes No predicted Improvements to traffic signals and other Urban Traffic control systems are expected to improve Short term, Management and junction efficiency and thus improve air Control Improvements quality. This would have indirect but limited benefits for biodiversity. Park & Ride Expanding existing P&R sites and developing new facilities could negatively affect biodiversity if the development is in areas of high biodiversity, wildlife corridors, buffer zones etc. Neither the Longbridge nor the West Midlands P&R site is expected to have significant on biodiversity CCW and others (2004) Strategic Environmental and iodiversity: uidance for Practitioners Design Manual for Roads and ridges Volume 11 Section 3.4 Reijnen, R., R. Foppen, C.T. raak and J. Thissen (1995) The of car traffic on breeding bird populations in woodland III. Reduction of density in relation to the proximity of main roads, Journal of Applied Ecology 32, pp TA Unit Well-maintained Highways Code of Practice for Highway Maintenance. (The Stationery ffice, 2005) English Nature (1996) Focus on a hierarchy of choices: first walking/ cycling, and then public transport. Include biodiversity as a criterion for choosing future P&R sites and extending existing ones Design and manage P&R sites so as to minimise loss of biodiversity and optimise biodiversity benefits, e.g. by planting new hedges.

20 Policy/Measure (ased on AST for schemes Managing Network Assets; 5-Year Maintenance Programme Winter maintenance can involve use of salt to de-ice roads, with on certain plant species. Street lighting can affect animal behaviour. However these are likely to only have a limited affect on biodiversity. Research Report No.178. The significance of secondary from roads and road transport on nature conservation. urtwell M H (2005). National Salt Spreading Research roup: est practice guidance for spreading salt, TRL Limited, Crowthorne. Use techniques/materials with minimum impact on plants/animals to de-ice roads and when providing street lighting. Demand Management uses In the short term, demand management could reduce some biodiversity-related impacts (e.g. air pollution from congestion) but increase traffic flows overall and thus increase other biodiversity-related impacts (e.g. severance). In the long term, by making more efficient use of existing infrastructure, demand management could obviate the need for new transport infrastructure, so preventing the biodiversity impacts of construction and operation of new roads etc. No predicted (unless it involves new land take, e.g. Rapid Transit implementation see Major Schemes below) No predicted Use demand management measures (e.g. pricing, reduced parking) to promote modal shift as well as a spreading out of traffic impacts over time. If this is likely to lead to new development, ensure that it does not adversely affect biodiversity. Require an environmental impact assessment if impacts are likely to be significant.

21 Policy/Measure (ased on AST for schemes The impact of light rail on biodiversity depends on where the rail line is located and how it is built and managed. In the short run, construction of light rail is likely to disrupt fauna and flora. New Metro lines should be sited to minimise impacts on existing sites with biodiversity interest; should aim to keep as many biodiversity features as possible (e.g. mature trees); prevent habitat fragmentation etc. Metro Heavy Rail Targeting Investment in Infrastructure to Support Regeneration In the longer run, during operation, light rail is likely to lead to a modal shift from road to rail, with indirect benefits to biodiversity in reduced air pollution etc. Railway verges can be managed to support biodiversity, and in urban areas are often one of the few areas of woodland and rough grassland. They can provide wildlife corridors. The use of heavy rail can reduce the need to travel by car, with corresponding indirect benefits to biodiversity. Improvements to railway stations could have positive or negative (or neutral) on biodiversity, depending on how they are implemented. Improvements to railway stations are unlikely to have significant direct on biodiversity. Modal shift away from cars could have a beneficial indirect impact. This would have negative impacts if the brownfield land has biodiversity value; but positive if it avoids development at other sites with higher biodiversity value. Accessibility Strategy No predicted. Air Quality Strategy Short to The LTP target is to reduce N 2 levels by medium 1%/year to This could have limited term; indirect benefits for biodiversity. _pdfs/15_railwayline.pdf Metro lines should be designed to enhance biodiversity where possible, e.g. through restoration of woodland and grassland, creation of line-side nature reserves, etc. They should be made subject to environmental impact assessment. I. iodiversity improvements (e.g. at new Park & Ride sites, on light rail corridors) can further support the air quality strategy.

22 Policy/Measure (ased on AST for schemes Road Safety Strategy Some safety measures, notably lighting and tree/hedge cutting, can have a negative impact on wildlife and on the general feel of tranquillity of an area. irmingham Major Schemes Northfield Regeneration The construction of a new link road may (committed) result in the loss of habitats, in particular small area of wet grassland off Ulwine Drive, mature trees and tall herb, scrub and young trees, scattered pioneer species. Small faunal populations of invertebrates and birds may be lost following construction Selly ak Access Road (provisional) New Street Station Regeneration (AST) The construction of a new link road may result in the loss of tress, possible habitats (AST) Potential for disturbance, and loss of bird nesting from replacing the station roof, and loss of bat roosts with demolition of structures such as Stephenson s Tower and a formal signal box (AST). (Depends on type of safety measures) Minor adverse Minor adverse Minor adverse Short term, medium term, ir ir ir Chester Road Access No predicted (AST) Improvements Dudley Road Traffic No predicted (AST) Management Stage 2 E irmingham/n No predicted Solihull Mobility and Access Project irmingham Eastside No predicted Minworth/Chelmsley Wood Link Road The construction of the new link road may involve the removal of habitats and loss of Minor Longbridge Link Road species The construction of the new link road may involve the removal of habitats and loss of species Minor ir ir Sutton Coldfield No predicted Lighting in the Countryside Towards etter Practice. (DPM) CPRE (2003) Night light Losses to faunal species may be partially offset by amenity tree planting along the road, extending wildlife corridors Route avoiding the SLINC areas wherever possible will be a prerequisite [not assumption].

23 Policy/Measure (ased on AST for schemes Environment and PT Improvements Coventry Major Schemes PrimeLines (Quality us Network) (committed) us Quality Network II Coventry Rapid Transit (CRT) us Rapid Transit II us Rapid Transit III Coventry Station Transport Hub Swanswell Area Regeneration Scheme (SARS) Canley Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) Dudley Major Schemes rierley Hill Sustainable Access Network (Provisionally) A4123/A461 urnt Tree Junction Improvement Sandwell Major Schemes Cradley Heath Town Centre Strategy (committed) Very slight adverse impact on habitat and local biodiversity (AST) The scheme will have limited impacts where the removal of features/habitats is required (e.g. Kenilworth Road wooded corridor and the ecological corridor alongside the Coventry to Nuneaton Railway line (AST). The scheme could potentially impact upon a Local Nature Reserve; Wainbody Wood and Stivichall Common (runs either side of these schemes). The impact of other RT schemes (II and III) is difficult to assess at this moment in time. No predicted No predicted The Scheme could potentially impact upon two Local Nature Reserves; Park Wood and Ten Shilling Wood. No predicted (AST) No predicted (AST) Removal of broad leaved trees and scrub from alongside the new road may lead to a loss of habitat for birds and insects (AST) Minor Adverse Minor adverse Minor adverse Medium term, ir Reversible Impact on LNR should be minimised. Impact on LNRs should be minimised. Planting of new trees and hedgerows either side would mitigate the loss

24 Policy/Measure (ased on AST for schemes wen Street Level Crossing relief Road (provisionally) A41 Expressway/A4031 All Saints Way Junction Improvements Solihull Major Schemes Airport/NEC Public Transport Access Scheme Walsall Major Schemes Walsall Town Centre Transport Package (provisionally) Darlaston SDA Access Project (Provisionally) radford Place Public Transport Interchange rownhills Transport Package The construction of a new relief road will result in the loss of trees and scrub and may lead to the loss of habitats for birds and insects (AST) No predicted (AST) No predicted (AST) No Predicted Effects (AST) There is potential for landscaping/remediation of contaminated land to enhance ecological value of wildlife corridors. Slight risk of disturbance to wildlife with increased human/ economic activity in the area (AST). No predicted Removal of features/habitats may have negative impacts, as well as disruption/ disturbance to fauna from traffic-related noise, air pollution and vibration from new bypass (AST) Wolverhampton Major Schemes Centre Access, No predicted interchange and integration (committed) Minor adverse Neutral Minor adverse ir Planting of new tress and hedgerows either side of the new road would help to mitigate the loss of habitats Appropriate mitigation measures could be implemented at the design/construction stage to avoid impact on habitats near railway corridor ecosite

25 Policy/Measure (ased on AST for schemes Red Route Network Package 1 (committed) Red Route Network 2 Red Route Network 3 Red Route Network 4 Red Route Network 5 No predicted (AST ) Wolverhampton No predicted Railway Station M54 Junction 2 No predicted Wobaston Road Wolverhampton us No predicted Station ther Major Schemes uter circle / radial No predicted (AST) routes (Committed) Longbridge Strategic Park & Ride West Midlands No predicted (AST) It is not possible to assess Strategic Park and Ride III at this moment in time as a site Strategic Park & Ride III has not yet been identified. West Midlands UTC No predicted Metro lines Phase 2- Metro can reduce the need to travel by car, with corresponding indirect benefits to biodiversity. In the short run, construction works could cause disruption; in the longer run, the modal shift away from cars may have a beneficial indirect impact. Cross City Line South Frankley Extension Possible adverse loss of habits in the short term, disruption during construction phase Minor adverse Short term, (AST). M6 Junction 10 No predicted In the long term, biodiversity is not likely to be affected significantly by the construction and operation of this scheme provided that the construction takes the steps necessary to mitigate its adverse

26 Policy/Measure (ased on AST for schemes Rail showcase Cannock Line Rail showcase II Snow Hill Lines Rail showcase III Cross City & Walsall Lines Rail Showcase IV Wolverhampton and Coventry Lines The use of heavy rail can reduce the need to travel by car, with potential indirect benefits to biodiversity. Improvements to railway stations could have positive or negative (or neutral) on biodiversity, depending on how they are implemented. Improvements to railway stations are unlikely to have significant direct on biodiversity. Cumulative Effects Cumulative Effects within the plan The West Midlands has more built-up and fewer natural areas than the England average, and a comparatively low percentage of land with biodiversity designations. There is not enough data to be able to say whether biodiversity in the sub- region is getting better or worse. The LTP2 could overall have a neutral or minor negative impact on biodiversity. Its emphasis on reducing the need to travel, should help to reduce road kill, habitat fragmentation, and the indirect of air, water and soil pollution and noise. None of the major schemes will have a direct impact on internationally, or nationally designated sites, however the Coventry Rapid Transit and Canley Area Regeneration Scheme could have direct impacts on the Wainbody Wood & Stivichall Common, Park Wood and Ten Shilling Wood Local Nature Reserves. Several of the proposed major schemes are likely to have a minor negative impact on biodiversity, particularly during their construction phase because of the removal of trees, hedges, etc. These include the Minworth/Chelmsley Wood link road, Longbridge link road,, Northfield Regeneration and Selly ak Access Road ( irmingham); the bus rapid transit systems; the Cross City Line South Frankley Extension; and the rownhills Transport Package (Walsall). Many of these can be mitigated in the short run through planning/ timing, and in the long run through the creation of new habitats, although for some areas such as Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland are irreplaceable and can only be substituted and not replaced. Sensitive planning/timing of any construction and maintenance work will help to reduce adverse impacts on biodiversity. PPS 9 (iodiversity and eological Conservation) promotes the enhancement as well as conservation of biodiversity. New transport developments have the potential to provide new habitats, and particularly wildlife corridors. The provision of new hedges, scrub, trees, ponds etc. as part of transport projects should be encouraged in the LTP. Highways maintenance operations have the potential to have cumulative adverse impacts on local biodiversity. LTP should encourage all local authorities to develop agreements or codes of practice for the management and maintenance of all road verges and roadside hedgerows (as recommended in the Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull iodiversity Action Plan)