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2 Contents 1 INTRODUCTION NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY WHY THIS EXPANSION IS NEEDED DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Overview of Proposed Development Works Description of Future Operation Future Access Arrangements Future Site Operations & Infrastructure CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ENVIRONMENTAL TOPICS Human Beings Ecology Water Abstractions Wastewater Flooding Soils & Geology Air Quality Noise and Vibration Landscape and Visuals Architectural Conservation Traffic and Transport Material Assets MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS SUMMARY CONTACT INFORMATION & VIEWING OF THE PLANNING APPLICATION AND EIS APPENDIX 1: From Milk to Milk Powder (Process Flow Diagram)

3 1 INTRODUCTION Dairygold Cooperative Society (hereinafter referred to as Dairygold) operates three milk processing sites in Munster, producing a range of dairy products including cheese and dairy ingredients in Mitchelstown, speciality cheeses in Mogeely and milk powders, including whole milk powders, skim milk powders and blended milk powders, in Mallow. Dairygold employ over 1,150 people within its organisation and currently employs 135 people in milk processing, laboratories, the Co-op Superstore, Park Road and in its offices at West End, Mallow. There is a long [Type a quote from the document or the summary standing tradition of milk processing and associated products at the Mallow site. This new development is the subject of a detailed planning application which has been prepared over the last number of months. The application is supplemented by an Environmental Impact Statement and this has been undertaken by a team of specialists. The Dairygold facility is located in Mallow in the heart of Munster and this can be seen in the map below. The following sections of this document will explain the fundamentals of this project and will show how a best practice approach in the design process will produce a state of the art facility to cater for the future expansion of Dairygold and its members. Regional location map 1

4 2 NON TECHNICAL SUMMARY This Non-Technical Summary (NTS) is the first volume of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the expansion of the milk powder processing facility at Mallow, proposed by Dairygold. The other three volumes which comprise the EIS are: Volume 2: Main Statement (EIS) Volume 3: Appendices Volume 4: Photomontages The purpose of this Non-Technical Summary is to provide a concise overview, in non-technical terms, of the issues, impacts and mitigation measures highlighted by the Environmental Impact Assessment and presented in the main EIS, Volume 2. The final design, planning application and Environmental Impact Statement were prepared by Malachy Walsh and Partners. The design was finalised over several months in conjunction with specialist partners and through a step by step method of analysis of the required plant and equipment. The planning application and EIS contain extensive detail, reports and studies, and this Non-Technical Summary endeavours to explain the main features of the project being proposed and to show how each aspect has been dealt with. Aerial Photograph of the site. 3 WHY THIS EXPANSION IS NEEDED Dairygold propose to redevelop its milk powder processing facility at Mallow in order to increase the processing capabilities of the site. The need to develop the site processing potential is to cater for the anticipated increased volume of milk to be delivered to the facility post 2015 with the abolition of the EU Milk Quota system. This expansion project also gives Dairygold the opportunity to develop the facility into a state of the art processing plant. A detailed survey of the members of the Dairygold Society concluded that there is a serious ambition to expand the business. The redeveloped plant will see a new layout on site with modern structures and new equipment. This new expanded facility will assist local farmers in the dairy sector and will provide a boost for food and agriculture in the Munster region. Furthermore, this development solidifies the business in Mallow, maintains jobs and is a vote of confidence in the agricultural sector in Munster. 2

5 4 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT This project is fundamentally about upgrading the existing facility in Mallow, installing improved technology and re-organising the facility on site in order to future proof the facility for the post 2015 marketplace. The projected increase in milk intake is from 123 million litres (27 million gallons) to approximately 885 million litres (195 million gallons) of milk each year. Historically the facility operated at levels greater than 50 million gallons and the future project will see production rise to a new level. The main focus of production relates to the increased production of powder product from milk. There will be no changes to the range of activity currently being undertaken at the facility. All redevelopment works will be within the existing site boundary. The proposed redevelopment of the Mallow facility will incorporate best environmental practice, enhancing the environmental protections already in place. See Appendix 1 for process flow and milk processing diagram. 4.1 OVERVIEW OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT WORKS In line with the projected increase in milk deliveries, the proposed facility will have the capacity to receive and process 3.2million litres of milk per 24 hours, producing approximately 450 tonnes of milk powder and 10,000 litres (10 tonnes) of cream per day. To achieve the desired improvements in processing capabilities, the following site redevelopment and infrastructural works are being proposed: Upgrading the existing northern entrance to the site for milk deliveries and for the export of the finished product. Construction of a new internal roadway to provide access from the upgraded northern site entrance to the milk intake area. The project entails significant demolition elements to remove redundant buildings. Decommissioning of existing milk intake area and construction of a new expanded milk intake facility on the southern section of the site. Decommissioning of the existing pasteurisation building and construction of a new building to house the separation, pasteurisation and standardisation unit, plus the cream pasteurisation facility. Decommissioning of the existing utilities building and construction of a new utilities building within the site. Construction of a new drying and evaporator building to house additional drying and evaporation equipment. Demolition of a section of an existing packing store building (bag filling and palletising building) to allow construction of the new building to house the new evaporators, dryers and packing lines. Construction of a new bag filling and palletising building. Demolition of the existing bulk powder storage building and construction of a new powder storage building in the same location. Modifications of the existing maintenance and engineering store. Installation of additional storage tankage for raw milk, milk products, water, ingredients, chemicals and fuel. Creation of a new car park for staff and visitors. Re organisation of existing services on site including foul and storm water services, electrical and common network systems. The following drawing shows the concept of the proposed project and how it integrates with the existing site. It shows the new site layout, 3- dimensional views of the buildings and landscaping. 3

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7 4.2 DESCRIPTION OF FUTURE OPERATION Future Access Arrangements The newly upgraded Northern Site Entrance will provide access for all site deliveries and heavy goods vehicle (HGV) traffic to the facility. The southern site entrance will remain for staff, visitor and emergency access only Future Site Operations & Infrastructure Principal Activities There will be no changes to the range of activities currently being undertaken at the facility. Principal activities will continue to comprise i) raw milk intake, ii) raw milk processing (namely its clarification and separation, pasteurisation and standardisation), iii) processing of the milk into powder and iv) distribution of end products. The products to be manufactured at Dairygold Mallow will continue to comprise milk powders, including whole milk powders (instant, 26%, 28%), skim milk powders and blended milk powders. It is also being proposed that fat filled powders will also be manufactured on site in addition to the current range of milk powder products. Surplus cream will also continue to be produced on site and will be dispatched as a saleable by-product Future Types and volumes of products (Types, tonnages, frequencies, seasonality) The proposed extension at the site will allow the facility to increase the overall production rates. Table 1 details the proposed increase in milk quantities that would be accepted when the facility is extended and the increases in products to be produced. Historically the facility would have processed approximately 227 million litres at peak. Table 1 Types and Volumes of Future Product EXISTING FUTURE Total quantities of raw milk to be delivered to site (per 123 million litres 885 million litres annum) Whole milk processed on-site (per 24 hours) 750,000 litres 3.2million litres Cream removed off-site (per 24 hours) 2 tonnes 10 tonnes Milk powders produced on-site (per 24 hours) 105 tonnes 450 tonnes 5 CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES The expansion of the Milk Dryer Facility at Dairygold Co-Op Ltd. premises at Annabella, Mallow, Co. Cork is being proposed for the following reasons: To improve the commercial viability of the site and Dairygold Milk Powder Processing Industry. To provide the necessary infrastructure to cater for the anticipated future increase in milk production. This is achieved by the following Upgrading the Site Layout, plant and Facilities over and above those which exist at present in order to improve operating and environmental management. Improving site access, junctions and roundabouts. 5

8 Several alternatives were identified, developed and discussed amongst a Multi-Disciplinary Team including Technical Specialists, Environmental Specialists and also Stakeholders, in order to achieve the above in the most appropriate manner. The Do Nothing Scenario or the achievement of Piecemeal Expansion on a progressive phased basis were considered but quickly discounted. The reasons for this were the recognised need to create a Facility that would technologically meet the Market requirements created by the removal of the Milk Quota in 2015 and to meet the aspirations of the Co-Operative Society Shareholders, principally the Farming Community, to be a market leader. The relocation of the facility to an alternative location and/or the construction of a new facility in the locality was examined initially and deemed unviable. Dairygold chose its existing base at Annabella, Mallow after due consideration of all the available options. Those considered were:- Commercial Estates at Mallow. Castlefarm, Mitchelstown, Co. Cork. Mogeely, Co. Cork. Green Field options. Annabella, Mallow. The proposed Facility at Annabella, Mallow was selected on the grounds of satisfying the needs of an efficient, sustainable and cost effective site. Infrastructural Planning and design of the Site Layout was progressed with a requirement of not adversely impacting on adjoining and surrounding areas. Other reasons for choosing the existing Mallow site were to maintain employment in the town support the local economy, as well as the increased use of existing services in the town by an expanding facility. The option of upgrading the existing milk powder processing facility at Mallow, the subject of this EIS, is considered to have advantages in that it better satisfies the user, economic and environmental criteria, as described in this section, and is selected as the preferred option. 6 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT The main objective of the EIA process is to ensure that all direct, indirect and cumulative environmental effects of the project are anticipated. Where effects are identified as unacceptable, these will be avoided or reduced during the design process through the implementation of practical mitigation measures. The main chronological stages of the EIA Process include: Baseline Studies and Data Collection; Impact Assessment Methodology; and Mitigation, Compensation and Enhancement The EIA has been carried out in accordance with the relevant legislative requirements and guidelines including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - 'Guidelines on information to be contained in an environmental impact statement, 2002'. Specialist guidance as required under each of the environmental topics has also been used where appropriate. 6

9 7 ENVIRONMENTAL TOPICS A study was undertaken of the possible environmental effects of the proposed development, should it be constructed. Twenty-two (22) specific study areas have been identified for assessment as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and inclusion in the EIS. Table 2 outlines these study topics and the chapters of the main EIS where they have been addressed. Table 2 Relationship between EIA Study Areas / EIS Chapters and Regulated Study Area Selected Study Area EIS Chapter Affects on Human Amenity Health & Safety Affects on Terrestrial Ecology + Habitat disruption Affects on Protected Flora + Fauna Affects on Aquatic Ecology / Discharges and water pollution Chapter 4 Human Beings Chapter 4 Human Beings Chapter 5 Ecology Chapter 5 Ecology Chapter 5 Ecology Appropriate Assessment + Water Framework Protected Areas Appendix 5 Volume 3 Affects on Bat populations Affects on Water Quality / Discharges and water pollution Water Requirement, Abstraction and Affects on Groundwater resource Waste Water Emissions / Pollution from discharges /effluent Water Courses + Drainage regime Surface water run-off and Sediment Control Effects of land-spreading of waste Soils and Subsoils management Chapter 5 Ecology Chapter 6 Hydrology and Hydrogeology Chapter 6 Hydrology and Hydrogeology Chapter 6 Hydrology and Hydrogeology Chapter 6 Hydrology and Hydrogeology Chapter 6 Hydrology and Hydrogeology Chapter 7 Soils and Geology Chapter 7 Soils and Geology Emission to Atmosphere and affect on Air Quality Noise & Vibration Emissions Visual Impact of new structures Traffic Archaeology + Cultural Heritage Architectural Conservation Natural and Human Resources Roads, Infrastructure, and Utilities Chapter 8 Air Quality Chapter 9 Noise and Vibration Chapter 10 Landscape and Visual Resources Chapter 12 Traffic and Transportation Chapter 13 Material Assets Appendix 13 Volume 3 Chapter 11 Architectural Conservation Chapter 13 Material Assets Chapter 12 Traffic and Transportation 7

10 7.1 HUMAN BEINGS Given its urban setting the proposed development is of particular significance to the local population both in the area immediately bounding the facility and in Mallow Town. The Dairygold site has been a locale where continuous, and increasing levels of, industrial activity has taken place since the late nineteenth century and it is, therefore, integrated into the range of activities that comprise the existing environment in Mallow Town. As with any development, community concern about the need to protect the local environment and general local amenity must be addressed, particularly any potential impacts associated with health and safety, noise and traffic congestion during the construction phase, and noise, emissions to air or visual impacts that might result from the completed redevelopment. Efforts have been made in the design treatments of the proposed new buildings to minimise the visual impact of the redevelopment on the visual character of the streetscapes of Mallow Town. In addition the lighting required for the redeveloped site will be designed to ensure that no significant increase in the levels of artificial lighting originating from within the site area will occur. The existing levels, which are consistent with the norms associated with the urban setting, will be maintained and cause no significant increase in the visual impact of the redeveloped site during the hours of darkness. Noise modeling indicates that the expansion of this facility will not increase noise levels above those currently existing and licence compliance limits will not be exceeded. The existing Niro Dryer Building has been identified as a noise source which contributes to elevated background night-time. This is an existing noise scenario and is being considered for treatment as part of the new development. Air modelling demonstrates that the facility will not significantly impact on the local air quality. An extensive Traffic Impact Assessment was undertaken to inform the design of the project. This assessment recommended the upgrading of two roundabouts and localised section of the northern approach road. The facility is bounded by the N20 and the road network adjacent to the site has the ability to traffic associated with this expansion project. There is to be a significant increase in the numbers of site generated heavy goods vehicles (HGV). The traffic impact assessment undertaken indicates that this increase will be well within the carrying capacity of the road network. A number of modifications to both existing roundabouts on the N20 at Annabella and Beecher Street /Lower Beecher Street are being proposed as part of the development to improve traffic movement. It is not expected that local road users will be significantly inconvenienced by site generated traffic. 8

11 Local residents have expressed concern in terms of noise and light nuisance regarding the proposal to change the access point for site generated HGV traffic from West End Road to Lower Beecher Street. Mitigation and design measures have been incorporated into the proposed layout to deal with concerns of noise and light pollution. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) was carried out to determine if the conservation objectives or qualifying features of the Blackwater River SAC would be affected by the redevelopment of the Dairygold facility. It concluded that significant impact to the Blackwater River SAC will not occur as a result of the proposal. The project is designed and will be managed to minimise the impact on the human environment and the local residents. From the outset the project has been designed to ensure that the proposed development will not have any serious negative implications for the existing human environment. 7.2 ECOLOGY There will be no loss of valuable ecological habitat as a result of the proposed redevelopment. With the exception of some foraging activity by bat species, no rare or protected species of flora or fauna were recorded within the immediate vicinity of the proposal. Given that only foraging activity was recorded, it is not expected that significant impacts on these species will result from the proposed redevelopment. The River Blackwater is a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and is situated approximately 0.5km downstream of the Dairygold site. The legal basis on which SACs are selected and designated is the EU Habitats Directive. The Directive lists certain habitats and species that must be protected within SACs. None of the protected species or habitats identified in the SAC was recorded within the development site. The main ecological pressures within the Blackwater catchment are from diffuse (forestry, on-site wastewater treatment systems - WWTS) and point (wastewater treatment plants - WWTPs, quarries, contaminated lands) pollution sources. One of the perceived risks during the construction phase is the risk of runoff water from the site, particularly during demolition, excavation and general construction works, entering Linehan Stream and the River Blackwater to which it drains. A comprehensive set of mitigation and control measures have been developed and incorporated into the project design to control point sources of sediment and to manage and contain surface water movement which will isolate the stream and prevent the ingress of sediment and other pollutants to the stream. Part of the pre construction activities will be the construction of a berm along the edge of the onsite stream with associated drainage channels to act as a protection measure against run off. All mitigation and control measures will be integrated into the Construction and Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), which will be implemented and monitored during the redevelopment works program. These measures will ensure that adverse construction associated impacts to the Linehan stream, and to the sensitive habitats and species within the Blackwater River to which it drains, will be avoided. 9

12 7.3 WATER Abstractions The installation s current process water requirement is supplied by 3 No. site wells. These wells have capacities of approximately 1,000m 3 /day to 2,000m 3 /day. Potable water for the non processing activities is sourced from municipal supply. There will be no changes to water supply sources. The current process water requirement is approximately 650m 3 /day. It is calculated that the future process water requirement for the new facility will be in the order of 1961m 3 /day. Thus an additional 1,311m 3 of process water will be required. It is proposed that approximately 600m 3 of this water requirement will be supplied by the existing groundwater wells thus increasing the daily abstraction from the site wells from 650m 3 /day to approximately 1250m 3 /day. The remaining 50 % or 711m 3 of water requirement will be met by recycling condensate for cleaning in place (CIP) activities. Well tests were undertaken to determine the impact of the increased groundwater abstractions on the underlying groundwater body (GWB). In volume terms, the proposed increase in the rate of abstraction of the Dairygold well field is relatively small. The increased abstraction from the Dairygold well field would not have any effect on nearby wells or the groundwater resource from which they draw from. There is no risk associated with the proposed development in terms of groundwater dependent habitats Wastewater Domestic wastewater is generated on site from the installations canteen, laboratory and toilet facilities and is discharged to Mallow urban WWTP. No adverse impact on the public sewer system will occur from the proposed development. Surface water arising on the site (from roofs and yard areas) is discharged to Linehan stream via two (2) licenced outfalls. Process wastewater is mainly generated during cleaning operations (tank, truck and storage tank washing, pipe line washing and sanitizing) and condensate discharges during the manufacturing process. It contains milk solids, detergents, sanitizers and milk wastes. All process wastewaters are directed to the facility s wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) prior to discharging to the River Blackwater, as regulated under the facility s IPPC Licence. An assessment on the capability of the existing WWTP to treat the predicted future wastewater load to the Licence Emission Limit Values (ELV) showed that the additional wastewater generated by the proposed development will remain well within the theoretical capacity of the WWTP to meet current licence ELVs, and will not require any adjustment of the existing licence conditions on wastewater. The assessment has identified a programme of maintenance that will accommodate the return to higher treatment capacities as were undertaken historically. Further assessments of the groundwater chemical status and risk to groundwater dependant habitats determined the following: An increase in the abstraction rate will not put the group of GWBs in Mallow Town at risk of failing to achieve good groundwater chemical status Flooding Mallow town and the surrounding area has a long and well documented history of flooding. No flooding has been recorded on the proposed Dairygold site. A flood risk assessment was undertaken and concluded that there is no flood risk to the proposed development site area. Furthermore the proposed development will not adversely affect flooding upstream or downstream of the site. 10

13 A section of the northern part of the site is located within a zone where there is a probability of flooding in 1 in 100 year rainfall event. Because of the topography of the site and the fact that it is significantly modified by industrial development, there is no clear boundary between the northern section of the site and the remainder of the site. There is, therefore, potential if flooding was to occur for some overland flow to enter the site. The risk can be mitigated and recommendations have been proposed to form a bund along the south side of the river and culvert in the northern section of the site so as to redirect the overtopping flood water to the river channel downstream of the culvert. There are no significant residual risks after mitigation measures recommended herein are implemented on site and providing that the scheme design is implemented as outlined in the planning application drawings. 7.4 SOILS AND GEOLOGY The proposed site is an urban site and the soil characterisation by the EPA, also describes the area as Made Ground (this refers to deposition of manmade material & soils). Although the past development of the Mallow site involved the removal of much of the natural soil and replacement with concrete or made ground, previous site investigations confirm there are small areas of soil within the site. Previous exploratory works undertaken in 2007 determined elevated levels of arsenic and nickel of natural origin at depth of 2 8m in some of the site soil samples. These soils were retained on the site in suitable areas onto low permeability sub-soils and capped them with inert soils. Evidence from the laboratory analysis suggested heavy metals were not leaching. The report also established that the elevated metal levels were naturally occurring in the soils and so do not pose any risk to the environment or to human beings. The EPA raised no issues with this material as it was a natural phenomenon. There are no significant impacts envisaged associated with stability. All re-development will occur on site on natural ground with good bearing capacity and with shallow foundations. There will be no excavation or disturbance of contaminated ground. Site clearance and preparation works will consist of stripping the existing concrete and hard surface and removing the material off site. There will be no significant impact on the soil and geological environment as a result of the site clearance works. All construction materials required, including any hazardous substances such as fuel and oil, have the potential to impact on the soil and geological environment should a spill occur. The principal wastes of volume significance generated by the installation are biological sludges associated with the effluent treatment process. This is currently and will also in the future be recovered by landspreading under an approved Nutrient Management Plan (NMP). Construction phase mitigation includes good site procedures with regard to storage and stockpiles, waste and materials management. There will be no residual impacts on the soil and geological environment associated with the construction and operation of the proposed re-developed Dairygold site, provided best practice and mitigation are adhered to. 11

14 7.5 AIR QUALITY The milk processing plant is currently operating under an IPPC Licence (P ) issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Currently, the main air emissions at the site are from exhaust stacks, associated with the boilers and a dryer on site. These air emissions are limited and licensed by the EPA. A detailed air quality dispersion modelling study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of air emissions from the proposed Dryer expansion programme at the Dairygold manufacturing facility on the local air quality. The predicted impacts due to emissions of Nitrogen Oxides (as NO 2 ) and Sulphur Dioxide (SO 2 ) from the exhaust stacks of the boilers and Particulates (as PM 10 ) emissions from the Dryer exhaust stacks were examined in relation to compliance with the relevant National Air Quality Standards (NAQS). The results of the modelling study undertaken demonstrate that there will be no significant impact on the local air quality and are within recommended limits for such facilities. Potential impacts to air quality arising from the construction phase will arise predominantly from vehicle exhaust emissions and fugitive dust from demolition, excavation and construction activities. It is also important to note that this project will done in three distinct phases and so each can be managed carefully. Construction phase impacts are temporary and thus, provided they are managed correctly are minimal in nature. The increase in traffic, in particular HGV s, associated with the planned dryer expansion will not have a significant impact on air pollutant concentrations alongside the roads in the locality. A Dust Control Management Plan to include measures to control and reduce dust and fine particulate emissions, such as a wheel wash, the control of spills, stockpiles, crushing activities related to demolition materials and the condition of the access road. A Traffic Management Plan will be implemented to minimise congestion. All site vehicles and machinery will be properly maintained and will be switched off when not in use. Engine idling will be prohibited on site. In conclusion, the results of the air modeling study have concluded that the proposed new plant will contain up to date technologies to control emissions of dust and airborne particles on site from operational activity. The main potential for adverse impact on local air quality will occur during the construction and demolition phase. Given the proximity of the nearest residential and commercial premises, there is the potential for significant dust nuisance during the construction phase, especially during excavation and transport of spoil off site. The implementation of the measures outlined in the Dust Control Management Plan and the CEMP will reduce the risk of dust on site during the construction phase. Good site management and strict adherence to the standard dust control recommendations and the dust management programme will ensure fugitive dust emissions are kept to a minimum. 12

15 7.6 NOISE AND VIBRATION The approach from the outset of this study has been to identify the noise/vibration sources, evaluate them and then to develop mitigation measures that were incorporated into the design. These positive mitigation measures help during the operational and construction phases of the project. During construction there will be plant and machinery used to take down old buildings and construct new buildings, to construct the new internal access road and for delivery and export of material. There will be noise associated with these operations. However the construction works will be phased. There will be no works on Sundays or Bank Holidays. The works will be temporary. There will be no work at night or at sensitive periods during the week, particular during summer months. The contractors plan will included the measures identified in the EIS and also controls in the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). A dedicated individual will be appointed to liaise with the public during the construction period. Noise and vibration limits and working practices to minimise nuisance will be detailed in a Construction Environmental Management Plan to be developed prior to construction. 7.7 LANDSCAPE AND VISUALS A landscape and visual impact assessment was undertaken to assess and evaluate the landscape and visual impacts associated with the proposed expansion of the Dairygold milk processing facility at Mallow, Co. Cork. Predicted landscape effects are concerned with potential changes to the landscape character and impacts to sensitive landscape attributes. Predicted visual effects are solely concerned with the potential changes to views experienced by human receptors from publicly accessible areas or residential properties. The image and value of the local townscape is of historical importance. The variety of buildings in the area displays a considerable time depth and a multi layered character. There is a history of dairy related production in this area dating back to the late-19 th century. The industrial buildings of the existing Dairygold facility at Annabella are an identifiable feature of the local townscape and lend distinctiveness to the local townscape. The existence of this facility reflects a historic industry which has defined the character of the area for an extended period. There will be new plant and machinery associated with the new dryer building and the new internal delivery assess road. Silencers will be incorporated into the design of the new dryer buildings to reduce noise emissions from the new building. An earth berm and environmental noise barrier will be placed adjacent to the new internal access road to reduce delivery traffic noise levels. Predictive modelling shows that there will be no significant change in the existing noise environment in the vicinity of the proposed facility. Treatment of the existing Dryer Building will reduce noise emissions from the facility at locations along Lower Visually, the Dairygold Mallow site is recognised as an important site within the urban context of Mallow town due to its location. The site is located at the focal point of key gateways to the town from the north, south and west. 13 View Point locations have been chosen to represent views to the site, from a range of different perspectives and at a range of distances and orientations to the site. These viewpoints were chosen for assessment in agreement with Mallow Town Council & Cork County Council. 13

16 Photomontages for each of the selected viewpoints were generated to illustrate visual changes with the development in place. These photomontages are contained in Volume 4 of the EIS. In addition to the photomontages, a series of 3 Dimensional models were developed during the design process to assist in optimizing the layout and design of buildings. The following images demonstrate this development process. The use of 3 Dimensional models and photomontages aids the design process, but also assisted in discussions with stakeholders and the Local Authority during the design and EIA stages of the project. The use of the models also assisted in the development of the colour palette for the site and gave a balance to the buildings as they sit in the surrounding urban landscape. View from the west towards the new upgraded facility, showing the existing and new Dryer Buildings. 14

17 View from the North West of the new upgraded facility, showing new store, Dryer and Tankage The landscape and visual impact assessment concludes that the impact of the proposed development on the local character area is not significant. In simple terms this means that this proposed expansion and modernization of the Mallow facility will not lead to a change in the nature or use of buildings at this location. This site has a long established history of dairy production and the proposed structures are in keeping with this longstanding site use. The development proposed is comparable in character to the existing development. The development will be sited on lands currently active as an industrial facility for milk powder production and will remain within the confines of the existing facility footprint. There is a history of dairy related production dating back to the late-19 th century on this site. Therefore the proposed milk processing facility is in keeping with existing and historic land uses and does not introduce any activities which are otherwise unusual to the area. The visual impact assessment examined the changes that would occur in views from representative viewpoints and principal visual receptors. The conclusion was that the proposed development would be prominent in most views from very close to the site and would be visible from certain long distance vantage points. Overall it is considered that the proposed new building features constitute a moderate visual impact. 15

18 7.8 ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION This assessment deals with the potential impacts of the proposed development with respect to architectural conservation. The southern-most part of the development site falls within an Architectural Conservation Area. One archaeological monument is located within the proposed development site listed in the Record of Monuments and Places for County Cork and the Urban Archaeological Survey of Mallow. This is the site of Short Castle or Castle Gar located to the south-eastern edge of the development site. The development site also lies within the Zone of Archaeological Potential for two recorded monuments; namely, the historic town of Mallow and Mallow Railway Station. Although there is a history of dairy related production to this site dating back to the late- 19 th century on this site, no buildings from this period have been retained. The earliest buildings on the site appear to date from the 1940s or later and none are included on the Record of Protected Structures or the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage for the town. Buildings marked as Ballyclough Creamery on the inch OS map have not survived. A mid- 20 th century two-storey L-shaped building to the south of the site (located just north-east of the West End entrance) appears to be one of the earlier buildings surviving on the site which may be associated with the 1950s expansion of the earlier Dairy processing plant. This building is to be demolished as part of the proposed developments. Several buildings in this area of the site have already been demolished Map showing condensed milk factory Buildings adjacent to the Dairygold site, some situated directly along the boundaries, date from the mid-18 th - century development in the area of the West End Shortcastle Street junction to the late-19 th century and early-20 th century expansion of the town to the west along the West End and to the north of Shortcastle Street which resulted in a number of large houses. There are also several municipal and religious buildings from the 19 th and early 20 th centuries within the surrounding area, including the national school, parish hall and manse for a Presbyterian church, which have social and historical significance in addition to the architectural importance of the structures. To the west of the site is the railway station and former railway hotel, both of architectural, historical and social significance. There is potential for a physical impact on the structural stability of the protected structures along West End during the construction phase due to prolonged use of heavy machinery in the immediate vicinity. Any risk will be assessed by a structural engineer. 16

19 Following completion of the proposed buildings, the potential impact of most significance is that of the new buildings on the character of the protected structures. In addition to the factors of scale and height, materials used on the exterior of the proposed buildings have the potential to impact on the existing protected structures. However, the existing plant already has a significant visual impact on the historic buildings in the immediate area wherever views are afforded of both the plant and the historic buildings. The existing buildings were constructed during various phases and display a variety of external finishes. The proposed development provides an opportunity to improve these external finishes, provide colour uniformity across the site and potentially lessening the visual impact on the area. The proposed scheme of painted external renders and the colour palate chosen is suitable to lessen the visual impact from distant views, while also not competing with the historic exteriors of buildings of architectural importance within the area. 7.9 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT A Traffic Impact Assessment of the proposed Dryer Facility at the Dairygold Mallow North site was prepared for the purpose of the Environmental Impact Statement. This document deals with the impact of the proposed increase of milk production, and considers options for access, possible mitigation measures and their corresponding implications. The traffic chapter has been prepared in the context of the relevant best practice guidance documents. Junction capacity analysis has been carried out using computer software programmes and a Paramics model. The baseline for the traffic chapter has been prepared on the basis of site visits, on-site surveys, client information and document reviews. Predicted baseline traffic volumes have been estimated on the basis of the existing and future road network. An emerging preferred access arrangement was developed based on initial consultation with the Local Authority and the National Roads Office prior to this assessment, and on the basis of a previous outline assessment. The studies undertaken as part of the traffic assessment concluded that the existing roundabouts and the Northern Approach Road have the ability to cope with increased traffic volumes provided that minor adjustments are made. The proposed access arrangement, for the proposed facility, uses the Northern Roundabout to provide two-way access for heavy vehicles. The existing access to West End would be retained as private/ light vehicle access only. Mitigation measures including a limiting speed of 15km/hr, priority routing of traffic, removal of traffic volumes from West End all assist in improvement of traffic locally. The construction phase impacts would be temporary impacts, requiring no road closures. Construction personnel would arrive on-site well before the weekday morning peak commuter traffic period, and depart from site well after the weekday evening peak commuter traffic period. The proposed redevelopment increases heavy vehicle volumes. It would result in minimal increases in private vehicle traffic, due to increased staff numbers. There would be a significant increase in heavy vehicles accessing the Mallow North site from Lower Beecher Street. This would impact on the existing Lower Beecher Street/ Access 17

20 The existing Annabella Roundabout is congested during peak traffic periods. Notwithstanding the preferred access arrangement, the proposal would increase heavy vehicles using the junction. The proposed mitigation measures would result in no increase in queuing and delays at the Annabella Roundabout junction. The Northern Roundabout currently operates satisfactorily, with no significant queuing or delays. It is envisaged that the proposed redevelopment would not result in significant queuing or delays. It is envisaged that the planned Northern Relief Road would not significantly change the impact of the proposed redevelopment. Some improvement to peak period operations would be likely at Annabella Roundabout, resulting from the proposed access at the Northern Roundabout and mitigation measures to Annabella Roundabout. Similarly, there would be reductions in traffic volumes on West End, which is desirable, particularly in the context of its urban nature and the link between the Town Centre and Mallow Railway Station. The Northern Roundabout would sustain the proposed Dryer Facility. The cumulative effect of the reduction in heavy vehicles on West End, due to the relocated access, and the proposed upgrading of Annabella Roundabout, would provide relief to West End. West End currently experiences delays accessing Annabella Roundabout during evening peak periods. It is envisaged that there would be a net benefit at this approach. Reduced heavy vehicle volumes represent a positive impact for West End. This provides improved safety for cyclist and pedestrian movements along West End, which includes the route between Mallow Railway Station and the Town Centre. The construction programme and sequencing is designed to minimise the traffic impact of the construction phase. A Construction phase Traffic Management Plan will be submitted by the Design Team on behalf of Dairygold Co- Operative Society Ltd. to Mallow Town Council, for approval, prior to the commencement of construction. During the proposed construction phase, construction wheel wash facilities would be provided at the construction site compound. Hardstand parking areas and site offices would be located within the proposed construction compound. The local external road network would be swept and washed regularly using a specialist vehicle. There would be continuous on-going monitoring, in consultation with Mallow Town Council and Cork County Council, during the works. It is proposed to realign the intersection of the existing access to the site with Lower Beecher Street. It is proposed that the priority route would be changed, based on existing and proposed volumes. Mitigation options to reduce the traffic impact on the N20, Annabella Roundabout, and West End, include the relocation of the Dairygold access to the Northern Roundabout and proposed geometric improvements to Annabella Roundabout and the Northern Roundabout. 18

21 There are no significant negative operational residual traffic impacts predicted as a result of the proposed scheme. Annabella Roundabout would operate with additional reserve capacity as a result of the proposed redevelopment with the proposed mitigation measures in place, with or without the Planned Northern Relief Road. West End would also operate with additional reserve capacity. The Northern Roundabout and the N20 would operate within the same level of service, with the proposed redevelopment in place with or without the Planned Northern Relief Road. Lower Beecher Street would form the minor approach to the Lower Beecher Street access road junction with enhanced sight visibility MATERIAL ASSETS Material assets are defined as resources that are valued and that are intrinsic to specific places, they may be either human or natural origin and the value may arise for either economic or cultural reasons. They can be economic assets of natural or human origin, or cultural assets. Material assets of natural origin associated with the site include the groundwater resource, air quality and non renewable energy sources such as natural gas. The proposed development will not significantly affect these material assets. Material assets of natural origin include the road infrastructure and public utilities. The proposed development would generate an increase in the numbers of heavy vehicles using the local road infrastructure. However, improvements to the existing road infrastructure and road network are planned as part of the proposed Dairygold redevelopment project. The future facility will largely remain self sufficient and will not rely heavily on public utilities. Material assets of natural origin also include archaeological, architectural and cultural assets. The proposed plans for the Dairygold site at Mallow will require large areas of the western section of the site to be excavated to facilitate the construction of new buildings. This area lies within the Zone of Archaeological Potential for the Mallow Railway Station. No upstanding archaeological sites and features were noted within a site assessment. However, there is the potential for previously unrecorded archaeological remains to survive under the site. Some stone walls of note have been identified at the west and east ends of the northern boundary. Mitigation is recommended to address these items and the walls are not being interfered with as part of the project. 8 MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Environmental impacts during construction will be managed through the design and implementation of a Construction and Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). This will address working hours, traffic management, control of pollution, waste management, noise, dust and vibration. Dairygold will provide a public liaison officer to keep the public informed through the construction period. Potential environmental impacts during construction and operation can be managed and the necessary plans and controls are incorporated in the mitigation measures in this EIS and by means of the existing best practice procedures that already operate on the Mallow site. 19

22 9 SUMMARY The Dairygold Mallow Milk Processing Facility expansion project will secure current employment and create additional jobs in the expanded plant. It is the intention of Dairygold to reduce, to a practical minimum, adverse effects of the project on the neighbours and the environment. Where environmental effects have been identified during the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process measures have been proposed and incorporated into the project design to mitigate any impacts to an acceptable level. Key mitigation measures include: Incorporation of design features and building finishes reducing the apparent mass of the buildings. Introduction of specialist noise dampening technologies to maintain and reduce noise levels within IPPC licence requirements. New processing and dryer technology that improves air quality and reduces emissions. A rationalisation of traffic flow and direction which, will reduce pressure on West End, the Town, and on the Annabella roundabout. The reorganisation of the site layout gives the opportunity to enhance the site layout. The removal of old yards and slab areas gives the opportunity to rationalise finishes, drainage and site layout. The new site layout consolidates the operations into the western part of the site, thus reducing potential impacts on adjoining neighbours. This project also has significant benefits to Mallow and the local economy in the following ways: Guarantees employment Guarantees revenue stream for local business Reduces HGV traffic from West End Improved environmental efficiency Increases rural economic activity in the Mallow Hinterland Enhances the aesthetics of the site and processing facility. 10 CONTACT INFORMATION & VIEWING OF THE PLANNING APPLICATION AND EIS. This Non Technical Summary forms part of the EIS. Volumes 2, 3 and 4 of the EIS contain further detail on each of the topics summarised above. A copy of the Environmental Impact Statement and the Natura Impact Statement, and the planning application documents can be inspected at the following locations over the coming weeks: Mallow Town Council, Planning Department, Town Hall, Mallow, Co. Cork Dairygold Offices, West End, Mallow, Co. Cork Copies of the EIS and planning application can also be purchased from the planning authority. The resultant proposed development as designed in effect provides a new upgraded facility while 20

23 APPENDIX 1: From Milk to Milk Powder (Process Flow Diagram)