Contents. Figures. 1. Introduction 1 2. Project Description 2 3. Need for Development 3 4. Planning Policy 5

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1 Non-Technical Summary Cour Windfarm

2 Contents 1. Introduction 1 2. Project Description 2 3. Need for Development 3 4. Planning Policy The Development Plan Site Selection 7 6. Environmental Impact Assessment and Design Landscape and Visual Assessment Ecology Ornithology Hydrology, Hydrogeology and Geology Cultural Heritage Noise Traffic and Transportation Tourism, Socio economics and Land Use Other Considerations Conclusions Obtaining Further Information 22 Figures NTS Figure 1 NTS Figure 2a NTS Figure 2b NTS Figure 3 Location Plan Application Boundary/ Site Layout Plan Site Layout Plan - Main Windfarm Area Indicative Turbine and Met Mast Dimensions Cour Windfarm

3 1. Introduction This Non-Technical Summary (NTS) provides an overview of the Environmental Statement (ES). The ES has been prepared on behalf of Airtricity Developments (UK) Limited, the applicant, who shall herein be referred to as SSE Renewables, to accompany an application under the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 to Argyll and Bute Council for permission to construct a windfarm at Cour on the Kintyre Peninsula. The NTS briefly describes the project, the main findings of the studies undertaken to assess the effects of the proposal on the environment and outlines measures taken to minimise any environmental effects. The location of the windfarm is shown in NTS Figure 1. The maximum site rated capacity would be approximately 25 megawatts (MW). Cour Windfarm Page 1

4 2. Project Description The proposed windfarm comprises 10 turbines and associated development at Cour, located approximately 8.2km north of Carradale, and 19km southwest of Tarbert in North Kintyre, Argyll and Bute. The site is currently in private ownership and covers an area of approximately 1000ha of rough grazing ground. The surrounding landscape is dominated by plantation forestry. The proposal is for the erection and operation of 10 turbines and other ancillary development which includes: A permanent anemometer mast; An electrical substation; Transformers and cables from the wind turbines to the substation; Permanent access tracks from the site entrance to the turbines and ancillary infrastructure; Crane hardstanding areas adjacent to each wind turbine; Temporary construction compound and laydown area; and Five borrow pits. Figure 2a illustrates the proposed site layout and boundary, with Figure 2b providing a more detailed view of the main area of the proposed windfarm development. The proposed wind turbines would have a maximum hub height of 70m and a rotor diameter of 82.5m, resulting in a maximum height to blade tip of m, as shown in Figure 3. The turbine rated capacity is 2.5MW meaning a maximum site rated capacity of 25MW. The project would also involve the construction of a grid connection. An application to the utility company (Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution Ltd) has been submitted and an offer pending at time of writing. It is estimated that construction of the windfarm would take approximately 13 months with a further 2 months for commissioning and final site reinstatement. It is proposed that the windfarm would generate electricity for 25 years, after which time, it would be removed and the site reinstated or a further application made for planning permission to extend the duration of operation at the site. Cour Windfarm Page 2

5 3. Need for Development Global warming is a recognised phenomenon caused by an increase in levels of greenhouse gases, such as CO 2, in the earth s atmosphere. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a body of United Nations scientists, monitors the studies examining the effects of global warming, reports recent atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations of 379 parts-per-million. This is the equivalent of an increase of 1.9ppm a year for the last 10 years 1. A large proportion of the increased carbon release is due to the burning of traditional fuels such as coal and oil (fossil fuels containing carbon). This increase in CO 2 in the atmosphere in turn affects the way the earth retains heat. The world s leading environmental scientists believe this is leading to an increase in the average temperature of the earth causing climate change or global warming. In addition, concerns currently exist about the long-term viability of the use of fossil fuels to generate energy, due to the finite nature of the fuel resource and the growing need to import fuels from overseas. There are also concerns that too heavy a reliance on imported fuels could threaten the UK s security of supply even in the relatively short-term future, due to political instability. Renewable energy sources (such as wind, solar, hydro and tidal power) do not rely on finite sources available from the earth s reserves, but instead seek to harness continually replenished energy provided by the forces of nature. Using renewable energy to generate electricity does not create or release carbon dioxide or other air pollutants, and therefore does not contribute to climate change or local air pollution. Wind power does not deplete reserves of oil, gas or other fuels, and therefore offers a contribution to a secure, long-term energy supply. In response to these important and challenging issues a range of measures have been put in place at international and national government level to encourage and support renewable energy technologies. In the UK these include the setting of renewable energy targets and stringent carbon budgets. Wind energy is one of the best placed technologies available to meet the UK renewable targets. The UK is the windiest country in Europe, with over 40% of the available European resource 2. Improvements in technology have resulted in the cost of wind power being comparable to those of conventional sources of electricity. The proposed windfarm is predicted to have an output of approximately 66 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity per annum assuming the natural variations in wind speed. The estimated average annual household electricity consumption is 4657 kilowatts (KW) per annum 3, thus the windfarm would be able to provide electricity for approximately 14,172 households. In 2008, there were approximately 41,414 households in Argyll and Bute 4, therefore the equivalent of approximately 34.2% of households in Argyll and Bute Council could have their annual electricity consumption supplied by the proposed development. A carbon balance assessment for the proposed windfarm was generated using the methodology and calculator provided in Calculating Carbon Savings from Wind Farms on Scottish Peat Lands A New Approach 5 as recommended by the Scottish 1 Data from the IPPC Website: 2 British Wind Energy Association, 3 Great Britain Domestic Electricity Consumption figure taken from the Digest of UK Energy Statistics Argyll and Bute 5 Nayak, D.R., Miller, D., Nolan, A., Smith, P., and Smith, J (June, 2008). Calculating Carbon Savings from Wind Farms on Scottish Peat Lands A New Approach. Scottish Government. Cour Windfarm Page 3

6 Government. Based on this guidance the proposed development has an expected maximum payback time of 3.4 years. The CO 2 payback time is the period of windfarm operation required until there is a net saving of CO 2. Cour Windfarm Page 4

7 4. Planning Policy The key planning policies of relevance to the proposed windfarm, include those relating to sustainable development, renewable energy and wind energy. There is a significant amount of international and national policy that relates to renewable energy development. These policies were developed in response to the prediction of climate change as described above in Section 3. The most notable commitment is the Kyoto Protocol of 1997 which obliges signatories to meet targets for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Important policies include the Renewable Energy Directive from the European Commission, which sets a target of 20% of all energy use to be generated by renewables sources, with UK s target being set for 15% of all its primary energy use to be achieved from renewables by The UK Climate Change Act 2008 sets a statutory target for the UK to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% by The UK Renewable Energy Strategy sets a legally binding target of 15% of energy consumption from renewables and suggests that more than 30% of electricity should be generated from renewables by In Scotland the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 gives a statutory footing to the Government s proposals aiming for an 80% reduction in Scotland s greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, including an interim target of a 50% reduction by The Development Plan The Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 as amended by the Planning Etc (Scotland) Act 2006 requires that planning applications are determined in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The proposed development is located within the Argyll and Bute administrative area. The development plan comprises the Argyll and Bute Structure Plan (approved by the Scottish Ministers with modifications, November 2002) and the Argyll and Bute Local Plan (adopted by Argyll and Bute Council, August 2009). Both of these documents contain policy relevant to windfarm development. There are a number of material considerations that are relevant to the proposed development. These include: The National Planning Framework, Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Notes. The following policy and advice documents are relevant to the proposed windfarm: The National Planning Framework 2, 2009 (NPF2); Scottish Planning Policy 2010 (SPP); Planning Advice Note 42 Archaeology the Planning Process and Scheduled Ancient Monument Procedures 1994 (PAN42); Planning Advice Note 45 (Revised 2002) Renewable Energy Technologies (Including Annex 1 Planning for Micro Renewables 2006 and Annex 2 Spatial Frameworks and Supplementary Planning Guidance for Wind Farms 2008) (PAN45); Planning Advice Note 50 Controlling the Environmental Effects of Surface Mineral Workings 1996 (PAN50); Planning Advice Note 51 Planning, Environmental Protection and Regulation (Revised 2006) (PAN51); Cour Windfarm Page 5

8 Planning Advice Note 56 Planning and Noise 1999 (PAN56); Planning Advice Note 58 Environmental Impact Assessment 1999 (PAN58); Planning Advice Note 60 Planning for Natural Heritage 2000 (PAN60); Planning Advice Note 75 Planning for Transport 2005 (PAN75); Planning Advice Note 81 Community Engagement Planning with People 2007 (PAN81); Scotland s Historic Environment Policy 1 Scotland s Historic Environment A full assessment of the compliance of the proposed development with the development plan and material considerations is undertaken in the planning statement. Cour Windfarm Page 6

9 5. Site Selection SSE Renewables conducted a site selection process looking at a number of selection criteria, available technology and government targets. The site selection process was reviewed with the emergence of new technology and the resultant changes in targets. In respect of SNH s Strategic Locational Guidance for On-Shore Windfarms 6, the proposed development site is located within an area (Zone 1) of low sensitivity. Zone 1 identifies land with least natural heritage sensitivity and the greatest opportunity for windfarm development. In some parts of this zone it may be appropriate to accept changes in landscape character in order to meet the need for renewable energy generation. SSE Renewables site selection process was broadly based on British Wind Energy Association Guidelines 7 and takes into account most of the factors considered by SNH in its Strategic Locational Guidance for On-Shore Windfarms. The selection process included four main stages: Stage 1: Identification of selection criteria; Stage 2: Site search and initial evaluation; Stage 3: Feasibility; and Stage 4: Design and Environmental Assessment. Within Stage 1 a number of key technical and environmental factors that influence the feasibility of a windfarm are taken into account (adequate wind speed, sufficient area, appropriate ground conditions, access to the electricity grid, feasibility of access for abnormal loads, suitable terrain and topography and agreement with landowners). At the same time environmental constraints are also considered (natural and built heritage designations, proximity to centres of population, airfield safeguarding and MOD training areas). Other constraints may include cumulative effects with other developments, visibility in sensitive areas and potential interference with telecommunications. Within Stage 2, the site was assessed for suitability in terms of being technically feasible taking into account the wind regime, grid connection and accessibility. Following this initial, high-level search, during Stage 3 potential environmental constraints including national and international sites were identified. Both environmental and technical considerations were taken into account, including: Environmental and Cultural Heritage the development should not directly or indirectly adversely impact on sites designated for their environmental and/or heritage value; Planning Policy (local, regional and national); Available Land the potential site must be large enough to accommodate a minimum installed megawatt capacity in order for the development to be economically viable. Renewable energy developments have fixed costs, such as grid connection, therefore a larger installed capacity allows for economics of scale to be achieved; 6 SNH Policy statement Strategic Locational Guidance for Onshore Windfarms in respect of the Natural Heritage, Revised BWEA Best Practice Guidelines for Wind Energy Development. London, BWEA. Cour Windfarm Page 7

10 Wind Regime the wind regime at the site must be such that the energy production at the site is economically viable; Access the site must be accessible to construction traffic. With oversized components, remote areas may be inaccessible without significant engineering modifications to public highways. At present, and for the foreseeable future, roads are the only way to transport long turbine components to site; Grid Connection - A viable grid connection should be located in the vicinity of the windfarm; Agreements with site landowners; Suitable ground conditions, terrain and topography; Suitable distance from centres of population; Cumulative effects with other developments; Visibility in sensitive areas; and Potential impact/ interference with telecommunications and aeronautical radar. Using these criteria SSE Renewables identified the site at Cour as a potentially suitable site for a windfarm development given that it has good wind resource and avoids impacts on internationally and nationally designated sites. The site is however not located within a preferred area of search as defined in the 2007 modification to the Argyll and Bute Local Plan. Nevertheless the draft local plan has been subject of a public local inquiry and the Reporter advised that exclusion of land from the broad areas of search cannot place an embargo on windfarm development. As a result, it was concluded that, based on available information, the site at Cour should be suitable for development as a windfarm, subject to obtaining the relevant consents, and therefore SSE Renewables progressed to Stage 4 by commencing Scoping, Consultation, Design and EIA. Cour Windfarm Page 8

11 6. Environmental Impact Assessment and Design The assessment and design of the proposed development has been carried out using the feedback approach. This approach allows the findings of the EIA to guide the evolution of the windfarm design and development to be modified in order to avoid, reduce or mitigate potential effects as far as reasonably practicable. This approach is considered to be best practice and is preferable to carrying out a one-off post-design environmental appraisal. The chart below outlines the EIA process followed. Requirements for Development Site Selection Scoping and Consultation Identification of Issues Technical Assessment Windfarm Layout Iteration Process Preparation of ES Submission of Planning Application and ES to the Council Review of ES by Statutory Consultees Requirement for Further Information (if any) Evaluation of the ES by the Council Decision Ongoing Consultation and Monitoring A scoping report, describing the proposed development and highlighting the expected environmental effects and their proposed assessment procedures, was prepared and submitted to Argyll and Bute Council and a wide range of statutory and non-statutory consultees in The purpose of the scoping exercise was to gain agreement from all interested parties regarding the proposed EIA methodology and to invite comments on relevant environmental information. Cour Windfarm Page 9

12 The following technical assessments were identified through the scoping process: Landscape and visual effects; Ecology (designated sites, habitats and fauna); Ornithology; Hydrology, hydrogeology and geology (including pollution prevention); Cultural heritage; Noise; Traffic and transportation; Tourism, socio-economics and land use; and Miscellaneous issues (health and safety, shadow flicker, telecommunications and waste management). SSE Renewables have undertaken a series of public consultations regarding the EIA with Tarbert and Skipness Community Council, and with East Kintyre Community council. Presentations to Community Councils and Public Exhibitions in Carradale Village Hall on Thursday 13 November 2008, Templar Arts and Leisure Centre on Tuesday 18 November 2008 and Tarbet on the 7 December 2009, provided stakeholders with information about the proposed development and an opportunity to liaise with Airtricity providing feedback. The results of the technical assessments are summarised in the following sections. 6.1 Landscape and Visual Assessment The landscape and visual assessment covers a study area of 35 kilometres (km) radius from each of the outer turbines, which is considered to be the maximum radius within which a significant effect could occur given the height of the turbines to be used, and follows guidance given in Visual Representation of Wind farms Good Practice Guidance 8. The study area is not intended to provide a boundary beyond which the windfarm will not be seen, but rather to define the area within which the windfarm may have a significant landscape or visual effect. A significant effect is, in reality, very unlikely to occur towards the edges of the study area. The landscape and visual assessment is intended to determine the effects that the windfarm will have on the landscape and visual resource. While the principal effects result from the turbines, the other aspects of the windfarm such as turbine access tracks and borrow pits are also likely to have some effect, but this will generally be more limited. For the purpose of assessment, the potential effects on the landscape and visual resource were grouped into four categories: physical effects, effects on landscape character, effects on views, and cumulative effects. The significance of effects is assessed through a combination of two considerations - the sensitivity of the landscape element, landscape character receptor, view or visual receptor, and the magnitude of change that will result from the introduction of the windfarm. The assessment of landscape and visual effects is informed by a series of 22 viewpoints (shown in conjunction with the blade tip ZTV on Figures 5.11a to 5.40). A 8 Visual Representation of Wind farms Good Practice Guidance SNH commissioned report F03 AA 308/2, March 2006 Cour Windfarm Page 10

13 variety of landscape character types and points from different directions and distances have also been represented in the selected views. The list of viewpoints has been agreed with SNH. Some receptors were given particular attention in the viewpoint selection process, as the level of visibility and appearance of the windfarm from them is of particular importance, especially in relation to the cumulative sites on Kintyre. A final layout iteration was subsequently made, reducing the windfarm to a ten-turbine site. The final layout further benefits views from Arran and the B842. The assessment has found that the proposed windfarm will have localised significant effects on landscape character and views in the vicinity of the site. The following significant effects have been identified as a result of Cour itself: Limited parts of upland forest-moor mosaic landscape character type, up to around 3km from the site, where there is visibility of Cour; The settlement of Pirnmill (as seen in viewpoint 2); The hamlet of Catacol (as seen in viewpoint 1); Views from the A841 between approximately Lochranza and Dougarie (as seen in viewpoints 1, 2 and 11); A short stretch (approximately 300m) of the Kintyre Way just to the west of Deucheran Hill (as seen in viewpoint 17). In addition to the effects that Cour itself will have, the assessment has also identified the following significant cumulative effects that are likely to arise as a result of the addition of Cour to various cumulative situations: Very limited parts of upland forest-moor mosaic landscape character type, up to around 6km from Cour, where there is clear visibility of Cour and Deucheran Hill (as seen in viewpoints 6 and 17); A short stretch (approximately 300m) of the Kintyre Way just to the west of Deucheran Hill (as seen in viewpoint 17); Views from the A841 between Imachar and Dougarie; The assessment has concluded that the effects of Cour itself on all other receptors and viewpoints, and the cumulative effects arising from the addition of Cour to all other receptors and viewpoints, will be not significant. These findings indicate that the windfarm will have extremely limited visual effects on Kintyre, with very limited visibility other than from elevated parts of the Kintyre Way. There will be significant visual effects on parts of the western coast of Arran, however, largely due to the views of the windfarm across water. Significant effects on landscape character are found on Kintyre, in the area immediately around the site, while there will not be significant effects on the landscape character of Arran or any other parts of the study area. Significant cumulative effects are restricted to the landscape character of the area around the site, a stretch of the Kintyre way, and a short stretch of the A841 on Arran. The assessment of effects on the landscape and visual resource has demonstrated that the proposed Cour Windfarm will have localised significant effects on landscape character and views from some limited locations in the close vicinity of the windfarm. While these effects are assessed to be significant, resulting in material alteration to the localised landscape and visual resource, the proposed development is considered to be acceptable in the broader context, with acceptability being an expression of the overall accommodation of the windfarm into the wider landscape and visual resource. Cour Windfarm Page 11

14 6.2 Ecology The potential effects on ecology interests arising from the construction, operation and decommission of the proposed Cour Windfarm have been assessed. Key issues included the following potential effects of the development on: Designated sites; Habitats, including Annex 1 and UK priority habitats; European and UK protected species (other than birds); and Other priority habitats and species. The assessment process involved baseline studies, evaluation of the importance of the ecological receptors based on relevant legislation and guidance, and prediction of the effects on these receptors. Data on the important wildlife on site and in the proximity of the site was obtained through a combination of scoping, a desk study to collate existing information, and field surveys. There are no statutory nature conservation designations on the site. There are however five statutory designations within 10km of the site. These are (in order of distance to the site): Kintyre Goose Lochs/Roosts Special Protection Area (SPA) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), located at approximately 2.2km west and northwest of the main windfarm site and 250m from the access track at its closest point. This area regularly supports an internationally important wintering population of Greenland whitefronted geese. Rhunahaorine Point SSSI, located at approximately 6.2km west of the windfarm site and 2.01km southwest of the access track at its closest point. Designated for its coastal habitat (particularly vegetated shingle) and internationally important numbers of roosting and feeding wintering geese (particularly Greenland white-fronted geese). Arran Northern Mountains SSSI, located at approximately 6.7km to the east of the proposed windfarm at its closes point. Designated for its biological and geological interests (including upland birch woodland). Claonaig Wood SSSI, located at approximately 7.0km to the northeast of the windfarm site and 7km northeast of the access track. Designated for remnant ancient semi-natural woodland (including oak and birch on acid soils). It contains the second largest area of W17 woodland (NVC classification) as well as important areas of W4 and W11 woodland types. Ardpatrick and Dunmore Woods SSSI, located at approximately 9.4km to the northwest of the site, and 5.2km northwest of the access track. Designated for biological and geological interests (including the mosaic of maritime woodland, scrub and maritime grassland fen and heaths). The baseline surveys undertaken to inform this assessment were the following: Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey; National Vegetation Classification (NVC) survey; Bat surveys (scoping and foraging activity); Otter survey; Water vole survey; Cour Windfarm Page 12

15 Badger survey; River habitat survey, and Protected aquatic species survey. The following potential effects have been identified: Loss of blanket bog, wet dwarf shrub heath and acid flush habitat due to placement of windfarm infrastructure and track construction; Adverse effects on the freshwater interests within the Narachan Burn and other tributaries, as well as within the five lochans on site, arising from loading of the freshwater courses with silt, peat, oils or other chemicals from construction activities on-site; Effects on bats, specifically adverse effects on bat roosting (construction phase) and collision risk (operation phase) and positive effects on foraging and commuting habitat (creation of additional foraging habitat/commuting routes through forest felling during construction phase). Effects on protected aquatic species from access track construction, arising from loading of the freshwater courses with silt, peat, oils or other chemicals; and Effects on otter (disturbance) and otter habitat (potential adverse effects on freshwater habitat). A series of mitigation measures have been identified within the assessment. Implementation of these measures is expected to reduce the residual effects for all Valued Ecological Receptors to minor or negligible significance. 6.3 Ornithology The potential effects on ornithology interests arising from the construction and operation of the proposed Cour Windfarm have been assessed. The methodology comprised the following assessments: Desk-based assessment and consultation; Moorland breeding bird survey; Raptor (birds of prey) survey; Diver survey; Black grouse survey; Nightjar survey; Goose roost occupancy 2009 and 2010; Vantage point (VP) watches; Collision risk analysis; and Cumulative assessment. A variety of bird species, particularly raptors, divers, migratory wildfowl and black grouse are considered important in the study area. The Narachan Black Grouse Management Area lies in the proximity of the proposed development area. Protected species including red-throated diver, merlin, hen harrier and nightjar were also considered in the assessment. Vantage Point (VP) watches were undertaken between April 2007 and March 2008 inclusive at 2 locations to record the behaviour of all key species throughout the year. Cour Windfarm Page 13

16 The main aim of the observational work was to collect flight activity data for key species that use the study area. This allowed estimates to be made of the following: The time each species spends flying over the survey area; The relative use each species makes of different parts of the survey area; and The proportion of flying time each species spends at different elevations above the ground. This information is required for modelling of collision risk. Potential collision risk mortality has been calculated using an SNH model. The method uses all at risk flights within a 500m buffer around the 10 turbines. Most breeding curlews were recorded at over 300m of turbine locations, however at least one pair was recorded attempting to breed closer. The short-term disturbance to one pair of breeding curlew is assessed of minor significance at the scale of the Natural Heritage Zone. All construction work will take place at a distance of more than 500m of all known redthroated diver and hen harrier nests. Therefore no significant adverse effects from construction are predicted for these species. Several black grouse leks were recorded within 100m of the proposed access track. Borrow pit working during April and May will be constrained within 500m of active leks in order to minimise potential disturbance to displaying black grouse. During autumn and winter, Greenland white-fronted geese roost on Loch Garasdale, part of the Kintyre Lochs SPA. Approximately 85% of the loch surface is beyond the 500m distance at which disturbance may become apparent. In addition, neither the 2009/ 2010 observations nor previous records indicate that their preferred roost locations at Loch Garasdale fall within this 500m zone. The orientation of the access track along the northern side of Loch Garasdale and its height difference preclude vehicle lights from shining over the loch surface. Therefore in terms of numbers or frequency of use, the short term disturbance effects of the access traffic in winter are unlikely to result in the displacement of roosting geese from Loch Garasdale. The borrow pit located on the south west slopes of Cruach na Seilcheig (BP1, Figure 2a) will require a winter dawn/dusk timing constraint to minimise potential disturbance to geese arriving or departing from the Loch Garasdale roost. Overall it is considered unlikely that construction disturbance would have any significant adverse impacts on birds recorded in the vicinity of the development site after mitigation measures are in place. The collision risk estimates indicated that potential adverse effects during operation of the proposed windfarm would result in impacts of minor negligible significance on golden eagle, hen harrier and white-fronted goose. The loss of up to four red-throated divers over the lifetime of the windfarm is assessed as an impact of moderate significance. 6.4 Hydrology, Hydrogeology and Geology A desk study and several site walkovers were carried out to assess the site in terms of geological, hydrological and hydrogeological conditions. The effects assessment covers the construction, operation and decommissioning of the proposed Cour Windfarm and identifies aspects of the development which may have the potential to influence the existing baseline situation. Cour Windfarm Page 14

17 The site of the proposed Cour Windfarm lies outwith any sites designated for their nature conservation importance. There are, however, a number of designated areas where hydrological status is important to their designation. One SPA lies within 0.5km of the access track. This is the Kintyre Goose Roosts SPA which covers Loch Garasdale (2.24km to the north-west of the proposed Cour Windfarm) and Loch an Fhraoich (2.37km to the west). These lochs are also part of the Kintyre Goose Lochs SSSI. Loch an Fhraoich is situated in a river catchment entirely separate from the proposed Cour Windfarm and consequently will be unaffected by the development. However, the access track lies within the catchment that contains Loch Garasdale, crossing watercourses that drain into the loch. Rhunahaorine Point SSSI, part of which also lies within the Kintyre Goose Roosts SPA, is situated 6.2km west of the proposed Cour Windfarm and 2.01km southwest of the access track. This location has no hydrological connection with the development site. None of the proposed Cour Windfarm infrastructure, including access tracks, has been assessed as being at risk of flooding. A number of planning, design and construction proposals have been identified during the assessment. Furthermore, a surface and groundwater monitoring programme will be undertaken during the construction, operation and decommissioning of the site. The details of the programme will be agreed with SEPA. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and Pollution Prevention Plan (PPP) will ensure that mitigation measures are put in place and activities carried out in such a manner as to prevent or minimise effects on the ground and surface waters. Measures will include: Storage all equipment, materials and chemicals will be stored well away from any watercourses; Vehicles and Refuelling standing machinery will have drip trays placed underneath to prevent oil and fuel leaks causing pollution. Where practicable, refuelling of vehicles and machinery will be carried out in one designated area; Maintenance only emergency maintenance to construction plant will be carried out on-site, in one designated area; Welfare Facilities on-site welfare facilities will be adequately designed and maintained to ensure all sewage is disposed of appropriately; Cement and Concrete the use of wet concrete in and around watercourses will be minimised and carefully controlled; Contingency Plans plans will ensure that emergency equipment is available on site e.g. spill kits and absorbent materials; and All relevant staff personnel will be trained in both normal operating and emergency procedures, and be made aware of highly sensitive areas on-site. During the construction of the proposed Cour Windfarm there will be a number of activities taking place that could result in negative effects upon surface and ground waters. A number of potential pollutants will be present on site, including oil, fuels, chemicals and unset concrete as well as waste and wastewater from staff facilities. Furthermore increased levels of sediment are likely to be generated through the excavation of borrow pits and turbine foundations and erosion of stockpiled soils and peat, bare ground, site and access tracks and drainage ditches. Cour Windfarm Page 15

18 With the mitigation measures in place the potential magnitude will be reduced to moderate and the likelihood to unlikely, making the anticipated order of effect minor and not significant. The implementation of the mitigation measures and the ongoing operational effects on the surface and ground water environment are anticipated to be of minor significance. Similar effects have been identified to occur during decommissioning as during the construction phase in relation surface and ground waters and these are predicted to be of minor significance. 6.5 Cultural Heritage Cultural heritage features within the proposed Cour Windfarm site and in the surrounding areas were identified through desk-based assessment including review of historical maps and aerial photographs, checking databases of known sites, consultation with Historic Scotland and the Argyll and Bute Council archaeologist and a targeted field study. The assessment undertaken focused on a 15km radius around the proposed Cour Windfarm considering the following: Scheduled Ancient Monuments; Other identified archaeological sites; Listed Buildings; Other buildings of historic or architectural importance and recorded on the Sites and Monuments maintained by the Argyll and Bute Council; Conservation Areas; and Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes. Twelve sites of cultural heritage interest have been identified within the proposed Cour Windfarm site and nineteen sites have been identified within a 100m corridor, centred on the proposed external site access road. There are no sites of international, national or regional importance within the proposed Cour Windfarm site. Two Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs) have been identified within 200m of the proposed access road; Ballochroy Standing Stones (SAM175) and An Dunan Dun (SAM3184). These are considered to be of national importance. There are seven sites considered to be of local importance within the proposed Cour Windfarm site. No key receptors are predicted to receive a significant adverse indirect effect on their setting arising from the presence of the proposed Cour Windfarm. The proposed Cour Windfarm is predicted to have an effect of minor significance on the current setting of the Category A Listed Cour House, due to its proximity to the proposed wind turbines. A detailed programme of mitigation works to be carried out during the construction phase will be agreed with Argyle and Bute Council in order to offset all and any adverse effects on cultural heritage interests within the proposed Cour Windfarm site and immediate environs. No significant residual effects are anticipated in relation to cultural heritage interests and the development proposals are considered to conform to the aims of national, regional and local planning policy as regards cultural heritage. Cour Windfarm Page 16

19 6.6 Noise The potential noise and vibration effects of the proposed Cour Windfarm with respect to the construction, operation and decommissioning of the development were assessed. Noise related activities considered in the assessment included construction of the proposed Cour Windfarm and associated infrastructure (including construction traffic), subsequent operation of the wind turbines, and decommissioning of the windfarm. Baseline noise monitoring locations were identified through examination of Ordnance Survey maps and agreed with Argyll and Bute Council. A total of 3 noise monitoring locations were agreed as being representative of the background noise environment around the windfarm site. A series of mitigation measure have been identified to reduce the potential noise effect of construction, these include: Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) deliveries to the site would be limited to the hours 08:00 to 18:00 Monday to Friday and 08:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays; Turbine deliveries would only take place outside these times with the prior consent of the Council and the Police; Good practice construction activities, prescribed by BS5228, will be followed; All equipment will be maintained in good working order and any associated noise attenuation such as engine casing and exhaust silencers shall remain fitted at all times; Activities will be separated from residential neighbours by the maximum possible distances; A site management regime will be developed to control the movement of vehicles to and from the proposed Cour Windfarm site; and Construction plant capable of generating significant noise and vibration levels will be operated in a manner to restrict the duration of the higher magnitude levels. Construction noise effects have been assessed using the relevant methodology contained in British Standard BS5228. The construction noise assessment has determined that associated levels are expected to be audible at various times throughout the construction programme, but remain within acceptable limits. Operational noise from the proposed Cour Windfarm has been assessed in accordance with the methodology set out in the 1996 DTI Report ETSU-R-97, The assessment and Rating of Noise from Wind Farms. Applying the ETSU-R-97 derived noise limits at the assessment locations it has been demonstrated that both the day time and night time noise limits can be satisfied at all properties across all wind speeds during operation of the proposed Cour Windfarm. At some locations under some wind conditions and for a certain proportion of the time, the windfarm noise may be audible; however, it will still be at an acceptable level according to the ETSU-R-97 guidance. This assessment has been based on the use of manufacturers warranted sound power data for the Siemens VS wind turbine, and assuming worst-case downwind propagation. The cumulative effect of other existing or proposed windfarms in the area was also considered with the assessment confirming that even with the addition of the proposed Cour Windfarm that noise effects will remain acceptable, and within prescribed limits. Cour Windfarm Page 17

20 6.7 Traffic and Transportation An assessment of traffic and transportation effects associated with the proposed Cour Windfarm with regard to the public road network has been undertaken. The assessment focused on the predicted effects of increased traffic on the public road network during construction, operation and decommissioning. Access to the proposed Cour Windfarm will be via the following routes: Site entrance is located at Ballochroy on the A83, north of the existing junction. The new entrance will merge with existing tracks approximately 200m from the existing junction; HGVs and abnormal load vehicles will travel to the site primarily from the south (Campbeltown); Construction personnel may use the A83, B842 and B8001 to travel to the site entrance; and No HGV traffic will use the B842 and the B8001 roads. The additional traffic due to the Cour windfarm construction activities will result in increases of traffic flows on the local roads leading to the site. When considering actual volumes of traffic however, the predicted flows are well within the practical operating capacity of these roads and the environmental effect is, therefore, considered not to be significant; assuming appropriate mitigation measures, such as a robust Traffic Management Plan, are implemented. The development will not have a significant environmental effect on the trunk road network in terms of percentage increases or actual vehicle flows. The principal effects on traffic are associated with the construction of the windfarm. These effects are of a temporary nature and therefore not significant. The levels of traffic anticipated during the operation phase of the proposed Cour Windfarm have been assessed as not significant. 6.8 Tourism, Socio-economics and Land Use An assessment of the potential effects of the proposed Cour Windfarm on tourism, socio-economic activity and land use was undertaken. Baseline information was collected via a combination of desk assessment and consultation. A Scottish Executive (2003) report examined the views of local people living within 20km of Scotland s 10 largest windfarms including Beinn an Tuirc in Argyll and Bute. Three times the number of residents stated that their local windfarm has a broadly positive effect on the area (20%) than those that say that it has a negative effect (7%). The most commonly mentioned shortcomings of the areas in which people live were lack of amenities (20%) and poor public transport (18%). Only 0.3% of people expressly mentioned windfarms as a negative aspect of their area. The poll also found that those people living closest to windfarms tended to be more positive about them (44% of those living 10-20km away). People living closer were also more supportive of expansion of the sites (65% of those in the 5km zone support 50% expansion, compared with 53% of those in the 10-20km zone). The 2002 Visit Scotland Survey recorded that over 75% of visitors were either positive or neutral towards windfarm development in general. A minority (21%) of visitors held much more negative views. The attitude of those who had actually experienced a windfarm tended to be more positive than those who had not and 63% said it would Cour Windfarm Page 18

21 make no difference to their decision to holiday in Scotland if the number of windfarms increased. These survey results suggest that the effects of the windfarm on the nearby tourist attractions are unlikely to be significant. The capital cost of the proposed Cour Windfarm is estimated to be approximately 37 million. The windfarm will have the potential to influence the local economy. There will be employment tender opportunities for local suppliers with relevant construction and maintenance experience during the construction and operational phases of the development. During the construction phase, there will be an average of 30 workers on site per day and one person will be employed for site security. Throughout the 25 year lifetime of the windfarm, the establishment of a local service team will be promoted, depending on the wind turbine manufacturers requirements. Employment opportunities will also arise during the decommissioning process. The increase in employment is considered to be a significant positive effect. SSE Renewables encourages the education of local communities and other interested parties about windfarms and energy efficiency. Since 2004, over 2000 school children from local schools have visited SSE Renewables existing windfarms at Ardrossan, Dalswinton and Minsca. The wind turbines and associated infrastructure will utilise approximately 22.92ha (2.29%) of the total area of the proposed Cour Windfarm site. A survey of agricultural land carried out for the Scottish Government showed that a total of 393,449ha of land in Argyll and Bute was used for rough grazing. The site will be restored to rough grazing land in the decommissioning phase. No significant effects on land use have been identified as a result of the proposed Cour Windfarm, therefore no further mitigation measures are proposed. 6.9 Other Considerations The potential effects of the proposed Cour Windfarm on television and telecommunications, aviation, other infrastructure, shadow flicker, waste management and safety and security have been assessed. The proposed Cour Windfarm has been assessed in accordance with the BBC Windfarm tool based on the final turbine layout. The results of this assessment indicated that the proposed windfarm will not interfere with the transmission from any nearby transmitters and therefore no homes will be affected. The consultation process indicated that the proposed Cour Windfarm would not interfere with aeronautical interests. Shadow flicker is a flickering or strobing effect, which is caused by moving shadows that are generated by rotating blades. No properties will be affected by shadow flicker caused by the proposed Cour Windfarm. The proposed Cour Windfarm will comply with all relevant health and safety regulations. During construction all site-based activities will be conducted in accordance with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations All site based workers will conform to the requirements of a site-specific Health and Safety Plan. Cour Windfarm Page 19

22 Procedures for waste management and for safety and security at the site have been described that will result in any residual adverse effects being not significant. Decommissioning activities will be carried out in accordance with relevant Health and Safety Regulations and Construction Regulations at the time of decommissioning. All potentially hazardous areas such as excavation and electrical installation works will be fenced off and all unattended machinery will be stored in the site compound or immobilised to prevent unauthorised use. No significant effects are identified for safety and security at any stage of the development. The assessment concludes that there will be no significant effects on television and telecommunications, aviation, other infrastructure, shadow flicker, waste management and safety and security as a result of Cour Windfarm. Cour Windfarm Page 20

23 7. Conclusions This NTS has outlined the findings of the EIA of the proposed Cour Windfarm, contained within the ES that accompanies the application. The design of the proposed Cour Windfarm has been developed through an iterative process, taking into account environmental constraints and considerations to reduce potential effects where possible. The environmental effects arising from the construction, operation and decommissioning of the proposed Cour Windfarm have been investigated and assessed. Mitigation measures have been identified to protect the environment during each project phase. The Construction Project Manager will oversee operations and ensure that mitigation measures are implemented and activities carried out in such a manner as to minimise or prevent effects on the environment. It is not considered that residual effects on any assessed environmental disciplines are significant effects in the context of the EIA Regulations with exception of the following: Landscape and visual - localised significant effects are predicted on the landscape character and views from some limited locations in the close vicinity of the windfarm. Nevertheless the proposed development is considered to be acceptable in the broader context, with acceptability being an expression of the overall accommodation of the windfarm into the wider landscape and visual resource. Ornithology - the loss of up to four red-throated divers over the lifetime of the windfarm is assessed as an adverse impact of moderate significance. The proposed Cour Windfarm would represent an important environmental benefit in that it involves the generation of electricity from a renewable energy source that will reduce or avoid the use of fossil fuels through the displacement of electricity generated from other sources of energy. Cour Windfarm Page 21

24 8. Obtaining Further Information The Environmental Statement can be viewed, along with the other documents referred to in this section at the Argyll and Bute Council Office, and selected deposit locations. Further copies of the NTS are available free of charge and the Environmental Statement may be purchased for 300 per hard copy or 25 for CD-ROM from: Gillian Craig SSE Renewables Developments (UK) Ltd 16 Robertson Street Glasgow G2 8DS Telephone: Fax: Cour Windfarm Page 22

25 Key Site boundary Scale A3 ± 0 3,000 6,000 12,000 m Site Location Figure 1 Cour Windfarm Non-Technical Summary <<SGP5952>> <<Cour Windfarm EIA>> <<J:\SGP 5952 Cour Windfarm EIA\GIS\Figures\SGP5952_Fig1.1_sitelocation.pdf>> Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data. Crown copyright All rights reserved. Licence number AL

26 BP1 BP2 BP3 Key Turbine location!a Permanent Met Mast Existing track New track Temporary Construction Compound and Laydown Area Auxiliary Transformer Compound External Equipment Compound Grid Transformer Sub-Station and Control Building Compound Borrow pit Site boundary BP5!A BP ± Scale A ,000 m Final Site Layout Figure 2a Cour Windfarm Non-Technical Summary <<SGP5952>> <<Cour Windfarm EIA>> <<J:\SGP 5952 Cour Windfarm EIA\GIS\Figures\SGP5952_Fig1.2a_SiteLayout.pdf>> Reproduced from Ordnance Survey digital map data. Crown copyright All rights reserved. Licence number