Direct landscape impacts on the site

Direct landscape impacts on the site – for example loss of landscape features or change in the character of the site resulting from construction activity or the presence of industrial storage and structures, chimney stacks and ancillary infrastructure of varying heights, as well as plumes from said stacks.

Potential impacts on the significance of a NT property where a biomass plant and associated infrastructure are located in the ‘setting’. Understanding significance of the assets and the extent and nature of the setting is critical in order to make this judgement.

Indirect impacts on the landscape character of the surrounding area and setting to National Trust property

Indirect impacts on the landscape character of the surrounding area and setting to NT properties – for example change in the character/sense of place relevant to the property.

The character of surrounding landscapes may contribute to the significance of the property. Note that direct impacts may occur where changes in the setting affect the significance of the property.

Direct impacts on views, daytime and nighttime

Direct impacts on views, daytime and night-time – for example changes in views to and from NT properties and NT key views and vistas as a result of the introduction of large industrial structures and tall chimney stacks, with potential night lighting. Consider the frequent movement of lorries and other large delivery vehicles which transport the material for fuel.

Direct landscape impacts on the site

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA). Effects on the special qualities and sensitivities of the landscape within the site, considering the landscape value the site provides to NT properties and to their setting.

Analysis to be based on desk study, baseline assessment of site, field study and photography.

Use existing documents including Statement of Significance, Management Plans and other landscape evidence including Landscape Character Assessment. Where relevant, consult landscape sensitivity/capacity studies to advise on the suitability of a selected site (while noting that they should only be used as a guide).

Indirect impacts on the landscape character of the surrounding area and setting to National Trust property

Effects on the character and quality of the surrounding landscape and of the value provided to NT properties and their setting. Analysis to be based on desk study, baseline assessment of the surrounding landscape, field study and photography.

Consideration of the significance of NT properties in proximity to the site and their contribution of surrounding landscape character to significance and vice versa.

Use existing documents including Statement of Significance, Management Plans and other landscape evidence including Landscape Character Assessment.

Direct impacts on views, daytime and nighttime

Effects on views, considering size/scale, geographical extent, and duration of the effect. Analysis to be based on desk study, ZTV, and may include photomontages of agreed viewpoints, field study and photography.

Effects on key views and designed vistas as identified by the NT, considering the contribution of the site and surrounding landscape to the setting of any NT properties.

Potential receptors to assess include; visitors/tourists to NT properties including those travelling on routes to/from NT properties, residential receptors living within or in proximity to NT properties, recreational receptors on long distance walking or cycling routes within or in proximity to NT properties.

Night-time visualisations may be provided in certain circumstances, for example in proximity to areas of dark night skies or where otherwise requested by the NT. Any potential lighting schemes should seek to minimise visual effects on nearby receptors.

Direct landscape impacts on the site

The initial site selection and layout should consider the capacity of the landscape to absorb biomass plant development, taking into account landscape scale and character. Selected sites should carefully consider proximity to sensitive landscapes, including from NT properties and settlements. Consideration should be given to the significance of the property, including key views and vistas, and the contribution of the setting to significance, as outlined in NT documents.

Minimise extent of disturbance to ground. Any new buildings or structures should be in character with the locality, using appropriate materials and colours.

Ensure good practice during construction and during the lifetime of the development (i.e. tidy site etc.). A landscape management plan or construction management plan should be developed jointly with an established landscape professional (and to be agreed on with relevant consultees, including NT, where necessary). The management plan should be in effect for the duration of the development.

Endeavour to minimise visibility of construction movement and daily operation lorry movement in the area surrounding the site and in proximity to NT properties. Any fencing or screening should fit with the character of the landscape and setting.

Ensure site restoration at the end of the construction period and upon decommissioning. Any landscape interventions should preserve the character of the site, in accordance with NT principles and associated Management Plans.

Indirect impacts on the landscape character of the surrounding area and setting to National Trust property

Ensure careful design of site layout and siting, considering impacts on views within, and in proximity to, the surrounding area and to the setting of NT properties. Where possible, screen large structures with vegetation or landform, minimising visibility within the surrounding landscape.

Minimise visibility within the surrounding area of the frequent vehicular movement associated with the plant, using vegetation or fencing in character with the setting.

Direct impacts on views, daytime and nighttime

Ensure careful design of site layout and siting, minimising impact on views to and from NT properties, and considering scale within the landscape.

Where possible, incorporate off-site screen planting in key locations to screen the plant and chimney stack, using species appropriate for the context.

Consider opportunities for landscape enhancements in-line with long term plans as defined by NT Management Plans.

Use appropriate colour coating for the plant and any vertical elements within.

Ensure site restoration upon decommissioning, considering any opportunities to enhance the site and surrounding landscape in character with the setting.

All impacts

For non – EIA development:

Appraisal of impact of proposal on landscape character and visual amenity.

For EIA developments:

LVIA chapter within Environmental Statement as set out in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Third Edition (GLVIA3). Assessment of impacts on visual receptors to be agreed in consultation with NT and relevant consultees. Key viewpoints to be agreed with Council, Natural England and Trust (where appropriate) at EIA Scoping stage.

Residential Visual Amenity Assessment (RVAA) where necessary – Assessment of impact from residential properties within 2km of development (to establish if infrastructure breaches ‘residential visual amenity threshold’).

Night-time lighting assessment where necessary (in addition to LVIA). Night time lighting to consider effect on overall character (e.g. in remote landscapes, dark sky reserves) as well as visual receptors.

Cumulative Landscape and Visual Amenity Assessment – assessment of additional cumulative effects that would arise when adding the Development to a baseline containing other existing large-scale developments (including wind and solar) or those that are the subject of a valid planning application within the 33 km search area (these equate to ‘Tier 1’ projects as set out in the Planning Inspectorate Advice Note 17).

Site selection and design chapter within Environmental Statement. Setting out the rationale behind the site selection, design objectives, the design evolution in response to different sensitivities and constraints, and any potential mitigation strategies.

‘Construction Method Statement’ and ‘Construction Environmental Management Plan’ (CEMP) which should include arrangements for implementation of various aspects of the works. The statement should also set out restoration of landscape earthworks, soils and surface vegetation e.g. alongside tracks, around borrow pits, and along cable routes once the construction phase is complete.

All impacts

Monitoring by Environmental Clerk of Works (ECoW) or other relevant landscape professionals to ensure restoration efforts are implemented as outlined in the CEMP. A landscape management plan should be agreed upon post-consent, providing further detail and guidance for the implementation and guidance of the CEMP. The landscape management plan should be in effect for the duration of the development, and appropriate monitoring is to be expected throughout along with any necessary remedial/additional works which will be identified and implemented.

Fencing to be maintained and in character with the surrounds. Signage to be clear and defined, particularly around any recreational assets and paths to be maintained. Any vegetation that is planted as part of the CEMP or other landscape management plan is to be monitored for health, and replaced where necessary.

Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (2013) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Third Edition.

Landscape Institute (2023) Notes and Clarifications on aspects of the 3rd Edition Guidelines on Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA3).

Landscape Institute (2019) Visual Representation of Development Proposals – Technical Guidance Note 06/19.

Countryside Council for Wales (2007) Guide to Good Practice on using the Registers of Landscapes of Historic Interest in Wales in the Planning and Development Process.

Direct impact of plant construction on loss/displacement of ecological receptors

Direct impact of plant construction on loss/displacement of ecological receptors (e.g. habitat loss and/or loss of plant or animal species, disturbance, fragmentation).

Indirect impacts of plant construction on ecological receptors

Indirect impacts of plant construction on ecological receptors (e.g. disturbance of habitats/species from impact of altered hydrological regime on wetland habitats etc.).

Direct and indirect impact of plant operation on ecological receptors

Direct and indirect impact of plant operation on ecological receptors (e.g. from noise, airborne and waterborne emissions).

Opportunities for habitat management and enhancement

Opportunities for habitat management and enhancement e.g. through the management and use of energy crops and source woodlands.

Direct impact of plant construction on loss/displacement of ecological receptors

The following should be prepared:

Phase 1 (or UK Habs) Habitat Survey and Data search.

Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) and Protected Species surveys (where recommended in PEA).

Habitat Regulations Assessment if European Wildlife Sites (SPAs, SACs) are impacted.

Indirect impacts of plant construction on ecological receptors

Should be covered in PEA (and HRA if required, see above).

Direct and indirect impact of plant operation on ecological receptors

Issues may relate to air or water pollution: should be covered in PEA ( and HRA if required, above).

Opportunities for habitat management and enhancement

Ecological Mitigation and Management Plan should be prepared.

Direct impact of plant construction on loss/displacement of ecological receptors

Avoid locating biomass plants or source crops in sensitive wildlife locations. Many potential impacts on local ecology can be mitigated through the careful design and layout of the biomass plant. Construction impacts can be minimised through the siting of plant and ancillary buildings away from sensitive habitats using buffer protection zones as necessary, restoration of habitat edges adjacent to
infrastructure, exclusion fencing and translocation programmes in construction areas. Species specific measures can also be applied to mitigate impacts, such as covering excavation works, provision of escape ramps for mammals, implementing speed limits onsite, protecting watercourses and maintaining hydrological regimes.

Impacts on bats can be mitigated by ensuring any vegetation and ground clearance works are undertaken outside the breeding season (May-August).

CEMP should contain mitigation measures.

Restore habitat edges adjacent to infrastructure.

Contain works to minimise disturbance footprint.

Erect exclusion fencing and implement translocation programme in construction areas.

Species specific mitigation measures (e.g. cover excavation works or provide escape ramps for mammals, implement of speed limits onsite, avoid in-stream works during fish spawning season etc).

Indirect impacts of plant construction on ecological receptors

CEMP measures.

Protect water quality and quantity (e.g. prevention of pollution and sedimentation).

Maintain hydrological regimes.

Protect habitats used for foraging and shelter by fauna.

Direct and indirect impact of plant operation on ecological receptors

Pollution control measures.

Sources of biofuel (energy crops, wood, stemwood) should not outweigh expense to land of existing wildlife value. For woody materials the land criteria could be met by sourcing materials produced using the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certificate scheme, Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) certification scheme, the Sustainable Biomass Program (SBP) or by bespoke evidence compiled by the generator.

For non-woody materials the feedstock must not have been sourced from several types of land that have high conservation or carbon stock value (e.g., land that was primary forest any time after 2008).

Applications for the planting of short rotation coppice and short rotation forestry are subject to the Environmental Impact Assessment (Forestry) Regulations 1999. These regulations require anyone carrying out a project involving afforestation above certain thresholds (see below) to obtain consent from the Forestry Commission before work can proceed:
– No threshold (i.e. EIA automatically required): National Nature Reserve, Site of Special Scientific Interest, The Broads, Special Areas of Conservation (designated or identified as a candidate), a site classified or proposed as a Special Protection Area.
– hectares: National Park, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB),
National Scenic Area.
– 5 hectares: Other land

Opportunities for habitat management and enhancement

Maximise use of local sources of woodfuel by bringing existing woodlands back into use. And extending area of semi-natural woodland.

Direct impact of plant construction on loss/displacement of ecological receptors

For non EIA development:

Preliminary Ecological Appraisal.

For EIA Development:

An Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) should be prepared, either alone or as part of the Ecology Chapter of an ES. Details of methodology and results of any protected species surveys and data search should also be prepared.

Further documents include:
– Biodiversity Net Gain report (England) or Net Biodiversity Benefit report (Wales).
-HRA (if required).

Indirect impacts of plant construction on ecological receptors

CEMP

Direct and indirect impact of plant operation on ecological receptors

EcIA.

Opportunities for habitat management and enhancement

Ecological Mitigation and Management Plan

All impacts

Ecological Monitoring Strategy.

RSPB (2021) Biomass Briefing.

Welsh Government (2009) Technical Advice Note 5: Nature Conservation and Planning.

Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Cmnd 6465).

EC Council Directive on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (92/43/EEC) .

Berne Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats.

Disturbance to breeding birds due to construction activity

Disturbance to breeding birds due to construction activity.

Direct habitat loss due to biomass plant footprint

Direct habitat loss due to biomass plant footprint.

All impacts

See ecology above

Disturbance to breeding birds due to construction activity

Impacts on birds and bats can be mitigated by ensuring any vegetation and ground clearance works are undertaken outside the breeding season (March-August) in combination with habitat re-creation elsewhere within the development site.

Monitor works during breeding season by Environmental Clerk of Works.

Direct habitat loss due to biomass plant footprint

Undertake habitat re-creation elsewhere within the development site.
Maximise use of local sources of woodfuel by bringing existing woodlands back into use. And extend area of semi-natural woodland. Energy crops such as willow and poplar can be valuable for birds.

All impacts

See ecology above

All impacts

See ecology above

CIEEM (2018) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland.

CIEEM (2018) Guidelines for Preliminary Ecological Appraisal.

UK Habitat Classification System.

DEFRA (2023) Collection of Documents regarding Biodiversity Net Gain in England.

CIEEM (2022) Welsh Government’s Approach to Net Benefits for Biodiversity and the DECCA Framework in the Terrestrial Planning System.

Welsh Government (2023) Targeted policy changes to Planning Policy Wales on net benefit biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

International Journal of Avian Science https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1474-919X.2006.00522.x
Centre for Ecology and Hydrology https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/2479/1/PosterBellamybirds&biomass.pdf
British Trust for Ornithology https://www.bto.org/sites/default/files/shared_documents/publications/research-reports/2009/rr533.pdf

Risk to local watercourses/ groundwater from operational procedures

Risk to local watercourses/ groundwater from operational procedures (e.g. pollution from treated boiler drainings, condensate and effluent from water treatment and cooling processes).

Harm to the significance of assets arising from change in their setting

Harm (negative impact) to the significance of assets arising from change in their setting (e.g. interruption of visual, functional, symbolic or historic relationships; effects as a consequence of noise, vibration).

NB. Effects as a consequence of setting change are direct, as they directly affect the heritage significance of the asset.

Harm to historic landscape character

Harm to historic landscape character.

All impacts

Understanding of significance of assets potentially affected is vital prior to determining impacts/potential impacts. Historic environment desk-based assessment (HEA), in line with associated CIfA Standard and Guidance, informing ES chapter or as a standalone supporting document for the application (non-EIA cases) or other appropriate document (e.g. in Wales a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) following associated Cadw guidance is to be produced in the scenario that the application directly affects (i.e. is in) a historic asset).

HEA/HIA to include walkover survey of construction footprint and micrositing allowance, and prospection for assets potentially affected within the redline boundary. Designated assets to be assessed for sensitivity to the proposed change within the ZTV, along with non-designated assets of high importance. The potential for views of the development in combination with assets also need to be considered with the assistance of the ZTV.
Depending on the nature and location of the site, local authority archaeologists may require pre-consent evaluation field work (non-intrusive such as geophysical survey or intrusive trial trenches) to fully understand significance of assets subject to potential direct physical effects, fulfil information requirements for determination and provide the basis for an appropriate mitigation strategy (including redesign of proposals where assets are to be preserved in situ). This work is to be undertaken in line with relevant guidance (e.g. CIfA, HE).

Assessment methodology is to be in line with 2021 ‘Principles of Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment in the UK’, as industry-standard guidance developed and promoted by the relevant professional institutes for the historic environment and EIS. It is to meet relevant Historic England or Cadw guidance. Assessment of heritage significance should be transparently articulated (i.e. in line with Historic England or Cadw ‘Conservation Principles’, or equivalent heritage values set out in national planning polices (e.g. NPPF)). The assessment is to use a transparent articulation of impacts and effects, making it clear what effects are significant effects in EIA terms and why, to enable consistent judgement across topics. In England, these are to be expressed in terms of whether and what level of harm arises so the tests in NPPF can be applied by the decision maker.

Clear evidence of the design process and solutions explored to avoid/minimise effects are to be provided in the ES and DAS.

All impacts

Design biomass plants and associated infrastructure (such as storage, fuel extraction areas, flues, connecting pipework, expansion tank etc.) to avoid physical impacts on identified heritage assets. Layout are to be informed by the use of ZTVs and appropriate visualisations (wireframes, and photomontages for the final ES) to enable design to minimise effects to heritage assets arising from change in their setting.

Where assessment suggests that archaeological potential is high, mitigation strategy is to be informed by field evaluation – geophysical survey (where ground/tide conditions allow and such survey is warranted by the level of likely archaeological potential) and/or trial trenching, in line with an approved WSI.

Where physical impacts to non-designated assets cannot be avoided, preservation by record can be acceptable, but must be undertaken in line with a Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI), approved by the LPA archaeological adviser, and by appropriately qualified and accredited archaeological professionals. The programme of fieldwork is to be secured by condition, and the necessary funding from the developer for analysis of excavation outcomes, analysis of environmental samples, finds etc., deposition of archive material and processed finds, and publication in a periodical commensurate with the significance of the evidence recovered, must be secured by legal agreement.

Mitigation through screening and/or surface treatment measures may be possible for effects due to setting change and historic landscape issues. Such measures are to ensure that they are well-blended into the landscape grain and character so as not to introduce a different kind of harm than that which they seek to address (e.g. uncharacteristic woodland planting/species).

All impacts

For non EIA development:

Input on effects to historic assets prepared by historic environment specialist in Design and Access Statement.

Appropriate historic environment reports explaining baseline and effects to assets (e.g. HEA (incl. setting assessment), geophysical survey report, trial trenching report, geoarchaeological assessment, historic buildings assessment, HIA, WSI).

For EIA development:

– Input on effects to historic assets prepared by historic environment specialist in Design and Access Statement.

– ES Historic Environment chapter.

– Appropriate supporting technical appendices (e.g. HEA (incl. setting assessment), geophysical survey report, trial trenching report, geoarchaeological assessment, historic buildings assessment, HIA, WSI).

All impacts

Monitoring by relevant curatorial authority (e.g. LPA archaeological advisor, conservation officer; HE/Cadw officer, HED Division) to ensure agreed mitigation works are being undertaken in line with the approved WSI and archaeological excavation license if required (for works in Northern Ireland). This process may take several years where archaeological investigation is required as any specialist analyses and post-excavation works must be concluded before reporting can be completed and published, at which point the monitor certify that they have been completed in line with the WSI.

National Planning Policy / Planning Practice Guidance; National Policy Statement for Renewable Energy (EN-3) – NB. NPS form the policy framework for NSIP renewables.

CIfA (2020; 2014) Standard and guidance for historic environment desk-based assessment.

IEMA, IHBC & CIfA (2021) Principles of Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment in the UK.

Historic England (2017) Managing Significance in Decision-Taking in the Historic Environment: Historic Environment Good Practice Advice in Planning: 2.

Historic England (2021) Commercial Renewable Energy Development and the Historic Environment in Planning Note 15.

Historic England (2017) The Setting of Heritage Assets: Historic Environment Good Practice Advice in Planning: 3 (2nd Edition).

Historic England (2008) Conservation Principles, Policies and Guidance for the Sustainable Management of the Historic Environment.

Cadw (2017) Heritage Impact Assessment in Wales.

Cadw, Countryside Council for Wales & ICOMOS (2007) Guide to Good Practice on Using the Register of Landscapes of Historic Interest in Wales in the Planning and Development Process Second Edition.

Cadw (2017) Setting of Historic Assets in Wales.

Welsh Government (2017) Technical Advice Note 24: The Historic Environment.

Department for Communities (2018) Guidance on Setting and the Historic Environment for Northern Ireland.

Department for Communities (2019) Guidance on making changes to Listed Buildings: Making a better application for listed building consent for Northern Ireland.

Department for Infrastructure (2019) Best Practice Guidance to PPS 23 ‘Assessing Enabling Development for the Conservation of Significant Places.

Department of the Environment (2009) Best Practice Guidance to Planning Policy Statement 18 ‘Renewable Energy’.

Risk to local watercourses/groundwater from operational procedures

Risk to local watercourses/ groundwater from operational procedures (e.g. pollution from treated boiler drainings, condensate and effluent from water treatment and cooling processes).

Risk to local watercourses/groundwater from storage of local wood chip piles

Risk to local watercourses/ groundwater from storage of large wood chip piles (e.g. leach of liquids from piles).

Potential flood risk posed by development

Potential flood risk posed by development.

Other risk to marine ecosystem where cooling systems also use seawater

Other risks to marine ecosystems where cooling systems also use seawater including impacts on coastal/marine biodiversity.

Increase in surface water runoff

Increase in surface water runoff as a result of development footprint.

All impacts

The following desk and field surveys may be required, where necessary:

Review of geology, hydrogeology and soil of the site and sub-catchment.

Identification of designated and protected areas within the drainage pathways of site.

Identification of watercourses within site and within a 300m radius of site, in addition to existing and potential watercourse crossings, artificial and/or natural drainage pathways.

Review of quality and condition of the watercourses within site and sub-catchments.

Review of flow characteristics of the catchments draining to/from site, as any reduction in baseflows or a change in the magnitude and frequency of flood peaks in the watercourses as a result of the development can be important issues with regards to flood risk, water supplies and aquatic ecology.

Identification of location and nature of public and PWS abstractions within site and sub-catchments, recognised by local authorities and statutory bodies.

Peat survey (where appropriate) to characterise the depth and variability of peat deposits across site.

Risk to local watercourses/groundwater from operational procedures

Implement good pollution prevention practices (use Natural Resources Wales guidelines as key guidance).

Risk to local watercourses/groundwater from storage of local wood chip piles

Incorporate collection dish around storage area to minimise runoff.

Potential flood risk posed by development

Minimise area of impermeable surface.

Reinstate vegetation where possible.

Provide storage and attenuation using Sustainable Drainage techniques (SuDs).

Use appropriate culverts and drains to match existing hydrological regimes.

Other risk to marine ecosystem where cooling systems also use seawater

Design of the cooling system should include intake and outfall locations that avoid or minimise adverse impacts.

Specific measures to minimise fish impingement and/or entrainment and the discharge of excessive heat to receiving waters.

Increase in surface water runoff

Incorporate attenuation ponds into the scheme design in line with Sustainable Drainage techniques (SuDs).

All impacts

For non EIA development:

Environmental Management Plan (e.g. including use of silt traps, buffer zones from watercourses etc. and water quality and flow monitoring plans.)

For EIA development:

A Geology, Hydrology and Hydrogeology Chapter will be required in the Environmental Statement.

Additional assessments that may be required to inform the Chapter include:

– Flood Consequences Assessment.
– Watercourse Crossing Assessment.
– Private Water Supply Assessment.
– Outline Drainage Strategy.
– Outline Pollution Prevention Management Plan.
– Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystem Assessment.
– Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).
– Water Framework Directive Assessment.
– Ground Water Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystem Assessment.
– Habitat Management Plan (See ecology section).

All impacts

There may be a need for water quality monitoring and groundwater monitoring post consent, with surveys and site assessments to make sure the conditions do not change too much over the lifetime of the project.

If a diversion or replacement of a PWS (public water supply) or pipework is required ongoing monitoring will be needed to ensure suitable continuation and quality of supply.

Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (2023) Draft NPS for Renewable Energy.

Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (2006) Flood Estimation Handbook CD-ROM V2.0.

UK Government (2021) Understanding effective flood and coastal erosion risk governance in England and Wales.

Welsh Government (2021) Technical Advice Note 15: Development, Flood Risk and Coastal Erosion.

CIRIA (2002) Control of Water Pollution from Construction Sites – Guide to Good Practice on Site.

Increase in noise levels at nearby sensitive receptors during construction

Increase in noise levels at nearby sensitive receptors during construction (e.g. from construction activity).

Increase in noise levels at nearby sensitive receptors during operation

Increase in noise levels at nearby sensitive receptors during operation (e.g. from deliveries, including loading and unloading, and plant operation – the gas and steam turbines that operate continuously during normal operation and the external noise sources such as externally-sited air-cooled condensers that operate continuously during normal operation).

All impacts

An assessment of construction noise should be undertaken in accordance with British Standard (BS 5228-1) which provides guidance on a range of considerations relating to construction noise including the legislative framework, general control measures, example methods for estimating construction noise levels and example criteria which may be considered when assessing the significance of any effects. Similarly, part 2 (BS 5228-2) provides general guidance on legislation, prediction, control and assessment criteria for construction vibration.

Operational noise should be assessed in accordance with ETSU-R-97. Good practice in the application of the ETSU-R-97 methodology is set out in Institute of Acoustics Good Practice Guide to the Application of ETSU-R-97 (IOA GPG).

Increase in noise levels at nearby sensitive receptors during construction

Restrict working hours during construction.

Adopt good practice measures for reducing noise in line with British Standards guidance (i.e. BS 4142 Method for Rating Industrial Noise Affecting Mixed Residential and Industrial Areas).

Increase in noise levels at nearby sensitive receptors during operation

Ensure appropriate site layout design and siting of particularly noisy pieces of plant such as the air cooled condenser (e.g. located away from sensitive site boundaries).

Incorporate noise attenuation features (e.g. within roof and walls and, in particular, from gas turbine exhausts) to reduce noise break-out.

All impacts

For EIA Development:

A noise and vibration chapter would be included within an ES and set out if the development accords with the relevance guidance. Additionally, a Noise Impact Risk Assessment and Noise Management Plan may be required.

All impacts

It is likely that any proposed development that is granted planning permission will have noise conditions attached to the consent. Operational noise monitoring is required if there are any complaints received by the operator directly or the relevant local planning authority.

Welsh Government (1997) Technical Advice Note 11: Noise.

The British Standards (2014) Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and Open Sites, Part 1 Noise and Part 2 Vibration.

DCLG (2004) Planning for Waste Management Facilities: A Research Study.

Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (2023) Draft NPS for Renewable Energy.

Emissions from construction and operation vehicles

Emissions from construction and operation vehicles (e.g. dust generation during loading and unloading operations).

Stack emissions from operational procedures

Stack emissions from operational procedures (e.g. nitrogen and sulphurous oxides and Non-Methyl Volatile Organic Compounds and carbon dioxide emissions from biomass fuel combustion).

Odour devising from sources of biomass fuels

Odour deriving from sources of biomass fuels (agri residues and waste).

CO2 emissions from wood fuel burning

CO2 emissions from wood fuel burning.

Particulate emissions from operational procedures

Particulate emissions (e.g. ‘fly ash’) from operational procedures

Emissions from construction and operation vehicles

Air Quality Assessment and Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).

Stack emissions from operational procedures

Applicant’s Environmental Statement should include an assessment of the air emissions resulting from the proposed infrastructure and demonstrate compliance with the relevant regulations.

Odour devising from sources of biomass fuels

Applicant’s Environmental Statement should include an assessment of the air emissions resulting from the proposed infrastructure and demonstrate compliance with the relevant regulations.

CO2 emissions from wood fuel burning

Air Quality Assessment

Particulate emissions from operational procedures

Air Quality Assessment

Emissions from construction and operation vehicles

Switch off engines when not in use.

Minimise delivery movements.

Implement best practice dust mitigation measures (e.g. Ensuring appropriate transport of materials, enclosure of stockpiles, restriction of vehicle speeds on site, use of wheel wash facilities etc.).

Stack emissions from operational procedures

Incorporate proprietary air pollution control systems into scheme design.

Odour devising from sources of biomass fuels

Avoid the retention of large volumes of agricultural and municipal waste on-site (although this is likely to result in an increase in HGV deliveries loading/unloading fuel sources).

Alternatively, the use of chemical deodorants in storage areas can reduce external odours.

CO2 emissions from wood fuel burning

Appropriately designed flues incorporating proprietary air pollution control systems

Particulate emissions from operational procedures

Incorporate techniques such as cylone separation or electrostatic precipitation in the flue.

Include such mitigation measures in Environmental Statement

All impacts

For EIA Development:

An air quality assessment may take the form of a scoping report, a screening assessment or a detailed air quality impact assessment, presented as either a standalone report or as a technical chapter within an ES.

Further documents include:

– Air Quality Positive plan
– Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP)

For Carbon Capture Storage facilities with Biomass plants, the Environmental Statement should reflect the latest evidence on the air quality impacts of carbon capture using amine-based solvents.

All impacts

Monitoring against Air Quality Positive or other plans specified to curb air quality impacts.

Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (2023) Draft NPS for Renewable Energy.

DCLG (2004) Planning for Renewable Energy: A Companion Guide to PPS22.

DCLG (2004) Planning for Waste Management Facilities: A Research Study.

Increase in vehicle movements to and from the site during construction and operation (e.g. transport of biomass fuel by-products) for continuous fuel supply.

A Transport and Traffic Impact Assessment should be prepared.

Prepare Traffic Management Plan in conjunction with local transport authority to determine most appropriate times and routes for HGV traffic and include measures for vehicle sharing, avoidance of HGV deliveries during peak periods etc.

Introduce temporary traffic management systems for site access (e.g. use of temporary traffic signals).

Reduce speed limits on all identified routes.

Government policy encourages multi-modal transport and the Secretary of State should expect materials (fuel and residues) to be transported by water or rail routes where possible.

For EIA development:

An Access, Traffic and Transport chapter within the ES would be required. This would typically include a Transport assessment (TA) as an appendix.

Additional documents that may be needed include:
– Traffic Management Plan
– Abnormal Load Management Plans

Site entrance roads should be well maintained and monitored during the operational life of the proposed development.

Regular maintenance would be undertaken to keep the site access track drainage systems operational and ensure there are no run-off issues into the public road networks.

Adherence to the Traffic Management or Abnormal Load Management Plans.

Institute of Environmental Assessment (1993) Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic.

The Highways Agency (2006) Design Manual for Roads and Bridge.

Institution of Highways and Transportation (1994) Guidelines for Traffic Impact Assessment.

The Highways Agency (2006) Design Manual for Roads and Bridge.

Welsh Government (2017) Transport Appraisal Guidance (WelTAG).

Strategic Traffic Management Plan (STMP).

Welsh Government (2020) Pulling Together, Best Practice for Transporting Abnormal Loads in Wales.

Disruption to and/or loss of public footpaths

Disruption to and/or loss of public footpaths.

Long-term income for farmers, forestry owners and transport operators

Long-term income for farmers, forestry owners and transport operators through supply of biomass fuel.

Disruption to and/or loss of public footpaths

Outdoor access management plan may be needed.

Long-term income for farmers, forestry owners and transport operators

Stakeholder engagement may be necessary.

Disruption to and/or loss of public footpaths

Avoid closure or re-routing of Public Rights of Way wherever possible.

Long-term income for farmers, forestry owners and transport operators

Encourage use of local sources of biomass supply (spreads economic gains from supply chain across the local region as well as lessening carbon profile of the supply chain of biomass inputs).

All impacts

For Non EIA development:

– Recreation and Access Management Plan
– Application to divert or extinguish public right of way (if relevant).

For EIA development:

A socio-economics chapter of an ES could be prepared if required. These are often included as standalone reports separate from the ES.

All impacts

It is not anticipated that monitoring measures would be required to address any socio-economic impacts.

Welsh Government (2005)Technical Advice Note 8: Planning for Renewable Energy.

Welsh Government (2016) Guidance for Local Authorities on Public Rights of Way.

Generating stations that burn waste produce two types of residues: combustion residue and fly ash.

Assessment should include the production and disposal of residues as part of an ES.

Recovery of secondary products e.g. aggregate or fertiliser, rather than disposal to landfill.

For EIA development:

Assessment should include the production and disposal of residues as part of an ES.

Local Planning Authority Enforcement team to undertake any necessary monitoring.

Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (2023) Draft NPS for Renewable Energy.

Insect and vermin infestation may be a particular issue with regard to storage of fuels for EfW generating stations. Odour is also likely to arise.

Assessment of waste combustion generating station should be undertaken to show conformity with the waste hierarchy.

Assessment of the potential for insect infestation and emissions of odour with particular regard to the handling and storage of waste for fuel.

Reception, storage and handling of waste and residues should be carried out within defined areas within enclosed buildings at EfW generation stations.

The time between reception, processing and combustion of waste should be limited.

None likely.

Likely to be needed to be undertaken by Local Planning Authority Enforcement Team and/or Environmental Protection Team.

Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (2023) Draft NPS for Renewable Energy.

Environmental impact of growing biomass crops such as short rotation coppice, miscanthus etc.

Adhere to Defra’s Sustainable Farming Incentive Scheme and produce a Soil Management Plan.

An Environmental Screening Report may also be required.

Prepare a Soil Management Plan.

An Environmental Screening Report will be required if there is a change in rural land. A Biodiversity Assessment and Archaeology Assessment may also be required.

Environmental Impact Assessment (Agriculture) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007.

Defra and Natural England (2023) EIA (Agriculture) regulations: apply to make changes to rural land.

Defra (2023) Sustainable Farming Incentive Handbook.

Wildlife and Countryside Link (2007) Bioenergy: Environmental Impact and Best Practice.

Forestry Commission (2002) Establishment and Management of Short Rotation Coppice.

Forestry Commission (2003a) England Forestry Forum: Biodiversity Working Group Final Report.

Forestry Commission (2003b) Forests and water guidelines.

Forestry Commission (2006) The Environmental Impacts of Woodfuel.

British Biogen (1996) Short Rotation Coppice for Energy Production. Good Practice Guidelines.

British Biogen (1999) Wood Fuel from Forestry and Arboriculture: the development of a sustainable energy production industry – Good Practice Guidelines.