Beauly Mossford 132kV
Transmission Line Replacement
Environmental Statement
- Non Technical Summary
January 2012
SCOTTISH HYDRO ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION LIMITED
Beauly Mossford 132kV Transmission Line Replacement
Environmental Statement
Non-Technical Summary
NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
1
INTRODUCTION
1.1.1
This Non-Technical Summary (NTS) provides a summary of the information
presented in the Beauly Mossford Environmental Statement (ES), in respect of the
effects on the environment of the proposed Beauly to Mossford replacement 132kV
overhead line. Where possible, non-technical information is used in this chapter.
1.1.2
The proposed project comprises the construction, installation and operation of a
replacement 132kV double circuit high voltage overhead electricity transmission line,
between Corriemoillie, west of Garve and Dunmore, to the north-west of Beauly. In
addition the project includes the dismantling of the two existing single circuit 132kV
overhead lines that run between Mossford and Beauly. Figure NTS1 illustrates the
route of the replacement overhead line.
1.1.3
The project also includes proposed stone access tracks to facilitate construction and
some sections of lower voltage line diversions that are required in order to meet the
requisite safety clearances between overhead lines and a replacement connection
with the existing Loch Luichart substation.
1.1.4
The ES has set out the detail of the need for the project and its characteristics. The
ES has considered effects on the land-based environment, encompassing the soils
and geology; hydrology and hydrogeology; terrestrial ecology and nature
conservation; ornithology; forestry; agricultural and sporting land use; cultural
heritage and archaeology; landscape character; visual amenity; access and
recreation; construction traffic and transport; carbon budget; other physical effects
(including noise and air quality); and planning and committed development.
Cumulative effects on the natural environment and on the people of the area have
also been considered.
1.1.5
Assessments have been undertaken in accordance with best practice and approved
methodologies and this information is set out within each technical chapter of the
ES.
Consultations with the relevant statutory organisations and others are
referenced. Supporting information is included in Appendices to the ES, with plans
and figures illustrating the findings of the assessments, also provided.
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2
THE PROJECT AND PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS
2.1
Project need
2.1.1
The project is required in order to meet the increased demand by renewable energy
generation projects in the Strathconon and Mossford areas to connect to the
electricity transmission network. This is in accordance with the wider UK and
Scottish Government objectives to provide significant proportions of its energy use
from renewable sources.
2.1.2
The existing transmission infrastructure serving the Mossford area, from Beauly, was
constructed in the 1950s to serve a rural area, with low demand for electricity, and
to connect the hydro-electric schemes present in this area to the north of Scotland
load centres. The capacity of the existing overhead lines allows the connection of
around 140MW of generation; SHETL now requires to connect over 250MW of
generation to the transmission network.
2.1.3
The replacement of the existing transmission infrastructure between Beauly and
Mossford is therefore required to remove constraints and to enable further
connections to the transmission system.
2.2
Project characteristics
2.2.1
The proposed project includes the construction / installation and operation of a
double circuit 132kV overhead transmission line, on 97 towers, extending over a
length of some 26km between Corriemoillie, to the north of Loch Luichart and
Dunmore, north-west of Beauly. The lattice steel towers would be an average of
30.6m in height. Figure NTS2 provides illustrations of the existing and proposed
lattice steel towers.
2.2.2
The project also requires the dismantling of the two existing single circuit 132kV
overhead lines that run within this area. Much of the replacement line follows the
same, or a similar alignment to one or other of the existing overhead lines, though
with taller towers. Some new access tracks would be required as part of the
construction process and these would remain as permanent features. In addition,
some existing 33kV and 11kV overhead distribution lines would require to be
diverted, where these conflict with the replacement overhead line. These diversions
would occur in the Scatwell / Comrie, Loch Achonachie (southern end) and Orrinside
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Non-Technical Summary
areas of the project. At Loch Luichart, a replacement connection would be provided
to the substation, including three new wood poles in the vicinity of tower BM39.
2.2.3
The starting point for the project is the consented substation at Corriemoillie, to the
north of Loch Luichart and west of Garve. The replacement overhead line would run
generally east and south to a cable termination compound at Dunmore, to the north
west of Beauly, which is to be constructed as part of the wirescape mitigation
measures that form a commitment of the Beauly Denny 400kV overhead line.
2.2.4
Tower spacings would vary depending on topography and the need to span changes
in elevation or features such as river crossings. Towers would generally be spaced at
between 200m and 350m, though in places towers may require to be closer together
(for instance at Auchmore) or further apart (at the Conon Falls and Carn Faire nan
Con areas).
2.2.5
No borrow pits would be required for this project; stone required for the
construction of new or upgrading of existing access tracks would be imported to the
site.
2.2.6
Construction works are anticipated as commencing in early 2013, with completion in
late 2014 and reinstatement works finalised in 2015. A Construction Environmental
Management Document would be produced to control details of working methods
and method statements.
3
GEOLOGY AND SOILS
3.1.1
The assessment of effects on geology and soils has considered the construction,
dismantling and operational stages of the proposed project. The baseline geology
and soils position has been defined through identification of the broad geological
and soils characteristics for the route of the replacement overhead line. Peat
stability issues have also been considered.
3.1.2
The potential impacts of the proposed project on geology and soils, peat stability
and contaminated land have been identified and mitigation measures developed to
avoid, reduce or offset these effects. The residual impacts of the proposed project
on these aspects, following mitigation, were then assessed.
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3.1.3
The proposed overhead line route would result in the disturbance of small areas of
peatland (most notably around proposed tower BM4) during tower and access track
construction, which cannot be fully mitigated. Residual effects on the peat resource
are assessed as negligible to minor adverse.
3.1.4
Once the construction phase has been completed, there would be no discernable
operational effects associated with the soils and geology in the vicinity of the
replacement overhead line.
4
HYDROLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY
4.1.1
The assessment of effects on hydrology and hydrogeology has primarily considered
the construction phase, as the operation of the replacement overhead line is not
anticipated as giving rise to any significant adverse effects.
4.1.2
The baseline hydrological and hydrogeological conditions have been assessed and
described following desk and site survey work (the latter focussed on locations
where construction access tracks would require to cross existing watercourses). The
sensitivity of each watercourse, together with relevant ecological data, has been
assessed and detailed hydrological data obtained for the key catchments and subcatchments through which the replacement overhead line would pass. Areas of
potential groundwater sensitivity and abstraction from ground or surface waters
were identified and information obtained in respect of private water supplies in the
local area.
4.1.3
This information was used to determine any potentially significant adverse impacts
on the hydrology and hydrogeology of the area. Methods of best practice have been
identified at the construction and dismantling stage to prevent potential impacts
from the outset.
Where this is not possible, mitigation methods have been
recommended to reduce, remove or offset the impact. Any residual impacts which
would remain after these mitigation measures have been considered have been
identified.
4.1.4
The assessment of residual effects for the proposed overhead line on the hydrology
and hydrogeology of the area has identified that there may be some detectable
changes in water quality, although these are anticipated to be minor and temporary.
As such these would not be significant effects.
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5
TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY AND NATURE CONSERVATION
5.1.1
The assessment of effects on the terrestrial ecology and nature conservation
interests of the Beauly Mossford area has considered the construction, dismantling
and operational stages of the project. The baseline ecology and nature conservation
has been defined through identification of the broad characteristics of the study
area, together with detailed survey work within a corridor of up to 500m to either
side of the route of the replacement overhead line. The sensitivity of habitats and
species has been determined with reference to the quality and sensitivity of the
baseline features. Plant communities at more sensitive locations along the route
have been surveyed using the NVC (National Vegetation Classification) categories.
Surveys have also been carried out in respect of protected species that may be
present in the area.
5.1.2
The potential significant adverse impacts of the proposed project on terrestrial
ecology and nature conservation were identified and mitigation measures developed
to avoid, reduce or offset these. The residual impacts of the project, which would
remain after implementation of these mitigation measures, were also identified.
5.1.3
The assessment concluded that none of the residual effects of the proposed
development were considered to be of greater than minor significance, primarily due
to the net increase in habitat which would result from the replacement of two
overhead single circuit lines with one double circuit line.
5.1.4
Where minor residual effects have been recorded, these are primarily in association
with the construction or dismantling phase of the works, and when combined with
the largely beneficial effects of the proposals during the operational phase, such
effects are considered to be balanced so as to have only negligible impacts in a worst
case scenario.
5.1.5
The single, major adverse impact of the proposals on terrestrial ecology, prior to the
implementation of any mitigation is on badger, through the substantial disturbance
to and potential loss of a main sett along the route during the construction phase.
This will be mitigated through the retention of the sett, using careful working
methods, if possible, or through the creation of a replacement sett prior to the
exclusion and demolition of the existing sett, if retention is not possible. Mitigation
will therefore ensure that no badgers are harmed by the construction works and the
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residual impact is therefore reduced to minor adverse.
This species is not
considered to be of conservation importance in terms of population numbers, and
therefore the residual minor adverse impact resulting from the disturbance of the
sett is likely to be readily absorbed by the local population in the long term and is
not considered to be significant, in the context of the local badger population.
5.1.6
Overall it is considered that all of the effects of the proposed development can be
readily mitigated to ensure that the impact on terrestrial ecology is minimised.
6
ORNITHOLOGY
6.1.1
The assessment of effects on the ornithological interests of the Beauly Mossford
area has focussed on the construction, dismantling and operational effects on the
key avian receptors (birds of conservation concern and their supporting habitats).
Particular consideration has been given to the potential impacts on bird species
which are of conservation concern and which are considered vulnerable to adverse
impacts from overhead lines.
6.1.2
The assessment has been undertaken as a combination of desk study and extensive
field surveys of the ornithology of the study area, the findings of which are set out in
the relevant chapter of the ES and in supporting figures and appendices.
6.1.3
Field surveys, completed between September 2010 and September 2011, can be
summarised as follows:
 Targeted bird flight activity survey of sections of the replacement overhead line
where the route deviates from the existing overhead line from September 2010
to September 2011;
 Winter woodland bird survey including all potentially suitable habitats within c.
500m of the replacement overhead line route, completed between October 2010
and February 2011; and
 Various breeding bird surveys including all potentially suitable habitats within c.
500-1000m of the replacement overhead line and associated access tracks
completed between March and July 2011.
6.1.4
The potential for the development to give rise to adverse impacts on nationally and
internationally designated areas in the vicinity of the replacement overhead line, has
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also been considered. In this regard the assessment has concluded that there would
be no potential for appreciable adverse impacts on the qualifying interests of any
designated site in the vicinity of the proposals. Therefore in relation to Natura sites
(i.e. Special Protection Areas) it has been concluded that there is no requirement to
undertake any assessment of the Beauly to Mossford proposals under Regulation 48
of the Habitats Regulations 1994.
6.1.5
The assessment concluded that there would be the potential for possibly significant
adverse impacts on breeding birds as a result of the construction and dismantling
operations. This would affect the following species: Red-throated diver, Wildfowl,
Red kite, Hen harrier, Goshawk, Golden eagle, Osprey, Peregrine, Black grouse,
Waders, Crossbill spp, and other passerines.
6.1.6
The risk of collision by birds with the replacement overhead line has also been
considered as part of the assessment. As this proposal is essentially a replacement
and upgrade of an existing section of transmission line, this would have the net
effect of replacing two sets of earth wires with a single set in essentially the same
location. The proposed towers would be taller than the existing ones (on average c.
7m taller but up to 13m in some instances) and the conductors and earth wire would
be larger in diameter than those on the existing overhead lines.
6.1.7
The replacement of the existing single circuit overhead lines with a double circuit
overhead line would significantly reduce the length of earth wires within the study
corridor. The earth wire is frequently cited as the most hazardous to birds in flight
for typical high voltage overhead line designs in the UK (see discussion above). The
diameter of the replacement conductors and earth wire would be greater than those
on the existing overhead line, which should increase the visibility of the wires to
birds in flight. However, the scale of the beneficial effect here is uncertain and may
be expected to be balanced against a reduction in overall visibility of a single line of
towers in comparison to two parallel overhead lines and the greater height of the
replacement line in comparison to the existing overhead lines.
6.1.8
There would be fewer watercourse crossings for the replacement overhead line in
comparison to the existing infrastructure.
The two existing 132kV lines cross
significant watercourses a total of six times (12 if each crossing is counted as two).
The replacement overhead line would cross a total of five watercourses. This has the
potential to reduce the hazard that the replacement overhead line presents to birds
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in fight. Flight activity, particularly by birds considered to be of greater susceptibility
to collision with overhead lines such as wildfowl, can be concentrated along
watercourses.
6.1.9
For the sections of the replacement overhead line that are built on a new alignment,
there would be a relatively short period (estimated to be not longer than 12 months)
when both the existing and replacement overhead lines would be in place
simultaneously (i.e. the overlap period before the existing line is fully dismantled).
The proposed and existing overhead lines run parallel for a relatively large
proportion of the length of the route, such that both sets of lines and towers would
be in the field of view of birds flying near to either overhead line. Consequently, this
is considered unlikely to increase the collision risk as the perceptibility of the
overhead lines together would be expected to be higher than where the lines are
separated by a greater distance. It is therefore concluded that on the basis that the
overlap period would be not more than 12 months, there would be no long-term
significant adverse impacts to any receptor as a result of the overlap period.
6.1.10 Operational phase impacts in terms of habitat loss are assessed as significant for Red
kite, only, in the long term, pre-mitigation.
The steel lattice towers of the
replacement overhead line would provide vantage points for raptors and corvids,
and thereby influencing predation risk for some breeding birds, particularly for
sections of the line passing over open moorland (e.g. potentially affecting breeding
waders and songbirds). However, given the replacement nature of this proposal,
and that the actual number of towers would be significantly reduced following
dismantling of the existing single circuit 132kV lines, the net effect is considered to
be beneficial for all relevant receptors (i.e. moorland songbirds and waders).
6.1.11 A range of mitigation measures have been proposed to address the potential
significant adverse construction and operation-related impacts on key avian
receptors. These include pre-construction surveys; felling of trees / vegetation
clearance in advance of the main breeding bird season, or alternatively felling only
after the completion of a breeding bird nest survey; the development of exclusion
zones from nest sites; and where possible, programming works to avoid starting
within the main breeding season.
6.1.12 In summary, with the implementation of the mitigation measures as proposed, the
residual impact of the construction and operation of the replacement overhead line
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is considered to be no greater than minor adverse and not significant for any avian
receptor.
7
FORESTRY
7.1.1
The assessment of effects on forestry has considered the potential significant
impacts of the proposed development on the commercial forestry and native
woodland areas between Beauly and Mossford.
7.1.2
The installation of new permanent access tracks in order to construct the
replacement overhead line is seen as a beneficial impact, where these are located
within areas of forestry. Similarly the releasing of land from redundant wayleaves
(as a result of the replacement line occupying one, rather than two corridors through
forested or native woodland areas) is also seen as a beneficial impact.
7.1.3
Significant adverse effects during the construction phase would relate to the felling
of native Scots pine (Garve Hill 1); the felling of broadleaves (Garve Hill 3, Scatwell
Estate 1, 3 & 4, Strathconon Plantation, Loch Achonachie, Tower Mains, 2 Orrinside,
Balno Farm, The Knoll); the felling of productive crops (Scatwell Estate 1,
Strathconon Plantation, Rheindown Forest); windblow (Strathconon Plantation,
Rheindown Forest); deer fence disruption (Loch Achonachie); and the clearance of
young crops (Rheindown Forest).
7.1.4
Significant adverse effects of the operational phase of the development are more
limited and relate to the sterilisation of productive areas (Strathconon Plantation,
Rheindown Forest); the sterilisation of non-productive areas (Garve Hill 3, Scatwell
Estate 1, 3 & 4, Loch Achonachie, Tower Mains, 2 Orrinside, Balno Farm); and the
loss of native woodland sites (Scatwell Estate 1, Loch Achonachie, Balno Farm).
7.1.5
Mitigation measures are proposed to prevent or offset significant adverse effects.
Nevertheless some significant adverse residual effects would remain; these
comprise: felling of broadleaves, felling of productive crop, windblow, sterilisation of
non-productive land, and sterilisation of productive land; and loss of native
woodland sites across several woodlands.
7.1.6
The felling of broadleaves (and the associated sterilisation of non-productive areas
and loss of native woodland sites) is off-set over several sites by the recolonisation of
redundant wayleaves. Over the entire study area, 24.37ha of land is released from
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wayleaves, balanced against 10.71ha of productive land which would be sterilised
(and is recorded as a significant effect) and 12.44ha of non-productive land which
would be sterilised (and is recorded as a significant effect).
7.1.7
It is considered that the natural regeneration of redundant wayleaves would
compensate for the sterilised non-productive areas and, theoretically, the productive
areas, although for the latter the redundant wayleaves may be unsuitable for
compensatory planting for productive forestry. In addition the above figures are the
total areas of sterilisation and recolonisation and that there are individual sites that
do not benefit from the proposed mitigation.
8
AGRICULTURE AND SPORTING LAND USE
8.1.1
The assessment of effects on agriculture and sporting land use has considered the
potential impacts of the proposed development on 25 agricultural and sporting land
interests. Of these, four are Forestry Commission holdings and the remainder are
privately owned land holdings. Four smallholdings with no agricultural or sporting
interests were not considered within the assessment.
8.1.2
The majority of the land crossed by the replacement overhead line falls within Land
Capability classes 4, 5 and 6 (classes 5 and 6 being of low capability for agriculture),
reflecting the nature of the soil types and topography. Only a small amount of prime
agricultural land (Class 3.1) is present on the proposed route.
8.1.3
8.1.4
The net effect of the construction and dismantling operations is:

five fewer land interests affected;

two less towers on prime land occupying the same land area;

line length reduced by 0.43km over prime agricultural land;

78 fewer towers on non-prime land;

footprint on non-prime land reduced by 0.06ha; and

line length reduced by 25.39km over non-prime land.
This is considered to be of moderate beneficial significance when considered for the
scheme as a whole.
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8.1.5
The project would result in potential effects on agricultural and sporting activity in
relation to permanent land loss (replacement tower positions and permanent access
tracks), disruption from temporary land loss during construction and dismantling,
disruption to normal agricultural and sporting activities arising from the presence of
the construction teams, disruption to access during construction and dismantling,
potential damage to the agricultural capability of fields and soils from
construction/dismantling works and traffic, and disruption to existing field drainage
systems.
8.1.6
Mitigation has been developed to limit the effects of the construction and
dismantling of the overhead lines, as far as is practically possible. On completion of
the project, there would be no significant adverse residual effects on agriculture and
sporting interests. The mitigation measures relate to minimising the disruption to
land interests during the construction and dismantling process and during any
maintenance, post-construction.
They focus on: considerate construction;
maintenance of access to land; protection of soil, drainage and boundary feature
resources; protection of animal, crop and soil health; and compensation for
disruption.
8.1.7
There would be beneficial effects from the reduction in the number of overhead
lines present in this area. The assessment has identified that 92% of the land
interests would see a beneficial residual effect as a result of a reduction in overhead
line length and the presence of fewer towers within their land holdings.
9
ARCHAEOLOGY AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
9.1.1
The assessment of effects on the archaeological and cultural heritage interests of the
Beauly Mossford area has been undertaken as a combination of desk study and field
survey work. Effects have been considered in relation to the construction and
dismantling works, and the operational phase of the project, on the known and
unknown archaeological interest of the area. Following mitigation there would be
no significant adverse impacts on any such assets.
9.1.2
All construction impacts on known cultural heritage assets have been assessed as
being of minor or negligible significance, following mitigation. Mitigation is specific
to the impacts identified but, in general, would comprise a programme of
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archaeological works, marking out of known assets and micro-routeing of access
tracks / micro-siting of towers.
9.1.3
In addition, the potential for effects upon the setting of cultural heritage assets has
been considered. No significant adverse effects on the setting of cultural heritage
assets have been identified. Consequently, no mitigation is proposed in relation to
setting impacts.
9.1.4
It is considered that, following the implementation of the mitigation measures as
proposed, there would be no significant adverse residual impacts on the cultural
heritage resource of the area.
10
LANDSCAPE CHARACTER
10.1.1 The assessment of effects of the proposed development on the landscape character
of the area between Beauly and Mossford has considered the potential for adverse
effects on the landscape character and landscape resource, including designated
areas, on the landscape setting of cultural heritage features, and on the landscape of
recreation and tourism features present in the area.
10.1.2 The majority of significant adverse impacts on landscape character would occur
during the construction phase of the project and as such would be short term,
temporary effects. No mitigation is proposed in respect of these short term effects.
Mitigation is to some extent built into the routeing of the replacement overhead
line, in the first instance; in addition, careful tower positioning and consideration of
the heights of towers to be used has also been important in ensuring that potential
adverse effects on landscape character are minimised, as far as possible. Mitigation
is proposed in order to address identified significant adverse impacts in relation to
the presence of new permanent access tracks in two locations, on the hillsides to the
west of Garve, and to the south of Loch Achonachie; and to address impacts on the
landscape character of the Fairburn Garden and Designed Landscape (GDL).
10.1.3 There would be beneficial effects on the landscape character at the local level from
the reduction in the number of overhead lines and line towers present within the
area between Beauly and Mossford.
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10.1.4 One significant adverse residual impact would remain: on the landscape setting of
the Comrie township (cultural heritage asset) from the presence of the operational
replacement overhead line.
10.1.5 In the longer term, with the implementation of the mitigation measures proposed in
the ES, it is considered that residual effects on the overall landscape character of the
area would not be significant.
11
VISUAL AMENITY
11.1.1 An assessment of effects of the proposed development on the visual amenity of the
Beauly Mossford area has been undertaken. This has considered the extent to which
the construction, dismantling and operation of the replacement overhead line would
adversely affect the visual amenity of residential properties; users of roads and
rights of way, and other means of transportation; and users of formal and informal
areas of recreation, where these occur in the vicinity of the proposed development.
11.1.2 The majority of significant adverse effects on visual amenity relate to construction
effects arising from the presence of plant and machinery and the permanent new
access tracks required for construction of the replacement overhead line. These
would generally be short term and temporary effects.
11.1.3 There would be beneficial effects associated with the removal of two existing
overhead lines and their replacement with one double circuit overhead line, albeit
on taller towers.
11.1.4 Significant adverse impacts on visual amenity from the presence of the operational
replacement overhead line have been identified in respect of the following:
 moderate adverse effects on the visual amenity of the Corriemoillie Lodge
property (views from upper floor windows of tower BM7);
 moderate adverse effects on the visual setting of the Gorstan township, from the
presence of permanent access tracks (residual effects of minor adverse);
 moderate adverse effects on the visual setting of the Comrie township;
 moderate adverse effects on the visual setting of the Fairburn GDL; and
 moderate adverse effects on the visual amenity of users of the section of path
close to the terminal tower BM97.
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11.1.5 Mitigation to address significant adverse visual impacts relates to the mitigation
proposed in respect of landscape character.
11.1.6 In the longer term it is considered that, with the implementation of the mitigation
measures (landscape and visual) as proposed, impacts on visual amenity would
generally be reduced to below significant effects. Moderate adverse impacts would
remain in respect of the visual amenity of Corriemoillie Lodge (views from upper
storey windows) and effects on the visual setting of the Comrie township (cultural
heritage asset).
11.1.7 In general, the overall reduction in the number of line towers in the Beauly Mossford
area, with the reduction from two overhead lines, to one, would result in beneficial
impacts on the visual amenity of the Beauly Mossford area.
11.1.8 Figures NTS3 and NTS4 are two of the photomontages prepared for the Beauly
Mossford ES, and illustrate the proposed replacement overhead line in views from
the Little Scatwell and Corry of Ardnagrask areas of the route.
12
ACCESS AND RECREATION
12.1.1 The assessment of effects on access and recreation has considered the extent to
which the construction, dismantling and operation of the replacement overhead line
would adversely affect this aspect of the area. Consideration is also given to tourism
facilities present in the immediate vicinity of the replacement overhead line.
12.1.2 Significant adverse effects are identified for the construction and dismantling
operations, only; these would be short term, temporary effects on various paths and
rights of way in the vicinity of the proposed route, as follows:
 right of way HR48, in the area between Garve and the southern end of
Lochluichart;
 a path forming part of the wider access network to the south of Loch Achonachie
(between towers BM58 and BM59);
 two paths forming part of the wider access network in the vicinity of tower BM62
and at BM70-BM71;
 the general use of the area between Loch Achonachie and Achnasoul for informal
recreation;
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
a Core Path in the Corry of Arnagrask area; and

paths forming part of the wider access network at:
o
Achnasoul Wood;
o
Balno;
o
Auchmore;
o
on the east side of Cnoc Croit na Maoile;
o
leading north-west from Corrie Vannie; and
o
leading north-west from the local road at Dunmore / Ruilick.
12.1.3 No long term closures or diversions are proposed as part of the works, though
occasional closures of up to a day may be required in certain areas. Minor diversions
may be required where working areas at tower locations extend across paths or
tracks, in order to keep the path open.
SHETL would ensure that the local
communities are kept informed of the project timescales with appropriate notice
given, through press adverts, use of community notice boards and discussion with
the local community councils. If necessary, liaison will also be undertaken with any
organisations likely to be using the area for recreation.
12.1.4 Mitigation is proposed in order to reduce or remove these adverse effects and
includes measures to ensure that construction workers are aware of the likely
presence of walkers in specific areas and the implementation of speed limits for
construction vehicles, as well as signage to inform the public about the presence of
construction operations.
12.1.5 With the implementation of this mitigation, residual effects are identified as being
reduced to minor adverse or negligible. There would be no significant adverse
effects associated with the operation of the replacement overhead line.
12.1.6 The reduction in the number of overhead lines present in this area can be expected
to be of some, limited benefit to the use of the area for tourism and for access and
recreation, as can the upgrading of existing tracks and provision of new permanent
tracks associated with the construction of the replacement overhead line.
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Non-Technical Summary
13
TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION
13.1.1
The assessment of effects on traffic and transportation has focussed on the impacts
arising during the construction and dismantling phase of the project. Operational
effects on the local and trunk road networks are anticipated as negligible.
13.1.2
Consultations have been undertaken with The Highland Council and Transport
Scotland. In addition, surveys of the relevant transportation routes and access
points have been completed. The main potential constraints that would give rise to
adverse effects from construction traffic have been identified and mitigation
measures developed in order to remove or reduce the effects of these constraints.
13.1.3
The main impacts relate to the requirement for construction traffic to travel on the
single track roads that are a feature of much of the project area; limited visibility at
proposed access points, the requirement for construction traffic to cross an existing
railway line, the presence of structures with weight restrictions and the limited
number of passing places on the construction access routes. These are all matters
which will be mitigated.
13.1.4
Mitigation is proposed through the use of signage, edge strengthening, construction
of bellmouths, and video survey to ascertain the pre-construction status of the road
network, verge clearance and traffic management (where required), the
development of a method statement to define how access across the railway will be
obtained, the use of alternative routes for any abnormal loads, and enhancement of
signage where required.
13.1.5
With the implementation of the mitigation measures as proposed, the residual
impacts of the proposed development construction traffic on the traffic and
transportation aspects of the local area, are considered to be no greater than minor
adverse.
14
CARBON BUDGET AND SUSTAINABILITY
14.1.1
The development of wind farms in the Strathconon and Mossford areas of the
Highland region should contribute to a significant reduction in carbon emissions for
the duration of the transmission project life (anticipated as 80 years), acting as a
displacement for conventional fossil-derived energy systems.
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Environmental Statement
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14.1.2 In the short term, the construction, dismantling and installation of overhead line
infrastructure and embedded carbon associated with the proposed Beauly Mossford
replacement overhead transmission line, and its principal technologies, would result
in a net carbon source.
However, this would be offset by the generation of
renewable energy over the lifetime of the project and calculation of the carbon payback would ultimately substantiate the need for the project.
14.1.3 The ES has outlined the discernible practices associated with the construction of the
replacement overhead line and associated emissions from this.
A number of
assumptions were made in respect of the construction practices and these are set
out in the relevant chapter of the ES.
14.1.4 SHETL is committed to the reduction of resources in all of its activities and efficiency
and sustainability form part of the core values of the Company. In addition, the
procurement procedures used by SHETL require potential construction contractors
to be ‘scored’ in terms of the use of raw materials, energy efficiency, waste
minimisation and recycling, amongst others. This procedure would be followed for
the construction of the Beauly Mossford replacement overhead line.
14.1.5 The total estimated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions arising from the production of
materials for and associated activities of the Beauly Mossford replacement overhead
line is some 8145tCO2e. To provide some context for this figure, a 10MWe wind
farm (comprising 5 large turbines) would be capable of offsetting 14,000tCO2e per
annum through the offset of electricity generated by the UK electricity generation
mix.
14.1.6 The construction of the Beauly to Mossford replacement overhead line would
inevitably result in the emission of certain greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. It is
assumed that carbon sources such as production, transport and construction
emissions are unavoidable in providing the infrastructure to facilitate the
replacement overhead line, in support of the renewable energy and electricity
generation network. Such activities would also be performed efficiently to assist in
the control of carbon emissions.
14.1.7 A range of mitigation measures are proposed in order to minimise the emissions of
greenhouse gases during the construction of the replacement overhead line, relating
to the efficient operation of the project and sustainability generally.
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Beauly Mossford 132kV Transmission Line Replacement
Environmental Statement
Non-Technical Summary
15
PHYSICAL EFFECTS
15.1.1 The replacement overhead line has been assessed for potential significant adverse
effects on noise from construction and dismantling; operational noise; construction
air quality; and electric and magnetic fields (EMFs).
Construction noise
15.1.2 Construction noise level predictions have been presented as a worst case based
upon the construction of the overhead line and including the development of access
routes, and dismantling works. In practice the predicted worst case noise levels
would only occur for short periods of time relevant to key construction activities.
For the majority of the construction phase, noise levels at receptors would generally
be lower than those assessed.
15.1.3 The majority of the Beauly Mossford area comprises rural land with low levels of
ambient or background noise and this would increase the distances over which
construction noise would be audible.
This would not necessarily constitute a
significant impact, however.
15.1.4 The assessment identified that significant impacts for static source construction
noise in both rural and settlement areas are predicted to be few, although the
potential for disturbance in very quiet rural areas is fairly high, particularly for
receptors located within 100-200m of the activities with higher noise levels. Most
activities at distances greater than 300-400m from the nearest noise sensitive
receptors are unlikely to have the potential for disturbance, even in the quietest
areas.
15.1.5 Noise from vehicle movements on construction access tracks would only be distinct
during periods when there were no other construction activities in progress. This
would be more noticeable at locations close to the source of the noise, though this
would also depend on the existing background noise levels in any given area. Noise
sensitive receptors positioned close to the access tracks and nearer to the start of
the access tracks would be affected more frequently and over a longer period than
others.
15.1.6 Mitigation measures are proposed to address impacts of construction noise. These
will include general good practice in construction in order to keep noise emissions to
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Beauly Mossford 132kV Transmission Line Replacement
Environmental Statement
Non-Technical Summary
a minimum. Temporary screens or barriers will be erected as necessary to shield
particularly noisy activities and a number of potentially sensitive receptors are
identified as part of the assessment, in this regard. If any complaints are received in
relation to construction noise, these will be fully investigated and mitigation agreed
to keep construction noise within reasonable limits.
15.1.7 With the implementation of the various mitigation measures, the assessment has
predicted that noise levels would be reduced to within the recommended limits for
settlement and some rural areas. However, in rural areas with very low ambient
noise levels, it is likely that properties within 50m of construction activities and
within 100m of dismantling activities would incur noise levels above the
recommended limit of 55dB(A).
15.1.8 Therefore there are likely to be residual noise impacts at some locations at certain
times during the construction period, however these are likely to be limited to
periods of short duration within the contract period (usually less than a few weeks).
15.1.9 Whilst such residual impacts can be considered significant in terms of the absolute
predicted noise levels involved, in all cases these impacts would be temporary in
nature and are not predicted to be at a constant level for the duration of the
construction phases.
Operational noise
15.1.10 Noise is a phenomenon associated with operational overhead lines, both during
periods of heavy rain or fog, and also after a prolonged dry spell without rain to
wash accumulations of contamination from the conductors (wires). The level of
noise is proportional to the operating voltage of the transmission line.
15.1.11 The proposed reinforced overhead transmission line would operate at the same
voltage as the existing lines being replaced. No change is therefore expected to the
operational audible noise levels.
15.1.12 SHETL has sought to minimise acoustic effects by routeing the proposed 132kV
overhead transmission line, as far as it is feasible, away from residential properties.
In all cases, the proposed overhead transmission line is further from properties than
the closest existing overhead transmission line being replaced.
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Beauly Mossford 132kV Transmission Line Replacement
Environmental Statement
Non-Technical Summary
15.1.13 Noise levels experienced by receptors are predicted to be no higher than the existing
noise levels of the overhead line. Audible noise levels from the proposed line are
therefore unlikely to cause complaints under operational or normal weather
conditions.
Air quality
Construction effects
15.1.14 There is the potential for impacts from dust to occur during the construction phase;
however, this would be temporary in nature.
15.1.15 Specific mitigation measures are proposed to ensure that emissions from potential
sources of dust or particulates during construction and dismantling are kept to a
minimum.
These are general construction ‘good practice’ measures- their
employment would ensure that no significant dust impacts occur during this phase
of the project.
Operational effects
15.1.16 The impact on traffic flows on the local road network as a result of the operation of
the replacement overhead line would be negligible and therefore no assessment has
been made of vehicle exhaust emissions with regards to air quality.
Electric and magnetic fields
15.1.17 Electric and magnetic fields (EMFs), and the associated electromagnetic forces, are a
fundamental part of the physical world. Their sources are electric charges (source of
the electric field) and the movement of those charges (source of the magnetic field).
Electromagnetic forces are partly responsible for the cohesion of material
substances and they mediate all the processes of chemistry, including those of life
itself. EMFs occur naturally within the body in association with nerve and muscle
activity. People are also exposed to the natural magnetic field of the Earth (to which
a magnetic compass responds) and natural electric fields in the atmosphere.
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Beauly Mossford 132kV Transmission Line Replacement
Environmental Statement
Non-Technical Summary
15.1.18 In February 2011, the Department of Energy & Climate Change published a Voluntary
Code of Practice1 for reporting of EMF levels. This project complies with all elements
of the Code of Practice.
15.1.19 In addition, even at worst case conditions, it is not possible for the electric or
magnetic fields associated with the replacement overhead line to approach the basic
restriction levels set by the Health Protection Agency.
15.1.20 EMF levels from the replacement overhead line are predicted to be well below basic
restriction levels under any operational conditions.
16
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
16.1.1 The ES has provided an assessment of the planning policy context for the proposed
Beauly Mossford replacement overhead line, together with a review of committed
development.
16.1.2 The planning policy review has identified the various statutory Development Plans
(Structure Plan, adopted Local Plans, emerging Local Plans and supplementary
guidance) in addition to a wide range of national planning policies and relevant
supplementary guidance.
16.1.3 The project is driven by the requirement to replace the existing transmission
infrastructure in the Beauly Mossford area, in order to enable the connection of
consented and proposed renewable energy developments, to the grid transmission
network. The proposed development has been designed to minimise potentially
adverse environmental effects, through making use, wherever possible, of the
corridors of the existing overhead lines, with deviations from these in limited
locations to benefit the local population and the local environment.
16.1.4 The ES has considered the potential effects of the project on the environment and
on the people of the area between Beauly and Mossford. A detailed assessment of
these impacts is provided in the relevant technical chapters of the ES and is crossreferenced as appropriate within the Planning and Development chapter (chapter
19).
1
Power Lines: Demonstrating compliance with EMF public exposure guidelines. A Voluntary Code of Practice.
Department of Energy and Climate Change, February 2011.
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Beauly Mossford 132kV Transmission Line Replacement
Environmental Statement
Non-Technical Summary
16.1.5 A review of the proposed project in terms of committed development has been
undertaken. This largely relates to other SHETL projects located in the study area
and consented or proposed wind farm developments in the Corriemoillie and
Lochluichart areas. No other developments were identified that might be adversely
affected by the proposed Beauly Mossford development and no significant effects
were identified in relation to the committed developments, as identified.
16.1.6 The proposed Beauly Mossford replacement 132kV overhead line can be considered
to be in accordance with the relevant aspects of the development plan. There would
be only limited significant adverse impacts on the environment and on the people of
the area, as identified in the relevant chapters of the ES, and mitigation measures
are proposed to address any such significant impacts, the majority of which relate to
the construction and dismantling operations required for this project and, as such,
would be short term impacts.
17
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
17.1.1 There has been a detailed assessment of the potential for cumulative effects
associated with the Beauly Mossford project. This has considered, for each aspect of
the environment, the scope for cumulative effects associated with the various SHETL
projects and other committed development known to be proposed in this area. Of
particular concern in this regard is the proposed Western Isles Connection
underground HVDC cables, part of the route of which overlaps with the route of the
Beauly Mossford replacement overhead line.
17.1.2 The assessment of cumulative effects has also separately considered the extent to
which the Beauly Mossford project may, of itself, give rise to cumulative effects on
the natural environment and on the people of the area.
17.1.3 The assessment of cumulative effects has used, as its base, the identified residual
impacts of the replacement overhead line, post-mitigation, as these would be the
effects with the greatest potential for adverse cumulative impacts.
17.1.4 From the assessments undertaken, it can be concluded that there would only be
limited cumulative impacts associated with the development of the replacement
overhead transmission line between Beauly and Mossford.
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Beauly Mossford 132kV Transmission Line Replacement
Environmental Statement
Non-Technical Summary
17.1.5 The greatest scope for significant adverse cumulative impacts lies with the
development of the Western Isles Connection HVDC cables and converter station, as
much of the Beauly Mossford route overlaps with, or is in close proximity to the
route of the underground cables.
17.1.6 Mitigation measures have been developed in order to address potentially significant
adverse cumulative impacts associated with the hydrology, terrestrial ecology and
forestry aspects of the environment. With the implementation of these measures it
is anticipated that there would be no significant adverse cumulative effects on the
environment of the area.
17.1.7 There would be only limited areas within the project where construction operations
might be expected to give rise to significant adverse cumulative impacts on the
people and property of the area, and on the natural environment. Provided that
particular care is taken in these areas, to implement the mitigation measures as set
out elsewhere within the ES, it is considered that the scope for significant adverse
cumulative impacts would be minimised.
18
CONCLUSIONS
18.1.1 The assessment of effects of the proposed Beauly Mossford replacement overhead
line has considered the potential effects on the environment and on the people of
the area.
18.1.2 The majority of the significant adverse effects identified within the ES relate to the
construction phase of the development and as such, would generally be short term,
temporary effects (though the clearance of trees from the route of the replacement
overhead line, where this is on a new alignment, and the presence of new
construction access tracks, would be permanent effects).
18.1.3 Major adverse effects have been identified in relation to construction operations, as
follows:

Geology and soils – from the potential destabilisation of slopes and peat
resources.

Hydrology – from the potential sedimentation of watercourses; erosion and
scouring; access tracks acting as a conduit for surface water run off, leading to
increased sediment loading of downstream watercourses; potential impacts on
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Beauly Mossford 132kV Transmission Line Replacement
Environmental Statement
Non-Technical Summary
surface and groundwater quality; potential disruption to flows of watercourses;
potential impacts on private water supplies; and potential impacts on abstraction
points.

Terrestrial ecology – potential impacts on badger.

Forestry – from the felling of broadleaves at The Knoll; from the felling of
productive crop at Strathconon; from windblow at Strathconon and Rheindown.

Access and recreation – on the right of way HR48 between Garve and the
southern end of Loch Luichart; on paths near tower BM62 and BM70-BM71; on
the core path in the Corry of Ardnagrask area; and on the path forming part of
the wider access network on the east side of Cnoc Croit na Maoile.

Traffic and transportation – in respect of junctions used as locations for
construction access; and the crossing of the railway at Gorstan.

Construction noise – for properties located in close proximity (within 50-100m)
to the works and to construction access tracks, in quiet rural areas.

Construction air quality – for properties close to and downwind of the working
area.
With the implementation of mitigation measures as proposed, these would generally
be reduced to below significant residual effects. Any significant residual effects
would generally be short term, for the duration of the construction and dismantling
operations, only, though the loss of trees through felling would be a permanent
effect.
18.1.4 Moderate adverse effects of construction and dismantling have been identified in
respect of the following:

Geology and soils – from the permanent loss of superficial deposits / soils from
the construction operations; the potential increased erosion of soils following the
removal of vegetation cover; damage to non-designated areas of bedrock;
contamination of soils and impact on receptors through construction pollution
incidents; and impacts on off-site receptors through the mobilisation of
contaminants already present on site.

Terrestrial ecology – on areas of wet and mature broadleaved woodland; and
areas of standing water.
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
Ornithology – on breeding birds (Red kite, Hen harrier, Goshawk, Osprey,
Peregrine falcon, Black grouse, Crossbill spp and (construction only) other
passerines).

Forestry – from the clearance of young crop at Rheindown; felling of native Scots
pine at Garve Hill 1; felling of broadleaves at Garve Hill 3, Strathconon, Scatwell
Estate 1, 3 and 4, Loch Achonachie, Tower Mains, 2 Orrinside and Balno Farm;
felling of productive crop at Scatwell Estate 1 and Rheindown Forest; deer fence
disruption at Loch Achonachie.

Archaeology and cultural heritage – on a cairn east of Obiri Cottage (HA10).

Landscape character – on the Narrow Farmed Strath, Forest Edge Farming and
Enclosed Farmland landscape character types; on the presence of construction
access tracks in the Gorstan to Garve and Strathconon: Little Scatwell to Loch
Achonachie areas; on the landscape setting of the Gorstan and Comrie
townships; on the sensitive strath floor, agricultural and crofting areas; and on
the landscape setting of the Fairburn Garden and Designed Landscape (GDL).

Visual amenity – for properties close to the line in all areas of the route; for road
users in close proximity to construction and dismantling areas in the Gorstan to
south of Garve, Strathconon: Little Scatwell to Loch Achonachie (north side of the
strath), Strathconon: Loch Achonachie to Auchmore areas; for users of paths in
close proximity to the line in the south of Garve to Strathconon, Strathconon:
Loch Achonachie to Auchmore and Auchmore to Dunmore cable termination
compound areas; on users of areas for informal recreation close to the line in the
Strathconon: Loch Achonachie to Auchmore and Auchmore to Dunmore cable
termination compound areas; on the visual setting of the Gorstan and Comrie
townships; and on the visual setting of Fairburn GDL and listed buildings in that
area.

Access and recreation – on the path south of Loch Achonachie in the area of
BM58-BM59; on the use of the area for informal recreation generally between
Loch Achonachie and Auchmore; and on paths forming part of the wider access
network, at Achnasoul Wood, Balno, Auchmore, north-west from Corrie Vannie
and north-west from the local road in the Dunmore and Ruilick area.
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
Traffic and transportation – on single track roads used for construction access; on
structures with weight restrictions; and from the limited presence of passing
places.

Construction noise – for properties in quiet rural areas, at between 100m and
300m of construction areas and access tracks.
Mitigation measures are proposed to address these, where possible and accordingly,
residual effects would not be significant in the majority of cases.
18.1.5 Major adverse operational effects of the replacement overhead line have been
identified as follows:

Forestry – from the sterilisation of productive areas at Strathconon; and from the
loss of native woodland at Scatwell Estate 1.
No mitigation is proposed in respect of sterilisation effects, but the natural
regeneration of the redundant wayleave will in the longer term provide some
compensation for the loss of native woodland.
18.1.6 Moderate adverse operational effects of the replacement overhead line have been
identified as follows:

Hydrology – from the presence of culverts which could present an increased risk
of localised flooding.

Ornithology – from habitat loss and degradation (Red kite); and from operational
maintenance and emergency works (Red kite, Hen harrier, Goshawk, Osprey,
Peregrine falcon, Black grouse, Crossbill spp and other passerines).

Forestry – from the sterilisation of non-productive areas at Scatwell Estate 3 and
4, Loch Achonachie, Tower Mains, 2 Orrinside and Balno Farm; from the
sterilisation of productive areas at Scatwell Estate 1 and Rheindown Forest; and
from the loss of native woodland sites at Loch Achonachie and Balno Farm.

Landscape character – from the presence of permanent access tracks in the
Gorstan to south of Garve and Strathconon: Little Scatwell to Loch Achonachie
areas; on the landscape setting of Comrie and Gorstan townships; on the
sensitive areas at Fairburn GDL and agricultural land / crofting in the
Strathconon: Loch Achonachie to Auchmore area; and on the landscape setting
of the Fairburn GDL.
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
Visual amenity – at Corriemoillie Lodge (upper floors); for users of the paths in
the immediate area of tower BM97; on the visual setting of the Gorstan and
Comrie townships; and on the visual setting of the Fairburn GDL.
Mitigation measures are proposed, where possible, to address these issues and the
majority of impacts would be reduced to below significant.
18.1.7 Beneficial effects (major) have been identified in respect of the following:

Forestry – from access construction at Scatwell Estate 1 and 3, Strathconon and
Loch Achonachie.

Agriculture and sporting land use – at Fairburn Estate / Muirton Mains.
18.1.8 Beneficial effects (moderate) have been identified in respect of the following:

Forestry – from access construction at Corriemoillie, Tower Wood, Achnasoul,
Ord Hill, Rheindown Forest, Averan Cottage and The Knoll; and the release of
land from wayleaves at Garve Hill 3, Strathconon Plantation, Scatwell Estate 3,
Loch Achonachie and Averan Cottage.

Agriculture and sporting land use – at Garve Hill to Loch Luichart Forestry, and
Scatwell Estate.
18.1.9 Other minor beneficial effects of the replacement overhead line relate to the
reduction in the number of overhead lines present in the area, which is generally of
benefit to terrestrial ecology, ornithology, landscape character and visual amenity,
and agriculture and sporting land use.
18.1.10 Figures NTS5 (sheets A and B) and NTS6 (sheets A and B) illustrate the locations of
the significant adverse and beneficial residual construction, and operational, effects
(respectively).
18.1.11 In conclusion, the replacement overhead line and its construction tracks have been
routed so as to minimise adverse effects on the environment of the area between
Beauly Mossford, as far as possible, and mitigation measures are proposed in order
to address significant adverse effects.
Once the construction and dismantling
operations are completed, the residual effects on the environment and people of the
area between Beauly and Mossford are expected to be generally no greater than
minor adverse and not significant.
Although the replacement line would be
constructed using taller towers, it is considered that overall there would be
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beneficial effects from the replacement of two existing overhead lines with one
proposed overhead line.
January 2012
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