February 2012 Coire Glas Pumped Storage Scheme Non-Technical Summary For: By:
COIRE GLAS PUMPED STORAGE SCHEME
NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
February 2012
ASH design+assessment
21 Gordon Street
Glasgow
G1 3PL
Tel: 0141227 3388 Fax: 0141 227 3399
email: [email protected]
www.ashdesignassessment.com
Coire Glas Pumped Storage Scheme; Non-Technical Summary
February 2012 i
CONTENTS
CONTENTS .......................................................................................................................................................... I
FIGURES ......................................................................................................................................................... II
1 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND............................................................................................ 1
2 CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES .......................................................................................... 3
3 DESCRIPTION OF DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................................ 5
4 HYDROLOGY AND WATER MANAGEMENT .................................................................................. 8
5 SCOPING OVERVIEW ..................................................................................................................... 9
6 LAND USE AND RECREATION ..................................................................................................... 10
7 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ........................................................................................................... 11
8 VISUAL AMENITY .......................................................................................................................... 12
9 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY (VEGETATION) .................................................................................. 13
10 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY (ANIMAL SPECIES) ............................................................................ 14
11 BIRDS ............................................................................................................................................ 15
12 AQUATIC ECOLOGY ..................................................................................................................... 16
13 FISH ............................................................................................................................................... 17
14 CULTURAL HERITAGE ................................................................................................................. 18
15 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT ......................................................................................................... 19
16 NOISE ............................................................................................................................................ 20
17 PLANNING POLICY ....................................................................................................................... 21
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FIGURES
Figure 1: Location Plan
Figure 2: Scheme Overview
Figure 3: Visualisation of Proposed Outlet Area
Figure 4: Visualisation of Proposed Dam from Kilfinnan Glen
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1 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
1.1 Background to the Scheme
1.1.1 SSE Renewables Developments (UK) Limited (SSE Renewables), the renewable energy
development division of Scottish and Southern Energy plc (SSE), is proposing to construct a
new Pumped Storage scheme between Loch Lochy (lower reservoir) and a new reservoir
created at Loch a’ Choire Ghlais (upper reservoir). The primary function of Coire Glas Pumped
Storage scheme (‘the Development) would be to extract, store and release energy to or from
the electricity transmission system as required to help balance supply and demand for power
at a national scale.
1.1.2 The Development is located close to Kilfinnan Farm, approximately 13 kilometres (km) to the
south west of Fort Augustus, as shown on Figure 1.
1.1.3 The Development would consist of a new dam and reservoir at Loch a’ Choire Ghlais, an
underground cavern power station and underground tunnel system, an outlet area on the
shore of Loch Lochy comprising tunnel portals, a tail race structure, jetty and administration
building, as well as access tracks to the outlet area and dam.
1.1.4 Hydro power is a very flexible method of electricity generation due to its ability to rapidly start
and stop without constraint. Pumped storage plants add to this the ability to consume and
store large quantities of energy, making them the most flexible of all electricity generation
technologies. Pumped storage is in fact the only mature energy storage technology which can
be deployed on such a large scale.
1.1.5 The installed capacity for the Development would be up to 600 Megawatts (MW), with an
energy storage capacity of up to 30 Gigawatt Hours (GWh).The Coire Glas Pumped Storage
scheme would be unique when compared to other existing pumped storage schemes in the
United Kingdom (Dinorwig, Ffestiniog, Cruachan and Foyers) in its ability to extract and
release energy to or from the electricity transmission system for a much longer period. It is
estimated that this would be in the region of 50 hours continuous pumping or release which is
far greater than the capacity of existing pumped storage schemes in the UK.
1.2 Environmental Assessment
1.2.1 A detailed assessment of potential environmental effects has been undertaken to accompany
an application for consent to the Scottish Ministers under Section 36 of the Electricity Act
1989. This assessment is documented in the Coire Glas Pumped Storage Scheme
Environmental Statement (ES), dated February 2012.
1.2.2 This Non-Technical Summary presents a synopsis of the information contained in the ES and
outlines the different aspects of the Development including the alternatives considered, a
description of the required components and a brief review of those environmental topics which
have been assessed.
1.2.3 The full ES is available at a cost of £150 for a paper copy or £10 on CD directly from Susan
Scobie at SSE Renewables, Inveralmond House, 200 Dunkeld Road, Perth, PH1 3AQ.
1.2.4 Documents can also be viewed and downloaded from www.sse.com/coireglas
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1.2.5 Alternatively, a copy of the full ES is on public display at the following locations:
Highland Council (Headquarters) Planning Office, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3
5NX;
Highland Council Planning Office, Kintail House, Beechwood Business Park,
Inverness, IV2 3BW; and
Highland Council Service Point, Memorial Hall, Fort Augustus, PH32 4DJ.
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2 CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES
2.1 Strategic Review
2.1.1 The consideration of pumped storages sites has involved a strategic review of potential
locations throughout Scotland by SSE Renewables, initially examining approximate capital
cost and engineering feasibility.
2.1.2 There are very few sites within the UK which could be considered to have potential for the
development of a viable pumped storage scheme, but Coire Glas ranked highly in this
strategic review and following initial landowner discussions, SSE Renewables decided to
progress technical feasibility and environmental studies.
2.1.3 A further potential pumped storage site was also identified on Balmacaan Estate, to the north
of Invermoriston. SSE Renewables are also progressing this development, known as
Balmacaan Pumped Storage scheme.
2.2 Preliminary Design Alternatives
2.2.1 Whilst certain aspects of the Development are inevitably technically driven, e.g. the location of
the dam and underground power station, other aspects of the Development have been
informed by environmental data gathered from surveys of the wider area, as well as
experience and knowledge gained by SSE Renewables and the EIA team in working with
other large scale hydroelectric projects in the highlands of Scotland (e.g. Glendoe and
Kildermorie).
2.2.2 The scheme configuration presented in the ES is considered to be the optimal design whilst
minimising any environmental impacts where practicable.
2.3 Other Considerations
Rock Disposal
2.3.1 Excavated rock from the underground works would be reused in the localised area of
construction works wherever feasible. However, it is estimated that there will be a surplus of
approximately 450,000 cubic metres of excavated rock which would require disposal. The
majority of rock from the excavated tunnels and cavern chamber would be removed via the
tunnel portals near the shore at Loch Lochy. The preliminary options for rock disposal were
considered as follows, in no particular order:
Use for construction of the dam;
Surface transport to a licensed quarry or stored temporarily for use in other
infrastructure projects in the area;
Water transport by barge and canal network (e.g. to Fort William) for local distribution
to receptor sites (if available); and
Transport by barge and canal network for re-use at sea.
2.3.2 As part of the EIA process ASH and SSE Renewables have held discussions with statutory
consultees to discuss the options available for rock disposal. From these discussions it is clear
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that a thorough study into the options for rock disposal should be carried out to identify
potential receptor sites. However, should consent be granted for the Development,
construction may not commence immediately. Therefore it is proposed that the study into rock
disposal options be carried out approximately 12 months prior to construction whereby local
infrastructure projects can be accurately identified. For the purposes of the EIA, it has been
assumed that the disposal of rock would be undertaken using the trunk road network.
Disposal and Re-use of Peat
2.3.3 Disposal and re-use of peat would be an important consideration during the construction of the
Development. SSE are aware of the constraints and opportunities available in the disposal
and re-use of peat following experiences gained at Glendoe Hydroelectric Scheme. Whilst it is
difficult to commit to a specific solution in a construction project of this scale at this stage, a
number of options for peat disposal and re-use have been explored in the ES. These would be
developed by the successful contractor in consultation with statutory authorities prior to
construction commencing.
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3 DESCRIPTION OF DEVELOPMENT
3.1 Overview
3.1.1 An overview of the Development is provided in Figure 2, with visualisations provided in
Figures 3 and 4.
3.1.2 The Development would operate by transferring water between Loch Lochy and the enlarged
Loch a’ Choire Ghlais through the underground tunnel and power station system. The
Development would either be operated in the ‘generating’ mode, when electricity would be
generated by releasing water from the upper reservoir through the pump-turbines and into
Loch Lochy, or in the ‘pumping’ mode, when electricity is used to drive water through the
pump–turbines in the other direction from Loch Lochy to the upper reservoir.
3.1.3 The upper reservoir works, including construction of the dam, would be accessed off the A87
at White Bridge (Invergarry) utilising existing forestry tracks (to be upgraded) and the creation
of a new track to the dam site. The lower reservoir works, including the outlet area and
excavation of rock for the underground works, would be accessed off the A82 at North
Laggan, following the minor road and forestry tracks, both of which would require upgrading.
3.1.4 The principal components of the Development is shown on Figure 2 and would comprise:
Dam and Upper Reservoir - A new dam would be constructed to enable the storage
of water, significantly increasing the size of the existing Loch a’ Choire Ghlais to form
the upper reservoir;
Underground Power Station and Waterway System – A series of underground
intakes, chambers and tunnels carrying water would connect the upper and lower
reservoirs, through the underground power station;
Outlet Area – A tailrace structure would be located on the shore of Loch Lochy at the
main access tunnel portal. A jetty and administration building would be located
approximately 250m to the northeast of the tailrace at the access tunnel portal;
Access Tunnels - Tunnels would be provided for accessing the underground power
plant;
Access Roads - Access roads would be provided for the construction of the
Development and for operational and emergency access;
Rock Disposal - Excavated rock from the underground works would be reused in the
localised area of construction works wherever feasible. However, it is estimated that
there would be a surplus of approximately 450,000 cubic metres of excavated rock
which would require disposal. The majority of rock from the excavated tunnels and
cavern chamber would be removed via the tunnel portals near the shore at Loch
Lochy.
3.1.5 In addition to the above, it is anticipated that there would be a need for site establishment and
lay down areas in the vicinity of the upper reservoir and outlet area works. Workers camps
would also be provided for access to both the upper reservoir and outlet area works, as shown
on Figure 2.
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3.1.6 In the vicinity of the lower works (the outlet area), the existing forestry roads are incorporated
in the Great Glen Way. Where appropriate for safety, it is proposed to provide a new path to
run parallel to the existing track to separate walkers and cyclists from the works, constructed
to the same standard as the existing Great Glen Way. The path would be constructed in
accordance with the requirements of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 where this does
not conflict with the health and safety requirements of the construction site. This path would be
constructed at commencement of works in the area and it is proposed that this would remain
in place as a permanent diversion to this section of the Great Glen Way.
3.1.7 The operation of the Development would require the modification of Mucomir Hydroelectric
Power Station at Gairlochy. Control of Loch Lochy water levels is currently determined by the
operation of Mucomir Power Station but the operation of a pumped storage scheme on the
loch would take priority over Mucomir. As such, Mucomir Power Station would be modified and
a new operating regime determined with the aim to provide improved fish passage and flow
management of the River Lochy downstream.
3.2 Site Traffic
3.2.1 Construction traffic to the upper reservoir works would take access from the A87 at White
Bridge (Invergarry), before utilising existing forestry tracks (to be upgraded) and a new track to
the dam site. Construction traffic to the lower reservoir works would take access from the A82
at North Laggan, and then along the existing public road and forestry tracks (both to be
upgraded). All operational or maintenance traffic would also utilise these access routes,
although it is anticipated that the majority of this traffic would require access to the outlet area
at the lower reservoir only.
3.3 Construction Programme / Hours of Working
3.3.1 It is anticipated that the main civil engineering construction programme would last up to five
years and the workforce would average 150 people on site throughout the construction phase,
although the number of construction workers on site would inevitably vary throughout the
construction period depending on the stage of the works.
3.3.2 Normal construction shifts would generally apply for the surface works but these would be
subject to some variation to suit the work in hand and weather conditions, to be agreed with
The Highland Council. It is anticipated that underground operations would need to continue 24
hours a day, seven days a week.
3.4 Socio-economic Aspect
3.4.1 SSE is already a major employer throughout the North of Scotland, currently employing
around 2,000 full time staff in the area. Within the Great Glen region alone, SSE continues to
provide direct employment primarily through the development and construction of generation
or infrastructure improvement projects such as Glendoe Hydroelectric Scheme and Beauly –
Denny overhead transmission line. This direct employment has made a significant contribution
to the local economy within the Great Glen.
3.4.2 SSE is actively supporting the development of the Scottish supply chain and has a
commitment to use local contractors and services where possible and available. In line with
SSE policy, meetings in the local community and throughout the region would be organised
during the detail design process to allow local businesses to see what opportunities projects of
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this nature present, as well as to see what services may be provided from the local
community.
Employment Generation during Construction
3.4.3 The construction of the Development is anticipated to last up to 5 years. During this time, the
on-site workforce would vary in number depending on the stage of works but could typically
average 150 people.
Economic Benefits to the Local Community
3.4.4 Local tradesmen, shopkeepers, hoteliers and other sectors of the local community could be
expected to become involved at various stages throughout the work. Direct impacts on the
local economy during the construction phase would be expected to be similar to that
experienced in Fort Augustus during the construction phase of Glendoe Hydroelectric
Scheme.
Employment Generation during Operation
3.4.5 Once operational, the Development would generate approximately 12 additional permanent
jobs. All permanent employees would be based within the administration building at the outlet
area on the shore of Loch Lochy. Permanent management, engineering, technical and
administrative roles would all be required.
3.4.6 SSE would aim to ensure that apprenticeships, the provision of skills and training and link ups
with educational bodies and other stakeholders would be maximised where possible.
Community Benefit Arrangements
3.4.7 Community benefit arrangements for the Development would be discussed and agreed with
community representatives prior to construction taking place. Although there are currently a
number of uncertainties relating to policy on transmission charging and the general economics
of large scale pumped storage, it is likely that community benefit during the construction phase
(up to 5 years) would equate to approximately £500 per MW (installed capacity). SSE’s
general approach to community benefit is to ensure a significant contribution is made to skills
and training investment in the communities they are active in.
Consultations with the Local Community during Construction
3.4.8 Consultation with the Local Community during the construction of the Development would be
an important consideration for SSE and the successful contractor. At Glendoe Hydroelectric
scheme, a statutory agency working group has been set up which provides the local
community with information about key construction activities and a mechanism by which
concerns from within the local community can be shared and discussed. A similar working
group would be established during the construction of the Development.
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4 HYDROLOGY AND WATER MANAGEMENT
4.1 Introduction
4.1.1 The principle of a pumped storage scheme broadly involves a system to transfer water
between a lower reservoir (Loch Lochy) and an upper reservoir (Loch a’ Choire Ghlais). In the
case of the Development, the upper reservoir would need to be formed by the creation of a
new dam and reservoir at Coire Glas, which would inundate the existing Loch a’ Choire Ghlais
and impound the Allt a’ Choire Ghlais at this location.
4.2 Water Management
4.2.1 Loch Lochy is currently controlled by SSE Generation Ltd at its existing hydroelectric power
station at Mucomir (Gairlochy). Water is released from here through turbines to the River
Spean and there are also floodgates to discharge larger flows as required.
4.2.2 The operation of the Development would take priority over the operation of Mucomir Power
Station, which would be managed to ensure that the operation of the Development was not
constrained by Loch Lochy levels. Ultimately the total volume of water passed through the
barrage in a year would remain unchanged.
4.2.3 As part of the construction of the Development, Mucomir Power Station would be modified and
a new operating regime determined with the aim to provide improved fish passage and flow
management of the River Lochy downstream. This would include obtaining all necessary
consents and relicensing. It is possible, although not guaranteed, that this modification may
involve partially or completely decommissioning Mucomir as a power station and operating it
solely as a regulating barrage and fish pass.
4.2.4 Although the present maximum and minimum loch levels would not change, variations in Loch
Lochy level between these limits could be expected to be more frequent.
4.2.5 At the dam, a Q95 compensation flow would be released from the upper reservoir to maintain
a constant flow from the upper reservoir down Allt a’ Choire Ghlais.
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5 SCOPING OVERVIEW
5.1 Introduction
5.1.1 In September 2009, SSE Renewables sent Scottish Ministers a copy of their preliminary
environmental scoping report (prepared by ASH design+assessment), identifying the potential
significant impacts to be addressed in the ES. During March 2010, Scottish Ministers issued
their Scoping Opinion for the Development, which defined what issues should be addressed.
5.1.2 In addition to the scoping exercise, consultations have continued throughout the assessment
process to:
Ensure that statutory and other bodies with a particular interest in the environment are
informed of the Development and provided with an opportunity to comment;
Obtain baseline information regarding existing environmental site conditions;
Establish key environmental issues and identify potential impacts to be considered in
the ES;
Identify those issues which are likely to require more detailed study and those that can
be justifiably excluded from further assessment; and
Provide a means of identifying the most appropriate methods of impact assessment.
5.1.3 The following topics were identified as those requiring further detailed investigation:
Hydrology and Water Management;
Land Use and Recreation;
Landscape Character;
Visual Amenity (residents, travellers, walkers and other visitors);
Terrestrial Ecology (Habitats and Animals);
Birds;
Aquatic Ecology (including aquatic plants, aquatic invertebrates and amphibians);
Fish;
Cultural heritage;
Noise; and
Traffic.
5.1.4 In addition to these core assessments, a review of national, regional and local planning
policies and plans was undertaken to determine the extent to which the Development would
be in conformity or conflict with statutory plans.
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6 LAND USE AND RECREATION
6.1 Land Use
6.1.1 Beyond the areas of forestry and woodland within the vicinity of the Development, most other
land is steeply sloping or at a higher elevation and as such is predominantly moorland. Land
suitable for agriculture, beyond rough grazing, is very limited, however there are a few small
areas of flat land along the valley floor such as the area around Kilfinnan.
6.1.2 The main concentrations of settlement are at Laggan, between Loch Lochy and Loch Oich and
at Invergarry. There are also a small number of properties along the shore of Loch Lochy and
along Glengarry, at Mandally and Faichem.
6.1.3 The main transport routes through the study area are the A82(T) (which runs southwest to
northeast along the Great Glen between Fort William and Inverness) and the A87 (which
initially runs east to west along Glengarry and connects the A82(T) at Invergarry to Kyle of
Lochalsh and the Isle of Skye). The Caledonian Canal is also well used by people travelling by
boat along the Great Glen between Fort William and Inverness.
6.1.4 There are frequent overhead lines in the area, most being low level woodpole lines connecting
to the settlements and scattered properties. There is also a larger overhead line crossing the
study area from the north of Invergarry, to Laggan Locks and down the side of Loch Lochy.
6.2 Recreation
6.2.1 Walking is a popular activity within the area and there are a number of popular trails and
routes, most notably, the Great Glen Way (a long distance route from Fort William to
Inverness). There are also a number of way-marked walking trails in Glengarry Forest as well
as popular routes from Glengarry and Kilfinnan to Ben Tee and the two adjacent Munros
(mountains over 3000ft), Meall Teanga and Sron a Choire Ghairbh.
6.2.2 Cycling is also popular with well used routes including the Great Glen Way and Great Glen
Cycle Route (National Cycle Route 78). Mountain biking occurs, particularly in Glengarry
Forest and other forestry areas.
6.2.3 Other popular activities in the area include fishing (e.g. River Garry, Loch Garry, Loch Lochy
and Loch Oich), and white water canoeing, kayaking and rafting on the River Garry.
6.3 Assessment Summary
6.3.1 The construction of the Development would likely result in the temporary loss of localised
areas of woodland and forestry, moorland and agricultural land, as well as localised impacts to
recreational amenity on some walking and cycling routes. In the vicinity of the lower works, the
existing forestry roads are incorporated in the Great Glen Way. Where appropriate for safety, it
is proposed to provide a new path to run parallel to the existing track to separate walkers and
cyclists from the works, constructed to the same standard as the existing Great Glen Way.
This path would be constructed at commencement of works in the area and it is proposed that
this would remain in place as a permanent diversion to this section of the Great Glen Way.
6.3.2 During operation all impacts would be reduced and there are no long term effects on
recreational resources anticipated as a result of the Development.
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7 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER
7.1 Introduction
7.1.1 A landscape character assessment was carried out to assess the extent to which the
Development may affect or change the key characteristics of the landscape of the study area.
7.1.2 The Development would be located on the shore and within the hills to the northwest of Loch
Lochy. This is a landscape of large scale patterns and contrasting high mountain summits,
deep glens and lochs. The predominant feature of the landscape is the Great Glen, a
distinctive steep-sided and flat-bottomed, fjord-like valley, accommodating Lochs Lochy and
Oich, which slices through the mountainous landscape providing a route for transport and
infrastructure and containing much of the settlement within the area.
7.1.3 Much of the lower slopes and the glen sides are clothed in coniferous forestry plantation whilst
the glen floors and fringes of the lochs are commonly colonised with native and deciduous
woodland, interspersed with areas of rough agricultural land. This extent of tree cover
emphasises the strong contrast between the low lying glen and the open, exposed high
mountain slopes, crags and summits.
7.2 Landscape Designations and Landscape Character
7.2.1 The Development falls within the Loch Lochy and Loch Oich Special Landscape Area (SLA).
The Development is not located within a Search Area for Wild Land (SNH Policy No. 02/03),
although the potential for localised areas of wild land does exist.
7.2.2 The landscape character assessment identified nine Local Character Zones (LCZs) where it
was considered that combinations of landform, vegetation, settlement and other features form
a distinct ‘sense of place’.
7.3 Assessment Summary
7.3.1 The assessment concluded that significant impacts to the landscape resource of the study
area would be relatively widespread during the construction of the Development, as a result of
the scale and intensity of the works being undertaken. However, once construction works had
been concluded, and mitigation proposals and reinstatement had been undertaken and
allowed to establish, it is anticipated that this impact would reduce. Although significant
impacts would be expected to continue within the local area surrounding the proposed dam
and reservoir, these would be largely contained within one relatively small LCZ and, it is
anticipated that the long term effects on the wider landscape resource would not be significant.
7.3.2 In terms of the Loch Lochy and Loch Oich SLA, significant impacts are anticipated during
construction. However, in the long term, it is anticipated that impacts would reduce to affect a
comparatively small area around the dam and reservoir. It is not considered that the integrity
of the designation would be affected. Temporary significant impacts to localised areas of wild
land during both construction and operation (reduced to a localised area around the dam only)
are anticipated, however, it is considered that much of the wild land characteristics of the
wider area would remain unaffected in the long term.
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8 VISUAL AMENITY
8.1 Introduction
8.1.1 The visual impact assessment describes and evaluates the potential change as a result of the
construction and operation of the Development in views from buildings, routes and popular
viewpoints and the extent to which these affect residents, visitors and users of the landscape.
8.1.2 The dam and reservoir would be located within a steep sided corrie enclosed on three sides
and as such visibility would be limited. There are some small areas of visibility from the
plateau moorland to the south of Invergarry and more distant but widespread visibility from the
higher slopes along the south side of Loch Oich.
8.1.3 At the outlet area on the shore of Loch Lochy it is anticipated that views of construction
activity, as well as the tailrace and administration building would also be limited by topography,
with the majority of views from across Loch Lochy, Laggan and the steep valley sides of the
Great Glen.
8.1.4 The visual impact assessment identified two groups from which views may potentially be
affected. These are:
buildings; and
routes and outdoor locations including public roads, footpaths, walking routes and
mountain summits.
8.2 Assessment Summary
8.2.1 The assessment has identified that five building receptors and eleven route and outdoor
receptors would receive significant impacts during construction. Three additional routes would
receive locally significant impacts during construction.
8.2.2 Once construction has been completed, the level of impact would be reduced and no long
term impacts on building receptors are anticipated. However, seven outdoor receptors would
continue to experience significant impacts during the operation of the Development. These
receptors include the summits of Sron a Choire Ghairbh and Ben Tee and various recognised
footpath routes to their summits. This would be as a result of the close proximity of views of
the dam, reservoir and associated drawdown and the upper access track. A total of four of
these walking routes would experience localised impacts only, which when considering
potential impacts on the route as a whole would not be considered a significant impact.
8.2.3 With the exception of the above mentioned building and outdoor receptors, visual effects
during both construction and operation of the Development from the majority of receptors
would not be considered significant. Therefore the effect upon visual amenity of the study area
when considered as a whole is not considered to be significant.
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9 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY (VEGETATION)
9.1 Introduction
9.1.1 A full terrestrial ecology survey and vegetation survey was carried out for habitats potentially
affected by the Development, in accordance with standard guidance.
9.1.2 The upper works of the Development would be situated in open areas of moorland in Coire
Glas, consisting of modified heaths and bogs with relatively small patches of acid grassland
and mosaic habitats. At the lower section, beside Loch Lochy, an administration building,
access tunnels and construction compound would be located in the Loch Lochy Forest which
consists of coupes of planted conifers. Along parts of the Loch Lochy shoreline, a narrow
margin contains self-seeded native broadleaves growing amongst conifers. The outlet area
would be located in this zone. The tailrace structure would be close to a small area of semi-
natural woodland at Glas Dhoire on a promontory into the Loch.
9.2 Assessment Summary
9.2.1 The assessment concluded that permanent impacts would include the loss of small quantities
of some terrestrial habitats, but these would be relative to the total amounts of these habitats
found in the local district. As such, both temporary (during construction) and permanent
impacts are not predicted to be significant on these terrestrial habitats with appropriate
mitigation.
9.2.2 Mitigation measures have been designed to prevent, reduce or offset adverse potential
impacts on the terrestrial ecological features found within the vicinity of the Development.
These mitigation measures have been informed from previous assessment experience and
on-going monitoring during the construction of large scale hydroelectric projects in the
Highlands of Scotland, such as Glendoe Hydroelectric Scheme. Mitigation measures would be
monitored through the commissioning of an Ecological Clerk of Works during the construction
phase of the Development. If these mitigation measures are implemented the impacts to
habitats would not be significant.
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10 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY (ANIMAL SPECIES)
10.1 Introduction
10.1.1 A study has been carried to assess the potential impact of the construction and operation of
the Development to animal species. The assessment has involved:
Consultation with and data from Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and data from
Forestry Commission (Scotland);
Site surveys;
Reference to the UK and Lochaber Biodiversity Action Plans; and
Evaluating impacts on habitats and species based on estimated loss or disturbance
during construction and operation, and in consideration of relevant legislation.
10.1.2 During the surveys carried out in 2010 and 2011, the following animals or their signs were
recorded within or adjacent to the survey area: otter, water vole, pine marten, fox, red and roe
deer, and short-tailed voles.
10.2 Assessment Summary
10.2.1 Potential direct impacts on animal, reptile, amphibian and invertebrate species would occur
mostly during construction. Adequate mitigation measures for the conservation of protected
species and other animals would be adopted to minimise disturbance should they be passing
or sheltering in the vicinity of the Development and to minimise loss or damage to their
potential habitats.
10.2.2 Mitigation measures have been informed from previous assessment experience and on-going
monitoring during the construction of large scale hydroelectric projects in the Highlands of
Scotland, such as Glendoe Hydroelectric Scheme. Mitigation measures would be monitored
through the commissioning of an Ecological Clerk of Works during the construction phase of
the Development. If these mitigation measures are implemented the impacts on animal
species are not anticipated to be significant.
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11 BIRDS
11.1 Introduction
11.1.1 A programme of bird surveys has been completed to assess the potential impacts of the
Development on bird populations within the vicinity of the proposed works.
11.1.2 The bulk of activity which may have a potential impact on birds would consist of the
construction of the dam and creation of the reservoir, and the building and upgrading of
access tracks. The potential impacts on bird populations during the construction phase would
be loss of habitat and both visual and noise disturbance from the increase in vehicular
movements and human activity on the site.
11.1.3 Operational activity which may have a potential impact on birds consists of the movement of
vehicles and continued human activity, although such activities would be minimal.
11.1.4 A variety of bird species were noted during the bird surveys, and consultation with the Scottish
Raptor Study Group and review of desk-based information confirmed those species present
within the vicinity of the proposed works.
11.2 Assessment Summary
11.2.1 Based on this available data, and as a result of the full implementation of adequate mitigation
procedures, supervised by a suitably qualified ornithologist, it is anticipated that there would
be very few impacts on bird species during the construction phase of the Development and
effects are not considered to be significant.
11.2.2 Once operational, the Development would have little or no impact on bird species within the
area. The frequency and volume of traffic and human activity would be minimal, and would
have dropped considerably from the construction phase, so due to the habituation of species
to disturbance over a period of time, the effects are not considered to be significant.
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12 AQUATIC ECOLOGY
12.1 Introduction
12.1.1 An assessment has been carried out to identify potential impacts on aquatic ecology as a
result of the construction and operation of the Development.
12.1.2 The assessment has been informed by a series of surveys which focussed on potential
impacts on habitat loss and fragmentation at the water bodies and courses within the vicinity
of the proposed works, as well as potential impacts on freshwater pearl mussel populations,
macroinvertebrates, bryophytes, sediment transport, water quality, erosion and water level
changes in Loch Lochy.
12.2 Assessment Summary
12.2.1 The assessment concluded that potentially significant negative impacts during construction of
the Development would be limited to permanent habitat loss and fragmentation at Loch a'
Choire Ghlais and Allt a' Choire Ghlais from inundation of the area behind the dam, and
temporary deterioration of water quality in all waterbodies from construction activities.
12.2.2 No mitigation is considered possible for habitat loss and fragmentation. However, effective
mitigation could be put in place to ensure pollution events are kept to a minimum to avoid
deterioration of water quality.
12.2.3 The assessment further concluded that potentially significant negative impacts to
macroinvertebrate and bryophyte communities could result from the Development through
changes in flow and sediment starvation in the upper Allt a' Choire Ghlais and changes in flow
at Kilfinnan Falls.
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13 FISH
13.1 Introduction
13.1.1 An assessment has been carried out to identify potential impacts on fish as a result of the
construction and operation of the Development.
13.1.2 The assessment has been informed through consultations with Scottish Environment
Protection Agency (SEPA), Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), Lochaber District Salmon
Fisheries Board (LDSFB) and Lochaber and District Fisheries Trust (LDFT) regarding the type
and extent of fish surveys required. Within the vicinity of the Development, the finalised scope
of the fish survey work included a fish habitat survey, an electric fishing survey, a survey of the
littoral habitats in Loch a’ Choire Ghlais and a shoreline habitat survey of Loch Lochy.
13.2 Assessment Summary
13.2.1 The assessment concluded that potentially significant negative impacts during construction of
the Development would be limited to permanent habitat loss and fragmentation at Loch a'
Choire Ghlais and Allt a' Choire Ghlais from inundation of the area behind the dam, and
temporary deterioration of water quality in all waterbodies from construction activities. This is
likely to have a negative impact on trout habitat and a brown trout population within the area of
the proposed dam and reservoir.
13.2.2 Effective mitigation could be put in place to ensure pollution events are kept to a minimum to
avoid deterioration of water quality.
13.2.3 The assessment further concluded that no significant effects during operation of the
Development on fish are anticipated.
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14 CULTURAL HERITAGE
14.1 Introduction
14.1.1 The cultural heritage assessment considered the likely effects of the construction and
operation of the Development on cultural heritage interests including Scheduled Ancient
Monuments, Listed Buildings, and other archaeological features.
14.1.2 A number of archaeological features with statutory protection have been identified in the
vicinity of the Development. These are two locks at Laggan on the Caledonian Canal which
are designated Scheduled Ancient Monuments and several Category C Listed Buildings.
14.1.3 There are a number of features recorded on the Highland Historic Environment Record within
the general area of the Development, particularly between Loch Lochy and Loch Oich. These
are mostly within the crofting township of Balmaglaster. A site survey has also identified a
number of unrecorded archaeological sites.
14.2 Assessment Summary
14.2.1 Following a desk-based review, site survey and impact assessment it was determined that the
potential impact of the Development on the archaeological record and cultural heritage of the
area would be slight. Only one archaeological site, the Coille an t-Salaich, farmstead would be
directly affected by construction of one of the upper reservoir construction compounds, located
in existing forestry plantation. There may be damage to as yet unlocated minor features
associated with the township of Glas Dhoire, but the township buildings themselves would be
unaffected. The visual impact on the canal and locks would be slight and can be minimised by
good design of the existing track upgrading and the site compound and accommodation areas
associated with the lower reservoir works.
14.2.2 If during the detailed design stage it is considered necessary to include this area in the site
clearance operations, it would be recommended that the area of the former township of Glas-
dhoire be investigated further in order to locate and record minor features associated with the
township, and to ensure that there would be no accidental damage to known township
features.
14.2.3 The Coille an t-Salaich, farmstead, should also be investigated further before felling and
ground clearance work, to ensure that any visible remains of this feature are recorded and
evaluated. Should the site prove to be other than a minor mid-19th century feature, further
investigation may be necessary to ensure the site is properly understood.
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15 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT
15.1 Introduction
15.1.1 An assessment has been carried out to consider the access arrangements to and from the site
junction off the A87 at White Bridge (Invergarry) (for the upper reservoir works) and the site
junction off the A82 at North Laggan (for the lower reservoir works). The volume of trips
generated by construction traffic during the construction phase is also considered.
15.1.2 The site would be fully developed over a sixty month construction phase. However, the
construction process generating the most Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) movements is likely
to be the transportation of excavated rock. It is estimated that this stage of the construction
process could take thirty six months and the majority of traffic movements would be from the
outlet area along the North Laggan road to the A82.
15.2 Assessment Summary
15.2.1 It is estimated that average hourly HGV trip generation would peak at twelve HGV trips per
hour during the period when excavated rock was transported from site. Before and after this
phase of the construction period, average hourly HGV trip generation would reduce to two
HGV trips per hour. While not inconsiderable, it is not considered that this level of traffic
generation would pose any capacity issues to the local road network.
15.2.2 Other (lighter) vehicles that would access the site throughout construction would comprise
cars, vans and 4x4 vehicles and these would average about fourteen per day over the five
year construction period.
15.2.3 To assist in junction visibility at both the A82 and A87 site junctions, mitigation such as
additional signage, vegetation clearance and anti-skid surfacing on the approaches to the
junction would be discussed and agreed with The Highland Council.
15.2.4 During operation, the Development would be manned from the administration building at the
outlet area. It is estimated that an average of twelve staff would be employed at the facility on
a permanent basis, requiring daily access. Infrequent access by heavier vehicles for
maintenance would occur as required.
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16 NOISE
16.1 Introduction
16.1.1 An assessment of potential noise and vibration impacts associated with construction activities
of the Development was carried out. Once operational, the turbines and associated electrical
equipment would be located within the underground power station. Furthermore,
approximately twelve staff would access the administration building on a daily basis with
occasional visits to the upper reservoir area for maintenance purposes. As such, the potential
for noise impacts during operation is considered to be minimal.
16.1.2 The focus of the assessment concentrated on those activities associated with the lower
reservoir works, close to the majority of sensitive receptors (e.g. upgrading of access roads,
construction of structures and formation of tunnels). Although the work associated with the
dam would continue over a five year period, it is considered that the noise impact would be
minimal as a result of the distance and nature of the topography (i.e. no direct line of sight)
between sensitive receptors and these construction areas.
16.1.3 Baseline noise levels were obtained by monitoring the actual ambient noise levels
experienced at selected sensitive receptors agreed with The Highland Council’s
Environmental Health Department.
16.2 Assessment Summary
16.2.1 When considering the potential noise levels and durations against the baseline conditions it is
predicted that short term noise impacts would be associated with the upgrade of the minor
road through North Laggan to Kilfinnan and construction of the site establishment and
accommodation area for the lower reservoir works. Longer term impacts are predicted in
relation to construction traffic movements for sensitive receptors along the minor road from
North Laggan to Kilfinnan.
16.2.2 Construction noise and vibration would primarily be managed through consultation with the
Highland Council, Transport, Environmental and Community Services once construction
activities and hours of operation are known. Through this process mitigation measures and
monitoring programmes (if required) would be agreed with the council prior to construction
work commencing.
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17 PLANNING POLICY
17.1 Introduction
17.1.1 A review of policies and plans at a national, regional and local level to determine the extent to
which the proposals conform to, or conflict with, relevant documents and commitments has
been carried out.
17.1.2 Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) is the statement of Scottish Government policy on nationally
important land use and other planning matters supported, where appropriate, by a locational
framework. Planning Advisory Notes (PANs) provide advice on good practice and other
relevant information.
17.1.3 At a regional level, guidance and policy is set out in the Highland Structure Plan (2001). This
sets out the broad planning strategy for the Highland area. At a local level, more specific
guidance and policies are set out in the West Highlands and Islands Local Plan (2010). A
review of policies contained within these documents was carried out with respect to the
proposed scheme.
17.1.4 The principal piece of planning legislation relevant to the consent of the Development is The
Electricity Act 1989 (Requirement of Consent for Hydroelectric Generating Stations (Scotland)
Order 1990). Any hydroelectric scheme with a generating capacity of over 50MW falls under
Section 36 of the Act, which states that consent to construct and operate such a scheme must
be obtained from the Scottish Ministers.
17.1.5 The Development is in broad conformity with relevant national, regional and local planning
polices. The proposals could be considered an important subsidiary of the renewables sector
and could provide a valuable contribution to the national energy mix.