GLENCHAMBER WIND FARMVolume 1: Non-Technical Summary (NTS)

Contents

1 Introduction 1

2 RES 2

3 Development Context 3

Site Location 3 Environmental Sensitivity 4

4 The Need for the Proposed Wind Farm 6

The need for renewables 6 Planning Policy 7

5 Description of the proposed wind farm 8

Wind Turbines 10 Wind Monitoring Masts 11 Site Tracks 13 Electrical Connection, Substation and Control Building 14

6 Construction and Decommissioning of the proposed wind farm 16

Construction 16 Decommissioning 17

7 Environmental Impact Assessment Process 18

Consultation and EIA Scoping 19 Design Evolution and Alternatives 20 Design Specification 22

8 Environmental Effects 25

Landscape and Visual 25 LVIA Findings 25 Residual Effects on Landscape Character 26 Residual Effects on Visual Amenity 26 Ecology 27 Ornithology 28 Cultural Heritage and Archaeology 29 Geology, Hydrology and Hydrogeology 29 Noise and Vibration 30 Electromagnetic Interference and Related Issues 31 Access, Traffic and Transport 31 Socio-Economics 32 Potential Grid Connections 33

9 Conclusion 36

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1 Introduction

1.1 This Non-Technical Summary (NTS) is Volume 1 of the Environmental Statement (ES) which has been prepared to accompany an application to Dumfries and Galloway Council (‘DGC’) by RES UK and Ireland Ltd (‘RES’) to construct and operate a wind farm of a maximum of 25.3 MW to be located at Glenchamber in Dumfries and Galloway. The proposal includes the erection of 11 wind turbines and associated infrastructure, including on site tracks, one permanent wind monitoring mast and up to four temporary wind monitoring masts, electrical connection works, a control building and a substation.

1.2 The aim of the NTS is to summarise the content and main findings of the ES in a clear and concise manner to assist the public in understanding what the environmental effects of the proposed wind farm are likely to be. The full ES (Volume 2 Main Report; Volume 3 Technical Appendices; and Volume 4 Landscape and Visual Figures) provides a more detailed description of the proposed wind farm and the findings of the environmental impact assessment process. The following sections of the NTS summarise the:

• Development context;

• Description of the proposed wind farm;

• Construction of the proposed wind farm;

• Need for the proposed wind farm;

• A description of the EIA process;

• Consultation process undertaken;

• Design evolution of the proposed wind farm; and

• Main environmental effects of the proposed wind farm.

1.3 The full ES, together with the planning application to DCG and associated documents will be available for viewing at the addresses below.

Key Store 51 Main Street Glenluce DG8 0PP

Dumfries and Galloway Council Stranraer Area Office Sun Street Stranraer, DG9 7JJ

Dumfries and Galloway Council Dashwood Square Newton Stewart DG8 6EQ

1.4 An electronic version of the planning submission reports, including the Environmental Statement, will be available to download from www.glenchamber-windfarm.co.uk . Paper copies of the NTS, Main Report and Technical Appendices can be requested from:

RES UK & Ireland Limited 3rd Floor, STV Pacific Quay Glasgow G51 1PQ

1.5 Copies of the NTS are available free of charge; the Main Report and Technical Appendices can be purchased on CD for £25 or in paper form at a cost of £250.

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2 RES

2.1 RES is one of the world’s leading independent renewable energy developers with operations across Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific. RES, a British company, has been at the forefront of wind energy development since the 1970s and has developed and/or built 88 wind farms (or 4,700 Megawatts (MW) of wind capacity) around the world, including 10% of the UK’s wind energy. This includes seven wind farms in Scotland with a total generation capacity of more than 120 MW. In 2010, RES will commence construction of Hill of Towie Wind Farm in Moray and Kelburn Wind Farm in North Ayrshire.

2.2 RES is active in a range of renewable energy technologies, including large-scale solar and biomass and on-site heat, power and cooling technologies, as well as offering design consultancy for sustainable built environments. Drawing on decades of experience in the renewable energy and construction industries, RES has the expertise to develop, construct and operate projects of outstanding quality.

2.3 RES has offices across the UK and worldwide. Regional development in Scotland is managed from Glasgow by a growing team of over 50 staff.

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3 Development Context

Site Location

3.1 The proposed wind farm site (the site) is located in Dumfries and Galloway at National Grid Reference 222477,564380. The site is located approximately 7 km north east of the A 75 at Glenluce, and approximately 2.5 km south of the midpoint of Artfield Fell Wind Farm. Further afield, Stranraer is located approximately 17 km to the west and Newton Stewart is situated approximately 18 km to the east.

3.2 The location of the site is shown in Figure 1.

3.3 The site is relatively flat moorland used principally for rough grazing. There is an area of raised ground (Drumphail Fell) in the centre of the site with the farm houses of Glenchamber, located at the eastern edge of the site and the derelict property, Drumphail, located in the far south of the site. The existing farm access for Glenchamber runs parallel to the eastern boundary of the site between the minor roads to the north and south east of the site.

3.4 A local road and tree belt border the northern edge of the site. The tree belt continues to wrap around the site to the north east whereas the local road diverts to the southeast and cuts across the north eastern portion of the site. A separate local road runs parallel with the site boundary to the south east and south. The Drumphail Burn forms the western and partially south western boundaries of the site.

3.5 The wider area is characterised by undulating topography or farm land, moor land and forest plantations rising in height to the north and decreasing in height to the south.

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Figure 1: Site Location

Environmental Sensitivity

3.6 The site is not within any ecologically designated areas at the European or National level. However, there are a number of designated sites within the surrounding area. The Drumphail Burn on the western site boundary forms part of the river Bladnoch Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Kilhern Moss Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is located 1.5 km south west of the site.

3.7 Other unnamed watercourses within the site boundary in both the centre of the site and the east of the site also feed south from the north into the River Bladnoch SAC. As well as the presence of surface watercourses adjacent to and within the site, there is a private water supply located within the application site associated with Glenchamber farm. Further private water supplies are located outside of the site boundary.

3.8 The site supports populations of bat, otter, watervole and reptiles, as well as both summer breeding and over-wintering populations of birds.

3.9 There are no Scheduled Monuments or Listed Buildings present within the proposed wind farm, and no part of the proposed wind farm site lies within a Conservation Area or Garden and Designed Landscape. In the wider area there are a number of

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Scheduled Monuments including Bennan of Garvilland Fort, which lies approximately 1 km to the south west of the proposed wind farm.

3.10 There are two residential properties within the application boundary. Glenchamber Farm is located towards the southeast of the application site and has a financial interest in the proposed wind farm development. Drumphail is situated towards the southwest of the application site and is derelict. Other individual residential properties are found outside the application boundary to the north, east, west and south.

3.11 There are no rights of way on the proposed wind farm site. The Southern Upland Way is a national trail that links east coast to west coast and passes within 1.5 km of the western site boundary.

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4 The Need for the Proposed Wind Farm

The need for renewables

4.1 The proposed wind farm responds to the UK and Scottish Government’s climate change and renewable energy objectives, using proven and efficient technology to provide a supply of renewable electricity to help meet regional and national demand.

4.2 At the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Kyoto, the UK make legally binding commitments to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions during 2008-2012. In 2007, European Union (EU) leaders agreed to adopt a binding target requiring 20% of the EU’s energy (electricity, heat and transport) to come from renewable energy sources by 2020. Following this agreement, the European Parliament officially approved a new Renewable Energy Directive in December 2008 which subsequently came into force in May 2009. The EU wishes to see 20% of all energy generated from renewable sources by 2020, split between member states (‘burden sharing’).

4.3 In March 2003, Scottish Ministers set an aspirational target to increase further the proportion of electricity provided from renewable sources in Scotland to 40% by 2020 (Scottish Executive: 2003). In September 2010 the Scottish Government announced that Scotland’s renewable electricity target for the next decade was to be raised from 50 % to 80 % of consumption by 2020.

4.4 In June 2005, the Forum for Renewable Energy Development in Scotland(FREDS) recommended that Scotland would need to develop a total of around 6 Giga Watts (GW) of renewable installed capacity to achieve the Scottish Government (formerly the Scottish Executive)’s target of 40% by 2020.

4.5 Although in its policy papers, the Scottish Government offers no explicit prediction of how much wind energy will be brought on line to help meet its 2020 renewable energy aspirations, it is possible to develop a plausible hypothesis. Assuming that electricity consumption in Scotland will rise 25% between now and 2020 to an average national demand of 5,000 MW, and assuming that the 40% generation target will be composed of 13% hydro (up from 11% currently), 5% offshore wind, 5% wave and tidal stream (developing technologies being particularly promoted by the Scottish Government) and 17% onshore wind (the balance of the target), and assuming also that wind farms generate on average 30% of their rated capacity, then slightly short of 3,000 MW of onshore wind will be required. Most of this is likely to be consented prior to 2010, although connection, and therefore construction, of a significant portion may have to wait for development of the grid infrastructure.

4.6 In the specific context of the proposed wind farm, it is estimated that:

• The annual production will generate electricity equivalent to the average demands of more than 14,000 homes.

• This equates to the annual electrical consumption for approximately 20% of the households in Dumfries and Galloway;

• The CO2 annually displaced from the proposed wind farm would be between approximately 26,000 – 60,000 Tonnes per annum.

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Planning Policy

4.7 The proposed wind farm site is within an area administered by Dumfries and Galloway Council. As the proposed wind farm exceeds 20 MW, it is defined as a “Major” development by The Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009, which requires, among other things, a programme of pre-application consultation to be undertaken. This has been undertaken and is reported within the Pre-application Consultation Report submitted alongside the application.

4.8 The proposed wind farm, due to the capacity not exceeding 50 MW, requires to be assessed under section 25 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997, which states:

“Where, in making any determination under the planning Acts, regard is to be had to the development plan, the determination shall be made in accordance with the plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise.”

4.9 The relevant determining authority in this case will be Dumfries and Galloway.

4.10 The relevant development plan consists of the following Structure and Local Plan:

• The Dumfries and Galloway Structure Plan 1999; and

• The Wigtown Local Plan 2006.

4.11 Statutory plans, policies and guidance provide advice on renewable energy and wind farm development, and their associated effects at a national, regional and local level. The policies also emphasise the overall need for sustainable development.

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5 Description of the proposed wind farm

5.1 The proposed wind farm will generate renewable electricity to help meet regional and national demand. The electricity will be transferred to the National Grid electricity transmission system for onward distribution and use by consumers. It is estimated that every year the proposed wind farm is likely to generate electrical energy equivalent to the average annual demand of more than approximately 14,000 homes – or approximately 20% of the households in Dumfries and Galloway Council).

5.2 The main elements of the proposed wind farm are as follows;

• 11 wind turbines (including foundations and crane hardstanding areas);

• 1 permanent wind monitoring mast;

• 4 temporary wind monitoring masts;

• On site access tracks (6.2 km);

• An underground electrical connection;

• A sub-station compound containing a control building;

• A site entrance from the public road;

• A temporary construction compound’

• Associated works.

5.3 Wind turbine locations, crane hardstanding locations, the wind monitoring mast, site tracks, the substation and the temporary construction compound are shown on Figure 2. The site is approximately 524 hectares (ha) in size, however the turbines are only located in the north western half of the site, west of Drumphail Fell.

5.4 Prior to construction, the locations of the proposed turbines and other components of the proposed wind farm would be subject to ‘micro-siting’. This allows for some flexibility in the exact location of the turbines. In this case, turbines could be placed up to 50 m in any direction from the turbine locations shown on Figure 2 provided there remains at least 100 m distance between the turbines and the on site watercourses. Any micro-siting will be discussed and agreed with statutory consultees in advance. This will provide scope for further mitigation of potential impacts to accommodate short term changes to environmental conditions. This micro-siting allowance has been taken into account in the detailed survey and assessment EIA work. It is anticipated that the agreed micro-siting distance will form a condition accompanying any planning consent.

5.5 Once operational the proposed wind farm will result in approximately 5.3 ha of land being sterilised (less than 1 % of the site area). A further 4 ha of land will be temporarily disturbed during the construction process.

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Figure 2: Site Layout

5.6 Three site access options are currently under consideration for abnormal loads. All three options are shown on Figure 3. A description of each option is provided here.

5.7 Option 1 involves using the existing road network and following the same route as that used by SSE to construct and access Artfield Fell Wind Farm. This option involves accessing the site from the A75 in the south and using an upgraded single track route north and then west towards the site. Some upgrading and widening works would be required on this route. All of the general construction traffic will use Option 1.

5.8 Option 2 involves accessing the site from the A75 and Glenluce in the south before sharing the access for the proposed Carscreugh Fell wind farm, joining the public road network to cross the Drumphail Burn, and accessing the site via the existing Glenchamber Farm entrance in the south and joining the public road network in the north at the proposed site entry point.

5.9 Option 3 involves creating a new access road for abnormal loads only from the A75 in the south and using existing Glenchamber Farm access to connect to the public road network north of the site at the proposed site entry point.

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Figure 3: Access Route Options

Wind Turbines

5.10 The proposed wind farm will consist of 11 three bladed, horizontal axis, upwind turbines with solid tubular towers (see Figure 4 for a typical wind turbine). The precise tower/turbine design is not known at this stage, but for the purposes of the EIA it has been assumed to be no greater/higher/larger that the following ‘nominal’ design; a 2.5 MW turbine, with a rotor diameter of nominally 93 m, and a hub height of nominally 80 m. The maximum ground to tip height will not exceed 126.5 m. (See Figure 4)

5.11 The wind turbines will be sited on steel re-inforced concrete foundations, which will be in the shape of a tapered octagonal block of up to 20 m diameter. Crane hardstanding areas (approximately 30 m x 40 m ) constructed from semi permeable crushed stone will be required adjacent to each turbine location to assist during construction of the turbines, and if any maintenance work is required during the operation of the wind farm.

5.12 Turbines begin generating automatically at a wind speed of around 3-4 metres per second (m/s) and have a shut down wind speed of around 25 m\s. Using on-site measured data, it is conservatively estimated on average that the turbines would

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be shut down owing to high wind speeds for up to one hour per year: 0.00012% of the time.

5.13 A transformer and switchgear is also required, and it is likely that this will be located next to the turbine base as shown on Figure 4.

Figure 4: Typical Turbine Elevation

Wind Monitoring Masts

5.14 One permanent and four temporary wind monitoring masts are proposed. Mast locations are chosen primarily to provide representative wind speed information for the site, and will be located as shown in Figure 5. The purpose of the permanent mast will be to provide continual monitoring of the wind farm performance, by recording actual wind conditions over the life of the project. The temporary masts will be deployed throughout the site periodically in order to carry out acceptance tests for the turbines before they are installed. The temporary masts will be guyed and will be approximately 80 m high.

5.15 The permanent mast will be of a free standing (non guyed), steel lattice model, set into a small concrete base and will be up to approximately 80 m high.

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Figure 5: Site Layout

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Figure 6: Typical Wind Mast

Site Tracks

5.16 Tracks are required to enable the turbine components and construction materials to be transported to their locations, and to enable ongoing access for subsequent maintenance visits. A network of approximately 6.2 km of site tracks will be required to access the turbines for construction, operation and decommissioning. Tracks will have a running width of approximately 5 – 5.5 m, and will include a 1 m wide shoulder. Tracks may be slightly wider at bends and passing places. See Figure 7 for site track cross sections.

5.17 One watercourse crossing will be constructed at the unnamed burn that flows from the north east of the site to the south west, enabling access to Turbines 3 and 6. (See Figure 7).

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Figure 7: Proposed watercourse crossing

Electrical Connection, Substation and Control Building

5.18 Electrical connection from the wind turbines to the on-site substation will be via underground cables. The sub station will be located at the north of the site, adjacent to Turbine 1.

5.19 Assuming the use of currently available models, each wind turbine would generate electricity at 690V and would have its own transformer, to step up the voltage to the on-site distribution voltage of 33 kV.

5.20 The proposed wind farm will require connection from the site substation to the National Grid via a transmission line. Design and construction of the transmission line will be administered by the transmission network operator. RES is currently in discussion with the transmission network operator, Scottish Power Transmission. The currently proposed point of connection for the proposed wind farm to the grid system is Glenluce Substation. The most likely connection route is shown in Figure 8. The connection may either be an overhead or underground line, however it is most likely that it will be overhead. A separate application for the transmission works will be submitted under either an Electricity Act 1989 Section 37 application or a planning application by Scottish Power Transmission. This application will be accompanied by either a separate ES or Environmental Report. Nevertheless, likely environmental impacts associated with both the underground and overhead grid connection have been considered to the extent that is possible in this ES.

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Figure 8: Potential Grid Connection Route

5.21 The sub-station compound would contain power quality improvement equipment, up to two auxiliary transformers, and possibly a spare turbine transformer. The control building required at the sub-station would accommodate metering equipment, switchgear, the central computer system and electrical control panels. A spare parts store room, toilet and wash basin along with a kitchenette would also be located in the control building. Although not permanently staffed, the buildings would be visited periodically by maintenance personnel. There is no requirement for any other permanent buildings on the site.

5.22 A 25 m high free-standing communications mast would be located adjacent to the substation compound.

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6 Construction and Decommissioning of the proposed wind farm

Construction

6.1 The proposed wind farm will be constructed by an experienced construction contractor with a proven track record working on similar projects in accordance with UK and international standards in respect of quality, health, safety and environmental conservation.

6.2 In addition to statutory obligations, the appointed construction contractor will be obliged to adopt the environmental working practices implemented by RES, including, where relevant, the commitments outlined in the ES. In this respect the appointed contractor will be measured through regular audits of health, safety and environmental practices.

6.3 The construction contractor will be required to comply with RES’s Construction and Decommissioning Method Statement (CMS), including environmental plans and other related construction method statements in agreement with RES.

6.4 The estimated duration of the construction of the proposed wind farm is 9-12 months. This period is somewhat weather dependant and could be affected by ground conditions found at the site.

6.5 The envisaged sequence of events for the construction programme will be:

• undertake any works/improvements to the public highway;

• upgrade the site entrance and any existing track to the position of the compound and construct the compound;

• construct the site access tracks with field gates and temporary fencing (where required) and excavate the foundations;

• construct the wind turbine foundations;

• construct the sub-station and install the grid connection;

• excavate the trenches and lay the power and instrumentation cables;

• erect the turbines;

• commission the turbines; and

• carry out land reinstatement, remove temporary site office, reinstate temporary compound and clear the site.

6.6 The timing of commencement of construction of the project will be dependent upon:

• timing of the granting of planning permission and determining conditions, should the application be successful;

• ongoing farming activity; and

• weather, ground conditions and ecological factors.

6.7 It is proposed that construction and civil works will be restricted in time to Monday to Saturday from 7.00am to 7.00pm. However construction activities will be confined to the days of the week and hours of working agreed with DGC prior to the commencement of construction.

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6.8 During construction there will be a temporary workforce varying between 10 and 50. The average number employed during this period will be approximately 30.

Decommissioning

6.9 The expected operational life of the wind farm is 25 years from the date of commissioning. At the end of this period a decision would be made as to whether to refurbish, remove, or replace the turbines. If refurbishment or replacement were to be chosen, relevant planning applications would be made. Decommissioning a wind farm entails the removal of all the turbine components, transformers, the sub-station and associated buildings. Some of the access tracks could be left on site to ensure the continued benefit of improved site access for the landowner or they could be reinstated.

6.10 The concrete foundations are not usually removed in decommissioning as this would cause more land damage than leaving them in situ. The exposed concrete plinth would be removed and the entire foundation would be graded over with soil and would be replanted.

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7 Environmental Impact Assessment Process

7.1 The purpose of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is to provide adequate environmental information to enable stakeholders to understand the potential environmental effects of a project.

7.2 The EIA identifies and assesses the potential environmental impacts associated with the construction, operation and decommissioning of the proposed wind farm. The assessment and potential environmental impacts are recorded in the Environmental Statement (ES). For each potential impact, the ES considers the ‘worst case’. This ensures that the development possibilities and environmental scenarios likely to cause the greatest environmental impact are taken into account for every aspect of the project. This process defines clearly the potential boundaries of the proposed wind farm and describes the maximum possible impact.

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Figure 9 EIA Process

Consultation and EIA Scoping

7.3 As described above, the proposed wind farm has been the subject of extensive consultation. Extensive and ongoing consultation has been undertaken with a variety of groups including; the local community, DCG, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). The feedback from this consultation has been used to shape the design of the proposed wind farm, for example in relation to the number and location of wind turbines.

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7.4 Formal consultation was undertaken via a ‘Scoping’ process. Scoping is a mechanism by which key authorities in the EIA process are informed about a proposed development and the potential environmental impacts arising from it, and have an opportunity to comment on the key issues that the EIA should focus on. A Scoping Report was issued which set out the ‘terms of reference’ for the EIA.

7.5 Meetings have been held with DCG and SNH (10th June 2010) and SEPA (15th June 2010) and there has been regular dialogue with these organisations as the EIA process has developed.

7.6 In parallel with the process described above, RES has engaged with the wider community on a number of occasions since the wind farm at Glenchamber was proposed.

7.7 Public exhibitions displaying information on the proposed wind farm were held over three days (Thursday 2nd, Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th of September) at St Cowans Hall, Kirkcowan; New Luce Memorial Hall, New Luce; and Glenluce Hall, Glenluce.

7.8 The purpose of the public exhibitions has been two-fold – to provide the community with an understanding of the proposed wind farm, and to provide RES with an understanding of local opinion. The exhibition material consisted primarily of a range of display boards with information about the project and a selection of views of the site from various locations.

Design Evolution and Alternatives

7.9 The Glenchamber site was identified as part of a process carried out by RES that covered the whole of Scotland. An initial desk study identified areas of Scotland where, because of a combination of topography and geography, the wind resource was likely to be satisfactory and where the infrastructure, landscape and settlement density would likely be able to accept the development of a commercially viable wind farm. RES use a Geographic Information System (GIS) model to identify these areas. Locations are scored based on suitability on a scale from 0-100%.

7.10 There are a number of key technical and environmental factors that influence the feasibility of a wind farm. These include:

• adequate wind speed;

• sufficient area;

• appropriate ground conditions;

• access to electricity grid;

• feasibility of access for abnormal loads;

• suitable terrain topography; and

• agreements with site landowners.

7.11 The latest results from the GIS model can be seen Figure 10. For ease of viewing the figure focuses on the west of Dumfries and Galloway area. It is apparent that the proposed wind farm site remains a high scoring site. The significant coverage of black areas signifying constraints to development in the wider area and conversely

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the high scoring regions in the immediate vicinity to Glenchamber and further to the North help explain why there are a number of operational, consented and proposed sites in the region.

7.12 Selection of the site is further justified as it can be can be seen in Figure 11 that a significant part of the proposed site lies within “Intermediate Areas” for wind turbine development, as identified in the Dumfries and Galloway Structure Plan Wind Energy Diagram (December 1999).

7.13 Once the Glenchamber site had been identified in 2005, approaches to the landowners were made. RES subsequently entered into land agreements with the landowners and initial investigations into the site were made. A decision was taken to advance the site and progress a planning application during 2008.

Figure 10: Site Selection Process

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Figure 11: Wind Energy Diagram from DGC

Design Specification

7.14 More than 9 iterations of the layout have accompanied the evolution of the proposals for the proposed wind farm. The layouts have followed a number of stages:

• The scoping/screening stage when little was known about the finer characteristics of the site but a notional layout was a useful focus for discussion with consultees and interested parties;

• The project definition stage when general ideas had evolved, but baseline technical, environmental and engineering studies had yet to commence;

• The project design stage when the baseline constraints were fully defined and an informed design of the layout could be undertaken; at this stage a clear design strategy could be selected; and

• Further refinement to the project following ongoing site assessment work and consultation with statutory and non-statutory consultees.

7.15 A constraints map was developed showing all constraints on site. This is shown as Figure 12, and helped to define the final layout of the proposed wind farm.

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Figure 12: Constraints Map

7.16 Considering all technical and principal constraints and the broader design process, an 11 turbine layout was fixed for submission with this application (one turbine location was removed from the scheme by the applicant during the design process due its proximity to sensitive blanket bog). This layout has the following key design features:

• 11 turbines with a maximum size of 126.5 m AOD, which would be seen as distinct from Artfield Fell whilst not exceeding the maximum elevation of the Artfield turbines and which would minimise the number of turbines required at the site and therefore the impacts on the landscape fabric, peat resource and ecology of the site. Additionally, by utilising the 126.5 m turbines the simplicity and scale of the existing landscape would be maintained and the amount of infrastructure required would be reduced;

• A turbine layout which would be seen as separate and distinct from the Artfield wind farms, responding to the specific characteristics and appearance of the application site and one which responds equally to landscape/visual constraints and ecology (including peat), cultural heritage, hydrology etc;

• The avoidance of visually prominent edges or ridgelines (the development being set back from the elevated plateau edge) and avoidance of complex steeper graded fell topography that encloses the site to the south and west;

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• Concentration of turbines and infrastructure in the larger scale flatter areas in the north-western part of the application site;

• North-east to south-west orientation of turbines and infrastructure to reflect undulating form of the topography at the site;

• Utilisation of enclosure provided by adjacent coniferous plantation to the north and north-east and raised topography to the south and west of the proposed turbines;

• 100 m stand-offs between proposed turbines and watercourses at the site; and

• From a physical perspective, it was felt that the proposed wind farm should be designed so that it is neither dependent upon nor in conflict with Artfield Fell infrastructure (in terms of access and grid connection etc.).

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8 Environmental Effects

8.1 The design of the proposed wind farm has been considered carefully to avoid key areas of environmental sensitivity and impact. The potential impacts of the proposed wind farm during construction, operation and decommissioning have been assessed in relation to the following impacts:

• Landscape and Visual;

• Ecology;

• Ornithology;

• Cultural Heritage and Archaeology;

• Geology, Hydrology and Hydrogeology;

• Noise;

• Electromagnetic Interference and Related Issues;

• Access, Traffic and Transport;

• Socio-economics; and

• Potential Grid Connections

8.2 The following pages contain a summary of the key potential environmental impacts. The measures included as part of the proposed wind farm in order to avoid and reduce impacts are also listed along with the associated mitigation. Further in depth information is contained in the Environmental Statement (Volume 2 Main Report).

Landscape and Visual

8.3 The role of the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment is to establish potential significant effects arising from the proposed wind farm in order to aid the determination of the application. The significant effects identified are summarised in the paragraphs below.

8.4 The landscape and visual impact assessment (LVIA) considered a 35km radius study area (extending from the outermost turbines of the proposed array) and involved a desk study, field survey and computer modelling.

8.5 Following the identification of the baseline condition of the landscape and subsequent formulation of suitable design responses to minimise potential significant effects arising from the proposed turbines and associated infrastructure the residual effect of the development was assessed in accordance with current professional guidelines. A primary consideration in the LVIA, given the number of other wind farm developments either in existence consented or proposed in the vicinity of the application site, was the possible cumulative effect arising from the proposed development.

LVIA Findings

8.6 The LVIA identified no significant effects on the landscape fabric within the site. The proposed turbines and wind farm infrastructure would be temporary elements that would either be removed on completion of construction works (as in the case

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of the construction compound) or during decommissioning of the wind farm and the site reinstated to a condition consistent with its existing position.

Residual Effects on Landscape Character

8.7 In relation to landscape character the operational wind farm would result in significant cumulative effects on a number of Landscape Character Types (LCT’s ) in the study area; including;

• the Peninsula LCT (LCT DGW1), which would experience significant cumulative effects in the vicinity of Barlockhart Moor;

• the Shallow Flat Bottomed Valley LCT (LCT DGW4). Whilst generally not be subject to significant cumulative effects, some localised significant effects would occur on the elevated western edge of this LCT;

• the Drumlin Pasture in Moss and Moor Lowland LCT (LCT DGW13), which would be subject to significant cumulative effects on the fells and moorlands in the eastern part of the LCT, around Fell End, north of Kirkgowan;

• the Upland Fringe LCT (LCT DGW17), within which localised significant effects would occur in close proximity to the application site. However, in more distant locations in this LCT residual cumulative effects would not be significant;

• the Plateau Moorland LCT (LCT DGW18), within which the Glenchamber wind farm would be located, would be subject to significant cumulative effects. These effects would be localised to the areas within 8 km of the application site. However, this is an extensive LCT and is subject to a number of existing/consented wind farms such as Artfield Fell and its extension, adjacent to the site and Arecleoch to the north. In the event of its construction, the proposed Kilgallioch wind farm would represent a far greater impact on this LCT than the proposed Glenchamber wind farm; and

• the Plateau Moorland with Forest LCT (LCT DGW19), which would only be subject to significant cumulative effects within 8km of the application site where clearings or elevated ground would offer views of Glenchamber turbines. It is not predicted that this is representative of the vast majority of the LCT as this landscape is extensively afforested and would have little visibility of the development. Although the scheme would be seen from an isolated location beyond 10 km at Bruce’s Stone, the effects would not be significant.

Residual Effects on Visual Amenity

8.8 Significant effects on residential properties and settlements would largely be confined to outlying properties at Glenluce and New Luce and properties at Garvilland, Drumphail and Glenchamber Farm, The latter properties being located within 1-2 km from the nearest turbine. Other properties within 10 km with open views toward the Glenchamber wind farm that would be subject to significant cumulative effects would include properties near Mindork Fell in the south-east or isolated farmsteads in the upper Cross Water of Luce Valley and Water of Luce Valley.

8.9 In terms of effects on roads in the study area, significant cumulative effects are predicted on a small number of routes including the A75 (as it passes within 10 km of the Glenchamber wind farm, between Glenluce and Barskeoch Fell). However,

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such views would be intermittent on this section of the route. No other A or B class roads would be subject to significant effects. However, the two minor unclassified roads that run along the northern boundary and the eastern boundary of the site would experience significant cumulative effects due to their proximity to the proposed wind farm site.

8.10 Significant cumulative effects are predicted on stretches of the Southern Upland Way, such as between Glenwhan Moor, and adjoining Kilhern and Balmurrie Fell, as it passes within close proximity of the site. Significant effects would also occur on high ground at Glenvernoch Fell, but only when considered with existing/consented schemes. Walkers on the Southern Upland Way would experience sequential views of Glenchamber turbines in conjunction with other existing/consented and proposed wind farms from these locations. However, for the most part, the introduction of the proposed Kilgallioch wind farm would be, by far, the most dominant development.

8.11 Residents of the Three Lochs Caravan Site and the Three Lochs Estate would also experience significant effects as a result of the proposed Glenchamber development.

8.12 Recreational users and visitors in the Galloway Forest Park would not experience significant effects in relation to Glenchamber wind farm. However, significant cumulative effects would be predicted for the visual amenity of hill walkers on the summits of Beneraird, Fell End, Culvennan Fell and Knock Fell, all of which are located within 10 km.

8.13 There would be no predicted significant cumulative effects on designated Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes within the study area.

8.14 Any on-shore wind farm in the UK will result in some significant residual effects. Given the proliferation of on-shore wind farm development many of these effects are likely to be cumulative in nature. This is the case in regard to the proposed Glenchamber wind farm. However, the development is considered to have been devised in a responsible and sensitive manner that ensures that it responds to the particularities of the local landscape. The result of this is that significant effects associated with the proposed wind farm would be confined to locations away from key receptor concentrations including settlements, the coast and tourist interests. Moreover, whilst DGC and SNH have expressed understandable concern about the capacity of the landscape to accommodate what appears to be a large number of large scale wind farm proposals the Glenchamber wind farm is considered to be of a relatively modest scale and is not anticipated to result in a significant shift in the balance of the landscape or undermining of its integrity.

Ecology

8.15 This assessment sought to identify all species and habitats on or near the proposed wind farm site which, as a result of legal protection under legislation such as the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 2004 (as amended), or by their inclusion on national or local biodiversity plans, required consideration in terms of the potential impacts of the development.

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8.16 Detailed survey work was undertaken across the proposed wind farm site, following best practice and industry standard methodologies to identify the species and habitats present.

8.17 The following surveys were undertaken:

• Habitat and detailed vegetation type survey

• Bat survey

• Otter and water vole survey

• Great crested newt suitability survey

• Badger survey

• Reptile survey

• Fish survey

8.18 Three species of bat were identified using the site and nearby areas. European otter were recorded using the Drumphail Burn and a healthy water vole population was recorded on the un-named tributary to the Drumphail Burn. A single record of an adder and frequent records of both adult and juvenile common lizards were also made.

8.19 A range of habitats have been recorded on site including more ecologically valuable peatland habitats such as blanket bog, wet-modified bog, wet dwarf shrub heath and dry dwarf shrub heath.

8.20 A range of mitigation measures have been proposed, including avoidance of the most sensitive habitats on site, careful siting and installation of a crossing of the un-named watercourse and installation of artificial otter holt and bat boxes. In this way, it is assessed that mitigation is possible for all impacts identified and any residual impacts are negligible.

Ornithology

8.21 A series of field surveys have been carried out in 2009 and 2010 including:

• Breeding bird surveys

• Wintering bird surveys, and

• Vantage point observations to monitor bird movements across the proposed wind farm and its surrounds.

8.22 The assessment of the potential effects of the proposed wind farm on the features of ornithological interest identified there might be a risk of disturbance and habitat loss to breeding birds, including curlew and red grouse, during construction and operation, and disturbance to wintering birds during construction. Wind farms pose a risk of mortality as a result of collision with wind turbines during operation, and it was found that there may be a risk of disturbance to breeding birds during decommissioning. These impacts were found not to be significant, with mitigation measures including avoiding active nests, and the avoidance of more sensitive habitats achieved through the design process.

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8.23 It is concluded that the proposed wind farm would comply with relevant planning policies to ornithology. Overall, no ornithological impacts are likely to occur as a result of the Proposal that would be considered significant under the EIA Regulations, nor any that would result in any breach of the Habitats Regulations.

8.24 Further in depth information is contained in the Environmental Statement.

Cultural Heritage and Archaeology

8.25 A desk-based assessment and focused reconnaissance field survey have been carried out for the proposed wind farm. The assessment has been informed by comments and information supplied by Historic Scotland and the DGC Archaeologist. There are no direct impacts predicted for cultural heritage sites and cultural heritage features identified within the proposed wind farm. Mitigation measures have been proposed, where appropriate, to offset the predicted negative effects arising from the proposed wind farm.

8.26 38 sites of cultural heritage interest have been identified within the proposed wind farm area; 16 of these being present within the proposed wind farm site. The majority of features recorded are associated with prehistoric activity and medieval or later rural settlement, and are judged to be of no more than low sensitivity and local historical environment interest.

8.27 An assessment of the known cultural heritage resource of the surrounding area indicates that there is a high probability of encountering as yet undiscovered sites or features of archaeological interest within the proposed wind farm area. However, given that the proposed wind turbines are present within only a small area of the proposed wind farm area, limited to the northwest corner, and taking into account the limited land-take required by the separate elements of the proposed wind farm the probability of encountering hitherto undiscovered sites of archaeological significance during the course of the construction work is judged to be moderate.

8.28 The proposed wind farm will be visible from one Scheduled Monument, Bennan of Garvilland (1955) and a group of Scheduled sites forming part of the East Rhins Archaeologically Sensitive Area. Significant impacts on the settings of these sensitive areas are predicted as a result of the proposed wind farm.

8.29 Significant impacts on the setting of the East Rhins Archaeologically Sensitive Area would arise if all of the proposed wind farm schemes currently proposed in the area were to be carried through to construction. The contribution to the cumulative impact from the wind farm proposed at Glenchamber would be minimal.

Geology, Hydrology and Hydrogeology

8.30 This assessment involved a combination of desk study, site visit and consultation with SEPA, SNH and DGC. The role of the Geology, Hydrology and Hydrogeology Assessment was to establish potential significant effects arising for the proposed wind farm in order to aid the determination of the application.

8.31 During construction there may be a risk of increased sediment loads, acidification and potentially metal salt within runoff from disturbed ground, spoil heaps and excavations. There may also be a risk of increased sediment loads during track

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crossing construction in close proximity to watercourses (i.e. at the watercourse crossings). Consequently, and through consultation with SEPA, SNH and DGC, a comprehensive approach to pollution prevention has been a key consideration for the development of the proposed wind farm. In particular, the presence of the Drumphail Burn, part of the River Bladnoch SAC designated for Atlantic Salmon, adjacent to the site boundary has meant that the turbines have been set back by 100 m from watercourses, to minimise the risk of accidental spillage or sedimentation affecting this sensitive receptor. Further detailed measures to prevent pollution during the construction phase such as silt fences and settlement pond are set out in a draft Construction and Decommissioning Method Statement (CMS) which will be agreed with SEPA in advance of construction commencing on site.

8.32 Risks during operation and decommission, such as oil spills, were not deemed significant, and an operational pollution prevention and emergency response plan has been proposed. Long term risks have been deemed not significant.

8.33 It is concluded that with the implementation of the measures described in the CMS, construction impacts are of minor significance, and that operation and long term impacts are of negligible significance.

Noise

8.34 Noise can have an effect on the environment and on the quality of life enjoyed by individuals and communities. The effect of noise can therefore be a material consideration in the determination of planning applications.

8.35 The framework most commonly used within the UK for assessing the impact of noise from wind farms is the Department of Trade and Industry’s ‘The Assessment and Rating of Noise from Wind Farms’, referred to as ‘ETSU-R-97’. It provides a robust basis for assessing the noise impact of a wind farm and has been applied at the vast majority of wind farms currently operating in the UK.

8.36 The acoustic impact for the proposed wind farm on nearby neighbours has been assessed in accordance with the relevant guidance on wind farm noise as outlined above.

8.37 Noise levels due to the operation of the proposed wind farm with the existing Artfield Fell Wind Farm have been predicted at nearby properties over a range of wind speeds. For those properties considered the predicted noise levels are within noise limits at all considered wind speeds. The proposed Glenchamber wind farm therefore complies with the relevant guidance on wind farm noise and the impact on the amenity of all nearby properties would be regarded as acceptable.

8.38 An assessment of the cumulative impact of the proposed Glenchamber wind farm, the existing Artfield Fell wind farm, the consented extension to Artfield Fell wind farm, and the proposed Carscreugh wind farm has also been undertaken. At all wind speeds considered the predicted noise levels are within noise limits.

8.39 The proposed wind farm therefore complies with the relevant guidance on wind farm noise and the impact on the amenity of all nearby properties would be regarded as acceptable.

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Electromagnetic Interference and Related Issues

8.40 The potential impacts of the proposed wind farm during construction and operation have been assessed in relation electromagnetic interference, aviation, shadow flicker and reflected light.

8.41 Wind turbines can potentially interfere with communication systems that use electromagnetic waves (e.g. television, radio or microwave links). Any effect depends on the turbine design and location and the fact that wind turbine rotors are not stationary. Any structure can result in the potential disruption of electromagnetic signals, either where the development creates a ‘shadow’ or where it gives rise to a ‘reflection’.

8.42 Analysis has demonstrated that there will be no widespread interference to TV reception. A range of viable mitigation measures are available to the few properties that may be affected, and the most appropriate solution must be decided on a case by case location specific basis. Solutions include an improved aerial system, utilising an alternative transmitter, or switching to digital TV.

8.43 The turbines at Glenchamber will have a maximum tip height of 126.5m and do not constitute an ‘aerodrome obstruction’, therefore a request for lighting from the Civil Aviation Authority is not anticipated. Defence Estates had raised a concern on the basis that the wind farm is in a Ministry of Defence low flying area. Infra red lighting on the turbines has been proposed, which allows military aircraft with night vision capability to detect and avoid the proposed wind farm. The lighting cannot be detected with the naked eye, thereby reducing the visual impact. Defence Estates has also raised a concern regarding a possible technical impact on the West Freugh radar and detailed discussions are to be held between RES and Defence Estates to assess whether any mitigation is required.

8.44 Whether shadow flicker is a disturbance depends upon the observer’s distance from the turbine, the direction of the dwelling and the orientation of its windows and doors from the wind farm, the frequency of the flicker and the duration of the effect, either on any one occasion or averaged over a year. Analysis of shadow flicker has concluded that the proposed wind farm will not cause a material reduction to residential amenity owing to shadow flicker. It is likely that no houses will be subject to shadow flicker from the Glenchamber wind farm.

8.45 A related visual effect to shadow flicker is that of reflected light. Theoretically, should light be reflected off a rotating turbine blade onto an observer then a stroboscopic effect would be experienced. In practice a number of factors limit the severity of the phenomenon and there are no known reports of reflected light being a significant problem at other wind farms. Analysis also concluded that the proposed wind farm will not cause a material reduction to amenity owing to reflected light

Access, Traffic and Transport

8.46 The potential impacts on transport and traffic from the proposed wind farm have been assessed.

8.47 Increased traffic levels would be experienced during the 12 months of construction. Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) would access the proposed wind farm site, from the

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A75, C22 and U89. Due to the low levels of construction traffic anticipated. It is considered that the local transport network would be able to absorb the additional traffic movements. Improvement works to accommodate HGV traffic during the construction period may potentially be required on the Ballochadee Bridge subject to bridge inspection prior to commencement of construction on site.

8.48 The turbine components will be delivered to the site, by what is referred to as ‘abnormal loads deliveries’. The abnormal loads deliveries will consist of 8 abnormal loads per turbine, resulting in 88 abnormal loads. The abnormal load vehicles delivery route has not yet been confirmed but turbine components would be delivered to a nearby port, then transported by road to the A75 near Glenluce and then onto the site via one of the three access options being considered. The three potential access options are shown in Figure 3. Depending on which route is chosen sections of new roads or improvements to existing roads may be required.

8.49 A transport management plan will be prepared to manage the general construction traffic and abnormal loads. The content of the transport management plan will be agreed with DGC. Traffic management measures would be implemented prior to, and during, the construction phase in consultation with the relevant Highways Authorities and the Police to ensure road safety.

8.50 There is no evidence to suggest that there would be any effect of driver distraction during operation of the wind farm, and no appreciable effect of wind farm operation and maintenance traffic on the local road network is anticipated.

8.51 The cumulative transport effects of the proposed wind farm, Artfield Fell Extension and the Carscreugh Renewable Energy Park have been assessed and are considered unlikely to have significant effects due to the anticipated different construction timescales.

Socio-Economics

8.52 An assessment of the proposed wind farm on socio-economics has been undertaken, including impacts on recreation and tourism, amenity value, land use, employment, the economy, public safety and public access during both the construction and decommissioning and operational phase of the proposed wind farm.

8.53 During the construction and decommissioning phases it is considered that a minor positive impact will arise as a result of direct and indirect employment. It is anticipated that a temporary workforce, varying between 10 and 50 people and averaging 30 on site at any one time, would be utilised during the construction phase, of which approximately 80% would be sourced within the local region. Indirect employment as a result of supply chain benefits for local businesses, sub-contracted work relating to the transportation of labour and materials, and expenditure by construction employees in the local economy is considered to represent a minor positive impact. In order to ensure positive benefits for the local area during construction of the proposed wind farm RES will seek to use local labour, manufacturers and suppliers where possible.

8.54 The potential for impacts to commercial activities on site, risks to public safety and restrictions to public access have also been identified during the construction, decommissioning and operation phases, however the residual significance of such

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issues is considered negligible. Construction activities will be controlled and managed through a CMS which will identify measures to mitigate against the identified potential impacts. During operation, the proposed wind farm will be operated in accordance with the highest levels of operational safety, and residual impacts on public safety are considered highly unlikely.

8.55 Once the proposed wind farm is operational, the potential for adverse impacts on tourism and recreation, and the amenity value of the local area has been identified. Perceptions and attitudes towards wind farms have been the subject of several public opinion surveys over the past 15 years. The results of the MORI’s ‘Tourism Attitudes Towards Wind Farms’ study in 2003 indicates that approximately 86% of those surveyed, who were aware of the wind farms, either left the area with a more positive impression because of their presence, or felt that the wind farms made no difference to their overall impression of the area. In addition, the results of a 2003 MORI poll indicate that people living within 5 km of the local wind farm held the most positive views of wind farm development, with 45% saying they thought the overall impact had been positive and only 6% saying they thought it had been negative.

8.56 Whilst it is difficult to provide a definitive judgement, in light of the discussion above, and adopting a precautionary approach, impacts on tourism, recreation and amenity value due to the operation of the wind farm are considered to be of minor significance and can be either positive or negative depending on personal opinions.

8.57 Direct and indirect economic impacts during the operational phase of the proposed wind farm as a result of direct and indirect employment, land rents, and a community benefit fund have also been identified, however these are considered to be of negligible significance.

Potential Grid Connections

8.58 The preferred option is a new approximately 10 km 33 kV direct connection either overhead or underground from the wind farm to the Glenluce Grid Supply Point, which is a 132/33/11 kV substation located to the south west of the wind farm. The substation is connected via 2 x 132 kV lines that run together in an easterly direction and then separate to Coylton and Gretna Transmission substations.

8.59 A preliminary assessment of the potential impacts of the likely grid route has been undertaken to verify that there are unlikely to be any unacceptable environmental effects. In order to ensure that all potential environmental impacts have been considered an assessment has been undertaken to assess potential environmental impacts arising from both the overhead and underground route options. The main environmental impacts considered to have the potential for likely significant effects are: landscape and visual; cultural heritage and archaeology; ecology; ornithology; hydrology, hydrogeology and geology; and noise.

8.60 The effects of the overhead grid connection on the landscape would be limited to locations disturbed in erecting poles and guy cable foundations. The effect on the landscape would be minimal and would therefore not represent a significant effect. The overhead line has the potential to result in effects on the landscape character and visual amenity. The overhead grid connection would introduce a series of new vertical elements and conductors to the skyline of a largely undeveloped landscape

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resulting in a moderate change to the landscape character and a residual moderate effect. In summary, the over ground option would result in fewer impacts on landscape than the underground option, however it would pose greater potential impacts on landscape character and visual amenity. Whilst the underground option would undoubtedly result in short term disturbance and impact on the fabric of the landscape it would provide for the mitigation of potential long-term effects associated with the overground option.

8.61 A number of features of cultural heritage and archaeological importance have been identified in close proximity to the proposed grid connection route. Completion of a programme of archaeological mitigation works would offset the loss of the archaeological resource that would occur as a result of the construction of the proposed access road.

8.62 The direct potential impacts on ecological and ornithological receptors are related mostly to habitat loss and disturbance of habitats as a result of activities to construct pylons to carry the overhead line or excavations to lay an underground power cable. The route makes one crossing of the Drumphail Burn which forms part of the River Bladnoch Special Area of Conservation (SAC) designated for its population of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar, and six crossings of watercourses draining to the River Bladnoch SAC.

8.63 Disturbance of habitats along the route also has the potential to result in indirect impacts on faunal species such as otter, bat species, water vole, amphibians, reptiles and bird species all of which have been recorded along or in close proximity to the route.

8.64 Completion of a programme of ecological and ornithological mitigation works would offset the loss of the ecological resource that would occur as a result of the construction of the grid connection. Taking the mitigation into account, no significant residual impacts are anticipated to occur.

8.65 The direct potential impacts of the grid connection for the proposed wind farm on the baseline water environment are on the water quality, water resources and flood risk. Potential indirect impacts are identified on water use and aquatic ecology. It is not considered that either the overhead line or underground cables would have a significant residual impact upon the water quality or resources of the sub-catchments or private water supply. The long term impacts of the grid connection infrastructure are thought to be minor. Given the short duration of construction and small areas of disturbance, it is not considered that the cables would have a significant residual impact upon the water quality or resources of the sub-catchments or private water supply.

8.66 Noise generating construction plant will be used during the construction works. It is likely that noise levels will temporarily increase at properties within 50 m of construction works. This includes Whitecairn, Blackhill, Officers Croft and at the connection point at the outskirts of Glenluce. Although all construction works will be undertaken in accordance with a Construction Method Statement, it is still likely that there will be minor, temporary, local noise impacts at nearby receptors, with decreasing likelihood at greater distances. Residual impact is assessed as not likely to be significant.

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8.67 In summary the only significant impact of the potential grid connections are deemed to be landscape and visual impact of overhead grid connections on the few properties affected. This is being considered against the impact to the landscape fabric associated with the underground option and will be managed appropriately through the design phase.

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9 Conclusion

9.1 The likely effects of the proposed wind farm have been reviewed. It is considered that the proposed wind farm would have few significant adverse environmental effects on the local environment and of these most can be reduced or prevented through mitigation measures.

9.2 In addition, the proposed wind farm has associated positive environmental effects related to displacement of fossil fuels and the contribution that the scheme will make to the government’s renewable energy targets.

9.3 The planning statement prepared as a separate document to the ES states that granting consent would be consistent with the relevant policies in the Structure Plan and the Local Plan, which together comprise the development plan. The planning statement concludes by stating that no material considerations have been identified which provide an argument against the granting of planning permission, and consent should be granted for the proposed wind farm, subject to the imposition of appropriate conditions.