section 3.4 – surface water and groundwater contents · order to minimise surface water runoff to...

Roadstone Provinces Ltd. Environmental Impact Statement – Extension to Existing Quarry (Opencast Mine)

Dunbell big Td., Maddockstown, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny (Section 261 Quarry Ref. QY2)

JBA3588/EIS/ed/lb November 2008 Section 3.4 -

SECTION 3.4 – SURFACE WATER AND GROUNDWATER

CONTENTS 3.4.1 INTRODUCTION

(i) Outline of the Scope of Works

(ii) Project Team

(iii) Consultations

(iv) Methodology

3.4.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

(i) The Site

(ii) Water Aspects of the Development

3.4.3 DESCRIPTION OF THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

(i) Topography, Physical Features and Land use

(ii) Climate

(iii) Bedrock, Quaternary Geology and Soils

(a) Regional

(b) Local

(iv) Surface Water - Hydrology

(a) Background

(b) Flow

(b) Water Quality

(c) Site Water Balance

(v) Groundwater - Hydrogeology

(a) General Hydrogeology

(b) Permeability

(c) Recharge

(d) Groundwater Levels

(e) Site Water Supply

(f) Groundwater Quality

(g) Vulnerability

(vi) Site Baseline Summary

3.4.4 WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

(i) Site Layout and Working Scheme

(ii) Existing Site Water Infrastructure

(iii) Existing Water Management

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(iv) Proposed Water Management System

(v) Wastewater Management

(vi) Dust Suppression Measures

(vii) Wheel Wash Facility

(viii) Fuel/Chemical Storage

3.4.5. ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS

(i) Direct Impacts

(a) Surface Water

(b) Groundwater

(ii) Indirect Impacts

(a) Surface Water

(b) Groundwater

3.4.6. MITIGATION

(i) Water Management System

(ii) Monitoring

3.4.7. REFERENCES AND SOURCES OF INFORMATION

SECTION 3.4 – FIGURES

Figure 3.4.1. Surface water course map.

Figure 3.4.2 Groundwater contours (September 2007)

SECTION 3.4 - APPENDICES

APPENDIX 3.4 - A: Logs of Boreholes GW7 – GW12

APPENDIX 3.4 - B: Discharge data from the northern extraction area (October 2001 to August 2007)

APPENDIX 3.4 – C: IPPC License Reg. No. 521 (Condition No. 4.6) Numerical Aquifer Model, Maddoxtown Opencast Mine, County Kilkenny

APPENDIX 3.4 – D: Surface water runoff calculations

APPENDIX 3.4 – E: Dimensions of Quarry Sump for Final Extraction Area (13.4ha.)

APPENDIX 3.4 – F: Hydrochemical data sheet for sample from GW8 Alcontrol Laboratories Ireland)

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3.4 SURFACE WATER AND GROUNDWATER

Section 3.4 of this Environmental Impact Statement details the water aspects of the project. This section is divided into seven subsections:

1. Introduction

2. Project Description

3. Description of the Environment

4. Water Management System

5. Assessment of Impacts

6. Mitigation measures

7. References cited

3.4.1 INTRODUCTION

The site is located in County Kilkenny; 2.5km north of Bennettsbridge (see Figure 1.1). The existing land holding covers an area of 116.3ha, of which 75.9ha has planning permission (Section 2). The extension area being applied for is 15.3ha, of which 13.4ha will be extraction. The proposed extension will operate to a depth of -25m a. OD via a sequential extraction of benches c.18m in height.

Environmental emissions related to the existing quarry are regulated under an Integrated Pollution Control (IPC) License issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Licence No. 521.

(i) Outline of the Scope of Works

The scope of this section includes:

1. an assessment of the existing surface water and groundwater conditions at and close to the site,

2. an assessment of the impact of the proposed quarry development on surface water and groundwater conditions, and

3. recommendations of mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate any potential impacts.

(ii) Project Team

The project team consists of:

Dr Les Brown B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D.

Mr Eugene Daly B.Sc., M.Sc., Dip. Bus. Man., PGeo.

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(iii) Consultations

As part of the study process, databases in the following organisations were consulted and information obtained:

Geological Survey of Ireland Beggars Bush, Haddington Rd, Dublin 4.

Met Éireann Glasnevin, Dublin 9.

Environmental Protection Agency Headquarters, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co Wexford.

(iv) Methodology

The methodology used in the investigation follows the appropriate guidelines and advice notes provided by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (2002, 2003 and 2006), the Institute of Geologists of Ireland (IGI) (2002 and 2007) and combined publications by the Department of Local Government (DLG), EPA & Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) (1999) and the Irish Concrete Federation (ICF) & GSI (2008).

Field visits were made to the site between May 2007 and September 2008. The fieldwork undertaken as part of this investigation included:

• a survey of the site and surrounding area,

• installation of six additional groundwater monitoring wells,

• review of IPC records maintained by the operator

• monitoring of surface water stream flow,

• monitoring of groundwater levels,

• well testing, and,

• sampling of groundwater for laboratory and field analyses.

During these site visits, information on the site and surrounding area, was collected. The details of the investigations carried out and the measurements made are provided below. Details of the equipment and methodologies used in the investigation are described below.

3.4.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

(i) The Site

Maddockstown Quarry lies 2.5km north of Bennettsbridge in the townland of Dunbell Big (see Figure 1.3). The site is located upon generally flat lying land east of the River Nore. The highest point on the site is 68m a. OD and the natural topography slopes gently westwards towards the River Nore, which lies at 36m a. OD adjacent to the site. The Kilkenny city to Waterford city railway line runs through the landholding and divides the site into an eastern area, which is used for extraction, and a western area, which is used for aggregate processing. Current land use within and adjacent to the application area is agricultural grazing. The site lies entirely within the Nore River Basin.

Aggregate extraction occurs from two existing quarries in the eastern area. These are referred to as the northern excavation (Photo 1) and southern excavation (Photo 2). Planning permission is sought to extend and deepen the southern excavation, which is required to

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secure a continued supply of limestone aggregate. A more detailed description of the project is presented in Section 2 of the EIS.

Rock aggregate from the extension area will be extracted by standard blasting and rock breaking techniques. The quarry operation for the extension to the southern excavation will be similar to that currently employed, with a mobile primary crusher operated within the excavation with aggregate transported by truck to the existing process area for secondary crushing and screening. The existing process area also includes areas for aggregate storage and a Tarmacadam plant (Figure 2.5a).

Access to the quarry is via the Bennettsbridge to Kilkenny city country road that runs east of the River Nore and adjacent to the railway line (see Figure 1.1). This existing site entrance will be maintained as part of the proposed quarry extension as will the existing offices, weighbridge, canteen, washroom, car parking and groundwater supplies. Aggregate leaves the site by a combination of road and rail.

(ii) Water Aspects of the Development

The water management system has successfully been operating for a number of years as part of the site IPC licence, which is reviewed annually by the EPA. Surface water quantity and quality and groundwater level have been monitored on the site since August 2001. The management system is designed to maintain dry working conditions but also to minimise discharges from the site. This is achieved by efficiently recycling water where possible and by eliminating surface water runoff into the excavation. It is proposed to include the extension of the southern quarry into the water management system.

Surface water is routed away from both quarry voids in order to minimise the volume of runoff draining to the excavation areas. Away from the excavations, the majority of the site is vegetated and as such water naturally runs off and/or recharges to ground. Runoff from haul roads either runs off into the excavation areas or is allowed to infiltrate to ground. A stream traverses the site between the northern and southern excavations and drains via an engineered channel around the site operations and into the River Nore. The stream is piped and covered at three locations where the haul roads, the public road and the railway line cross the stream in order to minimise surface water runoff to the surface water course. The stream water course is routed away from the aggregate processing area and joins the River Nore at the northwestern corner of the site (Figure 3.4.1).

The northern excavation operates below the water table and the depressed surrounding groundwater level has been monitored on a monthly basis at four dedicated monitoring wells, two site supply wells and those public and private wells close to the excavation. Groundwater inflow and surface water runoff that enters the excavation is directed to sumps on the quarry floor for collection and primary settlement. These combined waters are lifted by pumps from the excavation to a series of three settlement lagoons, which are located between the northern and southern excavations. Discharge from the lagoon system is directed into the stream that traverses the site and is routed via an engineered channel to the receiving waters of the River Nore. The quantity and quality of the pumped water from the excavation is monitored as part of the IPC licence.

The southern excavation presently does not operate below the water table and as such, does not require continuous pumping. However, following storm events water does pond in the quarry floor and requires occasional pumping to the settlement lagoons. As part of this application to extend and deepen the excavation, six additional monitoring wells have been installed in the southern part of the landholding around the periphery of the proposed extension area to determine the groundwater regime (Photo 3). These new wells have been incorporated into the monthly monitoring programme.

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Photo 1. Quarry operation extracting dolomitised limestone (dark grey) and

dolomite (buff) in the northern excavation.

Photo 2. Extraction of weathered dolomitised limestone in the southern

excavation.

Photo 3.Boring of GW9 (May 2007). Photo 4. Wheel wash in operation.

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The process area has a hardcore (gravel) cover and all incident rainfall infiltrates to ground. During storm events ponding will occur in hollows in the yard and on the roadways. However, this standing water is only temporary due to the combined effects seepage to ground and open water evaporation. The existing site includes a wastewater treatment system and wheel wash (Photo 4) both of which will remain as part of the proposed development. At present there are approximately 40 persons employed at the site and it is not anticipated that the number of employees will increase with the proposed quarry extension.

Potable water and process waters are sourced on site from separate groundwater supply wells. The potable water usage for drinking water, office, canteen and wc facilities is estimated to be 5m3/day. Usage of process water for washing, screening, batch plant and dust suppression is metered and averages 50m3/day across the year.

3.4.3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

(i) Topography, Physical Features and Land use

Maddockstown quarry is located in the Nore Valley, with the western boundary of the site bordering the River Nore. This stretch of the River Nore has a particularly slight gradient, with the river losing only 23m along the 20km stretch between the Office of Public Works (OPW) gauging stations at St John’s Bridge in Kilkenny city (44.84m a. OD) and Mount Juliet (21.78m a. OD).

At Maddockstown quarry the ground level gently rises 18m from the River Nore (36m a. OD) to the Kilkenny city to Waterford city railway line (c.53m a. OD), which lies 300m away. From the railway to the eastern site boundary the ground undulates by up to 15m, with the highest point rising to 68m a. OD. The topography of the site is presented in Figure 1.3.

Land use within the extension area is agricultural, being used both for grazing and crops. The land to the north, south and east of the site is also agricultural but primarily used for grazing sheep and cattle. There are approximately 20 residences within 500m of the site boundary; the majority of which are serviced by the Bennettsbridge mains water supply scheme (which is sourced from the River Nore). The mains water has led to the majority of private wells being abandoned, although some private wells remain in use. All residences have private septic tank systems.

(ii) Climate

Climate is described in detail in Section 3.5 of this Environmental Impact Statement. Data from Section 3.5 is used in this section for determination of runoff and recharge for average and extreme rainfall events. Combined, runoff and recharge are referred to as effective rainfall, which is calculated using the formula:

EF = Rf − AE

Where,

EF = Effective Rainfall

Rf = Rainfall

AE = Actual Evapotranspiration

The separation of effective rainfall into recharge and runoff components is a function of the

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overburden permeability and thickness and the recharge acceptance of the bedrock, both of which are discussed later in this subsection.

Rainfall

The nearest rain gauge to Maddockstown Quarry is at the Met Éireann synoptic weather station located about 2km north-west of Kilkenny city centre at an elevation of 66m a. OD. As the synoptic weather station lies close to the quarry (c.7km) and at a comparable elevation to the site the rainfall data will be representative of conditions at the quarry. The Kilkenny synoptic station operated was closed in April 2008 by Met Éireann.

The records for the period 1971-2000 show that rainfall for the hydrometric year (1st Oct-30th Sep) at Kilkenny varies between 605.5-1067.0mm/yr. Monthly rainfall values for this period range from 1.6mm (September 1972) to 203.3mm (August 1993). Average monthly rainfall values for Kilkenny city (1971-2000) are presented in Table 3.4.1 below and show that on average December is the wettest month and July the driest month. Data for the period

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year

85.3 69.9 66.4 53.5 60.4 53.8 52.5 73.1 75.2 89.1 78.3 91.8 849.1

Table 3.4.1 Monthly and annual average rainfall (mm) from Kilkenny city; 1971-2000

Values for rainfall intensity are estimated for Maddockstown for a 5-year return period from national maps produced by the AGMET group (Collins and Cummins, 1996). For a one-hour and two-day storm event the rainfall intensity is estimated to be 17mm and 55mm, respectively.

Evapotranspiration

Potential Evapotranspiration (PE) comprises of the combined water losses from plant transpiration, soil/rock water evaporation and open water evaporation (from permanent and ephemeral water bodies and well as standing water following heavy rainfall). PE (from grass) has been calculated from Met Éireann data for the period 1971-2000 at Kilkenny synoptic station (recently closed). For this 30-year dataset recorded the lowest monthly PE recorded is 0.9mm (December 1976) whilst the highest is 114.0mm (July 1989). These data are presented below (Table 3.4.2) and are shown as monthly and annual averages. PE values tend to be lower from October-March and higher from April-September. The average annual PE is 464.5mm.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year

7.9 13.2 29.3 49.9 71.5 75.3 78.4 66.3 40.8 19.0 7.6 5.3 464.5

Table 3.4.2 Monthly and annual average PE (mm) at Kilkenny; 1971-2000 (Met Éireann).

The actual amount of evapotranspiration (AE) is less than the potential evapotranspiration (PE) when the available soil water is significantly reduced. This commonly occurs after extended periods of dry weather during the summer months. On an annual basis AE tends to range between 90-100% of PE depending on climatological conditions. Using an average of 95%, then average AE for grass in at Maddockstown will be 441mm/yr.

In areas where there is no vegetation or soil cover, such as the quarry floor and access roads, there will be no transpiration and evapotranspiration will comprise only of evaporation from the

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rock (minimal) and open water evaporation from quarry sumps/lagoons and ponding caused by high rainfall events. AE from bare rock surfaces is estimated to be 5mm/month or 60mm/year. Open water evaporation from standing water, such as sumps and lagoons, can reach 100mm/month during July/August but is as low as 10mm/month during December/January.

From these rainfall and AE data then effective rainfall [rainfall – AE (grass crop)] at Maddockstown is estimated to be 408.1mm for grassland and 789.1mm for rock surfaces.

(iii) Bedrock, Quaternary Geology and Soils

This subsection provides a summary of the soils and geology that are presented in Section 3.3. In this summary the soils and geology are presented in a regional and local context. Where the regional context considers the setting of the site within the Bennettsbridge lowlands, and the local context is constrained to the site and its immediate surrounds.

(a) Regional

Bedrock

The geology of the Bennettsbridge lowlands comprises of Lower Carboniferous bedrock, which comprises mainly of limestone and dolomites. The stratigraphy from oldest to youngest comprises of the Ballysteen Limestone Formation, the Butlersgrove Formation and the Ballyadams Limestone Formation.

The central feature of the lowlands is the valley of the River Nore, which has developed along the line of a major north-south oriented fault that extends for 40km from Kilkenny city southwards to Waterford city. The fault has downthrown the sequence to the west, so that the Butlersgrove Formation lies directly against the younger limestones of the Ballyadams Limestone Formation across the fault zone. Dolomitisation of the Butlersgrove Formation is the most widespread in close proximity to the fault zone, which most likely acted as a pathway for the upward migration of dolomitising fluids through the geological sequence. These fluids were particularly rich in magnesium, which reacted with the limestone, replacing it with buff and grey dolomites, grey calcareous dolomites and grey dolomitised limestone. The dolomitisation grade decreases away from the fault structures.

Quaternary Subsoils

Teagasc subsoil parent material digital mapping data (2006) shows that the subsoil deposits in the ground west of the River Nore in the Kilkenny city area are generally less than 10m thick, except along the river itself where the subsoil comprises of gravels that tend to be a bit thicker (generally up to 20m).

These subsoils comprise of till that is derived from the Carboniferous limestones, sandstones, shales and coal measures. As part of the Geological Survey of Ireland groundwater protection scheme for County Kilkenny (2002 Draft) subsoils were mapped by particle size distribution from samples taken using a machine auger. The dominant subsoil in the central lowlands was glacial till in which the fines (clay and silt particles) content was 15-35%. Sand and gravel deposits were reported to be associated with the river valleys, especially the King’s River, Nore-Dinin and Lower River Nore.

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Soils

The Royal Irish Academy Atlas of Ireland (Gardiner and Radford, 1980) Soils map shows the area to be underlain by grey brown Podzolics, with some gley soils. All of which are derived locally from Carboniferous limestones, sandstones, shales and coal measures. These soils are rather fertile and are capable of high yielding grasslands.

(b) Local

Bedrock Geology

Published GSI 1:100,000 geology maps (Smith and Sleeman, 1996, and Archer et al 1996) show Maddockstown quarry to lie within the outcrop of the Butlersgrove Formation, which is extensively dolomitised. Inspection of the quarry faces confirms localised dolomitisation of the Butlersgrove Formation as identified by the Geological Survey of Ireland. The quarry faces of the active quarry are extensively dolomitised to pink and buff coloured dolomites of medium to coarse grain.

A programme of rotary percussive drilling was undertaken in 2007 as part this application. The data from this drilling programme is presented in Appendix 3.4 - A. During this 2007 drilling programme six wells (GW7 – GW12) were completed to a maximum depth of –10m OD. Chippings were collected at 10m intervals and forwarded to OMAC Laboratories of Loughrea, County Galway for analysis of calcium and magnesium content, in order to determine the degree to which the limestone had been dolomitised.

Whilst, the Butlersgrove Formation is extensively dolomitised in the area of the northern excavation, the proposed extension area for southern excavation was shown to largely comprise of limestone with a much lesser degree of dolomitisation. As discussed in Section 3.3 dolomitisation in the Butlersgrove Formation is gradational with a range of metamorphic grades spanning the between dolomite and limestone. The main dolomite body is associated with the Nore fault zone where the contact with the adjacent dolomitic limestones is sub-vertical and at the boundary of the fault zone. Moving away from the fault zone the contact rotates and becomes subhorizontal with the thinning dolomite overlying the dolomitic limestone. Further away from the fault zone, in the area of the proposed southern excavation, the dolomitic limestone grades to limestone (Figure 3.3.2-5).

Some small scale faulting is present in the faces of the northern quarry. This mainly occurs at a north to north-northeast orientation, which is parallel to the Nore Fault zone. Jointing is also present in the quarry faces but tends to be widely spaced (c.5m intervals). The local bedding dip is c.9 degrees to the southwest and the benches of the quarry have been worked along these bedding planes.

Quaternary Subsoils

Overburden examined adjacent to the existing excavations is seen to be composed of glacial tills derived from the lower Carboniferous limestone and overlying Namurian sandstones, shales and coal seams. The subsoils tend to be particularly sandy and gravely in this part of the Nore Valley, especially where the bedrock is extensively dolomitised. Recharge rates will be relatively high due to the coarse subsoils and allow most effective rainfall to infiltrate to bedrock.

Soils

The agricultural soils in the area are derived from local bedrock and subsoil. The soils are

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dominantly minimal grey brown Podzolics, with some gley soils. These soils are well drained and particularly fertile.

(v) Surface Water - Hydrology

(a) Background

Due to the topography of the site and the well-drained nature of the soils most runoff infiltrates to ground. The only surface water on the site is a stream that drains from the west runs in between the northern and southern excavations is piped around the existing excavation. This stream also receives water pumped from the existing excavation, which is recorded on a daily basis. Roadstone Provinces operate under EPA license No. 521, which restricts the daily volume of pumped water to 92m3/hr (2,208m3/day). Discharge data recorded by staff is presented in Appendix 3.4 - B. The combined water from the surface stream and pumped water from the excavation is routed to discharge into the River Nore. At the time of this EIS the surface water system was being upgraded to include a settlement lagoon to assist with the attenuation of fines.

(b) Surface Water Quality

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) database for quality of inland waters includes data for both biological and chemical data in the Maddockstown area. Upstream of Maddockstown the EPA report on data (biological and chemical) from station 2000 of the River Nore, which lies N.E. of Warrington townland, approximately 2km southeast of Kilkenny city. Downstream of Maddockstown the EPA report on data (biological and chemical) from station 2200 of the River Nore, which lies at Ballynahinch Bridge (referred to as Ballylinch Bridge on OSI sheet 67), 2km north of Mount Juliet.

The biological data from station 2000 upstream of Maddockstown is available since 1979 at a sampling interval three to five years. These data show that water quality at this station has varied between Q values (biotic index) of 3 (moderately polluted) and 4 (unpolluted).

Like the data from upstream station 2000 the EPA biological data from station 2200 downstream of Maddockstown is also available since 1979 and at the same frequency (apart from 1981). These data show that at this station the water quality has varied between a Q value of 3-4 (slightly polluted) to 4 (unpolluted). The EPA dataset for stations 2000 and 2200 is presented in Table 3.4.3 below.

Station No. 1979 1981 1984 1987 1991 1995 1998 2001 2004

2000 (upstream) 3 3-4 3-4 4 4 3 3-4 3 3-4

2200 (downstream) 4 n/a 3-4 4 4 3-4 3-4 3-4 3-4

n/a - data not available

Table 3.4.3 ‘Q’ value biotic indices for stations on the River Nore upstream and downstream of Maddockstown

The biotic indices in Table 3.4.3 show the water quality of the River Nore to be highest for the sample years 1987 and 1991 were a ‘Q’ value of 4 was recorded. Samples prior to 1987 and subsequent to 1991 show times where the quality was reduced. Water quality at the upgradient station in Kilkenny city is generally poorer than the downgradient station at Mount Juliet.

From 1995 onwards the EPA database also details chemical data for the River Nore both

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upgradient and downgradient station of Maddockstown. The data for the period 1995-2003 is presented below in Table 3.4.4 below.

Upstream station (2000) Downstream station (2200) Parameter Units

1995-1997 1998-2000 2001-2003 1995-1997 1998-2000 2001-2003

BOD Mg O2 1.5 1.3 1.3 1.4 1.3 0.9

Chloride Mg Cl 25 23 22 24 22 22

Conductivity µs/cm 587 606 n/a 594 600 n/a

Ortho-phosphate Mg P 0.07 0.06 0.03 0.07 0.06 0.05

Oxidised nitrogen Mg N 3.5 3.2 3.8 3.5 3.2 3.6

Total Ammonia Mg N 0.03 0.02 0.04 0.02 0.02 0.03

pH 8.2 8.2 8.1 8.3 8.3 8.2

n/a – not available

Table 3.4.4 Hydrochemical data (median) from sampling on the River Nore upstream and downstream of Maddockstown (EPA dataset)

Hydrometric data is available both upstream and downstream of Maddockstown at Kilkenny city and Mount Juliet, both stations are maintained by the Office of Public Works. The hydrometric station in Kilkenny city is located at Blackfriars Bridge (Station No. 15002) in the city centre. Data for this station shows that the mean flow data is 27.1m3/s (data period 1965-2001). At the downstream gauge at Mount Juliet lies c. 2km south of Ballylinch Bridge. Data from this station shows a mean annual flow of 37.3m3/s (data period 1945-2005). The Mount Juliet station lies 3km downstream of the confluence between River Nore and the King’s River, and as such show records their combined flows.

(c) Site Water Balance

Water input to the existing 3.6ha southern quarry comprises of rainfall and intercepted recharge. As the excavation is presently worked above the groundwater table it receives no inflows from groundwater. During storm events some ponding will occur but it will be lost by combined seepage to ground and from open water evaporation. Although standing water may take several days to dissipate (especially during the winter) it is envisaged that pumping will only be required during extreme rainfall events.

In order to determine the capacity of the water management system required for the southern quarry at its full extent, groundwater inflows and runoff must be estimated

Groundwater inflows

The proposed extension will increase the area of the southern quarry by 13.4ha to 17.0ha. As the proposed quarry extends and deepens it will intersect the water table (which lies at between 40-60m AOD across the site) and induce drawdown. In order to attain equilibrium, the groundwaters will inflow to the excavation. Initially the inflows will be greater as water stored in the bedrock outflows. However, a sustainable hydraulic gradient will form around the void based upon the properties of the aquifer. This gradient will adjust during the winter months with the seasonal rise and fall of the groundwater table. Additional data on the site hydrogeology is discussed in the groundwater section (3.4.3 (vi)) of this report.

Groundwater inflows have been estimated by numerical modelling for Maddockstown Quarry as

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part of compliance for the existing IPPC licence (See Appendix 3.4 - C). The Maddockstown Numerical Model simulates a sequential deepening of the southern quarry to 40 AOD and then to a final depth of -25m OD. Based on the model simulation it is estimated that output at a depth of 40m AOD groundwater inflows will be 720m3/day. At the maximum depth of 25m below OD the numerical model estimates that the initial groundwater inflows will peak at 4,200m3/day reducing to 1,800m3/day as the aquifer equilibrates with the quarry void.

In order to determine accuracy of the aquifer parameters used in the numerical model the simulated groundwater inflows for the existing northern excavation can be compared against the measured data collected by the operator. Measured inflows to the northern excavation have a range of 700 to 1,800m3/day (Appendix 3.4 - B, whilst output from the numerical model is 1,200 to 2,100m3/day. It must be recognised that the model does not incorporate runoff in its construct whilst the measured data does. Volumes pumped by the operator during extended periods of dry weather (i.e. not including runoff) show that groundwater inflows are typically 700m3/day in the summer and approximately 1200m3/day during the winter. Based on these data the numerical model overestimates groundwater inflows by c.40% and the expected groundwater volumes for the southern excavation should be reduced accordingly.

As the proposed quarry extension deepens, sumps shall be installed into the floor to collect groundwater inflows. The sumps will be pumped as required so that the groundwater table within the quarry footprint is maintained a depth below the quarry floor. In order to increase the storm water storage capacity it is proposed that these sumps will be of an extended size so that they can also be used to retain runoff during storm events, thereby ensuring that standing water does not impact on the quarry operations.

Storm water runoff

Storm water runoff is based upon the calculation of effective rainfall for average and extreme storm events. Effective rainfall is calculated as rainfall minus actual evapotranspiration, which is described in Section 3.4.3(ii) above. Effective rainfall either becomes runoff to surface water or recharge to groundwater.

The quantity of recharge is be based upon the properties of the aquifer. When the floor of the quarry is set within the weathered zone of the bedrock (c. top 10-20m) the quantity of recharge will be high, especially when above the water table. However, as the excavation deepens the quantity of recharge will reduce rapidly, so that below the weathered zone recharge will be negligible. As such, for all runoff calculations all effective rainfall is treated as runoff.

The average effective rainfall expected at the quarry during the wettest month (October) is estimated to be 488m3/day compared to the driest month (July) with 243m3/day. A 48 hour storm event with a 5-year return period can generate 55mm/unit area of rainfall (Collins and Cummins, 1996), which for the full area of the southern quarry (comprising of the existing area plus proposed area) will result in 4,675m3/day effective rainfall. Details of these calculations are provided in Appendix 3.4 – D, and a summary appears in Table 3.4.5 below.

Storm events in Ireland with 100mm/unit area precipitation over a 48 hour period would represent an extreme rainfall event. For the full area of the southern quarry a rainfall event of this magnitude would equate to approximately 8,500m3/day runoff (Appendix 3.4 – D). In order to contain events of this scale without impacting on the quarry operation requires the installation of extended sumps with designated primary attenuation area (Appendix 3.4 - E) on the quarry floor. Pumping from the sumps to settlement lagoons for secondary attenuation prior to discharge will be conducted as required and within the conditions of the IPPC licence.

During periods of extremely dry weather, where monthly rainfall is of the order of 18mm, direct rainfall to the quarry will be of the order of 38m3/day.

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Area Average runoff (1971-2000)

Summer Month July 1971-2000

Winter Month - Oct. 1971-2000

48hr. Storm Event - 5year,

55mm

Existing southern extraction area (3.6ha) 76.3m3/day 51.4m3/day 103.4m3/day 990.0m3/day

Proposed extension area (13.4ha) 284.0m3/day 191.2m3/day 385.0m3/day 3,685.0m3/day

Combined (17.0ha) 360.3m3/day 243.6m3/day 488.4m3/day 4,675.0m3/day

Table 3.4.5. Site Water Balance - Summary results for existing and proposed extraction area (see Appendix 3.4 - D for water balance calculations)

All runoff will be directed to the extended sumps to prevent disruption of the quarry operation. Water will be pumped from these sumps as required and into settlement ponds for attenuation prior to discharge.

On the basis of the numerical model the expected groundwater inflows to the south quarry will be 1,800m3/day. From the runoff calculations above average winter runoff is calculated to be 488m3/day. As such, it is anticipated that the average winter pumping rate from the south quarry will be of the order of 2,300m3/day (96m3/hour), which is comparable to that from the northern excavation.

(vi) Groundwater - Hydrogeology

(a) General Hydrogeology

The geology of the site can be summarised as consisting of limestone bedrock that is dolomitised to a range of grades. The bedrock is overlain by a till subsoil of variable thickness that is in turn overlain by a thin but well drained agricultural soil. The well-drained nature of the soil is a factor of the sandy, gravelly subsoil from which it is derived.

The Geological Survey of Ireland classifies the Butlersgrove Formation in the groundwater protection plan for Kilkenny as being a locally important aquifer (GSI, draft), where expected yields are typically between 0.5 to 3l/s. These yields are comparable with those measured from the existing northern excavation, which is developed into dolomite and dolomitic limestones.

Chemical analysis of borehole chippings from the proposed extension area shows that the bedrock in the area of the southern quarry is mainly limestone and not dolomite. Accordingly, the aquifer properties in the southern area are lower than those present in the existing northern excavation. Based on these data the aquifer classification of locally important is appropriate for the Butlersgrove Formation as good well yields are only associated where the formation is locally dolomitised. In those areas that are not dolomitised, such as the southern extension area, the aquifer has a poor yield.

(b) Permeability

The Butlersgrove Formation is an argillaceous limestone with a number of shale horizons and typical of these rock types it is considered to have a low permeability. As with most rock types the permeability is slightly greater at rock head where weathering processes have enlarged the fracture aperture and reduced rock strength. The GSI karst database contains no karst landforms within 2km of the quarry and the bedrock visible in the quarry faces does not show

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any dissolution features. There are groundwater inflows into the existing northern quarry at the contact between the dolomite and dolomitic limestone along fracturing that is part of the fault zone. Daily pumping records from the northern excavation allow groundwater inflows to be estimated at 700m3/day in the summer and approximately 1200m3/day in the winter.

Observations on well yield from the drilling and installation of wells GW7 – GW12 during May 2007 and subsequent data collated from the well testing and sampling during August 2007 show that the aquifer properties vary across the site between dolomite, dolomitic limestone and limestone. Wells developed into dolomitic bedrock (GW8 and GW9) had a more water strikes and estimated water yields than those wells developed into limestone or dolomitic limestone bedrock (GW7, GW10, GW11 and GW12). Mapping of the geology (as presented in Section 3.3) shows that the extension area comprises of limestone and dolomitic limestone rather than dolomite. On this basis the bedrock in the extension area for the southern excavation is expected to yield substantially lower groundwater inflow than is recorded in the northern excavation. Data and analysis on the properties of the dolomite and limestone aquifer are presented in the Numerical Modelling report, which is presented in Appendix 3.4 - C

(c) Recharge

As the soil and subsoil around the site both have good drainage a high proportion of the effective rainfall will become recharge. The recharge acceptance of the bedrock is dependant on dolomitisation. Where the limestone is altered to dolomite then the recharge acceptance will be high. However, where the bedrock remains limestone then the recharge acceptance is expected to be particularly low, especially where the rock is not fractured.

As such, although the subsoil accepts significant recharge volumes only the dolomite bedrock is capable of accepting the recharge. Where the bedrock in limestone then a water table may develop in the subsoil as it ‘ponds’ at rock head. The water table in the subsoil will drain to fractures in the limestone bedrock or locally towards the dolomite where present.

(d) Groundwater Levels

Groundwater monitoring in wells GW1-GW6 has been carried out on a monthly basis since August 2001, as part of the IPPC license. Wells GW7- GW12 were installed by EDA in May 2007 as part of this application. Initially the 2007 wells were monitored by EDA staff but they have been incorporated into the operator’s monthly groundwater monitoring schedule. The location of wells GW1-GW12 are presented in Figure 3.4.2 and Table 3.4.6, which present groundwater level data for September 2007. These data for September 2007 would be close to the seasonal low of the groundwater table.

Given the natural geomorphology of the site, the regional bedrock water table would be expected to generally follow topography. At the eastern part of the site, where the ground is slightly elevated, groundwater levels would lie generally at 4-8m below surface, whilst groundwater levels in the western part of the site, nearer the Nore, would lie generally 1-3m below surface. Given the topographic elevation of the site the groundwater table is likely to fluctuate annually by 1-3m in the low lying part of the site and by up to c.6m in the higher ground.

Regional groundwater flow is focused towards, and in continuity with, the River Nore. The groundwater contribution to the Nore from the Maddockstown area provides part of the baseflow element of the river hydrodynamics.

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Northing Easting Top of Casing 30/05/2007 12/09/2007 17/ 12/2007 21/08/2008 30/05/2007

GW1 255734 251917 44 21.12 35.86 36.51 35.75 37.02

GW2 255599 252014 52 23.10 34.57 35.09 - 35.30

GW3 256153 252022 59 62.00 51.05 50.88 - 52.94

GW4 255853 252280 70 67.00 34.06 32.28 - 32.46

GW5 255587 251483 50 - 35.31 35.85 36.21 36.87

GW6 255464 251539 48 - 34.72 34.89 34.90 35.48

GW7 256104 251657 63 49.85 52.06 44.31 43.90 -

GW8 255844 251410 62 48.76 45.07 45.99 44.91 47.56

GW9 255693 251196 52 20.50 40.89 41.84 40.51 41.71

GW10 255890 250860 58 42.70 41.64 43.23 42.99 43.94

GW11 256443 250933 70 79.20 25.09 61.83 62.61 69.26

GW12 255905 250594 54 24.30 43.25 44.90 46.56 49.21

Borehole Reference

Grid reference Elevation m aOD

Table 3.4.6. Summary of well details for GW1 to GW12 (for locations see Figure 3.4.2)

Based on these data, which represent the seasonal low in the groundwater cycle, then:

1. The wells around the periphery of the existing northern excavation show that the water table has been drawdown. Based on expected levels pre-dewatering GW1, 2, 3 and 4are estimated to have a drawdown of 3m, 11m, 1m and 28m respectfully. Given the distances of these wells from the void this indicates a reasonably steep hydraulic gradient west and east of the excavation and a slighter gradient north and south. Based on these data the extent of drawdown is estimated to be up to 200m to the west and east of the excavation and approximately 600m to the north and south.

2. Water levels in the wells within the proposed extension area (GW10-GW12) show groundwater levels at, or close to, the expected water table for September 2007. The depth to water in GW10 is slightly greater than expected; however, this probably due to its location upon a rise in the subsoil topography.

3. The groundwater level in the wells intermediate between the northern and southern excavations would appear to be slightly lowered (of the order of c.3-4m) by drawdown towards the northern excavation.

These drawdown differences to the north-south and west-east of the northern quarry are likely to be due to variations in aquifer permeability, which are primarily caused by flow paths along north-south orientated fracture sets. Drawdown west and east of the excavation is small.

There is no drawdown attributed to the southern quarry void as this excavation has not caused a lowering of the groundwater table. It is anticipated that groundwater levels will be lowered when the southern excavation extracts below the water table. However, due to the lower permeability of the bedrock in this area the drawdown is expected to be to a lesser extent than that of the northern excavation. The combined effect of both excavations will lower groundwater levels in their intermediate area. Numerical modelling indicates that drawdown in this intermediate area may lower groundwater levels by approximately 30m.

Upon the completion of operations at the proposed southern excavation the groundwater level would recover gradually filling the void. Groundwater inflow would continue into the excavation

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until the level in the lake equilibrated with the groundwater table, which is expected to take approximately 15-25years. The resultant lake level would lie at approximately 45m aOD (with some seasonal variation. Based upon the topographic maps the lake water level is not expected to overflow the quarry periphery. However, upon closure of the site a survey should be undertaken to identify if a controlled spillway/overflow is required to route water overland to the River Nore.

(e) Site Water Supply

The existing quarry office, canteen and washroom facilities at the quarry (Figure 2.5B) are currently supplied by an existing on site well GW5 (Figure 3.4.2), which is sourced from the dolomite bedrock. This existing well will continue to be used as the supply during the proposed quarry development. There are approximately 40 persons employed at the site at present and it is not anticipated that this number will rise due to the proposed quarry development. This supply well would appear to have a particularly high yield but it is estimated that only 8m3/d is abstracted.

Water for the batch plant and wheel wash top up is sourced from supply well GW6, which is also located within the dolomite bedrock. Testing of GW6 as part of the hydrogeological modelling indicates that the well is particularly high yielding. Future water requirements will continue to be met by the existing water system.

(f) Groundwater Quality

As part of this Environmental Impact Assessment, a groundwater sample was taken from the 42.7m-deep well GW8, which is located 100m northwest of the southern excavation (refer to Figure 3.4.2 for sample location). The sample was taken in the late afternoon following a 2hour long pumping test. There had been no significant rainfall on that or the previous day. The sample was stored in a cooler box and delivered to ALcontrol Laboratories (Dublin) who undertook the water quality analysis. The results are shown in Table 3.4.7 below, whilst the original analyses are presented in Appendix 3.4 – F.

Analysis of the groundwater sample indicates that the water is of a calcium-magnesium-sodium bicarbonate-type with elevated nitrate. The water sample from GW8 is moderately elevated with respect to sulphate and chloride, both of which are common indicators of agricultural contamination. The nitrate analysis at 35.5mg/l is high and although does not exceed the maximum administrable concentration (MAC) it does indicate relatively high residual nitrogen in the groundwater.

Explosives are used at Maddockstown quarry as part of the rock extraction process. As these explosives include ammonium nitrate there is a potential to produce a residue of ammoniacal nitrogen. Ammoniacal nitrogen, either from an organic or explosive source breaks down rapidly by nitrification to nitrite and then by further nitrification into the stable form of nitrate.

Extraction of aggregate from the quarry has been focused on development in the northern excavation. Extraction from the southern excavation initiated relatively recently, with blasting starting in August 2007. As groundwater around the periphery of the northern excavation is drawn down inwards towards the void, any nitrogen residue from explosives entering groundwater will only drain towards the sump. Hydrochemical data from GW8, which lies close to the southern excavation, shows a moderately elevated level of nitrate. However, ammoniacal nitrogen and nitrite are not detected. On the basis of these data the elevated nitrate levels are unlikely to originate from blasting operations and most likely be related to long term agricultural use of the land.

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Roadstone Provinces

Top of Casing (TOC) elevation m a OD 62

Sampling date dd/mm/yyyy 23/01/2008

Field Tests

Flow measurement l/s -

Temperature °C 10.76

Conductivity mS/cm 0.695 2.5

% 38.48

ppm 4.26

pH pH Units 7.9 6.5 - 9.5

Laboratory Analysis

Total Hardness mg/l <1 428

Total Alkilinity mg/l CaCO3 <0.3 370

Carbonate Alkalinity mg/l CaCO3 <0.05 20

Bicarbopnate Alkalinity mg/l CaCO3 <0.3 350

Aluminium mg/l Al <0.002 0.049

Potassium mg/l K <0.1 4.0

Sodium mg/l Na <0.001 14.5 200

Calcium mg/l Ca <0.002 125.5

Iron mg/l Fe <1 <0.002 0.2

Magnesium mg/l Mn <0.001 27.82

Manganese mg/l Mn <1 <0.001 0.05

Nitrate mg/l NO3 <3 35.5 50

Nitrite mg/l NO2 <1 <0.05 0.5

Ammoniacal Nitrogen mg/l N <0.2 0.3

Phosphate mg/l PO4 0.06

Suphate mg/l SO4 28 250

Chloride mg/l Cl 34 250

Flouride mg/l Fl <2 0.2 1.5*

Ion balance % error -1.19

K/Na ratio 0.28

Laboratory analysis undertaken by Alcontrol laboratories Ireland

Dissolved Oxygen

Hydrochemical field tests undertaken using YSI 551 Multiprobe

Equal to or exceeds the S.I. parametric value

* The parametric value is 1.0mg/l for flouridated supplies. In the case of naturally occurring flouride the parametric value is 1.5mg/l

Water Quality Standards

Drinking Water

S.I. No. 439 of 2000

Notes:

Detection Limits

Units

Irish Grid

Sampling depth below TOC m BTOC

Grid reference 255844-251410

Maddockstown Quarry, Bennettsbridge, County

Kilkenny

GW 8

50

Table 3.4.7 - Groundwater chemical analysis results at well GW8, Maddockstown Quarry, County Kilkenny.

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(g) Vulnerability

Aquifer vulnerability is a measure of the degree of protective cover an aquifer has from wastewater. In the case of the proposed extension the area has a relatively high permeability cover that is c.3-7m in thickness. Given these properties the bedrock aquifer has a high to extreme vulnerability (Ll/H to Ll/E) (DOLG, 1999). Stripping the subsoil cover to expose the bedrock will increase the vulnerability of the bedrock; however, the removal of the soils and subsoil will reduce the agricultural grazing and thereby reduce the nitrogen input to the aquifer identified in the groundwater quality section above.

(vii) Site Baseline Summary

The Maddockstown site is split by the Kilkenny to Waterford railway line. The process area lies to the west of the railway whilst the excavation areas lie to the east. At present there are two excavations, one to the north of the site and a smaller excavation to the south. This application concerns the extension of the southern excavation.

The limestone at the site is from the Butlersgrove Formation and is overlain by limestone/sandstone derived glacial till. The glacial till is visible in the exposed quarry faces of the southern excavation and is typically 1-3m thick. The 2007 drilling programme showed that the subsoils are up to 7m thick.

The limestone bedrock has joints and fractures; however these tend to be of a narrow aperture, especially at depth. There is groundwater inflow to the adjacent northern excavation area of the order of 30-50m3/hr dependant on the time of year.

The Butlersgrove Formation is catalogued by the Geological Survey of Ireland as being a locally important aquifer (Ll). Study of the aquifer as part of this project shows that this aquifer category is appropriate. Where the formation is dolomitised then the aquifer is capable of significant yields. However, where the aquifer is not dolomitised, yields are substantially reduced and the aquifer is more typical of a poor aquifer. Site investigations as part of this development have shown that the extension area for the southern excavation is not developed within dolomite but within limestone with areas of dolomitised limestone. On this basis groundwater inflows to the proposed extension will be less than those that have been encountered in the northern excavation. Estimates of groundwater inflow are of the order of 1,300m3/day.

Storm water runoff calculations indicate that an average December will generate daily runoff of c.500m3/day. However, a two day duration storm with a five year return period will generate 55mm of rain, which equates to 4,675m3/day. A severe storm with 100mm of rainfall in 48hours will produce 8,500m3/day runoff. Water falling within the quarry will be directed to sumps in the floor and pumped as required to the lagoon system before being discharged to the River Nore.

The bedrock wells around the existing northern excavation indicate that drawdown to the west and east of the quarry has a relatively steep hydraulic gradient, with drawdown that extends approximately 200m from the deepest part of the quarry floor. East and west of the excavation drawdown does not appear to extend beyond the site boundary. However, drawdown to the north and south of the site is greater and extends approximately 600m away from the deepest part of the quarry. Drawdown will extend beyond the northern site boundary and extends southwards to GW8.

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3.4.4 WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

(i) Site Layout and Working Scheme

The Site Layout and working scheme for the proposed development is discussed in

Section 2.4 (sub section 2.4.3 - Design and Phasing of the Workings).

(ii) Existing Site Water Infrastructure

The existing water infrastructure at the quarry consists of a sump in the floor of the northern excavation where primary settlement occurs. Water is pumped to a settlement lagoon for secondary attenuation prior to discharge. The southern excavation lies above the groundwater table and as such has no groundwater inflows. During periods of storm run off ponding may occur and on occasion pumping may be required to maintain dry working. At these times the water will be pumped to the lagoon system for settlement prior to discharge.

Water for the quarry office, canteen and washrooms is from existing well GW5. Water for the aggregate processing and topping up the wheel wash is provided on site from GW6.

(iii) Existing Water Management

The site requires water for a number of different operations, including;

• Site office, canteen and washroom facilities,

• Batching plant

• Wheel Wash,

• Dust Suppression.

Water is used in the crusher to suppress dust and is lost by a combination of evaporation, infiltration and absorption. Dust suppression on the haulage roads is only required on an intermittent basis during periods of dry weather. The wheel wash recycles water in a closed system and only needs occasional topping up. The approximate daily water requirements at the quarry are shown in Table 3.4.8.

Operation Source System Requirement

(m3/day)

Office / Canteen / Washrooms GW5 Open 10

Batch Plant GW6 Open Up to 150

Wheel wash top-up and dust suppression

Closed Circulation System Closed Up to 10

Dust suppression GW6 Open Up to 100

Table 3.4.8 Daily estimates for site water requirements at Maddockstown Quarry, County Kilkenny.

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(iv) Proposed Water Management System

The proposed quarry extension will have similar water requirements to those at present. It is not anticipated that there will be an increase in the maximum number of persons employed at the quarry, currently approximately 40 persons, and the largest demand for water, the batching plant, is met by the existing water system. The existing closed system for the wheel washer will continue to cater for demand. The water management system is currently being upgraded at the site with the inclusion of a new settlement lagoon. The principles of the water management system for the proposed extension to the southern quarry are as follows:

• The quarry sump shall be enlarged as required as the footprint of the excavation extends (Appendix 3.4 - D and E). This will allow for the primary settlement of fines and also provide for the attenuation of runoff during extreme rainfall events.

• The additional attenuation will be provided for on the quarry floor adjacent to the sump to provide for attenuation during extreme storm events. The area will be clearly demarcated to ensure the safety of employees (Appendix 3.4 - E).

• The sump will be cleaned out on a regular basis and the fines allowed to dry before being used for restoration purposes within the quarry. The fines will be covered by topsoil or similar material to ensure they are not eroded by surface water runoff.

• Water in the southern quarry will be pumped to the lagoon as required, which will allow for secondary settlement prior to discharge.

(v) Wastewater Management

Wastewater at the site arises from the office, canteen and washroom facilities. At present, the wastewater passes through the existing wastewater treatment system and percolation area at the site and it caters for approximately 40 persons. The site office, canteen and washroom facilities will continue to use the existing wastewater treatment system at the site, and it is not envisaged that employment at the site will increase with the proposed quarry development.

(vi) Dust Suppression Measures

Water sourced from the quarry sumps or from the onsite supply wells may be used to suppress dust on haul roads and pit floors through the use of water bowsers with spray bars. These will be mobilised to site on a short-term basis as and when required (refer to Section 3.6.4).

(vii) Wheel Wash Facility

There is an automatic closed system wheel wash facility at the site. The wheel wash is a circulatory system, water will be recycled. There will be some requirement for the wheel wash system to be toped up with water, particularly during drier months; however the volume of water required will be small.

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(viii) Fuel/Chemical Storage

Fuel storage is located on site. The only chemicals stored on site that will have the potential to cause water pollution are lubricating oils, hydraulic oils and diesel fuel.

Fuel and chemicals are stored as follows:

1) Suitably certified tanks within areas bunded to a capacity of 110% of the tank.

2) Where two tanks are bunded, bund capacity will be to 120% of the largest tank.

3) No pipe work will go through the bund at any point to reduce the risk of leakage.

4) Surface water from bunds will be pumped out through a suitable oil interceptor.

5) Drums and integrated bulk containers containing chemicals/lubricants are stored in covered areas on spill pallets.

6) Coved bunded area for diesel storage tanks.

7) Covered bunded area for waste oil storage

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3.4.5 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS

The potential direct and indirect impacts to groundwaters and surface waters are discussed below.

(i) Direct Impacts

(a) Surface Water

• Impact on Quantity

There will be an increase in the quantity of runoff with the proposed development. This is due to the removal of vegetation from the extension area that will reduce evapotranspiration and increase runoff into the quarry excavation.

The runoff volume from an extreme storm event at the southern excavation at Maddockstown will generate 8,500m3/day (0.1m3/s) of surface water runoff, which will represent an increase of approximately 50% in runoff from greenfield site.

Considering the average flow of the River Nore is 27.1m3/s upstream of Maddockstown in Kilkenny city, then the increase in runoff due the loss of vegetation represents a very small increase in the contribution of runoff to receiving waters.

This is a negligible impact. However, care is required to ensure attenuation of the storm water pulse on site so that increases in discharge due to the storm are gradual and controlled.

• Impact on Quality

Runoff from the site will be directed to sumps in the quarry floor. However, on route these waters will increase in turbidity due to sediment particles collected on route. Any hydrocarbon leaked or spilled onto the quarry floor will contaminate surface water runoff. These and other potential contaminants will reduce the quality of surface water runoff at the site.

All surface water generated within the quarry voids will be initially settled within the sumps and subsequently pumped to lagoons for additional settlement. Discharge from the lagoon is via a hydrocarbon interceptor.

This is a potential negative impact and requires an environmental management system (EMS) to ensure the satisfactory quality of water discharged to the receiving water.

(b) Groundwater


There will be a reduction in the quantity of groundwater in the aquifer below the proposed excavation as the development proceeds. This will be caused by dewatering as the excavation deepens below the water table.

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These effects will largely be contained within the site there may be marginal drawdown that extends outside of the site boundary. This will be a negative impact to the surrounding landowners and may cause a slight lowering of groundwater levels in private wells. Measures are identified in Section 3.4.6 to mitigate against loss or reduction of private water supplies due to quarry dewatering. The groundwater lowering is not expected to impact on the two onsite supply wells. The reduction in groundwater quantity will persist for the lifespan of the operation.


The removal of the protective layer of soil and subsoil will increase the vulnerability of groundwater in bedrock beneath the site. Consequently, a potential exists to cause a reduction in the groundwater quality arising from the operational activity at the site.

The proposed development includes extension below the water table. However, the greatest risk to groundwater quality will occur whilst the excavation works above the groundwater table. When working below the water table the risk of contamination is substantially reduced as groundwater surrounding the footprint will drain into the excavation, which will act as a hydraulic trap.

There is a potential negative impact of the development to groundwater quality. This threat is greatest when the quarry works above the water table. Mitigation measures are required to reduce the risk of reduction in groundwater quality, these are discussed in Section 3.4.6.

The existing effluent treatment system on site will continue to handle wastewater from the site. There will be no increase in the numbers of persons employed at the site arising from the proposed development and therefore the existing system will remain.

(ii) Indirect Impacts

(b) Surface water


The reduction in groundwater level around the southern excavation will lead to a reduction in the contribution of base flow to the River Nore from the Maddockstown area. This reduction will be slight and shall be compensated for by pumping of groundwater from the excavation to the River Nore.

These impacts are negligible.


As the development proceeds and land use changes from agricultural to extraction the potential of wastewater contamination from agricultural sources will be reduced. This change in land use will reduce the local nitrogen loading.

This impact is positive and may lead to an improvement in surface water

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quality.

(b) Groundwater


Stripping of the soils and subsoils from the bedrock will alter the processes by which bedrock is recharged. The recharge stored in the soils and subsoils will be removed and instead will be applied directly to the quarry floor. The quantity of recharge to groundwater will be related to the weathering and fracture frequency of the quarry floor. However, it is anticipated that recharge will be reduced and instead will runoff. As a consequence of the quarry deepening recharge will continue to reduce.

These impacts will reduce the quantity of the groundwater resource at the site for the duration of the quarry life.


As the development proceeds and land use changes from agricultural to extraction the potential of wastewater contamination from agricultural sources will be reduced. This change in land use will reduce the local nitrogen loading.

This impact is positive and may lead to an improvement in groundwater quality.

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3.4.6 MITIGATION

Although the proposed development does not pose a significant threat to groundwater or surface water of the surrounding area, the following measures are proposed to prevent any reduction in environmental quality. These mitigation measures are in accordance with the “best practice / possible mitigation measures” set out in Section 3.4 of the DoEHLG (2004) Quarries and Ancillary Activities: Guidelines for Planning Authorities.

(i) Water Management System

Operational Phase:

• Surface water will be collected in local sumps on the quarry floor to provide for the primary settlement of fines. Where this fine material is used in restoration works, i.e. in new bunds, it should be capped with topsoil or coarser material to prevent erosion. There will be no discharge to surface water.

• The primary quarry sump shall be extended to accommodate the volume of runoff likely to be generated across the full development of the quarry. It will be designed to attenuate storm runoff for a 1:5 year event, which equates to 55mm rainfall.

• Hydrocarbon interceptors will be incorporated into the existing water management system.

• A bund shall be constructed around the up gradient perimeter of the excavated area to prevent surface water and shallow groundwater inflow to the excavation.

• Water from the wheel wash facility shall be recycled.

• Hydrocarbons will continue be stored in a suitably designed bunded fuel tank.

• All chemicals and petroleum-based products shall continue to be stored in the workshop on spill palates or similar.

• Mechanical repairs shall take place within the area of the quarry void only in the case of emergencies.

• An Emergency Response Kit will be kept on site.

Wastewater:

• The existing wastewater treatment system shall continue to be used during the proposed quarry development.

Restoration / After use:

• After closure, all chemicals, petroleum based products, mechanical and electrical equipment shall be removed prior to closure of the site. A groundwater assessment and land survey shall be completed to identify if the quarry lake will overflow from the void. In such a case an engineered channel or spillway may be required for any

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overflow waters.

(ii) Monitoring

Process Water Monitoring

In order to monitor the quantities of water used in the aggregate processing records from the totalising flow meter shall be incorporated into the environmental monitoring system (EMS).

Surface water Monitoring

As part of the EMS it is proposed to monitor the quantity of water pumped from the southern excavation into the lagoon system. These data shall be recorded on a basis as per the IPPC license.

Groundwater Monitoring

• The existing wells on site (GW1-GW12) shall be measured on a monthly basis for groundwater level as part of the EMS. Additionally, it is proposed that the operator undertake a survey of all wells within 1km of the proposed southern excavation extension. These wells will be included within the existing EMS, which includes monitoring of private and public wells adjacent to the existing northern excavation on a monthly basis. If a well has reduced yield, supply or level due to quarry dewatering operations then the operator will provide an alternative supply.

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3.4.7 REFERENCES AND SOURCES OF INFORMATION

AGMET group, 1996. Agroclimatic Atlas of Ireland, James F. Collins & Thomas Cummins Editors, Dublin.

Archer, J.B., Sleeman, A.G. & Smith D.C., (1996). Geology of Tipperary: A Geological Description of Tipperary and adjoining parts of Laois, Kilkenny, Offaly, Clare and Limerick, with accompanying Bedrock Geology 1:100,000 Scale Map, Sheet 18, Tipperary.

Daly, E. P., 1994. Groundwater Resources of the Nore River Basin. Geological Survey of Ireland.

Discovery Series Map, 1996. Sheet No. 67, Kilkenny/Tipperary. Scale 1:50,000. Ordnance Survey, Dublin.

Discovery Series Map, 1996. Sheet No. 68, Carlow/Kilkenny/Wexford. Scale 1:50,000. Ordnance Survey, Dublin.

DoEHLG, 2004, Quarries and Ancillary Activities: Guidelines for Planning Authorities.

Department of Local Government, Environmental Protection Agency and the Geological Survey of Ireland, 1999. Groundwater Protection Shcemes.

Environment Protection Agency, 2002. Guidelines on the Information to be Contained in EIS.

Environment Protection Agency, 2003. Advice Notes on Current Practice in the preparation of EIS.

Environment Protection Agency, 2006. Environmental Management Guidelines.

Fitzgerald, D. and Forrestal, F. Monthly and Annual Averages of Rainfall for Ireland 1961-1990. Met Éireann.

Gardiner, M. J., and T. Radford, 1980. Soil Associations of Ireland and Their Land Use Potential. Explanatory Bulletin to Soil Map of Ireland. An Foras Taluntais, Dublin.

Gardiner, M. J., 1980. Ireland, General Soil Map. Scale 1:750,000. An Foras Taluntais, Dublin.

Geological Survey of Ireland, 2007. Groundwater Well Database.

Geological Survey of Ireland, 2007. Karst Database.

Iinstitute of Geologists of Ireland, 2002. Geology in EIS, A Guide. Environmental Management in the Extractive Industry (Non-Scheduled Minerals)

Institute of Geologists of Ireland, 2007. Recommended Collection, Presentation and Interpretation of Geological and Hydrological Information for Quarry Developments.

Teagasc, 2006. Digital soil and subsoil mapping.

Tietzsch-Tyler, D. and Sleeman, A.G. 1994. Geological Survey of Ireland 1:100,000 Sheet 19, Carlow – Wexford and accompanying geological memoir.

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SECTION 3.4 - APPENDICES

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APPENDIX 3.4 – A

Logs of Boreholes GW7 – GW12

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APPENDIX 3.4 – B

Discharge data from the northern extraction area

(October 2001 to August 2007)

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APPENDIX 3.4 – C

IPPC License Reg. No. 521 (Condition No. 4.6) Numer ical Aquifer Model, Maddoxtown Opencast Mine, County Kil kenny

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APPENDIX 3.4 – D

Surface water runoff calculations

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APPENDIX 3.4 – E

Dimensions of Quarry Sump for

Final Extraction Area (13.4ha.)

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APPENDIX 3.4 – F

Hydrochemical data sheet for sample from

GW8 Alcontrol Laboratories Ireland)

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Dunbell Big Td., Maddockstown, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny. (Section 261 Quarry Ref. QY2)

JBA3588/EIS/tp/lh/lb November 2008 Section 3.5 – Page 1

SECTION 3.5 – CLIMATE


3.5.2 BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY – EXISTING ENVIR ONMENT

i Regional Context

3.5.3 ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

i Direct / Indirect Impacts

ii Interaction with Other Impacts

3.5.4 MITIGATION AND MONITORING

REFERENCES

TABLES

Table 3.5.1 Frequency of wind direction and wind speed for hour ly observations at Kilkenny (1995 – 2007)

Table 3.5.2. Monthly and annual average rainfall (m m) from Kilkenny city; 1971-2000

Table 3.5.3 Annual average precipitation Kilkenny (mm) 1990-2007.

FIGURES

Figure 3.5.1 Location of Weather Monitoring Station s (1:250,000)

Figure 3.5.2 Wind Rose Data (1995 – 2007)

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3.5.1 INTRODUCTION

This section addresses the issues related to climate within the proposed development area. It involves an assessment of the prevailing climatic conditions, and assesses the potential impact of the development on this baseline situation.

John Barnett and Associates undertook the baseline study related to this section.

As part of this assessment, the following organisations were consulted:

Met Éireann – Glasnevin, Dublin 9.

The objective of this study was to:

� Assess the prevailing climatic conditions of the proposed development area on a local and regional level.

� Determine the impact, if any, of the development on the local micro-climate and regional macro-climate.

� Determine any interaction between other aspects of the proposed development and the climate of the area.

The data used in this section was supplied by Met Éireann. Data from the following weather monitoring station was used:

� Kilkenny - Grid reference: S494574

The data gathered was then evaluated and it’s relevance to the proposed development assessed.

3.5.2 BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY

i. Regional Context

Ireland has a typical maritime climate with relatively mild and moist winters and cool, cloudy summers. The prevailing winds are south westerly in direction. The climate is influenced by warm maritime air associated with the Gulf Stream which has the effect of moderating the climate, and results in high average annual humidity across the country. The area of the least precipitation is along the eastern seaboard of the country, in the rain shadow of the Leinster uplands. The climate data recorded within the region of the proposed development are from Kilkenny.

Wind Climate

Results from the synoptic meteorological station at Kilkenny (located approx. 6 km to the northwest of the proposed development, refer to Figure 3.5.1) over the period 1995-2007 indicate that the main wind direction is from a southerly – westerly direction, with an annual incidence of 50% for winds between 140-280 degrees (south to west), refer to Table 3.5.1 and Figure 3.5.2. The lowest frequency is for winds blowing from the NE quadrant and these occur for about 10% of the time. The annual average wind speed is 7 knots (3.6m/s) and low wind speed conditions (<3 knots (1.5m/s)) occur for about 27% of the year. Calm conditions occur for about 3% of the time. The incidence of winds above 11 knots (5.7m/s) is about 18% of the year with wind speeds of above 21 knots (10.8m/s).

Rainfall

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Annual rates of rainfall are typically between 725-1050mm for the Kilkenny region, with the winter months receiving the heaviest amount. The Kilkenny Station is located approximately 7km to the northwest of the Maddockstown site and for the purpose of this section may be considered similar to that rainfall which occurs at the study site. The station has been operational since May 1957 but closed in April 2008. The 30-average (1971-2000) for Kilkenny has an average annual rainfall 849.1 mm/yr (Table 3.5.2). Monthly data for the period January 1990 to October 2007 (inclusive) is presented in Table 3.5.3.


i. Direct / Indirect Impacts

The proposed development is not of sufficient scale to have any direct or indirect impacts on the regional or local climatic conditions. Conversely, the development is not affected to any significant degree by the prevailing weather conditions of the area.

ii. Interaction with Other Impacts

The effect of climatic conditions (e.g. rainfall, wind etc) on other potential impacts of the development (e.g. dust deposition, surface water etc), are dealt with in the relevant sections of this EIS – Section 3.4 Surface Water and Groundwater and Section 3.6 Air Quality.


There is no requirement to carry out mitigation measures or monitoring within, or in the vicinity of the proposed development, in relation to climate.

REFERENCES AGMET group, 1996. Agroclimatic Atlas of Ireland, James F. Collins & Thomas Cummins Editors, Dublin. D. Fitzgerald F. Forrestal, (1996): Monthly and Annual Averages of Rainfall for Ireland (1951-1980). Meteorological Service, Dublin. Met Eireann, 2000 and 2001, Monthly Weather Bulletin, Met Eireann, Glanesvin Hill, Dublin 9.

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SECTION 3.5 – TABLES

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January 1995 - November 2007 Direction Percentage Occurrence of Wind Speeds (kno ts) <3 4-6 7-10 11-16 17-21 >21 All 350-10 3.5 3.0 2.3 0.7 0.0 0 9.5 20-40 1.8 0.8 0.7 0.2 0.0 0 3.5 50-70 1.3 0.9 0.9 0.0 0.0 0 3.1 80-100 1.4 1.0 1.1 0.0 0.0 0 3.5 110-130 2.0 1.6 1.3 0.2 0.0 0 5.1 140-160 2.2 2.4 2.2 1.2 0.0 0 8.0 170-190 2.9 3.2 3.8 3.3 0.9 0 14.1 200-220 2.6 2.8 3.3 3.0 0.9 0 12.6 230-250 2.0 2.1 2.6 2.4 0.1 0 9.2 260-280 1.0 1.8 2.5 2.3 0.0 0 7.6 290-310 1.2 2.3 2.9 1.8 0.1 0 8.3 320-340 2.1 3.3 3.1 0.8 0.0 0 9.3 Calms 3.1 3.1 Total 27.1 25.2 26.7 15.9 2.0 0.0 96.9

Table 3.5.1 Frequency of Wind Direction and Wind S peed for Hourly Observations at

Kilkenny (1995-2007).* *Data is gathered to two decimal places and reported by MET Eireann to one decimal place. As a result, wind speeds less than 0.05 but greater than 0 are not reported which results in a total of less than 100% above

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Yea r

85.3 69.9 66.4 53.5 60.4 53.8 52.5 73.1 75.2 89.1 78.3 91.8 849.1

Table 3.5.2. Monthly and annual average rainfall (m m) from Kilkenny city; 1971-2000

Monthly Precipitation Kilkenny (mm) 1990 - 2007

Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sep Oct No v Dec Total

1990 94.3 154.4 16.3 34.8 18.7 97.8 43.0 53.8 45.8 134.7 55.4 95.6 844.6

1991 85.9 55.4 77.6 88.9 2.4 85.0 63.1 13.5 65.3 114.4 89.4 46.0 786.9

1992 34.6 48.6 74.5 81.0 33.8 35.9 87.2 89.1 89.1 30.8 69.3 52.6 726.5

1993 74.1 17.5 49.7 77.4 147.1 71.1 54.7 26.7 132.4 36.7 64.9 154.9 907.2

1994 115.8 121.5 92.1 105.0 68.1 30.7 79.7 82.8 95.8 49.0 74.1 88.0 1002.6

1995 130.7 105.4 71.8 19.8 55.9 36.0 68.4 6.5 34.5 125.7 92.9 74.7 822.3

1996 161.0 77.8 109.5 86.0 44.4 17.7 43.7 115.1 22.0 144.6 97.6 32.4 951.8

1997 15.6 95.4 9.2 33.7 59.1 106.6 42.4 203.3 29.6 70.5 157.9 109.3 932.6

1998 107.7 20.5 77.9 97.1 29.1 118.1 54.8 54.0 67.8 128.3 99.6 124.6 979.5

1999 95.0 42.9 41.6 66.0 66.9 47.1 26.0 66.9 177.7 50.8 59.5 124.2 864.6

2000 44.9 68.9 14.7 52.6 80.7 38.9 72.2 59.5 121.1 121.7 145.9 110.1 931.2

2001 48.3 67.7 81.6 76.1 34.5 44.2 39.0 100.4 77.4 146.2 30.6 37.5 783.5

2002 109.8 116.9 41.5 86.8 97.2 76.9 61.4 52.2 25.7 150.5 164.1 79.0 1062.0

2003 64.2 52.4 52.8 78.4 73.8 101.7 78.4 1.6 35.8 35.5 94.3 75.4 744.3

2004 90.7 42.0 87.9 51.2 34.2 47.9 42.4 128.4 53.7 142.2 38.9 45.3 804.8

2005 79.5 22.1 67.6 86.5 65.4 36.1 55.5 38.0 54.0 144.5 61.1 47.6 757.9

2006 37.5 36.7 80.7 23.0 98.2 27.2 39.5 45.8 121.8 131.7 136.5 116.6 895.2

2007 79.5 74.5 70.3 22.6 42.0 155.5 122.1 106.4 44.1 30.3 747.3

Table 3.5.3 Annual average precipitation Kilkenny (mm) 1990-2007.

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Figure 3.5.2 Wind Rose Data (1995 – 2007)

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Roadstone Provinces Ltd. Environmental Impact Statement –– Extension to Existing Quarry (Opencast Mine)

Dunbell Big Td., Maddockstown, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny Section 261 Quarry ref. QY2)

JBA3588/EIS/tp/lh November 2008 Section 3.6 – Page 1

SECTION 3.6 – AIR QUALITY


3.6.2 BASELINE STUDY

i Outline of the Baseline Study

ii Aspects of Dust Deposition

a) Susceptibility of Materials to Erosion

b) Erosive Actions

c) Dust Dispersal

iii Existing Environment

iv Proposed Development


i Direct Impacts

ii Indirect Impacts

iii Interaction with other Impacts

3.6.4 MITIGATION

REFERENCES

TABLES

Table 3.6.1 Dust Monitoring Results Jan 2006 to Dec 2007

Table 3.6.2 Additional Dust Monitoring Locations Re sults Sep to Dec 2007

Table 3.6.3 All Dust Monitoring Locations Results J an to Dec 2008

FIGURES

Figure 3.6.1 Location of Dust Monitoring Points ( 1:10,560)

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INTRODUCTION

This section of the EIS deals with the issue of air quality. It assesses the levels of dust deposition at the existing quarry and ancillary facilities, and assess the increases in these levels, if any, that will be generated by the proposed quarry extension. John Barnett & Associates prepared this section of the EIS.

Environmental emissions related to the existing quarry are regulated under an Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) Licence issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Licence No. 521.


i. Outline of the Baseline Study

The purpose of the baseline study is to assess the existing air quality. A dust-monitoring program was established, and the results were then analysed to determine the current air quality conditions. From these results estimations could be made of the impact of the proposed development on the existing air quality of the area.

ii. Aspects of Dust Deposition

For the purpose of this Environmental Impact Statement, dust is defined as particulate matter that emanates from the working pit and associated activities, or from the vehicles that serve it, which is borne by air and carried downwind from the point of origin or source. The amount of dust that may be emitted from any operation, activity or wind action is a function of two main factors:

• The susceptibility of the material involved to erosion.

• The erosive actions to which the material is subjected.

a) Susceptibility of Materials to Erosion

The nature and particle size of the materials being handled at a site have a fundamental influence on their tendency to be broken down and to generate fugitive dust emissions. Particles that may become suspended in air are generally 75µm in diameter (i.e. silt size) or smaller. A material’s ‘erodibility’ is therefore directly related to the proportion of particles smaller than this size. This ‘erodibility’ is reduced by cohesion within the material. Cohesion increases with clay and moisture content, but decreases with sand content. The presence of larger particles such as coarse sand, gravel or stone also reduces the tendency to erosion and, by implication dust generation.

b) Erosive Actions

Experience of aggregate extraction operations indicates that mechanical activity is the most significant factor in material erosion and dust generation. Dust emanates from a number of site activities (refer to Figure 3.6.2 below). However the effect of wind and/or prolonged periods of dry weather are also important factors in dust generation. Problems may arise at pit workings when these factors arise, if appropriate mitigation measures are not in place.

There are three main types of dust source that may arise from the operation of a sand & gravel pit and concrete / mortar manufacturing facility. These are:

• Point Source – where dust is generated by activities such as loading, dozers, earth-moving plant, processing screens and conveyor transfer points.

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• Line Source – where dust is generated by activities identified above along well-defined haul roads and open conveyors.

• Dispersed Source – where dust is generated by activities such as topsoil stripping, uncontrolled placement of these soils and general activity on the pit floor. Stockpiles are also considered to be a dispersed dust source.

c) Dust Dispersal The amount of dust capable of being dispersed to a particular location during windy conditions is related to several factors:

• Distance

• Weather (i.e. wind speed, wind direction, rainfall)

• Topography

As dust travels downwind from the source it disperses outwards and upwards and progressively falls to the ground surface, with larger particles falling first. The concentration of dust therefore reduces very quickly from the emission source. Most emitted dust is in fact deposited close to its source, generally within a distance of a few tens of metres.

iii. Existing Environment

An initial dust emission monitoring program was established utilising eight “Bergerhoff-Type Dust Deposit Gauges” at the locations detailed below:

D1 – At the north eastern boundary of the current operating facility, immediately adjacent to the Neary’s residence (refer to D1 – Figure 3.6.1).

D 2 – At the west side of the current operating facility, on the boundary with the road that runs south through the site. (refer to D2 – Figure 3.6.1)

D3 – At the south western boundary of the current operating facility, (refer to D3 – Figure 3.6.1).

D4 – In the south east of the current operating facility (refer to D4 – Figure 3.6.1)

D5 – At the southern boundary of the current operating facility (refer to D5 – Figure 3.6.1).

D6 – At the northern boundary of the current operating facility, (refer to D6 – Figure 3.6.1)

D7 – At the eastern side of the current operating facility (refer to D7 – Figure 3.6.1)

D8 – At the southern boundary of the current operating facility (refer to D8 – Figure 3.6.1)

A further five dust deposition monitoring points were added in September 2007 at the locations detailed below:

D9 – At the eastern boundary of the site landholding between the current extraction area and the proposed development area, (refer to D9 – Figure 3.6.1)

D10 – At the eastern boundary of the site landholding between the current extraction area and the proposed development area (refer to D10 – Figure 3.6.1)

D11 – At the western boundary of the proposed development area (refer to D11 – Figure 3.6.1)

D12 – At the eastern boundary of the proposed development, (refer to D12 – Figure 3.6.1).

D13 – At the southern boundary of the proposed development area. (refer to D13 – Figure 3.6.1)

The results of the dust monitoring programme for the two years 2006 and 2007 are shown in Table 3.6.1. Additional dust deposition monitoring locations were set up in 2007 and the results from these additional locations are shown in Table 3.6.2.

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All of the dust deposition monitoring results (except for four – D3 in February 2006, D1 in April 2006, D8 in September 2007 and D12 in August 2008) comply with the total dust deposition emission limit value set out in Schedule 1 (i) Ambient Air Limits of the IPPC licence – 350 mg/m2/day (monthly mean). This emission limit value is the same as that recommended in the DoEHLG (2004) and EPA (2006) guidelines for the sector.

iv. Proposed Development

The proposed development involves an extension to the existing quarry over an area of 13.4 hectares, and will entail a series of operational activities shown in Figure 3.6.2. The overall annual extraction rate will remain at existing levels. Mobile crushing and screening plant will be located in the floor of the quarry to carry out primary processing of the fragmented stone. It is proposed to use the existing internal road network to transport extracted / processed stone to the existing fixed processing plant / stockpile area on the western side of the railway line.

The proposed development will require the stripping, transport and placement of soils and overburden, as part of the overall extraction scheme. Mitigation measures will be employed, as part of ongoing operational procedures, to minimise this erosion / dust generation.

The following generalised flow chart shows the main site activities likely to give rise to fugitive dust emissions.

Figure 3.6.2 Operational Activities – Stone Extract ion and Processing

Removal and Transport of Topsoil and Overburden

Drilling and Blasting of Rock

Loading and Transport of Fragmented Rock

Crushing / Screening of Fragmented Rock

Stockpiling of Product

Loading of Product and Transport off Site

Placement of Topsoil and Overburden in Screening Berms

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Fugitive dust can potentially arise from these activities and a number of specific mitigation measures have been provided to eliminate and / or minimise the potential dust impact of these activities, refer to Section 3.6.4.

Fugitive dust emissions are generated wherever there is movement of dust relative to the air. The emission of fugitive dust from quarry workings is very dependent on weather conditions. Where nuisance complaints from activities at quarries arise, they are generally as a result of a combination of specific site activities and particular weather conditions.

The topsoil and overburden will have a greater propensity for erosion and subsequent generation of dust than underlying stone material. Consequently a variety of mitigation measures will be employed, as part of on-going operational procedures, to limit this erosion and dust generation as much as possible.

3.6.2 ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS

i. Direct Impacts

The dust from quarrying operations comprises particles of stone. The dust can be described as inert and harmless in the chemical context. In particular, they would not include any of the harmful compounds as described and listed in Atmospheric Emissions by T.A. Luft, (1986), Section 2.3. The impact, if any, will be direct, temporary and non-cumulative and largely confined to within the site boundaries. The quarry extraction area is located over 150 metres from the nearest residence and is well screened by the existing topography.

The topsoil and overburden will have a greater propensity for erosion and subsequent generation of dust than the underlying hard rock material to be quarried. Although these operations will be of a short-term duration, a variety of mitigation measures will be employed as part of operational procedures to limit and / or minimise any potential impacts. These measures are described in detail in EIS Section 3.3.4.Mitigation and Monitoring – Soils.

ii. Indirect Impacts

Apart from the direct impact of the deposition of particulate material, there may be an associated visual impact with fugitive dust generation. This impact will be minimised by the mitigations measures described in Section 3.6.4. Generation of fugitive dust is effectively a form of erosion. Mitigation measures described in Soils and Geology (refer to Section 3.3) to limit erosion are also of direct benefit in terms of dust mitigation.

iii. Interaction with other Impacts

There will be no increase in HGV traffic arising from this development. There is potential for existing levels of HGV traffic arising from the development to re-suspend dust on the public road network (if any carried out onto the public road). Mitigation measures are proposed to address this potential indirect impact – refer to Section 3.11 – Traffic.

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3.6.3 MITIGATION

Experience and monitoring results from the existing quarry operations indicates that, subject to continued implementation of the existing mitigation measures, the proposed quarry extension will comply with Schedule 1 (i) of the IPPC licence that includes a dust deposition emission limit value the same as the DoEHLG (2004) recommended total dust deposition threshold of 350 milligrams per square metre per day (averaged over a 30 day period), measured at the site boundary.

A number of mitigation measures will be put in place to minimise the generation / migration of fugitive dust and to ensure that the site development, extraction, processing and restoration operations comply with the threshold values described above. These mitigation measures are in accordance with the ‘best practice / mitigation’ measures described in Section 3.3 of the DoEHLG (2004) guidelines and Section 3.4 of the Environmental Management Guidelines (EPA, 2006).

Topsoil / Overburden Stripping

• Where practical, topsoil and overburden stripping shall not be carried out in periods of dry and windy weather, unless suitable mitigation measures such as water sprays (to suppress dust at source) are implemented.

• Screening berms will be constructed with slope angles 1:1.5 (approximately 35º to the horizontal) to reduce wind turbulence. These berms will be seeded / re-vegetated as quickly as possible.

• A number of operational measures for the transport and placement of topsoil and overburden will be implemented to limit the generation of dust. These measures are described in detail in Section 3.3.6 – Soils.

Stone Extraction / Processing

• Drilling rigs for blastholes are fitted with dust filters;

• All plant & equipment is regularly maintained.

• Screening berms will be constructed. These will eliminate / minimise the migration of residual fugitive dust, if any, beyond the site boundary and also lessen the effect of wind blowing within the site.

• Processing (crushing / screening) of stone will be carried out using mobile plant within the quarry extension area, below existing ground level, or at the existing fixed processing plant.

• A wet dust suppression system will be fitted to the mobile crushers and screens;

• Drop heights will be kept to a minimum by using short conveyors and maintaining stocks under the head drum load out points;

• All stockpiled products which contains fines will be sprayed with water during working of the stockpiles and in periods of dry weather;

Transport / Site Entrance

• A water bowser and / or high-pressure sprinkler system is utilised to suppress dust from the loading, transporting and dumping operations if required;

• Internal haul roads are maintained to minimise dust generation.

• Dust suppression (e.g. water bowser) is utilised to suppress dust on internal haul road surfaces, in dry weather.

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• Vehicle speeds are controlled on internal access roads.

• A wheel wash is in place. All trucks will be required to pass prior to exiting onto the public road network;

• The internal road between the wheel wash and the entrance / access is paved.

• If necessary, the section of public road in the vicinity of the site entrance / access will be cleaned regularly using a vacuum road sweeper.

Through the implementation of the above measures it is considered that fugitive dust generated by this development, if any, will not result in any significant impact on residential amenity, property or livestock in the vicinity of the quarry. The proposed development will comply with the specified EPA dust deposition emission limit values as set out under Condition No. 12 of the IPPC licence.

Dust Deposition Monitoring

The existing dust deposition monitoring programme carried out under the IPPC licence will be continued. Dust deposition monitoring will be carried out monthly. The locations of the dust deposition monitoring locations are shown on Figure 3.6.1. The Bergerhoff Method will be used.

The results of the monitoring programme are submitted to the EPA on a quarterly basis for review and record purposes. These records will be available for inspection at the offices of the EPA by interested third parties. The scope of monitoring programme will be reviewed annually, and subject to the agreement of the EPA it will be amended in the light of previous monitoring results.

REFERENCES

1. DoEHLG (2004), Quarries & Ancillary Activities: Guidelines for Planning Authorities.

2. Atmospheric Emissions (1986), T.A. Luft.

3. EPA (2006), Environmental Management Guidelines: Environmental Management in the Extractive Industry (Non-Scheduled Minerals). Environmental Protection Agency.

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Table 3.6.1: Original Dust Monitoring Locations Res ults January 2006 to December 2007

(Refer to Figure 3.6.1 for monitoring locations)

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Date Deposition (mg / m 2 / day)

D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7 D8

Jan2006 140 140 159 * 133 121 120 122

Feb 2006 299 156 364 169 267 288 249 202

Mar 2006 132 251 257 297 173 199 222 302

Apr 2006 486 210 44 160 92 57 92 56

May 2006 204 171 147 99 117 101 87 136

Jun 2006 152 113 64 80 64 66 66 67

Jul 2006 249 163 51 69 63 100 62 68

Aug2006 179 109 66 135 65 59 71 82

Sep 2006 229 136 121 343 231 26 168 97

Oct & Nov 2006 56 59 63 69 44 95 50 97

Dec 2006 96 85 58 88 95 103 90 64

Jan 2007 ** 85 58 44 95 106 90 62

Fe 2007 96 140 104 82 93 56 79 58

Mar 2007 63 87 103 110 124 63 54 128

Apr 2007 93 135 67 103 83 8 101 128

May 2007 116 160 144 230 80 69 141 128

Jun 2007 117 179 108 113 94 * 139 71

Jul 2007 * * 115 221 14 71 63 49

Aug 2007 121 113 76 71 91 228 159 77

Sep 2007 116 53 112 75 98 72 105 403

Oct 2007 37 51 65 50 19 17 49 45

Nov 2007 45 56 47 91 63 38 41 66

Dec 2007 16 67 72 42 49 37 54 23

* Contaminated ** Dust jar damaged

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Table 3.6.2: Additional Dust Monitoring Locations R esults September to December 2007


*** Dust jars were contaminated


D9 D10 D11 D12 D13

Sep 2007 64 52 *** 63 ***

Oct 2007 48 41 27 62 123

Nov 2007 77 45 42 78 150

Dec 2007 56 59 20 45 56

Table 3.6.3: All Dust Monitoring Locations Results January to September 2008



D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7 D8 D9 D10 D11 D12 D13

Jan2008 83 48 25 89 51 56 69 58 54 68 56 81 52

Feb 2008 122 168 61 261 57 56 83 27 28 37 33 66

Mar 2008 72 99 51 132 110 76 97 40 71 77 60 59 106

Apr 2008 48 103 88 115 119 79 63 86 73 94 48 80

May 2008 109 128 237 92 92 73 87 ** 67 39 29 127 38

Jun 2008 181 128 51 88 89 63 65 85 56 64 21 * 86

Jul 2008 129 261 78 80 148 50 19 45 51 64 46 244 100

Aug 2008 218 113 73 65 73 53 80 96 103 167 37 367 54

Sep 2008 120 96 341 186 89 325 86 38 21 41 104 44 97

* Contaminated ** Dust jar damaged

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Dunbell Big Td., Maddockstown, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny (Section 261 Quarry Ref QY2)


SECTION 3.7 – NOISE AND VIBRATION




ii Baseline Study Methodology

a) Noise

b) Vibration

iii Existing Environment

a) Noise

b) Vibration


i Direct Impacts

a) Noise

b) Vibration

ii Indirect Impacts

iii Interaction with other Impacts


i Noise

ii Vibration

REFERENCES

TABLES

Table 3.7.1 Noise Monitoring Results (2006 & 2007)

Table 3.7.2 Blast Monitoring Results 2007 at exist ing quarry

Table 3.7.3 Blast Monitoring Results 2007 at New E xtension

Table 3.7.4 Vibration and Air Overpressure Values

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FIGURES

Figure 3.7.1 Location of Noise Monitoring Points

Figure 3.7.2 Operational Activities: Stone Extracti on & Processing (in text)

Figure 3.7.3 Noise Assessment

APPENDICES

Appendix 3.7 – A: Noise Assessment

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3.7.1 INTRODUCTION

This section of the EIS deals with the issue of noise and vibration. It assesses the levels of both noise and vibration associated with the existing quarry / stone processing area and the proposed development. Roadstone Provinces Ltd. carried out the relevant baseline studies and subsequent impact assessment for this section. John Barnett & Associates prepared this section of the EIS.

Environmental emissions related to the existing quarry are regulated under an Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) Licence issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Licence No. 521.

3.7.2 BASELINE STUDIES


The purpose of the baseline study is to establish and assess the existing levels of noise and vibration at the existing quarry and the site of the proposed development.

A noise measurement survey was undertaken to obtain noise baseline data. The noise data was then analysed to determine the noise levels around the existing quarry / stone processing area.

A qualitative vibration survey has been carried out at the existing quarry. Blast monitoring results from 2007 has been reviewed for this.

ii. Baseline Study Methodology

a) Noise

Noise monitoring is carried out annually as part of compliance monitoring related to the existing IPPC Licence, Licence Register Number 521.

A noise survey was undertaken in August 2006. The locations of the noise monitoring points are indicated on Figure 3.7.1. Noise monitoring was undertaken in accordance with ISO 1996, Part 1 (Description and Measurement of Environmental Noise – Part 1: Basic Quantities and Procedures). The measurements were obtained with a Cirrus type 1 instrument, which was calibrated using calibrator the days prior to the monitoring.

Noise Measurement Parameters

During the noise survey, 3 environmental noise parameters were measured. These are defined below.

LAeq is the A-weighted equivalent continuous steady sound level during the sample period and effectively represents an “average” value.

LA10 is the A-weighted sound level that is exceeded for 10% of the sample period; this parameter is typically used to quantify traffic noise.

LA90 is the A-weighted sound level that is exceeded for 90% of the sample period; this parameter is typically used to quantify background noise.

A-weighting is the process by which noise levels are corrected to account for the non-linear frequency response of the human ear. All noise levels are quoted in dB(A) relative to a sound pressure of 20µPa.

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iii. Existing Environment

a) Noise

Noise measurements were made at four locations to assess noise levels in the vicinity of the existing quarry and stone processing area. The monitoring locations are shown on Figure 3.7.1 and are described as follows:

N1 – Existing compliance monitoring location, located at the north eastern side of the existing quarry, adjacent to the Neary residence (refer to Figure 3.7.1).

N2 – Existing compliance monitoring location, located at the north western side of the existing quarry, adjacent to the Molloy residence (refer to Figure 3.7.1).

N3 – Existing compliance monitoring location, located at the southern boundary of the existing quarry, adjacent to the Kelly residence (refer to Figure 3.7.1).

N4 – Existing compliance monitoring location, located at the far western side of the existing quarry, adjacent to the Hoyne residence (refer to Figure 3.7.1).

The noise monitoring results are provide in Table 3.7.1. A review of these results indicates compliance with the noise limits stated in Condition No.8.2 of the IPPC Licence (refer to EIS Section 1 Appendix 1-B).

Condition No. 8.2 states:

“Activities on-site shall not give rise to noise levels off-site, at any noise sensitive locations which exceed the following sound pressure limits (Leq,15 minute) subject to Condition 3 of this licence.”

• Daytime: 55dB(A)

• Night-time: 45dB(A)

b) Vibration

Ground vibration and air overpressure are measured for each blast. The blast monitoring is carried out at the Neary, Hoyne and Somer residences, refer to Figure 3.7.1

Table 3.7.2 and Table 3.7.3 detail blast monitoring results at the quarry for 2007 and 2008. The monitoring was carried out using calibrated portable vibrograph units.

A review of these blast monitoring results indicate compliance with the groundborne vibration and air overpressure limit values of 8mm/sec and 125dB(Lin) stated in Condition No’s 3.3, 8.3 and 8.4 of the IPPC Licence (refer to EIS Section 1 Appendix 1-B).


“No blast, or combination of simultaneous blasts shall give rise to a vibration level at any noise sensitive location which exceeds a peak particle velocity of 8mm/sec, as measured in three mutually orthogonal directions about a fixed point, subject to Condition 3 of this licence.”


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“No blast, or combination of simultaneous blasts shall give rise to an air overpressure level at any noise sensitive location which exceeds 155dB(Lin) max peak, subject to Condition 3 of this licence.”


i. Direct Impacts

a) Noise

The following generalised flow chart in Figure 3.7.2 shows the main site activities in the quarry.

Figure 3.7.2. Operational Activities: Stone Extract ion & Processing

A noise prediction assessment has been undertaken, whereby the levels of noise were calculated for the proposed development at the nearest receptors (residences) shown on Figure 3.7.3.

The noise assessment methodology used was based on BS5228: Part 1 (1997) “Noise and vibration control on construction and open sites – Code of practice for basic information and procedure for noise control”.

Cumulative noise levels measured from the existing quarrying and stone processing activity have been used in the noise assessment.

For the purposes of this assessment a reduction of -10 dB(A) for full screening and -5 dB(A) for partial screening has been adopted. However, monitoring of the effects of actual screening berms indicates that, for full screening, a reduction of -20 to -25 dB(A) is more realistic. In addition, it is assumed that all of the noise sources are active for a 100% of the time at the distances stated during the working hours of the development. On this basis it is considered that the noise assessment is very conservative and represents a worst case scenario.

The noise assessment has been carried out for four receptor locations (residences) R1, R2, R3 and R4, refer to Figure 3.7.3. The noise assessment calculations are provided in Appendix 3.7A. The results of this conservative assessment indicate that the cumulative noise levels arising from these activities at each receptor are:

R1: 41 dB(A) Leq

R2: 47 dB(A) Leq

Stripping of Soils

Extraction of Stone

Processing

Stockpiling & Product Storage

Loading and Transport

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R3: 47 dB (A) Leq

R4: 49 dB (A) Leq

The predicted cumulative noise levels arising from quarrying / stone processing activities are below the noise threshold limit value of 55 dB(A), at sensitive locations, recommended in Section 4.7 (c) of the DoEHLG (2004) planning guidelines.

b) Vibration

Blasting operations are carried out two to four times every month at the Maddoxtown Quarry.

The duration of a blast in terms of noise is over in a split second similar to a clap of thunder. A blast must be carried out on site on the specified day as concerns over security does not allow for explosives to be stored on site. In exceptional circumstances, due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. late delivery or security) a blast may be delayed or brought forward. Where possible the Applicant would endeavour to give adequate notice of blasting to residents within 500 metres of the blast.

There are two levels at which potential impacts from blasting at quarries may arise namely, building damage levels and human perception levels. The human body is very sensitive to the onset of vibration which can occur at levels as low as 0.5 mm/ sec peak particle velocity. However people are very poor in determining relative magnitudes, for example, the difference between a peak particle velocity of say 4 mm/sec and 6 mm/sec is unlikely to be perceived by a person although readily identified by a seismograph. Vibration levels that are likely to cause damage to properties are well in excess of those related to the onset of perception.

Table 3.7.4 details vibration and air overpressure values with corresponding everyday activities that would produce similar levels at or within property.


There are no indirect impacts associated with noise and/or vibration at the proposed development.

iii. Interaction with other Impacts

Noise

Any potential noise impact associated with quarry HGV traffic on the road network will be mitigated by:

• Limit on working hours at the development. No working on Sundays or Public Holidays.

• Use of existing traffic route.

• Regular maintenance of vehicles.

Vibration

According to the NRA Guidelines for the Treatment of Noise and Vibration in National Road Schemes groundborne vibrations produced by road traffic are unlikely to cause perceptible structural vibrations in properties located near well-maintained and smooth road surfaces.

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Traffic associated with the development will not generate any significant negative vibration impact on the residential amenity of nearby property.


i. Noise

The noise assessment indicates that, with implementation of the existing / proposed mitigation measures described below, the development can comply with the noise threshold limits of 55 dB(A) daytime and 45dB(A) night-time, measured at ‘sensitive locations’ as set out in Condition No. 8.2 of the current IPPC Licence for the site.

These mitigation measures are in accordance with the ‘best practice / mitigation’ measures described in Section 3.2 of the DoEHLG (2004) guidelines.

• Preservation of existing external boundary hedgerows.

• Provision of landscaped screening berms will provide acoustic as well as visual screening, refer to Figure 2.7 (a), (b) & (c).

• Internal haul roads and access roads will have as low a gradient as possible to reduce engine / brake noise from heavy vehicles.

• Use of mobile processing plant (crushing), to enable the processing activities to be carried out below ground level, will provide additional acoustic screening.

• Enclosing stone processing plant / machinery, where practical

• Ensuring that all plant and machinery is properly maintained.

ii. Vibration

The following controls will be put in place at the site to minimise the impacts of ground vibration and air overpressure, associated with the very infrequent blasting operations at the quarry:

• All blasting operations will be carried out by a certified ‘shotfirer’.

• The optimum blast ratio will be maintained and the maximum instantaneous charge will be optimised.

• Explosives will be properly and adequately confined by a sufficient amount and quality of stemming.

• Accurate face surveys will be undertaken to determine confinement of charges and placement of explosives.

In accordance with the ‘best practice / mitigation’ measures described in Condition No. 8 of the IPPC Licence and Section 3.2 of the DoEHLG (2004) guidelines, the following mitigation measures in relation to blasting operations will be implemented:

• No blasting will be carried out outside 09:00 – 18.00 hours on working days (Monday to Friday) except in emergencies or for health & safety reasons beyond the control of the operator, as recommended in Section 4.7 (d) of the DoEHLG (2004) guidelines. There will be no blasting carried out on Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays.

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• All nearby residences, including any future new dwellings, will be notified twenty-four hours prior to the blast. A clearly audible warning siren will be sounded five minutes before each blast, and an on-off sequence for the final minute.

To avoid any risk of damage to properties in the vicinity of the quarry, the groundborne vibration levels from blasting will not exceed a peak particle velocity of 8 mm/sec, measured at any noise sensitive location. Air overpressure values at the nearest occupied dwelling will not exceed 125 dB(Lin)max with a 95% confidence limit.

The blast monitoring results summarised in Section 3.7.2 iii (b) confirm that blasting operations at the quarry can comply with the current IPPC Licence threshold limits for groundborne vibration and air overpressure set out in Condition No’s 8.3 and 8.4 of the licence.

iii. Monitoring

Noise monitoring will be carried out on a quarterly basis at four locations. The locations of the four noise monitoring stations are shown on Figure 3.7.3.

Monitoring of every blast (both for groundborne vibration and air overpressure) will be carried out at the locations agreed under the current IPPC Licence.

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REFERENCES

1. DoEHLG (2004) – Quarries and Ancillary Activities: Guidelines for Planning Authorities .

2. British Standard 5228 – Noise and vibration control on construction and open sites (1997), British Standards Institute (BSi).

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Table 3.7.1 – Noise Monitoring Results (2006 & 2007 )

Measured Noise Levels – dB(A)

Location

Date

Daytime /Night time

Time

LAeq, 1hr LA10, 1hr LA90, 1hr

N1 (Neary) 03/08/06 Night time 07:00 – 07:15 38.3 32.8 22.2 N1 (Neary) 03/08/06 Daytime 10:28 -10:43 50.7 49.5 45.1 N2 (Molloy) 03/08/06 Night time 07:26 – 07:41 48.9 51.6 45.9 N2 (Molloy) 03/08/06 Daytime 10:51 – 10:06 64.8 66.0 46.3 N3 (Kelly) 03/08/06 Night time 07:46 – 08:01 41.5 38.0 22.8 N3 (Kelly) 03/08/06 Daytime 11:06 – 11:21 57.0 58.5 53.0 N4 (Hoyne) 22/08/06 Night time 07:17 – 07: 32 39.5 41.2 37.5 N4 (Hoyne) 03/08/06 Daytime 15:56 – 16: 11 49.8 51.9 47.4 N1 (Neary) Night time 44.9 N1 (Neary) Daytime 51.7 N2 (Molloy) Night time 44.5 43.6 N2 (Molloy) Daytime 53.9 44.3 N3 (Kelly) Night time 40.1 25.9 N3 (Kelly) Daytime 56.3 52.5 N4 (Hoyne) Night time 44.6 N4 (Hoyne) Daytime 47.2 Awaiting Clarification on locations and dates of no ise results sent through on 12 / 11/2008

• Day time (08:00 – 22:00 hrs) 55 dB Laeq

• Night time (22:00 – 08:00 hrs) 45dB Laeq

Table 3.7.2 – Blast Monitoring Results 2007 at exis ting quarry (Refer to Figure 3.7.1 for monitoring locations)

Ground Vibration

PPV Date Location Air

Overpressure dB(L)

(mm/sec)

Comment

15/01/2007 B1 Neary 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 15/01/2007 B2 Ryan 115 1.2

15/01/2007 B1 Neary 115 1.2

15/01/2007 B2 Ryan 110 0.4

25/01/2007 B1 Neary 0 0 Vibograph faulty 25/01/2007 B3 Somers 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 07/02/2007 B1 Neary 118 1.6

07/02/2007 B2 Ryan 113 0.8

19/02/2007 B1 Neary 116 2.2

19/02/2007 B3 Somers 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger

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28/02/2007 B2 Ryan 114 2.7

28/02/2007 B3 Somers 110 0.4

01/03/2007 B1 Neary 116 2.2

01/03/2007 B3 Somers 88 0.5

01/03/2007 B1 Neary 124 1.2

01/03/2007 B3 Somers 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 14/03/2007 B1 Neary 117 1.8

14/03/2007 B3 Somers 105 0.2

14/03/2007 B1 Neary 119 1.2


27/03/2007 B2 Ryan 105 1.6

27/03/2007 B1 Neary 107 1.6

27/03/2007 B2 Ryan 111 0.8

11/04/2007 B1 Neary 116 3

Ground Vibration


Overpressure dB(L) (mm/sec)

Comment

11/04/2007 B2 Ryan 107 1.8

11/04/2007 B1 Neary 110 2

11/04/2007 B2 Ryan 110 1

25/04/2007 B1 Neary 120 2.5

25/04/2007 B2 Ryan 108 1.2

25/04/2007 B1 Neary 118 1.8

25/04/2007 B2 Ryan 109 0.6

08/05/2007 B1 Neary 115 3.5

08/05/2007 B3 Somers 107 0.6

25/05/2007 B1 Neary 117 1.8

25/05/2007 B3 Somers 104 0.25

29/05/2007 B2 Ryan 117 2.2

29/05/2007 B3 Somers 109 1.52

29/05/2007 B2 Ryan 108 0.6


08/06/2007 B2 Ryan 107 1.6



29/06/2007 B1 Neary 120 2.35

29/06/2007 B3 Somers 105 0.4

16/07/2007 B1 Neary 118 2.2

16/07/2007 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 27/07/2007 B1 Neary 117 0.1



20/08/2007 B2 Ryan 106 1.6

31/08/2007 B1 Neary 119 2.6

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31/08/2007 B2 Ryan 106 1.5

31/08/2007 B1 Neary 111 0.3

31/08/2007 B2 Ryan 119 1.5

13/09/2007 B1 Neary 108 1.6


13/09/2007 B2 Ryan 111 0.95

26/09/2007 B1 Neary 120 4.31

26/09/2007 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 08/10/2007 B1 Neary 112 1.3 08/10/2007 B2 Ryan 120 3.5 08/10/2007 B1 Neary 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 08/10/2007 B2 Ryan 110 1.2

15/10/2007 B1 Neary 117 2.8 15/10/2007 B2 Ryan 104 1.2 15/10/2007 B1 Neary 121 1.1

Ground Vibration


Overpressure dB(L) (mm/sec)

Comment

15/10/2007 B2 Ryan 106 1.4

24/10/2007 B1 Neary 119 3.8



31/10/2007 B2 Ryan 109 1.2

31/10/2007 B1 Neary 108 1.1


13/11/2007 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/11/2007 B4 Kelly 110 0.5

19/11/2007 B5 Cullen 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/11/2007 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/11/2007 B7 Bryan 107 1.2


26/11/2007 B1 Neary 114 1

26/11/2007 B2 Ryan 106 1.9

05/12/2007 B1 Neary 116 2.6


05/12/2007 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 14/12/2007 B4 Kelly 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 14/12/2007 B5 Cullen 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 14/12/2007 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 14/12/2007 B7 Bryan 114 0.76 19/12/2007 1600 106 1.2 19/12/2007 1600 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/12/2007 1600 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/12/2007 1600 110 1.8

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Table 3.7.3 – Blast Monitoring Results 2007 at New Extension (Refer to Figure 3.7.1 for monitoring location)

Ground Vibration

PPV Date Location

Air Overpressure

dB(L) (mm/sec)

Comment

04/10/2007 B4 Kelly 113 1.5 04/10/2007 B5 Cullen J 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 04/10/2007 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 04/10/2007 B7 Bryan 114 0.76

07/11/2007 B4 Kelly 120 1.3 07/11/2007 B5 Cullen J 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 07/11/2007 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 07/11/2007 B7 Bryan 118 0.9

19/11/2007 B4 Kelly 132 1.27

19/11/2007 B5 Cullen J 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/11/2007 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/11/2007 B7 Bryan 117 1

28/11/2007 B4 Kelly 115 2.5

28/11/2007 B5 Cullen J 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 28/11/2007 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 28/11/2007 B7 Bryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 07/12/2007 B4 Kelly 119 1.2

07/12/2007 B5 Cullen J 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 07/12/2007 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 07/12/2007 B7 Bryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 14/12/2007 B4 Kelly 113 1.71

14/12/2007 B5 Cullen J 113 0.38

14/12/2007 B6 Dillon 102 0.38

14/12/2007 B7 Bryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/12/2007 B4 Kelly 126 2.2

19/12/2007 B5 Cullen J 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/12/2007 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/12/2007 B7 Bryan 112 0.9

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Table 3.7.4 – Blast Monitoring Results 2008 at New Extension (Refer to Figure 3.7.1 for monitoring location)

Ground Vibration

PPV Date Location

Air Overpressure

dB(L) (mm/sec)

Comment

11/01/2008 B7 Bryans 116 0.69 11/01/2008 B4 Kelly 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 11/01/2008 B7 Bryans 113 0.7 11/01/2008 B4 Kelly 124 1.33

18/01/2008 B1 Neary 119 5.9 18/01/2008 B2 Ryan 113 1.52 28/01/2008 B1 Neary 117.6 2.92 28/01/2008 B2 Ryan 108.1 2.22

06/02/2008 B1 Neary 117.2 1.78

06/02/2008 B2 Ryan 106.5 2.86 13/02/2008 B1 Neary 106 11.2 13/02/2008 B2 Ryan 122 2.0

21/02/2008 B1 Neary 122 2.0

21/02/2008 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 21/02/2008 B1 Neary 117.3 1.6 21/02/2008 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 29/02/2008 B1 Neary 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 29/02/2008 B2 Ryan 109 3.6 13/03/2008 B1 Neary 110 1.016 13/03/2008 B2 Ryan 109 1.905 13/03/2008 B1 Neary 121 0.889

13/03/2008 B2 Ryan

31/03/2008 B1 Neary 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 31/03/2008 B2 Ryan 108 2.35 31/03/2008 B1 Neary 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 31/03/2008 B2 Ryan 113.3 1.33 09/04/2008 B1 Neary 117 2.0 09/04/2008 B2 Ryan 111 4.5 21/04/2008 B1 Neary 117 6.0 21/04/2008 B2 Ryan 111 2.5 21/04/2008 B1 Neary 120 1.4 21/04/2008 B2 Ryan 114 0.83 02/05/2008 B1 Neary 119 1.0 02/05/2008 B2 Ryan 114 2.4 02/05/2008 B1 Neary 118 3.8 02/05/2008 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 14/05/2008 B1 Neary 115 4.6 14/05/2008 B2 Ryan 108 1.9 14/05/2008 B1 Neary 122 1.3 14/05/2008 B2 Ryan 110 1.4 29/05/2008 B1 Neary 113 6.0 29/05/2008 B2 Ryan 110 1.0

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09/06/2008 B1 Neary 90 1.0 09/06/2008 B2 Ryan 127 0.8 19/06/2008 B1 Neary 121 7.7 19/06/2008 B2 Ryan 107 1.4 30/06/2008 B1 Neary 115 7.2 30/06/2008 B2 Ryan 109 2.1 30/06/2008 B1 Neary 123 0.35 30/06/2008 B2 Ryan 113 0.95 11/07/2008 B1 Neary 118.1 3.1 11/07/2008 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 11/07/2008 B1 Neary 118.2 1.7 11/07/2008 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 30/07/2008 B1 Neary 118.8 5.5 30/07/2008 B2 Ryan 106.5 2.15 07/08/2008 B1 Neary 0 0 Vibograph Error – Faulty Battery 07/08/2008 B2 Ryan 104.2 1.96 11/08/2008 B1 Neary 122.0 2.1 11/08/2008 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 11/08/2008 B1 Neary 120.7 1.14 11/08/2008 B2 Ryan 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 26/08/2008 B1 Neary 122.6 2.92 26/08/2008 B2 Ryan 109.5 3.42 26/08/2008 B1 Neary 118.7 1.58 26/08/2008 B2 Ryan 111.5 1.27 03/09/2008 B7 Bryans 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 03/09/2008 B4 Kelly 112.3 1.20 08/09/2008 B1 Neary 117.5 1.0 08/09/2008 B7 Bryans 116.4 0.88 08/09/2008 B4 Kelly 121.7 0.63 08/09/2008 B1 Neary 117.8 0.82 08/09/2008 B7 Bryans 124.7 0.76 08/09/2008 B4 Kelly 118.8 2.09 12/09/2008 B1 Neary 115.2 6.15 12/09/2008 B7 Bryans 114.0 2.66 12/09/2008 B4 Kelly 105.5 0.95 12/09/2008 B1 Neary 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 12/09/2008 B7 Bryans 121.7 0.38 12/09/2008 B4 Kelly 115.7 1.46 12/09/2008 B6 Dillon 110.0 0.58 17/09/2008 B1 Neary 118.3 1.27 17/09/2008 B7 Bryans 116.7 0.82 17/09/2008 B4 Kelly 105.5 1.07 17/09/2008 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 17/09/2008 B1 Neary 113.8 0.57 17/09/2008 B7 Bryans 121.1 0.76 17/09/2008 B4 Kelly 119.2 1.33 17/09/2008 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/09/2008 B1 Neary 116.0 1.0 19/09/2008 B7 Bryans 119.0 0.7 19/09/2008 B4 Kelly 115.0 4.1

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19/09/2008 B6 Dillon 0 0 Vibograph did not trigger 19/09/2008 B1 Neary 119.0 6.8 19/09/2008 B7 Bryans 113.0 2.3 19/09/2008 B4 Kelly 106.0 0.7 19/09/2008 B6 Dillon 107.0 0.8

Table 3.7.5 Vibration and Air Overpressure Values Vibration Level Activity 1.0 – 2.5 mms¯¹ Walking, measured on wooden floor 2.0 – 5.0 mms¯¹ Door slam, measured on wooden floor 12 – 35 mms¯¹ Door slam, measured over doorway 5 – 50 mms¯¹ Foot stamp, measured on wooden floor 30 – 70 mms¯¹ Daily changes in temperature and humidity 120 dB Constant wind of 5 ms¯¹, Beaufort Scale 3, Gentle breeze 130 dB Constant wind of 8 ms¯¹, Beaufort Scale 4, Moderate breeze Source: The Environmental Effects of Production Blasting from Surface Mineral Workings: D.E.T.R (UK) April 1998

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SECTION 3.7 – APPENDICES

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Roadstone Provinces Ltd. Environmental Impact Statement –– Maddoxtown Opencast Mine, Dunbell,

Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny


Appendix 3.7 – A: Noise Assessment (Refer to Figure 3.7.3)

Screening (dB(A)) Reflection

(dB(A)) Activity Distance (m) Attenuation with Distance

(dB(A)) Activity LAeq (dB(A)) Plant Type

Average LAeq at 10m

(dB(A)) R1 R2 R3 R4 R1 R2 R3 R4 R1 R2 R3 R4 R1 R2 R3 R4

Mobile Crushing

/ Screening

Plant CP/SP

82 -10 -10 -10 -10 3 590.6 288.1 290.3 235.2 -35 -29 -29 -27 40 46 46 48

Loading Shovel (EXC)

75 -10 -10 -10 -10 3 513.9 195.6 196.7 163.8 -34 -26 -26 -24 34 42 42 44

Combined Noise Level at R1 = 41 dB L Aeq Combined Noise Level at R2 = 47 dB L Aeq

Combined Noise Level at R3 = 47 dB L Aeq

Combined Noise Level at R4 = 49 dB L Aeq

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Roadstone Provinces. Ltd. Environmental Impact Statement – Extension to Existing Quarry (OpenCast Mine)

Dunbell Big,Td., Maddockstown, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny (Section 261 Quarry Ref. QY2)

JBA3588/EIS/tp/smcd November 2008 Section 3.8 – Page 1

SECTION 3.8 – LANDSCAPE




ii Existing Environment


i. Designated tourism routes and viewpoints

ii Other roads & residences, hotels and amenities

iii. Sites and monuments of archaeological, archite ctural or historical interest

iv. Interaction with other impacts

3.8.4 MITIGATION MEASURES

FIGURES

Figure 3.8.1: Kilkenny CDP Designated Areas, Plate Locations & Cross Section Locations (1:200,000 & 1:20,000)

Figure 3.8.2: Extracts from Kilkenny County Develo pment Plan 2008 – 2014

Figure 3.8.4: Visual Assessment Cross Sections (1:5 ,000)

PLATES

Plate 3.8.1 – 3.8.14 Site viewed from location 1 - 14 (refer to Figure 3.8.1)

APPENDICES

Appendix 3.8 – A Glossary of Impact Terminology

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3.8.1 INTRODUCTION

This section of the EIS describes, classifies and evaluates the existing landscape and visual resource, focusing on its sensitivity and ability to accommodate change. The proposed development was then applied to the baseline conditions to allow the identification of potential impacts, prediction of their magnitude and assessment of their significance. Mitigation measures were then identified to eliminate and reduce as far as practical potential environmental impacts.



The initial data to assess the significant effect on the landscape was acquired through:

� Site walkover and topographical surveys.

� Photographic surveys of the site and its surrounds

This information was then evaluated and assessed utilising:

� Consideration of the phasing and layout of the development.

� Sections through the existing site, overlain with the phased working scheme of the proposed development (refer to Section 2.5).

� Review of the Kilkenny County Development Plan 2008 – 2014, hereafter referred to as the KCDP 2008 – 2014.

ii. Existing Environment

Within the KCDP (2008 - 2014) the townland of Dunbell Big in which the development is located does not lie within an Area of High Amenity as illustrated in Figure 3.8.1 and Figure 8.1 of the County Development Plan.

Landscape Character Assesment

County Kilkenny has been divided into 4 broad categories of landscape unit types – i.e. the identified landscape character areas with similar physical and visual characteristics were combined to define the major landscape areas in the County.

These broad landscape areas are: 1) Upland Areas, 2) Lowland Areas, 3) River Valleys, and 4) Transitional Areas.

The development is located within the area designated as lowland areas. In the process of reviewing the recommendations of the Landscape Character Assessment, Kilkenny County Council has incorporated a number of policies into the plan for assessing development proposals in each of the broad landscape area types. Section 8.3.3.2 of the County Development Plan indicates the policies set out for Lowland Areas;

• H63 To recognise that the lowlands are made up of a variety of working landscapes that are critical resources for sustaining the economic and social well-being of the County.

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• H64 To recognise that this policy area contains the majority of the County’s population. These also incorporate most of the major national primary and regional roads.

• H65 To continue to permit development that can utilise existing infrastructure, whilst taking account of local absorption opportunities provided by the landscape and prevailing vegetation.

• H66 To continue to facilitate appropriate development in a manner that respects the scale, character and sensitivities of the landscape, recognising the need for sustainable settlement pattern and economic activity within the County.

• H67 To recognise that in this low lying open environment, tall and bulky development sometimes can have a disproportionate impact against the landscape particularly when viewed from the predominantly low lying areas of the public realm. Visually obtrusive and/or insensitive development shall be discouraged in such instances.

The development is not located within a Natural Heritage Area (NHA) as illustrated in Figure 3.8.1 and Figure 8.1 of the County Development Plan.

The overall site landholding boundary lies on the edge of a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) as illustrated in Figure 3.8.1 and Figure 8.1 of the County Development Plan. The KCDP policy for special areas of conservation is covered under the policy regarding Designated Natural Heritage Sites of National & International Importance as set out in Section 8.1 of the Plan.

The proposed extension application area however lies approximately 450m to the east of the adjoining Special Area of Conservation which in this instance is the River Nore (Site Code 002162). The potential for negative visual impacts, arising from the proposed development, will be limited due to the physical distance between the site works and the publicly accessible areas, the existing natural topography, the proposed natural screening area (the proposed development sitting into the surrounding landscape), the proposed screening berms and the phasing/direction of extraction in the proposed limestone.

The quarry extension design (direction of working / phasing of rock extraction etc.), the use of mobile processing plant located on the floor, operational landscaping; and continuous restoration will eliminate and / or significantly mitigate any potential visual impact – refer to Section 2 for a description of the proposed development. It is therefore considered that the proposed development would not be ‘seriously injurious’ to the visual amenity of the area or ‘prejudicial to the natural beauty of the Special Area of Conservation’. The existing quarry area located to the north of the proposed extension area is in itself designated as an area of geological interest as illustrated in Figure 3.8.1 and Figure 8.1 of the County Development Plan. The KCDP 2008 – 2014 policy in relation to natural heritage areas is as follows;

Area of Geological Interest

Maintain, and where necessary facilitate, the enhancement of the conservation values of those features or areas of county geological and or geomorphological importance.

Protect from inappropriate development, County Geological Sites, or parts thereof, and geological Natural Heritage Areas that become designated during the lifetime of this plan.

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To consult with the Geological Survey of Ireland when assessing developments which are likely to impact on County Geological Sites, or geological Natural Heritage Areas which may be designated during the lifetime of this plan.

To assess all proposed developments with respect to geology (individually or in combination with other proposals, as appropriate) which are likely to impact on County Geological Sites, or geological Natural Heritage Areas that become designated during the lifetime of this plan.

Ensure that any development in or near County Geological Sites will avoid any significant adverse impact on the features for which the site is considered important. Maintain, and where necessary facilitate, the enhancement of the conservation values of those features or areas of county geological and or geomorphological importance.

Protect from inappropriate development, County Geological Sites, or parts thereof, and geological Natural Heritage Areas that become designated during the lifetime of this plan.

To consult with the Geological Survey of Ireland when assessing developments which are likely to impact on County Geological Sites, or geological Natural Heritage Areas which may be designated during the lifetime of this plan.

To assess all proposed developments with respect to geology (individually or in combination with other proposals, as appropriate) which are likely to impact on County Geological Sites, or geological Natural Heritage Areas that become designated during the lifetime of this plan.

Ensure that any development in or near County Geological Sites will avoid any significant adverse impact on the features for which the site is considered important.

The Geological Survey of Ireland has been consulted as part of this application. Their requirements in terms of geological heritage at this quarry have been incorporated into Section 3.3 of the EIS, and the final restoration scheme for the quarry, refer to Section 2.5. Roadstone Provinces Ltd. are considerate to the opportunities open to them in terms of restoration of the site and the long term closure plan for the site, refer also to Section 2.5. As the existing site is seen as an area of geological interest, the closure plan will incorporate exposed faces for future reference and geological studies. The faces will be graded and made safe to meet health and safety standards for future visitors to the site. The overall site restoration and closure plan also has the opportunity to create an area rich in biodiversity to create new wildlife habitats along with a diverse mix of flora & fauna, landscape and geological features. The KCDP policy with regard to natural heritage and biodiversity as set out in Section 8.2 is:

“To protect, conserve and enhance County Kilkenny’s natural heritage and biodiversity, to include the diversity of habitats found in the county e.g. watercourses and waterbodies; trees; woodlands; geological and geomorphological sites / features; improved and semi-natural grasslands; etc.”

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In accordance with the Environmental Protection Agency “Guidelines on Information to be Contained in an EIS” particular attention has been paid to potential views from the following;

1. Designated tourism routes and viewpoints

2. Other roads & residences, hotels and amenities

3. Sites and monuments of archaeological, architectural or historical interest

Under the EPA Guidelines the term “Views” is taken to imply significant visibility.

A common human response to most extraction operations is that the landscape quality has been reduced. The extent to which this is considered negative visual impact on the surrounding landscape is affected by:

� The extent, scale and shape of the proposed development.

� The contrast in colour between the exposed faces, if visible, and its surroundings.

� The accumulation of industrial type buildings that are out of scale and character with those normally found in the area.

A further consideration is not just its proximity to human habitations but also the number of people who pass through the area, for whatever reason, who may feel that the visual quality of the area has been lessened by the presence of a mineral extraction development.

In the case of the proposed extension at Maddockstown Quarry, the potential impact will be most likely from the nearest residence, located between 150m and 200m to the south and west of the proposed extension area and local roads to the south and west of the site – refer to Figure 3.8.1 and Figure 3.8.3. A limited extent of the proposed development will be open to public view and where it is this will be of a short term temporary nature. This is due to a combination of the intervening vegetation and topography, the proposed development sitting into the surrounding landscape (naturally screened), and the proposed phasing of the extraction, refer to Section 2.5 and Section 3.8.4.

In predicting the visual impacts the following aspects have been considered:

� The views and viewers affected (refer to Figure 3.8.1 and 3.8.3 and Plates 3.8.1 – 3.8.14).

� The distance of the view (refer to Figure 3.8.1 and 3.8.3).

� The degree of visual intrusion that will occur (refer to Table 3.8.1 below).

� The resulting impact on the quality and character of the view (refer to Table 3.8.1 below).

The first stage of the proposed development will be to strip topsoil and overburden from the proposed extraction area (refer to Figure 2.7) and to use this material to create landscaped screening berms surrounding the southern, eastern and western boundaries of the extraction area. The extraction area will then be developed in a southerly direction with the working face being screened by the intervening topography ensuring the visual impact of the proposed development is eliminated and / or minimised. Operational landscaping (provision of perimeter landscaped screening berms) and site restoration measures have been developed as part of the overall extraction scheme for the proposed development, refer to Section 2.5. Those mitigation measures directly related to visual

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intrusion are detailed below in Section 3.8.4 Mitigation Measures. As can be seen in Table 3.8.1, implementation of the visual mitigation measures proposed will eliminate and / or minimise the potential visual impact of the development.

i. Designated tourism routes and viewpoints

There will be no significant visibility of the proposed development from any designated viewpoints within the county development plan as shown on Figure 8.1 – refer to EIS Figure 3.8.1.

Kilkenny County Development Plan (refer to EIS Figu re 3.8.1 for locations)

Views to be preserved and protected – within 15km o f Maddockstown Opencast Mine

Views within 5km Radius of the Site

There are no protected views within 5km of the proposed extension area.

Views between 5km – 10km Radius of the Site

V10 View North West over the valleys and the confluence of the Nore and King Rivers on the Stoneyford Bennetts Bridge Road No. LP 4202 between the junctions with road nos 7LT 42022 and 490.

Views between 10km – 15km Radius of the Site

V1 View east and south over the Barrow valley on the Thomastown / Graiguenamanagh Road, R703 from Coppenagh Hill between the junctions with road numbers LP4203 and LT 82152.

V4 View to the south east over Mount Brandon on the Inistioge / Graignamanagh Road No LP 4209 between the junctions with road numbers LS 8241 and R705.

V5 View to the south west over Inistioge and the Nore Valley on the Inistiogue / Graiguenamanagh Road No LP 4210 between the junctions with road numbers LS8238 and R700.

V7 Views west over the Nore Valley on the Thomastown / Inistiogue Road R700, between Inistioge and the junction with road number 463, particularly those at Brownsbarn Bridge and Dangan.

V8 View East over the Nore Valley on the Thomastown/Inistioge ôGrenanö Road No LP4208 S. of Thomastown between the junctions with road numbers LS 8236 and 529.

V11 View East into the Barrow Valley and lowland plains on the Castlecomer / Paulstown Road No.LP 2625 and from road nos. LT 66751 and LS 6671 between the junction at road nos. LP 2625 and LS 6671 and the junction at road nos 248 and 209.

V13 Views west over Kilkenny City and East over Carlow on Ballysallagh/Kanesbridge Road No. LP 1815 between the junctions with road nos. LT66542 and LS 5886.

Notwithstanding the fact that there are no designated viewpoints within 5km of the proposed extraction area, the proposed extraction scheme design takes account of local residences, and public road users in the provision of adequate buffer zones to adjoining properties, the retention of existing topographic features and mature hedgerows and the provision of screening berms and additional landscape planting to minimise any visual intrusion of the proposed development.

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Direct Impacts

The proposed development will not have any significant direct impacts on designated scenic roads and viewpoints due to its location; the intervening topography; the planning, design and phasing of the workings; and the proposed mitigation measures (operational landscaping, natural screening and continuous restoration).

Indirect Impacts

The proposed development will not have any significant indirect impacts on designated tourism routes and viewpoints.

Cumulative Impacts

There will be no cumulative impacts with the proposed development.

ii Other roads & residences, hotels and amenities

The visual aspects of this proposal are primarily concerned with views from the closest residences and roads (refer to Figures 3.8.1 & 3.8.3) within the area. A photographic survey was undertaken which involved taking still digital photographs from a number of locations (including a number of residences), the locations of which are indicated on Figure 3.8.1. The photographs were taken at eye level (c. 1.75 metres above ground level) at the points indicated, towards the proposed development. The views are shown on Plates 3.8.1 – 3.8.14.

Direct Impacts

Mitigation measures will be put in place to ensure that there will be no significant Views to the proposed development from the Local road situated to the West of the proposed extension area which bisects the overall Roadstone Provinces landholding, refer to Figure 3.8.3. The site is effectively split in two by this road with the existing offices and processing areas to the west and the existing and proposed extraction areas to the east. It is proposed to utilise the existing site entrance, (refer to EIS Section 2.4 and 3.11).

Potential Views from residences are restricted to a small number of local dwellings along the local county road to the south – refer to Figure 3.8.3. Many of the Views from residences located along the local road network are screened by a combination of the existing hedgerows and / or intervening topography. In preparation of the working scheme Views from residences influenced the phasing, design and direction of working. Cross sectional views and lines of sight have been used to illustrate the potential visual impact associated with the proposed development and to formulate mitigation measures (refer to Figures 3.8.1 and 3.8.3). Any potential impact on views from residences, along the adjacent local roads are therefore likely to be short term in duration while topsoil stripping is carried out and the creation of landscaped screening berms around the perimeter of the proposed extraction area.

There will be no distant views of the proposed development from the local county road, to the north or east of the proposed development.

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Indirect Impacts

The proposed development will not have any significant indirect impacts on other roads, residences, hotels or other amenities in the area.

Cumulative Impacts

There will be no cumulative impacts with the proposed development.

iii. Sites and monuments of archaeological, archite ctural or historical interest

The proposed extension area and surrounding lands were inspected by Dr. Charles Mount, Project Archaeologist with the Irish Concrete Federation (ICF).

There are a number of archaeological ringfort features located in close proximity to the proposed extension area, refer to Section 3.9 – Cultural Heritage, Sub-Section 3.9.5 Archaeology. There are however no structures within the proposed extension area listed as protected structures in the KCDP 2008 – 2014 nor are there any structures in the proposed extension area listed in the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage for Co. Kilkenny. No additional structures of heritage merit were identified by the site visit of Dr. Mount in November 2007.

Direct Impacts

There will be no direct impacts on any known archaeological sites or features or items of heritage interest.

Indirect Impacts

There will be no indirect impacts on any known archaeological sites or features or items of heritage interest.

iv. Interaction with other Impacts

Potential interactions with other impacts associated with visual intrusion (e.g. dust mitigation measures) are discussed in the relevant sections of the EIS.

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Roadstone Provinces Ltd. Environmental Impact Statement – Extension to Existing Quarry (OpenCast Mine)



Impact Duration

Unit

Location

(refer to

Figure 3.8.2)

Type of View Proximity Temporary Short to Medium-term Long-term

1. Designated Viewpoints

A1, A4, A5, A7, A8, A10, A11 & A13

(Refer to Figure 3.8.1)

No view of the development from these designated views due to distance, intervening topography and high ground

Distant

> 5km Imperceptible

Local Road West of Proposed Extension Area

(incl. Residences)

No views of extraction area

Short term views of screening berm

construction

> 150m to proposed extraction

area

Slight to Moderate Negative

Imperceptible Imperceptible

Local Road North of Existing Opencast Mine

Area

(incl. Residences)


> 750m to proposed extraction

area

Imperceptible Imperceptible Imperceptible

Local Road East of Proposed Extension Area

(incl. Residences)

No views of extraction area c. 1.5km to

site boundary

Imperceptible Imperceptible Imperceptible

2. Other roads & residences,

hotels and amenities

Local Road South of Proposed Extension Area

(incl. Residences)

Temporary Intermittent views of topsoil stripping &

screenign berm construction

c. 150m – 1.5km

Slight to Moderate Negative


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R700 Regional Road

(incl. Residences)


Short term views of screening berm

construction

> 1km to proposed extraction

area

Slight to moderate negative


3. Sites and monuments of archaeological , architectural or historical

interest

Refer to Section 3.9 and Figure 3.9.1 Significant views <150m

Significant Negative Impact

Slight to Moderate Slight

Table 3.8.1 – Predicted Degree of Visual Impact (Re fer to Figures 3.8.1, 3.8.2, 3.8.3 and 3.8.4)

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Dunbell Big Td., Maddockstown, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny (Section 261 Quarry Ref. QY2)


3.8.4 MITIGATION MEASURES

Measures taken to minimise the potential visual impacts associated with the existing and proposed development can be classified as;

• Avoidance

• Mitigation

• Avoidance

The primary measure taken to minimise visual impacts is through their avoidance. The layout of the proposed working scheme, together with the existing hedgerows along the site boundary, retained ridgeline topography (natural screening) and the overall topography, will ensure that the visual impact of the proposed development is not significant.

• Mitigation

The following landscape mitigation measures will be put in place to eliminate and / or minimise any potential visual impact from the proposed development:

i) Retention of all hedgerows along the site boundary.

ii) Screening berms will be provided around the perimeter of the extraction area (refer to Figure 2.7).

iii) Restoration of the worked out areas of the void will be carried out, refer to Section 2.5. The lands will be returned to a nature reserve – refer to Section 2.6 and Section 3.2.

iv) Topsoil and overburden, where not used directly in the construction of screening berms, will be stored separately on a temporary basis in designated storage areas for use in future restoration works (refer to Figure 2.7)

v) On cessation of all activities on the site, final site restoration will provide for removal of all buildings, plant and paved areas.

These mitigation measures are in accordance with the DoEHLG (2004) Quarries and Ancillary Activities: Guidelines for Planning Authorities.

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SECTION 3.8 – PLATES

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SECTION 3.8 – APPENDICES

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APPENDIX 3.8 – A Glossary of Impact Terminology

Positive Impact A change that improved the quality of the environment (for example, by increasing species diversity and the reproductive capacity of the ecosystem, by removing nuisances or improving amenities).

Neutral Impact A change that does not affect the quality of the environment.

Negative Impact A change that reduces the quality of the environment (for example, by lessening species diversity and the reproductive capacity of the ecosystem by damaging health, property or by causing nuisance.

Imperceptible Impact

An impact capable of measurement but without noticeable consequences.

Slight Impact An impact that causes changes in the character of the environment that are not significant or profound.

Moderate Impact An impact that causes an appreciable segment of the panorama to be affected or where there is intrusion into the foreground. There may be partial or limited views.

Significant Impact An impact that, by its magnitude, duration or intensity alters an important aspect of the environment.

Profound Impact An impact that obliterates all previous characteristics.

Temporary Impact Impact lasting for one year or less.

Short-term Impact Impact lasting one to seven years.

Medium-term Impact Impact lasting seven to twenty years.

Long-term Impact Impact lasting twenty to fifty years

Permanent Impact Impact lasting over fifty years.

Impact Avoidance When no change is caused.

Impact Reduction Where the significance of adverse impacts is lessened.

Impact Remedy When an adverse effect is eliminated.

Irreversible Impact When the character, diversity or reproductive capacity of an environment is permanently lost.

Indeterminable Impact

When the full consequences of a change in the environment cannot be described.

Cumulative Impact The addition of many small impacts to create one larger, more significant, impact.

Synergistic Impact Where the resultant impact is of greater significance than the sum of its constituents.

“Worse case” Impact

The impacts arising from a development in the case where mitigation measures substantially fail.

“Do nothing” Impact The environment as it would be in the future should no development of any kind be carried out.

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3588/EIS/cm November 2008 Section 3.9 – Page 1

SECTION 3.9 – Cultural Heritage

CONTENTS

3.9.1. INTRODUCTION

i. Outline of scope of works

General

The Development

ii. Project team

iii. Consultations

3.9.2. BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY

i. Outline of the baseline study

ii. Baseline study methodology

iii. Field Inspection

3.9.3. RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT, HISTORICAL & ARCHAEOL OGICAL LANDSCAPE

i. The Landscape

ii. Historical Background

3.9.4. BUILDINGS

3.9.5. ARCHAEOLOGY

i. Archaeological Assessment

ii. Field Inspection

3.9.6. ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS

i. Direct Impacts


iii. Interaction with Other Impacts

iv. ‘Do Nothing Scenario’

v. ‘Worst Case Impact’

3.9.7. RECOMMENDATIONS

i. Direct Impacts


3.9.8. BIBLIOGRAPHY

APPENDICES

Appendix 3.9.1 SITES ENTERED IN THE RECORD OF MONUM ENTS AND PLACES

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3.9.1. INTRODUCTION

i Outline of Scope of Works

General

This report, prepared on behalf of Roadstone Provinces, has been undertaken to assess the impacts on the cultural heritage of the development of quarrying on c15.3 hectares of land in the townland of Dunbell Big, Co. Kilkenny (see Fig. 3.9.1). A wide variety of paper, cartographic, photographic and archival sources was consulted. All the lands of the proposed development were visually inspected. This report is prepared under the terms of the Archaeological Code of Practice agreed between the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (now the Minster for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government) and the Irish Concrete Federation (DAHGI 2002).

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Fig. 3.9.1. The proposed extension area, in red, superimposed on the Record of Monument and Places maps for Co Kilkenny. The existing working area is indicated in blue.

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This study is an assessment of the known or potential archaeological resource within a specified area consisting of a collation of existing written and graphic information in order to identify the likely context, character, significance and sensitivity of the known or potential archaeological resource using an appropriate methodology (EPA 2002 and 2003)

The study involved detailed investigation of the archaeological and historical background of the development site, the landholding and the surrounding area extending 1km from the development boundary (Fig. 3.9.1). The overall study area measures 2.46km by 2.60km, an area of 6.4 square Km. This area was examined using information from the Record of Monuments and Places of County Kilkenny, the Kilkenny County Development Plan, the Topographical files and finds list of the National Museum of Ireland, aerial photographs, lists of previous excavations and cartographic and documentary sources. A field assessment was carried out on the 23 November 2007 to identify and assess any known archaeological sites and previously unrecorded features and portable finds within the proposed development area.

An impact assessment and mitigation strategy have been prepared. An impact assessment is undertaken to outline potential adverse impacts that the proposed development may have on the cultural resource, while a mitigation strategy is designed to avoid, reduce or offset such adverse impacts.

The Development

The site is located in the Townland of Dunbell Big, Co. Kilkenny, on OS Six Inch sheet No. 24, just to the east of the Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge road (Fig. 3.9.1). The proposed development would involve the extraction of an area of 13.4 hectares within an overall application area of 15.3 hectares.

ii Project Team

Dr. Charles Mount, the Project Archaeologist with the Irish Concrete Federation, carried out the research and was the primary author.

iii Consultations

In the course of producing this document consultation was carried out with the National Monuments Section of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

3.9.2. BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY


All recorded monuments within the development area were identified during the paper survey, and are noted in Appendix 3.9.1.

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Research has been undertaken in two phases. The first phase comprised a paper survey of all available archaeological, historical and cartographic sources. The second phase involved a field inspection and archaeological assessment of the proposed development area.

ii Baseline Study Methodology

(a) Paper Study

This is a document search. The following sources were examined and a list of sites and areas of archaeological potential compiled:

• Record of Monuments and Places County Kilkenny

• The topographical files of the National Museum of Ireland

• Available aerial photography

• Cartographic and written sources relating to the study area

• Kilkenny Development Plan 2002-8

(b) The Record of Monuments and Places was established under section 12 (1) of the 1994 National Monuments (Amendment) Act and provides that the Minister shall establish and maintain a record of monuments and places where the Minister believes there are monuments, such record to be comprised of a list of monuments and relevant places and a map or maps showing each monument and relevant place in respect of each county in the State. The associated files contain information of documentary sources and field inspections where these have taken place. All available information on these sites is provided in Appendix 3.9.1.

(c) The topographical files of the National Museum of Irela nd contain information on finds and sites that have been notified to the Museum. They are arranged by county and by townland.

(d) Cartographic Sources included seventeenth century Down Survey mapping as well the 1st and 2nd editions of the Ordnance Survey six inch maps and Documentary sources provide more general historical and archaeological background.

(e) The County Development Plan notes structures listed for preservation.

iii Field Inspection

Field inspection was carried out on 23 November 2007 to determine the location, extent and ascertain the significance of any archaeological sites and to identify

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any previously unrecorded or suspected sites and portable finds in the proposed development area.

3.9.3. RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT, HISTORICAL & ARCHAEOL OGICAL LANDSCAPE

i The Landscape

The site is situated in the central part of county Kilkenny 4km south of Kilkenny city and directly east of the Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge road. It is in undulating arable lowland, between 60-70m OD and overlooking the River Nore. The soil is generally a minimal grey brown podzolic derived from limestone glacial till and overlying Limestone (Gardiner and Radford 1980, General Soil map of Ireland; McConnell and Gatley 2006).

ii Cultural and historical development of the study area

The following is a survey of the cultural and historical development of the study area intended to place the sites and monuments that are known from the surrounding landscape in context. The development is situated in the parish of Dunbell and the barony of Gowran.

Prehistoric Period

There are no Neolithic sites or monuments known from the study area or the surrounding landscape.

Excavations in 1972 lead to the discovery of a Bronze Age Barbed and Tanged arrowhead at site KK024-014-. Quarry extension in the early 1990s lead to the excavation of Ringfort site KK024-010- in 1991, in the northern part of the study area, and the discovery two Bronze Age burials associated with Food Vessel pottery. Bronze Age activity may also indicated in the eastern part of the study area by a pair of possible Fulachta Fiadh (KK024-037— KK024-037—) in Bishopslough West townland.

During excavations carried out in the 1850s on site KK024-010- an iron Swan’s neck pin possibly of Early Iron Age date was recovered, but the context of the find is not clearly recorded (Raftery 1984, 13, Fig. 5:1). However, the discovery of a second Iron Age ring-headed pin also from Dunbell indicates some Iron Age activity at the site (ibid, 164, Fig. 87:3).

This evidence indicates Bronze Age and Iron Age ritual and settlement activity in the study area.

Early Medieval Period

In the Early Medieval period (500 AD-1170 AD) the study area was part of the Kingdom of Osraige (Ossory) which in the twelfth century included most of modern Kilkenny and part of western Laois. Osraige was a buffer Kingdom

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between Munster and Leinster. At the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland Osraige was ruled by the MacGiollapadraigs.

Settlement

Settlement in the Early Medieval period is indicated by the presence of enclosed farmsteads known as ringforts. There are fourteen sites described as Ringforts or enclosures, all of which appear to have been ringforts. A number of these sites have been excavated and have produced circular and rectangular post-built houses as well as large numbers of finds and settlement material (see Previous excavations section below).

There are also two inscribed Ogham stones from the study area which date to the period 500-700AD (see Previous excavations section below).

Taken together this indicates substantial Early Medieval settlement in the study area.

Medieval period

In the Medieval period Dunbell was an outlying rectory of the Cistercian Monastery of Jerpoint. Jerpoint Abbey was founded between 1151 and 1165 by Donal MacGillapatrick I, King of Ossory, but it was not officially recognised as part of the Cistercian Order until 1180, when it was made a daughter house of Baltinglass. At some point in the Medieval period, probably in the twelfth century, Dunbell became part of the lands of Jerpoint Abbey (Leask 1939). In 1178 Bishop Felix of Ossory granted Kell Rudi (Kilree), the townland just across the River Nore from Dunbell to Jerpoint Abbey (Flanagan 2005, 57).

During this period Theobald Walter, the Baron of Gowran and the ancestor of the Earls of Ormond, attempted to acquire the southern part of the study area but in c.1178-1202 he was forced to return the lands to the Bishop of Ossory which included Tulach (Tullaherin), Bolyflandrensis (Ballynaboly, parish Tullaherin), Kilphan (Kilfane), and Maymuch (Mayne), Stahamchiver (Probably Stone Carthy) for which he was sentenced (excommunication). (Curtis 1932-43, I 10-11).

The process of sub-infeudation is normally associated with the construction of earth and timber castles, known as Motte and Baileys. These earthwork fortifications were used to house and defend the Norman lords and their retinues while they set about the process of pacifying and organizing their new fiefs. There are no Mottes in the study area or surrounding landscape. The closest example is to the south-east at Dungarvan (KK024-06801).

Manorialism describes the organisation of the feudal rural economy and society characterised by the vesting of legal and economic power in a Lord supported economically from his own direct landholding and from the obligatory contributions of a legally subject part of the peasant population under his jurisdiction. In Ireland the Lord’s Manor House was also sometimes enclosed by a rectangular moat and these sites are referred to as moated sites. They are a useful indicator of Anglo-Norman settlement. There are no Moated sites in the study area. The closest example is at Carran (KK024-022---) to the east of the study area.

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The lack of Anglo-Norman settlement types in the study area combined with the apparent long-use of the ringforts, indicated by the finds of medieval artefacts and seventeenth century coins and glazed pottery, suggests that there may have been no Anglo-Norman settlement in the study area. This may be a result of the lands being under ecclesiastical jurisdiction.

The Later Medieval period

The fifteenth century was characterised by the decline of Anglo-Norman power in Ireland which had been ebbing since the early fourteenth century. Part of the response to this was the construction of masonry tower houses which were constructed from the early fifteenth century. There are no Tower Houses in the study area, as one would expect from the fact that Dunbell was under the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of Jerpoint Abbey.

The Post-Medieval period

In the sixteenth century the Tudors adopted a much more interventionist policy in Ireland and sought to impose the protestant reformation on the one hand and new legislation and institutions on the other. Royal ecclesiastical supremacy was enacted by the Dublin Parliament of 1536-37, leading to the dissolution of the monasteries throughout Leinster by 1541 and the recognition of Henry VIII as king of Ireland the same year.

At the dissolution of Jerpoint Abbey in 1540 it was found to hold the rectory of Downehyll (Dunbell) with 6 houses, 160 acres arable, 30 acres pasture and moor and a watermill and customs valued at 17 li. 13 s. and 4d (White 1943, 183). Jerpoint also controlled the fishery of Donbill (Dunbell) which was leased to Robert Roth in 1519 (NLI D 2056). These lands were then leased to the Earl of Ormond for 21 years. In 1558 Queen Mary regranted Dunbell to the Earl. In his will of 1576 Thomas, Earl of Ormond, noted that his cousin, Mary FitzGerald, held the farms of Bennettsbridge and Donbill (Dunbell) from the Earl (Curtis 1932-43, V, 280).

In 1589 Queen Elizabeth I established a commission to examine the extents of the Lands of the Earl of Ormond. In regard to Donbyll (Dunbell) Thomas Mac Shane O’Ryan of Donbill (Dunbell) swore that the meares (boundaries) of Donbill were as they had always been except for a meare by the east moor called Monken moor taken by Gerald Blanchvilde. He stated that he had been in the company of the monks of Jerpoint when they permabulated the meare of Donbill, before the suppression of the Abbeys, and since then with the Earl’s stewards. This account was agreed by Gilpatrick Mac Doneghe O’Hartley, John Mac Philip O’Lonergan, Dermot O’Byrne and Morishe Mac Thomas O’Ryan, all of Donbill (Curtis 1932-43, VI,126). In 1598 the Earl of Ormond surrendered the rectory of Downebil to Queen Elizabeth I and she regranted it to the Earl (Morrin 1862, II, 359). In 1598 Queen Elizabeth I granted the Earl of Ormond the tithes of the rectory of the town of Downbill (Dunbell)(Curtis Vol. VI, 95).

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It is clear from the Down Survey mapping of 1656 that Dunbell comprised most of the study area to the east of the river Nore, its current area as well as additional lands to the south, including Dunbell Little, Part of Bennettsbridge, the western part of Bishopslough West and the northern part, including the church of Bennettsbridge. To the east Holdenstown was known as Wollingstowne.

There is evidence from the nineteenth century excavations of the military occupation of the sites KK024-010- at the end of the seventeenth century. Prim noted that the inner bank of the site had an embrasure constructed for cannon. Fins from the site also include glazed pottery, a half-penny of William and Mary dated 1692 and a soldier’s button. This site would have been well placed to protect the approaches to Kilkenny from any force approaching from the Thomastown Road. Site KK024-011- was also said to have produced a coin of Charles II dated 1683 when it was excavated in 1842.

3.9.4. BUILDINGS

Section 261 of the Planning Act 2000: Guidelines fo r Planning Authorities

The Guidelines for Planning Authorities: Quarries and Ancillary Activities published by the DoEHLG in April 2004 to implement Section 261 of the Planning Act 2000 state in section 3.8 Cultural Heritage:

If the development plan indicates the presence of any protected structures on or near the site (such as might be affected by blast vibrations, for instance), the planning officer or conservation officer of the relevant local authority, and the Department, should be consulted at the pre-application stage.

This guidance has been followed in the preparation of this report.

Heritage Policy and Architecture Protection section of DoEHLG

At a meeting between the Irish Concrete Federation and the Heritage Policy and Architecture Protection section of DoEHLG on 15 March 2007 it was agreed that there was no impact from quarries at a distance greater than 300m and more than 10m along roads and that only structures within these areas need be assessed.

Detail

Designated Sites

There are no structures within the study area listed as protected structures in the Kilkenny County Development Plan 2002-8.

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There are no structures in the study area listed in the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage for Co. Kilkenny.

Field Survey

A field survey was carried out on the 23 November 2007. This involved visiting and all structures within 300m of the proposed quarry. No additional structures of heritage merit were identified.

Impacts

The development will comply with the EPA Guidelines on Environmental Management in the Extractive Industry (EPA 2006) and Quarries and Ancillary Activities, Guidelines for Planning Authorities (DoEHLG 2004) and will therefore have no impact on Protected Structures at a distance from the development or any structures of heritage interest.

3.9.5. ARCHAEOLOGY

i Archaeological Assessment

Cartographic Sources

As noted above seventeenth Down Survey mapping century mapping as well as the Ordnance Survey 1st and 2nd edition maps of the area were examined. The Down Survey mapping indicates no structures within Dunbell townland and no additional sites were noted on the later mapping.

Place Name Evidence

Ballyredding North Town of the Treading family

Bennettsbridge Bridge of St. Bennett

Bishopslough West Lake of the Bishop

Carran A rocky place

Dunbell Dun Bile Fort of the old tree

Holdenstown Town of the Holden family, Wollingstowne in 1656

Kilree Church of the King

Sheastown Town of the Shea family

The English translations of the townland names of the study presented above are based on Joyce 1979 and the Kilkenny Placenames Order 2003.

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The placenames refer mainly to families who occupied places and some topographical features. The Dun of Dun Bile is one of the ringforts in Dunbell townland, possibly the site investigated by Prim in 1852.

Previous investigations

There have been five previous archaeological investigations carried out in the study area, these are summarised below.

Investigation 1

RMP KK024-010-

In 1852 John Prim published an account of the excavation of a ringfort at Dunbell (Prim 1852-3, 119-27). The site was being levelled on the lands of Mr. Michael White. Prim noted an enormous amount of animal bone at the site consisting of deer, cattle, horse, pig, fowl. The quantity of bone allowed two labourers to earn two to three shillings per day by selling the bones at eight pence per stone. The largest quantity of bones was found in the inner fosse and to the depth of a couple of feet in the interior of the site. Eight to ten small circular pits were uncovered which contained charcoal, burnt stone and charred animal bone and furnace clinker. Prim also noted that the inner ramparts of the fort had been embrasured for the use of cannon.

Finds from the site included:

Stone

1. Portions of nine querns.

2. A large quantity of hones and sharpening stones.

3. Some piles of round pebbles.

4. Several small, flat, rounded stones, pierced in the centre.

5. A quantity of small, flat stones, varying from four inches to two and a-half inches in diameter, and less than half an inch thick; some left in their natural state, others having a small hole drilled through the centre.

6. An oblong stone, about five inches in length, and two inches in width, narrowing to an inch at the upper and thinner end, and rounded at bottom ; the shape partly artificial and partly natural. On one side an indented elliptical ornament. A hole drilled through the upper end.

7. Some fragments of circlets of black slate and jet.

8. A stone button, round, and in the shape of a flatted cone, measuring an inch and a-half in diameter, ornamented with concentric circles of incised chevrons and wavy lines. There is evidence of a shank having been inserted, but it was broken away.

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Bone

1. A very large number of bone pins. All have flat heads, some of which are pierced through some have remained unfinished.

2. Three or four flatted beads of bone respectively measuring an inch, and an inch and a-half, in diameter, showing concentric ornaments, and evidently turned in a lathe.

3. An instrument of bone, polished and brought to a sharp point at one end, at the other shaped so as to be received into a handle of wood. It is five inches long, and may have been used as a kind of awl to make holes for stitching hides together.

4. A comb, formed of several pieces of bone, each about an inch and a-half long, fastened together by being riveted between two half rounded strips of the same material, ornamented with cross and transverse incised lines. The whole had been riveted together, and were about the eighth of an inch asunder. The rivets were of iron.

5. A number of knife-handles, formed from the tines of deer’s" horns. There were also several fragments of anders cut up, apparently with the object of being manufactured into such handles.

Bronze

1. A bronze pin, described to have been about three inches and a-half long, with a solid knob as a head, ornamented with a zig-zag pattern. This pin was given, before our arrival, to a member of Mr. White's family, and unfortunately lost.

2. Two bronze fibulae, with moveable rings inserted in the heads. The pin of one of them is six inches and a quarter long, and very slender; the ring, one inch four-tenths in diameter, inserted in a square head ornamented. The pin of the other is three inches long, and also very slender, but having a much smaller and more massive ring, nine-tenths of an inch in diameter, fastened by the head of the pin being beaten out thin, and looped round an indentation made in the ring for the purpose.

3. A piece of bronze, which has partially undergone the process of being shaped into a pin.

4. A fragment of a bronze pin, one and three-fourth inches long, the head shaped into a rude dodecahedron, and pierced

Iron

1. A small square bell

2. An iron fibula. There were also several other iron pins, or fibula:, all imperfect and much corroded.

3. A massive axe-head, measuring six inches from the edge to the back, and three and a-half inches broad in the blade. The haft- hole is two and a-half inches long, by one and a-half inches wide.

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4. An iron javelin-head, well formed, measuring four inches in the length of the blade, by one and a quarter inches at the widest part.

5 An iron goad, apparently intended to be fastened on the end of a staff.

6. A number of knife-blades, measuring from three and a-half to two and a-half inches in length, irrespective of the spike which ran into the haft.

7. A fragment of a small iron reaping-hook.

8. A chisel, six inches long, rounded, but brought to a square edge.

9. A light horse-shoe.

10. Some nondescript pieces of wrought iron, of various shapes and sizes,

Pottery

Baked and glazed pottery ware found, which had evidently formed portions of the household utensils of the ancient inhabitants.

Later material

A copper half-penny of William and Mary, with the date 1692;

A soldier's button, of brass, apparently of the same period;

A Kilkenny tradesman's token, struck by John Beavor in the latter end of the seventeenth century,

An ear-ring of brass, which had been gilded, of a pattern which does not seem to have been more ancient than about a century.

In the neighbouring Rath (KK024-011-), when it was being trenched in 1842, a half-penny of the reign of Charles II., dated 1683, was found.

Investigation 2

RMP KK024-010-

In 1854 more excavations took place at the site (Prim 1854-5). This time in the fosse and banks. In June 1854 the workmen reported the discovery of a small stone chamber 13.6 feet long, 20 inches wide and 28 inches high built of two side stones and a top stone in the inner fosse of the fort. Close by was a dry stone wall built across the middle of the fosse and between this and the chamber entrance were two upright Ogham stones of red sandstone 3-4 feet apart, which had been broken up by the workmen.

The other finds included:

Stone

1. Four additional querns or hand-mills.

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2. Hones and sharpening stones continue to be found in great numbers, all showing evidence of having been used for whetting the knives.

3. Several small rounded stones.

4. A small stone, carved in the form of a mini rifle ball, and the exact shape and size of such a missile.

5. A flatted pebble, smoothed and polished, with a cross, enclosed in a parallelogram, incised on one side, the ornament being dotted in with a sharp-pointed instrument.

6. Six more fragments of jet bracelets.

Bone

1. A large quantity of bone pins have been turned up by the workmen. They seem to have been almost all formed from the leg-bones of fowl, sharpened at one end, and having a hole drilled at the broad part, in which probably a ring of bronze or iron wire was originally inserted.

2. A gouge, in the form of a scoop. It is pierced at the handle end, as if to be suspended on a string. It is 3 inches long.

3. A bone harp-pin (?), 3 inches long, skilfully turned in a lathe, with a handsomely ornamented head.

4. Some additional bone beads, previously described as buttons, although all having but a single hole pierced in the centre. There are four specimens exhibiting the peculiarity of being flat on one side and convex on the other, the flat side of three of them being unornamented; but one of them, which measures 1 inch in diameter, bears incised circles both on the flat and convex sides, and all were evidently turned in a lathe. One of those with the flat side plain, has an iron rivet through the hole in its centre, by which it appears to have been originally attached as an ornament to something.

5. A piercer, it has no spike for going into a handle.

6. A bone ring, 1 inch in diameter.

7. Fragments of three additional combs.

8. A great number of additional knife-handles, all formed of the tines of deer' horns. 9. A boar's tusk, pierced in the centre, apparently intended to be suspended round the neck as a child's ornament.

Bronze

1. Several bronze pins, perfect and imperfect. One of the former has a coil of wire inserted in the head as a ring; and the head is ornamented. Another is a pin with a nail-head and incised ornaments, but without a ring. There are also four detached bronze rings which had belonged to pins.

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2. A small, flat, round box, about the substance of a half-crown, consisting of two parts, hinged together, and showing the remains of eyes for fastenings.

3. A bronze finger-ring, of small size, with a disk on one side, unengraved.

4. A long, narrow strip of bronze, showing some trace of an illegible medieval inscription, the letters being apparently in the Roman character.

5. A bronze corner of a book-cover, of very small size.

Iron

1. A great number of iron fibulae, perfect and imperfect, but all very much eaten by rust. The pin of one is nearly six inches long. The rings are all very small.

2. A small coil of bronze or copper wire, silvered over. There were also several nondescript pieces of bronze, of various shapes and sizes, and two rather modern-looking buttons.

3. A small and extremely curious key, of considerable antiquity.

4. An iron shears, six inches long.

5. A goad for driving cattle.

6. An ancient horseshoe.

7. Two more narrow iron chisels, both square.

8. A small spur-shaped ornament, intended to be pendent from the bridle.

9. A small cutting implement, similar to that placed by smiths in the hole of an anvil, on which to cut iron bars when heated.

10. A large increase in the number of small iron knife-blades previously discovered. Amongst them is a skean 7 inches in length, irrespective of the spike intended to run into the handle, and 1 inch wide near the haft.

Other items

1. The soles of a pair of peaked shoes, of well tanned leather, 10 inches long, and of very peculiar shape and construction. The heels are very small; from these the sole runs in a long narrow neck, and suddenly swells out at the broad part of the foot to a considerable width, when it again suddenly tapers to a point. The peak was added by a separate piece of leather, sewed to the toe. The sewing throughout is effected by means of a long thong of leather, after the fashion of the modern Irish brogue, but executed with a degree of neatness and regularity which cannot fail of exciting the attention of the observer. There can be no doubt that these shoe-soles are medieval remains. They were turned up in the nearly obliterated earthwork near the great Rath.

2. A few pieces of thick greenish glass, much decomposed.

3. A flint, obviously used by the inhabitants for striking a light.

4. A small clay tobacco pipe.

5. Some small pieces of coal, or culm, the anthracite of the county of Kilkenny.

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6. A piece of crystallized quartz.

7. A large barnacle shell, very much disintegrated, and thus showing that it is of considerable age.

Later Finds

In 1861 John Prim (1860-61) noted additional finds from Dunbell described as coming from the small rath lying south of the great rath of Dunbell. These finds included 3 iron knife blades, 4 iron pins, iron shuttle-end, 3 bone pins, a fragment of a jet bracelet, 3 bronze pins. James Graves (1860-61) also noted the finding of a decorated Medieval bronze tag of a book-strap with came from one of the raths. Later in the same year Michael White (1860-61) noted the discovery of a Coin of King Edward I (1272-1307), minted in Dublin, which he said came from one of the raths.

Investigation 3

1972:0020 DUNBELL Ringfort RMP KK024-014-

S561528

Excavation was undertaken for three weeks in July 1972 to investigate Dunbell 6, a destroyed ringfort, prior to its obliteration in the course of mining. Dunbell 6 is one of a group of nine ringforts, only four of which remain undestroyed. The others were dug at different times in the last century; the finds from these sporadic diggings are now in the National Museum of Ireland and range in date from the Iron Age through to Medieval times.

One trench 4m wide was cut through the site. The ringfort was found to be 56m in diameter, and surrounded by a v—shaped ditch 2m deep. A bank was not traceable either on the ground or in any of the sections opened. The remains of at least one circular house was evidenced by the presence of 5 post— holes. This may have superimposed an earlier structure represented by 4 possibly destroyed post-holes also forming an arc. These were shallow and had a soft sterile fill, and could just as well be natural hollows in the boulder clay were it not for the neat arc which they formed. One pit enclosed in the first series of post—holes may have been a cooking pit. Associated with it was a great deal of charcoal and burnt bone. There were scanty remains of habitation debris in almost every area and some pits contained charcoal, bone and burnt stone. The ditch portions which were excavated were filled with loose stones, probably in the 19th century after the silt had been dug out in search of finds.

Finds include fragments of lignite bracelets, 2 amber beads -one a circular perforated example and one a dumbbell—shaped toggle bead - a crescentic object of tusk with tooth-like incisions on the convex edge, and 5 sherds of green—glazed grey, gritty ware. A very fine barbed and tanged limestone arrowhead was found in the topsoil. It is hoped to record other portions of the ditch while mining operations are taking place, at some time in the near future.

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Investigation 4

1990:072 Dunbell Ringfort No 5, Dunbell Big Ringfort S557521 RMP 24:10

In September 1990 Roadstone Ltd approached Archaeological Development Services Ltd to investigate a ringfort site in an area of their quarry at Dunbell, Co. Kilkenny, where they sought planning permission to extend quarrying activities. The site was ploughed out in the last century but its location was noted on early editions of OS. maps and in a record of ringfort destructions in the Dunbell area, as compiled by G.A. Prim for the County Kilkenny Archaeological Journal in the years 1850-1870 (now known as the Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland).

A programme of remote sensing and trial trenching was instigated and by the end of September the site was known to be oval with the longer axis being east-west and measuring 50m from outer edge to outer edge of a single ditch. The ditch surrounding the site was rock cut, being 4m wide and c. 2m deep. It is V-shaped in section and contained lm+ of rubble fill possibly the remnants of an original stone bank) and the rest of the fill containing some rubble, redeposited soil and animal bone. The find of an iron object which seems to be a barrel-lock key, in the lower fill of the ditch, gives a probable 8th-l0th-century date for the lower ditch fill and therefore a possible Early Christian date for the ringfort settlement itself.

Internally five 3m squares were opened revealing a hearth fill in the south-west area and some other post-hole features in the north and north-west. The stratigraphy is almost non-existent, with plough soil surviving to a depth of 0.2m-0.4m lying on bedrock over most of the site and on boulder clay in the north-west area of the site. The absence of any depth of stratigraphy (with the exception of the ditch) has left the archaeological record as that of truncated features cutting bedrock and boulder clay. Work resumed in Nov/Dec. 1990 and exposed the foundation trench of a 6m square structure and a 6.5m circular structure gully both of which respect one another but their dates will have to be determined by C 14 dating. Some slag has turned up in both the square and round houses but other finds such as worked flint and chert and a small bronze ring, have all come from plough soil. In the last few days of January '9l two prehistoric burials were uncovered. One contained a badly deteriorated vessel the other was excavated intact and seems to be a Bronze Age food vessel.

The entrance causeway lay at south. Internally there was a square house (6m x 6m) a round house (diam. 6m|) and a horse-shoe shaped structure (diam. 2.5m) and a furnace and various pits. A pit burial lay under the south wall of the square house, it contained a Food vessel and a cremation. 40cm south of this a second cist with 2 capstones containing a bowl food vessel was found

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Investigation 5

In 2007 topsoil stripping in the area north of the current proposal area was archaeologically monitored by Mary Henry Archaeological Services Ltd. (Planning ref. 1-1-1234). Two stone-filled field drains were identified in the course of the monitoring but no archaeological features.

County Development Plan

The following National Monuments in the study area are listed in the Kilkenny Co. Development Plan 2002-8.

Protected by preservation order

Dunbell big Ring fort

Protected by listing order/registration

Dunbell Ringforts Dunbell (2)

Correspondence with the National Monuments Service indicated that these designations refer to sites KK024-010--- and KK024-011---. Site KK024-010--- has already been preserved by record (see Previous investigations: investigation 4 above) and site KK024-011--- is situated over 900m north of the proposed development area and will not be impacted.

Aerial Photographs

Examination of air photos of the site available from Google Earth and new photography commissioned by Roadstone Provinces and flown in August 2007 by European Air Surveys did not indicate any additional sites. A series of flights by Cambridge University in 1967, 1969 and 1971 identified sites elsewhere in the townland of Dunbell as well as Sheastown and Bennettsbridge but none in the area of the proposed development.

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Fig. 3.9.2. Aerial photo of the proposed development site from Google Earth. Note the fosse enclosing site KK024-018- is visible and indicated by the arrow.

National Museum of Ireland

Examination of the topographical files of the National Museum of Ireland for the townlands in the study area revealed a large number of finds from nineteenth and twentieth century excavations. These are referred to in the investigations section above. A number of standard artefact corpus studies were also consulted but no additional artefacts were identified (Harbison 1969, Simpson 1990, Eogan 1965, 1983, 2000, Kavanagh 1991, O’Flaherty 1995, Raftery 1984).

ii Field Assessment

A field assessment was carried out on 23 November 2007 to identify any previously unknown archaeological sites. All the fields proposed for development were visited. The entire area of the proposed development is under arable agriculture and at the time of the visit the crop had recently been harvested leaving stubble in the fields. The area is now divided into five fields, these are numbered in Fig. 2.9.3. There were no additional archaeological features visible during the site visit.

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Fig. 3.9.3. General view of the proposed development area looking north-west.

Fig. 3.9.4. View of site KK024-018- looking north.

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Conclusion

There is evidence of prehistoric ritual and settlement activity in the study area. Early Medieval settlement is indicated by the presence of enclosures and ringforts. A number of these have been excavated and large numbers of artefacts and settlement material recovered. By the twelfth century the development area had become part of the lands belonging to Jerpoint Abbey and remained part of the Abbey until its dissolution in 1540 when they were granted to the Earl of Ormond.

3.9.6. ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS

i Direct Impacts


ii Indirect Impacts

The closest known monument to the proposed development a ringfort, KK024-018-; see Fig. 3.9.4) has been mostly levelled by agricultural activity and will not be adversely impacted by the proposed development. Note that out of 10 sites noted in Dunbell Big townland in the Record Of Monuments and Places only two (KK024-011- and KK024-016-) remain upstanding and one (KK024-016-) is partly upstanding.

Therefore, there will be no direct impacts on any known archaeological sites or features or items of heritage interest outside the development area.

iii Interaction with Other Impacts

None were identified during the assessment.

iv ‘Do Nothing Scenario’

If the proposed development were not to proceed there would be no negative impact on the cultural heritage.

v ‘Worst Case’ Impact

In the worst case scenario, the development might disturb previously unknown deposits or artefacts without preservation by record taking place.

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3.9.7. RECOMMENDATIONS

i Direct Impacts

Due to the possibility of the survival of sub-surface archaeological deposits or finds within the development area, it is recommended that topsoil stripping within the development area be archaeologically monitored.

ii Indirect Impacts

No indirect impacts warranting specific mitigation were identified during the course of the cultural heritage assessment.

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3.9.8. Bibliography

Barry, E. 1895. On Ogham-stones seen in Kilkenny County, JRSAI 25, 348-68.

Barry, T. 1987. The Archaeology of Medieval Ireland. London.

Brash, R.R. 1872-3. The Dunbell Ogham inscriptions. JRSAI 12, 238-46.

Cassidy, B. 1991. Digging at Dunbell. Archaeology Ireland 5, 2, 18-20.

Corrigan, W.1905. The History and Antiquities of the Diocese of Ossory. Kilkenny.

Curtis, E. 1932-43. Calendar of Ormond Deeds 1172-1603. Dublin. VI Volumes.

DAHGI 1996. Recorded Monuments Protected under Section 12 of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1994. County Kilkenny

DAHGI 2002. Code of Practice between the Irish Concrete Federation & the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands.

Duffy S. et al. 1997. Atlas of Irish History. Dublin.

Ellis, S. G. 1988. Ireland in the Age of the Tudors 1447-1603. London.

Eogan, G. 1965. Catalogue of Irish Bronze Swords. Dublin.

Eogan, G. 1983. Hoards of the Irish Later Bronze Age. Dublin.

Eogan, G. 2000. The Socketed Bronze Axes in Ireland. Prähistorische Bronzefunde, abteilung IX, band 22.

EPA 2002. Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements.

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EPA 2003. Advice Notes on Current Practice (in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements)

Ferguson, Samuel 1872-3. (with some introductory observations by John G.A. Prim): The Ogham monuments of Kilkenny (letter), 222-238. JRSAI 12

Flanagan, M.T. 2005. Irish Royal Charters: Texts and Contexts. Oxford.

Gardiner, M.J. and Radford, T. 1980. Soil Associations of Ireland and Their Land Use Potential .Soil Survey Bulletin No. 36. Dublin. An Foras Taluntais.

Heritage Council 1999. The role of the Heritage Council in the Planning Process. Kilkenny.

Joyce, P.W. Irish Local Names Explained. Dublin.

Kavanagh, R.M. 1991. “A reconsideration of razors in the Irish earlier Bronze Age”. Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries 121, 77-104.

Kilkenny County Council 2002. County Development Plan 2002-8

Leask, H. 1939.

MacNiocaill, G. 1980 Crown Surveys 1540-41. Dublin. Irish manuscripts Commission.

McConnell, B. and Gatley, S. 2006. Bedrock Geological map of Ireland. Dublin.

Morrin 1862 Patent rolls.

O’Donovan, J. Letters Containing information relative to the Antiquities of the County of Kilkenny Collected during the progress of the Ordnance Survey in 1838

O’Flaherty, R. 1995. “An analysis of Irish Early Bronze Hoards containing copper or bronze objects.” Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries 125, 10-45.

O’Riordain, B and Waddell J. 1993. The Funerary Bowls and vases of the Irish Bronze Age. Galway.

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Orpen, G.H. 1911-20. Ireland under the Normans. 4 Vols. Oxford.

Otway-Ruthven, A.J. 1980. A History of Medieval Ireland. London.

Prim, John G.A. 1852-1853. Notes on the excavation of a Rath at Dunbel, County of Kilkenny, JRSAI II, 119-127.

Prim, John G.A. 1854-1855. On the discovery of Ogham Monuments and other antiquities in the Raths of Dunbel, County of Kilkenny, JRSAI III ,397-408.

Prim, J.G.A. 1860-61. Donated several antiquities, excavated at Dunbel Rath, discovered in trenching the small Rath lying south of the great Rath of Dunbel (note), JRSAI VI , 307-308.

Prim, J.G.A. 1872-3. The Ogham monuments of Kilkenny being a letter from Samuel Ferguson. JRSAI 12, 222-238.

Graves, J. 1860-61.: A bronze tag of a book-strap, from Dunbel, JRSAI VI, 308.

White, M. 1860-61. Donation of silver penny of Edward I, Dunbel, JRSAI VI, 347.

Raftery, B. 1984. La Tene in Ireland. Marburg.

Simpson, D.D.A. 1990. “The Stone Battle Axes of Ireland.” Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries 120, 5-40.

Sweetman, H.S. 1875. Calendar of Documents Relating to Ireland Present in her majesty’s Public Record Office, London, 1171-1251. London

Sweetman, H.S. 1877. Calendar of Documents Relating to Ireland Present in her majesty’s Public Record Office, London, 1252-1284. London

Sweetman, H.S. 1879. Calendar of Documents Relating to Ireland Present in her majesty’s Public Record Office, London, 1285-1292. London.

Sweetman, H.S. 1886. Calendar of Documents Relating to Ireland Present in her majesty’s Public Record Office, London, 1293-1305. London.

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Topographical Files, Co. Kilkenny. National Museum of Ireland.

Sweetman, D. 1999. The Medieval Castles of Ireland. Dublin.

Waddell, J. 1990. The Bronze Age burials of Ireland. Galway

Waddell, J. 1998. The Prehistoric Archaeology of Ireland. Galway.

Williams, W. 1857. Ogham readings-with the account of an Ogham monument recently discovered in the ruins of the church of Kilrush near Dungarvan in the Co. of Waterford. JRSAI 4, 334-5.

White, N.B. 1943. Extents of the Irish Monastic Possessions. Dublin.

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APPENDIX 3.9.1

SITES ENTERED IN THE RECORD OF MONUMENTS AND PLACES

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Appendix 3.9.1

Sites entered in the Record of Monuments and Places

KK024-003--- Dunbell Big Enclosure Site

Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map. Site not visible at ground level.

KK024-01001- Dunbell Big Enclosure Site

Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map. This ringfort was investigated by Prim in 1852 and 1854 and produced large numbers of finds as well as a possible souterrain and two Ogham stones. The site was later investigated by Cassidy in 199-91. The site no longer exists.

KK024-01003- Dunbell Big Ogham Stone

Ogham stone found in a ringfort. The inscription reads:

BRAN(I)TTOS MAQI DECAR(I) DD(ALOS)

KK024-01004- Dunbell Big Ogham Stone

Ogham stone found in a ringfort. The inscription reads:

NAFFALLO AFFI GENITTAC(CI)

KK024-011--- Dunbell Big Ringfort

Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map. Prim (1852-3, 120) noted that this site was trenched in May of 1842. The site is upstanding.


Not Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map Prim (1852-3, 120) noted that a ringfort in this location was leveled in the early nineteenth century. The site no longer exists.


Not Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map One of two conjoined rectangular cropmarks visible on air photo CUCAP 1971 BGG 93. Not visible at ground level.


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Not Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map One of two conjoined rectangular cropmarks visible on air photo CUCAP 1971 BGG 93. Not visible at ground level.


Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map Leveled Ringfort excavated by C. Foley in 1972. The site no longer exists.


Not Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map Prim (1872-3, 224) noted a ringfort in this location in 1872 stating that it was nearly obliterated. Not visible at ground level.


Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map. Large ringfort. The site is upstanding.


Not Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map Enclosure site noted as a cropmark on air photos (CUCAP 1971 BGG 94). A sub-circular area with a circular annex at east. Not visible at ground level.


Site noted on OS 1st ed. Map. Now survives as an oval raised area close to a field boundary.


Site noted on OS 1st ed. Map. Not visible at ground level.

KK024-02001- Holdenstown Church Site

There is a local tradition of a church and graveyard in this location. The site is not indicated on any edition of the OS maps. Any remains of the site were removed during land reclamation in 1959. Not visible at ground level.

KK024-02002- Holdenstown Graveyard

There is a local tradition of a church and graveyard in this location. The site is not indicated on any edition of the OS maps. Any remains of the site were removed during land reclamation in 1959. Not visible at ground level.

KK024-029--- Sheastown Enclosure Site

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Not Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map Small circular cropmark visible on air photo CUCAP 1969 AYK66.

KK024-030--- Sheastown Burial (s)

Not Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map 10 adult burials associated with an iron knife were found at this location in 1974.

KK024-03101- Bennettsbridge Church

Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map This was the site of the parish church which was demolished in 1795 by Colonel John Shee who built a C of I church which was in turn demolished in 1960. The site has a graveyard.

KK024-03102- Bennettsbridge Graveyard

KK024-035--- Ballyredding North Enclosure Site

Not Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map Circular cropmark visible on CUCAP 1967 ATA 13.

KK024-037--- Bishopslough West Fulacht Fiadh Site

Not Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map. Possible ploughed over fulacht fiadh reported by C. Manning of OPW.

KK024-038--- Bishopslough West Fulacht Fiadh Site

Not Indicated on Os 1st ed. Map. Possible ploughed over fulacht fiadh reported by C. Manning of OPW.

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SECTION 3.10 – MATERIAL ASSETS

CONTENTS

3.10.1 INTRODUCTION

3.10.2 LOCAL MATERIAL ASSETS

i. Residential Buildings

ii. Historic Buildings

iii. Amenity Areas

iv. Agriculture

v. Road Infrastructure

vi. Rail Infrastructure

vii. Local Services

viii. Extractive Industries

3.10.3 POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION ME ASURES

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3.10.1 INTRODUCTION

This section of the EIS is essentially an overview of the material and amenity resources within the vicinity of the development. It details those “assets” that may be affected by the development and indicates the associated sections within this EIS that considers these effects.

3.10.2 LOCAL MATERIAL ASSETS

i. Residential Buildings

The local residences within the immediate vicinity of development are shown on Figure 3.1.1. There are presently 6 residential dwellings within a 250m distance of the existing quarry and 10 dwellings within 500m of the proposed extension area. As such, the area around the site can be classified as “sparsely populated” (refer to Section 3.1 – Human Beings).

ii. Historic Monuments and Dwellings

a) Ancient

There is evidence of prehistoric ritual and settlement activity in the study area. Early Medieval settlement is indicated by the presence of enclosures and ringforts. A number of these have been excavated and large numbers of artefacts and settlement material recovered. By the twelfth century the development area had become part of the lands belonging to Jerpoint Abbey and remained part of the Abbey until its dissolution in 1540 when they were granted to the Earl of Ormond.


The closest known monument to the proposed development a ringfort, KK024-018-; see Fig. 3.9.4) has been mostly levelled by agricultural activity and will not be adversely impacted by the proposed development. Note that out of 10 sites noted in Dunbell Big townland in the Record Of Monuments and Places only two (KK024-011- and KK024-016-) remain upstanding and one (KK024-016-) is partly upstanding.

Therefore, there will be no direct impacts on any known archaeological sites or features or items of heritage interest outside the development area.

b) Historic

There are no structures within the study area listed as protected structures in the Kilkenny County Development Plan 2002-8. There are no structures in the study area listed in the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage for Co. Kilkenny. A field survey was carried out on the 23 November 2007. This involved visiting all structures within 300m of the proposed quarry. No additional structures of heritage merit were identified.

The development will comply with the EPA Guidelines on Environmental Management in the Extractive Industry (EPA 2006) and Quarries and Ancillary Activities, Guidelines for Planning Authorities (DoEHLG 2004) and will therefore have no impact on Protected Structures at a distance from the development or any structures of heritage interest.

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The quarry operations will have no significant impact on these amenity resources.

iii. Amenity Areas

a) Tourist

County Kilkenny is a popular tourist destination and in particular Kilkenny City. The primary tourist attractions within the county are Kilkenny Castle and City, Mount Juliet, Jerpoint Abbey, Kilfane Glen and Waterfall and the Priory & high Cross at Kells. These tourist amenities are at some distance from the quarry and are well screened, and as such impacts on these amenities due to the proposed development will be insignificant. Tourists are also attracted to the area due to the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside and in particular the River Nore Valley. The quarry has had and will have a negligible impact on the tourist amenity of the area.

b) Scenic

The scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape is reflected in the designations of the areas within the Kilkenny County Development Plan. The exact location of these areas and the potential impact of quarry operations on them are discussed in detail in Section 3.8 – Landscape. Designated scenic viewpoints are shown on Figure 3.8.1. The closest viewpoints are well removed from the development being some 8 to 10km to the south and southwest near Mount Juliet and the village of Kells. The phasing of the working scheme and the progressive restoration measures included as part of the overall design will limit the impact of the quarry as much as is practical on the scenic amenity of the area in the vicinity of the site.

c) Natural

The natural amenities of the area include the:

• The Nore River Valley:

This is a prominent feature of the local landscape and as such has attracted the designation of a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), (refer to Section 3.8 – Landscape). Whilst the applicant’s landholding adjoins the River Nore SAC, the extraction area itself is located some 500m to the east. The public road and the Dublin to Waterford railway line lie between the proposed extraction area and the River Nore SAC. Due to the combination of restoration of the existing quarry and progressive restoration of the new development, long-term impact on the River Nore Valley will range from slight positive to negligible.

• Area of High Amenity:

This designated area is at a distance of c.2km from the proposed development at its closest point, starting in the village on Bennettsbridge and continuing south along the River Nore to Jerpoint Abbey before opening up to the west and covering an area from Goresbridge in north to New Ross in the south. Consequently there will be no significant impact on this amenity from the quarry (refer to Section 3.1 – Human Beings & Section 3.8 - Landscape).

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iv. Agriculture

The farmland within the immediate area of the quarry is used for both livestock and crop growing. The proposed quarry operations lie within the applicants existing landholding and will have no significant impact on the agricultural resources of the area.

v. Road Infrastructure

The local road infrastructure consists primarily of the following:

• The N10 Kilkenny - Waterford Road – is the main arterial road in the area and is located c.4.5km to the west of the application area.

• National Route R700 – begins in Kilkenny City, and proceeds southeast to New Ross via Bennettsbridge. The primary route by which vehicles move to and from the site to Kilkenny City is south to Bennettsbridge to gain access to the R700.

• Ballyredding Road (Local County Road) – is the main access road for traffic from Bennettsbridge north to the quarry site entrance. Continuing past the site entrance to the north along the Maddockstown Local Road and then east along the local road towards Dunbell gives direct access to the N10 National Primary Road to the east of Kilkenny City.

Traffic levels from the quarry will remain at or around their current levels. On this basis there will be no significant net increase in traffic on the road infrastructure (refer to Section 3.11 – Traffic).

vi. Rail Infrastructure

The Waterford to Kilkenny railway line runs 275m to the west of the proposed extension area. Iarnrod Eireann have been consulted in relation to the proposed development, refer to Section 1 Appendix 1-D.

vii. Local Services

Power to local residences is provided by over-head line (refer to Figure 1.2). Water supply to the site is provided by the existing water well on site. The proposed development will have no significant impact on the local services of the area.

viii. Extractive Industries

The development at Maddockstown commenced operation before 1st October 1964 (refer to Section 1.2). The extractive industry land-use at this location is well established. Continued operation of the quarry will develop proven stone reserves due to the:

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• established nature of the existing quarry operation,

• the inclusion of comprehensive restoration and mitigation measures as part of the proposed development, and

Roadstone Provinces Ltd. considers that the proposal for the extension to Calary Quarry is in line with the principles of “sustainable development”.

3.10.3 POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION ME ASURES

The potential impacts and proposed mitigation measures in relation to each of the material assets described above are covered within the following sections of the EIS:

i) Section 3.1 HUMAN BEINGS

ii) Section 3.2 FLORA AND FAUNA

iii) Section 3.3 SOILS AND GEOLOGY

iv) Section 3.4 SURFACE AND GROUNDWATER

v) Section 3.5 CLIMATE

vi) Section 3.6 AIR QUALITY

vii) Section 3.7 NOISE AND VIBRATION

viii) Section 3.8 LANDSCAPE

ix) Section 3.9 CULTURAL HERITAGE

x) Section 3.11 ROADS AND TRAFFIC

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Dunbell Big Td., Maddockstown, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny (Section 261 Quarry Ref. QY 2)

JBA3588/EIS/wsp November 2008 Section 3.11 - Page 1

Section 3.11 Traffic

3.11.1 INTRODUCTION

3.11.2 STUDY METHODOLOGY

3.11.3 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

3.11.3.1 Existing Road Infrastructure

3.11.3.2 Existing Traffic Flow Conditions

3.11.4 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ENVIRONMENT

3.11.5 IMPACT OF THE DEVELOPMENT

3.11.5.1 Quarry Operations

3.11.5.2 Final Restoration

3.11.5.3 Junction Analysis

3.11.6 MITIGATION

3.11.6.1 Improvements to Quarry Entrance

3.11.7 MONITORING

3.11.8 CONCLUSION

FIGURES

Figure 3.11.1 Site Location Map

Figure 3.11.2 Traffic Count Site Locations

Figure 3.11.3 Traffic Count Site Layouts

Figure 3.11.4 Visibility Splays at Existing Site Entrances

APPENDICES

Appendix 3.11.1 Traffic Flow Details

Appendix 3.11.2 PICADY Junction Analysis

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3.11.1 INTRODUCTION This section of the EIS assesses the impacts of the quarry development on the surrounding road network. It assesses traffic associated with the development and it’s interaction with traffic on the surrounding road network. WSP Ireland Ltd carried out the relevant baseline studies and subsequent impact assessment

For the purposes of this section, the term Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) is taken to include trucks, articulated vehicles, buses, and agricultural vehicles. Light Vehicle (LV) refers to all passenger carrying vehicles and light commercial vehicles (e.g. cars, vans etc < 3 tonne).

The site in question was registered in accordance with Section 261 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (Quarry Ref. QY 2) by Roadstone Provinces Ltd.

The application is for continued use of the development. The current extraction rate is approximately 600,000 tonnes per year.

3.11.2 STUDY METHODOLOGY

The purpose of the study methodology is to describe the approach undertaken to achieve the objectives of the assessment. This includes details of all surveys carried out, technical references used and any assumptions made in the assessment.

Three dimensional mapping of the quarry and adjacent road network was obtained to assist in determining the nature and condition of the existing road network.

WSP Ireland undertook a review of the subject site and surrounding road network on 2nd November 2007 and again on Thursday 29th May 2008 as part of this study. This site visit included observations of traffic flow patterns in the area and measurements of the geometry and layout of the local network.

Traffic Surveys were taken on Tuesday May 27th 2008 at three different locations in the vicinity of the quarry these were:

• Site 1 Maddockstown Quarry Access / Ballyredding Road

• Site 2 Gowran Road / Ballyredding Road

• Site 3 Kilkenny Road / Danesfort Road

These figures and count location map are included in full detail in Appendix 3.11.1.

In addition, the quantum and distribution of HGV and normal traffic generated by the quarry development have been obtained from the applicant. These figures are contained in Table 3.11.2 in Section 3.11.5.1

Whilst no additional traffic will be generated by the quarry extension development, in order to assess the impact of the traffic generated by the development on the capacity of the surrounding road network, analysis was undertaken at site 2; Gowran Road / Ballyredding Road Junction and at site 3; Kilkenny Road / Danesfort Road Junction using the PICADY junction analysis software designed by the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL). This analysis was undertaken for both the current year 2008 and design year of 2023. The results of this analysis are included in Appendix 3.11.2. The period for which the current planning application is for 36 years.

Design amendments were made to the Quarry Access/Local Road junction based on the topographical survey and on site observation. These amendments were made to ensure adequate sight visibility is achieved to the left and the right for vehicles exiting from the quarry.

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3.11.3 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT This subsection describes the existing road network, both national and local, and focuses on the current conditions on the roads in question. 3.11.3.1 Existing Road Infrastructure Figure 3.11.1 below illustrates the location of the quarry site and the routes undertaken by quarry traffic.

Figure 3.11.1 Site Location Map

Route A: Northwards serving Kilkenny City and Environs

Access to the Kilkenny City area is firstly via the Local Road heading southwards into Bennettsbridge, then heading northwards along the R700 for a distance of 6km before meeting the N10 Kilkenny Ring Road at a roundabout junction. Visibility at the quarry entrance exceeds 180metres to the right of the junction and is approximately 120m to the left of the junction. The visibility to the left of the junction can be

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improved by trimming the hedge line adjacent to the quarry entrance. The prevailing width of the Local road in the vicinity of the quarry entrance is 6.0m and the road alignment is straight. On approach to Bennettsbridge, the road passes through a number of bends as it traverses the railway line. The road narrows to between 5.0m to 5.5m over this section and shows some signs of edge deterioration such as rutting. The Local Road enters Bennettsbridge at a priority junction to the immediate east of its intersection with the R700/Main Street. Visibility to the left of this junction exceeds 70metres, whilst the visibility to the right extends to the crown of the bridge over the River Nore. Whilst the crown of the bridge restricts forward sight visibility; sufficient width exists for the safe passage of two vehicles. The speed limit within Bennettsbridge is 50kph. To the east of the R700 junction on the Gowran Road a temporary speed limit of 30kph applies outside of the school. No quarry vehicles traffic this route. The prevailing width of the R700 from Bennettsbridge to the N10 is approximately 8.0metres. The horizontal and vertical alignment of this road is acceptable with no severe bends or dips and the road surface is in good condition. Route B: Westwards serving southern Kilkenny Access to the southern environs of Kilkenny is firstly via the Local Road heading southwards into Bennettsbridge, then heading westwards along the local road to Danesfort for a distance of 4km before meeting the N10 National Primary Road at a priority junction approximately 8km south of Kilkenny City. Danesfort Road forms a priority junction with the R700 approximately 150m to the west of the River Nore Bridge crossing within Bennettsbridge. Visibility from the Danesfort Road is adequate to the left and right of the junction. To the immediate south of the R700 junction, the Danesfort Road meets the Annamult Road at a second priority junction, with the Annamult Road forming the major arm of the junction. Visibility from the Danesfort Road from a 4.5metre set back is severely impeded by the adjacent building lines to the left and right of the junction. At a 2m set back the sight distance is significantly improved as motorists can see beyond the building lines. Scope exists at this junction to locally realign the Annamult Road at the junction to the stop line out to improve visibility from Danesfort Road. This is discussed in further detail in Section 3.11.4 of this report. To the west of the Annamult Road junction, the Danesfort Road rises relatively steeply for a distance of approximately 1.5km before levelling out. Following the incline, the alignment of the Annamult Road is relatively straight until approximately 300metres east of the N10 National Primary Road, where the road bends sharply left and then right before meeting the N10 at a priority junction incorporating a right turn lane. Visibility exceeds 210metres to the left and right of the junction, although the vegetation on both sides of the junction requires cutting back to help maintain the necessary visibility. Route C: Southwards towards Thomastown Similarly to above, access to the Thomastown region is firstly via the Local Road heading southwards into Bennettsbridge, then heading southwards along R700 regional road to

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Thomastown for a distance of approximately 8km before joining the N9 National Primary Road at a roundabout junction. To the south of Bennettsbridge the prevailing road width of the R700 is in the region of 7.0 to 8.0metres and the road is adequately lined and in good condition. On approach to Thomastown the road narrows and undertakes a number of bends as it passes over the railway line. On entry into Thomastown, the R700 passes through a small and poorly lined roundabout before meeting the N9 at a mini-roundabout. Route D: North eastwards to Kilkenny City and its eastern environ Access to the N10 to the east of Kilkenny City can be gained via the Maddockstown Local Road to the north of the quarry, before heading eastwards on the local road towards Dunbell. To the north of the quarry entrance, the local road varies in width from 5.5 to 6.0metres. At Maddockstown, quarry traffic turns right onto the local road heading eastwards towards Dunbell. Visibility at this junction is impeded to the right by a high stone wall and to the left by a mature hedge line. Road markings and lining on approach to the junction are of poor standard. To the east of Maddockstown, the road locally narrows to 4.8metres as it crosses the railway line over a bridge, before meeting another priority junction to the west of Dunbell. Visibility at this junction is currently impeded on both sides by a hedge line. The local road traverses the railway line again at a level crossing before meeting the N10 at a priority junction incorporating a right turn lane. Visibility exceeds 180metres to the left and right of the junction.

3.11.3.2 Existing Traffic Flow Conditions

As Maddockstown Quarry is at present fully operational and there is no future plan to increase extraction rates, the existing traffic volumes are inclusive of quarry traffic.

As outlined in section 3.11.2 above Traffic Flow Data was obtained on Tuesday May 27th 2008 at three different locations. These figures are included in full detail in Appendix 3.11.1 whilst a summary of these figures is detailed in Table 3.11.1 below.

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Fig3.11.2 Traffic Count Site Locations

Fig 3.11.3 Traffic Count Site Layout.

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SITE 1: QUARRY ACCESS

A TO C A TO B B TO A B TO C C TO B C TO A

TIME HV TOT HV TOT TIME HV TOT HV TOT TIME HV TOT HV TOT

14:00 4 25 5 7 14:00 3 4 16 18 14:00 9 10 2 19

17:00 3 84 1 3 17:00 0 5 3 8 17:00 3 5 4 23

SITE 2: BALLYREDDING ROAD / GOWRAN ROAD JUNCTION



14:00 1 5 21 49 14:00 12 31 3 105 14:00 3 99 0 6

17:00 0 11 6 102 17:00 4 54 5 138 17:00 3 92 0 4

SITE 3: KILKENNY ROAD / DANESFORT ROAD JUNCTION



14:00 15 235 12 39 14:00 9 23 4 48 14:00 5 43 20 175

17:00 18 451 6 27 17:00 4 31 5 82 17:00 5 75 10 179

Table 3.11.1 Summary of traffic count data on the Site 1, Site 2 and Site 3 as labelled in Section 3.11.2 above.

3.11.4 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DEVELOPMENT The development comprises an extension to the existing quarry, refer to EIS Section 2 for a description of the development.

3.11.5 IMPACT OF THE DEVELOPMENT The impact that the quarry has on the local road network has been assessed for its Operational and Restoration Phases.

3.11.5.1 QUARRY OPERATIONS

The applicant has confirmed that the HGV traffic generated by the existing quarry averages at 110 HGV’s leaving and 110 HGV’s returning to the site per day. This traffic figure is based on an extraction rate of approximately 600,000 tonnes/annum over a 48-week working year with each week consisting of 5.5 working days. A 20 tonne vehicle capacity is also assumed. This is conservative in terms of traffic generation as some of the trucks using the site are 25 tonne articulated vehicles. The proposed quarry extension will not result in any additional traffic as the existing extraction levels will be maintained.

Information on employee and delivery movements was also obtained from the traffic survey and when combined with the HGV movements, produced a total volume of 10LVs and 3 HGV’s for the peak hour period of 17:00 – 18:00as shown in Appendix 3.11.1.

RPL have supplied WSP with the four traffic routes used by quarry traffic and the average quantities of quarry traffic using each one. These are outlined in Table 3.11.2 on the following page and illustrated in Figure 3.11.1.

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Maddockstown Loads/Route/Day

Route Utilised Total A 47 B 8 C 19.8 D 35.2

Total 110

Table 3.11.2 Summary of Average Weekday Traffic Movements and routes

It is predicted that the future Quarry output will be maintained at these existing levels.

3.11.5.2 Final Restoration

This phase of development will involve the mobilisation of earthmoving equipment to site. Once within the working area it will remain there until it is no longer required at which point it will be removed from the site. Consequently this will not affect the on-going daily traffic generation of the site and will have negligible impacts on traffic and road infrastructure.

3.11.5.3 Junction Analysis

Whilst no additional traffic will be generated by the quarry extension development, an analysis was made using the PICADY junction analysis software in order to asses the impact of the operational phase of the development on the Gowran Road / Ballyredding Road junction and the Kilkenny Road / Danesfort Road junction used to access the quarry. The 12 hour traffic count figures were used to give the peak hourly traffic flow figures for the Gowran Road / Ballyredding Road junction and the Kilkenny Road Danesfort Road junction for a typical day. The combined traffic flow figures indicate that the peak traffic flow period for the junctions is during the period of 17:00 – 18:00 however the Peak HGV flow period generated by the quarry is 14:00 – 15:00. In the interest of producing a robust assessment both of these periods were assessed. The full PICADY results are given in Appendix 3.11.2. The data illustrated in Tables 3.11.3, 3.11.4, 3.11.5 and 3.11.6 summarise the results of the analysis. Outputs are expressed as a Ratio of Flow to Capacity and queue lengths. An RFC value greater than 0.85 implies that a junction is over capacity however, priority junctions with RFC values greater than this limit may be considered acceptable depending on the extent of queuing and delays.

Arm Maximum RFC Maximum Queue Length (Vehicles)

B-AC 0.37 0.59

C-AB 0.23 0.29

Table 3.11.3 17:00-18:00 2008 PICADY Junction Analysis results for the Gowran Road / Ballyredding Road junction

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B-AC 0.29 0.41

C-B 0.18 0.22 Table 3.11.4 17:00-18:00 2008 PICADY Junction Analysis results for the Kilkenny Road / Danesfort Road

junction


B-AC 0.35 0.52

C-AB 0.3 0.42 Table 3.11.5 14:00-15:00 2008 PICADY Junction Analysis results for the Gowran Road / Ballyredding Road

junction


B-AC 0.17 0.21


junction

The above results of the analysis indicate that the traffic generated by the development causes no substantial delays or queuing at the junctions.

A future year assessment has been undertaken for both the 17:00 – 18:00 period and the 14:00 – 15:00 period. NRA growth factors were used to factor the traffic count data and a design year of current year plus 15, i.e. 2023, was analysed using PICADY. The results of this analysis are outlined in Tables 3.11.7, 3.11.8, 3.11.9 and 3.11.10 below and on the following page.


B-AC 0.45 0.79

C-AB 0.27 0.36

Table 3.11.7 17:00-18:00 2023 PICADY Junction Analysis results for the Gowran Road / Ballyredding Road junction


B-AC 0.37 0.57


junction


B-AC 0.39 0.63

C-AB 0.37 0.58 Table 3.11.9 14:00-15:00 2023 PICADY Junction Analysis results for the Gowran Road / Ballyredding Road

junction

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B-AC 0.22 0.28


junction

The results outlined above illustrate that there will be no significant delays or queuing at the junctions in the forecast year of 2023

3.11.6 MITIGATION This section details the mitigating measures that may be required to reduce the impacts of traffic generated by the pit. 3.11.6.1 Improvements to the Quarry Entrance The visibility in both the left and right direction from a 4.5m set back can be improved by cutting back the vegetation growing through the quarry fencing on the west side of the local road. Temporary signage is currently in place at either side of the quarry entrance to warn public road users of the presence of turning HGV’s at this location. It is proposed to formalise this signage by providing permanent warning signs on the local road approach to either side of the quarry access junction. These signs will adequately warn all oncoming traffic of the presence of the quarry junction and slow moving/turning quarry traffic. 3.11.7 MONITORING Throughout the lifetime of the improved route, continued monitoring of the surface conditions will occur in order to maintain a safe running surface for all traffic. Any debris occurring on the road due to quarry traffic shall be promptly removed. Hedgerows which may grow to hinder forward sight visibility will also be maintained to assure continued safe road usage.

3.11.8 CONCLUSION The impact of the proposed development is minimal on the surrounding network. In summary, it is considered that:

• No additional traffic will be generated by the quarry extension development as

existing extraction rates will be maintained. • The traffic generated by the development has a minimal impact on the

surrounding road network.

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• In terms of capacity all junctions operate satisfactorily at present and will

continue to do so in the future.

• The proposed improvement to visibility at the quarry entrance will provide safer access / egress for vehicular traffic using the site.

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FIGURES

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APPENDICES

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Appendix 3.11.1

Traffic Flow Details

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Appendix 3.11.2

PICADY Junction Analysis Results

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Dunbell Big Td., Maddoxtown , Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny (Section 261 Quarry Ref. QY2)


SECTION 3.12 – INTERACTION OF THE FOREGOING

CONTENTS

3.12.1 GENERAL

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Dunbell Big Td., Maddoxtown , Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny (Section 261 Quarry Ref. QY2)


3.12.1 GENERAL

The interaction of the various impacts and mitigation measures has been covered within each of the sub-sections in Section 3. For example, the interaction of geology and groundwater flow has been addressed in Section 3.4, while the interaction of operational landscape / screening with air quality and noise has been addressed in Sections 3.6 and 3.

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Dunbell Big Td., Maddockstown, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny, (Section 261 Quarry Ref. QY2).

JBA3588/EIS/tp/smcd Novemeber 2008 Non Technical Summary – Page 1

NON TECHNICAL SUMMARY

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 THE APPLICATION

1.2 THE APPLICANT

2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

2.1. CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES

2.2. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROJECT

2.3. METHOD OF EXTRACTION

2.4. DESIGN AND PHASING OF THE WORKINGS

2.5. OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

2.6. RESTORATION

3 THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT, POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION

MEASURES

3.1 HUMAN BEINGS

3.2 FLORA & FAUNA

3.3 SOILS AND GEOLOGY

3.4 SURFACE WATER AND GROUNDWATER

3.5 CLIMATE

3.6 AIR QUALITY

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3.7 NOISE AND VIBRATION

3.8 LANDSCAPE

3.9 CULTURAL HERITAGE

3.10 MATERIAL ASSETS

3.11 TRAFFIC

3.12 INTERACTION OF THE FOREGOING

FIGURES

Figure 1 Location Map (1:50,000)

Figure 2 Site Location Map (1:5,000)

Figure 3 Existing Site Layout (1:5,000)

Figure 4 Proposed Site Layout (1:5,000)

Figure 5 Restoration Scheme (1:5,000)

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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1. THE APPLICATION

This Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was prepared to accompany a planning application being submitted to Kilkenny County Council by Roadstone Provinces Ltd. The planning application is being submitted in order to obtain permission for the following development at Maddockstown quarry (opencast mine), Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny (refer to Figures 1 and 2):

• Extension of the existing south-east quarry area by c.13.4 hectares.

• Provision for mobile crushing & screening of stone.

• Soil / Overburden storage.

• Landscaped screening berms and site restoration works.

• All related ancillary works.

The overall extraction rate will remain at current levels. The development will utilise the existing infrastructure in terms of access onto the local road network; offices and canteen facilities etc.

The existing quarry (Opencast Mine) operates under an Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) licence issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Licence No. 521, and a State Mining Lease issued by the Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources. Applications have been made to the EPA and the Department to review / renew / extend these licences and leases to include the proposed quarry extension area.

1.2 THE APPLICANT

Roadstone Provinces Ltd. is a subsidiary of Cement Roadstone Holdings Plc. (CRH), the international building materials group, with more than 3,500 locations and employing over 92,000 people in 34 countries.

Roadstone is a progressive manufacturer and supplier of a comprehensive range of high quality building materials and products for the construction industry in Ireland. The Company’s products are manufactured at plants operating independently assessed quality assurance schemes to I.S. EN ISO 9001:2000.

To protect the environment and communities in which they operate, Roadstone complies fully with the high national and international environmental standards by using raw materials which are sympathetically sourced. Roadstone Provinces Ltd. operate their quarries in accordance with an in-house Environmental Management System (EMS) and have been accredited with ISO 14001 which relates to the implementation of an Environmental Management System.

Roadstone Provinces Ltd. own and operate the existing quarry (opencast mine) and associated processing operation near Maddockstown, Co. Kilkenny, refer to Figure 3. This operation extracts mineral grade dolomite and limestone, and produces concrete, aggregates for road building, general construction and agricultural lime.

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2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

2.1 CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES

Alternative Sources of Aggregates

In the medium term there are no real alternatives to the current land-based sources of construction aggregates.

The demographic spread of the population, results in few large urban centres generating sufficient volumes of suitable construction and demolition (C & D) waste to supply significant volumes of recycled / secondary aggregates.

For 2006, the Environmental Protection Agency has reported that the collected C & D waste stream typically comprised 83% soil and stones (13.9 million tonnes) and 17% concrete / rubble, wood, glass, metal and plastic (2.9 million tonnes). Of this 16.8 million tonnes total volume, approximately 13.4 million tonnes was recovered. However, it should be noted that very little of this recovered soil and stone material would have been suitable for use as construction aggregates, and most of the recovered material would have been used in the restoration of poorly drained lands to agriculture or for daily cover / capping materials in existing landfill facilities. If conservatively, (from the aggregate supply perspective) 50% of the annual recovered C & D waste stream (13.4 million tonnes) is considered suitable for reuse as secondary aggregate (6.7 million tonnes) this would represent less than 5% of the overall annual aggregate demand (130 – 140 million tonnes).

Nationally, in the longer term (5 - 10 years), there may be scope for extraction of marine aggregates. Development of a future marine aggregates supply is currently constrained by the lack of an appropriate regulatory framework.

In the absence of a significant increase in the sources of recycled / secondary and marine sources, it is clear that land-based deposits (such as the proven limestone reserves at Bennettsbridge) will continue to be the main source of construction aggregates to Kilkenny city and the surrounding region.

Alternative Locations

The current planning application is for extension of the existing established quarry. The alternatives available to the Applicant relate to:

i) Extension of the existing established quarry.

Or

ii) Development of a new ‘Greenfield’ quarry in the area, to serve the established clients and markets in this region.

At the current time, there are no alternative quarry locations available to the Applicant in the area. It is generally accepted that the overall timeframe for development of a ‘greenfield’ quarry site (from initial site selection, land acquisition, preparation of a planning application and accompanying EIS, through planning process and site development to extraction of aggregates) takes between 5 and 10 years. Notwithstanding the above, extension of the existing quarry would be beneficial in planning terms by eliminating the need for:

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• Extracting additional materials from other quarries within the county, should the

Applicant be unable to develop a new ‘greenfield’ site in the event that the existing quarry ceases operation. This would result in faster depletion of aggregate resources at these other quarry locations and potentially result in future intensification of those operations.

• Development of a ‘greenfield’ site at some other location within the county where there is little or no previous extractive industry landuse.

• Haulage of materials by road from other quarries within, and outside the county,

with potentially longer haulage distances and increased traffic levels on the wider road network.

The development at Maddockstown Quarry will provide for continued extraction from a proven aggregate resource within an established quarry operation, with no significant increase in environmental emissions (as it is proposed not to exceed the existing extraction levels). On the basis of the above, it is considered that extension of the existing quarry at Maddockstown, subject to continued implementation of good environmental management practice and compliance with appropriate planning controls (i.e. planning conditions and standard emission limit values for the sector) is preferable in an overall planning context, compared to the development of a new ‘greenfield’ quarry at some alternative location in County Kilkenny.

Alternative Designs / Methods

A number of alternative designs and layouts have been considered during the planning and design of the proposed development, in particular:

• Extraction: depth and plan extent of the workings, direction of extraction etc.

• Fixed vs. mobile crushing & screening plant

2.2 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROJECT

The Existing Site

The site is located within the townland of Dunbell Big, approx. 2.5 km to the north of Bennettsbridge, and c.6.5 km southeast of Kilkenny City. The landholding comprises c.116 hectares (c.286.6 acres) of lands. The site location is shown on Figures 2 & 3. The site is located on a county road which runs north to Kilkenny and south to Bennettsbridge. The Waterford to Dublin railway line also bisects the site in a north – south direction. The River Nore forms the western landholding and site boundary.

The proposed extraction area is located on the eastern side of the public road and railway line. The topography slopes down from east to west towards the River Nore and public road. The existing quarry layout is shown on Figure 3. The lands comprise agricultural grazing land.

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There are few residences in the immediate vicinity of the site boundary. Most residences comprise isolated farm dwellings and of owner occupied bungalow/residences. There are no large residential settlements within 1km of the site.

The Proposed Development

The proposed quarry extension development is for extraction of limestone using conventional blasting techniques and processing of rock using mobile crushing and screening plant located within the quarry. The overall extraction rate will remain at the current level depending on market demand. External traffic will continue to use the existing permitted quarry entrance, which will be upgraded to provide visibility in accordance with current road design standards.

The crushed and screened rock will then be either transported internally to the asphalt plant located within the existing site at Maddockstown, and transported from the site as various crushed stone products across the region. No additional ancillary facilities such as canteen, office and washroom facilities will be required as part of this application as these facilities are already in place within the overall site.

2.3 METHOD AND RATE OF EXTRACTION

It is proposed to utilise a mobile crushing and screening system within the proposed development. Further processing, if required, will take place at the existing fixed processing plant located within the overall site. There are a number of stages to the extraction process, which will occur on a progressive basis as the quarry is developed. They are:

1) Removal of topsoil and overburden to either screening embankments or overburden storage areas.

2) Drilling and blasting of the in-situ rock.

3) Loading of the blasted rock at the face to a mobile crushing unit by a hydraulic excavator or front end loader. The mobile crusher discharges to a screening plant which grades and stockpiles the stone into various product sizes.

It is considered that planning permission for the proposed quarry extension should be commensurate with the life of the reserves. Planning permission for a duration of 36 years is requested under this application. This will ensure that the developer has security for his investment and that the operation is carried out in accordance with proper planning and development guidelines, including full implementation of the restoration proposals for the site. This objective is in line with the Quarries and Ancillary Activities – Guidelines for Planning Authorities (DoEHLG 2004).

2.4 DESIGN AND PHASING OF THE WORKINGS

The proposed quarry extension will be worked in a phased manner consisting of six benches and three phases as indicated on the working scheme in Figure 4. Each of the three phases will consist of two benches being worked simultaneously in a southward direction.

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Topsoil will be stripped from the extraction area and placed in temporary stockpiles. Then any overburden material will be stripped and utilised to construct the perimeter screening berms. They will also be immediately covered with the topsoil and vegetated with suitable native species. Consequently they will provide screening / security of the workings at the earliest opportunity.

The initial quarry development within the extension area will advance in a southerly direction and will provide for the natural extension to the existing quarry extraction area to the north, refer to Figures 4. This southerly direction of working will also screen the advancing working faces from the residences located to the south of the proposed extension area.

It is proposed to restore the upper quarry faces in a progressive manner as the quarry is developed south. Development of the benches is effectively below ground and therefore not open to view from outside the lands.

The existing site entrance onto the county road will continue to be used. HGV traffic from the proposed extension area will utilise existing internal access roads to transport material to the on-site concrete batching plant and for transportation of aggregates off site. The existing entrance is already provided with a dust free surface from the entrance to the weighbridge / wheelwash to prevent carryout of material onto the public road. The existing entrance will be upgraded to provide adequate visibility in accordance with current road design standards.

A drilling contractor will be mobilised to site as and when required to undertake drilling operations. The operator will ensure that the drilling contractor uses a drill rig that is properly maintained and is fitted with adequate noise suppression and dust control / extraction equipment to reduce any impact arising from drilling operations.

2.5 OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

It is intended that the proposed development will be operated during the hours of 06:00 to 20:00, Monday to Friday and from 06:00 hours to 18:00 hours on Saturday in line with the existing development operational hours. The quarry will not operate on Sundays or public holidays.

The proposed development will create continued employment for a work force of c. 40 personnel including direct employees, sub-contractors (e.g. drilling and blasting), contract hauliers, maintenance contractors, material suppliers, etc.

The haulage routes from the site will be via the existing local road network with the main route onto the R700 Kilkenny to New Ross road at Bennettsbridge to the south of the site or onto the N10 at Kilkenny City to the north of the site.

Fuel is stored in suitably bunded storage tanks. Surface water from the bunds will be pumped out through a suitable oil interceptor or removed off-site by a licensed contractor. Drums and integrated bulk containers containing chemicals/ lubricants will be stored in the Workshop on spill pallets.

The site is currently serviced by the ESB.

The Applicant has an existing environmental monitoring programme in place covering dust deposition, noise, blasting, and water. It is proposed to continue this monitoring programme to demonstrate that the development is not having an adverse impact on the surrounding environment.

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2.6 RESTORATION AND AFTERUSE

Restoration of the proposed site will be carried out in a progressive fashion over the life of the operation. Stockpiled overburden will be utilised on the worked out upper bench to allow for planting and recolonisation to be carried out as soon as possible to restore the void to a dedicated amenity and nature reserve area. Groundwater will be allowed return to its natural level c.45mOD to 50mOD. Refer to Figure 5.

All redundant plant, machinery and structures will be removed from the site on cessation of the extraction and manufacturing activities.

As there will be no fuel storage tanks or effluent treatment systems within the proposed quarry extension area, there will be no potential for fuel or sewage effluent to cause long-term water pollution following permanent cessation of extraction activities.

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3 THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT, POTENTIAL EFFECTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

3.1 Human Beings

The area surrounding the proposed development is largely rural in character. The site is in a rural setting and is characterised by occasional residences and farm holdings. Agriculture and mineral extraction are the main economic activities in the area surrounding the existing quarry.

This development is accessed via an existing county road and north onto the N10 (Dublin to Kilkenny) a national primary road or south towards Bennettsbridge. Although Maddockstown is not serviced by an operating train station, it is in close proximity to several of them, the nearest being Kilkenny city. The Dublin to Waterford railway line passes by the applicant’s landholding to the west of the proposed extension area.

The development, as with all similar developments of this nature is brought about by the continued demand of society to have a secure supply of construction material and provide housing, education facilities, health facilities and public infrastructure (roads, water supply, wastewater treatment and rail facilities).

The proposed development will have a positive impact in that it will provide continued direct employment and contribute indirectly to sustaining and developing the local and regional economy through continued supply of construction aggregates.

The working scheme has been designed and mitigation measures have been proposed in order to minimise any potential negative impacts from the development on human beings. Potential negative impacts on human beings and amenity of the area arising from the proposed development relate mainly to nuisance from noise, dust, vibration, traffic, and visual issues. Each of these issues is dealt with in detail in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and summarised in this non technical summary.

3.2 Flora and Fauna

The proposed quarry extension lands consist of some tillage fields at the southern end of the existing quarry. These have a typical flora without features of ecological value. Elsewhere in the landholding there is some florisitically rich ground close to the railway line but not in the active quarry areas or the proposed quarry extension area.

The fauna is also typical but does include yellowhammer as well as a good selection of insect species.

The process of quarrying will be to strip the soil from the fields, creating a surrounding screening berms, and then excavate the rock, bringing it to the existing process area for further treatment and grading. Mitigation measures are in place to control dust and manage water within the overall site. Progressive restoration measures will be commenced in the existing quarry as extraction works move south into the proposed extension area. These restoration works will create wildlife habitat as restoration to agricultural afteruse is not feasible.

There will be no significant impact on the River Nore which is designated as a candidate SAC.

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3.3 Soils and Geology

A geological appraisal to assess the geology within the site has been carried out. The appraisal comprised a review of available geological literature and maps, a review of previous geological, geophysical survey and drilling work undertaken at the site.

The Geological Survey of Ireland 1;100,000 geology Sheet 19 (Geology of Carlow – Wexford) indicates that the site is underlain by limestones and dolomitised limestones of the Butlersgrove Formation.

A considerable amount of ground investigation of varying quality has been undertaken at Maddockstown since the 1960’s. This work has largely comprised rotary cored and rotary percussive (RP) drilling and geophysical surveying. A programme of RP boreholes undertaken in 2004 to determine the extent of dolomitisation in lands south of the existing quarry and to allow installation of additional groundwater monitoring installations in 2007 are also particularly useful as returns from these boreholes were logged by geologists and were also sampled and chemically analysed.

The geological interpretation of the geology of the Maddockstown area is therefore based on inspection of rock exposures in the existing quarry and data from the above mentioned boreholes.

The nature of the development (e.g. quarrying) will entail the removal and placement of soil and overburden and subsequent cutting removal of bedrock. Thus there will be a short-term impact on the overlying soil / overburden strata, and a direct and irreversible impact on the existing in situ bedrock. Existing topsoil and overburden will be stripped and either utilised directly for construction of screening berms, and / or for quarry restoration.

Extraction of bedrock will provide additional exposures of the complex geology at Maddockstown, providing potential for further academic research into the processes of dolomitisation which have been revealed by the ongoing extraction.

The Applicant will comply with the recommendations of the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) in relation to geological heritage, as follows:

• Notify the GSI of any obviously new / different geological sections or features revealed through blasting.

• Incorporate / retain a representative section of the geology into the final restoration scheme for the quarry.

3.4 Surface Water and Groundwater

The site is located within the Nore Valley on lands that border the eastern bank of the River Nore. All groundwater in the Maddockstown area flows westwards and contributes to the River Nore. One small surface water course crosses the site from east to west, which is routed (by channelling and piping) around the existing quarry excavations, the Waterford to Kilkenny railway line and country road before joining the River Nore.

The groundwater at the site is characterised by a locally perched water table in the subsoil and a regional water table in the dolomite, dolomitic limestone and limestone bedrock. The dolomite and dolomitic limestone observed in the quarry excavations is fractured but there are no karst features observed or evident. There are a number of small inflows from the fractured bedrock into the existing northern quarry excavation.

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Well testing has shown that the limestone underling the quarry extension area has a lower permeability than the dolomite and dolomitic limestone of the existing northern excavation. On this basis groundwater inflows to the proposed extension will be less than those pumped from the existing northern excavation.

Surface runoff and groundwater inflows to extension area will be collected in the quarry sump and pumped to settlement lagoon for the removal of fines (silt/clay). The quarry sump area will provide attenuation storage during storm rainfall events. Water from the lagoons is discharged to receiving waters of the River Nore via a hydrocarbon interceptor.

The potential impacts of the proposed development to surface water occur during the operational phase of the quarry where there is a risk to quality being reduced and quantity being increased. The existing water management system and the proposed mitigation measures will ensure that there is no reduction in surface water quality. The development will cause a slight increase in the quantity of surface water to the River Nore. However, this is a positive effect as it will compensate for the slight reduction in baseflow contribution due to groundwater inflows to the proposed extension area.

The proposed development will lower the bedrock water table around the periphery of the extension area but will have no impact on groundwater quality. There is a groundwater level monitoring programme in place for the existing development, and this will be extended as part of the proposed development to encompass the area of potential impact.

At the end use of the quarry, groundwater will be allowed to fill the proposed quarry void and a pond will form. The pond will fill for c.10 years until the pond level and groundwater level reach equilibrium, which is expected to occur at approximately 45m a. OD. It is likely that the pond level will fluctuate seasonally by c.5m.

3.5 Climate

Ireland has a typical maritime climate, with relatively mild, moist winters and cool, cloudy summers. The prevailing winds are south westerly in direction. For the greater part of the year, warm maritime air associated with the Gulf Stream helps to moderate the climate. The average humidity is high. Annual average precipitation is highest on the west coast and in inland areas of high relief.

Average annual rainfall measured at the weather station nearest the site (Kilkenny) was 849.1mm/year (based on data 1971-2000).

The proposed development is not of sufficient scale to have any direct or indirect impacts on the regional or local climatic conditions.

3.6 Air Quality

Fugitive dust emissions are generated wherever there is movement of dust relative to the air. The emission of fugitive dust from mineral workings is very dependent on weather conditions. Where nuisance complaints from activities at pit / quarry workings arise, they are generally as a result of a combination of specific site activities and particular weather conditions.

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The results of the existing dust deposition monitoring programme indicates that the typical total dust deposition rates comply with standard threshold limit stated in the IPPC licence issued by the EPA.

The dust levels generated by the operation will be controlled at the various stages of development. Stripping of soils overburden will result in landscaped screening berms being located around the proposed development and will eliminate and / or minimise the migration of dust off site. A wheelwash is provided for all trucks leaving the development and the access road from the wheelwash to the site entrance is paved. Haulage routes within the workings are maintained to avoid excessive dust generation. Vehicle speeds are controlled on all internal haul roads.

The on-going dust deposition monitoring programme will be continued. This programme will allow on-going monitoring of fugitive dust emissions from the site, thereby assisting in ensuring compliance with any future requirements or regulations.

With the existing / proposed mitigation measures in place it is considered that the proposed development can operate within the recommended dust deposition thresholds for these types of developments and that it will not have any significant impact on the surrounding environment.

3.7 Noise & Vibration

3.7.1 Noise

The principal noise sources with respect to the nearest residences will arise from initial site development, extraction of stone, processing of the stone, crushing / screening and intermittent noise due to the movement of trucks to / from the development.

The planning, design and operation of the quarry extension includes a number of mitigation measures with respect to noise.

The noise assessment indicates that, with implementation of the existing / proposed mitigation measures, the quarry development can comply with the daytime noise threshold limit stated in the IPPC licence issued by the EPA.

The noise levels may be elevated during the initial site development (initial soil stripping, and construction of landscaped screening berms). However, these works are of a temporary nature and will result in long term environmental benefits (i.e. provision of visual and acoustic screening).

The existing noise monitoring programme will be continued as part of the proposed development to ensure noise levels are within the specified threshold values.

Through implementation of the existing / proposed mitigation measures it is considered the development will have no significant effects with regard to noise levels on the local residences, their property, livestock and amenity.

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3.7.2 Vibration

Ground vibration and air overpressure are measured for each blast. The blast monitoring is carried out at 3 local residences. The monitoring is carried out using calibrated portable vibrograph units.

A review of these blast monitoring results indicate compliance with the groundborne vibration and air overpressure threshold limit values stated in the IPC licence issued by the EPA.

All blasting operations are / will be carried out by a certified ‘shotfirer’ in accordance with the relevant regulations set out by the Health & Safety Authority. No blasting will be carried out outside 09:00 – 18.00 hours on working days (Monday to Friday) except in emergencies or for health & safety reasons beyond the control of the operator. There will be no blasting carried out on Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays. All nearby residences, including any future new dwellings, will be notified twenty-four hours prior to the blast. A clearly audible warning siren will be sounded five minutes before each blast, and an on-off sequence for the final minute.

Monitoring of every blast (both for groundborne vibration and air overpressure) will be carried out at the locations agreed under the current IPPC Licence.

Through implementation of the existing / proposed mitigation measures it is considered the development will have no significant effects with regard to vibration levels on the local residences, their property, livestock and amenity.

3.8 Landscape

The design objective is to minimise visual and character intrusion on the surrounding landscape. This will be achieved though detailed planning and design, operational procedures, on-going restoration at the earliest opportunity and taking advantage of the topography and / or vegetation where-ever possible.

The potential for negative visual impacts, arising from the proposed development, will be limited due to the physical distance between the site works and the publicly accessible areas, the existing natural topography, the proposed natural screening area (the proposed development sitting into the surrounding landscape), the proposed screening berms and the phasing/direction of extraction in the proposed limestone.

The quarry extension design (direction of working / phasing of rock extraction etc.), the use of mobile processing plant located on the floor, operational landscaping; and continuous restoration will eliminate and / or significantly mitigate any potential visual impact. It is therefore considered that the proposed development would not be ‘seriously injurious’ to the visual amenity of the area or ‘prejudicial to the natural beauty of the Special Area of Conservation’.

In the case of the proposed extension at Maddockstown Quarry, the potential impact will be most likely from the nearest residence, located between 150m and 200m to the south and west of the proposed extension area and local roads to the south and west of the site. A limited extent of the proposed development will be open to public view and where it is this will be of a short term temporary nature. This is due to a combination of the intervening vegetation and topography, the proposed development sitting into the surrounding landscape (naturally screened), and the proposed phasing of the extraction.

The proposed development will not have any significant impacts on designated scenic views due to its location; the intervening undulating topography; the planning, design

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and phasing of the workings; and the proposed mitigation measures (operational landscaping and restoration).

The proposals include retention of all hedgerows along the site boundary, provision of new hedgerow / landscaping at the proposed site entrance to replace the existing hedgerow to be removed. Landscaped screening berms will be provided. On cessation of all activities on the site, final site restoration will provide for removal of all buildings, plant and paved areas and the lands will be returned to beneficial natural habitat / nature conservation afteruse.

3.9 Cultural Heritage

There is evidence of prehistoric ritual and settlement activity in the study area. Early Medieval settlement is indicated by the presence of enclosures and ringforts in the study area. A number of these have been excavated since the nineteenth century and large numbers of artefacts and settlement material recovered. By the twelfth century the development area had become part of the lands belonging to Jerpoint Abbey and remained part of the Abbey until its dissolution in 1541 when they were granted to the Earl of Ormond. There will be no direct or indirect impacts on any known archaeological sites or features or items of heritage interest. There are no protected structures within the vicinity of the proposed quarry extension.

Due to the possibility of the survival of sub-surface archaeological deposits or finds within the development area, it is recommended that topsoil stripping within the development area be archaeologically monitored.

Roadstone Provinces is a member of the Irish Concrete Federation and a party to the Archaeological Code of Practice agreed between the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (now the Minster for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government) and the Irish Concrete Federation (DAHGI 2002). The Section 261 Planning Guidelines issued by the Minster for the Environment in 2004 note that the Code of Practice should be consulted by Planning Authorities.

3.10 Material Assets

The area around the site can be classified as “sparsely populated” with the village of Bennettsbridge to the south of the site increasing the residences.

The Kilkenny County Development Plan 2008, does not indicate the existence of any tourist areas in the vicinity of the proposed site.

County Kilkenny is a popular tourist destination and in particular Kilkenny City. The primary tourist attractions within the county are Kilkenny Castle and City, Mount Juliet, Jerpoint Abbey, Kilfane Glen and Waterfall and the Priory & high Cross at Kells. These tourist amenities are at some distance from the quarry and are well screened, and as such impacts on these amenities due to the proposed development will be insignificant. Tourists are also attracted to the area due to the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside and in particular the River Nore Valley. The quarry has had and will have a negligible impact on the tourist amenity of the area.

The closest viewpoints are well removed from the development being some 8 to 10km to the south and southwest near Mount Juliet and the village of Kells. The phasing of the working scheme and the progressive restoration measures included as part of the

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overall design will limit the impact of the quarry as much as is practical on the scenic amenity of the area in the vicinity of the site.

The natural amenities of the area include the:

• The Nore River Valley:

This is a prominent feature of the local landscape and as such has attracted the designation of a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Whilst the applicant’s landholding adjoins the River Nore SAC, the extraction area itself is located some 500m to the east. The public road and the Dublin to Waterford railway line lie between the proposed extraction area and the River Nore SAC. Due to the combination of restoration of the existing quarry and progressive restoration of the new development, long-term impact on the River Nore Valley will range from slight positive to negligible.

• Area of High Amenity:

This designated area is at a distance of c.2km from the proposed development at its closest point, starting in the village on Bennettsbridge and continuing south along the River Nore to Jerpoint Abbey before opening up to the west and covering an area from Goresbridge in north to New Ross in the south. Consequently there will be no significant impact on this amenity from the quarry.

The extractive industry land-use at this location is well established. Continued operation of the quarry will develop proven stone reserves due to the:

• established nature of the existing quarry operation,

• the inclusion of comprehensive restoration and mitigation measures as part of the proposed development, and

Roadstone Provinces Ltd. considers that the proposal for the extension to Maddockstown Quarry is in line with the principles of “sustainable development”.

The Waterford to Kilkenny railway line runs approximately 275m to the west of the proposed extension area, at its nearest point. Iarnrod Eireann has been consulted in relation to the proposed development. They are satisfied that the development will not significantly impact on the railway. Notwithstanding this, they have asked for a number of measures to be put in place in relation to quarry operations. These measures requested by Iarnrod Eireann are / will be implemented by the Applicant.

A range of mitigation measures have been incorporated into the planning and design of the proposed development to eliminate and / or minimise the potential impacts on these material assets. These mitigation measures have been referred to in this document under the relevant environmental topic, and are described in the EIS.

With implementation of these mitigation measures, the proposed development will not have any significant impact on material assets in the vicinity of the site.

3.11 Traffic

The site is located at Maddockstown, 6.5km southeast of Kilkenny. Access to the site is via local county roads. There are four main routes used by quarry traffic. These are Northwards serving Kilkenny City and its Environs (via local roads/R700/N10),

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Westwards serving Southern Kilkenny (via local roads/N10), Southwards towards Thomastown (via local roads/R700/N9) and North-Eastwards to Kilkenny City and its Eastern Environs (local roads/N10). A review of the subject site and surrounding road network was undertaken, and included observations of traffic flow patterns in the area and measurements of the geometry and layout of the local network. Traffic surveys were carried out at Maddockstown Quarry Access/Ballyredding Road, Gowran Road/Ballyredding Road and Kilkenny Road/Danesfort Road in order to obtain traffic flow data. The quantum and distribution of HGV and normal traffic generated by the quarry development were also considered. Whilst no additional traffic will be generated by the quarry extension (as existing extraction rates are to be maintained), analysis was undertaken to assess the impact of the traffic generated by the development on the capacity of the surrounding road network. The analysis was carried out using PICADY traffic modelling software for both the peak combined traffic flow period and the peak HGV flow period (generated by the quarry), for the current year and for a design year of 2023. The results indicate that the traffic generated by the development does not cause any substantial delays or queuing at the junctions assessed, and will cause no significant delays or queuing in the forecast year of 2023. In terms of capacity, all junctions operate satisfactorily at present and will continue to do so in the future. Mitigation measures have been provided to improve the visibility at the existing quarry entrance.

3.12 Interaction of the Foregoing

The interactions of the various potential impacts and mitigation measures have been covered, where applicable, under the relevant sub-sections within Section 3 of the EIS.

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Non Technical Summary

FIGURES

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