slr consulting ireland · 2014. 7. 23. · stream bioenergy 1-4 slr consulting ireland proposed...
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SLR CONSULTING IRELAND DRAWING/DOCUMENT ISSUE SHEET
PROJECT: Stream BioEnergy- Proposed Renewable BioEnergy Plant JOB NO:
501 .00193.00003
CREATION/ISSUE DATE DRAWINGS, CALCULATION SHEETS AND OTHER DESIGN DOCUMENTS ..,.
:!:::: REGISTER ,...
e ,... 0
DRG No DESCRIPTION REVISION STATUS
DOCUMENT NUMBER DESCRIPTION Stream BioEnergy • Proposed Renewable BioEnerav Plant Huntstown. North Road. Finglas. Dublin 11 Environmental Impact Statement Volume 1 - Non Tecnical Summarv 0 Volume 11 - EIS 0 Volime Ill - Appendices 0
ISSUE TO: NO. OF COPIES:
Environmental Protection Aaeney (EPA): Hard Copy 1 Environmental Protection Ageney (EPA): Soft Copy 1
ISSUED BY (INITIAL) TP
COMMENTS: ......
Signed as True Copy ksL~ng Ireland)
SQF 3057 Issue 1 Rev A Jan-2008
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Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant
at
Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin 11
Environmental Impact Statement
STREAM BIOENERGY LTD
Prepared by: SLR Consulting Ireland,7 Dundrum Business Park,Windy Arbour,Dublin 14.
August 2013
VOLUME I - NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 1
THE APPLICANT ........................................................................................................ 1
THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ............................................................................ 2
What is Anaerobic Digestion? .................................................................................. 2
What are the benefits of AD? ................................................................................... 3
Characteristics of the Proposed Development ......................................................... 5
How does the process work? ................................................................................... 6
WHY STREAM BIOENERGY IS PROPOSING TO DEVELOP THE PLANT ............... 7
Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC) ............................................................... 7
Landfill Directive (1999/31/EC) ................................................................................ 8
Commercial Food Waste Regulations (2009) .......................................................... 9
A Resource Opportunity (2013) ............................................................................... 9
Household Food Waste and Bio-Waste Regulations (2013) .................................. 10
Strategy for Renewable Energy 2012-2020 ........................................................... 11
Waste Management Plan for the Dublin Region 2005-2010 .................................. 12
Conclusion ............................................................................................................ 13
PLANNING POLICY.................................................................................................. 14
National Spatial Strategy 2002-2020 ..................................................................... 14
National Development Plan 2007-2013 ................................................................. 14
Regional Planning Guidelines for the Greater Dublin Area 2010-2022 .................. 15
Fingal Development Plan 2011-2017 ..................................................................... 15
ALTERNATIVES ....................................................................................................... 17
Why was the site chosen? ..................................................................................... 17
ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ................................................... 21
Human Beings ....................................................................................................... 21
Air Quality and Climate .......................................................................................... 24
Landscape and Visual ........................................................................................... 26
Mitigation ............................................................................................................... 28
Noise and Vibration ............................................................................................... 29
Flora and Fauna .................................................................................................... 30
Soils and Geology ................................................................................................. 32
Hydrology .............................................................................................................. 34
Hydrogeology ........................................................................................................ 36
Cultural Heritage ................................................................................................... 37
Traffic and Transport ............................................................................................. 39
Interactions of the Foregoing ................................................................................. 41
Overall Conclusions ............................................................................................... 41
WHEN WILL THE PLANT BE OPERATIONAL? ....................................................... 41
HOW WILL THE PLANT BE REGULATED? ............................................................. 41
FIGURES .................................................................................................................. 43
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
FIGURES
Figure 1-1 Regional Site Location Map ..................................................................... 43
Figure 1-2 Roadstone Wood Landholding and Application Area ............................... 43
Figure 1-3 Process Flow Schematic .......................................................................... 43
PLATES
Plate 1-1 Overview of Anaerobic Digestion Process ................................................... 3
Plate 1-2 The Waste Hierarchy ................................................................................... 8
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
Stream BioEnergy 1-1 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Stream BioEnergy Limited (SBE) commissioned SLR Consulting to prepare
an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in support of a planning application
for a Renewable Bioenergy Plant at Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin
11, see Figure 1.1.
1.2 It is proposed that the plant will be built on lands which are zoned for heavy
industrial use in the current Fingal Development Plan (FDP), 2011-2017.
The application site covers an area of 2.38 hectares (5.9 acres) and is within
the Huntstown Quarry complex, approximately 400 metres west of North
Road (Coldwinters cul-de-sac) and adjacent to the Huntstown Power Station.
The site location is shown on Figure 1.2.
1.3 The application area encompasses the proposed plant which will occupy a
footprint of 1.79 ha (the subject site). The remaining 0.59 ha includes the
route of a foul sewer line that will connect the plant to the public mains sewer
connection point on North Road (R135) and locations where directional
signage will be erected for the plant.
THE APPLICANT
1.4 SBE is an independent, Irish owned, energy development company with a
vision for a sustainable energy future where renewable resources will
overtake coal, oil and other fossil fuels as the world’s primary fuels for
electricity generation.
1.5 As part of this vision SBE promotes anaerobic digestion (AD) technology to
generate renewable energy from organic materials. SBE believes that AD
presents a significant opportunity to deliver a better, safer and more secure
clean energy future for Ireland in a way that safeguards the environment.
1.6 SBE covers all aspects of project development from conception, acquiring
regulatory consents, financing and construction, through to operation. The
company’s management team has extensive experience of developing and
operating renewable energy infrastructure throughout Europe.
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
Stream BioEnergy 1-2 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
1.7 SBE is proposing to utilise AD technology in Dublin to generate renewable
energy from primarily domestic and commercial organic waste. The proposed
plant, if permitted, will process up to 90,000 per annum (tpa) of non-
hazardous biodegradable waste such as food and kitchen waste from
households, restaurants, caterers and retail premises, as well as similar
waste from food and beverage processing plants.
1.8 The plant will generate a consistent supply of up to 3.8MW of renewable
electricity, which is enough energy to power 7,500 local homes annually.
Heat generated will be reused in the AD process and can also be made
available to neighbouring enterprises that may have a use for it.
What is Anaerobic Digestion?
1.9 AD is a sustainable form of renewable energy production through a naturally
occurring process in which micro-organisms break down biodegradable
material, in the absence of oxygen in an enclosed system.
1.10 The process produces a biogas, which is largely made up of methane (60%)
and carbon dioxide (40%), and a compost like material, known as ‘digestate’.
The digestate is nutrient rich, and free from odour, contaminants and
pathogens and can be used as an organic biofertiliser which replaces the use
of artificial fertilisers. The biogas is converted into renewable heat and
electricity for use in homes and businesses.
1.11 An overview of the process is presented in Plate 1.1.
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
Stream BioEnergy 1-3 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
Plate 1-1 Overview of Anaerobic Digestion Process
1.12 AD is a proven, efficient, and environmentally sustainable technology that
delivers multiple benefits. Germany currently has over 7,500 operating AD
plants, which add millions of Euros to its economy. While AD has been used
successfully for decades in the UK water sector, with approximately 150
operating plants, until recently there were only a handful of plants operating
in other sectors. However, the UK industry has grown rapidly in the last 5
years, with 92 plants currently operating outside the water sector and
hundreds more in the planning process.
What are the benefits of AD?
1.13 The proposed plant will help Ireland meet a number of important EU
commitments, as well as contributing towards achieving national recycling
targets. EU Directives, such as the Waste Framework Directive
(2008/98/EC), encourage the use of AD to convert non-hazardous organic
material, which is currently discarded, into renewable energy and a nutrient
rich fertiliser.
1.14 The EU’s Landfill Directive (1999/31/EC) sets mandatory targets for a
reduction in the amount of biodegradable municipal waste disposed of to
landfill, and this material can be processed by AD. The plant can therefore
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
Stream BioEnergy 1-4 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
make a significant contribution to the sustainable management of organic
materials in Ireland.
1.15 Energy sourced from the plant will diversify the national fuel mix, and reduce
the country’s reliance on fossil fuels, the price of which are subject to global
energy market trends.
1.16 The plant will also play an important role in the fight against climate change
as it will reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions to the atmosphere. This is
achieved due to the replacement of fossil fuels through the production of
renewable energy, and because organic materials are processed in a totally
enclosed system which prevents the uncontrolled release of methane, nitrous
oxide and other gases which can occur when organic waste degrades in
landfill.
1.17 In addition to improvements in air quality the plant will deliver other
environmental enhancements including water quality benefits as it reduces
organic pollution potential and destroys pathogenic and faecal micro-
organisms in digestate which can be used as a biofertiliser to replace organic
manures, slurry and artificial fertilisers.
1.18 A key characteristic of the proposed plant in terms of its potential socio-
economic impact, relates to its capital value, of which a significant portion will
be for the purchase of Irish sourced goods and services. The construction
phase will provide a boost for the construction sector in terms of employment
generation, with approxiamtely 30 jobs created, and capital spend on
materials and construction labour costs. When operating the plant will employ
16 permanent positions. In addition, indirect employment will be created
through the provision of support services to the plant.
1.19 Materials and services including transport, accommodation, catering,
landscaping and trade services will be sourced locally where possible
thereby generating additional local revenue. In this way, the plant will
promote the retention of money in the local economy.
1.20 The potential for AD to help Ireland meet some of its most challenging goals
in terms of growth, carbon reduction, resource recovery and the emerging
green economy is substantial. The timely provision of services and utilities
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
Stream BioEnergy 1-5 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
and security of energy supply are essential in meeting both business and
residential needs. At a time when demand for alternative energy supplies is
higher than ever, energy recovered from waste will help to make Ireland
more self-sufficient through providing a reliable source of renewable, green
energy supply.
1.21 AD is recognised as a proven and sustainable way of utilising waste as a
resource and the development of infrastructure such as that proposed in this
application is provided for and supported by EU legislation and national
planning and waste policy. This type of facility is urgently needed to assist
the government to achieve its EU targets relating to waste and energy. A
more detailed overview of the relevant supporting legislation and policies is
provided in Chapters 3 and 4.
Characteristics of the Proposed Development
1.22 A detailed description of the proposal is included in Chapter 2 of the EIS
(Volume II). The plant layout and design, dimensions, sections and
elevations are presented in the Planning Drawings that accompany this
application. In summary, the proposed 90,000 tonne per annum plant will
comprise the following:
• The Main Building which will incorporate the waste reception, waste pre-
treatment, digestate dewatering and storage areas. An odour control
system will be located immediately adjacent to this building. Staff offices
and welfare facilities will also be located within this building. The building
will be approximately 14m tall in order to accommodate delivery/removal
vehicles and to contain equipment used to treat the waste, and air
treatment pipework.
• An Odour Control System comprising a three stage system which will
treat the air extracted from the main building. It will also incorporate a
25m stack, through which all treated air will be exhausted.
• The Digestion Tank Farm which will be bunded and will contain the pre-
pasteurisation tanks (x2), digester feed buffer tanks (x2), digestion tanks
(x4), post digestion treatment tanks (x2). The tallest tanks will be
approximately 25m to the highest point.
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
Stream BioEnergy 1-6 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
• A Wastewater Treatment Tank Farm which will be bunded and will host
sequential batch reactors (x3), a process liquor tank a process water tank
and a sludge tank.
1.23 A number of ancillary structures will be located outside these three areas
including gas storage and treatment facilities, the Combined Heat and Power
(CHP) engines and electricity transformers, a substation, pasteurisation units,
heat exchangers, a storm water storage tank, and other storage facilities etc.
There will also be a dedicated vehicle refuelling area, vehicle wash,
wheelwash (2 No.) and weighbridge.
How does the process work?
1.24 A schematic of the process flow indicating the various processes through
each element of the plant to is presented in Figure 1.3. The process can be
broadly divided into 3 main stages:
• Delivery and Pre-treatment: Waste will be delivered and pre-treated
entirely in an enclosed building. The reception area is pressurised to
ensure containment of any odours. Following feedstock delivery, material
that is unsuitable for treatment by AD will be recovered (e.g. metal, plastic
etc.). This material will be exported off site for further treatment, recycling
or disposal. The air from the reception hall will be captured and treated to
acceptable levels within a dedicated three stage odour control system
designed specifically for the proposed plant. The remaining organic
material will then be blended with recycled process liquid to create an
organic slurry which will be heated to 70oC for at least 1 hour to meet the
requirements of the Animal By-Product Regulations. This will ensure that
digestate is free from pathogens and weeds.
• AD Treatment: following pasteurisation the slurry will be pumped to the
sealed digestion tanks where the organic material will be broken down in
the absence of oxygen to produce both biogas and digestate.
• Post Treatment: in the final phase the biogas will be captured and
converted via a generator known as a combined heat and power (CHP)
engine to produce renewable heat and electricity. The electricity will be
exported to the national grid (approximately 3.8MW), enough renewable
electricity to power 7,500 homes. The heat will be reused in the process
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
Stream BioEnergy 1-7 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
and can also be made available to neighbouring activities which have a
requirement for heat. The digestate will undergo moisture content
reduction through the use of centrifuges to produce a cake-like material
which, if derived from source separated material, can be used as a
biofertiliser. The process liquor remaining after the centrifuge will be
treated at the onsite WwTP which will reduce the ammonia and biological
oxygen demand (BOD) content prior to re-use within the process with the
any excess discharged to the municipal sewer.
WHY STREAM BIOENERGY IS PROPOSING TO DEVELOP THE PLANT
1.25 The long-term goal for the EU is to become a recycling society, which seeks
to use waste as a resource. Drivers such as climate change, energy security,
carbon foot-printing and waste recycling are at the forefront of the European
Union’s and National legislative agenda.
1.26 At a national level there has been a significant shift in waste management
policy from an initial focus on the development of modern, engineered landfill
capacity and the promotion of recycling, to policies promoting and directing
emerging technologies such as the development of anaerobic digestion
facilities.
1.27 Anaerobic digestion is recognised at European and National level as a
technology that can achieve these objectives through recovering value from
waste as energy and fertiliser.
Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC)
1.28 This Directive is aimed at encouraging the re-use and recycling of waste. By
promoting the use of waste as a secondary resource, the Directive is
intended to reduce the landfill of waste as well as greenhouse gases (GHGs)
arising from landfill sites. Biodegradable waste when sent to landfill for
disposal breaks down to release methane (CH4), a powerful GHG.
1.29 Waste is required to be managed in accordance with the waste hierarchy as
presented on Plate 1.2. In its simplest form; the waste hierarchy gives top
priority to preventing waste. When waste is created, it gives priority to
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Stream BioEnergy 1-8 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
preparing it for reuse, then recycling, then other recovery, and last of all
disposal (i.e. landfill).
1.30 The proposed plant accords with the Waste Hierarchy as it seeks to
maximise the recycling and recovery of non-hazardous biodegradable waste
through the production of renewable electricity and heat and a stabilised
digestate, which may be used as an alternative to chemical fertilisers. AD
offers a positive solution that moves the management of waste up the waste
hierarchy. AD is considered as recycling when the feedstock is derived from
source separated waste.
Plate 1-2 The Waste Hierarchy
Landfill Directive (1999/31/EC)
1.31 The Landfill Directive supplements the Waste Framework Directive. Its
overall objective is to ‘to prevent or reduce as far as possible negative effects
on the environment, in particular the pollution of surface water, groundwater,
soil and air, and on the global environment, including the greenhouse effect,
as well as any resulting risk to human health, from the landfilling of waste,
during the whole life-cycle of the landfill’ (Article 1).
1.32 The Directive requires Member States to reduce their dependence on the
landfilling of municipal waste in favour of more environmentally sound
alternatives. It includes a requirement for the pre-treatment of waste prior to
disposal to landfill and imposes restrictions on the consignment of certain
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
Stream BioEnergy 1-9 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
waste materials to landfill, including a gradual reduction in the quantity of
biodegradable municipal waste (BMW) that may be deposited in landfills.
1.33 The proposed plant will deliver much needed infrastructure within the Dublin
region capable of treating up to 90,000 tonnes per annum of the
biodegradable element of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW). As such the
proposal will effect a reduction not only in the total amount of waste sent to
landfill, but will also reduce the percentage of landfilled waste that is
biodegradable. It will therefore promote the objectives of the EU Directive on
the landfill of waste.
Commercial Food Waste Regulations (2009)
1.34 These Regulations are designed to promote the segregation and recovery of
food waste arising in the commercial sector. They will facilitate, in particular,
the achievement of the targets set out in Directive 99/31/EC on the landfill of
waste, for the diversion of biodegradable municipal waste (BMW) from landfill
sites to anaerobic digestion plants and to other forms of biological treatment.
1.35 The Regulations impose obligations on the major producers of food waste -
such as State buildings where food is prepared, restaurants and cafés, hot
food outlets, canteens, hotels and larger guest houses, supermarkets and
other food retailers to segregate these materials and make them available for
separate collection service (commonly known as a brown bin service in
Ireland).
1.36 In order to ensure these Regulations are given full effect a range of
infrastructure including anaerobic digestion is required. The proposed plant
will therefore contribute to supporting obligations set out within these
Regulations.
A Resource Opportunity (2013)
1.37 In 2012, the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government
launched the Government’s new waste management policy, entitled ‘A
Resource Opportunity’. At its launch Minister Hogan said that our natural
environment and ‘green’ image is one of Ireland’s greatest assets, ‘We must
protect the environment, not only for its own value and our well-being, but for
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Stream BioEnergy 1-10 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
our green image, for the tourism and food sectors and to attract foreign
investment. The underlying principle of this Policy is protecting that vital
asset. It is about minimizing the amount of waste we produce, eliminating
landfill and maximising waste as a resource to produce new products and
renewable energy.’
1.38 The new policy document sets out a number of actions, including:
• Placing responsibility on householders to prove they use an authorised
waste collection service or manage their waste in an environmentally
acceptable manner; and
• A brown bin roll-out diverting organic waste from landfill towards more
productive uses as a resource opportunity through anaerobic digestion.
1.39 The proposed plant will support Government policy through providing the
necessary infrastructure at a convenient location to support the objectives set
out within A Resource Opportunity.
Household Food Waste and Bio-Waste Regulations (2013)
1.40 Following from the new waste management policy, The Household Food
Waste and Bio-Waste Regulations were brought into force. These are
designed to promote the segregation and recovery of household food waste.
They will increase the amount of food waste that is recovered through the
production of energy and digestate, thereby creating opportunities for added
jobs and value.
1.41 In particular, the regulations will facilitate the achievement of the targets set
out in Directive 99/31/EC on the landfill of waste for the diversion of
biodegradable municipal waste from landfill sites, by directing source-
segregated household food waste to anaerobic digestion and other forms of
treatment.
1.42 The Household Food Waste Regulations impose a number of obligations on
households including:
• The requirement for households that produce food waste to segregate
such waste and keep it separate from other non-biodegradable waste,
and have it separately collected by an authorised waste collector.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-11 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
• Alternatively, householders may compost the food waste at home, or
bring the food waste to an authorised facility with a view to its anaerobic
digestion or treatment in a way which fulfils a high level of environmental
protection.
1.43 Households are not allowed to:
• macerate waste and dispose of it in a drain or sewer, or
• dispose of food waste in the residual waste collection (the black bin).
1.44 The proposed plant at Huntstown will assist the waste management industry
and householders to comply with the Regulations, through providing the
much needed infrastructure to treat the separately collected organic waste.
Strategy for Renewable Energy 2012-2020
1.45 The Government’s overriding energy policy objective is to ensure
competitive, secure and sustainable energy for the economy and for society.
This energy imperative is determined to be fundamental to economic
recovery and wellbeing. The strategy states that ‘the development of
renewable energy is central to overall energy policy in Ireland. Renewable
energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels, improves security of supply, and
reduces greenhouse gas emissions creating environmental benefits while
delivering green jobs to the economy, thus contributing to national
competitiveness and the jobs and growth agenda’.
1.46 The strategy sets out five strategic goals for renewable energy which
underpin the Government’s energy and economic policy. Of direct relevance
to the proposed plant at Huntstown is Strategic Goal 2 which advocates ‘a
sustainable Bioenergy sector supporting renewable heat and power
generation’.
1.47 The plant will be a net generator of energy to the national grid. This will serve
to enhance security of supply as a locally produced energy resource that
provides an alternative to fossil fuels, contributing to the diversification of
fuels and reducing the need to import energy products. Furthermore, by
displacing the proportion of energy generated by fossil fuel power plants, the
facility will help to reduce GHGs.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-12 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
Waste Management Plan for the Dublin Region 2005-2010
1.48 The Dublin Region comprising Dublin City Council (DCC), Dun Laoghaire-
Rathdown County Council (DLRCC), Fingal County Council (FCC) and South
Dublin County Council (SDCC) adopted a coherent and ambitious Waste
Management Strategy in 1997, setting out to replace a system that relied on
landfill disposal with a new approach based on integrated waste
management. The first Regional Waste Management Plan was made in 1998
(subsequently re-adopted in 2001), and the first formal Review of the Plan
took place during 2004-2005. The Dublin Region’s overarching waste policy
in the Plan sets out the framework to deliver integrated solutions and a
sustainable waste management system.
1.49 Part 4 of the 2005 Plan deals with policy and provides for the development of
two biological treatment plants with a combined capacity of 90,000 tonnes
per annum. The target date for delivery of these is stated as 2007/2009, but
these targets have not to date been met
1.50 Fingal County Council proposed to develop a Waste Recycling Park
incorporating 45,000 tonnes of biological treatment capacity at Kilshane
Cross, on lands circa 550m northeast of the subject site proposed within this
application. As detailed in the 2012 evaluation of the Waste Management
Plan for the Dublin Region, procurement processes were commenced to find
a private partner operator as part of the proposed public private partnership
(PPP) model for the Kilshane site. However, in 2009 the Dublin Local
Authorities decided to terminate the competition for the Dublin Biological
Project at Kilshane as it had become apparent during the process that the
project would not deliver value for money compared to procuring service
contracts in the market.
1.51 In addition, to the two biological treatment plants the Dublin Waste
Management Plan also envisages additional facilities to be developed by the
private sector to manage commercial/industrial organic waste with a capacity
of 50,000-100,000 tonnes per annum.
1.52 All local authorities were required to evaluate existing waste management
plans by 31 December 2012. The evaluation report for the Dublin Waste
Management Plan recognises the biowaste capacity deficit within the Dublin
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NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
Stream BioEnergy 1-13 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
region which has resulted in biowaste being catered for by facilities located
outside of Dublin. The report states that ‘in 2010 over 36,000 tonnes of brown
bin waste material collected from householders in Dublin was treated at
biowaste facilities outside of the region’. It further asserts that the future role
of the local authority in the development of biowaste capacity will be as a
statutory body granting permissions and authorisations and that the next
generation Plan should identify the necessary capacity required to treat
biowaste material which is expected to grow.
1.53 This evaluation clearly demonstrates the urgent need for the biological
treatment capacity that the proposed development at Huntstown would
provide.
Conclusion
1.54 The need for the proposed development is being driven by the necessity to
generate a greater amount of electricity from renewable sources. The
provision of the proposed plant will have the added benefit of diverting
biodegradable waste from landfill. As such the proposed development will
contribute towards Ireland meetings its international and natioanl targets in
relation to both renewable energy generation and landfill diversion.
1.55 The potential for AD to help Ireland meet some of its most challenging goals
in terms of growth, carbon reduction, resource recovery and the emerging
green economy is substantial. The timely provision of services and utilities
and security of energy supply are essential in meeting both business and
residential needs. At a time when demand for alternative energy supplies is
higher than ever, energy recovered from waste will help to make Ireland
more self-sufficient through providing a reliable source of renewable, green
energy supply.
1.56 AD is recognised as a proven and sustainable way of utilising waste as a
resource and the development of infrastructure such as that proposed in this
application is provided for and supported by EU legislation and national
planning and waste policy. This type of facility is urgently needed to assist
the government to achieve its EU targets relating to waste and energy.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-14 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
PLANNING POLICY
National Spatial Strategy 2002-2020
1.57 The National Spatial Strategy (NSS) sets out a national framework for
achieving more balanced regional development, seeking to ensure that each
region in Ireland grows according to its potential. To ensure this, the NSS
requires that the country is developed strategically through a network of
gateways and hubs. The subject site is located within the Greater Dublin
Area (GDA) gateway.
1.58 The proposed plant will promote the objectives of the NSS in so far as it will
contribute to ensuring critical infrastructure (waste and energy) is in place
that will ensure ongoing support for industrial, commercial and other
development.
National Development Plan 2007-2013
1.59 The National Development Plan (NDP) seeks to reach new economic and
social goals, with emphasis placed on the protection of the environment.
Increased prosperity and growth are recognised as having increased
pressure on the environment through growth in consumption levels, energy
demands and waste flows.
1.60 Achieving a comprehensive system of waste management is cited as being a
significant environmental challenge for Ireland within the NDP. The Plan
acknowledges that enhancing the availability of a range of high quality waste
management solutions is important for national competitiveness and
balanced regional development. It further recognises the role of the private
sector in delivering the necessary infrastructure.
1.61 In relation to energy infrastructure, the overall strategic objective of the NDP
is to ensure security of energy supply nationally and regionally, which is
competitively priced, in the long term while meeting a high level of
environmental standards. Security of supply is considered of vital importance
to ensuring the economic development of the country. In this regard the
bioenergy sector is recognised by the Plan as an area which will have
increased policy focus over the lifetime of the Plan.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-15 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
1.62 In addition to reducing the amount of waste being landfilled thereby avoiding
greenhouse gas emissions from such facilities, the proposed plant at
Huntstown will produce a consistent, reliable source of renewable energy
thereby satisfying objectives contained within the NDP.
Regional Planning Guidelines for the Greater Dublin Area 2010-2022
1.63 A core principle of the plan’s vision is that the region will be a major focus for
economic growth and an attractive location for industry. In order to support
economic development and regional competitiveness, services and utilities
such as waste and electricity are required.
1.64 In order to secure long term energy security, the RPG’s advocate a focus on
alternatives to non-renewable and finite resources. Furthermore, they
recognise the associated benefits of a Green Economy in terms of its
potential for job creation and employment.
1.65 The Guidelines recognise that the quality, availability and cost of waste
management solutions are key competitiveness issues for enterprise in
Ireland.
1.66 A number of policies contained within the RPGs have been identified as
being relevant to the proposed development. The aims and objectives of the
guidelines centre on the principles and practice of sustainable development
by embracing concepts such as becoming more self-sufficient in waste
management and favouring the use of renewable energy sources to support
economic development within the region. The proposed Renewable
Bioenergy Plant at Huntstown will assist in achieving these objectives.
Fingal Development Plan 2011-2017
1.67 The proposed development is located within the administrative area of Fingal
County Council (FCC). The Fingal Development Plan (FDP) 2011-2017 is the
key policy context for individual planning decisions within this area.
1.68 The application area is zoned objective ‘HI’, Heavy industry on Sheet No. 12
of the FDP, 2011-2017. The vision for lands zoned ‘HI’ is to facilitate
opportunities for industrial uses, activities and processes which may give rise
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Stream BioEnergy 1-16 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
to land use conflict if located within other zonings. Use classes permitted in
principle within this zoning include sustainable energy installations and waste
disposal and recovery facilities.
1.69 Fingal’s strategic endowments including proximity to Dublin City and its city
edge location with availability of development land are considered to be
critical elements in allowing it to harness emerging growth sectors of the
economy, including the green technology sector.
1.70 The provision of employment opportunities at sustainable locations is a
priority for Fingal. The plan asserts that proposals associated with the
generation of heavy goods vehicles should seek to locate within proximity of
the existing road network.
1.71 The Plan refers to the potential for Fingal to harness opportunities in the
Environmental Goods and Services Sector (EGS) including renewable
energies and waste management and recovery opportunities.
1.72 The FDP 2011-2017 highlights Ireland’s vulnerabilities with regard to energy
including size, island location and isolation from the European energy
infrastructure. Such weaknesses highlight the need for security of energy
supplies through the development of indigenous resources. Producing
cleaner energy and using energy sources which minimise damage to the
environment are stated aims of the sustainable energy policy.
1.73 With regard to renewable energy the Plan acknowledges that such sources
including biomass offers a real alternative to meeting energy needs. It
recognises the range of new technologies that can contribute to minimising
greenhouse gas emissions and to securing a greater proportion of the
county’s energy needs from renewable sources.
1.74 The promotion of the use of bioenergy as a renewable energy source is
supported through Objective EN11 which states that the Plan ‘supports
Ireland’s renewable energy commitments outlined in national policy by
facilitating the exploitation of biomass technology energy where such
development does not have a negative impact on the surrounding
environment, landscape or local amenities’.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-17 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
1.75 With regard to waste management. Section 4.5 of the Plan includes a
statement of policy detailing that Fingal will ‘conform to the European Union,
National and Regional policy in all matters relating to the production,
handling, treatment and disposal of waste’.
1.76 The Council will promote an increase in the amount of waste reused and
recycled consistent with both the Waste Management Plan for the Dublin
Region 2005-2010 and the Waste Hierarchy. The Plan commits to facilitating
the recycling of waste through both adequate provision of facilities and good
design.
1.77 The Plan advocates a resource led approach to dealing with waste and
emphasises the need to divert waste away from landfill. Sustainable patterns
of waste management development are promoted that support the delivery of
sufficient opportunities for new waste management facilities of the right type
and in the right place.
1.78 The Huntstown proposal is closely aligned to the objectives and policies
contained within the Fingal Development Plan 2011-2017. It accords with the
zoning objective for the site and is within close proximity to the strategic road
network. The plant will have the capacity to treat a significant proportion of
organic waste arisings in an environmentally sustainable manner. Biogas will
be recovered in an efficient manner for the sustainable production of
enewable energy (electricity and heat). This will contribute towards providing
energy security of supply benefits. The proposed plant will provide a
consistent supply of 3.8MW of renewable electricity for export to the national
grid, enough electricity to power approximately 7,500 local homes annually.
ALTERNATIVES
Why was the site chosen?
1.79 The identification and selection of a suitable site for a plant such as that
proposed involves the interaction of many disciplines. The need for the
proposed plant within the Dublin area is presented in the preceding section.
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1.80 A detailed site selection process was undertaken the main details of which
are presented within Chapter 5 of the EIS. In choosing the site cognisance
has been paid to guidelines on siting of such plants.
1.81 Nine sites were selected for evaluation, two of which were eliminated at an
early stage due to environmental sensitivities. The seven remaining sites
were taken forward for a more detailed appraisal against a number of
planning, environmental and commercial criteria. Of these two were
considered to be the most suitable sites, however, only one of these sites
was commercially available.
1.82 Stream BioEnergy chose the Huntstown site for the following reasons:
• The application area is appropriately zoned heavy industry in the Fingal
Development Plan 2011-2017.
• The immediately surrounding area is characterised by established heavy
industrial uses including a large quarry and a gas fired Power Station.
• It is close to the Finglas 220kV ESB sub-station for the efficient export of
renewable electricity.
• The subject site is located within close proximity of the M50 and N2 which
provide excellent accessibility to the entire national road network for the
delivery of feedstock.
• The site is remote from residential properties with the nearest located in
excess of 400m from the subject site.
• It is not subject to any statutory nature conservation designation area and
there are no such sites immediately adjacent to it.
• The site is not in an area identified as being of high landscape quality or
sensitivity; it is not located within a Special Amenity Area, a High Amenity
Area or a Highly Sensitive Landscape.
• There are no known recorded archaeological, architectural or other
cultural heritage sites within the application area.
1.83 In addition, it is worth noting that there are two operating waste processing
activities located just over 1km to the southwest of the subject site, as well as
an undeveloped site that has the necessary regulatory consents for
development of waste treatment infrastructure, as follows:
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• A materials recovery facility (MRF) operated by Greenstar at their site in
Millenium Business Park which is licensed by the EPA (W0183-01).
• Nurendale Limited, trading as Panda Waste Services Limited, operate a
materials recovery and waste transfer facility at Cappagh Road, under an
EPA waste licence (W0261-01).
• Thornton’s Recycling licensed to operate a MRF under a waste licence
issued by the EPA (W0242-01), at the Millenium Business Park.
However, this has not yet been developed.
1.84 Furthermore, the proposed Kilshane Cross Recycling Park is located
approximately 750m northeast of the subject site. As part of its regulatory
approval, this proposed development has planning permission to biologically
treat up to 45,000 tonnes per annum of food waste and green waste.
However, the Annual Progress Report, 2009 for the Dublin Waste
Management Plan 2005-2010 states that ‘In 2009 the Dublin Local
Authorities decided to terminate the competition for the Dublin Biological
Projects at Kilshane. It has become apparent during the process that the
projects would not deliver value for money based upon current
specifications…The Dublin Local Authorities are now considering their
options with regards the arrangements for providing biological treatment
capacity in the region’’.
1.85 Fingal County Council concluded in the EIS that Kilshane Cross was the
most appropriate site due to its proximity to the N2, easy access to the M50
and other National Primary Roads and to all parts of the Fingal County
Council functional area, as well as the other Dublin Local Authority Areas.
The EIS goes on to state that the Kilshane Cross site is close to the
centroid of waste generation of both household organic waste for the
North Dublin Region and of household residual waste for Fingal County
Council. The site’s proximity to the proposed North Dublin Interceptor
Sewer route, which provides potential further opportunities to link the
liquor discharge from the facility directly into the Dublin sewer network
was also citied as a reason for locating at this site.
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1.86 With regard to proximity to a Seveso II site, Huntstown Power Station, a
lower tier site, a report prepared by Byrne O’Cleirigh which accompanies this
application considers the proposal to be acceptable using the Health and
Safety Authority’s criteria in terms of landuse and location.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-21 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
1.87 The principal objectives of the EIS are to:
• identify and / or predict the significant impacts of a development;
• identify the mitigation measures that should be incorporated into the
development to eliminate or reduce the perceived impacts;
• interpret and communicate the above information on the impact of the
proposed development, in both technical and non-technical terms; and
• assist the Local Planning Authority in the decision making process with
respect to the associated planning application.
1.88 The assessment has been undertaken as an iterative process rather than a
one-off, post-design environmental appraisal. Findings from the
environmental assessments have been fed into the design process, resulting
in a project which achieves a ‘best fit’ within the environment.
1.89 The EIS is sub divided into 3 Volumes as follows:
• Volume I Non Technical Summary;
• Volume II Environmental Impact Statement; and
• Volume III Appendices to Environmental Impact Statement;
1.90 This document, the Non-Technical Summary (NTS), summarises the key
findings of the assessments in non-technical terms. Its purpose is to provide
an overview for all interested parties, who can then make reference to the
more detailed information contained in the EIS (Volume II), if desired.
Human Beings
Introduction
1.91 The methodology on which the assessment of human beings in the vicinity of
the proposed development was undertaken comprised essentially of a desk-
based assessment, where information regarding recent trends in population,
employment, tourism, transport, amenities, public utilities and land use was
assessed. The required information about population and employment has
been obtained from the Central Statistics Office (CSO). The Fingal
Development Plan 2011-2017 also provided information on the socio
economic context of the study area.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-22 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
Existing Environment
1.92 The zoning category of the application area is ‘HI’ (Heavy Industry). The
vision for lands zoned ‘HI’ is to facilitate opportunities for industrial uses,
activities and processes which may give rise to land use conflict if located
within other zonings. Use classes permitted in principle within this zoning
include sustainable energy installations and waste disposal and recovery
facilities.
1.93 Primary landuses adjacent to the application area include Huntstown Power
Station and Huntstown Quarry which are located immediately north and west
of the subject site, respectively. Agricultural land occurs to the south and east
of the subject site.
1.94 Local businesses include Bella Vista Garden Centre located circa 450m east
of the subject site, the Dog’s Trust situated circa 360m to the northeast, and
a veterinary surgery located circa 550m to the east of the subject site. All of
these businesses are located on the R135, North Road.
1.95 Residential development is present in a dispersed linear form along North
Road, with the nearest residence located at a distance of circa 410m to the
east of the subject site. An occupied farmhouse, is located circa 500m to the
south of the subject site. In total there are 16 residential properties situated
within 1km of the subject site.
1.96 There are no schools, places of worship, hospitals or healthcare facilities
within 1km of the subject site.
1.97 The population of Fingal in April 2011 was 273,991 persons which represents
an increase of 14% from the 2006 population. i.e. nearly double the national
average. Almost 70% of the population growth in Fingal was accounted for by
natural increase i.e. births minus deaths. Fingal now represents almost 6% of
the national population.
1.98 The Ward Electoral Division (ED), within which the application area is
located, is ranked within the top ten ED’s nationally for population increase in
actual terms during the period 2006-2011, i.e. 3,060 persons.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-23 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
Impact Assessment
1.99 The proposed development is located within Huntstown Quarry, an already
heavily industrialised area. The nature of the existing development, and the
zoning for future development of the surrounding area is largely commercial
and industrial.
1.100 The development of the proposed plant will fully comply with the statutory
land use zoning and will not impact adversely on surrounding land uses.
There will be no severance of land, loss of rights of way or amenities as a
result of the proposed development.
1.101 The key characteristic of the proposed plant in terms of its potential socio-
economic impact, relates to its capital value, of which a significant portion will
be for the purchase of Irish sourced goods and services. The construction
phase will provide a boost for the construction sector in terms of employment
generation and capital spend on materials and construction labour costs. It is
expected that during peak activities, approximately 30 people will be working
directly on the construction site. The staff will comprise of managerial,
technical, skilled and unskilled workers. As far as practicable local labour will
be employed. It is unlikely that the proposed development will increase the
population of the area as a result of the construction phase. In addition to
direct employment, there will be substantial off-site employment and
economic activity associated with the supply of construction materials and
provision of services such as professional firms supplying financial,
architectural, engineering, legal and a range of other professional services to
the project. Revenue generated during the construction phase will have an
associated benefit for the local area with respect to expenditure on local
goods and services. In terms of employment and the local economy the
impact will be significantly positive during the construction phase.
1.102 When operational the plant will provide employment for 16 people.
Employees will be recruited locally where possible. The employment
provided by the facility will have a positive impact, with further indirect
positive impacts through the support of supply and service companies.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-24 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
Mitigation
1.103 In order to control potential negative impacts during construction, a
Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) will be developed
and implemented by the nominated Contractor during the construction phase
of the project.
1.104 The plant has been designed and will be operated in a manner that will either
eliminate or minimise the risk of environmental nuisance including odours,
noise, litter, vermin and pests.
1.105 The operation of the proposed plant under an Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) Licence and with approval from the Department of Agriculture
will ensure that the plant fully complies with established uses within the
immediate environs of the application area.
Air Quality and Climate
Introduction
1.106 The air quality and climate assessment was undertaken by Odour Monitoring
Ireland. Particular attention was given to sensitive receptors, including local
residences, commercial units and habitats in proximity to the proposed plant,
and to the potential exposure of these receptors to named airborne pollutants
resulting from the proposed construction and operation of the plant.
Existing Environment
1.107 A baseline air quality survey was performed at eleven locations in the vicinity
of the application area. This survey was undertaken in order to assess the
baseline air quality. The results demonstrate that each parameter monitored
is well within the limit value for the protection of human health and
vegetation.
1.108 An odour sniff survey was also undertaken. Distinct odours were not detected
and therefore baseline odours were considered to be ambient and neutral.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-25 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
Impact Assessment
1.109 Impacts to air quality that may arise during the construction phase include
dust, emissions from construction plant and traffic. The overall impact of the
construction phase of the plant will be negligible and effects will be short term
in nature. All air quality guideline and limit values will be complied with during
the construction phase of the project.
1.110 Air quality impacts may arise from process based emissions and traffic
movements associated with the operational phase of the proposed plant. The
air quality model demonstrates that emissions will remain well within Irish
statutory air quality limits for the protection of human health
1.111 In terms of odour, the predictive modelling undertaken as part of this
assessment establishes that odour concentrations at the site boundary and
at all sensitive receptors will be below the allowable national and international
guidance limit values.
Mitigation
1.112 A full traffic management plan and dust management plan will be
incorporated into the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP)
in order to minimise such emissions as a result of the construction phase of
the development. This will be generated specifically for the proposed
development when detailed design is completed.
1.113 A number of measures, as outlined below, are incorporated into the design to
ensure that fugitive emissions of odours are minimised from the reception
area of the main building:
• The main building is totally enclosed with access into or out of the
building only possible through automatic rapid open/shut doors.
Pedestrian doors will for remain closed and only open when access is
required. This will ensure the risk of egress of odour through building
apertures is minimised;
• Extraction systems in the reception area of the main building will maintain
negative pressure inside all areas where waste is handled and
processed. This will encourage air to flow into the building, thus further
preventing uncontrolled egress of odour.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-26 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
1.114 Other controls on emissions to air which will be implemented as an integral
part of the design are as follows:
• The air extracted from the waste processing building will be treated in a
bespoke three stage odour control system prior to being exhausted
through a 25m stack. The stack is considered to have sufficient height to
ensure an adequate level of dispersion.
• There will be no emissions to atmosphere from the digestion tanks or
other process vessels containing odorous materials as waste will be
contained within fully sealed tanks; and
• The combustion of biogas by the CHP units will destroy any potentially
odorous compounds contained in the biogas. The proposed design of a
28m high stack is considered to represent a good level of environmental
performance, to ensure adequate dispersion.
Landscape and Visual
Introduction
1.115 The landscape and visual assessment provides an assessment of the impact
of the proposed development on the landscape character and visual amenity
of the study area. Where significant adverse effects (if any) are anticipated
then measures to avoid, reduce or remedy such effects are described. The
assessment was undertaken by Brady Shipman Martin Planning and
Landscape Specialists.
Existing Environment
1.116 The subject site is relatively flat being at a level of approximately 78m above
ordnance datum (AOD). Being surfaced in hardcore with some concrete
hard-standings along the eastern side, the site is largely devoid of landscape
features. Any vegetation that does occur is limited to the site boundaries.
1.117 Huntstown Power Station dominates views to the north, while the spoil
mounds and structures within Huntstown Quarry are visible to the west. To
the south views from existing agricultural lands are partly restricted by a
mature hedgerow which parallels the southern side of an disused access
road to the south of the subject site. Beyond this there are glimpsed views of
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Stream BioEnergy 1-27 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
quarrying activities and earth mounds within Huntstown Quarry, with only
minor long-range views south over the city to the Dublin Mountains. ESB
transmission lines and pylons are significant features passing to the east of
the site towards the Finglas 220kV Sub-station at Huntstown, circa 600m
southeast of the site.
1.118 The FDP 2011-2017 locates this area within the ‘low lying agricultural’
landscape character type, which it describes as being of medium value and
low sensitivity. The existing environment is very much on the edge of such a
description, being heavily influenced by infrastructure, quarrying, enterprise
and industrial activities. In the vicinity of the site, these influences have
effectively changed the character from that of an agricultural landscape to
that of an increasingly industrial urban-edge environment.
1.119 The landscape is not of particular significance or sensitivity from a landscape
or visual perspective. However, lands to the west of the site, which includes
the quarry at Huntstown, are identified as a ‘Nature Development Area’ in the
FDP.
1.120 Views of the subject site from outside of its immediate agricultural and
quarrying context are extremely limited. As such there is little or no view of
the site from surrounding public roads or residential properties – the nearest
of which are located along North Road circa 400m to the east. Public views
over the lands are dominated by the presence of Huntstown Power Station
and the adjoining RoadstoneWood developments.
1.121 Residential development is present along North Road circa 400m to the east
of the site, and an isolated farmhouse is located circa 500m to the south of
the site. In total there are 30 residential properties within the zone of primary
visibility of the site together with a number of commercial/ industrial
properties.
1.122 The principal sensitivities relate to potential for visual impact from
surrounding residential properties.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-28 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
Impact Assessment
1.123 Of the 30 residential properties within the zone of primary visibility of the
subject site, there will be a slight impact to three properties located along
North Road and a moderate impact to one property to the south during the
construction works. The properties do not have direct views into the subject
site but will have views of the emerging structures on the skyline. Within the
context of the existing industrial view the impact on the three properties along
North Road will be slight short-term, and the impact on the one property to
the south will be moderate and short-term where the views are more open.
1.124 Once completed, it is considered that the proposed development will
generally be viewed in the landscape as being in-keeping with the nature of
existing development in the area, particularly Huntstown Power Station. In
many ways the completed development may be viewed as an extension to
the power station, which though separate, it closely adjoins.
1.125 Four photomontages were prepared to illustrate the impact of the proposed
development on the existing landscape and visual environment; these are
presented in Chapter 9, Volume II.
Mitigation
1.126 The principal mitigation measure is demonstrated in the selection of a site of
low significance and low sensitivity, thus reducing the potential for significant
landscape and visual impact. In addition, the site is appropriately zoned for
heavy industry and is already strongly influenced by existing industrial and
other developments in the area. There are also few residential properties
within the zone of visual influence of the site, which again reduces potential
for significant visual impacts.
1.127 Operating a well-managed, organised and planned construction site, with
adequate control of construction traffic and working activity, is key to avoiding
/ minimising construction impacts. Site lighting shall be directed away from
surrounding residential properties in order to minimise its effects.
1.128 The site is located alongside an identified Nature Development Area (NDA)
within the Green Infrastructure Plans of the Fingal Development Plan 2011 –
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Stream BioEnergy 1-29 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
2017. While no part of the site is identified as part of the NDA, protection and
enhancement of ‘green infrastructure’ / ecological corridors is recommended.
The existing hedgerow and other planting just outside the northern boundary
of the site will be retained. A hedgerow will be planted along the southern
boundary.
1.129 All lighting standards will be fitted with horizontal cut-off light fittings to
minimise light spill.
Noise and Vibration
Introduction
1.130 The noise and vibration assessment presented in Chapter 10 of the EIS
describes the potential impacts to noise sensitive locations (NSL’s) from the
proposed development. The assessment considers the impact of the noise
generated by all construction and normal operations associated with the plant
on the NSL’s and has been undertaken in conjunction with the relevant
standards and guidance.
Existing Environment
1.131 The baseline noise environment is dominated by road traffic noise from the
M50, N2 and the local road network; operations at the quarry and power
station; noise from planes passing overhead and animals.
1.132 Environmental noise surveys were carried out by SLR Consulting Ltd during
January and February 2013 at six monitoring locations. They include three
residential receptors and one commercial receptor. Monitoring was also
undertaken within the subject site and at a boundary location immediately
south of the subject site. The three residential and one commercial
monitoring location are considered to be NSL’s for the purpose of this
assessment.
Impact of the Proposed Development
1.133 The construction noise assessment has shown that the noise generated by
worst-case construction operations are well within the specified limits at all of
the residential NSL’s and the commercial NSL assessed. The construction
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Stream BioEnergy 1-30 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
noise assessment has also indicted that there will be a slight residual impact
at each of the four NSL’s considered due to a very slight increase on the
existing baseline noise environment. However, it must be noted that these
impacts will be barely perceptible to the human ear and will be temporary in
nature.
1.134 The operational noise assessment has shown that the noise generated by all
fixed plant associated with the development will be well within the criterion
limits for daytime, evening, and night-time at all three residential NSL’s and
the commercial NSL. It was also determined that the limits will be achieved
on the boundary of the site.
1.135 The operational assessment indicated that there will be imperceptible
residual impacts at all three residential NSL’s and at the commercial NSL and
a slight barely perceptible residual impact at the boundary of the site due to
slight increases over the current baseline levels.
1.136 Finally the assessment of operational traffic movements has indicted that
there will be an imperceptible residual impact at two of the residential NSL’s
(Locations 1 and 3) and a slight barely perceptible residual impact at the
remaining residential NSL (Location 2), the commercial NSL (Location 4) and
at the boundary of the site.
Mitigation
1.137 Based on all of the above it is considered that mitigation measures to reduce
construction and operational noise are unnecessary and noise will not prove
a material constraint to the development of the site.
Flora and Fauna
Introduction
1.138 SLR Consulting Ireland conducted an Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)
on the likely significant impacts on designated sites, habitats and species
from the construction and operation of the proposed development.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-31 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
Existing Environment
1.139 The application area covers 1.79 hectares of vacant land that is zoned for
heavy industry and comprises an area of made-ground typically comprised of
compacted stone but which also includes areas under concrete and a section
of asphalt road.
1.140 The application area is not subject to any non-statutory nature conservation
designations, but lies in close proximity to Huntstown Quarry Nature
Development Area (NDA) as identified in the Fingal Development Plan 2011-
2017. The NDA extends across parts of Huntstown Quarry and supports a
number of Fingal Biodiversity Action Plan target habitats and species.
1.141 All of the habitats present in the application area have low ecological and
conservation value.
1.142 The application area provides limited opportunities for flora and fauna. No
protected, rare or notable species of flora were recorded on, or immediately
adjacent to, the application area during the Habitat Survey conducted at this
site.
Impact Assessment
1.143 The construction works will not result in any direct land take, reduction of
habitat area, or habitat fragmentation within the Huntstown Quarry NDA.
1.144 No significant impacts are predicted on any target habitats including the
valued calcareous grassland areas within the Huntstown Quarry Nature
Development Area as a result of any stack emissions from the proposed
Renewable Bioenergy Plant at Huntstown.
1.145 No adverse direct or indirect impacts are predicted on any designated sites
from the construction and operation of the Renewable Bioenergy Plant.
Mitigation
1.146 All construction works and activities will be carried out in accordance with
“best practice” techniques, appropriate guidelines, and in a sensitive manner
with all due regard to current wildlife legislation.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-32 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
1.147 Whilst it is considered not likely that protected species are present within the
development site, it does not necessarily preclude their being present at a
later date. Therefore, prior to any activities on the site a pre-works inspection
by a fully qualified ecologist will be undertaken before any construction
activities commence at the site. Where necessary appropriate mitigation will
be put in place to ensure compliance with current wildlife legislation should
any protected, rare or notable species be found to be present for example
breeding birds or amphibians.
1.148 Lighting used on the site will use an appropriate lamp design and be sited to
ensure that overspill is controlled to avoid adverse light pollution of any
adjacent habitats outside the application site.
1.149 The surface water management and drainage strategy for the plant
incorporates source control SuDS including an underground attenuation tank.
There will be no significantly sized above ground waterbodies with the
potential to attract wildfowl that may pose a significant risk to aircraft using
Dublin Airport.
Soils and Geology
Introduction
1.150 The assessment considers the impact of the proposed development on the
soils and bedrock geology underlying the application area and surrounding
region. It is based on a desk study review of published geological
information, a comprehensive walkover of the site, and excavation of trial pits
to examine the underlying subsoil formations at the subject site.
Existing Environment
1.151 The subject site is underlain by glacial till derived from Carboniferous
limestones. The regional bedrock is comprised of Lower Carboniferous
limestones of Dinantian age, with Waulsortian Limestone underlying the
subject site. The depth to bedrock is generally more than 3m over much of
the site, with depths greater than 4.5m proven in places, reducing to 2.7m in
the northwest part of the site.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-33 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
Impact Assessment
1.152 Site investigation works have confirmed that the site is largely underlain by
made ground which has been developed on natural soils which were present
at the site. The impact on the natural soils remaining on the site will be
permanent as they will be excavated during the earthworks. However, this
impact is considered to be slight due to previous site development and the
limited extent of remaining natural soils at the site.
1.153 Earthworks for foundations of the proposed development are expected to
extend into the subsoils present beneath the site. Some subsoils will be
excavated and used elsewhere on site, but there will be no removal of
subsoils from the site.
1.154 It is not anticipated that the proposed development will extend into bedrock
beneath the site, so the underlying bedrock is not expected to suffer
significant structural impacts from the loading associated with the proposed
development. There will be no impact on the bedrock in the area.
1.155 Given the nature and thickness of the low permeability glacial tills that extend
across the subject site, the potential for any spillages to migrate off site is
considered low/negligible.
Mitigation
1.156 Standard approved working methods will be implemented in order to reduce
the risk of localised erosion and associated removal or runoff of subsoils
during the initial construction works. Any areas of bare or exposed subsoils
will be kept to a minimum, insofar as practicable.
1.157 To minimise the risk of accidental spillage of fuels and other contaminants
during the construction phase mitigation measures will be incorporated into
the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).
1.158 The avoidance of impacts is integral to the design and operation of the
proposed Plant. All unloading of waste material and all processing at the site
will be undertaken indoors under cover on a contained concrete surface to
ensure that no contamination escapes to ground. Washdown water from the
building floor will be captured and directed back into the digestion process.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-34 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
All process liquor and effluent, fuels and chemicals will be stored in a bunded
area or in double skinned storage tanks. All onsite vehicles will be regularly
maintained and checked to ensure any damages or leakages are repaired.
Any excess rainfall runoff, estimated to be approximately 12m3 per month,
will be discharged to the local surface water network following attenuation
and treatment in a petrol interceptor. There will be no discharge of
stormwater runoff to ground. The Plant is designed so that in the event of a
major accident at the facility, all contaminated runoff will be retained on site
for appropriate treatment and disposal.
Hydrology
Introduction
1.159 A hydrological impact assessment was undertaken by SLR Consulting and
describes the hydrology of the application area and surrounding region and
assesses the potential impact of the proposed development on the surface
water environment. It is based on a desk study review of published
hydrological data for the area, a review of previous hydrological
investigations carried out at the Huntstown Quarry complex, and a site
walkover.
Existing Environment
1.160 The site lies within the catchment of the Ballystrahan Stream which is a sub-
catchment of the Ward River to the north. All surface water runoff from the
site will drain north to the Ballystrahan Stream, which drains downstream to
the Ward River and ultimately to the Irish Sea at Swords.
1.161 The water quality in the Ballystrahan Stream is good however water quality in
the Ward River is poor, mainly due to diffuse agricultural pollution and
dredging. Drainage in the Ballystrahan Stream and Ward River has been
augmented by an Arterial Drainage Scheme implemented in the 1960s, with
ongoing maintenance by the OPW.
1.162 The combined discharge of treated water from Huntstown Quarry and
Huntstown Power Station is discharged to the Ballystrahan Stream under
licence at the northern boundary of the quarry site.
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Stream BioEnergy 1-35 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
1.163 The site in not located in a flood prone area, however preliminary flood risk
assessment mapping by the OPW suggests that there could be some pluvial
(rainfall) flooding at the site in an extreme event.
Impact Assessment
1.164 The site has been evaluated for Sustainable (Urban) Drainage Systems
(SuDS) and the most suitable measures have been incorporated into the
surface water management system design. The SuDS measures are
designed to manage and control surface water runoff from the development
and also to treat the runoff in order to remove any suspended solids and
hydrocarbons prior to discharge.
1.165 Water will be required on site for process activities and will be harvested from
the site rainfall runoff. The remainder of the runoff, which has been treated
and is clean will be discharged to the receiving water; this volume of excess
water for discharge from the site will be an average of 12m3 a month.
1.166 All surface water runoff discharged from the subject site will drain to the
north, to the Ballystrahan Stream, which lies within the Ward River
catchment. As there will be no discharge of surface water from the subject
site to the River Tolka catchment, there will be no impacts on this catchment
arising from the proposed plant.
Mitigation
1.167 During construction there will be plant and machinery required on site and as
a result it is appropriate to adopt best working practices and measures to
protect the local surface water. Accidental spillage of fuels or chemical
reagents and the generation of suspended solids on site pose a potential
contamination risk. To minimise this risk a number of mitigation measures
have been identified which will form part of a Construction Environmental
Management Plan (CEMP).
1.168 Potential operational impacts are substantially mitigated through avoidance
of impacts due to the incorporation of separate surface water and process
liquid and effluent management systems. Furthermore the plant will be
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Stream BioEnergy 1-36 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
operated in accordance with conditions and emission limits that will be set in
an EPA licence for the site.
Hydrogeology
1.169 The hydrogeological assessment is based on a desk study review of
published hydrogeological data for the area, a review of previous
hydrogeological investigations carried out at the Huntstown Quarry complex,
and a site walkover.
Existing Environment
1.170 The natural hydrogeological regime has been altered by dewatering
operations at the adjacent Huntstown Quarry which has lowered groundwater
levels in the area. Water level measurements indicate that the water table
beneath the subject site fluctuates from 1-2m below ground surface in winter
to 9-10m during drier periods of the year.
1.171 Groundwater beneath the proposed development flows toward depressions
in the water table that have been created by groundwater abstraction from
the quarry excavations to the west of the subject site.
1.172 The local bedrock formations are considered to have low bulk permeability
which is consistent with the GSI view that the bedrock in the area constitutes
locally important to poor aquifers.
1.173 Baseline groundwater quality indicates minimal organic contamination in the
area with hydrochemistry typical of groundwater from a limestone aquifer.
Impact Assessment
1.174 Construction at the site will be relatively shallow and is not expected to
significantly interfere with water levels beneath the site. Some temporary de-
watering could be required as concrete foundations are laid. This may
depend on the time of year that construction proceeds. This impact is
considered to be temporary in duration and the significance is considered to
be slight.
1.175 There are no direct or planned discharges to ground included as part of the
proposed development. Accidental discharges of process effluent or
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Stream BioEnergy 1-37 SLR Consulting Ireland Proposed Renewable Bioenergy Plant Huntstown, North Road, Finglas, Dublin11
hydrocarbons could have an adverse impact on groundwater if not fully
contained.
Mitigation
1.176 During construction plant and machinery will be required on site and as a
result it is appropriate to adopt best working practices and measures to
protect the underlying groundwater. To minimise risk a series of mitigation
measures will form part of a Construction Environmental Management Plan
(CEMP).
1.177 Accidental spillage of fuels or chemical reagents on site pose a potential
contamination risk. To minimise this risk the following mitigation measures
have been identified which will form part of a Construction Environmental
Management Plan (CEMP).
1.178 During the operational phase there will be no direct discharge to ground. All
waste materials and fuels will be stored and handled in areas that are
designed for containment. Emergency procedures will be put in place for
dealing with accidents or incidents that could lead to groundwater
contamination.
1.179 The proposed development will not impact on the quality or rate of any
groundwater abstractions in the area.
Cultural Heritage
Introduction
1.180 A cultural heritage assessment was undertaken by Kilkenny Archaeology.
The assessment took three forms: a desk-top study to examine a wide range
of cartographic and documentary sources, field inspection to identify potential
previously unidentified archaeological sites/areas of archaeological potential,
and monitoring of engineering trial pit excavations to provide information on
the nature of the underlying ground surface of the subject site.
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Existing Environment
1.181 There are no known recorded archaeological, architectural or other cultural
sites within the application area. The nearest Recorded Monument in the
SMR is 542m to the east of the subject site in the townland of Coldwinters.
1.182 There are 32 Recorded Monuments and 49 other cultural heritage sites
within 2km of the subject site. No previously recorded cultural heritage sites
are situated within the application site.
1.183 There are no entries within 2km of the subject site in the National Inventory of
Architectural Heritage for Fingal.
1.184 The field survey revealed nothing of archaeological significance.
1.185 One of the engineering trial holes (TP-1) exposed a nineteenth century
deposit containing a willow pattern sherd and also a 16th / 17th century
stoneware sherd. It is likely that this material was deposited, perhaps to level
the ground, at some point in the past.
1.186 The application area is considered to be an Area of Moderate Archaeological
Potential. This means there is a small to medium chance that archaeological
remains are present.
Impact Assessment
1.187 There is a small to medium possibility that works associated with the
proposed development will impact directly or indirectly upon unknown sub-
surface archaeological sites within the Area of Moderate Archaeological
Potential.
1.188 There will be no direct or indirect impacts on any known archaeological
heritage sites during the operational phase.
Mitigation
1.189 Mitigation measures are only deemed necessary for the construction phase
due to the small to medium possibility of the survival of unknown sub-surface
archaeological deposits or finds. The recommended mitigation is that an
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archaeologist be present to monitor all groundworks associated with the
construction phase of the site.
Traffic and Transport
Introduction
1.190 The Traffic and Transport Assessment was prepared by TrafficWise Limited
and provides a description of the transport arrangements for the proposed
Huntstown Renewable Bioenergy Plant. From a road safety and accessibility
perspective the subject site is considered to have a number of benefits. The
primary benefit is that the site is located adjacent to the national primary road
network, which will accommodate the vast majority of traffic coming to and
from the site.
Existing Environment
1.191 The primary access to the subject site is provided from North Road, R135.
The internal access road from North Road into the quarry is currently shared
by quarry traffic and traffic arising from Huntstown Power Station.
1.192 The traffic assessment has quantified existing traffic flows on a number of
roads in the vicinity of the application area. Existing traffic generated by the
Huntstown Quarry lands has also been quantified. It has been recognised
that the opening of the new N2-N3 link road scheme is likely to alter existing
traffic flow patterns in the vicinity of the site. Further to this a future extension
of this link road to Dublin Airport will provide further significant traffic flow
reductions on the local road network, however as of yet this scheme has not
been programmed for construction.
Impact Assessment
1.193 Development traffic generation has been estimated based upon the
assumption that 100% of the feedstock to be processed on site will be source
separated organic waste. This assumption has resulted in a worst case traffic
generation value, whereby it is estimated that 55No. vehicle trips per day
(38No. HGV trips and 16No. LGV trips) could be generated by the proposed
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development. During commuter peak hours it is estimated that 5No. HGV
trips could be generated.
1.194 Using computer traffic modelling programs PICADY and OSCADY a
comprehensive analysis of the existing and future performance of the local
road network has been undertaken. This has included the section of the N2
between the access to the Huntstown Quarry lands and Kilshane Cross
roads. Traffic models for the junctions of the Quarry access, the N2 Off-slip
road/North Road, the N2 ON-slip road/North Road and Kilshane Cross roads
show that in terms of capacity, queuing and delay these junctions are unlikely
to be adversely impacted upon as a result of the proposed development. The
assumptions adopted in preparing the traffic models have been clearly set
out and are considered to result in a robust analysis; the results of which can
be relied upon in determining the development traffic impact.
1.195 The existing quarry access is compliant with the DMRB standards for
national primary roads and recent accident records show that the relocation
of the original quarry access has not resulted in increased traffic hazard on
the North Road. Only a single minor injury accident has been recorded in the
vicinity of the access between 2005 and 2009 (the N2 dual carriageway
opened in 2006). Given the safety record of the existing access, it is
reasonable to presume that the modest intensification in vehicular use is
unlikely to create a significant traffic hazard.
Mitigation
1.196 Mitigation measures are required to facilitate traffic arising directly from the
proposed development. The developer will adhere to a routing policy to
ensure all movements are made via the strategic road network to avoid HGV
passing through residential areas as far as is practical; and a policy of safety
and environmental awareness for all HGV drivers accessing the site will be
employed.
1.197 Existing traffic flows combined with the traffic forecast to arise from the
proposed development is suitably accommodated by existing infrastructure.
Accordingly infrastructure improvement measures are not required to
facilitate the proposed development.
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1.198 On balance the development proposals are considered likely to have a
negligible impact in terms of highways and transportation.
Interactions of the Foregoing
1.199 While all environmental factors are inter-related to some extent, the
significant interactions and interdependencies were taken into consideration
by the specialist environmental consultants when drafting their technical
reports. Consequently, these interactions were integrated into the individual
sections of the main EIS.
1.200 In addition, to ensure a complete assessment of the environmental impact
arising from the scheme, all specialists involved with the preparation of the
EIS reviewed the relevant section(s) of the statement and contributed as
considered appropriate.
Overall Conclusions
1.201 A comprehensive assessment has been carried out of the potential
environmental impacts that could arise from the proposed development of a
Renewable Bioenergy Plant at Huntstown. It is concluded that, the proposed
development will not result in any unacceptable impact on the local
environment following the incorporation of mitigation measures proposed
within the EIS.
WHEN WILL THE PLANT BE OPERATIONAL?
1.202 Following the grant of planning permission, the site would undergo an
approximately 12 month construction programme. Therefore, should the
development be consented the plant would be expected to be operational in
2015.
HOW WILL THE PLANT BE REGULATED?
1.203 As a state-of-the-art plant this development will utilise the best modern
technologies and operating systems.
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1.204 Stream BioEnergy is committed to proactive monitoring and a collaborative
approach with the regulatory authorities to ensure that the highest standards
will be maintained
1.205 The plant will be operated in accordance with stringent regulatory controls
and limits and an EPA licence will impose an extensive range of conditions in
accordance with international and national threshold limits set for the
protection of human health. The plant will also be subject to environmental
performance reporting requirements which will be made publically available
through the EPA’s website.
1.206 An application for approval under the Animal By-products Regulations will be
made to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. All approved
plants are subject to regular monitoring inspections by the Department’s
Veterinary Inspectors.
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FIGURES
Figure 1-1 Regional Site Location Map
Figure 1-2 Roadstone Wood Landholding and Application Area
Figure 1-3 Process Flow Schematic
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