Lumcloon Energy Ltd. Proposed 350 MW Gas Fired Power Plant · Steam generated in the HRSGs is used...

Lumcloon Energy Ltd

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Lumcloon Energy Ltd.

Proposed 350 MW Gas Fired Power Plant

EU Habitats Article 6 Appropriate Assessment

WYG

July 2009

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REPORT CONTROL

Document: Appropriate Assessment for the Proposed Power Plant at Lumcloon

Project: Lumcloon AA

Client: Lumcloon Energy Ltd.

Job Number: CE07335

File Origin:

Document Checking:

Primary Author Joanne Allen-Hamilton Initialled:

Contributor Teri Hayes Initialled:

Review By Teri Hayes Initialled:

Issue Date Status Checked for Issue

1 09.07.09 DRAFT Teri Hayes

2 27.07.09 FINAL Colm Staunton

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Contents

1.0 INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................1

1.1 LEGISLATION ............................................................................................................1

1.2 STAGES OF AN APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT ...............................................................2

1.3 PROJECT BACKGROUND.............................................................................................2

1.4 METHODOLOGY.........................................................................................................4

2.0 STAGE 1: SCREENING MATRIX ............................................................................................5

3.0 REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY .....................................................................................15

Appendices Appendix A - Site Location Map Appendix B - NPWS Site Synopsis

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Lumcloon Power Plant: Appropriate Assessment CE07335 July 09

1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

This Article 6 Assessment, as described under the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC), has been produced by

WYG Environmental Ltd for a proposed 350MW Gas Fired Power Plant at Lumcloon, Co. Offaly on behalf of


At the outset of the project, it was agreed that a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) would be

required in support of the planning application for the development of the site. As part of the EIS scoping

process the need for an Article 6 Appropriate Assessment as per the Habitats Directive (1992) was

communicated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The aim of the Article 6 Appropriate Assessment

is to highlight any likely adverse impacts from the proposed development on any Natura 2000 sites. Natura

2000 sites includes both Special Areas of Conservation (SAC’s) and Special Protection Areas (SPA’s).

1.1 LEGISLATION

The purpose of an Appropriate Assessment is to assess potential adverse impacts on Natura 2000 sites.

This includes designated sites under both the EU Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the

Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna) and the EU Birds Directive (Council Directive

79/409/EEC on the Conservation of Wild Birds). For this reason designated sites protected under Irish

legislation, including Natural Heritage Areas (NHA’s) are not dealt with in this report.

Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of the EU Habitats Directive (1992) set out the regulatory restrictions on any plans or

projects likely to impact upon Natura 2000 sites. Article 6(3) establishes the requirements for an

appropriate assessment to be undertaken:

Article 6(3)

“Any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to

have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be

subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site's conservation

objectives. In the light of the conclusions of the assessment of the implications for the site and subject to

the provisions of paragraph 4, the competent national authorities shall agree to the plan or project only

after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned and, if

appropriate, after having obtained the opinion of the general public”.

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1.2 STAGES OF AN APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT

There are four stages of an Appropriate Assessment outlined in the European Commission Guidance

Document (2001), on which this report is based. These are as follows:

1. Stage One: Screening: This stage identifies an likely impacts upon a Natura 2000 site from a

project or plan, either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, and objectively

considers whether these impacts are likely to be significant.

2. Stage Two: Appropriate assessment: During this stage an assessment of the impact of the

project or plan, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects on the integrity of the

Natura 2000 sites is made.

3. Stage Three: Assessment of alternative solutions: this stage of the process examines

alternative ways of achieving the objectives of the project or plan that avoid adverse impacts on

the integrity of the Natura 2000 site.

4. Stage Four: Assessment where no alternative solutions exist and where adverse

impacts remain: This stage is undertaken where the plan or project should proceed for reasons of

overriding public interest and the compensatory measures are assessed to ascertain their

effectiveness in offsetting any adverse impacts of the plan or project.

1.3 PROJECT BACKGROUND

The c.11 acre development site is located in the townland of Lumcloon, approximately 8km south of

Ferbance and 30km south of Athlone and 20km west of Tullamore. The proposed development site is a

brown field site situated within the northern end of a former peat burning power station. The location map

shown in Appendix A also highlights the proximity of Natura 2000 sites. The site is situated within the

Shannon River Basin District with the Silver River located adjacent to the eastern boundary of the site which

flows north where it joins the Brosna River which joins the Shannon River approximately 13km

downstream. The site is surrounded by a mix of agricultural land, large parcels of cutaway bog and conifer

plantations.

The development is proposed on the site of the former ESBI 80MW milled peat fired power plant, which

was built in 1957 and closed in 2000. The station was subsequently decommissioned and in 2003 the

station buildings were demolished.

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Lumcloon Energy proposes to apply for planning permission for a 350MW comprising of two combined cycle

gas turbines (CCGT’s) sharing one steam turbine and one 100MW simple gas turbine. Natural gas supplied

by an Bord Gáis will be the main fuel for the plant. The electrical power generated will be exported from

the substation to the national grid. Once the facility is operation it is anticipated that 30 day and shift

workers will be employed onsite. The facility will comprise the following components:

• Gas Turbine Generator (GTG)

• Heat Recovery Steam Generator with exhaust stack (HRSG)

• Steam Turbine Generator (STG)

• Diesel storage tank – back up fuel

• Water treatment plant -demineralisation plant

• Chemical storage tanks – sulphuric acid and sodium hydroxide

• Water storage facilities

• Process waste water treatment system

• Surface water treatment system

• Foul water treatment system

• Air Cooled Condenser (ACC)

• Above Ground Gas Installation (AGI) and associated piping

• Transformers

• High Voltage Electrical Switchgear

• Switchyard

• Fire protection system

• 220 kV substation

• Building structures to house main plant as listed above

• Workshop / stores building

• Administration / control building

• Internal and access roads and parking

Wastewater from Proposed Development consists of the demineralisation plant and wastewater generated

from boiler blow-down. Wastewater from the demineralisation plant comprises water containing the salts

removed from the raw water or neutralised backwash of the resins from the demineralisation process.

Boiler blow-down comprises water which has been circulating in the water/steam cycle. Process wastewater

will be continuously generated from the plant while in combined cycle operation mode. There is little

wastewater generated while in open cycle mode. Typical normal wastewater volumes generated is

approximately 96m3 per day.

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Steam generated in the HRSGs is used to drive the steam turbine generators. The steam is then condensed

back to water via the air cooled condensers for reuse in the process. Therefore no cooling waters will be

discharged. Process effluents from the plant will be routed via the on-site process wastewater treatment

plant to effluent drainage system. The Process wastewater treatment plant will comprises a below ground

concrete structure containing a number of chambers which will allow agitating, pH and temperature

correction.

Continuous monitoring will be undertaken in the final chamber for dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity and

temperature. Treated process wastewater will then be discharged via the wastewater collection system to

the Silver River via the discharge point located in the north eastern corner of the site. Water for the plant

will be abstracted from groundwater at approximately 96m3/day and assessment of the sustainable yield

showed that drawdown is localised. Abstraction is not deemed not to have a negative impact upon the

Shannon River Callows Natura 2000 sites and Ferbane and Moyclare SAC’s as they are well outside the zone

of influence of the abstraction. Further information on the proposed development and the plant's process

effluent streams and treatments can be found in Chapter 2 of the EIS – Description of Proposed

Development.

1.4 METHODOLOGY

This assessment was reported using the templates provided in ‘Assessment of plans and projects

significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites’, European Union (2001). This report covers only Stage One of the

Appropriate Assessment.

A range of statutory and non-statutory bodies were consulted with during the preparation of the

Environmental Impact Statement. No bodies with the exception of the National Parks and Wildlife Service

who originally requested the Screening Stage of an Appropriate Assessment be undertaken, have been

consulted with during the Appropriate Assessment process to date.

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2.0 STAGE 1: SCREENING MATRIX

Note: as outlined in the guidelines, the impact of the development without appropriate mitigation measures

is considered in Stage 1 in view of the Precautionary Principle.

Screening Matrix

Brief description of the plan

or project

The proposed development site is located in the townland of

Lumcloon, approximately 8km south of Ferbance and 30km south of

Athlone and 20km west of Tullamore and is c.11 in size.

The site is approximately 16km upstream from the River Shannon

Callows SAC and Middle Shannon Callows SPA. The site is also

located approximately 6km south east from Ferbane Bog SAC and

7km south east of Moyclare bog.

The proposed development comprises a 350MW two combined cycle

gas turbines (CCGT’s) sharing one steam turbine and one 100MW

simple gas turbine. Natural gas will be supplied by Bord Gáis, the

main fuel for the plant. The electrical power generated will be

exported from the substation to the national grid. Once the facility

is operation it is anticipated that 30 day and shift workers will be

employed onsite. Water will be abstracted from the groundwater

and waste water will be processed in line with EPA requirements

and discharged to the Silver River.

Brief description of the Natura

2000 site

(extracted from site synopsis)

(Qualifying interests sourced

NPWS, 2008)

MOYCLARE BOG: 000581

Moyclare Bog is a small raised bog situated 4 km west of Ferbane -

its mean height above sea level is 54 m. On the western edge of the

bog, a low peatface with no perimeter drain lies adjacent to wet

peaty pasture, which has a spring-line at its junction with mineral

soil. The water from this spring disappears under the peat dome of

the bog.

Deleted: of

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Much of the bog surface is very wet, though not quaking, with an

almost 100% cover of bog mosses beneath a sparse cover of

Heather and abundant Deergrass. Active bog moss growth

approaches unusually close to the western margin of the bog, where

some trees of Scots Pine occur. A small flushed hollow on the dome

of the bog contains Soft Rush and the moss Sphagnum cuspidatum.

The bog becomes drier towards the northern boundary, especially

north of an old track which traverses the dome.

Fir Clubmoss (Huperzia selago), the rare Brown Beaked-sedge

(Rhynchospora fusca) and the liverwort (Pleurozia purpurea) occur

on the bog. Moyclare Bog has a largely intact and relatively wet

dome with a uniformly active cover of bog mosses. It is a bog of

good quality in an area where large scale harvesting of peat is on-

going, and where only small bogs remain - most of those

aredegraded and dry. As actively growing raised bogs are a rare

habitat throughout Europe, those found in Ireland have a particular

scientific and conservation value.

Qualifying interests of the SAC:

• Active raised bogs (7110)

• Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration

(7120)

• Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion

(7150)

FERBANE BOG: 000575

Ferbane Bog is a relatively large, domed, raised bog located about

10 km east of Shannonbridge. It is underlain by low permeability

Waulsortian limestone and clayrich tills. Much of the surface of the

bog is very wet and spongy and the cover of Bog Mosses and

lichens is generally good. A wet quaking area to the east occurs in a

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depression while another very wet quaking area on the western side

of the site has well-developed inter-connecting pools. A flushed area

occurs on the northern part of the site. Raised bogs, due to the high

water content of peat are vulnerable to activities which increase

water loss. Drainage is extensive at the site and has caused

significant drying out. Past peat-cutting and some active peat-

cutting have also speeded up water loss. However, although the

high bog has suffered some water loss, it is still in restorable

condition.

Ferbane Bog is a good example of a raised bog of a particular

topographical type and is of considerable conservation significance.

Raised bogs are becoming increasingly rare in Ireland and Europe

and are listed as a priority habitat on Annex I of the EU Habitats

Directive.


• Active raised bogs (7110)

• Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration

(7120)

• Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion

(7150)

RIVER SHANNON CALLOWS: 000216

The Shannon Callows has by far the largest area of lowland semi-

natural grassland and associated aquatic habitats in Ireland and one

in which there is least disturbance of natural wetland processes.

Botanically, it is extremely diverse with two legally protected species

of plants and many scarce species. Excellent examples of two

habitats listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive occur within

the site – Molinia meadows and lowland hay meadows with good

examples of a further two Annex habitats (both with priority status).

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In winter the site is internationally important for numbers and

species of waterfowl. In spring it feeds large numbers of birds on

migration. And in summer it holds very large numbers of breeding

waders, rare breeding birds and the endangered Corncrake, as well

as a very wide variety of more common grassland and wetland

birds. The presence of Otter, an Annex II species, adds further

importance to the site.


• Lowland hay meadows (Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis) (6510)

• Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clavey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) (6410)

• Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae) (91E0)

• Limestone pavements (8240)

• Otter Lutra lutra (1355)

MIDDLE SHANNON CALLOWS: 004096

The Shannon Callows has by far the largest area of lowland semi-

natural grassland and associated aquatic habitats in Ireland and one

in which there is least disturbance of natural wetland processes.

Botanically, it is extremely diverse. In winter the site is

internationally important for the total numbers of birds (regularly

exceed 20,000) and for Whooper Swan in particular. It also holds

nationally important populations of a further five species. Some of

the wintering species are listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive,

including Whooper Swan, Greenland White-fronted Goose and

Golden Plover. In summer the site supports important populations of

breeding waders. Perhaps the most important species which occurs

in the site is Corncrake (the site holds 40% of the national total), as

this is listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive and is Ireland’s

only globally endangered species.

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A full Site Synopsis for each site can be found in Appendix B.

Assessment Criteria

Describe the individual

elements of the project

(either alone or in

combination with other plans

or projects) likely to give rise

to impacts on the Natura

2000 site

Note: This assessment

assumes mitigation

measures are not in

operation

During Construction

• Untreated surface water run-off from the development site

which would enter the drainage ditch leading into the Silver

River and eventually the Shannon River. This would result in a

release of suspended solids and hydrocarbons which has the

potential if unmitigated to impact on water quality within the

Shannon River system.

Post Construction

• Discharge of foul waste water to the Silver River not treated to

acceptable EPA standards.

• Discharge of storm waste water to the Silver River not treated

to acceptable EPA standards.

• Discharge of pprocessed waste water to the Silver River not

treated to acceptable EPA standards.

• Accidental spillage/leak from the power plant and associated

works into the ground or surface water.

• Air emissions over EU Directive Limits resulting in chemical

deposition in the surrounding landscape.

Cumulative elements

Other known developments and their potential cumulative effects

are described below.

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• One off housing

Reduction in water quality due to increased pressure on

groundwater resources due to applications for one of housing in

the surrounding countryside.

Describe any likely direct,

indirect or secondary impacts

of the project (either alone or

in combination with other

plans or projects) on the

Natura 2000 site by virtue of:

• Size and scale;

• Land-take;

• Distance from Natura

2000 site or key

features of the site;

• Resource requirements

(water abstraction

etc);

• Emission ( disposal to

land, water or air);

• Excavation

requirements;

• Transportation

requirements;

• Duration of

construction,

operation,

Discharge to the Silver River, a tributary of the Shannon River.

As described above, the Silver River confluences with the Brosna

River which joins the Shannon River and Middle Shannon Callows

SAC approximately 13km downstream of the proposed development

site. Any discharge entering the Silver River during either or both

the construction and operation stage of the project will therefore

flow into the Shannon River and has potential to indirectly impact

the Middle Shannon Callows SAC qualifying interests.

Emission summary

Air emissions by nature have potential to be deposited within the

surrounding landscape and therefore have potential to be deposited

on Moyclare Bog SAC, Ferbane Bog SAC, Shannon Callows SAC and

Middle Shannon Callows SPA. Owing to the hydrogeology and

hydrology relationship of these systems, potential exists to alter the

chemical composition of these rain and groundwater fed systems.

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decommissioning etc;

• Other.

Describe any likely changes to

the site arising as a result of :

• Reduction of habitat area:

• Disturbance to key species;

• Habitat or species

fragmentation;

• Reduction in species

density;

• Changes in key indicators

of conservation value

(water quality etc).

The proposed development is not anticipated to have a direct

negative impact resulting in:

• Reduction of habitat area:

• Disturbance to key species;

• Habitat or species fragmentation;

• Reduction in species density;

Potential however does exist for ‘change in key indicators of

conservation value’ if discharges from the power plant are not

mitigated and discharge directly into the Silver River system,

upstream of the Shannon River Callows SAC and SPA.

3 separate water systems will discharge into the Silver River. These

consist of the;

Foul Waste Water Proprietary Treatment System will

ultimately discharge into the drainage ditch at the north of the site

which enters the Silver River. An Assimilative Capacity Calculation

was undertaken considering the highest potential discharge rate of

250m3/day, BOD5, Ammonia, Suspended Solids and Orthophosphate

concentrations were analysed and it was concluded that the impact

from discharges on water quality would be negligible.

Storm Water Drainage System which incorporates an oil/water

interceptor and attenuation tank before water is discharged into the

Silver River.

Processed Waste Water Treatment Works which receives

waste from waste water demineralisation plant (produces acidic and

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alkaline effluent adjusted to neutral pH prior to delivery to process

WWTP, boiler blow down tank, gas turbine compressor cleaning

solution and a temper filled system which contains temper agent

based on salts therefore biodegradable. The waste from the WWTP

will be agitated, pH neutralised, demineralised and temperature

corrected before discharging to the Silver River. As a result there

would be no discernable impact on water quality and temperature

variation will be less than one degree Celsius.

The quality of the discharge will comply with Integrated Pollution

Prevention and Control Licence (IPPC) issued by the EPA.

Potential also exists for alteration of the surrounding SAC’s from air

emissions. Chapter 11 of the EIS evaluates the emissions and

concludes that Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) emissions from the power

plant are expected to be ~11% of the annual mean limit value for

the protection of vegetation. At Moyclare Bog and Ferbane Bog

SAC’s, approximately 7km to the north east of the proposed

development site, the ambient annual mean NOx concentrations

directly due to process emissions will be insignificant. Sulphur

Dioxide (SO2) emissions at Moyclare Bog and Ferbane Bog SAC’s

concentrations directly due to process emissions will be insignificant.

Describe any likely impacts on

the Natura 2000 site as a

whole in terms of:

• Interference with the key

relationships that define

the structure of the site;

• Interference with key

relationships that define

the function of the site.

A hydrological study of the proposed development highlighted the

potential for impact on the Silver River water quality if mitigation

measures were not incorporated in the design (13km upstream of

Shannon Callows SAC and SPA) Potential contaminants could include

suspended solids, silt, hydrocarbons during the construction phase

through accidental spillage and surface water runoff. The main

threat during the operation phase to the aquatic system is

inadequately treated waste water from the various stages of the

processing plant, foul and surface run-off which may result in

nutrient enrichment or chemical contamination of the receiving

water body. For this reason stringent standards have been

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incorporated into the proposed development design as described

above.

Machinery working within the aquatic environment at the river bank

has the potential to produce pollutants both directly (from leaking

fuels, oil spills, etc.) and indirectly, as a result of the construction

work (i.e. suspended solids, leached pollutants etc.). Any pollutants

or accidental spills could potentially run untreated into the nearest

water body with serious negative consequences. For this reason

appropriate mitigation measures have been incorporated in the

development design, particularly during the construction phase.

Provide as a result of the

identification of effects set

out above in terms of:

• Loss

• Fragmentation

• Disruption

• Disturbance;

• Change to key elements

of the site (e.g. water

quality etc).

The potential threat to water quality of the Silver River, a tributary

of the Shannon River will not result in the loss, fragmentation,

disruption or disturbance to qualifying interests of the Shannon

Callows SAC or Middle Shannon Callows SPA. Discharge’s from

proposed development if managed incorrectly has potential to

negatively impact upon key elements of the Natura 2000 site’s, that

is water quality upon which the qualifying interests depend directly

and indirectly, mainly through food webs. An alteration in water

quality alters the biotic conditions on which many species depend

including both flora and fauna.

This potential impact is not perceived to be significant following the

implementation of standard practices and mitigation measures and

have been recorded as negligible (following mitigation) in the

hydrology sections of the EIS. Compliance of discharge water

quality with EPA IPPC standards will be continuously monitored

onsite using an automatic sampler positioned at the discharge point.

Describe from the above

those elements of the project

or plan, or combination of

elements, where the above

The main potential impact to the Natura 2000 sites downstream of

the proposed development is a potential reduction in water quality

standards of the receiving water to which treated waste water is

discharged. The assimilative capacity study described in the

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impacts are likely to be

significant or where the scale

or magnitude of impacts are

not known.

Hydrology Chapter of the EIS considered the highest potential

discharge rate of 250m3/day. Water quality data collected over the

last 10 years at Lumcloon Bridge was utilised in the study. It was

concluded from the results of the study that the potential impact to

water quality is negligible with Total Ammonia, Suspended Solids

and BOD5 concentrations within European Communities (Quality of

Salmonid Waters) Regulations 1988 (S.I. 293/1988). Using a

conservative approach, where Total Phosphorous is assumed to

equate to Orthophosphate, a very slight increase in background

Ortho-phosphate concentration is predicted, resulting from the

addition of effluent. However, it is considered that the slight

increase in phosphorus concentration resulting from the proposed

development will have a negligible impact on the water quality in

the river.

The impact of air emissions on surrounding Natura 2000 sites was

addressed in the air chapter of the EIS (Chapter 11) with the

potential impact form deposition from Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) and

Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) emissions deemed to be insignificant.

To conclude the above potential impacts are likely to result in

negligible or insignificant impacts on the receiving Natura 2000 sites

and their qualifying interests and for this reason Stage two of the

Appropriate Assessment was not initiated as per the European

Commission Guidance Document (2001).

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15

3.0 REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY

• DoEHLG, 15th February 2008. Circular Letter SEA 1/08 & NPWS 1/08, Appropriate Assessment of

Land Use Plans. Author: Peter Carvill, Assistant Principal, DoEHLG.

• European Commission, 1979. Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds.

European Commission, Brussels.

• European Commission, 1992. Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats

and of wild fauna and flora. (EC Habitats Directive). European Commission, Brussels. Official

Journal no. 206, 27.7.92.

• European Commission, 1999. Interpretation Manual of European Union of Habitats. European

Commission, Brussels.

• European Commission, 2001. Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting Natura 2000

sites – Methodological Guidance on the Provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive

92/43/EEC. European Commission, Brussels.

• Irish Government, 1976. The Wildlife Act (S.I. No. 39 of 1976). Dublin.

• Irish Government, 2000. The Wildlife (Amendment) Act, 2000 (S.I. No. 71 of 2001). Dublin.

• WYG, 2008. Draft Environmental Impact Statement at Hazelwood on behalf of Forest haze

Developments Ltd., Co. Sligo.

Websites consulted

• National Parks and Wildlife, Department of the Environment Heritage and Local Government

http://www.npws.ie

• Offaly County Council, Planning Webpage.

http://www.offaly.ie

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Lumcloon Energy Ltd


Hazelwood: Appropriate Assessment

CE06705 08.12.08

Appendix A

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Clara Bog

Grand Canal

Lough Coura

Mongan Bog

River Shannon Callows

Ferbane Bog

Moyclare Bog

River Shannon Callows

Woodville Woods

Clonlyon Glebe Bog

Clonydonnin Bog NHA

Lough Boora

Killeen Bog NHACamcor WoodDerrykeel Meadows

All Saints Bog And Esker

Kilcormac Esker

Clonaslee Eskers And Derry Bog

0 1,500 3,000 4,500 6,000750

Meters

Site Location

Note: Base Map Copyright Ordnance Survey Ireland and Government of Ireland Reproduced under licence, number EN 0004909

Legend10km Buffer Zone

NHA Natural Heritage Areas

SAC Special Areas of Conservation

SPA Special Protection Areas

© WYG

Drawn By: Igor Wodyk - ArcMap 9.3 WYG IrelandAppendix A

Job Number:CE07335

Finalised by: JH

Date: June 2009

Office: 1404

Site Location MapLumcloon Energy Ltd.

1:110,000

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Lumcloon Energy Ltd


Hazelwood: Appropriate Assessment

CE06705 08.12.08

Appendix B

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SITE SYNOPSIS

SITE NAME: FERBANE BOG

SITE CODE: 000575

Ferbane Bog is a relatively large, domed, raised bog located about 10 km east of

Shannonbridge. It is underlain by low permeability Waulsortian limestone and clay-

rich tills.

Much of the surface of the bog is very wet and spongy and the cover of Bog Mosses

(Sphagnum spp.) and lichens is generally good. A wet quaking area to the east occurs

in a depression and is characterised by a dominant growth of Hare's-tail Cottongrass

(Eriophorum vaginatum), while another very wet quaking area on the western side of

the site has well-developed inter-connecting pools. Around these wet areas is found a

slightly drier area with lawns of Sphagnum magellanicum and hummocks of S.

papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. imbricatum. Carnation Sedge (Carex panicea) is

present in abundance throughout the site, but particularly so on sloping areas. Purple

Moor-grass (Molinia caerulea) and Bog-myrtle (Myrica gale) occur in scattered

patches throughout the bog. Bog-rosemary (Andromeda polifolia) and Cranberry

(Vaccinum oxycoccos) are also found. A flushed area occurs on the northern part of

the site.

Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) and Birch (Betula sp.) trees have encroached onto the

high bog in the north, south, east and north-west. In the north and south these extend

approximately 300 m into the site. An areas of mixed woodland is included in the site

for hydrological reasons.

The vegetation of the older cutaway areas to the west, north and east of the site is

dominated by Birch and Gorse (Ulex europaeus), with areas of Bracken (Pteridium

aquilinum), Willow (Salix sp.), Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), Scots Pine and

Rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum) also found.

Raised bogs, due to the high water content of peat are vulnerable to activities which

increase water loss. Drainage is extensive at the site and has caused significant drying

out. Past peat-cutting and some active peat-cutting have also speeded up water loss.

However, although the high bog has suffered some water loss, it is still in restorable

condition.

Ferbane Bog is a good example of a raised bog of a particular topographical type and

is of considerable conservation significance. Raised bogs are becoming increasingly

rare in Ireland and Europe and are listed as a priority habitat on Annex I of the EU

Habitats Directive.

4.2.1997

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SITE SYNOPSIS

SITE NAME: MOYCLARE BOG

SITE CODE: 000581

Moyclare Bog is a small raised bog situated 4 km west of Ferbane - its mean height

above sea level is 54 m. On the western edge of the bog, a low peatface with no

perimeter drain lies adjacent to wet peaty pasture, which has a spring-line at its

junction with mineral soil. The water from this spring disappears under the peat dome

of the bog.

Much of the bog surface is very wet, though not quaking, with an almost 100% cover

of bog mosses (Sphagnum spp.) beneath a sparse cover of Heather (Calluna vulgaris)

and abundant Deergrass (Scirpus cespitosus). Cranberry (Vaccinium oxyccocos) is

especially abundant on lawns of the moss Sphagnum magellanicum.

Numerous small pools, mostly filled with the moss Sphagnum cuspidatum are present.

Active bog moss growth approaches unusually close to the western margin of the bog,

where some trees of Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) occur.

A small flushed hollow on the dome of the bog contains Soft Rush (Juncus effusus)

and the moss Sphagnum cuspidatum. The bog becomes drier towards the northern

boundary, especially north of an old track which traverses the dome.

Fir Clubmoss (Huperzia selago), the rare Brown Beaked-sedge (Rhynchospora fusca)

and the liverwort (Pleurozia purpurea) occur on the bog.

Moyclare Bog has a largely intact and relatively wet dome with a uniformly active

cover of bog mosses. It is a bog of good quality in an area where large scale

harvesting of peat is on-going, and where only small bogs remain - most of those are

degraded and dry. As actively growing raised bogs are a rare habitat throughout

Europe, those found in Ireland have a particular scientific and conservation value.

10.1.1997

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SITE SYNOPSIS

SITE NAME: RIVER SHANNON CALLOWS

SITE CODE: 000216

The River Shannon Callows is a long and diverse site which consists of seasonally

flooded, semi-natural, lowland wet grassland, along and beside the river between the

towns of Athlone and Portumna. It is approximately 50 km long and averages about

0.75 km wide (reaching 1.5 km wide in places). Along most of its length the site is

bordered by raised bogs - many, but not all, in the process of large-scale harvesting -

esker ridges and limestone-bedrock hills. The soils grade from silty-alluvial to peat.

This site has a common boundary, and is closely associated, with two other sites of

similar habitats, River Suck Callows and Little Brosna Callows.

The River Shannon Callows is mainly composed of lowland wet grassland. Different

plant communities occur, depending on elevation, and therefore their flooding

patterns. Two habitats listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive are well

represented within the site – Molinia meadows and lowland hay meadows. The

former is characterised by the presence of the Meadow Thistle (Cirsium dissectum)

and Purple Moor-grass (Molinia caerulea), while typical species in the latter include

Meadow Fescue (Festuca pratensis), Rough Meadow-grass (Poa trivialis), Downy

Oat-grass (Avenula pubescens), Common Knapweed (Centaurea nigra), Ribwort

Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) and Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa). In places these

two habitats grade into one another.

Low-lying areas of the callows with more prolonged flooding are characterised by

Floating Sweet-grass (Glyceria fluitans), Marsh Foxtail (Alopecurus geniculatus) and

wetland herbs such as Yellow Cress (Rorippa spp.), Water Forget-me-not (Myosotis

scorpioides) and Common Spike-rush (Eleocharis palustris). Most of the callows

consist of a plant community characterised by Creeping Bent (Agrostis stolonifera),

Brown Sedge (Carex disticha), Common Sedge (Carex nigra), and herbs such as

Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) and Marsh Bedstraw (Galium palustre). While the

more elevated and peaty areas are characterised by low-growing sedges, particularly

Yellow Sedge (Carex flava agg.) and Star Sedge (Carex echinata). All these

communities are very diverse in their total number of plant species, and include the

scarce species Meadow-rue (Thalictrum flavum), Summer Snowflake (Leucojum

aestivum), and Marsh Stitchwort (Stellaria palustris).

Two further Annex I habitats, both listed with priority status, have a minor though

important presence within the site. Alluvial forest occurs on a series of alluvial islands

just below the ESB weir near Meelick. Several of the islands are dominated by well

grown woodland of mainly Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Willows (Salix spp.). The

islands are prone to regular flooding from the river.

At Clorhane, an area of limestone pavement represents the only known example in Co

Offaly. It is predominantly colonised by mature hazel woodland, with areas of open

limestone and calcareous grassland interspersed. The open limestone pavement

comprises bare or moss covered rock or rock with a very thin calcareous soil cover

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supporting a short grassy turf. The most notable plant in the grassy area is a

substantial population of Green-winged Orchid (Orchis morio), which occurs with

such species as Sweet Vernal-grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum), Quaking Grass (Briza

media), sedges (Carex caryophyllea, C. flacca), Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil (Lotus

corniculatus), Common Knapweed (Centaurea nigra), and Narrow-leaved Plantain

(Plantago lanceolata). Ferns associated with the cracks in the paving include

Asplenium trichomanes, A. ruta-muraria, A. adiantum-nigrum, Polypodium australe.

Bryophytes include Grimmia apocarpa and Orthotrichum cf. anomalum. Anthills are

common within the open grassland. The Hazel wood is well-developed and has

herbaceous species such as Primrose (Primula vulgaris), Common Dog-violet (Viola

riviniana), Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella) and Herb Robert (Geranium

robertianum). The wood is noted for its luxuriant growth of epiphytic mosses and

liverworts, with such species as Neckera crispa and Hylocomium brevirostre. Yew

(Taxus baccata) occurs at one area.

Other habitats of smaller area but equal importance within the site are lowland dry

grassland, drainage ditches, freshwater marshes and reedbeds. The dry grassland

areas, especially where they exist within hay meadows, are species-rich, and of two

main types: calcareous grassland on glacial material, and dry grassland on levees of

river alluvium. The former can contain many Orchid species, Cowslip (Primula

veris), abundant Adder's-tongue Fern (Ophioglossum vulgatum) and Spring-sedge

(Carex caryophyllea), and both contain an unusually wide variety of grasses,

including False Oatgrass (Arrhenatherum elatius), Yellow Oatgrass (Trisetum

flavescens), Meadow Foxtail (Alopecurus pratense), and Meadow Brome (Bromus

commutatus). In places Summer Snowflake also occurs.

Good quality habitats on the edge of the callows included in the site are wet broad-

leaved semi-natural woodland dominated by both Birch (Betula pubescens) and Alder

(Alnus glutinosa) and dry broad-leaved woodland dominated by Hazel (Corylus

avellana). There are also areas of raised bog, fen on old cut-away bog with Black

Bog-rush (Schoenus nigricans), and a 'petrifying stream' with associated species-rich

calcareous flush which supports Yellow Sedge (Carex lepidocarpa), Blunt-flowered

Rush (Juncus subnodulosus) and Stoneworts (Chara spp.).

Two legally-protected plant species (Flora (Protection) Order 1999) occur in the site:

Opposite-leaved Pondweed (Groenlandia densa) in drainage ditches, and Meadow

Barley (Hordeum secalinum) on dry alluvial grassland. This is one of only two known

inland sites for the Meadow Barley in Ireland. The Red Data Book plant Green-

winged Orchid (Orchis morio) is known from dry calcareous grasslands within the

site, while the site also supports a healthy population of Marsh Pea (Lathyrus

palustris).

The site is of International Importance for wintering waterfowl as numbers regularly

exceed the 20,000 threshold (mean of 34985 for 5 winters 1994/94-1998/99). Of

particular note is an Internationally Important population of Whooper Swans (287).

A further five species have populations of national importance (all figures are means

for 5 winters 1995/96-1999/00): Mute Swan (349), Wigeon (2972), Golden Plover

(4254), Lapwing (11578) and Black-tailed Godwit (388). Species which occur in

numbers of regional or local importance include Bewick’s Swan, Tufted Duck,

Dunlin, Curlew and Redshank. The population of Dunlin is notable as it is one of the

few regular inland flocks in Ireland. Small flocks of Greenland White-fronted Goose

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use the Shannon Callows; these are generally associated with larger flocks which

occur on the adjacent Little Brosna Callows and River Suck Callows.

Shoveler (an estimated 12 pairs in 1987) and Black-tailed Godwit (Icelandic race)

(one or two pairs in 1987) breed within this site. These species are listed in the Red

Data Book as being threatened in Ireland. The scarce bird Quail is also known to

breed within the area. The Callows continues to hold over 40% of the Irish population

of the globally endangered Corncrake, although numbers have declined in recent

years. A total of 66 calling birds were recorded in 1999. The total population of

breeding waders (Lapwing, Redshank, Snipe and Curlew) in 1987 was one of three

major concentrations in Ireland and Britain. The breeding Redshank, numbers was

estimated at 10% of the Irish population, making it Nationally significant. Also, the

Annex I species Merlin and Hen Harrier are regularly reported hunting over the

callows during the breeding season and in autumn and winter.

This site holds a population of Otter, a species listed on Annex II of the EU Habitats

Directive, while the Irish Hare, which is listed in the Irish Red Data Book, is a

common sight on the callows.

The Shannon Callows are used for summer dry-stock grazing (mostly cattle, with

some sheep and a few horses), and permanent hay meadow. About 30 ha is a nature

reserve owned by voluntary conservation bodies. The River Shannon is used

increasingly for recreational purposes with coarse angling and boating accounting for

much of the visitor numbers. Intermittent and scattered damage to the habitats has

occurred due to over-deepening of drains and peat silt deposition, water-skiing,

ploughing and neglect of hay meadow (or reversion to pasture). However, none of

these can as of yet be said to be serious. Threats to the quality of the site may come

from the siting of boating marinas in areas away from centres of population, fertilising

of botanically-rich fields, the use of herbicides, reversion of hay meadow to pasture,

neglect of pasture and hay meadow, disturbance of birds by boaters, anglers,

birdwatchers and the general tourist. The maintenance of generally high water levels

in winter and spring benefits all aspects of the flora and fauna, but in this regard,

summer flooding is a threat to breeding birds, and may cause neglect of farming.

The Shannon Callows has by far the largest area of lowland semi-natural grassland

and associated aquatic habitats in Ireland and one in which there is least disturbance

of natural wetland processes. Botanically, it is extremely diverse with two legally

protected species of plants and many scarce species. Excellent examples of two

habitats listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive occur within the site – Molinia

meadows and lowland hay meadows with good examples of a further two Annex

habitats (both with priority status). In winter the site is internationally important for

numbers and species of waterfowl. In spring it feeds large numbers of birds on

migration. And in summer it holds very large numbers of breeding waders, rare

breeding birds and the endangered Corncrake, as well as a very wide variety of more

common grassland and wetland birds. The presence of Otter, an Annex II species,

adds further importance to the site.

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SITE SYNOPSIS

SITE NAME: MIDDLE SHANNON CALLOWS SPA

SITE CODE: 004096

The Middle Shannon Callows SPA is a long and diverse site which extends for

approximately 50 km from the town of Athlone (at southern point of Lough Ree) to

the town of Portumna (northern point of Lough Derg). The site averages about 0.75

km in width though in places is up to 1.5 km wide. Water levels on the site are greatly

influenced by the very small fall between Athlone and Portumna and by the weir at

Meelick. The Shannon Callows has a common boundary with two other sites of

similar habitats, the River Suck Callows and the Little Brosna Callows, both of which

are also Special Protection Areas.

The site has extensive areas of callow, or seasonally flooded, semi-natural, lowland

wet grassland, along both sides of the river. The callows are mainly too soft for

intensive farming but are used for hay or silage or for summer grazing. Other habitats

of smaller area which occur alongside the river include lowland dry grassland,

freshwater marshes, reedbeds and wet woodland. Along most of its length the site is

bordered by raised bogs, now mostly exploited for peat, esker ridges and limestone-

bedrock hills. The diversity of semi-natural habitats and the sheer size of the site

attracts an excellent diversity of bird species and significant populations of several

species.

The composition of the lowland wet grassland varies, depending on elevation and

flooding patterns. Two habitats listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive are

well represented within the site – Molinia meadows and lowland hay meadows. The

former is characterised by the presence of the Meadow Thistle (Cirsium dissectum)

and Purple Moor-grass (Molinia caerulea), while typical species in the latter include

Meadow Fescue (Festuca pratensis), Rough Meadow-grass (Poa trivialis), Downy

Oat-grass (Avenula pubescens) and Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa). In places these

two habitats grade into one another.

Low-lying areas of the callows with more prolonged flooding are characterised by

Floating Sweet-grass (Glyceria fluitans), Marsh Foxtail (Alopecurus geniculatus) and

wetland herbs such as Yellow Cress (Rorippa spp.), Water Forget-me-not (Myosotis

scorpioides) and Common Spike-rush (Eleocharis palustris). Most of the callows,

however, consist of a plant community characterised by Creeping Bent (Agrostis

stolonifera), Brown Sedge (Carex disticha), Common Sedge (Carex nigra), and herbs

such as Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) and Marsh Bedstraw (Galium palustre).

Scarce plant species associated with the grassland include Meadow-rue (Thalictrum

flavum), Summer Snowflake (Leucojum aestivum) and Marsh Stitchwort (Stellaria

palustris).

The dry grassland areas, especially where they exist within hay meadows, are species-

rich, and can contain many orchid species and such species as Cowslip (Primula

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veris), Adder's-tongue Fern (Ophioglossum vulgatum) and Spring-sedge (Carex

caryophyllea), as well as an unusually wide variety of grasses. In places along the

edge of the callows there occurs wet broad-leaved woodland dominated by both Birch

(Betula pubescens) and Alder (Alnus glutinosa) and dry broad-leaved woodland

dominated by Hazel (Corylus avellana). There are also areas of raised bog and fen on

old cut-away bog with species such as Black Bog-rush (Schoenus nigricans).

Two legally-protected plant species (Flora (Protection) Order 1999) occur in the site:

Opposite-leaved Pondweed (Groenlandia densa) in drainage ditches, and Meadow

Barley (Hordeum secalinum) on dry alluvial grassland. The Red Data Book plant

Green-winged Orchid (Orchis morio) is known from dry calcareous grasslands within

the site, while the site also supports a healthy population of Marsh Pea (Lathyrus

palustris).

The Middle Shannon Callows qualifies as a site of International Importance for

wintering waterfowl both on the total numbers regularly exceeding 20,000 birds (for

example 27,581 in winter 1998/99) and for the Whooper Swan population (287 –

average peak count 1995/96-1999/00). Whooper Swan is listed on Annex I of the EU

Birds Directive. Five further species occur in numbers of national importance (all

figures are average peaks for winters 1995/96-1999/00) - Mute Swan 349, Wigeon

2,972, Golden Plover (listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive) 4,254, Lapwing

11,578 and Black-tailed Godwit 388. For some of these species, peak counts in the

period have been considerably higher than the averages, such as 1,096 Black-tailed

Godwits and 23,839 Lapwings. The importance of the site for species like Black-

tailed Godwit and Whimbrel may have been underestimated if count coverage missed

the brief spring peaks for these species. A wide range of other species occur in

numbers of regional or local importance, including Bewick’s Swan (listed on Annex I

of the EU Birds Directive) 7, Teal 77, Tufted Duck 33, Dunlin 369, Curlew 129,

Redshank 31 and Black-headed Gull 1,061. Small numbers of Greenland White-

fronted Goose (listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive) use the Shannon Callows

(average 21, peak 55) and these are generally associated with larger flocks which

occur on the adjacent Little Brosna Callows and River Suck Callows. The callow

grasslands provide optimum feeding grounds for these various species of waterfowl,

while many of the birds also roost or rest within the site.

The site is also of national importance for breeding waterfowl. The total population

of breeding waders (Lapwing, Redshank, Snipe and Curlew) on the Shannon and

Little Brosna Callows in 1987 was one of three major concentrations in Ireland and

Britain. Since then, however, numbers of at least Lapwing and Redshank have shown

serious declines (a full survey of the callows is being carried out in 2002). For

example, at a monitoring site at the callows at Shannon Harbour, numbers of Lapwing

fell from 29 to 10 pairs and Redshank from 26 to 10 pairs between 1987 and 1994.

Black-tailed Godwit, a very rare breeding species in Ireland, nests or attempts to nest

in small numbers each year within the site. A further scarce breeding species,

Shoveler, also nests in small numbers each year (an estimated 12 pairs in 1987).

The Shannon Callows continues to hold approximately 40% of the Irish population of

Corncrake, a species of global conservation concern that is also listed on Annex I of

the EU Birds Directive. Between 1997 and 2001, the average number of calling birds

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was 60, with a peak of 69. BirdWatch Ireland, in association with Dúchas and the

RSPB, operate a grant scheme to encourage farming practices that favour the

Corncrake and this has probably been responsible for the stabilisation of numbers in

recent years. A related scarce species, the Quail, is also known to breed within the

callow grasslands.

A good variety of other bird species are attracted to this site. Birds of prey, including

scarce species such as Merlin (listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive) and

wintering Hen Harrier (listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive), are regularly

reported hunting over the callows. A range of passerine species associated with

grassland and swamp vegetation breed, including Sedge Warbler, Grasshopper

Warbler, Skylark and Reed Bunting. Kingfisher (listed on Annex I of the EU Birds

Directive is also regularly seen within the site. Whinchat, an uncommon breeding

species, occur in small numbers.

The wintering waterfowl within the Shannon Callows are difficult to monitor due to

the size and inaccessibility of large parts of the site. In each winter there is usually

one complete aerial census, as well as partial land-based counts. The population of

Corncrake within the site is monitored each year and research is carried out on various

aspects of the species’ ecology. The breeding waders are also surveyed at intervals.

About 30 ha of the callows is a nature reserve owned by voluntary conservation

bodies.

The Shannon Callows has by far the largest area of lowland semi-natural grassland

and associated aquatic habitats in Ireland and one in which there is least disturbance

of natural wetland processes. Botanically, it is extremely diverse. In winter the site

is internationally important for the total numbers of birds (regularly exceed 20,000)

and for Whooper Swan in particular. It also holds nationally important populations

of a further five species. Some of the wintering species are listed on Annex I of the

EU Birds Directive, including Whooper Swan, Greenland White-fronted Goose and

Golden Plover. In summer the site supports important populations of breeding

waders. Perhaps the most important species which occurs in the site is Corncrake (the

site holds 40% of the national total), as this is listed on Annex I of the EU Birds

Directive and is Ireland’s only globally endangered species.

20.6.2002

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EPA Export 10-03-2011:03:37:39

WD4

ED3

ED2

GA1

BL3

WL2WL2

WL2

WL2

GS2

GS2

GS4

GS2

GS2

WD4

GS2

FW1

FW4

BL2BL2

GS2

BL3

GS2

GS2

GS2

FW4

BL3

ED2

FL8

BL3

WL1

BL3

WL1

WL2WL2

WL2

WL1

BL3

TN5

TN6

TN2TN1

TN3

TN5

TN5

TN4

Legend

Site Boundary

BL3-Buildings and artificial stonework

ED2-Spoil and bare ground

ED3-Reconising bare ground

FL8-Other artificial lakes and ponds

FW1-Eroding/upland rivers

FW4-Drainge ditches

GA1-Improwed agricultural grassland

GS2-Dry meadows and grassy verges

GS4-Wet Grassland

WD4-Conifer plantation

WL1-Hedgerows

WL2-Treelines

Bird Sampling Point

0 25 50 75 10012.5

Meters1:2,000

© WYG

Drawn By: Igor Wodyk - ArcMap 9.3


WYG Ireland

Job Number:CE7335Finalised by: JH

Date: Feb. 2009Office: 1404

Site Habitat Map

Appendix 10.1

BSP

BSP1

BSP3

BSP2

[Print] | [Close] | [Export CSV][Glossary] [-] Grid 10K 17 found

SPECIES COMMON_NAME LOCATION TENKM_SQUARE FULL_GRID RECORDED_DATE HD_II HD_IV HD_V WA_INCL_FPO RED Show Map

Print Map

Dama dama Fallow deer Iusmagh N01 11/15/90 1

Galeopsis angustifolia Red Hemp Nettle Coneycarn Pit N01 N004105 06/08/1991 1 V

Groenlandia densa Opposite-leaved Pondweed Shannon Harbour N01 N030180 1992 1 V

Hordeum secalinum Meadow Barley Minus Island N01 N023185 14/07/1998 1 V

Hordeum secalinum Meadow Barley Banagher N01 N010155 17/07/1998 1 V

Hordeum secalinum Meadow Barley Minus Island N01 N023185 1993 1 V

Hordeum secalinum Meadow Barley Banagher N01 N010155 1993 1 V

Sciurus vulgaris Red Squirrel Clareen N10 04/12/90 1

Dama dama Fallow deer Eglish N11 03/07/90 1

Acinos arvensis Basil Thyme Derry Hills N21 N270121 14/06/1991 1 V

Acinos arvensis Basil Thyme Derry Hills N21 N270121 1985 1 V

Lutra lutra Otter Ballyboy N21 04/24/90 II IV 1 II

Lutra lutra Otter Ballyboy N21 N2010 04/24/90 II IV 1 II

Martes martes Pine Marten Ballyboy N21 04/24/90 V 1 II

Sciurus vulgaris Red Squirrel Ballyboy N21 04/24/90 1

Dama dama Fallow deer Pollagh N22 10/23/90 1

Dama dama Fallow deer Pollagh N22 N2020 10/23/90 1

[-] Natural Heritage Areas 0 found

Site Code Site Name SY Doc CP Doc SI Doc Show Map

Print Map

[-] Proposed Natural Heritage Areas 8 found


Print Map

000567 Banagher (Domestic Dwelling, Occupied)

000575 Ferbane Bog

000581 Moyclare Bog

000893 Clonlyon Glebe Bog

000906 Kilcormac Esker

000909 Lough Coura

Page 1 of 2Detailed Data

17/06/2009http://www.designatednatureareas.ie/mapviewer/DetailedData.aspx?Language=en-IE

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001365 Lough Boora

002104 Grand Canal

[-] Special Areas of Conservation 2 found

Site Code Site Name SY Doc CP Doc Show Map

Print Map

000575 Ferbane Bog

000581 Moyclare Bog

[-] Special Protected Areas 0 found


Print Map

Page 2 of 2Detailed Data

17/06/2009http://www.designatednatureareas.ie/mapviewer/DetailedData.aspx?Language=en-IE

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Assessment Criteria (Determining Sensitivity of Receptor)

The methodology for evaluation of the nature conservation value (sensitivity) of ecological receptors

(habitats and species) affected by the proposed development is adapted from the current Institute of

Ecology & Environmental Management (IEEM) guidelines (IEEM 2006). These guidelines recommend

assignment of value (or potential value) to ecological receptors in accordance with the following

scale:

• International (i.e. Europe);

• National (i.e. Ireland);

• County (i.e. Co. Offaly);

• District (i.e. Ferbane and the surrounding area);

• Local (i.e. Lumcloon and its environs); and

• Site (i.e. within the immediate zone of the application site*).

*The zone of influence for a development is difficult to define, but for the purposes of this study,

the zone of influence within which potential direct effects on flora and fauna may be reasonably

anticipated is within the application site boundaries and the immediate area around the

application site.

The IEEM guidelines recommend that the process of identifying the characteristics of the impacts

should be made explicit by referring to the following when describing impacts: confidence in

predictions, positive or negative, magnitude, extent, duration, reversibility, timing and frequency, and

cumulative effects. These are detailed within the following sections, where appropriate.

The recommendations for predicting and characterising ecological impacts contained in the IEEM

guidelines have been followed in broad terms.

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Recommendations for Ecological Impacts

Confidence in Predictions

Consideration is given to the likelihood that an impact will occur as predicted. This describes whether

the impact is certain/near certain (probability estimated at >95% chance), probable (probability

estimated at >50% - <95%), unlikely (probability estimated at >5% - <50%) or extremely unlikely

(probability estimated at <5%) to occur.

Positive or Negative

Consideration is given to whether the impact is adverse or beneficial.

Magnitude

Magnitude of impact describes the level of severity of the influence, for example, complete loss of a

habitat. Categories are defined as follows:

General Methodology for Assessing Magnitude

Scale of Impact Description

Substantial Impact resulting in a considerable change in baseline environmental conditions

(i) with severe undesirable/desirable consequences on the receiving environment or (ii) causing statutory objectives to be exceeded.

Moderate

Impact resulting in a discernible change in baseline environmental conditions (i) with undesirable/desirable conditions or

(ii) possibly causing statutory objectives to be exceeded.

Slight Impact resulting in a discernible change in baseline environmental conditions with

undesirable/desirable conditions that can be tolerated.

Negligible No discernible change in baseline environmental conditions.

Note: An impact which caused a breach in legislation would be substantial however it is assumed that

all environmental legislation will be adhered to in carrying out the development.

Extent

This refers to the size or amount of the impact, which is determined on a quantitative basis, where

possible; for example, a loss of 5Ha of habitat and the percentage loss of the total area where

known.

Duration

The size of the impact will also depend on duration. This is the length of time before which

mitigation measures are expected to reverse or instigate recovery of the ecological receptor. Where

possible, duration is considered in ecological terms and relates to the specific species/habitats and

their lifecycles.

Reversibility

A permanent impact is usually one that is irreversible where there are no practical options available

for a course of action to lower/remove the impact. A temporary impact is usually one that is

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reversible. Reversal could occur over time and by natural regeneration, by spontaneous recovery or

through the implementation of mitigation.

Timing and Frequency

This considers whether the impact will coincide with a critical stage of a lifecycle, for example, the

bird nesting season, which may be avoided by altering the scheduling of works. Frequency relates to

the regularity of an impact, for example, whether the impact is occasional or continual.

Cumulative Effects

The cumulative effects on the same resources/features taking into account other current proposals,

completed projects and natural trends.

Significance Criteria

In assessing significance, the IEEM guidelines suggest making a decision about whether an impact is

positive, neutral or negative and significant or not, independent of the value of the receptor. In the

first instance, significance is determined at the geographical level at which the resource has been

valued. If an impact is found not to be significant at this level, it is then considered at progressively

lower levels.

The significance of the impacts has been assessed for each ecological receptor (or sensitive receptor)

in the form of habitats and species from both the construction and the operational phases of the

proposed development. The full range of effects, from all stages of the proposed development and

the magnitude of the impacts on each of the identified ecological receptors is set out within the text.

The ‘significance’ of the impact is calculated by comparing the sensitivity of the receptor and the

magnitude of the effect as outlined in Table 4.5.3 generating the following generic definition of

potential effects:

Impact Significance Matrix

Magnitude of Impact Importance of Receptor

Substantial Moderate Slight Negligible

International Major Major - Moderate Moderate - Minor Negligible

National Major Major - Moderate Moderate - Minor Negligible

District or County Major - Moderate Moderate - Minor Minor Negligible

Local or Site Moderate - Minor Minor Minor - Negligible Negligible

Residual Impacts

The residual impacts of the development have been considered in the short-term (0-10 years post-

development) and the longer-term (10-25 (and beyond) years post-development). Impacts have

been assessed as being significant or not significant and positive or negative against the assessment

criteria, following the guidelines by IEEM and the assessment methodology above.

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