Natura Impact Statement - tipperarycoco.ie 4-6011...Signs (Bang and Dahlstrom, 2001), and The Mammal...

Natura Impact Statement

Newport Town Park,

Co. Tipperary

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18150-6011-C Natura Impact Statement September 2018

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ISSUE FORM

Project number 18150

Document number 6011

Document revision C

Document title Natura Impact Statement: Newport Town Park

Document status Issued for client

Document prepared by Gerard Hayes (Senior Ecologist, B.Sc. Ed., MCIEEM) August 2018

Document checked by Hazel Dalton (Senior Ecologist, B.Sc. Wildlife Biology) September 2018


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Table of contents

1 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS ............................................................................................ 5

1.1 Natura Impact Statement .................................................................................................. 5

2 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................... 6

3 METHODOLOGY ......................................................................................................... 6

3.1 Appropriate Assessment Guidance .................................................................................... 6

3.2 Desk Study ........................................................................................................................ 6

3.3 Field Surveys ..................................................................................................................... 7

3.4 Assessment of Potentially Significant Effects ..................................................................... 7

4 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ................................................................................... 8

4.1 Brief Project Description ................................................................................................... 8

4.2 Purpose of the Project..................................................................................................... 10

4.3 Site Location and Context ................................................................................................ 10

4.4 Characteristics of the Project ........................................................................................... 12

4.4.1 Riparian Leave Strip Exclusion Zone .................................................................................................... 13

4.4.2 Protection of Watercourses (General Measures) ............................................................................... 13

4.4.3 Fuel and Oil Management ................................................................................................................... 14

4.4.4 Storage ................................................................................................................................................ 14

4.5 Description of the Receiving Environment ....................................................................... 15

4.5.1 Habitats ............................................................................................................................................... 15

4.5.2 Surface Water ..................................................................................................................................... 19

4.5.3 Hydrogeology ...................................................................................................................................... 20

4.5.4 Otter .................................................................................................................................................... 20

4.5.5 Fish ...................................................................................................................................................... 21

4.6 Identification of Other Projects, Plans and Activities ........................................................ 22

4.6.1 Newport Town Wastewater Treatment Plant ..................................................................................... 22

4.6.2 Licenced Sites ...................................................................................................................................... 23

4.6.3 Planning Applications .......................................................................................................................... 23

4.6.4 Ongoing Activities ............................................................................................................................... 23

5 NATURA 2000 SITE – LOWER RIVER SHANNON CSAC ................................................ 26

5.1 Description of the Lower River Shannon cSAC .................................................................. 26

5.1.1 Identification of Potentially Significant Impacts to Qualifying Features ............................................. 27

5.2 Assessment of Potentially Significant Effects ................................................................... 37

5.2.1 Water Quality ...................................................................................................................................... 37

5.2.2 Habitat loss.......................................................................................................................................... 38

5.2.3 Habitat alteration ................................................................................................................................ 38

5.2.4 Disturbance and/or displacement of species ...................................................................................... 39

5.2.5 Habitat or species fragmentation ....................................................................................................... 39


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5.3 Assessment of Effect on Lower River Shannon cSAC Consevation Objectives .................... 39

5.3.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 39

5.3.2 Floating River Vegetation .................................................................................................................... 40

5.3.3 Sea Lamprey ........................................................................................................................................ 42

5.3.4 River Lamprey ..................................................................................................................................... 43

5.3.5 Brook Lamprey .................................................................................................................................... 45

5.3.6 Atlantic Salmon ................................................................................................................................... 46

5.3.7 Otter .................................................................................................................................................... 47

5.4 Assessment of Potentially Significant Cumulative Effects ................................................. 48

5.5 Mitigation ....................................................................................................................... 48

5.5.1 Method statements ............................................................................................................................ 49

5.5.2 Project ecologist .................................................................................................................................. 50

5.5.3 Invasive Species Control ...................................................................................................................... 50

5.5.4 Landscaping ......................................................................................................................................... 50

5.5.5 Otters .................................................................................................................................................. 51

5.5.6 Temporary Construction Compound .................................................................................................. 51

5.5.7 Soil Stripping and Excavation Works ................................................................................................... 52

5.5.8 Storage and Stockpiles of Excavated Material .................................................................................... 52

5.5.9 Drainage Controls ................................................................................................................................ 52

5.5.10 Hydrocarbon Control ...................................................................................................................... 53

5.5.11 Concrete Control and Wheel Washing ........................................................................................... 53

5.5.12 Storage ............................................................................................................................................ 54

5.5.13 Waste management ....................................................................................................................... 54

5.6 Residual Impacts ............................................................................................................. 55

5.7 Conclusion ...................................................................................................................... 55

6 FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................... 55

7 REFERENCES ............................................................................................................ 57


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Table of tables Table 1: List of habitats identified at the proposed Newport Town Park site (and Newport River). ... 15

Table 2: Impacts and activities with high effect on the Lower River Shannon cSAC. (Adapted from the

Natura Standard Form). ........................................................................................................................ 25

Table 3. Identification of potentially significant impacts to qualifying features of the Lower River

Shannon cSAC ....................................................................................................................................... 29

Table of figures

Figure 1: Masterplan of the proposed Newport Town Park. .................................................................. 9

Figure 2: Site location in Newport, Co. Tipperary. ................................................................................ 11

Figure 3: Habitat map for the proposed Newport Town Park development site. ................................ 16

Figure 4: Water regions, water quality and activities potentially affecting water quality in the

Newport River catchment. .................................................................................................................... 21

Figure 5: Extent of the Lower River Shannon cSAC and the habitats of conservation interest. Inset

maps detail the woodland habitats closest to the proposed development. ........................................ 28

Figure 6: Otter habitat extents at and adjacent to the proposed development site. .......................... 36

List of appendices

Appendix 1 Screening for Appropriate Assessment Report

Appendix 2 Lower River Shannon cSAC Site Synopsis

Appendix 3 Giant Hogweed Control Plan (incl. map)

Appendix 4 Environmental Commitments

Appendix 5 Outline Non-native Invasive Species Management Plan


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1 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

1.1 NATURA IMPACT STATEMENT

Project Title Newport Town Park

Project Proponent Tipperary County Council

Project Location Newport, County Tipperary

Natura Impact

Statement

In cases where an Appropriate Assessment is required a Natura Impact

Statement (NIS) is prepared and includes a report of a scientific

examination of evidence and data, carried out by competent persons to

identify and classify any implications of a project, individually, or in

combination with other plans or projects, for Natura 2000 sites in view of

the conservation objectives of the site.

Conclusion

Provided that the recommended mitigation measures are implemented

in full, it is not expected that significant impacts will result to the

qualifying features identified for appraisal in this NIS and thus it is not

expected that the proposal will have an adverse impact on the integrity

of Natura 2000 sites.


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2 INTRODUCTION

Appropriate Assessment is the consideration of the impact of the project, either alone or in

combination with other plans or projects on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site, with respect to the

site’s ecological structure and function, and conservation objectives. Additionally, mitigation of

these impacts can be considered. A Screening for Appropriate Assessment was completed and

determined the need for full Appropriate Assessment (see Appendix 1), where effects on the Lower

River Shannon cSAC were assessed as potentially significant, or uncertain. The site synopsis for the

Lower River Shannon cSAC1 is provided in Appendix 2.

In cases where an Appropriate Assessment is required a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) shall be

prepared and shall include a report of a scientific examination of evidence and data, carried out by

competent persons to identify and classify any implications for Natura 2000 sites in the view of the

conservation objectives of the site. The aim of the assessment is to provide a sufficient level of

information to the competent authority on which to base their appropriate assessment of the plan

or project. The plan or project should be fully described particularly in relation to the aspects that

could interact with the surrounding environment. The proposed Town Park at Newport, Co.

Tipperary, has been fully described in Section 4 below.

The focus of the assessment is to determine whether the construction and operation of the project

will have a significant negative impact on the features of interest of a Natura 2000 site(s) i.e. habitats

and species. This assessment identifies the environmental aspects of the project, in this case the

Town Park at Newport, Co. Tipperary, that will interact with the ecological requirements or

sensitivities of the habitats and species.

The test of the assessment is whether the plan or project will have ‘an adverse effect on the integrity

of the site’. Where potentially significant effects are identified proven mitigation measures will be

recommended.

3 METHODOLOGY

3.1 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT GUIDANCE

This Natura Impact Statement has been undertaken in accordance with the European Commission

Methodological Guidance on the provision of Article 6(3) and 6(4) of the ‘Habitats’ Directive

92/43/EEC (EC, 2001) and the European Commission Guidance ‘Managing Natura 2000 sites’ (EC,

2000) and guidance prepared by the NPWS (DoEHLG, 2009).

3.2 DESK STUDY

In order to complete the Natura Impact Statement certain information on the existing environment

is required. A desk study was carried out to collate available information on the site’s natural

environment. This comprised a review of the following publications, data and datasets:

OSI Aerial photography and 1:50000 mapping, and other mapping sources (online)

1 https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/synopsis/SY002165.pdf

https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/synopsis/SY002165.pdf


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National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) (online) including:

o Conservation Objectives

o Site data

o Article 17 reports for habitats and species

MulkearLIFE+ Nature Project

National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) (online)

Teagasc soil area maps (NBDC website)

Geological Survey Ireland (GSI) area maps (online)

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)(online) including:

o EPA maps

o Licence reports

Shannon River Basin District (ShRBD) datasets (Water Framework Directive) (online)

IFI WFD Fish Survey Map

Guidance for Competent Authorities when dealing with proposals affecting SAC freshwater

sites (SNH, 2006)

Other information sources and reports footnoted or referenced in the course of the report

3.3 FIELD SURVEYS

An ecological field survey was conducted by staff ecologists with Malachy Walsh and Partners

Environmental Consultants during July 2017. The aim of this survey was to characterise the site and

environs and establish the ecological features and resources at the site, particularly in relation to the

conservation interests of the Lower River Shannon cSAC.

Habitats were categorised according to the Heritage Council’s A Guide to Habitats in Ireland (Fossitt,

2000). The presence of invasive plant species was noted.

Searches for signs of Otter including tracks, spraints, slides, hauling-out sites and holts were carried

out. The Otter survey was conducted according to methodology described in Animal Tracks and

Signs (Bang and Dahlstrom, 2001), and The Mammal Detective (Strachan, 1995).

The physical characteristics of the Newport River were noted. The riverine habitats were evaluated

in cognisance of the leaflet ‘The Evaluation of habitat for Salmon and Trout’ (DANI, 1995) and

‘Ecology of the Atlantic Salmon’ (Hendry and Cragg-Hine, 2003) to assess habitat suitability for

Salmonids. An evaluation of lamprey nursery habitat was also carried out based on the habitat

requirements of juvenile lampreys as outlined in Maitland (2003).

A summary of the results of the ecological surveys is provided below in Section 4.5, below.

3.4 ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS

Following the completion of the Screening for Appropriate Assessment (see Appendix 1) it was

concluded that the project could have a significant effect on one Natura 2000 site, namely the Lower

River Shannon cSAC. An evaluation was undertaken in the NIS to determine which of the qualifying

interests of the SAC potentially lie within the zone of influence of the project and required further

assessment (see Section 5 below). This was done through a scientific examination of ecological

evidence and data listed above in Section 3.2 or referenced in the report as well as the results of the

ecological field surveys (Section 4.5).


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The significance of the potential impacts that might arise from the project was identified through the

use of key indicators (see Section 5.2 below):

Habitat loss

Habitat alteration

Habitat or species fragmentation

Disturbance and/or displacement of species

Water quality and resource.

The effects of the project on the qualifying interests, potentially within the zone of influence of the

project, were then assessed against the measures and targets designed to achieve the conservation

objectives (NPWS, 2012a), to determine whether the project would have an adverse effect on the

integrity of the Lower River Shannon cSAC (see Section 5.3 below).

4 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

4.1 BRIEF PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Tipperary County Council proposes to develop a Town Park, incorporating a playground, at Newport,

Co. Tipperary. The proposed town park site is located to the south of the R503 and to the west of

Custom Gap Road. The proposed Town Park will include the following:

Children’s play area

Specifically designed play equipment for use by people with a disability

Zip wire

Outdoor gym equipment

Pump Track

Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA)

Recreational walkways

Seating

Bi-lingual signage displaying reference to applicable by-laws, rules, hours of opening

etc.

Interpretative panels

Landscaping

Car parking for approximately 26 No. cars, but this will be determined by the planning and

design processes.

The overall design of the proposed Newport Town Park will ensure that the relationship of the Site

to the town centre is fully considered and that appropriate pedestrian linkage is provided between

the proposed Town Park and Newport Town Centre. The proposed Newport Town Park is illustrated

in Figure 1. The site location is shown in Figure 2.

18150-6011-B Natura Impact Statement August 2018

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Figure 1: Masterplan of the proposed Newport Town Park.


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4.2 PURPOSE OF THE PROJECT

It is recognised that recreation and leisure facilities contribute to the quality of life for all that it

serves. The provision of amenities which can cater for the demands of an increasing population and

which can be accessible for all sectors and age groups is a central element in the delivery of

sustainable communities. Tipperary County Council recognises the important role that areas of

amenity and green linkages play in creating quality and healthy environments for all and seek to

promote a balance between the protection of environmental assets and the facilitation of

recreational use.

4.3 SITE LOCATION AND CONTEXT

The proposed town park site is located to the south of the R503 and to the west of Custom Gap Road

at Tullow, Newport. Co. Tipperary (See Figure 2). Newport is a small North Tipperary town located in

the west of the Co. of North Tipperary, near the Co. Limerick border. It is located on the main road

(R503) between Limerick and Thurles. Newport is within easy commuter distance of the

Limerick/Shannon Gateway, as defined in the National Spatial Strategy. In many respects, Newport is

often regarded as a dormitory town for Limerick City. Newport has primarily a residential catchment

with an estimated current population of 1,995 persons in the census of 2016.

The proposed development is located adjacent to an existing housing estate (Mulkear View) and the

Newport (Tipperary) River. It is noted that the Newport River is often referred to as the Mulkear

River. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) refers to this watercourse as the Newport River.

Throughout this report, the watercourse that flows adjacent to the site will be referred to as the

Newport River. The proposed development site lies partially within the confines of the Newport

Town municipal boundary which has an area of 1.48km2. The land use in the general area bordering

or in reasonably close proximity to the site includes residential development along with offices,

commercial and educational facilities. Housing is the principal land use along Custom Gap Road to

the south of the site.

The proposed development site has been partially developed as incomplete housing, with works

stalled. This work is considered to be related to conditional planning permission that was granted at

the site in April 2003 for 95 dwelling units, a creche, entrances, roads and all associated site works

(Tipperary planning register 02510476). Some house foundations occur within the site. There is

evidence of related drainage at the site also, so it is concluded that significant ground works had

taken place prior to cessation of this development. The proposed development is therefore

categorised as a brownfield site, with imported stone and unfinished buildings forming some of the

ground to the north and east of the site.

The site currently has no commercial use and is largely overgrown at its western extent, colonised by

wild plants and young shrubs/trees. The site is bound to the northeast by an occupied housing

development. The southern boundary of the site comprises a hedgerow/treeline. The Newport River

within the Lower River Shannon cSAC lies to the north and west of the site.


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Figure 2: Site location in Newport, Co. Tipperary.

MulkearLIFE2 was established in Ireland and ran for a five-year period between 2009 and 2014. The

main project aim was to restore, through in-stream rehabilitation works, degraded habitats along

stretches of the Mulkear River and its principal tributaries for Atlantic Salmon, Sea Lamprey and

European Otter. Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) was the co-ordinating partner, together with the Office

of Public Works and Limerick County Council. There were multiple objectives of this project including

enhancement of populations of Atlantic Salmon and Sea Lamprey through best practice instream

2 www.mulkearlife.com

http://www.mulkearlife.com/


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rehabilitation work, removing obstacles to the annual adult Sea Lamprey river upstream migration,

improve breeding, resting habitat and food supply for Otters, as well as stopping and reversing the

damage caused by invasive exotics (Giant hogweed and Japanese knotweed) and restoring the

natural riparian zone through a management programme to prevent re-colonisation. The Newport

River is included within the MulkearLIFE project.

4.4 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROJECT

It is proposed that those works situated in closest proximity to the river will be phased such that the

path, parallel to the river, will be completed first. This will be followed by the remainder of paths,

infill of the grassland area and planting on the west and north of the site. In addition, a number of

measures drawn from normal industry standards and best available techniques such as CIRIA

technical guidance on water pollution control (Murnane et al., 2006) will be incorporated into the

project design in order to control the risk, and thereby avoid and reduce the likely significance of any

water quality impacts ensuing from the proposal.

The proposal is described below.

Size, scale, area, land-take The proposed development site has an area of ca. 2.8ha.

Details of physical changes that will take place during the various stages of implementing the proposal

Set up of site compound within east side of site

Demarcation of riparian exclusion zone using appropriate fencing

Construction of path which runs parallel to the river. This will act as a further buffer between the SAC and the construction works.

Construction of remainder of paths and infill of grassland area and planting in the west and north of the site.

Construction of paths, core area and informal garden area within the central section of the site.

Construction of mixed amenity area

Construction of car park on east side of site with integrated Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) for management of surface water runoff.

Construction of Mixed Use Games Area (MUGA) and Playground on east side of site.

Connection to existing site services, including electricity, water and drainage.

Description of resource requirements for the construction/operation and decommissioning of the proposal (water resources, construction material, human presence etc)

An estimated average of eight to ten workers will be involved in the construction at any one time.

Excavation (950m3), fill material (930m

3), footpaths (2,270m

2), tarmac

(740m2), paving (1,890m

2), geotextile (2,420m

2), top-soiling (12,120m

2),

fencing (1,260m), concrete (125m3), ducts & drainage pipes, public

lighting, equipment for play areas.

Dumper, mini-excavator, compressor, lorries to deliver fill material.

An excavator will be used to prepare the central and western sections of the site.

Delivery trucks will need to call to site regularly.

Materials such as steel, concrete, blocks, fencing, etc, will be delivered to site by means of trucks and delivery vehicles.

Concrete will be ready mixed when delivered to site. Concrete truck washing will not be permitted on site.

Description of timescale for the various activities that will take place as a result of implementation (including likely start and finish date)

The construction period will be 4-6 months starting in the June following grant of planning permission.


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Description of wastes arising and other residues and their disposal

General construction waste, including packaging.

Demolition and construction waste will be separated on site, recycled where possible and removed to a licensed waste disposal facility (metal, masonry, concrete).

No excavation spoil wastes are expected as excavations are minimal, and spoil will be backfilled into the core area.

Identification of wastes arising and other residues (including quantities) that may be of particular concern in the context of the Natura 2000 network

All demolition waste will be removed off-site to a licensed recycling or landfill facility as appropriate (metal, masonry, concrete).

The proposed development will include:

riparian leave strip exclusion zone

protection of watercourses (general measures)

fuel and oil management

storage

4.4.1 Riparian Leave Strip Exclusion Zone

Prior to works commencing a riparian leave strip will be established using appropriate fencing and

signage and its significance explained to all workers particularly machinery operators. Leave strips

are the areas of land and vegetation adjacent to watercourses that are to remain in an undisturbed

state, throughout the development process. No aspect of the proposal or its associated works will

encroach in this area.

4.4.2 Protection of Watercourses (General Measures)

The main risk to the water quality of the SAC results from the potential for hydrocarbon spillages or

sediment discharging to the Newport River. These risks arise during the excavation and construction

activities.

The following measures have been incorporated into the design of the project so as to ensure no

significant negative water quality impact on the Lower River Shannon cSAC (002165) or its features

of conservation interest:

Raw or uncured waste concrete / cementitious material will be removed from the site;

Excavated spoil will be back filled in the core area;

Fuelling and lubrication of equipment will be carried out under controlled conditions in

bunded areas and away from watercourses or drains;

Any spillage of fuels, lubricants or hydraulic oils will be immediately contained and the

contaminated soil removed from the site and properly disposed of;

Sufficient oil booms and oil soakage pads will be kept on site to deal with any accidental

spillage;

Waste oils and hydraulic fluids will be collected in leak-proof containers and removed from

the site for disposal or re-cycling;

Prior to any work it will be ensured that all construction equipment is mechanically sound to

avoid leaks of oil, fuel, hydraulic fluids and grease; and


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Overnight parking of plant machinery and site vehicles will only take place in the designated

site compound area away from watercourses and aquatic zones.

4.4.3 Fuel and Oil Management

Fuel and oils must not, under any circumstances, discharge into any surface water body. The

measures outlined below are designed to prevent fuel and oil from entering any surface water body

and will describe the emergency procedures designed to control any accidental spillages. All site

plant and machinery e.g. excavators, dumpers, etc, will be refuelled in a bunded designated area

situated in the farmyard area and away from any watercourses, drains or riparian zones. All site

vehicles (rigid or articulated vehicles, jeeps, cars and vans) will be fuelled off site. No servicing or

repair of plant, machinery or vehicles will be undertaken outside the site compound area. The

management of fuel on site will have regard to the following elements:

Prior to any work commencing it will be ensured that all construction equipment is

mechanically sound to avoid leaks of oil, fuel, hydraulic fluids and grease;

Fuels, lubricants and hydraulic fluids for equipment used will be carefully handled to avoid

spillage and properly secured against unauthorised access or vandalism. Spill containment

measures will be in-situ according to current best practice3;

Mobile bowsers, tanks and drums will be stored in a secure, impermeable storage area, at

least 50m away from drains and open water;

Fuel containers will be stored within a secondary containment system e.g. bund for static

tanks or a drip tray for mobile stores;

Ancillary equipment such as hoses, pipe and pumps must be contained within the bund;

Fuelling and lubrication of equipment will be carried out in bunded areas;

Taps, nozzles or valves should be fitted with a lock system;

Fuel and oil stores, including tanks and drums, will be regularly inspected for leaks and signs

of damage;

Only designated trained operators will be authorised to refuel plant on site;

Procedures and contingency plans will be set up to deal with emergency accidents or spills;

and

Oil booms and oil soakage pads will be kept on site to deal with any accidental spillage. In

the event of a spill any fluids collected and any contaminated soil will be collected in leak

proof containers and removed from the site for disposal by a licensed contractor.

4.4.4 Storage

The storage of materials, containers, stockpiles and waste, however temporary, will follow best

practice at all times, and will be stored at dedicated areas only. Storage areas will be located:

At least 50m from drains and the Newport River;

On an impermeable base;

Under cover to prevent damage from the elements;

In secure areas;

3http://www.envirocentre.ie/includes/documents/OilStorageBPG.pdf

http://www.envirocentre.ie/includes/documents/OilStorageBPG.pdf


15

Well away from moving plant, machinery and vehicles; and

On land not required until later in the development.

All containers will be stored upright and clearly labelled. Sufficient waste storage will be provided

near to all working areas.

4.5 DESCRIPTION OF THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

This section describes the existing environment within the proposed development site, as well as

other wider environmental factors that occur within, or influence the aquatic components of the

Lower River Shannon within the Newport River catchment.

4.5.1 Habitats

The habitats identified within the proposed development site during July 2018, as well as the

Newport River in the zone of influence of the project, are listed in Table 1. The extent of these

habitats are illustrated in Figure 3. These habitats are described below with an outline of their

spatial distribution within the site.

Table 1: List of habitats identified at the proposed Newport Town Park site (and Newport River).

Habitat Habitat

code

Spatial description within site

Treeline WL2 Treeline occurs along the Newport River consists primarily of Sycamore Acer

pseudoplanatus, Willow Salix sp. and Alder Alnus glutinosa.

Scrub WS1 Patches of this habitat occur randomly almost throughout the site in

association with recolonising ground and treelines. This scrub exists in the

form of Willow Salix sp. of differing ages. The most common species recorded

was Goat Willow S. caprea.

Eroding/Upland

River

FW1 The Newport River flows along the northern boundary of the site. This

watercourse is the receptor for all water related emissions from the site.

Buildings and

Artificial

Surfaces

BL3 Manholes associated with site drainage that occur near the western boundary

of the site.

Refuse and

Other Waste

ED5 A small quantity of construction debris occurs near the entrance to the site.

This comprises wood and concrete products - this is considered inert.

Spoil and Bare

Ground

ED2 A few pockets of rock and stone (hardcore) with little/no soil cover occur at

various locations. This habitat is free draining and is prone to drying out,

preventing plant colonisation.

Recolonising

Bare ground

ED3 This is the most common habitat at the proposed development site and occurs

as a mosaic with other habitats present.

The predominant environment within the site is a mosaic of ‘Scrub (WS1)’ habitat and ‘Spoil and

Bare Ground (ED2)’ habitat. Scrub habitat occurs randomly almost throughout the site in the form of

Willow Salix sp. of differing age. The most common species recorded was Goat Willow S. caprea with

some White Willow S. alba also recorded. This habitat is progressing towards ‘Immature Woodland

(WS2)’ and in the absence of human intervention would eventually be expected to develop into

‘(Mixed) Broadleaved Woodland (WD1)’.


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Figure 3: Habitat map for the proposed Newport Town Park development site.


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Plate 1: The predominant environment within the site is a mosaic of ‘Spoil and Bare Ground (ED2)’ and ‘Scrub (WS1)’ habitats. ‘Treeline (WL2)’ occurs along the Newport River consisting primarily of Sycamore, Willow and Alder. A few areas of rock and stone were categorised as ‘Spoil and Bare Ground (ED2)’. Wood and concrete products correspond to the habitat ‘Refuse and Other Waste (ED5).

Plate 2: The Newport River flows from east to west along the northern boundary of the site. This watercourse reach is characterised by riffle-glide-pool sequences and is classified as an ‘Eroding/Upland River (FW1)’. The bed of the Newport River consists of a combination of rock, cobble, gravel and fine substrates. Scrub habitat occurs almost throughout the site mostly as Goat Willow S. caprea.

Plate 3: The eastern bank of the Newport River adjacent to the proposed development has been colonised by non-native plants, mainly Japanese Knotweed. Single stands of Giant Hogweed occur. The outlet from the drainage installed as part of the incomplete housing within the proposed development can be seen here.

Giant

Hogweed

Japanese Knotweed


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Manholes associated with site drainage occur near the western boundary of the site, these features

are categorised as ‘Buildings and Artificial Surfaces (BL3)’. A few pockets of rock and stone

(hardcore) with little/no soil cover occur at various locations. This habitat is free draining and is

prone to drying out, preventing plant colonisation. Areas exhibiting these characteristics were

categorised as ‘Spoil and Bare Ground (ED2)’. Relative to the size of the site, a small quantity of

wood and concrete products construction debris occurs near the entrance to the site. This material

is considered inert and corresponds to the habitat ‘Refuse and Other Waste (ED5)’.

‘Treeline (WL2)’ occurs along the Newport River. This habitat consists primarily of Sycamore Acer

pseudoplanatus, Willow Salix)’ sp. and Alder Alnus glutinosa. Its banks have significant growth of

non-native species, which die back seasonally, to leave bare banks in the winter season, when

riparian habitats are prone to erosion. Much of the understory associated with this habitat,

particularly along the southern bank, has been colonised by non-native plants, mainly Japanese

Knotweed Fallopia japonica (locally abundant), single stands of Giant Hogweed Heracleum

mantegazzianum (occasional) and a single stand of Himalayan Knotweed Persicaria wallichii. It is

noted that a Giant Hogweed Control Plan has been prepared by ‘Mulkear Forestry’ for the proposed

development site. This plan has been prepared in consultation with Mulkear LIFE Project, Inland

Fisheries Ireland, National Parks and Wildlife Service, St. Mary’s Secondary School Newport,

Newport Town Park Committee and residents of Mulkear View. Tipperary County Council are

adhering to best practice and are undertaking steps to address the problem. A contractor has been

appointed for the treatment of the giant hogweed and this has commenced in accordance with the

plan. The first treatment was undertaken in July 2018. Best practice will be adhered to and will

continue in the future. A Giant Hogweed Survey map produced in 2015 as well as the Giant Hogweed

Control Plan are attached as Appendix 3.

The Newport River is classified as an ‘Eroding/Upland River (FW1)’. This watercourse flows from east

to west along the northern boundary of the site. This watercourse is the receptor for all water

related emissions from the site. This reach of river is heavily shaded by deciduous trees. The bed of

the Newport River consists of a combination of rock, cobble, gravel and fine substrates. This reach of

river is characterised by riffle-glide-pool sequences.

The morphology of the Newport River was found to be degraded adjacent to the proposed

development site. There are two pipelines crossing the Newport River adjacent to the western

extent of the proposed development site. These pipes are considered part of the waste water

drainage infrastructure of Newport. A concrete platform has been installed within the river to

support this pipe. This plinth is perched relative to the bed of the river immediately downstream and

is deemed a passage problem for upstream movements of lampreys. Gabion baskets have been

installed at the southern bank to the north (upstream) of the pipe and are collapsing into the river.

The outlet from the drainage installed as part of the incomplete housing within the proposed

development site is to the Newport River via a pipe in concrete housing. There was no flow from this

pipe at the time of the current survey. Bank stabilisation works have been carried out on a stretch of

the right bank of the Newport River (looking downstream), namely the pouring of concrete along the

bank river interface. The riparian habitat and physical character of the Newport River is impacted by

a non-native plant community as described above.


19

Plate 4: Pipeline crossing of the Newport River adjacent to the proposed development site. The associated concrete base represents an obstacle for the upstream passage of lampreys, a conservation interest of the Lower River Shannon cSAC. The gabion basket which is collapsing into river is a hydro-morphological impact on the channel.

4.5.2 Surface Water

The Newport River is described above under habitats (Section 4.5.1). This section provides additional

detail on the surface waters in the study area. The Newport River rises in Silvermines Mountain

Range at Curreeny, Co. Tipperary. It flows through areas of hillside that contain significant amounts

of mountain blanket bog. This often gives the river a high natural peaty colour in heavy rainfall

events.

The Mulkear River and the lower reaches of the Newport River are characterised as drained and

channelised watercourses, being subject to a number of arterial drainage schemes carried out during

the 19th Century. Additional works were carried out during the 1990s, including a drainage scheme

on the Newport River. There is no obvious channel drainage of the Newport River adjacent to the

proposed development site. Ongoing drainage maintenance works result in the removal of instream

/ channel diversity (substrate diversity, boulders, debris) which may accumulate over time and also

contribute to the over-deepening of the channel and removal of bankside diversity which

regenerates.

The Newport River (EPA code 25N02) is a 4th order fast flowing river that flows directly adjacent to

the proposed development site. Approximately 7.5km downstream of Newport, the Newport River is

fed by the 4th order Annagh (Clare) River (25A02). After this confluence, the watercourse is called the

Killeengarriff River. A further 5km downstream, the Killeengarriff/Newport River meets the 6th order

Mulkear River (25M04). The Mulkear River is a large tributary of the River Shannon (25S01), meeting

the Shannon downstream of Annacotty. The Newport River is within the Mulkear Water

Management Unit area within Hydrometric Area 25. This area is part of the Shannon River Basin

District (ShRBD).

The OPW operate a hydrometric gauge at Barrington’s Bridge on the Newport River (station 25002),

ca. 10k downstream of the proposed development site. The 95%ile flow of the Newport River (flow

equalled or exceeded for 95% of time) at Barrington’s Bridge is 0.686m3/s4. The 50%ile and 5%ile

flow of the Newport River at Barrington’s Bridge is given as 3.631m3/s and 17.995m3/s respectively,

4 http://waterlevel.ie/hydro-data/search.html?rbd=SHANNON%20RBD#

Gabion basket

http://waterlevel.ie/hydro-data/search.html?rbd=SHANNON%20RBD


20

this data derived for the period 1954 to 2013. Using the EPA Hydrotool which returns flow duration

curves for most rivers in Ireland, the stretch of the Newport River at Newport (25_475) has a 95%ile

flow and mean flow of 0.638m3/s and 2.705m3/s respectively (mean flow was taken as the 30%ile

river flow, as in MacCarthaigh, 1997).

As part of the Water Framework Monitoring Programme, the EPA carry out biological water quality

monitoring at several locations in the Newport (Tipperary) River catchment. The Newport River was

in a highly satisfactory ecological condition when surveyed in late July 2015. Encouragingly the

improvement to high ecological condition noted in 2012 has been maintained. The abundance and

diversity of sensitive macroinvertebrate species indicated high ecological conditions at all five

stations surveyed although there is still cattle access along some sections5. The 2010-2015 river

water quality status of the Newport (Tipperary) River was ‘Good’. The most recent assessment was

undertaken in 2015. At Rockvale Bridge (EPA station 0200) ca. 3km upstream of the proposed

development, biological water quality was rated ‘Q4-5’, equivalent to Water Framework Directive

(WFD) ‘High Status’. At the bridge south of Shower (EPA station 0330), ca. 2.5km downstream of the

proposed development, biological water quality was rated ‘Q4-5’, equivalent to Water Framework

Directive (WFD) ‘High Status’. Water regions and the biological water quality locations described

above are indicated in Figure 4.

4.5.3 Hydrogeology

The proposed development is underlain by ‘Pale & red sandstone, grit & claystone’. This solid

geology is part of the Keeper Hill Formation6. The soils along the Newport River (at the western and

north-western extent of the site) are mapped as alluvial. ‘Surface water gleys’ and ‘ground water

gleys’ are indicated as constituting the remainder of the site. The soil profile of the proposed

development has been significantly altered however due to past development works.

The proposed development overlies an area of ‘High’ vulnerability. The proposed development site

and the Newport River overly the Slieve Phelim ground water body (GWB). The Summary of Initial

Characterisation report for this GWB indicates that the water table is above or close to the base of

the subsoils and that the streams crossing the aquifer are gaining. Due to the shallow groundwater

flow in this aquifer the groundwater and surface waters are closely linked. There are several

ecosystems in the GWB dependent on groundwater.

4.5.4 Otter

Otters utilise the aquatic habitats of the Newport River adjacent to the site. No evidence of an Otter

holt was recorded along the banks of the study area, which included the riparian areas adjacent to

the site from 50m downstream to 50m upstream of the site boundary. The built-up nature and level

of disturbance through human activity in the surrounding area would make the stretch of the

Mulkear River in close proximity to the proposed development less favourable for this timid species

however.

5 http://www.epa.ie/QValue/webusers/PDFS/HA25.pdf?Submit=Get+Results

6 https://dcenr.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3400f393afa844538e5b81679552205d

http://www.epa.ie/QValue/webusers/PDFS/HA25.pdf?Submit=Get+Results

https://dcenr.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3400f393afa844538e5b81679552205d


21

Figure 4: Water regions, water quality and activities potentially affecting water quality in the Newport River catchment.

4.5.5 Fish

One site on the Newport River was electric fished by IFI as part of the WFD river surveillance

monitoring programme in 2013. The survey site was located upstream of Rossaguile Bridge, just

outside the village of Newport. Three electric-fishing passes were conducted using three bank-based

electric fishing units on the 8th of July 2013, along a 40m length of channel. Riffle and pool

dominated the habitat, while gravel and sand were most abundant among a good mix of substrate

types. Four fish species were recorded in the Newport River during the 2013 survey. Salmon Salmo

salar was the most abundant species recorded, followed by Brown Trout S. trutta, Stone Loach

Barbatula barbatula and lamprey7. Three-spined Stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus, Minnow

Phoxinus phoxinus and European Eel Anguilla anguilla are likely to occur in the Newport River. It is

noted that European eel is listed as ‘Critically endangered’ and is now ‘Red Listed’ according to the

recently published ‘Red List No. 5: Amphibians, Reptiles & Freshwater Fish’ (King et al., 2011).

7 http://wfdfish.ie/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/SHIRBD_rivers_report_2013.pdf

http://wfdfish.ie/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/SHIRBD_rivers_report_2013.pdf


22

4.5.5.1 Salmon

The Newport River was evaluated as an important Salmonid spawning and nursery area. The stretch

of river potentially affected by the works are considered most suitable for juvenile Salmonids, with

spawning habitat, and ample refuge habitat in the form of riffles, rocks, overhanging banks and

instream debris (manly deadwood). Salmon fry/parr were recorded amongst rock and riffled parts of

the channel. This reach of the river is expected to hold significant numbers of adult Salmon towards

the spawning season (October-January). During the 2013 IFI investigation at Rossaguile Bridge, the

total minimum density of 0+ Salmon was 0.229/m2, while the total minimum density of 1+ Salmon

was 0.061/m2.

4.5.5.2 Lamprey

Lamprey spawning habitat (corresponding to areas used by trout) also occurs in the river. Habitat for

juvenile lamprey does occur in the channel, but due to the generally medium gradient of the river,

the accumulation of fine sediment a requirement for the burrowing larvae is limited however.

Shallow deposits of sand/silt do occur in some slow flowing parts of the river opposite eroding

bends. These accretions are deep enough to support young lampreys, and larvae were detected

during the current survey. As evident from the current survey, small pockets of deposited sand/silt

do provide habitat for lampreys. During the 2013 IFI investigation at Rossaguile Br., the total

minimum density of lamprey was 0.003/m2.

Plate 5: The Newport River is an important habitat for Salmonid and lamprey spawning and rearing. Juvenile Salmon and lamprey were recorded in the Newport River adjacent to the proposed development during the current survey.

4.6 IDENTIFICATION OF OTHER PROJECTS, PLANS AND ACTIVITIES

4.6.1 Newport Town Wastewater Treatment Plant

The Newport Town Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP licence register No. D0325-01,)8 has its

primary effluent discharge point to the Newport River at Portryan, ca. 1km downstream of the

proposed development. The agglomeration is served by a wastewater treatment plant with a Plant

Capacity PE of 1900. In 2016, the Newport agglomeration had a PE of 2,631. The agglomeration has

an existing combined gravity sewerage system with 2 No. pumping stations, which drains to the

WWTP at Portryan. Figure 4 shows activities potentially affecting water quality in the Newport River

catchment.

8 http://www.epa.ie/licences/lic_eDMS/090151b2805fc9a6.pdf

Juvenile

Salmon

Juvenile lamprey

http://www.epa.ie/licences/lic_eDMS/090151b2805fc9a6.pdf


23

The treatment process includes the following:

Preliminary Treatment (Automated Screen)

Secondary Treatment (Conventional Activated Sludge)

Nutrient Removal (Spent alum dosing to remove phosphorus compounds)

The main expansion of Newport Agglomeration has occurred along the main routes to the town

centre. There is no significant waste water contribution from agriculture or from tourism/leisure

facilities as tourism is limited in the area. There are still areas of land available for development. Not

all of this population is served by the Agglomeration’s public sewers.

An Annual Environmental Report (AER) has been prepared for D0325-01, in accordance with the

requirements of the wastewater discharge licence for the agglomeration9. The 2017 AER states that

the WWTP is currently operating above its design capacity. With reference to criteria of the Urban

Waste Water Regulations, the final effluent exceeded the emission limit value for Orthophosphate in

2017. There are two storm water overflows (SWO) within the Newport agglomeration. They are

located at the inlet works at Newport WWTP (TPEFF2800D0325SW005, X:171300, Y:161557) and the

Mulkear View Housing Estate (TPEFF2800D0325SW003, X: 172343, Y:161983). It is noted that much

of the pipeline infrastructure associated with the latter is within the proposed Newport Town Park

site. In the 2017 AER assessment of operation criteria, it was not possible to determine the

compliance of the various SWOs due to the absence of data. It is noted that the compliance of these

SWOs are unknown and their significance in relation to the Lower River Shannon cSAC was

unknown. Therefore, further assessment of the agglomeration SWOs is required.

4.6.2 Licenced Sites

One Section 4 Discharge point (Source Pressures for the Article 5 Characterisation and Risk

Assessment Report for the Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC) was identified along the

Newport River. This discharge is from a Nursing Home (LR reference no. WP/WO85/04) located at

Milbrae Lodge Nursing Home, Shower, Newport Co. Tipperary approximately 2Km downstream of

the proposed development site.

4.6.3 Planning Applications

A review of planning applications in the vicinity was carried out10. Several planning applications have

been granted in the Newport area in the last five years, mostly related to residential housing. For

example, permission was granted for demolition of an old type cottage house and the construction

of a new single storey house complete with a new effluent treatment system at Tullow within the

town of Newport in 2017 (ref: 17601016). Planning applications are ongoing within the Newport

River catchment. For example, the construction of a new dwelling, garage, septic tank, percolation

area has been requested at Garraunbeg, Killoscully, Newport (ref: 18600697).

4.6.4 Ongoing Activities

Agriculture is the main land use within the catchment with the banks of the mid and lower reaches

dominated by improved agricultural grasslands, which are drained and heavily fertilised. Agriculture

and forestry are activities in the Newport River catchment that could act in combination with the

project to negatively affect water quality.

9 http://www.epa.ie/licences/lic_eDMS/090151b280673883.pdf

10 http://www.eplanning.ie/TipperaryCC/searchresults

http://www.epa.ie/licences/lic_eDMS/090151b280673883.pdf

http://www.eplanning.ie/TipperaryCC/searchresults


24

The discharge of polluting substances from point (e.g. industrial pollutants, wastewater effluents)

and diffuse (e.g. agriculture, on-site WWTP (septic tank) sources creates an existing pollution

pressure within the Mulkear WMU, in particular the Newport WWTP in the context of the current

study area. According to the Mulkear WMU, 95% of total phosphorous input to the area is diffuse

and mainly from agriculture (76%), with the remaining from unsewered properties (8%), forestry

(8%) and WWTP (5%)11.

Significant pressures have been identified for waterbodies that are at risk of not meeting their water

quality objectives under the Water Framework Directive. While there are a multitude of pressures in

every waterbody, the significant pressures are those pressures which need to be addressed in order

to improve water quality. A robust scientific assessment process has been carried out to determine

which pressures are the significant pressures. This has incorporated over 140 datasets, a suite of

modelling tools, and local knowledge from field and enforcement staff from the local authorities, IFI

and EPA. Impacts from hydromorphology include sediment/siltation pollution and alteration to the

physical environment. Significant hydromorphology pressures are subcategorised into

channelization, embankment, dams, barriers, weirs, locks, culverts, land drainage, overgrazing and

bank erosion12. The upper reaches of the Newport River along with the Doonane River, a tributary

that feeds the Newport River upstream of Newport, are categorized as channels with river

hydromorphological pressures.

Agri-food is Ireland’s largest land-based indigenous industry. To meet the global demand for food,

the Irish agri-food industry is attempting to increase output through ‘sustainable intensification of

Irish agriculture’ in what has been dubbed ‘Food Harvest 2020’. Sustainable agricultural

intensification is defined as ‘producing more output from the same area of land while reducing the

negative environmental impacts’13. The 2020 visons are set out in the Department of Agriculture,

Fisheries and Food document ‘Food Harvest 2020’14, where it is stated that Ireland’s extensive, low-

input grass-based production systems are the foundation of its green credentials. Teagasc, of the

same department is the state agency providing research, advisory in agriculture, horticulture, food

and rural development in Ireland. Teagasc provides advice on Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium

application rates and timing of N fertiliser applications for various agricultural strands. For example,

rates and timing of Nitrogen fertiliser applications for swards grazed by cattle at various stocking

rates are provided15, and reach 279kg/ha. Teagasc note the requirement for compliance with

nitrates regulations for total N application and timing, that recommendations are based on average

soil fertility levels, and to fertilise to the stock-carrying capacity of the soil. There is no reliable soil

test currently available for N however and therefore, there is no soil Index system for N in grassland.

In practice, nutrient management plans can be difficult to implement properly. - it is deemed

difficult to achieve a balance of nutrient application that is appropriate for each land-holding and

11

http://www.wfdireland.ie/docs/1_River%20Basin%20Management%20Plans%202009%20-

%202015/ShIRBD%20RBMP%202010/Water%20Management%20Unit%20Action%20Plans/Mulkear%20WMU.

pdf 12

https://www.catchments.ie/maps/ 13

http://energyinagriculture.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Sustainable-Intensification-of-Irish-Agriculture-

Pat-Murphy.pdf 14

https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/media/migration/foodindustrydevelopmenttrademarkets/agri-

foodandtheeconomy/foodharvest2020/2020FoodHarvestEng240810.pdf 15

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/soil--soil-fertility/grassland/

http://www.wfdireland.ie/docs/1_River%20Basin%20Management%20Plans%202009%20-%202015/ShIRBD%20RBMP%202010/Water%20Management%20Unit%20Action%20Plans/Mulkear%20WMU.pdf



https://www.catchments.ie/maps/

http://energyinagriculture.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Sustainable-Intensification-of-Irish-Agriculture-Pat-Murphy.pdf

http://energyinagriculture.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Sustainable-Intensification-of-Irish-Agriculture-Pat-Murphy.pdf

https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/media/migration/foodindustrydevelopmenttrademarkets/agri-foodandtheeconomy/foodharvest2020/2020FoodHarvestEng240810.pdf

https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/media/migration/foodindustrydevelopmenttrademarkets/agri-foodandtheeconomy/foodharvest2020/2020FoodHarvestEng240810.pdf

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/soil--soil-fertility/grassland/


25

almost impossible to achieve in reality without nutrient losses considering the variability of the Irish

climate and increased stocking density brought about by withdrawal of milk quotas in 2015. Since

2015, there has been an apparent upsurge in reseeding, land drainage and land reclamation to

increase yields. The general intensification and extensification of the agri-sector in Ireland is

considered significant in contributing to the nutrient loading to inland waters, driven primarily in

many regions of Ireland by grazed grass. ‘Grazed grass is, and will continue to be, the cheapest

animal feed for milk production in Ireland’16 while ‘Food production needs to increase 70-100% by

2050’1. While these production facts persist and while these aims are imminent, the Water

Framework Directive (WFD) objective that all water bodies be at ‘Good’ Status by 2027 represents a

serious challenge.

The most important impacts and activities with high effect on the Lower River Shannon cSAC are

given in the Natura Standard form for the site. These are limited to ‘Medium’ and ‘Low’ ranking

threats and pressures, as listed in Table 2. The main threats to the site, ranked as medium include

agriculture (fertilisation, grazing), urbanisation, residential and commercial development, and

reclamation of land. Lesser threats include invasion by non-native species, sylviculture, forestry and

removal of beach materials.

Table 2: Impacts and activities with high effect on the Lower River Shannon cSAC. (Adapted from the Natura Standard Form).

Rank Threats and

pressures [code]

Description inside/outside/both

[i|o|b]

Medium A08 Fertilisation o

E01 Urbanisation, residential and commercial

development

o

H04 Air pollution, air-borne pollutants o

E03 Discharges o

K02.03 Eutrophication (natural) o

A04 Grazing i

J02.01.01 Polderisation i

J02.01.02 Reclamation of land from sea, estuary or marsh o

Low I01 Invasive non-native species i

D01.01 Paths, tracks, cycling tracks i

G01.01 Nautical sports i

B Sylviculture, forestry i

F01 Marine and Freshwater Aquaculture i

F03.01 Bait digging / collection i

C01.01.02 Removal of beach materials i

16

https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/dairy/ManagingGrass.pdf

https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/dairy/ManagingGrass.pdf


26

5 NATURA 2000 SITE – LOWER RIVER SHANNON CSAC

It has been concluded that the proposed development at Newport is likely to have a significant

effect, or significant effects cannot be ruled out at this stage, on the following Natura 2000 site:

Lower River Shannon cSAC (002165)

When Natura 2000 sites are selected for stage 2 assessments, then all the qualifying features of

conservation interest must be included in that stage of the assessment. However, when assessing

impact, qualifying features are only considered relevant where a credible or tangible source-

pathway-receptor link exists between the proposed development and a protected species or habitat

type. In order for an impact to occur there must be a risk initiated by having a 'source' (e.g. nearby

watercourse), a 'receptor' (e.g. a protected species associated aquatic or riparian habitats), and an

impact pathway between the source and the receptor (e.g. a watercourse which connects the

proposed development site to the Natura 2000 site). Identifying a risk that could, in theory, cause an

impact does not automatically mean that the risk event will occur, or that it will cause or create an

adverse impact. However, identification of the risk does mean that there is a possibility of ecological

or environmental damage occurring, with the level and significance of the impact depending upon

the nature of the risk, the extent of the exposure to the risk and the characteristics of the receptor.

Bearing in mind the scope, scale, nature and size of the project, its location relative to the

distribution of the species and habitats listed and the degree of connectedness that exists between

the project and the potential receptors, it is considered that not all of them are within the zone of

potential impact of the proposal. An evaluation based on these factors to determine which species

and habitats are the plausible ecological receptors for potential impacts of the unmitigated proposal

has been conducted in Section 5.1.1 below. This evaluation determined that certain habitats and

species, which are listed as qualifying interests for the SAC, should be selected for further

assessment as plausible ecological receptors.

5.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE LOWER RIVER SHANNON CSAC

The Lower River Shannon cSAC is very large, long site approximately 14 km wide and 120 km long,

encompassing: the drained river valley which forms the River Shannon estuary; the broader River

Fergus estuary, plus a number of smaller estuaries e.g. Poulnasherry Bay; the freshwater lower

reaches of the Shannon River, between Killaloe and Limerick, plus the freshwater stretches of much

of the Feale and Mulkear catchments; a marine area at the mouth of the Shannon estuary with high

rocky cliffs to the north and south; ericaceous heath on Kerry Head and Loop Head; and several

lagoons. The underlying geology ranges from Carboniferous limestone (east of Foynes) to Namurian

shales and flagstones (west of Foynes) to Old Red Sandstone (at Kerry Head). The salinity of the

system varies daily with the ebb and flood of the tide and with annual rainfall fluctuations

seasonally.

This cSAC is designated for a variety of Annex I habitats (freshwater, terrestrial and intertidal) which

include: sandbanks, estuaries, mudflats and sand flats, large shallow inlets and bays, reefs,

vegetation of stony banks, vegetated sea cliffs, mudflats, Atlantic salt meadows, Mediterranean salt

meadows, floating river vegetation, and alluvial forests. The Lower River Shannon cSAC site is also

designated due to its importance for a number of Annex II species such as the Freshwater Pearl


27

Mussel Margaritifera margaritifera, Sea Lamprey Petromyzon marinus, Brook Lamprey Lampetra

planeri; River Lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis; Bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncates and Otter Lutra

lutra. Figure 5 gives the extent of the Lower River Shannon cSAC. The freshwater reaches of the

Lower River Shannon cSAC within the northern extent of the Mulkear catchment, as well as the

habitats of conservation interest are also shown in Figure 5.

5.1.1 Identification of Potentially Significant Impacts to Qualifying Features

The following table lists the qualifying features of the Lower River Shannon cSAC and evaluates

through a scientific examination of evidence and data whether or not these features should or

should not be selected for further assessment in the NIS. The qualifying features that are selected

for further assessment are discussed further in the section followed by an assessment of potentially

significant effects arising from the proposed development.


28

Figure 5: Extent of the Lower River Shannon cSAC and the habitats of conservation interest. Inset maps detail the woodland habitats closest to the proposed development.


29

Table 3. Identification of potentially significant impacts to qualifying features of the Lower River Shannon cSAC

Qualifying Feature Potential for

Significant Impacts Rationale

Sandbanks which are

slightly covered by sea

water all the time

No

The extent of Sandbanks which are slightly covered by seawater all the time in Lower River Shannon cSAC is given in NPWS (2012a). The only

mapped habitat of this type is in a marine area off Beal Point on the west coast of north Co. Kerry. This habitat is in excess of 150km to the west

of the proposed development so would not be affected. The project will not have a significant effect on sandbanks. Thus, the project will not

affect the conservation objectives for Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time and the habitat is not considered further in

the NIS

Estuaries No

The Shannon and Fergus Estuaries form a unit stretching from the upper tidal limits of the Shannon and Fergus Rivers to the mouth of the

Shannon Estuary (considered to be a line across the narrow strait between Kilcredaun Point and Kilconly Point). Within this main unit there are

several tributaries with their own ‘sub-estuaries’ e.g. the Deel River, Mulkear River, and Maigue River. The nearest estuarine habitat downstream

of the proposed development is associated with the main channel of the River Shannon which lies at over 40 river km downstream of the project

site. Given the characteristics of the project, it is not considered that the zone of influence of the project will extend this far. The project will not

have a significant effect on Estuaries. Thus, the project will not affect the conservation objectives for Estuaries and the habitat is not considered

further in the NIS.

Mudflats and sandflats

not covered by seawater

at low tide

No

Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide occur in the River Shannon at Limerick, a distance of about 50km downstream of the

project. Given the characteristics of the project, it is not considered that the zone of influence of the project will extent this far. The project will

not have a significant effect on Mudflats and Sandflats. Thus, the project will not affect the conservation objectives for Mudflats and Sandflats

and the habitat is not considered further in the NIS.

Coastal lagoons No

The closest lagoon is the Shannon Airport Lagoon of 24.2ha. This lagoon is located ca. 60km west of the proposed development. Due to

geographical separation, the project will not affect the conservation objectives for coastal lagoons and the habitat is not considered further in

the NIS.

Large shallow inlets and

bays No

The Annex I habitat shallow inlets and bays is a large physiographic feature that may wholly or partly incorporate other Annex I habitats including

reefs, sandbanks and mudflats and sandflats within its area. Large shallow inlets and bays is mapped ca. 120km west of the proposed

development. Due to geographical separation, the project will not affect habitat area or community distribution, therefore the conservation

objectives for Large shallow inlets and bays will not be affected and the habitat is not considered further in the NIS.

Reefs No

Reef habitat occurs in the Shannon Estuary in excess of 50km west (60rkm downstream) of the proposed development. The distribution of Reef

will not be destabilised or reduced by the propose development taking account of the geographical separation. Thus, the project will not affect

the conservation objectives for Reefs and the habitat is not considered further in the NIS

Perennial vegetation of

stony banks No

This habitat occurs along the coast where shingle (cobbles and pebbles) and gravel have accumulated to form elevated ridges or banks above the

high tide mark. The current area and extent is unknown and unmapped. At its closest, this habitat occurs at Ballymacrinan Bay, a distance in

excess of 100km west of the project. Given the characteristics of the project, it is not considered that the zone of influence of the project will

extend this far. The project will not have a significant effect on Perennial vegetation of stony banks. Thus, the project will not affect the

conservation objectives for Perennial vegetation of stony banks and the habitat is not considered further in the NIS.

Vegetated sea cliffs of No Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts occur at the western extent of the Shannon Estuary. At its closest, this habitat is located at


30



the Atlantic and Baltic

coasts

Baurrane on the southern coast of Co. Clare, in excess of 100km west of the proposed development. The project will not have any effect on this

habitat. Thus, the project will not affect the conservation objectives for Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts and the habitat is not

considered further in the NIS

Salicornia and other

annuals colonizing mud

and sand

No

Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand is a pioneer saltmarsh community that may occur on muddy sediment seaward of

established saltmarsh, or form patches within other saltmarsh communities where the elevation is suitable and there is regular tidal inundation.

The habitat extent is unmapped but it lies at least a distance of about 40km downstream of the project. Given the characteristics of the project,

it is not considered that the zone of influence of the project will extend this far. The project will not have a significant effect on this Salicornia

habitat. Thus, the project will not affect the conservation objectives for Salicornia habitat and the habitat is not considered further in the NIS.

Atlantic salt meadows

(Glauco-Puccinellietalia

maritimae)

No

Atlantic salt meadows generally occupy the widest part of the saltmarsh gradient. They also contain a distinctive topography with an intricate

network of creeks and salt pans occurring on the medium to large sized saltmarshes. Atlantic salt meadows contain several distinctive zones that

are related to elevation and submergence frequency. The most upstream extent of the habitat is mapped at the margins of the estuary to the

west of Limerick City, a distance in excess of 40km downstream of the project. Given the characteristics of the project, it is not considered that

the zone of influence of the project will extend this far. The project will not have a significant effect on Atlantic salt meadows. Thus, the project

will not affect the conservation objectives for Atlantic salt meadows and the habitat is not considered further in the NIS.

Mediterranean salt

meadows (Juncetalia

maritimi)

No

Mediterranean salt meadows occupy the upper zone of saltmarshes and usually occur adjacent to the boundary with terrestrial habitats. They

are widespread on the Irish coastline, however they are not as extensive as Atlantic salt meadows. The most easterlyextent of the habitat is

mapped in the Shannon River estuary, a distance of about 50km downstream of the project. Given the characteristics of the project, it is not

considered that the zone of influence of the project will extend this far. The project will not have a significant effect on Mediterranean salt

meadows. Thus, the project will not affect the conservation objectives for Mediterranean salt meadows and the habitat is not considered further

in the NIS.

Water courses of plain to

montane levels with the

Ranunculion fluitantis

and Callitricho-

Batrachion vegetation

Yes

The EU (2003) definition of this habitat is very broad, especially when the presence of aquatic mosses is taken into account. Using this broad

definition the habitat will be found in most watercourses in Ireland. The full distribution of this habitat and its sub-types in this site are currently

unknown. The dominant floating-leaved species appears to be the common and widespread stream water-crowfoot. The moss Fontinalis

antipyretica is present throughout the major river systems within the Lower River Shannon cSAC and likely occurs on rocky substrates in the

Newport River. Therefore, ‘Floating river vegetation’ as the habitat is commonly known is considered to be within the zone of influence of the

project and thus, there is potential for significant effects to this habitat.

Molinia meadows on

calcareous, peaty or

clayey-silt-laden soils

(Molinion caeruleae)

No

This habitat has been recorded on the eastern bank of the Shannon, just north of Castleconnell, Co. Limerick (NPWS, 2012a). Full distribution of this habitat in this site is currently unknown and it almost certainly occurs elsewhere. The proposed development will not bring about a decline in the habitat distribution or any other attribute of this feature within the Lower River Shannon cSAC. There is no such habitat within or adjacent to the site, or within the hydrological influence of the proposed development site. The list of attributes and targets given in NPWS (2012a) will not be affected. Thus, the project will not affect the conservation objectives for Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils and the habitat is not considered further in the NIS.

Old sessile oak woods

with Ilex and Blechnum No

Old sessile oak woods habitat is defined in the interpretation manual of EU habitats as "acidophilous Quercus petraea woods, with low, low-

branched, trees, with many ferns, mosses, lichens and evergreen bushes”. These woodlands occur on acid or base-poor soils that may be either


31



in British Isles dry or humid, but not waterlogged. There is only one such woodland mapped within the SAC, along the main river channel of the Cahernahallia

River in excess of 17km SE of Newport. Given the terrestrial nature and extent of the habitat, it is not considered to be within the zone of

influence of the project. The project will not have a significant effect on Old oak woodlands. Thus, the project will not affect the conservation

objectives for Old oak woodlands and the habitat is not considered further in the NIS.

Alluvial forests with

Alnus glutinosa and

Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-

Padion, Alnion incanae,

Salicion albae)

No

The interpretation manual of EU habitats 2007 states that all habitat types occur on heavy soils which are periodically inundated by the annual

rise of river levels, but which are otherwise well drained and aerated during low water. In addition there are gallery forests of tall willows

(Salicion albae) alongside river channels and occasionally on river islands, where the tree roots are almost continuously submerged. The nearest

mapped habitat of this type is at Clare Glens along the main channel of the Clare River. This habitat does not occur downstream of the site. Thus,

the project will not affect the conservation objectives for alluvial woodlands and the habitat is not considered further in the NIS.

Freshwater pearl mussel

(Margaritifera

margaritifera)

No

The freshwater pearl mussel occurs in the Cloon River in Co. Clare within the Lower River Shannon cSAC. The Cloon River enters the main

Shannon Estuary in excess of 40km west of Limerick City, a significant distance downstream of the proposed development. This population

therefore would not be impacted by the proposed development. Therefore, FPM is not within the zone of influence of the project and thus,

there is no potential for significant effects to FPM and the species is not considered further in the NIS.

Sea Lamprey

(Petromyzon marinus) Yes

Sea Lamprey s often spawn in the lower reaches of rivers but also migrate 50 miles and more upstream; the Sea Lamprey is commonly seen in

the Mulkear River. Lamprey has been recorded along the main river channel and many of its tributaries downstream of the project and thus,

there is potential for significant effects to the species.

Brook Lamprey

(Lampetra planeri) Yes

Brook Lamprey live their entire life in freshwater. They have been recorded along the main channel of the Mulkear and Newport River.

Therefore, Brook Lamprey is considered to be within the zone of influence of the project and thus, there is potential for significant effects to the

species.

River lamprey (Lampetra

fluviatilis) Yes

River lampreys often spawn in the lower reaches of rivers but also migrate 50 miles and more upstream (Kurz and Costello, 1999). Juvenile

lamprey have been recorded along the main river channel of the Mulkear and many of its tributaries. Therefore, River Lamprey is considered to

be within the zone of influence of the project and thus, there is potential for significant effects to the species.

Atlantic Salmon (Salmo

salar) Yes

Salmon use rivers to reproduce and as nursery areas during their juvenile phase. Juvenille Salmon typically spend two winters before going to sea

in spring as smolts. Most of the Irish fish spend one winter at sea before returning to their natal rivers. Salmon use the main channel of the

Newport River and its tributaries. Therefore, Salmon is considered to be within the zone of influence of the project and thus, there is potential

for significant effects to the species.

Common Bottlenose

Dolphin (Tursiops

truncates)

No

There is a resident population of Bottle-nosed Dolphin in the Shannon Estuary. This is the only known resident population of this E.U. Habitats

Directive Annex II species in Ireland. The Shannon Estuary is more than 50km downstream of the proposed development. Dolphin’s access to

suitable habitat, including to critical areas, would not be affected by the proposed project and there would be no disturbance impacts. Therefore,

Bottlenose Dolphin is not within the zone of influence of the project and thus, there is no potential for significant effects and the species is not

considered further in the NIS.

Otter (Lutra lutra) Yes Otter have two basic requirements: aquatic prey and safe refuges where they can rest. Otter occur upstream and downstream of Newport.

Therefore, Otter is considered to be within the zone of influence of the project and thus, there is potential for significant effects to the species.

18150-6011-A Natura Impact Statement August 2018

32

5.1.1.1 Floating River Vegetation

The EU (2003) definition of this habitat is very broad, especially when the presence of aquatic

mosses is taken into account. Using this broad definition the habitat will be found in most

watercourses in Ireland. The full distribution of this habitat and its sub-types in this site are currently

unknown. The dominant floating-leaved species appears to be the common and widespread stream

water-crowfoot. The basis for the selection of the SAC for the habitat was the presence of plant

species that are listed as characteristic of the habitat, such as Batrachian species of Ranunculus,

Potamogeton spp. and Fontinalis antipyretica (NPWS, 2012b). The sub-types of this habitat are

poorly understood and their typical species have not yet been defined. The typical species may

include higher plants, bryophytes, macroalgae and microalgae. River connectivity with the floodplain

is essential for the functioning of this habitat. Review of the available data identifies three high

conservation elements (sub-types) in the site, namely:

1. Groenlandia densa (L.) Fourr., Opposite-leaved Pondweed;

2. Schoenoplectus triqueter (L.) Palla;and

3. Triangular Club-rush Bryophyte-rich streams and rivers.

The first two sub-types are associated with tidal reaches of rivers, while the latter sub-type is found

in fast-flowing stretches of unmodified streams and rivers. In addition to these three sub-types, it is

likely that other high conservation value sub-types exist within the site. Further investigation of all

sub-types is required (NPWS, 2012b).

Based on the broad definition of this habitat and while the full distribution of the habitat is

unknown, it is considered that there is potential for it to be present within the main channel of the

Newport River downstream of the project site. The stretch of river adjacent to the proposed

development site is heavily shaded and is therefore deemed suboptimal with regard to a range of

aquatic plants such as Ranunculus sp. The moss Fontinalis antipyretica is present throughout the

major river systems within the Lower River Shannon cSAC and likely occurs on rocky substrates in

the Newport River.

Phosphorous is typically the limiting nutrient, however increased nitrogen negatively impacts upon

some aquatic plant communities. Nutrient enrichment leads to increased levels of filamentous green

algae changes in Floating river vegetation species composition and abundance. Water quality should

reach a minimum of Good status.

The main pressures to this habitat include a reduction in water quality and the main cause of this is

agriculture. There has been a decline in high quality river sites between 1987 and 2008 across the

country. While the habitat can tolerate moderate levels of pollution this has implications for the

most oligotrophic habitat sub-types. The main problems for river habitats are the pollution of waters

from eutrophication and other sources. Nutrient and organic losses from agriculture and municipal

and industrial discharges are the most significant pressures and threats. While significant measures

are being implemented to address pollution from regulated discharges and domestic wastewater

systems, action to reduce losses from agriculture, the largest source of phosphorus to water is

considered inadequate and there are currently no measures to address the impacts of peatland

drainage and general degradation.


33

The conservation status of ‘Floating river vegetation’ is considered ‘Unfavourable-Inadequate’.

5.1.1.2 Sea Lamprey

All three species of lamprey spawn in fresh waters, and juveniles of all three species, known as

ammocoetes, are found within the same catchments, using similar microhabitats, but with varying

geographical distribution. Lampreys show a preference for gravel-dominated substratum for

spawning, and mainly silt and sand-dominated substratum for nursery habitat (Harvey & Cowx,

2003).

Sea Lamprey migrate to sea only returning to rivers to spawn (Kurz and Costello, 1999). Sea Lamprey

build nests (redds) and spawn in large and small rivers, usually at the downstream end of pools

where there is a swift current. The Sea Lamprey usually spawns in late May or June, when the water

temperature reaches at least 15⁰C (Maitland, 2003). They like sediments made up of small cobbles

and pebbles for spawning. Once they hatch, the larvae called ammocoetes swim out of the nest and

are washed downstream, where they accumulate in areas with slower water current e.g.

backwaters, current eddies or behind big stones on the river bed. There the ammocoetes bury

themselves in stable sandy silt rich in organic matter, where they remain until they become adults.

After 3 to 6 years the ammocoetes become adults usually between July and September. Sea

Lamprey and River Lamprey are known to spawn in the Shannon and in several tributaries (Kurz &

Costello, 1999). On the main channel of the Shannon, anadromous sea and River Lampreys are

generally limited to below the Shannon scheme (although there are some movements of individuals

at the fish lock at Ardnacrusha each year.

Sea Lamprey s often spawn in the lower reaches of rivers but also migrate 50 miles and more

upstream. The Sea Lamprey is commonly seen in the River Mulkear below the weir in Annacotty. The

weir at Annacotty has been identified as a barrier to migrating lampreys and may still impede

upstream migrating Sea Lamprey despite MulkearLIFE17 attempts to improve passage. There has

been no catchment-wide survey of lamprey in the Mulkear catchment. Sea Lamprey has been

recorded by the author as far upstream as Barrington’s Bridge, where a juvenile Sea Lamprey was

recorded in the main channel of the Killeengarriff River ca. 11km downstream of Newport. There are

suitable spawning areas and silt beds in the main channel of the Newport River adjacent to and

downstream of the proposed development. Adult densities in this watercourse are likely to be low

during the spawning season, noting that the spawning migration usually takes place from April with

spawning between May and June.

Pollution to surface water from diffuse and point sources is a constant threat to aquatic organisms.

Both adult and ammocoete life stages for lamprey have been shown to be vulnerable to the effects

of pollution. The single largest pressure acting on adult Sea Lamprey is the presence of artificial

physical barriers to passage for upstream migrating fish. The overall Conservation Status of the

species is considered Bad in view of barriers to migration in view of low population levels recorded.

5.1.1.3 River Lamprey

River Lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis are anadromous species, spending part of their life cycle in the

marine environment and returning to natal watercourses to spawn. River Lamprey build nests

17

http://mulkearlife.com/inland-fisheries-ireland-replaced-lamprey-tiles-annacotty-weir-mulkear-river/

http://mulkearlife.com/inland-fisheries-ireland-replaced-lamprey-tiles-annacotty-weir-mulkear-river/


34

(redds) and spawn in large and small rivers, usually at the downstream end of pools where there is a

swift current and like sandy or gravelly sediment for spawning (Kurz and Costello, 1999). Spawning

of river lampreys starts when the water temperature reaches 10–11⁰C, usually in March and April

(Morris & Maitland 1987).

Given the difficulty differentiating juvenile Brook and River Lamprey, most studies group these two

species together as Lampetra sp. Taking into account the passage problems at Annacotty and the

relatively poor swimming capability of River lamprey, they are likely to occur in low numbers

upstream of Annacotty weir. A recent post highlighted the issue of River lamprey passage at

Annacotty in late March 201718, where a large accumulation of river lampreys were seen attempting

to ascend the weir. It was pointed out that ‘even early run River Lampreys cannot pass here as this

weir is never flooded out and there are no side channels etc. where lampreys can pass. This is a total

barrier for River Lamprey (and Brook Lamprey L. planeri) migration…. The lampreys eventually give

up and drop downstream to spawn below the weir. However, this causes them excessive stress and

subjects them to very high levels of predation, and puts them at risk of disease’.

The main threats to River Lamprey are and river engineering, exploitation as bait by anglers and

invasive molluscs on spawning beds.

The status of river lamprey is evaluated as being of 'Favourable' conservation status nationally

(NPWS, 2013).

5.1.1.4 Brook Lamprey

The Brook Lamprey Lampetra planeri is the smallest of the three lamprey native to Ireland and it is

the only one of the three species that is non-parasitic and spends all its life in freshwater (Maitland

& Campbell, 1992). The spawning season of Brook Lampreys starts when the water temperatures

reach 10–11⁰C (Maitland, 2003). This usually occurs in March/April. Ammocoetes of the three

lamprey species are often found in the same locations while Brook Lamprey can inhabit smaller

streams often occurring closer to headwaters. Brook Lamprey tends to spawn at the downstream

end of pools, but often in smaller rivers and in slightly shallower and slower flowing water building a

nest in sandy or gravelly sediment (Kurz and Costello, 1999).

The main threats to the Brook Lamprey population arise from dredging and removal or sediments

(which lamprey inhabit) and pollution of surface waters. Pollution to surface water from diffuse and

point sources is a constant threat to aquatic organisms. Both adult and ammocoete life stages for

lamprey have been shown to be vulnerable to the effects of pollution.

The status of Brook Lamprey is evaluated as being of 'Favourable' conservation status nationally

(NPWS, 2013).

5.1.1.5 Atlantic Salmon

Salmon use rivers to reproduce and as nursery areas during their juvenile phase. Juvenile Salmon

typically spend two winters before going to sea in spring as smolts. Most of the Irish fish spend one

winter at sea before returning to their natal rivers.

18

https://lampreysurveys.com/2017/04/16/thousands-of-river-lampreys-trapped-below-limerick-weir/

https://lampreysurveys.com/2017/04/16/thousands-of-river-lampreys-trapped-below-limerick-weir/


35

The Technical Expert Group on Salmon19 is tasked with providing an annual report on the status of

Salmon stocks for the purpose of advising the North South Standing Scientific Committee on Inland

Fish on the sustainable management of Irish Salmon stocks. The Mulkear River was listed as a

watercourse with a forecasted Salmon deficit, or below the required Conservation Limit (CL) for

2018 (TEGOS, 2018). The Conservation Limit applied by the Standing Scientific Committee for

Salmon (SSCS) to establish the status of individual stocks is the “maximum sustainable yield” (MSY),

also known as the stock level that maximizes the long-term average surplus, as defined and used by

the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) and the North Atlantic Salmon

Conservation Organisation (NASCO). An index of at least 17 Salmon fry per 5 minute standardised

electrofishing is used by the SSC as the cut-off between rivers below this threshold where the stock

is clearly below Conservation Limits and those rivers above the threshold where it is more likely that

the stock is meeting Conservation Limits (SSCS, 2016). The Mulkear River has a CL of 4214 and has a

deficit of 719, reaching only 0.83 of its CL. It is therefore listed as a closed fishery in the 2018 Salmon

Angling Regulation.

The water quality of the Newport River is adequately high for the spawning and rearing purposes of

Salmonids. The Newport River is considered optimal habitat for spawning (good gravel beds and

pool-glide sequences) and nursery grounds (riffle habitat with rocky substrate). The channel is large

enough and has sufficiently deep pools to hold adult Salmon.

Pressures to Salmon arises from water pollution while threats relate to factors causing mortality at

sea such as predation by seals, disease, parasites, pollution and climate change. Salmon require a

‘Q4’ water quality status at all sites sampled by the EPA and is currently being achieved at the

stations upstream and downstream of Newport. The Conservation Status of Salmon is considered to

be Unfavourable-Inadequate as the population is still low in comparison to previous decades.

5.1.1.6 Otter

In Ireland, Otter populations are found along clean rivers and lakes, where fish and other prey are

abundant, and where the adjacent habitat offers plenty of cover. Otters maintain territories and will

defend their stretches of river bank or lake shore from other Otters. In lowland rivers and fish-rich

lakes, Otters only need to maintain small territories. In freshwater areas, a variety of fish from

sticklebacks to Salmon and Eels will be taken, while Crayfish and Frogs can be important locally or

seasonally.

The Otter is widespread throughout the country, in freshwater and coastal habitats, and Ireland has

long been considered to hold one of the most important Otter populations in Western Europe

(Whilde, 1993). Otters can, potentially, exploit all stretches of a river system where they are present.

19

https://www.fisheriesireland.ie/extranet/fisheries-management-1/Salmon/1496-the-status-of-irish-Salmon-

stocks-in-2017-with-catch-advice-for-2018/file.html

https://www.fisheriesireland.ie/extranet/fisheries-management-1/salmon/1496-the-status-of-irish-salmon-stocks-in-2017-with-catch-advice-for-2018/file.html

https://www.fisheriesireland.ie/extranet/fisheries-management-1/salmon/1496-the-status-of-irish-salmon-stocks-in-2017-with-catch-advice-for-2018/file.html


36

Figure 6: Otter habitat extents at and adjacent to the proposed development site.

The ecological survey conducted for this project (see Section 4.5.4 above) considered that Otters

may potentially utilise the habitats adjacent to the proposed development site. The built-up nature

and the disturbance through human activity in the surrounding area would make the section of river

in close proximity to the proposed development unfavourable for this timid species. There was no

evidence of an Otter holt in the stretch of the Newport River from 50m upstream to 50m

downstream of the proposed development site. The freshwater and terrestrial habitat extents of

Otter have been included in NPWS (2012a). These habitats adjacent to the proposed development

site are indicated in Figure 6. The extent of terrestrial habitat is based on areas mapped to include a

10m terrestrial buffer along river banks, identified as critical for Otters (NPWS, 2007). The extent of

freshwater habitat is calculated on the basis that Otters will utilise freshwater habitats from estuary

to headwaters (Chapman and Chapman, 1982).


37

Impacts that reduce the availability or quality of, or cause disturbance to, their terrestrial or aquatic

habitats are likely to affect Otters. The main threats to Otters in Ireland are thought to be: habitat

destruction (including river drainage and the clearance of bankside vegetation); pollution,

particularly organic pollution resulting in fish kills; and accidental deaths (road traffic and fishing

gear).

The conservation status of Otter is considered ‘Good’ given the widespread nature of its distribution

throughout Ireland and its presence in a wide variety of habitat types.

5.2 ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS

5.2.1 Water Quality

5.2.1.1 Construction Phase

The footprint of the proposal is adjacent to and hydrologically connected to the Newport River, part

of the Lower River Shannon cSAC. The construction phase of the proposed development will require

demolition of existing housing floors and foundations, excavation, construction and landscaping. It

will have direct impacts on the habitats within the proposed development site including terrestrial

components of the Lower River Shannon cSAC adjacent to the Newport River. There will be potential

impacts on the Newport River in terms of habitats, flora, fauna, water quality and fish through

surface run-off. Pollution of the Newport River could be transferred to other fluvial habitats

including the main channel of the Mulkear River.

The most likely potential impact of the project on receiving watercourses and aquatic habitats

during the construction phase is the release of pollutants via runoff. These indirect impacts could

arise through the disturbance, storage and spreading of soil, through excavated spoil, via

hydrocarbon discharges or loss of concrete. Contamination or water quality impacts on the Newport

River could result in impacts on the aquatic ecosystem and therefore the species that are dependent

on good water quality for survival. The current water quality status of the Newport River (High)

increases its sensitivity to pollution.

Any engineering works which cause runoff of sediments can also increase the levels of nutrients in

receiving waters. This can potentially result in the enrichment or eutrophication of the affected

areas downstream, and a possible change in water quality.

Another indirect potential adverse effect on fluvial habitats of downstream areas, and particularly

within the Newport River is siltation of Salmon and Lamprey spawning gravels. Any pollution events

may potentially have significant indirect effects on the aquatic species Salmon, Lampreys and Otter

and the habitat ‘Floating river vegetation’.

The potential significant impacts of the project on aquatic ecology (without mitigation) are

summarised as follows:

Pollution of watercourses with suspended solids due to runoff of sediment from

construction and landscaped areas. Contamination of water courses with suspended solids

may have the potential to impact on aquatic flora and fauna within the Newport River;


38

Pollution of watercourses with nutrients due to ground disturbance during construction. The

main potential sources of nutrient inputs to freshwater due to ground disturbance are from

nutrients adsorbed or chemically bound to eroded suspended solids;

Pollution of watercourses during construction phase, with other substances such as fuels,

lubricants, waste concrete, waste water from wash facilities, etc; and

Pollution of watercourses with surface drainage water from paved areas and road surfaces.

Releasing non-attenuated suspended solids and heavily contaminated run-off waters into the

stormwater drainage that runs through the site has the potential to have a negative impact on the

water quality of the Newport River. This would potentially be a temporary but significant negative

impact. The risk of occurrence however can be adequately prevented by the implementation of

standard best management practices and controls.

The proposed development land is brownfield and therefore, there is a risk of the presence of

contaminated soils. As the site is generally located within the area of high aquifer vulnerability there

is potential for significant risk to groundwater quality during the construction. Impacts on

groundwater could have harmful effects on the Lower River Shannon cSAC if ground waters affected

by the proposed development reach the Newport River.

5.2.1.2 Operation Phase

The primary sources of potential operational phase impacts are predicted to be the completed

park’s drainage system. Runoff from hard and impermeable surfaces may result in contaminated

water reaching the Newport River.

5.2.2 Habitat loss

The proposed development will involve works within the Lower River Shannon cSAC adjacent to the

Newport River. There will be loss of ‘Treeline’, ‘Scrub’, ‘Recolonising bare ground’ and ‘Spoil and

bare ground’ habitats within the Lower River Shannon cSAC. It is noted that these habitats are

largely artificial and/or comprised of non-native species.

5.2.3 Habitat alteration

There is the potential that aquatic habitats within the Newport River may be altered as a result of

the ingress of pollutants and/or sediment during the construction phase.

A reduction in water quality due to chemicals or other substances entering the Newport River as a

result of the construction phase of the proposed development could potentially have an impact on

the habitats required by aquatic species for the various stages of their life cycles. One of the main

risks is the siltation of gravel beds suitable for spawning Salmon and Lamprey which would reduce

the availability of the habitat and if present, reduce oxygen levels to fish eggs or juvenile mussels

occupying the substrate interstices. Nutrients such as phosphorous which are often bound to

sediments could result in eutrophication and an increase in filamentous algae, which in turn can

grow on gravels reducing the availability of the habitat and if present, reduce oxygen levels to fish

eggs or juvenile mussels occupying the substrate interstices. An increase in polluting substances such

as oils, fuels and cementitious materials in the water could reduce the suitability of the habitat for

populations of Salmon, Lamprey and Otter, as well as affecting the river’s capacity to support

floating rive vegetation.


39

The spread of non-native species within the proposed development site, including further

colonisation of invasive species along riparian areas of the Newport River and potentially other areas

due to earth and heavy machinery movements would lead to alteration of habitats. The eradication

of Giant Hogweed as per the non-native species management plan will likely result in an

improvement to the understory floral composition associated with the treeline along the Newport

River.

5.2.4 Disturbance and/or displacement of species

There is potential for indirect disturbance or displacement of species arising from potential

pollutants entering the Newport River during the construction phase of the proposed works.

Pollutants include silt, chemicals or hydrocarbons associated with construction activities. Spawning

Salmon and lamprey and juveniles mussels need a clean well aerated riverbed substrate to survive.

Siltation of the substrate and eutrophication leading to increased biomass of filamentous algae

would reduce the available suitable habitat. A reduction in water quality in the water column can

reduce the suitability of the river for adult Salmon, Lamprey and Otter, resulting in

disturbance/displacement of these species.

5.2.5 Habitat or species fragmentation

There is potential for pollutants to enter the Newport River during the construction phase. Habitat

and species fragmentation can be caused by polluted stretches of water, where fish cannot survive

and where fish can be prevented from moving to spawning areas. A reduction in the quality of the

river bed arising from siltation could fragment the available suitable habitat for spawning Salmon

and Lamprey. Impacts on fish could have negative consequences for Otter.

5.3 ASSESSMENT OF EFFECT ON LOWER RIVER SHANNON CSAC CONSEVATION OBJECTIVES

5.3.1 Introduction

In Section 5.1.1 above, an evaluation was undertaken to determine which of the qualifying interests

of the Lower River Shannon cSAC potentially lie within the zone of influence of the project and

required further assessment in the NIS. This was done through a scientific examination of ecological

evidence and data listed above in Section 3.2 or referenced, as well as the results of the ecological

field surveys (Section 4.5). The effects of the project on the qualifying interests, potentially within

the zone of influence of the project, have been assessed against the measures designed to achieve

the conservation objectives. The outcome of the assessment has been presented in the following

sections.


40

5.3.2 Floating River Vegetation

The definition of this habitat is very broad, thus the habitat will be found in most watercourses in

Ireland. The main pressures to this habitat include a reduction in water quality. The following table

assesses the effects of the project against the measures designed to achieve the conservation

objectives for ‘Floating river vegetation’. Where a measure may be negatively affected by the project

the need for mitigation is indicated.

Attribute/

Measure Target Assessment of Potentially Significant Effects

Mitigation

Required

Habitat

area/

Kms

Area stable or

increasing

The full extent of this habitat is unknown. It is assumed to be

downstream in the main channel on the basis of its broad

definition and the precautionary principle. The construction

phase of the project could potentially result in sediment

release from excavations and deposit silt in the main channel

possibly affecting the area of the habitat downstream.

Therefore, there is potential for this conservation objective to

be negatively affected.

Yes

Habitat

distribution/

Occurrence

No decline

The full distribution of this habitat and its sub-types within the

site are unknown and the definition of Floating river

vegetation is broad. The construction phase of the project

could potentially result in sediment release from excavations

and deposit silt in the main channel possibly affecting the

distribution of the habitat downstream. Therefore, there is

potential for this conservation objective to be negatively

affected.

Yes

Hydrological

regime: river

flow/

m/s

Maintain

appropriate

hydrological

regimes

A natural flow regime is required for both plant communities

and channel geomorphology to be in favourable condition. The

project will not affect the hydrological regime of the

downstream watercourses. No significant effects to

conservation objective anticipated.

No

Hydrological

regime: tidal

influence/

Daily

fluctuations

Maintain

natural tidal

regime

Tidal regime appears to be an important influence on the

distribution of certain pondweed. The project will not affect

the hydrological regime of the downstream tidally influenced

areas. No significant effects to conservation objective

anticipated.

No

Hydrological

regime:

freshwater

seepages/

m/s

Maintain

appropriate

freshwater

seepage

regimes

Freshwater seepages are considered important for both the

Groenlandia densa and Scheonoplectus triqueter subtypes.

These habitats are in excess of 30km from the proposed

development and freshwater seepage regimes will not be

affected to this extent.

No

Substratum

composition:

particle size

range/

mm

Substratum

dominated by

sizes

appropriate to

habitat sub-

type

The size and distribution of substratum particles is largely

determined by the river flows. The construction phase of the

project could potentially result in sediment release from

excavations and deposit silt in the main channel. Therefore,

there is potential for this conservation objective to be

negatively affected.

Yes

Water

quality:

Concentration

of nutrients

Phosphorous (MRP) is typically the limiting nutrient, however

increased nitrogen negatively impacts upon some aquatic Yes


41

Attribute/


Mitigation

Required

Nutrients/

mg/l

sufficiently low

to prevent

changes in

species

composition or

habitat

condition

plant communities. Nutrient enrichment typically leads to

increased filamentous algae biomass and consequent changes

in algae, bryophyte and macrophyte species composition and

abundance. The construction phase of the project could

potentially result in nutrient release. Therefore, there is


affected.

Vegetation

composition;

typical

species/

Occurrence

Typical species

of the habitat

sub-type

present & in

good condition

The sub-types of this habitat are poorly understood and their

typical species have yet to be defined. They may include higher

plants, bryophytes and microalgae. The construction phase of

the project could potentially result in nutrient release, which

could alter vegetation composition. Therefore, there is


affected.

Yes

Floodplain

connectivity:

area/

Ha

Maintain area

of active

floodplain

habitat

River connectivity with the floodplain is essential for the

functioning of this habitat and is particularly important in

terms of sediment sorting and nutrient deposition. The project

will not affect floodplain connectivity within the catchment. No

significant effects to conservation objective anticipated.

No

Riparian

habitat/

Area

The area of

riparian

woodland

at and

upstream of

the

bryophyte‐rich

sub‐type

should be

maintained

While some trees are potentially affected, riparian woodland

of conservation value (alluvial) will not. The trees affected are

in an area that is not strongly connected to the hyporheic zone

of the river.

No


42

5.3.3 Sea Lamprey

There is potential for suitable spawning areas and silt beds to occur in the main channel. Adults are

also likely to be present along the main channel during the spawning season (April-June), albeit in

low densities. The following table assesses the effects of the project against the measures designed

to achieve the conservation objectives for Sea Lamprey. Where a measure may be negatively

affected by the project the need for mitigation is indicated.

Attribute/


Mitigation

Required

Distribution/

% of river

accessible

> 75% of

main stem

river

lengths

accessible

from

estuary

The project will not result in the physical impediment to the

migration of fish. No significant effects to conservation objective

anticipated.

No

Population

structure of

juveniles/

Number of

age/size

groups

At least 3

age/size

groups

present

Lamprey can be present as juveniles for several years after hatching

from eggs, and as adults before migration to sea and following

migration for several months before spawning. The construction

phase of the project could potentially result in sediment release

from excavations and silt up clean gravels in the main channel and

reduce oxygen levels to the eggs. Therefore, there is potential for

this conservation objective to be negatively affected.

Yes

Juvenile

density in

fine

sediment/

Juveniles

per m2

Juvenile

density at

least 1 per

m2

Juveniles live buried in silt beds. The construction phase of the

project could potentially result in release of pollutants in the main

channel and affect the quality of the water associated with the silt

beds. Therefore, based on the precautionary principle, there is

potential for this conservation objective to be negatively affected.

Yes

Extent and

distribution

of spawning

habitat/

m2 and

occurrence

No decline

in extent &

distribution

of

spawning

beds

The construction phase of the project could potentially result in

sediment release from excavations and silt up clean gravels in the

main channel and reduce oxygen levels to the eggs. Therefore,

there is potential for this conservation objective to be negatively

affected.

Yes

Availability

of juvenile

habitat/

Number of

positive

sites in 3rd

order

channels

More than

50%

sample

sites

positive

Juvenile habitat consists of silt beds in slower-flowing reaches of

the river. The project will not affect the stability of the substrate.

The construction phase of the project could potentially result in

release of pollutants in the main channel and affect the quality of

the water associated with the silt beds. Therefore, there is potential

for this conservation objective to be negatively affected.

Yes


43

5.3.4 River Lamprey

Taking into account the passage problems at Annacotty and the relatively poor swimming capability

of River lamprey they are unlikely to be encountered in significant numbers upstream of the weir at

Annacotty, but may occur in the Newport River in low densities. The following table assesses the

effects of the project against the measures designed to achieve the conservation objectives for River

lamprey. Where a measure may be negatively affected by the project the need for mitigation is

indicated.

Attribute/


Mitigation

Required

Distribution/

% of river

accessible

Access to all

watercourses

down to first

order

streams

The project will not result in the physical impediment to

the migration of fish. No significant effects to conservation

objective anticipated.

No

Population

structure of

juveniles/

Number of

age/size groups

At least 3

age/size

groups

present

Lamprey can be present as juveniles for several years after

hatching from eggs, and as adults before migration to sea

and following migration for several months before

spawning. Taking into account the passage problems at

Annacotty (weir) and the relatively poor swimming

capability of River lamprey they are likely to found in low

numbers upstream of the weir. However, it is

acknowledged that there is potential for spawning sites to

be present downstream of the project. The construction


release from excavations and silt up clean gravels in the

main channel and reduce oxygen levels to the eggs.

Therefore, based on the precautionary principle, there is


affected.

Yes

Juvenile density in

fine sediment/

Juveniles per m2

Juvenile

density at

least 2 per

m2

Juveniles live buried in silt beds. The construction phase of

the project could potentially result in release of pollutants

in the main channel and affect the quality of the water

associated with the silt beds. Therefore, based on the

precautionary principle, there is potential for this

conservation objective to be negatively affected.

Yes

Extent and

distribution of

spawning habitat/

m2 and occurrence

No decline in

extent &

distribution

of spawning

beds

Taking into account the passage problems at Annacotty

(weir) and the relatively poor swimming capability of River

lamprey they are likely to found in low numbers upstream

of the weir. However, it is acknowledged that there is

potential for spawning sites to be present downstream of

the project. The construction phase of the project could

potentially result in sediment release from excavations and

silt up clean gravels in the main channel and reduce oxygen

levels to the eggs. Therefore, based on the precautionary

principle, there is potential for this conservation objective

to be negatively affected.

Yes

Availability of

juvenile habitat/

More than

50% sample

Juvenile habitat consists of silt beds in slower-flowing

reaches of the river. The project will not affect the stability Yes


44

Attribute/


Mitigation

Required

Number of

positive sites in 2nd

order channels

(and

greater),

downstream

of spawning areas

sites positive of the substrate. The construction phase of the project

could potentially result in release of pollutants in the main

channel and affect the quality of the water associated with

the silt beds. Therefore, based on the precautionary

principle, there is potential for this conservation objective

to be negatively affected.


45

5.3.5 Brook Lamprey

Brook Lamprey occur in the Newport River adjacent to the downstream of the proposed

development. The following table assesses the effects of the project against the measures designed

to achieve the conservation objectives for Brook Lamprey. Where a measure may be negatively

affected by the project the need for mitigation is indicated.

Attribute/


Mitigation

Required

Distribution/

% of river

accessible

Access to all

watercourses

The project will not result in the physical impediment to

the movement of fish. No significant effects to

conservation objective anticipated.

No

Population

structure of

juveniles/

Number of

age/size

groups

At least 3 age/size

groups present

Lamprey can be present as juveniles for several years

after hatching from eggs, and as adults before spawning.

Brook Lamprey tends to spawn at the downstream end of

pools, but often in smaller rivers and in slightly shallower

and slower flowing water building a nest in sandy or

gravelly sediment. The construction phase of the project

could potentially result in sediment release from

excavations and silt up clean gravels downstream and

reduce oxygen levels to the eggs. Therefore, there is


affected.

Yes

Juvenile

density in fine

sediment/

Juveniles per

m2

Juvenile density

at least 2 per m2

Juveniles live buried in silt beds. The construction phase

of the project could potentially result in release of

pollutants in the main channel and affect the quality of

the water associated with the silt beds. Therefore, based

on the precautionary principle, there is potential for this


Yes

Extent and

distribution of

spawning

habitat/

m2 and

occurrence

No decline in

extent &

distribution of

spawning beds

The construction phase of the project could potentially

result in sediment release from excavations and silt up

clean gravels in the main channel and reduce oxygen

levels to the eggs. Therefore, there is potential for this


Yes

Availability of

juvenile

habitat/

Number of

positive sites

in 2nd

order

channels (and

greater),

downstream

of spawning

areas

More than 50%

sample sites

positive

Juvenile habitat consists of silt beds in slower-flowing

reaches of the river. The project will not affect the

stability of the substrate. The construction phase of the

project could potentially result in release of pollutants in

the main channel and affect the quality of the water

associated with the silt beds. Therefore, based on the

precautionary principle, there is potential for this


Yes


46

5.3.6 Atlantic Salmon

The Newport River is considered an important habitat for Salmon spawning (good gravel beds and

pool-glide sequences) and is also regarded as a suitable Salmon nursery area (riffle habitat with

rocky substrate). The channel is large enough and has sufficiently deep pools to hold adult Salmon.

Water quality is adequate for juvenile Salmonids and young Salmon were recorded in the Newport

River adjacent to the proposed development site during the current survey. The following table

assesses the effects of the project against the measures designed to achieve the conservation

objectives for Atlantic Salmon. Where a measure may be negatively affected by the project the need

for mitigation is indicated.

Attribute/

Measure Target Assessment of Potentially Significant Effects Mitigation

Distribution/

% of river

accessible

100% of river

channels to 2nd

order accessible

from estuary

The project will not result in the physical impediment of the

migration of fish. No significant effects to conservation

objective anticipated.

No

Adult

spawning

fish/

Number

Conservation

Limit (CL) or

each system

consistently

exceeded

The Mulkear River (includes the Newport River) is below its

CL for Salmon in 2018. There is potential for construction

phase impacts to indirectly affect the CL, as the early life

stages of this species could be adversely affected, thus this

attribute could be significantly affected.

Yes

Salmon fry

abundance/

Number of

fry/5

minutes

electrofishing

Maintain or

exceed 0+ fry

mean

catchment‐wide

abundance

at 17 Salmon

fry/5 min

sampling

The Mulkear River is below its CL for Salmon in 2018.

Salmon need good water quality high in oxygen, low in

nutrients and suspended solids, neutral pH and with

temperatures never exceeding 25° C. The construction


and nutrient release from excavations. Therefore, there is


affected.

Yes

Out-

migrating

smolt

abundance/

Number

No significant

decline

Young Salmon need good water quality high in oxygen, low

in nutrients and suspended solids, neutral pH and with

temperatures never exceeding 25° C. The construction


and nutrient release from excavations. Therefore, there is


affected.

Yes

Number and

distribution

of redds/

Number and

occurrence

No decline in

number &

distribution of

redds

The construction phase of the project could potentially

result in sediment release from excavations and silt up

clean gravels in the main channel. Eggs and alevins incubate

in the gravel until May and are unable to tolerate gravels

becoming clogged with silt or sand. Therefore, there is


affected.

Yes

Water

quality/

EPA Q value

At least ‘Q4’ at

all EPA sampled

sites

The nearest EPA biological monitoring point on the

Newport River downstream of the proposed development

is the station south of Shower, ca. 2.5km downstream of

the project, rated Q4-5 in 2015. There is a possibility that

water quality at this station could be negatively affected by

runoff during the construction phase.

Yes


47

5.3.7 Otter

Otter is considered present in the Newport River. The following table assesses the effects of the

project against the measures designed to achieve the conservation objectives for Otter. Where a

measure may be negatively affected by the project the need for mitigation is indicated.

Attribute/


Mitigation

Required

Distribution/

Percentage

positive

survey sites

No significant

decline

While the project may indirectly temporarily impact water

quality of the receiving watercourses during construction, it is

not expected that it will affect the distribution of Otter

associated with the Newport River. The project will not

significantly affect this conservation measure.

No

Extent of

terrestrial

habitat/

Ha

No significant

decline

The area of mapped Otter habitat identified as critical for Otters

includes a 10m terrestrial buffer along river banks

(NPWS, 2007). The project site boundary overlaps this buffer

and will directly affect terrestrial habitats mapped as critical for

Otters. Encroachment of Otter habitat could reduce the area of

available terrestrial habitat, especially given that the park will be

open to the public and disturbance could result.

Yes

Extent of

marine

habitat/

Ha

No significant

decline

During the construction phase there is potential for indirect

temporary impacts to water quality of receiving watercourses

during construction. The extent of the project influence is not

considered to reach the nearest marine habitats suitable for

Otter, in excess 40km downstream. The project will not reduce

the area of available marine habitat. The project will not

significantly affect this conservation measure.

No

Extent of

freshwater

(river)

habitat/

Ha

No significant

decline.

While the project may indirectly temporarily impact water

quality of the receiving watercourses, it is not expected that it

will reduce the area of available freshwater habitat. The project

will not significantly affect this conservation measure.

No

Extent of

freshwater

(lake/lagoon)

habitat/

Ha

No significant

decline. Area

calculated as

125.6ha

While the project may indirectly impact water quality of the

receiving watercourses, it is not upstream of any lake habitat

and will thus not result in loss of area of any associated habitat.

The project will not significantly affect this conservation

measure.

No

Couching

sites and

holts

No significant

decline

Couching sites or holts have not been identified within the site.

The project will not reduce the number of couching sites or

holts. The project will not significantly affect this conservation

measure.

No

Fish biomass

availability/

Kg

No significant

decline

Impacts that reduce the availability or quality of, or cause

disturbance to, their terrestrial or aquatic habitats are likely to

affect Otters. Ample food supply is normally associated with

high water quality. Prey such as Salmonids need good water

quality. The construction phase of the project could potentially

result in pollutants release and knock-on effects on fish biomass.

Therefore, there is potential for this conservation objective to be

negatively affected.

Yes

Barriers to

connectivity

No significant

decline

The project is confined to the boundary of the site and will not

impede the movement of Otter. No significant effects to CO No


48

5.4 ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

NPWS have identified the main threats to the SAC from agriculture sources (fertilisation, grazing),

urbanisation, residential and commercial development, and reclamation of land.

The current pressures on the Newport River catchment include discharges to waters from the

WWTP, industrial licenced sites and ongoing activities. These are set out in a local context in Section

4.6 above. There is potential for significant cumulative effects from these pressures on water quality

during the construction phase of the project.

Climate is an important environmental influence on ecosystems. Changing climate affects

ecosystems in a variety of ways. For instance, warming may force species to migrate to higher

latitudes or higher elevations where temperatures are more conducive to their survival. Similarly, as

sea level rises, saltwater intrusion into a freshwater system may force some key species to relocate

or die, thus removing predators or prey that are critical in the existing food chain.

Climate change not only affects ecosystems and species directly, it also interacts with other human

stressors such as development. Although some stressors cause only minor impacts when acting

alone, their cumulative impact may lead to dramatic ecological changes (Settele et al, 2014). For

instance, climate change may exacerbate the stress that land development places on fragile coastal

areas. Additionally, recently reclaimed land near watercourses within and upstream of the Lower

River Shannon cSAC may become vulnerable to erosion if climate change leads to increases in heavy

rain storms.

Because species differ in their ability to adjust, asynchronies can develop, increasing species and

ecosystem vulnerability. These asynchronies can include mismatches in the timing of migration,

breeding, pest avoidance, and food availability. Growth and survival are reduced when migrants

arrive at a location before or after food sources are present (Horton et al. 2014).

Ecosystems can serve as natural buffers from extreme events such as wildfires, flooding, and

drought. Climate change and human modification may restrict ecosystems’ ability to temper the

impacts of extreme conditions, and thus may increase vulnerability to damage. An example is

riparian areas that act as buffer zones protecting riverine ecosystems from runoff of silt/nutrient

laden waters via overland/pluvial flow, by absorbing/attenuating surface floodwaters.

Climate change and shifts in ecological conditions could support the spread of pathogens, parasites,

diseases and non-native biota, with potentially serious effects on agriculture and aquatic

ecosystems.

5.5 MITIGATION

The key to avoid impacts to water during the works is good site management practices, tight

controls, regular inspections and ongoing vigilance with staff and employees on site.

In order to avoid or reduce the risks associated with the potential impacts, the mitigation measures

described below will be followed to reduce impact significance and adhere with the conservation

objectives for the Lower River Shannon cSAC. A concise list of the primary mitigation measures are

outlined in Appendix 4 (Environmental Commitments). This is a summary of the full measures listed

hereunder. The Environmental Commitments are to provide environmental awareness for a


49

prospective contractor. Implementation of the full mitigation will be required by the appointed

contractor however.

At a minimum, the project characteristics listed above in Section 4.4 will be implemented to reduce

impacts. The following additional measures will also be undertaken. It is imperative that non-native

invasive species be eradicated from the site and the riparian areas of the Newport River adjacent to

the proposed development in advance of any other works. Without this, the spread of damaging

plants is highly likely, with subsequent damage and serious negative impacts on riparian areas of the

Lower River Shannon cSAC. Treatment required to eradicate these plants at a later stage, would

probably be more difficult and present additional risk if excavations/earthworks could, for example

distribute rhizomes of Japanese Knotweed throughout the town park site.

To this end, a non-native Invasive Species Management Plan (ISMP) is required. A detailed plan will

be devised prior to any site works commencing and followed in full. An outline non-native invasive

species management plan is provided in Appendix 5 which gives guidance on the preparation of

such a plan.

5.5.1 Method statements

Method statements are used to translate the project requirements into planned systems of work

instructions to the site staff and operatives. They are prepared for activities identified in the

specification and risk assessments and are issued to all personnel responsible for and involved with

the activity concerned.

They define the proposed method of working for an element or section of work taking into account

the particular requirements of the project including site conditions, safety hazards, the contract

drawings, specification or code of practice. They define the proposed use of plant, labour and

materials, any hold points or permits and may be supplemented by drawings, sketches and produce

data as necessary.

The principle aim of a method statement is to ensure that:

resources are available prior to start;

tasks are thought out in advance; and

safe working methods are defined, and workers involved are aware of the risks associated

with the task

Prior to the commencement of any activities deemed to involve a significant risk to the environment,

as identified, the contractor will develop a written method statement incorporating the mitigations

outlined below. The proposed development will be constructed in cognisance of the following

guidelines to minimise the impact on the Lower River Shannon cSAC:

'Guidelines on Protection of Fisheries during Construction Works in and Adjacent to Waters'

(IFI, 2016); and

'Control of water pollution from construction sites - Guidance for consultants and

contractors' (Masters-Williams et al. 2001)


50

The contractor appointed to carry out the work(s) will furnish method statements on construction

methodologies prior to carrying out the works. These method statements will be submitted to

Tipperary County Council, project engineers and the project ecologist for amendment/agreement

prior to construction. All works will take place according to the final approved detailed method

statement, including the exact detail of each aspect and timing of works.

5.5.2 Project ecologist

A project ecologist will be appointed to monitor the works on a weekly basis for the full duration of

the project. The project ecologist shall induct all construction members via ‘tool box talks’ making

them aware of the method statement and the sensitivities of the site before they are allowed to

access the site. The project ecologist will check that relevant staff are familiar with emergency

response procedures and trained in the use of spill kits. Tool box talks will be undertaken on a

weekly basis and for any new worker prior to commencement of work on site. The topics will be

determined by the nature of the work being undertaken at the time.

The project ecologist will have the authority to suspend works if works are not being carried out in

line with the agreed method statement or daily monitoring indicates that the proposed measures

are not functioning adequately to minimise the potential impact to local ecology.

5.5.3 Invasive Species Control

Prior to being brought onto the proposed Newport Town Park site, all plant and equipment will need

to be clean and free of soil/mud/debris or any attached plant or animal material. All

plant/equipment with water retaining compartments, tanks, etc. will require water to be drained or

dried out before transportation to the site. Prior to entering the site, all plant/equipment will be

visually inspected to ensure all adherent material and debris has been removed.

It may be the case that river water will have been used in certain plant/equipment (e.g. bowsers)

intended for use at the proposed development site. Such plant/equipment will require cleaning and

rinsing with a 1% solution of Virkon Aquatic or another proprietary disinfection product (e.g. 5%

solution - 100ml/20litre of chlorine bleach) followed by thorough rinsing with clean water.

All equipment and all footwear/waders that will be placed within the water should be steam-cleaned

prior to arrival on site to prevent foreign flora/fauna entering the water and after use to prevent the

spread to other catchments in accordance with NRA (2010) and IFI guidelines20.

5.5.4 Landscaping

Any planting of trees, shrubs and other species should comprise native species found in the locality.

Favourable species are Oak Quercus robur, Ash fraxinus excelsior, Hazel Corylus avellana Whitethorn

Crataegus monogyna and Willow Salix sp. Construction works adjacent to rivers can impact on the

existing riparian vegetation cover. Where practicable, such cover, using the native species, should be

restored as soon as possible after construction so as to limit short-term and longer-term impacts on

the use of watercourses by faunal species. Riparian habitats can often be improved by additional

planting along the affected watercourses. The aim of landscaping should be to ensure, in so far as is

possible, maintenance of a vegetated wildlife corridor along the Newport River. Refer to ‘A Guide to

Landscape Treatments for National Road Schemes in Ireland’ (NRA, 2006).

20

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51

The roots of trees which are to be preserved along the western boundary of the site should be

protected in line with ‘Guidelines for the protection and preservation of trees, hedgerows and scrub

prior to, during and post construction of national road schemes (NRA, 2006).

Taking account that the proposed development is directly adjacent to the Newport River, where

hydro-morphological impacts were noted, and where post development opportunities to improve

riparian instream habitats may be limited, amelioration measures along and within the channel are

recommended as follows:

Bank stabilisaton at locations where banks are at risk of collapsing e.g. removing failing

gabion baskets and installing rock armouring; and

Improving fish passage at pipeline crossings over the Newport River.

Any instream works will be carried out in consultation with IFI and with reference to ‘Channels and

Challenges - the enhancement of Salmonid rivers (O’Grady, 2006). Additionally, it is likely that bank

stabilisation works will be required following removal of non-native invasive species.

In relation to illumination, any lights and lighting should be installed with reference to BCI (2010)

‘Bats & Lighting - Guidance Notes for planners, engineers, architects and developers’.

5.5.5 Otters

To offset any loss of terrestrial habitat along the Newport River potentially used by Otters, it is

recommended that an artificial Otter holt is constructed. This should be located at the south western

limit of the site (see Figure 5). This area is deemed most suitable as it is away from the core area,

and adjacent to the quiet and zone, and close to the species rich/habitat creation area. Otters do not

tolerate disturbance at or near holts that are in active use by them, so fencing is recommended at

the park side of the artificial holt. Guidance on the construction of an Otter holt will be taken from

‘Guidelines for the Treatment of Otters prior to the Construction of National Road Schemes’ (NRA,

2008) and MulkearLIFE’s ‘Management Guidelines for European Otter (Lutra lutra) in SACs’ 21

5.5.6 Temporary Construction Compound

The following measures will be undertaken to avoid or minimise negative effects to water quality as

a result of the erection of the temporary compound:

Drainage within the temporary site compound will be directed to an oil interceptor to

prevent pollution if any spillage occur;

Temporary toilet facilities will be connected to the public sewer network during the

construction phase, alternatively, discharges from the toilets will go to a holding tank where

the effluent will be temporarily stored and removed at regular intervals by an appropriate

permitted/licensed and approved contractor;

A bunded containment area will be provided within the compound for the storage of fuels,

lubricants, oils etc; and

The site compound will be in place for the duration of the construction phase and will be

removed once the project is complete.

21

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5.5.7 Soil Stripping and Excavation Works


a result of excavations and earth works:

Drainage and associated pollution control measures will be implemented on site before the

main body of construction activity commences;

The timing of the construction phase soil stripping and excavation works will take account of

predicted weather, particularly rainfall;

Excavations and soil stripping activities will be suspended during periods of prolonged

rainfall events;

The earthworks materials will be placed and compacted in layers to prevent water ingress

and degradation of the material;

The 24 hour advance meteorological forecasting service from Met Éireann will be used; and

In the event that petroleum contaminated soils or subsoils containing other potentially

contaminated material are discovered during excavation activities (identified through

staining, discoloration, or odour), this soil will be segregated, stockpiled, sampled for

characterisation purposes sufficient to meet the requirements of the applicable disposal

facility, transported off-site by a licensed transporter, and disposed of in an approved

treatment or disposal facility.

5.5.8 Storage and Stockpiles of Excavated Material


a result of the storage and stockpiling of excavated earth:

Temporary stockpiles of excavated earth will be constructed within the lands made

available;

Stockpiles of stripped topsoil will be strored in locations with minimum trafficking to prevent

damage and dusting;

Stockpiled sub-soils will be located at suitably sheltered areas to prevent erosion or

weathering and shall be shaped to ensure rainfall does not degrade the stored material;

Where unsuitable material is encountered this will be stockpiled separately and removed in

accordance with a Site Waste Method Statement;

Stockpiles will be located away from drainage systems and silt retaining measures (silt fence,

/ silt curtain or other suitable materials) shall be installed along the down-gradient edges of

stockpiled earth materials to reduce risk of silt run-off;

All excavated materials from the site or introduced materials for construction will be either

used or removed from the site; and

No permanent spoil or stockpiles will be left on site, other than those materials required for

landscaping, berm construction and construction generally.

5.5.9 Drainage Controls

The following measures will be undertaken to avoid or minimise negative effects to water quality:

A silt fence will be erected along the boundary of the site next to the Newport River to

prevent overland emissions from the works site to the riparian/aquatic area of the Lower

River Shannon cSAC;


53

Prior to works commencing, a riparian leave strip will be established using appropriate

fencing and signage and its significance explained to all workers particularly machinery

operators. This work will be carried out following full implementation of the non-native

ISMP;

The course of the underground drainage that runs along the western side of the proposed

development site will be identified and no excavation works will take place that could

interfere with this drain – this is considered a stormwater conduit, part of the Newport town

drainage associated with the WWTP;

IFI (2016) 'Guidelines on Protection of Fisheries during Construction Works in and Adjacent

to Waters' will be consulted in relation to necessary mitigation;

Should dewatering of flooded excavation holes or pits be required, there will be no pumping

of soiled waters to the Newport River or to areas that would allow overland flow to the

Newport River; and

Release of suspended solids will be controlled by interception (silt trap) and management of

site run-off. If there is a requirement to release water, it will be to grassed areas of low

gradient to allow water to percolate to ground. The location and specification of the

settlement areas will be agreed with the site ecologist.

5.5.10 Hydrocarbon Control

All equipment will be in good condition to avoid spillage or discharge of oil, smoke and

excessive noise;

An appropriate waste container will be placed at a suitable location to collect waste before

disposal by an authorised company;

Hazardous material storage areas will be identified, labelled, and properly marked and fitted

with spill containment systems;

Refuelling will be carried out by competent and trained people away from any

environmentally sensitive areas;

Excavators and other equipment will be checked for any fuel/oil leaks on a regular basis by

the crew;

Any spills we be reported immediately to the site agent/authorities;

Use absorbent materials from the spill kit to mop up the spill (sand or absorbent materials

will be used rather than detergents);

Place boom around any affected water as a precaution;

Do not wash spillage. Washing will only make the situation worse and disperse the pollutant;

Shovel contaminated sand/earth/absorbent granules into sacks or skips; and

A specialist oil removal company or contaminated soil company will remove pooled oil

and/or soils contaminated oil.

5.5.11 Concrete Control and Wheel Washing

Wet concrete pollution is silty and very alkaline (high pH) and can have a serious effect on

watercourses and aquatic life. Concrete should not enter site water. The following measures will be

implemented regarding concrete:


54

Concrete pours shall not be carried out during forecasted periods of heavy rainfall. Weather

forecasts will be monitored during the construction phase. The 24 hour advance

meteorological forecasting service from Met Éireann will be used;

Designate a concrete washout area away from drains and the Newport River;

To reduce the volume of cementitious water, only concrete chutes will be washed down

onsite. The concrete trucks will wash down their chutes at a designated chute wash down

area in the site compound. The wash down area will consist of a polythene lined bunded

area of adequate capacity;

Wash-water from the washing out of mixers and other equipment will be undertaken at a

designated chute wash down area in the site compound;

Washout of concrete trucks should occur off‐site;

No disposal of concrete remnants will be permitted elsewhere on site;

A wheel wash will be installed near the construction site entrance and exit to wash

construction vehicle tyres;

The wheel wash area will be cleaned regularly so as to avoid the build-up of residue; and

Water residue from the wheel wash will be fed through an interceptor/filter prior to

discharging from the site to a grassed area away from the Newport River.

5.5.12 Storage

The storage of materials, containers, stockpiles and waste, however temporary, should follow best

practice at all times and be stored at designated areas. Storage will be located as follows:

Away from drains and any watercourses or drains;

Fuel oils etc. should be stored on a sheltered dry elevated site well removed from aquatic

zones;

On an impermeable base;

Under cover to prevent damage from the elements;

In secure areas;

Well away from moving plant, machinery and vehicles; and

On land not required until later in the development.

All containers will be stored upright and clearly labelled. Sufficient storage should be supplied near

to all working areas.

5.5.13 Waste management

To contain and manage construction phase waste, two types of skip will be provided at the site

compound; one for recyclable waste and others for various construction wastes. These skips will be

emptied when required by a licensed waste management company.

Any waste lubricants/oils will be collected and stored in drums in the site compound within a

prefabricated bunded storage unit and will be removed and disposed of by a licensed waste

management company without delay.


55

There will be no discharge of effluent or waste water on site. Waste water tank and sewage will be

emptied as required and removed from site to a licensed facility. These staff facilities will be

removed at the end of the construction phase.

5.6 RESIDUAL IMPACTS

Provided that the recommended mitigation measures set out in Section 5.5 above are implemented

in full, it is not expected that significant impacts will result to the qualifying features identified for

appraisal in this NIS and thus it is not expected that the proposal will have an adverse impact on the

integrity of Natura 2000 sites.

5.7 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, provided the recommended mitigation measures are implemented in full it is not

expected that the construction and operation of the proposed Newport Town Park will result in an

adverse residual impact on the integrity of Natura 2000 sites considered in this NIS, namely the:

Lower River Shannon cSAC (002165)

The provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EC (2000) defines ‘integrity’ as the

‘coherence of the site’s ecological structure and function, across its whole area, or the habitats,

complex of habitats and/or population of species for which the site is or will be classified’. It is

considered that the scale of the works, in addition to the implementation of the prescribed

mitigation measures, would not give rise to significant impacts affecting the integrity of the Lower

River Shannon cSAC. It is concluded that the Newport Town Park, subject to the proposed mitigation

measures and conditions above, will not result in direct, indirect or cumulative impacts which would

have the potential to adversely affect the conservation objectives of the Lower River Shannon cSAC

in relation to the relevant Annex II species and Annex I habitats; with regard to their range,

population densities or conservation status within the cSAC. Potential impacts on water quality in

the Lower River Shannon cSAC are limited due to the small scale of the proposed works; the carrying

assimilation capacity of the Newport along with mitigation measures including the protection of

water quality and eradication of non-native invasive plants. There would be no changes to the Lower

River Shannon with regard to the qualifying interests of these sites or key indicators of conservation

value (i.e. water quality) or changes to site integrity.

6 FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS

This assessment has concluded that the proposed works would not affect the conservation interests

of the Natura 2000 network and that the conservation interests of any designated area would not be

adversely affected. While this report has considered the relevant Natura 2000 site and the

associated Annex I habitats and Annex II listed species therein, it has not assessed protected flora

and fauna outside of the Natura 2000 network. It is noted that there is potential for negative

impacts on other flora and fauna outside of the Natura 2000 network but this is outside the scope

this report.

There are several mechanisms by which wildlife has been legally protected in Ireland and this

legislation should been taken into account for the current project. It is an offence to intentionally kill

or injure a protected species or to wilfully interfere with or destroy the breeding site or resting place


56

of a protected wild animal as per the Wildlife Act, 1976 and the Wildlife (Amendment) Act, 2000.

Terrestrial mammals including all bats as well as aquatic species such as trout are afforded

protection under Irish and/or European law, irrespective of whether they are located within or

outside of the Natura 2000 network.

To this end, it is recommended that appropriate surveys are carried out to establish baseline

features at the proposed works location where protected species could potentially occur, in order to

evaluate the importance of the site for protected flora and fauna not listed as conservation interests

in the Lower River Shannon cSAC, and provide mitigation where necessary, particularly in relation to

bats. Bat survey methodology should follow the NPWS Wildlife Manual No. 25 ‘Bat Mitigation

Guidelines for Ireland’ by Kelliher and Marnell (2006).


57

7 REFERENCES

BCI (2010) Bats & Lighting. Guidance Notes for: Planners, engineers, architects and developers.

Produced by Bat Conservation Ireland with the assistance of the Irish Environmental Network.

Chapman, P.J. and Chapman, L.L. (1982). Otter survey of Ireland Unpublished Report to Vincent

Wildlife Trust.

Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG) (2009). Appropriate

Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland: Guidance for Planning Authorities. Department of

Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

EA (2013) Managing Japanese knotweed on development sites - the knotweed code of practice

(Version 3, Published in September 2006 / updated July 2013.). Environment Agency, Horizon House,

Deanery Road, Bristol BS1 5AH.

EC (2000). Managing Natura 2000 Sites: The provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive

92/43/EEC. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities.

European Commission (2007) Interpretation manual of European Union habitats- EUR 27. DG

Environment, Brussels.

EC (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


IFI (2016) Guidelines on Protection of Fisheries during Construction Works in and Adjacent to

Waters. Inland Fisheries Ireland, 3044 Lake Drive, Citywest Business Campus Co. Dublin. IFI/2016/1-

4298.

Horton, R., G. Yohe, W. Easterling, R. Kates, M. Ruth, E. Sussman, A. Whelchel, D. Wolfe, and F.

Lipschultz (2014) Climate Change Impacts in the United States: The Third National Climate

Assessment, Eds., U.S. Global Change Research Program, 16-1-nn.

IFI (2016) Guidelines on Protection of Fisheries during Construction Works in and Adjacent to

Waters. Inland Fisheries Ireland, 3044 Lake Drive, Citywest Business Campus Co. Dublin. IFI/2016/1-

4298.

Kelleher, C. & Marnell, F. (2006) Bat Mitigation Guidelines for Ireland. Irish Wildlife Manuals, No. 25.

National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government,

Dublin, Ireland.


58

Kelly, F.L., Matson, R., Connor, L., Feeney, R., Morrissey, E., Coyne, J. and Rocks, K. (2014) Water

Framework Directive Fish Stock Survey of Rivers in the South Western River Basin District. Inland

Fisheries Ireland, 3044 Lake Drive, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24.

Kurz, I. and Costello, M.J. (1999). An Outline of the Biology, Distribution and Conservation of

Lampreys in Ireland. Irish Wildlife Manuals, No. 5.

Maitland PS (2003) Ecology of the River, Brook and Sea Lamprey . Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers

Ecology Series No. 5. English Nature, Peterborough.

Masters-Williams, H., Heap, A., Kitts, H., Greenshaw, L., Davis, S., Fisher, P., Hendrie, M., Owens, D.

(2001) Control of water pollution from construction sites. Guidance for consultants and contractors.

DETR/CIRIA. London.

McGinnity, P., Gargan, P., Roche W., Mills, P., and McGarrigle M. (2003) Quantification of the

freshwater Salmon habitat asset in Ireland using data interpreted in a GIS platform. Issue 3 of Irish

Freshwater Fisheries Ecology and Management Series, Central Fisheries Board, Dublin, 3. 131 pp.

NPWS (2007) Supporting documentation for the Habitats Directive Conservation Status Assessment ‐

backing documents, Article 17 forms and supporting maps. Unpublished Report to NPWS.

NPWS (2012a) Conservation Objectives: Lower River Shannon cSAC 002165. Version 1.0. National

Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

NPWS (2012b) Conservation objectives supporting document for the Lower River Shannon cSAC

(site code 2165) - Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and

Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation (habitat code 3260). Unpublished report, Version 1.

NPWS (2013) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Species Assessments

Volume 3. Version 1.0. Unpublished Report, National Parks & Wildlife Services. Department of Arts,

Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland.

NRA (2010) ‘Guidelines on the Management of Noxious Weeds and Non-Native Invasive Plant Species on National Roads’ Revision 1. National Roads Authority, St Martin’s House, Waterloo Road, Dublin 4

NRA (2006) ‘Guidelines for the protection and preservation of trees, hedgerows and scrub prior to,

during and post construction of national road schemes. National Roads Authority.

NRA (2008) Guidelines for the Treatment of Otters prior to the Construction of National Road

Schemes. National Roads Authority.

NS 2. (2010). Freshwater Pearl Mussel Second Draft Allow Sub-Basin Management Plan. Produced by

NS 2, funded by DEHLG.

NRA (2006) A Guide to Landscape Treatments for National Road Schemes in Ireland. National Roads

Authority, Dublin.


59

O’Grady, M. (2006). Channels and Challenges. The enhancement of Salmonid rivers. Central Fisheries

Board, Dublin. 142pp.

Reynolds, J.D. (1998). Conservation management of the white-clawed crayfish, Austropotamobius

pallipes Part 1. Irish Wildlife Manuals No. 1. Dúchas, the Heritage Service, Dublin.

Settele, J., R. Scholes, R. Betts, S. Bunn, P. Leadley, D. Nepstad, J.T. Overpeck, and M.A. Taboada

(2014). Terrestrial and Inland Water Systems. In: Climate Change 2014: Impacts, Adaptation and

Vulnerability. Part A: Global and Sectoral Aspects. Contribution of Working Group II to the Fourth

Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Cambridge University Press.

SNH (2006) Guidance for Competent Authorities when dealing with proposals affecting SAC

freshwater sites. Scottish Natural Heritage. http://

http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/heritagemanagement/guidanceforcompetentauthorities.p

df

TEGOS (2018) Report of the Technical Expert Group on Salmon to Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). The

Status of Irish Salmon Stocks in 2017 with Catch Advice for 2018.

Whilde, A., (1993) Threatened Mammals, Birds, Amphibians and Fish in Ireland – Irish Red Data Book

2: Vertebrates. HMSO, Belfast.

http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/heritagemanagement/guidanceforcompetentauthorities.pdf

http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/heritagemanagement/guidanceforcompetentauthorities.pdf

18491-6005-A Natura Impact Statement March 2018

Appendix

Appendix 1

Screening for Appropriate Assessment Report

Screening for Appropriate Assessment

Newport Town Park,

Co. Tipperary

This page has been left intentionally blank

18150-6010-C Screening for Appropriate Assessment September 2018

i

ISSUE FORM

Project number 18150

Document number 6010

Document revision C

Document title Screening of Appropriate Assessment: Newport Town Park

Document status Issued for Client

Document prepared by Gerard Hayes (Senior Ecologist, B.Sc. Ed., MCIEEM)

Document checked by Hazel Dalton (Senior Ecologist, B.Sc. Wildlife Biology)


ii

Table of contents

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS................................................................................................... 4

1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................... 5

1.1 Purpose of Assessment ..................................................................................................... 5

1.2 Legislative context ............................................................................................................ 5

1.3 Stages of Appropriate Assessment..................................................................................... 5

2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ................................................................................... 5

2.1 Appropriate Assesment Guidance ..................................................................................... 5

2.2 Desk Study ........................................................................................................................ 5

2.3 Screening for Appropriate Assessment .............................................................................. 6

3 SCREENING FOR APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT ............................................................. 6

3.1 Management of Natura 2000 sites ..................................................................................... 6

3.2 Description of Project ....................................................................................................... 6

3.2.1 Brief Project Description ....................................................................................................................... 6

3.2.2 Purpose of the Project .......................................................................................................................... 7

3.2.3 Site Location and Context ..................................................................................................................... 7

3.2.4 Description of the Site ........................................................................................................................... 8

3.2.5 Characteristics of the Project ................................................................................................................ 9

3.3 Identification of Other Projects, Plans and Activities ........................................................ 11

3.4 Identification of Natura 2000 Sites .................................................................................. 11

3.4.1 Zone of Impact Influence .................................................................................................................... 11

3.4.2 Identification of Natura 2000 Sites ..................................................................................................... 11

3.4.3 Characteristics of Natura 2000 sites within 15km .............................................................................. 13

3.4.4 Conservation Objectives ..................................................................................................................... 14

3.5 Identification of Potential Impacts ................................................................................... 15

3.6 Assessment of Significance of Potential Impacts .............................................................. 16

3.6.1 Habitat Loss and Alteration ................................................................................................................. 17

3.6.2 Water Quality ...................................................................................................................................... 17

3.6.3 Disturbance and/or Displacement of Species ..................................................................................... 17

3.6.4 Habitat or Species Fragmentation....................................................................................................... 17

3.6.5 Cumulative/In-combination Impacts .................................................................................................. 18

3.7 Conclusion of Screening Stage ......................................................................................... 18

4 REFERENCES ............................................................................................................ 20


iii

Table of tables Table 1: Designated conservation sites within 15km radius of proposed development site ............... 11

Table 2: Designated site with qualifying features / conservation interests listed ................................ 13

Table of figures

Figure 1: Site location in Newport Town ................................................................................................ 8

Figure 2: Designated Natura 2000 sites within 15km of the proposed development site ................... 12

List of appendices

Appendix 1 Stages of Appropriate Assessment


4

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

Project Title Newport Town Park

Project Proponent Tipperary County Council

Project Location Newport, County Tipperary

Screening for

Appropriate

Assessment

The Screening for Appropriate Assessment is undertaken to determine

the potential for likely significant effects of a project, individually, or in

combination with other plans or projects, in view of the conservation

objectives of the site on a Natura 2000 Site.

Conclusion It has been concluded with regard to the proposal to develop a town park

Town Park, incorporating a playground, at Newport, Co. Tipperary, that

significant effects cannot be ruled out at this stage, on the following

Natura 2000 site:

Lower River Shannon SAC (002165)


5

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 PURPOSE OF ASSESSMENT

This Screening for Appropriate Assessment has been undertaken to determine the potential for

significant impacts on a proposal to develop a Town Park, incorporating a playground, at Newport,

Co. Tipperary, on nearby sites with European conservation designations (i.e. Natura 2000 Sites).

This Screening for Appropriate Assessment has been undertaken by Malachy Walsh and Partners

ecologists.

1.2 LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT

The Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) seeks to conserve natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora by

the designation of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and the Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) seeks

to protect birds of special importance by the designation of Special Protected Areas (SPAs). It is the

responsibility of each member state to designate SPAs and SACs, both of which will form part of

Natura 2000, a network of protected sites throughout the European Community. The Habitats

Directive has been transposed into Irish law and the relevant Regulations are the European

Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. The requirement for Appropriate

Assessment of the implications of plans and projects on the Natura 2000 network of sites comes

from the Habitats Directive (Article 6(3)). Under the Planning and Development Act 2000 (amended)

(Section 177U) a Local Authority is required to carry out a Screening for Appropriate Assessment of a

proposed development prior to issuing consent. This information presented in this Screening for

Appropriate Assessment will be used by the competent authority (in this case Tipperary County

Council) to complete their screening exercise.

1.3 STAGES OF APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT

The Appropriate Assessment process is a four-stage process with issues and tests at each stage. An

important aspect of the process is that the outcome at each successive stage determines whether a

further stage in the process is required. The stages are set out in Appendix 1.

2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

2.1 APPROPRIATE ASSESMENT GUIDANCE

This Screening for Appropriate Assessment, or Stage 1, has been undertaken in accordance with the

European Commission Methodological Guidance on the provision of Article 6(3) and 6(4) of the

‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC (EC, 2001) and the European Commission Guidance ‘Managing Natura

2000 sites’ (EC, 2000) and guidance prepared by the NPWS (DoEHLG, 2009).

2.2 DESK STUDY

In order to complete the Natura Impact Statement certain information on the existing environment

is required. A desk study was carried out to collate available information on the site’s natural

environment. This comprised a review of the following publications, data and datasets:

OSI Aerial photography and 1:50000 mapping, and other mapping sources (online)

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) (online)

National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) (online)


6

Geological Survey Ireland (GSI) area maps (online)

Shannon River Basin District (ShRBD) datasets (Water Framework Directive) (online)

Other information sources and reports footnoted in the course of the report

2.3 SCREENING FOR APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT

As set out in the NPWS guidance, the task of establishing whether a plan or project is likely to have

an effect on a Natura 2000 site(s) is based on a preliminary impact assessment using available

information and data, including that outlined above, and other available environmental information,

supplemented as necessary by local site information and ecological surveys. This is followed by a

determination of whether there is a risk that the effects identified could be significant. The

precautionary principle approach is required.

Once the potential impacts that may arise from the proposal are identified the significance of these

is assessed through the use of key indicators:

Habitat loss and alteration

Water quality and resource



3 SCREENING FOR APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT

Screening for Appropriate Assessment (Stage 1) determines the need for a full Appropriate

Assessment (Stage 2) and consists of a number of steps, each of which is addressed in the following

sections of this report:

4.1 Establish whether the project is necessary for the management of a Natura 2000 site

4.2 Description of the project

4.3 Identification of Natura 2000 sites potentially affected

4.4 Identification and description of individual and cumulative impacts of the project

4.5 Assessment of the significance of the impacts on the integrity of Natura 2000 sites

4.6 Conclusion of screening stage

3.1 MANAGEMENT OF NATURA 2000 SITES

The proposal is not connected with or necessary to the conservation management of a Natura 2000

site.

3.2 DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT

3.2.1 Brief Project Description

Tipperary County Council proposes to develop a Town Park, incorporating a playground, at Newport,

Co. Tipperary. The proposed town park site is located to the south of the R503 and to the west of

Custom Gap Road. The proposed Town Park will include a children’s play area, specifically designed

play equipment for use by people with a disability, zip wire, outdoor gym equipment, pump track,

recreational walkways, seating, bi-lingual signage displaying reference to applicable by-laws, rules,

hours of opening, etc., landscaping and car parking for approximately 26 cars. The Council will have

regard to strategies and guidelines including the National Development Plan 2007-2013, the


7

Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas Guidelines (DoEHLG, 2009) and the Urban

Design Manual, A Best Practice Guide (DoEHLG 2008).

3.2.2 Purpose of the Project

It is recognised that quality recreation and leisure facilities contribute to the quality of life for all that

it serves. The provision of amenities which can cater for the demands of an increasing population

and which can be accessible for all sectors and age groups is a central element in the delivery of

sustainable communities. Tipperary County Council recognises the important role that areas of

amenity and green linkages play in creating quality and healthy environments for all and will seek to

promote a balance between the protection of environmental assets and the facilitation of

recreational use.

3.2.3 Site Location and Context

The proposed town park site is located to the south of the R503 and to the west of Custom Gap Road

at Tullow, Newport. Co. Tipperary (See Figure 1). The proposed development is located adjacent to

an existing housing estate (Mulkear view) and the Newport (Tipperary) River. The site lies partially

within the confines of the Newport Town municipal boundary. The land use in the general area

bordering or in reasonably close proximity to the site includes residential development along with

offices, commercial and educational facilities. Housing is the principal land use along Custom Gap

Road to the south of the site.


8

Figure 1: Site location in Newport Town

3.2.4 Description of the Site

The proposed development site has been partially developed as incomplete housing, with works

stalled. This work is considered to be related to conditional planning permission that was granted at

the site in April 2003 for 95 dwelling units, a creche, entrances, roads and all associated site works

(Tipperary planning register 02510476). Some house foundations occur within the site. There is

evidence of related drainage at the site also, so it is concluded that significant ground works had

taken place prior to cessation of this development. The proposed development is therefore


9

categorised as a brownfield site, with imported stone and unfinished buildings forming some of the

ground to the north and east of the site.

Newport is within easy commuter distance of the Limerick/Shannon Gateway, as defined in the

National Spatial Strategy. In many respects, Newport is often regarded as a dormitory town for

Limerick City. Newport is a small North Tipperary town located in the West of the County of North

Tipperary, near the Co. Limerick border. Newport is located on the main road (R503) between

Limerick and Thurles.

The site currently has no commercial use and is largely overgrown at its western extent, colonised by

wild plants and young shrubs/trees. The site is bound to the northeast by an occupied housing

development. The southern boundary of the site comprises a hedgerow/treeline. The Newport River

within the Lower River Shannon SAC lies to the west of the site.

The Newport River (EPA code 25N02) is a 4th order fast flowing river. The Newport River rises in

Silvermines Mountain Range at Curreeny, Co. Tipperary. It is a large fast flowing mountain river

which often flows through areas of hillside that contain significant amounts of mountain blanket

bog. This often gives the river a high natural peaty colour in heavy rainfall events.

It is fed by the 4th order Annagh River (25A02) before meeting the 6th order River Mulkear (25M04), a

large tributary of the River Shannon (25S01) at Annacotty. The Newport River is within the Mulkear

Water Management Unit area within Hydrometric Area 25. This area is part of the Shannon River

Basin District (ShRBD).

The 2010-2015 river water quality status of the Newport (Tipperary) River was ‘Good’. The EPA carry

out biological water quality monitoring at several locations in the Newport River catchment. The

most recent assessment was undertaken in 2015, At Rockvale Bridge (EPA station 0200) ca. 3km

upstream of the proposed development, biological water quality was rated Q4-5, equivalent to

Water Framework Directive (WFD) ‘High Status’. At Portryan Bridge (EPA station 0300) ca. 1km

downstream of the proposed development, biological water quality was rated Q5, equivalent to

Water Framework Directive (WFD) ‘High Status’.

Using the EPA Hydrotool which returns flow duration curves for most rivers in Ireland, the stretch of

the Newport River at Newport (25_475) has a 95%ile flow and mean flow of 0.638m3/s and

2.705m3/s respectively (mean flow was taken as the 30%ile river flow, as in MacCarthaigh, 1997).

3.2.5 Characteristics of the Project

The proposed development will include:

riparian leave strip exclusion zone

protection of watercourses (general measures)

fuel and oil management

storage

The proposal is described below.


10

Size, scale, area, land-take The proposed development site has an area of ca. 2.8ha.

Details of physical changes that will take place during the various stages of implementing the proposal

Set up of site compound within east side of site

Demarcation of riparian exclusion zone using appropriate fencing

Construction of path which runs parallel to the river. This will act as a further buffer between the SAC and the construction works.

Construct of remainder of paths and Infill of grassland area and planting on the west and north of the site.

Construction of paths, core area and informal garden area within the central section of the site.

Construction of mixed amenity area

Construction of car park on east side of site with integrated Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) for management of surface water runoff.

Construction of Mixed Use Games Area (MUGA) and Playground on east side of site.

Connection to existing site services, including electricity, water and drainage.

Description of resource requirements for the construction/operation and decommissioning of the proposal (water resources, construction material, human presence etc)

An estimated average of eight to ten workers will be involved in the construction at any one time.

Excavation (950m2), fill material (930m

3), footpaths (2,270m

2), tarmac

(740m2), paving (1,890m

2), geotextile (2,420m

2), top-soiling (12,120m

2),

fencing (1,260m), concrete (125m3), ducts & drainage pipes, public

lighting, equipment for play areas.

Dumper, mini-excavator, compressor, lorries to deliver fill material.

An excavator will be used to prepare the central and western sections of the site.

Delivery trucks will need to call to site regularly.

Materials such as steel, concrete, blocks, fencing, etc, will be delivered to site by means of trucks and delivery vehicles.

Concrete will be ready mixed when delivered to site. Concrete truck washing will not be permitted on site.

Description of timescale for the various activities that will take place as a result of implementation (including likely start and finish date)

The construction period will be 4-6 months starting in the June following grant of planning permission

Description of wastes arising and other residues and their disposal

General construction waste, including packaging.

Demolition and construction waste will be separated on site, recycled where possible and removed to licensed waste disposal facility (metal, masonry, concrete).

No excavation spoil wastes are expected as excavations are minimal and spoil will be backfilled into core area

Identification of wastes arising and other residues (including quantities) that may be of particular concern in the context of the Natura 2000 network

All demolition waste will be removed off-site to licensed recycling or landfill facility as appropriate (metal, masonry, concrete).


11

3.3 IDENTIFICATION OF OTHER PROJECTS, PLANS AND ACTIVITIES

Other projects and activities that could act in combination with the project include:

Newport Town WWTP

Other Industrial Emission licenced sites

Other planning applications

Ongoing activities associated with Newport town

Ongoing activities associated with the catchment e.g. agriculture

3.4 IDENTIFICATION OF NATURA 2000 SITES

3.4.1 Zone of Impact Influence

The screening stage of AA involves compiling a ‘long list’ of European sites within a zone of potential

impact influence for later analysis which may or may ultimately not be significantly impacted upon

by the proposal. All Natura 2000 sites within 15km of the proposal location will be characterised in

the context of the rationale for designation and qualifying features, in accordance with NPWS

guidance. In line with the precautionary principle, during the preparation of this report Natura 2000

sites that lie outside 15km that may be significantly impacted as a result of the proposed works were

also considered. Following this, the potential impacts associated with the proposal will be identified

before an assessment is made of the likely significance of these impacts.

As described above, the test for the screening for Appropriate Assessment is to assess, in view of

best scientific knowledge, if the development, individually or in combination with other plan/project

is likely to have a significant effect on a Nature 2000 site. If there are any significant, potentially

significant, or uncertain effects, it will be necessary to proceed to Appropriate Assessment and

submit an NIS.

3.4.2 Identification of Natura 2000 Sites

In identifying potentially affected European sites, it has been decided to include all SACs and SPAs,

within a 15km radius of the proposal site (See Figure 2). Table 1 below lists designated SACs and SPA

within 15km or the anticipated zone of influence of the proposal site including their proximity. Given

the nature, scope, scale and location of the works, it is not considered that the proposal will

significantly affect Natura 2000 sites outside of those considered here.

Table 1: Designated conservation sites within 15km radius of proposed development site

No. Designated Site Site Code Proximity of proposed development site to nearest point of designated site

1 Lower River Shannon SAC 002165 Within and directly adjacent to this site

2 Clare Glens SAC 000930 1.5km north

3 Slievefelim to Silvermines Mountains SPA 004165 1.8km northwest

4 Glenstal Wood SAC 001432 4.5km northwest

5 Keeper Hill SAC 001197 8.8km south southwest

6 Silvermines Mountains West SAC 002258 9.8km southwest

7 Lough Derg (Shannon) SPA 004058 12.5km south

8 Glenomra Wood SAC 001013 12.5km south east

9 Slieve Bernagh Bog SAC 002312 13.5km south east

10 Silvermines Mountains SAC 000939 14km south west

11 Bolingbrook Hill SAC 002124 14.8km south west


12

Figure 2: Designated Natura 2000 sites within 15km of the proposed development site


13

3.4.3 Characteristics of Natura 2000 sites within 15km

The following tables list the features of interest for the SAC and SPA sites identified in the previous

table. Information pertaining to designated sites is from site synopses, conservation objectives and

other information available on www.npws.ie.

Table 2: Designated site with qualifying features / conservation interests listed

Designated Site Qualifying features / Conservation interests

Lower River Shannon SAC

Habitats Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time [1110] Estuaries [1130] Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide [1140] Coastal lagoons [1150] Large shallow inlets and bays [1160] Reefs [1170] Perennial vegetation of stony banks [1220] Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts [1230] Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand [1310] Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) [1330] Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi) [1410] Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation [3260] Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) [6410] Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae) [91E0] Species Margaritifera margaritifera (Freshwater Pearl Mussel) [1029] Petromyzon marinus (Sea Lamprey) [1095] Lampetra planeri (Brook Lamprey) [1096] Lampetra fluviatilis (River Lamprey) [1099] Salmo salar (Salmon) [1106] Tursiops truncatus (Common Bottlenose Dolphin) [1349] Lutra lutra (Otter) [1355]

Clare Glens SAC Habitats Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in British Isles [91A0] Species Killarney fern (Trichomanes speciosum) [1421]

Slievefelim to Silvermines Mountains SPA

Species Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus) [A082]

Glenstal Wood SAC Species Killarney fern Trichomanes speciosum) [1421]

Silvermines Mountains West SAC

Habitats Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [4010] European dry heaths [4030] Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and submountain areas, in Continental Europe) [6230] Blanket bog (*active only) [7130]

Keeper Hill SAC

Habitats Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [4010] Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and submountain areas, in Continental Europe) [6230] Blanket bog (*active only) [7130]

Bolingbrook Hill SAC

Habitats Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [4010] European dry heaths [4030] Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and

http://www.npws.ie/


14

submountain areas, in Continental Europe) [6230]

Glenomra Wood SAC

Old Oak Woodlands [91A0]

Slieve Bernagh Bog SAC

Wet Heath [4010] Dry Heath [4030] Blanket Bogs [(Active)7130]

Silvermines Mountains

Habitats Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [4010] Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and submountain areas, in Continental Europe) [6230]

Lough Derg (Shannon) SPA

Species Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) [A017] Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) [A061] Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) [A067] Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) [A193] Wetland and Waterbirds [A999]

3.4.4 Conservation Objectives

According to the Habitat’s Directive, the conservation status of a natural habitat will be taken as

‘favourable’ within its biogeographic range when:

its natural range and areas it covers within that range are stable or increasing, and

the specific structure and functions which are necessary for its long-term maintenance exist

and are likely to continue to exist for the foreseeable future, and

the conservation status of its typical species is favourable as defined below.

According to the Habitat’s Directive, the conservation status of a species means the sum of the

influences acting on the species concerned that may affect the long-term distribution and

abundance of its populations. The conservation status will be taken as ’favourable’ within its

biogeographic range when:

population dynamics data on the species concerned indicate that it is maintaining itself on a

long-term basis as a viable component of its natural habitats, and

the natural range of the species is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the

foreseeable future, and

there is, and will probably continue to be, a sufficiently large habitat to maintain its

populations on a long-term basis.

The specific conservation objectives for each site are available on www.npws.ie. These have been

accessed for the sites listed in the tables above on the 16th July 2018. Generic conservation

objectives were available for the following sites:

Kilcolman Bog SPA

Blackwater Callows SP

Slievefelim to Silvermines Mountains SPA

Lough Derg (Shannon) SPA

Site specific and more detailed conservation objectives were available for the following sites:

Lower River Shannon SAC (NPWS, 2012)

http://www.npws.ie/


15

Glenstal Wood SAC (NPWS, 2018a)

Clare Glens SAC (NPWS, 2018b)

Keeper Hill SAC (NPWS, 2017a)

Silvermines Mountains West SAC (NPWS, 2017b)

Silvermines Mountains SAC (NPWS, 2018c)

Bolingbrook Hill SAC (NPWS, 2018d)

Management plans were not available for any sites.

All conservation objectives together with other designated site information are available on

http://www.npws.ie/protectedsites/.

3.5 IDENTIFICATION OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS

Potential likely ecological impacts arising from the project are identified in this section. Potential

ecological impacts are likely to be associated with the construction phase of the project as there will

be disturbance of soil and excavations and use of associated machinery next to a watercourse. The

potential likely ecological impacts arising from the construction elements of the project are outlined

in the table below while the paragraphs that follow describe operational impacts of the project,

which are not expected to change with the operation of the project.

Description of elements of the project likely to give rise to impacts on Natura 2000 sites.

1. Works will be conducted adjacent to a river channel designated as an SAC for the protection of aquatic species.

2. The risk of a fuel or oil spillage into the waterway draining to the SAC due to the use of plant in close proximity to it.

3. The risk of the movement of sediment or suspended solids from the proposal site area to the adjacent river.

Describe any likely direct, indirect or secondary impacts of the project (either alone or in combination with other plans or projects) on Natura 2000 sites by virtue of:

Size and scale;

Land-take;

Distance from Natura 2000 Site or key features of the Site;

Resource requirements;

Emissions;

Excavation requirements;

Transportation requirements;

Duration of construction, operation etc.; and

Other.

Works conducted upstream of a riparian SAC

Works duration of six months

Small scale excavation will be required

Some infill material will be imported

Resources required include: o plant machinery o transport vehicles o fuels and oils o cement o top soil

Potential emissions include: o water borne sediment o fuel or oil spill

http://www.npws.ie/protectedsites/


16

Describe any likely changes to the site arising as a result of:

Reduction of habitat area;

Disturbance of key species;

Habitat or species fragmentation;

Reduction in species density;

Changes in key indicators of conservation value; and

Climate change.

No significant changes under the criteria listed opposite are expected to ensue from the proposal

Some limited potential to create adverse water quality impacts in the Lower River Shannon SAC by means of ingress of hydrocarbons or sediment to the Newport River resides in the programme of works required to construct the proposed town park.

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; and

Interference with key relationships that define the function of the site.

Some limited potential to create adverse water quality impacts in the Lower River Shannon SAC by means of ingress of hydrocarbons or sediment to the Newport River resides in the programme of works required to construct the town park. However, it is not expected that the proposal has the potential to interfere with the relationships that define the structure and function of the SAC

Describe from the above those elements of the project, or combination of elements, where the above impacts are likely to be significant or where the scale of magnitude of impacts is not known.

It is not expected that significant adverse water quality impacts will ensue from the proposal that would adversely affect the key relationships that define the structure and function of the nearby SAC site.

3.6 ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS

This section considers the list of sites identified in Section 3.4 above together with the potential

ecological impacts identified in the previous section and determines whether the project is likely to

have significant effects on a Natura 2000 site.

The likelihood of significant effects to a Natura 2000 site from the project was determined based on

a number of indicators including:

Habitat loss

Habitat alteration



Water quality and resource

The likelihood of significant cumulative/in-combination effects is assessed in Section 3.6.5.

Clare Glens is located 1.5km south of the proposed development and has been designated due to the

presence of ’Killarney fern (Trichomanes speciosum)’ and ‘Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and

Blechnum in British Isles’. This site is not assessed in any more detail as there is no connection

between this site and the proposed works.

At its closest, the proposed development site is located 1.8km northwest of the Slievefelim to

Silvermines Mountains SPA, an extensive upland site located in Counties Tipperary and Limerick. This

is an SPA for Hen harrier, a species listed under Annex I of the EU Birds Directive. It is one of the

strongholds for Hen Harrier in the country. The site provides excellent nesting and foraging habitat for

breeding Hen Harrier and is among the top five sites in the country for the species. This site is not


17

included for further assessment of impacts due to geographical separation, and taking account of the

disturbed nature / high human activity in the vicinity of the proposed development site.

The proposed development is considered to be spatially removed from other Natura 2000 sites within

15km to a degree that would preclude any significant impacts. For example, the Silvermines

Mountains West SAC and the Lough Derg (Shannon) SPA are 9.8km and 12.5km from the proposed

development, respectively, so no plausible impacts on the habitats and/or species of interest in these

sites are envisaged in light of the proposed Newport Town Park.

The conservation objectives of these sites have been considered and there is no potential for

significant effects. These sites will not be discussed any further.

With regard to potentially significant negative effects, the only Natura 2000 site identified is the

Lower River Shannon SAC, as the proposed development site lies within/adjacent to the Newport

River within this SAC. The indicators of significant impacts potentially arising from the proposed

development are discussed below in terms of the within the Lower River Shannon SAC.

3.6.1 Habitat Loss and Alteration

The footprint of the proposed project is within the Lower River Shannon SAC. Therefore, land take

within this Natura 2000 site boundary is required and direct terrestrial and/or riparian habitat loss or

alteration is expected to result from the proposal.

The construction phase of the proposal requires construction work in an area adjoining the Newport

River. As a consequence, indirect habitat loss or alteration impacts caused either by potential water

pollution impacts (e.g. run off of suspended solids from earthworks and exposed soil) within the

Lower River Shannon could occur as a result of the project. Therefore, it cannot be objectively

concluded that significant indirect impacts on the habitats and species, for which this site is

designated, will not ensue from the current unmitigated construction phase.

3.6.2 Water Quality

The water quality in the Newport River is essential for supporting the biological elements associated

with the river habitat. Negative impacts to water quality in the Newport River as a result of the

construction activities required to develop the site could have indirect impacts on the aquatic

Qualifying Interests of the Lower River Shannon SAC. For example, uncontrolled silt run-off could

impact negatively on Atlantic Salmon populations. For example, a reduction in water quality arising

from the construction phase could affect the distribution and density of salmonids, which could

potentially affect the availability of prey for otter. Due to the risk of water pollution from the

proposed construction phase entering the Newport River within the Lower River Shannon SAC, the

potential for occurrence of significant impacts cannot be ruled out.

3.6.3 Disturbance and/or Displacement of Species

The construction phase of the proposal requires excavations. There is potential for displacement of

Qualifying Interests in the event water pollutants entered the Newport River during the construction

phase.

3.6.4 Habitat or Species Fragmentation

Habitat fragmentation has been defined as ‘reduction and isolation of patches of natural

environment’ (Hall et al., 1997 cited in Franklin et al., 2002) usually due to an external disturbance


18

such that an alteration of the spatial composition of a habitat occurs that alters the habitat and

‘create[s] isolated or tenuously connected patches of the original habitat’ (Wiens, 1989 cited in

Franklin et al., 2002). This results in spatial separation of habitat units which had previously been in a

state of greater continuity. Negative effects of habitat fragmentation on species or populations can

include increased isolation of populations or species which can detrimentally impact on the

resilience or robustness of the populations reducing overall species diversity and altering species

abundance. As there will be no direct habitat loss it is not considered that significant habitat

fragmentation will arise from the proposal. However, if habitats or species distribution (e.g.

spawning habitats) are significantly altered as a result of habitat alteration impacts arising from the

proposed construction phase, then fragmentation could potentially occur.

3.6.5 Cumulative/In-combination Impacts

There is potential for cumulative ecological effects to occur to the Newport River during the

construction phase of the project together with ongoing pressures to the water quality in the

catchment. For example, the 2016 Annual Environmental Report for the Newport Waste Water

Treatment Plant (WWTP licence register No. D0325-01,)1 indicates that the annual maximum

hydraulic and annual mean organic loading is greater than the peak treatment plant capacity. This

WWTP has a plant capacity population equivalent of 1900 and is not designed for Phosphorus

removal. Its primary discharge point to the Newport River2 at Portryan ca. 1km downstream of the

proposed development site.

3.7 CONCLUSION OF SCREENING STAGE

In conclusion, to determine the potential impacts, if any, of the project on nearby Natura 2000 sites,

a screening process for Appropriate Assessment was undertaken. The proposed development is

within 15km of nine Natura 2000 sites.

It has been objectively concluded during the screening process that eight sites within 15km of the

project are unlikely to be significantly impacted by the proposal to develop land for amenity

purposes at Newport:

Clare Glens SAC (000930)

Slievefelim to Silvermines Mountains SPA (004165)

Glenstal Wood SAC (001432)

Keeper Hill SAC (001197)

Silvermines Mountains West SAC (002258)

Lough Derg (Shannon) SPA (004058)

Glenomra Wood SAC (001013)

Slieve Bernagh Bog SAC (002312)

Silvermines Mountains (000939)

Bolingbrook Hill SAC (002124)

It has been concluded in regard to the proposed Newport Town Park that significant effects cannot

be ruled out at this stage, on the following Natura 2000 site:

Lower River Shannon SAC (002165)

1 http://www.epa.ie/licences/lic_eDMS/090151b2805fc9a6.pdf

2 http://www.epa.ie/licences/lic_eDMS/090151b2802b03ab.pdf

http://www.epa.ie/licences/lic_eDMS/090151b2805fc9a6.pdf

http://www.epa.ie/licences/lic_eDMS/090151b2802b03ab.pdf


19

Further assessment is required to determine whether the project is likely to adversely affect the

integrity of this Natura 2000 site. An Appropriate Assessment of the project is required and a Natura

Impact Statement (NIS) will need to be prepared to inform the Appropriate Assessment.


20

4 REFERENCES

Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG) (2009). Appropriate

Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland: Guidance for Planning Authorities. Department of

Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

EC (2000). Managing Natura 2000 Sites: The provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive


EC (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


Franklin, Alan B., Noon, Barry R. & Luke George T. (2002), What is Habitat Fragmentation?, Studies in

Avian Biology No. 25:20-29.

NPWS (2012) Conservation Objectives: Lower River Shannon SAC 002165. Version 1.0. National Parks

and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

NPWS (2017a) Conservation Objectives: Keeper Hill SAC 001197. Version 1. National Parks and

Wildlife Service, Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

NPWS (2017b) Conservation Objectives: Silvermines Mountains West SAC 002258. Version 1.

National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

NPWS (2018a) Conservation Objectives: Glenstal Wood SAC 001432. Version 1. National Parks and


NPWS (2018b) Conservation Objectives: Clare Glen SAC 000930. Version 1. National Parks and


NPWS (2018c) Conservation Objectives: Silvermine Mountains SAC 000939. Version 1. National Parks

and Wildlife Service, Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

NPWS (2018d) Conservation Objectives: Bolingbrook Hill SAC 002124. Version 1. National Parks and



Appendix

Appendix 1

Stages of Appropriate Assessment


Appendix

Stage 1 - Screening

This is the first stage of the Appropriate Assessment process and that undertaken to determine the

likelihood of significant impacts as a result of a proposed project or plan. It determines need for a

full Appropriate Assessment.

If it can be concluded that no significant impacts to Natura 2000 sites are likely then the assessment

can stop here. If not, it must proceed to Stage 2 for further more detailed assessment.

Stage 2 - Natura Impact Statement (NIS)

The second stage of the Appropriate Assessment process assesses the impact of the proposal (either

alone or in combination with other projects or plans) on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site with

respect to the conservation objectives of the site and its ecological structure and function. This is a

much more detailed assessment that Stage 1. A Natura Impact Statement containing a professional

scientific examination of the proposal is required and includes any mitigation measure to avoid,

reduce or offset negative impacts.

If the outcome of Stage 2 is negative i.e. adverse impacts to the sites cannot be scientifically ruled

out, despite mitigation, the plan or project should proceed to Stage 3 or be abandoned.

Stage 3 - Assessment of alternative solutions

A detailed assessment must be undertaken to determine whether alternative ways of achieving the

objective of the project/plan exists.

Where no alternatives exist the project/plan must proceed to Stage 4.

Stage 4 - Assessment where no alternative solutions exist and where adverse impacts remain

The final stage is the main derogation process examining whether there are imperative reasons of

overriding public interest (IROPI) for allowing a plan or project to adversely affect a Natura 2000 site

where no less damaging solution exists.


Appendix

Appendix 2

Lower River Shannon cSAC Site Synopsis


Appendix

SITE NAME: LOWER RIVER SHANNON cSAC

SITE CODE: 002165

Qualifying interests:

Annex I habitats

Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time [1110]

Estuaries [1130]

Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide [1140]

Coastal lagoons [1150]

Large shallow inlets and bays [1160]

Reefs [1170]

Perennial vegetation of stony banks [1220]

Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts [1230]

Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand [1310]

Spartina swards (Spartinion maritimae) [1320]

Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) [1330]

Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi) [1410]

Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-

Batrachion vegetation [3260]

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]

Annex II species

Freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) [1029]

Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) [1095]

Brook Lamprey (Lampetra planeri) [1096]

River lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) [1099]

Salmon (Salmo salar) [1106]

Bottle-nosed dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) [1349]

Otter (Lutra lutra) [1355]

This very large site stretches along the Shannon valley from Killaloe to Loop Head/ Kerry Head, a

distance of some 120km. The site thus encompasses the Shannon, Feale, Mulkear and Fergus

Estuaries, the freshwater lower reaches of the River Shannon (between Killaloe and Limerick), the

freshwater stretches of much of the Feale and Mulkear catchments and the marine area between

Loop Head and Kerry Head. The Shannon and Fergus flow through Carboniferous limestone as far as

Foynes, but west of Foynes Namurian shales and flagstones redominate (except at Kerry Head,

which is formed from Old Red Sandstone). The eastern sections of the Feale catchment flow through

Namurian Rocks and the western stretches through Carboniferous Limestone. The Mulkear flows

through Lower Palaeozoic Rocks in the upper reaches before passing through Namurian Rocks,

followed by Lower Carboniferous Shales and Carboniferous Limestone. The Mulkear River itself,

immediately north of Pallas Green, passes through an area of Rhyolites, Tuffs and Agglomerates.


Appendix

Rivers within the subcatchment of the Feale include the Galey, Smearlagh, Oolagh, Allaughaun,

Owveg, Clydagh, Caher, Breanagh and Glenacarney. Rivers within the sub-catchment of the Mulkear

include the Killeenagarriff, Annagh, Newport, the Dead River, the Bilboa, Glashacloonaraveela,

Gortnageragh and Cahernahallia.

The site is a candidate SAC selected for lagoons and alluvial wet woodlands, both habitats listed on

Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected for floating river vegetation, Molinia

meadows, estuaries, tidal mudflats, Atlantic salt meadows, Mediterranean salt meadows, Salicornia

mudflats, sand banks, perennial vegetation of stony banks, sea cliffs, reefs and large shallow inlets

and bays all habitats listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected for the

following species listed on Annex II of the same directive – Bottle-nosed Dolphin, Sea Lamprey , River

Lamprey, Brook Lamprey, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Atlantic Salmon and Otter.

The Shannon and Fergus Estuaries form the largest estuarine complex in Ireland. They form a unit

stretching from the upper tidal limits of the Shannon and Fergus Rivers to the mouth of the Shannon

estuary (considered to be a line across the narrow strait between Kilcredaun Point and Kilconly

Point). Within this main unit there are several tributaries with their own ‘sub-estuaries’ e.g. the Deel

River, Mulkear River, and Maigue River. To the west of Foynes, a number of small estuaries form

indentations in the predominantly hard coastline, namely Poulnasherry Bay, Ballylongford Bay,

Clonderalaw Bay and the Feale or Cashen River Estuary.

Both the Fergus and inner Shannon estuaries feature vast expanses of intertidal mudflats, often

fringed with saltmarsh vegetation. The smaller estuaries also feature mudflats, but have their own

unique characteristics, e.g. Poulnasherry Bay is stony and unusually rich in species and biotopes.

Plant species are typically scarce on the mudflats, although there are some Eel-grass beds (Zostera

spp.) and patches of green algae (e.g. Ulva sp. and Enteromorpha sp.). The main macro-invertebrate

community, which has been noted from the inner Shannon and Fergus estuaries, is a Macoma-

Scrobicularia-Nereis community.

In the transition zone between mudflats and saltmarsh, specialised colonisers of mud predominate:

swards of Common Cord-grass (Spartina anglica) frequently occur in the upper parts of the

estuaries. Less common are swards of Glasswort (Salicornia europaea agg.). In the innermost parts

of the estuaries, the tidal channels or creeks are fringed with species such as Common Reed

(Phragmites australis) and Club-rushes (Scirpus maritimus, S. tabernaemontani and S. triquetrus). In

addition to the nationally rare Triangular Club-rush (Scirpus triqueter), two scarce species are found

in some of these creeks (e.g. Ballinacurra Creek): Lesser Bulrush (Typha angustifolia) and Summer

Snowflake (Leucojum aestivum).

Saltmarsh vegetation frequently fringes the mudflats. Over twenty areas of estuarine saltmarsh have

been identified within the site, the most important of which are around the Fergus Estuary and at

Ringmoylan Quay. The dominant type of saltmarsh present is Atlantic salt meadow occurring over

mud. Characteristic species occurring include Common Saltmarsh Grass (Puccinellia maritima), Sea

Aster (Aster tripolium), Thrift (Armeria maritima), Sea-milkwort (Glaux maritima), Sea Plantain

(Plantago maritima), Red Fescue (Festuca rubra), Creeping Bent (Agrostis stolonifera), Saltmarsh


Appendix

Rush (Juncus gerardi), Long-bracted Sedge (Carex extensa), Lesser Seaspurrey (Spergularia marina)

and Sea Arrowgrass (Triglochin maritima). Areas of Mediterranean salt meadows, characterised by

clumps of Sea Rush (Juncus maritimus) occur occasionally. Two scarce species are found on

saltmarshes in the vicinity of the Fergus Estuary: a type of robust Saltmarsh-grass (Puccinellia

foucaudii), sometimes placed within the compass of Common Saltmarsh-grass (Puccinellia maritima)

and Hard-grass (Parapholis strigosa).

Saltmarsh vegetation also occurs around a number of lagoons within the site. The two which have

been surveyed as part of a National Inventory of Lagoons are Shannon Airport Lagoon and

Cloonconeen Pool. Cloonconeen Pool (4-5 ha) is a natural sedimentary lagoon impounded by a low

cobble barrier. Seawater enters by percolation through the barrier and by overwash. This lagoon

represents a type which may be unique to Ireland since the substrate is composed almost entirely of

peat. The adjacent shore features one of the best examples of a drowned forest in Ireland. Aquatic

vegetation in the lagoon includes typical species such as Beaked Tasselweed (Ruppia maritima) and

green algae (Cladophora sp.). The fauna is not diverse, but is typical of a high salinity lagoon and

includes six lagoon specialists (Hydrobia ventrosa, Cerastoderma glaucum, Lekanesphaera hookeri,

Palaemonetes varians, Sigara stagnalis and Enochrus bicolor). In contrast, Shannon Airport Lagoon (2

ha) is an artificial saline lake with an artificial barrier and sluiced outlet. However, it supports two

Red Data Book species of Stonewort (Chara canescens and Chara cf. connivens).

Most of the site west of Kilcredaun Point/Kilconly Point is bounded by high rocky sea cliffs. The cliffs

in the outer part of the site are sparsely vegetated with lichens, Red Fescue, Sea Beet (Beta vulgaris),

Sea Campion (Silene maritima), Thrift and Plantains (Plantago spp.). A rare endemic Sea Lavender

(Limonium recurvum subsp. pseudotranswallinum) occurs on cliffs near Loop Head. Cliff-top

vegetation usually consists of either grassland or maritime heath. The boulder clay cliffs further up

the estuary tend to be more densely vegetated, with swards of Red Fescue and species such as

Kidney Vetch (Anthyllis vulneraria) and Bird’s-foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus).

The site supports an excellent example of a large shallow inlet and bay. Littoral sediment

communities in the mouth of the Shannon Estuary occur in areas that are exposed to wave action

and also in areas extremely sheltered from wave action. Characteristically, exposed sediment

communities are composed of coarse sand and have a sparse fauna. Species richness increases as

conditions become more sheltered. All shores in the site have a zone of sand hoppers at the top and

below this each of the shores has different characteristic species giving a range of different shore

types in the cSAC.

The intertidal reefs in the Shannon Estuary are exposed or moderately exposed to wave action and

subject to moderate tidal streams. Known sites are steeply sloping and show a good zonation down

the shore. Well developed lichen zones and littoral reef communities offering a high species richness

in the sublittoral fringe and strong populations of Paracentrotus lividus are found. The communities

found are tolerant to sand scour and tidal streams. The infralittoral reefs range from sloping

platforms with some vertical steps to ridged bedrock with gullies of sand between the ridges to

ridged bedrock with boulders or a mixture of cobbles, gravel and sand. Kelp is very common to about


Appendix

18m. Below this it becomes rare and the community is characterised by coralline crusts and red

foliose algae. Flowing into the estuaries are a number of tidal rivers.

Other coastal habitats that occur within the site include the following:

Stony beaches and bedrock shores - these shores support a typical zonation of seaweeds

(Fucus spp., Ascophyllum nodosum and kelps).

Shingle beaches - the more stable areas of shingle support characteristic species such as Sea

Beet, Sea Mayweed (Matricaria maritima), Sea Campion and Curled Dock (Rumex crispus).

Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water at all times – there is a known occurrence

of sand/gravel beds in the area from Kerry Head to Beal Head.

Sand dunes - a small area of sand dunes occurs at Beal Point. The dominant species is

Marram Grass (Ammophila arenaria).

Freshwater rivers have been included in the site, most notably the Feale and Mulkear catchments,

the Shannon from Killaloe to Limerick (along with some of its tributaries, including a short stretch of

the Kilmastulla River), the Fergus up as far as Ennis, and the Cloon River. These systems are very

different in character: the Shannon being broad, generally slow-flowing and naturally eutrophic; the

Fergus being smaller and alkaline; while the narrow, fast-flowing Cloon is acid in nature. The Feale

and Mulkear catchments exhibit all the aspects of a river from source to mouth. Semi-natural

habitats, such as wet grassland, wet woodland and marsh occur by the rivers, however, improved

grassland is most common. One grassland type of particular conservation significance, Molinia

meadows, occurs in several parts of the site and the examples at Worldsend on the River Shannon

are especially noteworthy. Here are found areas of wet meadow dominated by rushes and sedges

and supporting a diverse and species-rich vegetation, including such uncommon species as Blue-

eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium bermudiana) and Pale Sedge (Carex pallescens).

Floating river vegetation characterised by species of Water-crowfoot (Ranunculus spp.), Pondweeds

(Potamogeton spp.) and the moss Fontinalis antipyretica are present throughout the major river

systems within the site. The rivers contain an interesting bryoflora with Schistidium alpicola var.

alpicola recorded from in-stream boulders on the Bilboa, new to county Limerick.

Alluvial woodland occurs on the banks of the Shannon and on islands in the vicinity of the University

of Limerick. The woodland is up to 50m wide on the banks and somewhat wider on the largest

island. The most prominent woodland type is gallery woodland where White Willow (Salix alba)

dominates the tree layer with occasional Alder (Alnus glutinosa). The shrub layer consists of various

willow species with sally (Salix cinerea ssp. oleifolia) and what appear to be hybrids of S. alba x S.

viminalis. The herbaceous layer consists of tall perennial herbs. A fringe of Bulrush (Typha sp.) occurs

on the riverside of the woodland. On slightly higher ground above the wet woodland and on the

raised embankment remnants of mixed oak-ash-alder woodland occur. These are poorly developed

and contain numerous exotic species but locally there are signs that it is invading open grassland.

Alder is the principal tree species with occasional Oak (Quercus robur), Elm (Ulmus glabra, U.

procera), Hazel (Corylus avellana), Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and the shrubs Guelder-rose

(Viburnum opulus) and willows. The ground flora is species-rich.


Appendix

Woodland is infrequent within the site; however Cahiracon Wood contains a strip of old Oak

woodland. Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea) forms the canopy, with an understorey of Hazel and Holly

(Ilex aquifolium). Great Wood-rush (Luzula sylvatica) dominates the ground flora. Less common

species present include Great Horsetail (Equisetum telmeteia) and Pendulous Sedge (Carex pendula).

In the low hills to the south of the Slievefelim Mountains, the Cahernahallia River cuts a valley

through the Upper Silurian rocks. For approximately 2km south of Cappagh Bridge at Knockanavar,

the valley sides are wooded. The woodland consists of Birch (Betula spp.), Hazel, Oak, Rowan (Sorbus

aucuparia), some Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Willow (Salix spp.). Most of the valley is not grazed by

stock, and as a result the trees are regenerating well. The ground flora feature prominent Greater

wood-rush and Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) with a typical range of woodland herbs. Where there is

more light available, Bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) features.

The valley sides of the Bilboa and Gortnageragh Rivers, on higher ground north east of Cappamore,

support patches of semi-natural broadleaf woodland dominated by Ash, Hazel, Oak and Birch. There

is a good scrub layer with Hawthorn, Willow, Holly and Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) common. The

herb layer in these woodlands is often open with a typically rich mixture of woodland herbs and

ferns. Moss species diversity is high. The woodlands are ungrazed. The hazel is actively coppiced in

places.

There is a small area of actively regenerating cut away raised bog at Ballyrorheen. It is situated

approx. 5km north west of Cappamore Co. Limerick. The bog contains some wet areas with good

moss (Sphagnum) cover. Species of particular interest include the Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos)

and the White Sedge (Carex curta) along with two other regionally rare mosses including S.

fimbriatum. The site is being invaded by Birch (Betula pubescens) scrub woodland. Both commercial

forestry and the spread of rhododendron has greatly reduced the overall value of the site. A number

of plant species that are Irish Red Data Book species occur within the site; several are protected

under the Flora (Protection) Order, 1999:

Triangular Club-rush (Scirpus triquetrus) - in Ireland this protected species is only found in

the Shannon Estuary, where it borders creeks in the inner estuary.

Opposite-leaved Pondweed (Groenlandia densa) - this protected pondweed is found in the

Shannon where it passes through Limerick City. The stronghold for this plant is the Park

canal (NPWS, 2012).

Meadow Barley (Hordeum secalinum) - this protected species is abundant in saltmarshes at

Ringmoylan and Mantlehill.

Hairy Violet (Viola hirta) - this protected violet occurs in the Askeaton/Foynes area.

Golden Dock (Rumex maritimus) - noted as occurring in the River Fergus Estuary.

Bearded Stonewort (Chara canescens) - a brackish water specialist found in Shannon Airport

lagoon.

Convergent Stonewort (Chara connivens) - presence in Shannon Airport Lagoon to be

confirmed.


Appendix

Overall, the Shannon and Fergus Estuaries support the largest numbers of wintering waterfowl in

Ireland. The highest count in 1995-96 was 51,423 while in 1994-95 it was 62,701. Species listed on

Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive which contributed to these totals include: Great Northern Diver (3;

1994/95), Whooper Swan (201; 1995/96), Pale-bellied Brent Goose (246; 1995/96), Golden Plover

(11,067; 1994/95) and Bar-tailed Godwit ( 476; 1995/96). In the past, three separate flocks of

Greenland White-fronted Goose were regularly found but none were seen in 1993/94. Other

wintering waders and wildfowl present include Greylag Goose (216; 1995/96), Shelduck (1,060;

1995/96), Wigeon (5,976; 1995/96); Teal (2,319; 1995-96); Mallard (528; 1995/96), Pintail (45;

1995/96), Shoveler (84; 1995/96), Tufted Duck (272; 1995/96), Scaup (121; 1995/96), Ringed Plover

(240; 1995/96), Grey Plover (750; 1995/96), Lapwing (24,581; 1995/96), Knot (800; 1995/96), Dunlin

(20,100; 1995/96), Snipe (719, 1995/96), Black-tailed Godwit (1062; 1995/96), Curlew (1504;

1995/96), Redshank (3228; 1995/96), Greenshank (36; 1995/96) and Turnstone (107; 1995/96). A

number of wintering gulls are also present, including Black-headed Gull (2,216; 1995/96), Common

Gull (366; 1995/96) and Lesser Black-backed Gull (100; 1994/95).

This is the most important coastal site in Ireland for a number of the waders including Lapwing,

Dunlin, Snipe and Redshank. It also provides an important staging ground for species such as Black-

tailed Godwit and Greenshank. A number of species listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive

breed within the site. These include Peregine Falcon (2-3 pairs), Sandwich Tern (34 pairs on Rat

Island, 1995), Common Tern (15 pairs: 2 on Sturamus Island and 13 on Rat Island, 1995), Chough (14-

41 pairs, 1992) and Kingfisher. Other breeding birds of note include Kittiwake (690 pairs at Loop

Head, 1987) and Guillemot (4010 individuals at Loop Head, 1987)

There is a resident population of Bottle-nosed Dolphin in the Shannon Estuary consisting of at least

56-68 animals (1996). This is the only known resident population of this E.U. Habitats Directive

Annex II species in Ireland. Otter, a species also listed on Annex II of this directive, is commonly

found on the site.

Five species of fish listed on Annex II of the E.U. Habitats Directive are found within the site. These

are Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon marinus), Brook Lamprey (Lampetra planeri), River Lamprey

(Lampetra fluviatilis), Twaite Shad (Allosa fallax fallax) and Salmon (Salmo salar). The three lampreys

and Salmon have all been observed spawning in the lower Shannon or its tributaries. The Fergus is

important in its lower reaches for spring Salmon while the Mulkear catchment excels as a grilse

fishery though spring fish are caught on the actual Mulkear River. The Feale is important for both

types. Twaite Shad is not thought to spawn within the site. There are few other river systems in

Ireland which contain all three species of Lamprey. Two additional fish of note, listed in the Irish Red

Data Book also occur, namely Smelt (Osmerus eperlanus) and Pollan (Coregonus autumnalis pollan).

Only the former has been observed spawning in the Shannon.

Freshwater Pearl-mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera), a species listed on Annex II of the E.U.

Habitats Directive, occurs abundantly in parts of the Cloon River.

There is a wide range of land uses within the site. The most common use of the terrestrial parts is

grazing by cattle and some areas have been damaged through overgrazing and poaching. Much of


Appendix

the land adjacent to the rivers and estuaries has been improved or reclaimed and is protected by

embankments (especially along the Fergus Estuary). Further, reclamation continues to pose a threat

as do flood relief works (e.g. dredging of rivers). Gravel extraction poses a major threat on the Feale.

In the past, Cord-grass (Spartina sp.) was planted to assist in land reclamation. This has spread

widely, and may oust less vigorous colonisers of mud and may also reduce the area of mudflat

available to feeding birds.

Domestic and industrial wastes are discharged into the Shannon, but water quality is generally

satisfactory - except in the upper estuary, reflecting the sewage load from Limerick City. Analyses for

trace metals suggest a relatively clean estuary with no influences by industrial discharges apparent.

Further industrial development along the Shannon and water polluting operations are potential

threats. Fishing is a main tourist attraction on the Shannon and there are a large number of Angler

Associations, some with a number of beats. Fishing stands and styles have been erected in places.

The River Feale is a designated Salmonid Water under the E.U. Freshwater Fish Directive. Other uses

of the site include commercial angling, oyster farming, boating (including dolphin-watching trips)

and shooting. Some of these may pose threats to the birds and dolphins through disturbance.

Specific threats to the dolphins include underwater acoustic disturbance, entanglement in fishing

gear and collisions with fast moving craft.

This site is of great ecological interest as it contains a high number of habitats and species listed on

Annexes I and II of the E.U. Habitats Directive, including the priority habitat lagoon, the only known

resident population of Bottle-nosed Dolphin in Ireland and all three Irish lamprey species. A good

number of Red Data Book species are also present, perhaps most notably the thriving populations of

Triangular Club-rush. A number of species listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive are also

present, either wintering or breeding. Indeed, the Shannon and Fergus Estuaries form the largest

estuarine complex in Ireland and support more wintering wildfowl and waders than any other site in

the country. Most of the estuarine part of the site has been designated a Special Protection Area

(SPA), under the E.U. Birds Directive, primarily to protect the large numbers of migratory birds

present in winter.


Appendix

Appendix 3

Giant Hogweed Control Plan (incl. map)

Giant Hogweed Control Plan

Draft 2: Screening

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Project Details:

Removal of Giant Hogweed at Newport Town Park

Site Location: Proposed Newport Town Park, Mulkear View, Tullow, Newport, Co Tipperary.

Works Location: Newport, Co Tipperary.

Client Tipperary County Council

Site Engineer John Cass Nenagh Municipal District Tipperary County Council Civic Offices Limerick Road Nenagh Co. Tipperary Tel: 0761065000 [email protected]

ContractorMulkear Forestry, Foxhall, Newport, Co Tipperary Tel: +353861261794

Work Start Date: 15/04/18

Work Finish Date: 31/11/21

1.0 Control Plan: 3

1.1 Plan Brief: 3 !1

mailto:[email protected]

1.2 Welfare: 3

1.3 Supervision on Site: 3

2.0 Standard Conditions of Operations 3

2.1 General Conservation Guidelines 3

2.2 Safety 4

2.3 The Environment 4

2.4. Consultation 6

2.5 Emergency Plan: 6

3. Site Safety 6

3.1 Site Safety Rules 6

3.2 Housekeeping: 6

4.0 Operation Specification 7

4.1 Summary of Operaton 7

4.2) Access 7

4.3) Survey 7

4.4 Site Preparation 7

5. Operation Methodology 8

5.1 Treatment Plan Year 1 8




6.0 Monitoring 8

7.0 Safety Controls applied to Eliminate or minimize the identified Hazards 9

8.0. Personal Protective Equipment Required 9

8.1 Supervisory 9

8.2 Spray Treatment 9

8.3 Seed Collection 9

9.0 Health and Safety Instructions for Persons involved with the Work 10

10.0 Names and Qualifications of Mulkear Forestry who will supervise the Work 10

11.0 Operations Contractors & Employee(s) involved in the Work 10

11.0 Identification of Plant & Equipment that will be used on site 10

12.0 Mulkear Forestry & Sub-Contractors: 11 Method Statement Approved By: ___________________________________ 11 13.0 Health and Safety Risk Assessment 12

14.0 Environmental Risk Assessment 15

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1.0 Control Plan: The objective of the operation is to carry out Giant Hogweed Heracleum mantegazzianum removal and control as per specification and locations highlighted in map Appendix 1.

1.1 Plan Brief: This will outline the work practices and methods that will be engaged in by Mulkear Forestry contractors. The controls outlined in the risk assessments will provide a safe system of work, both individually and collectively and with respect to all environmental risks concerned with the works.

1.2 Welfare: The Client will afford access to their on site welfare facilities at site, including washing facilities.

1.3 Supervision on Site: A designated site safety co-ordinator will be appointed to supervise work. The site safety co-ordinator will be experi-enced in this type of work and will be responsible for all persons under his control and the implementation of safe sys-

tems of work. A list of roles and responsibilities will be made available on the Operation Site Plan prior to work com-mences. The Operations Site Plan is the operations plan and is available on site at all times during working Hours. The site safety co-ordinator at the property is listed below:

- Mr Matthew Kelleher

2.0 Standard Conditions of Operations

2.1 General Conservation Guidelines The Mulkear River is part of the Lower Shannon Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The Mulkear River itself rises in the Slievefelim and Silvermines mountains in Co. Tipperary and joins the Shannon River below Annacotty in Co. Lim-

erick. The main river channel is approximately 21.5 km long. Its principal tributaries are the Dead River, Bilboa and Newport rivers. The Site is situated on the Newport River tributary.

The site is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) selected for the following habitats and/or species listed on Annex I / II

of the E.U. Habitats Directive

(* = priority; numbers in brackets are Natura 2000 codes):

SITE SYNOPSIS [1110] Sandbanks [1130] Estuaries

[1140] Tidal Mudflats and Sandflats [1150] Coastal Lagoons* [1160] Large Shallow Inlets and Bays

[1170] Reefs [1220] Perennial Vegetation of Stony Banks [1230] Vegetated Sea Cliffs [1310] Salicornia Mud

[1330] Atlantic Salt Meadows

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[1410] Mediterranean Salt Meadows

[3260] Floating River Vegetation [6410] Molinia Meadows [91E0] Alluvial Forests*

[1029] Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) [1095] Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) [1096] Brook Lamprey (Lampetra planeri) [1099] River Lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis)

[1106] Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) [1349] Bottle-nosed Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) [1355] Otter (Lutra lutra)

Crayfish Plague Works carried out on Newport river are highlighted as high risk for transfer of Crayfish Plague.The fungus-like Aphanomyces astaci that causes the lethal crayfish plague is related to potato blight and grape disease, which also crossed the Atlantic to Europe. Each American crayfish species carries a different strain of the plague. The ‘Pacifastacus’ strain appears completely lethal and eradicates all native crayfish. It is essential that the plan enforce hygiene, so that there is no possibility of plague spores entering Irish waters.

2.2 Safety

Giant hogweed can cause severe skin burns, the plant produces a sap that is hazardous to humans, particularly in the presence of direct sunlight. The large leaves of the plant create sufficient shade to suppress indigenous herbaceous un-

der-storey plants along bank-sides.

a) All persons engaged in Operations shall comply with current safety legislation Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) Regulations, 2007 & SAFETY, HEALTH AND WELFARE AT WORK (CONSTRUCTION) REGULATIONS 2013

b) Comply with guidelines including the safe use of chemicals

c) The contractor shall provide and erect sufficient warning signs on all approach roads to operations sites and maintain throughout operations.

d) Leave all sites in a safe condition at the end of each working day.

e) All persons to use correct PPE outlined

f) First Aid training and equipment to be kept onsite at all times

g) Contractor Safety Statement & Method Statement to be understood be all works persons

h) Site Safety co-ordinator to monitor for safety during the course of the operation

i) Mulkear Forestry to control and implement safe clearance zone throughout operations.

2.3 The Environment

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a) Comply with guidelines in relation to Fisheries, and Water Quality including the safe use of herbicides and working on an SAC watercourse;

Irish Legislation and European Union (EU) Directives relating to water are listed below:

Irish Legislation: European Communities (Water Policy) Regulations, 2003 (S.I. No. 722 of 2003) European Communities (Drinking Water) Regulations 2014 (S.I. 122 of 2014) European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations, 2009 (S.I. No. 272 of 2009) European Communities Environmental Objectives (Groundwater) Regulations, 2010 (S.I. No. 9 of 2010) European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations, 2010 (S.I. No. 610 of 2010) European Communities (Technical Specifications for the Chemical Analysis and Monitoring of Water Status) Regulations, 2011 (S.I. No. 489 of 2011) EU Directives: Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) ; Drinking Water Directive (80/778/EEC) as amended by Directive (98/83/EC); Major Accidents (Seveso) Directive (96/82/EC); Environmental Impact Assessment Directive (85/337/EEC); Sewage Sludge Directive (86/278/EEC); Urban Waste-water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC); Plant Protection Products Directive (91/414/EEC); Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC); Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC); Integrated Pollution Prevention Control Directive (96/61/EC); Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC);

Bathing Water Directive (2006/7/EC) (repeals 76/160/EEC); Groundwater Directive (2006/118/EC); Floods Directive (2007/56/EC); Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/EC).

b) Avoid damage to amenity and recreational areas.

c) Keep site litter free, remove waste oil and containers from site and dispose of them in appropriate environmental waste facility.

d) Comply with "Code of Practice Safe use of Chemicals" a. Use approved chemical RoundUp Biactive when working within SAC river catchment b. Use dried protective cowls on spray equipment to eliminate unnecessary drift of chemicals to plant

and aquatic life

e) Code of Best Practice to be implemented while working within a river catchments.

f) Disturbance of built environment and structure to be kept to an absolute minimum and all contractors to cease work on discovery of evidence of archaeology or defect of any kind.

g) Enforce a containment area for working with chemicals including wash area a. Marked exclusion area agreed with construction

h) Enforce a containment area for incineration of hazardous seed heads collected a. This area will be quarantined for trained personelle only and recored of visit to and fro b. Incineration to be carried out with regulations on air quality and agreed times with Tipperary Local

Authority, Dept of Environment and the Fire Service i) Apply control measure to eliminate the spread of Crayfish plague spores, where contact with freshwater occurs

with equipment and personnel wet gear should be disinfected using a bleach solution.

j) Carry spillage control kits at all times and have a rapid response plan for chemical spillages

k) Enforce an agreed exclusion zone for working where tools, equipment, PPE and materials entering must be either fully washed or disposed of onsite prior to leaving the site and prevent the spread of invasive plant ma-terials

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2.4. Consultation

Mulkear Forestry will seek information and consult with relevant agencies pertaining to the listed habitats and species prior to commencement of operations.

Mulkear LIFE Project Inland Fisheries Ireland National Parks and Wildlife Service St Marys Secondary School Newport Newport Town Park Committee Mulkear View Residents

2.5 Emergency Plan: This work will be covered by Mulkear Forestry Safety Statement Emergency Plan for the site; this emergency plan will incorporate Mulkear Forestry procedures into the emergency plan and will be communicated to all persons at the Site Induction. All operators on site will have received first aid and manual handling training. A first aid kit and emergency contact details will be available at all times and access for emergency vehicles to be maintained at all times.

3. Site Safety

3.1 Site Safety Rules Roadways and entrances must be maintained and kept open during working times to facilitate emergency vehicles or egress in the event of an accident. All site work vehicles to parked at lay byes and not to obstruct traffic on forest road which will be entering and exiting the site.

Up to date emergency plan with relevant Telephone numbers on site.

All site personnel, visitors and supervisors must wear high visibility clothing and helmet on work site and full chemical control PPE when entering area of infection.

The infection area should be clearly outlined using either fencing of safety barriers and prohibition notices

Ensure a system is in place to check at break times that all personnel on site are OK and that no one is left behind at night.

Effective working alone procedures implemented - Each operator to have a mobile phone and contact numbers of other site operators. - Inform a work colleague of your whereabouts before commencing activity. - Inform a family member of your activities and estimated time of return. - Provide the Site Safety Coordinator with contact details of who to contact in the event of an emergency. - Carry out Daily Job Plan and keep daily records of work and progress - Each site must have an adequate first aid kit and person competent in its use. - All accidents and dangerous occurrences reported to Mulkear Forestry immediately. - All accidents and dangerous occurrences reported to principal Tipperary County Council. - Site safety signage erected and maintained on worksite. - All operators must wear high visibility clothing and helmet. - All equipment must be maintained in a safe condition and operated safely - All chemicals to be stored in a safe and stable manner and away from water courses and operators must have

spill kits and washing kits available at all times - All relevant Personal Protective Equipment to be worn as per guidelines for safe use of herbicides. SEE PPE

section in this document for work relating to chemical use.

These generic site safety rules apply to all Maintenance Operations and should be read in conjunction with site specific controls/rules as outlined in the Risk Assessment for each particular site.

3.2 Housekeeping: 1. ‘Clean as you go’ policy will be implemented on site. Each employee is responsible for keeping his own work area

tidy.

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2. All waste materials considered contaminated to be removed off site by contractor and logged as biologically haz-

ardous waste and disposed of using registered waste disposal and disposal catalogued fo future records. 3. All access ways and work platforms will be kept tidy and clear of obstructions at all times. 4. All fuel/chemicals and machine service points to be a minimum of 50 meters away from water courses and washing

of equipment in agreed exclusion zone.

4.0 Operation Specification

4.1 Summary of Operaton

A. Chemical Control (Glyphosate (Roundup Biactive), minimum 4 Yr Programme of Spot Treat-ment B. Native tree/shrub, ground flora reconstitution C. 3+ Year post control monitoring

Objective: The objective is to capture all current growths hazardous material in first years treatment, using a more environmentally sensitive form of glyphosate, RoundUp Biactive which breaks down in soils quickly is least harmful to plants and wa-tercourses.

The treatment plan is to chemical treat plants 3 times in the growing season, April, June, and September over 4 years.

The type of spraying in concentrated and targeted at the leaf and stem of young plants while larger stems are inoculated to penetrate the root. This method limits the amount of chemical applied and is targeted at the hazardous plants only. Spray equipment uses cowls to protect against drift.

During flowering season (July) any remaining the umbels will be collected using floor mats and bags to capture the seed. The seed can be brought to nearby containment area for onsite incineration. It is hoped the removal of umbels will take away further seed leaving the previous 3 years seed bank to be treated in follow up treatments.

In the final year a programme of reconstitution for infected soils will be carried out. This involved the planting of na-tive ground flora, shrubs and trees to give ground coverage where re-infestation may occur.

4.2) Access Access to the site is through the Mulkear View estate. A gate is found at the rear of the estate and a gravelled area is found at the bottom of the site suitable for parking. Access should be agreed upon consultation with Mulkear View resi-dents prior to commencement.

4.3) Survey 1.A vegetation survey will be completed to identify areas needing treatment and also flora and fauna at risk of damage with plant distribution mapped and catalogued.

2. Plant density per 10 m2 and monitored regularly through treatment regime to measure success and monitor for re-

infestation. 3.Upstream areas have been treated by Mulkear Life and OPW and liaison with these agencies will be provided to en-sure against any further upstream outbreaks affecting our treatments plan.

4.4 Site Preparation 1. Materials and personnel to be delivered by van through main entrance 2. Erect safety signage on surrounding compound 3. Erect an exclusion barrier and signage surrounding the works area. 4. Install a clearly defined area for washing personelle, equipment and for any incineration works.

i. biological waste material and any items be contaminated such as PPE or clothing should be incinerated and catalogued

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ii. Access in and out of exclusion area should be restricted to personnel and machinery involved with hog-weed removal and control

iii. Access from freshwater contact should be recorded for protection against spread of crayfish plague iv. Materials, equipment and persjonele from freshwater should be washed and disinfected to eliminate

spread of Crayfish plague. Records kept v. Access in and out should of site be catalogued using sign in/out sheets

5. Operation Methodology

5.1 Treatment Plan Year 1 1. Seedlings spot treated through contact with leaf and stem 2. Stems, Stalks and flowering plants treated using a punctured stalk technique 300mm from flower/stalk head and

treatment solution inoculated into stalk

3. Commence treatment in April, using 5l ha

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glyphosate (biactive) 4. Treat again in May, July and September;

1. In June/July locate and destroy flowering plants, (remove umbels and burn onsite)




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glyphosate (biactive) 4. Treat again in May, July and September; 5. In June/July locate and destroy flowering plants, (remove umbels and burn onsite)




-1



treatment solution inoculated into stalk 3. Commence native plant, shrub and tree planting on contaminated soil

1. Shade tolerant species of aquatic plants, shrub and trees. (Use only EU certified plant stock)

4. Commence spray treatment in April, using 5l ha

-1


6.0 Monitoring 1. The site should be monitored regularly throughout treatment regime and surveys catalogued 2. The site should be monitored for a further 3 years following the treatment regime. 3. A survey should include a record of stems per 10 m2 and record details of growth stages of plants 4. Any further flora, fauna and cultural features present should be included in site monitoring forms.

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7.0 Safety Controls applied to Eliminate or minimize the identified Hazards

1. All operators trained as per statutory requirements. 2. Equipment in good condition, competent operators. 3. Fire extinguishers, first aid kits and pollution control kits will be available on site at all times.

4. Where work cannot be conducted within the scope of the method statement site management are to be consult-ed and method statement amended.

5. A competent site safety coordinator (Matt Kelleher) will be available on site at all times. 6. Signage to be erected on site prior to work commencement and maintained for the duration of the work.

7. Site Specific Hazard Identification Risk Assessment carried out and all operators read and understand its con-tent, signed and dated by each contractor. Work and Welfare in accordance with Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007

8. Take due care when working adjacent to public roads 9. PPE to be worn at all times

8.0. Personal Protective Equipment Required

8.1 Supervisory • High Visibility Jackets

• Hard Hat

• Steel Toe Capped Boots

• Safety Gloves

• Eye Protection

8.2 Spray Treatment • Head to toe Spray Suit

• Heavy Duty Nitrile Gloves

• Protective Face Masks with disposable face shield

• Breathing respirators

• Steel Toe Capped wellingtons

• Shield when Mixing

8.3 Seed Collection • Head to toe Spray Suit

• Heavy Duty Nitrile Gloves for collection

• Fire Protective Gloves for burning

• Breathing respirator

• Protective Face Masks with disposable face shield

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• Steel Toe Capped wellingtons

• Fire Extinguisher

NOTE: Enforce and buddy system for putting on/off PPE equipment and have adequate wash facility in place for hos-ing down PPE and disposing of contaminated PPE equipment

9.0 Health and Safety Instructions for Persons involved with the Work

1) Conduct work in compliance with this work method statement. 2) Comply with Tipperary County Council site safety rules as indicated during induction. 3) All operators to attend a site induction course during construction stage. 4) Permits to be obtained prior to commencement of work.

5) Contractor safety statement will be applied at all times during the project. 6) Welfare provided by Code of Best Practice Forestry Operations 2009

10.0 Names and Qualifications of Mulkear Forestry who will supervise the Work Name: Matthew Kelleher – Managing Director & Site Manager Qualifications: 10+ Years Experience

Academic: BSc Forest Management (Conservation) Operations: NPTC Chemical Usage Unit PA1-6, Unit 151

Surveying: Training in National Vegetation Classification (NVC Scotland)

Experience:

Invasive's and aquatic woodland sites Removal of 5ha Cherry Laurel in Semi Natural Woodland, Curraghchase - Coillte 2018 Removal of Japanese Knotweed in various locations, North Tipperary, Tipperary County Council, 2015 Removal of 4ha Rhododendron, Glenstal Forest - Coillte 2011

Restoration works on aquatic woodlands - Coillte, LIFE Project 2009

11.0 Operations Contractors & Employee(s) involved in the Work

Principal Contractor: Mulkear Forestry

Names Training Received Tom Starr Safe Pass, first aid and manual handling, DAFM Pesticide Advisor Matthew Kelleher Safe Pass, first aid and manual handling, NPTC Chemical Usage PA1-6 Shane Denihan Safe Pass, first aid and manual handling, NPTC Chemical Usage PA1-6 Unit 151

11.0 Identification of Plant & Equipment that will be used on site

Cooper Pegler knapsack including extendable lance

Mantra Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Handheld Sprayer Handheld inoculation wand 2.0 meter

Additional Comments / Procedures: ( NB only used if task changes while on site)

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________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

12.0 Mulkear Forestry & Sub-Contractors: We the undersigned have read and understand the method statement and will comply with all specified requirements and controls.

Name: Date On Site:

______________________________________ ___________________________ ______________________________________ ___________________________ ______________________________________ ___________________________

______________________________________ ___________________________ ______________________________________ ___________________________ ______________________________________ ___________________________

Method Statement Approved By: ___________________________________

Date: ______________________

Method Statement Communicated By: ___________________________________ Mulkear Forestry Managing Director

Date: ______________________

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13.0 Health and Safety Risk Assessment The following risk assessment procedure identifies the hazards and the consequences of hazards should they occur. It also sets out the controls and the person(s) responsible.

HAZARD CONSEQUENCE

RISK CONTROLS PERSON(S)

RESPONSIBLE

RESULTANT RISKSev

erity

Likelihood

No. Peopl

e Affected

Public - Major Injury

M M 1-2 - Erect warning signage.

- Operators to stop work if anyone approaches risk zone.

- Close roadway or paths if necessary.

- Contractor to notify FWM if public at risk.

- WM - Contra

ctor

L

Terrain & Slope

- Major Injury

M M 1-2 - Use suitable footware - Do not work where

ground conditions are unsteady or uneven or risk of falling into river

- WM - Contra

ctor

L

Slips, Trips & Falls

- Minor Injury

L H 1 - Designated safe access route to operation

- Take due care & attention.

- Wear PPE whilst on site.

- Carry a mobile phone. - Daily conditional

review - Due care when

entering & exiting machinery

- FWM - Contra

ctor

L

Manual Handling

- Major Injury

- Disability

L H 1 - All operators to have completed manual handling course.

- Only work within safe working limits of operator, keeping sections short and manageable lengths to avoid risk to operators

- Contractor

L

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Lack of First Aid and Training Kits

- Fatal H H +1 - Provide Training in First Aid

- Provide refresher training

- Provide First Aid Kit on site

- FWM - Contra

ctor

L

Failure to use PPE

- Fatal - Eye

Injury

H H +1 • Steel toe capped boots

• Hard hat • Eye Protection

- FWM - Contra

ctor

L

Driving on Site

- Fatal - Crash - Crush - Collision

H H +1 • Obey Speed Limit • Use flashing

beacons • Use laybys to allow

larger vehicles to pass

• Allow larger vehicles and vehicle’s ascending steep gradients right of way

• Keep to the center of the road and avoid steep verges

• Don’t drive off road • Only drive vehicles

that are deemed roadworthy and display a in date CRVT test disc

• Daily checks for signs of wear or damage to vehicle

• T r a i l e r s a n d t r a n s p o r t i n g materials is to be carried out with due care to oncoming t r a f f i c a n d personelle, safety check s and u se signals to signal oncoming traffic

• Take all caution when reversing and risk to personelle

• Roll over protection system

- FWM - Contra

ctor

L

Injury from Hand Tools

- Injury to limbs

- Cuts & Lesions

• Wear suitable PPE • Have trained First

Aider on site • First aid box with

access to wound dressing

• Good housekeeping

- FWM - Contra

ctor

L

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Chemical - Minor Injury

- Pollution

L M 1 - Store all chemicals and fuels in suitable containers.

- PA1-6 Training - Store at least 50m

from watercourses. - Use gloves when

handling - Spillage Kits onsite at

all times - Refuelling kits to be

used - Good hygiene when

handling chemicals, wash before eating and use of bathroom

- Contractor

L

Contact with Rodents & Weils Disiese

• Contamination

• Sickness

• Death

H M +1 • Wear Suitable PPE

• Test objects before handling

• Wash and clean hands thouroughly

• Wear Watherproof clothing & Wash afer use while wearing gloves

- FWM - Contra

ctor

L

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14.0 Environmental Risk Assessment The following risk assessment procedure identifies the hazards and the consequences of for the environment. It also sets out the controls and the person(s) responsible.

Environmental Factor

CONSEQUENCE

RISK CONTROLS PERSON(S)

RESPONSIBLE

RESULTANT RISKSev

erity

Likelihood

No. Peopl

e Affected

Biodiversity Chemical contact with flora and fauna

Use approved chemical and dosage rates

Use protective cowl for drift

Dont operate during periods of wet or windy weather

Wash footware regularily when travelling outside treatment area

Complete chemical usage form daily and catalogue

Self Low

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Crayfish Equipment and personnel in contact with freshwater treated as hazardous and disinfected

Contact and treatment recorded

Pollution of watercourse




Wash footware regularily when travelling outside treatment area or near watercourse


Self Low

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Chemical spillage

Check equipment regularly

Use dedicate filling/washing area 50m from watercourse

Pour concerntracte solutions back into containers and only wash small residues

Dispose of containers in approved environmental waste facility


Self Low

Soils Spread of invasive plants

Enforce containment area for infested area and incineration area

Log access to and fro and limit to trained personelle

Wash equipment prior to leaving area

Catalogue equipment used onsite and limit travelling

Self Low

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Appendix 1: Survey Map

People Persons contact with chemicals

Use appropriate signage and prohibition notices

Enforce exclusion zone




Wash footware regularily when travelling outside treatment area or near watercourse


Self Low

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Appendix

Appendix 4

Environmental Commitments


Appendix

Note: To be read in conjunction with the full suite of mitigation in section 5.5

1. Method statements will be prepared by the appointed contractor. These will be used to

translate the project requirements into planned systems of work instructions to the site staff

and operatives involved. They will define the proposed method of working for an element or

section of work taking into account the particular requirements of the project including site

conditions, safety hazards, the contract drawings, specification or code of practice. They

define the proposed use of plant, labour and materials, any hold points or permits and may

be supplemented by drawings, sketches and produce data as necessary.

2. The site boundary will be marked by secure posts and robust high visibility tape. The

Riparian Leave Strip Exclusion Zone will be demarcated and avoided once this construction

element has been completed. These areas will be agreed with the site ecologist to ensure

sensitive areas will be avoided. Machinery will not be permitted breach these agreed

boundaries during subsequent work.

3. Substances that can cause water quality problems will need to be controlled adequately at

all times during the works. The main risks are associated with excavated/bare soils, uncured

concrete and oils. Measures to prevent erosion of soils and releases of oil will be required. A

silt fence will be needed between the works and the Newport River. There will be no

discharge of effluent or waste water on site. Spill kits and personnel practised in their use

will be required in case of an oil spillage.

4. All construction equipment/gear will be stored at a site compound. Wastes generated on-

site (construction and waste water) will be managed properly and taken to a licensed waste

management company.

5. The meteorological forecasting service from Met Éireann will be used to avoid large

excavations or soil stripping in advance of heavy rainfall.

6. A project ecologist (environmental clerk of works) will be appointed to monitor the works on

a weekly basis for the full duration of the project. The contractor will work with the ecologist

to deliver environmental compliance on site, as set out in the mitigation in the NIS. The

ecologist will audit the construction works from an environmental viewpoint


Appendix

Appendix 5

Outline Non-native Invasive Species Management Plan


Appendix

The proposed development site surveyed during July 2018. It is noted that a purpose of this survey

was just to conform presence/absence of non-native species on the site. A significant proportion of

the site along the bank of the Newport River was found to be infested with the non-native invasive

plant Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica. The National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) classifies

this plant as a ‘High Impact’ invasive. Himalayan knotweed Persicaria wallichii also occurs, and the

NBDC classifies this plant as a ‘Medium Impact’ invasive. The presence of Giant Hogweed (‘High

Impact’ invasive) has been acknowledged and plans are in place to treat this plant.

Early et al. (2009) note that Japanese knotweed was first introduced into Ireland as an ornamental

plant and has since infested a wide range of habitats, including the banks of rivers. It can grow up to

3 metres in height and forms very dense monocultures along river corridors. The rhizomes (roots)

are very extensive growing up to 3 metres in depth and up to 7 metres laterally from the parent

plant. Japanese knotweed is spread entirely via the movement of soil material contaminated with

the rhizome or via plant material, as only female plants occur in Ireland. Spread is rapid and results

in the exclusion of native species that function to maintain bankside stability along rivers. In the

winter when it dies back it results in the banks being left bare and vulnerable to erosion (Early et al,

2009).

Regulations 49 and 50 of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011

make it an offence to interfere with or disperse this plant so a licence will be required to proceed

with work on the site. The non-native invasive plants at the proposed Newport Town Park location

will have to be eradicated before the site can be developed.

It is important that further spread of Japanese knotweed and other non-native invasive plants is

prevented. It is not advised to strim, cut, flail or chip the plants as tiny fragments can regenerate

new plants and make the problem even more difficult to manage. It is also advised not to dig, move

or dump soil which may contain plant material as this may contribute to its spread. Japanese

knotweed can be controlled successfully through the application of appropriate herbicides by a

competent person. However, eradication of this plant requires planning, as follow up treatments are

usually required, and consideration needs to be given to management and disposal of dead plant

material, and to the treatment of contaminated soils.

Figure A4.1 illustrates a flowchart for treating Japanese knotweed which sets out the options of

management for Japanese knotweed. Prior to works, a detailed survey aimed at identifying and

mapping all non-native invasive species will be required. Then, a non-native Invasive Species

Management Plan (ISMP) is required for the proposed development site so that existing non-natives

be eradicated and the introduction of further species prevented. A key guidance document that

should be consulted in fulfilling this aim is 'Managing Japanese knotweed on development sites - the

knotweed code of practice' (EA, 2013). The non-native ISMP will also have regard to guidance such

as ‘The management of noxious weeds and non-native invasive plant species on national roads’ by

NRA (2010) and other information on these species22. The following is advised in order to accomplish

eradication and prevent the spread of non-native invasive plants at the site:

22

http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/projects/invasive-species/invasive-species-week/be-plant-wise/

http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/projects/invasive-species/invasive-species-week/be-plant-wise/


Appendix

no works should be undertaken within the site to prevent the spread and/or

importation/exportation of non-native plants;

a detailed survey is required to identify the extent of Japanese knotweed and any other non-

native plants established in the site;

the appointed contractor will devise a detailed Invasive Species Management Plan (ISMP) for

the site with reference to EA (2013),

ideally, the existing Giant Hogweed management plan will be incorporated into the ISMP,

otherwise it will be implemented independently;

a clerk of works will oversee the plan to let all relevant contractors on the site know how

important the plan is.

The ISMP is an important document and provides a valuable record of the treatment of the site for

future owners. It may also provide evidence that the site has been appropriately managed if

subsequent non-native invasive plant re-growth results in litigation against the

contractor/developer. The precise ISMP will be drawn up by a non-native plant control specialist

who will decide eradication methodology (herbicide, bund, burial or combined treatment). The ISMP

will contain the following:

Introduction to the site (description of the site, management objectives, etc.);

Overview of the ISMP (description, setting priorities, preventing further spread);

Specific control plans (management objectives and options, actions planned, evaluation of

actions, resource needs).

REFERENCES

EA (2013) Managing Japanese knotweed on development sites - the knotweed code of practice

(Version 3, Published in September 2006 / updated July 2013.). Environment Agency, Horizon House,

Deanery Road, Bristol BS1 5AH.

NRA (2010) The Management of Noxious Weeds and Non-Native Invasive Plant Species on National

Roads. National Roads Authority.

Early J, McDowell S, Caffrey J, O’Callaghan D, Meenan K, Toomath C, Fitzsimons B & Kelly J (2009).

Field Guide to Invasive Species in Ireland. 2nd Edition. Northern Ireland Environment Agency.


Appendix

Figure A4.1: Flowchart for treating Japanese knotweed. Taken from ‘Managing Japanese knotweed on development sites’ (EA, 2013).

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