ABERDEEN CITY COUNCIL

Transcription

1 SEA SCOPING TEMPLATE COVER NOTE SECTION 1 To: SEA.gateway@scotland.gsi.gov.uk or William Carlin SEA gateway Scottish Executive Area 1 H (Bridge) Victoria Quay Edinburgh EH6 6QQ SEA SCOPING TEMPLATE COVER NOTE SECTION 2 An SEA scoping is attached for Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy 2006 The Responsible Authority is: - ABERDEEN CITY COUNCIL SEA SCOPING TEMPLATE COVER NOTE SECTION 3 Please tick either box 1 or 2 1 COVER NOTE SECTION 3 Information on the scope of the environmental report is required by the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 2004 Or 2 The plan/programme does not require an SEA under the regulations. However, we wish to carry out an SEA on a voluntary basis. We accept that, because this SEA is voluntary, the statutory 5-week timescale for views from the Consultative Authorities cannot be guaranteed. Page 1 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

2 SEA SCOPING TEMPLATE COVER NOTE SEA SCOPING TEMPLATE COVER NOTE SECTION 4 Contact name Andrew Stokes Job Title Planner ( Strategy) Contact address Aberdeen City Council City Development Services Strategy St Nicholas House Broad Street Aberdeen AB10 1BW Contact tel no Contact Astokes@aberdeencity.gov.uk SEA SCOPING TEMPLATE COVER NOTE SECTION 5 Signature (electronic Signature is acceptable) Andrew Stokes Date 6 th February 2006 Page 2 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

3 LOCAL TRANSPORT STRATEGY ABERDEEN CITY COUNCIL Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006 Page 3 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction SECTION 1 Key facts about the Local Strategy SECTION 2 Plan context 21 Relationship with other plans and programmes 2.2 Environmental Baseline description of data gathering 2.3 Environmental problems 2.4 SEA objectives & Indicators SECTION 3 Scope and level of detail proposed for the SEA 3.1 Alternatives 3.2 Scope in/out of SEA issues 3.3 Framework for assessing environmental effects SECTION 4 Next Steps 4.1 Proposed consultation timescale 4.2 Anticipated milestones Appendices I People consulted on draft scoping report II Analysis of comments III Baseline Environmental Information IV Components of Population Change V Road Traffic Accident Data VI Public Safety VII Air Quality VIII Traffic IX Identifying other relevant plans and legislation X Objectives and Indicators XI Internal Compatibility Assessment Page 4 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

5 1 Introduction 1.1. Aberdeen City Council has prepared this Scoping Report for the Local Strategy According to Regulation 17 of the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes (Scotland) Regulations 2004, the responsible authority are required to send to the statutory consultation authorities sufficient details of the plan or programme in respect of which an environmental assessment is to be prepared to enable them to form a view on those matters before deciding on the scope and level of detail of the information that must be included in the environmental report. This report is being prepared for consultations with Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and Historic Scotland (HS) and other non-statutory consultees listed in Appendix I This section discusses key facts about the Local Strategy. Section 2 sets the context for the local transport strategy. Section 3 discusses how the plan/programme is scoped, the method of assessment adopted as well as the framework for mitigation and monitoring. Section 4 discusses how later stages of the SEA will be undertaken. SECTION 1: KEY FACTS ABOUT THE LOCAL TRANSPORT STRATEGY 1.3. Aberdeen City Council is preparing this Strategic Environmental Assessment as a legal requirement under Regulation 17 of the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes (Scotland) Regulations 2004] as part of its review of its Local Strategy. The Local Strategy 2006 is a strategic level document intended to outline the Council s policies, targets, schemes and programmes to deliver the Modern System for the North East of Scotland. The Draft Local Strategy 2006 will be submitted to the Council s Policy and Strategy Committee on the 5 th July A final report is proposed to be submitted to the Policy and Strategy Committee on the 26 th September If approved, the Local Strategy 2006 will endure for a period of 3 years or until such time as a new Local Strategy has been adopted. These dates are subject to change. The Local Strategy 2006 will set out in detail a framework for improving the transport system within Aberdeen City Councils boundary, whilst also working within a regional and national policy framework on transport policy. The Local Strategy will be reviewed annually, whereby all policies and targets are monitored to ascertain the progress made with implementation in conjunction with the effectiveness of the policies and proposals. Page 5 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

6 1.4. The key elements of the draft Local Strategy include, A vision statement setting out the overall aims of the Local Strategy A detailed analysis of the transport Problems faced within Aberdeen City A detailed set of Objectives for the Local Strategy Specify targets and policies to be met through the implementation of the Local Strategy To monitor the delivery and implementation of the Local Strategy The Local Strategy aims to improve the transport system within Aberdeen City whilst recognising the impacts upon the economic, health, social and environmental characteristics of the transport system. The Local Strategy will provide an integrated framework of policies and targets that will improve the economy, integrate and create stronger links with the local and international community, reduce transport related accidents and injuries, improve accessibility throughout the City to all people in particular reducing any levels of difference where they exist. The Local Strategy will specifically aim to improve the environment by reducing air and noise pollution, CO 2 emissions, encouraging the use of sustainable modes of transport, alternative fuels and where possible enhancing the built and natural environment. Specific targets of the Local Strategy include a reduction in traffic, improved modal split of people walking, cycling and using public transport and to provide an integrated network of a variety of modes with seamless interchanges across the City SECTION 2: PLAN CONTEXT The issues that set the framework for the plan context focuses on Stage A of the UK wide (2005) SEA Guidance Setting the Context and Establishing the Baseline. Other items to be covered include: A1: Identify the relevant plans, programmes and environmental protection objectives A2: Collect baseline information A3: Identify environmental problems A4: Develop SEA objectives A5: Consult on the scope of the SEA 1.6. The Guidance further recommends that these early SEA stages such as devising SEA objectives and indicators, describing the baseline, identifying environmental problems and analysing links to other policies should be carried out concurrently, and that they should inform each other. This is the approach adopted in this Scoping Report. The following section provides details for this context. Page 6 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

7 1.7. Identifying other relevant plans and programmes and environmental protection objectives (A1) Table 1 below lists the plans, programmes, legislation and other strategic or policy documents that are relevant to the local transport strategy. Detailed analysis of how they apply to the Local Strategy and SEA issues are shown at Appendix IV. The shake up by the replacement of NPPGs with SPPs is resulting in many planning guidance updates. Consequently changes in the policy will be tracked throughout the SEA process, keeping the process iterative and current. Key points arising from this analysis are that the local transport strategy should: Reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases Focus on the sustainable use of natural resources Promote alternative sustainable modes of transport Promote sustainable economic development and regeneration Improve transport network Address issues of access and scheme design to promote retail facilities Develop integrated policies and strategies Promote choice and meet national, regional and local targets should develop policies that maintain and enhance landscape character Develop within transport corridors and near transport modes Seek to optimise economic development Protect and enhance biodiversity, species and habitats Reduce social exclusion Promote strategies that reduce road casualties Page 7 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

8 Table 1: A1 Relevant Plans, Programmes, Legislation and Other Strategies International Level P1 Kyoto Protocol (1992) National Level P2 Securing the future UK Government sustainability development strategy (2005) P3 Climate Change: The UK programme P4 NPPG1 - The Planning System (Revised June 2000) P5 NPPG2 - Business and Industry P6 Road Traffic Reduction Act 1997 P7 UK Sustainable Development Strategy P8 NPPG8 - Retailing P9 NPPG9 - The Provision of Roadside Facilities on Motorways and Other Trunk Roads in Scotland P10 PAN 60 Planning for Natural Heritage P11 NPPG14 - Natural Heritage / Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 / Nature Conservation Scotland Act 2004 P12 PAN 75 Planning for P13 Scotland s Future Guidance on Local Strategies P14 National Strategy P15 SPP17 - and Planning Regional level P16 Aberdeen West Peripheral Route P17 Joint Health Improvement Plan P18 North East Scotland Together Structure Plan P19 Economic Growth Strategy for North East Scotland P20 North East of Scotland Local Biodiversity Action Plan P21 Regional Strategy P22 Strategic Development Plan Local level P23 Community Plan P24 Local Agenda 21 P25 The Finalised Aberdeen Local Plan - Green Spaces New Places P26 Quality Partnership for Public P27 Freight Partnership P28 Road Safety Plan Page 8 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

9 1.8. The Environmental Baseline (TaskA2) The existing environmental baseline data has been collated from a wide range of sources, including national government/agency websites, the 2001 census and from primary surveys. Environmental issues such as air, water, soil, climatic factors, landscape, cultural heritage, biodiversity and material asset set the context for the collection of the baseline data. Baseline data is formatted into a table covering; The latest data for Aberdeen City Comparators: regional or national data against which Aberdeen City can be compared Target where they exist Trends where they exist Environmental problems where the City is doing badly compared with the comparators or targets The sources of data 1.9. Environmental Problems (TaskA3) Environmental problems that can be linked with the Local Strategy were identified through discussions with Officers, consultations with local special interest groups, Environmental Forum, Cycling Forum, Councillors, other groups and members of the public and analysis of baseline data It is pertinent to state that these are environmental problems in relation to the local transport strategy. These are not the overall list of problems and issues that the Local Strategy is considering. The analysis of the environmental problems, supporting data and policy measures necessary to address the environmental problems are summarised at Table 2 over Listed below is a summary of the major problems and requirements of relevant legislation, plans and other policies :- Develop policies that will help to limit or reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases and improve air quality Develop policies that will lead to sustainable, safe and environmentally sustainable communities Develop policies that will improve the health of people through both encouraging exercise through walking or cycling and by improving air quality Traffic levels are continuing to increase despite over five years of sustainable transport policies, new policies need to be developed that will either reverse the trend of traffic growth or restrict the increase. Develop a range of policies that whilst meeting other objectives, ensures that the effect on the natural and built environment or heritage is not detrimental but an enhancement Develop policies that will increase access, particularly for those who are socially or physically excluded, to a variety of areas but in particular retail and industrial / business estates. Page 9 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

10 Develop policies that are integrated and provide for a range of social, economic, environmental and other objectives. Table 2: A3 Environmental Issues in Aberdeen City relevant to the Local Strategy 2006 Environmental Problems/Key Issue General (PR 1) Traffic congestion is seriously affecting the air quality (PR 2) People affected by breathing difficulties brought about by a reduction in air quality from traffic (PR 3) A decrease in the number of people walking and cycling both recreationally as a mode of transport, reducing opportunities to travel healthily. Supporting Data An Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) has been declared in parts of the City Centre in June 2002 as a result of predicated exceedances of the annual mean air quality objective of 40ugm -3 Key Indicators: I16 I24 Traffic congestion and high levels of traffic near to residential areas will have negative effects on the air quality and peoples health. Key Indicators: I6 I9 A perceived decrease in the number of younger people exercising through walking or cycling is likely to have effects on health in later life. Generally, people are more likely to drive in Aberdeen than to walk or cycle. Key Indicators: I25, I19 (including modal split data where available) Policy Measures Required Develop policies that limit traffic congestion, improve the flow of traffic and encourage modal shift to more sustainable modes of transport. Develop policies that reduce traffic congestion, improve the flow of traffic and encourage modal shift to more sustainable modes of transport. Develop policies that encourage cycling and walking through improved engineering, safety schemes and promoting awareness. (PR 4) Finite road space leading to congestion (PR 5) Perception of safety on public transport (PR 6) Within the City Congestion is having a considerable impact on the economy (PR 7) Developments may have to be recommended for refusal because of demands on local road network Competition between different modes of transport on the network can create conflicting priorities. Key Indicators: I26 The general perceptions of transport problems or safety (i.e. walking to school or using a bus, when is the next train) may not always match reality. Key Indicators: I12 Congestion in Aberdeen City has increased journey times and costs for goods and business travellers. Major junctions and river crossings at the key entrance points of the City are the worst affected. Key Indicators:I1, I2, I3, I4, I25, I19 Some developments may be recommended for refusal because of existing congestion and the impact that the development will A review of the roads hierarchy with a priority network policy to be formulated, giving priority to sustainable or key modes of transport throughout the City and not just at a series of singular points or junctions. Policies will develop that will work on providing improved transport information as well as marketing the work undertaken and highlighting the choices available to residents, visitors and businesses. Develop policies that will encourage a modal shift from car based journeys, particularly at peak times, such as Park and Ride. Develop policies that will work with new developments to ensure that sustainable transport is key to the application and development of Page 10 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

11 (PR 8) People with no private transport are disadvantaged (PR 9) Busy roads, particularly dual carriageways create community severance (PR 10) Harbour traffic, particularly lorries is drawn through the City Centre. (PR 11) Local traffic levels are increasing on a par with or outpacing emission improvements in engine, fuel or technology improvements. (PR 12) Increasing traffic levels are using up ever diminishing carbon fuel resources. (PR 13) Air Quality Management Area has been declared in the City Centre. (PR 14) Traffic and Aircraft noise have on the local road network. Key Indicators:I3, I25, I26, I16, I19, I22, I23 With no private transport, people are reliant upon the bus network or taxis, journey times can be higher than for those with a private car Key Indicators:I12, I25 Busy roads can create physical barriers in residential areas between people and facilities and services. Key Indicators:I26 Freight vehicles accessing the harbour from out with Aberdeen are forced to use the City Centre, adding to congestion and pollution in the area. Key Indicators:I26, I16, I18, I19, I13 Air quality is decreasing and pollution is increasing at busy congested areas of the City (an Air Quality Management Area has been declared), more people are using the car now than ever before and the contribution to global warming is increasing. Key Indicators: I24, I19 Car ownership, distance travelled and fuel consumed is increasing in Aberdeen. There is no significant alternative fuel system and modal shift is tending towards the car. Key Indicators: I14, I24, I19 Particulates and NO2 in the city centre means that national targets may not be met for improving air quality within the City Centre. The volume of diesel vehicles (freight and buses) with repeated stopping and starting exacerbates the problem. Key Indicators: I16, I17, I18, I19 There are areas where road traffic and aircraft noise is a nuisance for residents. Key Indicators:I13, I19, I26 the site. Develop a series of policies to ensure that the public transport network has good interchange and improving reliability and journey times. Develop policies and schemes that will develop existing road space by providing for sustainable modes of transport without creating community severance and by improving pedestrian measures. Formulate policies that will see improved rail freight facilities to Aberdeen and in particular to the Harbour area. A range of policies needs to be developed to either encourage modal shift or manage car use. Reversing the trend and narrowing the choice between car or bus? will require significant investment and commitment. A range of policies needs to be developed to either encourage modal shift or manage car use. Providing facilities for alternatively fuelled vehicles could also be considered. A range of policies are required that will see a) improved rail freight facilities to Aberdeen and in particular to the Harbour area b) the construction of the AWPR will reduce the number of freight vehicles in the City and c) the pedestrianisation of sections of the City Centre. A number of policies are required to encourage modal shift, manage car use and freight traffic and reducing traffic levels within residential areas. Partnering with Aberdeen Airport to ensure coherent policies on the issue of aircraft noise can be developed is essential. Page 11 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

12 (PR 15) Continue to improve upon the reduction in road casualties and fatalities (PR 16) Accident Clusters have effectively been dealt with, but there is a requirement to start looking at sporadic sites and incidents (PR 17) Cyclists and would-be cyclists feel threatened by traffic (PR 18) Many people wont travel at night unless they can drive (PR 19) Assaults on bus drivers and vandalism or incidents on buses are increasing (PR 20) People are walking less (PR 21) A growing number of people are living further from work (PR 22) Land use planning and transport should work together in an integrated manner but other factors can restrict this. (PR 23) Physical interchange and other processes that make integration within and between travel modes more user-friendly have been slow to develop The road safety / casualty and accident improvements in Aberdeen are some of the highest in Europe, work needs to continue to maintain the safety record. Key Indicators: I11 In order to continue with the road safety improvements, funding for schemes at sporadic sites will be required. Key Indicators: I11, I19, I26 Traffic near to cycle lanes and bus lanes can be intimidating for cyclists, deterring the use of bicycles as a mode of transport. Key Indicators:I19, I26 People can perceive public transport, walking and cycling late at night as unsafe because of feelings of insecurity. Can be a particular problem for women, the elderly and young people. Key Indicators:I12 Incidents of crime or vandalism on public transport can be a serious deterrent to use it, in particular for vulnerable people. Key Indicators:I12 People walking less can lead to increased obesity or heart disease through lack of exercise. Key Indicators:I25, I6, I7, I8 Aberdeen s population is predicted to decrease with more people moving out with the City and commuting inward. Key Indicators:I1, I10 Land use and transport policies should always be integrated, however it is recognised that other issues, such as economic factors, can influence the decision making process. Key Indicators: I22, I23 The Park and Ride network still has two sites to be constructed. No works have been undertaken to develop interchange points throughout the City. Policies and targets can be set to meet and exceed the national targets of A range of policies on road safety can be developed, the strategy should give consideration to securing funding for schemes for accident sites that could be deemed at a lower priority than accident cluster sites. Junction and pedestrian improvements and other traffic management measures could be reconsidered should additional funding be available. Policies should consider cycling as a priority mode with more dedicated or segregated road space. A number of policies should work towards improving on street and road safety through improved information, facilities and infrastructure such as CCTV or lighting. Policies to improve the safety on all aspects of public transport, i.e. from front door to bus stop to destination, through partnership working with relevant organisations. Policies can be created to improve walking facilities by introducing new footways, maintaining existing links and upgrading key routes, possibly create new urban and inter urban leafy walkways A number of key policies will need to be developed to ensure that Aberdeen can continue to grow in a sustainable manner, with a transport system that is modern, reliable and affordable. The Local Strategy and Local Plan will work together as an integrated package of measures to ensure consistent delivery of high quality infrastructure and services. Develop policies that will identify interchange points and schemes as well as sources of funding. Work in partnership with operators on ticketing and information Page 12 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

13 Key Indicators:I22, I Developing Objectives (TaskA4) initiatives Neither the SEA Directive nor the Scottish regulation specifically requires the use of objectives or indicators in the SEA, but they are a recognised way in which environmental effects can be described, analysed and compared. SEA objectives state what is intended. The plan s performance against objectives is normally measures using indicators The SEA objectives are meant to be separate from the evolving local transport strategy though the local transport strategy and report influence each other and may overlap. To fulfil the requirements of the SEA Directive, they must cover biodiversity, population, human health, fauna, flora, soil, water, air, climatic factors, material assets, cultural heritage, landscape and the interrelationship between them Appendix V lists the SEA objectives against which the Local Strategy will be assessed. In order to finalise the objectives and indicators, environmental problems, baseline data as well as other relevant plans, programmes and environmental protection objectives inform the final choice of SEA Objectives. They are not conclusive but subject to consultation outcomes. SECTION 3: SCOPE AND LEVEL OF DETAIL PROPOSED FOR STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Identify alternatives and choose preferred alternatives In addition to the options / scenarios developed by the Local Strategy, additional strategic alternatives / options were developed through the analysis of The environmental problems identified Comments from informal consultation The sustainable hierarchy of alternatives involving demand reduction/obviation, mode / type, location and implementation/timing Discreet alternatives, mix-and-matched options and scenarios Land use measures (such as development within transport corridors and near transport modes) Management measures (such as measures to restrain the car) Infrastructure measures (such as new infrastructure vs. no new infrastructure) Information measures (such as discourage car use / modal shift) Pricing measures (such as restraint car use and parking) The formulation of the Local Strategy will be done by the definition of Objectives What we want to achieve Scenarios / Strategies How we will achieve our Objectives The final scenario and strategy will be determined by the Planning and Policy Committee, currently scheduled for September Page 13 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

14 The local transport strategic objectives and additional alternative strategic objectives developed through the above reasoning process will be assessed using the framework shown in Table 3 below The table is scored indicatively and the environmental report will involve a more in depth analysis with fine-tuning of the scoring, with assistance from experts and consultees. In addition to the strategic objectives, policy options in the local transport strategy will be similarly assessed together with alternative policy options in Table 4 Table 3: Assessment Framework for Strategic Local Strategy Objectives, Scenarios and Alternatives Scale: Seven point scale ranging from --- Very negative effect, no entry for no measurable or significant effect and for very positive effect. LTS Strategic Objectives ECONOMY Biodiversity Population & Human health Soil & water Air quality Climatic factors Material assets Cultural heritage landscape Comments EC1 EC2 EC3 EC4 To contribute towards the success of Scotland s economy. To contribute to the growth and diversification of the local economy To be a World Class strategic location To have an exemplary transport system It is expected that economic growth will lead to increased air, sea and rail traffic that may have negative effects on the environment As above As above - An exemplary transport system with a substantial amount of modal shift, there will be some positive affects on air quality and the climate. Page 14 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

15 EC5 EC6 EC7 EC8 EC9 EC10 To enable local firms to efficiently access markets, locally, nationally and internationally. To have reliable and effective journey times to move goods to major markets by a range of transport choices To ensure businesses have access to as wide a pool of labour as transport accessibility allows To ensure that those without access to a car have access to jobs To ensure transport services and facilities cater for in-bound tourists To seek improvements to services (including the range of destinations) from Aberdeen Airport There is a slight risk that new air, sea and rail links may contribute to a decline in air quality or climate. As above Improving accessibility by a range of transport modes will have a substantial affect upon population and health. Decreasing social exclusion will have positive benefits for population (1/3 of households) and health No considerable change Additional flights from Aberdeen Airport will have a negative effect on air quality and environment Page 15 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

16 EC11 EC12 EC13 EC14 EC15 To ensure that the Western Peripheral Route enables future development and sustainable growth of the City economy, forms an integrated element of the transport strategy, reduces through traffic, relieves congestion and enables complementary measures within the urban area. To identify and tackle where transport constrains economic development To reduce congestion and unreliability, particularly where it impacts on the efficient movement of goods. To seek improvements in rail and sea passenger and freight services to, from and within the area. To ensure transport infrastructure and services are available to facilitate the demands of new and incoming businesses The construction of the AWPR will bring about a number of traffic and air quality, climate improvements, although without mitigating measures there may be a negative effect on the areas surrounding the route. At this time, as no design or SEA has been carried out on the AWPR this assessment is worse case. Without knowledge of specific schemes, generally there could be a range of outcomes Achieving this objective will have some noticeably positive results as shown Assuming a shift to rail freight from road, there may be some minor benefits in air quality, whilst improving the accessibility of Aberdeen as a whole. Some - significant population and health and air quality benefits by having an infrastructure that is capable for the future. Page 16 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

17 AEC16 SS1 SS2 SS3 SS4 ASS1 Alternative LTS Objectives - Economy Promote economic growth only in cases where there are positive environmental impacts from doing so SAFETY AND SECURITY: To reduce the number and the severity of casualties in transport related accidents. To provide a secure travel environment which is safe from actual and perceived intimidation and danger. To reduce the incidence of casualties in all transport related accidents especially vulnerable users, such as cyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists. To ensure the safety of users of new and existing infrastructure by conducting safety audits, cycling audits and safety review procedures. Alternative LTS Objectives Safety & Security No additional Objectives proposed For example, providing sustainable transport to industrial areas where the area of business is energy. Considerably positive effects upon population and health Considerably positive effects upon population and health Considerably positive effects upon population and health positive effects upon population and health SI 1 SI 2 SI 3 SI 4 SI 5 SOCIAL INCLUSION AND ACCESSIBILITY: To close the Gap which exists between the opportunities available to those with different mobility needs, genders, age and wealth. To improve accessibility and choice by all means of transport. - To reduce the differences in accessibility between modes. To make socially-inclusive transport modes more attractive to use, including cycling, walking and public transport measures. To improve the accessibility of (a) social inclusion areas, and (b) between the genders, different age groups and other examples where Page 17 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006 Reducing the social exclusion gap will have some markedly positive benefits. A range of positive benefits By improving less attractive modes, there is likely to be a degree of modal shift A range of positive benefits Improving accessibility to Social Inclusion

18 SI 6 SI 7 SI 8 EN1 there are differences in accessibility. To implement and encourage implementation of the Disability Discrimination Act provisions for transport. - - To enshrine sustainable and costeffective transport into the City Council s travel arrangements for both local and long distance journeys and encourage the Council s partners to do likewise. To contribute to the City Council s regeneration aims. Alternative LTS Objectives Social Inclusion And Accessibility No additional objectives proposed ENVIRONMENT: To improve the environment by reducing air and noise pollution problems. Partnership Areas, there is likely to be a benefit to population and human health Reducing the social exclusion gap will have a positive benefit. Some degree of air quality and climate benefits Broadly speaking, in terms of regenerating areas and communities there will be a range of benefits Specifically targeting air and noise pollution will a range of positive benefits on the environment EN2 EN3 To contribute to the national target of reducing CO2 and other greenhouse gases. To develop a transport system that reduces the demand for nonrenewable resources and reduces emissions, thereby minimising the impact of transport on air quality, both locally and globally. A range of positive environmental benefits Likely to see large scale environmental improvements. EN4 To achieve the above by (a) encouraging an increase in sustainable travel by providing a more attractive choice of alternatives and (b) minimising the adverse impact of any additional road capacity. Should promoting sustainable travel involve creating additional roadspace Page 18 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

19 EN5 EN6 AEN7 AEN8 AEN9 INT1 To develop a transport system that protects, enhances and promotes the natural, built and cultural heritage. To encourage the use of energy efficient vehicles and fuels from renewable or pollution-minimising resources Alternative LTS Objectives Environment To only develop transport schemes that have considerable benefits to the environment by concentrating on developing sustainable modes of transport Developing an alternative fuel transport based network To only develop rapid or mass transit schemes to equalise the gap between sustainable modes of transport and private transport INTEGRATION: To ensure a long-term vision, consistent with the corporate and community objectives set by the Council and its partners. there will be a mix of overall benefits This objective will ensure that transport schemes will bring about significant environmental improvements. A change in vehicle fuel use as set out in EN6 will have significant environmental improvements With improvements on walking, cycling, public transport there will be significant environmental benefits to the City. Introducing an alternative fuel network (with significant incentives to participate) to the North East will have a range of environmental benefits. Concentrating - on large scale rapid or mass transit will work substantially towards creating a modal shift. Taking account of the baseline data, the long term objectives and achievement of INT1 will have significant benefits for the Page 19 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

20 region. Page 20 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

21 INT2 INT3 INT4 INT5 AINT6 To integrate transport with land use planning to ensure that transport networks serve development in an efficient and sustainable way. To maximise opportunities for sustainable travel in conjunction with new developments, and to encourage the consideration of sustainable travel to existing developments. To enable efficient movement by people and of goods where interchange is required, To provide interchange opportunities which are as efficient as practicable. Alternative LTS options Integration None suggested at this stage - Ensuring that land use policies and Local Strategy Objectives are cohesive will have wideranging environmental benefits. A range of environmental benefits. Seamless interchange, in terms of transport modes, retail or social facilities or freight goods will have some significant population and health benefits. Seamless interchange, in terms of transport modes, retail or social facilities or freight goods will have some significant population and health benefits. Some possible negative effects should there be construction required. M1 MISCELLANOUS (Including health, traffic, acceptability & deliverability) To reduce any negative impacts of transport on the health of residents and visitors. Page 21 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006 Achievement of M1 will have considerable benefits upon health within

22 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 To encourage healthy transport options, as a means of reducing inactivity and contributing to a reduction in obesity levels, particularly amongst young people. To reduce the incidence of pollutants which can lead to poor health (including asthma), and can contribute to premature death. To contribute to the national target of stabilising road traffic volumes at 2001 levels by To raise awareness of the strategy and to help secure support for its proposals To emphasise long-term objectives, utilising public consultation and involvement. To ensure that proposals are realistic and achievable, fit with both national guidance and local priorities and are financially sound. the region. The long term effects of achieving M2 in addition to the short term benefits are particularly important. Considerable environmental and health benefits This objective will concurrently achieve a number of other objectives and will have a very positive effect upon a number of environmental aspects of the City and North East. No measurable environmental benefit, however there are long term benefits in ensuring a sustainable strategy is maintained. No measurable environmental benefit, however there are long term benefits in ensuring a sustainable strategy is maintained. No measurable environmental benefit, however there are long term benefits in ensuring a sustainable strategy is maintained. Page 22 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

23 AM1 Alternative LTS Policies- Miscellaneous (including health, traffic, acceptability & deliverability) To deliver transport schemes that work to reduce community severance Reducing community severance will introduce significant improvements in the accessibility of the City and general character of areas. Table 3: Assessment Framework for LTS Policy Options and Alternatives (a) (b) Local Strategy Scenarios / Strategies Do Minimum to provide minimum additional transport schemes, maintain existing infrastructure network. Commercial market expected to provide the facilities and services that they feel meets demand. Predict and provide Laissez-faire, providing infrastructure to cater for predicted growth in traffic and vehicle numbers with no other actions or intervention. Commercial market expected to provide the facilities and services that they require. Biodiversity Population & Human health Soil & water Air quality Climatic factors Material assets Cultural heritage landscape - - Comments Serious negative impacts on the environment, communities and the City from a range of factors. Without sustainable development of the transport network, there will be long term affects also. There will be serious negative effects on the environment by implementing this scenario, also very unlikely to achieve objectives. Page 23 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

24 (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) Encouragement offering incentives towards sustainable transport without discouraging non-sustainable modes. Public and Private sector provide a wide choice of transport options. Demand management encouraging modal shift by improving capacities for sustainable transport modes Self Funding utilising road user charging, workplace charging and other forms of car management systems Alternative LTS Scenarios - Economy Air Quality Improvement - To specifically use transport as a tool to improve air quality through either reducing the need to travel or improving choice of mode Traffic Reduction and Restriction - To reduce traffic by restriction measures, pedestrianisation, road closures. Some degree of health benefits expected, however with no enforcement, there is not expected to be any consistent or long term effects. A range of environmental benefits are expected through modal shift and the knock on environmental effects. A range of environmental benefits are expected through modal shift and the knock on environmental effects. Setting new objectives that relate only to, or prioritise Air Quality will see significant environmental affects. There will be significant environmental improvements through the implementation of this strategy. Page 24 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

25 Table 4 details the Environmental Issues that are felt to be appropriate for further analysis in the Environmental Report. Table 4: Environmental Issues / SEA Topic to be considered further Environmental Issues / SEA Topic Retain for further inclusion in Environmental Report Biodiversity, fauna and flora Population and human health Water and soil Air All of these issues will be affected one way or another through the design and implementation of the Local Strategy and will be retained for Environmental Report and further analysis of the SEA. Material Assets Climate Factors Cultural Heritage and Landscape Table 5 shows the strategic alternatives taken forward for further assessment in this report with justifications. Table 5: Strategic Alternatives to be considered further Plan & Strategic alternatives taken forward All pre defined objectives All pre defined scenarios The additional objectives and additional scenarios identified in table 3 Justification All of the predefined objectives will have impacts, one way or the other, on the SEA topics All of the predefined scenarios will have impacts, one way or the other, on the SEA topics These additionals should be examined further to ascertain the benefits and implications. Page 25 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

26 1.12. Cumulative Effect Assessment and decision making process A further framework for assessing cumulative effect of the plan/programme/strategy is shown at Table 3 above. The choice of Scenario is likely to have the largest affect as opposed to any scoping in, out or other amendments made to the objectives, which will generally remain unchanged Clearly there is a range of benefits or negative effects from the Scenarios that are being considered. Furthermore the achievement of the Objectives will vary from Scenario to Scenario and the Environmental Report will look at these elements in more detail A further issue to be considered is the weighting of the SEA objectives, for example it may be that three scenarios will have a negative effect on biodiversity but a large positive effect on air quality and that this may also deliver on the other objectives The decision making process will also involve a Social Impact Assessment, Health Impact Assessment and Economic Impact Assessment. These studies will also provide views on other aspects of the Local Strategy and the impact on the City and North East Assessment of compatibility of plan options In order to determine how the plan objectives cohere or pull apart an internal compatibility assessment of the plan objectives will be undertaken using a framework shown in Appendix VI Proposed Mitigation Measures The SEA Directive requires that mitigation measures that make recommendations to prevent, result of implementing the plan. The proposed framework to be adopted to mitigate significant environmental effects is at Table 6. Table 6 Proposed Mitigation Measures SEA Issue Existing problem Plan Impact Mitigation Measures Air Air Quality Management Should the preferred To encourage or insist Area has been declared mode of transport in the upon more sustainable in City Centre, new City remain the private travel, reduce the need areas also under car, emissions and for the car and to investigation pollution will increase reduce the need to travel. In particular there may be scope to increase pedestrianised areas, relocate parking from City Centre to P&R Water SEPA has been contacted to provide baseline information. Initial consideration of the material and reports There is a risk that without affecting the modal choice of car or unsustainable transport that there may be long sites etc. To encourage or insist upon more sustainable travel, reduce the need for the car and to reduce the need to Page 26 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

27 Soil within the SEPA website indicate that there is no immediate transport related problem. Contaminated land or soil is not felt to be a particular problem at this time. However there are risks associated Climatic factors Emissions from a variety of transport modes and fuel consumption have negative effects on the climate, mostly in the form of air pollution. Biodiversity A Biodiversity Action Plan has been produced. 195 priority species have been listed with a range of habitats across the North East Population and Health A reduction in the number of people walking with no real increase in the number of cyclists and increased amounts of pollutants within the City has led to concerns about the effect of the transport network on health. Other transport issues, such as increased journey times and more noise may influence decisions on where people choose to live or how attractive they find Aberdeen. Cultural Heritage There is not felt to and Landscape be a considerable problem, however blight, pollution, conflicting environments and designs or term negative effects on water. The implementation of the Local Strategy may have an impact on soil, however it is largely dependent upon the scenario elected to be implemented. Again, varies depending upon choice of Scenario. Encouraging or allowing car use will increase the existing problem substantially. Depending upon the Scenario selected, the Local Strategy may have a negative impact on biodiversity through construction, increased pollution or car use. The Local Strategy can have a variety of effects, the intention is to improve health by encouraging cycling and walking and to also improve air quality. Conversely, a car based scenario or predict and provide could compound the existing problem. The Local Strategy is likely to involve a variety of transport schemes and construction projects of various travel. Given the inherent problems with an unsustainable transport system, it is likely that modal shift and a reduction in car use or dependency will reduce the impact that the transport network has on soil. A modal shift away from the private car to more sustainable modes may stem the increase in emissions and car use. A strategy that is leaning strongly towards car use management and restriction may reverse the increase. Environmentally friendly construction that works with the local habitats and species is an admirable aim, however a more appropriate tactic may be to reduce the need to travel or to promote sustainable travel. Improved pedestrian and cycle facilities in addition to encouraging modal shift away from the car will have some considerable benefits in this area. schemes and projects will have to be designed with environmental objectives not just in mind but at the forefront of the Page 27 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006

28 Material Assets aesthetics in transport schemes could considerably reduce the quality of the landscape. Noise and vibration may be a problem in some areas. sizes. decision making process. Any changes to the level of traffic will affect noise or vibration. The Local Strategy should aim to reduce traffic, hence the number of vehicles on the road, noise and vibration SECTION 5: Monitoring 1.17 The Local Strategy will monitor the significant environmental effects when the plan is implemented. A monitoring report will be integrated into the adopted plan to constantly monitor the significant effects. The framework for monitoring significant effect of the implementation of the plan is shown in the table below. The monitoring data will be incorporated into the Local Strategy and its progress reports. Reports will be made available publicly and considered by both the Policy and Strategy Committee and Environment and Infrastructure Committee of Aberdeen City Council. Information on all Indicators (Appendix III, short version in Appendix X) will be monitored and reviewed, those listed below are of particular relevance to the Local transport Strategy. Table 7: Monitoring Plan What needs to be monitored? (effects) Air Quality Road Traffic Accidents What sort of information is required? (Indicators) A variety of indicators on emissions, fuel consumptio n, air quality, traffic levels Road Traffic Accidents by severity and location Where can the informati on be obtained? SE ACC and ACC, Grampian Police Are there gaps in the existing information and how can it be resolved? There is no data on CO2 emissions currently estimated on the basis of vehicle mileage within the City. The information, whilst confidential is complete with detailed reports per accident When should the remedial action be considered? Should, after implementati on of the LTS, there be further decreases in Air Quality, remedial action should be considered immediately. When clusters of accidents are occurring, or at locations where there are clusters of near Who is responsible for undertaking the monitoring? ACC, SE ACC, Grampian Police Page 28 of 81 Aberdeen City Council Local Strategy / Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report February 2006 How should the results be presented? Through a variety of Committee reports and SEA reviews. Through a variety of Committee reports and SEA reviews. What remedial actions could be taken? A review of the traffic manage ment within the area that air quality is declining. A review of traffic manage ment at the cluster locations