Genr8 Developments LLP Sowerby Bridge Copley Valley Regeneration Project Volume 3: Non-Technical Summary

Transcription

1 Sowerby Bridge Copley Valley Regeneration Project Issue January 2011 Ove Arup & Partners Ltd St James's Buildings Oxford Street Manchester M1 6EL United Kingdom arup.com This report takes into account the particular instructions and requirements of our client. It is not intended for and should not be relied upon by any third party and no responsibility is undertaken to any third party. Job number

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3 Contents Contents 1 Document Verification 1 1 Introduction 1 2 Existing site 2 3 The proposed development 4 4 Approach to the environmental impact assessment 7 5 Assessment summaries Air quality Ecology and nature conservation Ground conditions and contamination Heritage assets Landscape and visual amenity Noise and vibration Socio-economic Sunlight and daylight Waste Water resources 23 6 Where to find out more 25 Tables Table 1: Details of the proposed development, by development zone... 4 Table 2: Primary construction phases... 5 Figures Figure 1:, general location... 1 Figure 2: Features within and around the site... 3 Figure 3: The proposed development development zones... 6 Figure 4: Distance bands of relevance for the construction air quality assessment Figure 5: Illustration of proposed habitats in the new nature reserve at the south-eastern end of the site Figure 6: Noise and vibration measurement position location plan Figure 7: Sunlight availability existing conditions Figure 8: Sunlight availability with the proposed development Figure 9: Environment Agency flood zone map extract Issue 17 January 2011

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5 1 Introduction This is the Non-Technical Summary of the Environmental Statement that accompanies the application for planning permission, submitted by Genr8 1. Genr8 has applied to Calderdale Metropolitan Borough Council for outline planning permission to develop a mix of commercial and industrial buildings, and housing and leisure uses with areas of landscaped public open space (Figure 1). Detailed permission is sought for road infrastructure, new bridges and earthworks. Figure 1:, general location N 1 Genr8 1 Developments LLP Issue 17 January 2011 Page 1

6 2 Existing site Figure 2 shows the site and the surrounding area. The site boundary is shown as a red line, and most of the information in the summary below describes the area inside the red line. Some important information, such as wildlife or traffic, has been included for areas outside the line. Site surroundings The site covers an area of approximately 14 hectares, situated within the Upper Calder Valley. Milner Royd Local Nature Reserve is located next to the site, between the allotments and the Calderdale Rail Line. The nature reserve site was previously used for landfill and has been restored to include a sports pitch and wildlife areas. Wainhouse Tower (listed for its heritage value) is clearly visible on the hill top at King Cross (to the north of the site) from some of the more open areas of the site. The Lloyds Banking Group office and data centre, and a small group of houses, are located on the northern side of Wakefield Road. The King Cross and Saville Park areas of Halifax, are located to the north of the data centre. Most of the areas surrounding the site to the east and south (towards Norland) are farmland, woodland or other vegetation, with scattered farms and houses. The site The site is located in the bottom of the steep-sided Calder Valley at levels of around 73 to 77 metres 2 above sea level. The Calderdale Rail Line, which forms the south-western boundary of the site, runs on an embankment about four metres above the surrounding valley floor. The River Calder flows in a south-easterly direction through the site, while the Calder & Hebble Navigation flows roughly parallel to the river, on the north-eastern edge of the site. The site has been fenced-off and disused for a number of years, and areas of demolition rubble have been allowed to re-vegetate with rough grass, weeds and pockets of scrub. Tree and shrub growth is also fairly extensive across the site. Trees line the towpath adjacent to the canal, and south of this, an area of hardstanding is used as overflow parking by employees of Lloyds Banking Group. In the southern section of the site, the remains of the former sewage treatment works have been colonised by reed beds and areas of scrub. There are also several areas of deciduous woodland within the southern section of the site, especially adjacent to the River Calder, the railway and the allotments. A public footpath runs through the site, on the southern bank of the River Calder and a bridleway follows Hollas Lane (from Norland Town to the Wakefield Road). The bridleway crossed the existing river bridge until recently (January 2011) when the bridge was closed due to its structural instability. In addition, National Cycle Route 66 runs along canal towpath forming the northern boundary of the site. 2 Above Ordnance Datum Issue 17 January 2011 Page 2

7 Figure 2: Features within and around the site Issue 17 January 2011 Page 3

8 3 The proposed development The proposal is in outline for the buildings and open space, and in detail for the infrastructure, eg, the roads, bridges and flood defences. The site has been split into four development zones that are shown in Figure 3. The four areas are: Zone A The Island; Zone B The Hub; Zone C the South Bank; and Zone D Open Space. Details of the nature of development proposed within each zone, is provided in Table 1. Access Access into the site would be provided by improving the existing junction with Wakefield Road. An upgraded road would lead from the junction to the South Bank, where it would follow the railway embankment before connecting with Fall Lane. The canal and river bridges need to be replaced, as the existing structures are not structurally sound. The existing canal bridge would be replaced with a bridge of a similar design. A new river bridge would be provided upstream of the existing bridge, at slightly a higher vertical level to allow for a new flood defence scheme. All public footpaths and bridleways would be retained on, or as close to, their existing location as possible. Table 1: Details of the proposed development, by development zone Development zone Uses and maximum gross floorspace in square metres A The Island Residential 21,929 (182 dwellings) B The Hub Residential 4,020 (32 dwellings) Office 750 Leisure 3 3,365 Retail 400 Community C The South Bank D Open Space Office 7,478 Industrial 13,134 Open space and nature reserve Floor heights (maximum) Up to four storey (with opportunity for five story landmark) Up to three/four/five storey Parking spaces Up to two/three storey 182 Not applicable Not applicable 3 2,000 square metre hotel use is an alternative to 2,000 square metres of residential Issue 17 January 2011 Page 4

9 Construction A Construction Method Statement has been prepared that describes the phasing and location of construction activities. Measures to avoid or reduce impacts on the local environment, properties and residents are included in the Statement. Two construction phases are envisaged and these are outlined in Table 2. It is anticipated that construction would begin soon after grant of planning permission, in 2011, and would take up to six years to complete. Table 2: Primary construction phases Phase Phase 1 - Infrastructure (detailed part of application) Phases 2 onwards - Building Plots (outline part of application) Tasks within Phase Upgrade of existing junctions with Wakefield Road and Fall Lane Replacement of canal and river bridges Link road from Wakefield Road junction to Fall Lane Flood protection works these consist of earthworks across the site to raise levels close to final levels and embankments at specific areas. Remediation of contaminated ground, formation of development plots 4 Utilities and drainage Residential, business and commercial development including buildings, flood defences, access roads, car parking, utilities, drainage, landscaping and onplot infrastructure. The primary point of access for construction traffic would be the junction of Hollas Lane and Wakefield Road, in the northeast of the site. During the construction phases, working hours would generally be from 8am until 6pm Monday to Friday, and 8am until 1pm on Saturday. Works on Sunday and Bank Holidays would not be allowed unless required for specific reasons such as ongoing activities that require continuous attendance Before beginning any work, a considerate contractor s scheme would be agreed with the local community. A communications programme would be carried out, to include: newsletters issued to near-by residents and surrounding communities; an information centre with up-to-date photographs, information and plans etc; liaison with local schools who may see the development as a learning resource; briefings and visits for professional bodies and technical publications; and community contact points for gathering feedback from the people, listening to suggestions and responding to any concerns. Hoardings would be erected to protect Millstone Cottage (near the Island see Figure 3) from noise and dust pollution. 4 Development plots are levelled areas of the site on which buildings will be constructed in future phases Issue 17 January 2011 Page 5

10 Figure 3: The proposed development development zones N Issue 17 January 2011 Page 6

11 4 Approach to the environmental impact assessment The environmental impact assessment has been undertaken in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 1999, as amended 5. Environmental impact assessment is required for the Sowerby Bridge Copley Valley Regeneration Project due to the size of the site and the fact that an unmitigated scheme may have significant environmental effects. Currently available good practice guidance in environmental impact assessment has been taken into account, namely: Environmental Impact Assessment: A Guide to Procedures 6,7 ; Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessment 8 ; Note on Environmental Impact Assessment Directive for Local Planning Authorities 9 ; and 5 The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment)(England and Wales) Regulations1999 (SI No. 293) as amended by the Town & Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment)(Amendment) Regulations 2006 (SI 2006 No. 3295) and the Town & Country (Environmental Impact Assessment)(Amendment)(England) Regulations 2008 (SI 2008 No. 2093) 6 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2004) Environmental Impact Assessment: A Guide to Procedures 7 Department of Communities and Local Government (2006) Environmental Impact Assessment: A Guide to Procedures - Consultation Draft 8 Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (2004) Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessment 9 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2004) Note on Environmental Impact Assessment Directive for Local Planning Authorities Circular 02/99 - Environmental Impact Assessment 10. A wide range of other guidance has been published on aspects of the environmental impact assessment process, in relation to individual environmental topics and this is described in the topic sections (sections 5.1 to 5.10). The main stages in the assessment process have been: preparing an Environmental Scoping Report 11 and agreeing the scope of the assessment with Calderdale Metropolitan Borough Council; gathering information about existing environmental conditions; assessment of the likely effects of the proposed development on the environment; recommending measures to prevent, reduce or offset adverse environmental effects; reporting on the above stages with an Environmental Statement; and summarising the Environmental Statement in a Non- Technical Summary (this report). The assessment considers effects during construction and also once the development opens and becomes operational. In addition, effects that could arise from the Sowerby Bridge Copley Valley Regeneration Project together with other 10 Department for Environment, Transport and the Regions (1999) Circular 02/99 - Environmental Impact Assessment 11 Arup (June 2010) Sowerby Bridge Copley Valley Development Project Environmental Scoping Report Issue 17 January 2011 Page 7

12 development under construction or with a valid planning permission (termed cumulative effects) are also considered. An Environmental Scoping Report was produced and submitted to Calderdale Metropolitan Borough Council in June The purpose of this report was to seek agreement with the local planning authority and other consultees such as the Environment Agency and West Yorkshire Ecology on the scope of the environmental impact assessment As a result of the scoping exercise, the following assessment topics were included in the environmental impact assessment: Telecommunications and Wind were considered in the Scoping Report, but on the basis that they were not likely to generate significant environmental effects, these were excluded from the environmental impact assessment. Following the scoping exercise, Council officers suggested that Transport effects would be covered adequately in the Transport Assessment that accompanies the scheme, and that an additional Transport section in the environmental impact assessment was not required. Therefore Transport was also scoped out of the environmental impact assessment 12. Air quality; Ecology and nature conservation; Ground conditions and contamination; Heritage assets; Landscape and visual; Noise and vibration; Socio-economic; Sunlight and daylight; Transport; Waste; and Water resources. Summaries of the assessments for these topics are included in Section 5 of this Non-Technical Summary. 12 For a full assessment of the transport and access effects associated with the proposed development, refer to the Transport Assessment (Arup, January 2011) Issue 17 January 2011 Page 8

13 5 Assessment summaries 5.1 Air quality Assessment methodology This assessment focuses on the likely significant changes in local air quality arising from the construction and operation of the proposed development. The results of the assessment have been evaluated with reference to the UK Government s Air Quality Strategy 13 objectives, and nationally accepted assessment significance criteria. The dominant source of pollution resulting from the proposed development would be road traffic. The principal pollutants of concern associated with this source which can lead to poor air quality are nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter (dust). The air quality assessment of the proposed development comprises: a review of the existing air quality in the area; assessment of the likely significant changes in air quality arising from the construction and operation; formulation of mitigation measures, to ensure any adverse effects on local air quality are minimised; and an assessment of residual effects 14. Existing conditions Monitoring of construction sites in the UK indicates that any increase in dust deposition rates (which can lead to dust nuisance) or general concentrations of dust is usually found well within 200 metres of the construction works boundary. All sensitive receptors (to construction impacts) are within 200 metres of the site boundary and were taken into account in the construction assessment (Figure 4). The site is located within 500 metres of the Sowerby Bridge Air Quality Management Area 15, designated for exceedance of the annual mean nitrogen dioxide air quality objective and limit value. In addition, the Salterhebble and Huddersfield Road Air Quality Management Area 16, also designated for exceedances of annual nitrogen dioxide concentrations, is located 1.6 kilometres to the north-east. The site can therefore be described as sensitive with regard to local air quality. Likely effects on the environment With the application of standard mitigation measures, it is not expected that construction effects on air quality would be significant. The assessment showed that predicted impacts of the operation of the proposed development on the majority of nearby sensitive receptors are negligible. However, the assessment forecasts a slight adverse effect on one receptor (due to increased nitrogen dioxide) which is located within an existing Air Quality Management Area. This is due to the fact that total 13 Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (2007) The Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland 14 Residual effects are those remaining after application of mitigation measures 15 Calderdale Air Quality Management Area Number 2 16 Calderdale Air Quality Management Area Number Issue 17 January 2011 Page 9

14 predicted pollutant concentrations are already close to the air quality objective and limit value. Figure 4: Distance bands of relevance for the construction air quality assessment Mitigation and residual effects Dust from construction activities would be reduced through mitigation measures such vehicle cleaning and wheel-washing on leaving site, plus dampening of haul routes. The residual effects of construction activities are medium to low risk and would occur on a medium term basis only (ie, for the duration of the construction activities). The following operational measures are proposed with regard to managing impacts in the proximity of the Air Quality Management Area: keep the level of car parking spaces to a minimum to promote the use of alternative transport; providing an infrastructure that promotes the use of electric vehicles, ie, three charging points are proposed; and providing a travel plan to promote the use of public transport, cycling and walking. Following implementation of these measures, the predicted impact at all but one assessed receptor locations is negligible, therefore there are no residual impacts at these receptors. One residence has been forecast to experience slight adverse effects with regard to annual nitrogen dioxide concentrations, due to exceedance of criteria set for that location. However, importantly, the air quality remains within the limit values set by the Air Quality Management Area Issue 17 January 2011 Page 10

15 5.2 Ecology and nature conservation Assessment methodology An Ecological Impact Assessment has been undertaken to assess the potential for impacts on habitats and species. The Assessment has been informed by extensive field surveys undertaken during The Ecological Impact Assessment has been undertaken in accordance with the guidance document prepared by the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management in 2006, namely the Guidelines for Ecological Assessment in the UK. The following field surveys were undertaken: amphibian, badger, water vole, otter, reptile, bat, breeding birds, whiteclawed crayfish, aquatic plant and Phase 1 habitat. Existing conditions The closest designated site is the canal passing through the site, which is a Site of Ecological or Geological Importance for the aquatic plant communities it supports. The site itself comprises a range of habitats including broad leaved woodland, scrub and grassland. In addition to the river and canal, reedbeds have established south of the river where the former sewage treatment works were located. Invasive species such as Japanese knotweed are abundant through the site. Species found by the surveys to be present include common frog and toad, palmate and smooth newt, foraging (but not roosting) bats and breeding birds. Although not resting up at the site, otter are likely to move through the area. Likely effects on the environment Without mitigation measures, the construction phase could result in the following adverse effects: increased sediment/pollution laden run-off and or sudden pollution incidents affecting species and habitats. loss of certain Biodiversity Action Plan habitats, aquatic and terrestrial habitat used by amphibians, some breeding bird habitat, bat foraging habitat and impacts on connectivity and temporary general disturbance, eg, noise and light. Adverse operational phase effects have been identified as potential impacts on the migration patterns of amphibians at the site and new lighting impacting on bat commuting and foraging behaviour. Shading impacts on aquatic plant species in the canal have been considered and are not deemed to be significant. Mitigation and residual effects Measures will be included within a Construction Environmental Management Plan to ensure consideration for preservation of habitats and species. A detailed Ecological and Landscape Strategy will include recreation of Biodiversity Action Plan habitats lost where considered beneficial, and new Biodiversity Action Plan habitats will also be created. Habitats provided will include those suitable for use by amphibians, breeding birds and bats. Mitigation measures recommended by Issue 17 January 2011 Page 11

16 Air quality and Noise and vibration specialists would reduce disturbance effects. With implementation of mitigation, no significant effects on ecology and nature conservation are anticipated as a result of the proposed development. Green space will comprise six hectares of the 14 hectare site. The creation of new habitats including wetland and reedbed will have an overall benefit to site ecology. Figure 5: Illustration of proposed habitats in the new nature reserve at the south-eastern end of the site The points below relate to the numbering on Figure 5: 1. Continuous tree cover on railway embankment; 2. Tree cover along river bank; 3. Species rich grassland; 4. Reedbed; 5. Mosaic of wetland habitats; 6. Outfall; 7. Ditch; 8. Public Right of Way; 9. Footpaths; and 10. Visitor centre Issue 17 January 2011 Page 12

17 5.3 Ground conditions and contamination Assessment methodology An assessment was made on the likely construction and operational effects of the proposed development on the geology, groundwater regime and contamination within the soil and groundwater in the area. Adverse environmental effects associated with ground contamination were considered, these principally concern: human health and safety on and off site; pollution of groundwater; pollution of surface waters; ground conditions aggressive to construction material; and plant growth restriction. Existing conditions Made Ground 17 is mapped over most of the site, except an area on the southern bank of the River Calder. Geological mapping 18 indicates the succession beneath the site to comprise of Alluvium of Flandrian age overlying Mill Stone Grit, Guiseley Grit and Midgley Grit. Previous investigations and a ground investigation undertaken in 2010 found elevated levels of contaminants at the site, including asbestos, arsenic, lead and Benzene. The contaminants could pose a risk if the site were in use. Likely effects on the environment Unmanaged exposure of construction personnel to contaminants, particularly asbestos would be an adverse effect. Without remediation, the presence of contaminants would adversely affect users of the future residential and recreational areas within the proposed development. Mitigation and residual effects Extensive mitigation measures would be incorporated into the Construction Environmental Management Plan to protect construction workers from exposure to contaminants, to include adoption of a suitable asbestos risk assessment and wearing of personal protective equipment. With mitigation measures, no effects are anticipated. A Remediation Strategy 19 will be implemented during the construction phase and will include treatment of contaminants onsite and ensuring material within 600 millimetres of final levels beneath the residential and commercial areas of the site is suitable for use 20. It is anticipated that remediation of the site (in accordance with mitigation measures) will result in beneficial effects overall. 17 Made, or artificial ground may consist of various kinds of materials such as refuse, earth and other materials removed from excavations, conders and ashes etc from manufacturing and furnaces etc. 18 British Geological Survey, 1:50,000 Solid and Drift, Sheet 77, Huddersfield 19 Arup (2011) Sowerby Bridge Copley Valley, Environmental Risk Assessment and Site Wide Remediation Strategy 20 Suitable for typical uses associated with residential and commercial activities Issue 17 January 2011 Page 13

18 5.4 Heritage assets Assessment methodology Heritage assets have been considered in two forms, namely Archaeology; and Built heritage. Assessments were undertaken in accordance with Planning Policy Statement 5: Planning and the Historic Environment 21 and the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges 22. Extensive desk based research was undertaken, including a review of West Yorkshire Historic Environment Record data. A historic map regression exercise was also undertaken. Existing conditions No known archaeological sites were identified within the site, however thirteen were indentified within one kilometre of the site. There are no listed buildings or non-designated heritage assets within the site. There are numerous listed buildings and nondesignated heritage assets surrounding the site. The closest is the bridge over the canal on Canal Road, west of the site. The bridge is grade II listed and dates from It is constructed of coursed squared stone with three segmental arches. 21 Communities and Local Government (2010) Planning Policy Statement 5: Planning and the Historic Environment 22 Highways Agency (2007) Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, Volume 11 Section 3, Part 2 Annexe 5 Likely effects on the environment Although there would be no impact upon them, the presence of archaeological finds in the vicinity of the site demonstrates the potential for archaeological deposits to be present within the site. It is probable that if such remains were present, they would be of local or low, importance. There is potential for construction works to adversely impact upon potential for archaeological deposits. Only a very limited number of heritage assets will be affected by the proposed development and there will be no direct impact due to that fact that no heritage assets will be physically altered. Some listed buildings (for example Wainhouse Tower and Saville Park Conservation Area to the north) in the vicinity of the site may experience temporary adverse effects as a result of views to construction activities. The development will be visible from Wainhouse Tower and Savile Park Conservation Area with the most notable views from Scarr Bottom Road and Albert Promenade. The introduction of new built form within this view will only have a negligible level of impact on the asset, resulting in slight adverse effect. Mitigation and residual effects Considering the disturbed nature of the site, during construction the appropriate mitigation would take the form of an intermittent archaeological watching brief during earthworks and excavations on site. It is considered that the implementation of the proposed mitigation would reduce the adverse effect upon buried archaeological remains from Slight/Moderate Adverse to Slight Adverse Issue 17 January 2011 Page 14

19 In recognition of a local legend (and poem 23 ) associated with the drowning of a girl at or near the site in the 19 th Century, an interpretation panel would be incorporated within the replacement river bridge which would bring this interesting local story to a wider audience, and feature the poem. This would result in a minor beneficial site effect on the site. No other mitigation is considered necessary. Photograph 1: The existing weir on the River Calder, with Wainhouse Tower in the background 23 William Wordsworth (1800) Lucy Gray Issue 17 January 2011 Page 15

20 5.5 Landscape and visual amenity The assessment considers the existing landscape and visual baseline resource in the locality of the site, the likely significant landscape and visual effects associated with the construction and operation of the proposed development (including any cumulative effects) proposed mitigation measures and residual impacts. The assessment is undertaken in accordance with Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 24. Existing conditions The site comprises an area of previously developed land located within the well settled River Calder valley. The northern section of the site is located between the canal to the north and the River Calder to the south. The site is currently not lit at night however there is light spillage from the adjacent road lighting on Wakefield Road and the Lloyds Banking Group offices and data centre. Likely effects on the environment During construction, moderate adverse effects are anticipated on the landscape character of the site and to views of the site from Public Rights of Way that run along Hollas Lane and along the south bank of the River. During the operational phase, major adverse effects are anticipated to occur to the close range views of users of the canal towpath and the Public Right of Way on the south bank of the River. Mitigation and residual effects To minimise adverse effects during construction, it is proposed to shorten the construction phase (where possible), give consideration to careful layout of construction site and elements such as construction lighting, and maximise retention of existing vegetation. With mitigation, a moderate adverse effect would remain on the character of the site while minor adverse effects would result on the Settled Calder Valley Character Unit and the Green Belt designation, however this is only temporary for the duration of construction. There would also be temporary adverse visual effects from specific viewpoints during construction. Other effects during construction would be negligible. During operation, the key mitigation measure would be the extensive landscaping with native tree and shrub species to screen the proposed development. Adverse effects would remain as a result of new built form into a site that is currently without buildings. 24 Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (2002) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, 2 nd Edition. Spon Press Issue 17 January 2011 Page 16

21 5.6 Noise and vibration Assessment methodology An assessment was made of the noise and vibration effects of the proposed development on the surrounding environment. The indirect effects resulting from changes in road traffic that will arise as a result of the proposed development are also considered. The suitability of the site for residential use has also been assessed in line with Government guidance 25. Existing conditions To establish the existing conditions, attended noise monitoring was conducted at five locations during day, evening and nighttime periods. Measurement locations are illustrated in Figure 6. The noise levels currently at the site are typical of those expected at sites with low usage, close to a main road. Guidance for such sites dictates noise should be taken into account when determining planning applications and, where appropriate, conditions imposed to ensure an adequate level of protection against noise 25. Likely effects on the environment Given the large distances between the works and the closest residences, there are not expected to be any significant impacts or effects due to construction vibration for most activities and receivers. If compaction of fill and/or driving of sheet piles 25 Department for the Environment (1994) Planning Policy Guidance Note 24: Planning and Noise were to occur close to Millstone Cottage (point 4 on Figure 6), some vibration effects could occur but not at levels that would present a risk of damage to any property. With mitigation measures no adverse noise effects are anticipated to arise from the construction phase. Figure 6: Noise and vibration measurement position location plan The following likely significant noise effects are anticipated to arise from operation of the proposed development: changes in road traffic flows; fixed plant on proposed new buildings forming part of the development; car parking and vehicle movements within and around the proposed development Issue 17 January 2011 Page 17

22 Mitigation and residual effects As a result of implementation of measures within the Construction Environmental Management Plan, noise and vibration effects during the construction phase would be negligible. Following specification of noise limits at plot boundaries and design measures to comply with British Standard , effects from building plant would be managed. All residual effects during the operational phase would be negligible. 5.7 Socio-economic Assessment methodology The assessment has been based on the Good Practice Guide on Environmental Assessment 27 as well as professional experience gained on similar mixed-use projects. As mentioned previously, the assessment looks at the following broad areas of socioeconomic analysis: employment; community and educational facilities; and recreational space. Existing conditions Desk top research shows Sowerby Bridge to have relatively high levels of unemployment. The Sowerby Bridge level of unemployment is 1.3 percent higher than the UK level and 0.5 percent higher than the Calderdale level. Compared with the 2001 data, this shows a widening gap between the UK and Sowerby Bridge, and Sowerby Bridge and Calderdale (particularly since mid-2008 when the two levels were the same). Community and educational facilities are present in the local area, focussed on the local centres of Sowerby Bridge and Halifax. In terms of secondary school places, Council predict a 26 British Standards Institution (1999) British Standard : Sound Insulation and Noise Reduction for Buildings Code of Practice 27 Department of the Environment (1995) Preparation of Environmental Statements for Planning Projects that Require Environmental Assessment: A Good Practice Guide Issue 17 January 2011 Page 18

23 shortfall by A review of general practitioners identified 12 surgeries within 3.2 kilometres, all currently accepting new patients. Two childcare facilities are located within two kilometres. Some of the site is currently used as informal recreation space, for example walking dogs. This informal use is potentially unsafe for users due to the nature of the site (past industrial and tipped), its lack of maintenance (to any standards for recreational space) and the lack of formal access (the majority of the site has been fenced off to prevent access). The uncertainty regarding Council s proposals to resolve to the existing shortfall of schools places would be a minor adverse effect without mitigation. Genr8 would work with Council to understand better the approach toward resolving the current shortage of schools places, reducing the effect to negligible. No mitigation measures are required for beneficial effects (such as those associated with job creation), and they remain as detailed above. Likely effects on the environment During construction, an adverse effect will arise as a result of temporary restrictions on use of Public Rights of Way. Beneficial effects will arise as a result of creation of jobs and a 10 percent increase in allotment provision. During the operational phase, without mitigation there would be a minor adverse effect as a result of restrictions to the sites current unofficial use for recreation. There would be long term benefits resulting from the creation of jobs. The operation of the proposed development will create a demand for education facilities (there is currently a shortfall). Mitigation and residual effects Minor diversions would be recommended to eliminate the adverse effects on Public Rights of Way. By formally providing six hectares (14 acres) of safe recreational space within the scheme, it is considered that no adverse effects would result with regard to recreation Issue 17 January 2011 Page 19

24 5.8 Sunlight and daylight Figure 7: Sunlight availability existing conditions Assessment methodology An assessment was made of how the massing of the proposed development and would affect the daylight and sunlight availability on the surrounding land and within the site itself. Recommended targets for sunlight and daylight availability are outlined in the following documents: British Standard 8206: Part 2: 1992 Lighting for buildings: code of practice for daylighting; and BRE report BR209: 1998 Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight: a guide to good practice. Existing conditions Millstone Cottage, located on the north-western boundary of the site is the closest sensitive receptor to the proposed development. Figure 7 shows the sunlight availability in open spaces at the existing site (without the proposed development). The colour scale (right of the image) shows the time that sunlight is available on 21 March at the location analysed. Areas where a pink colour is used are areas where no sunlight is visible during the whole 21 March. These areas are the permanent shadows that need to be kept to a minimum. Figure 7 shows that the areas selected for analyses are currently well exposed to sunlight (ie, there are no pink areas). Likely effects on the environment Figure 8 shows the sunlight availability in open spaces, with the proposed development in place. The colour scale (right of the image) shows the time that sunlight is available on the test day at the locations analysed. Areas where a pink colour is used are areas where no sunlight is visible during the test day. These areas are the permanent shadows that need to be kept to a minimum Issue 17 January 2011 Page 20

25 Figure 8: Sunlight availability with the proposed development The only exception, where considering just the portion of data surrounding the existing building (Millstone Cottage), an area of permanent shadow can be found (shown in pink in Figure 8). This is an adverse effect that that can be mitigated by reducing the height of the proposed development at this location or increasing the distance from the existing property, and this is discussed further below. Mitigation and residual effects Proposed building height adjacent to Millstone cottage will be reduced, or the proposed buildings will be set back further from the cottage, until they are in line with the guidance in BRE report BR209: 1998 Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight: a guide to good practice. This will mean that any effects associated with reduction in the light availability and shading will be negligible. At the detailed design stage, consideration would be given to reducing building height or increasing spacing between buildings on the South Bank or at the Hub, to ensure they also meet the BRE guidance. Figure 8 shows that the effect of the proposed development on the surrounding areas is very limited and localised at the northwest edge. The overall performance is satisfactory as there are virtually no areas of permanent shadows across the site Issue 17 January 2011 Page 21

26 5.9 Waste Assessment methodology An assessment was made of the likely significant effects of solid waste generation associated with the proposed development. The effects were assessed against the context of relevant national, regional and local waste management policies and regional waste management treatment and disposal capacity. An outline Site Waste Management Plan has also been prepared, which is intended to be used during construction to minimise construction waste. Existing conditions There are some existing structures on-site that will require demolition, including the existing River and canal bridges that will be replaced and concrete filter beds and brick walls which were associated with the waste water treatment works previously on the site. It is assumed that no waste is currently generated on the site. A review of waste capacity in the area existing facilities and the likely capacity to accommodate waste to be generated by the proposed development suggests that existing facilities would be able to accommodate the proposed development. Likely effects on the environment Construction waste generation would comprise masonry, concrete, steel and other inert materials. As construction of the proposed development would generate the equivalent of 0.6 percent of the overall construction waste generated in the West Yorkshire sub-region 28, it is considered that the effect would be negligible. During the operational phase, the predicted levels of generation of commercial, industrial waste and household waste are considered to be less than one percent of waste generation relative to local or regional existing capacity. This would result in a negligible effect. Mitigation and residual effects A range of mitigation measures have been recommended for both the construction and operation phases. These measures follow the principles contained in the waste hierarchy, which advocates, in the following order of preference: waste reduction at source, re-use, recycling and composting, energy recovery and landfill as a last resort. Residual effects for construction and operation remain negligible. 28 Using 2005 data Issue 17 January 2011 Page 22

27 5.10 Water resources Assessment methodology The Water resources section identifies how the proposed development impacts on the existing drainage at the site and assesses the risks that the proposed development and its drainage could pose to the local surface water quality and ground water quality. Flood risk was assessed by identifying the likely significant change in peak river levels in the river, which in turn would correspond to an increase/decrease in flood risk. In particular, it assesses impacts through the site, upstream of the site, and at the downstream residential area of Copley village. A qualitative risk assessment was undertaken to identify water quality impacts. Plausible pollutant linkages were determined by development of the source-pathway-receptor model, following good practise guidance in Model Procedures for the Management of Land Contamination CLR Existing conditions Key watercourses through the site are the River Calder and the Calder & Hebble Navigation. The site is located over several flood zones (depending on location through the site), including Flood Zones 1, 2, 3a and 3b, as shown on Environment Agency mapping (reproduced in Figure 9). The site is located in a zone at high risk of flooding but part of the site to the north of the River benefits from the presence of flood defences. Figure 9: Environment Agency flood zone map extract Available Environment Agency water quality data for the closest locations (the River Ryburn and Black Brook 1.5 kilometres upstream and Black Brook 4.5 kilometres downstream, and the River Calder 6.7 kilometres upstream), was reviewed. Water quality in the River Ryburn and Black Brook is generally good, with low levels of nitrates, while the River Calder water quality is very good with equally low levels of nitrates. 29 Environment Agency (2004) Model Procedures for the Management of Land Contamination - Contaminated Land Report Issue 17 January 2011 Page 23

28 Likely effects on the environment During construction, moderately adverse effects could result from the following activities: earthworks activities causing increases to flood risk or being undertaken before flood alleviation works are completed; inappropriate disposal of groundwater excavations; and pollution of the river from adjacent activities. During construction, a moderately beneficial effect would result from removal of the filter beds and derelict mill, given that there will be a reduction in contaminants present that could impact on water quality. The following moderately beneficial effects are predicted for the operational phase of the proposed development: overall improvement in flood risk to sites upstream, eg, the Fall Lane area; overall improvement in flood risk to sites downstream, eg, Copley village; installation of a new surface water drainage system and Sustainable Urban Drainage ponds which will manage surface water flows; and installation of a bridge with a higher deck to reduce the chance for blockages resulting from debris in the river. Mitigation and residual effects Flood alleviation works would be implemented prior to site earthworks, which would remove that moderate adverse effect. Mitigation measures would be applied to other moderate adverse effects, however it is considered that the level of risk would remain the same for: inappropriate disposal of groundwater excavations; and pollution of the River from adjacent activities. The moderately beneficial effects to occur during the operational phase do not require the application of mitigation measures Issue 17 January 2011 Page 24

29 6 Where to find out more All of the planning submission material including the Environmental Statement for the Sowerby Bridge Copley Valley Bridge Regeneration Project is available for inspection as follows: Planning Services Reception Northgate House, Northgate, Halifax, HX1 1UN Sowerby Bridge Library Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge, HX6 2QG The planning submission material is also available on the Calderdale Metropolitan Borough Council s website: Issue 17 January 2011 Page 25